Drive me insane!!  I had a client that was approved at 6.875% for an apartment Re-Fi and we got everything in on time and had a file that was rock solid and in the end..... the bank gave me Docs that had 7.375% and expected me not to notice, Seriously!!Come to find out the Account Exec wanted a little rebate for Himself and didn't think I would notice the difference in rate or the "POC" mention that showed Him getting some money "payed outside of Closing". This industry is filled with so many crooks it makes it difficult to find people who just do the right thing for the ENTIRE transaction. Oh well, He lost a customer and what little rebate he would have got cannot make up for the volume he loses in the future!! Good Luck out there!!! Keep your eyes on those DOCS!!!!!!Josh 02/20/2008

No matter what the market, people will continue to desire to live in Upland, as it remains one of the most prestigious cities within San Bernardino County. Comparatively speaking, the Upland housing market continues to outpace the bulk of cities in the San Bernardino County. In of January 2008, 18 single family homes and a total of 2 condos/townhomes entered escrow, down 11 sales from last month.  My overall view of the market is still slipping, Click Here to view an article about the market conditions of the Inland Empire.Closed Sales For January 2008: Up 16 from Last Month27 Single Family Homes2 Condos/TownhomesPending Sales For January 2008: The same as Last Month36 Single Family Homes4 Condos/TownhomesCurrent Actives As of Today's Post: up by 25 from Last Month333 Single Family Home... 02/18/2008

Due to the recent residential market slowdown EVERY bank or lending institution is looking much more closely at every file . Borrowers that have good credit and money in the bank may still face a few bumps in the road, but remaining flexible with what the bank requires may help the process run much smoother. Underwriters have become more strict and may require more documentation than in the past. Lenders are evaluating potential borrowers more carefully than before, analyzing their net worth, liquidity and previous commercial property experience before committing to a loan. Some banks are still allowing LTV's up to 90-95% depending on the property and borrower profile. One bank even goes to 97%.   Stated-income options are still widely available but with lower LTV's and longer prepaymen... 02/18/2008

Six previously-owned homes closed escrow in Upland during the week ending Feb. 16, 2008, and nine Upland homes reportedly entered escrow during the week, according to the Inland Multi-Regional Multiple Listing Service, which reports listings and sales of previously-owned homes. The MLS said 39 new Upland listings were added during the week, for a total inventory of 385 previously-owned homes listed in Upland on Feb. 17, including 263 single-family homes with no monthly fees and 122 condominiums, town homes and single-family homes in associations.  Ila prepares weekly market activity reports for her website, http://www.ilajosephs.com/, surveying the cities of Chino, Claremont, Fontana, La Verne, Montclair, Ontario, Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, San Dimas and Upland. Whether you are buying or... 02/17/2008

If you are in the area of Foothill and Central in Upland, check out The Hat. It is a great sandwich classic that features a varied menu with all of the traditional drive thru specials, their special is a Pastrami Dip that is to die for.  Their chile cheese fries are a great addition, bring a big appitite as they give you plant. The Hat has a few locations throughout the southland and has been a favorite for over 55 years. Located at 857 N. Central Ave in Upland, near Central and Foothill, this is a must try for locals and those passing through. Empire Realty - Premium Full Service at a Discount Visit us on the web EMPIRE REALTY. Oh Yea, and great food suggestions! 02/13/2008

Two previously-owned homes closed escrow in Upland during the week ending Feb. 9, 2008, and nine Upland homes were reported in escrow on Feb. 10, according to the Inland Multi-Regional Multiple Listing Service, which reports listings and sales of previously-owned homes. The MLS said 27 new Upland listings were added during the week, for a total inventory of 366  previously-owned homes listed in Upland on Feb. 10, including 255 single-family homes with no monthly fees and 111 condominiums, town homes and single-family homes in associations. Ila prepares weekly market activity reports for her website, http://www.ilajosephs.com/, surveying the cities of Chino, Claremont, Fontana, La Verne, Montclair, Ontario, Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, San Dimas and Upland. Whether you are buying or selling... 02/10/2008

If you are looking for a great old school barber shop the Upland Barber Shop is where you want to go.  Juan is a true pro, he takes great care in making sure your cut is done well and then takes the time to use a straight razor to shave close around your ears and back of your neck.  Juan's work days are Friday and Saturday.There are 8 chairs and the atmosphere is definitely old school, sports, politics and business are the topics flying around.Located at 260 N Second Avenue in downtown Upland it is easily found just East of Euclid off of D street.  If you want to cal them for availability call (909) 951-5501For information on purchasing your next home in Upland or anywhere in the Inland Empire call Empire Realty at 909-579-6611 or visit us on the web at Empire Realty. Empire Realty is y... 02/02/2008

Four homes closed escrow in Upland during the week ending Jan. 26 and 27 homes were reported in escrow on Jan. 27, according to the Inland Multi-Regional Multiple Listing Service, which reports listings and sales of existing homes. The MLS said 34 new Upland listings were added during the week, for a total inventory of 357 homes listed in Upland on Jan. 27, including 247 single-family homes with no monthly fees and 110 condominiums, town homes and single-family homes in associations. During the week, six Upland listings expired. Whether you are buying or selling real estate, you will find helpful information on my website, www.ilajosephs.com. If  you are looking at homes along the 210 Freeway from San Dimas to Fontana, or in Ontario, Montclair or Chino, I would be happy to assist you. 01/27/2008

Six homes closed escrow in Upland during the week ending Jan. 20 and 26 homes were reported in escrow on Jan. 20, according to the Inland Multi-Regional Multiple Listing Service. The MLS said 28 new Upland listings were added during the week, for a total inventory of 354 homes in Upland on  Jan. 20, including 242 single-family homes with no monthly fees and 112 condominiums, town homes and single-family homes in associations. During the week, seven Upland listings expired. Some listings are put right back on the market, but other sellers are waiting until later in the year.  If you are looking at homes along the 210 Freeway from San Dimas to Fontana, or in Chino, Montclair or Ontario, I would be glad to assist you.  01/21/2008

As a Notary Public I offer free Notary services to all Upland residents, we are here to provide a service and we will come to you.As a free service all we ask is that you will consider our sister services, Empire Realty, for your next real estate purchase.For information on purchasing your next home in Upland or anywhere in the Inland Empire call Robert Huntsinger at 909-579-6611 or visit us on the web at Empire Realty. Empire Realty is your one stop shop for information and Full Service at a Discount. 01/18/2008

Four homes closed escrow in Upland during the week ending Jan. 13 and 20 homes were reported in escrow on Jan. 14, according to the Inland Multi-Regional Multiple Listing Service. The MLS said 14 new Upland listings were added during the week, for a total inventory of 356 homes on in Upland Jan. 14, including 243 single-family homes with no monthly fees and 113 condominiums, town homes and single-family homes in associations. During the week, two Upland listings expired. Some listings are put right back on the market, but other sellers are waiting until later in the year.  If you are looking at homes along the 210 Freeway from San Dimas to Fontana, or in Ontario, Montclair or Chino, I would be happy to assist you. 01/14/2008

If you are in the area of Foothill and San Antonio in Upland, check out Sergio's Mexican Restaurant. It is a great Mexican restaurant that features a varied menu with all of the traditional and Baja style entrees, their special offerings like the "Laura's Spacial" are wonderful.  The Laura's special features a fire roasted pasilla Chile stuffed with grilled chicken then it is covered with pork green sauce, Chile verde for you traditionalists, and cheese, if that did not make you want to go you must be dead. The atmosphere is a laid back and they serve beer, a Mexican meal is not the same without a Pacifico.  They are just East of the 24 Hour Fitness in a part of the corner strip mall that is tucked away behind the Jack In A Box.Located at 657 W. Foothill Blvd, at the corner of San Anton... 01/13/2008

Six homes closed escrow in Upland during the week ending Jan. 6 and 20 homes were reported in escrow on Jan. 6, according to the Inland Multi-Regional Multiple Listing Service. The MLS said 13 new Upland listings were added during the week, for a total inventory of 355 homes on Jan. 6, including 240 single-family homes with no monthly fees and 115 condominiums, town homes and single-family homes in associations. During the week, 33  Upland listings expired. Some re-listed, but other sellers are waiting until later in the year.  If you are looking at homes along the 210 Freeway from San Dimas to Fontana, or in Ontario, Montclair or Chino, I would be happy to assist you. Contact me or visit my website, http://www.ilajosephs.com/. 01/07/2008

No matter what the market, people will continue to desire to live in Upland, as it remains one of the most prestigious cities within San Bernardino County. Comparatively speaking, the Upland housing market continues to outpace the bulk of cities in the San Bernardino County. In of December 2007, 28 single family homes and a total of 3 condos/townhomes entered escrow, up 18 sales from last month, this is real good news.  Total sales are down 60.2% for the same period last year and 28.4% from last month's sales in the Inland Valley MLS, keep in mind that some of this is seasonal trends coming into play.My overall view of the market is still slipping, Click Here to view an article about the market conditions of the Inland Empire.Closed Sales For December 2007: Down by 11 from Last Month11 ... 01/02/2008

Looking for a home under $300,000? There were five single-family homes listed under $300,000 in Upland on Dec. 31, according to the Inland Multi-Regional Multiple Listing Service. One home closed escrow in Upland during the week ending Dec. 30 and 28 homes were reported in escrow on Dec. 30, according to the Inland Multi-Regional Multiple Listing Service. The MLS said seven new Upland listings were added during the week, and there was a total inventory of 366 homes in Upland on Dec. 30, including 252 single-family homes with no monthly fees and 114 condominiums, town homes and single-family homes in associations. During the week, 25 Upland listings expired. Some re-listed, but other sellers are waiting until next year.  Serious buyers took advantage of vacation time and holiday visits t... 12/31/2007

There are two ways to lower your property taxes in Upland which are legal and FREE. 1) If you qualify, appeal your property tax assessment 2) Claimed your Homeowner’s Tax Exemption  APPEAL YOUR TAX ASSESSMENTHome values in Upland have decreased over the last year, you may be able to lower your property taxes?This will only apply if you purchased your home or have been re-assessed in the last couple of years?  If the above information applies to you, you may be able to do something that will cost you nothing.  This simple process can save you hundreds of dollars in future property taxes.   Lower you Property Tax Bill NOW ! Each county operates differently but the simple answer is that all you need to do is ask for your property to be re-assessed. Some counties are proactive and are alre... 12/30/2007

Upland is the home to the largest privately owned airport in the US.Cable Airport was founded in 1945 by the Cable family, who bought the land for $8,500. The first runway, 1-19, built by Dewey Cable himself, was 1,500 feet long. It ran north-south, perpendicular to the prevailing winds, and had a steep gradient. The main runway, 6-24, was completed six months later. Unlike the first runway, it ran east-west (parallel to the wind, which is ideal), had a hard, flat surface, and by 1947 was 2,350 feet long and 150 feet wide.Cable Airport is still owned by the Cable family. Based on number of aircraft based at the field (450), it ranks as the largest privately-owned airport in the world.Today Cable Airport covers an area of 95 acres which contains one runway (6/24) measuring 3,864 x 75 ft.... 12/24/2007

The city of Upland has updated their website to contain community events, community calendar, city hall information and a resource for businesses and commerce.  When looking for information on crime statistics, weather and demographics use the city of Upland website as your one stop shop for resources.  Link to Upland City website.For information on purchasing your next home in Upland or anywhere in the Inland Empire call Empire Realty at 909-579-6611 or visit us on the web at Empire Realty. Empire Realty is your one stop shop for information and Full Service at a Discount. 12/16/2007

Fewer open houses are scheduled during the holidays, but there is still a wide selection of homes in most price ranges. If you are shopping for a new home, I can make the process much easier. If what you are looking for isn't on the market now, my Personal Shopper Service will make sure you see homes online as soon as they appear in the Multiple Listing Service.Two homes closed escrow in Upland during the week ending Dec. 15 and 20 homes were reported in escrow on Dec. 16, according to the Inland Multi-Regional Multiple Listing Service. The MLS said 22 new listings were added during the week, for a total inventory of 398 homes on Dec. 16, including 273 single-family homes with no monthly fees and 125 condominiums, townhomes and single-family homes in associations. During the week, 24 Up... 12/16/2007

Short sales - often called "pre-foreclosure" in listings - continue to drive the market down, but the effect is exaggerated by sellers who advertise a very low price to get attention and leave it to the lender to counter offers with a higher, more realistic price.They are called short sales because the seller actually owes more than he expects to receive from the sale. In order to complete a transaction, the lender must either accept less than what is owed or proceed with foreclosure and essentially "repossess" the house. A lender often agrees to a short sale because writing off a portion of the balance owed would be a better option than taking possession of the house and then having the expense of maintaining it, without receiving any payments, until a buyer can found. By the way, a se... 12/11/2007