Memorial Day Weekend

I hope everyone enjoyed a long weekend. My question is how many of us actually celebrate this holiday for its true meaning. Being a military wife and daughter I realized at the end of the day we did not take the time to even discuss why the children were of school for the day. I assume the older ones realized it, but this gave me some food for thought. Many of us talk about celebration of other holidays such as the 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas and so forth. I want to take this time to say that without all of the United States Veterans both living and dead sacrificed their lives so that we can sit here today and do whatever we want that is legal. I am proud not only to be an American, but also to be the wife and daughter of a career military person. Please whenever possible take the time to say thank you when you see someone in an uniform, whether it be military, fire or police. These men and women work hard to provide us with the security and freedoms that we have living in the US. Also please teach your children about the special holidays that we have and why they are important. I am going to speak to my children upon returning home from work. The schools teach history it is our responsibility to teach values.

Home Inspections

Why Get A Home Inspection?

A professional home inspection can be of tremendous value for both home buyers and sellers. An inspection reveals a great deal of information about a home, answers some important questions, and helps give everyone a peace of mind.

There are basically two types of inspections:

The pre-listing inspection helps a seller prepare there home for sell. They can take care of any needed repairs and maintenance prior to the home being listed with a licensed agent.

The pre-purchase inspection gives the buyer the peace of mind that they are not walking into a money trap This can detect unknown problems concerning, structural, mechanical, electric and plumbing issues. An appraiser will help determine which repairs absolutely have to be done, so you have some negotiating power with the sellers. Also if there is a list of items that need to be corrected the buyer will have the opportunity to ask for a home warranty.

There are many companies in each local area that provide inspections, make sure you are working with a licensed company. Realtors are a great source for the companies that are in your area.

Military and Health Care

Are you stationed in the Washington D.C. or Maryland area? Did you know you have a choice about the health care you receive?

Thats right you are not limited to the base clinics. In Maryland the other choice is John Hopkins Community Physicians, US Family Health Plan. This offers the same benefits as your Tri-Care prime insurance. There are two stipulations if you decide on this option. First you must use the authorized pharmacy, in Charles County this is Rite-Aid, and pay a small co-pay. Second you will not be treated at any base clinic or hospital unless it is an emergancy. There are 16 locations to serve you. If you are interested in finding out more about this program go to the following website. http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/usfhp/

Short Sales

What is a Short Sale and why do people do them?

A short sale in real estate occurs when the outstanding obligations (loans) against a property are greater than what the property can be sold for.

With the declining market and loans that were taken at higher interest rates and adjustable mortgages over the last few years many homeowners are finding themselves in a bind.

A short sale occurs prior to a foreclosure. Foreclosures show negatively on your credit report. If you feel that foreclosure may be in future give me a call and we can discuss more detailed information on how this works and if you may qualify for this program.

Today's Market

Not sure if the time is right for you to buy. Interest rates are low and there is help available for down payment and closing costs. Think FHA!

• Little to no money down
• Reduced monthly mortgage insurance
• 95% cash out refinance
• High debt to income ratios with compensating factors
• Non occupying co-borrower (kiddie condos)
• Manufactured homes
• Less than perfect credit, use of extenuating circumstances
• College student or recent grad

The Nehemiah Program may be just what you are looking for to make a dream come true.

Contact me for more information on how I can help.

RE/MAX 100

23706 Three Notch Rd, California MD 20619

301-863-5355 or 808-372-0657

Dana Engle