Friday, January 13, 2012

Zeus News!

Zeus Fun Factoids
(well, as much fun as mortgage facts can be).

In December 2011, the average monthly payment on a 30 year mortgage in Houston, Texas for principal and interest was $1,046 which is down 9% year over year.

Government purchase applications increased 7% sequentially while conventional purchase applications increased 9%. Said another way, Houston FHA and VA mortgage applications rose 7% while traditional Fannie Mae applications rose 9%.

This weeks average monthly payment in Houston of a 30 year fixed rate mortgage was $1,046 which is inline with payments seen in mid-2003.

Mortgage application trends and analysis. 01-13-12

Zeus Mortgage, Ltd.
1776 Yorktown Suite 550
Houston, TX 77056

713-ASK-ZEUS
ASKZEUS.COM





Thursday, January 12, 2012

Houston Mortgage Professional Rated in the Top 40 in the US

For Immediate Release

Houston’s Zeus Mortgage CEO Secures Placement in “40 Under 40” List

National Mortgage Professional Magazine names Zeus Mortgage CEO one of the 40 most influential mortgage professionals under the age of 40 for the second year in a row


Houston, TX. – Jan. 11, 2012 – Zeus Mortgage, a leading mortgage lender, today announced National Mortgage Professional Magazine honored Steven Kaufman, CEO of Zeus Mortgage, with placement in the publication’s third annual “40 Under 40” feature. As the only Houston-based mortgage professional awarded, Kaufman’s inclusion in the annual list exemplifies professionalism and top production in today’s housing market, an industry known for its great uncertainty.

Steven Kaufman, CEO of Zeus Mortgage, has coordinated more than $1 billion in real estate financing for companies including American Express, Hewlett Packard and Exxon Mobil. Kaufman’s community involvement in grassroots organizations, plus his tenacious commitment to keeping team synergy as top priority of his Houston-based organization, has made him sought after by customers and competitors alike.

“To be so involved in an ever-changing field such as the mortgage industry, takes great risks; however, with that comes immense rewards,” stated Steven Kaufman, president, Zeus Mortgage. “Receiving this honor for the second year in a row is a great reminder of what perseverance is all about – leading your team by example and staying optimistic in wavering economic times.”

National Mortgage Professional Magazine receives hundreds of nominations for inclusion in the annual “40 Under 40” feature, a list honoring the top mortgage professionals under the age of 40, as voted on by their peers.

More information about the “40 Under 40” list can be found in the December 2011 print issue of National Mortgage Professional Magazine. Additional information about Zeus Mortgage can be found directly at AskZeus.com.


About Zeus Mortgage
Zeus Mortgage is widely known as one of the fastest growing private companies in the United States, and is comprised of a team of world-class experts who are skilled at providing up-to-the-minute market information, offering valuable knowledge and insight to their clients. With proactive communication and enthusiastic service, Zeus Mortgage delivers unsurpassed value to their customers, while making the mortgage process simple and smooth. For more information about Zeus Mortgage please visit ASKZEUS.COM or call 800-ASK-ZEUS.



###

Press Contact:

Steven Kaufman
Zeus Mortgage
713-275-9387
pr@askzeus.com

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Who's the Best Loan Officer in Houston?

We are proud to announce that Zeus Mortgage President, Steven Kaufman, has been included as an honorable mention in the December issue of National Mortgage Professional Magazine as one of the “40 Under 40 Most Influential Mortgage Professionals in the United States”. Mr. Kaufman was included on the prestigious list in 2010 and is the only mortgage professional from Houston included in 2011.

As printed: “There are those who are making serious waves in the industry who could not be overlooked. They, like those on the “40 Under 40” list are the leaders of this industry for years to come, so keep an eye out as well for the following innovators and originators as they continue to shape the industry.”

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Is it better to rent or buy? Houston Mortgage Loans

HOMEOWNERSHIP BEATS RENTING IN 74 PERCENT OF MAJOR U.S. CITIES

Trulia Releases Summer Rent vs. Buy Index, Revealing Housing Market Rebound in Miami and Continued Setbacks in Detroit, Fresno and Sacramento

SAN FRANCISCO, August 16, 2011 – Trulia today released its Summer 2011 Rent vs. Buy Index, which compares the cost of buying and renting a two-bedroom apartment, condominium or townhouse in America’s 50 largest cities based on population. Based on current market conditions, buying a home is cheaper than renting in 74 percent of major U.S. cities.

“Many aspiring homeowners are on the fence about renting and buying in today’s market. Should they take advantage of falling home prices and low borrowing costs, or should they continue to rent until the economy stabilizes?” said Ken Shuman, Head of Communications at Trulia. “Price alone should never be the sole factor in deciding to purchase a home. Instead, buyers should first ask themselves if they plan to live in the home for at least seven-to-10 years, could make monthly payments on the house, and have enough cash in the bank for a down payment and an additional six to eight months worth of mortgage payments. If you can answer ‘yes’ to each of these questions, then the cost of buying a home definitely outweighs renting in most cities.” Houston mortgage loans at Zeus Mortgage is a great place to start. With the lowest interest rate on home loan mortgage refinances and incredible first time home buyer mortgage loan programs.

• Lower your mortgage payment

• Prevent your existing payment from rising

• Combine your first and second into one low payment

• Payoff credit cards and other debt

• Get cash from your home

• Get cash from your investment property


Zeus Mortgage

The Baldest Guy In Houston

Zeus Mortgage Complaints

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

The History of Houston Real Estate Prices!

Have you ever wondered how much prices in real estate have changed over the last 100 years? Okay, maybe not, but I thought you might find this gem helpful or at least entertaining. This is a flyer for a home for sale in 1910. This flyer is courtesy of the Houston Fire Museum and shows the cost of building a 6 bedroom house in Houston over a century ago only ran you about $495. Yes, that is four hundred and ninety five dollars. Today's median cost of a new home is around $250,000 depending on who you ask. That's some appreciation... or is it? One thing is for sure, mortgage financing is completely differently today compared to how it was 100 years ago. What you and I regard as “normal” in Houston mortgage programs is completely different since the introduction of the New Deal by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Programs like Houston FHA mortgage, VA loans, Jumbo and self-employed Super Jumbo loans were non-existent prior to the New Deal. In fact, refinances or cash-outs mortgages or home equity loans were considered lowbrow activities.

.

Prior to the New Deal by FDR, only 4 out of 10 Americans/Houstonians/Texans owned a home. Today the most popular mortgage amortization or term is 30 years, but at the turn of the 20th century 5 and 10 year mortgages were the standard. What about down payments? Well, prior to the New Deal, families had to put down 80% and finance the remaining 20% over the next 5 to 10 years at a national average of 8%. Yes, I said it right... you had to put 80% down!!!!

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Okay, well that's my best attempt at a history lesson for today.

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Enjoy the photo!

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Steven Kaufman

President of Zeus Mortgage

www.askzeus.com

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The Baldest Guy In Houston: Zeus Mortgage Complaints

The Best Houston Mortgage Company

Monday, August 22, 2011

Off The Coast of Zanzibar Book Reviews - The Baldest Guy In Houston (Zeus Mortgage Complaints)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Steven Kaufman
steven@askzeus.com

Off the Coast of Zanzibar by Greg S. Reid & Steven Kaufman

Motivational Business Allegory Encourages Readers to Welcome Coming of Age Once Again

“Here it was. The biggest physical feat he [observant business owner, father and husband, Karl Patrick] had yet attempted. Part of him felt satisfied enough with what he had seen to turn back, grab the next flight out and go home to his family.”~ Excerpt from Off the Coast of Zanzibar

Opening at the bottom of Mount Kilimanjaro, entrepreneur Karl Patrick is in a good place. He is getting a chance to work on his bucket list while keeping his business afloat and maintaining a great relationship with his wife and son.

Despite his track record, Karl can’t seem to ignore the ever present feeling that he seems to just be floating by and dare he say it: feeling a tad empty.

The physically exhausting journey induces Karl to recall memories of trials and tribulations he had with himself and his work. At one point realizing, “I’ve been so anxious about failure lately, that I haven’t been able to enjoy my work much at all.”

As Karl negotiates each step across the terrain, he brings homage to the people he’s met and for sharing their wisdoms he found so useful at his times of hardships. He is pleasantly surprised to find those same life nuggets coming in handy during the trek.

Thus Karl comes full circle along the expedition, realizing that his times of difficulties and the growth he has endured serves as an anchor for him to move forward. He finally sees he can launch from the landing pad he has created for himself.

This fast-paced tale enlightens readers as much as the main character. Tellingly, Off the Coast of Zanzibar features expert commentary and co-authorship from a variety of great mentors who are also available for interviews and appearances:

Steven Kaufman’s insights on trusting the experience in life and business.

The story is a salute to everyone’s coming of age. As Karl Patrick’s deepest-held fears subside, readers are inspired to want more from their own lives. Just as important, like Karl, they are given a memento of tools for actively pursuing their own most fervently cherished ambitions.

# # #
Author: Steven Kaufman, CPA is a principal in Zeus Mortgage where he has coordinated over a billion dollars in real estate financing for companies like American Express, Hewlett Packard, and Exxon Mobil. Zeus Mortgage is the 37th fastest growing private financial service firms in the US according to Inc. Magazine. Steven is frequently interviewed by local and national news organizations like FOX, ABC, CBS, CNN, and Bloomberg on the current financial markets. Steven completed the Strategic Marketing Management Program at Harvard Business School and has a Masters Degree in Economic Development and Entrepreneurship from the University of Houston. Steven's enthusiasm, energy, and insight provide a unique experience during his discussions and presentations. Visit www.askzeus.com to contact Steven.


Off the Coast of Zanzibar
by Greg S. Reid & Steven Kaufman

Sherpa Press
Fiction
$16.95

Available at www.amazon.com and www.bn.com and www.zanzibarbook.com

For more information or to contact the author for media commentary,
email: steven@askzeus.com

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

How does the credit rating of Fannie and Freddie impact mortgages

So, everyone wants to know... okay, not everyone, but many home owners/buyers want to know how the credit ratings of the United States and Fannie and Freddie will impact their purchase or refinance, or sale. Here's a clip from my interview with ABC News anchor Jeff Ehling on how interest rates, home prices, refinancing, fast home purchasing, credit scores, jumbo financing, and FHA financing will be impacted by the credit rating changes. Zeus Mortgage reviews complaints

allowscriptaccess="always" allownetworking="all" allowfullscreen="true" src="http://cdn.abclocal.go.com/static/flash/embeddedPlayer/swf/otvEmLoader.swf?version=&station=ktrk&section=&mediaId=8297891&cdnRoot=http://cdn.abclocal.go.com&webRoot=http://abclocal.go.com&configPath=/util/&site=">

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Is Facebook Wasting your Time?

You know you're addicted to Facebook If

You check your facebook account more then one time every hour

You visit sites that list reasons about being addicted to facebook.

Your profile has so man applications that it takes several minutes to load

Your long distance boyfriend broke up with you by posting a comment on your facebook page.

Your dreams involve people writing messages on your wall

You're one of the few people who actually use facebook chat

Your relationship status is only official if its been updated on facebook

You tag photos immediately after taking them with your camera phone

You have several facebook friends that you've never actually met in person

Before you accept a job you have to find out about their Facebook policies!

People don’t invite you out without facebooking you about it first.

You tell more (....force) people to join facebook.

The world "poke" is no longer considered something physical to you

You like to receive meaningless gift icons and you like sending meaningless gift icons in return

You've already checked your Facebook account three times before finishing this list!

You join a new facebook group on a daily basis/

You make posts about knowing if you're addicted to Facebook...

Have Fun!

Steven Kaufman

The Baldest Guy in Houston!

Zeus Mortgage reviews complaints

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Getting Prepared for Hurricane Season!

Knowledge is power right?

Floods and flash floods happen in all 50 states.

Everyone lives in a flood zone. (For more information, visit our Flood Zones FAQs.)

Most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage.

If you live in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) or high-risk area and have a Federally backed mortgage, your mortgage lender requires you to have flood insurance. (To find your flood risk, fill out the Flood Risk Profile.)

Just an inch of water can cause costly damage to your property.

Flash floods often bring walls of water 10 to 20 feet high.

A car can easily be carried away by just two feet of floodwater.

Hurricanes, winter storms and snowmelt are common (but often overlooked) causes of flooding.

New land development can increase flood risk, especially if the construction changes natural runoff paths.

Federal disaster assistance is usually a loan that must be paid back with interest. For a $50,000 loan at 4% interest, your monthly payment would be around $240 a month ($2,880 a year) for 30 years. Compare that to a $100,000 flood insurance premium, which is about $400 a year ($33 a month).

If you live in a moderate-to-low risk area and are eligible for the Preferred Risk Policy, your flood insurance premium may be as low as $129 a year, including coverage for your property's contents.

You are eligible to purchase flood insurance as long as your community participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. Check the Community Status Book to see if your community is already an NFIP partner.

It takes 30 days after purchase for a policy to take effect, so it's important to buy insurance before the floodwaters start to rise.

In a high-risk area, your home is more than twice as likely to be damaged by flood than by fire.

Anyone can be financially vulnerable to floods. People outside of high-risk areas file over 20% of NFIP claims and receive one-third of disaster assistance for flooding.

The average annual U.S. flood losses in the past 10 years (2001-2010) were more than $2.7 billion.

When your community participates in the Community Rating System (CRS), you can qualify for an insurance premium discount of up to 45%. Read more about CRS Ratings.

Since 1978, the NFIP has paid over $36.9 billion for flood insurance claims and related costs (as of 12/31/10).

Over 5.5 million people currently hold flood insurance policies in more than 21,000 communities across the U.S.

For more policy and claim statistics, visit the National Flood Insurance Program.

The Baldest Guy in Houston

Sunday, December 19, 2010

Cell Phone Numbers Go Public This Month!

REMEMBER: Cell Phone Numbers Go Public this month.

REMINDER..... All cell phone numbers are being released to telemarketing companies and you will start to receive sales calls.

.... YOU WILL BE CHARGED FOR THESE CALLS

To prevent this, call the following number from your cell phone: 888-382-1222.
It is the National DO NOT CALL list It will only take a minute of your time. It blocks your number for five (5) years. You must call from the cell phone number you want to have blocked. You cannot call from a different phone number.

It takes about 20 seconds.



Who is the "Baldest Guy in Houston" and what is the "Coolest Non-Profit in Houston"?

Monday, November 1, 2010

The Coolest Non-Profit in Houston

The votes are in and there's no doubt who the coolest non-profit in Houston is the Fanatical Change Foundation. We just had our Hollywood Halloween Party and it was incredible. There were several obstacles in making event a huge success. Matt and Mark Smith were gentlemen with the Houston Motor Club. In the end we made it incredible. Thanks to great folks at The House of Blues, Verizon Theatre, and Houston Motor Club we rocked that venue unlike any party they've ever had.

The painting of Ali was something so incredible that I was inspired to paint! Okay, maybe not, but I was inspired. Martin is an incredible artist and his work is amazing. Everyone that came out loved the party and we raised enough money to help 6 families. I hope you'll check out the video below that was on Fox who was live at our event and the videos of us helping the families at our website at www.fanaticalchange.org. Thank you to every person who's ever supported this amazing cause. On behalf of the volunteers and the families... THANK YOU!



Keep the Change!
The Baldest Guy in Houston
The Coolest Guy in Houston

Sunday, October 24, 2010

Coolest Attorney in Houston is Matt Wright

Hello Ladies and Gentlemen!!!!!

Please allow me to introduce you to my great friend Matt Wright. This dude is amazing. He is the coolest attorney in Houston. There are lots of attornies in Houston, but not all of them are cool. Matt Wright is the man. I've been his friend for a long time now and continues to impress me time and time again. Matt didn't become the coolest attorney in Houston overnight. I mean those boots need to go, but the cool glasses are a keeper.

Oh yeah, Matt Wright is the "coolest attorney in Houston" because he knows the "baldest guy in Houston".

Zeus Mortgage reviews complaints

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Houston Low Rate Mortgages?

How low will interest rates go? That's the big question today when foreclosures hit an all time high while mortgage rates hit a low for the same time period. Here's a brief interveiw with the local FOX news on this situation. It's the best I could do with little preperation and being the "baldest guy in Houston" who's trying hard to become the "coolest guy in Houston". Stay tuned...

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

How do I become the Coolest Guy In Houston, Texas

Yahoo Finance

Press Release Source: Zeus Mortgage On Tuesday October 12, 2010, 9:00 am EDT

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Zeus Mortgage, a leading mortgage lender, today announced it has been named by the Houston Business Journal as one of Houston’s 100 fastest-growing companies in the publication’s annual list. Honored at the Houston Fast 100 luncheon at the Westin Galleria Hotel, Zeus Mortgage ranked 37 based on the company’s percentage of revenue growth over the past two years.

As many companies are struggling to stay afloat during uncertain economic times, Zeus Mortgage has prevailed and continues to maintain a respectable name within the real estate industry. The company credits much of its success and growth to ensuring employees receive up-to-date industry information, resulting in great value and insight for each individual customer.

“We’re so honored to be named one of the fastest-growing companies in Houston for the second year in a row, and feel privileged to be in such great company,” stated Steven Kaufman, president, Zeus Mortgage. “Houston is full of highly-motivated businesses that encourage us to keep growing and educating ourselves to better serve our customers, and we are truly dedicated to being an asset to this remarkable community.”

Exclusively hosted by the Houston Business Journal, the “2010 Houston Fast 100” was attended by more than 500 guests from the local business community, and was presented by Calvetti, Ferguson & Wagner P.C. Co-sponsors of the event were G&A Partners, Pierpont Communications, Accountemps and IBERIABANK.

Additional information about the “2010 Houston Fast 100” can be found in the Houston Business Journal’s September 24 issue. More information about Zeus Mortgage can be found directly at AskZeus.com.


About Zeus Mortgage

Zeus Mortgage is widely known as one of the fastest growing private companies in the United States, and is comprised of a team of world-class experts who are skilled at providing up-to-the-minute market information, offering valuable knowledge and insight to their customers. With proactive communication and enthusiastic service, Zeus Mortgage delivers unsurpassed value to their customers, while making the mortgage process simple and smooth. For more information about Zeus Mortgage please visit ASKZEUS.COM or call 800-ASK-ZEUS.

Contact:
Zeus Mortgage
Public Relations
Steven Kaufman
713-275-9387
pr@askzeus.com

Who's the "Coolest Guy In Houston"? kidding!

Here's my latest video for CBS local news on the how real estate prices and families are impacted by the recent stop in foreclosures.



Not bad for the "Coolest Guy In Houston" who happens to be the "Baldest Guy in Houston" too!

Friday, September 24, 2010

You're not too old for this Halloween Party!


How long has it been since you went to a Halloween Party? Save this date. You won't want to miss this part. Guaranteed!











The Baldest Guy in Houston

Best Dallas Cowboys Jokes - For the Houston Texans

Breaking News – Training at Cowboy stadium was delayed after a player found an unknown white powdery substance on the ground. Training was suspended while police were called in. After analysis, experts determined that the white substance, unfamiliar to most of the players, was in fact the goal line. Practice will resume this afternoon after they decided the team was unlikely to encounter the substance again.



Schaub: Knock, knock

Romo: Who’s there?

Schaub: Owen

Romo: Owen who?

Schaub: Owen 3 bitch!



Tornado warning issued for Dallas. Residents are advised to go to Cowboy’s Stadium for shelter, as the possibility for a touchdown there is highly unlikely.



What’s the difference between Linsay Lohan and Tony Romo? Linsay Lohan has a good line in front of her.



What does Dallas and Brokeback Mountain have in common? They both have cowboys that suck!



How do you keep a Dallas Cowboy out of your yard? Put up a goal post.

The Baldest Guy In Houston

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

Extending the First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit

As of right now there is very little chatter in DC about extending the credit. So, we basically have 72 hours to have a complete (executed) sales contract. That's not much time, but it's doable. I had the opportunity to speak on ABC news last night about the pending deadline. Here is the link for the short clip:

ABC Nightly News - Clip on Expiring First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit

Of course, you have until June 30th to close and fund on your new contract. There's always the lingering question about finding another house after the April 30th deadline because of repairs or option period reasons.

The 60 days you have close on the house is plenty of time for a fha or conventinal mortgage. Houston FHA loans at Zeus Mortgage are are taking 3 weeks and low rate refinances are taking about the same time.

The Baldest Guy in Houston - Steven Kaufman at Zeus Mortgage.
www.askzeus.com

Zeus Mortgage reviews complaints

Friday, April 23, 2010

HBJ Finalist for 2010 Non-Profit CFO of the Year

Hey RICH Club Fans! (The Realty Investment Club of Houston)

You already know we have the most incredible real estate investment club in Houston and in the country. Yes, I'm a little biased because I've spent a good part of my adult life within this great education providing power house of an organization. In fact, I've spent the last 5/6 years volunteering on the Board of Directors and in other areas.

What's my point? Well... I’m proud to share with you that the Houston Business Journal named me as a 2010 Finalist for the Non-Profit CFO of the Year.

The final determination is May 21st and I look forward to attending and representing our great organization.

The RICH Club is surrounded by many other organizations, such as Lifestyles Unlimited, The Wealth Club, The Newbie Club, Gordon Appleby, and several notable players in the Houston real estate market. Despite the various objectives of all of these organizations, the RICH Club has remained the pillar of single family real estate investing, subject-to, short-sales, owner financing, creative financing, apartment and multi-family property investing, and landlording education in the city of Houston for more than 30 years.

As a company, Zeus Mortgage, has been a vendor of RICH for many years. We've been proud to offer real estate investors, including newbies, non-owner occupied investor long-term loans. They requested hard money lending and rehab loans so we introduced our own hard money loan several years ago. We help home buyers also who need Houston FHA loans and Houston FHA lenders and Houston FHA mortgages to finance their homes. Lastly, we work with jumbo and super jumbo mortgages so investors who really want to buy big.

I hope to find out on May 21st if I'm more than a finalist, but I'm extremely honored either way. The Baldest Guy in Houston!

Here's the link for the story!!!

http://houston.bizjournals.com/houston/stories/2010/04/19/daily24.html?page=2

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

HAFA - Short Sale and Loan Modifications that Work

We've all heard the stories of the family who negotiated with the bank for months on a short sale and the bank makes the buyer and the home owner jump over hundreds of hoops. I was personally involved in one of these about 2 years ago with a Galleria highrise unit that I wanted to purchase. The short version to the story is that the home owner purchased the property for 450k and it was only work 200k. Its funny because I offered the bank 225k (25k more than its worth) and after a year.... 12 months... they finally decided to accept my offer and I had already moved on to greener pastures. The building was an outdated highrise called the Campton on Woodway and Post Oak. Lot's of speculative investors bought in the building after the thing nearly went belly up.

I digress, the Federal government has just finished rolling out the HAFA program which will help families who are trying to sell on a short sale. In an earlier post I mentioned a few of the highlights and I was recently able to share my insights on CBS News with the awesome report Christine Haas. She's interviewed me, on behalf of Zeus Mortgage, for other stories on low rate mortgage, FHA financing, and cash-out refinancing. Here is the recent clip:



http://www.kvue.com/news/Government-program-offers-incentives-to-speed-up-short-sale-process-91699739.html

CBS has an amazing light (camera) guy... obviously, because he shaded the shinny bald head I have. If you haven't heard, I am the "baldest guy in Houston". That's not somethign I'm necessarily proud of but don't you think bald guys look smarter? Okay, not the comb over bald guys, but the shaved bald guys.

Back to short sales... they looks like the first government program in a long time that is designed to actually work and not just pretend to be a solution to a huge problem.

Until next time!

Steven Kaufman
Zeus Mortgage
AskZeus.com

"The Baldest Guy in Houston"

Zeus Mortgage reviews complaints

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Zeus Mortgage Tattoo TV Spot (Ask Zeus)



If you're looking for FHA, VA, and below market interest rates on super jumbo mortgages, 203k, 203(k), cash out refinances, rehab or hard money loans then call the experts.

Ask Zeus. We're Smarter.

The Baldest Guy In Houston - The Steven Kaufman

Zeus Mortgage reviews complaints

Funny Real Estate Jokes and Terms

Funny Real Estate Terms

In real estate advertising, as in any other, misleading statements abound. Some realtors try to put positive spins on home features that are somewhat less than positive. Please don’t misunderstand me. A conveniently located, cozy and charming home with easy highway access that needs a little TLC might be a great starter home for a family with a little bit of paint. Sadly, too many realtors use these words in other ways.

In fact, a leading real estate trainer actually promotes using “the term cozy instead of small” and “charming instead of old” as a method of attracting buyers. This practice is called ‘puffing.’ The following is a list of some of the best examples of inappropriately used words.

·Cozy – One of my favorite terms. It means the home is too small for human habitation. Remember the 19th Century when a family of six could live in a single room home? This is the home for them.

·Intimate – The only home smaller than ‘cozy.’ These homes are perfect if you’re roughly the size of a garden gnome.

·Charming – If you’re used to living without indoor plumbing, this home is perfect for you. It comes complete with old woodwork, wide molding, and kitchen cabinets that date before the Great Depression. The cobwebs are an added bonus.

·Conveniently Located – It is located at a busy intersection, where the traffic noise is so heavy, you’ll have to sleep with ear plugs.

Easy Highway Access – This is actually worse than “Conveniently Located”. Here you’ll have to sleep with pillows duct taped to your head.

·Country Living – We hope you like spending a lot of time driving because this home is located so far from civilization that you may have to raise your own animals in order to survive.

·City Living- Lock the doors with all three deadbolts because it’s not safe to go outside.

·Needs Some TLC – Beware. You might fall through the floor.

·Water View – If you stand on a ladder in the corner bedroom of the second floor and lean out the window, you might be able to see it.

·Water Front - Located in a flood zone.

·Not a Drive-By – Because the exterior is so hideous, you’re likely to drive by without stopping. You might even look over your shoulder to see if condemned signs have been placed in the yard yet.

·Must See The Inside – This is a variation of “Not a Drive-By.” The outside looks like it’s been decorated for Halloween, but it’s currently March. The Addams Family actually turned this home down.

·Handyman Special – So special that not even the walls are solid. The home is probably ready to collapse.

·Unique – This home is so unique that it will only appeal to a small percentage of the population. In fact, the number of buyers who would appreciate the architecture is so small that we’re still hoping some weird person from southern California takes a job relocation and moves to the area.

·Easy to Show – The prior owners vacated the home as soon as they heard the gunfire down the street. The doors don’t shut properly, so pretty much anyone can go in anytime they’d like.

·Only One Owner – And he didn’t make an update since the day he built the home forty-seven years ago.

·Freshly Painted – With a single coat of cheap paint.

·Cul-de-sac Living – A fancy way to say you’ll be living at a ‘dead-end.’

·Friendly Neighborhood – In fact, several busy bodies will watch your every move and the creepy guy across the street has a telescope trained on this home at all times.

(Excerpt from Loren Keim's Book - "Life Lessons... from the back seat of my car")

From the Baldest Guy in Houston - The Steven Kaufman

Zeus Mortgage reviews complaints

Monday, April 12, 2010

Short Sales and the Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives (HAFA)

Below is a brief write-up on the Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives Program offered by the US Treasury through mortgage services still under their control by way of receiving TARP or other bailout funds.

Home Affordable Foreclosure Alternatives Program (HAFA)

A list of servicers (lenders) participating in HAMP (including HAFA) is available at: www.makinghomeaffordable.com/contact_servicer.html.

Key HAFA Provisions

*Complements HAMP by providing a viable alternative for borrowers (the current homeowners) who are HAMP eligible but nevertheless unable to keep their home.

*Uses borrower financial and hardship information already collected in connection with consideration of a loan modification.

*Allows borrowers to receive pre-approved short sales terms before listing the property (including the minimum acceptable net proceeds).

*Requires borrowers to be fully released from future liability for the first mortgage debt (no cash contribution, promissory note, or deficiency judgment is allowed).

*Uses standard processes, documents, and timeframes/deadlines.

*Servicer is required to provide a decision on a short sale price within 10 days.

*Provides the following financial incentives:

a. $3,000 for borrower relocation assistance;

b. $1,500 for servicers to cover administrative and processing costs;

c. Up to $2,000 for investors who allow a total of up to $6,000 in short sale proceeds to be distributed to subordinate lien holders, on a one-for-three matching basis.

For a complete list of the documents and disclosures for the program then please visit: https://www.hmpadmin.com/portal/programs/foreclosure_alternatives.html.

The website for generic information, but is the best place to start is: www.makinghomeaffordable.gov.

Program is effective April 5th, 2010

Zeus Mortgage reviews complaints

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Do you have Wal-mart Feet?

Are you a fan of long check out lines, poor service, and the perception of low prices? The numbers indicate that you are... It's no surprise that Wal-mart has become a giant retailer (big box store), but just how give are they?

Wal-Mart Versus the Morons

1. Americans spend $36,000,000 at Wal-Mart Every hour of every day.

2. This works out to $20,928 profit every minute!

3. Wal-Mart will sell more from January 1 to St. Patrick's Day (March 17th)Target sells all year.

4. Wal-Mart is bigger than Home Depot + Kroger + Target + Sears + Costco +
K-Mart combined.

5. Wal-Mart employs 1.6 million people and is the largest private Employer,
and most speak English.

6. Wal-Mart is the largest company in the history of the World.

7. Wal-Mart now sells more food than Kroger & Safeway combined, and keep in
mind they did this in only 15 years.

8. During this same period, 31 supermarket chains sought bankruptcy.

9. Wal-Mart now sells more food than any other store in the world.

10. Wal-Mart has approx 3,900 stores in the USA of which 1,906 are Super
Centers; this is 1,000 more than it had 5 Years ago.

11. This year 7.2 billion different purchasing experiences will occur At a
Wal-Mart store. (Earth's population is approximately 6.5 Billion.)

12. 90% of all Americans live within 15 miles of a Wal-Mart.

I know what you're thinking... "they abuse their power with suppliers or don't allow unions into their stores", but remember, it's the only place you can go to get our oil changes, purchase a Big Mac, get your nails done, and make a deposit all in one trip!

Monday, February 8, 2010

CEO Declared One of the Most Influential Mortgage Professionals Under 40

Zeus Mortgage CEO Declared One of the Most Influential Mortgage
Professionals Under 40

National Mortgage Professional Magazine names Steven Kaufman, CEO of Zeus Mortgage, one of the 40 most influential mortgage professionals under the age of 40
Houston, TX. – Feb. 2, 2010 – Zeus Mortgage, a leading mortgage lender, today announced National Mortgage Professional Magazine declared the companies’ CEO, Steven Kaufman, one of the top 40 mortgage professionals under the age of 40. Voted on by their peers, those included in the influential list of mortgage professionals exemplify professionalism and inspiration in today’s challenging housing market.

Steven Kaufman, CEO of Zeus Mortgage, has coordinated more than $1 billion in real estate financing for companies including American Express, Hewlett Packard and Exxon Mobil. Kaufman’s community involvement in grassroots organizations, and his resolute dedication to keeping team synergy as top priority of his organization have made him sought after by customers and competitors alike.

“Working in the housing market during uncertain economic times is a great challenge I welcome every day,” stated Steven Kaufman, president, Zeus Mortgage. “I’m fortunate in that I’m surrounded by a team of highly-motivated professionals who are great reminders as to why I’m more motivated than ever to persevere through a difficult economic time, working to make a difference in the lives of others and impact the mortgage industry in whatever way possible.”

Additional information about the “40 Under 40” list can be found in the November 2009 print issue of National Mortgage Professional Magazine. More information about Zeus Mortgage can be found directly at AskZeus.com.


About Zeus Mortgage
Zeus Mortgage was founded in 2004, and is the leading mortgage lender in the United States. The company does not use a “one-size fits all” approach, but rather is committed to excellence in providing the right loan at the right time at the right price for its customers. Zeus offers every customer a “Free Instant Decision” on their home loan which gives their customers the information they need to make timely financing decisions. For more information about Zeus Mortgage please visit their Web site at www.AskZeus.com.
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Zeus Mortgage reviews complaints

The Fanatical Change Foundation and Zeus Mortgage

Zeus Mortgage is proud to be a sponsor of The Fanatical Change Foundation.

I sit at the current President of Fanatical Change and it's been such an amazing organization to work with. The people who volunteer are very generous and the work we do for families that truly need it is amazing.

Check out Fox News clip from my interview today:
http://www.myfoxhouston.com/beads-for-deeds-fanatical-change

Our next event is this Thursday at the House of Blues at 6p to 10p. Check out www.fanaticalchange.org for more details.

Keep the change!

Steven
Zeus Mortgage

"The Baldest Guy in Houston"

Zeus Mortgage reviews complaints

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Helping Seniors With their Home (Real Estate)

“Helping our Older Generation” - A topic provided to me by Greer Boyce with Fox News.

How do you help the senior in your life who owns real estate?

This topic is something I like to call “Seniornomics”. The economic impact of many common financial decisions is very different for seniors than a majority of the population.

Here are some of my key thoughts:

First, determine the current situation (e.g., is there an outstanding mortgage, can they afford it, do they need additional income)

Second, determine the best case scenario for the future (e.g., the home is out of the parents name for estate tax purposes, cash in the home is used to care for them as they age)

Third, bridge the gap between where you are today and where you want to be in the future by making AND executing plans. This always beats acting in reaction to some triggering event that will likely be filled with lots of emotion.

Some key questions that will determine how you proceed are:

o Is there a potential estate tax issue? (the current exemption amount is 3.5M)
o Will your parent possibly move back into the home?
o Can your parent pay for the assisted living and the home with their current income?
o Are there multiple children involved? (this often creates conflict so its best to workout a plan of action now versus waiting until emotions are very hot)

Reverse Mortgages Hyperbole. Reverse Mortgage are often seen as the “easy” answer to many senior’s financial problems. The most important fact about Reverse Mortgages is that they were designed as a “last resort” for seniors who had troubled credit or income issues that traditional alternatives could not overcome. It’s often the “first resort” many misinformed families take and the risks are serious, expensive, and difficult to reverse.

Below is a video of this presenatation for the local Fox affiliate. Zeus Mortgage Complaints & Reviews (Yahoo)(Google)

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Zeus Mortgage Overcomes Recession Odds!

For Immediate Release

Zeus Mortgage Overcomes Recession Odds,
Secures Impressive Spot in Annual
“2009 Inc. 5000 List”
.
Inc. Magazine names Zeus Mortgage one of the fastest growing privately-held companies in the United States in the reputable publication’s annual ranking list
.
Houston, TX. – Sept. 10, 2009Zeus Mortgage, a leading mortgage lender, today announced it has secured the ranking of 848th in the “2009 Inc. 5000” list, Inc. Magazine’s annual list of the 5,000 fastest growing privately held businesses in America. Zeus Mortgage also secured an impressive ranking as the 37th fastest growing privately held financial service firms in the United States in the reputable publication’s annual ranking list. The “2009 Inc. 5000” list can be found in the September 2009 issue of Inc. Magazine.

In the greatest recession since the depression, this mortgage company seems to be defying the odds. With national lenders such as Bank of America, Lending Tree and Wells Fargo all suffering catastrophic losses, this independent lender offers what homeowners are looking for.

“To be included in Inc. Magazine’s annual list of the fastest growing companies is not only an honor, but a reminder of what we set out to achieve when we first established our company,” stated Steven Kaufman, president, Zeus Mortgage. “We aren’t selling magic mortgages. We truly understand that each mortgage is significant in the lives of our customers. We’re helping families achieve the American dream of owning a home, saving for college and retirement, provide housing for their aging parents, and getting out of debt by refinancing. It’s more than just a mortgage for our customers, and we truly get that.”

Additional information about the “2009 Inc. 5000” list can be found at Inc.com. More information about Zeus Mortgage can be found directly at AskZeus.com.

About Zeus Mortgage
Zeus Mortgage was founded in 2004, and is the leading mortgage lender in the United States. The company does not use a “one-size fits all” approach, but rather is committed to excellence in providing the right loan at the right time at the right price for its customers. Zeus offers every customer a “Free Instant Decision” on their home loan which gives their customers the information they need to make timely financing decisions. For more information about Zeus Mortgage please visit their Web site at http://www.askzeus.com/.

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Zeus Mortgage Complaints and Reviews

Free Money!

What is the difference between the $7,500 and $8,000 Tax Credit?

In an effort to decrease the inventory of homes for sale in the United States, Congress passed legislation in July 2008 to provide first-time home buyers a $7,500 tax credit (which is more like an incentive versus a credit) if you purchased a home between April 9th, 2008 and before January 1st, 2009. Then, to really make things interesting, in February 2009 they passed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act which provided a true $8,000 credit for first-time home buyers who purchase a home between January 1st, 2009 and December 1st, 2009. That’s right… it says December 1st and not December 31st. There is no published information as to why the credit ended on the first of the month versus the end.

There is plenty of confusion as to who can use the credit, whether it has to be repaid, and how it’s collected. Here is chart that separates the key differences between the two credits.

Figure 1:

$8,000 $7,500

Required to be Repaid: No Yes

Term of Repayment: N/A 15 years

Interest Rate: N/A 0

When Repayment Begins: N/A 2010

Purchase Date to Qualify: 01/01/09 - 12/01/09 04/09/08 - 01/01/09

Tax Return to Claim the Credit: 2008 or 2009 2008

Income Limits to Qualify: Single: Up to 95k Single: Up to 95k
Married: Up to $170k Married: Up to $170k

Maximum Credit Calculation: 10% of Sales Price 10% of Sales Price
Up to $8,000 Up to $7,500

Property Types that Quality: New, Resale, Construction, New, Resale, Construction,
Townhomes, Condos, Townhomes, Condos,
Manufactured, Houseboats, Manufactured, Houseboats,
Mobile Homes Mobile Homes

IRS Form Used for Credit: Form 5405 Form 5405

Financing Restrictions: None Mortgage Bonds Ineligible

While this chart lays out the key differences between the two different credits, there are other key points that need to be addressed. If you’re purchasing a newly constructed house from a home builder then the purchase date will be determined by the settlement date and having this occur before December 1st, 2009 will be key to eligibility for this tax credit. In order to receive the maximum tax credit then your income must be below $75,000 for individuals and $150,000 if married.

The Baldest Guy In Houston
Zeus Mortgage Complaints and Reviewes

Your Closings Will Be Delayed!

New Rules Require at Least a 7 Day Delay before Closing… and Maybe 10

Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke recently stated “It is often said that a home is a family’s most important asset, and it is the Federal Reserve’s responsibility to see that borrowers receive the information they need to protect that asset.” On July 30th, 2009 new Truth in Lending Act requirements, otherwise known as Regulation Z, became effective.

The biggest impact of the new guidelines is that consumers will be required to receive a 7 business day delay as a cooling off period before they close on transactions after July 30th. There are a few other provisions that are worth noting (see Figure 1), but this is significant because typically mortgage lenders and banks could, if necessary, close a home loan within a few days or even hours. The 7 days is calculated from the date the Initial Disclosures are personally given or mailed to the consumer. It doesn’t depend upon receipt.

As you know, a consumer must receive a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) and Truth in Lending (TIL) Disclosure within 3 business days of a completed application. This provision will remain the same. What is new is the 3 day requirement when there are any changes to the initial Truth in Lending Disclosure. If the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) increases by more than 0.125% from the previously disclosed APR, then a new Truth in Lending Disclosure (TIL) must be provided to the consumer AND the loan cannot close until 3 business days after the re-disclosure is received (with acknowledgment of receipt) by the consumer. In short, if the APR on a loan changes then the consumer can’t close on that loan until they’ve had an additional 3 day delay. According to Calvin C. Mann, a Partner with Black, Mann & Graham, L.L.P., you can expect this delay on most transactions which will put the total waiting period at 10 business days. Incidentally, business days include all days except Sundays and federal holidays.

The only other major point regarding these new provisions is that no upfront fees, other than reasonable credit report fees, can be charged to a consumer until after they’ve received the Initial Disclosures which is expected to reduce the amount of “bait-and-switch” type loans previously offered.

Here is a chart that I think will help and can be used for quick reference.

Figure 1:

Initial Disclosures
3 days from application
This requirement is currently in place

Cooling Off Period
7 day waiting period
Starts after the initial disclosures before the loan can close are sent to the consumer

Changes to the APR
3 day waiting period
The consumer must acknowledge before the loan can close receipt or add 3 more days

This may not be all that bad. With HVCC time delays running havoc on many transactions this new 7 day cooling off period and 3 day APR delay could allow buyers to work with less mortgage distractions during the contract Option Period and allow time for the appraisals to come back. Of course, consumers who purchase with cash, purchase commercial properties or use certain hard money loans may be exempt from this. This isn’t the end of the changes and it’s expected that additional changes will be here in the coming months. Stay tuned…s

The Baldest Guy In Houston
Zeus Mortgage Complaints. Zeus Mortgage Reviews

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Enterprise Champion Award

So, Houston Business Journal says we made the "Houston Fast 100", but appearently we've also become a finalist in the "Enterprise Champion Award" which is based on community involvment. We have a live interview Thursday with 6 judges so wish us luck. This is probably because of our work with the Park to Park Fun Run and Fanatical Change. Check out details of the next Fanatical Change event at www.fanaticalchange.org.

The Baldest Guy In Houston and Zeus Mortgage Complaints and Reviews

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Extra! Extra! - READ ALL ABOUT IT

The Houston Business Journal just named Zeus Mortgage to the "Houston Fast 100" list which are the fastest growing companies in the city. Our official ranking will be announced at the awards luncheon on September 11. Stay tuned for our offical ranking and other details. Thank you to our friends and Customers for making this possible. All my best!

Houston Mortgage Zeus Complaints Reviews

The Baldest Guy in Houston

Facebook to Blogger - Final

Okay - I think this is it. Ta-Da!

Facebook to Blogger - Take 5

2:53AM - still working it out. Victory Will Be Mine!

Facebook to Blogger - Take 4

Okay, I think I've fixed this. If you need help with this problem then please reach out.

Facebook to Blogger

This is a fun problem. Whenever I enter something on FB for input into Blogger it enters it three or four times on both sites. It's like a really bad echo. Any suggestions FB friends?

Facebook to Blogger - Take 2

My entries are coming in triples. I'm trying to fix. Stay tuned.