Small Projects, Big Bang
Uncertainty and restraint is reflected in homeowners' ROI in remodeling projects, according to Realtors® in 80 metropolitan markets surveyed by Remodeling magazine for this year's Cost vs. Value Report.
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Make Taxes Less Taxing
While there is no escaping filing taxes, you can choose how you prepare your return. Hiring a tax professional to prepare your taxes could save you money in the long run on deductions you might have missed.
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A New Year. A New You.
January 1 - The new year is a natural time for you to take stock of your life and make a change for the better. Here are some suggestions to help you actually keep those resolutions.
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Cinco Charities Houses First Guest
After nearly two years, several fundraisers, and lots of legal and financial wheeling and dealing, Cinco Charities has officially housed it's first guest, and ironically his name is Lionel Sleeper.
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First Time Homebuyers Guide to Taxes
There's nothing quite like purchasing your first home. You're on your own. You have a substantial financial investment. And you now have some different tax considerations. You're probably well-aware that home ownership affords you several new ways to save on the annual Internal Revenue Service bill.
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11 Ways to Hurt Your Credit
Numbered lists tell us everything from how to lose weight to what not to do when planning a party. Many are fun and frivolous, but few lists are as important as one that tells you what not to do when it comes to your credit score. If you are applying for a loan, obtaining insurance or hoping for a new job or promotion, a good credit history makes a difference.
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Why You Need a Homestead Exemption
One of the greatest advantages of owning your own home is being able to take advantage of the tax deductions on your home. While taxes make up a large portion of your monthly note each month - there is a way to ease the burden. Enter Homestead Exemptions. Learn about what they are, how they can save you money, and how you can claim yours.
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Fannie Mae (FMN/NYSE) is implementing the Deed for Lease^TM Program under which qualifying homeowners facing foreclosure will be able to remain in their homes by signing a lease in connection with the voluntary transfer of the property deed back to the lender.

"The Deed for Lease Program provides an additional option for qualifying homeowners who are facing foreclosure and are not eligible for modifications," said Jay Ryan, Vice President of Fannie Mae. "This new program helps eliminate some of the uncertainty of foreclosure, keeps families and tenants in their homes during a transitional period, and helps stabilize neighborhoods and communities."

The new program is designed for borrowers who do not qualify for or have not been able to sustain other loan-workaround solutions, such as a modification. Under Deed for Lease, borrowers transfer their property to the lender by completing a deed in lieu of foreclosure, and then lease back the house at a market rate.

To participate in the program, borrowers must live in the home as their primary residence and must be released from any subordinate liens on the property. Tenants of borrowers in this circumstance may also be eligible for leases under the program. Borrowers or tenants interested in a lease must be able to document that the new market rental rate is no more than 31% of their gross income.

Leases under the new program may be up to 12 months, with the possibility of term renewal or month-to-month extensions after that period. A Deed for Lease property that is subsequently sold includes an assignment of the lease to the buyer. For additional information about the Deed for Lease Program, including full details on program eligibility, please review the Guide Announcement on http://www.efanniemae.com.