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Benson's Buzz
Kathy Benson REALTOR® (DRE License Number 01816090)
PMZ Real Estate
190 S. Maag Ave., Ste A
Oakdale,  CA  95361
209.848.5017
209.845.3927 
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Cancel impound account? There's a fee
DEAR BENNY: Can you explain how a bank can legally charge a quarter of a point of the loan to opt out of an impound account? We have always paid our property taxes twice a year and always on time and have excellent credit. It feels like extortion to me. –Jerry
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Are home warranties a good deal?
When something malfunctions in your home, wouldn't it be wonderful if you could pick up the phone, request a service call, pay a nominal service charge and have the problem fixed? In theory, this is how a home protection plan works.
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Top mistakes today's sellers make
Low interest rates could spark a pickup in the home-sale market in some areas. If you're inclined to sell, here are some mistakes you'll want to avoid. The biggest mistake sellers make is listing at an unrealistic price. If you want or need to sell, your home must be priced at or under current market value, particularly in places where prices are declining.
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Appraisals killing deals in many markets
Finding the right house to buy is never easy; selling a home today is also challenge. It's best to prepare yourself for obstacles that could cross your path so that you're prepared should they arise.
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Should I Refinance?

Estimate Payments
Fixed or Adjustable?
Should I Make Extra Payments?
Will I Qualify?
How Much Can I Afford?
Kathy Benson
REALTOR®
PMZ Real Estate
190 S. Maag Ave., Ste A
Oakdale,  CA  95361
209.848.5017
209.845.3927 
Contact Me
Visit My Web Site
Equal Housing Opportunity   
  
Eight ways to conserve water this summer
In February of this year, the Governor of California declared a state emergency due to drought. “ …California faces its third consecutive year of drought and we must prepare for the worst,” Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger said. As of this writing, the state has not issued a mandatory water rationing order, but asks that the residents of California participate in a voluntary reduction. With the summer months ahead, the drought is even more cause for concern. Lawns and gardens will be watered more often, more cars will be washed; essentially the hose will replace the rain. By adjusting their lifestyle a bit, homeowners can reduce water waste -- and save a buck on the monthly water bill. Here’s how: ...more
 
Multiple offers making a comeback
In the current home sale market, it might seem ludicrous to make an offer on a listing if it means competing with another buyer. However, multiple offers are on the rise in some markets. But, it doesn't always mean that you need to pay a lot more than the asking price. Sellers are ever hopeful of receiving multiple offers. These days, this is usually an unrealistic expectation. That is, unless the listing is a prime property in a high-demand neighborhood where few homes are being offered for sale. ...more
 
Inherit home, refi immediately?
DEAR BENNY: My husband and I inherited a home from my husband's uncle who passed away a few weeks ago. Will the lender expect us to refinance the home or can we just assume it even if it is a conventional loan? –Karen ...more
 
Dos and don'ts of home selling
An energetic real estate agent can have your home on the market in a day. However, to provide the kind of marketing exposure you need to sell in today's market takes a little longer, unless your home is photo-ready when you list. ...more
 
Unpaid HOA fees boost foreclosure risk
DEAR BENNY: I am three months behind in my homeowner's association payments. Can the condominium foreclose on my unit? My mortgage payments are up to date, and I called my lender who said no, they cannot foreclose. What do you say? ...more
 
Truth about home fixture warranties
Warranties are something we see on a myriad of home improvement products, from roofing and siding to faucets and electrical outlets. They're intended to give the consumer some specific legal recourse should the product fail to perform properly, as well as some general psychological peace of mind. ...more
 
 
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