I don't want to be unnecessarily alarmist. But this is a threat that you or anyone you know should be aware of when going through a real estate transaction. It's not the nicest thing to think about, but essential nonetheless.

For anyone you know who is considering a relocation, mortgage modification, short sale or any other transaction, I put together a free report available on my website that explains what kinds of fraud schemes the FBI has seen, as well as the "red flags" to look out for. You can download it here:

http://stopyorkpaforeclosure.com/

If you have any questions about mortgage scams, or if anyone you know needs legitimate, professional help with avoiding foreclosure, please don't hesitate to contact me. I am here to help.

Sincerely,

Jerry Pilgrim

Once you have

1. Shop around

Be sure to do your homework and check with several different companies for the best rates and the value they offer. You can look online for different companies and their rates quickly to compare. Check with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (www.naic.org) for information to help you choose an insurer in your state, including complaints. States often make information available on typical rates charged by major insurers and many states provide the frequency of consumer complaints by company.

Keep in mind that this policy will insure your home and everything you value in it, so don't consider price alone. The insurer you select should offer a fair price and deliver the quality service you would expect if you needed assistance in filing a claim. So in assessing service quality, use the complaint information cited above and talk to a number of insurers to get a feeling for the type of service they give. Ask them what they would do to lower your costs.

2. Increase Your Deductible

Deductibles are the amount of money you have to pay toward a loss before your insurance company starts to pay a claim, according to the terms of your policy. The higher your deductible, the more money you can save on your premiums. Nowadays, most insurance companies recommend a deductible of at least $500. If you can afford to raise your deductible to $1,000, you may save as much as 25 percent. Remember, if you live in a disaster-prone area, your insurance policy may have a separate deductible for certain kinds of damage. If you live near the coast in the East, you may have a separate windstorm deductible; if you live in a state vulnerable to hail storms, you may have a separate deductible for hail; and if you live in an earthquake-prone area, your earthquake policy has a deductible.

3. Make Policy Premium Payments Electronically.

Many companies now charge up to $5 for mailed or phone payments, so have your payments automatically deducted to shave that cost. Sometimes the deductions can come from your credit or debit card, so you don't have to worry if the money is in your bank account when payment time comes.

4. Purchase Multiple Policies From Your Insurer

Some companies that sell homeowners, auto and liability coverage will take 5 to 15 percent off your premium if you buy two or more policies from them. But make certain this combined price is lower than buying the different coverages from different companies.

5. Make Your Home More Disaster Resistant

Find out from your insurance agent or company representative what steps you can take to make your home more resistant to windstorms and other natural disasters. You may be able to save on your premiums by adding storm shutters, reinforcing your roof or buying stronger roofing materials. Older homes can be retrofitted to make them better able to withstand earthquakes. In addition, consider modernizing your heating, plumbing and electrical systems to reduce the risk of fire and water damage.

6. Improve Your Home Security

You can usually get discounts of at least 5 percent for a smoke detector, burglar alarm or dead-bolt locks. Some companies offer to cut your premium by as much as 15 or 20 percent if you install a sophisticated sprinkler system and a fire and burglar alarm that rings at the police, fire or other monitoring stations. These systems aren't cheap and not every system qualifies for a discount. Before you buy such a system, find out what kind your insurer recommends, how much the device would cost and how much you'd save on premiums.

7. Seek Out Other Discounts

Companies offer several types of discounts, like senior discounts. Insurance companies have found that retired people stay at home more and spot fires sooner than working people. Older people also have more time for maintaining their homes. If you're at least 55 years old and retired, you might qualify for a discount of as much as 10%. Some employers and professional associations administer group insurance programs that may offer a better deal than you can get elsewhere.

8. Review Your Policy Limits

You want your policy to cover any major purchases or additions to your home. But you don't want to spend money for coverage you don't need. If your five-year-old fur coat is no longer worth the $5,000 you paid for it, you'll want to reduce or cancel your floater (extra insurance for items whose full value is not covered by standard homeowners policies such as expensive jewelry, high-end computers and valuable art work) and pocket the difference.

While the real estate market has been struggling for sellers, their are numerous incentives that make this a great time for home buyers. Historically low interest rates, first time homebuyer credits, low home prices and a large inventory of properties make now the perfect time to buy a home.

Whether homeownership is for you, however, depends on if you are ready both financially and emotionally for the change. After all, buying a home isn't just about money, lifestyle and commitment and time should also be considered in your decision. 

Just last week Good Morning America had a special about walking away form your commitment. The analogy they used was that if it is good enough for corporate America to do so, it is O.K. for the average homeowner too. It was totally irresponsible reporting and they should be taken to task to promote such a terrible injustice to the public. They did not mention what consequences there are to individuals who actually must work and maintain households, credit ratings and personal reputations if they allow a foreclosure to happen. Obviously they did not realize or even care that with that type of reporting people could be jeopardizing their financial futures including holding on to the job they currently have or a job in the future. Corporations don't have to think about those things as it not part of the business world. So yes, corporations do that sometimes but with different consequences.

Please don't consider a Strategic Foreclosure as you might not be happy what you may end up with. Call me today for a confidential interview and we can set the record straight and get you on the right financial path.

When it comes time to show your home to potential buyers, you only have one chance to make a first impression. Holding an open house will draw potential buyers and allow them to see all of what your home has to offer. You should of course take care of all major repairs before you have an open house, but below are some things you can do to help prepare and make the most of your showing. 

• Be sure to leave the home during the showing.  Potential buyers tend to  feel uncomfortable with the sellers hanging around. You want buyers to get a feel for the home, not feel like they cannot look around.
•  When you leave be sure to take your pets with you. Barking or agressive dogs even confined to a garage will make buyers feel restricted as to where they can look.
• Depersonalize your home. It may feel strange but by removing your personal treasures and photos from the home can help with the sale. You want potential buyers to focus on the best features of your home and you want them to envision their family in the home.
• Remove all vehicles from the driveway. Ask your neighbors to help out by not parking in front of your house.
• Be sure that the home is spotless and free of unpleasant odors prior to the open house. You may want to bake a fresh batch of cookies an hour or two before the open house begins. Not only will the aroma mask any unpleasant smells, but it will create a warm and inviting ambiance.
• Remove all private, and personal/fnancial documents from view. Be sure to also take all medications and valuables with you. While it is rare that you will have a problem it is better safe than sorry. You want to focus on selling your home not worring about a theft.
• Create a bulletin board of seasonal house photographs so buyers can see what the home would look like at another time of the year. This is especially helpful to showcase gardens during the winter.
• Set out all documents pertaining to the house: Inspection reports, appraisals, major repairs and warranties, blueprints for additions etc.

I first will discuss FHA loans as they are known as of today. This is becoming the most popular loan out there today in the York, PA area. The most important factor is the amount of money down that is required by HUD. As a buyer you will need to have at least 3.5% down of your own in the transaction. The Seller can contribute up to 6% of the sale price towards the Buyers closing costs as of today. That will be changing shortly to 3% in april. You can see why it is one of the most popular loans in the market. You can get into a $200,000 house for as little as $7,000! With the rates hovering around 5% +/- and the tax credit of between $6,500 for a current married homeowner or $8,000 for a first time homeowner (not owned a home in the last 3 years) you can practically get in for no money down. Keep in mind there is an up front mortgage insurance premium that you can add either to the mortgage amount or pay it at time of settlement. There is also a monthly fee that is added to your mortgage payment.

For more information call us at The Pilgrim Team. 717-757-5955

24 Hr Free Home Info Call: 800-240-5374 x2116.

Picture shown is similar to the Madison Model with 1 car garage. $4,000 builder incentive!

Enter into a dramatic two story entry and on into an open floor plan that is perfect for entertaining family and friends.  Plenty of windows fills the living spaces with tons of natural light.  The entry is flanked by a formal living room and dining room.  Steps away is the family room with an open concept kitchen featuring a breakfast bar.  Further enhancing the entertaining space is a large deck directly off the family room.

The large master bedroom will become your retreat from the household activities.  Spacious enough to host a full suite of bedroom furniture, and has a huge walk in closet over garage.   Wonderful master bath offers all the amenities and more including double vanity sink that offers plenty of storage.

Ask about the $4000 Builder Incentive!

As a homeowner, once you have purchased the perfect home, you dream

Of course paying off your mortgage gives you the satisfaction of actually owning your home. In addition, the mortgage payment is typically the highest of a household's monthly expense, so not having to worry about that each month can bring peace of mind, especially in the case of a loss of a job or retirement. 

Some financial advisors do however advise that paying off your mortgage is a bad financial move. Some arguments that the money should be invested as to gain a  higher return in the long run. While this advise might sound good in theory there is no guarantee that a higher return can be achieved. 

Paying off your mortgage has many benefits, but the question many homeowners ask is "How?", especially in a difficult economy. Below are some strategies you can use to help you get to your payoff goal!

• Keep an eye on interest rates and, if they fall, consider refinancing. If you can reduce your interest rate, shorten the term of your loan or both, refinancing can be an excellent strategy. 
• Overpay a fixed amount every month. Even if you can afford to pay an 5-20% of your total payment, it can add up to be 1-2 extra payments a year.
• Biweekly mortgage payment plans. By paying half of your monthly mortgage payment every two weeks, you end up making the equivalent of an extra payment every year.  Instead of making 12 monthly payments, you’ll make 52/2 = 26 biweekly payments — the equivalent of 13 monthly payments. This will shave years off your mortgage. Moreover, if you’re paid on a biweekly basis, this approach might match your budgeting process better than monthly payments.

In a difficult economy paying your regular monthly obligations can be difficult, and it can be very challenging to try to make any additional payments. They key is to make an attempt, every little bit counts and gets you closer to your goal!

Selling a home can be overwhelming but it should always be a smooth process. Clients who list their homes with The Pilgrim Team receive truly personalized service with unmatched results. Jerry and his Team have extensive knowledge and experience in York real estate, and they can market your home to the right buyer. By constantly adapting to market trends and using first-rate marketing techniques, The Pilgrim Team can target specific buyers who would be interested in purchasing your home.

So Why List With The Pilgrim Team?

• Unmatched Experience with Record Results
• Exceptional Negotiation Skills to Maximize Price
• Large Buyer Client Base including Business from Area Corporations
• Unmatched Internet Exposure
• Cutting-Edge Marketing Techniques and Strategies
• First-Class Support Team – We Are Always There for You!
• State of the Art Technology Integration
• A True Passion for Selling
• Honest, Trustworthy and Sensitive
• An Exceptional Closer who Keeps Your Sale Together and Gets It Done Quickly.

*Sellers Check Out our Guaranteed Sales Program*

 We understand that you may be in the information gathering stage and may not be ready to open up about who you are or your real estate needs at this time. If you are not comfortable providing all your contact information that is perfectly okay. Just enter your name, phone number, and email address so we can send you the material you requested.

We hate spam as much as you, so the only person who sees your info is your Realtor.

2010 Tour de Tanks Event
Saturdays & Sundays in March

Quiet country retreat away from the hectic rat race - great investment property or first time home buyer.  Outside remodeling completed with new siding, roof and deck.

Beautiful and spacious living room w/cathedral ceiling is cozy warm with a coal/wood stove.   Remodeled features inside include a new range & refrigerator and new 2nd bathroom.    Great screened-in back porch is perfect for entertaining.

With just a little TLC, this home will be a gem!

Welcome to 1135 Gun Club Road, York Springs Pennsylvania.  Charming 3 bedroom 1 bath home nestled on .53 acres of land that offers great potential.  

This single story rancher features 1193 square feet of finished living space that includes living room, dining area, and kitchen with refrigerator and range.  In addition this home has a partial unfinished basement and 2 car garage.  

Boasting fresh paint and new flooring in select areas, this charming piece of country would make a perfect starter home or for someone who has an eye for detail to make this home into something special.

For 24hr Free Home Info Call: 800-240-5374 x 2496

The government is helping homeowners this year who are wanting to buy new energy efficient appliances with a rebate. More than 70% of the energy used in our homes is for appliances, refrigeration, space heating, cooling, and water heating. Replacing old appliances and equipment with those that are ENERGY STAR® labeled can help American families save significantly on their utility bills. Each state and territory may select its own set of ENERGY STAR qualified products to rebate. The

Under this program, the U.S. Government has set aside $300 million and each state will have the authority to handle most of the details separately.  It provides rebates for qualifying energy-efficient appliances.select ENERGY STAR qualified appliances. These appliances may include:

• central air conditioners
• heat pumps (air source and geothermal)
• boilers
• furnaces (oil and gas)
• room air conditioners
• clothes washers
• dishwashers
• refrigerators/freezers
• water heaters

Only purchases of qualified products made during the specific time period established by each state will be eligible for a rebate. The rebate program will continue as long as the states and territories have money to support it. While they have until February 2012 to spend the money, it is likely that the money will go quickly. States and territories must indicate how they intend to notify consumers when the funding for rebate program is exhausted. The U.S. Government has given each State the authority to develop their own government appliance rebate program using the government’s guidelines. Individual states can decide the amounts of the appliance rebates up to $200 (reported) per selected appliance that is Energy Star qualified. Each state develops it’s own rebate program and may choose which appliances to include as long as it is on the list of approved Energy Star appliances that the U.S. Government listed. States will receive formula-based funding in order to start or continue an already established ENERGY STAR appliance rebate program

Charming rustic log home on Honey Run Golf Course nestled on 3 acre private setting in a neighborhood of distinguished homes.  Gorgeous brick walkway leads onto the bricked rocking chair front porch.  Walls on the interior of this home are combination of drywall and exposed logs.

Fantastic living area features cathedral ceilings with exposed wood beams.  Beautiful brick wood burning fireplace with built-in wood box is the feature of the room.  Loft walkway overlooks the living area.

Hosting a crowd for holiday dinners will be a delight in the spacious dining area.  The room is warm and cozy with its exposed wood log walls and beams along with exposed brick from the back of the fireplace wall.  Ceramic tile flooring carries into the large kitchen.

Rich wood cabinets fill the oversized kitchen with plenty of room to stow away all the necessary cooking gadgets.  The family chef will love all the counter space.  All appliances are included.

Just steps away from the kitchen and dining area is the three-season porch that is filled with plenty of natural light from the large windows.  The rich wood flooring, walls and ceiling creates a warm and rustic space.  Plenty of overflow room when hosting a crowd.

First floor master suite will become your retreat from the household activities.  The walk-in closet offers enough room for his/hers wardrobes.  Spacious master bath offers large vanity with plenty of storage below and a roomy linen cabinet.

Secondary bedrooms are on the second floor are bright and airy with plenty of natural light from multiple windows and vaulted ceilings.  

Sit back and relax on the oversized patio with great views and private setting.  

This home also includes multi-fueled heating systems, home warranty, outbuildings, fireplace w/heatolator, full basement with outside entrance, and outbuilding.

For 24hr Free Home Info Call: 800-240-5374 x 2016

These are new homes with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms and a 1 or 2 car garage.

There will be an open house on January 31st from 1-3PM

These new construction homes are located in Ashcombe Farms on Shaffer Circle which is a convenient location to shopping, restaurants, and schools.

If you need directions please email mrudacille@pilgrimteam.com

When searching for your new home , the neighborhood that it is in is just as important as all the other requirements that you are looking for in a home. There are some things to look for and add to your list that can help you locate the perfect neighborhood for your needs and family.

Even before you begin your home search, you should compile a list of what you are ideally looking for in a neighborhood. . Perhaps you are looking for a neighborhood that has young families with children or a neighborhood that has local shops and restaurants near by. Keep in mind that you'll probably have to make compromises, so put the "must-haves" at the top and the "would- like-to-haves" at the bottom. Here are some things to consider:

• If you have children or are you planning to have children, considering a neighborhood that has a good school system will be something to consider. Also parks and recreation is important items to consider when researching neighborhoods.
• If you need to commute to work, you may want to search for a neighborhood that has access to public transportation.
• Are you looking for a particular vibe or amenity in an area? 
• What type of building do you like?  Single family home, high rise condominium, villa?
• Are you looking for a neighborhood that has shops and restaurants within walking distance?

In addition to thinking about what you do what, you should also be certain of what you do not want as well.  For example, if you are looking for a more family orientated area you will probably want to pass on neighborhoods that are close to nightlife or noisy areas. Or if you are wanting to avoid construction you will probably want to pass on historical neighborhoods that are rebuilding or new construction areas.

Large Rancher on nearly 2 acres of land. Large living room ready for entertaining.  Separate dining room.  Large kitchen with breakfast bar.  Master Bedroom Suite w/walk-in closet.   Fully finished walkout basement with wet/dry bar for entertaining. Oversized 3 car garage for all your cars and recreational toys. Garage is roughed in for bath and heat. Not far from I-83 for commuters North or South.

For 24hr Free Home Info Call: 800-240-5374 x2376

Ashcombe Farms West located in the rolling hills of York County.  The Concord Townhome - 2 car garage with unfinished family room in the basement.  Carefree lifestyle design and quality throughout!  Deck off dining area.  Prices subject to change without notice.  $3,000 Buyer Incentive!

For 24hr Free Home Info Call: 800-240-5374 x 2126