Life During the Holidays: "The Hurrier I Go, the Behinder I Get"

     

Life During the Holidays: 

"The Hurrier I Go, the Behinder I Get"

     "The hurrier I go, the behinder I get"

    

     The above is a line from the children's storybook, "Alice in Wonderland" written by Lewis Carroll ... but it definitely describes my life and home as of late.  Seems the faster I go and the more I tackle, the more I find I still have to conquer and accomplish.  I feel I'm running behind.

     Others around me are experiencing much the same thing.  Like me, they're "wrapping up" more than presents right now.  Everyone is busy organizing, re-organizing, hosting, meeting, partying, creating, closing out and planning.  Both in business and everyday life.

     It sure seems like I (and my team) have "our fingers in a lot of pies".  We're busy shopping and preparing for our December and end-of-year Holidays.  On top of that, we're all in the midst of wrapping up business matters too.  Holiday cards are going out.  Holiday gifts are being delivered to Referral Partners.  And we're all touching base with those that matter to us and have helped make us successful.  

     Personally, while doing that I like to go "bearing gifts".  Each year for the past 10 years, my wife and I have created an annual Holiday CD of music together.  We then share it with our family, friends and many of my business contacts.  

     It's become quite the annual event doing this, as Marilyn

and I come up with a new "theme" for the music chosen each year.  So far, we've covered Holiday Classics, favorites of family and friends, Country, Holiday music from around the world, and more.  We don't duplicate songs we've used from previous years, so it's become more and more challenging to do.  Fun, exciting, and exhausting to accomplish all at the same time. 

     Right now, I'm in the process of interviewing new LO's and Assistants for our office too.  We're expanding and upgrading technology in our office and for our website.  And final preparations are being put in place for the new changes coming to the Mortgage Industry in the coming year.  
 
     Yep! The White Rabbit was definitely describing the Holidays at our home and business when he said "the hurrier I go, the behinder I get".  But I wouldn't have it any other way.  

     Would you?? 

    

*  Hoping to buy or refinance a home or investment property in in the Chicagoland - Illinois - Wisconsin area?  

Contact Me today!  I'll put my years of mortgage experience and expertise hard to work on your behalf.
     I'm easily found at:

Gene Mundt, Loan Officer

NMLS 216987

American Portfolio Mortgage Corp

NMLS 175656

 815.524.2280     708.921.6331

gmundt@goapmc.com

www.genemundt.com

eFax:  815.524.2281

 

             

   

 Gene Mundt, Mortgage Originator, an Originator with 40+ years of mortgage experience, will offer you exemplary mortgage service and advice when seeking: 

Conventional, FHA, VA, Jumbo, USDA, and Portfolio Loans in 

Chicago and the greater Chicagoland region, including: 

The Lincoln-Way Area, Will County, (New Lenox, Frankfort, 

Mokena, Manhattan, Frankfort Square, Joliet, Shorewood, Elwood, Lockport, 

Wilmington, Crest Hill, Symerton, Braidwood, Channahon, University Park,

Beecher, Plainfield, Bolingbrook, Romeoville, Tinley Park, Homer Glen, 

Crete, Peotone, Naperville, etc.), DuPage County, Kane County, Grundy County, 

the City of Chicago, Cook County, and elsewhere within IL & WI.

Referrals are Appreciated & Welcomed!

"Gift" Clients: A HUGE Deal and Opportunity During the Holidays & Year 'Round

"Gift" Clients: 

A HUGE Deal and Opportunity During 

the Holidays & Year 'Round

     This post was inspired by the recent Featured post written by Anna "Banana" Kruchten, Phoenix Property Shoppe, Phoenix, AZ.

     Anna wrote of meeting and working with a very young first-time homebuying couple years ago when she was a newer agent.  This couple had a very small budget, paired with a great need and lots of enthusiasm ... something that served them well while searching for their first home.  It led them to Anna, an agent that obviously contained a huge heart and willingness to tackle a tough, uphill project.

     Now maybe I'm in the Holiday mood.  But Anna's story, and its outcome, really resonated with me.  

     After 3 decades in this business, I've come to think that we real estate and mortgage professionals are lucky enough just once-in-a-while to meet, and have the chance to work with, clients that really teach us something.  They "educate" us ... and help us to grow as professionals ... and as humans. 

     Yes, it's true we do get paid to assist and guide our clients.  But I'd argue, that during these special instances we're lucky enough to get "paid" in additional ways too.  Ways that ultimately mean more to our futures than the initial monetary payments received for any transaction.

     When you read Anna's post, you see how her young couple

actually provided a wonderful educational opportunity for her.  They captivated and infected her with their enthusiasm.  That enthusiasm in turn motivated her ... made her more determined.  She stretched herself as a professional and as a person.  As a result, she became totally immersed and invested in not only their success ... but their happiness too.

     Anna related in her post that along the course of her transaction, she came to learn many new things.  Certainly about real estate itself.  And definitely about where her business could be found, both in the short term and long.  She also became more aware of the depth of her dedication to her clients and her willingness and ability to fulfill their needs. 


     But probably most importantly, Anna discovered that appearances mean little ... and that opportunities are delivered to us as professionals in all shapes and sizes of packages.  And that those opportunities are truly gifts.  Gifts that we can leave opened ... or unopened.

     As a professional, I think that's worth knowing or being reminded about.  Thank you, Anna ...

     

     *  Have clients, friends, or family in need of Mortgage service in the Chicagoland area?  Contact Me.  I'll be happy to put my years of mortgage experience and expertise hard to work on their (and your) behalf.

     I can be easily found at the following:

Direct:  815.524.2280

Cell or Text:  708.921.6331

eFax:  815.524.2281

gmundt@goapmc.com

www.genemundt.com

For a FREE Mortgage Consultation, click HERE.

Ready to make Mortgage Application?

     

     

   

     

Phoenix Property Shoppe

Dreaming of New Construction: Have you Picked Out your Will County or Chicagoland Lot?

Dreaming of New Construction:

Have you Picked Out your 

Will County or Chicagoland Lot?

     New construction has always been a strong indicator of how our economy is doing.  Seeing new construction pop up?  The economy is healthier ...

 

     But new construction is also a good indication of the mindset of Bankers and Lenders.  If you're seeing new construction ... money is flowing a bit more freely.

     After a long dry spell in Will County and much of the surrounding Chicagoland area, new construction is once again being seen.  I was out in my hometown of Manhattan on Thanksgiving and there are new homes and construction  dotting all the newer subdivisions.  Other surrounding communities are experiencing much the same.  It's a very uplifting sign.

     So if you are dreaming of building your own new home, now may be the time for you to take action.  But where do you start?

     Here's some helpful tips and "must do's" for those hoping to become new construction Home Buyers in Will County and elsewhere in the Chicagoland region:

     1.  Secure your property ...      

          

          If the property you want is a vacant lot and you are in need of financing for its purchase, know that:  Lenders typically require a 25% to 30% Down Payment on vacant lots.

          If you already own a lot, the current Value of your lot will be determined by a recent Sales Price or Appraisal.  The equity represented by that Value can than be used as the Down Payment or "Equity Position" needed for Construction Financing.

         If the residential property is an already started, but not completed new construction home ...

          Financing may be available for this form of purchase as well ... but with contingencies.  This type of purchase must be considered by the Mortgage Lender on a case-by-case basis as there are many factors that can/will enter into the "lendability" of the property and the success you find in financing it.

     2.  Secure Construction financing ... 

          To accomplish successful Construction financing, you will need a Contractor's Sworn Statement signed by the General Contractor.  The signed Statement must detail the total Cost of Construction.  

           As with any mortgage, you will be required to demonstrate your ability to re-pay the loan (Qualifying Debt-to-Income Ratio).  To fulfill typical lending requirements, you will need:

• Sufficient Down Payment or Equity (usually 25% of the Total Estimated Value of the completed construction)
• To prove sufficient Employment History and Income
• To prove a satisfactory Credit Rating 

     3.  Secure a Commitment for financing for the End Loan (final Mortgage) ...

     The final Mortgage pays-off the Construction Loan when the house is finished, inspected, and a Certificate of Occupancy Permit (COO) is issued by the governing municipality (City, Village, County, or entity that overseas that process).

     Please note:  Many Mortgage Lenders can and will do both the Construction Loan and the End Mortgage, providing a seamless process and financing experience.  Banks typically prefer to provide the Construction Loan only.  

     Sometimes, you can avoid some costs by using a Mortgage Lender that will offer a "Construction to Perm" program ... (Perm meaning Permanent or End Mortgage).  So make sure you ask regarding this important matter.  Don't assume.

     Also remember:  Most Construction Loans are unique loans.  Payments are usually Interest Only payments ... monthly payments figured upon the "used" or drawn portion of the monies financed during the construction process.  The monthly Interest payments made during the construction period/Construction Loan do not pay down the principal balance of the overall debt. 

     Many banks or Mortgage Lenders make 4 to 5 larger construction payouts as the home is being constructed and documentation is provided representing completed work on the home.  Other Lenders will allow unlimited draws.

     It's good news that new construction is on the mend in Will County and most of Chicagoland ... and interest is rekindled in building homes.  It's also great news that the availability of money and financing has also re-emerged in tandem with that new construction market.

     But perhaps the best news is:  A menu of options exist for you, should you hope to build soon ... or in the near future.  To secure the most advantageous and fluid financing option available, contact me.  The sooner we start to map-out and implement your personal options, the better.  Contact Me Now with your new Construction and Mortgage financing questions ...


     *   To get the answers you need prior to building a new home in Will County or elsewhere in Chicagoland ... or to receive information on financing any home or Refinance, contact me.  I'll be happy to hear from you and assist you with your questions and needs.
     I can be easily found at any of the following:

Direct:  815.524.2280

Cell or Text:  708.921.6331

eFax:  815.524.2281

gmundt@goapmc.com

www.genemundt.com

Click HERE for a FREE Mortgage Consultation!

Ready to Apply for your Mortgage?

 

             

                

     
        

Is Your Marketing a Cure for Insomnia?

Is Your Marketing a Cure for Insomnia?

     Ever find yourself in a conversation with someone and all they talk about is themselves?  I have.  All that "me, me, me"?  Well, I lose interest pretty quickly ...

     Zzzzzzz ... sure cures insomnia!

     While reading and conducting my marketing and social media, I've noticed there seems to be a whole lot of that intense "me-ism" going on.  Facebook and Twitter are loaded with it.  Pinterest has it too.  There's pretty intense self-promotion going on ... pins, tweets, posts ... all with blatant sales pitches. 

     I'm a big fan of marketing and social media.  It's an unbelievably value tool when trying to gain attention and win new business for yourself.  I understand and respect that, just like me ... other companies are seeking results from social media efforts and marketing too.       

     But I think the method by which you deliver your marketing message on these sites can make or break you.  Deliver it heavy-handed, be too self-absorbed, not offer anything of value within your messages or format ... and you run the risk of losing your audience.  I don't know about you, but that's something I'm trying to avoid.

     Yes this defines exactly what I've seen as of late on many social media sites.  I've actually "unfollowed" a few of my Pinterest and Twitter Followers.  (I'm considering doing likewise on Facebook.)  Bottomline, too many boards and messages I received were boring to me.  Too many offered nothing informative, new, engaging, or of interest to share with others.  They were "me, me, me".  In otherwords ... zzzzzzz.   

     I think people avoid or ignore others that talk about themselves too much.  They are drawn to, connect with, and seek out those that share and offer something of real value with them. 

     What I've been seeing on Pinterest and other social media as of late?  It reminds me to approach my own marketing with that important lesson in mind.  If I don't, I risk losing followers and potential business.  

     Or at minimum, putting someone to sleep ...


     *  Hoping to buy or refinance a home in Will County or elsewhere in Chicagoland?  Looking to educate yourself regarding the homebuying and mortgage financing process?  Follow Me via the Social Media outlets below ... or Contact Me.  I'll be happy to help and assist you throughout your entire transaction.
     I'm easily found at:

Direct:  815.524.2280

Cell/Text:  708.921.6331

eFax:  815.524.2281

gmundt@goapmc.com

www.genemundt.com

Click HERE for a FREE Mortgage Consultation!

Ready to Apply for your Mortgage?



  

  

      

    

Are you a Recent Will County - Chicagoland Bride? How to Change your Last Name Once the Wedding is Over

Are you a Recent Will County - Chicagoland Bride?  

How to Change your Last Name Once
the Wedding is Over

     Our office has been an exciting place lately.  Besides the usual excitement surrounding our mortgage transactions and services, we've recently been celebrating the marriage of one of our co-workers.  Nothing like having a new bride around! 

     But now that the wedding has taken place, our new bride is finding that there are quite a few things affected by her change in marital status ... and there's quite a bit of updating needed in regards to her new name change.

      It's Important for new brides that are changing their last name to Know:  They need to have possession of their original or certified Marriage Certificate showing their new last name on it prior to attempting changes elsewhere.  

     If you're a Will County, IL bride... and you didn't receive your Marriage Certificate, contact the County Clerk's office (in the county where you were married) to get a certified copy.  

     If that's Will County:  Two (2) business days after you receive your signed Marriage License, you can obtain/request a copy of your Marriage Certificate.  

     In Cook County:  Two weeks must pass from the day married to make the same request.

     Why is this so important?

     Documentation changes must be completed by all brides changing their names.  Those changes must be performed accurately and in a timely manner as they can reflect on a bride's credit standing ... or cause issues when in the midst of a home buying transaction.       

     Of special note ...

• Social Security Card - To accomplish this important update/change, brides need to fill out a new application and receive a new Social Security Card.  The number remains the same, but the new card will reflect her name change.  

       Brides can go directly to their local Social Security Administration office ... or they can visit the Social Security Administration website for the Application.

       Proof of Identity and age will be demanded for this purpose.  The documents accepted by the Social Security Administration as viable proof can be found ... HERE.   

• Driver's License - In-and-of itself, your Driver's License is not credit or finance-related.  But so often, financial institutions and companies rely on an accurate and updated Driver's License for proof of your existence, signature, or accounts that it's just a great (and smart) place to start ASAP after your wedding day name change.  Brides requesting a new Driver's License because of a name change must produce a copy of their Marriage Certificate.
•  Creditors, Credit Cards/Accounts  - Provide written notification of your name change to all creditors.  Make sure to ask them to provide their updates/changes to the 3 major Credit Bureaus: TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian.  Some Credit Card companies will allow name changes without your providing proof ... but it's best to be prepared, should that not be the case.        

     
     I suggest strongly that you follow up with each of the Credit Bureaus in a few months to make sure that all changes are being correctly reflected on your credit records.


     Give special attention to:

• Bank Savings Accounts & Investment Accounts - Expect to have to provide your new Driver's License and a copy of your Marriage License at these institutions.  Make sure you ask for new checks, debit, credit cards attached to any existing accounts.

• Utility Company Accounts - Yes, utility companies report to the Credit Bureaus.  NICOR reports account delinquencies to the Credit Bureaus.  Other utility report collections only, so seeing to a name change (or addition of name) remains important.  Visit your utility sites or see the back of your bills for directions as to how to proceed.

• IRS - Change of name can be completed by filling out Form #8822 (a name of address form that includes other changes/name changes).  

     A simple phone call or completed form may suffice when changing names on other accounts.  Brides must remember to not overlook making the needed changes on the following too:

• HR Departments, Doctors/Medical Facilities, Passport, Insurance Policies, Attorney (for any legal documents), Post Office, Tax forms/IRS, Memberships, Leases, Auto Loans, and more.   

       NOTE:  Because of recent changes that may have occurred to Voting Laws in your area, when voting in future elections, the info on your Driver's License must match the name on your Voter's ID.  You may be denied the right to vote, should there be a discrepancy.

     Our office bride provided us this handy tip in regards to Passports too ...  

     If you change your name on your Driver's License and your honeymoon travel requires you have a Passport:  Make sure your Passport matches your flight/travel info and the info on your ticket(s).  Make sure to make copies of your Marriage Certificate and take them with you during your Honeymoon, as a precaution should questions arise. 

     Begin gathering the needed addresses, phone numbers, and forms ... and start filling them out prior to your wedding date.  That way changes can be made quickly and easily after you're married.  

     Again, I suggest that you always follow up any actions taken in order to make sure that they have been made correctly.  That way there are no surprises later or corrections still needing to be made should you decide to purchase or finance a home in the future.

     Should you have any questions ... please, don't hesitate to contact me ...

     

*  Getting married soon?  Do your dreams include owning a home or investment property in the Chicagoland - IL - WI area?  

Contact Me.  I'll put my 40 years of Mortgage experience and expertise hard to work on your behalf.
     I'm easily found at:

Gene Mundt

Mortgage Originator  -  NMLS #216987  -  IL Lic. #031.0006220  -  WI Lic. #216987

American Portfolio Mortgage Corp.

NMLS #175656

Direct:  815.524.2280

Cell/Text:  708.921.6331

eFax:  815.524.2281

gmundt@goapmc.com

www.genemundt.com

             

    

Gene Mundt, Mortgage Originator, an Originator with 40 years of mortgage experience, will offer you exemplary mortgage service and advice when seeking: 

Conventional, FHA, VA, Jumbo, USDA, and Portfolio Loans in Chicago 

and the greater Chicagoland region, including: 

The Lincoln-Way Area, Will County, (New Lenox, Frankfort, Mokena, 

Manhattan, Joliet, Shorewood, Crest Hill, Plainfield, Bolingbrook, 

Channahon, Lockport, Elwood, Romeoville, Naperville, etc.), 

DuPage County, the City of Chicago, 

Cook County, and elsewhere within IL & WI.

Referrals are Welcomed!

   

Opportunities & Ways to Help November 17th's Will County & IL Tornado Victims

    

Opportunities & Ways to Help November 17th's

Will County & IL Tornado Victims

     The tornadoes that wreaked havoc across much of Illinois on Sunday, November 17th, left a trail of death and devastation behind them.  At the time of this writing, it is being reported that at least 6 people were killed and 54 more were injured. 

     Relief efforts to assist the families, homes, and businesses damaged or destroyed by the deadly storms have sprung up all across our State.  Many such efforts are also being organized locally within Will County. 

     The Red Cross has set-up a mobilized shelter operation in Coal City at the Coal City High School located at 655 W. Division Street.  Coal City, Diamond, and areas of Manhattan Township were the hardest hit amongst the areas located in the County. 

     For those wishing to help monetarily:  A Tornado disaster relief fund was set up by the Village of Diamond at:  Mazon State Bank.  If writing a check, make it out to:    Diamond & Coal City Tornado Disaster Relief Fund

Donations are being accepted at the bank itself.  If mailing a donation, please send your donation to: Mazon State Bank, 2315 E Division St., PO Box 247, Diamond, IL 60416.

     The Coal City United Methodist Church is helping to serve the volunteers working on the clean-up of the tornado.  The Church has requested donations of the following to aid them in their work:

• Bleach, gloves, sponges, buckets, garbage bags, mops, towels, and other various cleaning supplies    

     The Ignite Christian Church located at 301 South Broadway, Coal City and Coal City Clothes Closet at 130 Blackstone, Coal City, are also serving as donation drop-off points. 


     Fire Stations within Will County are also helping in the collection of needed supplies.  Donations can be made at the following fire houses within Will:

• Troy Fire Station 1 - 7ooo Cottage Street, Shorewood
• Plainfield Fire Station 1 - 14415 S. Coil Plus Drive 
• Channahon Fire Station 2 - 23341 McClintock Street

     In Braidwood you can leave donations in a drop-off box located on the front porch of the First Presbyterian Church of Braidwood located at 106 S. Lincoln Street.   Donations can also be left at the Main Street Baptist Church in Braidwood.  The church is located 110 South Division Street.  Both churches ask that you specify that donations are being made on behalf of the tornado victims.
 
     In Elwood, donations are being accepted on Tuesday through Friday between the hours of 9 am to 7 pm at:  The Hair Code, 416 East Mississippi Avenue. 

     In Manhattan, drop-offs can be made at:  Hawk Fitness at 112 State Street in Manhattan.  Hours are:  M-W, 8:30 am to 1 pm, M-F, 3:30 pm to 9 pm. 

     In New Lenox, donations can be left at:  Page Desk Incorporated, 14557 W. Edison Drive, between the hours of: 10 am to 5 pm.  The New Lenox Police Department has also joined the relief effort and has become available as a drop-off location.  The NL Police Department is located at:  701 W Haven Ave in New Lenox. 
    
    Finding another way to serve the residents of the area, the agents of Remax Ultimate Professionals, 576 Brookforest Ave (Rt. 59) in Shorewood are collecting donations to help those in need.  Crispy Waffle, also located at 576 Brookforest Avenue, Shorewood, is collecting donations between the hours 8 am to 5 pm. 

     Will County Habitat for Humanity will be distributing tornado relief donations made through the Shorewood and Joliet branches of People First Bank.   

    The relief charity "Helping Hugs" from Plainfield, is accepting donations from 2 to 7 p.m on Monday and Tuesday (November 18th & 19th) at Plymouth Congregational Church, 24022 W. Lockport St. (use Illinois Street entrance, please).  For a list of needed items, click HERE.

    Opportunities & Ways to Help November 17th's Will County & IL Tornado Victims ... Relief efforts will no doubt be expanded in the days ahead.  Please keep the families and businesses damaged and destroyed in this last Sunday's tornadoes and storms in your thoughts ... and take action now to help how and where you can.

     Thank you ...


     Gene Mundt
     APMC - New Lenox, IL
     NMLS #216987
     www.genemundt.com
     708.921.6331
     gmundt@goapmc.com