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Articles By Ilyce

Ilyce Glink is an award-winning, nationally syndicated columnist, television reporter and radio talk show host who is widely known for her expertise on trends and issues in real estate and finance. Her syndicated column REAL ESTATE MATTERS offers common sense information and practical insights for anyone thinking about buying, selling, rehabbing or refinancing a home.

  • Shopping For A Debt Management Program - A reader has $30,000 in credit card debt and is looking for a reputable debt managment program. Ilyce suggests contacting at least two companies so you can compare their advice.

  • Canceling Credit Cards Effects Credit Score - A reader has cancelled several open lines of credit because he has paid off the balance. Ilyce discusses the in's and out's of your credit score and how closing accounts effects your rating.

  • For Sellers, Spring Cleaning Begins Outside - Prospective buyers decide to look at your house based on a “drive-by” showing, which lasts approximately six seconds as they slowly drive from lot line to lot line. The buyers will decide, in those six seconds, whether your house is worth the effort to stop the car and walk the property. Or, whether it is worth setting up an appointment to see the interior of the house. Ilyce gives you tips about how to make the most of your home's six seconds.

  • Learn The Basics Before Buying First Home - A reader is considering buying their fist property. Ilyce gives them tips about how to learn about home purchases and financing before taking that first step.

  • New Construction Deposit In Jeopardy - A reader has put a deposit down on a home in a new subdivision. After two years, they learn that the developer has not gotten final approval for the development. Sam and Ilyce give advice on how to get the deposit money back and suggest hiring a good attorney.

  • Paying For Long Term Care With Property - A reader is set to inherit her mother's condo and is worried about how to pay for the possibility of long term care. Ilyce suggests setting up a trust but warns it may be reversed if care is needed soon.

  • Selling A Long Term Investment Property -  A reader wonders what their tax burden will be when selling an investment property. Ilyce explains that they are selling a long-term investment and should consider doing a 1031 exchange.

  • Shopping For A House Online - A reader is in love with a home they found on the internet but is unable to look at it in person for two weeks. Ilyce suggests not entering any agreement with the sellers until they see the house in person.

  • Lease With Option To Buy - A reader has agreed to offer a lease with option to buy to a prospect with bad credit. Ilyce gives advice on how to protect themselves from an equitable interest claim.

  • Fatal Flaws: What you don’t recognize about your house can kill deals - A fatal flaw is a problem that the seller might not even recognize as an issue but is a deal breaker for a lot of buyers. Unfortunately, sometimes fatal flaws are tough to resolve. Ilyce list several solutions to typical deal breaking flaws. When these options have been exhausted, there are two final choices: Gimmicks and giveaways, and lowering the price.

  • Condo Board Charges Entertainment Fee - A condo board hires comedians and singers for the common area and them asks residence to pay extra fees. If the resident doesn't pay, they are not allowed in the common area. Sam and Ilyce talk about reviewing the condominium documents for your association and the laws in your state.

  • Loss On Property Deal Not Deductible - A reader figures that they sold there house at a loss after the improvements they put in. Sam and Ilyce state that this loss will not be tax deductible.

  • Strategy For Improving Credit Score - A couple is planning on getting a new mortgage in a couple of years. Ilyce suggests using a home equity loan to pay off credit card balances and improve credit score.

  • Use 1031 Exchange To Avoid Capital Gains Tax - A reader considers moving into their old home, which has been rented out, to avoid paying capital gain taxes. Ilyce suggests a 1031 exchange to avoid taxes and any IRS problems.

  • Identity Theft Strikes Again - Many social security numbers are stolen to be used on false tax filings. Ilyce gives some tips on how to avoid identity theft.

  • Increase In Property Tax Concern For Seniors - A reader's home is being purchased by their county for the building of a freeway. They are worried about the increase of property taxes in their new home. Ilyce discusses property tax law specific to California.

  • Taxes On Sale Of Rental Property and Primary Residence - A couple bought a home on a 2-acre lot. They lived in it while they built a second home, and then moved into the second home after it was completed. They now rent out the original home to another couple. If they sell the property and both homes, how will the transaction be treated at tax time?

  • A Trust vs. Quit Claim Deed - A reader is concerned that their father's property will cause problems after his death due to a quit claim deed. Ilyce suggests a trust will help to avoid a gift tax and eliminate stress with siblings.

  • Marriage and Money - Marriage and money are tightly intertwined. While it's true that some people marry for money, it's more often the case that couples divorce because of money matters. A prenuptial conversation regarding personal finances is a good first step to making sure that you and your loved one are on the same page when it comes to money matters.

  • Bankruptcy Doesn't Change Spending Habits - A reader has two siblings that have filed for bankruptcy. She feels they haven't been penalized enough for their irresponsible spending habits. Ilyce discusses the new bankruptcy legislation and what it will mean for people filing bankruptcy.

  • Balloon Payment Looming - A reader owns a home that was seller financed and is having difficulty finding a new lender. Ilyce and Sam discuss HUD regulations in regards to financing and how it is time for this homeowner to hire an attorney.

  • The Lowdown on Mortgages - Ilyce helps readers find the best information about mortgage programs and interest rates.

  • College Student Wants To Buy Property - A reader is currently in college and would like to buy a home and rent it to her roommates. Ilyce helps her strategize on how to by real estate with little money down.

  • Flipping Property Bad News - A reader wonders about the term 'flipping' when referring to real estate deals. Ilyce states to find a new term when referring to buying and selling property. 

  • Living Wills and Durable Powers of Attorney for Health Care and Financial Matters - Creating a living will is a smart move. In a living will, you can describe the kind of treatment you want in certain situations. A durable power of attorney is also a good move. It lets you select someone to make tough decisions for you after you are no longer able to choose.

  • ARM vs. Fixed Mortgages - A reader comments on Ilyce's initial article about 5/1 adjustable rate mortgages. Ilyce continues to suggest you shop around for the best lender and rate.

  • Finding Financing For Recent Immigrant - A reader would like to invest in a home with a recent immigrant but is having trouble finding a lender. Sam and Ilyce give tips on how to find an appropriate lender and point out issues to consider when making investments with someone.

  • Closed By Consumer Stated On Credit Report - A reader found "closed by consumer" several times on her credit report. Ilyce states that it is impossible to remove these closed accounts and that it is best to hold a credit card for a long time.

  • Winning A Contest: Take The Cash Or The Home - A reader is hoping to win a contest where one can select a home or take a cash prize. Ilyce discusses the implications of both choices.

  • International Home and Housewares Show Part Two - Ilyce reviews colorful appliances, books and cleaning aids in the second of her two reviews of the International Home and Housewares Show.

  • Selling Rental And Primary Residences - A reader comments on Ilyce's initial article about selling primary and rental properties.









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