Lifestyles over 50 Finance & Money
What Is a Realtor?
Many people confuse the terms “realtor,” “real estate agent,” and “broker.” They might use them interchangeably as if they were the same thing. Their work may overlap, but there are distinct differences in their qualifications and professional standing.
Simply put, a realtor is a member of the National Association of Realtors, the largest trade group in the country. Realtors are tested, licensed experts in their fields and are held to the highest ethical standards. Brokers are usually managers who own agencies and have agents working for them. Agents are basically salespersons who bring buyer and seller together and earn a commission on the sale.
Cybercriminals Prey on COVID-19 Fears
Cybercriminals are exploiting the COVID-19 pandemic to gain access to confidential personal and financial information, warns David Finkelstein, St. Luke’s Information Security Director. He encourages everyone to be wary of on-line ads and websites that offer COVID-19 cures or preventions. “The COVID-19 pandemic creates a perfect environment for unscrupulous individuals,” Finkelstein says. “Many people are afraid and desperately looking for ways to protect themselves and their families. As a result, they are more vulnerable to falling for a hacker’s trick than they might be during more typical times. Unfortunately, there are no easy fixes for COVID-19, so be sure to get your information from reputable sources, like www.sluhn.org and www.CDC.gov.”
Inspector General Warns Public About New Twist To Social Security Phone Scams
The Inspector General of Social Security, Gail S. Ennis, is warning the public that telephone scammers may send faked documents by email to convince victims to comply with their demands. The Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has received reports of victims who received emails with attached letters and reports that appeared to be from Social Security or Social Security OIG. The letters may use official letterhead and government “jargon” to convince victims they are legitimate; they may also contain misspellings and grammar mistakes.
Money, Mortgages, and Moving — A Primer
Spring is here — a season for change. Hibernating animals (and people!) wake up and move around; ferns begin to uncurl; acorns begin their transition to mighty oaks; birds build their nests; and many homeowners begin the search for their new nest. Unless you’re a hermit crab, moving from one house to another is not cheap — moving can entail expenses that are greater and more varied than you might expect. What are some money matters to consider when you consider buying a house?
Knowing a Homebuyer’s Motivation
No two home buyers are alike, but they share similar motivations. As a realtor I need to understand my client’s desires, their likes and dislikes and most importantly why they are buying. The range of motivations is a cross-section of human desires. By understanding my client’s motivation I can streamline the house hunting experience. I can save them time, they will have an enjoyable experience and will find a home that much more quickly.
Industry News For Local Professionals Holiday 2019
HealthNet
Wed. Nov. 13, Dec. 11 at 12 pm. Traditions of Hanover Bethlehem, 5300 Northgate Dr., Bethlehem. Networking group for professionals hosted monthly and features a speaker and time for networking - $5.
Lehigh Valley Aging in Place Mixers
Wed. Nov. 20 - Hosted by Sacred Heart Northampton 11:30 to 1:30. 602 E. 21st St. Northampton PA 18067. Please register by Nov. 15 with Kim Garrison
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What to Consider When You Consider Moving
Is the Grass Always Greener?
Call it wanderlust, call it an itch, call it boredom, call it “This house is too big / too small for us!” — You’re thinking of moving. Maybe it’s across the street or across the globe; you are seriously thinking of pulling up roots and being repotted elsewhere. There are a lot of reasons for moving elsewhere, and a lot of things to consider when deciding if moving is right for you.
“Should I Sell My House Myself?”
This question goes through everyone’s mind at one time or another. Can I save some money and some hassles if I do it myself (FSBO – For Sale By Owner)? Let’s look at why it is more advantageous to use an experienced realtor:
Brace and Testing Scam
“Do you have Medicare? Do you have aches and pains? We can provide braces that Medicare will cover! How about a genetic testing kit to see if you are predisposed to getting cancer?” If you are like most Medicare beneficiaries, you or someone you know has received phone calls or other solicitations for these items, often several times a day. TV ads are also very effective at soliciting these products.