Archive for the ‘La Porte County’ Category

After several years of experience in Listing and Selling Properties in Northwest Indiana Subject To Lenders Approval of Short Sale, Jeff Safrin, Real Estate Broker/Owner of F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate completed the National Association Of REALTORS requirements for the SFR - Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource Certification Designation.

Every Short Sale is not the same - There are many possible scenario’s that can occur during the complex process of short sale approval (lender’s filing of foreclosure proceedings, bankruptcy court proceedings etc..).

1st hand experience in working through these difficult situations are not taught in the basics of NAR’s class, but in the “school of hard knocks” called life experiences.

Our best  resource for helping you decide whether you choose us to represent you in the sale of your property which may be subject to your lenders approval of a short sale is the recommendation of our past clients or  attorneys who have worked with us during this specific type of real estate transaction.

References available upon request.

Spring is in the air and the snow is melting in NW Indiana…

Here are some seasonal photos (Spring & Summer) of a property we have listed for sale @

5232  N Colsen Ct,  New Carlisle, IN  46552

4000+SF Hillside Ranch on 4 + Acres of Retreat Like Setting La Porte County, IN. Near(20 min)South Bend & Lake Michigan.Commute to Chicago by South Shore Train.Custom Quality Built,Original Owners,Well Insulated.Open Concept Foyer/Living/FDR w/Loft overlooks LL FamRm.2 Story Wall of Windows brings in views of nature.Magestic Central Brick FP on each Level.Main Flr.Master Suite w/Private Deck,2 Walk-in Closets,Glass Block Shower(Dual heads)+Double Vanity Sinks+Whirlpool Tub.Country Kitchen w/Stainless Appliances,Custom Pantry Area w/Wine Rack,Island w/Convection Oven,Breakfast Bar w/sleek cooktop surface,Dining Nook Opens to 2nd Deck.2nd BR on Main level used as Home Office=has Closet+bath.Grand LL FR w/2nd FP,Bar Area,2walkouts to lg Patio.2 LL BR’s share 3rd bath.Big Laundry+storage/utility rms.20×40 Heated Inground Pool+Solar Cover+Robot Vacuum.30×48 Pole Barn,Shed,Inground Sprinklers,Meticulous Landscape.NEW CARPETING THROUGHOUT.

Seller pays $4000.towards your closing costs w/full offer!

The Indiana Association of REALTORS has a great website called Indiana Is Home.

There is a collection of Market Data Reports with Statistics on home Sales in Indiana by County updated monthly

Here is a link to January 2009 vs. January 2010 Existing Single Family Residential Home Sales

With the 1st Time Home Buyer Tax Credit deadline for accepted Real Estate Purchase Contracts being 4/30/10, NOW is a good time to buy a home in Northwest Indiana!

Here are NW Indiana Homes For Sale that offer Seller Assisted Financing - Seller will pay Buyers Closing Costs or pre-paids allowable by lender with a full price accepted offer*

Lake County Indiana Home For Sale in Griffith, 46319 – Seller helps with  Buyers Closing Costs ->

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Porter County, Indiana Home For Sale in Portage, 46368 – Seller helps pay Buyers Closing Costs ->

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La Porte County, Indiana Home For Sale, 46350 – Seller helps pay Buyers Closing Costs ->

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For an appointment to see any of these properties – don’t hesitate to give us or one of our experienced professionals @ F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate a call.

Top 10 Reasons to List Your Home For Sale using the Professional Services of “Spouses Selling Houses” TM…

1) Satisfied Clients

Our proven record of providing clients with the best possible service speaks for itself. Please feel free to read our many client Testimonials @ www.safrin.net

2) Straight Talk

We don’t tell clients what they want to hear if it’s not reality. Last year we turned down as many Listings as we SOLD. In this market, there is a difference between wanting to SELL or wanting to STAY. We work collaboratively with those who are willing to listen to professional suggestions.

3) WYSIWYG - What You See Is What You Get

No Gatekeepers – We answer our own phone calls and give personalized service throughout all phases of your Real Estate Transaction.. No unlicensed personnel or assistants taking your calls, messages or handling the file of one of your life’s biggest investments!

4) Technology

The REAL ESTATE Business is changing. We strive to continually improve our knowledge and keep up with an assertive Internet Marketing Plan and the use of : Social Media Like Twitter, Facebook, Linked-IN, Blogs, SEO, Syndication, Google Ranking, Data tracking- i.e. IP visits/key word analysis.

5) Communication & Follow Up

Having two licensed Real Estate Brokers working for you is an advantage. We place value on keeping our Clients informed.

6) Thinking Outside the Box

In Today’s Challenging Real Estate Market, we have been recognized nationally for our use of innovative strategies to help sellers achieve their goals of Relocation. To read more about this search Google :” Safrin + Reverse Offer “. or read about our successful Short Sale Strategies-> click here

7) Pre-qualify All Buyers we work with

Since day one – we have had this policy! In today’s tight lending environment, it is more important than ever not to waste your time (or ours) by determining ready, willing, and able buyers prior to scheduling a showing on your property.

Value of a Certified Residential Specialist.

Only 4% of REALTORS nationwide have achieved this designation. Not only is extra education a requirement, but proof of a threshold number of successfully closed transactions in a certain time parameter. Grace Safrin is a CRS – read why this makes a difference in marketing your property to sell @ http://www.crs.com/msite/6613688

9) Value of a Top Producer

Title of 1^stVice President of Residential Sales and Life Member of Presidents Club ( our company’s highest honor) is achieved by a disciplined, results oriented work ethic. Jeff Safrin is a consistent top producer both in NW Indiana and statewide.

10) The Power of F.C. Tucker

Founded in 1918 on the “Golden Rule” philosophy, this 3^rd generation family-owned business is the largest and most successful real estate company in the State of Indiana, representing more buyers and sellers than any other company statewide.

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Thanks for stopping by and reading our Northwest Indiana Real Estate Blog!

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin – “Spouses Selling Houses” TM

Real Estate Broker/ Owners of F.C. Tucker 1st Team Real Estate-Independently Owned & Operated

Valparaiso residents serving Lake, Porter, La Porte, Counties in NW Indiana.

For Sale By Owner Stories= The Good, The BAD, & the Ugly->

The Good….

Growing up in a small neighborhood on the south side of Chicago called Hegewisch, (where everybody knew everybody), I can remember several FSBO transactions that happened without contracts! Property was sold by verbal agreement and a handshake….. ah the good old days of people who kept to their word. Today, things are not always as easy, although many FSBO sales are successful. Lately, with the challenging economy & Real Estate Market, the caveat of Buyer Beware calls even more for professional services of a licensed Real Estate Broker.

Since 1999, I’ve been compiling stories (maybe I’ll write a book someday:) of actual events of meeting with FSBO owners. Some we listed and sold, some we helped facilitate the sale by bringing a buyer. But some…. were TBA-AAC (to be avoided, at all costs). Here are just a few excerpts from some of our experiences of dealings with FSBO properties.

The Bad….

A son, with the same name first & last names as his father, met with us to discuss the sale of a 3 unit investment property that we had a potential buyer for. He represented himself as the owner, but the business card, which he gave us when we toured the property had JR. after his name…the county record did not! When Jeff later called to confirm ownership and validity of intent to sell with the SR., his voice became sad for being the one to break shocking news to an elderly man about what his only son was attempting.

A Husband and Wife (two separate last names on title, quickly explained to us when questioned about it, that the change was never made with the county after marriage). At the appointment later in the week, the couple claimed they were motivated to sell, only problem, they must have forgot we printed the county record and when the husband introduced his wife with a different 1st name?… truth = It was actually his mother on Title & Deed – a quick phone call to Mom on the spot was enlightening… LOL …uh oh, no sale here after mama found out.

The Ugly….

A previous client tried to get his friend to at least talk with us before buying for sale by owner. He did not heed the advice, yet a few months after the sale, he did called us about a flood in the basement (neighbors eagerly informed him the home always floods with heavy rains….something that was not told to him by the previous owner). We asked him what the Indiana Residential Sellers Disclosure FORM said….oh no - FSBO not required to disclose defects with the property in IN…so none was ever filled out, like every professionally LISTED property is required to have!

One beautiful FSBO home was listed 100 K over area comps (it was stunning, with an exceptional premium lot – so our buyers asked us to investigate).
The sellers told us they had several deals fall through – we asked why? Apparently, the 3 mortgages on the property (all different lenders) would not allow or come to an agreement on terms to permit any short sale…The sellers were so upside down on what they owed the banks on this property!
We wondered after leaving this home: How any potential buyers could entrust FSBO sellers in similar situations with thousand of dollars in earnest money??…not knowing important background information on the property liens ?

Remember the wise advise written in the refrain to the song Kenny Rogers sang called ‘The Gambler’?

Know when to walk away. There are enough obstacles in a regular real estate transaction these days of getting safe, listed properties to close – no bluffing!

If you are currently trying to sell your property For Sale By Owner without success, give us a call to show you Plan B – We’ve helped many previous FSBO clients get their home SOLD… read some of our TESTIMONIALS.

If you are a serious pre-approved buyer and considering a FSBO property purchase – use our services as a Buyer Agent to represent you in the transaction.

Give us a call today @ 219-405-1232 to discuss any questions or your particular situation.

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If we can help you find a home or land in NW Indiana, give us a call @ 219-405-1232 – we are Full Time Full Service Real Estate Brokers serving Lake, Porter, La Porte Counties in NW Indiana.

Jeff& GraceSafrin “ Spouses Selling Houses” TM

Real Estate Broker /Owners of F.C. Tucker – 1st Team Real Estate – Independently Owned & Operated

the 32nd affiliate office of F.C.Tucker => Indiana’s Largest Real Estate Company

On Facebook ?…… be-friend us – look up Jeff Safrin : )

Earlier this week, Jeff got a call to do another Broker Price Opinion on a deserted Home Facing Foreclosure in Northwest Indiana.

It’s sad to note, that some of these properties have been neglected for a long time, with water damage and mold growing as a result.

Surprising that people wait so long and finally abandon their homes. I often wonder when looking at the damages shown by photos…. if the homeowner tried calling a Real Estate Broker experienced in negotiating short sales early in the game….before it’s too late….or even talked to the lender about loan modification programs to get a lower interest rate before their 1, 3, or 5 year ARM (adjustable rate mortgage) came due?

The bright spot in the trip came when he stopped along the way back home and took this picture of a Swan carefully guarding her NEST….there is no doubt she would fuss and fight if anyone threatened to take it away.

An old Proverb came to mind when I saw this photo :

Proverbs 27:8
⁸Like a bird that wanders from her nest,
So is a man who wanders from his home.

If you are behind or unable to make your mortgage payments – call us to discuss possible options.

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Jeff& GraceSafrin “ Spouses Selling Houses” TM

Real Estate Broker / Owners of F.C. Tucker – 1st Team Real Estate one of 32 offices Independently owned and operated affiliated with F.C.Tucker- Indiana’s Largest Real Estate Company (established1918).

If we can help you find a home or land in NW Indiana, give us a call @ 219-405-1232 – we are Full Time Full Service Real Estate Brokers serving Lake, Porter, La Porte Counties.

On Facebook ?…… be-friend us – look up Jeff Safrin : )

Linked in ??….. link to us… look up Grace Safrin : )

TWITTER?? …Follow…. SAFRIN

The Indiana Association of REALTORS has put out a great website for prospective Home Owners looking to Relocate to Our State!

With Links and Video’s covering Topic of Interest about ” The Indiana Story “

The State Of Real Estate In Indiana with Governor Mitch Daniels ( VIDEO )

A List of Indiana Economic Facts of Interest which describes ->

More Jobs For Hoosiers, The Business Environment, Recent Rankings, Building the Best Sandbox

The website also has a tab specifically for :

BUYING - that leads to a plethora of informative links for Home Buyers like ->

What you need to Know about the $8000 Tax Credit

FHA Loans

Homeownership program for Veterans

$15,000 Housing Grants – Do You qualify?

Selling – is yet another Tab on this website that has important resourceful data ->

FSBO

Foreclosure

Selling Tips

Why a REALTOR should be Your first call ( VIDEO )

Let our service MOVE you, as it has many others!

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Thanks for stopping by and reading our Northwest Indiana Real Estate Blog!

Just as the seasons change here in NW Indiana, we help clients achieve their Real Estate Goals in various seasons in life. We look forward to serving you.

Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin – “Spouses Selling Houses” TM

Real Estate Broker/Owners of F.C. Tucker 1st Team Real Estate Independently Owned & Operated

- phone # 219-405-1232.

Valparaiso residents serving Lake, Porter, La Porte C ounties in NW Indiana.

On Facebook ?…… be-friend us – look up Jeff Safrin : )

Linked in ??….. link to us… look up Grace Safrin : )

TWITTER?? …Follow…. SAFRIN

Now we’ve Blogged about the attractions and beauty of La Porte County, Indiana Before…..

There is so much to do and see in the corridor between Michigan and NW Indiana like:

Lake Michigan Beaches…..

The Michigan City Zoo.….

The Lighthouse Premium Outlet Mall……

South Bend and Notre Dame Games

Some of Our Favorite Eateries i.e. Ruth Chris Steak House or BoneFish Grill

With The South Shore Train Line connecting La Porte County, IN easily with Chicago – land….AND

excellent NEW Schools….this beautiful Home and Property we just listed is worth your careful consideration!

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Custom Home + Retreat Like Setting

Overview Maps Photos Features Description Neighborhood

$440,000 Single Family Home For Sale Main Features 4 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 1 Unit Interior: 4287 sqft Lot: 4.37 acre(s) Location 5232 N. Colsen Court New Carlisle, IN 46552

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Jeff & Grace Safrin F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate (219) 309-9930 safrin@jorsm.com http://www.safrin.net Listed by: Jeff Safrin of F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate

Our recent listings Custom Home + Retreat Like Setting Simplify Your Life + Enjoy this Community Duneland Area Home is Unlike Others- Artistically Redesigned Interior! Look No More – This Bungalow will surprise you! Affordable Portage Tri-level on 2 Lots Subscribe to our listing feed

See more New Carlisle, IN real estate for sale

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Our Listings of REO or Bank Owned Properties For Sale are selling quickly in Northwest Indiana.

Recently we had a listing which was under contract in only 14 days on the market, and closed 27 days later.

However – there was much time, energy and effort by us behind the scenes working collaboratively with the REO specialist at the bank which took months PRIOR to this happening!

This included:

Doing Broker Price Opinion’s in both an “as-is” condition AND another BPO with repair estimates included.

This required meeting multiple licensed contractors at the property in order to provide detailed written quotes on any Repairs or Mold remediation.

Submitting these to the REO Manager (on Bank Forms) and awaiting the file to be returned from committee for decision on what work will actually be doneand the decision on listing price, takes persistent follow up skills.

Detailed Photos (before and after) and invoicingmust be kept & shared with the bank contact.

Also, the REO department has specific Bank Contracts and Addendum’s that differ from our State or Local Board Real Estate agreements and these must be reviewed carefully.

Sometimes, customary fee’s like Title Insurance, are NOT customary , but negotiable!

Financing REO Properties is another topic in and of itself these days

Mortgage departments familiar with this ever growing trend of Real Estate sales are sharing their specific requirements for internal financing of REO properties which may or may not differ from their Local lending branches for conventional home sales.

All in all, in our opinion here are the keys to a quick REO sale ->

• Competitive Market Price- a Real Estate Broker experienced in BPO’s can help set this!
• Decent Property Condition – a home in which health or safety concerns have been addressed & corrected sells quicker!
• Mass Marketing efforts / Internet sydication of the listing from day one of going on the market- multiple showings and competition among qualified buyers yields better offers (a Certified Residential Specialist can help with this
• Excellent communication,attention to details, and meticulous follow through by the Listing Agent (s) of Record are needed in this current market to get deals to the closing table!

If you are a Bank or Lender who has Inventory of Foreclosed Homes in NW Indiana and are looking? to move them quickly, please call us for a confidential consultation. References available on request.

Thanks for stopping by and reading our Blog about Life in NW Indiana, The Housing Market, Communities, Local Sports, Events, attractions & more @ NorthWestIndianaRealEstateBlog.com

 Sincerely,

Jeff & Grace Safrin,  Broker / Owners

F.C.Tucker 1st Team Real Estate – Independently Owned & Operated

13 Lincolnway Suite # 203,  Valparaiso, IN 46383          Office # 219-309-9930