Friday, February 19, 2016

Donna Lexa Art Center Fund Raiser - Gotta Have Art


Have you ever heard of the Donna Lexa Art Centers or the GOTTA have Art Auction Celebration? 

To be honest, I didn't either until about a month ago.  As it turns out it is a great community charity that a friend of ours, Greg Randa's Aunt started 31 years ago. Donna Lexa Art Centers, is a nonprofit that serves those with brain injuries, special needs and other  traumas.  It also has a new program to serve wounded veterans. Its mission is to promote creativity, dignity and community for people with special needs through art. 

The Donna Lexa Art Centers currently serve adults and teens with cognitive and physical disabilities, as well as individuals with mental health concerns. In addition, they provide art classes for senior citizens dealing with the challenges of aging.
Involvement in the art programming strengthens self-esteem, fosters independence, and provides new ways to express feelings. Art develops creative and critical thinking, which not only teaches  student artists new skills, but also provides a sense of well-being and enjoyment.   
On Thursday, April 21, 2016 the Golden Mast in in Okauchee will be hosting it's 31st Annual "Gotta HAVE ART" Celebration and Auction.  This event has helped support thousand of students over the years. 


If you would like additional information on this event or would be interested in donating or participating with the Auction. Please contact me and I will put you in touch with Kelly Randa, co-chair of this years event.

Click here to watch this video



Thursday, February 18, 2016

Are you a Veteran Looking to Buy a HOME?


NO DOWNPAYMENT with VA Mortgage Loans
United States’ veterans have access to the Veterans Home Loan Program which offers guaranteed home loans to all eligible service members. While you may be aware of this benefit, are you clear on how to qualify for the program?
In Guaranteed Rate’s continued effort to offer easy-to-understand mortgage information, we present details on how to qualify for a VA home loan.
Eligibility
All circumstances require eligible veterans to be honorably discharged.
Wartime
  • Service of 90 days or more; or
  • Service of 90 days or less with an honorable discharged due to a service-related disability.
Peacetime
  • Service of 181 days or more; or
  • Service of 181 days or less with an honorable discharged due to a service-related disability.
Reservist or National Guard
Service of at least 6 years. While this is a lending guideline, the VA can be flexible and you should speak with your seasoned VA mortgage professional about your options.
Spousal Benefits
The spouse of a deceased service member is eligible for the VA benefit provided the spouse has not remarried. Additionally, the deceased service member must have passed while in the line of duty.
Children of deceased veterans are not eligible for VA mortgage loan benefits.
Credit
While the VA has no credit requirement, lenders typically require a minimum of a 620 credit score. While VA is a benefits program that allows for some lending flexibility, you must show adequate income.
Want to know more? Contact me at lisabear@remax.net or call 262-893-5555


Sunday, February 14, 2016

Buying a house on emotion

You’re Buying a House – Not Dating It
 
Buying a house based on emotions is just going to break your heart. If you fall in love with something, you might end up making some pretty bad financial decisions. There’s a big difference between your emotions and your instincts. Going with your instincts means that you recognize that you’re getting a great house for a good value. Going with your emotions is being obsessed with the paint color or the backyard. It’s an investment, so stay calm and be wise.