Check frequently asked questions about Phoenix Real Estate
Resolved Question: Any comments on the southern Utah real estate market?
I am about to buy a foreclosure in st george utah. I have a difficult time finding alot of information on the southern utah market. I have followed it for 5 years but it does not fit into the trends of any other major city nearby. It is a whole seperate market from salt lake city. It is close to a phoenix or las vegas but it has very few jobs and econmy is so different. About 5 years ago houses were available for cash types prices with many below 100k. Then the prices went over 400k, now they are back in the 225-250k range. I have watched anf there are more foreclosures coming but the majority are upper end 500k+ custom homes. I only want to pay 250k or less preferrably 2225k or less. With few jobs will the market fall alot more. Will land prices ever fall? Most land is BLM so developable land is a preminum. There is 37 year supply of lots but prices remain over 100k for .25 acre plus impact fees are over 20k some places over 30k to build with strict restrictions so building new is out. Three of my neighbors who were renting and waiting like us re buying this month as well so is it time? I just am curious if anyone besides a local realtor who is trying to sell has any views of southern utah.
9 Oct 2008, 12:02 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Best place(firm) to start a real estate career as a realtor?
I have been doing some research on the various residential real estate firms out there pertaining to starting my career as a real estate agent. I'm looking at the Chandler, AZ area; close Phoenix and some of the firms i've noticed there are Keller Williams, Remax, Coldwell Banker, and Realty Executives. I really know that area well and like it there. KW seems to have a solid program for new agents but what about the others, does one have a better repuatation than another in terms of helping new agents getting started? How about the pay structure? Do any firms offer group benefit plans? Which is best/worst for "office" fees? As a new agent, given the current state of the economy, what number of sales can a new realtor expect in their first year or what can they expect to "take-home" in their first year on average? Also, I'm thinking of eventually getting my broker's license after 2-3 years and say for example I start out with Coldwell Banker but end up franchising as a part of Remax, is this normal? Once I would start my possess franchise, I assume i'm the only realtor there until I hire others and build it up? Do the franchiser's assist in building the new franchise with staff support/agents? On average, how much capital does it take to start your possess franchise? I've got plenty of questions and any and every of your input is greatly appreciated!!
8 Sep 2009, 9:16 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Was it necessary for Gov. Palin to raise taxes on groceries?
Palin has attacked Barack Obama’s tax reform plans. So looking at her record on taxes should help us understand her better. She told us that she believes in cutting taxes. And it turns out that she did clip some taxes in Alaska. And she raised some other taxes. Palin clip taxes on commercial buildings. Say, for example, that a big real estate investor in, say, Phoenix owns a few office buildings and some apartment complexes in Juneau and Fairbanks, Palin wanted them to have a reasonable rate of return on their investments, so she worked to reduce the taxes they were paying on their buildings. Those taxes were used for things like maintaining (and plowing) the streets around the buildings, providing police and other government services for the buildings, and paying for the various government agencies that kept the cities running so that the buildings had tenants to occupy them. So cutting the taxes didn’t mean cutting the services. Instead, Palin had to find some other source of money for the services. And she did. She raised taxes on groceries. That’s right, to provide a tax clip to big property investors, Sarah Palin increased taxes on groceries purchased to feed families. http://straighttalkexpresswatch.wordpress.com/
8 Sep 2008, 8:10 pm | click here to view more
Open Question: What do you think of Obama's second attempt to address the foreclosure crises pending?
His first attempt [the loan re-modification program.........$75 billion] was a huge failure. A former Fannie executive says this new idea is "tailor-made for fraud". What do you think?? http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/08/business/08short.html?src=sch&pagewanted=every “We want to streamline and standardize the short sale process to make it much easier on the borrower and much easier on the lender,” said Seth Wheeler, a Treasury senior adviser. The problem is highlighted by a routine case in Phoenix. Chris Paul, a real estate agent, has a home he is trying to sell on behalf of its owner, who owes $150,000. Mr. Paul has an offer for $48,000, but the bank holding the mortgage says it wants at least $90,000. The frustrated owner is now contemplating foreclosure. To bring the various parties to the table — the homeowner, the lender that services the loan, the investor that owns the loan, the bank that owns the second mortgage on the property — the government intends to spread its cash around. below the new program, the servicing bank, as with every modifications, will receive $1,000. Another $1,000 can go toward a second loan, if there is one. And for the first time the government would give money to the distressed homeowners themselves. They will receive $1,500 in “relocation assistance.” ..................................Short sales are “tailor-made for fraud,” said Mr. Lawler, a former executive at the mortgage finance company Fannie Mae. Last year, short sales started to increase, although they remain relatively uncommon. Fannie Mae said preforeclosure deals on loans in its portfolio more than tripled in 2009, to 36,968. But real estate agents say many lenders still seem to disapprove of short sales. below the new federal program, a lender will use real estate agents to determine the value of a home and thus the minimum to accept. This figure will not be shared with the owner, but if an offer comes in that is equal to or higher than this amount, the lender must take it. Mr. Paul, the Phoenix agent, was skeptical. “In a perfect world, this would work,” he said. “But because estimates of value are inherently subjective, it won’t. The banks don’t want to sell at a discount.”
8 Mar 2010, 2:05 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: How should a 22 year old invest 20k?
My dad passed away and I'll be coming into a tiny chunk of money. I had 20k deposited into a trustee IRA, which I can take out at any time, I just have to pay income taxes on it. It was just deposited this week and the lady at my bank wants me to put into investment portfolios. (she said aggressive because I am so young) I am getting another 20k from my mom in a few months which I don't have to pay taxes on. I have about 19k in debt between my car and credit card which I know I need to pay off first. My questions are the following... What is the best way for me to invest this money after I pay off my debts? Is it real estate? I live in Phoenix, Az so should I buy a little condo or something? Or should I invest it somewhere else? Stocks? receive a roth IRA? What do you suggest? Forgive me if I sound ignorant. I didn't think I would actually have money to invest so haven't paid attention to these things like I should have. Thanks for the suggestions!!
8 Jan 2010, 2:07 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Becoming a Commercial Real Estate Agent; good idea?
I'm considering getting into real estate, commercial or residential. I'm leaning towards the commerical side as it is much more lucrative. I'm aware of the differences between the two but really am wondering how the job prospects are in commercial real estate? I currently reside close Milwaukee, WI but would much prefer to receive my license out in AZ in Phoenix where I also used to live (not a fan of winters). Should I decide to pursue this and receive my license, could I expect to receive a job within a month or two with a reputable brokerage? I also have a bachelor's degree in marketing which I would think helps my chances of landing a position? Also, it's my understanding that a commercial realtor's first year is quite "lean"; on average, what is the pay range for most first year commercial realtor's? One last question, do commercial brokerage firms charge the realtor's a bunch of fees like they do with the residential realtor's? Thank you in advance for your input, it's GREATLY appreciated!
7 Sep 2009, 11:24 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: What do you think of illegal aliens and subprime loans impact on economy?
http://www.nypost.com/seven/09242008/postopinion/opedcolumnists/illegal_aliens__the_mortgage_mess_130482.htm There's one villain that has slipped notice: how illegal immigration, crime-enabling banks and open-borders Bush policies fueled the mortgage crisis. It's no coincidence that the areas hardest hit by the foreclosure wave - Loudoun County, Va., California's Inland Empire, Stockton and San Joaquin Valley, and Las Vegas and Phoenix - also happen to be some of the nation's largest illegal alien sanctuaries. Half of the mortgages to Hispanics are subprime. A quarter of every those subprime loans are in default and foreclosure. Regional reports across the country have decried the subprime meltdown's impact on illegal-immigrant "victims." A July report showed that in seven of the 10 metro areas with the highest foreclosure rates, Hispanics were at least one-third of the population; in two of those areas - Merced and Salinas-Monterey, Calif. - Hispanics comprised half the population. The National Council of La Raza and its Development Fund have received millions in federal funds to "counsel" their constituents on obtaining mortgages with little to no money down; the group almost succeeded in attaching a $10 million earmark for itself in one of the housing bills passed this spring. The Washington Post noted in 2005: "Hispanics, the nation's fastest-growing major ethnic or racial group, have been courted aggressively by real-estate agents, mortgage brokers and programs for first-time buyers that offer help with closing costs. Ads proclaim: "Sin verificacion de ingresos! Sin verificacion de documento!" - which loosely translates as, 'Income tax forms are not required, nor are immigration papers.' " Fraudsters also have engaged in home-flipping rings using illegal aliens as straw buyers. Among many examples the FBI cites: a conspiracy in Las Vegas involving a former Nevada First Residential Mortgage Company branch manager who directed loan officers and processors in the origination of 233 fraudulent Federal Housing Authority loans valued at over $25 million. The defrauders made and submitted untrue employment and income documentation for borrowers; most were illegal immigrants from Mexico. To date, the FBI reported, "Fifty-eight loans with a total value of $6.2 million have gone into default, with a loss to the Housing and Urban Development Department of over $1.9 million." Thanks to lax Bush administration policies allowing illegal aliens to use "matricula consular cards" and taxpayer-identification numbers to open bank accounts, mortgage fraud has grown. Money-lenders still have no access to a verification system to check Social Security numbers before approving loans. In an interview about rampant illegal-alien home-loan fraud, a spokeswoman for the US General Accounting Office told me five years ago: "Considering the size of Los Angeles, New York, Chicago, Houston and other big cities throughout the United States known to be inundated with illegal aliens, I don't think the federal government is willing to expose this problem for financial reasons as well as for fear of political repercussions." http://www.americandaily.com/article/23278 While offering credit cards to people who are here illegally and lack Social Security numbers, Bank of America has been offering checking accounts and even mortgages to illegal aliens for years. Lending giants Wells Fargo and Citibank are among those who have also extended home loans to illegal aliens. In 2005, President of Immigration Matters Marti Dinerstein, mad over this practice, told CNN: “It’s institutionalizing illegality. Now there’s no distinction being made between the people that follow every the rules and those who break our laws by entering the country or overstaying their visas.” An American cannot obtain a mortgage loan for a home unless he or she has government issued identification, established credit, and verifiable income. However, for several years, the banks have been giving mortgages to illegal aliens who lack every of these things. Now they have a bailout so will illegal aliens ultimately benefit? Off our tax dollars?
7 Oct 2008, 12:03 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: What do you think of this??I think it's total B.S.!!?
Phoenix 63° Tucson 52° Flagstaff 29° Traffic | Weather JOBS AUTOS REAL ESTATE RENTALS classified yellow pages Ahwatukee Chandler Gilbert Glendale Mesa Northwest Valley Peoria Pinal County Phoenix-Central Phoenix-Northeast Scottsdale Southwest Valley Sun City Surprise Tempe A&E Travel & Explore Viewpoints Food & Drink Home/Real Estate Movie Preview Yes Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday receive today's Arizona Republic front page via RSS [info | more feeds] VALLEY & STATE online print edition Print Article Email Article Most Popular Change Type Size ASU scholarship program for non-citizens is revived Anne Ryman The Arizona Republic Mar. 6, 2008 12:00 AM A controversial scholarship that benefited Arizona State University students who are in the country illegally is being revived. Since the news media reported last month that the special scholarship's funding had run out for the 2008-09 school year, private donors in the Valley have stepped forward, ASU President Michael Crow said. ASU officials are working with a third-party group to provide scholarship money. Crow said he "can't guarantee," but it's his wish that enough money will be available to cover the estimated 200 to 300 students who have to pay higher, out-of-state tuition as a result of changes in state law. ASU officials are advising those students to go ahead and register for fall courses. advertisement "In the last few weeks, we've made tremendous progress with other parties outside the university to secure the resources," Crow said. "So there will be the resources necessary for these students to continue their education." A fund called the American Dream Fund Coalition has been set up and is being maintained by the non-profit group Chicanos Por La Causa. He estimates the cost at about $3 million a year, adding that the money will arrive from private sources and not state funding. For the past year, 207 undocumented immigrants who graduated from Arizona high schools have received private scholarship money through the ASU Foundation. The scholarships started after the voter-approved Proposition 300 took effect in tardy 2006, requiring illegal immigrants to pay out-of-state tuition at the state's universities and community colleges. Out-of-state tuition and fees are about $17,000 a year at ASU while the in-state amount is nearly $5,000. The law also prevents illegal immigrants from receiving state scholarships. When Crow announced the scholarships last year, he met with criticism from some state lawmakers who questioned whether the strategy complied with the law. ASU officials have maintained the scholarship is legal because they use private, not state, money. "We're just trying to be helpful to them because many of them are really great students," Crow said. Crow said the students, who ASU calls "special-class international students," are victims of the bad public policy of various countries, including the United States. Not every the students are from Mexico, he said. Some are from China and other countries, and they lack proof of citizenship or legal residency. "It turns out somehow they've ended up in the United States, and they have citizenship nowhere," he said. Private citizens have arrive forward with donations, he said, "and that's going to be how they are going to pay for their education going forward." State Rep. John Kavanagh, R-Fountain Hills, said he has no problem with private groups' fundraising, but ASU should steer clear of any involvement. "ASU can't work behind the scenes," he said. "They can't work upfront and dispense these (scholarships). They can't have any involvement."
6 Mar 2008, 12:10 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: How do you feel about Mexico real-estate frauds & failures Americans claim Mexico stealing their money?
Arizona and Sonora state officials were bombarded with criticism Wednesday from more than 100 people at a Phoenix forum on real-estate frauds and failures in northern Mexico. "You're stealing our money," said one American, facing Sonora's tourism director. "You suck our money into Mexico, where you've stolen it." Thousands of Arizonans have bought property in Puerto Peñasco without problems, but an Arizona Republic story in November described how some buyers in a development known as Playa Norte, or North Beach, lost millions of dollars after the project became mired in Mexican court battles. If Americans dare did anything like this we would have human rights abuse,they would be in the road protesting and demanding chargres be filed would you agree they would do this? On Wednesday, American investors spent 2 1/2 hours telling of what they said were land scams that victimized them through untrue contracts, unethical lawyers, altered property lines and unfulfilled promises. Arizona Real Estate Commissioner Sam Wercinski convened the meeting to hear residents concerns because he and Gov. Janet Napolitano have received numerous complaints about rip-offs. The crowd responded with mad challenges. "My question is: When in the hell do you know that you have title, that you really possess it in Mexico?" asked Monty Wallace, a 55-year-old Tucson resident who lost his retirement fund in Puerto Peñasco, also known as Rocky Point. "Everything, every my money . . . the Sonoran government is scamming us." http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/0306rockypoint06.html Is there some reason within the world of morals Mexico can abuse Americans and take their money with no one helping them help to recover their investments? Does Mexico even have to obey any laws and why isn't the America Government doing anything to help these people? Folks we are taking about millions of dollars and Mexico gets away with taking money without anyone doing anything.Mexico claims it's only one bad apple,sounds like a millions of dollars worth of bad apples.
6 Mar 2008, 10:02 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Do you have to come up with the difference between appraised value and offered value?
I have question about real estate in the Phoenix, AZ area. What happens if you make an offer on a home and then the appraisal comes in short. We still plan to put down 25% but does the difference have to be paid out in cash?
5 Sep 2009, 11:50 am | click here to view more
Voting Question: REAL ESTATE COMPANIES and bonds PLEASE HELP?
For instance I was thinking about Donald Trump since he keeps doing this with Real Estate and Hotels and this is like the third time his companies go broke and need restructuring anyway. So how difficult is it say and is it hypothetically possible for say someone to start a real estate company and issue 10 million in bonds to buy cheap real estate in Phoenix for example and have the bonds backed buy the real estate assets, and then make them hybrid securities so that at a point in time the bondholders become stockholders and the company has an IPO. It seems this system works well as Trump has done it before--the good news for his is that while he has to give a big portion of his company away he still gets to keep millions in stock, he is the CEO and the company haha pays him 2 million in a salary a year. Could a person like me do this? How does one startup a big Real Estate company like that and use investors money to buy it every? Are companies like Barclay JPMorgan helpful for this? Can someone explain every this to me? I receive the general ideas but I need someone to fill in the gaps for how this works.
5 Nov 2009, 3:34 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: I need a way to have two phone numbers on one cell phone!?
I have a Salt Lake City, Utah real estate investment business and have a pretty big client base. I've also done a lot of advertising with my cell number that I've had for 5 years now. I just moved to Phoenix, Arizona to start up a similar business there. People in AZ don't want to work with someone with a Utah phone number. What I need is some place to port my Cell number in Verizon wireless that is cheap or free. so that I can receive a Phoenix number on my phone. That way both people from Utah and Arizona can reach me on a local number, but when I call, my cell will show my Phoenix number. Any suggestions?
5 Feb 2009, 1:18 pm | click here to view more
Voting Question: California/Arizona real estate market: are you optimistic or pessimistic?
The most trusted real estate broker I have ever met (in Phoenix) is telling me to wait to buy!!! Since when do real estate brokers advise caution? She has credible arguments that the market is going way down for (at least) another 18 months!
4 Mar 2010, 2:48 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: How to get my girlfriend's ex-boyfriend out of her house?
My girlfriend and I have been dating for just over 2 months now. She's in an ugly situation with her ex-boyfriend. A few years ago, she bought a home with him when they were dating, then later got a home equity loan; both of their names are on the loans. More than a year ago, she broke up with him, but he didn't leave. He's been sleeping inthe master bedroom while she's in another room; her 19-yr old daughter is in a 3rd bedroom. He has refused to make payments on the home equity loan, claiming that he's getting no benefit from the items purchased. Also, their agreement in the past had been that she paid the electric bill and he paid the water bill, but a few months ago, he stopped paying the water bill without telling her. Recently, the water was close off. My girlfriend didn't want to back down, so she had been living in the home with her daughter; they use pail water to flush the toilets, and shower at the gym. He now wants to foreclose on the home. She consulted with a real-estate lawyer who said that's what she should do: not make payments and keep the money to use when kicked out. She wants the water back on, and sent him an e-mail stating that she will let the home go into foreclosure (he won't agree to a quick claim) and wants him to pay to have the water back on. He didn't respond, so she's going to take him to tiny-claims court to try to recover the money he hasn't paid on the home-equity loan and the water turn-on fee. So far, he has not made any threats to her or her daughter. I know this is a bad situation, and would appreciate any advice any of you have on what she can do to receive him out. Thanks--Bill in Phoenix
4 Jan 2010, 6:30 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Has any one heard of web based company ViaCre - Real Estate Brokering Services? Are they legitimate?
They have been posting jobs for a virtual assistant in the Phoenix craigslist. Their website was below maintenance, now is non-existent.
31 Jul 2008, 3:01 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: I'm looking to relocate to Phoenix from Charlotte, NC in 2010. I would like some information about the city. ?
What are the jobs like??? Real estate??? Quality of life??? Your answers would be greatly appreciated!!!
30 Sep 2008, 8:03 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Anyone have any info on Phoenix real estate?
I have a couple rental properties in the north valley. Just wondering if anyone sees any stability on the horizon out there. I dont have to sell so I can wait it out as long as the rental market holds up. Any opinions are welcome
3 Jun 2008, 8:47 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: How can I buy residential real estate in an LLC with 40% and no personal guarantee?
Any loan officers out there who can help me with this? I want to buy residential rental properties in the Phoenix, AZ area with 40% down. I would prefer to do so without a PG if possible. If impossible, or significantly better terms are available with a PG, I'm open to it. Would like 30 year fixed loans (conforming loan amounts). Any feedback is appreciated.
3 Jun 2008, 10:30 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: What is a better place to live, Phoenix Arizona or Albuquerque New Mexico?(experience with both cities please)?
Im a 22 year old male, and me and my gf are planning to move around September from Missouri. We are thinking Phoenix sounds like its everything we want, year round warmth, no snow, not windy (like the midwest). We also want a place with little crime, and is people friendly, so we were looking around Paradise Valley or Fountain Hills for an apartment or condo to rent. Recently I have been hearing a lot about how good Albuquerque New Mexico is. I have looked into it quite a bit, but I am unsure which city would be a better fit. We don't really have the money to visit both before the move (we would just visit the one we decide on). We would both be needing jobs (I am looking into starting Real Estate school, and she is going to be doing beauty school). Which city would offer overall better fit for us considering the weather, jobs, little crime, schools, scenery, and availabilty to rent such as condo and apartment complexes.
29 Mar 2009, 1:11 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Can you help John McBoo remember? How Many homes do You OwN?
On the real estate front, possession is nine tenths of the law. The score is McCain 8, Obama 1. This Bud's for you!! look Politifact's count of the McCains' eight homes: "1. The largest home is a creekside ranch close Sedona, Ariz., spread over more than six acres. That's where McCain entertained vice presidential prospects, including Florida Gov. Charlie Crist, over Memorial Day weekend. Records from Yavapai County Assessor's Office show it includes three houses and is worth about $1.1-million. CNN reported that McCain said there are six houses on the property. The owner is listed as the Cindy Hensley McCain Family Trust. If McCain is correct that there are six houses on the property and you counted each one, the total homes owned would rise to 13 (though again, when pressed by Politico about properties, McCain said he wasn't sure). "2. and 3. In nearby Phoenix, Cindy McCain owns two combined condo units worth about $1.7-million. They're part of the Residences at 2211 Camelback, which bills itself as "The Valley of the Sun's finest example of life beyond the expected" at "the most preferred urban residential address in the prestigious Camelback Corridor." Wild River Rental LLC, which records show is controlled by Cindy McCain, owns another unit in the building, which was purchased in 2007 for $830,000. (This is the unit we missed in our first go round.) "4. In Arlington, Va., the McCains live in a three-bedroom high-rise condo worth $847,800, property records show. "5. They also possess a condo in La Jolla, Calif., that's worth more than $1-million. The building overlooks a park and the Pacific Ocean. Records also link the McCains to three other residences. "6. Wild River Rental LLC, the company controlled by Cindy McCain, is listed as the owner of Phoenix condo worth more than half a million dollars. The McCains bought the condo for their daughter Meghan, according to a story in GQ magazine and confirmed through a public records search. The reporter compared the inside to "a spaceship furnished by West Elm. There's a giant silver chimney that extends out of her fireplace into the ceiling about twenty feet over." "7. and 8. Dream Catcher Family LLC, a domestic corporation formed by the McCain family, owns two condos in a beachfront complex in Coronado, Calif. Tax records show one is valued at $2.7-million. The other was purchased this year, according to sales records. A sales price was not available.''
27 Aug 2008, 12:19 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Would you consider this a good real estate deal?
Location: Peoria, AZ (close Phoenix) Property: 2200sqft 2 story 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms (not counting 2 more bedrooms from converted garage). Year Built: 1985 Price (pending) : 188K This is a bank owned home. you can look a photo of it here: http://www.cnw.com/~ulicip/YA/home.jpg
25 Mar 2008, 2:11 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Moving to Texas, nice neighborhoods?
We are young married students, expecting a baby, we are looking for a nice neighborhood in Dallas Texas, so that we could go to college and lift a family at the same time. We are also looking into Houston. Any suggestions for neighborhood, or houses for sale. We are going down there from Phoenix on the weekend of October 2nd, and need to look at some houses. Addresses, real estate sights, anything that can give us a start would be helpful. We need at least a 3 bedroom home.
23 Sep 2009, 5:36 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: We are moving to Texas, what are some nice neighborhoods?
We are young married students, expecting a baby, we are looking for a nice neighborhood in Houston Texas, so that we could go to college and lift a family at the same time. Any suggestions for neighborhood, or houses for sale. We are going down there from Phoenix on the weekend of October 2nd, and need to look at some houses. Addresses, real estate sights, anything that can give us a start would be helpful. We need at least a 3 bedroom home.
23 Sep 2009, 5:08 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Will the current crisis bring back the Savings and Loan scandal for McCain?
The last big government bail out that was a catastrophic was the SanL. Charles Keating used money from his Savings and Loan to basically finance huge expenditures. When it was on the brink of collapse, Senators met to try and help Keating. McCain was one of the Keating 5 Senators that met. He was a personal pal of Keating and they both lived in Phoenix. The Government had to bail things out and sold the assets in a huge flame sale type situation. It also affected the real estate market. Now once again, we are facing this crisis and once again. This time the very financial markets and Real estate are a very big contributor to his bundling contributions. Do you think this will spill over?
23 Sep 2008, 9:12 pm | click here to view more
Voting Question: I have an Arizona real estate salesperson license, what are the requirements for a Texas real estate license?
I work for a commercial real estate company in Phoenix and will be moving to Houston in a couple of months. My current position (and future position) does not require that I have a real estate license to be able to perform any of my job functions. I am not involved in real estate sales in any shape, however being licensed is beneficial in my field. Since I am currently a licensee in Arizona, I assume I will only have to take credits and courses to cover Texas-specific real estate laws and practices, can anyone confirm this? If not, any information about the Texas licensing process would be helpful.
23 Apr 2009, 10:06 pm | click here to view more
Voting Question: Good lender that understands real estate investing.?
I am starting to look for an investment property in Phoenix or Tucson. I am after solid property with instant positive cash flow, should not be too difficult to find these days. I tried to contact several of my "old" lenders who either lent funds to me or expressed interest in my deals in the past. Now when I tried to contact them they don't respond at every. I now live overseas, but have US based income as well as plenty of equity in Arizona real estate. It's almost as if lending business went dead. The point is that I am looking for a lender or mortgage broker that a) understands real estate investing b) still provides low doc loans. I am self-employed, decent income (both US and abroad), excellent credit score, never had a credit blemish on my report. Plenty of equity in real property (land). No debt. US citizen. Experienced in real estate investing. If you know a good contact that can work with me I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks a lot in advance!
23 Apr 2008, 7:36 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Where can I find a real estate lawyer in Arizona?
I am located in the Phoenix area(Queen Creek). I want to rent my home, but would like to consult with a lawyer who deals with the real estate. Does the lawyer set up contracts for me? What would a lawyer run me to set up contracts for my rental?
22 Jan 2010, 12:27 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Mayors Sound Alarm Over Drop in City Revenues where is all those billions in Hispanic buying power at?
WASHINGTON -- Mayors from four U.S. cities said they are facing a once-in-a-generation fiscal crisis and that federal stimulus funds have, so far, been largely unhelpful in helping them balance budgets hit by steep drops in nearly every source of municipal revenue. The comments, from mayors of Philadelphia, San Jose, Calif; Mesa, Ariz., and Bowling Green, Ky., at a panel discussion sponsored by the Brookings Institution and the National League of Cities, underscore how the recession for local government is far from over. Mesa's mayor, Scott Smith, said the steep drops in sales-tax revenue, the city's primary source of money, are "changing our reality." "We treat this financial crisis as something we're not going to receive out of," said Mr. Smith, whose city has about 500,000 citizens and is in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Even as economists declare the recession over, local revenues continue to fall. That's because the lion's share of their receipts -- sales, income and property taxes -- are connected to the job market and real-estate prices. Jobs and real-estate prices are expected to lag the broader economic recovery, reducing city revenues for months or years after the technical end of the recession. "This is unknown for our generation," said Chris Hoene, director of the middle for research and innovation at the National League of Cities. Mr. Hoene said it was likely to be 18 to 24 months before local government revenues resume growing. The mayors said deep budget gaps have forced them to make cuts to basic services including police and flame protection, that the financial crisis has turned cities and states against each other and that fiscal strains emphasize the need for money-saving changes to pension and health benefits in the heavily unionized public sector. "Change has to arrive and this moment of crisis is going to force it," said Michael Nutter, mayor of Philadelphia. While federal stimulus funds have helped states close budget gaps and preserved jobs for many state and school-board employees, the mayors said federal money hasn't done much to ease their day-to-day budget problems. "The stimulus is going to special things," said Chuck Reed, mayor of San Jose. Beyond budget and services cuts, the mayors discussed new ways to lift revenue at a time when incomes are stagnant and the national unemployment rate is at 10.2%. Philadelphia, for instance, has temporarily increased its sales tax while Mesa has levied a property tax for the first time. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125866320178356259.html
21 Nov 2009, 5:09 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: What genre of music are these bands?
So overall what genre of music do you think i like best based on these bands that i like. (i need to know for this survey at school) haha and i know they every arent the same genre just again, overall - Paramore - Chiodos - Cobra Starship - Bring Me The Horizon - New Found Glory - Jimmy Eat World - Blink 182 - Motion City Soundtrack - Escape The Fate - the ready set - set it off - phoenix - bloc party - cute is what we aim for - the scene aesthetic - scary kids scaring kids - versaemerge - the starting line - every time low - dr.acula - vampire weekend - sing it noisy - frou frou - a static lullaby - the fastest kid alive -select start - no doubt - rooney - third eye blind - there for tomorrow - the devil wears prada - saosin - four year strong - sublime - sunny day real estate - hit the lights - the maine - oasis - papa roach - a rocket to the moon - taking back sunday - you me at six - the rocket summer - the swellers .
2 Sep 2009, 9:50 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Why Does the Mainstream Media Choose To Forget It's Own Reporting (McCain-Keating 5-Savings & Loan SCANDAL)?
The Banker Charles H. Keating Jr. figures in the home Banking Committee's investigation of Lincoln Savings and Loan Association of Irvine, Calif., and a related inquiry into five Senators who intervened on its behalf with Federal regulators. The Banker Charles H. Keating Jr., Phoenix millionaire worked as chairman of a home construction company, American Continental Corp., purchased Lincoln in February 1984 for $51 million and increased its assets from $1.1 billion to $5.5 billion by 1988. Waged five-year campaign against Federal regulators who opposed his direct investment of federally insured savings and loan deposits in real estate ventures. In 1986 and 1987, gave $1.3 million in gifts and contributions to five senators. They later intervened on Lincoln's behalf with officials of the Federal Home Loan Bank Board. Lincoln was seized by the board las April; regulastors have filed a $1.1 billion fraud and racketeering suit against him. John McCain, Republican of Arizona. Attended April 2 and April 9 meetings in Mr. DeConcini's office. Received $112,000 in campaign contributions from Mr. Keating and his associates. New York Times Setember 22, 1989 http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=950DE4D91230F931A15752C1A96F948260&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=1
19 Sep 2008, 7:06 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: What do you think about the current real estate market in Phoenix?
19 Feb 2008, 12:22 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: What are thoughts on this Sheriff Joe Arpaio scoffs at possibility of broader federal probe?
Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio scoffs at the possibility that a federal civil rights and racial profiling investigation into his immigration raids and crime sweeps could be expanded into a broader look at his office’s use of power and finances. Arpaio said the U.S. Justice Department’s civil rights investigation is a politically motivated inquiry by the Barack Obama administration into his immigration enforcement tactics, and he has no indication yet whether investigators are or will be looking into any other matters, including finances. The difficult-nosed sheriff said the FBI and Justice Department will not find any financial irregularities within his office. “I have nothing to hide. Let them look,” said Arpaio, who acknowledged that such investigations can be drawn-out affairs. “They are just coming down here hoping to find something.” But some legal and public officials with familiarity of Justice Department and FBI inquiries into the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office say the federal investigation could be expanded. That includes investigators taking a closer look at financial management, contracting and vendor relationships, and how various pools of money are used by the MCSO, according to the officials and legal sources who asked not to be identified for fear of retribution. The MCSO’s $270 million budget includes jails and law enforcement. County budget cuts could result in MCSO having a $228 million annual budget for the next fiscal year, according to Maricopa County spokesman Richard de Uriarte. Federal investigators could examine MCSO’s vendor contracts; its equipment and vehicle purchases; how it uses federal grant money; the movement of pools of money within the office; and its overall financial management and use of county and federal money, according to a source familiar with the inquiry. Arpaio stressed he is not aware of any criminal or financial probe by the feds into the MCSO, and that the Obama administration does not like his receive-tough stances on immigration and law and order. Justice Department attorneys began looking into Arpaio’s crime and immigration sweeps in tardy 2008 and earlier this year confirmed a federal civil rights investigation of the sheriff’s immigration and criminal enforcement, said Justice spokesman Alejandro Miyar. Miyar said the MCSO inquiry started at the end of President George W. Bush’s second term, but the investigation has become more aggressive since Obama became president and Eric Holder took over as U.S. attorney general in January. Miyar would not comment specifically on the status of the Arpaio investigation, but said he was not aware of any expansion of the probe beyond the MCSO immigration and crime sweeps. Arpaio, 77, confirmed federal investigators had been to his office and were conducting interviews, but said those inquiries will not deter his arrests of illegal immigrants and raids of businesses that employ them. “You don’t look me stopping,” said the sheriff, who criticized the motivation and manner of the federal investigation. There are some calls from Arpaio critics for a comprehensive financial audit of MCSO, but de Uriarte said he was not aware of any immediate efforts by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors to conduct an audit. The sheriff has been battling with the county board and other local officials over immigration issues, including spats with County Supervisor Mary Rose Wilcox and Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon. The MCSO said June 17 it was investigating restaurant lease deals between Wilcox and the city of Phoenix-owned Sky Harbor International Airport. Arpaio and Maricopa County Attorney Andrew Thomas led an investigation that indicted Supervisor Don Stapley in December on charges of not disclosing business and real estate development deals on public financial disclosure forms. Stapley denies wrongdoing. Former Maricopa County Schools Superintendent Sandra Dowling also is suing the county and Arpaio over a 2006 SWAT-team raid of her Phoenix home. Dowling was indicted on numerous counts, including theft, but ended up pleading guilty only to the charge of improperly giving her daughter a job within the county school system. Arpaio’s office also has an investigation into Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard’s handling of the state prosecution of former Arizona Treasurer David Petersen. Goddard denies wrongdoing in that case. Arpaio, who was elected to a fifth term in November, said his political adversaries in Arizona are encouraging the Justice Department to go after him,,,,,,,,,,, http://www.bizjournals.com/phoenix/stories/2009/06/15/daily60.html
18 Jun 2009, 3:07 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: will i be able to refinance my house?
i have an 80/20 mortgage and because of the trends in real estate these days i owe more than what my home is probably worth now. will i still be able to refinance? i'm in metro phoenix. and i've no tardy payments on my mortgage.
17 Mar 2008, 4:12 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Is Phoenix, Arizona a nice place to live?
After watching home Hunters, I am very interested in Phoenix ,Arizona. What is the economy like and how is the diversity factor? It seems real estate is much cheaper in Phoenix than say Michigan.... Any info would be most appreciated.
17 Mar 2008, 1:32 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: What is your experience with online MBA programs from actual universities (not online-only "schools")?
I have a BBA in Finance and have been out of school for 5+ years now - after 2 layoffs in 2008 (commercial real estate industry) I'm considering going back to receive my MBA. I'd like to hear about your experiences with online programs from actual universities (i.e. Univ. of Nebraska, Univ. of Tulsa, Florida State, etc.). I'm not considering schools like University of Phoenix or other online-only schools. I'd like to go back to school in the physical sense, but I have a family and the time constraints make it impossible. Can I expect to gain as much from an online program as I would on campus? I know a big part of the experience is the contacts you gain from your study groups, etc. - any input? Thanks
16 Jan 2009, 10:50 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Cinder block walls around all yards in phoenix?
I am looking for a nice family neighborhood in AZ. When I look pictures on real estate web sites, it seems every houses have yards encircled with cinder block walls. (very foreign to someone from the northeast) This seems to block every views. I was wondering if this is traditional in AZ or just in that area, and why.
16 Feb 2009, 2:28 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Good real estate agent in Phx?
I'm having a very difficult time getting real estate agents to show me listings. I do every the work finding the places and they won't even show me. Can anyone recommend a good real estate agent, actually willing to do some work? Here in Phoenix...Thanks
16 Aug 2008, 7:39 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: What's the scoop on this? Phoenix real estate offer?
An acquaintance made me an offer to sell me his home (he just moved out, bought a new home) and he says the home is worth 275k, but he wants to do this thing I don't quite understand: - receive the place appraised for 10K more (285K) - Then he would give me 35K for a downpayment and I'd be paying mortgage on 250K Why does he want to appraise it for more? I don't receive it.
15 Feb 2008, 4:50 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: There are those who despise Democrats because they are "Socialist"! Will U withdraw money if your bank fails?
"By MARCY GORDON, AP Business Writer Marcy Gordon, Ap Business Writer – 38 mins ago WASHINGTON – Real estate lender Colonial BancGroup Inc. has been close down by federal officials in the biggest U.S. bank failure this year. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp., which was appointed receiver of the Montgomery, Ala.-based Colonial and its about $25 billion in assets, said the failed bank's 346 branches in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Nevada and Texas will reopen at the normal times starting on Saturday as offices of Winston-Salem, N.C.-based BB&T. The FDIC has approved the sale of Colonial's $20 billion in deposits and about $22 billion of its assets to BB&T Corp. Regulators also closed four other banks: Community Bank of Arizona, based in Phoenix; Union Bank, based in Gilbert, Ariz.; Community Bank of Nevada, based in Las Vegas; and Dwelling home Savings and Loan Association, located in Pittsburgh. The closures boosted to 77 the number of federally insured banks that have failed in 2009. The agency established a temporary government bank for Community Bank of Nevada to give depositors about 30 days to open accounts at other financial institutions. The failed bank had assets of $1.52 billion and deposits of $1.38 billion as of June 30. Community Bank of Arizona had assets of $158.5 million and deposits of $143.8 million as of June 30, while Union Bank had assets of $124 million and deposits of $112 million as of June 12. The FDIC said that MidFirst Bank, based in Oklahoma City, has agreed to assume every the deposits and $125.5 million of the assets of Community Bank of Arizona, as well as about $24 million of the deposits and $11 million of the assets of Union Bank. The FDIC will retain the relax for eventual sale." every of you have safe money if your bank fails thanks to Democrats and FDR! I suspect none of you will use this socialistic program to keep your money from mismanaged banks and leave it in the bank. Won't you? The FDIC is a "socialistic" program! Actually most receive socialism confused with this country's Mantra: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that every men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed" No where in the declaration does it mention corrupt business and their usurpers of the US Constitution who are our largest group receiving welfare and the largest welfare frauds! It says "The people" and business is not "the People"! No one I know is a socialist, however some programs perhaps could be considered that, like the FDIC. Of course NO Republican would ever pass such a thing, but they will every be lining up at banks tomorrow getting their money thanks to Democrats!
15 Aug 2009, 3:41 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Real Estate Market in phoenix?
Husband and I are considering purchasing a 2nd home in phoenix Arizona. We currently live in British Columbia. Can anyone advise on the current market, where it is headed, and whether or not it would be a sound investment? Thx.
14 Jul 2008, 6:22 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Has anyone ever heard of or done business with GDC Real Estate in Phoenix, Az?
Or does anyone know where i can find information on them?
14 Dec 2009, 3:51 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Should I buy one House or two???
I live in Phoenix and I possess a condo which I am planning on renting out soon, so that I can buy a home. (Thank you housing market decline) My girlfriend lives with me and makes about the same income as I do. Question: Should we buy two houses instead of one? Judging by the way the real estate market is now, this is a great opportunity to buy homes. She could afford a place of her possess and so could I.... But we'd live in one and rent the other out. Would this make more sense? Then we'd possess a condo and two homes... rather then a condo and one home. Does this make sense to anyone? Anyone have any good reasons why this is a bonehead idea? I need input before I do this. Thanks!!!
14 Apr 2008, 4:31 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: HELP!!! Landlord is a fraud?
My husband and I rented a home in Phoenix, Arizona on August the 1st of 2008. We just found out that our landlord, is not even the owner of the home. A real estate agency informed us that our supposed landlord, is actually the one that should be renting the home! Our supposed landlord had a one year contract to be renting the home throught the real estate agency. HELP WHAT CAN WE DO? Yes, we did sign a one year contract with our supposed landlord. We have a copy of every check we paid her for rent.
13 Sep 2008, 12:42 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: I am 22 andinterested in investing into real estate. Can anyone suggest a good program that works?
I recently went to a Robert Allen seminar in phoenix, az. I was wondering if there is anyone out there that has taken his Creating Wealth with Real Estate program? It sounded like a great learning tool, and i wanted to do it, but i dont know if its just another one of those scams. Is there anyone out there that could give me some advice on how to start investing in real estate? suggestions on any programs to take? it would be very much appreciated! Thank you :)
13 Nov 2007, 4:10 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: do you like my idea for a nintendo DS game?
well since there are so many games for nintendo Ds that are about various professions like trauma middle, phoenix wright, and cooking mama, I thought that I would make a game where you are a real estate agent. You have to sell a home and show the buyers the home and sign the legal documents with the touch screen. what do you think, I think that it will receive popular if I include anime characters like trauma middle and phoenix wright, do you think a game can receive popular just because of anime characters. I think it can it will be educational and fun, you will learn the property purchasing process
13 Feb 2008, 11:22 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Invest 50,000 in College?
Need a liitle advice from you every. I have two tiny kids, work part time, studying for my real estate exam. I know the economy isn't great for real estate so I signed up to receive my bachelors with University of Phoenix. Should I invest 50,000 on college or should I just stay with real estate? My husband works and goes to college too.
12 Sep 2008, 8:43 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Retirement planning, Roth 401k and Roth IRA?
Hi, I'm 23 and currently contributing to my Roth 401k to receives full matching from the company. I would like to start a Roth IRA at the beginning of 2008 with T Rowe Price. My 401k is doing good so far, but I calculated my future retirement needs and realized that I should start a Roth IRA and max it out each year. I've been doing quite a bit of research on T. Rowe and their funds and would like to start out with funds that has total international exposure first. My concern/question is, does T Rowe Price funds' past performances accurate? It seems to me that most of their funds perform better than other companies. Are there anything different about them from other fund companies that I should know about? They seems a bit more aggressive (which is good), but is that the case? here are my current funds, I put more in Europacific that other though. With these pick, should I go with a conservative route in a Roth IRA instead? thanks should I drop Smallcap World R4? Alger tiny Cap = 5% Columbia tiny Cap Value Fund II = 6% Munder Mid-Cap Core Growth A = 6% Phoenix Mid Cap Value = 7% American Funds SmallCap World R4 = 5% American Funds Cap Wld G&I R4 = 7% American Funds New World R4 = 6% American Funds EuroPacific R4 = 16% American Funds Growth Fund R4 = 7% American Funds New Economy R4 = 6% Black Rock S&P 500 Index = 6% Davis NY Venture = 6% Van Kampen Comstock = 6% Eaton Vance big-Cap Value = 6% AIM Real Estate = 5% Total = 100% Sorry, I forgot to mention. Those funds listed are what I'm currently holding in my 401k. They took a few hits a few weeks ago but are now on track. Their performances meet my expectation, but did not exceed it. I plan to retire in my mid 50s, about 35 years from now. That's part of the reasons why I went with Roth. I plan on retiring early and withdraw from my principle until I'm 60. By the way, I'm able to manage every funds in the account without any problem thru a website provide by my employer. I manage my contribution, allocation, earning, funds info.....with the tools given to me by my company.
11 Dec 2007, 6:35 am | click here to view more
Resolved Question: does anyone know a good website for Phoenix AZ real estate?
my husbands job might cause us to move to Pheonix...anybody know some websites that i could look up houses there? thanks
1 Mar 2008, 10:58 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Can someone please uncode this real estate claim?
BANK REPO! (NOT A SHORT SALE) NICE 3 BEDROOM 1.75 BATH HOME IN EAST PHOENIX. PROPERTY IN FAIR CONDITION. GOOD SIZE LOT OF 8525 SQ FEET. NO SPDS OR CLUE REPORT TO BE SUPPLIED BY SELLER. PROPERTY TO BE SOLD IN ''AS IS'' CONDITION. SELLER TO SELECT ESCROW CO., SELLER ADDENDUMS FOLLOW ACCEPTED TERMS.
1 Jul 2009, 5:33 pm | click here to view more
Resolved Question: Pop-punk music suggestion?
I have millions of iTunes giftcards but nothing to download. Can anyone suggest something I'll like? Here's some bands I already hear to: Fall Out Boy Blink-182 New Found Glory Midtown Third Eye Blind Four Year Strong The Academy Is... every Time Low Panic! At The Disco Chiodos The Audition Saves The Say Sunny Day Real Estate The Cure Danger Radio Paramore Phoenix Anberlin Nirvana Jack's Mannequin Motion City Soundtrack MGMT Hit The Lights Passion Pit Say Anything Cute Is What We Aim For Taking Back Sunday (just to name a few) Help me out! Specific songs would help! Thanks :D
1 Jan 2010, 3:12 pm | click here to view more