Whistler Burch, Realtor

12/22/2021

At this usually joyous time of year, it has been customary to wish a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year. In 2020 and 2021 Nature has radically changed our thinking and methods of operation – masks, social distancing, vaccines and, for some, mental difficulties from isolation.

If celebrations are in order this holiday season, cherish being with each and every member of your family and thankful for good friends. Remember, there are many who have experienced the illness or even death of a loved one, or because of tornadoes, fires, etc. the loss of their towns, businesses, and some, if not all, of their possessions. Speaking for myself, I am more appreciative of what I do have and try not to lament for that which I do not have.

Viruses, bacteria, and acts of Nature are a fact of life, but we each should rely on science for guidance, and be kinder and more tolerant to all who inhabit our planet, human and animal, and wish that good health, and, hopefully, prosperity will ultimately prevail in the coming years. And, it would not hurt to pray a little!

12/18/2020

Despite the economies of scale that accompany high volumes, costs are up because mortgage companies are paying a lot to bring in enough new hires to keep up with the stream of loans pouring in.

The average pretax production profit for independent mortgage companies and home-loan subsidiaries of chartered banks was 203 basis points of the principal balance on each unit originated during the period. That translates to net income of $5,535 per loan.

12/17/2020

Buying your first home comes with many big decisions, and it can be as scary as it is exciting.

If this is your first rodeo as a homebuyer — or if it’s been many years since you last bought a home — knowledge is power. Along with knowing where the pitfalls are, it’s important to get tips from knowledgeable sources so you know what to expect and what questions to ask.

12/16/2020

Capacity issues, price-shopping among the top reasons would-be borrowers don’t close with the initial lender

According to the most recent Mortgage Bankers Association report on profits, 72% of mortgage applications in the third quarter were funded by independent mortgage banks, known as the pull-through rate.

12/14/2020

A native of Canada, Mandel appeared in the 1987 comedy film “Walk Like a Man” and the TV series “St. Elsewhere” .

Finished earlier this year, the three-story mansion sits on 1.3 acres and draws the eye with a visually busy facade of gray panels and whitewashed stone. Inside, dramatic beams and floor-to-ceiling windows mark the open-concept living spaces.

12/11/2020

The Bird Buddy aims to identify your feathered friends by selfie or song, and connects to an app for a gamelike collecting experience and conservation effort.

The Bird Buddy project launched on Kickstarter this week wants to lure you into a whole new world of bird-watching mixed with a touch of Pokemon Go and a dash of conservation efforts.

12/10/2020

It isn’t all bad news.

Data from Opportunity Insights show that fewer people in lower and middle classes are climbing the economic ladder. In fact, if you were born after 1980, your chances of out-earning your parents by your 13th birthday stands around 45%, compared to 93% for those born in the ’40s.

12/09/2020

You hear a lot about mortgages these days, but you don’t hear much about reverse mortgages.

Reverse mortgage loans can be an effective tool for older homeowners who don’t have much spare cash but need to cover expenses such as medical bills, home renovations and monthly bills. The catch is that these types of loans are only available to homeowners age 62 or older.

12/07/2020

The gods have yet to smile on Kevin Sorbo’s real estate fortunes.

Sorbo's been trying to unload the Mediterranean villa since 2014, when it first appeared on the market for $4.5 million. With no buyers biting, waves of price cuts followed.

12/04/2020

Keep this in mind!

This week, Alex Lelchuk explains the mistakes many DIYers make when installing a smart home system, how to choose the right professional to set up automation and the benefits of video distribution.

12/03/2020

There are a lot of factors that could make a brand-new home a less than ideal purchase.

Just because a house is new doesn’t mean it’s free of flaws. There are a lot of factors that could make a brand-new home a less than ideal purchase. So, before closing on a new-construction home, here are some things you need to consider.

12/02/2020

The actor Seth Rogen has listed his longtime Hollywood home for $2,125,000.

It's a classic Southern California living space that features a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor living, with ponds and seating areas perfectly situated for entertaining family and guests.