Buy Property

MONEY Magazine: Buying property with family or friends - Oct. 21, 2005 Web CNN/Money Home News Markets Technology Commentary Personal Finance Autos Real Estate Real Estate SAVE | EMAIL | PRINT | SUBSCRIBE TO MONEY | Buying property with family or friends Is it a blessing or a curse? The right due diligence makes all the difference. October 21, 2005: 4:10 PM EDT By Gerri Willis , MONEY Magazine Top things to know Are you ready? Lining up cash Picking a team The hunt Closing the deal For sellers only NEW YORK (MONEY Magazine) - John D. Rockefeller once said that "a friendship founded on business...is a good deal better than a business founded on friendship." He might have added: "Except in real estate." That's because some of the most successful real estate companies have started as alliances of friends and family. Orange County, Calif. megadeveloper the Irvine Company was created in the 19th century by James Irvine and his son. Donald Trump's dad Fred taught his Apprentice plenty about the family biz. Chicago real estate guru Sam Zell credits much of his success to his longtime partnership with his college pal, the late Robert Lurie. (Old John D.'s spawn didn't fare too badly either with a family venture in the 1930s called Rockefeller Center.) To be sure, if you're just starting a real estate project, you'll find it difficult to resist the temptation to bring in friends and family as partners and investors. After all, those are the people you know and probably trust the most. But how do you avoid the seemingly inevitable "Dallas"-style dramas? 1. Trust but verify Even if she's your sister or cousin, you should investigate a would-be partner's finances before doing business with her. Handy Web sites like Intelius.com and Public-records-now.com can help you unearth basic background info like tax liens or bankruptcy filings. Ask her to share a copy of her latest credit report. Talk to her former business associates. To avoid ill will, tell her from the get-go that you'll be prying -- and invite her to do the same with your background. If she balks, calmly explain that such precautions will only make for a stronger team, suggests Nicole McAllister of the University of Southern California's Lusk Center for Real Estate. "Remember, this is business." 2. Share a vision It's critical that you and your partners agree to common goals before you buy. Will you renovate that apartment house to a level that would make a Hyatt Regency manager blush? Or do you want to rent the property "as is"? Is the goal long-term cash flow or cashing out quickly? Many partnerships founder on these simple points. 3. Get it in writing Lawyers and their contracts can't prevent every calamity, but a written agreement -- think of it as a prenup before your partnership marriage -- can prevent headaches (and heartaches) for you and the family or friends who invest with you. At the very least, an operating agreement will force you to plan for the unexpected, including death, divorce or a change of mind. You must also spell out exactly what happens if one of your partners wants to sell. Establishing a contingency plan "gets everything on the table," says Philip Davis, a C.P.A. and principal at accounting firm Kauffman & Davis in Boston. "It's like going to a therapist." 4. Hire strangers Unbiased advice is essential for all involved. Brooklyn real estate broker Tammy Shaw knows plenty about the business, but she says she'd never have bought her brownstone with family without professionals at her side. "Build a team ahead of time -- an attorney, mortgage broker or banker, and contractor," she suggests. "They have to be people all of you feel comfortable with." 5. Be an open book Garry Klein, co-founder of real estate fund Highpoint Equities in Scarsdale, N.Y., knows both the hazards and huzzahs of working with friends and family. He started buying real estate nearly a decade ago with his buddy Jeff Gault; family members have been a big source of capital ever since. "The upside is that these people know you and know what you're about; they cut you more slack," he says. "The downside is these are people you're going to see at Thanksgiving dinner." Klein shares thorough, detailed investment results every six months. Ultimately, success depends on your own ability to find good deals and execute. Friends and family can make a newcomer feel more comfortable, but you'll need to adopt professional practices for your effort to really pay off. ____________________ Gerri Willis is host of CNN's Open House. Write her at real_assets@moneymail.com . For more articles on Real Estate, subscribe to MONEY Magazine . The Hot List Most profitable renovations How risky is your 401(k)? Big new tax credits for hybrid cars More Real Estate How to buy and build on rural land Most overvalued housing markets When booms go bust... contact us | magazine customer service | site map | glossary | RSS | press room OTHER NEWS: CNN | SI | Fortune | Business2.0 = Money subscribers = Premium content -- * - Time reflects local markets trading time. † - Intraday data is at least 15-minutes delayed. Disclaimer © 2005 Cable News Network LP, LLLP. A Time Warner Company ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Terms under which this service is provided to you. privacy policy Reprints of site stories are available. Top Stories Most overvalued housing markets Risks to the economy in 2006 Which was the worst ad of all in 2005? After the ride, a rest Hilton brands reunite after 40 years YOUR E-MAIL ALERTS Follow the news that matters to you. Create your own alert to be notified on topics you're interested in. Or, visit Popular Alerts for suggestions. Manage alerts | What is this?

Property Listings Property Management

@LA Real Estate in Southern California: Los Angeles County, Orange County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County and Ventura County Real Estate 900+ lenders/No Cost whole words only All Counties Los Angeles County Orange County Riverside County San Bernardino County Ventura County www. .la Apartment Rentals Appraisers Architects Auctions Builders College Departments Commercial Property Construction / Contractors Consultants Courses Developers Directories Escrow Services For Sale By Owner / FSBO Foreclosures / REO Government Housing Agencies Government Planning / Development Agencies Home Improvement Home Tours Homeowners Organizations Inspectors Insurance Investments Lenders Listings Manufactured Homes Master Planned Communities Mobile Homes Mortgages New Home Projects Moving Office Space for Rent Property Listings Property Management Publications Realtors, Directories Realtors, Los Angeles County Realtors, Orange County Realtors, Riverside County Realtors, San Bernardino County Realtors, Ventura County REITs REO Research Centers Retirement Communities Schools, K-12 Schools Self Storage Senior Living Software 1031 Exchanges Timeshare Sales Title Insurance Training Urban Planning Vacation Homes Index Directories Appraisers Commercial New Homes Los Angeles County Orange County Realtors Riverside County San Bernardino County Ventura County California Real Estate Center California Real Estate Guide Condo Biz Online Southern California Hot Listings Southern California BR iMRMLS Multi-Regional Multiple Listing Service IRED (Internet Real Estate Directory) California LA Real Estate Center LA Times Real Estate - MLS Los Angeles Real Estate Guide Mi Casa - Latino, Hispanic National Realty Directory 9keys.com Real Estate HQ: California Realty Locator Los Angeles SoCal Homes Resource, The Southern California Real Estate Southern California Real Estate Alliance Southern California Real Estate Guide Los Angeles County AV Real Estate - Antelope Valley Orange County OCRealEstateFinder.com Riverside County Desert Homes Homes on the Hill, Guide to Real Estate in Idylwild Realty Illustrated , Palm Springs South Riverside County Real Estate Guide The Homes Magazine , Temecula San Bernardino County Desert Gold Real Estate Directory , Yucca Valley MountainInfo.com Real Estate VictorvalleyMLS.com Yucaipa Valley Board of REALTORS MLS Ventura County Ojai Valley News Real Estate Guide PropertyNET - Homes & Land of Ventura County Index Property Listings Commercial Property For Sale By Owner / FSBO Foreclosures / REO Los Angeles County Mobile Homes / Manufactured Homes New Home Projects Investments Orange County Realty Networks REITs Retirement Communities Riverside County San Bernardino County Statewide Vacation Homes / Resorts Ventura County VA Homes Los Angeles Realty Networks Century 21 Residential Property Search ERA Online Property Search: California RE/MAX Find a Home SCE Real Estate - corporate owned California Statewide A House for Sale, California California Ads4Homes California Real Estate - few listings California Real Estate Guide Homefinder Condosource duPont Registry California - luxury homes EPage Classifieds: Southern California Real Estate Farm and Ranch.net California HarmonHomes.com Homes for Sale in California Home Classifieds California HomeGain Homes & Land (HOMES.COM) California State Map Homes for Sale, Southern California - magazine HomesBy.com Homeseekers.com Southern California Real Estate Housekey California HouseHunt LA Times Home Sale Prices - database of recent home sales LA Times Homes for Sale - MLS Land for Sale in California LandDirectory.com California LoanBiz.com California Edition Classifieds MLS of California Model Home Tour MSN HomeAdvisor Property2000 For Search Search REALTOR.COM California Living Network Find a Home - MLS REALTOR.com, Southern California - MLS Thelandsite.com - land The Real Estate Book - California Los Angeles County Combined L.A./Westside MLS (Multiple Listing Service) LoftsOnline.us Los Angeles Santa Clarita Valley Parade of Homes South Bay Homes The Real Estate Book , La Canada - foothills area TheOpenHouseList.com Valley Homes for Sale - San Fernando Valley westLAhomesonline.com WhereToLive.com - Los Angeles Orange County OC Homes and Rentals ochome connection Orange County Coastal Homes MLS Listings Orange County Homes & Real Estate Source Riverside County Desert Area MLS The Desert Sun Real Estate , Palm Springs San Bernardino County Victor Valley MLS Ventura County Ojai Valley MLS Ventura County Star Homes Ventura Homenet Index FSBO/For Sale By Owner A Better FSBO: California - Promote your property - worldwide, 24 hours a day, everyday, and get personalized service. 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By Owner Online Properties in California By Owner Sales California Real Estate Guide For Sale By Owner Easy Sell By Owner California Free Home Listings California Home Vue Land-FSBO.com California Counties Los Angeles FSBO Open House Online - California Real Estate Owners.com Real Estate For Sale By Owner , Manhattan Beach - can list your FSBO property in the MLS Real Estate For Sale By Owner, California, USA RealEstatePhotos.com California Sale by Owner Search Index REO/Foreclosures BuyBankHomes CA-Foreclosures Community Commerce Bank Real Estate Owned List Downey Savings Foreclosures for Sale Fannie Mae-Owned Property Search FDIC Owned Real Estate Retrieval System ForeclosureFreeSearch.com California HomeSteps Home Finder California Listings - from Freddie Mac IRS Real Estate for Sale - national list PEMCO Southern California - buy a HUD home RealtyTrac Property Search: California Santiago Financial Services , Tustin - manufactured homes SBA California Property for Sale U.S. Real Estate Sales List - U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) national listing Southern California Foreclosure Network - report service VA Homes Los Angeles Index Auctions Auctions in General Land Accelerated Marketing Group , Irvine Coulter & Associates , Brea Flans & Weiner , Encino JP King Auction Company Kennedy Wilson , Beverly Hills Piatelli Auctions , Beverly Hills - commercial Land Land Disposition Company , Irvine Land Disposition Company LPL Land Auctions , Encino Index Timeshares Vacation Rentals Carousel Timeshare Resales , Dana Point Club Intrawest , Palm Desert Jack's Timeshares TRI West Timeshare , West LA Internet Services Database Applications All text, images and HTML © 1995-2005 Technique Development . 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real estate loan fraud

Inman Real Estate News - Loss from real estate loan fraud soars to $1 billion FBI launches mortgage fraud-fighting initiative Loss+from+real+estate+loan+fraud+soars+to+%241+billion FBI+launches+mortgage+fraud-fighting+initiative %3ca+href%3d'http%3a%2f%2fwww.inman.com'+target%3d'_blank'%3eInman+News%3c%2fa%3e 2005-12-16T00%3a00%3a00.0000000-08%3a00 49246 HOME | NEWS | JOIN | PRODUCTS | CONFERENCES | ADVERTISE | ADVICE | ABOUT US | CONTACT US | SUBMIT A TIP Member Resources Members Home Search Inman News Content Warehouse Cartoon Database Weekly Newsletter Special Reports Audio Files Inman Blog Feedback Connect Registration Audio Conference LETTERS TO THE EDITOR There's no denying real estate bubble Re: ' Worst-case scenario for housing next year ' (Dec. 28) Dear Editor: I have been a real estate investor since I was 19. I am now 54. To deny a real estate bubble is to ignore the obvious market fundamentals. Obviously, there are different factors in different markets, but as a longtime investor/Realtor/broker there is no logical argument against real estate prices declining 10 percent to 30 percent in the "hot markets." The South Florida condo market will be a blood bath. The median income cannot buy the median house in most markets; interest rates will continue creeping up; speculators have driven prices to insane levels and when the going gets rough they will walk from a lot of residential properties. Most "hot" areas are becoming alarmingly overbuilt with residential inventories rising; lenders have ticking time bombs in their ARMs, negative equity and interest-only mortgages. Do your homework. Be wary of those whose opinions are tainted by the fact that they or their company have a stake in this insane market continuing. Michael H. Mosieur Mosieur Business Brokers Re: ' America closes doors to architectural expression ' (Dec. 26) Dear Editor: This is one of the most insightful articles I've read in a long time. We might add, "And what are we doing to our children as we worship at the altar of the mundane?" Years ago I read that about 1,000 children were tested for creativity just prior to entering kindergarten. Eighty-five percent of the children tested "creative." Twelve years later the same group was tested, and only 35 percent of the students tested "creative." What happened to the children along the scholastic way, and does the country even care? Where's the outcry? Isn't the creativity of our generations one of our most precious resources? It's been said that we're only one generation away from losing our freedom. Could it be that with escalating offshore competition in view, and stultifying U.S. scholastic models utilized, that the above advisory could also apply to our economic freedom? A. Bruce Belfield III Associate real estate broker Hurricane, W.V. FREE website content! Make Inman.com your homepage Get the Inman News Toolbar Link to Inman News Consumer News Commercial News Real Estate Articles from Inman News Already a Member? Log in below to view full story: User ID: Password: Lost Password? Loss from real estate loan fraud soars to $1 billion FBI launches mortgage fraud-fighting initiative Friday, December 16, 2005 Inman News To read this article, become a Member of Inman News now! JOIN NOW TO BECOME AN INMAN MEMBER 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed Group discounts available First Name: Last Name: E-mail: User Name: Call 1.800.775.4662 x128 8am - 5pm Pacific Time to order by phone or to get a discount group membership for your company or colleagues. View News Article Sample Hear Sample View Newsletter Sample Connect Info View Audio Conference Schedule Back Top © 2005 Inman News Home | Privacy | Editorial | Legal | Site Map

Real estate agents usually

Real estate brokers and sales agents Skip Navigation Links Latest Numbers U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook www.bls.gov Search the Handbook BLS Home | OOH Home | Frequently Asked Questions | A-Z Index | Contact Us Printer-friendly version ( HTML ) -- PDF ) -- Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents Nature of the Work Working Conditions Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement Employment Job Outlook Earnings Related Occupations Sources of Additional Information Significant Points Real estate brokers and sales agents often work evenings and weekends and usually are on call to suit the needs of clients. A license is required in every State and the District of Columbia. Although gaining a job may be relatively easy, beginning workers may face competition fromwell-established, more experienced agents and brokers in obtaining listings and in closing an adequate number of sales. Employment is sensitive to swings in the economy, especially interest rates; during periodsof declining economic activity and increasing interest rates, the volume of sales and the resultingdemand for sales workers fall. Nature of the Work [ About this section ] Back to Top One of the most complex and significant financial events in peoples lives is the purchase or sale of a home or investment property. Because of this complexity and significance, people typically seek the help of real estate brokers and sales agents when buying or selling real estate. Real estate brokers and sales agents have a thorough knowledge of the real estate market in their communities. They know which neighborhoods will best fit clients needs and budgets. They are familiar with local zoning and tax laws and know where to obtain financing. Agents and brokers also act as intermediaries in price negotiations between buyers and sellers. Real estate agents usually are independent sales workers who provide their services to a licensed real estate broker on a contract basis. In return, the broker pays the agent a portion of the commission earned from the agents sale of the property. Brokers are independent businesspeople who sell real estate owned by others; they also may rent or manage properties for a fee. When selling real estate, brokers arrange for title searches and for meetings between buyers and sellers during which the details of the transactions are agreed upon and the new owners take possession of the property. A broker may help to arrange favorable financing from a lender for the prospective buyer; often, this makes the difference between success and failure in closing a sale. In some cases, brokers and agents assume primary responsibility for closing sales; in others, lawyers or lenders do. Brokers supervise agents who may have many of the same job duties. Brokers also supervise their own offices, advertise properties, and handle other business matters. Some combine other types of work, such as selling insurance or practicing law, with their real estate business. Besides making sales, agents and brokers must have properties to sell. Consequently, they spend a significant amount of time obtaining listings—agreements by owners to place properties for sale with the firm. When listing a property for sale, agents and brokers compare the listed property with similar properties that recently sold, in order to determine a competitive market price for the property. Once the property is sold, both the agent who sold it and the agent who obtained the listing receive a portion of the commission. Thus, agents who sell a property that they themselves have listed can increase their commission. Most real estate brokers and sales agents sell residential property. A small number—usually employed in large or specialized firms—sell commercial, industrial, agricultural, or other types of real estate. Every specialty requires knowledge of that particular type of property and clientele. Selling or leasing business property requires an understanding of leasing practices, business trends, and the location of the property. Agents who sell or lease industrial properties must know about the regions transportation, utilities, and labor supply. Whatever the type of property, the agent or broker must know how to meet the clients particular requirements. Before showing residential properties to potential buyers, agents meet with them to get a feeling for the type of home the buyers would like. In this prequalifying phase, the agent determines how much the buyers can afford to spend. In addition, the agent and the buyer usually sign a loyalty contract which states that the agent will be the only one to show houses to buyers. An agent or broker then generates lists of properties for sale, their location and description, and available sources of financing. In some cases, agents and brokers use computers to give buyers a virtual tour of properties in which they are interested. With a computer, buyers can view interior and exterior images or floor plans without leaving the real estate office. Agents may meet several times with prospective buyers to discuss and visit available properties. Agents identify and emphasize the most pertinent selling points. To a young family looking for a house, they may emphasize the convenient floor plan, the areas low crime rate, and the proximity to schools and shopping centers. To a potential investor, they may point out the tax advantages of owning a rental property and the ease of finding a renter. If bargaining over price becomes necessary, agents must follow their clients instructions carefully and may have to present counteroffers in order to get the best possible price. Once both parties have signed the contract, the real estate broker or agent must make sure that all special terms of the contract are met before the closing date. For example, the agent must make sure that the mandated and agreed-upon inspections, including that of the home and termite and radon inspections, take place. Also, if the seller agrees to any repairs, the broker or agent must see that they are made. Increasingly, brokers and agents are handling environmental problems as well, by making sure that the properties they sell meet environmental regulations. For example, they may be responsible for dealing with lead paint on the walls. While loan officers, attorneys, or other persons handle many details, the agent must ensure that they are carried out. Working Conditions [ About this section ] Back to Top Advances in telecommunications and the ability to retrieve data about properties over the Internet allow many real estate brokers and sales agents to work out of their homes instead of real estate offices. Even with this convenience, much of the time of these workers is spent away from their desks—showing properties to customers, analyzing properties for sale, meeting with prospective clients, or researching the state of the market. Agents and brokers often work more than a standard 40-hour week. They usually work evenings and weekends and are always on call to suit the needs of clients. Although the hours are long and frequently irregular, most agents and brokers have the freedom to determine their own schedule. Consequently, they can arrange their work so that they can have time off when they want it. Business usually is slower during the winter season. Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement [ About this section ] Back to Top In every State and the District of Columbia, real estate brokers and sales agents must be licensed. Prospective agents must be high school graduates, be at least 18 years old, and pass a written test. The examination—more comprehensive for brokers than for agents—includes questions on basic real estate transactions and laws affecting the sale of property. Most States require candidates for the general sales license to complete between 30 and 90 hours of classroom instruction. Those seeking a brokers license need between 60 and 90 hours of formal training and a specific amount of experience selling real estate, usually 1 to 3 years. Some States waive the experience requirements for the brokers license for applicants who have a bachelors degree in real estate. State licenses typically must be renewed every 1 or 2 years; usually, no examination needs to be taken. However, many States require continuing education for license renewals. Prospective agents and brokers should contact the real estate licensing commission of the State in which they wish to work in order to verify the exact licensing requirements. As real estate transactions have become more legally complex, many firms have turned to college graduates to fill positions. A large number of agents and brokers have some college training. College courses in real estate, finance, business administration, statistics, economics, law, and English are helpful. For those who intend to start their own company, business courses such as marketing and accounting are as significant as courses in real estate or finance. Personality traits are equally as important as ones academic background. Brokers look for applicants who possess a pleasant personality, are honest, and present a neat appearance. Maturity, good judgment, trustworthiness, and enthusiasm for the job are required in order to encourage prospective customers in this highly competitive field. Agents should be well organized, be detail oriented, and have a good memory for names, faces, and business particulars. Those interested in jobs as real estate agents often begin in their own communities. Their knowledge of local neighborhoods is a clear advantage. Under the direction of an experienced agent, beginners learn the practical aspects of the job, including the use of computers to locate or list available properties and identify sources of financing. Many firms offer formal training programs for both beginners and experienced agents. Larger firms usually offer more extensive programs than smaller firms. More than a thousand universities, colleges, and junior colleges offer courses in real estate. At some, a student can earn an associates or bachelors degree with a major in real estate; several offer advanced degrees. Many local real estate associations that are members of the National Association of Realtors sponsor courses covering the fundamentals and legal aspects of the field. Advanced courses in mortgage financing, property development and management, and other subjects also are available. Advancement opportunities for agents may take the form of higher rates of commission. As agents gain knowledge and expertise, they become more efficient in closing a greater number of transactions and increase their earnings. In many large firms, experienced agents can advance to sales manager or general manager. Persons who have received their brokers license may open their own offices. Others with experience and training in estimating property value may become real estate appraisers, and people familiar with operating and maintaining rental properties may become property managers. (See the Handbook statements on property, real estate, and community association managers ; and appraisers and assessors of real estate . ) Experienced agents and brokers with a thorough knowledge of business conditions and property values in their localities may enter mortgage financing or real estate investment counseling. Employment [ About this section ] Back to Top In 2004, real estate brokers and sales agents held about 460,000 jobs; real estate sales agents held approximately 24 percent of these jobs. Many worked part time, combining their real estate activities with other careers. About 6 out of 10 real estate agents and brokers were self-employed. Real estate is sold in all areas, but employment is concentrated in large urban areas and in rapidly growing communities. Most real estate firms are relatively small; indeed, some are one-person businesses. By contrast, some large real estate firms have several hundred agents operating out of numerous branch offices. Many brokers have franchise agreements with national or regional real estate organizations. Under this type of arrangement, the broker pays a fee in exchange for the privilege of using the more widely known name of the parent organization. Although franchised brokers often receive help in training sales staff and running their offices, they bear the ultimate responsibility for the success or failure of their firms. Real estate brokers and sales agents are older, on average, than most other workers. Historically, many homemakers and retired persons were attracted to real estate sales by the flexible and part-time work schedules characteristic of the field. These individuals could enter, leave, and later return to the occupation, depending on the strength of the real estate market, their family responsibilities, or other personal circumstances. Recently, however, the attractiveness of part-time real estate work has declined, as increasingly complex legal and technological requirements are raising startup costs associated with becoming an agent. Job Outlook [ About this section ] Back to Top Employment of real estate brokers and sales agents is expected to grow about as fast as average for all occupations through the year 2014, because of the increasing housing needs of a growing population, as well as the perception that real estate is a good investment. Relatively low interest rates should continue to stimulate sales of real estate, resulting in the need for more agents and brokers. In addition, a large number of job openings will arise each year from the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the labor force. However, job growth will be somewhat limited by the increasing use of technology, which is improving the productivity of agents and brokers. For example, prospective customers often can perform their own searches for properties that meet their criteria by accessing real estate information on the Internet. The increasing use of technology is likely to be more detrimental to part-time or temporary real estate agents than to full-time agents, because part-time agents generally are not able to compete with full-time agents who have invested in new technology. Changing legal requirements, such as disclosure laws, also may dissuade some who are not serious about practicing full time from continuing to work part time. This occupation is relatively easy to enter and is attractive because of its flexible working conditions; the high interest in, and familiarity with, local real estate markets that entrants often have; and the potential for high earnings. Therefore, although gaining a job as a real estate agent or broker may be relatively easy, beginning agents and brokers may face competition from their well-established, more experienced counterparts in obtaining listings and in closing an adequate number of sales. Well-trained, ambitious people who enjoy selling—particularly those with extensive social and business connections in their communities—should have the best chance for success. Employment of real estate brokers and sales agents often is sensitive to swings in the economy, especially interest rates. During periods of declining economic activity and increasing interest rates, the volume of sales and the resulting demand for sales workers falls. As a result, the earnings of agents and brokers decline, and many work fewer hours or leave the occupation altogether. Earnings [ About this section ] Back to Top The median annual earnings of salaried real estate sales agents, including commissions, were $35,670 in May 2004.The middle 50 percent earned between $23,500 and $58,110 a year.The lowest 10 percent earned less than $17,600, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $92,770.Median hourly earnings in the industries employing the largest number of real estate sales agents in May 2004 were as follows: Residential building construction $54,770 Offices of real estate agents and brokers 37,970 Activities related to real estate 32,460 Lessors of real estate 25,840 Median annual earnings of salaried real estate brokers, including commission, were $58,720in May 2004. The middle 50 percent earned between $33,480 and $99,820 a year.Median annual earning of real estate brokers were $61,550 in offices of real estateagents and brokers and $44,920 in activities related to real estate. Commissions on sales are the main source of earnings of real estate agents and brokers.The rate of commission varies according to whatever the agent and broker agree on, the typeof property, and its value. The percentage paid on the sale of farm and commercialproperties or unimproved land is typically higher than the percentage paid for selling a home. Commissions may be divided among several agents and brokers. When the property issold, the broker or agent who obtained the listing usually shares the commission with thebroker or agent who made the sale and with the firm that employs each of them. Although anagents share varies greatly from one firm to another, often it is about half of the totalamount received by the firm. Agents who both list and sell a property maximize their commission. Income usually increases as an agent gains experience, but individual motivation,economic conditions, and the type and location of the property also affect earnings.Sales workers who are active in community organizations and in local real estate associationscan broaden their contacts and increase their earnings. A beginners earnings often areirregular, because a few weeks or even months may go by without a sale. Although some brokersallow an agent to draw against future earnings from a special account, the practice is notcommon with new employees. The beginner, therefore, should have enough money to live forabout 6 months or until commissions increase. Related Occupations [ About this section ] Back to Top Selling expensive items such as homes requires maturity, tact, and a sense of responsibility.Other sales workers who find these character traits important in their workinclude insurance sales agents ; retail salespersons ; sales representatives, wholesale and manufacturing ; and securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents .Although not involving sales, the work of property, real estate, and community association managers ,as well as appraisers and assessors of real estate, requires an understanding of real estate. Sources of Additional Information [ About this section ] Back to Top Disclaimer: Links to non-BLS Internet sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement. Information on licensing requirements for real estate brokers and sales agents is available from most local real estate organizations or from the State real estate commission or board. More information about opportunities in real estate is available on the Internet site of the following organization: National Association of Realtors. Internet: http://www.realtor.org OOH ONET Codes [ About this section ] Back to Top 41-9021.00, 41-9022.00 Suggested citation: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook , 2006-07 Edition , Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents , on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ ocos120.htm (visited December 29, 2005 ). Last Modified Date: December 20, 2005 Occupations: Management | Professional | Service | Sales | Administrative | Farming | Construction | Installation | Production | Transportation | Armed Forces Related Links: Tomorrow's Jobs | OOH Reprints | Important Info | How to Order a Copy | Teacher's Guide to OOH Additional Links: Career Guide to Industries | Career articles from the OOQ | Employment Projections | Publications Home | BLS Home Back to Top www.dol.gov Frequently Asked Questions | Freedom of Information Act | Customer Survey Privacy & Security Statement | Linking to Our Site | Accessibility U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Office of Occupational Statistics and Employment Projections Suite 2135 2 Massachusetts Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20212-0001 URL: http://www.bls.gov/OCO/ Phone: (202) 691-5700 Fax: (202) 691-5745 Do you have a question about the Occupational Outlook Handbook ? Technical (web) questions: webmaster@bls.gov Other comments: feedback@bls.gov Occupations: Management Professional Service Sales Administrative Farming Construction Installation Production Transportation Armed Forces Related Links: Tomorrow's Jobs OOH Reprints Important Info How to Order a Copy Teacher's Guide to OOH Additional Links: Career Guide to Industries Career articles from the OOQ Employment Projections Publications Home BLS Home

foreclosure property is a

Real estate foreclosures information from Answerbag Real estate foreclosures What you need to know about buying property that has been foreclosed Home » Index » Real estate » Foreclosures Questions What is a foreclosure? Are foreclosures an option? What are problems buying foreclosures? What types of foreclosure are there? How do you get financing for a foreclosure? What happens at a trustee sale? How do you find government-repossessed homes? Can I get a HUD home for as little as $100 down? Where can I find foreclosures? Do I have to buy HUD homes through a realty agent? Where do I learn about HUD foreclosures? How does a home go into foreclosure? What happens at a trustee sale? How bad is a previous foreclosure on credit? What makes a newspaper "the newspaper of record" in a given state? Who takes care of delinquent property taxes that have been previously sold at tax certificate sale for prior years? Am I responsible for any liens that were on a foreclosed property before I had purchased it? I have the policy of title insurance. In the normal home buying process, issues found during the home inspection allow you to back out of the purchase. Does this apply to foreclosures also? How long does foreclosure take? Where can I find an example of a letter to send to home owner's who are facing forclosure asking them if they would like to sell before their home is forclosed on? If a bank initiates a foreclosure on a property which also has an IRS lien, and the bank ends up buying back the property for the amount of the unpaid loan, does the bank also have to satisfy the IRS lien? Can you use a prequalification letter to secure a bid on a property that has been foreclosed on by a mortgage company at the county sale? » Ask a question What is a foreclosure? (100%, 2 ratings) submitted by Andersen777 ( A++ , 99%, 1854 ratings), Apr 27, 04 A foreclosure is a legal procedure whereby a lender gains title or sells a mortgagors after he or she does not pay it in order to satisfy all or part of the unpaid debt (legal definition). Layman's terms: Essentially, due to lack of payments, the property is repossessed by the lender. The property is then re-sold as foreclosed. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top Are foreclosures an option? (0 ratings) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 9, 03 A foreclosure property is a home that has been repossessed by the lender because the owners failed to pay the mortgage. Thousands of homes end up in foreclosure every year. Economic conditions affect the number of foreclosures, too. Many people lose their homes due to job loss, credit problems or unexpected expenses. It is wise to be cautious when considering a foreclosure. Many experts, in fact, advise inexperienced buyers to hire an expert to take them through the process. It is important to have the house thoroughly inspected and to be sure that any liens, undisclosed mortgages or court judgments are cleared or at least disclosed. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top What are problems buying foreclosures? (0 ratings) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 9, 03 Buying directly at a legal foreclosure sale is risky and dangerous. It is strictly caveat emptor ("Let the buyer beware"). The process has many disadvantages. There is no financing; you need cash and lots of it. The title needs to be checked before the purchase or the buyer could buy a seriously deficient title. The property's condition is not well known and an interior inspection of the property may not be possible before the sale, says Wiedemer. In addition, only estate (probate) and foreclosure sales are exempt from some states? disclosure laws. In both cases, the law protects the seller (usually an heir or financial institution) who has recently acquired the property through adverse circumstances and may have little or no direct information about it. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top (0 ratings) submitted by Team Jackson (0%, 0 ratings), Nov 17, 05 There is however a difference in Sheriff Sale auction homes and REO foreclosure homes The ones up for auction are risky, no access, owners usually still in them, not sure the condition of the home b4 you bid Of course if the price is LOW enough then who cares REO homes have been auctioned to the bank, cleaned out, and listed with an REO agent in the area. Some of these will be priced high others will be dirt cheap, and you can go look inside them They are all sold AS IS, you can do an inspection but cannot use it to get out of the contract should you find something wrong. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top What types of foreclosure are there? (0 ratings) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 9, 03 Judicial foreclosure action is a proceeding in which a mortgagee, a trustee or another lien holder on property requests a court-supervised sale of the property to cover the unpaid balance of a delinquent debt. Non-judicial foreclosure is the process of selling real property under a power of sale in a mortgage or deed of trust that is in default. In such a foreclosure, however, the lender is unable to obtain a deficiency judgment, which makes some title insurance companies reluctant to issue a policy. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top How do you get financing for a foreclosure? (0 ratings) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 9, 03 One reason there are few bidders at foreclosure sales is that it is next to impossible to get financing for such a property. You generally need to show up with cash and lots of it, or a line of credit with your bank upon which you can draw cashier's checks. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top What happens at a trustee sale? (0 ratings) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 9, 03 Trustee sales are advertised in advance and require an all-cash bid. The sale is usually conducted by a sheriff, a constable or lawyer acting as trustee. This kind of sale, which usually attracts savvy investors, is not for the novice. In a trustee sale, the lender who holds the first loan on the property starts the bidding at the amount of the loan being foreclosed. Successful bidders receive a trustee's deed. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top How do you find government-repossessed homes? (0 ratings) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 9, 03 The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development acquires properties from lenders who foreclose on mortgages insured by HUD. These properties are available for sale to both homeowner-occupants and investors. You can only purchase HUD-owned properties through a licensed real estate broker. HUD will pay the broker's commission up to 6 percent of the sales price. Down payments vary depending on whether the property is eligible for FHA insurance. If not, payments range from the conventional market's 5 to 20 percent. One caution. HUD homes are sold "as is," meaning limited repairs have been made but no structural or mechanical warranties are implied. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top Can I get a HUD home for as little as $100 down? (100%, 2 ratings) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 9, 03 If you are strapped for cash and looking for a bargain, you may be able to buy a foreclosure property acquired by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for as little as $100 down. With HUD foreclosures, down payments vary depending on whether the property is eligible for FHA insurance. If not, payments range from 5 to 20 percent. But when the property is FHA-insured, the down payment can go much lower. Each offer must be accompanied by an "earnest money" deposit equal to 5 percent of the bid price, not to exceed $2,000 but not less than $500. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs also offers foreclosure properties which can be purchased directly from the VA often well below market value and with a down payment amount as low as 2 percent for owner-occupants. Investors may be required to pay up to 10 percent of the purchase price as a down payment. This is because the VA guarantees home loans and often ends up owning the property if the veteran defaults. If you are interested in purchasing a VA foreclosure, call 1-800-827-1000 to request a current listing. About 100 new properties are listed every two weeks. You should be aware that foreclosure properties are sold "as is," meaning limited repairs have been made but no structural or mechanical warranties are implied. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) User comments eric soto : very useful, thanks for the phone # » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top (0 ratings) submitted by Team Jackson (0%, 0 ratings), Nov 17, 05 Now days you can pretty much buy anything for no money down There are even programs out there for investors with 0 Down to use on duplexs and 4 families This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top Where can I find foreclosures? (0 ratings) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 9, 03 In most states, a foreclosure notice must be published in the legal notices section of a local newspaper where the property is located or in the nearest city. Also, foreclosure notices are usually posted on the property itself and somewhere in the city where the sale is to take place. When a homeowner is late on three payments, the bank will record a notice of default against the property. When the owner fails to pay up, a trustee sale is held, and the property is sold to the highest bidder. The financial institution that has initiated foreclosure proceedings usually will set the bid price at the loan amount. Despite these seemingly straightforward rules, buying foreclosures is not easy as it may sound. Sophisticated investors use the technique so novices may find themselves among stiff competition. Resources: * "The Smart Money Guide to Bargain Homes, How to Find and Buy Foreclosures," James I. Wiedemer, Dearborn Financial Publishing, Chicago; 1994. * "Real Estate Principles," Charles O. Stapleton III, Thomas Moran and Martha R. Williams, Dearborn Financial Publishing, Chicago; 1994. * "Real Estate Investing From A to Z," William H. Pivar, Probus Publishing, Chicago, 1993. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top (0 ratings) submitted by Team Jackson (0%, 0 ratings), Nov 17, 05 For auctions go to your local courthouse For REO homes go to a site like foreclosure.com or find a broker like me in your area, I pay for the site and get all the info then i post a list weekly by email to hundreds of investors in the area FREE. Look around there is always a guy like me This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top Do I have to buy HUD homes through a realty agent? (0 ratings) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 9, 03 You can only purchase a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development property through a licensed real estate broker. HUD will pay the broker's commission up to 6 percent of the sales price. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top Where do I learn about HUD foreclosures? (100%, 2 ratings) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 9, 03 One good source is their Web page http://www.hud.gov This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top How does a home go into foreclosure? (75%, 1 rating) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 10, 03 (Answer last edited on Jul 5, 05) Foreclosure proceedings usually begin after a borrower has skipped three mortgage payments. The lender will record a notice of default against the property. Unless the debt is satisfied, the lender will foreclose on the mortgage and proceed to set up a trustee sale. For more questions or to learn about foreclosure prevention and information... http://www.propertyinvestmentadvisor.com/stop-foreclosure.html. To learn about foreclosure investing try here... http://www.propertyinvestmentadvisor.com This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) User comments Anonymous : kind of sketchy to those of us who really know nothing of real estate. » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top What happens at a trustee sale? (0 ratings) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 10, 03 Trustee sales are advertised in advance and require an all-cash bid. The sale is usually conducted by a sheriff, a constable or lawyer acting as trustee. This kind of sale, which usually attracts savvy investors, is not for the novice. In a trustee sale, the lender who holds the first loan on the property starts the bidding at the amount of the loan being foreclosed. Successful bidders receive a trustee's deed. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top How bad is a previous foreclosure on credit? (0 ratings) submitted by Real Estate Guy ( A , 97%, 58 ratings), Sep 10, 03 A property foreclosure is one of the most damaging events in a borrower's credit history. In terms of the effect on credit history, a deed in lieu of foreclosure or a short sale is not as adverse an event as is a forced foreclosure. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top What makes a newspaper "the newspaper of record" in a given state? » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when an answer is posted » Top Who takes care of delinquent property taxes that have been previously sold at tax certificate sale for prior years? » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when an answer is posted » Top Am I responsible for any liens that were on a foreclosed property before I had purchased it? I have the policy of title insurance. (100%, 1 rating) submitted by breadmanpaul ( A+ , 97%, 219 ratings), Sep 21, 05 Your title insurance provides you with clear title to the property. You cannot obtain clear title without in some way dealing with all existing liens. When you purchased the property, you very likely paid off all of the liens. If there are still liens against the property that were there before you purchased the property, then you do not have clear title. If you have evidence of any existing liens, then take them to the title company that provided you with title insurance. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top (0 ratings) submitted by Team Jackson (0%, 0 ratings), Nov 17, 05 No... example Sold woman a reo home in Feb of this year had back taxes for 02, 03, 04 due 04 was paid at closing title company mistake now assessor wants 02 and 03 or will tax foreclose title insurance company just paid the assessor they are your insurance that ALL title is clear up to the contract phase then make sure you get a gap for the remainder This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top In the normal home buying process, issues found during the home inspection allow you to back out of the purchase. Does this apply to foreclosures also? (0 ratings) submitted by DARON J ( A- , 86%, 80 ratings), Nov 29, 04 Normally the sell of a forclosure is "as is" . This is supposed to be stated in the realestate listing. If this is the case then you would lose your earnest money if you back out of the contract. This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top How long does foreclosure take? (0 ratings) submitted by Team Jackson (0%, 0 ratings), Nov 17, 05 Most banks will let you be default for 12 months then they will start the procedure for auction this usually takes 90 days before its over and they are evicted depends on each area and the local laws This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top Where can I find an example of a letter to send to home owner's who are facing forclosure asking them if they would like to sell before their home is forclosed on? » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when an answer is posted » Top If a bank initiates a foreclosure on a property which also has an IRS lien, and the bank ends up buying back the property for the amount of the unpaid loan, does the bank also have to satisfy the IRS lien? (0 ratings) submitted by Team Jackson (0%, 0 ratings), Nov 17, 05 Yes all liens must be clear to resell the property with clear title This answer is ( useful ¤ somewhat useful ¤ incorrect ¤ offensive/spam ) » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when a new answer is posted » Top Can you use a prequalification letter to secure a bid on a property that has been foreclosed on by a mortgage company at the county sale? » Add new answer » Add new question » Email me when an answer is posted » Top » Ask a question » Send me updates Important: Answerbag cannot guarantee the accuracy of answers submitted by members, and we recommend that you use common sense when following any advice found here. Full disclaimer User tools » Ask a question » Send me updates » Send to a friend » Show in text format » RSS Feed Glossary · NOD » Add new term Related Links No links submitted yet » Add new link Answerbag experts on Real estate foreclosures 1. Andersen777 ( A- , 100%, 2 ratings) 2. 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