CENTURY 21 Unlimited Real Estate’s Jane Wachter recognized as #1 REALTOR in Mountainhome

Mountainhome, Pennsylvania (Grassroots Newswire) January 7, 2011 — CENTURY 21 Unlimited Real Estate today announced that Jane Wachter was recognized as their #1 Realtor of the Year. The award recognizes her outstanding commitment to professionalism and performance within the local real estate community.

“Jane possesses a tireless dedication to helping home buyers, and sellers make informed real estate decisions and that is what this honor is all about,” said John Fox, owner of CENTURY 21 Unlimited Real Estate. “She truly understands what it means to be a real estate professional and is an example from which we can all learn something.”

Jane was a multi-million producer in 2010 while receiving an overall customer satisfaction rating of 100% on Century 21’s Quality Service Survey.

Perhaps Mark from Cresco summed it up best when he noted the following in the remarks area of his customer satisfaction survey: Jane was wonderful.  She was always there answering questions, holding our hands, guiding us through the process.  She’s just great.

Located at Route 390 in Mountainhome, CENTURY 21 Unlimited Real Estate is a full service brokerage specializing Residential and Fine, Homes and Estate properties.  Our award winning offices are located in Tannersville and Mountainhome and our staffed with licensed Realtors.  For additional information, visit www.century21unlimitedrealestate.com.

About Century 21 Unlimited Real Estate

Unlimited Real Estate, Inc. Jeffrey H. Siglin, broker, license number RM421516, Tannersville, Pa, 570-629-8500.

© 2010 Century 21 Real Estate LLC. CENTURY 21® Is A Registered Trademark Licensed To Century 21 Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each CENTURY 21 Office is Independently Owned and Operated.

Dennis Mooney Congratulates Wilkins on Jingle Bell Walk/Run

Tom Wilkins, CEO of Wilkins & Assoc, a Better Homes and Gardens Brokerage (left)accepts a silk screened long sleeve Tee Shirt from Dennis Mooney, an Assoc broker with Better Homes and Gardens (right), Chairperson of the 2010 Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Wilkins & Assoc was, for the 2nd year, a Gold Corporate Sponsor of the annual event. The Walk/Run held at ESU and has been deemed a huge success by all those who participated.

Homeowners Recoup More with Exterior Replacement Projects, REALTORS® Report

RISMEDIA, December 16, 2010—As part of the 2010-11 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, REALTORS® recently rated exterior replacement projects among the most cost-effective home improvement projects, demonstrating that curb appeal remains one of the most important aspects of a home at resale time. “This year’s Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report highlights the importance of exterior projects, which not only provide the most value, but are also among the least expensive improvements for a home,” said National Association of REALTORS® President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “Since resale value can vary by region, it’s smart for homeowners to work with a REALTOR® through the remodeling and improvement process; they can provide insight into projects in their neighborhoods that will recoup the most when the owners are ready to sell.”

Nine of the top 10 most cost-effective projects nationally in terms of value recouped are exterior replacement projects. The steel entry door replacement remained the project that returned the most money, with an estimated 102.1% of cost recouped upon resale; it is also the only project in this year’s report that is expected to return more than the cost. The midrange garage door replacement, a new addition to the report this year, is expected to recoup 83.9% of costs. Both projects are small investments that cost little more than $1,200 each, on average. REALTORS® identified these two replacements as projects that can significantly improve a home’s curb appeal.

“Curb appeal remains king—it’s the first thing potential buyers notice when looking for a home, and it also demonstrates pride of ownership,” said Phipps.

The 2010-11 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report compares construction costs with resale values for 35 midrange and upscale remodeling projects comprising additions, remodels and replacements in 80 markets across the country. Data are grouped in nine U.S. regions, following the divisions established by the U.S. Census Bureau. This is the 13th consecutive year that the report, which is produced by Remodeling magazine publisher Hanley Wood, LLC, was completed in cooperation with REALTOR® Magazine.

REALTORS® provided their insight into local markets and buyer home preferences within those markets. Overall, REALTORS® estimated that homeowners would recoup an average of 60% of their investment in 35 different improvement projects, down from an average of 63.8% last year. Remodeling projects, particularly higher cost upscale projects, have been losing resale value in recent years because of weak economic conditions.

According to the report, replacement projects usually outperform remodel and addition projects in resale value because they are among the least expensive and contribute to curb appeal. Various types of siding and window replacement projects were expected to return more than 70% of costs.

Upscale fiber-cement siding replacement was judged by REALTORS® as the most cost effective among siding projects, recouping 80% of costs. Among the window replacement projects covered, upscale vinyl window replacements were expected to recoup the most, 72.6% upon resale. Another exterior project, a wood deck addition, tied with a minor kitchen remodel for the fourth most profitable project recouping an estimated 72.8% of costs.

The top interior projects for resale value included an attic bedroom and a basement remodel. Both add living space without extending the footprint of the house. An attic bedroom addition costs more than $51,000 and recoups an estimated 72.2% nationally upon resale; a basement remodel costs more than $64,000 and recoups an estimated 70%. Improvement projects that are expected to return the least are a midrange home office remodel, recouping an estimated 45.8%; a backup power generator, recouping 48.5%; and a sunroom addition, recouping 48.6% of costs.

Although most regions followed the national trends, the regions that were consistently estimated to return a higher percentage of remodeling costs upon resale were the Pacific region of Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington; the West South Central region of Arkansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas; the East South Central region of Alabama, Kentucky, Mississippi and Tennessee; and the South Atlantic region of the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia and West Virginia.

The regions where REALTORS® generally reported the lowest percentage of costs recouped were New England (Connecticut, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont); East North Central (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin); West North Central (Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota); and Middle Atlantic (New York and Pennsylvania).

“It’s important to remember that the resale value of a particular improvement project depends on several factors,” said Phipps. “Things such as the home’s overall condition, availability and condition of surrounding properties, location and the regional economic climate contribute to an estimated resale value. That’s why it is imperative to work with a REALTOR® who can provide insight and guidance into local market conditions whether you’re buying, selling or improving a home.”

For more information, visit www.realtor.org.

PAVINICH JOINS PENNSYLVANIA FIRST SETTLEMENT SERVICES II, L.P.

Milford – PA1st is pleased to announce that Joan Pavinich, owner of Accord Abstract in Milford has joined Pennsylvania First Settlement Services as an Account Manager and Settlement Agent.

Said Craig Roberts Pres. of Pennsylvania First Settlement Services, “We are extremely excited about having Joan as a part of our sales team.  She knows the Milford business community quite well and it is an area that (as a company) we are very much looking forward to service the areas title and settlement needs.

Prior to joining PA1st, Pavinich owned and operated Accord Abstract for the past 6 years.  Pavinich has been in the title industry for the past 20 years.

Pavinich, in her new position will cultivate business in the Milford, Pike County and Lake Wallenpaupack areas.

Lorie Lehman who also is in the position of Account Manager and Settlement Agent recruited Pavinich.  Said Lehman, “Joan and I are good friends and when I heard she was looking for a company to associate with, I never even hesitated about suggesting to Pennsylvania First that we strike a deal with her.  That was on a Monday and we hired Joan that Wednesday.”

Said Pavinich, “To be associated with a company where their logo is “Where service comes first” is where I want to most be.  In today’s economic times, combining offices was the right thing to do.  I am truly excited to be a part of this great team”.

Pennsylvania First Settlement Services has been in business serving the real estate industry for the past 8 years.  Craig Roberts, President and the former owner of Fidelity Home Abstract, one of the most successful title companies in the Pocono Mts., joined the firm in the position of President one and a half years ago.  Since that time, Roberts increased the number of closings that the company handles and broadened the market area that they service as well as increased the customer base by over 50%.  Said Roberts, “With service professionals like Lorie and Joan, Pennsylvania First Settlement Services is in full swing.  We have the support staff and expertise to handle a large volume of business while not losing what has made us who we are and that’s our level of customer satisfaction.”

Pennsylvania First Settlement Services is located at 304 Park Avenue in Stroudsburg.  PA1st is on the internet at www.pafirstsettlement.com

A Housing Thaw on the Horizon

[Stroudsburg, PA – November 16, 2010 ] – In the midst of a volatile housing market, analysts have uncovered a light at the end of the tunnel – home improvement.  In fact, conservative estimates show that home improvement spending will climb at a double-digit pace through the first half of 2011.
American homeowners are becoming more financially savvy.  As they evaluate their budgets, there’s been a major push towards improving home energy efficiency, especially given the increased costs of heating oil in areas like the Northeastern United States.
“A recent study conducted by the Propane Education & Research Council found that 80% of homeowners are concerned about energy efficiency in their homes,” said Akantha Susko of True North Advertising & Marketing.  “Energy efficient windows and insulation reduce overall utility costs, which can have a substantial impact on the bottom line of a household budget.  This type of cost savings is compounded by Energy Tax Credits, which we anticipate to be extended well into 2011.”
While homeowners are becoming more financially savvy, they are also becoming sales savvy, with many realizing the importance of “curbside appeal” when it comes to selling a home.  Whether it’s landscaping, a kitchen upgrade or a bathroom renovation, all can add increase a home’s resale value, which helps to nullify the property depreciation that has occurred throughout much of the region.
“A well kept yard has an inviting appeal and gives the impression that careful attention is also placed on the house, which can increase a home’s value by 10-20%,” stated Susko.  “This is of increasing importance given the vast inventory of homes listed for sale, many of which are previously foreclosed homes going back on the market that will also need renovation work.”
Home remodeling has become particularly appealing to the American population known as Baby Boomers, who seek autonomy and a more active lifestyle than what is typically afforded in assisted care facilities.  Due to health and independence concerns, America’s aging population is turning towards remodeling as a way to create a more functional and comfortable living space – including the installation of grab bars to minimize falling, added comfort-height toilets, no-step showers, and widened doorways that will allow for equipment such as walkers and wheelchairs.  “With over 79 million baby boomers nationwide, and a high concentration of them in the Northeast, this trend is sure to continue,” added Susko.
The Pocono Builder’s Association’s annual Home Show anticipates its 2011 show to be the biggest show yet due to the surge of homeowners seeking out home improvement.  Builders, plumbers, electricians, design professionals and kitchen and bathroom specialists will all be exhibiting the latest in products and services to an audience that is ready to buy.  No other event attracts the same number of quality visitors and exhibitors interested in businesses that serve the Poconos and surrounding areas – it is THE event consumers and the trade attend year on year.

About True North Advertising & Marketing
True North Advertising & Marketing produces and manages many successful marketing projects in the area such as the Greater Pocono Home Show at ESU, True North Maps’ Carbon County Map, Monroe County Map (coming 2011) and Senior Style Magazine. They are also closely affiliated with the Real Estate Book of the Pocono, the Pocono Where To Book and Golfing Guide.
About the Pocono Builders Association Pocono Builders Association is dedicated to the collective creation of value for its members. The Pocono BA is the unified voice of the Pocono Mountain’s building industry.  The organization promotes economic development while respecting the environment and community.  To find out more about the PBA visit www.PoconoBuilders.org <http://www.PoconoBuilders.org> . For more information on exhibiting or attending the Pocono Home Show email info@PoconoHomeShow.com.
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Akantha Susko
570-325-9664
aki@truenorthadvertising.com

Loretta Taormina named Realtor of the Month at Better Homes & Gardens Wilkins and Associates

Stroudsburg, PA –  Loretta Taormina has received the Realtor of the Month award from Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Wilkins and Associates for the month of October, 2010.  Loretta works out of the firms Stroudsburg location and has worked with the company since March of 2009. She joined the company when her previous firm-Coldwell Banker-Phyllis Ruben- merged with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Wilkins & Associates. The firms’ President, Dominick J. Sacci says, “Loretta was one of the Realtors that we had in mind when we created the Realtor of the month acknowledgment and wrote its qualification guideline. Her entire approach to our firm and the real estate industry is based on the TEAM ethic and the utmost professional services to her clients and customers. She is always in a good mood. I am a big fan of Loretta and find comfort in the fact that the public’s perception of our firm is measured by Realtors like Loretta”.

The Realtor of the Month acknowledgment is awarded to Realtors® based on their commitment to the Real Estate Industry as a career and the firm as a whole. Along with sales production, the Realtor® of the Month is primarily measured by their approach and mind set of on the industry, their attitude and dealings with clients/customers, and their TEAMWORK ethic.

They are also considered based on tour, opportunity time, and sales meeting attendance, onsite and on-line training participation, lead generation involvement, overall adherence to the policy and guidelines of the firm, and usage of the tools supplied by Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Corporate.

“Welcome to the Neighborhood” Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate, Wilkins & Associates has locations that serve the entire Pocono Mountains, North Pocono/Moscow, and historic Milford areas, Phone 570-421-8950 or visit www.wilkins1.com . The company takes pride in recruiting new and veteran agents and providing exceptional training. BHGW&A handles the sale of homes, estates and land to first and second time buyers, relocation buyers and retirees.

2010 Media and More Auction Gives Businesses an Opportunity to Bid on Amazing Advertising Packages and Support our Scholarship Fund!

SENIOR STYLE MAGAZINE IS A PROUD SPONSOR OF THIS EVENT!!

For more information on Senior Style Magazine visit us at www.seniorstylenow.com

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

The Media and More! Auction is the GLV Ad Club’s major fundraising event of the year.  Auction proceeds benefit the GLV Ad Club’s Scholarship Fund, educational outreach programs and provide advertising and marketing assistance to non-profit groups in need. The outlook for the 2010 event is very positive and we are receiving donations.  We encourage everyone to attend this event and bid on some amazing advertising packages and MUCH MORE!  Stay tuned and we will be posting information on the items up for bid.

The Details:
Date:  November 10, 2010
Time:  5:30 to 8:30 (doors open at 5:00)
Place:  Inside the Club Level at Coca-Cola Park (Home of the Iron Pigs)
Other Info:  Free admission includes appetizers and heavy hors d’oeuvres.  Bidding is open to all attendees.  Beer, wine and soft drinks will be served.  Your first drink is on the Ad Club!  Fun giveaways throughout the night!

For information about the 2010 auction, please contact:
Sheila Youst at sandjyoust@verizon.net or Pam Deller at pamela@lehighvalleystyle.com

NEPA MANAGEMENT SPEAKS OUT- RESALE CERTIFICATES…WHAT ARE THEY?

Stroudsburg – At NEPA Management Associates, my Property Management company located at 304 Park Avenue in Stroudsburg, one of my core responsibilities is to process Resale Certificates for homes that the Pocono Realtors sell.  These are homes located in developments such as The Estates at Great Bear, The Woodlands, Pocono Hemlock, Villas at Pine Hill or Victoria Heights.  A Resale Certificate is a part of the Pennsylvania Agreement of Sale and I’m typically called after the property goes under contract and after the inspections are done, but well before the closing.

A  Resale Certificate is in essence a “snap shot” of a specific Community or Association.  The Pennsylvania Uniform Planned Community Act (#180) commenced into law on February 2, 1997.   Shortly thereafter the Pa. Uniform Condominium Act (#180 Subpart) commenced into law on July 2, 1980.  The Resale Certificate states the proper name of the Community or Association, and its location within the Pocono Mountains.  It will also state the name of the Seller, the Section, Lot # and Unit # if applicable to the subject property.

The listing of dues and/or assessments is also stated along with the time frame either being paid monthly, quarterly or yearly.  There is also a section listing special assessments (if any) that would apply to this particular Community or Association.  The Resale Certificate will also state what type of water and sewer are available—whether well and septic are provided by a municipality or private entity.  It will include a section listing what types of roads are present (public, private, paved, gravel) and whether there are road fees in existence.  When the property is sold it will state whether a transfer/conveyance fee is applicable to that specific property.

A Resale Certificate is customized by my office to the Community or Association listing the specific recorded By-laws, the Declarations, a map of the Community, the Rules & Regulations, an Insurance Declaration page and other pertinent information for the new Owner.  It is also made up of (17) seventeen specific items or points that is unique to each Community or Association.  Whether the property has a Right of First Refusal, the charges that may be associated with the property—common expense charges, unpaid assessments, charges, dues, credits and a total due upon closing.  It will also list whether the Community or Association will or will not be proposing Capital expenditures within a given time frame.  A numerical figure will be presented listing the amount of money held in a separate capital reserve account.  A current copy of the balance sheet and budget sheet will be provided for review.

Several items will address what the Board of Directors has knowledge of: alterations, improvements, lease hold interests, etc. A listing of lawsuits or judgments which the Community or Association may be a party to is also clearly spelled out along with docket numbers. Cumulative or class voting is covered and a listing of times shares if applicable.  Master Association and the original sub-divider are also allotted space if warranted.

A Resale Certificate is a vital part of a Real Estate transaction.  Again—it may just be a “snap shot” but it portrays a complete, vivid picture of a specific Community or Association.

Well, that’s what a Resale Certificate is all about.

In addition to the Resale Certificates being a part of my job at NEPA Management Associates, I also handle the Right of First Refusal for Penn Estates, Timber Hill, Paradise Pointe and Stillwater.  The Right of First Refusal is different than a Resale Certificate but it still is a responsibility that I handle.

If you live in a community and you are selling your home…I’m pretty sure we are going to meet!

Marilyn R. Lesoine, Administrative Assistant, is a senior associate with NEPA Management Associates located at 304 Park Avenue, Stroudsburg.  NEPA is one of the largest property management companies in Northeast Pennsylvania and is under the direction of Thomas R. Wilkins, CEO.  NEPA handles approximately 20 associations, which include Property Owners Associations, condominium complexes and town-home communities.  The office is open 7 days a week.  If you’d like more information, visit them at www.nepamgmt.com

Brand New Location and Show Manager for the 2011 Greater Pocono Home Show

Stroudsburg, PA  Oct. 1, 2010 – The Pocono Builder’s Association’s Home Show has announced that this year’s show, March 12^th – 13^th, 2011 will have a brand new location at Koehler Field house at East Stroudsburg University in East Stroudsburg, PA and a new Show Manager, Akantha Susko of True North Advertising & Marketing.

Nicole Foleno, Executive Director of the Pocono Builders Association states “We are pleased and excited that this year’s Greater Pocono Home Show opening March 12 – 13th, 2011, will be held at Koehler Field house at East Stroudsburg University in East Stroudsburg, PA.  This venue is in the heart of the Poconos and has ample parking space for all our exhibitors, participants and show attendees.  It’s a great location and fantastic exhibit hall for our growing Home Show.”

“The Pocono Builders Association is proud and excited to announce Akantha Susko of True North Advertising and Marketing as the new Home Show Manager. She brings years of experience not only with working with builders and contractors in the Poconos, but also in promoting and coordinating several successful marketing projects in the area.  We know she will do a great job!” says Ms. Foleno.  For more information about the 2011 Great Pocono Home Show visit www.PoconoHomeShow.com

Pocono Builders Association is dedicated to the collective creation of value for its members. The Pocono BA is the unified voice of the Pocono Mountain’s building industry.  The organization promotes economic development while respecting the environment and community.  To find out more about the PBA visit www.PoconoBuilders.org

True North Advertising & Marketing produces and manages many successful marketing projects in the area such as True North Maps’ Carbon County Map, Monroe County Map (coming 2011) and Senior Style Magazine. They are also closely affiliated with the Real Estate Book of the Pocono, the Pocono Where To Book and Golfing Guide.  For more information on the Pocono Home Show email info@PoconoHomeShow.com.

Bank of America Halts Foreclosure Sales in 50 States

WASHINGTON (AP) — Bank of America Corp., the nation’s largest bank, said Friday it would stop sales of foreclosed homes in all 50 states as it reviews potential flaws in foreclosure documents.

A week earlier, the company had said it would only stop such sales in the 23 states where foreclosures must be approved by a judge.

The move comes amid evidence that mortgage company employees or their lawyers signed documents in foreclosure cases without verifying the information in them.

“We will stop foreclosure sales until our assessment has been satisfactorily completed,” company spokesman Dan Frahm said in a statement. “Our ongoing assessment shows the basis for our past foreclosure decisions is accurate.”

Concern is growing that mortgage lenders have been evicting homeowners using flawed court papers. State and federal officials have been ramping up pressure on the mortgage industry over worries about potential legal violations.

On Thursday, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., urged five large mortgage lenders to suspend foreclosures in Nevada until they have set up systems to make sure homeowners aren’t “improperly directed into foreclosure proceedings.” Nevada is not among the states where banks had suspended foreclosures.

Also Friday, PNC Financial Services Group Inc. said it is halting most foreclosures and evictions in 23 states for a month so it can review whether documents it submitted to courts complied with state laws. An official at the Pittsburgh-based bank confirmed the decision on Friday, which was reported earlier by the New York Times. The official requested anonymity because the decision hasn’t been publicly announced.

PNC becomes the fourth major U.S. lender to halt some foreclosures amid evidence that mortgage company employees or their lawyers signed documents in foreclosure cases without verifying the information in them.

In addition to PNC and Bank of America, Ally Financial’s GMAC Mortgage unit and JPMorgan Chase & Co. have announced similar moves in the past two weeks.

In some states, lenders can foreclose quickly on delinquent mortgage borrowers. By contrast, the 23 states use a lengthy court process. They require documents to verify information on the mortgage, including who owns it.

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