Categoriesreferrals

The “Source” of the Source…

We try be a valuable resource to our clients before, during and after any transaction.  And in fact, we want to be that kind of resource regardless of our business relationship.  It is our philosophy that the best thing we can do for our business is to be of service to others!  We are not the source of all information.  But we do make it our business to be an information hub, or the “source” of the source, if you will, for our clients and friends.

One way we’re doing this is by starting a formal business networking group.  We looked around and decided that Business Networking International (BNI) was a good fit.  We are selecting members that share our business priorities (hard work, excellent service, fun, and a desire to grow business by providing great support for one another).  If you, or someone you know, are interested in growing your business by consciously expanding your networks let us know.  We are seeking new members and we encourage you to visit our group.  We have found it to be fun, energizing and extremely effective.

Most importantly, if you are in need of a referral for a local professional we may have a great connection for you.  You can visit our BNI group website for an ever increasing list of service providers.  Or, better yet, give us a call because our networks extend far beyond the BNI group.

From Arborists to Yoga teachers we’ve got you covered! (We
don’t yet know any zoologists). 
 
 
Warm Regards,

Domenica
Windermere Real Estate

Categorieseconomy, info for home owners

The Politics of Foreclosure

We are all facing the challenges of the economic downturn in one way or another.  Many of our good friends and clients have lost their jobs and are struggling.  Over the last year and for the much of the coming year, a big segment of our work is devoted to providing solid information and expertise to assist with sometimes difficult transitions.  We just want to thank our clients for placing their confidence and trust in us.

Last weekend there was a great program on KUOW about “The Politics of Foreclosure” (to best listen to the program, click on the “download” link under the “Listen to Weekday” section).  We encourage you to take some time and listen to this discussion.  Steve Scher invited a panel of local experts who have very interesting insights into the current state of foreclosures in our area.  The Seattle area is more solid and hopeful than most areas of the country, but it is predicted that our area will still experience a higher than normal level of foreclosures as adjustable rate mortgages and sub-prime mortgages continue to reset. 

The good news:

  • There is more strength in the market in the last few months and more buyers buying homes due to low interest rates and the Federal tax credits. 
  • 87% of the sub-prime mortgages (most risky) have already reset and the remaining adjustable rate mortgages that are due to reset have a “soft landing” with the current low interest rates
  • We have a diverse economy in our region and jobs are a key factor in home sales and overall recovery.

We know that the homeowners who are most at risk are those who bought or refinanced (and maybe took out equity) since the height of the market in 2007.  For these homeowners, they may be upside down on their mortgage if they need to sell because home values have decreased over that period.  The options for loan modification are limited, but work is being done to address this issue.  Our expertise is in selling homes, so we cannot assist you with loan modification questions, but we know of some resources to pass along and would love to learn from you, too!
 
 
 
Warm Regards,