Why Are Foreclosures Dropping?

Posted by Duke Rountree on

Is Foreclosure Crisis Finally Fading?

According to research by CoreLogic foreclosures decreased by 8.4% or 130,000 in 2011. Mark Fleming, chief economist with CoreLogic, says “This is the first time in a year that REO sales (those bank-owned properties) have outpaced completed foreclosures.” There were 103 sales of bank owned homes for every 100 homes in foreclosure inventory in December 2011. Compared to November 2010 when there were 94 REO sales for every 100 in the foreclosure process.

Banks are also doing more loan modifications to prevent the foreclosure process. Banks are also encouraging the use of short sales to try and help reduce the number of foreclosure. Another reason could be banks are stricter with credit conditions and choosier about approving loan applicants, reserving approvals for mostly low-risk borrowers with low chance of default and foreclosure.

Does This Mean the End to High Foreclosure Rates?

In my opinion only time will tell. If you drive around any neighborhood in Ocala, Marion County there are still many many vacant homes unkept and due to hit the market in the future. The banks are taking their time in processing these foreclosures and we should see a steady dose of them to come for any years. There are simply to many homes vacant to say we are even close to seeing a huge drop in foreclosures.

However! Any Drop in Foreclosure Numbers is a GOOD Thing for Owners, Sellers and Neighborhoods.

The negative effects from foreclosures is far reaching and I believe the banks will soon realize it is better to work with existing struggling homeowners to refinance and reduce the principal amount owed, to qualifying homeowners, rather than short sale or foreclose. How does it make sense to remove homeowners, who are willing to stay and pay their mortgage. ONLY, to sell the property for less money to a new buyer. Can we not figure out a better way, for folks who can qualify and afford the home now at a much reduced value. Common sense is gone in today’s business world. I’M just Sayin!

“Until Next time”

 

 

Source: “Homes in Foreclosure Decline by 130,000,” CNNMoney (Feb. 8, 2012)

© Copyright 2012 INFORMATION, INC. Bethesda, MD (301) 215-4688

1 Million Homeowners May Get Mortgage Write-Downs

Posted by Duke Rountree on

Housing and Urban Development Secretary says about 1 million homeowners would get write-downs in the size of their mortgages under a proposed deal with banks over shady foreclosure practices and it could be reached in a few weeks. Using Donovan’s estimate, the settlement could provide a reduction of about $20k for each of the 1 million borrowers.

Prior efforts to jump-start the housing recovery have fallen short of how they were promoted. “Principal reduction can have a substantial impact on the housing market nationally,” Donovan said.

National decline in values hovers around 30% with Ocala, Marion County closer to 50% reduction in values since the boom times of 2004. Reports also show about 22 percent of U.S. homes have negative equity totaling about $750 billion, according to Core Logic.

Note: Any settlement would not apply to mortgages owned by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, which together  own or guarantee most of the U.S. mortgage  market. The reason is the cost to the taxpayers compared to other options. The White House will also lay out plans to convert foreclosure into rentals and start “Project Rebuild”, part of Obama’s American Jobs Act that aims to have construction workers rehab vacant properties. The estimated cost of $15 billion would creat 200,00 jobs and used to renovate thousands of vacant homes and properties nationwide.

Copyright © 2012 washingtonpost.com, Margaret Chadbourn; Aruna Viswanatha

In my opinion this will do little to help the housing arket nationwide but especially here in Marion County. The focus should be on banks and lending institutions to loosen lending practices. I do not think everyone who applies should get a mortgage, as has happened in the past(fog the mirror loans!!LOL) However, the challenges many good homebuyers face with banks is the largest problem. Credit score standards and income are to strict and oversight is needed to make loans more available to good borrowers.

“Until Next Time”

 

Shorts Sale and Foreclosure SOLD in 2013 Could Owe Federal Income Taxes

Posted by Duke Rountree on

Are You Thinking About Trying to Sell Your Home via Short Sale or Considering Walking Away?

Uncle Sam is still giving homeowners until Dec. 31st 2012, to go through the short sale or foreclosure without tax consequences-AS LONG AS THE LENDER RELEASES THE DEBT. But on January 1, 2013 the rules change: The amount the lender forgives, for either short sale or foreclosure, on primary residence will be taxable on federal income taxes.

Example: If a house sold $50,000 short of what is owed on the mortgage, then the selling homeowners will owe federal income taxes on that $50,000. Homeowners would owe $12,500 if they’re in the 25 percent bracket; $7,500 if in the 15 percent tax section. Homeowners would be on the hook even if the house sold but the bank had not formally forgiven the loan in a letter: THE BANKS MUST OFFICIALLY SIGN OFF IN WRITING BEFORE DEC. 31, 2012

Homeowners declaring bankruptcy could escape paying income taxes on any cancellation of debt income if the debt is forgiven in the bankruptcy even if the debtor is solvent, said Nick Jovanovich, a board certified tax attorney in Fort Lauderdale, FL..

In Short…

Homeowners should decided sooner than later this year to begin whichever process they chose to avoid the tax law changes coming in 2013. Short sales can takes months to years depending on lender, type of mortgage, market activity and many other variables. Contact a local REALTOR for more information on the services they can provide to assist in your decision.

Some major lenders are offering quicker short sale programs as an alternative to foreclosure. Owners benefit from reduced documentation and smoother processing.

In some cases, owners may be eligible for cash incentives from a couple thousand dollars to upwards of $30,000.

“Until Next Time”

Florida Housing Market Bouncing Back….

Posted by Duke Rountree on

Florida Housing Market Bouncing Back….

Florida’s real estate market is entering 2012 on an upward trend, according to three leading U.S. economists. Florida Realtors Chief Economist Dr. John Tuccillo says, “Our sate is in a mini-recovery” and “sales are trending up, listing inventories have fallen, the supply of lender-related properties has stabalized, and we are seeing multiple offers on home in some local markets.”

In Fact…

Dr. Tuccillo says homes in Florida may be undervalued. “That may sound like a drastic statement,” he said. ” But a buyer who plans to own the home for 5-7 years can get some great bargains today.” Interesting statistic from South Florida I heard yesterday said at one point Miami had 9 years worth of inventory, now with decreased number of homes on the market and high buyer activity has dropped that number to less than one year. The South Florida economy is growing  based on relationships with Latin America and the Carribbean. Dr. Lawrence Yun says, “Don’t be surprised to see a gain in home prices in the Miami and Naples markets in the next 18 months.””From there, the recovery is likely to roll northward to Central Florida and then North Florida.”International buyers are driving the market in South Florida and other areas of the state.”

What about Ocala….

We are seeing positive signs locally including a drop in unemployment and reduced housing inventory. Banks are slowly releasing foreclosed/REO homes on the market and this is creating a negotiating competition between buyers. Many of the more inexpensive homes are only on the market for 1-2 weeks. We are still facing challenges getting buyers qualified for financing, however with the USDA loan programs and FHA there is great opportunity. Another key factor is the high price for rentals and availability. In todays market you can buy a home for the same or lower than you can rent. The benefits of buying to renting can create tax benefits, provide stability because there is no landlord who can ever raise your rent or sell the home without your approval.

If you are interested in receiving a monthly “Market Trend Report” please call, text, or email me anytime.

“Until Next Time”

3 Keys to Buying in Ocala Housing Market

Posted by Duke Rountree on

3 Keys to Buying in Ocala’s Housing Market

Buying a new or existing home can be a challenge for 1st time homebuyers and even for the experienced homebuyer. However, if you take a few steps and learn the process it can help ease some of the stresses that go along with your home purchase.

NUMBER 1 – REALTOR

Find a good, NO Great REALTOR! First, ask for a referral from a friend or family member. Word of mouth is the best way to find a REALTOR in your area to assist with the process. It can be simple(internet) or difficult(print advertising) to sit at your home, office or restaurant and search for hours looking at property listings. A local REALTOR will have the insight, knowledge and tools to make searching easier.

Example: How can 2 similar homes, one located in Silver Springs Shores(Under $100k) and another in the Magnolia Pointe(Under $200k) have such different price. It could be features, supply or most importantly LOCATION.

 NUMBER 2 – LOCATION

This is the first thing they teach you in real estate school. It determines everything! You can have the nicest house in all of Central Florida, but if the location is bad it will have a huge negative effect including lower price and overall salability of the property. Are your interested in certain schools, being close to work or recreation. Many REALTOR programs can be set-up to do auto searches for particular areas, price ranges and any other features you desire.

NUMBER 3 – LENDER

Interest rates are at an all time low with many 30 year mortgages hovering around 4% for those with great credit history. Here are a few loan products to chose from; USDA, Rural loan allows for up to 102% of appraised value to be financed; FHA is 3.5% Down with approx. another 3% in closing cost which can be paid by seller; VA is 0% down for active or retired military with funding fee paid at closing. There are many more options and loan products and finding a GREAT Mortgage Broker with years of experience can save you lots of time and money.

IN CONCLUSION

Finding a team of professionals to help in buying your next home, and finding them early can save you TIME and MONEY! If you need a GREAT REALTOR, please contact me at 352-572-1739 or duke@ocalarealtyonline.com. Looking for a GREAT LENDER? Contact me too.

 

“Until Next Time”

 

Homeowners Monthly Payments Down Almost 40%

Posted by Duke Rountree on

Monthly median-priced single family home today is $700

Inexpensive homes for sale in Florida and United States, plus historically low interest rates mean homeowners are paying less per month and that is great. Thats a 40% less than the $1,140 monthly average payed in 2006 according to Fiserv.

Here in Ocala, Florida homes sales prices have dropped a whooping 50% since the peaks in 2006. In rural areas such as Fort McCoy, Sparr, Anthony, Citra, Orange Spings, Williston, Belleview, Summerfield and many more the values have dropped even farther. In many other areas of the state and country values have only dropped around 35%. That means there is some great value in Marion County and we are poised to see a future rebound of the housing market. We are slowly starting to see home prices level off in the area but we are still not there yet.

Just as an example, let’s say you are borrowing $85,000.00 for 30 years with an interest rate of 5.000%. If the value of your home is $300,000.00, your property taxes $1,500.00 per year and your insurance is $1,200.00 per year, you can expect to be making a total payment of $681.30. This is because you need to pay $456.30 toward the actual loan, plus $125.00 for real estate taxes and $100.00 toward insurance.

Source: “Monthly Mortgage Payment Almost 40% Cheaper Than 2006,” HousingWire (Nov. 9, 2011) and Fiserv

© Copyright 2011 INFORMATION, INC. Bethesda, MD (301) 215-4688

“Until Next Time”

 

HELP for Struggling Home Owners?

Posted by Duke Rountree on

The HARP(Home Affordable Refinance Program) simply has not worked in helping many homeowners and President Obama is expected on Monday to announce “new policies” to help struggling homeowners, including a move that would allow borrowers to refinance their mortgage at current lower rates no matter how much their home values have dropped.

Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are also expected to end a cap that excluded home owners from HARP who had mortgages that were higher than 125% of the homes value. This cap left many homeowners with little option because they simply do not have enough equity in their properties. The plan is expected to eliminate ” appraisals and extensive underwriting for most borrowers” whpo are up to date on their mortgages and want to refinance at lower rates.

Obama is also expected to announce a reduction in Fannie and Freddie loan fees. Lenders could start refinancing as soon as December 1st, however some may have to wait until early next year due to their loan-to-value limit.

Housing experts believe that allowing underwater home owners to refinance at current lower rates could be a savings of hundreds of dollars from their monthly mortgage bills and possibly help avoid foreclosure and free up household cash, helping spur economic growth.

Source: http://realtormag.realtor.org/daily-news/2011/10/24/obama-expected-unveil-housing-aid REALTORS.org article October 25,2011

Ocala/Marion County Events October 17-23, 2011

Posted by Duke Rountree on

Who Says This is SLOW-CALA? Look at all the fun stuff to do this week alone!

Holiday Assistance Sign Up

Today, Tuesday, Oct 18 10:00a to 3:00p
at The Salvation Army, Ocala, FL

The Salvation Army will be accepting applications for Thanksgiving and Christmas assistance Monday-Friday, October 3-21, 2011, from 10am – 3pm. For additional information and locations, call our office or visit our website.

http://www.uss.salvationarmy.org/uss/www_uss_ocala.nsf

Pumpkin Patch

Today, Tuesday, Oct 18 10:00a to 7:00p

Ocklawaha United Methodist Church’s annual Pumpkin Patch, selling Pumpkins and baked goods. Proceeds this year will go to help feed the less fortunate in the community.

https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=169730189770824

Terrific Three’s Storytime

Today, Tuesday, Oct 18 10:15a

A variety of picture book stories, flannel boards, action songs, and finger plays followed by an activity. Program is limited to 25 children and their caregivers.

Every Child Ready to Read: Baby and Toddler Storytime

Today, Tuesday, Oct 18 10:30a
at Freedom Public Library, Ocala, FL

Stories, music, art, and creative play for children ages 0-2 years and their grownups.

Baby Songs and Nursery Rhymes

Today, Tuesday, Oct 18 11:00a
at Dunnellon Public Library, Dunnellon, FL

Songs, rhymes, books, and more for babies and their caregivers

Family Storytime

Today, Tuesday, Oct 18 11:00a
at Forest Public Library, Ocklawaha, FL

A variety of stories, action rhymes, music and art for all ages.

Fabulous 4’s and 5’s Storytime

Today, Tuesday, Oct 18 1:15p

A variety of stories, finger plays, flannel boards, music, and rhythm activities followed by an activity. Child and caregiver attend.

Networking with Nonprofits in Ocala

Today, Tuesday, Oct 18 5:30p
at Harry’s of Ocala, Ocala, FL

We will head to the great city of Ocala to provide a networking
opportunity for nonprofit professionals to mix, meet, and mingle!

See you there!!

Sun Digital Electronics Recycling & Charity Food Drive For Brothers Keeper of Ocala, FL

Wednesday, Oct 19 7:30a to 1:30p

Sun Digital is hosting an electronics recycling charity food drive in Downtown Ocala. To benefit Brothers Keeper, a social outreach ministry of Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, providing the needy & homeless with emergency assistance & daily soup kitchen. Sun Digital has helped to keep over 2. read more

Faux Glazing Class

Wednesday, Oct 19 9:00a to 5:00p
at Decorative Designs, Ocala, FL

As a student of this class, you will create sample boards using the Modern Masters Professional Line of Glazing Creams and Colors. The boards that you create are yours to keep. All products and tools are provided for your use during the class.

http://www.decorativedesignsocala.com/

Science Exploration

Wednesday, Oct 19 4:00p
at Dunnellon Public Library, Dunnellon, FL

Discover science through experiments at your library. Registration rquired. For children and teens.

Sean’s Sensory Corner by Autism 4 Parents

Wednesday, Oct 19 6:30p to 8:00p
at Autism 4 Parents, Inc, Ocala, FL

Autism & Sensory intergration Meeting for September.
Parents, Families & Community Welcomed!Directed by Laurel Baxla OT. Sept. 21st (Wed.) at 6:30 pm. Location at 425 SW 14th St. Off of 301/441 – 3 blocks north of 17th Street

http://www.autism4parents.org/

SHINE Medicare Counseling

Thursday, Oct 20 10:00a to 12:00p
at Elder Options, Gainesville, FL

SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a free program of the Florida Department of Elder Affairs. SHINE counselors provide information and guidance on topics that include Medicare/Medicaid, long-term care insurance, supplemental insurance, prescription drug assistance and Medicare fraud. read more

http://floridashine.org/

Free Cholesterol and Diabetes Screening

Thursday, Oct 20 12:00p to 5:00p
at Winn Dixie Pharmacy, Ocala, FL

Free Cholesterol and Diabetes Screenings offered from 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm October 20 at Winn-Dixie Pharmacy, 4417 NW Blitchton Rd., Ocala, FL., For more information call Cholestcheck: 800-713-3301 (No-Appointments)

Art at The Manor

Thursday, Oct 20 1:00p to 4:00p
at The Cherished Bride Manor, Ocala, FL

Jolene Ford teaches Oil & Acrylic Painting on Thursdays from 1-4pm. Great for Art Class for Beginners or advanced painting in Ocala! $15 class fee, start anytime, and bring your supplies. Call Alexa at 352-390-6801 for more details.

http://www.thecherishedbride.com/

Carnival

Thursday, Oct 20 5:00p to 11:00p

Blessed Trinity Carnival will be held Oct. 20 through Oct. 23, at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, 5 SE 17th Ave., Ocala. Armbands available for purchase at $20 in advance or $30 at the carnival. (622-5808 or www.btcarnival.com)

Wayne’s World Nightmare on Pine Street

Thursday, Oct 20 8:00p to 11:00p

Wayne’s World of Paintball’s annual Haunted trail to raise funds for Toys for Tots. 2 1/2 acres of Haunted Attractions. $7 per victim. Across from Ocala Drive-In.

http://www.waynes-world.com/wwopen.html

Grace School Annual Golf Tournment

Friday, Oct 21 8:00a to 2:00p
at Country Club of Ocala, Ocala, FL

Grace School Annual Golf Tournament at the Country Club of Ocala.
$100.00 per player
Registration 7:45 a.m. 8:30 a.m. shotgun start
Includes lunch and drawing for gifts.pAwards for longest drive, straighest drive, longest putt, closest to pin, overll low score, handicap low score and $10,000 hole-in-one. read more

 

Coupon Exchange with The Clippin Chix

Friday, Oct 21 10:00a to 11:00a
at The Cherished Bride Manor, Ocala, FL

Join us on FREEBIE FRIDAYS for a fun and informative Coupon Club in Ocala.. Bring coupons to exchange & 4 month or newer for our Donation program to the Troops.. Free Coffee & light refreshments, & make new friends. New to couponing? Then pick up tips for success or how to organize!

Corn Maze

Friday, Oct 21 4:00p

Timberline Farm corn Maze Festival will be held from 4 p.m. to dusk Friday, Sept. 30 and 10 a.m. to dusk Saturday and Sundays, Sept. 30 through Oct. 31 at 3200 SE 115th St., Belleview. $6-$8. Music, train rides, pony rides, games and more. (454-4113 or www.timberlinefarm.net)

http://www.timberlinefarm.net

Coon Hollo Corn Maze

Friday, Oct 21 4:00p to 9:00p
at Coon Hollo Farms, Micanopy, FL

Coon Hollo is the perfect fall family activity! Come enjoy our 5 acre interactive crop maze, hayride to feed cows, farm train rides, tire swings, corn cribs and much more! New this year is our one of a kind “Pasture Putt-Putt” golf course and watch the goats climb up the “Goat Treehouse”, all this is included in admission price! read

 

 

http://coonhollocornmaze.com/

Keys toTransferring Wealth and Abundance Through Understanding the Principles and Psychology of the Energy of Money

 

Friday, Oct 21 6:00p

 

at Grace Fellowship Church, Ocala, FL

 

1st Workshop Series of Wealth Transfer
* Prospering through Divine order.
* Success what is it any way?
* Finding the Keys to the kingdom Principles.
* Understanding your money belief systems.
* Taking a closer look at your money roots.
* Understanding your personal blockages to receiving and keeping money. read more

 

 

Ocala Ghost Walks & Historical Tours

Friday, Oct 21 8:00p

Scheduled Walks Friday and Saturday at 8 PM other days and times by reservation tours available 7 nights a week just call to reserve, no extra charge for private tours. Address listed is our ticket office and also meeting place at Doc of Rock Downtown SquareCatherine Wendell Ocala Ghost Walks & Historical Tours Owner has lived and worked in Ocala Historic District for over thirteen years Eleven of those years were at the Seven Sisters Bed and Breakfast which has been famously acclaimed haunted by Sci-Fi channel’s TAPS Ghost Hunters show

http://www.ocalaghostwalks.com/

Macabaret 9

Friday, Oct 21 7:00p
at Ocala Civic Theatre, Ocala, FL

http://www.ocalacivictheatre.com/season.html

Fall Fun Nights

Friday, Oct 21 7:30p to 9:30p
at Uncle Donald’s Farm, Lady Lake, FL

Fall Fun Nights from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays Oct. 14 through Oct. 29 at Uncle Donald’s Farm, 2713 Griffin Ave., Lady Lake. $9. (753-2882 or visit www.uncleddonaldsfarm.com)

18 & Up Haunted House – Scaring Ocala Back to Life

Friday, Oct 21 8:00p to Saturday, Oct 22 2:00a

We are bringing your childhood fears to life.
The Fear Fest Haunt is 18 & Up for intensity and graphic scenes. It is not recommended for people with heart conditions, who are pregnant, or suffer from intense claustrophobia or anxiety.
There will be toned down days for persons under 18 that will be scheduled throughout the month. read

Fright Nights

 

Friday, Oct 21 8:00p to 11:00p

 

 

Creature Features, Haunted Mansion, Psycho Panther Prowl, Terror Island and “Gator Man” River Cruise at Ft King Waterway are just a few of the frightly features. More details are added.

http://www.silversprings.com/2011_october/fright.html

McIntosh 1890’s Festival

Saturday, Oct 22 8:00a to 5:00p
at Van Ness Park, McIntosh, FL

Annual arts, crafts and antiques festival features 280 vendors from all over the country, all day free family friendly entertainment and a pleasant Victorian setting.

http://www.friendsofmcintosh.org/

JEEPTOBERFEST

Saturday, Oct 22 8:00a to 4:00p
at Market of Marion Belleview, Belleview, FL

Jeeptoberfest, the 14th Annual Fall Jeep Show and Swap meet held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 22 and from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 23, at the Market of Marion, 12888 SE Highway 441, Belleview.
Registration is $15 prior to Oct. 15 and $20 at the gate. Spectator admission is $5, 12 and under are free. read

http://www.ocalajeepclub.com/

RATS AND RODS

Saturday, Oct 22 9:00a
at Don Gartlis Musuem, Ocala, FL

Rats and Rods with Big Daddy at 9 a.m. Oct. 22, at Don Garlits Museum, 13700 SW 16th Ave., Ocala. (362-4124 or www.garlits.com)

http://www.garlits.com/

Car Wash & Center Supply Drive

Saturday, Oct 22 9:00a to 1:00p
at Southern Self Storage, Ocala, FL

The PACE Center for Girls and Southern Self Storage are holding a car wash and center supply drive on saturday Oct. 22, 2011 from 9 am to 1 pm. It will be held at Southern Self Storage-3407 NE 36th Ave. There will be hot dogs, chips, soda and water for sale. Some of the supplies needed for the PACE center are: toilet paper, paper towels, plastic cutlery, paper plates, paper/plastic cups, liquid hand soap and hand sanitizer. read

Ocala Arts Festival

 

Saturday, Oct 22 10:00a

 

 

A fun weekend of fine art in an artist friendly environment.
23,000 attendees expected.
** Estimated start time — Please confirm **

Hearse rides on the square

Saturday, Oct 22 6:00p to 9:00p

come to Doc of Rock’s Halloween party and bob for apple’s and more Halloween fun while Ocala Ghost Walks & Historical Tours offer $5 hearse ride’s around the square and up historic and haunted Fort King. offered from 6-9 PM. We know you are dying to ride in the hearse come join us!

Dogtober Fest

Sunday, Oct 23 12:00p to 3:00p
at Millennium Dog Park, Ocala, FL

Halloween Howls & Pals Costume Contests.Vendors, raffles, 50/50 drawing. Bring your chair. Kids welcome and dogs must be leashed. Call 732-8655 for information

Phantoms In The Forest

Sunday, Oct 23 7:00p
at Silver River State Park, Ocala, FL

Enjoy a Halloween celebration with spooky storytelling in the Cracker Village. This annual event is presented by Friends of Silver River State Park. Professional storytellers offer a family friendly evening of spooky tales (starting out with not so spooky stories for our younger guests.) Even the spookiest tales also offer some knee slapping hilarity for a great evening belly-laugh. read more

What is a Short Sale & Some Things You Should Know

Posted by Duke Rountree on

What is a Short Sale & Some Things You Should Know

What is a Short Sale?

A short sale is a transaction where the net proceeds from the sale of a property are not enough to cover the sellers mortgage obligation and closing costs, such as property taxes, transfer taxes, and real estate commissions.

ONLY Real Hardships Get the HELP!

Purchasing or refinancing your house during the housing boom is not a legitimate hardship. Banks actually review and analyze short sale sellers hardships and most center of the economy. In short the banks are going to verify the short sale is in their best interest, not the sellers. What are acceptable hardships? medical issues, divorce, disability, significant loss of income, death, unemployment, and relocation.

Laws Are Local(State)

Foreclosure laws vary from state to state and it is important to remember there are currently no short sale laws on the books. Federal guidelines are in place, however the bank does not have to do anything they do not want too. If you decide to move forward in selling your home as a short sale there are a few things to keep in mind.

1) If the bank approves the short sale will there be a deficiency amount owed for the difference between your mortgage amount and sales price, minus fees?

2) Will the bank accept a “Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure”? With a deed in lieu of foreclosure, the property owner gives the property to the lender voluntarily in exchange for the lender canceling the loan. The lender may or may not agree to forgive any deficiency balance that results from the sale of the property.

3) Potential Tax liabilities- Under federal law, a creditor is required to file a 1099C whenever it forgives a loan balance greater than $600.00 which could create a tax liability  for you. However the Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act of 2007 provides tax relief for some loans forgiven in 2007 through 2012.

Lastly, please seek the advice and consult with an attorney, and possibly accountant, experienced in bankruptcy law to understand all of your options.

“Until Next Time”

Ocala Events for October 10-16 2011

Posted by Duke Rountree on

WEEKDAY EVENTS…

Corn Maze

Today, Monday, Oct 10 3:00p to 10:00p
at Brown Farm, Oxford, FL

10 acre corn maze from 3 to 10 p.m. Monday-Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays Oct. 7 through Nov. 20, Brown Farm, 13992 Highway 301, Oxford. Kids games, monster truck rides, hay rides and more. $12 for adults, $10 for kids and seniors, under 3 are free.

http://www.americanmaizefestivals.com/

Free Diabetes Screening

Tuesday, Oct 11 11:00a to 4:00p
at Publix, The Villages, FL

Free Diabetes Screenings offered from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm October 11 To October 12 at Publix, 1120 Bichara Blvd., The Villages, FL., For more information call Cholestcheck: 800-713-3301 (No appointment necessary)

Earn Your GED on the GED Bus

Tuesday, Oct 11 2:00p
at Forest Public Library, Ocklawaha, FL

It’s never too late to get your high school diploma. Schedule follows the Marion County School Board calendar.

Ballroom Dance Party

Wednesday, Oct 12 7:00p to 9:00p
at Dancin’ Around Studio, Ocala, FL

Practice social dancing in a safe environment. We provide social dance parties at Dancin’ Around Studio on a regular basis so you can practice what you’re learning in your dance classes in a comfortable social atmosphere. You don’t need to be a Dancin’ Around Studio student to attend our social dance parties!

http://www.danceocala.com/

The Guys

Wednesday, Oct 12 8:00p
at Ocala Civic Theatre, Ocala, FL
http://www.ocalacivictheatre.com/season.html

FRIDAY OCTOBER 14th…..

 

Coupon Exchange with The Clippin Chix

Friday, Oct 14 10:00a to 11:00a
at The Cherished Bride Manor, Ocala, FL

Join us on FREEBIE FRIDAYS for a fun and informative Coupon Club in Ocala.. Bring coupons to exchange & 4 month or newer for our Donation program to the Troops.. Free Coffee & light refreshments, & make new friends. New to couponing? Then pick up tips for success or how to organize!

http://www.thecherishedbride.com/

The Pickin’ Patch – U Pick Pumpkin Patch

Friday, Oct 14 3:00p
at The Pickin’ Patch, Dunnellon, FL

Come pick the perfect pumpkin right off the vine!! Join us Friday, Saturday and Sundays at The Pickin’ Patch in Dunnellon FL. Come enjoy family fun down on the farm with hayrides, hayforts, kiddie corn maze and of course picking your own pumpkins, sunflowers and corn right out of the field! Admission is $2, children 3 and under are free.

http://www.dunnellonpumpkinpatch.com/

Fall Fun Nights

Friday, Oct 14 7:30p to 9:30p
at Uncle Donald’s Farm, Lady Lake, FL

Fall Fun Nights from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays Oct. 14 through Oct. 29 at Uncle Donald’s Farm, 2713 Griffin Ave., Lady Lake. $9. (753-2882 or visit www.uncleddonaldsfarm.com)

Halloween Howler

Friday, Oct 14 8:00p to Saturday, Oct 15 1:45a

Fear Fest, Ocala’s newest and finest Haunted House at the Ocala Entertainment Complex. We are bringing your childhood fears to life. Haunt opens at 8pm every Friday and Saturday night in October to 18 and over patrons, open to all ages on Thursday Oct. 13th, Thursday October 20th and Halloween night. read more

http://ocalafearfest.blogspot.com/

Fright Nights

Friday, Oct 14 8:00p to 11:00p

Creature Features, Haunted Mansion, Psycho Panther Prowl, Terror Island and “Gator Man” River Cruise at Ft King Waterway are just a few of the frightly features. More details are added.

Viernes Caliente

Friday, Oct 14 9:00p to Saturday, Oct 15 2:00a

Cloud 9 & Good Fellaz ent. invite you EVERY Friday for the HOTTEST Latin Night in Ocala.
We’re featuring top DJ’s spinning Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, reggeton & current Latin hits to keep you dancing all night long
-Doors open @ 9
-Ladies in free till 11pm
-Check out Drink specials on tequilla, bacardi, margaritas, Corona & Dos XX.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 15th….

 

United Hay Sales Animal Swap

Saturday, Oct 15 8:00a to 1:00p
at United Hay Sales Inc., Ocala, FL

Bring your sheep,puppies,chickens,goats or any other critter that you want to trade, swap or sell. Pet vaccines from 10:00am to 11:00am.

Come hungry Yum Yum Kitchen will be open.

United Hay Sales is located on the corner of 326 and Hwy 27

http://www.unitedhaysales.com/

Jazz Up Dunnellon!

Saturday, Oct 15 10:00a
at E & W Pennsylvania Avenue, Dunnellon, FL

All types of Jazz styles spaced along out tree-lined main street, and Cajun/creole street. Food vendors add to excitement.
5,000 attendees expected.

Lady Lake Art in the Park & Music Festival

Saturday, Oct 15 10:00a
at Log Cabin Park, Lady Lake, FL
This event is held on the streets and park of the.This event draws large crowds with good buyers.10,000 attendees expected. Log Cabin Park along Hwy. 27/441 2miles south of The Villages in central Florida

Log Cabin Park

106 S. U.S. 441, Lady Lake, FL, 32159 

Coffee with the Birds

Sunday, Oct 16 8:00a
at Silver River State Park, Ocala, FL

Join an experienced birder on a gentle hike through beautiful Central Florida woodlands identifying birds by sight and sound. Bring a coffee cup and your field guide; insect repellant also suggested. Event is weather permitting. No pets, please.

Please confirm all dates and times prior to attending. This event calendar in part or full was provided by www.ocala.com, click entertainment, click events.
“Until Next Time”