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Thursday, November 15, 2007

Suggestions for Fall Maintenance


Your Home – Fall Maintenance

Now that we’re preparing for fall and winter, it’s a great time to make sure that you are performing the routine maintenance on your home before the winter weather sets in. By regularly performing these simple maintenance tips on your home, you can avoid costly repairs down the road. If you own a second home or vacation home, don’t forget that it can be even more important to perform this maintenance to avoid any water or heating damage from happening when you’re not there.

Be sure to clean your windows and check your window seals to ensure they are free of dirt and debris. Dirty seals can cause drafts in your home and lead to higher energy bills.

Make sure you inspect your furnace before the colder weather sets in. Make sure the filters are clean and replace them if necessary. If you have not had your heating unit inspected this year, you may want to hire a professional to come inspect your unit before you use it.

If you are concerned with frost and colder weather, be sure to insulate your pipes.

Inspect your rain gutters to ensure that they are free of debris (you should clean your gutters every spring and fall to avoid costly water damage).

Check your smoke detector batteries while you’re at it to ensure they are working properly.

By performing these regular maintenance activities you can avoid costly water damage to your home and make the holiday season free of unanticipated stress.
Bob

Monday, November 12, 2007

Veteran's Day in San Diego


Another beautiful day. A day to honor those who have served our country, including my Father who served in the Air Force during the Korean War; and my Father-in-Law who served in the Navy during WWII.

My dad served stateside in California. He was in the Air Force and served as an accountant. And oh-boy did he have stories!
My father, Bill, served at Camp Stoneman in Northern California. They were responsible for processing service men and women overseas, and returning from, the conflict. They felt as if they were in the vortex of everything happening.
When he passed away, we found out he was entitled to a niche at the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in Pt. Loma (San Diego). We were proud that his country remembered and honored him with this benefit. His view is looking out to the Pacific Ocean, very near the picture shown.
My wife's father, Armand, served in the Navy during WWII. He was a hard hat diver and served in the South Pacific. He was stationed on a small island after the war, name Eniwetok, which became famous as an atomic test site. They would line up some worn out ships off shore to test the bombs on, and then line up the sailors on shore to watch the bombs go off!! Wow, what a sight. Few have seen so many bombs go off, so close.
Then the next day the Navy would have Armand dive on the bomb site and go down to asses the damage to the ships that had been sunk. Once he brought up a giant clam shell from the sea bed and shipped it home. My wife has 1/2 in our backyard, and her sister has the other 1/2 in her backyard. We swear it glows in the dark.
Needless to say Armand had a little glow going himself, and cancer eventually caught up with him. There is some bitterness that he was put in that position, but they really didn't know what they were doing. No, I am not a "believer" that government wouldn't try something funny, but in this case a little research showed that they were dragging U.S. Senators, Congressmen and other high ranking officials out to the islands, so they too could enjoy "the bomb!" They lined them up on shore, on ships, and in planes to watch the might and power of the US. So in this case I don't believe they knew what they were doing.
Armand too was remembered by his country and the Navy with honors. He too has a marker at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery.
So on Veteran's Day, we say "Thanks!" Thanks to you, and the rest of the Greatest Generation! You built a wonderful country to live in, raise a family in, and enjoy the highest standard of living in history. We owe it all to you. So, again, Thank You!!!
Bob

Monday, October 29, 2007

San Diego County Emergency Notification Tip: Register Your Cell Phone to Your Home Address


The County of San Diego, in partnership with Twenty First Century Communications, Inc., has instituted a regional notification system that will be able to send telephone notifications to residents and businesses within San Diego County impacted by, or in danger of being impacted by, an emergency or disaster.
This system, called AlertSanDiego, will be used by emergency response personnel to notify those homes and businesses at risk with information on the event and/or actions (such as evacuation) they are asking you to take. The system utilizes the regions 9-1-1 database, provided by the local telephone company(ies), and thus is able to contact land-line telephones whether listed or unlisted. It is TTY/TDD capable. If the call is picked up by an answering machine, the system will leave a voice message. If the telephone called is busy or does not answer, the system will redial that number up to three times in an attempt to deliver the message.
Because the system uses the 9-1-1 database, only land-line numbers are in the system. If you have a Voice over IP (VoIP) or cellular telephone and would like to be notified over that device, or if you would like an email notification, you must register those telephone numbers and/or email address for use by the system. To register your VoIP, cellular telephone or email address, please fill out the registration form at: http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/oes/ready/signup.html .
Each number and/or email provided will be added to the regional database. It is important to note that each number and/or email registered can only be associated with one address in the system. The telephone number you register will be called only when the address it is associated with is impacted by a disaster or emergency.
There is no better way to protect yourself than be ON THIS NOTIFICATION SYSTEM!!
It worked for my family. It worked for my relatives and it worked for my friends. If you are one of the thousands that are going to cell only for phone service, you must get that cell registered with the County system. Do it today! Again the link is:
Bob

Friday, October 26, 2007

A Halloween to Remember - Witch Creek Fires Continue


While most of the fires have been put down, the Witch Creek fire continues to burn in the east on Palomar MT. and nearby areas. It is anticipated that all fires will be in the mop up stage on Halloween, one cannot ignore the irony of Halloween and the Witch Creek fire colliding in San Diego this week.


Thousands have lost their homes. More have been injured, or displaced by one of the many fires in San Diego County. And then there are the victims of Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, Los Angeles and Ventura. Truly a ghoulish coincidence.


Between now and Thanksgiving, let's focus on coming together and healing. No we can't rebuild the homes that fast, but we can start rebuilding our lives. We can reconnect with family and friends and strengthen those bonds with love. We can put this behind us and focus on a time of Thanksgiving, followed by a season of joy and a Happy & Prosperous New Year.


I have heard some compare San Diego's Disaster Response to the response in New Orleans. While some comparisons are valid (most notably the difference in Federal Response) most are not fair to compare. Why? We, San Diego, did NOT have EVERY major road destroyed; ALL WATER gone; ALL SEWER gone; ALL ELECTRICAL gone; ALL GAS gone; ALMOST ALL INFRASTRUCTURE gone. Yes we had a major disaster, "A" major disaster. But we still had all the other resources to respond to the disaster.


I am so proud of how the emergency was handled. How the citizens of San Diego responded. How the inter agency efforts worked. How musicians and entertainers just showed up at shelters and entertained. That's the San Diego spirit!!!


Now if we can only get CalFire to get off their high horse and work with the Military, everyone in California would be safer.

Bob

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Evacuations and Emergency Information


OK ... So you have been evacuated. When can you go back???
Here is the best link to see the most recent OFFICIAL information.
Once at their site, click on the most recent "Countywide Fire Map ..." This changes every 4 to 6 hours when they update.
When you open this map (save a copy to your desktop) you can see all the key information about the fires.
Read the "Map Key" to understand the color coding and symbols. This map is the OFFICIAL map of all fire information. You will see copies of this map on TV and in the newspapers.
When an "Evacuation Area" is declared safe to repopulate, the map will note it in Green. This just happened to my area in Rancho Penasquitos. So Hurray!! We are going home. And from my constant monitoring ... I know my home is safe.
These instructions will give you the best source of information, and a source you can update frequently.
Be Safe
Bob

Monday, October 22, 2007

If You Need to Evacuate ... What to Bring.



If you need to evacuate from a Fire Zone in San Diego County ... the following are the key items to pack and bring according to the Burn Institute. You can link to them using this link: Burn Institute

Here is the list:


Burn Institute News
October 22, 2007
Contact:
Diane Sparacino858.541.2277


WILDFIRE EVACUATION INFORMATION

WHAT The San Diego County Fire Chiefs’ Association and the Burn Institute recommend the following Wildfire Evacuation Tips for residents of San Diego County:

EVACUATION PLANNING TIPS

(#1) MAKE A LIST OF IMPORTANT ITEMS Always keep sturdy boxes handy and make a list of important items you need to take with you during an evacuation:

• Prescriptions, medications

• Eyeglasses

• Important financial docs, tax records, photos, etc.

• Homeowner’s/Renter’s insurance policies

• Jewelry

• Pet, pet food, leash (and carrier, if possible)• Child’s favorite toy

(#2) PREPARE AN EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT If you have time, assemble an Emergency Supply Kit that includes items you’ll need in the case of an evacuation:

• Three-day water supply (1-gallon per person per day)

• Three-day food supply

• Change of clothing and shoes

• Blanket and sleeping bag

• First aid kit

• Battery-powered flashlight, radio, batteries

(#3) ESCAPE TIPS

• Close all windows and doors in the house.

• Leave exterior lights on to help firefighters find your house through the smoke.

• Do not leave garden sprinklers on – it wastes critical water pressure.

• Park your vehicle facing out so you have the best visibility when you have to leave and drive with your headlights on.

• Designate one emergency meeting place outside the home and one outside the neighborhood where family members can all meet.

• If fire overtakes you, you are much safer inside the car than out.

**The keys to surviving a Wildfire are:

Defensible Space, Defensible Homes and EvaCheck Spellingcuation Planning.

SPECIAL NOTE: James Floros, Burn Institute Executive Director is available for interviews to discuss wildfire evacuation protocol and related wildfire information. To schedule a phone or on-camera interview, contact Diane Sparacino at the number above.

© Burn Institute.

Friday, October 19, 2007

Breakfast on the Pier - You Go!!! It's Great


You have GOT to go to this event!! You get all you can eat pancakes while dining on the Ocean Beach Pier.
What a great way to start the day. Come for the cakes, stay for the beach. You can get ticket in advance, but not to worry if you don't have the time. You can pay at the door!!!
Your donation helps support the Ocean Beach Christmas Food and Toy Drive. What could be better. You get the warm fuzzy of donating to a great cause ... PLUS the warm fuzzy of some of the best pancakes anywhere.
There might even be an adult beverage floating around!!
Bring your friends, bring your kids, bring your friends kids and be a real hero!
See you Sunday morning on the Pier!!!
Bob

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Bernanke Sends Mixed Signals

Well ... the pundits disagree. Leaving the rest of us wondering, "will the Fed drop the rate again???" Some say yes, some say no. Bernanke was speaking in New York yesterday and noted that there is still turmoil in the Mortgage Markets and Credit Markets. To see his comments click here: Bernanke. So we will need to wait and see if there are any further discounts to the Fed rate.



But remember, this rate will not DIRECTLY set the Mortgage Rate for lenders. The mortgage rate is more a function of the lenders ability to borrow money at a rate lower than you or me, and the mark it up to lend to us. So ... generally speaking as money gets cheaper for the bigger banks and lending institutions, they lower rates to be competitive and bring in new business.



Finally it is important to remember NONE of this effects qualifying (which is still based on your FICO and credit history) which determines IF you can get the loan at whatever rate they are offering. Also, you will still need to meet the Loan to Value / Closed Loan to Value (LTV / CLTV) ratios of the institution. Depending on your FICO, this can be anywhere from 70% CLTV to 95% CLTV. This is particularly critical when looking to REFI out of a bad Adjustable.



Go to Pink Flamingo Mortgage for more info on rates and terms.



Bob

Tuesday, October 9, 2007

Check Out Our Website Updates!!


We have updated the Pink Flamingo Mortgage website with new and improved content, including new articles on mortgages in San Diego County. We still have the Free Sign Up for Homefinders Club the most powerful tool on the web; and we still have our monthly Newsletters; but now we have more hotlinks and better page interactivity.
Check on Today's Rates or check what is available for sale at Pink Flamingo Real Estate, either way you will get the most up to date information available on the web.
Bob

Thursday, October 4, 2007

New Network Contact

ActiveRain Real Estate Social Network

Tools You Can Use!!


Homefinders Club is the most useful tool a buyer can sign-up for in their quest to find a new home and obtain the lowest cost mortgage. And best of all ... it is ABSOLUTELY FREE!! Go to Pink Flamingo Mortgage and click on the Homefinders Club logo to sign up, or just click on this hot link: Homefinders Club Sign Up and you will land on the sign up page.
Why are these tools SO useful?? Well that's pretty simple: Homefinders Club will help you shop the San Diego MLS and find the home of your dreams. You shop when YOU want to, not when the agents call. You can enter and change the number of bedrooms, square feet, and other factors as often as you want. You can set your "favorites" so that they system will keep working for you AFTER you log off. When a new home posts, matching your criteria, Homefinders Club will email YOU! You will know before 90% of the agents in San Diego.
Then when you find that dream home, one click will put your agent to work negotiation the price and another click will put your mortgage broker to work pre-qualifying your loan for the exact house you want.
Shop at lunch at work; shop at night in your PJ's (or nothing at all!!); any time you want to look at Real Estate, or shop Mortgages for a Refinance, HFC is always there waiting for you!! And remember ... IT'S FREEEEE !!!
Tell your friends to sign up; tell your neighbors to sign up; tell all your relatives to sign up!!!
Bob

Tuesday, October 2, 2007

Surfing a Turbulent Economy ... the Markets Up and Mortgage Rates are Down!


Have we hit bottom yet??? This is the question I am most often asked. Well it depends on your point of view. If you live in the more exclusive communities, I believe the answer is yes. If you live in the moderate to lower income communities ... maybe not yet.
But the market has rallied, the Fed did lower the rate and mortgages have followed suit and are down. For current mortgage rates go to Pink Flamingo Mortgage and see today's low rates.
In San Diego, the higher end communities have held steady. Some have even seen values rise a little. But other pockets in San Diego are down. Particularly the Downtown condo market. (Who told them to bring thousands of condo online all at the same time???) So where you live will influence how you see today's economy.
The Stock Market finished above 14,000 again, and looks like it will hold this time. But the Fed should look at another 1/4 to 1/2 point reduction in the Fed Rate to shore up this infant rally. Foreign markets have continued to drop rates and this has caused a weakening of the dollar. Good if you are an exporter, not good for the rest of us.
If the Fed helps us out a little more, this rally could start to turn the corner. Cheaper money will allow the banks to fund new housing starts with better mortgage rates. As sales pick up, value will begin to solidify and eventually start to rise. We have been through it before, but it never feels good while your in the middle of an economic stall.
The Presidential election should be good for the economy and rates. Incumbents like to see the economy growing, or else they might get tossed! So we will see what the future brings.
Bob

Thursday, September 20, 2007

Fed's Move Creates Domino Effect


The Fed's 1/2 point rate reduction earlier this week has started a domino effect rolling through mortgage rates. While the Fed rate really only affects the rate at which banks barrow money, it is cause for the inspiration of cheaper money. The more comfortable banks feel about the availability of money the more aggressive they can be on using this cheaper money. This "feel good" effect can pass through to many businesses, including the mortgage industry.


Already there has been movement in rates. For a full listing of current rates visit our website at Pink Flamingo Mortgage . And if you want weekly rates sent your email box to keep you up to date on the cost of money, sign up for Homefinders Club on our site. Homefinders Club is FREE and once you are a member you will receive weekly rate updates, and monthly mortgage news so you are always on top of the trends. AND, you can shop homes in San Diego Country any time day or night. You will get complete information, all current, and pulled from the local MLS. There is no easier way to stay informed on the local housing market.


Bob

Thursday, September 6, 2007

Sunset of Sub-Prime in San Diego


Here at Pink Flamingo Mortgage we track hundreds of funding sources so that we can find the right fit for every client's mortgage needs. But the industry is having a shakeout of funding sources. This is all the more reason to use Pink Flamingo so that we can find a reputable source that will still be in business when we go to fund your mortgage at the close of escrow. We have heard stories of underwriters closing their doors just as a customer was trying to close escrow.
Here are some of the lenders to avoid:

LENDERS WHO APPEAR TO HAVE CEASED DOING BUSINESS

We have received information that the following lenders are not accepting new loan applications or closed their lending operations in whole or part.

Accredited Home Lenders
Acoustic Home Loans
Alliance Home Funding
American Brokers Conduit
Ameriquest Mortgage
Ameritrust Mortgage
BNC Mortgage/Aurora
Bay Capital
CIT Group
C-Bass LLC
Central Pacific Mortgage
Columbia Home Loans
DeepGreen Financial Eagle First Mortgage
EquiBanc Mortgage
Entrust Mortgage
FMF Capital LLC
Fieldstone Mortgage Company
First Horizon National
First Magnus Financial—Chapter 11 Case 4-07-bk-01578 (Arizona)
Freedom Mortgage Wholesale Division
Funding America LLCGreenPoint Mortgage
H&R Block Mortgage
HomeBanc Corp. d/b/a HomeBanc Mortgage Corporation (Atlanta Georgia)
Harbourton Mortgage
Heartwell Mortgage
Impac Mortgage Holdings
Ivanhoe Financial, Inc. (Orlando Florida)
Investaid Corp.
Landcaster Mortgage
Lenders Direct Capital
Loan City
MLSG Home Loans (May be related to American home Mortgage Corp.)
Master Financial
Meritage Mortgage
Millennium Bankshares
Millennium Funding Grp
National City Home Equity (Cleveland Ohio)
NovaStar Mortgage Wholesale
Opteum Fin’l Wholesale
Peoples Mortgage
Popular Financial
Sebring Capital
SouthStar Funding
Starpointe Mortgage
Summit Mortgage
Texas Capital Bank
Trump Mortgage
Warehouse USA

This list is not intended to be inclusive of all lenders who have indicated they will be pulling back from their loan programs. Please verify, information to be deemed reliable, but not guarenteed.
So where DO YOU GO?? It changes every day ... but we can find you a lender!! Give us a call at Pink Flamingo Mortgage, and we will work with you to make your dream of home-ownership come ture!
Bob

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Conceptions Children's Resale Business Opportunity!

So you want to own your own business!!! Well you are in luck ... Conceptions Children's Resale is FOR SALE!! And you know the Realtor / Attorney / Broker who has it listed for sale. That's right ME! Pink Flamingo Real Estate has just listed Conceptions Children's Resale as their second Business Opportunity for sale. This business is very unique, and is perfect for a hands on owner who wants to run the shop.

Conceptions has been around for over 16 years, and has had the same owner for the last 3. Sales have continued to grow as this business is well suited for a slow economy. The concept is simple, "Why pay for NEW if you can't tell the difference?"

Conceptions searches the swap meets and garage sales to find wonderful like new clothes, toys, games, everything a kid would want!! Then they "prepare" the item for sale and price it at a great discount. Items are therefore recycled, the customers get a "like" new item for a lot less, and the owner makes a profit. Win, win, win and WIN!

Last year Conceptions gross a little more than $250,000 with this business plan. They have a great lease in place with another 3 year option; a large inventory; new paint inside and out; and new signage to be installed in the very near future.

Conceptions has also just posted a brand new web site: http://conceptionsresale.com/ and is looking forward to building a strong web presence. This could grow into another retail outlet, but for now it is just marketing and customer retention.

Speaking of customers, Conceptions has followed a marketing plan of "customers for life" and has large email / mail lists of customers who want to receive store information and sales updates. This is another facet of the marketing programs.

If you would like a tour, or more information, contact: Bob Glaser at Pink Flamingo Real Estate 858-496-8899.

The seller's are asking 1 times Gross for the business, which is $250,000. All documentation is available with an offer to purchase.

Bob

Wednesday, August 22, 2007

Open House This Sunday ... August 26th


This Sunday, August 26th we will be holding an OPEN HOUSE for our listing at 3217 Fairway Drive in Spring Valley! Stop by and see this Newly Constructed Executive Home that sits on 1/2 acre of land. It is BEAUTIFUL!! Take the Virtual Tour on the http://www.fairway4sale.com/ web site, or come by on Sunday between 1 and 4 pm.
The driveways have just been poured and the landscaping is going in as we speak. The home features 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, 2700+ square feet of living space. There are NO Mello Roos or HOA fees BUT your children DO get to attend the La Mesa / Spring Valley School District. It is located in the La Mesa Country Club subdivision. For you agents out there, the MLS listing number is: 076063273.
You can find more details on this home below in a prior posting. And if you need a Mortgage for this new dream house, contact us at: http://www.pinkflamingomortgage.com/ . Click on Today's Rates to see our best loan options, or sign up for Homefinders Club in the Power Tools section for access to ALL HOMES listed on the San Diego MLS. Our Power Tools Empower YOU!
See you Sunday!!!
Bob

Monday, August 20, 2007

Don't Believe all the Gloom & Doom!


It's tough to read the Real Estate or Business sections of most newspapers these days without thinking the financial world is imploding. Well the Sub Prime melt down has had an effect, but the echo effect of the media piling on is more damaging.
The Sub Prime default rate is up, no argument. BUT, the rest of the mortgage market is still doing pretty good by all accounts. Why the hysteria? Well, a lot of corporations, pension funds, and other sources of money got into buying Bonds backed by Sub Prime mortgages. This has caused the pain of the increased default rate to be spread around more deeply than just the Sub Prime originators themselves.
To put it bluntly, some people got too greedy! They put a lot of money into risky bonds, and now they are paying the price. If that was the end of it we would not feel such a pinch. So what is happening?
Those with the money have become very conservative very fast. To protect their own rear ends. That means a lack of funding for ANY mortgage. In order to bring money back into the market, all companies will tighten requirements for obtaining a mortgage.
Another player is the FED. They just dropped the overnight rate by a 1/2 point. This caused a quick reaction on Wall Street, as money got a little cheaper. If the FED continues to lower the rate, and allow more supply of money, while Mortgage Originators tighten up lending requirements, the market will return to normalcy soon.
One important point to observe: It is even MORE important to have a personal, honest, Broker to help you find your way through this mine field. At Pink Flamingo Mortgage we hold your interests to the highest level. Not ONE of our past clients has a loan that is in jeopardy. Why? Because the loan we found was the RIGHT loan for them in the first place. Great rates, yes. But the right loan is even more important. We can help you find that loan ... the right loan.
Give us a call at 858-496-8899, or visit our web site at: www.PinkFlamingoMortgage.com to check out the best rates.
Bob

Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Pink Flamingo Real Estate's First Listing!

Buy This House!!!

Brand New Executive Home with Southern Views

Asking Price: $735,000
3217 Fairway Drive
Spring Valley , CA 91977
New Construction Quiet street Southern views from living room & master bedroom. Custom Kitchen Design. Cable / Internet Ready throughout. Landscaped.
MLS Lisitng: 076063273
Square Ft: 2,742
Bed/Bath: 4 , 3
Year Built: New
Location: La Mesa Country Club
School: La Mesa / Spg Valley
Parking: Yes

• New Construction
• Fire Sprinklers throughout

• La Mesa/Spring Valley Schools
• Dishwasher / Disposal

• Almost 1/2 acre
• Micro Wave / Range Oven

• Cable / Internet throughout
• Garage Door Opener

• Central Forced Air & Heat
• Evening Lights / Mnts / Hills


Bob Glaser, Agent
Pink Flamingo Real Estate
8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd
Suite 213
San Diego, CA 92111

Phone: 858-496-8899
Fax: 858-496-3980
E-mail: BGlaser@PinkFlamingoMortgage.com

Web Site: http://www.pinkflamingomortgage.com/

Tuesday, August 14, 2007

Shop Til You Drop ... It's Back to School!


Finances – Back to School

If you have a child that is headed back to school this month, then you are probably already thinking about school supplies. Now that many schools have reduced their spending, it means that you will be faced with having to purchase more school supplies as well as having to pay out of pocket for extracurricular activities.
For many parents, this can place a strain on the household budget (especially if your child considers that new mp3 player a school supply). Not only can you save money by starting your school shopping early so you can give yourself time to find the best bargains, but you can also involve your child in the shopping process.
By allocating a budget and involving your child in the shopping process, you can teach them a valuable lesson in handling money. Together, you can make a list of everything that’s needed for the new school year and shop together to obtain all of the items without going over budget.

Friday, August 3, 2007

Welcome Conceptions Children's Resale!!


Our newest "preferred referral" link is Conceptions Children's Resale in Santee. This is a hot concept. "Why buy Retail, when there is Resale!" is their mantra. They are a local shop in Santee who will shop the swap meets, garage sales, classified ads and more to find the greatest deals on gently used toys, cribs, clothes, games and everything a child could use!! Then you buy it at huge discounts off new.
They are located at 10438 Mission Gorge Road in Santee, or click on their name above and visit their web site. They are also listed in the Kudzu directory and you can look up their "customer reviews" to see what past customers think of their shopping experience.
All products are guaranteed and the savings are unbelievable! So shop Resale at Conceptions Children's Resale!!
Bob

Thursday, August 2, 2007

Life's a Beach!!


Well the mortgage market continues to melt down. Another Sub-Prime lender went belly up today (as in BK); another just closed their doors rather than take further risk.

So do you think the industry has learned any lessons? Not the one's we would hope they had learned. Are the "Stated Assets / Stated Income" loans gone? Well they are for residential customers and I believe that is a good thing.
But that doesn't mean they learned their lesson and went away ... Nooo!
Just last week I attended a seminar on the "New Frontier in Lending - Commercial Loans" And the lead topic was ... we still do "Stated Asset - Stated Income" loans. No need to prove anything. Same trick pony playing to a new crowd.
Now they are NOT doing 100% financing (and that is a BIG improvement that will protect investors) and they want a "Rent Analysis" to show income to support the loan. But they will do the loan as a SASI loan. Are we 5 years away from a commercial melt down to rival the current sub-prime fiasco??? Only time will tell.
In the meantime, those future clients who want 100% financing need to come to the table with at LEAST closing costs. And you will need a fantastic FICO (see prior articles on how to improve your FICO) to dazzle the lenders. But it can still be done.
Give me a call at 858-496-8899 with any mortgage questions. At Pink Flamingo Mortgage we will empower you with knowledge and then help find the perfect loan.
And please feel free to refer your friends and relatives that need a mortgage. Don't keep us a secret! Everyone knows at least one person that need some mortgage help from an honest professional. That's US!!
Bob Glaser

Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Life on the Fairway ... Fairway Drive for Sale




How would you like to be living your life on the Fairway!! Well actually that sounds a little scary to me. I also think of how poorly I control a golf ball when I am out on the Fairway. But that concern aside, Pink Flamingo Real Estate has is first listing ... Fairway Drive in East San Diego County.

This is a BRAND NEW home, just completing construction. It has a beautiful view, modern kitchen, fully wired for media and it is on 1/2 acre of land.

Fairway Drive is on the south facing slop of a slanting foothill surrounded by serenity. Located in the La Mesa School District, this custom built home is waiting for a family to create memories within the near half acre that surrounds the house. Open spaces and panoramic vistas are the hallmark of this home. Combining large rooms and many windows the earth tones of this estate is reflected in the sunlight streaming through each room.

We have pictures, floor plans, and more information at: www.Fairway4Sale.com and of course you can finance this Dream Home at: www.PinkFlamingoMortgage.com

Bob

Saturday, July 28, 2007

Intoducing Pink Flamingo Real Estate!!!






Introducing Pink Flamingo Real Estate the new partner of Pink Flamingo Mortgage. Why two companies instead of just one? Well our Mortgage side will always focus on the financial details of the BEST mortgage for our client. It can be distracting trying to handle the Mortgage details and the Real Estate transaction.


Enter Pink Flamingo Real Estate. Our Real Estate office will specialize in the Real Estate transaction, buy or sell, and will work with the client from Internet Search (through HomefindersClub.com) to find a target property to Close of Escrow! The Realtors of Pink Flamingo Real Estate will NOT handle your mortgage, just your real estate transaction. The professionals of Pink Flamingo Mortgage WILL search out the BEST mortgage option to help close the deal and close the escrow.


While the two companies will share an office, they handle distinctly different customer needs. Those needs will be coordinated to a new standard in customer service. The synergy between the two entities will guarantee the best of both worlds working hand in glove.


Best of all, since the companies are related, we can reduce your overall cost of buying or selling any piece of real estate. One stop shopping, Team Service.


Bob

Thursday, July 26, 2007

FIND YOUR DREAM HOME FAST!!!

IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING BUYING A HOME, I HAVE GOT TO SHARE WITH YOU THE BEST THING SINCE “SLICED BREAD” WHEN IT COMES TO FINDING YOUR HOME -- ITS HOMEFINDERSCLUB.COM.

WE SIMPLY ENTER YOUR CUSTOM SEARCH CRITERIA -- BEDROOMS -- BATHS -- SQUARE FOOTAGE -- PROPERTY TYPE -- AND ZIP CODE -- AND THE REST IS AUTOMATIC.

WITH HOMEFINDERSCLUB YOU ARE ACTUALLY GOING TO FIND OUT ABOUT NEW LISTINGS BEFORE 90% OF ALL REAL ESTATE AGENTS DO.

MOST BUYERS WASTE THEIR WEEKEND AWAY BY AIMLESSLY DRIVING AROUND TRYING TO FIND OPEN HOUSES AND THE NEW PROPERTIES ON THE MARKET. BUYERS SOMETIMES SPEND 3-4 HOURS A DAY DRIVING AROUND AND THEY STILL MISS OUT ON MANY NEW LISTINGS.

WITH HOMEFINDERSCLUB.COM -- YOU WILL ONLY SPEND 3-4 MINUTES A DAY AND NEVER MISS OUT ON ANY PROPERTY -- NOW YOU NOW DON’T HAVE TO BE A PRISONER OF THE "HOME BUYING PROCESS" ANY MORE -- YOU CAN NOW HAVE YOUR WEEKENDS BACK.

........ALSO, WITH HOMEFINDERSCLUB.COM, YOU CAN DO YOUR OWN PROPERTY SEARCHES, YOU CAN CHANGE YOUR SEARCH CRITERIA. YOU CAN SEARCH WHEN YOU WANT ( 24 / 7 ) NEVER WAITING FOR AN AGENT TO CALL YOU BACK. YOU CAN PRE-QUALIFY YOUR SELF, YOU CAN CALCULATE MONTHLY PAYMENTS -- PLUS A WHOLE LOT MORE.

MOST REAL ESTATE AGENTS USING HOMEFINDERSCLUB.COM HAVE ACTUALLY REPLACED THE MLS WITH THIS GREAT TOOL FOR THEIR PROPERTY SEARCH NEEDS -- ITS THAT GOOD!


SIGN UP BY GOING TO WWW.PINKFLAMINGOMORTGAGE.COM AND CLICK ON "POWER TOOLS" THERE YOU WILL FIND THE "SIGN UP" FORM. IT WILL TAKE ABOUT FOUR MINUTES AND THEN YOU WILL BE IN CHARGE!

BOB

Building Traffic One Search Engine at a Time!


Here is our newest Banner Ad which we are set to run on Kudzu.com a local business directory! We are going to own the Mortgage and Real Estate categories for Kudzu viewers looking for a Mortgage!!!
We are proud to add Kudzu to our list of partners including NBC 7/39 where we are listed as their "Pros on Demand" expert for the mortgage industry, various client directories and Realtor directories; and of course our listing with the Better Business Bureau.
As we grow we want to build a large network of partners who share our desire to set a high standard of ethical conduct in the mortgage industry. Frankly this seems to be a unique concept in the mortgage industry, where "getting paid NOW" is usually listed higher than, "what's best for my client?" Nevertheless we have found that putting the customer first, build a customer for life, and many unsolicited (though much appreciated) referrals.
It will take longer to grow up to the big leagues, but when we get there, we will be bullet proof to recession and market fluctuations.
So please give us any feed back you have on our newest graphic, or other questions about mortgages and real estate!!!
Bob

Monday, July 23, 2007

Happy Birthday to ME!!!


Well today is the first day of the rest of the Margarita Party in honor of my birthday. I started last week and went to 4 straight Padres baseball games with the Phillies! While I am a Padres fan to the end, I have to root for the Phillies too, since Chris Coste is their catcher and a client of mine!!
In another life I am a partner in a Sports Agency ... T5Sports Management Ltd and our premier client is Chris Coste!! He is a catcher and started yesterdays game for the Phillies and called a tremendous game. They threw a shutout at my Padres and it is all to Chris's credit. He also got a single and an RBI for the game. So that was a pretty good birthday present to start.
Then home for a BBQ and a little outdoor backyard fire in the fireplace to finish the evening. We sat around and talked of baseball, family and how lucky we are to live in San Diego. Then another Margarita!!!
But today is the real B-Day and it's home to a family dinner, and who knows, maybe more presents!!!
Bob

Thursday, July 19, 2007

New Preferred Vendor for Pink Flamingo Mortgage!


A new preferred vendor, John Williams Enterprise (see their logo to the left), is being added to the Pink Flamingo Mortgage web site, and here under San Diego Links, for all your Air Conditioning needs!
We have referred to John for many years and are proud to know list him among our preferred vendors. John will always treat you like family and give you a straight honest answer to any problem or question. With our summer sun pushing the heat index up through the roof, it might be time to tune-up your Air Conditioner to make sure you minimize your electrical while maximizing your "chill" factor. You can click on John's logo, or click on his highlighted name above for a direct connect to his web site and all the contact info you need.
Bob

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

New Look and New Blog Concept

I thought I would try a new text color and get a new look in my blog. I have started a second blog associated with the Live Earth concert and taking a look at Real Estate and home systems as a key avenue for many of us to start recycling. My family has always been great about newspaper and can recycling. My daughter won several awards from Park Village Elementary for recycling. San Diego has a curb side recycling trash system in place and we source separate as much as possible. My son has written papers on Global Warming.

But now we are pushing into some new areas: We are replacing our light bulbs with compact fluorescent, we are recycling good magazines to schools for reuse in the classroom, and we are trying to carpool more than before. How are we doing? It's a little struggle to change, but it gets better all the time. My wife is considering a Hybrid for her next car, but at the very least a very high mileage traditional car. I now BBQ with natural gas on the lowest setting, and almost never use charcoal. When I do use charcoal I light the coals with a Chimney Canister and not fluids. We keep the pesticides to a minimum and use only Round Up for weed control. But I do use a little too much water to keep the grass (small front yard and back yard) green. The rest of the planters are zero-scaped for the sun in San Diego.

Well, back to the new Blog. It is not quite ready for review, but will be soon. I will link this site to Enviro Blog, and visa-versa. And of course everything will be linked to Pink Flamingo Mortgage. More soon ....

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

Come Rate Our New Site on Kudzu!!

Come visit our newest listing at Kudzu.com. You can post a review of our services, leave comments or link to us if you have a question about mortgages. Kudzu encourages viewer participation and editorial reviews. Now don't be shy ... come visit us today. Just click on the following link:

Bob Glaser

Sunday, July 15, 2007

Enjoying Summer & Your Home - Get Outside!


It’s summer and for a lot of us this means we’ll be spending a lot of time in our yards. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or spending an afternoon in the garden, here are some simple tips that you should keep in mind to help make this summer a fun and memorable one:

· Lawn Care: If you have neglected your lawn during the winter, set your mower a little lower than normal. This will help clear surface debris and prepare your lawn for maintenance. During the warmer summer months, let your lawn grow a little longer. This will help your lawn grow longer roots, meaning your lawn will use less water and survive the summer heat.


· Sun Protection: An afternoon spent in the backyard can be fun, but it can also lead to sunburn and high temperatures. You can easily add some shade to your yard by putting up some patio umbrellas, awnings, or planting shade trees. These will not only make it more comfortable outside, but they will shield your home from the hot afternoon sun if you position them correctly. If you are planning to spend the day outside, don’t forget to wear sunscreen and make sure that your pets have a cool place to relax as they are more vulnerable to the heat.


· Cooking Outdoors: Before firing up the grill, make sure you inspect it to make sure it is in good working order. If you have a gas grill, make sure that the propane tank is properly connected and that all the seals are in good shape. When cooking outdoors remember that you still need to handle your food properly. Make sure that you keep your food in the refrigerator while defrosting or marinating and be sure to cook all of your meats thoroughly before eating. An easy way to ensure that you cook your food thoroughly is to purchase a meat thermometer and check the internal temperature of your food before taking it off the grill.

Finances – Protecting Your Identity

The FTC warns that summer is peak season for identity theft. With so many people taking their summer vacations and traveling with their credit cards, identity thieves are flocking to tourist destinations. Having your credit card or other personal information land in the wrong hands can cost you thousands of dollars and ruin your credit rating. If you plan on traveling this summer, be smart by following these tips:

· Use travelers checks when possible

· Do not carry credit cards or other ID that you do not need while traveling

· Be careful when using ATMs. Many security experts recommend using indoor ATMs and

avoiding outdoor ones as they may be less safe

· Keep your receipts and make sure that you check your financial statements when you

return home

· Avoid using hotel and public internet connections to check your bank account online

If you ever lose a credit card or other information, contact your bank and credit card

companies immediately. If you do take a vacation this summer, please be sure to tell me

about it when you return.


Bob

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Risk Adversity and You!


Risk adversity refers to the level of risk you are comfortable with. Risk adverse people prefer to know the exact amount of their prospective mortgage payments before signing up with a lender. Those individuals with lower levels of risk adversity make obtaining the lowest possible monthly mortgage payments their priority, even if the exact payment amount is somewhat uncertain. Knowing how risk adverse you are will help San Diego mortgage brokers guide you to the correct mortgage.

Before searching for San Diego mortgage brokers, you should determine your level of risk adversity. You are more likely to make effective decisions if you begin the mortgage process with a clear understanding of the factors that matter to you. Your level of risk adversity is important and should be evaluated prior to the application process.

At Pink Flamingo Mortgage, our qualified San Diego mortgage brokers will lead risk adverse buyers to more comfortable fixed rate mortgages. Other customers may be better served with an adjustable rate mortgage. You can find out if you are a risk taker or not by looking at your current financial situation. For example, if you like to know exactly how much money you have in each account at all times, you may be not be a risk taker. Alternatively, if you play the stock market regularly, you are likely comfortable with more risk.

Once you determine your aptitude for taking financial risks, you'll want to speak with the San Diego mortgage brokers at Pink Flamingo Mortgage. We understand how risk adversity and risk taking translate into specific mortgages, and we will guide you to the correct mortgage for you. Browse our website, http://www.pinkflamingomortgage.com/, for more information.

Wednesday, June 27, 2007

Bob Glaser Elected Chair of Bond Oversight Committee for San Diego Community College District

PRESS RELEASE PRESS RELEASE PRESS RELEASE

Who: Bob Glaser, Owner
What: Bob Glaser has been elected Chair of the San Diego Community College District Citizen’s Oversight Committee for Props S & N overseeing 1.55 Billion dollars in construction for the SDCCD Colleges.
When: First Meeting July 9, 2007
Where: BGlaser@PinkFlamingoMortgage.com
Why: Annual election of Oversight Chair for two year term

San Diego, CA. Bob Glaser, owner of Pink Flamingo Mortgage in San Diego, CA, was elected Chair of the San Diego Community College District (SDCCD) Citizen’s Oversight Committee (COC) for Props S & N; and will conduct his first meeting on July 9, 2007 at San Diego Mesa College. Mr. Glaser is an alumnus of San Diego Mesa College (as well as San Diego State University and California Western School of Law) and is excited to return to Mesa College for his first meeting as Chair of the COC.

Bob Glaser has had a long history with the SDCCD starting with his two terms as Student President at Mesa College. After graduation from Mesa, SDSU and California Western School of Law, Bob returned to Mesa College to serve on its Citizen’s Advisory Council. Mr. Glaser went on to serve on the Miramar Citizen’s Advisory Council as well as serve as a regular Member of the Prop S COC.

Bob Glaser was involved in the passage of both Proposition S and Proposition N which has a combined construction value of over $1.55 Billion, and will go far in the completion of Mesa College, City College, Miramar College and the Continuing Education satellite campuses. (Read more about Propositions S and N; and the projects they will build)

Mr. Glaser, who has a back ground as both an Attorney and as a Real Estate Broker, was proud to be elected by a unanimous vote of the Oversight Committee. Bob had served for several years on the Committee and brings a sense of history of the District as well as professional perspective about the development of each campus. His 30 plus year association with these campuses puts in context the current ranking of needs, and an understanding of how long the District has worked toward this goal of campus build out.

“The next two years will see aggressive progress toward completion of many dreams that have been nurtured for decades!” stated Bob. He continued, “Every campus has many critical projects they have been promoting for many, many years. Now, with Prop S and N financing in place, these critical projects can be built. This will mean a better education for the students, and an overall improved learning environment.”

“I am proud to have played a small role in the passage of these Bonds. The real credit goes to Board of Trustee and Chancellor Carroll, who stepped out and provided the leadership to place these bonds before the voters! Then they campaigned strenuously for their passage. Future students will never know the debt of thanks they owe these individuals, but their future is brighter because of the passage of Props S & N.” concluded Mr. Glaser


For further information please feel free to contact Bob at:

Bob Glaser 858-496-8899
8304 Clairemont Mesa Blvd.
Suite 213
San Diego, CA 92111-1315
Fax: 858-496-3980
Web Site: http://www.pinkflamingomortgage.com/
Email: BGlaser@PinkFlamingoMortgage.com

And add the RSS feed to continue receiving this blog. The link is at the bottom of the page.

Sunday, June 24, 2007

Search Engine Optimization & Submission

Search Engine Submission & Optimization

As Seen On MortgageLoan.com

Real Estate Mortgages & Refinancing

Today I am working and learning how to develop a real estate network for mortgage and refinancing information. All research leads to

Technorati.com
Technorati Profile

So today I am registering at Technorati and claiming PFMortage.com and http://www.pinkflamingomortgage.com/ for my own. In the days and weeks ahead I will be adding key links and hopefully an RSS Button that is easier than the one at the bottom of this page that you can use to subscribe to this blog. Onward and outward!
Bob

Friday, June 22, 2007

What You Need to Know About FICO Scores!!!

Knowledge is power! So here is some basic knowledge about where those FICO scores come from and how they are added up! This information gives you a road map for planning to improve your scores. On-time payments is the obvious one, but keeping your "credit used" to "available credit" low on individual cards is not so well known. Also, keep old card that you are not using as they have very long credit histories with no late payments. Use them occasionally and then pay them off. Never, never, never let a "public record" get attached!!! Like a Bankruptcy it will stay with you a long time. Here is some more general information:

35% of a FICO score is based on Payment History:

0 - 6 Months - Late payments get the biggest point hit

7-23 Months - Next period. Not as bad, but still a hit

24 + Months - Start to lose negative impact

30% of a FICO score is based on Balances

Keep used credit under 50% of available credit

Over 75% will severely hurt your score

15% of a FICO is based on Credit History

Time will improve your score up to 30 years is perfect

10% of a FICO is the Type of Credit

Diversity your credit types between a mortgage, car loan, credit cards.

Never use a "Buy Now Pay Later" this is a big credit HIT.

10% of a FICO is based on Inquiries

What counts and what won't is complicated. You should Opt-Out of all

involuntary credit pulls.

Go to http://www.pinkflamingomortgage.com/ and under Power Tools there is a video that will tell you how to Opt-Out.

Finally, if you have old (older than two years) "write offs" on your record. Leave them alone. As you can see above, after 24 months there is very little hit on the credit score, you have gone through the worst. But if you pay them off, the computer re-posts it as a new report, and then a pay off of an account that was written off and you get a very BIG HIT. So let sleeping dogs lie.

Now that you know the secrets, balance off those credit cards to all under 50%. Pay on time and never open a "buy now pay later" account. Finally, any items that are incorrect on your Report should be challenged with the Credit Agency and with the reporting company. Make them remove the errors.

Soon you will be over 700 and qualify for the best financing available!!!

Bob

Thursday, June 14, 2007

NBC 7/39 Pros on Demand

We are proud to be the NBC 7/39 Mortgage Pro on Demand.
We currently have two video tips running on the 7/39 web site and should be adding a 3rd soon.
As a "Pros on Demand" member we occasionally get questions forwarded from the public to answer. Usually about interest rates or ARM vs. Fixed. We are proud to be associated with NBC and to offer free expertise whenever needed.
If you have a question about Mortgages or Real Estate in general feel free to contact me at: BGlaser@PinkFlamingoMortgage.com . I will get back to you asap and help solve your problem.
Both of our video tips deal with improving your credit score, or FICO. If you are getting ready to buy in San Diego County, you must clean up your credit file first. The difference between a 640 and 703 FICO could save you tens of thousands of dollars over the life of a loan. Sometimes more.
So watch the videos and follow the instructions for your quick and easy clean ups. I will be writing here about more detailed ways to improve your credit scores. So check back often. Or click on the RSS feed below and my site will notify you when I post something new.
You can always email me at: BGlaser@PinkFlamingoMortgage.com
Bob

Wednesday, June 13, 2007

5 Easy Steps to Improve Your Credit Score


When shopping a mortgage in San Diego, or anywhere, the first question will be ... "What's your FICO (credit score)? Mortgages are driven by credit scores. And with the Sub-Prime melt down, they are more important than ever. So what can you do??? Well there is the obvious, pay everything on time and keep your credit cards for a long time. History is important, timeliness is important and keeping your outstanding credit balances low is very important.

Here are the 5 easy steps to improve your credit score. None of these require much money, its more the effort here that will pay big dividends.

First and foremost:

1. Opt Out of unsolicited credit offers by calling 1-888-5 Opt Out.

Every time your credit is pulled you are charged a point or two. There are different rules for different types of pulls. But why have any unless YOU want them. By calling Opt Out, you do just that. You opt out of receiving ANY unsolicited credit offers for credit cards, mortgages, revolving charge cards, and any other form of credit. Any time you AUTHORIZE a credit check, no problem. But now you are in charge of your credit file.


Next you have to:

2. Purchase your Tri-Merged credit report at: http://www.transunion.com/ and know your score.

How can you know where you are going, if you don't know where you are starting from. Get your credit report WITH the credit score. OK this will cost a few bucks. But now you know what you are fighting against.


Then:

3. Review your report and file a written challenge to every error.

Every credit report has errors. They are there, and they will cost you points until you challenge them and take them off. Or you can wait 7 to 10 years until the credit agency finally drops them. Hey, it isn't brain surgery. Just write them a letter and challenge them on the facts. Now remember, they just need to list the item accurately. So if your complaint is that the company failed to fix your product ... well the credit agency just won't care. That is not there job. But if the payment was made on time and they are WRONG listing it late, they have to investigate with the lender. If it is a public record and it was removed, or the lien was paid and your report is in error. Then tell them. Give them all the facts and ask for a response in 30 days. It's your right.


If they don't remove a mistake or error, then:

4. Repeat your challenges every month until they are gone.

Be the squeaky wheel!!!


Finally, and this is a big one:

5. Keep “used” credit to less than 50% of your available credit on each card and account.

This establishes your wise use of credit. Make sure each card is under 50% and that all cards combined stay under 50% (which should be true if you follow the first rule) and they will see thatt you know how to manage your credit.

Some other general items. Age of your history is important. Keep cards open a long time. Even with zero balances they show your long term credit management. Don't keep opening new cards just because you can. It looks desperate. And never, never, ever let a public record get filed. They put you into a higher risk category which remains even when they are paid off. So ... don't fight the IRS.

More tips at the web site: http://www.pinkflamingomortgage.com/

Bob

Monday, June 11, 2007

Friday, June 8, 2007

LiveWell San Diego!


At the end of our business week, most of us look forward to quality time with our family and down time from our day to day work routine. So it was with maybe just a little less than 100% enthusiasm that I collected my mother (an active 75 year old) and devoted last Friday evening to supporting LiveWell San Diego, an Adult Resource Network (formerly the Clairemont Senior Center), with our attendance at their annual fundraising BBQ.

LiveWell San Diego is a not for profit organization primarily serving the nutritional needs of Senior Citizens throughout San Diego county, but also offering recreation activities, adult daycare and a place where caring staff are committed to empowering retirees, seniors, and caregivers to live life to its fullest by providing a one-stop-source for services to help them remain healthy, active, independent, and fulfilled.

My mom and I were greeted at the door by smiling volunteers who helped us with name tags and invited us to join the already large and enthusiastic crowd of party goers enjoying music from the 50s and 60s on CD, as well as a very talented woman singing and playing the guitar. Inside, we were met by my business partner at Pink Flamingo Mortgage, Terry McComas, who was attending with her older brother (a retiree, due to cancer and the loss of an eye). Terry ushered us to a table she had already filled with members of Bay Mesa Real Estate Association (one of the professional organizations we affiliate with), and Bill O’Donnell (retiree, professional bagpipe player and Assistant Manager of a local mobilhome park).

After exchanging greetings, we headed off for the serving bar where some of the best fried chicken I ever tasted was being offered – in addition to freshly tossed salad, perfectly cooked vegetables, sumptuous beans and fresh fruit. Warm cookies were delivered around the room in a basket, as we were finishing up our dinner plates.

But more than the food, I looked around the room and was struck by the others in attendance. Many, like me, had come from their work with senior parents or senior friends in tow. Most of the other attendees were seniors served by LiveWell San Diego, many of them up in years, but still out and about in their community and enjoying a good meal, good music and the companionship of others.

LiveWell San Diego relies heavily on the financial support of the community to provide nutritional and recreational programs for seniors. I was pleased to support the organization at the BBQ last Friday, and hope my friends, family and business associates reading this blog may choose to help, too. The Director, Cathy Hopper, can be reached at 858-483-5100. LiveWell San Diego is located at 4425 Bannock Avenue, San Diego, CA 92117. Your can check out their website at http://www.livewellsandiego.org/

Our loved ones may never need the senior nutritional programs, adult daycare or recreational activities provided by LiveWell San Diego, but – if we do – it’s people like you and me, people that support and contribute to LiveWell San Diego, that will ensure they have the funds to continue to serve our senior community.


Bob

Thursday, June 7, 2007

Another Day in Paradise with the Padres!



Another Day in Paradise & the Padres are in 1st Place!! What a week! Tonight the Padres go for a sweep of the Dodgers. Decorum prevents me from listing the Dodgers complete name on my blog, but trust me there are a lot of extra expletives that go in the name.



San Diego is a great place to live and fund mortgages. And the last two years the Padres have won the Western Division and made us proud. This year we have to go deep into the playoffs. And Trevor gets 500!!! Wow!



It's enough to blot out Paris Hilton's release from jail. What a fiasco.



But back to the Padres. The best pitching in baseball. The best relief staff in baseball. Now we just need to improve on clutch hitting, and we can go all the way and win the World Series.



See you at Petco !!

Bob

Thursday, May 31, 2007

How a Blue Moon can increase your Credit Score!

OK ... today is the day!! All those little items, or big items that you only get around to once in a "Blue Moon" ... Today IS the Blue Moon!!! What IS a Blue Moon? It's the second Full Moon in the same Month. In this case the second full moon in May. So let's get on it. It's time to clean the garage, or paint the patio furniture.

Or maybe it's time to Clean Up Your Credit Report, aka your FICO score. There are simple ways to start: First - Opt Out. What the heck do you mean "Opt Out?" Is that like "I quit?" No, not at all. You know all those unsolicited requests you get for credit cards, home loans, and other financial offers? Well they send those to you because they have checked your credit and you fit a certain profile they like.

While that is flattering in a way, all of these credit checks combined start to impact your credit score. Not as much a bank or credit union checking for a loan, but they add up. And YOU didn't even give them permission. What to do? Well there is a way to stop them. You simply "Opt Out"

This is the process of contacting the credit agencies and telling them that you do not want to receive any unsolicited mail and you do not want them to allow your credit to be accessed. It's easy to do. Call 1-888-5 OPT OUT and tell them you do not want anyone to access your credit without permission.

You can view our video at on the Pink Flamingo Video Tips; or the printed version in our Power Tools under Raising Your FICO Score.

So the Blue Moon is here, and with a 30 second phone call you can start raising your credit score. What could be easier? More tips on credit next week.

Bob

Wednesday, May 30, 2007

Just a short note for the day. I have received a LOT of feedback on my first blog. Who knew? Anyway, I have been told to be personal (first person) and not second person when speaking. This is a little unusual for me as all my business writings are more second or third person. But I will try. Forgive me if I slip back and forth.

I have received several excellent comments for future blogs:

1. How to clean up your credit;
2. What do the FICO scores mean?;
3. How to finance college;
4. Is there still 100% financing available?; and
5. Do I really need a Real Estate Agent when buying or selling a house?

So I will take these one at a time over the next several weeks and give you my best thoughts on each subject. I won't necessarily take these in the order above, just what seems the most fun to write on next.

In the meantime there are two video's on the http://www.pinkflamingomortgage.com/ website under "Power Tools" that can give you a head start on cleaning up any credit blemishes. And don't forget to sign up for HomefindersClub.

Bob

Tuesday, May 29, 2007

Welcome to our blog at Pink Flamingo Mortgage (PFM). It has been an exciting year so far in 2007. We have re-branded ourselves from Acceptance Capital Mortgage Corporation to Pink Flamingo Mortgage. We intend to focus our marketing to the online neighborhood with the simple promise of honesty and providing you with "Power Tools" to shop all properties in San Diego County. We invite you to also visit our main Pink Flamingo Mortgage website for assistance with your San Diego real estate and mortgage needs.

Our most recent news here at PFM is the election of Bob Glaser to Chair of the Citizens Oversight Committee for the San Diego Community College District. The COC oversees the expenditure of 1.55 Billion dollars of construction bond money to keep the San Diego Community College District at the cutting edge of education. The COC is working with projects at San Diego Mesa, San Diego City, San Diego Miramar and the Continuing Education Centers of the Community College District. The COC is funded with proceeds from the sale of Bonds authorized by Props S and N. The COC's primary job is to ensure that these funds are spent in compliance with with the Bond language, which is a contract with the voters and taxpayers.

Bob has served several years as the Vice-Chair of the COC and was elected by a unanimous vote of the Committee. Additionally, Bob was recently granted a Brokers License by the State of California after passing the Department of Real Estate Broker's Exam. Having been an attorney for 25 years, adding the Broker's License is icing on the cake for Bob's Real Property practice. Now PFM has two in house Brokers who are authorized to process loans. Additionally PFM has the legal and financial background to help with any challenges that may arise.

Well, more in the future as this Blogging experience is new to us and we are just learning how to compose our Blog entries. See you soon. PFM