Homes Galore

Paris Hilton Invest In Real Property Business In The Philippines

2011-08-16T06:32:00.000-07:00

Who would have thought that a very popular celebrity and hotel heiress Paris Hilton would think of visiting the Philippines and would actually invest in a real estate property business here. She virtually have the access to all the best country, first world country in the world, but she chooses the Philippines.

This has got something to say about the country then. That even the likes of her see a great potential in business and investment here. We should take the queue from her from now on and believe that our country is going somewhere, somewhere really good.

She just shot her advertisement for the property she bought and will make one of the Hollywood celebrities most visited resort and beach club in the world, Azure resorts, Paris Hilton Beach Club!

Strategically Buying A Property Away From Flood Prone Areas

2010-08-16T06:38:00.000-07:00

After typhoon Ondoy hit most part of Metro Manila which used to be not prone to floods. I was thankful for having a property located away from them and now is thinking very well to buy a new place that is away from flood prone areas too.

Not every home in this country have flood insurance, who would have thought of such a flood to come here anyway! It was a traumatic and devastating experience I sure don't want to encounter ever.

Seeing what the victims of the typhoon went through, the lost properties, memories and everything they have all wiped out by a very destructive flood.

If it was not for the less civilized neighbors we have I will not think of moving out. There are a lot of nice improvements in the nearby areas, big shopping mall giants are putting up their malls in here. New residential villages are sprouting like mushrooms.

I went to inspect on some but I didn't like the noise and air pollution, its too much!

Does anyone know where is the best place to buy a property here in Metro Manila, away from the flood and earthquake prone areas and are less congested and polluted like the rest? I also prefer not passing through any toll gate because that's an unnecessary expense I don't want to incur.

Your help will be greatly appreciated.

Smart Real Estate Investing

2010-04-03T00:58:00.000-07:00

I discovered a new kind of real estate investment, a kind of investment that isn't costly and less risky. Its called fractional ownership where you only pay a fraction of the property you want to invest on and enjoy the same benefits like investing in full.

This can also be called as time-share investing and is very practical for those who want to have their own beachfront vacation homes that they can use when they feel like taking a break from the hustle and bustle of their daily grind.

With fractional ownership you get to use a vacation home at a beachfront five weeks a year and you just have to schedule your use with your co-owners.

I think this is really good because nobody can use five weeks straight on a vacation unless you divide your vacation five times a year and one week each time you spent vacationing on your own beachfront vacation homes. Of if you don't plan to use up all your five weeks you can have someone use that time you have for rent with people you know, in that way you get your money back too.

Are Your Ready To Get Your First Time Home Loan

2010-03-08T05:44:00.000-08:00

Your landlord is ridiculously asking for an increase in rent every year but your family income stays the same. You are trying to weigh your options, is it time to get your own home or continue renting. There are several things to consider first and the most crucial question is : are you ready to render your first time home loan?

Companies, private or government owned have a lot of favorable packages for those who want to avail of first time home loans. With the recession affecting all economies there are so many foreclosed properties that were sequestered by these companies that they want to dispose off and they are willing to give the property through home loans and lenders specially the first timers.

Now is the time to do your research about the steps you have to do to buying your own home.

Figure out how much you can afford
Know your rights
Shop for a loan, especially those that are tailored to first time home loans and lenders
Learn about homebuying programs
Shop for a home
Make an offer
Get a home inspection
Shop for homeowners insurance
Sign papers

Pag-IBIG Fund Expands Mandatory Coverage

2010-02-28T04:19:00.000-08:00

Under the universal membership coverage which takes effect beginning January 2010, the following are mandatorily covered by the Fund: all employees who are compulsorily covered by the SSS; all employees who are subject to mandatory coverage by the GSIS; uniformed members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and the Philippine National Police, Overseas Filipino Workers, and Filipinos employed by foreign-based employers, whether deployed in the country or abroad.

With this expanded coverage OFWs can enjoy the various benefits of being a member which include:

Savings. Members’ contributions are credited to their savings or the total accumulated value that earn dividends and fully guaranteed by the national government. In 2009,
Pag-IBIG declared tax-free dividends amounting to P8.5 billion with a dividend rate of 5%.

Short Term Loans. OFW-members can also avail of short-term loans that will help address their immediate financial needs such as payment for tuition fees, hospital bills, appliance purchases, minor home repairs, and even for small business capital.

Housing Loan. A member of good standing is eligible to avail of a home financing loan that has an interest rate of as low as 6% to 11.5% payable in 30 years. The maximum loan amount is P3 million. The loan can be used for the purchase of a fully developed lot within a residential area not exceeding 1,000 sq.m., purchase of a residential house and lot, townhouse or condominium unit, construction or completion of a residential unit on a lot owned by the member, home improvement and refinancing of an existing loan.

More about this story here: http://www.pagibigfund.gov.ph/nr_feb2010b.htm

How To Be A Broker?

2010-02-19T23:53:00.000-08:00

Here's what Brokers do:

Brokers talk about what government is doing right -- the homebuyer tax credit tops the list -- and where it should mess out (could the Home Valuation Code of Conduct be the most reviled government policy of the 21st Century?). Many brokers would like the government to implement tougher licensing requirements that would raise the bar for entry to new agents.
Brokers reveal their concerns about the disparities in rules and standards at the multiple listing services and Realtor associations they belong to -- and also say they couldn’t function without them. Brokers want their Realtor associations and MLSs to get tougher on rule breakers, help them straighten out agency representation issues like dual agency, and consolidate into larger regional, state or national organizations.
Brokers say first-time homebuyers not only account for the largest share of home sales in many markets, but represent the fastest-growing segment of home sales in many of those markets. Second homes and move-up homes, on the other hand, are the most rapidly shrinking segment of their business.

Brokers say they may be cutting down on expenses like office staff and marketing and advertising, but many are loathe to do the same when it comes to technology, agent recruitment and training -- areas in which many have actually boosted spending. Brokers generally aren’t pushing for better commission splits with agents or the fees they charge for providing services, either.
Brokers said having experienced, trained agents is a bigger competitive advantage than the size of a company or its brand. Serving a niche market or creating an area of specialization was also seen as less important than staying abreast of technology and conducting online marketing.

Now are you ready to be a broker?
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Hope For Forclousres

2010-02-19T23:26:00.000-08:00

The percentage of loans in the foreclosure process ticked up to a new record high in the final three months of 2009, and could continue to climb depending on the fate of a record number of borrowers who are "seriously delinquent," or behind on their payments by 90 days or more, the Mortgage Bankers Association said today.

However, the percentage of mortgages 30 days past due eased from the third quarter to the fourth, a concrete sign of a "beginning of the end" of an unprecedented wave of mortgage delinquencies that began in early 2007, MBA Chief Economist Jay Brinkmann said.

While the improvement in short-term delinquencies was good news, loans 90 days or more past due now account for half of all delinquencies -- the highest share in the history of the survey, Brinkmann said. A "sizable number" of those loans are in loan modification programs, he said. more...

Five Home Buying Myths

2010-01-31T15:55:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you are all curious about the process of home buying and you have no one to turn to but your friends or family to ask for advice regarding purchasing your new home. While some of them, especially those who have been there and done that can give you useful tip most of them don't know what they are talking about. Brian Lee, vice president and national sales manager for ditech, a wholly owned subsidiary of GMAC Financial Services, addresses the myths and sets the facts straight.

Myth 1: You need perfect credit.
Fact: An individual's credit score will significantly affect his or her mortgage loan approval and interest rate. Credit scores may range from 500 to 850, but the majority of scores are between 600 and 700. The higher the score, the more options you will have when looking for a mortgage. Along with your credit score, lenders will need to consider other factors before they approve a loan. Carefully review your credit report and immediately contact the credit reporting bureaus to correct any errors. You will want your credit report to be accurate by the time you apply for a mortgage.

Myth 2: Owning a home is more expensive than renting.
Fact: In many markets, owning can be as affordable as renting, especially when you consider the tax advantages of owning a home. Unlike rental costs, which increase over time, fixed-rate mortgages provide consistent monthly principal and interest payments for the life of the loan. As you make payments, the money will be applied toward the principal, increasing the equity in your home over time. Historically, owning a home has been one of the easiest ways of building wealth in America as home prices generally increase over time.

Myth 3: Lenders share your personal information.
Fact: Federal and state privacy laws protect your personal information. Generally, lenders must get your permission to share personal financial information with non-affiliates.

Myth 4: The mortgage process is too long and complicated.
Fact: With the right resources, the process of buying a home and obtaining a mortgage can be simplified. Expect an experienced loan officer to review the home financing process with you, define terms, and address concerns to find the financing option that's right for you. In addition, home lenders such as ditech offer a number of online resources such as payment calculators, appraisal tools and a glossary of commonly used mortgage terms to simplify the home-buying process.

Myth 5: Lenders love to make you wait.
Fact: Mortgage lenders don't enjoy making you wait, but it does take time to review your application. Although some lenders may give you a preliminary and conditional pre-approval based on the information provided in an application, they will need to verify this information. This typically involves confirming employment and income, financial assets, and assessing the value of the home you're purchasing. Other documents, such as a payoff statement, may have to be ordered as well. Because lenders must rely on the response time of third parties, the process may take longer than anticipated. Ask your lender about what to expect when you submit an application and to keep you informed of unexpected delays.
(article source: Orlado Sentinel)

Toilet With Built-In Sink

2009-10-14T22:37:00.000-07:00

The decisions being made today regarding the management of water and energy resources will profoundly affect our economic and environmental future. Climate change and other stresses are limiting the availability of clean water and affordable energy. A large amount of energy is expended to supply, treat and use water, meaning that water-oriented strategies can result in significant reductions in energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.

Here is an awesome idea to save water and reduce your personal carbon footprint: a dual purpose toilet with built-in-sink, don't say ewww!

This fabulous toilet cistern not only flushes, but when it refills itself, it does so via a tap on top of the tank. You can therefore use the water twice by washing your hands in it before it fills the water tank.

Has the potential of saving millions of litres of fresh water in the Australian and global environments.
The water your toilet uses to flush is the same as what you use to drink with. Don't let that water go to waste!
Functions just like a regular toilet suite, the only difference being the cistern is filled in a different way. It requires no additional installation requirements beyond that of a regular toilet suite and is suitable for new and existing installations.
Save thousands of litres a year. Easily meet the '155 a day'target
Saves space and stylish design.

About Flood Insurance

2009-10-04T00:38:00.000-07:00

Sadly most of the home insurance does not cover damages cause by flood and only a flood insurance can cover for flood related losses.

There are two basic insurance policies that deal with a homeowner's damage due to water -- a flood insurance policy and a homeowner's insurance policy. Losses not covered by one of these policies may be covered by the another policy. Knowing the losses to which your home could be exposed will help you decide whether to buy one or both of these insurance coverages.

While insurance policies may differ in the coverages provided, often there are basic features common to all policies. The homeowner should ask his or her insurance professional about the specifics of one's specific insurance policy. In the meantime, the following general information is based on standard insurance policies.

Examples of flood damage may include:

A nearby river overflows its banks and washes into you home.
Surface water caused by a heavy rain seeps into your basement because the soil can't absorb the water quickly enough.
A heavy rain or flash flood causes the hill behind your house to collapse into a mud slide that oozes into your home.
Flood damage to your home can be insured only with a flood insurance policy -- no other insurance will cover flood damage. Flood insurance is available through your insurance professional. To determine if your home is located in a flood plain, contact your county planning office. If you are living in a flood plain, flood insurance may be an excellent purchase.

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE

A homeowners insurance policy does not provide coverage for flood damage, but it does provide coverage for many types of water damage to your home. Just the opposite from flood damage, for insurance purposes, water damage is considered to occur when water damages your home before the water comes in contact with the ground. A few examples of water damage may include:

A hailstorm smashes your window, permitting hail and rain free access to your home.
A heavy rain soaks through the roof, allowing water to drip through your attic or ceiling.
A broken water pipe spews water in your home.

Even if your homeowners insurance policy doesn't cover the water or flood damage you've experienced, losses from theft, fire or explosion resulting from that damage are covered. For example, if a nearby creek overflows and floods your home, and looters steal some of your possessions after you've evacuated the house, the theft would be covered by your homeowners insurance. However, the flood damage would be covered only if you have flood insurance.

Flood insurance and homeowners insurance do not duplicate coverage for water damage. Instead, they complement each other. It is up to you to talk to your insurance professional about flood insurance and homeowners insurance and then decide which insurance coverage you need to protect your home, its contents and your family.

Luxury Home Must Haves

2009-09-13T01:10:00.000-07:00

People have a misconception that luxury items are not really useful. It's not true the reason they are more pricey than the regular items is that they combine style, and functionality at the same time. While most household can't afford having a custom while cellar or a in-home elevator or escalator, here are some of the latest and inexpensive luxury home must-haves that will be a standard in every homes soon.

Kitchen

Warming drawer — This is a practical item to keep foods hot and moist. Best for those who like to entertain lots. You can keep the food in there until you guests arrives or the rest of the meal you are preparing is ready to serve.

Multi-level islands — This is something very practical as it adds dimension in the kitchen. A portion can be use as a comfortable eating surface and can mask the clutter around a sink or stove top area.

Three-door refrigerator — Two French doors on the top and a large one-drawer freezer on the bottom make for easier access to the items you use most.

Food prep sink — An extra sink doesn’t need to take up a lot of precious counter space but in a large kitchen it can improve the work flow and even encourage others to participate in the food preparation.

Bathroom
Vertical spas — One of the hottest trends in today’s baths, these incorporate multiple showerheads, water diverters and sophisticated temperature control systems into your shower.

Heated tile floors — Add to the spa feeling with cozy radiant heat under tile flooring. If you’re considering new flooring, this is easy to install and a big selling point.

Towel warming drawers — This luxury trend started in the kitchen and is taking electric towel bars to a new level by warming up your robe and slippers.

Stone countertops — Granite, marble and soapstone come in natural colors that complement most bathroom cabinets. They’re also easier to keep clean compared to traditional tile.

Masters Bedroom

Fireplace — Gas fireplaces are quickly becoming fixtures in luxury homes. Builders are maximizing their effect by constructing them into a wall adjacent to the master bathroom so they can be seen from both sides.

Walk-in closets — Walk-ins are almost required in new homes today, but the luxury market has taken them to a whole new level with the addition of extravagant cabinetry and center islands with storage drawers.

Outside
Outdoor kitchens — More and more homeowners are taking their cooking and entertaining out back with the addition of fully functional kitchens that include grills, custom cabinets and worktops, and even wood-fired ovens.

Heated patios — An emerging trend in cooler climates, radiant-heated patios and driveways melt snow and ice and keep walkways safe.

Make Money With Link From Blog

2009-08-27T19:15:00.000-07:00

There are several ways you can earn money from your blog. You can either sell space on your blog for advertisements, write a post for an advertiser or join an advertising company to place ads on your blogs. This is the easiest and fastest way to get the money rolling in your blog.

Blog advertising companies either place banner ads on your site, or ask you to write a certain post with a certain number of words that includes a link to their advertisers (within the post), a review of an advertisers site, services or products or just a simple link from your blog.

Link from Blog is one of the blog advertising company that pays you through links published in your blog within a post. Depending on an advertisers requirement most paid post can range from $5 and up. What's good about Link from Blog is you don't have to put a sitewide code but within the post only which is perfect for someone who also publish links and ads from other blog ad network.

If you want to start earning from your blogs, join me here and start making money in the Blogosphere!

Style Hints For Condo Owners

2009-08-19T08:17:00.000-07:00

It's a limited space but if you know how to make use of it then your condominium unit will surely go places:

First, it's very imprtant to have less than more. Clutter should be avoided at all costs because clean lines are always more relaxing for a house, particularly for a condominium since it's smaller.
For designs, simple is always better than complicated.
For furniture, comfort is most important especially for condominium owners because you can't choose too many of them.
Having too many small items is a no no. They're hard to clean and they just complicate your life. Have bigger impressive pieces that tell a story instead.
When it comes to colors, go for the neutral because your eyes don't get tired o fit. However, a house that is all neutral is so boring so it's best to have an accent, a bold color that won't be too overpowering.
Decorate with plants. That's probably the cheapest and the best thing to do in giving your house some life.

The Truth About Condo Fees

2009-07-27T08:38:00.000-07:00

The term condo association fee is also sometimes refereed to as the 'condo maintainance fee. These are the monthly fees or charges associated with living in a high-rise.

Common condo association fee charges are often used to maintain common areas and is used for typical expenses associated with the upkeep of community amenities as well as administrative cost. Cost can either include landscaping, repairing parking lots, keeping hallways or stairwells clean and well lit, paying for printing and mailing of condo association rules and other correspondents.

Condo association fees may also be used to pay wages or salaries for those employed by the condo association. Property taxes, legal fees, the association liability insurance, and in some cases certain utilities such as water, sewer, and trash removal are included in its scope. Security personnel or equipment may be included as well.

In a broader sense, condo association fees are determined by taking the total operating budget of the condominium, adding in a factor to fund any reserves that the association directors and owners believe they should be funding and dividing that amount by the ownership interest in the common elements of each unit. That annual sum is then usually collected in monthly payments, although some projects bill in quarterly or annual payments to minimize accounting effort.

Take note that no part of the fee is profit for the association. Condo association are non-profit corporations set up to administer the building on behalf of the owners.

In addition, it is important that you know exactly what is expected of the staff. It is always a smart idea to know exactly what your rights are but this should also include knowing your limitations.

What Is A Healthy Home?

2009-06-17T10:19:00.000-07:00

People are more health conscious these days than ever. More and more are conscious about what they eat, what they wear, what they buy. However, most of us don't pay much attention in having a healthy home. We use too many chemicals, consume too much electricity and clutter stuff too much that makes our homes unhealthy.

"The healthy home nurtures those who dwell inside and also protects the world beyond its walls. Designed with sensitivity for the environment, it is energy-efficient, economical, sustainable, and non-polluting."

"A healthy home may resemble the eco-friendly houses that evolved as part of the popular green architecture movement of the 1980s and 1990s. Drawing from ancient building techniques, these homes are constructed of earth, clay, straw, or steel-reinforced concrete forms. Solar-powered and naturally cooled, they provide modern comforts without draining resources."

"However, you don't need to set up housekeeping in a monolithic dome or an earth-sheltered dwelling to live in harmony with nature. Even the most traditional home, which may have been built long before the rise in environmental consciousness, can be adapted to incorporate the key principles of healthy design."

Healthy For the Body

Free your home from toxins
Arrange furnishings and storage for comfort and ease
Get rid of bulky, dust-collecting cushions
Vent moisture from damp rooms
Create special places for exercise and relaxation

Healthy For the Psyche

Clear away clutter
Let in the sun
Choose mood-enhancing colors
Grow fragrant herbs
Fill rooms with soothing sounds

Healthy For the Soul

Provide quiet places for reflection
Replace throwaways with keepsakes
Strive for simplicity and moderation
Bring nature indoors
Honor the environment

Dust-Resitant Window Treatment

2009-06-14T11:15:00.000-07:00

Dust proofing our homes does not mean we have to compromise aesthetic considerations. Using a carefully researched and proprietary technology, Hunter Douglas products are dust-resistant, which inhibits the proliferation of dust mites. Also, these window treatments repel soil, dirt and stain, and require minimal cleaning so keeping a dust mite-protected home is hassle-free.

All Hunter Douglas products feature sleek designs that can match a wide array of home designs . Hunter Douglas’s window treatments that promotes indoor health does not compromise stylishness and aesthetics. The streamlined design of Window Fashions products can suit any kind of home and any particular room.

For example, the Duette Honeycomb Shades offers versatility for almost all window shapes and sizes — wide and narrow, high and low, square or round.

Hunter Douglas treatments deflect 65 percent of outside noise, which makes classrooms more conducive to learning and homes more ideal for after-school studying.

“Everyone has to do their share to improve the quality of learning that Filipino children get and giving them an asthma-free learning environment is something that parents and school administrators can readily address,” notes Lapira.

By seamlessly fusing functionality, aesthetics and indoor health enhancing properties, Hunter Douglas Window Fashions shut down windows against dust mites and open new ones for people to live healthier lives.

House Warming Gifts

2009-06-12T07:52:00.001-07:00

Someone who had just move-in to a neighborhood definitely does not have everything they need in their home. A house warming party is often organized not just to warm the house and welcome the neighbors but also to help a newly moved family have something in they could use for their new home.

There are no rules on what gifts to give as a house warming gift. Anything that you think you might need in your own home is acceptable. But if it's a newly wed couple then just get what's in their bridal registry and you are good to go.

Here are some nice idea you can put together as a house warming gift.

* Fresh Plants

* A Wreath for the Door

* A Food Basket

* A Bottle of Bubbly and Flutes

* Decorative Scented Candles

* A Dramatic Vase or Serving Bowl

* A Gift Basket either of the following:
o A Basket of Tools
o A Garden Basket
o Art in Progress
o Paint Supplies

* A Pair of Candlesticks

* A Picture Frame

How To Prevent Home Decorating Mistakes

2009-06-10T23:19:00.000-07:00

When you look at a space in your home that needs an immediate make-over do you get excited and work smoothly or get overwhelmed and stop right away. Well here are some tips that will empower you to tap your creative gene and prevent home decorating mistakes.

1) Always be familiar with the space that you will be decorating.

Grab a pen and a paper, tape measure and make a scale layout of the room's perimeter because the best visual remembrances fail against the reality of a scaled drawing in front of you. By this you will have a representation of the room and you will now be able to determine the sizes of the furniture you wish to purchase.

2) Create a checklist of all the supplies and materials you will need. It's best to list the items by urgency of their use.

3) Establish a budget range

The guidelines of a budget save not only your wallet but sometimes your relationship. If you choose to splurge, at least you do so intentionally.

4) Walls and floors are your frame

Consider the floor and walls as your frame. Pay attention to the colors and coverings of your frame. As you decorate within this canvas, remember that this "frame" unifies your decorating, so it is most the logical place to start.

5) Choose lighting fixtures that work best for you functionality wise and aesthetically wise.

6) Don't be afraid to be bold on your design. Mix colors, textures and patterns. Browse magazines or displays for inspiration.

7) Whether you prefer traditional, contemporary, or modern, decorate with your personal sense of style. Be bold not intimidated by mixing period pieces. Eclectic style works provided proportion, color, pattern and texture appear harmonious.

8 ) Do your homework. Learn more about the product you want before you get them. Tou would reap the rewards of some time spent learning more about the products you use to decorate—especially big-ticket items.

9) Balance and scale work together. When you look at the positioning of elements in your room and something hits a discord in you, chances are proportions clash. Getting the balance and scale right takes some practice. Again, take cues from other resources.

10) Use space effectively

It is eminently helpful to make scaled cutouts of the furniture and position all the pieces to your liking within your scale drawing. Gather large pieces to make the most of a focal point. Arrange some informal seating areas.

Happy decorating!

Styling Your Living Room

2009-06-07T19:20:00.000-07:00

The main part of the house is always the living room. It is the busiest place in the house where you receive guest and have a fun family bonding time. It is always best to keep this part of the home most attractive yet functional. Here are some decorating tips to funk up this space.

• Choose the focal point of the room. It’s a piece of furniture that your eye is drawn to when you enter room. It can be a TV set, a picture window, a painting or even a fireplace (if you’re somewhere cold).

• Position the largest furniture piece (probably a sofa) opposite the focal point, approximately 10 feet away. It can be placed in the middle of the room.

• If you have an area rug, place it under the front edge of the sofa. There should be space between the rug and the focal point.

• Place the center table in front of the sofa.

• Put other furniture pieces on either side of the sofa to form a U-shape. The coffee table should still be within reach. Try to balance both sides of the U. If you have a low and club chair, put the loveseat (or two-seater) on one side and the club chair on the other. If you have two chairs, put one on either side. (Note: If you have two large pieces that are similar in size, put them on either side of the U, and the small chair at the end of the U.)

• Position end tables near the furniture that they fit best. Don’t put all of them on one side of the U.

• If you have other furniture pieces, it’s best to move them out of the room or place them in empty spaces. The key here is balance. You can put a chair and a table in one corner, a table at the back of the sofa, or a book case on the wall opposite the fireplace.

• Arrange home accessories to complement the furniture. Don’t just stick them on walls. If you have a console table, put a picture frame on the mantle together with some accessories. Leave the wall space on either side of the focal point empty.

• Lastly, make sure you have a comfortable, cozy conversation area."

Sofa Beds

2009-06-05T05:17:00.000-07:00

Space is one of the problems of condo living. The space is very limited and having bulky furniture will just cramp the space some more. One of the best solutions for this is to use versatile furniture that can be used in many ways or can be folded when not used.

Sofa beds are the ultimate solution for small spaces; these nifty pieces come in various shapes, lengths and sizes that are adaptable to whatever space you find yourself settling in.

There are types of sofa bed that can save a lot of space since they can be pullout from he wall. On the other hand there is more streamlined designs that resembles and orthopedic bed that is easy to set up since you just have to flip the seat over and put the backseat forward. There other designs that just needs to be pushed down and becomes a bed instantly.

Prices may range from P6,000 to P25,000 you can find these sofa beds at Dimensione branches: Homezone Glorietta 4, Robinson’s Place Ermita, Rockwell Power Plant Mall, SM City North Edsa, SM Megamall, Alabang Town Center, TriNoma, Mall of Asia and Dimensione Bonifacio High Street, or log on to www.dimensione.com for more details.

What Happens After Approval Of Housing Loan

2009-05-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

You will get a notice from the loan agency that states the following:

We are pleased to inform you that your Pag-IBIG housing loan application in the amount the loan amount applied for the purchase of condominium unit has been approved and taken out.

The loan term will be for 30 years. Your loan will be subject for repricing once every three years at rated based on prevailing market rates at point of repricing with a cap of two percent (2%) increase from the original interest rate.

In the event you fail to pay the monthly installment payment on due date, you will be charged penalty equivalent to one over twenty 1/20 of one percent (1%) of the amount due for every day of delay or 18 percent per anum.

Loan Approved

2009-05-03T10:38:00.000-07:00

Finally got the housing loan approval notice from our government housing loan provider PAG-IBIG Fund. I feel relieved and happy because it means I have a good credit score and credentials.

The first monthly amortization will be deducted from the take-out pay and I need to pay my amortization on time or else suffer a .01 interest a day.

I was told by my developer that we can move in as soon as we are ready. But I don't think we will be moving in soon as the condo is bare and not ready for occupancy. I will have to talk about the electricity, water, plumbing, garbage disposal, security, and will have to find someone to do the interiors. So probably it will take us a couple of months before we actually move.

I also need to start sorting out the things I will take with me from the old house. I don't think I will be taking lots since we plan on buying new stuff for the new place.

Organizing Your New Home

2009-04-06T11:00:00.000-07:00

So you've decided the type of home you want. Now it's time to make that space you bought as homey as it can be. The pieces you put together can make a big difference it's how you organize them to create the look you want.

Organizing really can be as easy as A-B-C. Here are 26 organizing ideas--one for each letter of the alphabet:

A: ACT - Don't put it off until later. If you want to do it, act on it now.
B: BREAK IT DOWN - Anything you have to do is easier, if you break it down into manageable parts.
C: CONTAINERIZE - Separate and organize your things by storing them in see-through, plastic containers.
D: DELEGATE - You don't have to do everything yourself. Delegate to work associates or family members. Use an outside company to outsource some of your work. Or use technology to your advantage, by delegating to your answering machine, your computer, etc.
E: ELIMINATE - Get rid of clutter--both physical and mental. You'll breathe easier and feel a sense of freedom.
F: FILE - Don't let that paperwork grow into a mountain. File it away in an appropriate place if you need to refer to it again.
G: GIVE - Give the things you no longer use or love to a favorite charity organization, a family member or a friend. There are many people who will be thrilled to receive your gifts.
H: HOME SWEET HOME - Find a home for everything you own, and keep it in its place. When you need something in the future, you'll know its 'address.'
I: IDENTIFY - Before putting items in boxes for storage--or when you're moving--be sure to identify the contents by labeling the outside of the box. Identify papers in file folders, by clearly marking the tab of the folder.
J: JUDGEMENT - Use your best judgment to prioritize your life. Be sure you're spending the majority of your time on the important stuff.
K: KNOWLEDGE - Knowledge is power. In order to effectively organize something, be sure you're using the organizing systems that will work best for you.
L: LISTS - Make lists for things you have to do now, and in the future. Master Lists and To Do Lists will help you get things done. Packing lists will ensure you never forget something again when you travel. Shopping lists will ensure you get everything you need at the mall. Telephone lists will remind you of everyone you have to call this week.
M: MOTIVATION - A huge part of getting organized is motivation. Once you're motivated, there's no limit as to what you can accomplish. Get motivated by designating pending rewards for your accomplishments, involving family members or friends in your goals, and by making getting organized a game. And definitely stop by the Get Organized Now! Discussion Forum for lots of inspiration and motivation.
N: NO - It's so easy to get stressed when you have a million things to do on your plate. If you're beginning to feel burdened with too much to do, learn to say NO to some of those things.
O: ORDER - Rather than living in clutter and chaos, vow to live a more orderly life. You'll know where everything is, and you'll complete whatever you start.
P: PLAN AND PREPARE - While spontaneity every once in awhile is fun and perfectly fine, having a good plan and effectively preparing, will help you reach your goals and deadlines, so you can enjoy maximum accomplishments.
Q: QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY - It is much better to have a few treasures that you love and enjoy, rather than having lots of things you don't particularly care for. Always think quality, over quantity, and you'll simplify your life. Of course, this doesn't apply to money!
R: REMINDERS - Use little reminder devices throughout the day to help you stay on track. Alarm clocks, timers, e-mail reminders and sticky notes are all excellent memory joggers.
S: SELL IT - Why not make some money by selling some of those possessions you no longer want? Try a rummage sale, consignment shop or an online auction company.
T: TOSS - If you don't want it, and you can't give it away or sell it, toss it. Make room for the things that you really enjoy, or that make your life easier.
U: UNUSED SPACE - Don't forget about the space in your home or office that is often forgotten about, such as wall space for shelves or hooks for hanging, or space under the stairs.
V: VISUALIZE - Picture how wonderful your life is going to be when you're organized. Then strive to put yourself in that picture every day.
W: WRITE IT DOWN - Don't try to keep everything you have to remember in your head. Simply write it down and refer to it when needed.
X: X MARKS THE SPOT - Place an X next to each item you accomplish on your To Do List. At the end of the day, add up your x's and celebrate for getting so much done!
Y: YOU - Don't forget to make time for YOU. Remember, an appointment with yourself--time for you with no interruptions--should be one of the most important appointments in your day.
Z: ZONE IN - Really define what you're trying to accomplish, so you have a clear picture in your mind.

Source: Lifeorganizers.com

Your Own Living Space At Circulo Verde

2009-04-04T01:36:00.000-07:00

Ortigas & Co. recently unveiled Circulo Verde, its latest innovative residential development, which offers its residents the living space they deserve.

The property is located in a 12-hectare property along Calle Industria in Bagumbayan, Quezon City, Circulo Verde and they invision a 5 residential buildings of staggered heights that gives residents unparalleled sight lines of the nearby Sierra Madre mountains and the Metro Manila skyline. As a part of the global effort to go green, the development retains natural features that are unique to the property, as well as maximizing the potential of the Marikina River, which surrounds the site.

Ortigas & Company chief operating officer Rex C. Drilon II says Circulo Verde does not merely provide Filipino families with the homes they need, but also the opportunity to embrace an alternative lifestyle that is sensitive to the environment.

“We are here to offer the Filipinos an alternative lifestyle. We believe in making projects that resonate with the aspirations of Filipinos. A home is important for many Filipinos. This is an aspiration of Filipinos in all classes, and it would be sad if we came up with a mediocre development.”

Circulo Verde is ideal for a variety of homeowners, from startup families, to upwardly mobile professionals and empty nesters, since it offers a variety of layouts. Its location places residents in a quiet part of the metropolis yet still within reach of major commercial and business establishments and premiere educational institutions in the country. With access to EDSA, Ortigas Ave., C-5, Katipunan, and Marcos Highway, busy executives are just minutes away from the Makati, Ortigas, and Quezon City business districts. Major commercial establishments as well as schools and colleges like UP Diliman, Ateneo and La Salle Greenhills are just a few kilometers away.

The international design firm RTKL has developed a master plan that maximizes the area’s natural features to strike a balance between nature and the demands of fast-paced living in the city. The Marikina River provides the perfect frame for this ecologically sensitive master plan.

Greg Yager, principal architect of RTKL, says that Circulo Verde offers a high-quality environment where people can live, work and play.

“Being citizens of a world where the climate is changing, we still want to get the quality of life, we still want to enjoy the place we live in, and we still want the best communities for our children. Our aim at Circulo Verde is to create a unique place. You can walk in the garden and alongside the Marikina River, enjoying the fresh air on your face. Then just around the corner, you can walk into the shops, restaurants, gyms and health clubs. You can be in the midst of a flurry of activities without leaving your neighborhood.

Ortigas & Company general manager for real estate, Cathy Casares-Ko, says that the project site is unique. Its location and topography allow the planners to come up with a product that maximizes the views for all the towers. There is a play on the heights of the residential buildings that provide not just unimpaired views, but also brings in adequate ventilation and natural lighting to all units.

To maintain an ideal ratio of greens in the property, building densities have been kept low, with as much as 70 percent of the land area allocated for open spaces, roads and neighborhood facilities. Trees planted throughout the development will provide a buffer from the industrial properties across the river, providing residents with a vibrant and lush green ambience.

Unique to the buildings at Circulo Verde are sky gardens, open spaces within the building where residents can unwind any time of the day without having to go down and outside their building. In some buildings, the sky gardens even cover two floors. The gardens will be devoted to greens and blooms, providing residents with a pocket garden where they can hie off for a breather.

There will be foot and jogging paths within the property, as well as playgrounds and a variety of swimming pools to entertain both young and old alike. Pet lovers are also in for a treat, since there will be a dog park where residents can bring their canine companions to run and roam freely.

At the heart of Circulo Verde is a town center where retail space and modern conveniences come together to offer residents the amenities they need. Shops and restaurants, alongside daily necessities like a grocery, water refilling station and laundry shop, will eliminate the need to run off to the mall or hypermarket for sundry emergencies.

The first phase of development at Circulo Verde covers five residential buildings on a 2.7-hectare area within the property. Presently being developed are Ibiza Tower and Majorca Residences.

Ibiza Tower is a 23-storey residential building that offers a variety of layouts for one- to two-bedroom units, with floor areas ranging from 44- to 80-square meters. Unique to Ibiza are bi-level units that give homeowners the luxurious space they need for their homes.

Majorca Residences is an 11-storey residential development that offers spacious layouts for families needing room to grow. Room layouts come in a variety of configurations for three-, two- and one-bedroom units, with floor areas ranging 42 square meters up to 107 square meters. All units have ample spaces for balconies to give residents their own private retreat at home.

Circulo Verde is a development of Ortigas & Company, Limited Partnership For inquiries, please call 631-5968 and 638-8633, send a fax to 631-5962, or e-mail to circuloverde@ortigas.com.ph. Visit its website at www.circuloverde.com.ph.

How To Secure A Housing Loan From Pag-IBIG Fund

2009-02-28T22:13:00.000-08:00

You went around checking potential properties and you learned from the developer of the property you want to purchase that you can avail a Pag-IBIG Housing Loan that is payable in 30 years time.

What are necessary requirements?

You should attend a housing loan counseling/seminar at Pag-IBIG main office in the Atrium, Makati City before anything else so you will know all your rights and responsibilities regarding the loan. The seminars are held everyday but for those who will buy a property from a developer the time of counseling is 3PM, the rest can attend the 8AM to 1PM with 12NN as break time. Seminar is about 2 hours.
Make sure you have at least 24 months of contribution at Pag-IBIG to qualify for a loan.
If you have been an inactive member of Pag-IBIG for more than a year you can re-activate it by paying at least three months of contribution to any Pag-IBIG branch near you.
For employed borrowers you should secure:

An employment certificate
At least one months payslip.
Income Tax Return for employed.
Company ID
ESAV (a statement of all contributions from Pag-IBIG) you can get this at the branch where your company is located.
Birth Certificate
Marriage Certificate if married
Baranggay Certificate (cedula)

Are You Ready To Avail Of A Pag-IBIG Housing Loan?

2009-02-21T16:00:00.000-08:00

You found your dream home and you want to get it, problem is you don't have enough money to purchase the property outright. Like I mentioned earlier you can avail of loans either in-house financing, bank financing or through government housing loans financing like Pag-IBIG (if you are from the Philippines and a contributing member for more than 24 months, even if you are outside the country)

If you are thinking of availing for a housing loan at Pag-IBIG here are some important guidelines you should know.

1) The first monthly amortization shall be deducted from the loan takeout proceeds while succeeding monthly amortization payments shall commence on the second month immediately following loan takeout/final release, and shall be paid on the date that coincides with the date of loan takeout/final loan release.

2) A penalty of 0.0005 a day will be charge if pay after the due date.

3) Non-payment of three (3) consecutive monthly amortizations and/or monthly membership contributions and other obligations on the loan shall be a ground for legal action/cancellation/foreclosure of your property subject to your Pag-IBIG loan.

4) If you're an existing member and has paid at least 24 contributions, you must pay the upgraded Pag-IBIG membership contributions/savings upon receipt of the Notice of Loan Aprroval to the following amounts:

Monthy Contributions Loan Entitlement

P 200 Up to P 500,000
250 Over 500,000 - 600,000
300 Over 600,000 - 700,000
350 Over 700,000 - 800,000
400 Over 800,000 - 900,000
450 Over 900,000 - 1,000,000
500 Over 1,000,000 - 1,100,000
550 Over 1,100,000 - 1,200,000
600 Over 1,200,000 - 1,300,000
650 Over 1,300,000 - 1,400,000
700 Over 1,400,000 - 1,500,000
750 Over 1,500,000 - 1,600,000
800 Over 1,600,000 - 1,700,000
850 Over 1,700,000 - 1,800,000
900 Over 1,800,000 - 1,900,000
950 Over 1,900,000 - 2,000,000

For Sale

2009-02-17T03:33:00.000-08:00

Semi-furnished House and lot for sale at Bagong Silang, Caloocan City, Philippines
With clean title and easy transfer to the new owner
Lot size: 90 sq. meters
3 bedrooms
2 living area
laundry area
front porch
2nd floor den/terrace
ready for second floor
Sale Price: P630,000
The owners are migrating soon.
Property is near market, schools, and church.
Interested buyers leave a message here include your contact details.

Things To Consider Before Buying A Property

2009-02-15T10:17:00.000-08:00

Before making any purchases you have to consider your capacity to pay. Do you have the available cash in hand or are you planning for some financing scheme like in-house financing, bank financing or government assisted housing loans.
After identifying your means to pay think about the kind of property you would like to purchase. Will you consider living in a condominium/hotel like living arrangement or still go for the conventional house and lot.
Consider buying a property at an area most convenient for you or closer to where you do your business/work and proximity from important establishments like church, schools, hospitals and market or malls.
Investigate on the credibility of the seller individual or developer and make visits to the potential property you would like to purchase.

Things To Consider When Selling Your Home

2009-02-15T02:49:00.000-08:00

Our parents home has many memories. That is where we experienced our teenage years. There are many happy and sad moments from that house and if you would base the pricing according to all the moments in that home it would be priceless. However, things change and sometimes we have to let go of things that has sentimental value for practicable reasons.

Through experience here are some tips and considerations before you think of selling your homes:

Do your research on the market value of your property.
Location is one of the most important factor why a certain property has a high or low market value. If it is just near the major places like market, school, church and road, your property can be appraised at a higher value.
Floor size is another major consideration when setting your properties value.
Determine if there are major repairs or improvements needed on what is already available and working.
Figure your net cash from your home property sale consider all deduction from the actual sale price.
You're living arrangements after the house/property gets sold. Consider this if you are still occupying the property to be sold.
Are you ready to let go of all the memories, friends and neighborhood?
Get the necessary documentation ready for the sale (house title and other legal documents needed).

About Homes Galore

2009-02-15T00:05:00.000-08:00

Last year started out with my family's desire to sell our parents home to move to another place since we have outgrown the old already. My sister went abroad, my father died, and my brother lives on his own with his family, my daughters school is hours away and so is work. It was indeed the best decision to sell our folks place and get a new one.

Right now we are on the stage of entertaining buyers in the old house, dozens had come and inquired and more are coming week after week. Sometimes it's tiring to entertain buyers but sooner or later we will be able to make that sale.

Meanwhile, while doing the marketing of the old house, we are on the process of getting a new place and I am going through the nitty-gritty of all the details regarding buying, the documentation, financing and all necessary things to get that purchase and move out.

This blog will be dedicated about everything about homes -- from buying, creating, maintaining and selling.