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Dear Friends,

Of all the months of the year, October is my favorite! My birthday was on the 7th, my mother's birthday was on the 12th, my oldest brother's birthday is on the 26th and my father's is on the 30th. My beloved parents have passed on but I always light a candle in remembrance of the love we all shared during their lives. My other brother's birthday is in April, and I always look forward in wishing him the best.

I always enjoyed my birthday presents. Yes indeed! Throughout my birthday years I was surprised at the presents I received! One year I received a bicycle, a tape recorder and my own television set! On my 28th birthday I was amazed that my staff orchestrated a surprise birthday party in my honor!

I also have several wonderful friends that celebrate their birthdays in October. One of my dear friends that I've known for over 26 years, Joyce, celebrates her birthday on Saturday!

There are other events that make October my favorite month. MoneyTeam began its mortgage business 19 years ago. We've had our ups & downs like most small businesses but by perseverance, service and integrity, we're still here! Thanks to you!

Of all the seasons, Autumn is truly my favorite! The brisk weather and the most beautiful colors of fall foliage are breathtaking! Growing up in the midwest one can appreciate the change in seasons.

Halloween is on the 31st and this is when a good number of adults become adolescents in their pursuit of inexpensive psychotherapy, by portraying characters alive in fantasies inherent in one's subconscious. If you ever have a chance to view the procession on Hollywood or Santa Monica Boulevards on Halloween night, you will be astounded at the release of stress many of our neighbors require  through participation in a yearly ritual resembling activities in a state correctional institution or an asylum. I would not be surprised to see adults dressed up as Fannie or Freddie, the Lehman Brothers, Barney Frank or even Governor Palin! Who knows, I might attend and dress up as ______!!!

Financial Meltdown

This past week was truly one of the most turbulent and traumatic we've ever experienced. The Dow was up over 900 points on Monday and declined over 700 a few days later. The Federal Government began a plan to infuse $250 Billion directly into banks in order to shore up confidence in the credit markets. This action is to provide the capital banks need to begin lending to their customers.

In other financial news, consumer confidence is at its lowest ebb ever, unemployment in the US and in California is troublesome, many Americans lost substantial amounts of monies in their 401K's and the involvement of the Federal Government in the private sector is troublesome. The intrusion of the government directly in the banking system is similar to actions taken during the Great Depression. The Treasury Secretary has mentioned these actions are being implemented on a temporary basis. Let's hope for the best.

Loan Modification

MoneyTeam this coming Thursday, will begin providing loan modification assistance. If you are currently in foreclosure or if you are having difficulty paying your mortgage, we will be able to help you by contacting your lender and negotiate a lower mortgage payment. If you owe more money than the value of your property, we will negotiate on your behalf to either sell your home or to lower the mortgage amount.

MoneyTeam is interviewing several attorneys and companies in order to provide the lowest fees for these services. Please check our website on Thursday, October 23rd for more details.

Help Wanted

MoneyTeam is seeking 2 licensed loan agents to work out of their homes. We have many leads from across California for purchase & refinance requests. Please email your resume to moneyteamusa@aol.com for consideration.

Interest Rates

Mortgage rates have gone up this week due to the volatility of the financial markets. MoneyTeam is offering a Conforming 30 Year Fixed for 6.00% and a 15 Year at 5.875%. Both loans are at 1 point. Please check our rates.

An October Surprise?

You might have heard of Joe The Plumber.

Thanks Again

Dear Friends,

This coming Tuesday, November 4th, is decision day! By next Tuesday evening or Wednesday morning, we will have a new President! The powers bestowed on either Senator by the American electorate will be the beginning of a new era. This election is considered momentous as it is estimated over 130 million Americans will cast their ballots. The direction of this country will be in the hands of our newly elected government officials. The decisions made by these men and women will have a great impact in the ability to solve the numerous challenges this nation faces.

At this time in our history, the US economy has created an untold amount of hardships. Many Americans feel vulnerable and unable to show a sense of optimism for their futures. The continued trauma of losing one's job, home or health has given some of us a sullen and melancholy disposition. The events of the past year has reenforced an outlook of despair where none existed.

The burdens we face today are a direct result of the participation of dishonest and inept administrators in their pursuits of greed and profit at all costs. The power yielded by those in Congress and in our financial institutions by their actions, has done irrevocable damage to the soul of this great nation.

With this backdrop, many Americans are suffering emotionally, spiritually and of course financially, as we are reminded daily of burdens which have no immediate solutions. One wonders at the meanspiritedness of those in the chain of deception that has harmed our peace of mind. Many also blame themselves for their real estate purchases, overextended lifestyles and the predisposition of camaraderie which was manifested by the examples of avarice demonstrated by peers and those in the upper echelons of power. The culture of American society with all of its vices, shallowness and cult of celebrity has enveloped the demand for riches without patience nor sacrifice.

In regards to the financial meltdown and the subprime mortgage mess which started it all - at this late date - several days before the General Election - there are Americans unaware of the specific reasons, details, opinions or actions of the individuals which have impacted their daily lives. With the complicity of the media, there has been a concerted attempt to conceal these facts in order for journalists to gain favor towards a particular candidate or party affiliation. This predisposition has undermined the integrity of journalism and many of its reporters are now open to scrutiny or doubt to the veracity of coverage on any subject. Unfortunately, the after effects which has resulted in the suffering of many Americans throughout this financial escapade and the Presidential campaign, has brought about the gradual disintegration of journalism as a basis for inclusion in one's daily life. The concept of a free, unbiased and independent media has been jeopardized to the detriment of all Americans.

As the owner of a mortgage company for 19 years and as a participant in the mortgage industry for the past 26 years, I know full well the truth of the circumstances which resulted in the criminal actions harming our economic system.

While the mischief created by our own countrymen is sad to report, we need to be aware of the thoughts and actions many Americans are contemplating in order to alleviate the struggles brought about by their current circumstances. 

There are Americans who place their hope and desires on government to solve their financial problems. A victim mentality, a desire to reap the benefits of additional government bail outs or eagerness to embrace a philosophy of redistributing the wealth, these examples of thought are beginning to sound palatable to those exhausted in efforts to live by the Golden Rule in order to acquire the American Dream. 

We must be careful and ever vigilant in our desires for a quick resolution to our financial burdens. Americans throughout its 232 year history have demonstrated an uncanny ability to begin anew. Most of us are optimistic about the future. We are known to sacrifice for higher ideals. We need to be reminded many Americans have lost their lives for us. The financial problems we are enduring today is temporary. If members of our Armed Forces will sacrifice their lives for us, we need to appreciate our lives and end the discouragement hampering our natural optimism.  Any decision we make on Election Day will impact the future for years to come. The same wisdom of the ages is still thriving and seeks renewal. There are Americans - the numbers are not known at this time - that are willing to embrace their heartfelt altrusistic desires by beleiving in a simple concept.

By helping others you ultimately help yourself.

I know that on Election Day, many Americans will review the Scriptures for the Chapter and Verse which will mention the journey we as a society will take. In a few days, we will know full well the number of Americans that have decided to seek country first.   

Thanks Again

Dear Friends,

The tidal wave of American history is approaching its denouement. On Tuesday, November 4th, America's direction will be decided by a percentage of its registered voters. The decision made by these adults will render the path of destiny engulfing our daily lives. It has been said by many, this election year is the most important in generations as the problems confronting this country are voluminous, thoroughly challenging and unprecedented in scope. The character of the American people will be divulged by its selection of the man consecrated to be at the helm of our Republic.

While the polls at this date are truly circumspect as to the outcome, the overwhelming consensus of independent, thoughtful and fair minded individuals believe in the sacrosanct esteem of the voting booth. Our 33rd President, Harry S. Truman mentioned 'The voting booth is the most valuable piece of real estate in the United States of America.' This is where our collective convictions begins its ascendency. A confessional of sorts, this 4 year ritual is the penultimate exercise in which to advance our sincere desires for a better future.

It has been 60 years since President Truman confused the pundits by winning the election over New York Governor Thomas E. Dewey. The Chicago Tribune went to the presses and declared Governor Dewey the winner in its rush to judgement. The hubris of journalism displayed by such an action in 1948 is reminiscent of a concerted approach devoted to the obfuscation and the withholding of salient details in the General Election of 2008. 

The censorship by the main street media in its extreme focus of favor of one candidate, issue or opinion has created damage to its integrity and to the inherent responsibility ordained in a democracy by usurping the independence of thought required and demanded by the American electorate in its efforts to make an enlightened and informed decision in choosing our government officials.

Moreover, the withholding of relevant facts, statistics and opinions in regards to the destruction of the US financial system by inept Congressional lawmakers due to the timing of an election year, is an affront to the basic tenets of responsible journalism. 

The US is under a cloud of financial ruin brought about by the incessant and disturbing incompetence, corruption and avarice displayed by members of Congress and those in our financial centers on Wall Street. The consequences are evident as the intrusion of government in our lives, has created a distrust in all institutions of authority. We no longer have confidence in our government, our financial institutions nor the media to volunteer credible unbiased information in order to solve our predicament. Many Americans have lost their homes, their savings and their jobs. The burdens and the challenges many of our citizens now confront, are enormous!

It is a sad testament of our times when we have to be reminded all too often that our past actions contribute to our present consequences. If you are a reader of our blog, you may have noticed our thoughts are similar to our former President. He once said, 'Most of the problems a President has to face have their roots in the past.'

President Truman also said, 'You can never get all the facts from just one newspaper, and unless you have all the facts, you cannot make proper judgements about what is going on.' His words ring true in regards to the financial meltdown and this election year.

The actions, motives and the preponderance of evidence in regards to the financial meltdown and its subsequent attempts at a solution, have been edited to the satisfaction and the predilections of journalists, to the detriment of the American public. Similar contrivances have been noted in reporting of the Presidential campaign. The newest image of the US media by many independents as a voice of fairness, has been rendered questionable at best.  

I chose President Truman for this blog to remind Americans there were men of character and substance devoted to the high ideals espoused by the Founding Fathers. As a role model for patriots, Harry gave his adversaries bouts of consternation. 'I didn't give them Hell. I just tell the truth about them and they think it's Hell.'

The Voting Booth

When you enter the Voting Booth, there will be a transformation, a direction, a conviction, an intuition which will direct your decisions. Vote your heart, your soul, your conscience as you stand in the most sacred real estate known in the US on November 4th.

From the Heavens, Harry will thank you!

Thanks Again

Dear Friends,

The events of these past few weeks will be written about in the not so distant future. We have become unwilling characters in a textbook written for us and about us by historians without our approval or at this time, its full understanding. We have no desire to be characters in a chapter where direction is not forthcoming from our peers. Confidence and trust in our nation's ability to solve the numerous problems we face is at a nadir. There is a vacuum of leadership and the ability of anyone of integrity to harness the truth has become remote. The financial meltdown has exacerbated our ability to reason or form thoughtful methodical decisions due to pain, suffering and dismay. Our futures have been trampled upon by disturbing forces of power manifested within our financial community and with government. In concert, these inhabitants of influence through greed, corruption and incompetence are in effect, destroying the democratic principles and the sacrosanct confluence of sacrifice generations of Americans have so willingly fought and lost their lives for.

We need to be reminded the aftermath of these past several weeks will be written by historians. It is obvious to this observer, that government involvement in our daily lives has taken an Orwellian inspired dose of reality through the takeover of the mortgage industry and our financial institutions. Similar to the actions taken by the Federal Government during the Great Depression years, we hope these steps are only temporary until such time the economy begins to correct itself.

Ethics

Courage and character is nowhere to be found in the halls of Congress nor America's financial institutions. Our country has become a cesspool of inequity. Who are we to believe? Every player that has the power to provide a solution in solving this financial crisis has an agenda, an opinion, or a past which lacks credibility or substance. One of the main visual barometers in which we are made aware of the seriousness of our plight, is displayed on Wall Street. When the Dow Jones Industrial Average plummets to over 800 points, as it did momentarily on Monday, we sit up and take notice. Even yesterday, the wild 1000 point swing is a testament to the fluctuations brought about by a lack of direction and integrity in our financial institutions.

The viability of our credit markets is another factor which hits close to home, as many Americans are unable to secure credit on mortgage, auto, student or business loans. Without liquidity, the financial marketplace comes to a screeching halt.

Ironically, the 'bail out' measure signed by the President last week, was to have alleviated the anxiousness we all feel. The activities since the signing has seen an elevation of one's blood pressure as our 401K's, stocks, mutual funds and all  investments have plummeted precipitously. I've spoken to several friends just in the past few days worried about their investments. When my older friends begin to fear for their futures due to financial volatility and incoherent solutions, now is the time where Americans of character need to step in and generate the actions needed to end the destruction of our sovereignty.

Perhaps, in the same textbook, due to the forces of transgression, there will be a chapter written about the manner in which ordinary Americans solved their financial problems by discarding the ineptitude theories of incongruence by elevating the dormant character of deliverance espoused by the Founding Fathers. America is at a crossroads and its destiny is in our hands.

19th Anniversary Mortgage Sale

Please check our website for our Mortgage Sale until November 7th. We are truly fortunate we are still here and able to help you in your Purchase or Refinance transaction.

Interest Rates have fluctuated dramatically this past week. Rates will be updated on Tuesday, October 14th. Our office will be closed on Monday, October 13th to celebrate Columbus Day!

Ronan Tynan

Two Sundays ago I went to see Ronan Tynan, the Irish tenor, at a recital on the CSUN California State University in Northridge. You may know Ronan as one of the 3 Tenors in his previous performances across the country. He is well known for singing 'God Bless America' at Yankee ballgames. Ronan also performed at the funeral of former President Ronald Reagan in 2004.

Many of us are not aware of the challenges this man has suffered to overcome the painful physical effects since youth. What attracts me most about Ronan is his strength, purity and resonance of his voice. His eloquent delivery has moved me on many occasions to tears as he has touched my heart and soul as no other performer can. Ronan's personal history of integrity, compassion and spirit is an active ingredient in his delivery. That's why in a world bereft of character, Ronan is able to provide comfort.

Please visit his website, www.ronantynan.net for more information about this wonderful man of faith.

Thanks Again

Dear Friends,

The Wall Street 'Bail Out' or 'Rescue Plan' finally was approved by Congress and the President signed the measure immediately. Americans and their children will be paying for this measure for many years to come. We have mortgaged our destiny due to the greed, corruption and incompetence of our lawmakers and the corporate giants in New York. Regrettably, there was no other option anyone at this late date could have devised, to end the hemorrhage on Wall Street. Unfortunately, this $700 Billion measure had to pass.

Treasury Secretary Paulson provided the original blueprints of this plan while the Congress reviewed the details. The American public and a good number of Congressional lawmakers were skeptical of the bail out. Even today many of us are furious at the entire escapade of extortion where many Americans became unwilling participants.

Panacea?

Due to the passage of this legislation, if what we are hearing across the country is correct, many of us will now be able to apply for a mortgage, auto or student loan without much difficulty. Credit will begin to be reestablished throughout all corporate and small business operations, local and state governments will begin the task of providing the funds for its infrastructure projects and once the credit markets stabilize due to these actions, the American consumer will begin to feel confident in purchasing goods once again. The infusion of capital in the marketplace by the Treasury purchasing tainted mortgage securities and assets, should begin a gradual elimination of the factors dragging down the economy. It remains to be seen however if this systemic plan of action would work in the long run. Nonetheless, the main focus to end the crisis needs to remain on foreclosures. There needs to be stability in the housing market before many of the problems we now face can eventually reach a prudent conclusion.

Job Losses

Unemployment figures just released continued the cycle of despair by the elimination of 159,000 jobs in September and 760,000 so far this year. All Americans need to sit down and take the time to do the simple research necessary in order to be informed and come away with the facts propelling the loss of our economy in this election year. You will be amazed at the root causes and the ill conceived decisions of lawmakers which created the mess we are in today. With so many financial problems facing Americans, we need to take a deep breath and utilize the humbling power of prayer in overcoming the suffering and pain many of our families are trying to overcome.

Mortgage Rates

The upheaval of the past few weeks has proved somewhat beneficial as interest rates are generally moving downward. MoneyTeam is now offering a 30 year fixed rate at 5.50% and a 15 year fixed at 5.250%. Both loans are at a 1% point cost.

Please check our RATES for more details on our other loan programs & remember to check out our 19th Anniversary Mortgage Fee Sale - which begins on Tuesday, October 7th.

Mortgage Application Preparations

Remember to have all your ducks in a row before you apply for a mortgage loan. It's true especially nowadays, one needs to be prepared before submitting your paperwork. Incomplete loan submissions can become a headache for the processor and many times your loan request will be placed on the 'back burner'.

These are the items required to proceed:

1. Last 2 years of your Federal Tax Returns

2. Last 2 years of your W2'S

3. Last 2 paycheck stubs

4. Last 2 bank statements showing your current balances

5. Last mortgage statement on all properties owned if your loan is a Refinance

6. Copies of your leases if you own rental properties

These are the main items the processor needs in order to expedite your loan request. Please call our office if you have any questions or concerns. Our office number is 323-936-3232.

Paul Newman

It was so sad to hear of his passing. He was an amazing actor and a true man of passion. He lived his life to the fullest! Many Americans loved his presence, the characters he portrayed and the noteworthy performances throughout the years. His participation in diverse films as 'Cat On A Hot Tin Roof', 'HUD', 'The Hustler', 'Cool Hand Luke', 'Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid' and "The Color Of Money' where he won an Oscar, brought him generations of fans. Many women were awe struck at his beautiful blue eyes while men envied his cool demeanor. His philanthropy was genuine as he devoted his time and effort in helping disadvantaged children and donating millions of dollars to charity. This man was a blessing for so many and his life is a tribute as a true humanitarian. We remember the Newman family in our prayers and for his beloved wife of 50 years, Joanne.

No doubt, Paul will be reprising his role by playing pool with Jackie Gleason up in the Heavens - and he might just let Jackie win a game or two! 

Thanks Again