I got new links in my email today and my facebook feed from Procter & Gamble. They both worked for me for signing up for the home mailers, and I have already received the latest Home Made Simple booklet.
Guest post from Hilary: What to do if you’re having mortgage troubles
The news is blanketed with stories of all of the foreclosed properties out there. Although it is true that many homes are “upside down”, unless you are having trouble paying your mortgage, there is no reason to panic. Real Estate, like any market, is cyclical. There is a trough and a crest, if you are financially able to ride out the market, you will be back on top. At that time, you should recognize the top and take advantage and sell. Many people are not willing to part with their home even when the market would benefit them to do so.
Well, what do you do now if you are having trouble paying the mortgage? Do not go to one of those “loan modification” companies, they are most likely a scam. There are options however. If you have at least 20% equity (at the value stated on your note) you can refinance and take advantage of the rates and lower your monthly payments.
If you are looking to unload the property, your options are either a short sale (where you negotiate with your lender on a sale price that is less than what you owe on the note).
You can also create a “cash for keys” deal with your lender where you simply give up ownership and the bank takes your property in exchange for writing off your note. This may have tax consequences because of the forgiveness of a debt.
Finally, you can stop paying on your loan and the bank will ultimately foreclose. This is an option for those who have no where else to go and need the extra time (usually 9 months) to save money so they can relocate. However, this is the most damaging to your credit.
My advise is to consult an attorney to review your options prior to taking any drastic measures such as stopping payments.
Prom Dress event–now with Currie Gift Card!
Sorry for those of you not in our region, because this is an awesome opportunity. My store is hosting a Prom Dress Consignment event tomorrow from 10-4. It’s at the Growing Tree consignment shop, 114 West State street in Kennett Square.
We just received 30 gift cards from Currie, at $25 each. So the first 30 girls to purchase a prom dress here will also receive a gift card as a bonus.
A gently used (or maybe even new with tags!) dress at a great price, plus a gift card to get your hair or nails done, what a deal! One of our consignors came in yesterday, and she used to work at David’s bridal, so she brought in a ton of sample dresses, new with tags.
This is a really good boost towards making prom costs reasonable, don’t miss it!
Here’s a deal on 31 products
I just hit 31 likes on the new Smart Spending Spot, so in honor of that, here’s a deal:
Do you like 31 products? As my friend Amanda says, it’s quite easy to become addicted to monogramming stuff for your kids. Use THIS LINK and if you order $31 worth of stuff, you can get any one of their handbags at 50% off.
Their stuff is super cute, off to shop!
And if you still haven’t liked Smart Spending Spot, what are you waiting for? I’ve given away several prizes today, who knows what tomorrow will bring!