arrFiles=new Array();arrFiles[0]=new Array("","Bradenton Florida real estate Scholfield Realty Inc.","Scholfield Realty offers real estate in Bradenton Florida Search the Manatee County real estate MLS for home, condo or duplexs for sale in Bradenton and real estate in the surrounding areas of Manatee County on Florida \'s gulf coast, just south of Tampa Bay. Lots of photos and Bradenton Home information. Your browser does not support frames and will miss Scholfield Realty properties in Bradenton Florida unless you click here. Scholfield Realty real estate site","Bradenton,Florida,Real,Estate,property,rentals","Scholfield Realty for home buyers in Bradenton Florida and a member of the Real Estate Group of American. Residential, condo, land or duplex properties for sale or rent.","");arrFiles[1]=new Array("topframe.htm","Scholfield - Top Frame","null","null","null","");arrFiles[2]=new Array("home1.htm","Scholfield Realty Bradenton Florida- Intro Page","Sorry, your browser doesn \'t support Java. Search the Scholfield Realty Site Member of the Real Estate Group of America \"Licensed to practice real estate in the State of Florida \" information@scholfieldrealty.com Designed by Team Creations Inc. © 2000-2004 - All Rights Reserved Hosted on Server 1012 HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF","null","null","");arrFiles[3]=new Array("menu.htm","Scholfield Realty Bradenton Florida Real Estate - Menu Frame","Designed by Team Creations Inc. © 2004","null","null","");arrFiles[4]=new Array("index.htm","Bradenton Florida real estate Scholfield Realty Inc.","Scholfield Realty offers real estate in Bradenton Florida Search the Manatee County real estate MLS for home, condo or duplexs for sale in Bradenton and real estate in the surrounding areas of Manatee County on Florida \'s gulf coast, just south of Tampa Bay. Lots of photos and Bradenton Home information. Your browser does not support frames and will miss Scholfield Realty properties in Bradenton Florida unless you click here. Scholfield Realty real estate site","Bradenton,Florida,Real,Estate,property,rentals","Scholfield Realty for home buyers in Bradenton Florida and a member of the Real Estate Group of American. Residential, condo, land or duplex properties for sale or rent.","");arrFiles[5]=new Array("information.htm","Scholfield Reality Bradenton Florida Introduction","Welcome to \"Our Little Secret \", Manatee County. We hope to make your visit a pleasant and exciting experience and invite you to live in our community with us. We here at Scholfield Realty, Inc. are dedicated to making this event as pleasurable and rewarding as possible. Scholfield Realty, Inc. is locally owned and was incorporated in 1956 with a record of excellent service in Real Estate marketplace. Barbara and I purchased the company in 1987 and have continued the excellent service and have maintained that company reputation throughout our community. Our goal is to provide exceptional service and customer satisfaction. We can help you look for a home, land, property, rentals or new construction. Bradenton Florida is a wonderful city with opportunties for the Entire Family. Our staff of high quality men and women have a desire to be of service, Because We Care. . Click on Search all MLS Listings for Over 1200 Homes to Choose From Visit our ManateeCounty.com site for indepth Real Estate News Ask for a copy of our Home Buyers Guide Book HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Designed by Team Creations Inc. , (c) 2000 - 2004","null","null","");arrFiles[6]=new Array("ginfo.htm","Scholfield Realty Bradenton Florida","General Information Office: 941-792-2363 Fax: 941-794-0190 Area Info Bradenton Area Links Staff Information Cities Selling Your Home 55+ Housing Information 55+ Community Listing Calculator Center Weather Fun for All ... But if you must! Out-of-State Realtor Links Schools Newspaper Maps Visit our ManateeCounty.com site for indepth Home Advice or Real Estate News Great place for the family HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Licensed to Sell Real Estate in the State of Florida Designed by Team Creations Inc. , (c) 2000 - 2003","null","null","");arrFiles[7]=new Array("schools.htm","Bradenton Florida School Information","School Report You will be leaving the Scholfield Realty Web site to view the links below. When finished simply click on the ( X ) in the right hand corner and you will be returned to this page. Manatee Community College Manatee County Schools Manatee County School Board Bradenton Schools Manatee Technical Institute School Search HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Designed and Maintained by: Copyright 2000 - 2004","null","null","");arrFiles[8]=new Array("form.htm","Scholfield Realty Bradenton Florida Information form","Tell us the area and property type you are looking for and we will be more than happy to assist you. Please enter the information requested below. Your Name: Please enter address: Street City, State, ZIP Phone Number Best Time to Phone Day Night E-Mail Address: About Your Present Home Do You: Own Rent Other ....... Would you like to: Purchase Rent Other ....... When do you expect to move: ASAP 1 - 3 months 3 - 6 months 6 - 9 months see comments About the Home you wish to purchase Location: Price Range: To Square Footage required: Bedrooms: 1 2 3 4 see comments Bathrooms: 1 2 2 1/2 3 3 1/2 see comments Home Style: Ranch Mobile Condo Waterfront Golf Course Colonial Victorian see comments Lot Size: Less 1/2 acre 1/2 - 3/4 acre 3/4 - 1 acre 1 - 3 acres see comments Home Age: New construction 1-3 years 3 -5 years 5-7 years see comments 55+ Community : Yes No Comments: Please add here any details which are important to you HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Team Creations Inc. Copyright © 2001 - 2003 Revised: August 4, 2003","null","null","");arrFiles[9]=new Array("4sale.htm","Scholfield Realty Bradenton Florida Homes for sale","View our listings here and once done click on the MLS Listing Logo below to view all the Manatee County MLS listings ... over 1200 Residential, Condominiums, Multi-Family or Land listings to choose from! $557,000 4BR / 3BA 7813 17 Avenue West AVE Whispering Pines MLS # 105603 Custom built by Brent Whitehead. Spacious 2 story home with elevator on 2 corner lots with no thru-streets. Whispering Pines offers a wooded and private setting close to shopping, medical and Anna Maria Island beaches. Large master bedroom suite. Office/Library, workshop and screened porch. Map and Additional Property Pictures $998,000 5BR/5BA 1702 21st W. St. Palmetto MLS # 98399 Truly one of a kind. Think Very Big. 5 or 7 bedrooms, 5 baths and 3 huge stone fireplaces are within this 5,534 square foot home. 7,200 square foot tennis court, 40 x 29 screened lanai with 20 x 40 auto clean pool and spa/hot tub. 31 x 22 game room with fireplace. Home sits on almost 4 acres of property. Plenty of room for R/V or boat parking. Map, Aerial Views and Additional Property Pictures $78,000 2BR / 2BA 205 W 48th Ave Heather Hills Estates MLS # 500281 Open, spacious, light and bright. New A/C and heat pump. Vinyl siding, roofover, updated range and microwave. Breakfast bar, open plan with combination living and dining room. Window covernings. Glassed in Family Room. Adult community. Sorry no pets. Map and Additional Property Pictures $74,900 403 49th Ave Terr W Heather Hills Estate MLS #103427 Tastefully redecorated from ceiling to floors. Fresh paint, light fixtures, new carpets throughout, plywood floors, home has a one year termite contract. Owners selling as is with right to inspect. Map and Additional Pictures $149,900 4BR / 2BA 815 E 65th Ave Winter Gardens contract pending MLS # 105312 Walk to middle school from this 4 bedroom and 2 bath home. Large back yard with ample room for a pool. Wood floors and maintenance free panel walls. Family room is 13x11 with wall a/c to bring the total square footage to 1536. Two car garage on back of house. Additional Property Pictures Close to shopping and beaches. $49,900 3BR / 1.5BA 4917 W 1st St contract pending Heather Hills Estate MLS # 105810 Spacious 3 bedroom unit in Heather Hills Estate. This adult community offers a great location to shopping, medical and the beach. The unit is furnished and being sold as is with right to inspect. Homeowners association is mandatory. Additional Property Pictures $38,000 1BR / 1BA 407 W 52nd Ave Floridana MLS # 105071 Single wide with add on - vinyl siding, roof over, central A/C. Maintenance fee includes water, sewer, trash, and heated community pool. No age or pet restrictions. $145,000 2BR / 2BA 3324 Vivienda Blvd Contract Pending MLS # 105058 This condo is in move in condition. A/C in 2003, appliances in 2003, new roof, extra parking comes with a beautiful view overlooking the pond. Screen lanai, garage, split bedroom plan. Heated community pool. No flood insurance needed for owner. Additional Property Pictures $198,900 5612 E 41st Ave MLS #102492 Lot in Lychee Acres Wonderful opportunity to build your dream home on large, deep water canal lot in delightful Lychee Acres next door to beautiful, new 2 story custom home. Canal leads into Braden River into Manatee River. Charter Member Click here to Visit our Calculator Center Designed to increase confidence in your home buying decision by allowing you to compare information at your own pace. We have literature on the area and most pertinent information about buying and selling and the loan process. Click on Search all MLS Listings for Over 1200 Homes to Choose From Call Barbara for all your Real Estate needs ... Our staff also handles Rental Properties. Click on the logo below. Looking for 55+ Communities? 55+ Housing Information Click Here Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. View the Scholfield Realty Listings or the Complete MLS HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS Copyright 2000 - 2004","Bradenton,Florida,Realty,home for sale","Bradenton Florida, Manatee County realtor since 1956. Homes, condos, commercial and residental property. Bradenton is a wonderful place to live, work and enjoy life.","");arrFiles[10]=new Array("areainfo.htm","Scholfield Realty Bradenton Florida","Consumer Information We \'ll work hard to make your relocation easier. Derryl T. Edwards, CLU, CRB REALTOR - President 100 Questions and Answers about Buying a New Home Home Buyer \'s Vocabulary House Buying \"Needs and Wants \" HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Visit our ManateeCounty.com site for indepth Home Advice or Real Estate News Designed by Team Creations Inc. , (c) 2000 - 2003","Bradenton,Fl,real estate","null","");arrFiles[11]=new Array("staff.htm","Scholfield Realty, Bradenton Florida Real Estate ","Derryl Edwards Broker - Owner Barbara Edwards Executive VP Biography Fay Whittaker William E. Page Biography Eric Hines Biography Angie Kathy Willingham Biography Linda Asher Ginger Office Manager Ginger usually answers the phone and is responsible for the smooth operation of the business. She will be responding to you with support and information. Please don \'t hesitate to call or e-mail Ginger. Email: Ginger@ScholfieldRealty.com Equal Opportunity Housing Bradenton, Florida Real Estate information@scholfieldrealty.com Click on Search all MLS Listings for Over 1200 Homes to Choose From Click Here HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Designed and maintained by Copyright 2000 - 2004","null","Bradenton Florida real estate specializing in residential homes for sale and rent. Information on 55+ real estate available. Data base for all homes and condo properties for sale in the Bradenton Fl, and Manatee County area.","");arrFiles[12]=new Array("rentals.htm","rental property Bradenton Florida- Scholfield Realty","Call or E-Mail Scholfield Realty about renting in Bradenton or Manatee County. 941-792-2363 information@scholfieldrealty.com 2751 W 73RD Ct 106 $1,200 2 Bedroom - 2 Bath Call for Availability mls - 100164 Furnished Villa style unit with garage built in 2000. Ready for a tenant. Rental must be minimum of 2 months. Rent amount varies upon number of months rented. Over 1100 square feet of living area and only minutes from the beach, shopping and medical facilities. Community Pool Additional Pictures 6366 Grand Oak Cir 3 Bedroom / 2 Bath $1,500 Call for Availability mls - 104414 2 bedroom and 2 bath brand new 2nd floor condo at Tara that looks down on the 18th tee of the preserve golf course. Large family room, den and 1 car garage. Available for annual rental. No smokers or pets. Additional Pictures 312 50th Ave. Plz W. Available For Available January 15, 2005 $1,100 Call for Availability mls - 85418 Great location, nicely furnished. No pets. Adult community (55+). Additional Pictures 6108 Walnut St Pointe West 2 Bedroom / 2 Bath $850 mls - 103131 Freshly painted 2 bedroom and 2 bath split plan. Screen lanai, washer and dryer hookup. Carport. Community pool and club house. Convenient to stores and beach. No pets allowed. Additional Pictures 305 Bayshore Bayshore On The Lake 1 Bedroom / 2 Bath $1,100 Call for Availability mls - 85420 Available for seasonal rental Nice location just off Cortez. Close to shopping. Rented Jan, Feb and Mar 2005. Additional Pictures 7308 Sand Castle Colony Cove 2 Bedroom / 2 Bath $950 Call for Availability mls - 95916 Two bedroom and two bath mobile home with eat in kitchen. Washer and dryer in shed. Active community near the interstate. Adult community. Rent is $950 a month plus electric and long distance calls. Sales and resort tax is 10.5% on rentals less than 7 months. Additional Pictures 1311 57th S W Bradenton, Fl 34209 Meadowcroft 1 Bedroom / 1 Bath $750 per month MLS 500530 Very nice 1 bedroom and 1 bath condo in a very nice subdivision with pool, clubhouse and monthly activities. 55+ community. Close to beach, shopping and hospital. Additional Pictures 207 52nd Ave Terr W Bradenton, Fl 34207 Floridana 2 Bedroom / 1 Bath $800 per month 2 bedroom and 1 bath . Manufactured home in active 55+ community with pool and lots of community activities. Sorry no pets allowed. Rent is $800 per month plus Electric, Phone and Cable. Sales and resort tax is 10.5% on rentals less than 7 months. Additional Pictures Click on 1234 Over 1200 Homes to Choose From Family Expanding - More Space Needed ... Click here Bradenton Florida Rental Property Member of the Real Estate Group of America \"Licensed to practice real estate in the State of Florida \" All information, regardless of source, including square footage and lot sizes, is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be verified by personal inspection by and/or with the appropriate professional(s). information@scholfieldrealty.com HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Designed by Team Creations Inc. © 2000-2004 - All Rights Reserved Hosted on Server 1012","Bradenton,Florida,rental properties,rentals,bradenton,florida,rentals","Bradenton Florida rental properties. Rental property in Bradenton and Manatee County managed by Scholfield Realty located in Bradenton.","");arrFiles[13]=new Array("area_info.htm","Bradenton Florida Homes","Bradenton Links Bradenton Business and Fun Newcomer Information Manatee Gateway Hotel/Motel Prices and Availability Restaurants Shopping Centers People/Business Search Economic Development Council Job Focus Manatee Appraiser Circuit Court Manatee Chamber of Commerce The Executive Network of Manatee Bradenton Kiwanis Manatee Diagnostic Center Riverpark Senior Residence Swan, Moody & Associates, Inc. Ben Shives Truck and Auto Super Center Ray \'s Canoe Hideaway COW Industries Inc. Bradenton Accommodations Bradenton Childrens Dentist Links to these agencies / businesses does not represent an indorsement by Scholfield Realty Inc. These links are provided as an additional source for information on area businesses. HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Designed by Team Creations Inc. , (c) 2000 - 2004","home,Bradenton,for sale,house","Bradenton homes for sale or rent. Our real estate staff will assist with your relocation move, home search and answering most area questions about homes, jobs and schools.","");arrFiles[14]=new Array("cities.htm","Bradenton Florida General Information","Bradenton Manatee County St. Petersberg Naples Tampa Sarasota Clearwater Florida Official Site Florida \'s Gulf Islands Anna Maria & Longboat Key Visit our ManateeCounty.com site for indepth Home Advice or Real Estate News HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Copyright 2000 - 2004","null","null","");arrFiles[15]=new Array("sell.htm","Scholfield Realty Bradenton Florida","General Information About Selling Your Home Office: 941-792-2363 Fax: 941-794-0190 . Questions and Answers about Selling Your Home 7 Pitfals of Selling a home Visit our ManateeCounty.com site for indepth Home Advice or Real Estate News . Click on 1234 Over 200 Homes to Choose From Designed by Team Creations Inc. , (c) 2001 - 2002","null","null","");arrFiles[16]=new Array("calculator/calculator.htm","Calculator Center","Calculator Center Simple Loan Calculator Buyer \'s Cash Requirements APR Calculator Rent vs. Buy Calculator Home Seller \'s Proceeds Calculator Refinancing Calculator Discounted Cash Flows Calculator Future Value of Savings Calculator Loan Comparison Calculator Loan Spread Calculator Pay Down Debt or Invest? Calculator Canadian Loan Spread Calculator","null","null","");arrFiles[17]=new Array("weather.htm","Bradenton Florida Weather Scholfield Realty","Weather Information Bradenton Florida Weather Weather Channel National Weather Service HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Copyright 2000 - 2003","null","null","");arrFiles[18]=new Array("realtorlinks.htm","Scholfield Realty Bradenton Florida","Out-of-State Realtors Office: 941-792-2363 Fax: 941-794-0190 Out-of-State Realtors Colorado Nobel Real Estate - Denver, Colorado For years they have proudly served the Front Range communities in and around Denver, Littleton, Greenwood Village, Aurora and Boulder . Illinois Home Buyers Relocation Service - Welcome to Southwestern Illinois and Home Buyers Relocation Services. This special part of the great Midwest is a great place to live...unique! As the area \'s only exclusive buyer \'s agency, and the only relocation specialists, we \'re a unique realty firm. Please visit our Website to learn more about our services and the St. Louis Metroeast area. HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Licensed to Sell Real Estate in the State of Florida Designed by Team Creations Inc. , (c) 2000 - 2003","null","null","");arrFiles[19]=new Array("55plusdata/senior_housing.pdf","Book1.xls","County Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Unit Name Bayshore Gardens Condo, Unit #1 Aloha Estates Bayshore on the lake Condo Apartments, Phase II Belle Groves Village Bradenton Tropical Palms Burgundy Unit 1 Association, Inc. Cambridge Village Assoc, Inc. Cambridge Village West Condo Assoc, Inc. Chateau Village Co-Op Inc. Condo Owners of Meadowcroft South, Inc. Cortez Villas Condo 9 Association, Inc. Cortez Villas Condo Assoc. Cortez Villas Condominium12 Association Cortez Windmill Village Desoto Square Villas Owners Association El Rancho Village, Inc. Fair Lane Acres, inc. Fernwood Property Assoc., Inc. Gold Tree Co-op Golf Lakes Residents Association, Inc. Gulf Drive, Inc. A Senior Community Heather Hills Estates Ironwood 11th Condo Assoc., Inc. Ironwood Fourth Condominium Assoc., Inc. Lincoln Arms Corp. Mary Ann Mobile Home Park Mel Mar Village Morton Village Condo Association Mount Vernon Condo Assoc, Inc. Palma Sola Shores Condo Assoc. Palmer Club at Prestancia Condominium #1 Assoc., Inc. Paradise Bay Estates, inc. Pescara Lake, Inc. Plantation Village Mobile Home Community Plantation Village Mobile Home Community River Isles Home Owners Assoc., Inc. Sugar Creek Estates, Inc. Sugar Creek Resort Association, Inc, Sugarcreek Country Club Swan Lake Village The Second Bayshore Condo Assoc, Inc. Trailer Estates Park & Recreation District Address 5310-14th street W 1600 Leisure Dr. 3519 Lake Bayshore Dr. 624 US 301, Blvd. E 2310-14th St. W 205 47th Avenue Dr., West 3203 Cambridge Ave. 6500 Heritage Lane 612 53rd Ave West PO Box 10674 3806 34th Avenue West 3407 41st W 4100- 37th Avenue West 3301 Cortez Rd., W 390 US 301 Blvd. West 508 44th Ave East 819-49th Ave. Terrace West 4000 Fern Dr. 5707 45th Street East 5050-5th Street East P.O. Box 10674 4925 Third Street West 3660 Ironwood Circle, Bldg., M 5726 Cortez Road West, #154 5030 14th Street West National Mobile Parks, Inc. National Mobile Parks, Inc. PO Box 10674 4701 Independence Dr. 2107 Palma Sola Blvd. PO Box 10714 10315 Cprtez Rd. W, No 17-WPT 570 57th Ave. W 21163rd Avenue, West 211 63rd Ave., W 1014 Baytree Rd. 3275 26th Ave E 3300 26th Ave., East #246 3333-26th Ave., E 620 57th Ave. W 1800 Restful Dr. 1903 69th Ave., West, PO Box 6298 City Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton BradentonRegistratio Renewal3/4/02 11/4/02 6/19/02 12/24/01 2/25/02 10/5/01 4/1/02 4/9/02 12/17/01 5/20/02 5/12/03 11/13/01 5/12/03 3/4/02 10/29/01 12/17/01 11/16/01 2/25/02 1/4/02 12/31/01 10/17/02 1/30/02 2/25/02 4/9/02 5/20/02 6/4/03 6/4/03 5/20/02 12/12/01 6/19/02 4/9/02 1/25/02 3/11/02 9/24/01 7/9/02 4/9/02 2/25/02 3/20/02 4/4/02 3/11/02 4/4/02 3/14/02 3/4/04 11/4/04 6/19/04 12/24/03 2/25/04 10/5/03 4/1/04 4/9/04 12/17/03 5/20/04 5/12/05 11/13/03 5/12/05 3/2/04 10/29/03 12/17/03 11/16/03 2/25/04 1/4/04 12/31/03 10/17/04 1/30/04 2/25/04 4/9/04 5/20/04 6/4/05 6/4/05 5/20/04 12/12/03 6/19/04 4/9/04 1/25/04 3/11/04 9/24/03 7/9/04 4/9/04 2/25/04 3/20/04 4/4/04 3/11/04 4/4/04 3/14/04Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Manatee Twin Oaks Mobile Home Park Vista del Largo West Winds Village, Inc. Wild Oak Bay Vista V Owners Assn., inc. Windmill Manor Woodpark at Desoto Cortez Trailer Park Hi-Way Shores Mobile Home Park Pelican Pier Mobile Home Park Ridgewood Oakes Condo Assoc., Inc. Ridgewood Palms & Grove Mobile Home Park Tidevue Estates Civic Assoc., Inc. Country Lakes Village Imperial Lakes Estates Condo 3 Condo Association, Inc. Imperial Lakes Estates Condominium I Association, Inc. Imperial Lakes Estates Condominium Two Jet Mobile Home Park Leisure Lake co-op Piney Point Homeowners, Inc. Skyway Village Estates, Inc. Terra Ceia Manor Homeowners Association, Inc. Trpic Isles Co-op, Inc. The Gardens 4530 9th Street East 801 52rd Ave., W 5316-53rd Ave E 4005 Avenida Madera 5320 53rd Street 390 US 301 Boulevard West PO Box 326 4901 US 301 N 6207 18th Street E P.O. Box 432 7004 US Hwy 301 N 4214 11th Street Ct., E 6100 Bayshore Rd. 8565 Crown \'s Court 8565 Crown \'s Court 8565 Crowns Court 506 5th Ave West 3003 US Hwy 41 N 8624 29th Ave. East 420-49th Street East 5619 Bayshore Drive 3100 10th Street West 11300 US 301 N Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Bradenton Cortez Ellenton Ellenton Ellenton Ellenton Ellenton Palmetto Palmetto Palmetto Palmetto Palmetto Palmetto Palmetto Palmetto Palmetto Palmetto Parrish 9/25/01 3/4/02 12/13/01 5/20/02 9/25/01 10/22/01 12/17/01 5/14/02 12/14/01 8/22/02 2/28/02 2/6/02 7/8/02 12/27/02 12/27/02 12/27/02 12/13/01 12/13/01 12/26/01 12/26/01 12/26/01 1/6/03 4/15/02 9/25/03 3/4/04 12/13/03 5/20/04 9/25/03 10/22/03 12/17/03 5/14/04 12/14/03 8/22/04 2/28/04 2/6/04 7/8/04 12/27/04 12/27/04 12/27/04 12/13/03 12/13/03 12/26/03 12/26/03 12/26/03 1/6/05 4/15/04","null","null","");arrFiles[20]=new Array("features_layout/105603.htm","Bradenton Florida real estate","$557,000 4BR / 3BA 7813 17 Avenue West AVE Whispering Pines MLS # 105603 Custom built by Brent Whitehead. Spacious 2 story home with elevator on 2 corner lots with no thru-streets. Whispering Pines offers a wooded and private setting close to shopping, medical and Anna Maria Island beaches. Large master bedroom suite. Office/Library, workshop and screened porch. Bradenton, Florida ... One of the Best Cities in the State of Florida Custom built by Brent Whitehead Spacious 2 Story Home Nice room for pool - Drive space and side/rear garage entry for parking Built on 2 corner lots with no thru-streets - peaceful but close to activity Large Great Room with ample skylights 3241 Square feet of living space in this custom contemporary Elevator for easy access to second floor Master bath has bidet, spa/hydro massage tub and separate tub/shower Tile enhances the beauty of this home Meticulously groomed trees, plants and shrubbery. Lot size 169 x 135 Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back MLS 105603 Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2004 All Rights Reserved","null","null","");arrFiles[21]=new Array("features_layout/98399.htm","Bradenton Florida real estate","$998,000 5BR/5BA 1702 21th W. St Palmetto MLS # 98399 Truly one of a kind. Think Very Big. 5 or 7 bedrooms, 5 baths and 3 huge stone fireplaces are within this 5,534 square foot home. 7,200 square foot tennis court, 40 x 29 screened lanai with 20 x 40 auto clean pool and spa/hot tub. 31 x 22 game room with fireplace. Home sits on almost 4 acres of property. Plenty of room for R/V or boat parking. Great Location ... Close to shopping, golf and Beaches ... Palmetto, Florida ... One of the Best Cities in the State of Florida Ultimate privacy on nearly 4 acres of property Pool and Tennis Court Cathedral/vaulted ceilings complement homes open plan This is truly one of a kind home Master Bedroom is 16 x 16 Living Room is 23 x 16 Eat-in Kitchen with separate Dining Room Click Here to View Aerial Photo \'s MLS 98399 Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2003 All Rights Reserved","null","null","");arrFiles[22]=new Array("features_layout/500281.htm","Bradenton Florida real estate","$78,000 2BR / 2BA 205 W 48th Ave Heather Hills Estates MLS # 500281 Open, spacious, light and bright. New A/C and heat pump. Vinyl siding, roofover, updated range and microwave. Breakfast bar, open plan with combination living and dining room. Window covernings. Glassed in Family Room. Adult community. Sorry no pets. 55+ Community Bradenton, Florida ... One of the Best Cities in the State of Florida Heather Hills Estate - Mobile Home Nice open feeling... Range, Refrigerator, Dryer, Laundry Tub, Washer and Microwave Nice size rooms Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back MLS 500281 Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2004 All Rights Reserved","null","null","");arrFiles[23]=new Array("features_layout/103427.htm","Bradenton Florida real estate","$74,900 403 49th Ave Terr W Heather Hills Estate MLS #103427 Tastefully reddecorated from ceiling to floors. Fresh paint, light fixtures, new carpets throughout, plywood floors, home has a one year termite contract. Owners selling as is with right to inspect. Bradenton, Florida ... One of the Best Cities in the State of Florida Beautiful Mobile Home! 55+ community ... No pets permitted Bright and airy Modern Kitchen and Bath 55+ community ... No pets permitted Heather Hills Estate is close to shopping, golf and medical facilities Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back MLS 103427 Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2004 All Rights Reserved","null","null","");arrFiles[24]=new Array("features_layout/105312.htm","Bradenton Florida real estate","$149,900 4BR / 2BA 815 E 65th Ave Winter Gardens MLS # 105312 Walk to middle school from this 4 bedroom and 2 bath home. Large back yard with ample room for a pool. Wood floors and maintenance free panel walls. Family room is 13x11 with wall a/c to bring the total square footage to 1536. Two car garage on back of house. Bradenton, Florida ... One of the Best Cities in the State of Florida Winter Gardens Ranch Home Nice room for pool 2 car attached garage Lot size 80 x 132 Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back MLS 105058 Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2004 All Rights Reserved","null","null","");arrFiles[25]=new Array("features_layout/105810.htm","Bradenton Florida real estate","$49,900 3BR / 1.5BA 4917 W 1st St Heather Hills Estate MLS # 105810 Spacious 3 bedroom unit in Heather Hills Estate. This adult community offers a great location to shopping, medical and the beach. The unit is furnished and being sold as is with right to inspect. Homeowners association is mandatory. 55+ Community Bradenton, Florida ... One of the Best Cities in the State of Florida Nice Mobile Home Furnished Seller has only occupied the property 6 months. Nice open plan with attached carport Home is ready to move into Nice and bright bath and rooms Meticulously groomed trees, plants and shrubbery. Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back MLS 105810 Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2004 All Rights Reserved","null","null","");arrFiles[26]=new Array("features_layout/105058.htm","Bradenton Florida real estate","$145,000 2BR / 2BA 3324 Vivienda Blvd MLS # 105058 This condo is in move in condition. A/C in 2003, appliances in 2003, new roof, extra parking comes with a beautiful view overlooking the pond. Screen lanai, garage, split bedroom plan. Heated community pool. No flood insurance needed for owner. Bradenton, Florida ... One of the Best Cities in the State of Florida Beautiful Condo Nice view of pond Bright and airy Well Maintained Modern Bath Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back MLS 105058 Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2004 All Rights Reserved","null","null","");arrFiles[27]=new Array("needs_wants.htm","Scholfield Realty Bradenton Florida Needs vs Wants","House Buying \"Needs and Wants \" Before you embark on your search for the perfect house, it is important that you make a realistic \"shopping list \" in an attempt to narrow your choices of properties. Hunting for a home can be a time consuming process, especially if you have not determined in advance the parameters of your search. Many home buyers make the mistake of misinterpreting a WANT as a NEED. As a result, they often dismiss homes that perfectly fit their needs in search for one that has their wants. This is not to say that you cannot have what you desire in your home--just that you must be able to differentiate between what you truly need and what you would like to have. Note, also, that in the examples below, many WANTS can be changed in a particular home (if the house doesn \'t have that feature now, you can change it later). Examples of NEEDS Examples of WANTS Enough square footage for comfortable living Carpeting color, paint color, exterior color, roof color, etc. Enough bedrooms to accommodate your family Pool or Jacuzzi (unless for medical reasons) Adequate number of bathrooms Wood floors Eat-in kitchen Bay windows Garage or basement for storage needs Built-in entertainment center Lot size to accommodate children \'s play area Brass lighting fixtures Adaptation for Handicapped Skylights Proximity to a specific school A pretty view Take a few minutes to develop your own list of NEEDS and WANTS. The goal is to put the emphasis on finding a house that includes all of your needs and as many of your wants as is practical--yet remains in your budget. Once you have a clearer view of what your house will need to have, the next step, actually looking for a home, will be a great deal easier! Our staff will be more than happy to help you develope a Needs vs Wants list before you start your home search. Click on 1234 Over 2000 Homes to Choose From HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Designed by Team Creations Inc. , (c) 2000 - 2003","homes,VA Homes,va homes,Scott AFB,condos,Clinton,Madison,St. Clair,apartment,real estate,coldwell banker,o fallon, O Fallon IL","null","");arrFiles[28]=new Array("hmvocab.htm","Vocabulary for Bradenton Real Estate","\"Home Buyer \'s Vocabulary \" U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Washington, D.C. 20410 Preface The potential home buyer will find this Vocabulary helpful for understanding words and terms used in real estate transactions. There are, however, some factors that may affect these definitions: * Terms are defined as they are commonly understood in the mortgage and real estate industry. The same terms may have different meanings in another context. * The definitions are intentionally general, non-technical and short. They do not encompass all possible meanings or nuances that a term may acquire in legal use. * State laws, as well as custom and use in various States or regions of the country, may modify or completely change the meanings of certain terms defined. Before signing any documents or depositing any money preparatory to entering into a real estate contract, the purchaser should consult with an attorney of his choice to ensure that his rights are properly protected. A Abstract (Of Title) A summary of the public records relating to the title to a particular piece of land. An attorney or title insurance company reviews an abstract of title to determine whether there are any title defects which must be cleared before a buyer can purchase clear, marketable, and insurable title. Acceleration Clause Condition in a mortgage that may require the balance of the loan to become due immediately, if regular mortgage payments are not made or for breach of other conditions of the mortgage. Agreement of Sale Known by various names, such as contract of purchase, purchase agreement, or sales agreement according to location or jurisdiction. A contract in which a seller agrees to sell and a buyer agrees to buy, under certain specific terms and conditions spelled out in writing and signed by both parties. Amortization A payment plan which enables the borrower to reduce his debt gradually through monthly payments of principal. Appraisal An expert judgment or estimate of the quality or value of real estate as of a given date. Assumption of Mortgage An obligation undertaken by the purchaser of property to be personally liable for payment of an existing mortgage. In an assumption, the purchaser is substituted for the original mortgagor in the mortgage instrument and the original mortgagor is to be released from further liability in the assumption, the mortgagee \'s consent is usually required. The original mortgagor should always obtain a written release from further liability if he desires to be fully released under the assumption. Failure to obtain such a release renders the original mortgagor liable if the person assuming the mortgage fails to make the monthly payments. An \"Assumption of Mortgage \" is often confused with \"purchasing subject to a mortgage. \" When one purchases subject to a mortgage, the purchaser agrees to make the monthly mortgage payments on an existing mortgage, but the original mortgagor remains personally liable if the purchaser fails to make the monthly payments. Since the original mortgagor remains liable in the event of default, the mortgagee \'s consent is not required to a sale subject to a mortgage. Both \"Assumption of Mortgage \" and \"Purchasing Subject to a Mortgage \" are used to finance the sale of property. They may also be used when a mortgagor is in financial difficulty and desires to sell the property to avoid foreclosure. Several clients are out-of-state and first time Florida Buyers ... B Binder or \"Offer to Purchase \" A preliminary agreement, secured by the payment of earnest money, between a buyer and seller as an offer to purchase real estate. A binder secures the right to purchase real estate upon agreed terms for a limited period of time. If the buyer changes his mind or is unable to purchase, the earnest money is forfeited unless the binder expressly provides that it is to be refunded. Broker (See real estate broker) Building Line or Setback Distances from the ends and/or sides of the lot beyond which construction may not extend. The building line may be established by a filed plat of subdivision, by restrictive covenants in deeds or leases, by building codes, or by zoning ordinances. C Certificate of Title A certificate issued by a title company or a written opinion rendered by an attorney that the seller has good marketable and insurable title to the property which he is offering for sale. A certificate of title offers no protection against any hidden defects in the title which an examination of the records could not reveal. The issuer of a certificate of title is liable only for damages due to negligence. The protection offered a homeowner under a certificate of title is not as great as that offered in a title insurance policy. Closing Costs The numerous expenses which buyers and sellers normally incur to complete a transaction in the transfer of ownership of real estate. These costs are in addition to price of the property and are items prepaid at the closing day. This is a typical list: BUYER \'S EXPENSES SELLER \'S EXPENSES Documentary Stamps on Notes Cost of Abstract Recording Deed and Mortgage Documentary Stamps on Deed Escrow Fees Real Estate Commission Attorney \'s Fee Recording Mortgage Title Insurance Survey Charge Appraisal and Inspection Escrow Fees Survey Charge Attorney \'s Fee The agreement of sale negotiated previously between the buyer and the seller may state in writing who will pay each of the above costs. Closing Day The day on which the formalities of a real estate sale are concluded. The certificate of title, abstract, and deed are generally prepared for the closing by an attorney and this cost charged to the buyer. The buyer signs the mortgage, and closing costs are paid. The final closing merely confirms the original agreement reached in the agreement of sale. Cloud (On Title) An outstanding claim or encumbrance which adversely affects the marketability of title. Commission Money paid to a real estate agent or broker by the seller as compensation for finding a buyer and completing the sale. Usually it is a percentage of the sale price--6 to 7 percent on houses, 10 percent on land. Condemnation The taking of private property for public use by a government unit, against the will of the owner, but with payment of just compensation under the government \'s power of eminent domain. Condemnation may also be a determination by a governmental agency that a particular building is unsafe or unfit for use. Condominium Individual ownership of a dwelling unit and an individual interest in the common areas and facilities which serve the multi-unit project. Contract of Purchase (See agreement of sale) Contractor In the construction industry, a contractor is one who contracts to erect buildings or portions of them. There are also contractors for each phase of construction: heating, electrical, plumbing, air conditioning, road building, bridge and dam erection, and others. Conventional Mortgage A mortgage loan not insured by HUD or guaranteed by the Veterans \' Administration. It is subject to conditions established by the lending institution and State statutes. The mortgage rates may vary with different institutions and between States. (States have various interest limits.) Cooperative Housing An apartment building or a group of dwellings owned by a corporation, the stockholders of which are the residents of the dwellings. It is operated for their benefit by their elected board of directors. In a cooperative, the corporation or association owns title to the real estate. A resident purchases stock in the corporation which entitles him to occupy a unit in the building or property owned by the cooperative. While the resident does not own his unit, he has an absolute right to occupy his unit for as long as he owns the stock. D Deed A formal written instrument by which title to real property is transferred from one owner to another. The deed should contain an accurate description of the property being conveyed, should be signed and witnessed according to the laws of the State where the property is located, and should be delivered to the purchaser at closing day. There are two parties to a deed: the grantor and the grantee. (See also deed of trust, general warranty deed, quitclaim deed, and special warranty deed.) Deed of Trust Like a mortgage, a security instrument whereby real property is given as security for a debt. However, in a deed of trust there are three parties to the instrument: the borrower, the trustee, and the lender, (or beneficiary). In such a transaction, the borrower transfers the legal title for the property to the trustee who holds the property in trust as security for the payment of the debt to the lender or beneficiary. If the borrower pays the debt as agreed, the deed of trust becomes void. If, however, he defaults in the payment of the debt, the trustee may sell the property at a public sale, under the terms of the deed of trust. In most jurisdictions where the deed of trust is in force, the borrower is subject to having his property sold without benefit of legal proceedings. A few States have begun in recent years to treat the deed of trust like a mortgage. Default Failure to make mortgage payments as agreed to in a commitment based on the terms and at the designated time set forth in the mortgage or deed of trust. It is the mortgagor \'s responsibility to remember the due date and send the payment prior to the due date, not after. Generally, thirty days after the due date if payment is not received, the mortgage is in default. In the event of default, the mortgage may give the lender the right to accelerate payments, take possession and receive rents, and start foreclosure. Defaults may also come about by the failure to observe other conditions in the mortgage or deed of trust. Depreciation Decline in value of a house due to wear and tear, adverse changes in the neighborhood, or any other reason. Documentary Stamps A State tax, in the forms of stamps, required on deeds and mortgages when real estate title passes from one owner to another. The amount of stamps required varies with each State. Downpayment The amount of money to be paid by the purchaser to the seller upon the signing of the agreement of sale. The agreement of sale will refer to the downpayment amount and will acknowledge receipt of the downpayment. Downpayment is the difference between the sales price and maximum mortgage amount. The downpayment may not be refundable if the purchaser fails to buy the property without good cause. If the purchaser wants the downpayment to be refundable, he should insert a clause in the agreement of sale specifying the conditions under which the deposit will be refunded, if the agreement does not already contain such clause. If the seller cannot deliver good title, the agreement of sale usually requires the seller to return the downpayment and to pay interest and expenses incurred by the purchaser. Families at Closing E Earnest Money The deposit money given to the seller or his agent by the potential buyer upon the signing of the agreement of sale to show that he is serious about buying the house. If the sale goes through, the earnest money is applied against the downpayment. If the sale does not go through, the earnest money will be forfeited or lost unless the binder or offer to purchase expressly provides that it is refundable. Easement Rights A right-of-way granted to a person or company authorizing access to or over the owner \'s land. An electric company obtaining a right-of-way across private property is a common example. Encroachment An obstruction, building, or part of a building that intrudes beyond a legal boundary onto neighboring private or public land, or a building extending beyond the building line. Encumbrance A legal right or interest in land that affects a good or clear title, and diminishes the land \'s value. It can take numerous forms, such as zoning ordinances, easement rights, claims, mortgages, liens, charges, a pending legal action, unpaid taxes, or restrictive convenants. An encumbrance does not legally prevent transfer of the property to another. A title search is all that is usually done to reveal the existence of such encumbrances, and it is up to the buyer to determine whether he wants to purchase with the encumbrance, or what can be done to remove it. Equity The value of a homeowner \'s unencumbered interest in real estate. Equity is computed by subtracting from the property \'s fair market value the total of the unpaid mortgage balance and any outstanding liens or other debts against the property. A homeowner \'s equity increases as he pays off his mortgage or as the property appreciates in value. When the mortgage and all other debts against the property are paid in full the homeowner has 100% equity in his property. Escrow Funds paid by one party to another (the escrow agent) to hold until the occurrence of a specified event, after which the funds are released to a designated individual. In FHA mortgage transactions an escrow account usually refers to the funds a mortgagor pays the lender at the time of the periodic mortgage payments. The money is held in a trust fund, provided by the lender for the buyer. Such funds should be adequate to cover yearly anticipated expenditures for mortgage insurance premiums, taxes, hazard insurance premiums, and special assessments. F Foreclosure A legal term applied to any of the various methods of enforcing payment of the debt secured by a mortgage, or deed of trust, by taking and selling the mortgaged property, and depriving the mortgagor of possession. G General Warranty Deed A deed which conveys not only all the grantor \'s interests in and title to the property to the grantee, but also warrants that if the title is defective or has a \"cloud \" on it (such as mortgage claims, tax liens, title claims, judgments, or mechanic \'s liens against it) the grantee may hold the grantor liable. Grantee That party in the deed who is the buyer or recipient. Grantor That party in the deed who is the seller or giver. H Hazard Insurance Protects against damages caused to property by fire, windstorms, and other common hazards. HUD U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Office of Housing/Federal Housing Administration within HUD insures home mortgage loans made by lenders and sets minimum standards for such homes. I Interest A charge paid for borrowing money. (See mortgage note) L Lien A claim by one person on the property of another as security for money owed. Such claims may include obligations not met or satisfied, judgments, unpaid taxes, materials, or labor. (See also special lien.) We deal with Exceptional Mortgage Experts M Marketable Title A title that is free and clear of objectionable liens, clouds, or other title defects. A title which enables an owner to sell his property freely to others and which others will accept without objection. Mortgage A lien or claim against real property given by the buyer to the lender as security for money borrowed. Under government-insured or loan-guarantee provisions, the payments may include escrow amounts covering taxes, hazard insurance, water charges, and special assessments. Mortgages generally run from 10 to 30 years, during which the loan is to be paid off. Mortgage Commitment A written notice from the bank or other lending institution saying it will advance mortgage funds in a specified amount to enable a buyer to purchase a house. Mortage Insurance Premium The payment made by a borrower to the lender for transmittal to HUD to help defray the cost of the FHA mortgage insurance program and to provide a reserve fund to protect lenders against loss in insured mortgage transactions. In FHA insured mortgages this represents an annual rate of one-half of one percent paid by the mortgagor on a monthly basis. Mortgage Note A written agreement to repay a loan. The agreement is secured by a mortgage, serves as proof of an indebtedness, and states the manner in which it shall be paid. The note states the actual amount of the debt that the mortgage secures and renders the mortgagor personally responsible for repayment. Mortgage (Open-End) A mortgage with a provision that permits borrowing additional money in the future without refinancing the loan or paying additional financing charges. Open-end provisions often limit such borrowing to no more than would raise the balance to the original loan figure. Mortgagee The lender in a mortgage agreement. Mortgagor The borrower in a mortgage agreement. Mortgage Officer P Plat A map or chart of a lot, subdivision or community drawn by a surveyor showing boundary lines, buildings, improvements on the land, and easements. Points Sometimes called \"discount points. \" A point is one percent of the amount of the mortgage loan. For example, if a loan is for $25,000, one point is $250. Points are charged by a lender to raise the yield on his loan at a time when money is tight, interest rates are high, and there is a legal limit to the interest rate that can be charged on a mortgage. Buyers are prohibited from paying points on HUD or Veterans \' Administration guaranteed loans (sellers can pay, however). On a conventional mortgage, points may be paid by either buyer or seller or split between them. Prepayment Payment of mortgage loan, or part of it, before due date. Mortgage agreements often restrict the right of prepayment either by limiting the amount that can be prepaid in any one year or charging a penalty for prepayment. The Federal Housing Administration does not permit such restrictions in FHA insured mortgages. Principal The basic element of the loan as distinguished from interest and mortgage insurance premium. In other words, principal is the amount upon which interest is paid. Purchase Agreement See agreement of sale. Q Quitclaim Deed A deed which transfers whatever interest the maker of the deed may have in the particular parcel of land. A quitclaim deed is often given to clear the title when the grantor \'s interest in a property is questionable. By accepting such a deed the buyer assumes all the risks. Such a deed makes no warranties as to the title, but simply transfers to the buyer whatever interest the grantor has. (See deed.) R Real Estate Broker A middle man or agent who buys and sells real estate for a company, firm, or individual on a commission basis. The broker does not have title to the property, but generally represents the owner. Refinancing The process of the same mortgagor paying off one loan with the proceeds from another loan. Beautiful Bradenton Views Restrictive Covenants Private restrictions limiting the use of real property. Restrictive covenants are created by deed and may \"run with the land, \" binding all subsequent purchasers of the land, or may be \"personal \" and binding only between the original seller and buyer. The determination whether a covenant runs with the land or is personal is governed by the language of the covenant, the intent of the parties, and the law in the State where the land is situated. Restrictive covenants that run with the land are encumbrances and may affect the value and marketability of title. Restrictive covenants may limit the density of buildings per acre, regulate size, style or price range of buildings to be erected, or prevent particular businesses from operating or minority groups from owning or occupying homes in a given area. (This latter discriminatory covenant is unconstitutional and has been declared unenforceable by the U.S. Supreme Court.) S Sales Agreement See agreement of sale. Special Assessments A special tax imposed on property, individual lots or all property in the immediate area, for road construction, sidewalks, sewers, street lights, etc. Special Lien A lien that binds a specified piece of property, unlike a general lien, which is levied against all one \'s assets. It creates a right to retain something of value belonging to another person as compensation for labor, material, or money expended in that person \'s behalf. In some localities it is called \"particular \" lien or \"specific \" lien. (See lien.) Special Warranty Deed A deed in which the grantor conveys title to the grantee and agrees to protect the grantee against title defects or claims asserted by the grantor and those persons whose right to assert a claim against the title arose during the period the grantor held title to the property. In a special warranty deed the grantor guarantees to the grantee that he has done nothing during the time he held title to the property which has, or which might in the future, impair the grantee \'s title. Barbara stands ready to help with the sale of your home. e-mail or call for information State Stamps See documentary stamps Survey A map or plat made by a licensed surveyor showing the results of measuring the land with its elevations, improvements, boundaries, and its relationship to surrounding tracts of land. A survey is often required by the lender to assure him that a building is actually sited on the land according to its legal description. T Tax As applied to real estate, an enforced charge imposed on persons, property or income, to be used to support the State. The governing body in turn utilizes the funds in the best interest of the general public. Title As generally used, the rights of ownership and possession of particular property. In real estate usage, title may refer to the instruments or documents by which a right of ownership is established (title documents), or it may refer to the ownership interest one has in the real estate. Title Insurance Protects lenders or homeowners against loss of their interest in property due to legal defects in title. Title insurance may be issued to a \"mortgagee \'s title policy. \" Insurance benefits will be paid only to the \"named insured \" in the title policy, so it is important that an owner purchase an \"owner \'s title policy \", if he desires the protection of title insurance. Title Search or Examination A check of the title records, generally at the local courthouse, to make sure the buyer is purchasing a house from the legal owner and there are no liens, overdue special assessments, or other claims or outstanding restrictive convenants filed in the record, which would adversely affect the marketability or value of title. Trustee A party who is given legal responsibility to hold property in the best interest of or \"for the benefit of \" another. The trustee is one placed in a position of responsibility for another, a responsibility enforceable in a court of law. (See deed of trust.) Z Zoning Ordinances The acts of an authorized local government establishing building codes, and setting forth regulations for property land usage. HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF ©Team Creations Inc. - 2000 - 2003 All rights reserved","bradenton,realtor,realty","Scholfield Realty has served the Bradenton Florida area since 1956. These realty terms will help you better understand the real estate","");arrFiles[29]=new Array("100qabuy.htm","Scholfield Realty in Bradenton Florida with 100 Questions and Answers About Buying a New Home","TABLE OF CONTENTS Part I. Getting Started Part II. Finding Your Home Part III. You \'ve Found It Part IV. General Financing Questions: The Basics Part V. First Steps Part VI. Finding The Right Loan For You Part VII. Closing Part VIII. How Can HUD And The FHA Help Me Become A Homeowner? Part IX. Mortgage Insurance Part X. FHA Products Top PART I. GETTING STARTED 1. HOW DO I KNOW IF I \'M READY TO BUY A HOME? You can find out by asking yourself some questions: Do I have a steady source of income (usually a job)? Have I been employed on a regular basis for the last 2-3 years? Is my current income reliable? Do I have a good record of paying my bills? Do I have few outstanding long-term debts, like car payments? Do I have money saved for a down payment? Do I have the ability to pay a mortgage every month, plus additional costs? If you can answer \"yes \" to these questions, you are probably ready to buy your own home. 2. HOW DO I BEGIN THE PROCESS OF BUYING A HOME? Start by thinking about your situation. Are you ready to buy a home? How much can you afford in a monthly mortgage payment (see Question 4 for help)? How much space do you need? What areas of town do you like? After you answer these questions, make a \'To Do \" list and start doing casual research. Talk to friends and family, drive through neighborhoods, and look in the \"Homes \" section of the newspaper. 3. HOW DOES PURCHASING A HOME COMPARE WITH RENTING? The two don \'t really compare at all. The one advantage of renting is being generally free of most maintenance responsibilities. But by renting, you lose the chance to build equity, take advantage of tax benefits, and protect yourself against rent increases. Also, you may not be free to decorate without permission and may be at the mercy of the landlord for housing. Owning a home has many benefits. When you make a mortgage payment, you are building equity. And that \'s an investment. Owning a home also qualifies you for tax breaks that assist you in dealing with your new financial responsibilities- like insurance, real estate taxes, and upkeep- which can be substantial. But given the freedom, stability, and security of owning your own home, they are worth it. 4. HOW DOES THE LENDER DECIDE THE MAXIMUM LOAN AMOUNT THAT I CAN AFFORD? The lender considers your debt-to-income ratio, which is a comparison of your gross (pre-tax) income to housing and non-housing expenses. Non-housing expenses include such long-term debts as car or student loan payments, alimony, or child support. According to the FHA, monthly mortgage payments should be no more than 29% of gross income, while the mortgage payment, combined with non-housing expenses, should total no more than 41% of income. The lender also considers cash available for down payment and closing costs, credit history, etc. when determining your maximum loan amount. 5. HOW DO I SELECT THE RIGHT REAL ESTATE AGENT? Start by asking family and friends if they can recommend an agent. Compile a list of several agents and talk to each before choosing one. Look for an agent who listens well and understands your needs, and whose judgment you trust. The ideal agent knows the local area well and has resources and contacts to help you in your search. Overall, you want to choose an agent that makes you feel comfortable and can provide all the knowledge and services you need. 6. HOW CAN I DETERMINE MY HOUSING NEEDS BEFORE I BEGIN THE SEARCH? Your home should fit the way you live, with spaces and features that appeal to the whole family. Before you begin looking at homes, make a list of your priorities - things like location and size. Should the house be close to certain schools? your job? to public transportation? How large should the house be? What type of lot do you prefer? What kinds of amenities are you looking for? Establish a set of minimum requirements and a \"wish list. \" Minimum requirements are things that a house must have for you to consider it, while a \"wish list \" covers things that you \'d like to have but aren \'t essential. QUICK CALCULATION EXERCISE Gross Annual Income Gross Monthly Income 29% Available for Housing $15,000 $1,250 $363 $20,000 $1,667 $483 $25.000 $2,083 $604 $30,000 $2,500 $725 $35,000 $2,917 $846 $40,000 $3,333 $967 $45,000 $3,750 $1,088 $50,000 $4,167 $1,208 Top PART II. FINDING YOUR HOME 7. WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR WHEN DECIDING ON A COMMUNITY? Select a community that will allow you to best live your daily life. Many people choose communities based on schools. Do you want access to shopping and public transportation? Is access to local facilities like libraries and museums important to you? Or do you prefer the peace and quiet of a rural community? When you find places that you like, talk to people that live there. They know the most about the area and will be your future neighbors. More than anything, you want a neighborhood where you feel comfortable. 8. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I \'M FEELING EXCLUDED FROM CERTAIN NEIGHBORHOODS? Immediately contact the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) if you ever feel excluded from a neighborhood or particular house. Also, contact HUD if you believe you are being discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, nationality, familial status, or disability. HUD \'s Office of Fair Housing has a hotline for reporting incidents of discrimination: 1-800-669-9777 (and 1-800-927-9275 for the hearing impaired). 9. HOW CAN I FIND OUT ABOUT LOCAL SCHOOLS? You can get information about school systems by contacting the city or county school board or the local schools. Your real estate agent may also be knowledgeable about schools in the area. 10. HOW CAN I FIND OUT ABOUT COMMUNITY RESOURCES? Contact the local chamber of commerce for promotional literature or talk to your real estate agent about welcome kits, maps, and other information. You may also want to visit the local library. It can be an excellent source for information on local events and resources, and the librarians will probably be able to answer many of the questions you have. 11. HOW CAN I FIND OUT HOW MUCH HOMES ARE SELLING FOR IN CERTAIN COMMUNITIES AND NEIGHBORHOODS? Your real estate agent can give you a ballpark figure by showing you comparable listings. If you are working with a REALTOR, they may have access to comparable sales maintained on a database. 12. HOW CAN I FIND INFORMATION ON THE PROPERTY TAX LIABILITY? The total amount of the previous year \'s property taxes is usually included in the listing information. If it \'s not, ask the seller for a tax receipt or contact the local assessor \'s office. Tax rates can change from year to year, so these figures maybe approximate. 13. WHAT OTHER TAX ISSUES SHOULD I TAKE INTO CONSIDERATION? Keep in mind that your mortgage interest and real estate taxes will be deductible. A qualified real estate professional can give you more details on other tax benefits and liabilities. 14. IS AN OLDER HOME A BETTER VALUE THAN A NEW ONE? There isn \'t a definitive answer to this question. You should look at each home for its individual characteristics. Generally, older homes may be in more established neighborhoods, offer more ambiance, and have lower property tax rates. People who buy older homes, however, shouldn \'t mind maintaining their home and making some repairs. Newer homes tend to use more modern architecture and systems, are usually easier to maintain, and may be more energy-efficient. People who buy new homes often don \'t want to worry initially about upkeep and repairs. 15. WHAT SHOULD I LOOK FOR WHEN WALKING THROUGH A HOME? In addition to comparing the home to your minimum requirement and wish lists, use the HUD Home Scorecard and consider the following: Is there enough room for both the present and the future? Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms? Is the house structurally sound? Do the mechanical systems and appliances work? Is the yard big enough? Do you like the floor plan? Will your furniture fit in the space? Is there enough storage space? (Bring a tape measure to better answer these questions.) Is there enough room for both the present and the future? * Are there enough bedrooms and bathrooms? Is the house structurally sound? Do the mechanical systems and appliances work? Is the yard big enough? Do you like the floor plan? Will your furniture fit in the space? Is there enough storage space? (Bring a tape measure to better answer these qusetions) Does anything need to be repaired or replaced? Will the seller repair or replace the items? Imagine the house in good weather and bad, and in each season. Will you be happy with it year \'round? Take your time and think carefully about each house you see. Ask your real estate agent to point out the pros and cons of each home from a professional standpoint. Using the HUD Home Scorecard to keep track of the homes you see is a great way to keep organized. (Refer to the HUD Home Scorecard on tbe following two pages.) 16. WHAT QUESTIONS SHOULD I ASK WHEN LOOKING AT HOMES? Many of your questions should focus on potential problems and maintenance issues. Does anything need to be replaced? What things require ongoing maintenance (e.g., paint, roof, HVAC, appliances, carpet)? Also ask about the house and neighborhood, focusing on quality of life issues. Be sure the seller \'s or real estate agent \'s answers are clear and complete. Ask questions until you understand all of the information they \'ve given. Making a list of questions ahead of time will help you organize your thoughts and arrange all of the information you receive. The HUD Home Scorecard can help you develop your question list. 17. HOW CAN I KEEP TRACK OF ALL THE HOMES I SEE? If possible, take photographs of each house: the outside, the major rooms, the yard, and extra features that you like or ones you see as potential problems. And don \'t hesitate to return for a second look. Use the HUD Scorecard to organize your photos and notes for each house. 18. HOW MANY HOMES SHOULD I CONSIDER BEFORE CHOOSING ONE? There isn \'t a set number of houses you should see before you decide. Visit as many as it takes to find the one you want. On average, homebuyers see 15 houses before choosing one. Just be sure to communicate often with your real estate agent about everything you \'re looking for. It will help avoid wasting your time. Top PART III. YOU \'VE FOUND IT 19. WHAT DOES A HOME INSPECTOR DO AND HOW DOES AN INSPECTION FIGURE INTO THE PURCHASE OF A HOME? An inspector checks the safety of your potential new home. Home inspectors focus especially on the structure, construction, and mechanical systems of the house and will make you aware of any repairs that are needed. The inspector does not evaluate whether or not you \'re getting good value for your money. Generally, an inspector checks (and gives prices for repairs on): the electrical system, plumbing and waste disposal, the water heater, insulation and ventilation, the HVAC system, water source and quality, the potential presence of pests, the foundation, doors, windows, ceilings, walls, floors, and roof. Be sure to hire a home inspector that is qualified and experienced. It \'s a good idea to have an inspection before you sign a written offer since, once the deal is closed, you \'ve bought the house \"as is. \" Or, you may want to include an inspection clause in the offer when negotiating for a home. An inspection clause gives you an \"out \" on buying the house if serious problems are found, or gives you the ability to renegotiate the purchase price if repairs are needed. An inspection clause can also specify that the seller must fix the problem(s) before you purchase the house. 20. DO I NEED TO BE THERE FOR THE INSPECTION? It \'s not required, but it \'s a good idea. Following the inspection, the home inspector will be able to answer questions about the report and any problem areas. This is also an opportunity to hear an objective opinion on the home you \'d like to purchase and it is a good time to ask general maintenance questions. 21. ARE OTHER TYPES OF INSPECTIONS REQUIRED? If your home inspector discovers a serious problem, another more specific inspection may be recommended. It \'s a good idea to consider having your home inspected for the presence of a variety of health-related risks like radon gas, asbestos, or possible problems with the water or waste disposal system. 22. HOW CAN I PROTECT MY FAMILY FROM LEAD IN THE HOME? If the house you \'re considering was built before 1978 and you have children under the age of seven, you will want to have an inspection for lead-based paint. It \'s important to know that lead flakes from paint can be present in both the home and in the soil surrounding the house. The problem can be fixed temporarily by repairing damaged paint surfaces or planting grass over effected soil. Hiring a lead abatement contractor to remove paint chips and seal damaged areas will fix the problem permanently. 23. ARE POWER LINES A HEALTH HAZARD? There are no definitive research findings that indicate exposure to power Iines results in greater instances of disease or illness. 24. DO I NEED A LAWYER TO BUY A HOME? Laws vary by state. Some states require a lawyer to assist in several aspects of the home buying process while other states do not, as long as a qualified real estate professional is involved. Even if your state doesn \'t require one, you may want to hire a lawyer to help with the complex paperwork and legal contracts. A lawyer can review contracts, make you aware of special considerations, and assist you with the closing process. Your real estate agent may be able to recommend a lawyer. If not, shop around. Find out what services are provided for what fee, and whether the attorney is experienced at representing homebuyers. 25. DO I REALLY NEED HOMEOWNER \'S INSURANCE? Yes. A paid homeowner \'s insurance policy (or a paid receipt for one) is required at closing, so arrangements will have to be made prior to that day. Plus, involving the insurance agent early in the home buying process can save you money. Insurance agents are a great resource for information on home safety and they can give tips on how to keep insurance premiums low. 26. WHAT STEPS COULD I TAKE TO LOWER MY HOMEOWNER \'S INSURANCE COSTS? Be sure to shop around among several insurance companies. Also, consider the cost of insurance when you look at homes. Newer homes and homes constructed with materials like brick tend to have lower premiums. Think about avoiding areas prone to natural disasters, like flooding. Choose a home with a fire hydrant or a fire department nearby. Other ways to lower insurance costs include insuring your home and car(s) with the same company, increasing home security, and seeking group coverage through alumni or business associations. Insurance costs are always lowered by raising your deductibles, but this exposes you to a higher out-of-pocket cost if you have to file a claim. 27. IS THE HOME LOCATED IN A FLOODPLAIN? Your real estate agent or lender can help you answer this question. If you live in a flood plain, the lender will require that you have flood insurance before lending any money to you. But if you live near a flood plain, you may choose whether or not to get flood insurance coverage for your home. Work with an insurance agent to construct a policy that fits your needs. 28. WHAT OTHER ISSUES SHOULD I CONSIDER BEFORE I BUY MY HOME? Always check to see if the house is in a low-lying area, in a high-risk area for natural disasters (like earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, etc.), or in a hazardous materials area. Be sure the house meets building codes. Also consider local zoning laws, which could affect remodeling or making an addition in the future. Your real estate agent should be able to help you with these questions. 29. HOW DO I MAKE AN OFFER? Your real estate agent will assist you in making an offer, which will include the following information: Complete legal description of the property Amount of earnest money Down payment and financing details Proposed move-in date Price you are offering Proposed closing date Length of time the offer is valid Details of the deal Remember that a sale commitment depends on negotiating a satisfactory contract with the seller, not just making an offer. 30. HOW DO I DETERMINE THE INITIAL OFFER? Unless you have a buyer \'s agent, remember that the agent works for the seller. Make a point of asking him or her to keep your discussions and information confidential. Listen to your real estate agent \'s advice, but follow your own instincts on deciding a fair price. Calculating your offer should involve several factors: what homes sell for in the area, the home \'s condition, how long it \'s been on the market, financing terms, and the seller \'s situation. By the time you \'re ready to make an offer, you should have a good idea of what the home is worth and what you can afford. And, be prepared for give-and-take negotiation, which is very common when buying a home. The buyer and seller may often go back and forth until they can agree on a price. 31. WHAT IS EARNEST MONEY? HOW MUCH SHOULD I SET ASIDE? Earnest money is money put down to demonstrate your seriousness about buying a home. It must be substantial enough to demonstrate good faith and is usually between 1-5% of the purchase price (though the amount can vary with local customs and conditions). If your offer is accepted, the earnest money becomes part of your down payment or closing costs. If the offer is rejected, your money is returned to you. If you back out of a deal, you must forfeit the entire amount. 32. WHAT ARE \"HOME WARRANTIES, \" AND SHOULD I CONSIDER THEM? Home warranties offer you protection for a specific period of time (e.g., one year) against potentially costly problems, like unexpected repairs on appliances or home systems, which are not covered by homeowner \'s insurance. Warranties are becoming more popular because they offer protection during the time immediately following the purchase of a home, a time when many people find themselves cash-strapped. Top PART IV. GENERAL FINANCING QUESTIONS: THE BASICS 33. WHAT IS A MORTGAGE? Generally speaking, a mortgage is a loan obtained to purchase real estate. The \"mortgage \" itself is a lien (a legal claim) on the home or property that secures the promise to pay the debt. All mortgages have two features in common: principal and interest. 34. WHAT IS A LOAN-TO-VALUE (LTV) RATIO? HOW DOES IT DETERMINE THE SIZE OF THE LOAN? The LTV ratio is the amount of money you borrow compared with the price or appraised value of the home you are purchasing. Each loan has a specific LTV limit. For example: with a 95% LTV loan on a home priced at $50,000, you could borrow up to $47,500 (95% of $50,000), and would have to pay $2,500 as a down payment. The LTV ratio reflects the amount of equity borrowers have in their homes. The higher the LTV ratio, the less cash homebuyers are required to pay out of their own funds. So, to protect lenders against potential loss in case of default, higher LTV loans (80% or more) usually require a mortgage insurance policy. 35. WHAT TYPES OF LOANS ARE AVAILABLE AND WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF EACH? Fixed Rate Mortgages: Payments remain the same for the life of the loan Types 15-year 30-year Advantages Predictable Housing cost remains unaffected by interest rate changes and inflation Adjustable Rate Mortgages (ARMS): Payments increase or decrease on a regular schedule with changes in interest rates; increases subject to limits Types Balloon Mortgage- Offers very low rates for an initial period of time (usually 5, 7, or 10 years); when time has elapsed, the balance is due or refinanced (though not automatically) Two-Step Mortgage- Interest rate adjusts only once and remains the same for the life of the loan ARMS linked to a specific index or margin Advantages Generally offer lower initial interest rates Monthly payments can be lower May allow borrower to qualify for a larger loan amount 36. WHEN DO ARMS MAKE SENSE? An ARM may make sense if you are confident that your income will increase steadily over the years or if you anticipate a move in the near future and aren \'t concerned about potential increases in interest rates. 37. WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF 15 - AND 30-YEAR LOAN TERMS? 30-Year: In the first 23 years of the loan, more interest is paid off than principal, meaning larger tax deductions. As inflation and costs of living increase, mortgage payments become a smaller part of overall expenses. 15-year: Loan is usually made at a lower interest rate. Equity is built faster because early payments pay more principal. 38. CAN I PAY OFF MY LOAN AHEAD OF SCHEDULE? Yes. By sending in extra money each month or making an extra payment at the end of the year, you can accelerate the process of paying off the loan. When you send extra money, be sure to indicate that the excess payment is to be applied to the principal. Most lenders allow loan prepayment, though you may have to pay a prepayment penalty to do so. Ask your lender for details. 39. ARE THERE SPECIAL MORTGAGES FOR FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS? Yes. Lenders now offer several affordable mortgage options, which can help first-time homebuyers, overcome obstacles that made purchasing a home difficult in the past. Lenders may now be able to help borrowers who don \'t have a lot of money saved for the down payment and closing costs, have no or a poor credit history, have quite a bit of long-term debt, or have experienced income irregularities. 40. HOW LARGE OF A DOWN PAYMENT DO I NEED? There are mortgage options now available that only require a down payment of 5% or less of the purchase price. But the larger the down payment, the less you have to borrow, and the more equity you \'ll have. Mortgages with less than a 20% down payment generally require a mortgage insurance policy to secure the loan. When considering the size of your down payment, consider that you \'ll also need money for closing costs, moving expenses, and possibly -repairs and decorating. 41. WHAT IS INCLUDED IN A MONTHLY MORTGAGE PAYMENT? The monthly mortgage payment mainly pays off principal and interest. But most lenders also include local real estate taxes, homeowner \'s insurance, and mortgage insurance (if applicable). 42. WHAT FACTORS AFFECT MORTGAGE PAYMENTS? The amount of the down payment, the size of the mortgage loan, the interest rate, the repayment term and payment schedule will all affect the size of your mortgage payment. 43. HOW DOES THE INTEREST RATE FACTOR IN SECURING A MORTGAGE LOAN? A lower interest rate allows you to borrow more money than a high rate with the same monthly payment. Interest rates can fluctuate as you shop for a loan, so ask lenders if they offer a rate \"lock-in \" which guarantees a specific interest rate for a certain period of time. Remember that a lender must disclose the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of a loan to you. The APR a mortgage loan by expressing it in terms of a yearly interest rate. It is higher than the interest rate because it also includes the cost of points, mortgage and other fees included in the loan. 44. HAPPENS IF INTEREST RATES DECREASE AND I HAVE A FIXED RATE LOAN? If interest rates drop significantly, you may want to investigate refinancing. Most experts agree that if you plan to be in your house for at Ieast 18 months and you can get a rate 2% less than your current one, refinancing is smart. Refinancing may, however, involve paying many of the same fees paid at the original closing, plus origination and application fees. 45. ARE DISCOUNT POINTS? Discount points allow you to lower your interest rate. They are essentially prepaid interest, with each point equaling 1% of the total loan amount. Generally, for each point paid on a 30-year mortgage, the interest rate is reduced by 1/8 (or.125) of a percentage point. When shopping for loans, ask lenders for an interest rate with 0 points and then see how much the rate decreases with each point paid. Discount points are smart if you plan to stay in a home for some time since they can lower the monthly loan payment. Points are tax deductible when you purchase a home and you may be able to negotiate for the seller to pay for some of them. 46. WHAT IS AN ESCROW ACCOUNT? DO I NEED ONE? Established by your lender, an escrow account is a place to set aside a portion of your monthly mortgage payment to cover annual charges for homeowner \'s insurance, mortgage insurance (if applicable), and property taxes. Escrow accounts are a good idea because they assure money will always be available for these payments. If you use an escrow account to pay property taxes or homeowner \'s insurance, make sure you are not penalized for late payments since it is the lender \'s responsibility to make those payments. Top PART V. FIRST STEPS 47. WHAT STEPS NEED TO BE TAKEN TO SECURE A LOAN? The first step in securing a loan is to complete a loan application. To do so, you \'ll need the following information: Pay stubs for the past 2-3 months W-2 forms for the past 2 years Information on long-term debts Recent bank statements Tax returns for the past 2 years Proof of any other income Address and description of the property you wish to buy Sales contract During the application process, the lender will order a report on your credit history and a professional appraisal of the property you want to purchase. The application process typically takes between 1-6 weeks. 48. HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT LENDER FOR ME? Choose your lender carefully. Look for financial stability and a reputation for customer satisfaction. Be sure to choose a company that gives helpful advice and that makes you feel comfortable. A lender that has the authority to approve and process your loan locally is preferable, since it will be easier for you to monitor the status of your application and ask questions. Plus, it \'s beneficial when the lender knows home values and conditions in the local area. Do research and ask family, friends, and your real estate agent for recommendations. 49. HOW ARE PRE-QUALIFYING AND PRE-APPROVAL DIFFERENT? Pre-qualification is an informal way to see how much you may be able to borrow. You can be \"pre-qualified \" over the phone with no paperwork by telling a lender your income, your long-term debts, and how large a down payment you can afford. Without any obligation, this helps you arrive at a ballpark figure of the amount you may have available to spend on a house. Pre-approval is a lender \'s actual commitment to lend to you. It involves assembling the financial records mentioned in Question 47 (without the property description and sales contract) and going through a preliminary approval process. Pre-approval gives you a definite idea of what you can afford and shows sellers that you are serious about buying. 50. HOW CAN I FIND OUT INFORMATION ABOUT MY CREDIT HISTORY? There are three major credit reporting companies: Equifax, Experian, and Trans Union. Obtaining your credit report is as easy as calling and requesting one. Once you receive the report, it \'s important to verify its accuracy. Double-check the \"high credit limit \", \"total loan, \" and \"past due \" columns. It \'s a good idea to get copies from all three companies to assure there are no mistakes since any of the three could be providing a report to your lender. Fees, ranging from $5-$20, are usually charged to issue credit reports but some states permit citizens to acquire a free one. Contact the reporting companies at the numbers listed for more information. CREDIT REPORTING COMPANIES COMPANY NAME PHONE NUMBER Experian 1-800-682-7654 Equifax 1-800-685-1111 Trans Union 1-800-916-8800 51. WHAT IF I FIND A MISTAKE IN MY CREDIT HISTORY? Simple mistakes are easily corrected by writing to the reporting company, pointing out the error, and providing proof of the mistake. You can also request to have your own comments added to explain problems. For example, if you made a payment late due to illness, explain that for the record. Lenders are usually understanding about legitimate problems. 52. WHAT IS A CREDIT BUREAU SCORE AND HOW DO LENDERS USE THEM? A credit bureau score is a number, based upon your credit history that represents the possibility that you will be unable to repay a loan. Lenders use it to determine your ability to qualify for a mortgage loan. The better the score, the better your chances are of getting a loan. Ask your lender for details. 53. HOW CAN I IMPROVE MY SCORE? There are no easy ways to improve your credit score, but you can work to keep it acceptable by maintaining a good credit history. This means paying your bills on time and not overextending yourself by buying more than you can afford. Top PART VI. FINDING THE RIGHT LOAN FOR YOU 54. HOW DO I CHOOSE THE BEST LOAN PROGRAM FOR ME? Your personal situation will determine the best kind of loan for you. By asking yourself a few questions, you can help narrow your search among the many options available and discover which loan suits you best. Do you expect your finances to changeover the next few years? Are you planning to live in this home for a long period of time? Are you comfortable with the idea of a changing mortgage payment amount? Do you wish to be free of mortgage debt as your children approach college age or as you prepare for retirement? Your lender can help you use your answers to questions such as these to decide which loan best fits your needs. 55. WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO COMPARE LOAN TERMS BETWEEN LENDERS? First, devise a checklist for the information from each lending institution. You should include the company \'s name and basic information, the type of mortgage, minimum down payment required, interest rate and points, closing costs, loan processing time, and whether prepayment is allowed. Speak with companies by phone or in person. Be sure to call every lender on the list the same day, as interest rates can fluctuate daily. In addition to doing your own research, your real estate agent may have access to a database of lender and mortgage options. Though your agent may primarily be affiliated with a particular lending institution, he or she may also be able to suggest a variety of different lender options to you. 56. ARE THERE ANY COSTS OR FEES ASSOCIATED WITH THE LOAN ORIGINATION PROCESS? Yes. When you turn in your application, you \'ll be required to pay a loan application fee to cover the costs of underwriting the loan. This fee pays for the home appraisal, a copy of your credit report, and any additional charges that may be necessary. The application fee is generally non-refundable. 57. WHAT IS RESPA? RESPA stands for Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act. It requires lenders to disclose information to potential customers throughout the mortgage process. By doing so, it protects borrowers from abuses by lending institutions. RESPA mandates that lenders fully inform borrowers about all closing costs, lender servicing and escrow account practices, and business relationships between closing service providers and other parties to the transaction. For more information on RESPA, visit the web page at http:/www.hud.gov/fhq/res/respa-hm.htmI or call 1-800-217-6970 for a local counseling referral. 58. WHAT IS A GOOD FAITH ESTIMATE, AND HOW DOES IT HELP ME? It \'s an estimate that lists all fees paid before closing, all closing costs, and any escrow costs you will encounter when purchasing a home. The lender must supply it within three days of your application so that you can make accurate judgments when shopping for a loan. 59. BESIDES RESPA, DOES THE LENDER HAVE ANY ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES? Lenders are not allowed to discriminate in any way against potential borrowers. If you believe a lender is refusing to provide his or her services to you on the basis of race, color, nationality, religion, sex, familial status, or disability, contact HUD \'s Office of Fair Housing at 1-800-669-9777 (or 1-800-927-9275 for the hearing impaired). 60. WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES DO I HAVE DURING THE LENDING PROCESS? To ensure you won \'t fall victim to loan fraud, be sure to follow all of these steps as you apply for a loan: Be sure to read and understand everything before you sign. Refuse to sign any blank documents. Do not buy property for someone else. Do not overstate your income. Do not overstate how long you have been employed. Do not overstate your assets. Accurately report your debts. Do not change your income tax returns for any reason. Tell the whole truth about gifts. Do not list fake co-borrowers on your loan application. Be truthful I about your credit problems, past and present. Be honest about your intention to occupy the house. Do not provide false supporting documents. Top PART VII. CLOSING 61. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER I HAVE APPLIED FOR A LOAN? It usually takes a lender between 1-6 weeks to complete the evaluation of your application. It \'s not unusual for the lender to ask for more information once the application has been submitted. The sooner you can provide the information, the faster your application will be processed. Once all the information has been verified, the lender will call you to let you know the outcome of your application. If the loan is approved, a closing date is set up and the lender will review the closing process with you. And after closing, you \'ll be able to move into your new home. 62. WHAT SHOULD I LOOK OUT FOR DURING THE FINAL WALK-THROUGH? This will likely be the first opportunity to examine the house without furniture, giving you a clear view of everything. Check the walls and ceilings carefully, as well as any work the seller agreed to do in response to the inspection. Any problems discovered previously that you find uncorrected should be brought up prior to closing. It is the seller \'s responsibility to fix them. 63. WHAT MAKE UP CLOSING COSTS? There may be closing costs customary or unique to a certain locality, but closing costs are usually made up of the following: Attorney \'s or escrow fees (yours and your lender \'s if applicable) Property taxes (to cover tax period to date) Interest (paid from date of closing to 30 days before first monthly payment) Loan origination fee (covers lender \'s administrative costs) Recording fees Survey fee First premium of mortgage insurance (if applicable) Title insurance (yours and your lender \'s) Loan discount points First payment to escrow account for future real estate taxes and insurance Paid receipt for homeowner \'s insurance policy (and fire and flood insurance if applicable) Any documentation preparation fees 64. WHAT CAN I EXPECT TO HAPPEN ON CLOSING DAY? You \'ll present your paid homeowner \'s insurance policy or a binder and receipt showing that the premium has been paid. The closing agent will then list the money you owe the seller (remainder of down payment, prepaid taxes, etc.) and then the money the seller owes you (unpaid taxes and prepaid rent, if applicable). The seller will provide proofs of any inspection, warranties, etc. Once you \'re sure you understand all the documentation, you \'ll sign the mortgage, agreeing that if you don \'t make payments the lender is entitled to sell your property and apply the sale price against the amount you owe plus expenses. You \'ll also sign a mortgage note, promising to repay the loan. The seller will give you the title to the house in the form of a signed deed. You \'ll pay the lender \'s agent all closing costs and, in turn, he or she will provide you with a settlement statement of all the items for which you have paid. The deed and mortgage will then be recorded in the state Registry of Deeds, and you will be a homeowner. 65. WHAT DO I GET AT CLOSING? Settlement Statement, HUD-1 Form (itemizes services provided and the fees charged; it is filled out by the closing agent and must be given to you at or before closing) Truth-in-Lending Statement Mortgage Note Mortgage or Deed of Trust Binding Sales Contract (prepared by the seller; your lawyer should review it) Keys to your new home Top PART VIII. CAN HUD AND THE FHA HELP ME BECOME A HOMEOWNER? 66. WHAT IS THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT? Also known as HUD, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development was established in 1965 to develop national policies and programs to address housing needs in the U.S. One of HUD \'s primary missions is to create a suitable living environment for all Americans by developing and improving the country \'s communities and enforcing fair housing laws. 67. HOW DOES HUD HELP HOMEBUYERS AND HOMEOWNERS ? HUD helps people by administering a variety of programs that develop and support affordable housing. Specifically, HUD plays a large role in homeownership by making loans available for lower- and moderate-income families through its FHA mortgage insurance program and its HUD Homes program. HUD owns homes in many communities throughout the U.S. and offers them for sale at attractive prices and economical terms. 68. WHAT IS THE FHA? Now an agency within HUD, the Federal Housing Administration was established in 1934 to advance opportunities for Americans to own homes. By providing private lenders with mortgage insurance, the FHA gives them the security they need to lend to first-time buyers who might not be able to qualify for conventional loans. The FHA has helped more than 26 million Americans buy a home. 69. HOW CAN THE FHA ASSIST ME IN BUYING A HOME? The FHA works to make homeownership a possibility for more Americans. With the FHA, you don \'t need perfect credit or a high-paying job to qualify for a loan. The FHA also makes loans more accessible by requiring smaller down payments than conventional loans. In fact, an FHA down payment could be as little as a few months \' rent. And your monthly payments may not be much more than rent. 70. HOW IS THE FHA FUNDED? Lender claims paid by the FHA mortgage insurance program are drawn from the Mutual Mortgage Insurance fund. This fund is made up of premiums paid by FHA-insured loan borrowers. No tax dollars are used to fund the program. 71. WHO CAN QUALIFY FOR FHA LOANS? Anyone who meets the credit requirements, can afford the mortgage payments and cash investment, and who plans to use the mortgaged property as a primary residence may apply for an FHA-insured loan. 72. WHAT IS THE FHA LOAN LIMIT? FHA loan limits vary throughout the country, from $115,200 in low-cost areas to $208,800 in highcost areas. The loan maximums for multi-unit homes are higher than those for single units and also vary by area. Because these maximums are linked to the conforming loan limit and average area home prices, FHA loan limits are periodically subject to change. Ask your lender for details and confirmation of current limits. 73. WHAT ARE THE STEPS INVOLVED IN THE FHA LOAN PROCESS? With the exception of a few additional forms, the FHA loan application process is similar to that of a conventional loan (see Question 47). With new automation measures, FHA loans may be originated more quickly than before. And, if you don \'t prefer a face-to-face meeting, you can apply for an FHA loan via mail, telephone, the Internet, or video conference. 74. HOW MUCH INCOME DO I NEED TO HAVE TO QUALIFY FOR AN FHA LOAN? There is no minimum income requirement. But you must prove steady income for at least three years, and demonstrate that you \'ve consistently paid your bills on time. 75. WHAT QUALIFIES AS AN INCOME SOURCE FOR THE FHA? Seasonal pay, child support, retirement pension payments, unemployment compensation, VA benefits, military pay, Social Security income, alimony, and rent paid by family all qualify as income sources. Part-time pay, overtime, and bonus pay also count as long as they are steady. Special savings plans-such as those set up by a church or community association - qualify, too. Income type is not as important as income steadiness with the FHA. 76. CAN I CARRY DEBT AND STILL QUALIFY FOR FHA LOANS? Yes. Short-term debt doesn \'t count as long as it can be paid off within 10 months. And some regular expenses, like child care costs, are not considered debt. Talk to your lender or real estate agent about meeting the FHA debt-to-Income ratio. 77. WHAT IS THE DEBT-TO-INCOME RATIO FOR FHA LOANS? The FHA allows you to use 29% of you income towards housing costs and 41% towards housing expenses and other long-tem debt. With a conventional loan, this qualifying ratio allows only 28% toward housing and 36% towards housing and other debt. 78. CAN I EXCEED THE RATIO? You may qualify to exceed if you have: A large down payment A demonstrated ability to pay more toward you housing expenses Substantial cash reserves Net worth enough to repay the mortgage regardless of income Evidence of acceptable credit history or limited credit use Less-than-maximum mortgage terms Funds provided by an organization A decrease in monthly housing expenses 79. HOW LARGE A DOWN PAYMENT DO I NEED WITH AN FHA LOAN? You must have a down payment of at least 3% of the purchase price of the home. Most affordable loan programs offered by private lenders require between a 3% - 5% down payment, with a minimum of 3% coming directly from the borrower \'s own funds. 80. WHAT CAN I USE TO PAY THE DOWN PAYMENT AND CLOSING COSTS OF AN FHA LOAN? Besides your own funds, you may use cash gifts or money from a private savings club. If you can do certain repairs and improvements yourself, your labor may be used as part of a down payment (called \"sweat equity \"). If you are doing a lease purchase, paying extra rent to the seller may also be considered the same as accumulating cash. 81. HOW DOES MY CREDIT HISTORY IMPACT MY ABILITY TO QUALIFY? The FHA is generally more flexible than conventional lenders in its qualifying guidelines. In fact, the FHA allows you to re-establish credit if: two years have passed since a bankruptcy has been discharged all judgments have been paid any outstanding tax liens have been satisfied or appropriate arrangements have been made to establish a repayment plan with the IRS or state Department of Revenue three years have passed since a foreclosure or a deed-in-lieu has been resolved 82. CAN I QUALIFY FOR AN FHA LOAN WITHOUT A CREDIT HISTORY? Yes. If you prefer to pay debts in cash or are too young to have established credit, there are other ways to prove your eligibility. Talk to your lender for details. 83. WHAT TYPES OF CLOSING COSTS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH FHA-INSURED LOANS? Except for the addition of an FHA mortgage insurance premium, FHA closing costs are similar to those of a conventional loan outlined in Question 63. The FHA requires a single, up-front mortgage insurance premium equal to 2.25% of the mortgage to be paid at closing (or 1.75% if you complete the HELP program- see Question 91). This initial premium may be partially refunded if the loan is paid in full during the first seven years of the loan term. After closing, you will then be responsible for an annual premium - paid monthly - if your mortgage is over 15 years or if you have a 15-year loan with an LTV greater than 90%. 84. CAN I ROLL CLOSING COSTS INTO MY FHA LOAN? No. Though you can \'t roll closing costs into your FHA loan, you may be able to use the amount you pay for them to help satisfy the down payment requirement. Ask your lender for details. 85. ARE FHA LOANS ASSUMABLE? Yes. You can assume an existing FHA-Insured loan, or, if you are the one deciding to sell, allow a buyer to assume yours. Assuming a loan can be very beneficial, since the process is stream lined and less expensive compared to that for a new loan. Also, assuming a loan can often result in a lower interest rate. The application process consists basically of a credit check and no property appraisal is required. And you must demonstrate that you have enough income to support the mortgage loan. In this way, qualifying to assume a loan is similar to the qualification requirements for a new one. 86. WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I CAN \'T MAKE A PAYMENT ON MY LOAN? Call or write to your lender as soon as possible. Clearly explain the situation and be prepared to provide him or her with financial information. 87. ARE THERE ANY OPTIONS IF I FALL BEHIND ON MY LOAN PAYMENTS? Yes. Talk to your lender or a HUD-approved counseling agency for details. Listed below are a few options that may help you get back on track. For FHA loans: Keep living in your home to qualify for assistance. Contact a HUD-approved housing counseling agency (1-800-569-4287 or TDD: 1-800-877-8339) and cooperate with the counselor/lender trying to help you. HUD has a number of special loss mitigation programs available to help you: Special Forbearance: Your lender will arrange for a revised repayment plan which may include temporary reduction or suspension of payments; you can qualify by having an involuntary reduction in your income or increase in living expenses. Mortgage Modification: Allows you to refinance debt and/or extend the term of the mortgage loan which may reduce your monthly payments; you can qualify if you have recovered from financial problems, but net income is less than before. Partial Claim: Your lender may be able to help you obtain an interest-free loan from HUD to bring your mortgage current. Pre-foreclosure Sale: Allows you to sell your property and pay off your mortgage loan to avoid foreclosure. Deed-in-lieu of Foreclosure: Lets you voluntarily \"give back \" your property to the lender; it won \'t save your house but will help you avoid the costs, time, and effort of the foreclosure process. If you are having difficulty with an uncooperative lender or feel your loan servicer is not providing you with the most effective loss mitigation options, call the FHA Loss Mitigation Center at 1-888-297-8685 for additional help. For conventional loans: Talk to your lender about specific loss mitigation options. Work directly with him or her to request a \"workout packet. \" A secondary lender, like Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, may have purchased your loan. Your lender can follow the appropriate guidelines set by Fannie or Freddie to determine the best option for your situation. Fannie Mae does not deal directly with the borrower. They work with the lender to determine the loss mitigation program that best fits your needs. Freddie Mac, like Fannie Mae, will usually only work with the loan servicer. However, if you encounter problems with your lender during the loss mitigation process, you can call customer service for help at 1-800-FREDDIE (1-800-373-3343). In any loss mitigation situation, it is important to remember a few helpful hints: Explore every reasonable alternative to avoid losing your home, but beware of scams. For example, watch out for: Equity skimming: a buyer offers to repay the mortgage or sell the property if you sign over the deed and move out. Phony counseling agencies: offer counseling for a fee when it is often given at no charge. Don \'t sign anything you don \'t understand. Top PART IX. MORTGAGE INSURANCE 88. WHAT IS MORTGAGE INSURANCE? Mortgage insurance is a policy that protects lenders against some or most of the losses that result from defaults on home mortgages. It \'s required primarily for borrowers making a down payment of less than 20%. 89. HOW DOES MORTGAGE INSURANCE WORK? IS IT LIKE HOME OR AUTO INSURANCE? Like home or auto insurance, mortgage insurance requires payment of a premium, is for protection against loss, and is used in the event of an emergency. If a borrower can \'t repay an insured mortgage loan as agreed, the lender may foreclose on the property and file a claim with the mortgage insurer for some or most of the total losses. 90. DO I NEED MORTGAGE INSURANCE? HOW DO I GET IT? You need mortgage insurance only if you plan to make a down payment of less than 20% of the purchase price of the home. The FHA offers several loan programs that may meet your needs. Ask your lender for details. 91. HOW CAN I RECEIVE A DISCOUNT ON THE FHA INITIAL MORTGAGE INSURANCE PREMIUM? Ask your real estate agent or lender for information on the HELP program from the FHA. HELP - Homebuyer Education Learning Program - is structured to help people like you begin the homebuying process. It covers such topics as budgeting, finding a home, getting a loan, and home maintenance. In most cases, completion of this program may entitle you to a reduction in the initial FHA mortgage insurance premium from 2.25% to 1.75% of the purchase price of your new home. 92. WHAT IS PMI? PMI stands for Private Mortgage insurance or Insurer. These are privately-owned companies that provide mortgage insurance. They offer both standard and special affordable programs for borrowers. These companies provide guidelines to lenders that detail the types of loans they will insure. Lenders use these guidelines to determine borrower eligibility. PMI \'s usually have stricter qualifying ratios and larger down payment requirements than the FHA, but their premiums are often lower and they insure loans that exceed the FHA limit. Top PART X. FHA PRODUCTS 93. WHAT IS A 203(b) LOAN? This is the most commonly used FHA program. It offers a low down payment, flexible qualifying guidelines, limited lender \'s fees, and a maximum loan amount. 94. WHAT IS A 203(k) LOAN? This is a loan that enables the homebuyer to finance both the purchase and rehabilitation of a home through a single mortgage. A portion of the loan is used to pay off the seller \'s existing mortgage and the remainder is placed in an escrow account and released as rehabilitation is completed. Basic guidelines for 203(k) loans are as follows: The home must be at least one year old. The cost of rehabilitation must be at least $5,000, but the total property value-including the cost of repairs-must fall within the FHA maximum mortgage limit. The 203(k) loan must follow many of the 203(b) eligibility requirements. Talk to your lender about specific improvement, energy efficiency, and structural guidelines. 95. WHAT IS AN ENERGY EFFICIENT MORTGAGE (EEM)? The Energy Efficient Mortgage allows a homebuyer to save future money on utility bills. This is done by financing the cost of adding energy-efficiency features to a new or existing home as part of an FHA-insured home purchase. The EEM can be used with both 203(b) and 203(k) loans. Basic guidelines for EEMs are as follows: The cost of improvements must be determined by a Home Energy Rating System or by an energy consultant. This cost must be less than the anticipated savings from the improvements. One- and two-unit new or existing homes are eligible; condos are not. The improvements financed may be 5% of property value or $4,000, whichever is greater. The total must fall within the FHA loan limit. 96. WHAT IS THE FHA BRIDAL REGISTRY PROGRAM? Just as you might register at a department store for wedding gifts, the Bridal Registry program allows couples to register with a lender and open up an interest-bearing account. Family and friends can deposit wedding gifts of cash into this account. These gifts can then be applied toward a down payment on a home. Ask your lender for details. 97. WHAT IS A TITLE I LOAN? Given by a lender and insured by the FHA, a Title I loan is used to make non-luxury renovations and repairs to a home. It offers a manageable interest rate and repayment schedule. Loans are limited to between $5,000 and $20,000. If the loan amount is under $7,500, no lien is required against your home. Ask your lender for details. 98. WHAT OTHER LOAN PRODUCTS OR PROGRAMS DOES THE FHA OFFER? The FHA also insures loans for the purchase or rehabilitation of manufactured housing, condominiums, and cooperatives. It also has special programs for urban areas, disaster victims, and members of the armed forces. Insurance for ARMs is also available from the FHA. 99. HOW CAN I OBTAIN AN FHA-INSURED LOAN? Contact any lender such as a participating mortgage company, bank, savings and loan association, or thrift. For more information on the FHA and how you can obtain an FHA loan, visit the HUD web site at http://www.hud.gov/ or call a HUD-approved counseling agency at 1-800-569-4287 or TDD: 1-800-877-8339. 100. HOW CAN I CONTACT HUD? Visit the web site at http://www.hud.gov/ or look in the phone book \"blue pages \" for a listing of the HUD office near you. Top ©Team Creations Inc. -2000- 2002 All Rights Reserved","null","null","");arrFiles[30]=new Array("gene_information.htm","Gene Page - Scholfield Reality Bradenton Florida Intorduction","Gene Page has been a Manatee County resident for over 50 years, and has devoted the last 22 years to the real estate industry. Entering the real estate profession in 1978, Gene worked with Smith, Realtors on Anna Maria Island (near Bradenton) until 1992 when he joined Scholfield Realty, Inc. as a broker, REALTOR, and vice president. Conveniently located in west Bradenton, Scholfield has been locally owned and managed by long-time Bradenton residents since 1956, and is a well-known company specializing in residential and commercial real estate throughout all of Manatee County and Anna Maria Island. Gene Page has enjoyed handling the purchase and sale of properties in Manatee County for many out-of-state clients. Page’s many decades of local knowledge and experience has continued to successfully serve his customers in their search for the precise retirement home and location. Beautiful canal-front lots Impossible to find, wonderful amenities ready for your dream home! Located conveniently between SR 64 and SR 70, near I - 75, are these two deep-water canal-front, 75 x 150, lots. Just $98,600 each or, as one spacious home site of 150 x 150 for $198,900! . HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Designed by Team Creations Inc. , (c) 2000 - 2003","null","null","");arrFiles[31]=new Array("barbara_information.htm","Barbara Edwards -Realtor - Broker - Scholfield Reality Bradenton Florida","One of the Top Producers in Manatee County Barbara Edwards CRS, GRI, LTG, RRC Barbara is past president of the Women \'s Council of Realtors for Manatee County, the Real Estate Group of America and the Pilot Club of Manatee. She is co-owner and Executive Vice President of the Scholfield Realty, Inc., in business in Manatee county since 1956. She is a top lister and top seller specializing in residential properties, homes, condo, duplex, and lots, with a continuous record of over a million in sales annually. Barbara has lived in Manatee County for over 26 years. If you would like to see other listings please call Barbara at (941) 792-2363 or e-mail her at information@scholfieldrealty.com My goal is to provide exceptional service and customer satisfaction. I can help you look for a home, land, property, rentals or new construction. Slide Show Exceptional Service ... Positive Results Mrs. Barbara Edwards Dear Barbara, It is not often in a new venture such as ours to converge with an individual who is a genuine and honorable professional. Your guidance through the past few months until the ultimate closing, made it much easier for us. Manatee County as well as the State of Florida, are enhanced to a high degree due to your admirable vocation. Herbert and Pura R. Dear Barbara and Derryl, Thank you for your patience and kindness while working professionally with us in buying and selling our homes. Not only were you doing business but also being a good friend. We are just completely satisfied with your services in every way, we would not consider anyone else after we met you. Yes, we had experience with another big company. They did ok but we choose you above them for the very same reasons and also you are honest, truthful, trustworthy people. Your answering secretary is very friendly and efficient and your dear mother-in-law is also an asset. All around what more can I say? We love you and wish you much success in your business of dealing with people. Stop by sometime. Sincerely, Elsee and Misno Dear Barbara, Thank you so much for your services in selling my property. I certainly appreciated your sending copies of the ads and keeping me informed of any activity. Knowing I could trust you had put my mind at ease and made this a pleasurable experience. Thanks Again, Emily Dear Barbara, I appreciate your lovely \"Thank You \" card and message. It has been a privilege to be associated with you during the sale of my house and I also feel I have found a long and lasting friend. You helped me through a trying time and when I needed reassuring you helped me keep the faith. I wish you great success in your endeavors and feel I can recommend you highly as a consultant and friend. I miss your pleasant personality and hope we will always keep in touch. Alma Dear Barbara, It was really nice working with you in the selling of our home in Village Green. Your efficient manner and persistant efforts through advertising and open house all made for a faster sale. We can sure recommend you and your company to others. Thank you, Bill and Doris Let Barbara help you sell your home View Barbara \'s Listings . HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Designed by Team Creations Inc. , (c) 2000 - 2003","null","null","");arrFiles[32]=new Array("kathy_information.htm","Kathy Willingham - REALTOR - Scholfield Reality Bradenton Florida","Kathy Willingham Realtor Kathy has lived in the Bradenton, Florida area for over 20 years and is excited about helping people find their perfect home in Manatee County. Kathy has been a REALTOR for over two years, successfully specializing in first time home buyers. Her previous experience was as a legal assistant for over 15 years and ownership of a local business bring much experience and expertise to her real estate career. Her personal interests include attending art classes at MCC, travel with her husband, Gary of 10 years and playing with her animals. If you would like to see other listings please call Kathy at (941) 792-2363 My goal and that of Scholfield Realty is to provide exceptional service and customer satisfaction. I can help you look for a home, land, property, rentals or new construction. Exceptional Service ... Positive Results . HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Designed by Team Creations Inc. , (c) 2000 - 2003","real estate, Bradenton,Florida,REALTOR,realtor","Scholfield Realty, Bradenton Florida Realtor. Kathy has been a REALTOR for over two years, successfully specializing in first time home buyers.","");arrFiles[33]=new Array("eric_information.htm","Eric Hines Real Estate Sales Associate Bradenton Florida","Sales Associate Eric Hines has joined Scholfield Realty, Inc. as a Sales Associate. Eric recently retired from active service as an Assistant Pastor of the United Methodist Church in Lakeland, FL. Eric is well suited for the Real Estate business having a background in the banking business and being in the Lakeland Kiwanis for 40 years. He is currently the Florida Kiwanis Foundation President. Eric is married to Beverly who is employed by RMC Group. Her company recently transferred them to the Bradenton area. HOME | INTRO | INFO | 4 SALE | SCHOOLS | REQUESTS | TIPS | STAFF Designed by Team Creations Inc. , (c) 2000 - 2004","real estate,bradenton,florida,realestate,realtor","Scholfield Realty, Bradenton Florida is pleased to welcome Eric Hines as a Real Estate Sales Associate. Eric has been with the Florida Kiwanis for over 40 years and is currently the President of the Florida Kiwanis Foundation. Eric can help you with your relocation or real estate needs.","");arrFiles[34]=new Array("features_layout/R100164.htm","Bradenton Florida rental","2751 W 73RD Ct 106 $1,200 2 Bedroom - 2 Bath mls - 100164 Furnished Villa style unit with garage built in 2000. Ready for a tenant. Rental must be minimum of 2 months. Rent amount varies upon number of months rented. Over 1100 square feet of living area and only minutes from the beach, shopping and medical facilities. Community Pool Bradenton, Florida ... One of the Best Cities in the State of Florida Close to Golf and Fun in the Florida Sun Rental is ready to move in Bright and roomy - this villa has the perfect open floor plan Good size rooms with warm colors Villa built in 2000 which accounts for the nice features Bright and roomy - this home has the perfect open floor plan Community pool for fun in the sun Call for more Information or E-Mail below: MLS 100146 Bradenton Area Home Rentals Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2004 All Rights Reserved","Bradenton,Foorida,Rentals,home,villa","Bradenton Florida Real Estate specializes in home sales and home rentals. Furnished and unfurnished rentals are available for long or short term leases.","");arrFiles[35]=new Array("features_layout/R85418.htm","Bradenton Florida real estate","MLS 85418 312 50th Ave. Plz W. Heather Hills Estate $1,100 mls - 85418 Great location, nicely furnished. No pets. Adult community (55+). Available January 15, 2005 MLS # 85418 Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2004 All Rights Reserved","null","null","");arrFiles[36]=new Array("features_layout/R103131.htm","Bradenton Florida rental","6108 Walnut St Pointe West 2 Bedroom / 2 Bath $850 mls - 103131 Freshly painted 2 bedroom and 2 bath split plan. Screen lanai, washer and dryer hookup. Carport. Community pool and club house. Convenient to stores and beach. No pets allowed. Bradenton, Florida ... One of the Best Cities in the State of Florida for yearly rentals Nice quiet location while close to everything Community pool for fun in the sun Call for more Information or E-Mail below: information@scholfieldrealty.com MLS 103131 Bradenton Area Home Rentals Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2004 All Rights Reserved","Bradenton,Foorida,Rentals,home,villa","Bradenton Florida Real Estate specializes in home sales and home rentals. Furnished and unfurnished rentals are available for long or short term leases.","");arrFiles[37]=new Array("features_layout/R104414.htm","Bradenton Florida rental","6366 Grand Oak Cir 2 Bedroom / 2 Bath $1,500 mls - 104414 2 bedroom and 2 bath brand new 2nd floor condo at Tara that looks down on the 18th tee of the preserve golf course. Large family room, den and 1 car garage. Available for annual rental. No smokers or pets. Bradenton, Florida ... One of the Best Cities in the State of Florida for yearly rentals Nice quiet location Open plan with neutral colors is ideal for most furniture combinations A fun environment Call for more Information or E-Mail below: information@scholfieldrealty.com MLS 104414 Bradenton Area Home Rentals Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2004 All Rights Reserved","Bradenton,Foorida,Rentals,home,villa","Bradenton Florida Real Estate specializes in home sales and home rentals. Furnished and unfurnished rentals are available for long or short term leases.","");arrFiles[38]=new Array("features_layout/R85420.htm","Bradenton Florida real estate","MLS 85420 3384 Lake Bayshore Dr. P305 Bayshore On The Lake 1 Bedroom / 2 Bath $1,100 mls - 85420 MLS # 85420 Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2003 All Rights Reserved","null","null","");arrFiles[39]=new Array("features_layout/R95916.htm","Bradenton Florida real estate","MLS 95916 Featured Rental 7308 Sand Castle Colony Cove 2 Bedroom / 2 Bath $950 mls - 95916 Two bedroom and two bath mobile home with eat in kitchen. Washer and dryer in shed. Active community near the interstate. Adult community. Rent is $950 a month plus electric and long distance calls. Sales and resort tax is 9.5% on rentals less than 7 months. MLS # 95916 Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2003 All Rights Reserved","null","null","");arrFiles[40]=new Array("features_layout/R500530.htm","Bradenton Florida rental","1311 57th S W Bradenton, Fl 34209 Meadowcroft 1 Bedroom / 1 Bath $750 per month Very nice 1 bedroom and 1 bath condo in a very nice subdivision with pool, clubhouse and monthly activities. 55+ community. Close to beach, shopping and hospital. Bradenton, Florida ... One of the Best Cities in the State of Florida for yearly rentals Meadowcroft offers a quiet community close to the beach and shopping yard maintained by the association - you sit back and enjoy your rental Open plan with neutral colors is ideal for most furniture combinations Meadowcroft has great views from the lanai Call for more Information or E-Mail below: information@scholfieldrealty.com MLS 500530 Bradenton Area Home Rentals Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2004 All Rights Reserved","Bradenton,Foorida,Rentals,home,villa","Bradenton Florida Real Estate specializes in home sales and home rentals. Furnished and unfurnished rentals are available for long or short term leases.","");arrFiles[41]=new Array("features_layout/207_52_rental.htm","Bradenton Florida rental","207 52nd Ave Terr W Bradenton, Fl 34207 Floridana 2 Bedroom / 1 Bath $800 per month 2 bedroom and 1 bath . Manufactured home in active 55+ community with pool and lots of community activities. Sorry no pets allowed. Rent is $800 per month plus Electric, Phone and Cable. Sales and resort tax is 10.5% on rentals less than 7 months. Bradenton, Florida ... One of the Best Cities in the State of Florida for yearly rentals Nice quiet location close to beach and shopping Call for more Information or E-Mail below: information@scholfieldrealty.com MLS 104683 Bradenton Area Home Rentals Need more Information? information@scholfieldrealty.com Back Information Deemed Reliable but Not Guaranteed. © 2001 - 2004 All Rights Reserved","Bradenton,Foorida,Rentals,home,villa","Bradenton Florida Real Estate specializes in home sales and home rentals. Furnished and unfurnished rentals are available for long or short term leases.","");arrFiles[42]=new Array("restaurants.htm","Bradenton Florida Restaurant","Just a sampling of some of the fine area restaurants SEAFOOD ANNA MARIA OYSTER BAR 6906 14th Street West, Rt.41 941-758-7880 KEY WEST WILLIES 107 Gulf Dr.S. Bradenton Beach 941-778-7272 LEVEROCK ’S SEAFOOD HOUSE 12320 Manatee Ave W. 941-794-8900 MOORE ’S STONE CRAB 800 Broadway St.Longboat Key 941-383-1748 ITALIAN CARRABAS GRILL 2106 Cortez Rd. 941-755-7712 OMA ’S 201 Gulf Dr. Holmes Beach 941-778-0771 DA GIORGIO RISTORANTE 5702 Marina Dr. Holmes Beach 941-779-0220 Need suggestions ... let us know CONTINENTAL REBECCA ’S BISTRO 103 Gulf Dr.N.Bradenton Beach 941-778-2959 SIGN OF THE MERMAID 9707 Gulf Dr.Anna Maria 941-778-9399 BEACH BISTRO 6600 Gulf Drive Holmes Beach 941-778-6446 BEACH HOUSE 200 Gulf Drive N. Bradenton Beach 941-779-222 BISTRO AT ISLAND ’S END 10101 Gulf Dr. Anna Maria 941-779-2444 BRIDGE TENDER INN 135 Bridge St. Bradenton Beach 941-778-4849 D.COY DUCKS BAR & GRILL 5410 Marina Dr. Holmes Beach 941-778-5888 THE REEF RESTAURANT 9915 Manatee Ave.W 941-792-7711 MAR VISTA 760 Broadway St. Longboat Key 941-383-2391 TWIN DOLPHIN MARINA GRILL & DOCKSIDE PATIO 1200 1st Ave. Memorial Pier 941-748-8087 Copyright 2000 - 2002","realtor,bradenton,fl,Bradenton Florida","Scholfield Realty Inc. has been serving the Bradenton community since 1958. We can help you with your relocation needs.","");arrFiles[43]=new Array("newcomer_info.htm","homes for sale Bradenton Florida","Newcomer Information After you have arrived in the Manatee County area, there is much to learn before you can feel \"settled \" in your new home. Whether your choice is Bradenton, or in any of the suburban or more rural neighborhoods of Manatee County, many of the details are the same. Many of the small communities offer their own services to residents, others rely on major government and utility centers. Here are some hints to help you get acquainted. Airport: The Manatee County area is served by Sarasota - Manatee Airport. Automobile Insurance: Florida law requires that all automobile operators have \"No-Fault \" insurance. Under this law, your insurance company pays for any personal injuries that you receive as a result of an auto accident, no matter who is at fault. You must show proof of this insurance to obtain auto tags. For more information on the state \'s insurance laws, call toll-free in in Tallahassee, 1-800-342-2762. Drivers License: If you become a resident of Florida, are employed here, or enroll your children in area public schools, you must have a valid Florida drivers license within 30 days. First-time applicants who have a conviction free record for the last three years can obtain a six year license which costs $19.00 and is renewable during the month of your birth. Even if you have a valid license from another state, you must take a road sign test and driving test as well as a hearing and sight test. The information needed to take these tests is found in the driving manual available free from any drivers license branch. Residency: Simply moving to Florida does not make you a legal resident. You must register to vote or file a Declaration of Domicile with the circuit court. For more information about a Declaration of Domicile, call the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Recording Department, at 741-4800. School: To be admitted to public school in Manatee County, a child must show proof of age. He or she must be five years old as of September 1st of the current school year to enter kindergarden, and six to enter first grade. The child must also undergo a health examination and subsequently have a certificate completed and signed by a physician within the last 12 months; be immunized among others against diptheria, measles, mumps, pertussis, polio, rubella, and tetanus, and show proof of residence (a utility bill, lease agreement, voter registration or Declaration of Domicile is sufficient). Taxes: There is a six percent sales tax in Florida, from which food, medicine, drugs and professional services are exempted. Florida counties are authorized to levy an additional discretionary sales surtax of 1/2% to 1%. Florida has no state income tax. Nearly two-thirds of state revenue is raised from sales tax, much of it paid by tourists to Florida. The state offers a Homestead Exemption to property tax payers, which is based on the first $25,000.00 of assessed valuation. The exemption must be renewed annually. For more information, call 1-800-352-3671. Traffic Tips: In Florida, right turn on red after a complete stop is permitted unless otherwise indicated. Full headlights are required during rain, smog, and distortion of vision. Voter Information: You must be at least 18 years old (and show proof of age) and be a permanent resident of the state of Florida to register to vote. back Copyright 2000 - 2002","null","null","");arrFiles[44]=new Array("shopping.htm","Bradenton Florida Shopping","De Soto Square Mall (941) 747-5868 303 US Highway 301 Blvd W #906, Bradenton, FL 34205 Just a sampling of some of the fine shops and malls in the area Visit our ManateeCounty.com site for indepth Home Advice or Real Estate News Copyright 2001","realtor,bradenton,fl,Bradenton Florida","Bradenton Florida is known for De Soto Square Mall and the quaint shopping centers to meet all your shopping needs.","");arrFiles[45]=new Array("q_a.htm","Scholfield Realty Bradenton Florida","Questions and Answers about Selling Your Home Office: 941-792-2363 Fax: 941-794-0190 Q:Do sellers have to disclose the terms of other offers? A: According to experts, sellers do not have to disclose other offers Q: Should I add on or buy a bigger home? A: Consider these questions before making a choice between adding on to an existing home or moving up in the market to a bigger house: * How much money is available, either from cash reserves or through a home improvement loan, to remodel the current house? * How much additional space is required? Would the foundation support a second floor or does the lot have room to expand on the ground level? * What do local zoning and building ordinances permit? * How much equity already exists in the property? * Are there affordable properties for sale that would satisfy housing needs? Ultimately, the decision should be based on individual needs, the extent of work involved and what will add the most value. Q: What are some tips on negotiation? A: The more you know about a seller \'s motivation, the stronger a negotiating position you are in. For example, seller who must move quickly due to a job transfer may be amenable to a lower price with a speedy escrow. Other so-called \"motivated sellers \" include people going through a divorce or who have already purchased another home. Remember, that the listing price is what the seller would like to receive but is not necessarily what they will settle for. Before making an offer, check the recent sales prices of comparable homes in the neighborhood to see how the seller \'s asking price stacks up. Some experts discourage making deliberate low-ball offers. While such an offer can be presented, it can also sour the sale and discourage the seller from negotiating at all. Q: How do I prepare the house for sale? A: Making your home look as nice as possible may seem obvious. Apparently, it \'s not, because many sellers don \'t do much beyond vacuuming the living room rug and maybe cleaning the ring off the bathtub, says George Devine, in \"For Sale by Owner, \" Nolo Press, Berkeley, Calif. Short of spending a lot of money, Devine offers several steps people can take to make their home show better: Sweep the sidewalk, mow the lawn, prune the bushes, weed the garden and clean debris from the yard. Clean the windows and make sure the paint is not chipped or flaking. Be sure that the doorbell works. Clean and make attractive all rooms, furnishings, floors, walls and ceilings. It \'s especially important that the bathroom and kitchen are spotless. Organize closets. Make sure the basic appliances and fixtures work. Get rid of leaky faucets and frayed cords. Ensure that the house smells good: from an apple pie or cookies baking, for example. Hide the kitty litter. Put vases of fresh flowers throughout the house. Pleasant background music is a nice touch. But the music must be soft and not overwhelm conversation. Q: How long do bankruptcies and foreclosures stay on a credit report? A: Bankruptcies and foreclosures can remain on a credit report for seven to 10 years. Some lenders will consider an borrower earlier if they have reestablished good credit. The circumstances surrounding the bankruptcy can also influence a lender \'s decision. For example, if you went through a bankruptcy because your employer had financial difficulties, a lender may be more sympathetic. If, however, you went through bankruptcy because you overextended personal credit lines and lived beyond your means, the lender probably will be less inclined to be flexible. If you have questions specific to your home selling needs, please feel free to call or e-mail. information@scholfieldrealty.com Click on 1234 Over 200 Homes to Choose From back Designed by Team Creations Inc. , (c) 2000 - 2002","home,Bradenton","Scholfield Realty, Bradenton Florida has been in the realty business since 1956 helping individulas buy and sell their homes. Let Scholfield help you sell your Bradenton home.","");arrFiles[46]=new Array("sell_pitfalls.htm","seven selling pitfalls to avoid from Scholfield Realty","SEVEN SELLING MISTAKES YOU DON \'T WANT TO MAKE! Mistake #1 Pricing Your Property Too High Every seller obviously wants to get the most money for his or her product. Ironically, the best way to do this is NOT to list your product at an excessively high price! A high listing price will cause some prospective buyers to lose interest before even seeing your property. Also, it may lead other buyers to expect more than what you have to offer. As a result, overpriced properties tend to take an unusually long time to sell, and they end up being sold at a lower price. Mistake #2 Mistaking Re-finance Appraisals for the Market Value Unfortunately, a re-finance appraisal may have been stated at an untruthfully high price. Often, lenders estimate the value of your property to be higher than it actually is in order to encourage re-financing. The market value of your home could actually be lower. Your best bet is to ask your realtor for the most recent information regarding property sales in your community. This will give you an up-to-date and factually accurate estimate of your property value. Mistake #3 Forgetting to \"Showcase Your Home \" In spite of how frequently this mistake is addressed and how simple it is to avoid, its prevalence is still widespread. When attempting to sell your home to prospective buyers, do not forget to make your home look as pleasant as possible. Make necessary repairs. Clean. Make sure everything functions and looks presentable. A poorly kept home in need of repairs will surely lower the selling price of your property and will even turn away some buyers. Mistake #4 Trying to \"Hard Sell \" While Showing Buying a house is always an emotional and difficult decision. As a result, you should try to allow prospective buyers to comfortably examine your property. Don \'t try haggling or forcefully selling. Instead, be friendly and hospitable. A good idea would be to point out any subtle amenities and be receptive to questions. Mistake #5 Trying to Sell to \"Looky-Loos \" A prospective buyer who shows interest because of a \"for sale \" sign he saw may not really be interested in your property. Often buyers who do not come through a realtor are a good 6-9 months away from buying, and they are more interested in seeing what is out there than in actually making a purchase. They may still have to sell their house, or may not be able to afford a house yet. They may still even be unsure as to whether or not they want to relocate. Your realtor should be able to distinguish realistic potential buyers from mere lookers. Realtors should usually find out a prospective buyer \'s savings, credit rating, and purchasing power in general. If your realtor fails to find out this pertinent information, you should do some investigating and questioning on your own. This will help you avoid wasting valuable time marketing towards the wrong people. If you have to do this work yourself, consider finding a new realtor. Mistake #6 Not Knowing Your Rights & Responsibilities It is extremely important that you are well-informed of the details in your real estate contract. Real estate contracts are legally binding documents, and they can often be complex and confusing. Not being aware of the terms in your contract could cost you thousands for repairs and inspections. Know what you are responsible for before signing the contract. Can the property be sold \"as is \"? How will deed restrictions and local zoning laws will affect your transaction? Not knowing the answers to these kind of questions could end up costing you a considerable amount of money. Mistake #7 Limiting the Marketing and Advertising of the Property Your realtor should employ a wide variety of marketing techniques. Your realtor should also be committed to selling your property; he or she should be available for every phone call from a prospective buyer. Most calls are received, and open houses are scheduled, during business hours, so make sure that your realtor is working on selling your home during these hours. Chances are that you have a job, too, so you may not be able to get in touch with many potential buyers. back© Team Creations Inc. - 2000 - 2002 - All Rights Reserved","null","null","");arrFiles[47]=new Array("picsales/slideshow1.htm","Scholfield Realty - Bradenton Florida - Photo Slideshow Presentation","Sorry, your browser doesn \'t support Java(tm). Please wait for the viewer to download the photographs Scholfield Realty - Bradenton Florida","Bradenton,Florida,realtor,real estate,manatee county","Scholfield Realty in Bradenton Florida helps home buyers and home selers before, during and after the home sale.","");fileNum=48;