Blog | The 2 Mortgage Guys

Are investors actually buying up all the real estate?

ryan@the2mg.com (Ryan Minick) — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 21:59:09 GMT

Are Investors Actually Buying Up All the Homes?

Are you trying to

buy a home but you feel like you’re up against deep-pocketed Wall Street investors snatching up everything in sight? Many people believe mega investors are driving up prices and buying up all the homes for sale, and that’s making it hard for regular buyers like you to compete.

But here’s the truth. Investor purchases are actually on the decline, and the big players aren’t nearly as active as you might think. Let’s dive into the facts and put this myth to rest.

Most Investors Are Small, Not Mega Investors

A common misconception is that massive institutional investors are dominating the market. In reality, that’s not the case. The Mortgage Reports explains:

“On average, small investors account for around 18% of the market, while mega investors represent only about 1%. ”

Most real estate investors are mom-and-pop investors who own just a few properties — not large corporations buying up entire neighborhoods. They’re people like your neighbors who have another home they’re renting out or a vacation getaway.

Investor Home Purchases Are Dropping

But what about the big investors you hear about in the news? Lately, those institutional investors – the ones that make headlines – have pulled back and aren’t buying as many homes.

According to John Burns Research and Consulting (JBREC), at their all-time peak in Q2 2022, institutional investors (those owning 1,000+ single-family homes) only made up 2.4% of home sales. And that number has only come down since then. By Q3 2024, that number had fallen to just 0.3% (see graph below):

That’s a major shift, and it means far fewer investors are competing in the market now than just a few years ago.

Investors are clearly more reluctant to buy in today’s market, but why? The answer is largely because higher mortgage rates and home prices have made it less attractive for them.

The idea that Wall Street investors are buying up all the homes and making it impossible for you to compete is a myth. While some investors are still in the market, they’re not nearly as active as they were in past years.

Bottom Line

Big institutional investors aren’t buying up all the homes – if anything they’re buying less than they have been. Let’s connect and talk about what’s happening in our local market. There could be more opportunities than you think.

How does knowing investors are buying fewer homes change the way you see your chances in today’s market?

Show & Tell Featuring The 2 Mortgage Guys – Season 2 – Episode 15

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 22:05:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys Season 2 – Episode 15

We will be covering Down Payment Assistance. Is it free? Can you really buy a home with no down payment? How do you get yours? Let’s find out!

Have a question? Feel free to comment and we’ll be happy to answer!

If you enjoyed this video, click the �� and be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our channel for more great tips and educational videos. We love to share our over 2 decades worth of mortgage knowledge with you!

We go LIVE on YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook every Tuesday at NOON est

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

“FOLLOW” us on TikTok
“F O LLOW” us on Twitter
“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
Google Podcasts: //bit.ly/The2MGonGooglePodcasts
Pocket Casts (mobile): //bit.ly/The2MGonPocketCasts
Radio Public: //bit.ly/The2MGonRadioPublic
Spotify: //spoti.fi/3AOYNVe
Stitcher: //bit.ly/The2MGonStitcher
Anchor by Spotify: //anchor.fm/the2mortgageguys

NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

PROUD USA Cares Certified Military Housing Specialist

The 2 Mortgage Guys: You can reach Steve & Ryan at 765.450.8933 or email them at contactus@the2mortgageguys.com.
If you are ready to get pre-qualified to purchase a home or interested in refinancing, go to THE2MG.com .

All information is current at the time of posting.

8 Must-Do Tasks to Prep for a Move to Your New Home

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 00:17:00 GMT

Moving out of your home can be both exciting and stressful. Whether you’re moving out for the first time or the tenth time, there are certain steps you should take to ensure a smooth transition. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of preparing to move out of your home.

Make a Plan

Before you start packing, take the time to make a plan. This will help you stay organized and on track throughout the moving process. Start by setting a timeline for when you want to move out. This will give you a deadline to work towards and help you prioritize your tasks.

Next, make a list of everything you need to do before you move out. This may include things like packing, cleaning, and arranging for movers or a rental truck. Break each task down into smaller, more manageable steps so that you can make progress each day.

Declutter and Downsize

Moving is a great opportunity to declutter and downsize your belongings. Before you start packing, go through your possessions and decide what you want to keep, sell, donate, or throw away. This will make packing easier and also help you start fresh in your new home.

Consider donating items that are still in good condition to local charities or thrift stores. You could also sell items online or have a garage sale to make some extra cash. Remember, the less you have to pack, the easier and cheaper your move will be.

Gather Packing Supplies

Once you’ve decluttered and downsized, it’s time to gather packing supplies. You’ll need boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing paper to protect your belongings during the move.

You can often find free boxes at local grocery stores or on websites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. You could also purchase boxes and packing supplies from moving companies or online retailers.

Pack Strategically

When packing, it’s important to be strategic. Pack items that you won’t need right away first, such as off-season clothing or books. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs in to make unpacking easier.

Use bubble wrap or packing paper to protect fragile items, and pack them tightly to prevent them from shifting during the move. Don’t overload boxes or they may become too heavy to lift.

Clean Your Home

Before you move out, make sure to thoroughly clean your home. This includes cleaning appliances, wiping down surfaces, and vacuuming or sweeping floors.

If you’re renting, you’ll want to leave your home in good condition to ensure you receive your security deposit back. If you own your home, cleaning will help you leave a good impression on potential buyers.

Hire Movers or Rent a Truck

If you’re moving a long distance or have a lot of belongings, you may want to hire professional movers. Look for reputable moving companies in your area and get quotes to compare prices.

If you’re moving locally or have a smaller load, you could rent a moving truck and do the move yourself. Be sure to reserve the truck in advance and have a plan for how you’ll load and unload your belongings.

Notify Utilities and Services

Before you move out, you’ll need to notify your utilities and services of your change of address. This includes gas, electric, water, internet, cable, and phone services. Make sure to give them your new address and the date you’ll be moving out. You may also need to schedule final readings and pay any outstanding bills.

Change Your Address

You’ll also need to change your address with the post office and any other important organizations. This includes your bank, credit card companies, and insurance providers.

You can change your address online or by filling out a form at your local post office. Make sure to do this at least a week before your moving date.

Good luck on the big move!

If you enjoyed this article, click the �� and be sure to SUBSCRIBE for more great tips and educational articles/videos. We love to share our over 2 decades worth of mortgage knowledge with you!

We go LIVE on YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook every Tuesday at NOON est

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

“FOLLOW” us on TikTok

“ FOLLOW” us on Twitter

“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
Google Podcasts: //bit.ly/The2MGonGooglePodcasts
Pocket Casts (mobile): //bit.ly/The2MGonPocketCasts
Radio Public: //bit.ly/The2MGonRadioPublic
Spotify: //spoti.fi/3AOYNVe
Stitcher: //bit.ly/The2MGonStitcher
Anchor by Spotify: //anchor.fm/the2mortgageguys

NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

10 Things to Do After Buying a Home!

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 14:51:00 GMT

Welcome to your new home! We know that moving can be a stressful time, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to start fresh and make your new place feel like home. To help you settle in, we’ve put together a list of the 10 things you should do after moving in.

Change the locks: You don’t want any surprise visits from the previous owner, who still has a spare key. Plus, you never know who they might have given a key to – their ex, their nosy neighbor. You get the point.

Make a list of home maintenance tasks: It’s important to keep up with home maintenance to prevent any costly repairs down the road. Make a list of tasks that need to be done regularly, such as changing air filters or cleaning gutters, and create a schedule to stay on top of them.

Update your address: The new tenants at your old place are probably unlikely to pay your bills for you! Make sure you complete an address change at your local post office so your mail gets its way to you!

Check your smoke detectors: There’s nothing like the sound of a smoke detector beeping every thirty seconds to ruin your day. And trust me, it will wait until 3 a.m. to start beeping. We’re not joking. It will!

Locate your circuit breaker: Label each switch so you know which ones control which part of your home. If you’re lucky, this will already be done for you. If not, this is easist as a two person mission.

Find the main water valve: You don’t want to be looking for this when a pipe decides to burst on a cold winter night. Find out where it is now and make sure it works. This could save you thousands of dollars in damage if you ever need to shut it off.

Install a security system: Make your new home feel even more secure by installing a security system. There are many affordable options available that can give you peace of mind and protect your home from potential break-ins. You can buy easy to install, DIY kits right off of Amazon, and they won’t break the bank.

Set up utilities: Electricity? Check. Gas? Check. Water? Check. Funny story. My oldest son went over two years without paying his wastewater bill because the previous owner was paying it and didn’t realize it. Unless you have luck like that, make sure you’ve got everything switched so your utilities stay on during your housewarming party.

Meet your neighbors: It’s always good to have someone to borrow sugar from when you’re baking a cake on a cold day. Plus, they might even have some tips or advice concerning your neighborhood, HOA meetings, and possible neighbors to avoid!

Enjoy your new home: After all the hard work of moving and settling in, take a break and enjoy your new home! Host a housewarming party, decorate your space, or simply relax and take in your new view.

Congratulations on your new home!

PS. If you decide to throw a party, don’t forget about The 2 Mortgage Guys!

Show & Tell Featuring Andy Hardie – Season 2 – Episode 14

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 23:27:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys Season 2 – Episode 14

We are joined by Andy Hardie from The Hardie Group Real Estate. Over the years we’ve watched Andy rise up as a rookie real estate agent to eventually take the wheel of the entire company. Join us as we get to know Andy a little better and learn why his office is one of the top real estate companies in the area.

Andy Hardie | Andy@TheHardieGroup.com | 765-437-6134 | ⁠⁠The Hardie Group ⁠ | ⁠1808 Dogwood Drive Kokomo, IN 46902⁠

⁠A little about our special guest: Andy was born and raised in Kokomo, Indiana. He’s a 2000 graduate of Northwestern School. He attended Purdue University and Olivet Nazarene University with a bachelor’s degree in business. Andy has been married to his wife, Jamie for 11 years. He has three children. Gracie is 8, Caelum is 5 and Trey is 2. Andy started his real estate career with The Hardie Group in the fall of 2006 and took over the company after his parents retired in 2022. An interesting fact about Andy is that he is a quadruplet and got his first gray hair in the 7th grade!

We go LIVE on YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook every Tuesday at NOON est

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

“FOLLOW” us on TikTok
“FOLLOW” us on Twitter
“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
Google Podcasts: //bit.ly/The2MGonGooglePodcasts
Pocket Casts (mobile): //bit.ly/The2MGonPocketCasts
Radio Public: //bit.ly/The2MGonRadioPublic
Spotify: //spoti.fi/3AOYNVe
Stitcher: //bit.ly/The2MGonStitcher
Anchor by Spotify: //anchor.fm/the2mortgageguys

NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

Show & Tell Community Spotlight on Boy Scouts of America – Sagamore Council – Season 2 – Episode 13

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 11:59:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys Season 2 – Episode 13

We are joined by Bryon Haverstick – Assistant Scout Executive with the Sagamore Council, Boy Scouts of America for another Community Spotlight! We’ll be talking about how a family can get involved in Scouting, their outreach programs, partnership opportunities and more!

Bryon Haverstick – Assistant Scout Executive with the Sagamore Council, Boy Scouts of America | bryon.haverstick@scouting.org | 765-452-8253 | ⁠Boy Scouts of America – Sagamore Council

⁠A little about our special guest: After serving his country in the United States Army, Bryon graduated from Lindenwood University with a bachelor’s degree in Non-Profit Administration. He’s a certified non-profit professional (CNP) by the Non-Profit Leadership Alliance. While in college, Bryon worked as the Athletic Director for the Boys & Girls Club of St. Charles County. Bryon has since served as the District Executive and Senior District Executive, with the Greater St. Louis Area Council, District Director with the Ozark Trails Council, Field Director with the Great Rivers Council, and now the Assistant Scout Executive/COO with the Sagamore Council spanning a 18-year career in the BSA.

We go LIVE on YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook every Tuesday at NOON est

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

“FOLLOW” us on TikTok
“FOLLOW” us on Twitter
“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
Google Podcasts: //bit.ly/The2MGonGooglePodcasts
Pocket Casts (mobile): //bit.ly/The2MGonPocketCasts
Radio Public: //bit.ly/The2MGonRadioPublic
Spotify: //spoti.fi/3AOYNVe
Stitcher: //bit.ly/The2MGonStitcher
Anchor by Spotify: //anchor.fm/the2mortgageguys

NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

How to Make a Great Impression on your New Neighbors!

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 11:12:00 GMT

Introducing yourself to your new neighbors is a great way to start building a sense of community and getting to know the people who live around you. Here are a few tips on how to introduce yourself to your new neighbors:

Start with a friendly greeting: When you see your new neighbors outside, offer a friendly smile and say hello. A simple “Hi, I’m [your name], I just moved in next door. Nice to meet you!” can go a long way in starting a conversation.

Bring a small gift: Bringing a small gift like a plant or a baked good can be a nice gesture to welcome your new neighbors. Attach a small note with your name and contact information to make it easier for them to reach out if they want to return the gesture.

Ask for recommendations: If you’re not sure where the best local spots are, ask your neighbors for recommendations. People are often happy to share their favorite restaurants, shops, and parks in the area.

Attend community events: Check if there are any upcoming community events, such as block parties or neighborhood cleanups, and attend them. These events can be a great opportunity to meet new people and start building relationships with your neighbors.

Remember, introducing yourself to your new neighbors can be a bit nerve-wracking, but most people appreciate the effort and are happy to welcome you to the neighborhood.

If you enjoyed this article, click the �� and be sure to SUBSCRIBE for more great tips and educational articles/videos. We love to share our over 2 decades worth of mortgage knowledge with you!

We go LIVE on YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook most Tuesdays at NOON est

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

“FOLLOW” us on TikTok

“FOLLOW” us on Twitter

“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
G oogle Podcasts: //bit.ly/The2MGonGooglePodcasts
Pocket Casts (mobile): //bit.ly/The2MGonPocketCasts
Radio Public: //bit.ly/The2MGonRadioPublic
Spotify: //spoti.fi/3AOYNVe
Stitcher: //bit.ly/The2MGonStitcher
Anchor by Spotify: //anchor.fm/the2mortgageguys

PROUD USA Cares Certified Military Housing Specialist

The 2 Mortgage Guys: You can reach Steve & Ryan at 765.450.8933.
If you are ready to get pre-qualified to purchase a home or interested in refinancing, go to THE2MG.com .

All information is current at the time of posting.

Show & Tell featuring Amy Pate, Executive Vice President · REALTORS Association of Central Indiana – Season 2 – Episode 12

Fri, 07 Apr 2023 21:06:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys – Season 2 – Episode 12: We are joined by Amy Pate, Executive Vice President · REALTORS Association of Central Indiana to talk about the benefits of working with realtors, how they are paid, horror stories of not using them, real estate stats. and much […]

Show & Tell featuring Margaret Sklenar of Metropolitan Title – Season 2 – Episode 11

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 01:08:00 GMT

We are joined by Margaret Sklenar – Co-Owner of Metropolitan Title to talk about the role title company’s play in a real estate transaction and much more! Have a question? Feel free to comment.

Show & Tell featuring The Joe Martino & Kylie Baker Team Season 2 – Episode 10

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 21:15:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys – Season 2 – Episode 9

We are joined by the Joe Martino & Kylie Baker Team with The Wyman Group to discuss all things real estate & we’ll get to know them a little better!

Have a question? Feel free to comment and we’ll be happy to answer!

Kylie Baker – Broker Associate with The Wyman Group | 765.210.3818 | kylie.n.baker@gmail.com

Joe Martino – Broker Associate with The Wyman Group | 765.434.8598 | joehunter1@gmail.com

Follow Kylie and Joe on Facebook: ⁠Joe Martino & Kylie Baker Real Estate Team⁠

A little about our special guests:

Kylie joined The Wyman Group as a Broker Associate in 2015 and specializes in both residential and commercial sales. As a lifelong resident of Howard County, Kylie is very knowledgeable of the local market which allows her to guide her clients into the home they are searching for. Kylie’s experience working for the State of Indiana to aid and assist families in our community combined with her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Purdue allow Kylie a unique perspective in the real estate business in that she is able to work with individuals and families to smoothly guide them through the stressful yet rewarding process of buying or selling their home.

Joe is a life-long resident of Howard County, also having spent a large amount of his life in the Monticello and Winamac areas. Being brought up by entrepreneurs, and being one himself, Joe has made many valuable connections that have helped him develop the knowledge and power to market residential and commercial listings, and to bring buyers and sellers together.

As an avid outdoorsman, his knowledge of lake homes, rural and recreational properties also make him the perfect fit for those looking to sell or relocate to the lake, farm or ranch!

We go LIVE on YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook every Tuesday at NOON est

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

“FOLLOW” us on TikTok

“FOLLOW” us on Twitter

“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
Google Podcasts: //bit.ly/The2MGonGooglePodcasts
Pocket Casts (mobile): //bit.ly/The2MGonPocketCasts
Radio Public: //bit.ly/The2MGonRadioPublic
Spotify: //spoti.fi/3AOYNVe
Stitcher: //bit.ly/The2MGonStitcher
Anchor by Spotify: //anchor.fm/the2mortgageguys

NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

Show & Tell featuring Howard County Recorder – Torie Kelley – Season 2 Ep 9

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 21:01:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys – Season 2 – Episode 9

We’re talking with Torie Kelley – Howard County Recorder. She’ll be explaining what a recorder does and what services her office offers.

Have a question? Feel free to comment and we’ll be happy to answer!

Torie Kelley – Howard County Recorder | //www.howardcountyin.gov/administration/recorder | 765.456.2210 | torie.kelley@howardcountyin.gov | 220 N Main St #330, Kokomo, IN 46901

A little about our special guest:
Torie was born and raised in Howard County. She has been married to her husband Corey for 8 years and they have 2 children. She started working in the Recorders office in 2014 and became chief deputy Recorder in 2018. In 2022 she was elected as the Howard County Recorder.

We go LIVE on YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook every Tuesday at NOON est

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

“FOLLOW” us on TikTok

“ FOLLOW” us on Twitter

“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
Google Podcasts: //bit.ly/The2MGonGooglePodcasts
Pocket Casts (mobile): //bit.ly/The2MGonPocketCasts
Radio Public: //bit.ly/The2MGonRadioPublic
Spotify: //spoti.fi/3AOYNVe
Stitcher: //bit.ly/The2MGonStitcher
Anchor by Spotify: //anchor.fm/the2mortgageguys

NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

Show & Tell featuring The 2 Mortgage Guys – Season 2 Ep 8

Thu, 09 Mar 2023 18:30:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys!
Season 2 Episode 8:

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys
Season 2 – Episode 8:
We’ll be talking about spring cleaning! And, we’re not talking about scrubbing your floors and windows… we’re talking about your credit, saving money and everything that’s important for a first time home buyer. Let us help you get ready for the spring market!

Have a question? Feel free to comment and we’ll be happy to answer!

Links shared during the show:
Free annual credit report: //www.annualcreditreport.com/index.action
The2MG.com: //leaderonefinancial.typeform.com/THE2MG
Credit Crash Course: //youtube.com/playlist?list=PLmkO6Xm7K-qlV9LTp-aca9-GQ-pYVPo8d

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

“FOLLOW” us on TikTok

“FOL L OW” us on Twitter

“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
Google Podcasts: //bit.ly/The2MGonGooglePodcasts
Pocket Casts (mobile): //bit.ly/The2MGonPocketCasts
Radio Public: //bit.ly/The2MGonRadioPublic
Spotify: //spoti.fi/3AOYNVe
Stitcher: //bit.ly/The2MGonStitcher
Anchor by Spotify: //anchor.fm/the2mortgageguys

NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

Show & Tell Community Spotlight featuring Sherry Rahl – Kokomo Urban Outreach – Season 2 Ep 7

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 00:42:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys!
Season 2 Episode 7:

We’re interviewing Sherry Rayl from Kokomo Urban Outreach. Stick around to hear what this amazing community program is all about!. She’ll be sharing all of the great things they are doing in our community, how you can get involved and more!

Have a question? Feel free to comment and we’ll be happy to answer!

Sherry Rahl – Executive Director of Kokomo Urban Outreach | //www.kokomourbanoutreach.org/ | 765.457.1983 | urban.outreach@gmail.com |
1701 S. Locke Street, Kokomo

Links shared during the show:
UP Program: //www.kokomourbanoutreach.org/upprogram
MiniUP Program: //www.kokomourbanoutreach.org/miniup
Annual Empty Bowl Fundraiser: //www.eventbrite.com/e/empty-bowl-tickets-539566466827

A little about our special guest:
Sherry was born and raised in Kokomo Indiana. She has been married to Bill for 35 yrs. She is mom to a wonderful daughter and has 2 grandchildren. She came from the insurance, banking, and mortgage arena. She went into nonprofit work in 2013. She was Project Access for five years, helped to start Turning Point SOC as the first employee and was at Turning Point SOC for four years. She began with Kokomo Urban Outreach on November 1, 2022.

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

“FOLLOW” us on TikTok

“FOL L OW” us on Twitter

“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
Google Podcasts: //bit.ly/The2MGonGooglePodcasts
Pocket Casts (mobile): //bit.ly/The2MGonPocketCasts
Radio Public: //bit.ly/The2MGonRadioPublic
Spotify: //spoti.fi/3AOYNVe
Stitcher: //bit.ly/The2MGonStitcher
Anchor by Spotify: //anchor.fm/the2mortgageguys

NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

Show & Tell featuring Jeremy Goldsmith – Season 2 Ep 6

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 17:37:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys!
Season 2 Episode 6:

We’re interviewing Financial Wellness Specialist, Jeremy Goldsmith. We’re talking about credit. How to build it, fix it, understand and improve it. All of this and more!

Jeremy.Goldsmith@BMO.com | 317.832.3003

Link shared in today’s show: //bit.ly/CreditCrashCourse

A little about our special guest:

Jeremy is a Financial Wellness Specialist at BMO Harris Bank in Indianapolis. He’s been with BMO for almost 12 years. As a banker, he feels he has been fortunate to be put in a position to truly change people’s lives. His passion is to provide the education behind what BMO offers. Most banks have very similar products, but by demystifying these products, they then become solutions that change lives. When he’s not working, he’s spending his time with his girlfriend Katie, Goldendoodle Max and the amazing network of friends and family in his life. He enjoys traveling, skiing, cooking and the outdoors.

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

“FOLLOW” us on TikTok

“ F OLLOW” us on Twitter

“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
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NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

Show & Tell featuring Michael Mygrant – Season 2 Ep 5

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 19:09:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys!
Season 2 Episode 5:

We’re interviewing Michael Mygrant with Mygrant Realty and Appraisals. We’ll be discussing real estate appraisals; what are values doing since we hit all time summer highs, what mistakes are people making that impact their home values, how are appraised values calculated and more.

michael@mygrantproperties.com | 765-461-7608

A little about our special guest:

Michael is a licensed Realtor and Certified Residential Appraiser in Kokomo and is the owner of Mygrant Realty & Appraisals. He has lived in Kokomo for the majority of his life and graduated from Kokomo High School in 2000 and IU Kokomo in 2003. He is married to Heather and has two boys, Isaiah who is 4 and Deacon is 1.

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

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NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

Show & Tell featuring Brad Priday- Season 2 Ep 4

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 22:13:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys!
Season 2 Episode 4:

We’re interviewing Brad Priday from Rayls & Shepherd Insurance, to discuss the importance of insurance for Airbnb hosts. Brad will share his insights and expertise on the various coverage options available, and how they can help protect your property, guests, and income. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced host, this interview is a must-listen for anyone looking to maximize their success on Airbnb.

Have a question? Feel free to comment and we’ll be happy to answer!

Brad Priday from Rayls & Shepherd Insurance | 765-452-5656 | bpriday@shepherdins.com

//www.shepherdins.com/kokomo/

A little about our special guest:

Brad Priday has 19 years in the insurance industry and is licensed in property and casualty, and life insurance. He graduated in 1984 from Sikeston High School in Sikeston, MO and attended college at Anderson University. He played football at Anderson and graduated in 1988 with degrees in Marketing and Management. Brad has been married to his wife Jennifer for 34 years. They have twin daughters (Kayla and Kelsey) and their youngest daughter Kennedy.

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

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NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

How the Fed Impacts Mortgage Rates

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 21:22:00 GMT

Let’s shed some light on how the mysterious and influential Federal Reserve affects mortgage rates.

First off, let’s start with what a mortgage is. It’s a loan that is used to purchase a home, and the interest rate on a mortgage determines the amount of money the borrower must pay back each month. That’s the key factor in determining the overall cost of the loan, and we all know how important that can be.

Now, let’s talk about the Fed. They set the target for the federal funds rate, which is the rate at which banks can lend and borrow money from each other overnight. When the Fed raises the federal funds rate, it becomes more expensive for lenders to borrow money, and they often pass on that cost to their customers in the form of higher interest rates on loans, including mortgages. On the flip side, when the Fed lowers the federal funds rate, it becomes cheaper for lenders to borrow money, and they may lower their lending rates, including mortgage rates.

It’s important to note that while the Fed can have an indirect impact on mortgage rates, there are other factors that play a role as well, such as the state of the economy and the supply and demand for loans.

Here are five examples of how the Feds can impact mortgage rates.

Setting the federal funds rate: The Federal Reserve sets the target for the federal funds rate, which is the rate at which banks can lend and borrow money from each other overnight. This rate can directly impact mortgage rates, as lenders may pass on the increased costs of borrowing to their customers.
Adjusting the monetary policy: The Fed can adjust its monetary policy to influence the supply of money in the economy, which can impact interest rates, including mortgage rates. If the Fed decides to increase the money supply, it can lead to lower interest rates, and vice versa.
Buying and selling government securities: The Fed can buy and sell government securities, such as Treasury bonds, to control the supply of money in the economy. By buying securities, the Fed can increase the money supply and lower interest rates, and by selling securities, it can reduce the money supply and raise interest rates.
Communicating its expectations: The Fed can communicate its expectations for the future of interest rates, which can impact the expectations of market participants and influence mortgage rates. If the Fed signals that it expects to raise interest rates in the future, it can lead to an increase in mortgage rates.
Maintaining financial stability: The Fed can use its regulatory powers to maintain financial stability, which can impact mortgage rates. For example, if the Fed decides to tighten regulations on lending practices, it can make it more difficult for lenders to issue loans, leading to higher mortgage rates.

So, what does this all mean for you as a homebuyer or someone looking to refinance? It means that you need to be informed and know the right questions to ask. That’s where we come in. As mortgage experts, we can help guide you through the often confusing and overwhelming mortgage market and find the best options for your unique financial circumstances.

If you’re looking to buy or refinance a home, we’re The 2 Mortgage Guys, and we’re here to help!

Show & Tell featuring Paul Wyman - Season 2 Ep 3

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 20:44:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys!
Season 2 Episode 3:

We’re interviewing Paul Wyman with The Wyman Group. Is the housing market crashing? We’ll talking about it along with the shift in real estate trends since the pandemic, remote workers impacting the housing market, The Wyman Group & a little about the Hayne’s Apperson Festival !

Have a question? Feel free to comment and we’ll be happy to answer!

Paul Wyman – Principal Broker of The Wyman Group | 765-419-1021 | pwyman8@aol.com

TheWymanGroup.com

A little about our special guest:

Paul is a United States Air Force Veteran having served in Operation Desert Shield during the First Persian Gulf conflict in 1990. He was honored as Airman of the Year and finished his military experience at Grissom Air Force Base. He is the Owner of The Wyman Group, a full service Real Estate Firm with offices in Howard and Tipton Counties. He is consistently one of the top REALTORS in the region. He has been honored by his peers with the REALTOR of The Year award for the State of Indiana. Paul recently finished his local public service of sixteen years, having served as Howard County Councilman for four years and as County Commissioner for 12 years.

He enjoys serving many nonprofits and groups in our community such as, Turning Point, Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance, Howard County Student Leadership Summit, and the Haynes Apperson Festival to name a few. He has been honored with Business Person of The Year by the Chamber of Commerce, the Vocational Achievement Award from Rotary, and was recently recognized by Governor Eric Holcomb with The State’s Highest Honor, The Sagamore of The Wabash.

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

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NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

Show & Tell – What’s coming our way in the mortgage industry in 2023?

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 16:50:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys!
Season 2 Episode 2:

Graphs and charts oh my! We’re streaming a broadcast from The REsource TV. They will be sharing the facts, figures and historical charts that show where we’ve been and where we’re heading in 2023! If you have any interest in the economy, real estate, mortgage rates and your retirement accounts, you don’t want to miss this!

Have a question? Feel free to comment and we’ll be happy to answer!
____________
Full video on REsource TV: 50% Contraction in 2022! What’s coming our way in 2023? //bit.ly/3R8cQeV

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

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NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

Show & Tell Community Spotlight featuring Leanne Fogg – Executive Director for Kokomo’s Habitat for Humanity – Season 2 Ep 1

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 15:50:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys!
Season 2 Episode 1:

We’re interviewing Leanne Fogg – Executive Director for Kokomo’s Habitat for Humanity. She’ll be sharing all of the great things they are doing in our community, how you can get involved and more!
Have a question? Feel free to comment and we’ll be happy to answer!

Leanne Fogg – Executive Director for Kokomo’s Habitat for Humanity | 765-452-2185 | hfhkokomo@gmail.com

//habitatkokomo.com/

A little about our special guest:
Leanne lives in Kokomo with her husband of 17 years and their 2 teenage sons. She graduated from Maconaquah High School before going on to earn her degree from Ivy Tech of Kokomo. In addition to the work she does for Kokomo’s Habitat for Humanity, Leanne mentors for Bridges Outreach, volunteers for her church, is a booster club representative at her sons’ school, and serves on the Executive board for another local non-profit. She is driven to support her community in any way she can and has a heart for giving. In Leanne’s down time she enjoys reading, camping, and traveling with her friends and family.

The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve DeLon & Ryan Minick / The2MortgagGuys.com / 765.450.8933

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

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NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

Show & Tell C o m m u n i t y S p o t l i g h t featuring Howard County Veteran Service Officer Dale Truax – Episode 37

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 23:07:00 GMT

Welcome to Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys!Episode 37:We are interviewing Dale Truax – Howard County Veteran Service Officer, in our next COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT! We’ll be talking about the many benefits available to veterans, who qualifies, how to receive them and more. Have a question? Feel free to comment and we’ll be happy […]

How Do I Obtain My DD214 & Other Important Military Forms?

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 19:40:57 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

A DD Form 214 (DD214) is a Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. It would be issued upon a military service member’s retirement, separation, or discharge from active-duty military.

If you’ve been discharged from military service, your personnel files are stored at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). They are the official repository for records of military personnel who have been discharged from the U.S. Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy and Coast Guard.

Recent military service and medical records are not online. However, most veterans and their next-of-kin can obtain free copies of their DD Form 214 (Report of Separation) and other records here: Get Military Service Records

Military personnel records are primarily administrative records and can contain information such as:

enlistment/appointment
duty stations and assignments
training, qualifications, performance
awards and medals
disciplinary actions
insurance
emergency data
administrative remarks
separation/discharge/retirement (including DD Form 214, Report of Separation, or equivalent)
other personnel actions

Detailed information about the veteran’s participation in military battles and engagements is NOT contained in the record.

The National Archives’ National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) stores records of individual military service pertaining to former service members who no longer have a service obligation. Included are records of veterans who are completely discharged (with no remaining reserve commitment), or who are retired or have died. Records are usually transferred to NPRC within six months after these events. NPRC does not have records of members who are still in the active or inactive reserves or in the National Guard. The records of each military service department on file at NPRC are listed under Location of Military Service Records .

In an effort to expand access to and ensure the preservation of the records, the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) together with the Department of Defense (DOD) developed a schedule, signed July 8, 2004, making the Official Military Personnel Files (OMPF) permanent records of the United States. This schedule mandates the legal transfer of these files from DOD ownership to NARA ownership 62 years after the service member’s separation from the military.

As part of the initial transfer, the records of 1.2 million veterans who served with the United States Navy and Marine Corps were opened to the public in July 2005. In addition, 200 OMPFs of “Persons of Exceptional Prominence” (PEP files) – such as Presidents, members of Congress and the Supreme Court; famous military leaders; decorated heroes; celebrities; and other cultural figures who served in the military – were also made available to the public for the first time (see below for additional information).

In November 2007, NARA opened to the public 6.3 million OMPFs of former military personnel who served in the United States Army (including Army Air Corps and Army Air Forces), Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. In September 2009, marking the 62nd anniversary of the creation of the United States Air Force, NARA accepted the first block of Air Force records into its custody.

Records of individuals who left service less than 62 years ago are non-archival and are maintained under the Federal Records Center program. Federal (non-archival) OMPFs are subject to access restrictions, and only limited information or copies of documents from these records may be released to the general public within the provisions of the law. The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Privacy Act provide balance between the right of the public to obtain information from military service records and the right of the former military service member to protect his/her privacy. See Federal Records Center Program to access these records.

Based on a rolling date of 62 years, all military personnel records will eventually become archival records , open to the general public.

Records of Persons of Exceptional Prominence (PEP)

The 2004 NARA and DOD schedule also allows for the transfer of OMPF’s of “Persons of Exceptional Prominence” (PEP), as soon as ten years after the individual’s date of death. This “early” opening of the records to the public is based upon the desire of the National Archives and the DOD to make the records of historically significant individuals available for research. PEP records document the military service of Presidents, members of Congress and the Supreme Court; famous military leaders; decorated heroes; celebrities; and other cultural figures.

As part of the initial transfer of records, a selection of approximately 200 records of Persons of Exceptional Prominence who had been deceased ten years or more were opened to the public. Additional records of eligible individuals have been added (and will continue to be added) as transfer agreements are reached with the respective military service departments. To date, approximately 500 individual PEP records are open to the public. See PEP Records for access.

Additional information on the contents of Military Service Records and Personnel Files:

Navy Service Records - From the Navy Office of Information
Content of the Official Military Personnel File - From the Marine Corps Personnel Management Support Branch
Special Notice to Veterans and Family Members regarding requests for copies of military personnel and/or medical files

DD Form 214, Discharge Papers, and Separation Documents

A Report of Separation is generally issued when a service member performs active duty or at least 90 consecutive days of active duty training. The Report of Separation contains information normally needed to verify military service for benefits, retirement, employment, and membership in veterans’ organizations. Information shown on the Report of Separation may include the service member’s:

Date and place of entry into active duty
Home address at time of entry
Date and place of release from active duty
Home address after separation
Last duty assignment and rank
Military job specialty
Military education
Decorations, medals, badges, citations, and campaign awards
Total creditable service
Foreign service credited
Separation information (type of separation, character of service, authority and reason for separation, separation and reenlistment eligibility codes)

REMINDER: to get copies of DD Form 214, Discharge Papers or Separation Documents, see link above.

Show & Tell featuring Melissa Reed & Erica Hawkins – Episode 36

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 21:44:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! Episode 36:We’ll be talking with Erica Hawkins & Melissa Reed, REALTORS with The Wyman Group. We’ll be covering the 2022 Year End Review, and boy has it been a fun one! From rising mortgage rates, increasing property values, the seller’s market and […]

Show & Tell featuring Chrissy Hitchcock – Episode 35

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 16:21:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! Episode 34: We’re talking with Chrissy Hitchcock: Realtor with The Key Team at The Hardie Group. Chrissy will be sharing the do’s and don’ts if you’re thinking about selling your home. What things make a difference on value and presentation and what […]

Show & Tell featuring Mark Fisher: Chief Executive Officer Indiana Association of REALTORS®️ – Episode 34

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 22:29:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! Episode 34: We’re talking with Mark Fisher: Chief Executive Officer | Indiana Association of REALTORS®️. We’re discussing recent trends in the real estate market, what to expect in the upcoming legislative session to address the state’s long-term inventory (and affordability) challenges, and […]

Show & Tell featuring Billy Cardwell with Aurora Financial Strategies – Episode 33

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 16:56:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something!

Episode 33: We’ll be talking with Billy Cardwell of Aurora Financial Strategies. We’re discussing investing vs. paying off your house early, how to manage your mortgage and more!
Billy Cardwell: President | Financial Planner | Advisor with Aurora Financial Strategies
AuroraFinancialStrategies.com | 765.450.7087
____________
If you enjoyed this video, click the �� and be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel for more great tips and educational videos. We love to share our over 2 decades worth of mortgage financing knowledge with you! We go LIVE on YouTube and Facebook every Tuesday at NOON est.

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

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Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
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Anchor by Spotify: //anchor.fm/the2mortgageguys

NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

USA Cares Certified Military Housing Specialist

The 2 Mortgage Guys: You can reach Steve & Ryan at 765.450.8933 or email them at contactus@the2mortgageguys.com.
If you are ready to get pre-qualified to purchase a home or interested in refinancing, go to THE2MG.com .

All information is current at the time of posting.

Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys – Episode 32 – All About Reverse Mortgages

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 00:49:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something!

Episode 32 -The 2 Mortgage Guys, Steve & Ryan, will be explaining REVERSE MORTGAGES: How they work, the benefits, how to qualify, who it’s for and common misunderstandings. If you’ve heard of reverse mortgages but aren’t sure how they work, be sure to tune in!
____________
If you enjoyed this video, click the �� and be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel for more great tips and educational videos. We love to share our over 2 decades worth of mortgage financing knowledge with you! We go LIVE on YouTube and Facebook every Tuesday at NOON est.

“LIKE” us on Facebook

“FOLLOW” us on Instagram

“FOLLOW” us on TikTok

“F O LLOW” us on Twitter

“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
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NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

Show & Tell: Community Spotlight on Advantage Housing Inc. with Dale Bliss – Episode 31

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 19:25:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something!

We’re excited to feature another Community Spotlight! This week we are talking with Dale Bliss, Executive Director of Advantage Housing Inc.
//www.facebook.com/AdvantageHousingInc
765-860-1057
The Warehouse:
605 North Market Street
Kokomo, IN 46901
____________________________________________________________

If you enjoyed this video, click the �� and be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel for more great tips and educational videos. We love to share our over 2 decades worth of mortgage financing knowledge with you! We go LIVE on YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook every Tuesday at NOON est.

“LIKE” us on Facebook
“FOLLOW ” us on Instagram
“FOLLOW” us on TikTok
“FOLLOW” us on Twitter
“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
Google Podcasts: //bit.ly/The2MGonGooglePodcasts
Pocket Casts (mobile): //bit.ly/The2MGonPocketCasts
Radio Public: //bit.ly/The2MGonRadioPublic
Spotify: //spoti.fi/3AOYNVe
Stitcher: //bit.ly/The2MGonStitcher
Anchor by Spotify: //anchor.fm/the2mortgageguys

NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

We are a “USA Cares Certified Military Housing Specialist“

All information is current at the time of posting.

The 2 Mortgage Guys: You can reach Steve & Ryan at 765.450.8933 or email them at contactus@the2mortgageguys.com.
If you are ready to get pre-qualified to purchase a home or interested in refinancing, go to THE2MG.com .

Episode 30:
Lindsay Ousley & Shanelle Cahill from the Wyman Group
//www.facebook.com/LindsayOusleyAndShanelleCahill

Show & Tell featuring Lindsay Ousley & Shanelle Cahill from the Wyman Group – Episode 30

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 20:21:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something!

We’re talking about first time homebuyers: Common misconceptions, challenges in buying that first home and tips to help you along the way!
____________________________________________________________

If you enjoyed this video, click the �� and be sure to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel for more great tips and educational videos. We love to share our over 2 decades worth of mortgage financing knowledge with you! We go LIVE on YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook every Tuesday at NOON est.

“LIKE” us on Facebook
“F O LLOW” us on Instagram
“FOLLOW” us on TikTok
“FOLLOW” us on Twitter
“CONNECT” with us on LinkedIn

Are podcasts more your thing? We’ve got you covered! Check out the podcast version of “Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys” on the following:
Castbox: //bit.ly/The2MGonCastbox
Google Podcasts: //bit.ly/The2MGonGooglePodcasts
Pocket Casts (mobile): //bit.ly/The2MGonPocketCasts
Radio Public: //bit.ly/The2MGonRadioPublic
Spotify: //spoti.fi/3AOYNVe
Stitcher: //bit.ly/The2MGonStitcher
Anchor by Spotify: //anchor.fm/the2mortgageguys

NMLS The 2 Mortgage Guys Powered by LeaderOne Financial #12007: Steve DeLon #202876 | Ryan Minick #203249
Licensed in Indiana and Tennessee

We are a “USA Cares Certified Military Housing Specialist“

All information is current at the time of posting.

Show & Tell featuring Rick Wajda – CEO of the Indiana Builders Association – Episode 29

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 20:16:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! We’re talking about the current housing market, building news, relevant bills, and the overall state of new construction throughout Indiana with the CEO of Indiana Builders Association, Rick Wajda. ____________________________________________________________ If you enjoyed this video, click the 👍 and be sure to […]

Show & Tell featuring Barry Habib – Episode 28

Wed, 12 Oct 2022 16:19:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! Are interest rates heading back below 5%? What is causing current interest rates to rise? How does inflation work and what’s the driving force behind it? We’re sharing a recent interview with industry expert, Barry Habib. He’ll answer all of these questions […]

Show & Tell: C o m m u n i t y S p o t l i g h t on The Kokomo Rescue Mission – Episode 27

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 20:07:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! Student loans are a hot topic right now with millions of Americans anticipating some sort of government forgiveness payoff check. We’re going to walk you through what that process looks like. What you need to do to get yours and how student […]

Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys – Episode 26

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 13:45:00 GMT

Show & Tell with Will Spencer – Episode 25

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 16:27:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! On this episode, we’re talking with Will Spencer with EXP Realty. Will is passionate about helping his clients become home owners by better understanding their credit and how to improve it for the path to home ownership. We’ll be talking about credit, […]

Show & Tell with Joe Martino – Episode 24

Tue, 13 Sep 2022 20:57:00 GMT

Show & Tell with Matt Minick – Episode 23

Tue, 06 Sep 2022 19:19:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! On this episode, we interviewed Matt Minick at State Farm Insurance. We’ll be discussing using life insurance to pay off your mortgage, why you should have your life insurance policy separate from your employer, how very little this will cost you and […]

Show & Tell with Kim Sottong – Episode 22

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 19:17:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! On this episode, we interviewed Kim Sottong, managing broker and owner of RE/MAX Anew Realty in Tipton. We’ll be discussing the REALTOR vs FSBO option when buying and selling a home. Is it worth hiring a REALTOR or can you do all […]

Show & Tell with Moe Bower – Episode 21

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 13:51:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! On this episode, we interviewed Moe Bower with Arch MI. We discussed the myths of mortgage insurance – What is it? What are the benefits? How to use it for an appraisal gap strategy and ways to buy a home with conventional […]

Show & Tell: C o m m u n i t y S p o t l i g h t on Bridges Outreach – Episode 20

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 14:55:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! On this episode, we interviewed Travis with Bridges Outreach in our first COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT! We’ll be talking about our upcoming TENTH annual Hawgin’ the Block event, what Bridges Outreach does for the community and ways you can support them. _____________________________________________________________If you enjoyed […]

Show & Tell with Nick Pate – Episode 19

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 20:44:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! On this episode, we interviewed Nick Pate with Nick Pate State Farm & Financial Services, Inc. He will be helping us understand some major changes in the homeowner’s insurance world, steps you need to take to be sure your have the right […]

Show & Tell with Rebekah Slack & Cassidy Kintner- Episode 18

Tue, 02 Aug 2022 20:34:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! On this episode, we interview Cassidy Kintner & Rebekah Slack with Miles Realty Group in Peru, IN. We’ll be walking you through step by step of the home buying and selling process. If you’re not sure where to start, you won’t want […]

Show & Tell with Chris Mullinax- Episode 17

Tue, 26 Jul 2022 19:45:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! On this episode, we interviewed Chris Mullinax from CRM Properties. Chris offers a wealth of information about buying investment properties, rental income, property management and home renovations. Feel free to comment any questions you_____________________________________________________________If you enjoyed this video, click the 👍 and […]

Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys- Episode 16

Tue, 19 Jul 2022 18:00:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! On this episode Steve and Ryan will be discussing Reverse Mortgages, Renovation Loans, Manufactured Housing and a mortgage rate update. Join us live next Tuesday at noon and have your questions answered live!_____________________________________________________________If you enjoyed this video, click the 👍 and be […]

Show & Tell with Sami Holmgren- Episode 15

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 15:16:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! We are chatting with Sami Holmgren with RE/MAX Anew Realty in Tipton, IN. What’s the real estate market like in Tipton? What’s the average home selling for? What are the benefits of living in a small town like Tipton? All of this […]

Show & Tell with Kathy Harbaugh- Episode 14

Thu, 07 Jul 2022 16:43:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! We are chatting with Kathy Harbaugh with IAR – The Indiana Association of REALTORS® Kathy’s been in real estate since 1978 and has held many roles in the industry. She’ll be sharing step by step everything you need to do to become […]

Show & Tell with Julie Borden- Episode 13

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 16:13:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! We are chatting with Julie Borden, FC. Tucker Miles Realty and Premier Sotheby’s International Realty in Naples, Florida to talk about the Florida real estate market, what to expect if you’re thinking about buying a home in Florida, AirBNB strategies, oceanfront vs. […]

Show & Tell with Mindy Heady – Episode 12

Wed, 22 Jun 2022 17:47:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! We are chatting with Howard County Assessor, Mindy Heady. Mindy will explain how property taxes are calculated, what you could do to keep yours low, common misunderstandings and more! […]

Show & Tell with Chrissy Hitchcock & Staci Brack – Episode 11

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 14:51:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! We are chatting with Chrissy Hitchcock & Staci Brack from the Key Team at The Hardie Group Real Estate. If you’ve ever thought about buying a rental property but have no idea how to manage it without the headaches, unexpected repairs and […]

Show & Tell with Bob Lundquist – Episode 10

Tue, 14 Jun 2022 19:13:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! We are chatting with Bob Lundquist with Lundquist Appraisals & Real Estate. Bob is going to share the TOP 2 things you need to do before buying a home in 2022. All of this and more! The 2 Mortgage Guys: You can […]

Show & Tell with Troy Stiner – Episode 9

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 14:32:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! We are chatting with Troy Stiner with Erik’s Chevrolet. Troy will be discussing the auto industry. Where are all the new cars? What’s going on with car values? How are auto rates doing? All of this and more! The 2 Mortgage Guys: […]

Show & Tell with Joe Wampler – Episode 8

Tue, 24 May 2022 18:00:00 GMT

A LIVE weekly broadcast where The 2 Mortgage Guys interview someone about something! We are chatting with appraiser, Joe Wampler – “Appraiser Tells All”! Joe will be discussing the current appraisal market, things that make the biggest differences in value, what doesn’t really matter, how property values are calculated and more! The 2 Mortgage Guys: […]

Show & Tell with Matt Minick – Episode 7

Wed, 18 May 2022 16:16:00 GMT

Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys is a weekly mortgage, real estate & variety show. We’re live on Facebook and Youtube every Tuesday at noon. Episode 6: Special Guest: Matt Minick of State Farm Insurance –MinickSF.com The 2 Mortgage Guys: You can visit Steve & Ryan at THE2MG.com, or you can call them […]

Show & Tell with Billy Cardwell – Episode 6

Thu, 12 May 2022 14:02:00 GMT

Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys is a weekly mortgage, real estate & variety show. We’re live on Facebook and Youtube every Tuesday at noon. Episode 6: Special Guest: Billy Cardwell of Aurora Financial Strategies –aurorafinancialstrategies.com The 2 Mortgage Guys: You can visit Steve & Ryan at THE2MG.com, or you can call them […]

Show & Tell with Paul Wyman – Episode 5

Tue, 03 May 2022 18:16:00 GMT

Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys is a weekly mortgage, real estate & variety show. We’re live on Facebook and Youtube every Tuesday at noon. Episode 5: Special Guest: Paul Wyman of The Wyman Group – www. TheWymanGroup.com The 2 Mortgage Guys: You can visit Steve & Ryan at THE2MG.com, or you can […]

Show & Tell with Ken Lucas – Episode 4

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 23:10:00 GMT

Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys is a weekly mortgage, real estate & variety show. We’re live on Facebook and Youtube every Tuesday at noon. Episode 4: Special Guest: Ken Lucas of Lucas Furniture and Mattress – www. LucasFurnitureStore.com The 2 Mortgage Guys: You can visit Steve & Ryan at THE2MG.com, or you […]

Show & Tell with Heath VanNatter- Episode 3

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys is a weekly mortgage, real estate & variety show. We’re live on Facebook and Youtube every Tuesday at noon. Episode 3: Special Guest: Custom home builder, Heath VanNatter The 2 Mortgage Guys: You can visit Steve & Ryan at THE2MG.com, or you can call them at 765.450.8933 […]

Show & Tell with Brad Priday – Episode 2

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 22:45:00 GMT

Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys is a weekly mortgage, real estate & variety show. We’re live on Facebook and Youtube every Tuesday at noon. Episode 2: Special Guest: Brad Priday with Rayls & Shepherd Insurance in Kokomo, IN. You can reach Brad at 765.452.5656 or email him at bpriday@shepherdins.com. The 2 Mortgage […]

Show & Tell with Andy Hardie – Episode 1

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 22:39:00 GMT

Show & Tell with The 2 Mortgage Guys is a weekly mortgage, real estate & variety show. We’re live on Facebook and Youtube every Tuesday at noon. Episode 1: Special Guest: Andy Hardie. REALTOR with The Hardie Group Real Estate in Kokomo, IN. You can reach Andy on his cell at 765.437.6134 or email him […]

Getting to Know Our Team: Steve DeLon

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 17:20:00 GMT

Steve is one of “The 2 Mortgage Guys”. He’s been in the business of helping people find the right mortgage loan since 2000. He specializes in helping people understand the mortgage and home buying process. Steve is the current President of the Home Builders Association of Howard County, He’s also held the position of President […]

When Life Gives You Snow… Make Snow Ice Cream!

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 15:57:00 GMT

Sometimes the stars, wind patterns, precipitation and temperatures align and you get an epic snowstorm. 2-2-22 was more than a cool-looking date…. it was the date that started a 2 day snow event for most of our home state of Indiana. At the time of writing this blog post, we are experiencing the 2nd round […]

Avoid These 4 Mortgage Mistakes (and Save Money)

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 16:04:00 GMT

If you are buying a home, make sure you watch out for these mistakes. 1. Going house hunting before finding a mortgage. You will get the loan best suited for your current situation/needs if you take your time to consult with us first. Trying to make an acceptable offer on a home without your financing […]

USPS Informed Delivery is FREE!

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 15:11:00 GMT

Have you had days where no mail came and you weren’t sure if… your mail carrier delivered to the wrong address? your mail was lost? you just didn’t have any incoming mail for that day? There is a service that is completely FREE offered by the United States Postal Service to eligible addresses. It’s called […]

How to File for Your Deductions Online in Howard County, IN

Wed, 29 Dec 2021 18:47:00 GMT

If you have closed on the purchase or refinance of your home/property, now it’s time to file for your Homestead and Mortgage Deductions. (if the title company has not already taken care of this for you) Following is how to go about doing so in Howard County: Option 1 Your deductions can be filed for […]

Understanding the Appraisal Process

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 18:20:00 GMT

A home appraisal is part of the loan approval. We (your lender) will need to determine if the home you are buying has the same value as the agreed-upon purchase price in the purchase agreement. An appraiser will be hired to determine the worth of the property.

To eliminate any undue influence on the appraisal process, the appraiser must be assigned by an independent third party and cannot have direct contact with the lender . In other words; we, nor your Realtor, have a choice in who is selected as the appraiser of your property.

The task of the appraiser is to arrive at an indicated value of the property by researching comparable sales within the same geographical area. The sales should be recent and have closed within the last 90 to 180 days. Typically, the appraiser will pull the comparable sales from an online database prior to visiting the subject property.

In addition to obtaining the square footage and bedroom/bath count, the appraiser will note any adverse condition issues with the subject property that may affect the lender’s ability to lend on the property.

After visiting the property, the appraiser will make value adjustments to the comparables where they differ from the subject property: for example, square footage, bedroom/bath count, condition, or location. These adjustments help the appraiser arrive at a value.

Once a value is determined, the appraiser submits the report to the appraisal management company so it can be given to the lender. Any questions about the appraisal must be directed through the appraisal management company.

Have additional questions? Feel free to reach out to us. We’re always here to help!

Call our office:

765-450-8933
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30-5:00

Text us:

Steve DeLon: (765) 736-4384

Ryan Minick: (765) 814-9000

Call us “Nights & Weekends”:

Steve DeLon: (765) 736-4384

Ryan Minick: (765) 814-9000

Thinking of Buying a Home? Start Lining Up Financing Now

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 18:14:00 GMT

Your number one priority before you begin your new home search is to meet with a mortgage professional to determine what you are qualified to buy. In a competitive real estate market, you want to be preapproved and know what price point you should target in your search. Even if you feel that your credit […]

The History of How 30-Year Mortgages Came to Be

Mon, 13 Sep 2021 19:33:00 GMT

The 30-year mortgage has roots as far back as the 1920s. During this era, a home purchase was financed as a five-year loan with a 50% down payment and a balloon payment at the end of the five years. Since most borrowers wanted to remain in their homes, they had to keep refinancing the loan […]

Attention! If you Purchased/Refinanced your home in 2020:

Wed, 23 Dec 2020 21:55:00 GMT

If you purchased or refinanced the home you reside in during 2020, don’t forget to make sure you’ve filed for the appropriate deduction(s). Neglecting to do so by 12/31/2020 will have a significant impact on your property taxes. NOTE: You don’t need to reapply for these deductions each year – only when you purchase a […]

The 53rd Annual Parade of Homes

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 17:48:00 GMT

The 53rd Annual Parade of Homes is this Sunday October 25th from 1-5, in Kokomo, IN. CLICK HERE to be directed to the virtual magazine.

Get Your Credit Report for Free Every Week!

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 16:36:00 GMT

These are extraordinary times. Unfortunately, scammers try to take advantage of people during times such as these. To assist consumers, the three major credit bureaus have teamed up to help people keep an eye on their financial health during the pandemic. Equifax, Experian and TransUnion announced yesterday they’re all offering free weekly credit reports until April 2021. The ability […]

How to File for Your Deductions Online in Howard County, IN

Thu, 02 Apr 2020 20:53:00 GMT

You have closed on the purchase or refinance of your home/property. Now it’s time to file for your Homestead and Mortgage Deductions. How can you go about doing so in Howard County? Option 1 (temporarily unavailable due to COVID-19 restrictions)Your deductions can be filed for in person in the county building located at 220 North […]

How We are Still Helping Our Clients in the Midst of a Pandemic

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 19:51:00 GMT

Your safety is our #1 priority during this time of uncertainty in our nation. At LeaderOne Financial, we are taking several precautions due to the COVID-19 virus and have the tools available to begin or continue the mortgage process while remaining distant from any unnecessary health risks. We have ALWAYS been available via phone or […]

Ready for that 2nd home?

Thu, 02 May 2019 15:17:00 GMT

Buying from a relative?

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 20:51:00 GMT

Buying from a relative (Gift of Equity) Buying from a relative (Gift of Equity)

What Kids REALLY Want in a New House!

Tue, 31 Jul 2018 15:25:00 GMT

What Kids REALLY Want in a New House! Believe it or not… kids have pretty strong opinions and preferences when it comes to a new home! You might think their biggest wish is to remain close to their friends, but a recent survey says otherwise. It turns out kiddos may have a pretty big influence […]

The Most Comprehensive List of Military Discounts Ever

Mon, 14 May 2018 19:02:10 GMT

From the inbox:

We recently received a message from Angelica – Editor at Dealhack. She informed us that they have a list of military and veteran discounts that might be beneficial to our readers. Upon investigating their site and several of the links; we’ve found this to be legit! Not only legit, but the most comprehensive and current list of military and veteran discounts we’ve seen to date!

You can also download a printable PDF guide to share with those who do not use or have access to the internet by clicking here.

Need mortgage? We can help! We offer several mortgage loan products include VA home loans. It is an honor to serve those who served.

Getting a Tax Refund? Start Saving for a Down Payment!

Mon, 02 Apr 2018 15:18:00 GMT

Americans can expect an estimated average refund of $2,840 this year when filing their taxes; According to data released by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This is down slightly from the average refund of $2,895 last year. Tax refunds are often thought of as ‘extra money’ that can be used toward larger goals; for anyone looking to buy a […]

March Home Maintenance Checklist

Thu, 08 Mar 2018 21:29:00 GMT

A change of seasons always brings new chores. This to-do list will get your home in shape from top to bottom. And, bonus! It includes lots of opportunities to be outside in the fresh air. Spring is almost here! Check out the home maintenance to-do list for March: #1: Fireplace Maintenance When warm weather has arrived and […]

Your Tax Return Could Be A Down Payment On A Home!

Fri, 23 Feb 2018 19:04:00 GMT

Getting a tax refund? Still paying rent? Make an investment in your future! Owning your own home can have several benefits…. Pride of ownership – this is an untangeable benefit, but owning your home offers a sense of pride for you and your family Build equity that can benefit you in the future – you […]

Baby, It’s Cold Outside! Here are Some Tips to Avoid a Frozen Catastrophe:

Wed, 03 Jan 2018 20:26:00 GMT

Freezing temperatures, ice and snow can be a pain for us all; but it’s our homes and cars that could suffer the most in freezing temperatures. A few simple steps could end up saving you a lot of time and money this winter. Cold temperatures have arrived and we hope you’ll find a few of the […]

Tips for Selling Your Home this Winter

Wed, 29 Nov 2017 16:28:00 GMT

What can make selling a home more stressful than usual? Selling it in the winter. We are experiencing a bout of great weather for this time of year…. but if you’re in the midwest, you know it’s coming! Generally speaking, during winter there are fewer buyers , the skies are gloomy and then their are […]

How Safe is Your Home?

Tue, 18 Jul 2017 18:15:00 GMT

Safety goes beyond locking the doors and windows. When we ask “how safe is your home”; we want you to think beyond doors and windows. When was the last time you took time to do a safety evaluation of your home? Home safety is not something we think of every day, but it’s important to […]

Flag Day: 13 Folds 13 Reasons

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 19:05:13 GMT

June Fourteenth – Flag Day

When a flag is ceremoniously folded, there is a specific pattern and thirteen folds. Have you every pondered the meaning behind each of these folds?

The first fold is a symbol of life.

The second fold is for our belief in eternal life.

The third fold is made in honor and remembrance of the veteran departing rank, who gave a portion of his or her life for the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.

The fourth fold stands for our weaker nature; as American citizens trusting in God, it’s to Him we turn to in times of peace as well as war for his divine guidance.

The fifth fold is a tribute to America. In the words of Stephen Decatur, “Our country, in dealing with other countries, may she always be right, but it is still our country, right or wrong.”

The sixth fold is where our heart lies. It’s with our flag that we pledge allegiance to the flag and the republic it stands for.

The seventh fold is a tribute to our armed forces. For it is the armed forces that protect our country and flag against enemies, whether they be domestic or foreign.

The eighth fold is a tribute to the one who entered into the valley of the shadow of death, that we might see the light of day, and to honor our mother, for whom it flies on Mother’s Day.

The ninth fold is a tribute to womanhood, for it is through their faith, love, loyalty and devotion that the character of the men and women who have made this country great have been molded.

The tenth fold is a tribute to father, for he has given his sons and daughters for the defense of our country since he or she was first born.

The eleventh fold, in the eyes of Hebrew citizens, represents the lower portion of the seal of King David and King Solomon and glorifies, in their eyes, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

The twelfth fold, in the eyes of a Christian citizen, represents an emblem of eternity and glorifies, in their eyes, God the Father, the Son and Holy Ghost.

When the flag is completely folded, which some consider the 13th fold; the stars are uppermost, reminding us of our national motto, “In God We Trust.”

After the flag is completely folded and tucked in, it takes on the appearance of a cocked hat, ever reminding us of the soldiers who served under General George Washington and the sailors and marines who served under Captain John Paul Jones who were followed by their comrades and shipmates in the Armed Forces of the United States, preserving for us the rights, privileges, and freedoms we enjoy today.

Do I Qualify for a VA Mortgage?

Wed, 31 May 2017 19:11:53 GMT

It can sometimes be confusing or even intimidating navigating the VA mortgage process. Following are some of the basics of a VA mortgage. As always, speaking with a mortgage professional who is knowledgeable about the mortgage product you’re interested in is the best way to make sure all of your questions are answered.

What do you need to potentially obtain a VA mortgage? You must have suitable credit, sufficient income, and a valid Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to be eligible for a VA-guaranteed home loan. The home must be for your own personal occupancy. The eligibility requirements to obtain a COE are listed below for Servicemembers and Veterans, spouses, and other eligible beneficiaries.

Eligibility Requirements for VA Home Loans

Service Members and Veterans

To obtain a COE, you must have been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable and meet certain service requirements. The requirements can be discussed with a qualified VA mortgage professional.

The spouse of a Veteran can also apply for home loan eligibility.

Spouses

Un-remarried spouse of a Veteran who died while in service or from a service connected disability, or
Spouse of a Servicemember missing in action or a prisoner of war
Surviving spouse who remarries on or after attaining age 57, and on or after December 16, 2003
(Note: a surviving spouse who remarried before December 16, 2003, and on or after attaining age 57, must have applied no later than December 15, 2004, to establish home loan eligibility. VA must deny applications from surviving spouses who remarried before December 6, 2003 that are received after December 15, 2004.)
Surviving Spouses of certain totally disabled veterans whose disability may not have been the cause of death

Other Eligible Beneficiaries

You may also apply for eligibility if you fall into one of the following categories:

Certain U.S. citizens who served in the armed forces of a government allied with the United States in World War II
Individuals with service as members in certain organizations, such as Public Health Service officers, cadets at the United States Military, Air Force, or Coast Guard Academy, midshipmen at the United States Naval Academy, officers of National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration, merchant seaman with World War II service, and others

Restoration of Entitlement

Veterans can have previously-used entitlement “restored” to purchase another home with a VA loan if:

The property purchased with the prior VA loan has been sold and the loan paid in full, or
A qualified Veteran-transferee (buyer) agrees to assume the VA loan and substitute his or her entitlement for the same amount of entitlement originally used by the Veteran seller. The entitlement may also be restored one time only if the Veteran has repaid the prior VA loan in full, but has not disposed of the property purchased with the prior VA loan. Remaining entitlement and restoration of entitlement can be requested through the VA Eligibility Center by completing VA Form 26-1880.

If you have further questions or think you may potentially want to move forward with a VA mortgage, we’d appreciate the opportunity to help! Feel free to reach out to us by contacting us online.

Outdoor Home Improvement Tips for Summer

Wed, 31 May 2017 19:11:00 GMT

June is here, spring is in full swing, and summer is not far off. You know what that means? Time for a home maintenance checkup. In addition to your indoor spring cleaning regimen, you should also give your home’s exterior some TLC after a long winter. This not only helps to minimize maintenance issues and […]

Tips on How to Prepare Your Home for an Appraisal

Mon, 24 Apr 2017 11:30:00 GMT

An appraisal can make or break a deal when it comes to selling your home. Some elbow grease and teamwork can make your house ready for the challenge of an appraisal. DECLUTTER! You’re going to have to pack when you move; so grab some cardboard boxes and dollar store storage totes an start boxing up […]

Severe Indiana Weather- Do You Know What to Do?

Thu, 20 Apr 2017 20:36:00 GMT

Weather Watches and Warnings…. What’s the difference? A WATCH means that the potential exists for the development of severe thunderstorms or tornadoes, depending upon the specific type of watch issued. In the case of a tornado watch, this DOES NOT mean that a tornado has been seen or even indicated on radar…it just means that […]

Will Divorce Affect My VA Loan Eligibility?

ryan@the2mg.com (Ryan Minick) — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 19:26:57 GMT

Divorce in itself can be a stressful time. We hope to shed some light on how it may or may not affect your VA mortgage loan.

If the VA Mortgage is Only Filed Under the Veteran's Name

A VA mortgage is only available due to the veteran’s eligibility for the loan. After a VA loan is processed, the guaranty will remain with the mortgage even if the borrowing veteran or member of the armed forces stops living there. The only way the VA loan guaranty will be removed is if the loan is refinanced by the former spouse into a conventional mortgage, which will then make the military borrower again eligible for a new VA mortgage.

If the VA Mortgage is Held Jointly

If the name of each spouse is on the mortgage, and if they both work the couple may qualify for a higher loan amount with their combined income than either would individually. Only one spouse needs to be a veteran or military service member and eligible in order to get qualified for a VA loan. After the VA guaranty is committed to a mortgage, it is no longer attached only to the veteran borrower.

This is what makes joint mortgages a little tricky when it comes to divorce, especially since few ex-spouses will want to maintain a joint mortgage together. With this in mind, there are a few potential situations that can arise:

The ex-spouses can sell their property and divide the equity or debt
They can designate sole-ownership of the property to one person and then refinance the mortgage into the name of just one
borrower
If neither ex-spouse can qualify for a loan on their own, the original mortgage will remain until the property is sold. In this case, the veteran will not be eligible for another VA loan as long as the original mortgage remains

After the mortgage is terminated, the veteran can apply for a new loan guaranty. Normally, there will not be any change from the original eligibility.

Something that is very important after the divorce is final:

Be sure you obtain a complete copy of the divorce decree. Also, make sure that any payments to the ex-spouse are documented. It’s always a good idea to over document so that if a need arises in the future for documentation, you’ll have it on hand.

Tips for Prepping Your Home to Sell

Tue, 07 Mar 2017 19:02:00 GMT

So you’ve come to the conclusion that selling and moving to a new home/city is in your best interest. Maybe it’s to move to a better school district. Perhaps you’ve accepted a higher paying job in a new city or maybe you’re just ready for a change in climate or scenery. We’ve assembled a list […]

How to Enjoy Thanksgiving… Seriously!

Tue, 22 Nov 2016 20:32:00 GMT

Ummm…. How to “enjoy” Thanksgiving!? Yes! If you’ve ever hosted this holiday at your home…. you know what I’m talking about. We, at LeaderOne Financial, have the pleasure of helping many first time homebuyers purchase their first homes. Often, along with this rite of passage, comes the “honor” of hosting a major holiday gathering in […]

Free Job Search Tool for Military Veterans

Wed, 09 Nov 2016 20:30:13 GMT

Searching for a job can be stressful. It can be even more stressful for someone transitioning from a career in the military. RecruitMilitary is a veteran-owned company dedicated to helping American veterans achieve their dreams: education, veteran jobs and civilian careers, new business and franchise ownership, training, and much more. This service is provided free to veterans.

All of the company’s senior officers and most of their other employees have served in the armed forces of the United States. As the nation’s leading military-to-civilian recruiting firm, they have established working relationships with industry associations, non-profit organizations, and government agencies.

They have been helping veterans with the job search process since 1998. They were chosen by The Sierra Group Foundation, an organization whose mission is to reverse the high unemployment rate for people with disabilities, as the recipient of the first annual “One More Way Award” . The award is presented to a person or company whose support results in awareness and job opportunities for people with disabilities.

RecruitMilitary is the top full-service military-to-civilian recruiting firm in the United States. They use online and offline products to connect employers, franchisors, and educational institutions with men and women who are transitioning from active duty to civilian life, veterans who already have civilian work experience, members of the National Guard and reserve forces, and military spouses. They serve veterans of all ranks, rates, and branches of the armed forces, and our services are free to all men and women who have a military background. Click here to learn more about RecruitMilitary .

You can sign up for an account on RecruitMilitary.com to be eligible to search the job board for free! Click here to be directed to registration.

Did You Sustain Property Damage During the Kokomo Tornadoes?

Tue, 30 Aug 2016 20:58:00 GMT

Did You Sustain Property Damage During the Kokomo Tornadoes? You may be eligible for tax relief: If you’ve suffered property damage as the result of the tornadoes last week, you may be eligible for some relief from property taxes. Those that sustained significant damage to structures such as homes, garages, businesses or personal property may […]

Our Client – Indiana State Trooper Cole – Goes Viral!

Mon, 22 Aug 2016 19:15:00 GMT

Our clients have many hidden talents… but sometimes one stands out and actually goes viral. Meet our client, Indiana State Trooper Jon Cole (aka – the part of the women’s chorus, riding in the back right of the golf cart) The 17 day Indiana State Fair had come to an end, signaling the unofficial end […]

Save On Your Mortgage: Consider Your Refinance Options

Fri, 22 Jan 2016 11:30:00 GMT

Economic fluctuations have made regular home loan “health checks” a good idea for homeowners. While property market trends change, there could be a chance that your mortgage rate is no longer the lowest rate you can get. If you find out that your mortgage rate is no longer comparable to current rates, the first thing […]

Eligible for a USDA Approved Steak? What About a USDA Loan?

Mon, 11 Jan 2016 12:00:00 GMT

Am I eligible for… A steak? Yes! A loan… perhaps. Most people associate USDA with food. You may recognize these 4 letters from the labeling on the meat and veggies you purchase for your family. This is one facet of the USDA. It also pertains to housing. If you qualify, you can purchase a home with […]

Don't Let Black Friday Get in the Way of Buying a Home

Thu, 26 Nov 2015 20:17:15 GMT

Black Friday is nearly upon us. Newspaper inserts, emails and TV commercials abound with information about the “BEST DEALS EVER!”. You get to the store before the sun even thinks about coming up only to find that you can get an even better deal if you open a line of credit!

Stop Right There!

If you are in the process of buying a home, or considering doing so anytime soon, we urge you to stop and collect your thoughts for a moment.

What the heck does Black Friday have to do with buying a home?!

That additional percentage off for opening a line of credit could be a deal-breaker when it comes to purchasing a home. If you are in the midst of the mortgage process with a good lender, you already know that you should hold off on opening new credit accounts during the home buying process. Even the smallest line of credit could jeopardize your mortgage process if your DTI (debt to income) ratio is close to being too high. It can also lower your credit score.

If you’re on the home stretch of your mortgage process (whether it’s buying a new home OR refinancing), you’re not in the clear just yet! Your lender will order a credit refresh. You may wonder: “Why is this necessary? I’ve already been pre-qualified.” A credit refresh does not generate a credit score. Your lender is simply looking to see if you have had any new credit inquiries that would indicate you’ve taken on additional debt. If you have inquires, expect to explain them. Again, if you are close on your DTI, this could affect the ability of you to close on your purchase or refinance.

A word to the wise with regard to Black Friday...if you’re in the process of buying a home or going to be soon, don’t open a line of credit to get that percentage off. Chances are, if you are shopping on “Black Friday”, you are getting a great deal anyway!

If you have further questions about DTI or credit scoring and how they relate to getting a mortgage, feel free to contact us.

We wish you successful (and responsible) shopping!

Don’t Let BLACK FRIDAY Get in the Way of Buying a Home!

Tue, 24 Nov 2015 21:00:00 GMT

Let’s Go Kokomo!

Thu, 12 Nov 2015 22:22:00 GMT

Lists should really be left to groceries and late night tv. Now let’s show Kokomo some love! Let’s Go Kokomo! Kokomo, no matter how many lists you show up on (good or bad), you are NUMBER ONE in our hearts. We are proud to live and work right here as your local mortgage […]

Kokomo: From Playboy to Play Ball

Thu, 15 Oct 2015 19:50:00 GMT

1981: An Amazing Year…Ronald Reagan was elected our 40th President. Columbia, the first space-rated shuttle, catapulted into outer-space. MS-DOS was released by Microsoft. Lady Diana Spencer married Charles The Prince of Wales. MTV was launched. And, Playboy came to Kokomo It was also the year of my birth. Having spent the majority of my 34 […]

To Retire Without a Mortgage or a Bigger Nest Egg?

Tue, 18 Aug 2015 12:00:00 GMT

So many questions arise when approaching retirement age. “Should I sell my large family home and buy a smaller home?” “Should I change my spending habits now to prepare for a lesser income?” “Should I pay down my mortgage only to deplete my savings?” Let’s focus on your mortgage. Which is better?: To retire without a […]

You’ve Heard of the Kokomo Hum…How About the Kokomo Boom?

Fri, 14 Aug 2015 15:21:00 GMT

Kokomo Experiencing Building Boom Apartments, lofts and homes are being rehabbed and constructed in the City of Kokomo. It’s being dubbed a “Building Boom”: as reported by WISH TV Interested in owning a piece of the real estate boom in Kokomo, Indiana? We would love the opportunity to help! Click here to be directed to […]

Managing & Improving Your Credit Score

Sat, 01 Aug 2015 10:00:00 GMT

Recent tallies show a third of U.S. credit scores fall below 649. While not impossible, acquiring a mortgage loan will likely be more difficult and more expensive at this level than with higher scores. Here are the fundamentals to guide you in establishing and maintaining a healthy score: The somewhat obvious: Borrow only what you […]

Buying a Home? Following are Some Helpful Tips for You

Mon, 20 Jul 2015 11:00:00 GMT

There are many things to think about prior to starting the home-buying process Following are several tips that may help in building a plan: 1. If you are not really planning on staying in the same place for at least a few years, then this most likely isn’t a good time for you to invest in a […]

What is a Pre-Approval and is it Necessary?

Fri, 12 Jun 2015 18:52:00 GMT

First off…what does the term “pre-approval” mean? Pre-approval means that the lender is confident that you can make the necessary down payment and that your income is sufficient to cover the mortgage payments. At this stage, only one concern remains. The lender needs to make certain that the property’s value offers sufficient collateral in relation […]

New Housing Development to Replace Aging Kokomo Mobile Home Park

Wed, 15 Apr 2015 12:00:00 GMT

A Chicago based real estate development company plans an 88-unit duplex community to replace an aging mobile home park on Kokomo’s west side. JCF Real Estate has purchased the mobile home park, known as Kokomo River Estates, located at 1500 W. Markland Ave. The company is redeveloping the thirteen acre site into a duplex housing […]

Interested in a VA Mortgage? Here's What You Will Need

Wed, 18 Mar 2015 20:25:51 GMT

First of all, we appreciate you and/or your family member's service!

One benefit you have earned as a veteran, is the opportunity to finance a home with a VA mortgage. Of course, requirements must be meant to do so. We’ve assembled a short list of information you will want to gather before you start the loan process:

Social Security numbers
Residence addresses for the past two years
Names and addresses of your employers over past two years
Your current gross monthly salary
Names, addresses, account numbers and balances on all checking and savings accounts
Names, addresses, account numbers, balances and monthly payments on all open loans
Addresses and loan information of other real estate owned
Estimated value of furniture and personal property
Certificate of Eligibility and DD-214 (for veterans only)
W2’s for the past two years and current check stubs
For self-employed individuals, you will need to provide personal tax returns for the past two years, current income statement and balance sheet for the business.

It’s always a good idea to speak with your lender and confirm the list above and also see if they will need anything else from you.

Please keep in mind:

A Certificate of Eligibility does not guarantee loan approval. You must meet all requirements (such as credit score, income, debt ratio)

Important Veteran Documents

Your DD Form 214

Your DD-214 is your proof of military service. It shows the nature of your discharge, dates of service, and current classification (retired, separated, Guard or Reserve status). The DD-214 is one of the most important documents you’ll get when you leave military service. You’ll need it to claim military benefits including VA loans, the GI Bill, and medical services provided by the VA.

If you are unsure how to obtain your DD-214, contact us and we’ll be happy to help guide you through the process.

Certificate of Eligibility

Before you get a VA loan, you will need a VA Certificate of Eligibility . It will establish that you meet the necessary guidelines to take advantage of your hard-earned VA loans benefits.

If you have any questions about obtaining a VA mortgage, contact us and we’ll be happy to help!

Join Us In Welcoming Angie Kellar to our Team!

Thu, 05 Mar 2015 20:06:00 GMT

We are happy to announce the addition of Angie Kellar to the LeaderOne Financial family! She joins our team as a Mortgage Loan Processor. Angie began her financial career in banking then transitioned to the mortgage industry. For the past 8 years, Angie worked as bookkeeper and human resources coordinator with one of the largest Sprint dealers […]

FHA to Reduce Mortgage Insurance Premiums

Mon, 12 Jan 2015 20:53:00 GMT

The following was announced by Secretary Julián Castro, Department of Housing and Urban Development: _________________________________________ When my tenure as Secretary is over, I won’t judge my time by how many initiatives my Department has launched, or how many press releases we’ve put out. I’ll judge my tenure by the results — by how we were able […]

Free & Discounted Tax Preparation for Military Service

Fri, 09 Jan 2015 20:20:56 GMT

December brings Christmas. January brings a new year. After that, comes the playoffs, the Super Bowl and tax season! Some of these are more fun than others. While we have an opinion on who will win the playoffs… we realize that this may not actually be the outcome. We are also of the opinion that while filing for tax returns can be tricky for the average family, it can get even more complicated for military families.

Thankfully, military personnel and their families have access to a variety of tax preparation and filing services for free. Whether you choose to file taxes yourself online or you prefer some outside assistance from a trained professional, there are a variety of free options to choose from.

Military Installation Tax Centers

Most large military installations worldwide offer service members and their families free income tax filing assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program which is sponsored by the IRS. VITA sites have volunteers that are trained by the IRS to provide assistance with some of the more complicated military-specific tax issues, such as combat zone tax benefits.

Click here to contact your local installation for more information about location of tax centers, hours of operation, scheduling appointments, and necessary documentation.

Off-Base Services

Liberty Tax Service is also offering Military.com members a new customer discount of $50 off income tax preparation. Click here to print out the coupon and take it to participating Liberty offices with a valid military ID.

Jackson Hewitt is offering a $50 prepaid Visa Gift Card on your tax prep fees when visiting a location in person. Or get a 25% off discount on your online tax return preparation.

Online Tax Preparation

IRS Free File is a program available to taxpayers whose Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is $60,000 or less. This program helps you find a Free File company that’s best for you out of the numerous companies that participate and offers fillable forms when preparing your own tax returns. Free file opens January 16, 2015.

TaxSlayer has a free military edition for active duty service members to prepare federal and state returns online.

TurboTax offers discounts on its software that’s customized for active duty military and reservists. Servicemembers with pay grades of E1-E5 can get the software for free, while pay grades of E6 through all officer pay grades can get the software at a discounted price.

Taxbrain offers a 20% military discount when filing your tax return. Be aware the package price varies depending on answers to their questionnaire.

Necessary Documents

Filing your taxes requires a lot of documents and personal information so make sure to collect everything you’ll need before you get started. The following is a list of some of those necessary records, but if you’re getting outside help, it’s best to call ahead to make sure you’re not forgetting anything.

Photo ID/Military ID
Social security cards for you and each family member claimed on the return
Wage and earning statement(s), such as Forms W-2, W-2G, and 1099-R
Child care costs
Investment income forms
Receipts for charitable donations
Receipts for deductible expenses
Your bank routing numbers and account numbers for direct deposit
Last year’s returns

W-2 forms are usually available for military members by the end of January and can be downloaded from MyPay website.

Frozen Car Door or Window? We Can Help!

Mon, 05 Jan 2015 16:13:00 GMT

We’ve all tried rolling our automatic windows down to clear off the snow and frost. Sometimes, they can actually be frozen and come off track in trying to do so. Winter and the accompanying bitter winds can freeze car door locks, windows and doors. Use these quick and easy tips to combat the ice. Frozen […]

Should You Let Your Car Warm Up in Freezing Temperatures?

Tue, 18 Nov 2014 14:25:00 GMT

Most of us are under the assumption that we should let our cars “warm up” before we drive on extra cold days such as this. That may not be true! Read ahead for a few facts and myths about this very thing: Old habits die hard, and one of the oldest-still rigorously enforced by many […]

The VA Loan Appraisal Process

Wed, 15 Oct 2014 20:48:37 GMT

Before your home can be approved for VA loan financing, a VA loan appraisal must be completed on the property.

A VA appraisal involves a thorough inspection of the home and property to determine the current market value of the home. This appraisal is especially geared towards reporting any defects involving safety or security of the home.

So, how does this fit into the VA loan process?

Simply put, even though the VA’s primary focus in assist veterans in financing a home, the VA must also take precautions to protect the investments of both the borrower and the VA itself with a good appraisal.

Let’s say that a veteran or member of the military found a house that he wanted to purchase for $100,000. The house seems to be exactly what he’s looking for; single story, pool in the backyard, freshly painted, and located on 4 acres of land out in the countryside.

He decides that he wants to use his use his hard-earned military benefits to get a zero money down VA loan. In other words, if approved, he’ll receive a fully financed $100,000 VA loan.

As part of the standard VA loan approval process, a VA-appointed appraiser goes to the property to do an appraisal of the actual worth. Unfortunately, the appraiser discovers that the house needs a new roof, there are cracks in the pool cement, and there are severe irrigation issues throughout the property that need to be fixed, among other miscellaneous flaws.

Tallied up, the appraiser determines the value of the home and property to be $75,000 instead of $100,000.

Because of the large difference between what the seller is asking for and the actual value of the property, the VA ultimately turns down the loan.

Of course, this is a somewhat extreme example, but you get the idea. The VA needs to verify that the actual value of the home and property is close to what a potential borrower wants to pay for it. Neither a mortgage bank nor the VA want to insure homes that are worth less than the loan amount.

Here is a list of things to consider when shopping for a new home:

The appraiser needs to inspect both the inside and the outside of the house. If the house in question is being constructed, the appraiser still needs to analyze the property and construction site.
The official appraisal report will contain a list of “observable repairs that need to be completed.”
This report will also contain a list of “customer preference items to be installed.”
A few small issues with the property won’t immediately disqualify it, but a lot of small issues or a few big issues may.

If you have any further questions about this process, feel free to click here and submit your question.

Why Do We Observe Labor Day?

Fri, 29 Aug 2014 17:27:00 GMT

Observed on the first Monday in September, Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers. It was created by the labor movement in the late 19th century and became a federal holiday in 1894. Labor Day also symbolizes the end of summer for many Americans, and is celebrated with parties, parades […]

Meet Our Downtown Neighbor… Kokomo Toys & Collectibles

Mon, 25 Aug 2014 14:32:00 GMT

Kokomo Toys & Collectibles is located in the heart of downtown. They are a small locally owned and family operated toy store. They specialize in selling & buying both modern and vintage action figures from 1970 to current. There is over 4,500 square feet of toys and collectibles available for purchase in store and online. They also have the largest selection of […]

Meet Our Downtown Neighbor… Palmer’s Jewelry

Mon, 14 Jul 2014 15:36:00 GMT

Since 1944… Palmer’s Jewelry had been serving Kokomo and the surrounding area for 70 years! Located at 101 East Sycamore, you can shop for fine jewelry and watches or shop for clocks, crystal and other gifts. Palmer’s Jewelry has many choices for all of your gift giving needs. They have all kinds of jewelry […]

Kokomo Fire Stations Made Available as Tornado Shelters

Wed, 28 May 2014 13:47:00 GMT

Residents of Kokomo have recently experienced a string of major weather events. Flooding, ice/snow, blizzard and even a tornado. Many live in homes that have no safe place to escape to during a tornado. The city of Kokomo is doing something about that. Some people in Kokomo will now have a place to seek shelter […]

Sign Up for the Howard County Citizen Alert System

Fri, 11 Apr 2014 14:53:00 GMT

Get alerted about emergencies and other important community news by signing up for our Emergency Alert Program This system enables Howard County to provide you with critical information quickly in a variety of situations, such as important community alerts, fire department alerts, law enforcement alerts, emergency medical alerts, water notifications and natural disaster […]

From CNN Money – Kokomo is #1 Most Affordable Housing in US

Sun, 23 Feb 2014 19:11:00 GMT

Housing: Top 10 most affordable small cities 1. Kokomo, Ind. Population: 82,849 Median home price: $85,000 Median income: $60,100 % of homes sold that are affordable*: 96.3% The fortunes of this central Indiana city have risen and fallen with the auto industry, according to its mayor, Greg Goodnight. Major employers still include transmission […]

There’s a Star in the House!

Wed, 19 Feb 2014 14:51:00 GMT

It’s that time of year again! Mark your calendars for the 4th annual Dancing with the Stars taking place on March 22, beginning at 6 p.m. at Ivy Tech Event and Conference Center, 1501 N. Reed Road. The participants have been undergoing a 10 week crash course in dance instruction. They have started honing in […]

The Advantages of Buying a Home

Mon, 20 Jan 2014 21:42:00 GMT

Buying a home has the obvious benefit of providing shelter you and your family. There are other benefits as well: Tax Breaks When compared to other investments, few can generate the healthy and long lasting tax breaks that home ownership does. When you become a homeowner, there may be tax breaks that you can take […]

Who is Dodd-Frank & Why is He Important to Me?

Mon, 13 Jan 2014 17:19:00 GMT

First of all, “Dodd-Frank” isn’t one person… it is 2 guys! Named after its Democratic sponsors in Congress, Senator Chris Dodd and Representative Barney Frank, the law aimed at preventing a repeat of the 2008 financial crisis. In short, by definition: The Dodd-Frank Act (fully known as the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act) […]

Frozen Car Door or Window? Here are Some Tips that May Help!

Tue, 17 Dec 2013 16:34:00 GMT

Tips for Your Car & Home During Freezing Temperatures

Thu, 12 Dec 2013 16:39:00 GMT

Freezing temperatures, ice and snow can be a pain for us all; but it’s our homes and cars that could suffer the most in freezing temperatures. A few simple steps could end up saving you a lot of time and money this winter. Winter is coming on strong and we hope you’ll find a few of […]

Home Buyers and Sellers Survey Shows Lingering Impact of Tight Credit

Wed, 20 Nov 2013 15:05:00 GMT

Home Buyers and Sellers Survey Shows Lingering Impact of Tight Credit As reported by the National Association of REALTORS®: Although the housing market has shown a healthy recovery over the past two years, unnecessarily restrictive mortgage lending standards are preventing some financially qualified buyers from reaching their dreams, especially singles and first-time buyers, according to […]

Helpful Tips For Victims of Kokomo Tornados

Tue, 19 Nov 2013 15:37:00 GMT

Per Kokomo Tribune: Emergency shelters American Red Cross: 765-459-4162 Bunker Hill Community Center, 280 W. Broadway in Bunker Hill Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St. in Kokomo Sunnycrest Baptist Church, 2172 W. Chapel Pike in Marion Donations The American Red Cross is accepting donations to help victims of Sunday’s tornadoes. You can donate by […]

What Should I Do If My Wallet Is Lost Or Stolen?

Thu, 14 Nov 2013 20:06:00 GMT

Most of us have experienced that panicked moment when we can’t immediately locate our purse or wallet. Fortunately, it usually ends with finding it and a huge sigh of relief. For those of you that aren’t so lucky, following are some tips that will come in handy: Call your credit card companies Don’t just call […]

Helpful Tips To Help You Sell Your Home

Tue, 15 Oct 2013 15:13:00 GMT

Are you anticipating selling your home in the near future? Following are some tips from industry experts suggest that may help when you decide it is time to “sell my house”. Stand Out Try to bring attention to your home by making sure it stands out in a good way. Consider adding custom designs to […]

Kokomo Receives National Recognition… Again!

Mon, 23 Sep 2013 18:13:00 GMT

The Kokomo metropolitan area had one of the fastest-growing economies in the nation in 2012, according to new data released by the United States Bureau of Economic Analysis. Kokomo’s economic (measured by Gross Domestic Product) grew 8.4 percent last year, making it third in the state and eighth in the nation. Mayor Greg Goodnight called […]

It’s Time For The Annual Nationwide Open House!

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 03:09:00 GMT

There is no shortage of open houses in the area with 40+ open houses scheduled locally Sunday, April 21st! Purchasing a home is one of the most important decisions in a person’s life and deciding on a particular house comes with many options. Forty-five percent of recent buyers used open houses as a way to […]

In Remebrance

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 16:06:00 GMT

ACT NOW If You Are Considering An FHA Mortgage!

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 15:38:00 GMT

Change is a comin’! In a recent release from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development,, the subject line sums it up: “Revision of FHA policies concerning cancellation of the annual Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) and increase to the annual MIP“. The intention of these changes is to continue to strengthen the Mutual Mortgage […]

More Great Job News For Central Indiana!

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 18:03:00 GMT

More Great Job News For Central Indiana! Consumer insurance giant, Geico, plans to lease a big chunk of office space in Carmel and bring more than 1,000 jobs to the city, sources told IBJ. Gov. Mike Pence is slated to make a major economic development announcement at 1:15 p.m. Monday with “executives from a Fortune […]

Trying To Sell Your Home This Winter? Here Are Some Tips To Help!

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 18:52:00 GMT

Most are of the opinion that spring, summer and fall are the times of year to sell your home when you live in a cold weather region. What makes selling a home more stressful than usual? Selling it in the middle of winter. Generally speaking, there are fewer buyers and the skies are gloomy. So what can […]

We Are Proud Of You, Taylor Primary!

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 20:13:00 GMT

We Are Proud Of You, Taylor Primary! Taylor Primary tops nation in recycling Taylor Primary was honored yesterday for recycling more materials per student than 1500+ other schools nationally! You deserve to be honored for your efforts. Great job! The following article was published in the Perspective yesterday: For years, recycling has been all the […]

Super Bowl Party Time… LET’S EAT!

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 20:58:00 GMT

Super Bowl Party Time…Let’s Eat! We all know it’s about the commercials… and the food! What day of the year is second only to Thanksgiving as the day in which Americans consume the most food? Super Bowl Sunday! Football fans are as serious about their snacks as they are their favorite NFL team. Whether you […]

Breaking Mortgage News: FHA to Hike Mortgage Insurance Premiums

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 21:07:00 GMT

Breaking Mortgage News: FHA to Hike Mortgage Insurance Premiums Other changes, fees aimed at shoring up agency’s finances The Federal Housing Administration announced Wednesday that it will increase the mortgage insurance premiums it charges as part of several steps being taken to shore up its finances. The agency also will require borrowers to pay mortgage […]

Indianapolis Housing Market Bouncing Back

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 15:43:00 GMT

Indianapolis Housing Market Bouncing Back Sales of existing homes in Indianapolis were the most since 2008 The lowest mortgage rates in decades, an upswing in hiring, fewer distressed properties dumped on the market and rising consumer confidence. Add them up and it made 2012 the best-performing housing market in the Indianapolis area since the recession. […]

We’ve Got A New Address… How About A New Phone Number!?

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 18:02:00 GMT

Well, we tried to hide… but you found us! As previously announced; we’ve migrated to our new downtown Kokomo hideaway at 202 North Main. We are currently in the process of renovating and can’t wait for the big reveal of our beautiful, downtown office! We thought “Since we are at a brand new location, with […]

Kokomo’s Memorial Gym Will Be Home to IU Kokomo Cougars

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 14:35:00 GMT

Kokomo’s Memorial Gym to Undergo Major Renovations & New Additions Will Be Home to IU Kokomo Cougars Indiana University Kokomo, Kokomo-Center Schools and the City of Kokomo will partner on a project to renovate Kokomo High School’s historic Memorial Gymnasium. Beginning with the 2013-14 athletic season, Memorial Gym will be the permanent home court […]

A Reminder for Indiana Residents: File Your Homestead Verification Form

Tue, 04 Dec 2012 16:07:00 GMT

A Reminder for Indiana Residents: File Your Homestead Verification Form Property taxpayers have until December 31 to file the homestead verification form to continue receiving the benefit of the homestead deduction on their property tax bill. The pink or rose-colored homestead verification form was mailed with property tax bills in 2010, 2011, and 2012 and must […]

Veteran’s Day 2012 – In Appreciation and Remembrance

Sun, 11 Nov 2012 22:41:00 GMT

Healthcare Company, Mainstreet, To Open $13.8 Million Facility In Kokomo

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 14:41:00 GMT

Healthcare Company, Mainstreet, To Open $13.8 Million Facility In Kokomo Kokomo Mayor Greg Goodnight announced plans for a $13.8 million health and rehabilitation community to be built on the City’s west side by Cicero-based Mainstreet Property Group. “Mainstreet’s investment in Kokomo will provide immediate construction employment opportunities and permanent jobs for health care workers,” said […]

Free Safe Text App Prevents Texting and Driving

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 14:24:00 GMT

It’s a problem most of us face every day. Texting and driving. That’s why Boca Raton man Joseph Riano created “Free Safe Text.” The idea for the app came to him when he received a text message while he was behind the wheel. “If I don’t return the text in the next 5 or […]

IU Kokomo Receives National Recognition

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 20:26:00 GMT

The Indiana University Kokomo Campus made headlines when it was ranked among the best regional campuses in the Midwest by U.S. News and World Report. The list was released Wednesday. Chancellor Michael Harris says it is an honor to be mentioned as a top regional campus. “You know, I said the day I came that […]

Kokomo Wins Indiana Association of Cities and Towns Community Achievement Award

Wed, 29 Aug 2012 14:12:00 GMT

Kokomo Wins Indiana Association of Cities and Towns Community Achievement Award The Indiana Association of Cities and Towns (IACT) has honored the City of Kokomo with its 2012 Community Achievement Award. Kokomo was selected for increasing the quality of life for its community and the results these investments are producing. “Our focus on improving quality of life and creating […]

Lawns Starting To Green Up… Now What?

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 10:00:00 GMT

As lawns start to green up… experts encourage seeding and aerating Sundown Gardens Nursery in Carmel, Ind. is busy again as people try to maintain and protect their lawns heading into fall. “I will say the landscaper softscape side certainly slowed down when it was 100 plus degrees but in the fall it usually […]

Carmel, Indiana Named Top Small City in America

Tue, 21 Aug 2012 14:42:00 GMT

Carmel Named Top Small City in America CNN Money has listed Carmel as America’s best small city in 2012!With a population hovering above 80,000 and a short 20-minute drive to downtown Indianapolis has transformed significantly in the past five years. Despite the recession, the formerly sleepy suburb has since transformed itself into the […]

Haynes International Invests $23.5 Million On Expansion of Kokomo, Indiana Manufacturing Plant

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 10:00:00 GMT

Haynes International Invests $23.5 Million On Expansion of Kokomo, Indiana Manufacturing Plant More great news for Kokomo! Developer, manufacturer and marketer of alloy products, Haynes International, is investing $23.5 million on expansion of its Kokomo, Indiana facility, creating up to 40 high-wage jobs. The producer of high-performance nickel and cobalt-based alloys will expand […]

Kokomo Citizens Urged To Be Aware of US Airlines Scam

Fri, 03 Aug 2012 13:36:00 GMT

Kokomo Citizens Urged To Be Aware of US Airlines Scam Citizens nationwide and in Kokomo, Ind. have reported getting unsolicited letters or emails from US Airlines. These letters or emails have been identified as a part of a scam, said the Kokomo Police Department. The notices enclose a check for over a $1,000 and […]

Kokomo Ranks 24th in Nationwide Job Growth!

Thu, 02 Aug 2012 10:00:00 GMT

Kokomo Ranks 24th in Nationwide Job Growth! More great news for Kokomo! According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics the Kokomo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) ranked 24th in the nation out of 421 MSA’s surveyed from April 2011 to April 2012. This data also ranks Kokomo 4th in the State of Indiana out of the […]

Kokomo Housing Market Gains Compliment The Recent Jobs Announcements

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 15:00:00 GMT

Kokomo Housing Market Gains Compliment The Recent Jobs Announcements Although the signs are modest, evidence of improvement in the Kokomo economy are seen in home sales data released by the Indiana Association of Realtors and in the recent jobs announcements. “The gains in our housing market reflect the positive news in local job growth,” said […]

A Few Things To Consider When Looking At Real Estate

Tue, 03 Jul 2012 19:33:00 GMT

A Few Things To Consider When Looking At Homes Owning a home is something that most people hope to do some day. Part of the American dream is owning the home with a “white picket fence.” Buying a home can be a stressful process when you have little or no knowledge of the area. It […]

Finally! FHA Mortgage Relief Refinance Available For A Limited Time

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 14:03:00 GMT

*UPDATE* This incredible refinance offer is now set to expire. You will need to contact us by Thursday, June 21, 2012. Click here to see if you qualify for this FHA Streamline Refinance. In an update to guidelines, the FHA eliminated verification for nearly everything on an FHA Streamline Refinance mortgage application. There is now no verification of income […]

You Can Now Get Your Social Security Statement Online

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 17:27:00 GMT

You can now can view your Social Security Statement online. Your online statement includes: Estimates of your retirement, disability, and family benefits Information on your lifetime earnings The estimated Social Security and Medicare taxes you’ve paid Details on qualifying and signing up for Medicare The opportunity to apply online for benefits, if applicable The ability […]

Hoosiers Can Get Rare Glimpse Of Venus Tonight!

Tue, 05 Jun 2012 13:10:00 GMT

Forecast 8 Meteorologist Ken Brewer explains how to see Venus crossing the sun. It’s a rare spectacle that people won’t see again in this lifetime! Hoosiers can get rare glimpse of Venus: wishtv.com

Kokomo Artisan Experience Slated For June 2

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 10:00:00 GMT

Artists, business owners, and city leaders painted a picture in their minds of something special to showcase the artists in the community. And on June 2, the picture will go from their minds to the streets during the Kokomo Artisan Experience. The Kokomo Artisan Experience will fill two downtown blocks full of an assortment of artists of […]

It’s National Police Week – We Appreciate Everything You Do!

Mon, 14 May 2012 21:01:00 GMT

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week. Currently, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on Washington, DC to participate in a number of planned events which honor those that have […]

KPD Invites Community To Honor Fallen Officers

Thu, 10 May 2012 20:46:00 GMT

KPD Invites Community To Honor Fallen Officers The Kokomo Police Department shall commemorate Fallen Officers Memorial Day with a ceremony to honor those who have given the supreme sacrifice as law enforcement officers. The ceremony shall be conducted on Friday, May 11th, 2012, at 1:00p.m., in Council Chambers, City Hall, Kokomo, Indiana. The Kokomo Police […]

Don’t Call For Help…Fix It Yourself!

Wed, 09 May 2012 10:00:00 GMT

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Ways You Can Save For A Down Payment For A House

Tue, 01 May 2012 20:54:00 GMT

Saving for a down payment seems to be the biggest obstacle for people who want to purchase a home. While there are mortgage programs available that require little to no money down, many of them require PMI (private mortgage insurance) each month. This will slightly increase your payments. One way to avoid this is to […]

Are You Teaching Your Kids About Credit?

Tue, 01 May 2012 10:00:00 GMT

Parents should teach their children about credit. Unfortunately, no other institution; be it banks, government or school,does this for us. They do not tell us that no credit is as bad as poor credit. They do not tell us that we might be unable to rent an apartment or secure a job if our credit scores […]

The 2012 National Open House Is This Weekend!

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 10:00:00 GMT

– The Indiana Association of Realtors says Indiana home sales are up 15 percent and the median prices of those homes are up nearly three percent from last year. Chief Executive Officer of the Indiana Association of REALTORS Karl Berron says, “More Hoosiers must be working and they must be confident in their prolonged […]

How to Qualify for a Mortgage Refinance

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 19:43:00 GMT

How to Qualify for a Mortgage Refinance Refinancing your mortgage consists of applying for a new home loan, which pays off your old loan. There are several benefits to refinancing a mortgage loan. Borrowers who refinance can often receive a lower rate on their mortgage. Also, if you have home equity you can obtain money with […]

Indiana’s Housing Industry Showing Signs of Recovery

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 15:48:00 GMT

Indiana’s Housing Industry Showing Signs of Recovery Recently, the Dow Industrials average topped 13,000 for the first time in almost four years. The market closed at 12,966, giving up most of the gains for the day. Still, there are encouraging numbers out for the economy. Some of the numbers are coming from Indiana’s housing industry. It […]

Great News Indiana! FHA Lowers Mortgage Insurance Premiums For Some Refinancing!

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 17:50:00 GMT

Some great news regarding MIP! The Federal Housing Administration will lower mortgage insurance premiums for borrowers who refinance their loans as part of President Barack Obama’s plan to improve the housing market. The FHA will reduce up-front premiums to 0.01 percent of total loan amount from 1 percent under the plan announced by Obama. […]

How to Protect Your Outdoor Furniture From This Crazy Indiana Weather!

Fri, 23 Mar 2012 10:00:00 GMT

It’s that time of year! Many people are beginning to shop for patio furniture. If you’ve ever priced sets before; you know that they can be quite expensive. When you invest in quality patio furniture, it makes sense to protect that investment so that it can be enjoyed for many seasons. Dirt and residues can […]

Indiana Severe Weather Awareness Tips

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 10:00:00 GMT

If you live in Indiana, chances are you’ve been in severe weather. We offer the following Indiana severe weather awareness tips as refresher on severe weather alerts and what to do in a weather emergency might be in order. I would also like to share a link to a service I use personally that has been very […]

The Importance of an Inspection Before You Purchase Your Indiana Home

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 19:34:50 GMT

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Your home is a major investment and can be a valuable asset. Purchasing a home can be exciting, however, there could be things that need attention. If so, it may be required to be repaired in order to ensure that the house purchased is habitable and safe for its occupants. We want to stress the importance of an inspection before you purchase your Indiana home.

Reasons for Inspection

A home inspection should be performed prior to the purchase of the house for the benefit of the purchaser. If the home is not fit for living due to its safety issues, it is best to consider another house; unless a strong preference for that house still exists. This may require much renovation or even a rebuilding of the house.

If the home of your choice does require some repair; a 203K streamline mortgage may be for you. Click below for more information on this type of mortgage.

A home inspection would give an indication of the extent of renovation required to the home the potential homeowner is considering before an actual purchase deal is concluded. This would allow the purchaser to consider if the deal would be a good investment or unwise. Not only will you find out what is wrong with house, you will also find out what is right. The relatively small home inspection fee is worth the time and effort as it can potentially save you thousands and thousands of dollars in the future. Your home should be a good investment from which you can benefit for years and years to come.

Process of Inspection

Not everyone is familiar with the home inspection process. It differs from a real estate appraisal. Only qualified, experienced, licensed and insured inspectors should handle this task. There are state licensed home inspectors who can inspect the house on your behalf and inform you on the condition of the house before any purchase is completed. They are qualified and knowledgeable about the exact requirements of home inspection according to the state laws on home inspections.

The home inspection process would take only a few hours depending on the size of the house and its condition. The home inspector would have a meticulous eye and alert mind to view and evaluate the condition of the house. They will point out the good and bad aspects of the house for the purchaser or owner to appreciate the condition and value of the home.

with contributions from L. Burstein

Your Credit Score Once You’re Pre-Approved For An Indiana Mortgage

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 10:00:00 GMT

Your Credit Score Once You’re Pre-Approved For An Indiana Mortgage When you apply for an Indiana mortgage, one of the first things your mortgage company will do is run a credit report. Each lender has different guidelines they must follow, but generally speaking, they will be looking for a score of 640 or better. Once […]

Pricing Tool for the Best Indiana Gas Prices

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 14:05:00 GMT

Who has the lowest Indiana gas prices? It’s no secret that gas prices are off the charts lately. Before you venture out to scope out the best Indiana gas prices, we have a secret weapon for you. Gas Buddy is a great tool to find out who has the cheapest gas in town. Save this […]

4 Tax Deductions You’ve Probably Overlooked

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 20:21:00 GMT

Following is a segment that originally aired on NBC’s The Today Show. It details some tax deductions you may have overlooked. Also, the difference between a tax credit and tax deduction is explained. Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Do You Have Time To Wait On Hold? Wait No More, Thanks To LucyPhone!

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 15:34:00 GMT

Do You Have Time To Wait On Hold? Wait No More, Thanks To LucyPhone! As the weather improves in Indiana, so does our desire to get outside more. Do you want to keep a phone to your ear while waiting on hold to speak with the cable company about a glitch in your service? Wouldn’t […]

How To Determine If You Need To Refinance Your Indiana Mortgage

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 15:58:00 GMT

How To Determine If You Need To Refinance Your Indiana Mortgage There are many different reasons to consider refinancing your Indiana mortgage. When to refinance your mortgage may possibly be determined by the situation you are in. Click here to see if you qualify for a refinance! Current Situation: Some examples of situations that may […]

Making the Most Out of Refinancing

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 21:11:21 GMT

Many Americans are looking for debt solutions. There are many options, however, one of the best solutions is often overlooked. A debt solution that is becoming more popular in recent months is refinancing. Refinancing to a lower interest rate can free up some money each month by lowering your payment. That money can then be used to pay down some of your unsecured debt. Although rates are great for refinancing right now, anyone considering refinancing their mortgage should look for a few key elements in an offer.

Click here to see if you qualify for a refinance.

Interest Rate

The main goal behind refinancing a mortgage is to lower monthly payments, which is typically done by lowering the interest rate associated with the loan. Depending on when the original mortgage was taken out, refinancing could lower the interest rate by as much as 5%. However, not everyone will qualify for such a good rate. Even lowering the rate by as little as a half to one percent can be significant savings over the life of the loan. A good rule of thumb is that the interest rate must be lower by at least: (a) a half a percent if long term savings is desired or (b) one to two percent if lowering the monthly payment is the goal. A mortgage calculator is a great way to quickly estimate what your payment may be with a lower rate. Just don’t forget to factor in closing costs.

Loan Term

Refinancing can also adjust the loan term of the mortgage, which can save money in payments. Increasing the loan term, say from a 15 year to a 30 year mortgage, can significantly lower the monthly payment required on the mortgage. However, this is also going to increase the total amount of interest paid on the loan in the end. Decreasing the loan term can provide long term savings in interest payments, but will come with a higher monthly payment. The overall goal for refinancing should be considered before any changes to the loan term are made.

Closing Costs

Since refinancing creates a new mortgage loan, they are subject to the same closing costs as the original loan; in most cases. Many people fail to consider the potential out of pocket costs associated with refinancing, many of whom cannot afford these costs when in need of lower monthly payments. However, some lenders offer no-cost refinancing loans. The lender will either waive the closing costs in exchange for a higher interest rate on the loan, or the fees can be rolled into the life of the loan. Again, it is important to consider the short and long term goals before refinancing. This can help prevent further problems with mortgage debt or financial strain.

with contributions from: C. Lee

HARP Program

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 03:48:00 GMT

What is the HARP program? Let’s face it, with the housing crisis as bad as it is a lot of homeowners are not able to refinance their current mortgage because they owe more than their home is worth. The HARP program is a government program designed to allow them to save money by refinancing regardless […]

Hey Indiana, What is the HARP 2.0 Program?

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 18:06:00 GMT

According to the Wall Street Journal, approximately 23% of US homes are underwater – meaning the homeowner owes more than their home is worth. The percentages vary widely state-by-state. For example; 47.9% of Arizona mortgages were estimated to have negative equity, along with 34.7% of California mortgages and 19% of Colorado mortgages. Click here to […]

Super Bowl Party Tips On Beer, Party Fouls and How To Prevent Cheese Dip Skin!

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 11:00:00 GMT

SB Nation’s Spencer Hall turns to an expert to find out how to celebrate on Super Bowl Sunday, including what to drink, what to bring and what not to do. His short list of essentials: BEER: Drink the nice stuff first, then use your American basics as booster fuel. Do this without shame, as you […]

Super Bowl XLVI – Pay Homage to Your Team With Food and Drink

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:34:00 GMT

Do you consider yourself a foodie? Looking for an idea for some good eats for your Super Bowl party? Look no further… You’ll have the standard party fare of nachos, guacamole, wings, etc. Impress your guests and kick it up a notch with some regional fare paying homage to the teams going head to head […]

Super Bowl XLVI, Welcome to Indiana…Let’s Eat!

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:21:00 GMT

Welcome to the hysteria that is the Super Bowl, baby! We, Hoosiers, want to roll out the welcome mat to those deluging upon us during this “super” time. So… welcome, welcome, welcome to Indiana. Whether you’re a Hoosier taking part in the festivities or a fan coming in for the big game; you’ve probably done […]

And The RACI 2011 Honor Affiliate Award Goes To…

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:10:00 GMT

Congratulations to Steve and Ryan! They were selected as the 2011 Honor Affiliate by REALTORS® Association of Central Indiana! We appreciate all you do for the industry and our community. The REALTORS® Association(RACI) announces award winners The REALTORS® Association of Central Indiana (RACI) announces our 2012 REALTOR® of the Year, Steve Coverdale, Broker/Owner of Coverdale Realty, Tipton. Steve […]

What You Will Need If Your Wallet Is Stolen and More!

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT

Read this and make a copy for your files in case you need to refer to it someday. A corporate attorney sent the following out to the employees in his company: 1. Do not sign the back of your credit cards. Instead, put ‘PHOTO ID REQUIRED.’ 2. When you are writing checks to pay on your […]

Simple Steps to an Early Tax Refund

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 20:52:40 GMT

The sooner you get your money back from the IRS, the better, so start now. If you want to get your 2011 taxes in early and get your refund quickly, here are seven strategies to getting those dollars in your pockets ASAP. Here’s what you have to do.

1. Get Started

The first step is the hardest. Stop thinking about it and get moving. Until you actually start your return, you’ll never finish it. And that’s probably going to slow down your refund.

If you don’t have all your numbers, just put your name and address on the form. It will get you in the mindset to move forward.

Your first step is to break the inertia. As my father used to say, a trip of a thousand miles begins with a traffic jam. Break that jam and get moving.

2. Accumulate the Data

January is collection month. By the second week of February, you should have the numbers in hand. Make sure you’ve gotten W-2s and any statements from your brokers and banks. You’ll receive 1099 forms for any interest, dividends and stock sales.

Your mortgage company will send you a Form 1098 for any interest and real-estate taxes paid. Get those statements together and review the numbers. They’re not always right. They won’t include any interest you paid at the very end of December because the creditor won’t have received the money until 2012.

3. Put the Numbers in IRS Categories

The Internal Revenue Service is not going to add up those numbers for you. You’re going to want to have totals for the income and deduction categories the IRS provides. You’ll need those final numbers if you’re doing your own return, whether by hand or by computer. If you’re having your return prepared, you’ll want to give those numbers to your CPA to minimize the bill.

I suggest my clients use what I call the envelope system. You create an envelope for each of the IRS income/deduction categories. There’ll be an envelope for medical expenses, charitable contributions, job expenses, interest paid, etc. Find all the receipts, all the checks and all the invoices, then put each in the appropriate envelope.

In December 2010, Congress extended a number of tax breaks, including the sales-tax deduction, a $250 deduction for classroom expenses and deductions for mortgage insurance premiums and college tuition expenses. Congress will have to revisit them if they are to continue for 2012.

And don’t forget about other tax breaks, including credits for energy improvements in 2011, amended adoption credits and various credits for college education costs.

You can use this simple system all year: Throw all of your receipts into a file or even a shoe box. When you reconcile your checking account, on a monthly or at least a quarterly basis, break down the checks and receipts according to the categories you selected.

By the end of January, you should have all your checks and receipts broken down in each envelope by deduction category. Add up the receipts and checks (don’t double count), and those are the numbers you use on your return or give to your preparer.

That’s how much you’ve spent in each deduction category. And with this system you never have to fear an audit.

An audit is nothing more than the IRS asking you to prove the numbers you put on your return. You’ve already done that. Just hand over the deduction-category envelope with the receipts and checks. After a series of matches, it’s going to be a quick audit.

4. Analyze the Numbers

Sometimes, the raw numbers you have are going to be wrong.

On the income side, you’re required to report any and all interest and dividends received, even if you don’t receive a Form 1099.

You’ll have to match up the sales of stock with the cost of those shares. The number shown by your broker on Form 1099-B last year was only the sale price. You’re not taxed on 100% of that number. You reduce it, on Schedule D of your return, by your cost, including broker’s fees. You’re taxed only on the net profit. Starting with sales in 2011, your broker is required to report cost basis as well. Speak with your broker before any sales are made, and discuss alternative ways of valuing shares if your whole position isn’t liquidated. From a tax point of view, you want to sell the shares with the highest cost to minimize your current tax.

If you don’t sell 100% of your position, you’ll have to allocate your costs on a per-share basis.

On the deduction side, you may have deductions not reflected by the raw data.

Say you make your Jan. 1, 2012, mortgage payment on Dec. 31, 2011. The interest you pay won’t be reflected on the Form 1098 sent by your mortgage company. That’s because it won’t get the check or the online payment until 2012. (If you pay online, be sure your bank records the date that you send the payment properly. A canceled check is still adequate proof.)

Paying before the end of the year transforms your January 2012 payment into a 2011 deduction, and you should run an amortization schedule to compute the additional interest. That additional interest would be shown on line 11 of your Schedule A.

(You can make the same tax move at the end of 2012, converting what would normally be a January 2013 payment into a 2012 deduction.)

5. Call Your Accountant

If you’re going to have your return professionally prepared, call your accountant now for an appointment.

I know, you’re her favorite client. But if you want an appointment tomorrow, you better call her yesterday.

In any case, once you’ve made that appointment, you’ve made a commitment to get your return done. And that means you’ve committed to get ready yourself. Just make sure you’ve got the numbers in order when you show up. Your wallet will appreciate it.

6. Put Ink to Paper

At least open the tax program on your computer. You’ve got your numbers. If you’re doing your own return, put ink to paper. Go to your quiet place and actually do your return.

You’ve already done the real work. Now you’re just putting numbers in boxes. Relax; this is the easy part. Remember, we started with how to get your refund faster.

7. Mail Your Return

A completed return calling for a refund that just sits on your desk is the IRS’ idea of heaven. It’s your money. Don’t leave it with the IRS. It’s bad enough that they’ve held it all year without paying you any interest on your excess payment. Don’t compound the pain by delaying the mailing.

Of course, the best way to speed up your return is to e-file. More than 79% of all individual tax returns filed in 2011 were e-filed, according to the IRS. That was up from 70% in 2010. Last June, the IRS reached a milestone with 1 billion e-filed tax returns since the inception of the program.

The IRS appreciates the cost savings and claims it expedites your refund. The IRS is offering what it bills as a free e-filing service. It’s not quite free. You may still have to pay a “transmitter” to convert your return into IRS code and send it on.

In either case, electing a direct deposit of your refund will always get it into your hands faster than snail mail.

You can even split your direct deposit into three different accounts, like a checking, savings and retirement account.

Complete lines 73(b), (c) and (d) of your Form 1040, and, coupled with an e-filed return, in theory you could have your refund in your bank account in as little as 24 hours. In practice, it usually takes about 10 days.

The IRS now has a web tool for tracking refunds that can tell you whether the IRS received your return and whether your refund was processed and sent to you.

You can get more information on the refund tool here . The IRS also has a refund-assistance line: 1-800-829-1954.

What is a VA Compromise Sale?

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 20:58:03 GMT

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A VA compromise sale is designed to help veterans who have a VA mortgage and need to sell their home, but would end up taking a loss in the process.

This type of situation can occur for several reasons, which include: needing to move overseas from a station change, or a divorce.

In any case, if you bought a home with a VA loan back when the housing market was healthy, you probably didn’t foresee the need to sell your home in the lackluster housing market of today.

For many veteran borrowers who are facing this scenario, taking a loss on the sale of their home could result in extreme financial difficulty.

Luckily, you may be able to qualify for a VA compromise sale.

If you are selling your house and receive a bid for less than what you still owe on your VA loan, you can turn in an application with the VA for a compromise sale. In many ways it is similar to a short sale of a home with a conventional mortgage.

The good news is that if you receive approval for a VA compromise sale, then the VA will redeem you for the difference between what you can sell your house for and what you have left on your VA loan.

In order to begin the compromise sale process, you must show proof of:

Financial difficulties.
The realistic market value of your house at time of sale.
A VA appraisal.
Standard closing costs.
No second lien (the VA does makes rare exceptions if the total is not significant).
The reasons why you are selling your home.

Another important component of getting approved for a VA compromise sale is that the total net loss should be less than if the property was taken back by the bank through foreclosure proceedings. So basically, if it costs more to foreclose vs “short sale” the home, then there is a greater chance of getting a VA compromise sale approved.

On another note, if your VA loan originated before December 31, 1989 you might have to sign a promissory note as well as enter a payment plan to redeem the VA a percentage of the compromise claim payment. This sum would end up being less than what you would owe if you did not originally have a VA loan, and the payment plan itself is formulated around what you would reasonably be able to pay.

Certificate of Eligibility Requirements for a VA Loan

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 20:29:49 GMT

In order to apply for a VA loan you will need a Certificate of Eligibility, or COE for short.

There are different steps required to receive a Certificate of Eligibility depending on your personal situation and branch of the military.

Group 1: Veterans, Activity Duty, Reservists and National Guard Members Who’ve Been on Active Duty

If you belong to one of the above categories then you have three different ways that you can receive a COE:

Apply Through Mail: Fill out VA Form 26-1880, which you can find on va.gov, the official VA website. You can then mail it to the address that is listed on the form.
Apply Through a Lender: Your lender may be able to acquire your COE for you online; if so, the process typically only takes a few minutes. Be sure to speak to your lender beforehand to determine whether or not this is an option.
Apply Online: Visit the Veterans Information Portal at http://www.ebenefits.va.gov to request the certificate.

If for whatever reason you cannot print out Form 26-1880 you can contact the VA at 1-888-244-6711 and request a copy be mailed to you.

Group 2: Reservists and National Guard Members Who Have Not Been On Active Duty

Group 2 enjoys the same options as Group 1 above.

Group 3: Spouses of Veterans Who Either Passed Away During Service or As a Result of Service

Unlike the application options for Groups 1 and 2, you are required to mail your application.

If your spouse passed away during service, the process is relatively quick and straightforward. However, if your spouse passed away after service, the VA must first confirm that the death resulted from a disability connected to the service.

This process can take anywhere between 2 to 3 months depending on the current caseload of the VA.

To apply, download and fill out VA Form 26-1817, which you can find on http://www.va.gov , the official VA website. The address you should mail the form to is:

VA Loan Eligibility Center
PO Box 20729
Winston-Salem, NC 27120

Similar to above, if for whatever reason you cannot print out Form 26-1817, you can contact the VA at 1-888-244-6711 and request a copy be mailed to you.

Regardless of the category you personally fall into, you will have to provide some sort of evidence to prove you are eligible for a COE. The eligibility graph on the VA website (located at http://benefits.va.gov/homeloans/eligibility.asp ) details exactly what kind of evidence will be required from you.

Come See Us Today And Enter To Win A Chicago Getaway!

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 10:00:00 GMT

GM Components Holdings, LLC will give the community a glimpse into their Kokomo operations on Saturday, August 27th from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. They will open their doors to the public for tours and other activities. With the strong automotive heritage and industry here in Kokomo, this will be a great opportunity for residents and […]

Area Home Sales Dip But Pending Sales On The Rise

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 10:00:00 GMT

Home sales in Howard County dropped 2 percent in June. But there’s good news: Pending sales are on the rise.

And The Winner Is…Kokomo!

Fri, 15 Jul 2011 10:00:00 GMT

Sprite Spark Parks Project announced 26 national finalists this spring. Then there were 7 grand prize winners of a $35000 grant including Studebaker Park in Kokomo!

Indiana Summer Fun Is Closer Than You Think!

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 10:00:00 GMT

With gas prices soaring and no relief in sight; you need not look farther than the Hoosier State; Indiana, for some summertime fun. From fun with the kids to grown up good times; there is no shortage of options right here or gas tank away.

Texting and Driving Now Against the Law in Indiana

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 10:00:00 GMT

If you're driving in slow traffic, running late to a meeting after June 30, you'd better think again before sending a text message to let folks know you're on the way.

Moving Tips for the Best Move Possible

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 17:14:00 GMT

Organization is key for a move and from where to pack your personal documents to how to find a good mover this video has something for anyone preparing for a move. This expert real estate tips video offers moving advice from a moving expert. Moving tips include how to pack boxes and how to find […]

Peru Indiana Wins $500,000 For Project

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 13:45:00 GMT

A $500,000 grant will support downtown revitalization effort of Peru, Indiana. The city will now be able to make lasting beautification efforts.

Home Selling Tips – Staging Your Home For Sale

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 12:37:00 GMT

Staging your home for sale is one of the top things you can do to sell your home faster and for more money. You want your house to appear open and inviting, and you don't want your personal items distracting the buyer from the features of your house. Stage your home for sale by decluttering your house, de-personalize your rooms and decorate your home with accessories and furniture. Staging your house for sale is a great home selling tips to get the best price for your house.

Unfurling the History of the Indiana State Flag

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 19:24:00 GMT

Indiana adopted its state flag in 1917. Read on for the history of the Indiana state flag.

Nine Household Uses for Hydrogen Peroxide

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 17:26:00 GMT

Is hydrogen peroxide a key player in your household cleaning routine? It could be! Read on for 9 additional ways hydrogen peroxide can used in your home.

5 IRS Tips for the Newly Married (or Remarried)

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 15:00:00 GMT

Are you getting married this year? If you recently got married or are planning a wedding, the last thing on your mind is taxes. But you need to take some important steps to avoid stress at tax time. Here are five tips from the Internal Revenue Service for newlyweds to keep in mind.

Kokomo Realtors: Numbers Down, Interest Up

Tue, 31 May 2011 13:49:00 GMT

There were 253 Kokomo area home sales January-April. That was 65 fewer sales than 2010, when a federal tax credit caused a rush of home shoppers to make offers.

Effective Packing Advice For Moving Homes

Thu, 26 May 2011 13:14:00 GMT

Packing correctly achieves several things. It protects fragile & delicate items & it gathers multiple articles together to make one single object to transport.

10 Unexpected Natural Cleaners

Mon, 23 May 2011 20:27:00 GMT

Around-the-house staples that moonlight as dirt-busting superstars.

Tell Congress: 20% Down Payments Put the American Dream Out of Reach

Thu, 19 May 2011 14:44:00 GMT

Could you afford a 20% down payment? Can realtors envision what their prospective client pool will look like if new regulations governing QRM take effect? Please contact Congress today and ask them to please make it clear to the regulators that this was not their legislative intent and to instead implement a more reasonable Qualified Residential Mortgage (QRM) that will keep credit-worthy buyers in the market and able to acquire a loan.

Alliance Highlights Kokomo’s Economic Recovery

Wed, 18 May 2011 14:02:00 GMT

Public officials and managers from the city’s largest employers and fledgling enterprises heralded Kokomo’s economic successes over the past couple years.

20 Tips On How To Have A Successful Yard Sale

Tue, 17 May 2011 15:34:00 GMT

A yard sale is a great way to get rid of things you don't need anymore, and make sure your old possessions fall into the hands of those who can reuse and better appreciate them. They take a lot of planning and work though, so here are 20 tips to help make the process a bit easier.

Kokomo’s Recovery Racking Up Positive Press

Thu, 12 May 2011 15:57:00 GMT

Three national publications have recognized Kokomo for its economic regrowth and recovery several years after the national media declared it a “dying city.”

Sprite Spark Parks Project Announces Kokomo As National Finalist

Tue, 10 May 2011 19:58:00 GMT

Sprite Spark Parks Project announced the 26 national finalists. The courts that gain the most online support will be awarded up to $35,000 in refurbishment grants.

Vacant Kokomo Properties Target Of New Program

Tue, 10 May 2011 15:01:00 GMT

Kokomo Common Council members voted unanimously Monday to appropriate $100,000 in EDIT revenues for the Community Investment Home Ownership program.

Spring Cleaning Your Garage

Mon, 09 May 2011 13:24:00 GMT

With a bit of preparation, the right tools, and some information, you can zip through your spring cleaning quickly and feel great about it afterward.

Inspired Last Minute Gift Ideas

Fri, 06 May 2011 14:34:00 GMT

How do you save yourself when you still don't have a gift for Mom? Simple: You come up with a creative and even thoughtful gift, that is also unique and unexpected!

Chrysler Turns First Profit Since Bankruptcy

Tue, 03 May 2011 16:30:00 GMT

The company reported first-quarter net income of $116 million and revenue of $13.1 billion on Monday. The profit is a milestone in Chrysler's long road back to health after its 2009 bankruptcy. It last reported a net profit in 2006.

Lenders, Realtors and Buying a Home in Today’s Real Estate Market

Mon, 02 May 2011 17:43:00 GMT

Many things have changed in buying a home from years past but there is still one thing in common. Hire a Realtor to get your biggest purchase handled correctly!

Kokomo One of 2 Indiana Metros Among Top Foreclosure Cities

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 13:57:00 GMT

Terre Haute and Kokomo have some of the highest foreclosure rates among metropolitan areas, according to a report released Thursday.

Howard County Home Sales Down 16.2% Over 2010 Numbers

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 17:37:00 GMT

Realtors say home buyers tax credit has thrown off comparisons.

U.S. 31 Kokomo Corridor on Target for 2013 Opening

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 13:46:00 GMT

Thanks to the state’s Major Moves fund boosted by the 2009 federal stimulus bill, all work on the corridor is expected to be completed in 2013, two years ahead of the original schedule.

Severe Weather Alert… Now What?

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 16:34:00 GMT

In light of the severe weather outbreak last weekend; a refresher on severe weather alerts and what to do in a weather emergency might be in order.

Bitten By The Home Improvement Bug?

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 20:48:00 GMT

Maybe you can't help it! You live in your home for several years and before you know it, you find yourself thinking about how the kitchen would look with new cabinets and a granite countertop. Once you get started thinking along these lines, it usually doesn't take long before the ultimate question pops up. Is it better to improve your current home or simply sell and buy a bigger, newer or more desirable home? Here are some thoghts to help you make that all-important decision.

Dispute Shifts $5 Million in Howard County Taxes

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 17:25:00 GMT

Howard county property owners can attribute 50 percent of increase to GM’s reduced assessment.

Kokomo Based “Blush” Given New Volunteer Initiative Award

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 15:00:00 GMT

Teresa Devaul and Janay Martin started the Blush organization as a way to reach out to young girls. They were worried girls have seen and heard so much on television, they’ve become immune to embarrassment.

What Is A FHA 203k Mortgage?

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 14:08:00 GMT

Lately home ownership has skyrocketed. This is mainly due to the execution of the FHA Home Loan Program. Of the FHA loans the FHA 203k mortgage is awesome to use. Read what this program is and how to use it in this article.

The Government Shutdown and How It Will Affect You

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 14:52:00 GMT

Everyone's panicking about the government shutdown, which may happen this Friday at midnight, but what does it really mean for you and me?

Indiana To Take Part In Earthquake Drill

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 15:19:00 GMT

Indiana is two weeks away from taking part in the largest earthquake drill ever held in the Midwest.

Home Buyer Tax Credit Repayment Begins for 2008 Buyers

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 17:44:00 GMT

Most home buyers who claimed the federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for buying their first home in 2008 are required to start repaying the credit in 15 annual installments, beginning with their 2010 tax returns.

Spring Break Ideas That Won’t Break The Budget

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 19:00:00 GMT

Lots of people, including me, are opting for the “staycation” for Spring Break this year. Enter Hamilton County, located just north of Indianapolis.

Tips for Buying Real Estate

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 17:30:00 GMT

How can you tell whether it's a buyers' or sellers' market?

Think You Know How To Store Your Coffee Beans?

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 15:31:00 GMT

You've purchased two pounds of Jamaica Blue Mountain Coffee. Not the norm for you, but it was a steal at $20 a pound! How are you going to store the extra beans?

Fighting Rising Costs of Food-8 Solutions to Save Your Budget

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 20:14:00 GMT

The news has been bulging with stories addressing the rising costs of food. Here are some ways we can fight the rising cost of food.

Spring Maintenance for Seasonal Home Sales

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 17:49:00 GMT

Get ready for the prime real estate seasons by making your home inviting for buyers!

FedEx To Deliver On Expansion Promise

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 15:28:00 GMT

This investment will guarantee employment for the 20 employees they already employ in Kokomo, and the facility will allow them to add 12 new positions. The proposed site for the facility is in the Haynes High-Tech Industrial Park on the north side of Kokomo.

Get Free Medical Advice For Your Child By Phone

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 16:46:00 GMT

With the free Nurse Advice Line from Peyton Manning Children’s Hospital at St.Vincent, health information is just a phone call away.

US Treasury To Sell $142 Billion Of Mortgage Assets

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 16:08:00 GMT

The US Treasury Department on Monday said it would start selling-off mortgage-backed securities worth an estimated $142 billion, in an effort to close another chapter of the financial crisis.

Tips For First-Time Home Buyers

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 16:13:00 GMT

There are many things to think about prior to starting the home-buying experience. Here are seven tips that will assist you in building a plan.

Good News For Sellers — Housing Starts Plummet In February

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 16:00:00 GMT

Home prices are based on supply and demand and overall home supply looks headed for a fall. Sellers are poised to regain negotiation leverage.

USA.gov is Government Made Easy

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 17:42:00 GMT

USA.gov Mobile site and iPhone app allows you to search federal, state, and local government websites and contact your government by phone or email.

Kokomo Mayor Proposes ‘Forgivable’ Loan Program

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Mayor Goodnight called the community to action, and announced a proposed new program to offer forgivable loans on exterior improvements, for Kokomo residents who currently do not own property in Howard County and out-of-county residents who decide to make Kokomo their home.

Tipton’s Abound Solar Project Earns National Award

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 13:00:00 GMT

Tipton development selected by magazine as a top 15 investment

Your Mortgage Rate Strategy For Today’s FOMC Meeting

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 12:54:00 GMT

The Federal Open Market Committee meets today in Washington D.C. where it will review the nation's economic and financial conditions.

Get Your Spring Cleaning Checklist

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 12:54:00 GMT

The calendar has turned March and warmer weather is around the corner. Get ready for Spring Cleaning Season.

A Friendly Reminder to “Spring Forward” Tonight!

Sat, 12 Mar 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Daylight saving time will begin at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 13, so remember to set clocks an hour ahead.

When Does Daylight Savings Begin in 2011?

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 16:17:00 GMT

With daylight saving time (also called daylight savings) about to begin again, clock confusion is once again ticking away: When exactly does daylight saving time end? Why do we spring forward? Does it really save energy? Is it bad for your health? Get expert answers below.

Dancing With The Stars

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 19:47:00 GMT

People know about “Dancing With the Stars” on ABC, but in Kokomo there will be a “Dancing With the Stars” so people can know their ABC’s.

Who has the lowest gas prices in Kokomo?

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:28:00 GMT

A cool tool for finding local gas prices.

FHA : Monthly Mortgage Insurance Premiums To Rise April 18, 2011

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 13:51:00 GMT

Effective for all FHA case numbers assigned on, or after, April 18, 2011, annual mortgage insurance premiums (MIP) will increase 25 basis points.

Make A Mortgage Rate Plan BEFORE Friday’s Jobs Report

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 13:50:00 GMT

Mortgage rates could move higher beginning tomorrow morning. The Bureau of Labor Statistics releases its February jobs report at 8:30 AM ET.

Track Down Your Tax Refund

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 15:20:00 GMT

Did you file your tax return, but are still waiting on your tax refund check? It is easier than you think to track down your tax refund.

Howard County Ahead On Property Reassessments

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 19:34:00 GMT

Indiana Department of Local Government Finance set deadline for March 2012. Howard County expects to not only hit but beat that deadline.

Pending Home Sales Drop For Second Straight Month

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 13:52:00 GMT

After a strong run to close out 2010, the market for home resales softened a bit in January.

Get Fired Up at the Red Hot & Wild Kokomo Chili Cook-Off!

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 20:21:00 GMT

Are you ready for a warm up this winter? The weather may be chilly, but the chili will be hot during the 11th Annual Red Hot & Wild Kokomo Chili Cook-off! The event will be held on Saturday, February 26, 2011 at the Kokomo Event Center, located on U.S. 31.

Existing Home Supply Down 40% In Last 6 Months

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 13:51:00 GMT

Home resales rose another 2.7 percent last month, according to the National Association of REALTORS® monthly Existing Home Sales report.

Cost of Living Reaches An All-Time High, Pressures Mortgage Rates Higher

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 13:53:00 GMT

Inflation fears are harming home buyers. The Cost of Living has reached a record level, surpassing the former peak set in July 2008. Mortgage rates would be rising more right now if not for the Middle East unrest.

Going On Vacation? Don’t Tell The Burglars!

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 13:52:00 GMT

Drawing from a series of interview with former convicts, this interview shows how to keep your home from bring an easy target for burglars while you're on vacation.

How The FHA Can Assist You In Acquiring A Home

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 14:55:00 GMT

You can find a lot of new terms and info to discover if you're a novice to the house-purchasing method. You may actually think you cannot pay for a home based on your current monthly earnings, which can be overwhelming. In this scenario, nonetheless, you will find government programs that may help individuals just like you. One of them is the FHA.

Fed Minutes Show Lower Unemployment And Higher Growth For 2011 and 2012

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 13:51:00 GMT

The Federal Reserve released its most recent meeting minutes Wednesday. Fed Minutes are the unabridged version of the succinct, more well-known "Fed Statement" that's released immediately post-adjournment.

Just Thinking of Buying a Home?

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 20:31:00 GMT

There are so many reasons that now is the right time to start your search for the perfect home.

Why Should You Consider Refinancing

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 16:31:00 GMT

Refinancing has many advantages and it is a good financial tool. However, everything has its good and bad depending on the circumstances and reasons for doing it.

Extreme Makeover wants to return to Indiana

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 20:48:00 GMT

Show producers are looking for Indiana nominees — Producers of a reality TV show that gave a home to a Miami County family say they want to come back to Indiana. ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” announced Friday that it is seeking nominations for an Indiana family to receive a new home. Kristina Gorolevich, a […]

Retail Sales Rise For 7th Straight Month; Mortgage Rates Worsen

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 13:52:00 GMT

If consumer spending is a keystone element in the U.S. economic recovery, a full-on rebound is likely underway. Retail Sales is higher for 7 straight months and is now at an all-time high.

Current Zero and Low Money Down Mortgage Financing Solutions

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 18:58:00 GMT

Learn about popular low and no money down mortgage programs in today's marketplace.

What You Need to Know When Shopping for a Mortgage

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 21:03:51 GMT

If you are eyeing North Central Indiana homes for sale, you may be ready to begin the process of finding a mortgage program that is right for you and your budget. In fact, most realtors will request that you look into financing and home loan programs before you begin your search for North Central Indiana homes for sale.

If you wish to begin the hunt for homes for sale, you will need to first be preapproved for a mortgage, and you will want to find a home loan program and financing terms that work best for you. Although you may be excited at the prospect of looking at homes, it is important to take the process slowly so you can be assured you will find the home loan that is best for you.

Here's What You Need to Consider When Shopping for a Home Loan Program

Always remember the importance of a good mortgage. In fact, the time you take to find a good home loan program may be just as important as finding the right homes for sale. Remember that the loan program you choose will stay with you for many years to come, and that the interest rate and terms of the loan will also stay with you. The one thing you want to avoid is choosing a loan program that doesn’t best fit your financial needs. Your home is likely the largest investment you will ever make, so make sure your loan program works well for you.

Before shopping for homes, it is best to obtain a mortgage pre-qualification letter. You can easily get a prequalification letter by contacting a lender and providing them with information regarding your income, debts and assets. The prequalification letter will let your realtor, and the seller’s realtor, know that you are able to afford North Central Indiana homes for sale up to a certain amount.

A preapproval from a lender is also an important process, as it is more formal than a prequalification and involves the approval from the lender regarding a home loan.

Don’t simply assume all loan programs are the same. In fact, there are numerous home loan programs, including conventional loans, FHA loans, VA loans and USDA loans. It is always best to research your options so you can be sure you are choosing the loan that best fits your needs and the price of the home you want to purchase.

Consider the loan repayment terms. There are fixed-rate loans, which are loans that offer a fixed rate (and therefore a fixed monthly mortgage payment) for the life of the loan. There are also adjustable-rate loans (commonly called ARMS) that feature interest rate changes throughout the life of the loan. Your home loan can be anywhere from 15 years to 30 years.

Finally, before shopping for North Central Indiana homes for sale, consider the interest rate paid on the home loan. Just like any other industry, the interest rates offered between companies can vary widely. It is therefore quite important to understand the current interest rates offered by your local lenders. Also included in the loan’s interest rate is the number of points. Points are essentially pre-paid interest, and many lenders charge points as a way to offer lower home loan rates.

Author: Richard Soto

Is it time to buy?

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 21:00:00 GMT

Should you buy a home? Will the housing market continue to decline? Will home prices go down? A complete break down on the housing market and what direction its headed and when to buy.

Mortgage Rates Return To April 2010 Levels

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 13:52:00 GMT

As of this morning, mortgage rates are higher over 9 consecutive days, marking the longest mortgage rate losing streak in the last 6 years, at least.

Preparing Young Children for a Move

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 18:30:00 GMT

You can reduce the amount of stress they'll have to cope with by preparing your young children for a move in advance. By preparing them each step of the way, you can ease their minds and make the transition smoother.

Mortgage Rates Rise For The 7th Straight Day

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 13:51:00 GMT

Mortgage rates are rising. Homeowners have lost 10% of their purchasing power since November.

Adjustable Rate Mortgages Adjusting To 3.000 Percent Right Now

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 14:51:00 GMT

If your ARM is due to adjust this spring, your best move may be to let it. Don't rush to refinance -- your rate may be adjusting lower.

Home Remodeling Projects That You Should Skip

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 13:50:00 GMT

With contractors dropping prices in most U.S. markets, and a resurgence in confidence among homeowners, home remodeling projects are expected to top $125 billion this quarter. Some projects, though, should never be started.

The Importance of Good Credit: Why You Need It

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 21:01:57 GMT

Society is depending more and more on using credit to make purchases and decisions. Nowadays, good credit is used for more than just getting a loan or credit card. A large number of businesses are making the case that you must have good credit before they provide products or services to you.

Residence

When it comes to a roof over your head, having good credit is important. Mortgage lenders want to assure that you won’t default on your mortgage. If you bad credit or no credit, the lender will consider it risky to give you a mortgage loan. The consequences could be a higher cost of borrowing or worse, a denial of the loan.

Don’t believe that because you aren’t on the market for a new home, that your credit won’t be called into question. Your credit is used for rental decisions as well. Landlords deem your lease as a loan. You are being loaned a place to live and the landlord wants to make sure you’ll pay back this loan. If you don’t have good credit, it is possible that you’ll be denied for an apartment.

Vehicle

If you don’t have cash to purchase a car outright, you’ll have to get a loan. Your credit not only affects whether or not you will be approved for a loan, but also the amount and interest rate of the loan. Usually, loan applicants with good credit will be approved for larger loan amounts with lower interest rates.

Employment

Numerous employers perform credit checks as a part of the hiring process. If you haven’t showed financial responsibility, a future employer might be hesitant to hire you. For example, the employer might think your level of debt is too high for the salary offered.

Entrepreneurship

A countless amount of people have dreams of starting their own business. Most business startups involve a sizable amount of cash that you might not have at the time. In that case, you’ll need to acquire a small business loan. Along with other things, you’ll need to have good credit to qualify for the business loan.

Utility Services

It might be somewhat shocking to discover that your credit is needed to establish utility service. Your electric company argues that you’re borrowing one month of electric service. So, before turning on your electricity, the company will take a look to see if you have good credit. This applies to most utility services including cable, telephone, water, and even cell phone.

Since your credit is determined by how you’ve paid (or not paid) you’re bills in the past, many businesses such as landlords, mortgage lenders, utility providers, and even employers, use your credit to predict your future financial responsibility. Anytime you need to borrow money, or even services, your credit is called into question. This is the reason maintaining good credit is so important.

Author: Blayke

Mortgage Guidelines Starting To Loosen?

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 12:00:00 GMT

Mortgage rates remain low but qualification standards do not. Last quarter's banking survey shows that guidelines may be loosening, though. It's another good sign for housing.

Getting Rid Of Ice

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 20:50:00 GMT

With a high of 18 degrees expected for Thursday, the inch or so of hard ice coating sidewalks and driveways in central Indiana isn't going away anytime soon!

Kokomo’s Housing Market Shows Small Improvement

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 14:34:00 GMT

The findings of an Indiana Association of Realtors report were just enough to allow Kokomo real estate agents a sigh of relief last week. Howard County had a 3.1 percent increase in 2010 home sales compared to 2009, according to the data. The gain was less than one-tenth what it was a half-year earlier, but […]

Pending Home Sales At The Highest Levels Since April 2010

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 14:51:00 GMT

Another day, another strong report for housing. The Pending Home Sales Index climbed 2 percent in December, according to the National Association of REALTORSÂ®

Wednesday’s Web Link – Obama widens mortgage refi program!

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 16:44:00 GMT

NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) — The Obama administration is widening its mortgage refinancing program to allow more borrowers hit hard by falling home prices to take part. Borrowers whose loans are now worth up to 125% of their home’s value are now eligible to refinance their homes under the Obama foreclosure prevention plan announced in February. […]

Monday’s Audio Podcast – Let’s Talk about Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 19:06:00 GMT

Have you ever wondered who Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are? What do they do and how do they effect your mortgage? Check out this short podcast and we’ll give you a little history and explanation of these government run organizations. DOWNLOAD OR LISTEN