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Self Employed? "Pick your Poison"
Borrowers who are self-employed often find themselves in a catch-22. One of the benefits of owning your own business is the ability to limit your taxable income by declaring various expenses required to operate your business. At the risk of making a general statement, some business owners will exaggerate their expenses in an effort to reflect less income and therefore pay less at tax time.
The downside is a tax return reflecting income that can be less then what is needed to qualify in the price range the borrower is most interested. There is no easy solution to this dilemma. The "stated income" loan was originally devised for the self-employed borrower but we can take a short trip into the past to see how this program helped create the housing bubble. The general underwriting guideline requires a two-year average of the business income. There are instances where only one year of taxes are necessary to qualify. One year of a higher tax liability is far cheaper than two years! This is a great example of why meeting with your local lender can be extremely advantageous. A program that allows for one-year taxes is not the norm, but when your situation is vetted properly with a local professional lender you might find that, with a little guidance, you will qualify for the home of your dreams.
Andy Boron of Augusta Financial 291-2242


Prized Property in Acton
This prized property shows off your impeccable taste and takes advantage of a prime location in town, too. Enjoy four bedrooms plus a loft and extra-large RV parking. The front courtyard with built-in fountain and seating area wows while the solid mahogany double front doors welcome you inside. Features include hardwood floors, upgraded baseboards, crown moulding, newer interior paint, solid-core round-top doors and hardware, central vacuum system, dual-wall insulated garage doors and more. Check out the formal windows in the living and dining rooms, the kitchen's polished travertine tile, so many granite surfaces, stainless appliances, walk-in pantry, eat-in area, Pella-wood French doors to the backyard and much more. You'll love showing off your charming fireplace, custom built-in shelves, downstairs guest room, vaulted ceilings and remodeled master bath with travertine and marble tile, an extra-deep soaking tub and more. Experience the best of the outdoors with a park-like yard, pavers, fire pit with seating wall, play set and three sheds. This entertainment-friendly home has lots of off-street parking to accommodate your guests. Offered at $649,900.
Kathy Watterson of RE/MAX Santa Clarita knows that relationships matter. Put her 28 years of experience
to work for you. 284-5066


Exquisite Pacific Grove Home
Your new four-bed, three-bath home boasts a sparkling pool and spa, spectacular view and quiet cul-de-sac location. You'll love the cathedral ceiling, large windows with plantation shutters and stunning open floor plan. Easy-maintenance, beautiful tile and laminate flooring is found throughout, too. The kitchen has granite countertops and opens to the family room, which boasts an inviting fireplace. Also special: The first floor has one bedroom and a full bath. The spacious master bedroom has remarkable views and a large in-suite bathroom with tub, shower and walk-in closet. Located close to many amenities like parks, transportation, shopping, restaurants and more, this home has no mello roos.
Buying and selling a home is one of life's most important decisions and is often a time of stress and excitement. Having an ethical real estate agent - like Rosalind Nichol of RE/MAX of Santa Clarita - who puts your interests before their own is essential. 645-3495



Your Packing Plan for a Summer on the Move
Summer officially starts on June 20. With gorgeous weather and children out of school, it's no wonder that many families plan vacations as well as their moves. While planning a trip is much more exciting than mapping out a relocation, having a practical timeline for your move will save you time, money and headaches.
You can begin by taking inventory of your home. Divide your items into three categories: trash, donation and keeping. Box up the items in the last category, clearly labeling each box and its contents so you can quickly find what you are looking for once unpacking.
Start six weeks ahead of moving day by packing your storage spaces, closets, garages, sheds, etc. At three-to-four weeks to go, pack up your decor, books, CDs and DVDs. Next, tackle rarely used rooms, offices, craft space and infrequently-used items in your kitchen. In the final week, attack your bedrooms, bathrooms and the kitchen. Set aside at least a week's worth of clothes and toiletries first, of course. Clearly label which boxes to unpack first, which will include the kitchen essentials.
Putting this plan into action will ensure your move is successfully completed in no time - leaving you time to savor the rest of summer!
Camelot Moving & Storage 255-3112

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Is there Theft or Fraud in your Community?
Have you dealt with theft and fraud within your community? If so, you know how detrimental it can be to your association. If you have not yet dealt with theft and fraud, it is important to know how to prevent it. Fraud, embezzlement and theft can happen anywhere, including your protected HOA. If you feel you are missing something within your books, chances are you just might be.
There are many signs of theft and fraud; however, there is a starting place to begin looking if issues occur. Balances exceeded budgeted amounts, services paid for that were not performed, delays in bank deposits, duplicate payments, petty cash fund that disappears quickly and books out of balance are all signs of potential theft and fraud.
There are various ways to prevent theft and fraud when dealing with an HOA. NPMG insists that you remain steadfast in your search and prevention and remain proactive. Make sure you are taking the time to research and check records and balances for yourself. It is important to not just rely on someone else to do all the work. Make sure you are reviewing your financials on a monthly basis and comparing them to your bank statements. Maintain checks and balances. Ensure that your management company has internal controls and different responsibilities such as signing checks versus invoicing. No one employee should do both of these things. Keep your accounts separate and do not mingle funds. Keep everything organized and in its place. If something goes awry, it is time to investigate. Finally, ensure that you have a yearly review/audit by a third party CPA. They will review your books thoroughly and can help identify any possible discrepancies within your financials.
National Property Management Group 295-5966