Veterans Aid and Attendance Pension Benefit - Long Term Care Benefits for Veterans

By Thomas Day Veterans Aid and Attendance Pension Benefit — Long Term Care Benefits for Veterans What Is the Aid and Attendance Benefit? The Veterans Benefits Administration offers a disability income available to veterans who served during a period of war or to their surviving spouses. This special benefit is officially called “pension” but is more popularly known as... [Read more]

Veteran Challenges Within the VA System

Veteran Challenges Within the VA SystemBy Peter Hans Johansen Veterans, whether in-active, active, in reserve, or other supporting role encounter day-to-day challenges combined with various human and diverse cultural interactions. Furthermore, veterans endure sacrifices through distance voyages, long-term family separations, endurance, and commitments such that others may enjoy or benefit... [Read more]

Check Out Energy Rebates

EnergyStar.gov — Check Out Energy Rebates This is a government site that offers lots of energy saving tips as well as explains what energy saving grants or credits might be available.   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Twin Cities Foreclosure Trends-From our MLS & Realty Trac

Besides the board of realtor sites:  http://theThing.mplsrealtor.com and market data posted elsewhere at http://www.MplsRealtor.com I have a subscription to Realty Trac.  My subscription gives me additional data about foreclosures and trends within certain zip codes.  This is in addition to my daily subscription to Finance & Commerce (a business newspaper that prints all the foreclosure... [Read more]

Real Estate Information

These are a couple of my newsletters that have a ton of valuable information. Go check them out. Foreclosure Market Trends Newsletter http://www.realtytrac.com/MarketTrends/NewsLetter.aspx?guid=131bd355-1b69-4bd1-99cd-2f0c9a936810 Real Estate Cyber Space Tips http://www.REcyber.com/cybertips/r11627   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Moving Video & Tribute

Why is it that we forget?   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Financial Assistance For Elderly Veterans and Their Widows is a Well Kept Secret

Financial Assistance For Elderly Veterans and Their Widows is a Well Kept SecreBy Sonja Kobrin Ask an elderly Veteran if they are aware they may be eligible for a pension from the Veteran’s Administration and they will tell you “I’m not eligible because I was not injured in the War.” This is a common misconception which keeps many Veterans from tapping into a benefit... [Read more]

Outstanding Video-An Inspiration To All-Be The Best You Can Be!

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Twin Cities Home buyer book

Thinking about buying a home but don’t know where to start? Why not start by reading the home buyer hand book that we have provided below. It is a great place to start to get the information you need. When you’re ready, we would love to help you find and finance a new home. MN Home buyers handbook View more documents from John Mazzara.   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Special Financial Info For Military Families

I just ran across a new link that I wanted to share– http://www.kiplinger.com/reports/military-families/ There is a report that you can download that has a lot of useful information. Also, I have a link to the IRS as well. http://www.irs.gov/publications/p3/index.html Don’t forget, if you are serving outside the US for 90 days between December 31st 2008 and May 1st 2010... [Read more]

Honor Those Who Served On Memorial Day

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Thank You Veterans!

Thank you to those of you who served in the military. REALLY MAKES ME PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Preparation for Memorial Day Keep it moving, please, even if you’ve seen it before. It is the VETERAN, not the preacher, who has given us freedom of religion. It is the VETERAN, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press. It is the VETERAN, not the poet, who... [Read more]

Are you a majority owned veteran business owner or a disabled (service related) veteran?

If you are and want to start your own business or partner with someone else and retain a majority 51% ownership, you have a huge advantage in obtaining government contracts.  Here is a link http://www.vip.vetbiz.gov/ to register your business.  On November of 2009 the Council On Veterans Employment was started to help improve opportunity for Vets!!  This could be HUGE.  If you happen... [Read more]

National Guard and Reserve Benefits

I was doing some research and came across this link http://www1.va.gov/vhapublications/ViewPublication.asp?pub_ID=1138 it gives a great summary of who is available for which benefits.  They have phone numbers and links for more information.   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Military & Social Security Benefits

I was on the SS administration site today and found this PDF. I thought it was valuable information for vets, so I have it available to you here. MilitaryAndSocial Security.pdf   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Minnesota Vets May Qualify for Home Buying Tax Credit Extention

Under the new law-Worker, Homeownership and Business Assistance Act which is now a new law as of November 2009, individuals and there spouses who serve on qualified extended-duty service outside the country for at least 90 days between January 1st, 2009 and April 30th 2010 with have an extra twelve month to buy and close on a home in order to take advantage of the tax credit. So, they... [Read more]

Open Source Documents-Unbelievable Resources-Find YOUR topic of Interest

If you’ve never visited http://www.Archive.org, you are missing a wonderful site.  From this site, you will find many resources that are out of copyright and you can download and use them as you wish.  You will find all the classics and some fun things as well.  Just for fun, I have the download of a book called “Little Gardens” which is a book about setting up a garden... [Read more]

Giving Back in a Powerful Way

http://primaryelec.com/HelpingMinnesotaVeteranFamilies.aspx I am a member of LinkedIn. Today I saw what this company did for a Veteran family and how they gave back. I wanted to share this, to show vets everywhere that they are appreciated. This company took it a step further. I have no affiliation with them, but I think they should be recognized.   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

The Clash-Rock The Casbah-An Oldy But A Goody

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In God We Trust-How long will these words remain a part of our country?

On July 30, 1956, the 84th Congress passed a law declaring “In God We Trust” to be the national motto of the United States. The motto was added to paper money over a period from 1957 to 1966. Since 1938, all United States coins bear the inscription.   - Provided by The World Almanac 2010   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Sell Your Home Faster-Learn The Home Selling Secrets Of Successful Sellers

Here is a special report that outlines over 450 ideas on how to sell your home faster.  This report is just one of the many home buyer, home seller, and investor reports that I can make available to you.  Read this report and call me to arrange a time to see how I can help.  Download Now   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Homeowners Assistance Program-Department Of Defense

http://hap.usace.army.mil/ Look at this-From the website: The Department of Defense (DOD) is proud to offer the Homeowners Assistance Program (HAP) to eligible service members and federal civilian, including non-appropriated fund, employees. The program is authorized by law, and administered by the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to assist eligible homeowners who face financial loss... [Read more]

Cool Movie Trailers With Patriotic Theme

I just found this website  http://objflicks.com/ You will love the movie and sound trailers.  All sort of Military and Patriotic stuff for you to view!   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Generations of Valor

This Picture is Worth 1000 Million Words (minimum!) . . . We truly take a lot for granted. Forget the football ‘heroes‘ and movie ’stars’.  AND MICHAEL JACKSON! Pass this on so that all may know the price of freedom. Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you, Jesus Christ and a Soldier.. One died for your soul; the other for your freedom. How can... [Read more]

Minnesotans’ Military Appreciation Fund

Watch this excellent video.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C26Yd_25BWQ This fund gives a cash grant to soldiers and families of soldiers who have served in a recent military war zone.  Learn more at http://www.thankmntroops.org   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Support Operation Minnesota Nice

Helping Vets-one package at a time http://www.operationminnesotanice.com   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Visit the VFW Site

Check out the VFW site for fun and resources. http://www.vfw.org/   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Pat Metheny Letters From Home

While this isn’t the same as the movie with a similar name (which was excellent) and referenced in my recent post, this video and music still will mean something to you. I think for everyone it will mean something different. Enjoy   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Dear America-Letters From Vietnam-Must Watch

About 8 years ago my wife and I were in Chicago.  We went to China Town for Dim Sum, and on the way back decided to stop at a new museum-the National Vietnam Veterans Museum.  We were touched.  Unlike the other Chicago art museums, this one was really unique.  I have included the link to the museum below.  Since our first visit, we went back to Chicago and visited again.  On our... [Read more]

Extension And Expansion Of Home Buyer Credit-4/30/2010

A Big WOW!!  The credit has been expanded to include homeowners who have owned their home for the past 5 years. No longer do you need to be a first time buyer.  The dollar limit is $8000 for first time buyers and $6500 for move up buyers.  This GREAT news.  Combine this with 50 year lows in interest rates, and you’d be crazy not to consider making a move.  If you feel secure... [Read more]

ThanksGiving-Perspective

This link will take you to a cool video presentation on Thanksgiving.  Next week we will have the opportunity to reflect on all the things we have to be thankful for. http://www.cpmsglife2.org/MSG/Pres/td/td1.html   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Solutions For Returning Vets

I just found this online today. I’m not sure if there is a Minnesota resource that is similar, but the resources page will be of great help. If you know of someone or a family who needs a little help, please share this link. http://www.thesoldiersproject.org/   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Home Buyer Tax Credit Information Update

It’s now official!! The tax credit has been extended and expanded. YOU NEED TO HURRY! You now have until the end of April 2010. The following summary of the credit is provided by the National Association Of Realtors. The following two documents cover the changes in the new law. Now get out there and buy a home!! NAR FAQ: Homebuyer Tax Credit Changes NAR Issue Brief: Homebuyer... [Read more]

2008 First Time Homebuyer Credit Questions and Answers

2008 First Time Homebuyer Credit Questions and Answers. Click Here   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

First Time Homebuyer Credit form 5405

Download this First Time Homebuyer Credit form 5405 to claim your credit. Click Here   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Veteran’s Day-November 11th- Thank You!

For those who want to learn more about Veteran’s Day, here is the link at Wikipedia:  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Veterans_Day Have you said “thank you” to a Vet?  I have. Have you ever welcomed them and wished them luck at the airport?  I have.  You know what, they appreciated it.  They appreciated that someone they’ll never see again recognized them for... [Read more]

Homebuyer Protection Alert!

Recent Federal legislation can impact your closing date. When completing your Purchase Agreement, even if you are prepared to move forward and close quickly, a more conservative timeframe of at least 30-45 days from the time of the contract acceptance would be a more realistic expectation at this time. Listed below is information on two pieces of legislation that stand to impact your closing... [Read more]

MN First Time Home Buyer and Minneapolis Home Buyer Alert!

Tax Credit Expires 11/30/09 - Don’t Get Left Behind MN Mortgage Broker, Patti Mazzara, warns MN First time home buyers not to miss out on the first time home tax credit that is about to expire. The first time home buyer tax credit which can be used on a Minneapolis home loans when Minneapolis home buyers close before November 30, 2009. Unless you have either been under a rock for... [Read more]

FMLA Military Leave Law Expanded

Dear John Mazzara, Federal Legislative Alert! Yesterday, President Obama signed into law the Fiscal Year 2010 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 2647).  The new law includes an expansion of the recently-enacted exigency and caregiver leave provisions for military families under the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA). In January 2008, Congress amended the FMLA to provide: Exigency... [Read more]

Renters Have Much to Gain by Pursuing Home Ownership

Read by clicking here: Renters Press Release   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

MN Veteran & Service Member Assistance/Resource Guide-By MN Attorney General

Looking for EXCELLENT information as either an immediate download or mailed to your home for FREE?  Check out what the MN Attorney General provides on their website.  Here- https://www.ag.state.mn.us/Office/Publications.asp is the link to order any of their publications.  Click here for the one entitled “MN Veteran & Service Member Assistance/Resource Guide“   Powered... [Read more]

Military Family Preparedness Resource

The government has put together a “go to” resource you might want to check out.  It is perfect for those that want to take a little bit of time and have everything in order.  It is available for all branches of the military.  Good practical ideas for you and your loved ones. http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/military.html   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Neighborhood Stabilization Program- Hennepin County Redevelopment Tool

We work within the parameters of this program. One of our lenders will accept this form of funding. READ more about it and see if it might work for you. We would love to help you find and finance a home within the areas that qualify. http://www.hennepin.us/neighborhoodstabilizationprogram   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Down Payment Assistance Programs (DAP) Lender Approved In MN

On of our lenders has pre-approved various down payment assistance programs. These programs MAY have changed and MAY be out of money when you contact them. Things change all the time. With that being said, we can use these programs in conjunction with FHA, My Community and the Home Possible loan programs. We are a Minnesota mortgage broker and may be able use these programs for YOUR... [Read more]

In Honor of All Our Great Men and Women Who’ve Served and Didn’t Return

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First Time Home buyer Loan Programs & Other Special MN Loan Programs

Here is a matrix that is very helpful explaining just some of the mortgage programs and their guidelines.  There ARE more loan options than these as well.  MN loan options are constantly coming and going-guidelines change.  We don’t work with all the programs, but we do work with many of them.  Call us to help you navigate through the home purchase process and select the right... [Read more]

10 THINGS YOU CAN DO IMMEDIATELY TO SLASH DEBT AND SPENDING

Any financial planning process begins with a change in financial behavior and expectations. The degree of change varies based on financial priorities, but in the end, it’s about adopting new habits and abandoning others. Before you take any of the following steps, it makes sense to talk to an expert who can help you see your whole financial picture. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional... [Read more]

Minnesota Real Estate Newsletter Gives Access To Great Computer & Life Tips

I maintain a number of real estate sites, blogs, and newsletters. One newsletter that provides a number of computer tips to help you function better with a computer is http://www.REcyber.com/cybertips/r11627 The site is full of cyber space tricks and great places to visit. We have link to this site on the list of MN Real Estate links, but I wanted to highlight this particular newsletter... [Read more]

Minnesota Mortgage Broker Can Outline Your Options

Minnesota Mortgage Broker Can Outline Your Options Renters Have Much to Gain by Pursuing Home Ownership By Patti Mazzara, Vice President Venture Development Inc. Edina, MN – Buying a home vs. renting is a big decision that takes careful consideration, as most mortgage consultants will agree. But the rewards of home ownership are great. For many years, purchasing real estate has been... [Read more]

Government Regulation Clogs the Pipes

It’s no secret that many facets of lending and real estate have changed as a result of the credit crisis. In addition to tightened lending practices that resulted from rising mortgage delinquencies, Washington has been heavily involved in altering the way lenders do business today. Two individual pieces of legislation impacting our business need to be taken into account when determining... [Read more]

Minnesota Mortgage Broker Discusses Life After Bankruptcy - Is It Possible?

Edina, MN – Bankruptcy is an uncomfortable subject for a variety of reasons. The most obvious is the potential havoc it can wreak on your finances when obtaining a mortgage loan. Running a close second is the negative stigma which is often attached to the process. This negativity is important to mention because strong emotions can sometimes lead to unsound financial decisions with devastating... [Read more]

Si vis pacem, para bellum = If you wish for peace, prepare for war

Si vis pacem, para bellum = If you wish for peace, prepare for war This latin saying was referenced in a recent Wallstreet Journal article. I looked it up. It is as important a statement today as it was back then-since last time I looked human nature hasn’t changed, only gotten more dangerous. Now you know where the phrase “peace through strength” comes from-Here’s... [Read more]

911-Have You Forgotten?

We must never forget-   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Life Is About Perception–Just Ask Charlie Plumb

I just received an email about a man named Charlie Plumb. Charlie was a POW. I don’t want to spoil his story of triumph. If you need a little inspiration, just go to http://www.CharliePlumb.com He is one of the many great Americans that have served our country selflessly. Thanks Charlie!   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

Who’s Your Favorite Veteran On TV?–My Time Is Now-Cena

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Bugle Players & Taps

There is a wonderful organization called Bugles Across America that will play Taps at a Military Funeral. See what they can and will do for you and your loved Veteran. Give them your support if possible.   Powered By WP Footer Read More →

We Give Thanks To Our Veterans

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A Pin Drop, and then forward this

At a time when our president and other politicians tend to apologize for our country`s prior actions,here`s a refresher on how some of our former patriots handled negative comments about our country… JFK’S Secretary of State, Dean Rusk, was in France in the early 60’s when De Gaulle decided to pull out of NATO. De Gaulle said he wanted all US military out of France... [Read more]

When The going gets tough-Bear this in mind!

Excerpt from The Best Way Out is Through, by B.J. Gallagher Many people do not know that Abe Lincoln endured many hardships and heartaches throughout the course of his life - at times struggling with severe depression. Consider the following: He spent his childhood working on the family farm, with long days of back-breaking toil. Unfortunate circumstances forced his family to abandon... [Read more]

WORDS TO LIVE BY…

WORDS TO LIVE BY… … ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country. ~John F. Kennedy I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him. ~Abraham Lincoln This country will not be a good place for any of us to live in unless we make it a good place for all of us to live in.... [Read more]