On entrepreneurship and skill management…

I heard a “nugget” today that has long resonated with me but that I’d never heard articulated in such a direct fashion.

Here it is, ready for it?

Don’t waste your own time. 

If there’s someone better or more suited to or at a task than you are in a business sense and hiring or partnering with them frees you to focus on your own skill set, that may be a good match.

Just some food for thought!

Tenant beware: READ your lease

Renters, it’s absolutely imperative you read the lease before you sign.  The lease is a legal contract, binding and enforceable.  Make sure you understand the terms of the contract you’re signing, to include penalties for exiting it and the presence of a military clause, if applicable.

Forbes has some additional advice, too.

*This isn’t legal advice.  Always consult an attorney when/where applicable and needed.

From the inbox: what’s the deal with this 1.75% refinance offer I just received?

Good question!  First, this is not legal advice, always consult a licensed and insured professional before making any decisions.  However, ALWAYS read the fine print.

In this case, with mortgage rates in the 4% range at the time of this writing, a 1.75% rate seems way too good to be true.

How can they do it then?

It’s likely an ARM (Adjustable Rate Mortgage), or a mortgage that has a variable percentage rate that tracks an index.  Or, it may have a balloon payment due at the end of a certain time period (e.g., a $50K payment due in one year, five year, etc.)

If it sounds to good to be true, it may be.

Questions, don’t hesitate to ask!

New listing! 4708 Laramie Sky — asking $234,000

Welcome home!! This open and bright floor plan is minutes from Peterson AFB and access to the Powers corridor. Close to dining, shopping, schools — this home also features 4 same level bedrooms. Gorgeous floors, built in cabinets and entertainment center make this a great space to entertain and live! Top of the line stainless steel Kenmore appliances adorn the eat-in kitchen and stay along with HE washer and dryer. The 3 car garage allows for ample storage and the home has a separate storage shed included.

Use me as your agent on this home and receive a $1500 military buyer credit towards closing costs or home upgrades!

Call Rob @ 719-440-6626 or email robthompsonrealtor@gmail.com

http://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/4708-Laramie-Sky-Dr_Colorado-Springs_CO_80922_M27671-13794?cpPreview=true

From the inbox — counterpoint — what do I look for in a landlord?

Because tenants are as important to a landlord as landlords are important to tenants, here at 13 questions you as a tenant may want to ask your landlord!

Looking to rent in Colorado Springs? Check out Colorado Springs Rentals or email robthompsonrealtor@gmail.com with your needs!

From the inbox: How do I rent my house out?

Good question! For a variety of reasons, you may want to rent your house rather than sell…give me a ring and we can run the numbers to make sure you are informed of all the options. Investment property can be a good source of income but it’s not without risk. If renting is the way to go, check out, “How to Rent Your House: The Definitive Step by Step Guide” from Bigger Pockets!

Looking to buy, sell or rent in Colorado Springs, give Rob a call at 719-440-6626!

New Listing!! 2287 Falkirk — asking $199,500 — centrally located!

Looking for a purchase home? Look no further than 2287 Falkirk! This amazing home is a must see and an easy commute from Peterson AFB and Ft Carson.

Use me as your agent and receive a military buyer credit towards home upgrades or closing costs.

Call or text me at 719-440-6626 for more information!

Rob

Underwater or in pre-foreclosure on a home? Please read this…

You have options. Don’t “walk away” from a home or let it go to foreclosure. The ramifications of this action can haunt you for years, to include surprises like the people in this article are finding out.

Allowing a home to go into foreclosure does not necessarily absolve you of the debt. The deficiency balance – the difference between the mortgage value and the ultimate sale value of the home – can chase you for years.

This is not legal advice; always consult an attorney or CPA as applicable. However, I can state that you have options in a pre-foreclosure situation.

Call or text me at 719-440-6626 and we can talk about those options.

Rob

Lifehacker: what should a first time home renter know?

While not all inclusive, this checklist is a starting point for renters. To me, the most important tip is this: get the existing damages and needed repairs documented via photo and in writing.

This is an extremely difficult rental market. Don’t lose your security deposit because you didn’t document the move in.

LH-Apartment-Checklist

Questions or have additional resources? Comment/post here!

Rob @ 719-440-6626