Florida ? Due to the mortgage crisis that our country faced over the last several years, there are continually more and more foreclosure properties? in Florida that are being put up for sale everywhere you turn. Of course, this can be very tempting for home buyers as people can sometimes get properties for 30% or even less on the dollar.
However, if you are considering a Florida foreclosure property for your next purchase, then there are some common pitfalls that you will need to avoid along the way to protect yourself and your future asset.
Let?s review some areas to be aware of before making any serious offers.
1. Avoid Making Emotional Offers: When you are planning on putting a bid down on a property, you need to be extremely confident with the home?s current condition, its true market value, and what will be needed to fully restore the property.
Too many buyers will think that they found a slamming deal and fear that they will lose the home to another bidder. So instead of taking the time to truly do their homework and complete the proper inspections and analysis, they can end up locking up a property for more than it?s actually worth.
2. Estimate Neighborhood Values: Consider what other comparable properties in Tallahassee are selling for and talk to a real estate agent who has a working knowledge of the area. In fact, it?s a wise decision to thoroughly review these questions and any other recommendations your Realtor may make:
Is this neighborhood a desirable location and how are crime rates?
What schools would be available for my kids or future buyers?
Were there any other foreclosures or investor sales that could negatively affect the future value of my home?
How long do I plan on living there and how could that affect things?
What type of appreciation should I expect?
3. Get Pre-approved: Before you even start looking at homes, you must get pre-approved on a mortgage in order to know exactly what you can afford. Sadly, many buyers can miss out on some phenomenal deals or spend hours of wasted time because they avoid this step. Show banks that you are a serious buyer and have your financing in place!
4. Get Professional Help: Not only should you seek the expertise and of an experienced Realtor licensed in Florida, but you may also need guidance from a real estate attorney or financial consultant as well. Each professional can ensure that you are making the right choices throughout the process and can protect you from any issues you may come across along the way.
Remember that there is a lot more than meets the eye when you are trying to buy a foreclosure property.
Negotiating with the banks, filling out paperwork properly, and undergoing all the necessary inspections can be a very detailed and tedious procedure.
Therefore, we encourage you to give us a call in Fort Lauderdale at (954) 586-3930 and in Tallahassee at (850) 364-3946 today to get started. Our Florida agents have years of experience assisting other clients with buying foreclosures in Florida for their next home or investment property. Discover how we can help you to make a smart and profitable investment as well!
Mental health care treatment for immigrants needs retooling, according to task forcePublic release date: 7-Mar-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]
Contact: Lisa Bowen lbowen@apa.org 202-336-5707 American Psychological Association
Report identifies need for research on immigrants, not just ethnic minority populations
WASHINGTON The methods psychologists and other health-care providers are using to treat immigrants to the United States need to be better tailored to deal with their specific cultures and needs, according to a task force report released by the American Psychological Association.
The report of APA's Presidential Task Force Report on Immigration presents a detailed look at America 's immigrant population and outlines how psychologists can address the needs of immigrants across domains of practice, research, education and policy.
"We have identified an urgent need in scientific research and clinical settings to consider the unique aspects of immigrant populations, particularly with regard to culture and language," said task force Chair Carola Surez-Orozco, PhD.
Immigrants face psychological implications of racism, discrimination and racial profiling, while their expressions of distress vary across cultures, the report points out.
Most evidence-based psychological treatments currently used with immigrants are based on research performed with samples consisting of ethnic minorities rather than immigrants, according to the report. Current psychological assessment tools, such as tests and batteries, often are not adapted to account for culture and language, it notes.
"Rather than approaching culture through a preset middle-class American framework, the research should use methodologies to understand the worldview of the immigrant population," the report states.
A surprising finding from the review of current data is that first-generation immigrant populations fare better than subsequent generations in physical and behavioral health, as well as some educational outcomes, even though they frequently face multiple stressors, such as poverty, difficult work environments, social isolation and less education.
"The implications are that programs to assist immigrants with adapting to life in their new country must value both the need to learn the ways of the new culture and the need to maintain a connection with the old," said Surez-Orozco.
Among the report's other recommendations:
Federal policy initiatives that support education and training in psychology to work with immigrants.
Continuing education programs for practicing psychologists and other mental health professionals to address the needs and strengths of immigrants and their families.
Training that includes prejudice reduction for teachers and other service providers who work with immigrants.
Public awareness of the mental health impacts of detention and deportation on adults and their children, and policy initiatives for humane detention requirements and family reunification.
Full equality of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender immigrants and their families in federal immigration laws and policies, including the recognition of "permanent partner" status eligibility for same-sex couples.
"Our hope is that increased understanding of the psychological factors related to the immigrant experience will improve decision-making," said Melba J.T. Vasquez, PhD, who convened the task force as APA's 2011 president. "Effective integration of immigrants in educational, work and communities is essential for this country's future."
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The American Psychological Association, in Washington , D.C. , is the largest scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States and is the world's largest association of psychologists. APA's membership includes more than 154,000 researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants and students. Through its divisions in 54 subfields of psychology and affiliations with 60 state, territorial and Canadian provincial associations, APA works to advance psychology as a science, as a profession and as a means of promoting health, education and human welfare.
Report: "Crossroads: The Psychology of Immigration in the New Century, Report of the APA Presidential Task Force on Immigration," Executive Summary: http://www.apa.org/pi/about/publications/immigration/executive-summary.pdf
For a copy of the full report, please contact APA Public Affairs at public.affairs@apa.org or (202) 336-5700.
Dr. Carola Surez-Orozco can be contacted at (212) 998-5282 (office); (646) 329-2125 (mobile); cso2@nyu.edu.
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AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert! system.
Mental health care treatment for immigrants needs retooling, according to task forcePublic release date: 7-Mar-2012 [ | E-mail | Share ]
Contact: Lisa Bowen lbowen@apa.org 202-336-5707 American Psychological Association
Report identifies need for research on immigrants, not just ethnic minority populations
WASHINGTON The methods psychologists and other health-care providers are using to treat immigrants to the United States need to be better tailored to deal with their specific cultures and needs, according to a task force report released by the American Psychological Association.
The report of APA's Presidential Task Force Report on Immigration presents a detailed look at America 's immigrant population and outlines how psychologists can address the needs of immigrants across domains of practice, research, education and policy.
"We have identified an urgent need in scientific research and clinical settings to consider the unique aspects of immigrant populations, particularly with regard to culture and language," said task force Chair Carola Surez-Orozco, PhD.
Immigrants face psychological implications of racism, discrimination and racial profiling, while their expressions of distress vary across cultures, the report points out.
Most evidence-based psychological treatments currently used with immigrants are based on research performed with samples consisting of ethnic minorities rather than immigrants, according to the report. Current psychological assessment tools, such as tests and batteries, often are not adapted to account for culture and language, it notes.
"Rather than approaching culture through a preset middle-class American framework, the research should use methodologies to understand the worldview of the immigrant population," the report states.
A surprising finding from the review of current data is that first-generation immigrant populations fare better than subsequent generations in physical and behavioral health, as well as some educational outcomes, even though they frequently face multiple stressors, such as poverty, difficult work environments, social isolation and less education.
"The implications are that programs to assist immigrants with adapting to life in their new country must value both the need to learn the ways of the new culture and the need to maintain a connection with the old," said Surez-Orozco.
Among the report's other recommendations:
Federal policy initiatives that support education and training in psychology to work with immigrants.
Continuing education programs for practicing psychologists and other mental health professionals to address the needs and strengths of immigrants and their families.
Training that includes prejudice reduction for teachers and other service providers who work with immigrants.
Public awareness of the mental health impacts of detention and deportation on adults and their children, and policy initiatives for humane detention requirements and family reunification.
Full equality of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender immigrants and their families in federal immigration laws and policies, including the recognition of "permanent partner" status eligibility for same-sex couples.
"Our hope is that increased understanding of the psychological factors related to the immigrant experience will improve decision-making," said Melba J.T. Vasquez, PhD, who convened the task force as APA's 2011 president. "Effective integration of immigrants in educational, work and communities is essential for this country's future."
###
The American Psychological Association, in Washington , D.C. , is the largest scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States and is the world's largest association of psychologists. APA's membership includes more than 154,000 researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants and students. Through its divisions in 54 subfields of psychology and affiliations with 60 state, territorial and Canadian provincial associations, APA works to advance psychology as a science, as a profession and as a means of promoting health, education and human welfare.
Report: "Crossroads: The Psychology of Immigration in the New Century, Report of the APA Presidential Task Force on Immigration," Executive Summary: http://www.apa.org/pi/about/publications/immigration/executive-summary.pdf
For a copy of the full report, please contact APA Public Affairs at public.affairs@apa.org or (202) 336-5700.
Dr. Carola Surez-Orozco can be contacted at (212) 998-5282 (office); (646) 329-2125 (mobile); cso2@nyu.edu.
[ | E-mail | Share ]
?
AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert! system.
How often do we really observe all the wonders around us? The world is made-up of an infinite series of incredible miracles: the earth, humans, nature, or the sky to name a few. Things we take for granted, things that we see so often that at some point we stop seeing them.
Amsterdam-based artist Berndnaut Smilde has created an installation close to magic. It makes us question the notion of what makes a sculpture. ?Nimbus? presents a beautiful floating cloud within a gallery space. Like most things in life, the installation is ephemeral, fleeting since the viewer may only experience it for a brief moment before it dissipates entirely.
When asked what he wanted to create for Probe gallery, the artist said: I imagined walking into a museum hall with just empty walls. The place even looked deserted. On the one hand I wanted to create an ominous situation. You could see the cloud as a sign of misfortune. You could also read it as an element out of the Dutch landscape paintings in a physical form in a classical museum hall. At the same time I wanted to make (for once) a very clear image, an almost clich? and cartoon like visualization of having bad luck: ?Indeed, there nothing here and bullocks, it?s starting to rain!?
In addition to the Dutch landscape paintings, the floating cloud brings to mind some surrealistic paintings by Ren? Magritte and the Blur Building in Switzerland by Diller Scofidio. A great concept and a delightful sighting, lucky those who experienced it first hand.
Cloud in room Lambda print, 75x112 cm Hotel MariaKapel, Hoorn
More of the artist?s work can be seen in his website.
Well, you?ve decided to improve your home. Good for you! However, there is so much information that you may not have a clue where to begin. Don?t worry, home improvement tips are here! Listed below are some tips that will help you get started and organized so that you can become a home improvement expert.
Making your home improvements energy efficient will be good for the environment and for your bills. You should use money to block drafts, seal windows, and insulate walls before doing any aesthetic renovations and then take the money you save on your bills and put it away towards the renovations you dream of.
Start with the bathroom when you are looking for fast home improvement projects. Fixing up your bathroom can quickly add value to your property. You will have to spend less for a higher return on property value with the right bathroom fixtures. It is one of the key features people consider when buying property.
If you are doing some sheetrock taping, be sure to invest in a taping knife that is made of stainless steel. This kind of high quality taping knife is easier to clean up and it will last for more jobs in the future. If you purchase a stainless steel taping knife, clean it well and store it properly, you will never have to buy another one.
Consult a professional for larger jobs. Even if you think you know what you are doing, you can benefit from a professional?s experience in the field. A professional has done the job more often than you have and can help you find supplies, get the job done quicker and troubleshoot any problems.
When planning a home renovation, be prepared for changes in the schedule. Renovations don?t always go exactly according to plan. There can be delays in receiving the materials, in getting building permits or in workers coming in to do the work. If you are prepared to be flexible, the renovation project will go much more smoothly.
Try planting a tree to add some more curb appeal. This is a very simple home improvement project. Make sure to consider how big the tree will grow. If you have the space, try to plant two trees to frame your home or your entryway. Planting a tree does not take long at all either.
Now, of course, not everyone out there is attempting to sell their home. Some people just want to make improvements to change things around. Wherever you fall in the home improvement spectrum, remember to read this article closely and to use these tips to assist you. They just might help you get out of a jam.
Discover lots more info concerning Home Improvement Tips at Home Sweet Home.
This anger and outrage seized by graphic artists have defined revolutions throughout the centuries. Printmakers have depicted the human condition in all its glories and challenges so powerfully that awareness, attitudes and politics are dramatically influenced. And the value and impact in this art is even more important today. In the new documentary, ART IS? THE PERMANENT REVOLUTION, three contemporary American artists along with a master printer help make clear the dynamic sequences of social reality and protest. Among the wide choice of 60 artists on display are Rembrandt, Goya, Daumier, Kollwitz, Dix, Masereel, Grosz, Gropper, and Picasso. While their stirring graphics sweep by, the making of an etching, a woodcut and any lithograph unfolds before each of our eyes, as the contemporary musicians join their illustrious predecessors throughout creating art of cultural engagement.
In ?Art Is? the Permanent Revolution, ? etcher Sigmund Abeles, lithographer Ann Chernow, woodcut artist Paul Marcus and also master printer James Reed expound about the link between print fine art and political protest. But if their abstract talking heads rarely explain to, their busy hands, engaged in various complicated stages of fabricating art, utterly fascinate. For documaker Manfred Kirchheimer, intercutting among the musicians and showcasing some 400 striking instances of politically engaged images coming from Durer to Picasso, a picture is indeed worth a thousand words. Opening at Gothams Quad, ?Revolution? may prove ideal to smallscreen play.
Some of the 60 artists whose illustrations parade along the screen might be called the usual suspects; Daumier, Goya and Grosz, all known for their particular acerbic, passionate or grotesque depictions connected with social injustice, are particularly well displayed. Lesser-known figures, like Frans Masereel, Otto Dix or Kathe Kollwitz, here carve their very own niches, particularly in their depictions on the horrors of war.
The film proceeds along two parallel lines: On the one palm, Kirchheimer presents an endless visual stream of woodcuts, etchings, lithographs, drawings and engravings, loosely grouped by subject matter or artist and underscored through tragic, militant or triumphal tunes. On the other hand, the helmer includes in-depth interviews with four contemporary artists who will be busy plying their build and whose discussions occasionally inform the ongoing montage associated with surveyed art pieces. The interpolated prints, in their sheer amount, ferocity and brilliance, create a curious counterpoint towards interview subjects slow, methodical processes; not until the performers reveal their finished solutions does their political content become crystal-clear as well as the two strands of the film click in a true relationship.
Oddly, since the mediums accessibility and simplicity of reproduction makes print artwork a naturally populist along with propagandistic medium, the artists interviewed are far from young firebrands using state-of-the-art modes of reproduction. Instead, they come off seeing that thoughtful, somewhat elderly individuals engaged in heavily artisanal, low-tech processes, often involving expensive, rare, quasi-extinct materials.
Kirschheimer never really describes this anomaly. But admittedly, there is something extremely satisfying in watching these types of laborious, hands-on processes. Abeles works with unique tools on different surfaces and dips his water piping plate in acid baths repeatedly before inking and rolling the finished print. Similarly, Chernow and Reed subject a marble slab for you to multiple washes and coatings as they pass it backwards and forwards in the manufacture of the lithograph.
If you haven't heard of Hunger Games, you must have been sleeping under a rock. (Based on Suzanne Collins' futuristic trilogy, the much -anticipated movie opens March 23rd.)
Skinit knows a phenomena when it sees it and has some great-looking themed skins on their site, just in time for decking out your devices before the big day.
You can get Katniss with her Bow & Arrow for your iPhone ($14.99) , a Gale Hawthorne skin for your laptop , hunky Peeta Mellark covering your calculator, or keep it simple and just get the logo for another device.
As with all Skinit skins, they are made of durable, automotive-grade premium vinyl, easy on and easy off (think no residue ) and fit perfectly. And since they are ultra low-profile, they will not interfere with docks - chargers or other accessories.
We might just have to switch out our "Twilight" skins now.
[unable to retrieve full-text content]Reuters - After more than 30 years as a factory worker, Dimitris Manikas was dreaming of retirement and plans to get married for the third time when a redundancy notice blew his hopes away.
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Public release date: 7-Mar-2012
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