Christian Green

2009-04-10T06:35:00.000-05:00

The Law of Garbage Trucks

2009-03-31T16:55:00.001-05:00

One day I hopped in a taxi and we took off for the airport. We were
driving in the right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a
parking space right in front of us. My taxi driver slammed on his
brakes, skidded, and missed the other car by just inches! The driver of
the other car whipped his head around and started yelling at us. My taxi
driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean, he was really
friendly. So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined
your car and sent us to the hospital! 'This is when my taxi driver
taught me what I now call, 'The Law of the Garbage Truck.'

He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around
full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of
disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it
and sometimes they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally. Just
smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. Don't take their garbage and
spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets. The
bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over
their day. Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets,
so...Love the people who treat you right. Pray for the ones who don't.
Life is ten percent what you make it and ninety percent how you take it!

Have a blessed, garbage-free day!

Our Newest Edition

2009-03-28T18:37:00.000-05:00

My Disney Video

2009-03-28T16:21:00.002-05:00

Great Quote I Found Today...Had to Share!

2009-03-28T15:20:00.002-05:00

"People think a soul mate is your perfect fit, and that's what everyone wants. But a true soul mate is a mirror, the person who shows you everything that is holding you back, the person who brings you to your own attention so you can change your life.

A true soul mate is probably the most important person you'll ever meet, because they tear down your walls and smack you awake. But to live with a soul mate forever? Nah. Too painful. Soul mates, they come into your life just to reveal another layer of yourself to you, and then leave.

A soul mates purpose is to shake you up, tear apart your ego a little bit, show you your obstacles and addictions, break your heart open so new light can get in, make you so desperate and out of control that you have to transform your life, then introduce you to your spiritual master..." — Elizabeth Gilbert

Message to me from Ken Cramton

2009-03-26T13:07:00.006-05:00

The following is an email that I received and had to blog:

"OUR MORTGAGE INDUSTRY- UNDERWRITING GUIDELINES- IMPORTANCE OF CREDIT SCORES"

Putting things into perspective enables priorities to be established and, more business opportunities to be executed. These past 12-18 months have been very difficult for our industry. Clients and realtors have had to experience and ultimately face disappointment with decisions handed out by lenders as a result of the support industry in which we all subscribe. Investors, the secondary market, private mortgage insurance companies, and the agencies, Federal National Mortgage Association as well as Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation have all changed the face of our business. Government bailouts, over-reaction in Congress, the National Elections, have ushered in a changing of the guard.

Realtors who have been in the industry for years have experienced more changes in how you do business and your clients have become more careful with their decisions on mortgages, housing, and life in general. There is a cloud of doubt with things that many took for granted in the past. Valuations have gone through a radical period of decline. Net worth has gone through a remarkable change in a very short time. Personal assets are under assault and people are generally retreating into a more controlled stance of buying and accumulating wealth. Identifying mortgage solutions has become a difficult task based on how we operated in the past.

Perhaps it would be helpful if I attempted to outline in brief format what we have seen and why people are having a difficult time with the mortgage process. What has happened? With the decline in values and the oversupply of homes on the market we see balances on current mortgages exceeding the value of the collateral secured by the mortgage. Foreclosures galore in all sections of the country, some worse than others, are rampant and this has added to the unsold inventory from which to make a selection. As with the case of any commodity, prices go down when you have an over-supply of anything. The economy, which is based on a vibrant housing market, has declined significantly. Employers are shutting down their businesses, employees are losing their jobs, and there is fear and uncertainty with people’s ability to repay their debt. Credit card issuers are declining credit at record numbers and lowering or canceling open credit lines to lessen the liabilities on their books. Credit has become tight and in some cases banks are not lending as they have their own balance sheet issues.

Congress and Investors have in some cases over-reacted in changing the rules and guidelines. This is always the case when you experience a radical change in the business cycle. Minimum credit scores have been implemented on all types of loans and private mortgage insurance companies have become more selective in those loans they will insure. Down payment requirements have gone up and the standard 30 yr. fixed rate conventional mortgage has been totally re-written to the extent that many heretofore clients can no longer qualify for those mortgages. What used to be an acceptable level of credit score of 620 has now been raised to 680. In some cases, you‘re required to have as high as a 720 or greater to get the best option on a rate. Anything less requires higher adjustments to the rate.

In addition, there are restrictions on the down payment to avoid the higher rate but these are very limited. Private mortgage insurers have stopped issuing mortgage insurance in declining markets which are identified by zip code all over the country. Without mortgage insurance you are required to put minimum of 20% down. In many cases a lender can no longer quote a rate to a realtor/client until a credit report is pulled and the assets to close are verified for the down payment requirements. This has been a radical change to most realtors.

The Federal Housing Administrations FHA loan has become the most popular format of financing in our market because it allows more flexibility in many parts of the underwriting process. Down payments are allowed with as little down as 3.5% although that was recently increased in January of this year. There are more couples who can qualify for this loan and there are some options available to offer reduced payment rates in the early years of the mortgage with the popular 2-1 buy down being offered by many builders. The maximum loan cap has been raised to the $270,000 level in our market and that allows more house than before. There is the popular Alabama Housing Finance Authority (Bond Loan) that is used in connection with FHA lending that provides for 100% financing. This 100% financing is gone on conventional loans as the popular first and second piggy back mortgages are gone as well as the limited documentation loans. All loans must be fully documented now and there is no more stated income product which led to many foreclosures in the past.

In closing, partnerships and business relationships are more important now than ever. The realtor can no longer rely on a business plan used in the past when it comes to getting people qualified for a mortgage. Having a relationship with a lender is paramount to success and having access to that loan officer 24/7 is critically important. If I haven’t left you with any other thought but this please exercise your best judgment and select a partner that can make your sales elevate to another level and remove the current mystery of the mortgage solution process. Competent and proven leaders in our industry are eager to serve you and would welcome the suggestion as a means to help both sides of this equation.

Finally, many changes are currently happening with regard to those lenders remaining and how they have to operate. Brokers will be a thing of the past. If you don’t have your own warehouse line in which to fund mortgages, you cannot succeed. Third party originations are being prohibited and changes are coming in those that can obtain mortgage insurance and how you select an appraiser. Just be on the look- out for that. Thanks for allowing me to attempt to state what some of the changes you have experienced and, why?

Kenneth W. Cramton, Jr.

Regional Vice President

Platinum Community Bank

formerly HMC - Home Mortgages Co.

813 Estella Drive

Fairhope, AL 36532

251-990-5897

251-604-6661

P.S. It is time for those clients that have been sitting on the fence to get into the market. This window of low rates will not last long. It is inevitable that they will go up. Someone ask me the other day what kind of rate you could get with good score and down payment and I said 4.5%. Then they said, “I will wait until they get down to 3.5%.” That would be a mistake.

Local MerchantCircle Reviews-III

2009-03-26T10:14:00.000-05:00

Written for Christine Linson Gallery in Fairhope, AL

Must See

When visiting our great city, you must stop by the Christine Linson Gallery. Ms. Linson gracefully depicts our wonderful southern hospitality in various ways that you can take home to enjoy the memories of your stay.

February 21, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Tomaso's Martial Arts in Fairhope, AL

Great Family Fun

The Tomaso family gives so much to the community by going into local schools to speak about bullying and self confidence. Mr. Tomaso stresses the importance of physical health and agility through his positive attitude toward Martial Arts. Great atmosphere for kids of all ages to grow.

February 21, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Local MerchantCircle Reviews-II

2009-03-26T10:13:00.000-05:00

Written for Storybook Photography in Spanish Fort, AL

Beautiful Work

Some of the most beautiful photographs I've ever seen...children & wedding specialist.

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Merchant Response: "Thank you so much! That really means a lot." - March 13, 2009

Written for Market by The Bay Fresh Seafood in Daphne, AL

People's Choice

Everyone who loves seafood will enjoy the freshest catch here!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Winn Dixie in Daphne, AL

Nice People

This Winn Dixie might not have all the products you are looking for but the people are helpful and friendly. The produce and meats are usually fresh.

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Cartier Fine Home Inspections, LLC in Daphne, AL

Exceptional People

Trust your home inspection to the best! Reliable professionals.

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Merchant Response: "Thank you Christian, It is my prayer that your kindness will be rewarded many times over. A complement from "You" and "KW" is a Great honor! Respectfully, Jerome Cartier Cartier Fine Home Inspections" -March 13, 2009

Written for Punta Clara Kitchen Inc in Point Clear, AL

Southern Sweets

A trip to Punta Clara (Spanish for Point Clear by the way) is a delightful way to sweeten your vacation with homemade goodies.

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Paintn Parrot LLC in Fairhope, AL

Get your creative juices flowing...

kids of all ages will enjoy creating their own masterpiece in this unique Fairhope setting...its the only way i would do ceramics!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Vinnys in Daphne, AL

Great pizza!

if you want something different than Pizza Hut-go here! i can attest that they make great comos, too!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Mancis Antique Club in Daphne, AL

Mushroom & Swiss Burger!!!!!

Amazing place to go with or without kids! Every square inch of this place has antiques and oddities of every sort. Known for the cheeseburgers and something cute in the women's bathroom! Just featured on the Food Network! You have to go to believe it!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Big Daddys Grill At Riverpark in Fairhope, AL

My personal pick!

The best kept secret and local favorite...Big Daddy's! Great family atmosphere, inside/outside dining, go by boat or car! Get a beer and fried pickles on a Sunday afternoon and listen to live music...its the best! Ask for Big Daddy or Stephen

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for The Original Oyster House in Spanish Fort, AL

Local Award Winner

Even picky seafood lovers eat here! Locals know what's good and this place wins the Reader's Choice every year!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Guidos Restaurant in Daphne, AL

A local favorite!

Guidos has great casual dining with a unique approach to the menu. Since everything is freshly prepared, you can read the menu wall for that night's delights!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Andrees Wine Cheese & Things in Fairhope, AL

Fairhope Icon!

Great lunch menu, wonderful wine and cheese selections, & deserts to die for! A must before you leave Fairhope!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Fantasy Island Toys in Fairhope, AL

For the kid in us all...

2 to 102 can enjoy a trip down to Fantasy Island Toys a Fairhope icon. Only the best birthday presents are wrapped from Fantasy Island...sure to get oooohs and aaaahhs!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Mr Genes Beans in Fairhope, AL

I love Mr. Gene!

Mr. Gene's Beans is an icon of Fairhope! Some of my best times were taking my kids there after school for icecream. Great atmosphere for the way things still should be!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Original Bens Jr in Fairhope, AL

A Local Favorite!

don't go to ben's dressed fancy...go there to eat great BBQ!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Cottage on Mobile Street in Fairhope, AL

Location, Location, Location

This cottage is located in the heart of scenic Fairhope walking distance from some of the best food and shopping anywhere. At any time of the year, the city of Fairhope has something special happening. Stroll down the boardwalk in January to see the red tulips in bloom, party downtown for Mardi Gras in February, or wait until March for the tenth largest Arts & Crafts Festival. Fairhope makes every occassion special and why not enjoy it all from the Cottage on Mobile Street with the best sunset in the world!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Self Center, P.C. in Fairhope, AL

Lose it!

Many of my friends have had great success losing weight and getting healthy at the Self Center!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Couture Brides & Belles by Karen Dekay in Fairhope, AL

Unique to our area

Fabulous gowns for the discerning eye!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Baldwin County Parent Magazine in Fairhope, AL

A Must Read!

Exceptional quality with timely information on being a parent in Baldwin County. This publication is produced by a native of Baldwin County and her great team strives to give the reader desired information with stimulating photography. A must read!

February 24, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Fairhope Street Artist in Fairhope, AL

Amazing Talent

Just because Bill Harrison makes painting look simple, it isn't. These Fairhope Street Artist have helped in the revitalization of our downtown merchants. When they began, Mr. Harrison, rain or shine, would set up his easel and paint right on the side walk of Page and Palette. He glorious gives the viewer an insight to the life of the gulf coast. Bold colors, fast and loose strokes, larger than life images makes this one of the top "must see" places in Fairhope. In addition, the art is reasonably priced for an original piece plus he does commissioned work. An amazing talent.

February 21, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Local MerchantCircle Reviews

2009-03-26T10:11:00.000-05:00

Reviews written by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Tamis Mask & Mirror Studio in Fairhope, AL

Stellar Style

I have always enjoyed the atmosphere in Tamis Mask & Mirror. Great service, friendly, and knowledgeable staff always willing to go the extra mile to make you feel wonderful about yourself.

March 25, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Renaissance Portrait Studio in Fairhope, AL

Only the Best for me!

Really think about the phrase, "you only get one chance to make a first impression!" It amazes me how some people think paying a little bit more for a quality portrait is not good business. I receive business cards all the time with horrible cheap pictures on them and I think, "now, why would I want to keep this?"

I only trust my business image with Renaissance Portrait Studio and will continuing using them for all of my photography needs. Beautiful work, exceptional service, friendly atmosphere. The very best!

March 21, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Capt John Green in Orange Beach, AL

Biased Opinion

Capt John Green is my wonderful husband! I can attest to his hard work ethic and dedication to his customers. John prides himself on his fishing expertise based on 25+ years of experience. I often hear him say how 'people think you can get a captain's license and know everything about boating & fishing, but you don't!" Some knowledge has to be time tested like his is. Capt John delivers boats from here to there, wins sportfishing tournaments, and has the best yacht services business available. You will always find this captain working: sun, cold, hurricane, and of course, perfect fishing weather! Trust your yacht and fishing experience with the best!

March 21, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Dr Music in Fairhope, AL

Locally Loved!

Local music lover, Wade Wellborn, is the epitome of Dr. Music! The doctor has many great old albums, unusual cds, and creates designer MP3 players from vintage luggage or furniture. Dr. Music is a one stop shop for all of you audio answers!

March 20, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for National Property Inspections in Fairhope, AL

True Professionals

Kim & Dave O'Hara are true professionals in the home inspection business. Quality inspections based on unbiased opinion. You home is generally your largest single purchase ever made. Trust National Property Inspections for peace of mind during this exciting time in your life. Quality, Intergrity, Professionalism.

March 19, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Shades in Spanish Fort, AL

Amazing Customer Service

Don't let their tremendous selection of designer sunglasses overwhelm you! Shades knows their inventory and will assist you in finding the pair perfect for you!

Great selection of top angler apparel and Vineyard Vines, too!

Several locations in Alabama...one sure to be close to you. Tell Mary & Joe that I sent you!

March 19, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Gambino's in Fairhope, AL

Better than Ever!

Gambino's is a must-do during your stay in Fairhope. Under new management, the restaurant has been transformed into all its previous glory with wonderful food, fun kareoke, a great bar, and new dance floor!

March 17, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for BTSIV, LLC in Scotts Valley, CA

Love my top search results

In all of my efforts to get top search results, nothing has been easier or cost effective than MerchantCircle. I wish that I'd found you years ago!

March 16, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Ben's West Coast BBQ in Scotts Valley, CA

Ben's is the Best

There's a technique to good BBQ and both locations of Ben's know it!

March 15, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Away At The Bay in Fairhope, AL

Get Away from it All

Beautiful area in Fairhope to enjoy the best sunsets! Enjoy Away At the Bay for your ultimate relaxing vacation.

March 14, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Sweet Dreams Bath & Body Shop in Orange Beach, AL

Raspberry Kisses

wonderful place to spend an hour! treat yourself to some of the goodies found here...i love the Raspberry Kisses!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Calypso Joes Caribbean Grille in Orange Beach, AL

Fun atmosphere

good fun & great casual fun surrounded by Orange Beach Marina

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Hopes Cheesecake in Gulf Shores, AL

Died and gone to heaven!

This is what you will think the second you enter! Amazing flavors of cheesecake with monthly specials. Call ahead and pick one up on the way to the condo...don't come to the gulf without one...you can take long walks on the beach to exercise it off!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for The Beach Club in Gulf Shores, AL

I wish I lived here!

This is one of the best places in the world. I have enjoyed staying here a couple of times and never wanted to leave. Sugar white sands, blue-green water, exceptional dining, and luxurious spa...I think I should book another trip soon!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Las Vegas Discount Golf & Tennis in Foley, AL

Best of the Best

Family owned and operated with friendly knowledgeable staff. Good selection and great prices. Don't gamble going to other stores to pay more and get less.

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Alternative Answering in Montrose, AL

Dependable Service

Most of our local professionals use Alternative Answering for their after hour messaging services. Very polite and dependable.

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Jitterbug Theatre Productions in Montrose, AL

Local School Favorite

When the Jitterbug Theatre rolls comes to our schools it is a real treat. The kids and teachers enjoy the exceptional performances. If you ever have the chance to see them perform: Go!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Felixs Fish Camp Restaurant in Spanish Fort, AL

Get the Turtle Soup

Great atmosphere, wonderful selection of menu items and wines, but I recommend the turtle soup!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Booth Barry Lee DMD in Spanish Fort, AL

The Best Dentist!

Trust your teeth with only the best...I did! I grew up going to Dr. Booth and with his assistance avoided having braces!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

Written for Stix Restaurant in Spanish Fort, AL

My Family's Favorite

Any special occassion or just for fun, my family loves Stix!

March 13, 2009 by Christian Green, KW Commercial

2009-03-26T10:06:00.000-05:00

Real Moves

Sunday, March 08, 2009

DOTTY LOU and BUZZ FARIAS of The Pro Team at REMAX of Gulf Shores were named the No. 4 team in Alabama by REMAX Dixie Region. Their team includes JAMES CALVERT, KANDY HINES and KAREN OVER VOLD .

JAMES and DIANNA WELLS of Bay Title Insurance Company, received the Governor's Award for Coastal Clean-up in Alabama for the second consecutive year. The award was given in the business and industry category. Bay Title's employees in Mobile, Daphne and Gulf Shores chose to clean up Robinson Island in Orange Beach as part of the National Coastal Clean-up campaign last September.

The top agents for February at Coldwell Banker United, Realtors in Mobile are KYLA GASTON , top listing and closing; and BRENDA ORCHARD , selling agent.

The top agents at Realty Executives Gulf Coast in February were JANE

FARRAR , top listing; C.B. BRIERTY and CAROL BEE BOUT , top selling agents.

Praytor Realty's top agents in February were SULLIN ARENDALL , top sales agent; and STEPHENE HOSEY , top listing.

BRANDI COOK was Port City Realty's top producer in February and LIBBY

DAVIS was the top listing agent.

PAMELA PAYNE and VICTORIA HUERTA-SMITH have joined Roberts Brothers West office and both will work on the Sessions team.

CHRISTIAN GREEN has joined KW Commercial, the commercial branch of Keller Williams Alabama Gulf Coast in Fairhope.

The top agents in February at Coldwell Banker United, Realtors in Bay Minette were ANGELA BOAT WRIGHT , top selling; KAREN

TAYLOR , top listing; and ANNA

JOHNSON , top closing agent.

Weichert Realtors – Eastern Shore's top agents in January were MARIE SMITH , top listing agent; LISA STONE McDONALD , top selling agent, TIA STANLEY , top closing agent, Eastern Shore; MARY NEVITT , top listing and selling agent; and PAM ANDERSON, top closing agent.

Exit Realty Lyon's Company PaceSetters in February were AUSTILL CRABTREE , top listing agent; and JEANICE

DURGIN , top selling agent and top producer.

ERA Platinum Properties' top agents in January were LAYLA POLLMAN

CHRISTIAN , top listing, selling and closing agent, Fairhope office; the STEPHENS team , top listing and selling,JAMES BYRD , top closing agent, Robertsdale. CHRISTIAN was also named the Platinum agent.