Real Estate Remains A Strong Investment

Writen by W. Troy Swezey

Opportunities to make big, quick profits in residential real estate tend to come and go in cycles. When a local market is hot, families may find it possible to buy a house at an attractive price, fix it up, and watch its value rise in just a few years.

When the same local market is at the low end of the appreciation cycle, reaping a profit on the family home can take a good deal more time but the reward can be just as satisfying if price and location and carefully considered.

Even in uncertain economic times like these, history shows that real estate is one of the soundest investments a family can make. During the Great Depression of the 1930s when the stock market plummeted as much as 89 percent, housing prices dropped only 39 percent. According to most of the research on housing trends, prices continually stay at the same level as, and most often appreciate faster than, the rate of inflation. Housing prices actually rose an average of 10 percent during the recessions of the mid 1970’s and early 1980s.

CENTURY 21 statisticians report that the rate of home appreciation since 1990 has been around five percent nationally, with inflation hovering around four percent. Homeowners, obviously, are still staying ahead in the real estate game on average.

And, with mortgage interest rates the lowest they’ve been in two decades, real estate today is a more attractive investment than it’s been in years.

First time buyers are the big winners in this environment. Drawing up a budget can help you and your family decide on what you can afford. Once you’ve determined a price and picked your desired community, shop around to find the best house you can buy for your money. This strategy can help you realize greater appreciation two or three years down the road.

This is also a good time to purchase a second or vacation home. A bargain cabin in the woods today might bring an excellent return when housing prices move upward. Affordable second home prices also allow you to purchase a vacation home that can serve as a stepping stone to a larger retreat in the future.

But appreciation isn’t the only advantage to buying a home. The federal government thinks home ownership is so important to the future of our country that it allows mortgage interest to remain the last substantial tax shelter for families. Owners can also take deductions on their property taxes. And, the profit on the sale of your home remains tax free as long s you buy a house for a greater or equal price.

So before you decide that this is not a good time to invest in residential property, re examine the financial benefits of owning your own home and put them to work for you.

About The Author

W. Troy Swezey is the author of “REAL ESTATE REMAINS A STRONG INVESTMENT.” As a Realtor at Century 21 Paul & Associates, he has helped many individuals with their real estate needs. Visit his web site to download his free e book, “Real Estate Secrets Exposed.” http://www.TroyIsMyRealtor.com or mail to: TroyC21@usa.net

The Eastern European Property Boom

Writen by Richard Doleman

Since the stock market crashes of a few years ago, more and more investors have looked to real estate for their futures. The only problem is for the average mid income investor, its difficult to come up with enough collateral for that second purchase. Another worry is making the monthly payments if it does not rent as easily as expected.

The home markets of the USA and the EU have long been too expensive for most second home investors, but with the advent of EU expansion, the new markets of the central and eastern European countries are opening to outside investment. Cities such as Prague, Budapest, and Kracow are fantastic centres of culture and historic architecture. They are now experiencing a property boom the like of which has never been seen before.

Properties in Budapest, Hungary’s beautiful capital have seen a steady increase of 20 25% capital growth over the past 5 years, and prices are still 25 30% of the cost of similar western european options. rental opportunities are very good, with returns of up to 12% per annum. Thats a huge $6000p/a per $50,000 investment. With home mortgage markets running interest rates at up to 30%, the local population either need cash, or cannot buy their own homes. This is all due to change with the advent of the single currency, the Euro. When these countries meet the criteria for full EU membership, they will also have a fixed currency, and standardised EU interest rates, currently at under 3%. Mortgages will then be affordable, and prices are expected to skyrocket. Overseas buyers can avail of EU mortgages at 3 6%.

How then are the prices increasing at 20 25% per annum? There are two main reasons, eastern European ex pats working in the west and saving for their homes. A vast influx of wealth generated in the western EU is going into the fashionable districts in Budapest. When Hungarians overseas can purchase their dream apartment in their capital city for

Lake Property in Danbury

Writen by Brandon Bruce

A lakeside vacation or second home can be a quiet and relaxing place to escape to, or simply a good investment in your financial future. Whether you enjoy the outdoor activities and recreation provided by one of Connecticut’s beautiful lakes, or you just want a place to get away from it all, there is a lakeside home for you in Danbury. When searching for lake property in Danbury, there are a few things to keep in mind that will help you find the perfect place for you and your family.

First Things First

When first starting your lake property search, you need to decide a few things. How much acreage do you want to own? Lake property in Danbury can range from less than one acre to any number of acres, depending on the location and the density of population in the area. You also need to decide if you want to purchase your property with an existing home or simply buy the land and build your own home. There are a number of beautiful homes and condominiums on Danbury’s lake properties, but there is also beauty in constructing your own home on your own lakeside property.

Help Wanted

In the midst of your search, you may find you need some assistance. This is where a real estate professional comes in. A realtor can help you every step of the way, including finding that perfect piece of property. Your realtor will have access to listings of the widest range of lake property in Danbury, ensuring that you will find exactly what you are looking for. He or she will also be able to help you in negotiating prices, closing the deal, and taking care of any legal matters that go along with a real estate transaction. This assistance will free you up to enjoy the process a little more and take some of the stress out of your lakeside property search. Even if you are experienced in buying and selling real estate, you should consult a local realtor for advice, as he or she will be the most up to date in current real estate market trends.

And the Price?

There is no one price range for lake property in Danbury. The price will depend on a number of things, including size and location of the property, whether or not there is a home on the property, and a number of other factors. Some properties can sell for nearly a million dollars; others can be rented by the week or for the summer for a variety of prices. Check with your realtor to find the property that best suits your needs.

Lake property in the Danbury area can be a good investment, both financially and personally. A lakeside vacation can soothe stress and provide a getaway from a busy schedule. With the right knowledge and the right resources, along with a qualified professional to help you along the way, you can be sure to find the lake property you are looking for in Danbury.

Inside Real Estate in a network entirely devoted to real estate information. Our staff of nationwide writers has provided a library of over 25,000 real estate articles. Inside Real Estate covers several topics from the basic “how to’s” of real estate to city specific real estate information.

5 Qualities You Must Have to be a Successful Real Estate Investor

Writen by A. Greg Dickerson

There is no doubt that real estate investing or flipping houses is the fastest and easiest way to make money, build wealth and ultimately become rich for the average person. In fact more people have become millionaires today through real estate investing than any other business. Now this doesn’t mean it happens overnight or that you don’t have to work at it and put forth effort. No matter how easy something is it still requires work and real estate investing and house flipping are no different than any other business with the exception of the lack of physical labor unless you choose to do the work yourself.

So what are the qualities that make a successful real estate investor? There are many but today I am going to focus on the top five.

First is integrity. You absolutely must do what you say you are going to do to be successful in this business. You have to build a solid reputation for people to want to work with you and take you serious and when you are flipping houses you have to work with a lot of different people. It is a team sport and you have to earn peoples trust.

Second thing is discipline. You have to show up every day and take care of business. Eat the bullfrog first as they say. In other words do the things you don’t want to do first. This will give you a strong sense of accomplishment and fire you up for your day. Then get up and do it over again every single day.

Third is desire. The single most important thing you will ever have to do in your life is to figure out what it is you want. Most people think they know but when you match their actions to their words you see the truth. If you truly desire something with all your being you will find a way to make it happen.

Vision is the fourth quality. You need to be able to see the hidden value of a property. What I mean is in your minds eye you need to be able to see the finished product. Once you can visualize it you can put it into a written plan of action for the project. Each project you do should have a written plan and that plan starts with a vision.

The fifth thing is persistence. You are going to have to look at a lot of houses and make a lot of offers and talk to a lot of buyers and sellers before you can make a profit. Sometimes things will line up perfectly and sometimes they won’t. Things don’t always go the way we plan but if you keep at it and never give up you will succeed and through trial and error you will perfect your technique and find what works for you consistently.

Greg Dickerson has gone from zero to millions in 5 short years investing in real estate. To hear his incredible story check out the hottest new real estate investing web site on the internet today!

Smooth Real Estate Transactions: 4 Tips to Consider When Selling or Buying a Commercial Property

Writen by Cyndee Woolley

No one would invest in a piece of commercial real estate without investigating it’s resale value, income generating potential, building structure, etc. However, there are a couple of things that seem to get overlooked, even by the savviest investors. Following are the four most overlooked items that you should consider when you are selling or buying a commercial property:

Has the building been unoccupied for more than 180 days?

Collier County has an established Land Development Code (LDC) that governs things like a building’s architectural standards, setbacks, landscape and parking requirements. These requirements vary based on the district where the property is located. The LDC is reviewed and updated twice a year and new projects are required to comply with the codes. Existing buildings are usually “grandfathered” in, however, there are certain times that a building is subject to review for compliance with the current land development code.

One reason a building is subject to review is if it is unoccupied for a period of more than 180 consecutive days. To bring newer buildings into compliance with the LDC may be as simple as revamping the landscaping with extra trees or buffer shrubs. However, with older buildings it can be very costly. A local businessman purchased an older building with the intention of using it as a warehouse showroom. When he tried to get a permit for a renovation, he was informed that he would have to change the front facade of the building to include among other things, a 75% glass storefront. To bring this building into compliance, it would have meant serious structural changes that increased the renovation costs by tens of thousands of dollars. The project proved infeasible and the building was subsequently resold and developed.

Will the occupational license require a change of use for the building?

Another reason that would make the building subject to review for compliance with the land development code would be if there was a “change of use.” Change of use doesn’t necessarily mean a zoning change. It can mean going from a jewelry store to an office supply store, or a retail store to a restaurant. The reason for this review is to make certain that the new use is in compliance with the permitted uses of the specific zoning area. This review also ensures that there is adequate infrastructure (ie parking) to support the new use.

Will the building need alterations to the fire alarm or sprinkler system?

Another overlooked item is the fire safety system, which includes the fire alarm and fire sprinklers. By adding sprinklers or changing out a fire panel, you open the whole fire safety system up for review and it will have to be brought up to current code. Depending on the age of the building, this can include relocating the fire alarms on the wall; adding fire sprinkler heads; or replacing an entire control panel, which can add thousands of dollars to a project. If you are in doubt, get a consultation with a qualified general contractor or architect during your due diligence period.

Have you allotted enough TIME for planning and permitting?

Permitting is frequently the place where owners don’t allot enough time. According to the City of Naples Building Division, it typically takes three four weeks for a permit application to be reviewed and a permit issued. However, if your permit application is rejected it can take another two four weeks after your plans have been revised by the architect. According to the Collier County Building Department, it typically takes six weeks for a permit application to be reviewed and permitted. Depending on the complexity of the project and allowing for a couple of rejections, it is more realistic to plan on three to twelve months for a permit to be issued. A renovation might be three months and a building under 10,000sft might take six nine months. Unfortunately, there are NO short cuts in getting through the permitting process.

With proper planning, your commercial real estate transaction can go smoothly and provide you with a profitable investment. If you have any questions about the process, it would be wise to consult with a reputable commercial general contractor and an architect.

Cyndee Woolley is the Marketing Coordinator for Professional Building Systems. For more information, please email Cyndee@pbscontractors.com

Everything A Real Estate Agent Doesn’t Want You To Know! Part 4

Writen by Jim Hart

MONEY MATTERS

How much do you know about home financing? If you are planning on buying a home for the first time, you probably have a lot to learn before you are ready to plunge into home ownership. Home financing is one of the single most important and typically least understood elements of the home purchasing process.

Why is home financing so important? Two primary reasons:

1)Without financing you can’t buy a home (unless you are cash rich) and…
2) you will live with your home loan for a long long time, well after the thrill of home ownership has subsided.

There are a wide variety of financial products (home loans) on the market today besides the traditional 15 year and 30 year fixed rate and adjustable rate mortgages (ARM’s). Other loan types include government loans like VA loans, FHA loans and community development assistance loans/grants available in some areas. Lets not forget the Jumbo loans, bridge loans, negative amortization loans, balloon loans and interest only loans to name a few. Then you have to consider whether you will borrow your home loan from a bank or a mortgage company and does the lender service the loan or is the loan sold on the secondary market? It’s’ important to know this information because home buyers (and home owners) can be surprised to discover they are sending payments to different lenders over time as their loans are sold on the market. The good old days when the S&L’s made portfolio loans are over.

And then there is the financial speak. Terms like amortization, discount points, closing costs, doc prep fees, appraisals, zoning, good faith estimates, dowry rights, truth in lending, APR, HUD, originators, brokers, secondary market, hybrids, MIP, balloons, second mortgages, carry back mortgages, etc. Even seasoned homeowners who are selling and planning to buy a home may be taken back by all the financial terminology and buzzwords associated with the lending industry as a whole. The best strategy for wading through all this technical mumbo jumbo is start gathering information well in advance of a home purchase (or refi) because nothing is worse then having to learn all this information during the heat of a real estate transaction. There can be brisk movement during a real estate deal once your offer is accepted. You don’t want to get hit with a tidal wave of information requiring your critical decision making (and your legally bound signature) when you are going to school on every issue, detail and term associated with home financing.

For most first time buyers this can be overwhelming as they are forced to rely on real estate agents, bankers and mortgage brokers for advice. Keep in mind that when you are buying real estate you are SURROUNDED by sales people with an economic incentive called commissions! Do you really want to fly by the seat of your pants and trust commission driven sales people to give you advice? This is why I constantly advise all home buyers and sellers to have an attorney BEFORE they talk to a real estate agent or at least a source of information to guide you through the process we are talking about a BIG business deal right?

If you want to know you can protect your basic legal and financial interests AND get guidance on selecting the right home loan to meet your needs I STRONGLY suggest you (at least) take the time to request the report below to help you through many of these complex issues. It’s free!

Our E Report: 101 Tips For Homebuyers, Sellers And Money Borrowers will provide you with more information regarding this article topic click on the Smart Books link below to request the report. We’ll send it to your email address within 24 hours absolutely FREE during March. Another Ezine Article Exclusive! Until next time

Copyright © 2006 James W. Hart, IV All Rights reserved

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How to Eliminate Risk in Real Estate Investment

Writen by Neda Dabestani Ryba

Avoid 12 Common Mistakes Made by Novice Investors and Ensure High Rates of Return!

Real estate investment has provided many investors with positive cash flow, tax benefits and satisfaction of making an impact in others lives. Like any investment however, real estate has intricate nuances and market trends that when ignored can cause an investor tremendous heart ache.

Unbelievably many first time investors are willing to part with their hard earned cash without taking the time to study their investment. They rely on traditional trends and gut feelings. Before you risk your investment take the time to learn all you can about your market. By aligning yourself with the right professional you can avoid these 12 common mistakes and you’ll ensure an excellent return on your investment.

1. Failure to Determine Your Time Need Cash flow, capital appreciation, tax benefits, loss of management, equity paydown and pride of ownership are just some of the things that need to be addressed before you make that investment. A service minded real estate professional can be a tremendous asset by taking the time to evaluate your needs and making sure you’ve got all your bases covered.

2. Not Checking out the Seller or Sellers Agents Numbers Claims of extremely high rates of return run rampant in real estate investment. Don’t get caught up in the excitement check everything: rents, payment history, taxes, expenses, deposits, future modifications… everything. Make sure you have the right agent…it’s like having a good insurance policy against overlooking all the seemingly insignificant but very important details.

3. Forgetting You Are Buying a Business Owning investment property carries with it a great potential for creating wealth and… some potentially difficult decisions. Evictions, re investment into the property and time management all need careful consideration. Remember this is not a ‘hands off’ business.

4. Avoid Negative Cash Flow Property that eats cash every month can drain your working capital. This can create stress, frustration and become quite painful. Predicting constant appreciation is extremely difficult if not impossible for the unseasoned investor. A strain on your cash flow may cause you to sell the investment before the benefits of ownership are ever realized.

5. Failure to do a Thorough Inspection Look under every rock! Hire a professional inspector. Ask the tenants about pest problems, structural damage or reoccurring problems. Don’t overlook anything! A value driven real estate professional will help you find the right inspector and can help you avoid costly mistakes. When investing your hard earned money be sure and use sound business judgment!

6. Failing to Have Adequate Insurance Investment property brings liability. Tenants, cars, parking lots, cleaning facilities, property liability the list is quite extensive. Adequate insurance coverage is an absolute must! Be sure to consult with an insurance professional and protect your hard earned assets.

7. Inspect, Approve, and Confirm All Documents The list of documents that need to be proofed can be overwhelming to the first time investor. Building permits, zoning laws, rental and lease applications, health licenses, laundry leases, underlying loan documents, CC&R’s, by laws, title policies, mineral leases, inspection reports, purchase contracts, insurance.. don’t attempt to do it alone. The right professional can remove most of the stress and bring the transaction to a conclusion smoothly.

8. Get a Bill of Sale For All Property Involved Many types of personal property (appliances, furniture, fixtures, etc.) can be involved in an investment sale. Be very detailed know who owns what!

9. Charge Fair Rents Vacancies, turnovers and lease terminators are your biggest expense. Charge fair rents, treat your tenants with respect and respond as quickly as possible to their needs. It’s a lot less costly in the long run to take care of the little problems before they become big problems. Vacant property is your Achilles heel.

10. Select Qualified, Good Tenants From the Start Take the time to check references. Previous landlords, employers, financial references, credit and judgments are all vitally important. If there are any questions do a thorough investigation. Drive by their previous residence. A little work up front can save tremendous problems later.

11. Make Sure You Get Estoppel Letters Get letters from tenants confirming the status of tenancy. Make sure their version of the rental or lease agreement corresponds with the sellers interpretation.

12. Don’t Spend Positive Cash Flow Most of successful investors have free and clear properties. Be sure to re invest your cash flow back into the property payment and speed up the amortization schedule. This decreases your debt load and increases your equity which builds your net worth. Investment property can be one of the most rewarding aspects of your financial portfolio. Be certain to have all your ducks in a row before you invest. Do your homework! Consult with a professional real estate agent and protect yourself from the hidden troubles that can plague first time investors.

Neda Dabestani Ryba is a licensed Realtor in Maryland. She is a member of the President’s Circle of Top Real Estate Professionals. She can be reached at (800) 536 3806 or visit her website for more information: http://neda.dabestani.pcragent.com/ Prudential Carruthers REALTORS is an independently owned and operated member of Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc., a Prudential Financial company. Equal Housing Opportunity

How To Sell Real Estate The Easy Way

Writen by John Coutts

Anyone trying to break into the real estate game might easily lose hope early on if they are not properly prepared. It may seem obvious, but it’s essential to learn how to sell real estate properly before you do anthing else. Waiting for a phone to ring with bills piling up is not fun. There are many excellent guides and course where you can learn how to sell real estate, and I would advise getting the best you can find. Meanwhile, here are a few tips that will help…

1. Learn your area inside out. Make note of all the houses with “for sale” signs hanging out and really get the layout and features of the entire area you intend to operate in fully implanted in your mind.

2. When you start out you won’t know a lot about how to sell real estate, but you don’t want your prospects to know that. Experience takes time and there’s no way to rush it. But you can do all necessary research so that you don’t come across as completely green. Learn what the pros do and emulate it until you get the experience you need.

3. People can be wary of real estate brokers and sales agents. You will need to overcome any suspicions they may have, Develop an honest and confident manner. Answer all questions honestly and directly, and not in a politician way by evading the question altogether. If you don’t know the answer, say so. But also say you will find out and let them know as soon as possible.

You don’t only have to learn how to sell real estate you also have to learn how to treat people in a way that makes them comfortable and relaxed. When people trust you, that’s when you’ll really discover how to sell real estate!

Did you find these tips useful? You can learn a lot more about how to sell real estate, and get a free report “The Secret Of The Most Powerful Man In The World!” from this resource, http://www.3minuteguides.com/sellrealestate.html

John Coutts is an experienced author who researches and writes on a variety of popular subjects.

Real Estate Investors 7 Resources for Financing

Writen by Bill Carey

The number one question from all new real estate investors is “Where do I get the Money”? Here are 7 resources used by investors across the country in their businesses everyday and very successfully .

1.Owner Financing - Using the present owner to finance your purchase will give you the best opportunity to make big profits. With owner holding the first mortgage you may be able to get a no interest or very low interest loan with no payments until some future date or when you sell the property.

2.Subject To - Taking over the existing financing (not assuming the loan) making the payments current and keeping them current with your tenant buyer in the house making monthly payments including some profit for you.

3.Private Financing - Private lenders, friends, family, acquaintances, professionals Doctors or Attorneys, neighbors. These people must have investment cash that is currently earning low interest in CD’s money or market accounts. You can offer a first mortgage with 60 to 70% LTV on your investment properties 2, 3 or 5 years at 10% to 15% interest with no payments until the end of the term or interest only payments at a lower rate during the term.

4.Self Directed IRA’s Yours, a relative or any of the investors from your private financing group. A self directed Roth IRA allows you to invest in many areas including real estate. Your children’s self directed educational IRA can also be used to purchase real estate. All profits from the purchase and sale go directly back into the IRA. Imagine sending your kids to college TAX FREE by using a self directed IRA.

5.Hard Money Lenders - The property is the qualifier, loans based on 60% to 65% of the ARV. You pay 2 to 5 points rolled into the loan, at a higher interest rate 13% to 18% and all the normal fees (appraisal, survey, insurance, closing attorney). Based on the sale price and the condition of the property you may end up bring cash to the closing.

6.Flip the Property - Sell or assign this property to your buyer before you close on the deal or hold a simultaneous closing where you don’t take ownership but you do profit in the transaction. You can make a quick profit without any investment on your part.

7.Buyer Financing Your Purchase - Having your buyers down payment cover your out of pocket costs of purchase. Use this on a subject to or owner financing deal where cash is needed (not your cash) to close. When your buyer qualifies for a permanent mortgage complete the sale payoff the subject to mortgage or owner financing and take your profits.

Notice we didn’t go to the bank or mortgage company for any of this money. Each can be used by any investor for their real estate purchases and wealth building. Real Estate investing is an on going learning process of new and old techniques that will grow your wealth faster than any other type investment.

Bill Carey with over 30 years in real estate sales, investments, and home building offers a unique perspective to the buying and selling process of residential real estate for F*R*E*E consumer information and reports log on to http://www.CharlotteNCExecutiveHomes.com and see “Insider Real Estate Secrets Revealed” …a must read for Home Owners and Renters! It’s a F*R*E*E 12 lesson e course covering more than 20 topics exposing the realities behind buying and selling a home. It Could Make(or Save) You Thousands of Dollars

See http://www.BillCareyRealtor.com and sign up for our monthly e newsletter with tips for buyers, sellers, home owners and soon to be home owners.

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A Cure For a Real Estate Bubble Hangover

Writen by Mark Nash

Arm chair residential real estate investors are not a pretty picture these days. Many of these type of investors would love to have a makeover for their portfolios. Mainly the newbie group that cattle called weekend millionaire workshops are the ones holding many properties, huge debt and bought in at or near market highs. On top of those problems, the number of buyers sniffing around over priced markets has dwindled to a trickle. Plus, the few buyers around are the first wave of vultures looking for those desperate to sell. What’s a teetering weekend millionaire investor to do?

Make sure your properties are listed with a large national brokerage. You need all the Internet and print exposure you can get, locally, regionally, and nationally.

Don’t list with a company that demands you pay a commission, even if you don’t sell. It’s true, some companies listing agreements state you will pay a commission either way. Read the fine print before you sign.

Don’t list your property with a broker for longer than 120 days. Give them a chance to market your property, but for only four months. If they can’t do it in 120 days, chances are they can’t do it in 180 days.

Demand that your broker does a virtual tour and a minimum of eight still photos on their Internet web site and on Realtor.com. This is not negotiable. The buyer of your property might be out of town, state or the country, think global.

Pricing is king in today’s market. Throw your spread sheets away and your dreams of huge profits. Look only at sold comparable’s from the last six months, that’s exactly what the buyer’s mortgage lender will use. Price at market, forget wiggle room, you need to sell, act like it. Seven months ago was a different market. Remember you’re looking to save your credit rating.

If you have multiple properties, see which ones can be your loss leaders, price them to move fast. Better locations and the most popular models and floor plans should bring your highest returns. Don’t treat all properties in your portfolio the same if they’re not.

Figure out the absorption rate for your market. This rate will tell you how many months or years of for sale inventory is in your market. Three months is fine, six months is okay, nine months is troublesome and twelve plus, will not be pretty.

If you’re in a coastal resort market, factor in hurricane season. If it’s bad it will impact the market next winter. The good news is, demand will pick up strongly after 2 years of weak activity. The question is can you wait for the rebound?

Don’t even think about signing a contract to purchase. It doesn’t matter how good the deal is, you need to be selling not buying.

Call your mortgage lender when you know you won’t be able to make a payment. They love the heads up. You’ll have more problems with your condo association if you can’t pay association assessments.

Mark Nash’s fourth real estate book, “1001 Tips for Buying and Selling a Home” (2005), and working as a real estate broker in Chicago are the foundation for his consumer centric real estate perspective which has been featured on ABC TV, Associated Press,CBS The Early Show, Bloomberg TV, Bottom Line Magazine.CNN TV, Chicago Sun Times & Tribune, Fidelity Investor’s Weekly, MarketWatch, HGTVpro.com, MSNBC.com, Smart Money Magazine,The New York Times, Realty Times, Universal Press Syndicate and USA Today.