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MilitaryByOwner Advertising, Inc.
Newsletter
September 2010
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Letter from the Editor
Well, it is finally here, the "un-official" end of summer and what some parents deem the "most wonderful time of the year"!
It is that time where we settle back into a routine and enjoy a little more freedom with the  kids back in school, but it is hard to beat the ease of summer! We hope that you enjoyed a fun and restful summer as we move into Fall.
Our focus this month is to provide our military subscribers with a wealth of information on the educational resources that are available to you and your family.
If you haven't already had an opportunity to explore the Post 9/11 GI-Bill benefits and the Yellow Ribbon Program, then be sure to take a look at our Military Life segments. Also, the 2011 Rate Tables for Montgomery GI Bill, REAP, and DEA are now online. Rate increases are effective October 1, 2010. Click here to view the new rates.
Our Featured Site this month will provide parents with information on the School Liason program that the Department of Defense provides to military families with children in the K-12 educational system.
We are also pleased to introduce Samuel Cachoa, one of our new business advertisers, that has a wonderful program in the Northern Virginia area that supports the Homes for Heroes program. To learn more, please take a look at our Real Estate Corner.
If there is anything that you would like to see us include in a future edition of our newsletter, I would love to hear from you!
We value our customers for their support of our site, their insight and suggestions on ways to improve and for continuing to spread the word about our site. It is clear that within the military network, it is important to provide service that is worth passing on, so please do not hesitate to contact us if there is ever anything we can do to make your advertising experience better.
And remember, we are available Monday - Friday, 9am - 9pm EST to assist you via our live chat.
Monica Schaefer
Editor
MilitaryByOwner Advertising, Inc.
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MilitaryByOwner News 
Virginia Beach Area:
Join us at the Blue Gypsy Bluesfest!
Sept. 25, 2010
12pm-5pm
Virginia Beach, VA
Great Food, Great Music and Great Charity!!
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When travelling throught the Norfolk airport look for our advertisement!
Just a reminder, if you have sold or rented your home advertised on the website, please update your status. This provides home buyers/renters the most accurate home search results. Have a suggestion? Email us!
Sharon
www.militarybyowner.com866 604 9126, M-F, 9am-5pm EST Live Chat, M-F, 9am-9pm EST
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Real Estate Corner
Homes for Heroes
 Whether The American Dream is defined as having the ability to seize economic opportunity, a chance to make a better life or the simple joy of home ownership, the American Dream in all its variations would not be possible without the daily sacrifices made by members of the military and civil service.
Yet, today, many military and workforce heroes, the very people who help secure the dream's possibility, face obstacles that prevent them from achieving the most basic aspect of the American Dream, home ownership.
Former Marine, founder and owner of Reality Realty Professionals, Sam Cachola, saw that disparity and took action. When Sam Cachola began his career in real estate six years ago he focused on educating his clients and giving back to those who serve our community. He combined his knowledge of the real estate market with his experience in the military to guide his clients through what is often the single, largest purchase of their lives.
Sam Cachola and the Reality Realty team assisted
Marine SSGT Philip Dombek and his wife Desiree Dombek, an active duty military family at a very crucial time in their life. Faced with changing their living situation on short notice, the Dombeks were relieved when Sam was able to help them through a very stressful time.
His experience with the military made him an expert in dealing with our situation. Sam knew how to get us the best deal on our home, while helping us financially plan for a better future, said Philip. Sam was with us every step of the way and through it all, we counted on him to be upfront and honest with us.
Understanding the sacrifices these individuals make, Sam Cachola began offering discounts to clients. He would pay for home inspections and warranties as well as other associated closing costs that often prevent military families from owning a home.
Jack and Tina Wu, can also attest to Cachola's real estate acumen and level of commitment to workforce heroes. The Wus worked with Cachola when he first began this labor of love. "Sam is truly dedicated to helping those that look after us on a daily basis", said the Wus. "He is not there just to sell homes. He puts his heart and soul into each and every deal, making sure his clients are well educated so they can make the decision that best suits their wants and needs".
At times, Cachola sold homes without receiving compensation for his efforts. He knew the idea of altruistically helping military and civil service men and women was solid and sought to make it official. It was then he discovered the Homes for Heroes program.
The Homes for Heroes program was established following the September 11th attacks as a way to express gratitude to men and women of service. The Homes for Heroes network offers solutions for buying or selling a home through an established system of rebates and discounts.
This year, Cachola and his Reality Realty Team officially aligned with Homes for Heroes making it possible for Active Duty, Military Retirees, Military Reservists, Honorable Discharged Veterans, Firefighters, Law Enforcement Officers, Doctors, Nurses, EMT's, Educators, and Clergy in the Northern Virginia area to realize considerable savings when buying or selling a home.
"Sam has a tremendous amount of enthusiasm for the Homes for Heroes program", said Sandy Carlson, Homes for Heroes Director of Affiliates. "Finding the right people to represent as well as carry out our mission is so critical. Sam is an asset to Homes for Heroes because he understands our most basic philosophy. He embodies the more you give the more you get idea".
All Homes for Heroes affiliates agree to a basic discount structure which includes:
25% of the gross commission paid to your Homes for Heroes real estate affiliates company, whether you buy/sell or both.
50% discount on the loan origination fee on purchases or re-finances with HFH preferred lender and $25.00 off appraisals.
40% off (or flat fee of $250.00 up to 3000 sq ft) Private Home Inspections with HFH preferred Home inspection company.
50% off closing fee when using HFH preferred Title Company
The impact Sam Cachola and his team at Reality Realty Professionals have had on the lives of the clients they serve has been significant. From the special education teacher who was finally able to purchase her first home to Marines purchasing their dream homes or relocating their families, Reality Realty Professionals honors the military and workforce heroes that put their trust in them by providing honest guidance through the real estate process and with true professionalism and dedication. Participation in the Homes for Heroes program further bolsters the team's efforts to touch the lives of even more everyday heroes who serve their communities and our country.
Sam Cachola and his team of Reality Realty Professionals are standing by to help all of Northern Virginia's Heroes.
Visit them at www.HomesForHeroesVA.com and experience first hand the the difference Reality Realty can make in your family's life. Contact us at 703 785 1158.
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Real Estate Corner II
What is the best investment for a good return?
Kitchens and baths are at the top of the list in most
designers'/stagers' books. Kitchens have
and will always be "the heart of the home." An outdated kitchen may make a
buyer feel overwhelmed and discouraged. Revitalizing the kitchen doesn't have to mean a full scale remodel, but
replacing appliances that have seen better days is not only attractive to the
eye, but will appeal to a buyer's wallet. If your budget allows, "granite", is consistently an eye catcher on a
listing. Many fabricators and
salespeople are willing to negotiate on pricing and installation, often
throwing in a sink with your purchase. If you are at all handy, or know someone who is, you can do the demo
yourself. We recently replaced country
blue formica with granite and called my family in to lend a hand. The financial savings is significant and
often you can barter with friends and family repaying in childcare, a carwash,
or a meal.
Some wood cleanser, or a magic erase type product (if the
cabinets are white) and a little patience will do wonders on cabinets you
intend to keep as-is. Cabinet doors can
be replaced to save on the cost of a full overhaul, some sanding and paint or
stain partnered with new knobs, bring out the best in your homes good bones. DO replace drip pans, and clean out above cabinets
and behind appliances, those areas collect the scariest looking sludge and
grime. Hide exposed trashcans in the
utility room or under the cabinet.
A new backsplash may be enough of a pick me up to draw your
eye in and interest a buyer. Glass tile,
tin, even a touch of a contemporary wallpaper gives another layer of
design. Think outside the box. Make sure your countertops are always
"show" ready, with little to no appliances, paperwork, or piles of stuff
cluttering up valuable workspace. Keep appliance surfaces clear of kids
pictures, artwork and magnet collections. Don't forget to look up and remember to update the old builder grade
lighting in the kitchen. Use pendant
lighting over the island and table and recessed lights to highlight this
selling space.
It is amazing how a colorful bowl of fresh fruit or a fresh
bouquet of flowers will welcome new buyers. Clean, Clean, Clean whether or not you make any other changes.
Cathy
Allen & Paige Haynes
Allison
Henry Interior ReDesign & Landscape
www.allisonhenrydesign.com
703-297-0421
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USAA Corner 
Special Considerations for Military Renters Active duty servicemembers face a big decision when they receive orders
sending them to a new assignment: live in military housing, government-leased
housing, or buy or rent a place in the nearby community. In some situations, that choice is made for you. If there are no
vacancies on the installation, you may be forced to find your own housing. On
the other hand, if there's ample room on the installation, the local command
may require you to live in military quarters. If you do end up renting a place, be mindful of these unique aspects of
being a military tenant. Government-Leased Housing The Privatized Military Housing Initiative was developed to provide
up-to-date housing for today's military families. But because these facilities
are privately managed, the government is not responsible for personal property
losses or damages. Commercial property managers provide a token amount of coverage, but
it's a smart move to purchase a cost-effective renters insurance to safeguard
your belongings. Military Housing Allowances If you're not living in military quarters, you're generally eligible to
receive a tax-free, monthly allowance that helps cover your housing expenses.
It isn't a blank check - the amount depends on your duty station, pay grade and
whether you have dependents or not. There are three types of housing allowance: Basic Allowance for Housing. The most common housing allowance - BAH -
is calculated separately for each location to let servicemembers afford comparable
housing no matter where they're assigned. The amount is recalculated annually.
While it can increase if costs in the area rise, an individual servicemember's
BAH won't be reduced during their tour. BAH II. This is essentially a minimum level of BAH that doesn't vary by
location. If it's greater than what the BAH formula indicates, you'll receive
this higher amount. BAH Differential. This allowance is for servicemembers who live in
single quarters on a military installation and pay alimony or child support.
It's the difference between the BAH II married and single rates. Keep in mind that the amounts are completely independent of what you
actually pay for rent. If you pay more, you'll be eating into your regular
income. If you can find a home or apartment for less, you'll enjoy a monthly
surplus. An Important Lease Consideration As a military servicemember, you face several scenarios that could
prompt you to move out before your lease has expired, including: - Orders to move onto the installation
- Permanent Change of Station
- Retirement or separation from service
To protect yourself, it's important that your lease include a so-called
"military clause" that lets you terminate it in any of these
situations. Your installation's military assistance officer can help you draft
a clause that gives you the protection you need.
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Military Life
| The Post-9/11 GI-Bill
The Post-9/11 GI Bill provides financial support for education and housing to
individuals with at least 90 days of aggregate service on or after September 11,
2001, or individuals discharged with a service-connected disability after 30
days. You must have received an honorable discharge to be eligible for the
Post-9/11 GI Bill.
As of August 1, 2009, the Post-9/11 GI Bill is effective for training.
Approved training under the Post-9/11 GI Bill includes graduate and
undergraduate degrees, and vocational/technical training. All training programs
must be offered by an institution of higher learning (IHL) and approved for GI
Bill benefits. Additionally, tutorial assistance, and licensing and
certification test reimbursement are approved under the Post- 9/11 GI Bill.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill will pay your tuition based upon the highest in-state
tuition charged by a public educational institution in the state where the
school is located. The amount of support that an individual may qualify for
depends on where they live and what type of degree they are pursuing. For a
summary of Compare the Benefits
This Post 9-11 GI Bill will pay eligible individuals:
- Tuition & fees directly to the school not to exceed the maximum in-state
tuition & fees at a public Institution of Higher Learning. See chart listing
maximum in-state tuition rates
- For more expensive tuition, a program exists which may help to reimburse the
difference. This program is called the "Yellow Ribbon Program".
- A monthly housing allowance based on the Basic Allowance for Housing for an E-5 with dependents at the location of the school.
- For those attending foreign schools (schools without a main campus in the
U.S.) the BAH rate is fixed at
$1,333.00 for 2009.
- An annual books & supplies stipend of $1,000 paid proportionately based
on enrollment.
- A one-time rural benefit payment for eligible individuals.
This benefit is payable only for training at an Institution of Higher
Learning (IHL). If you are enrolled exclusively in online training you will not
receive the housing allowance. If you are on active duty you will not receive
the housing allowance or books & supplies stipend. This benefit provides up
to 36 months of education benefits, generally benefits are payable for 15 years
following your release from active duty.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill also offers some service members the opportunity to transfer their GI Bill to dependents.
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Military Life II
Public and Intergovernmental Affairs
More than 1,100 Schools Partner with VA on GI Bill August 4, 2010
Yellow Ribbon Program Strong for 2010-2011
WASHINGTON - Paving the way for recipients of the Post-9/11 GI Bill to attend higher-cost schools, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has entered into more than 3,200 agreements with over 1,100 schools for the upcoming academic year under the "Yellow Ribbon" program. Schools can enter into multiple agreements with VA to accommodate different programs of study offered. "We are pleased that so many institutions are joining us to support the educational goals of the men and women who served this Nation so honorably," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki.
The Yellow Ribbon program, a key provision of the new Post-9/11 GI Bill, allows VA and participating educational institutions to share in supporting students attending high-cost schools.
Normally, the VA-administered Post-9/11 GI Bill reimburses students for tuitions that don't exceed the highest in-state undergraduate tuition rate for a public institution. Under the Yellow Ribbon program, when schools contribute to the difference between the in-state maximum and their usual cost, VA will match them dollar for dollar up to 50 percent of the difference.
The Yellow Ribbon program is reserved for Veterans eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill who served at least 36 months on active duty or served at least 30 continuous days before being discharged due to a service-related injury. VA launched a special outreach effort in January to encourage more schools to participate in the program during the coming academic year. VA extended the original deadline for schools' participation decisions, originally set for May 21, to July 23 because of overwhelming interest in the program.Letters were also mailed to school officials and reminder e-mails sent to promote maximum participation. This year, the application process was streamlined to allow schools to fax and e-mail agreements to VA, rather than send through regular mail.
The Post-9/11 GI Bill, passed by Congress in 2008, is the most extensive educational assistance program authorized since the original GI Bill was signed into law in 1944.The maximum benefit allows every eligible Veteran, service member, reservist and National Guard member an opportunity to receive an in-state, undergraduate education at a public institution at no cost. The program includes payments for tuition and fees (paid directly to the schools), a housing allowance, and a books and supplies stipend.
For information on specific schools participating in the Yellow Ribbon Program, go to www.gibill.va.gov/GI_Bill_Info/CH33/YRP/YRP_List_2010.htm. Additional information about the Post-9/11 GI Bill, as well as VA's other educational benefits, can be obtained by visiting VA's Web site www.gibill.va.gov or by calling 1-888-GIBILL-1 (or 1-888-442-4551).
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Featured Site
a dodea Partnership program
As a new school year begins, many families are facing new challenges due to a recent move to a new duty station. As parents, we are often anxious about how our military lifestyle and constant moves will affect our children, particularly when it comes to their educational needs. It is not uncommon for families to accept or deny orders based on the education opportunities of their next duty station.
The Department of Defense has addressed these concerns by providing parents and children with information and opportunities to succeed in any academic environment.
The School Liaison program gives parents a local point of contact to aid in the challenges that present themselves when your children transition from one school to another.
Being an active partner in your child's education can not only aid them, but sharing your experiences concerns through the School Liaison program can move military branches and installations in a direction of providing consistent educational standards for our families.
Be sure to look for a School Liaison in your area and best of luck to you and your kids in this upcoming school year!
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Featured Home
For Sale by Owner
Price: $174,995.00
Fort Mitchell, AL - Apache Trail
4 Bed, 2.5 Bath (Single Family)
 Description:Two-story house in move-in condition with flexible closing date in quiet
neighborhood. Less than two years old. Spacious master bedroom with 2 walk -in
closets, ensuite bathroom with garden tub, stainless steel appliances,
fireplace, sprinkler system, alarm system, privacy fence, satellite-ready,
community pool. MilitaryByOwner Price: $174,995.00 MBO150151    For more information on this home, Click Here
To see more Fort Benning homes, please visit: MilitaryByOwner.com |
Testimonial
I definitely will use militarybyowner.com again in the future. The response to my ad was better received on this site then the three other online posting venues I used to try and rent my house, to include another recommended site by my base housing office.
Two weeks after I posted I got a response. One month from posting my renters moved in.
Being currently deployed and trying to rent my house is a challenge, but this process made it very easy even from a distance. Much appreciated.
V/R,
C.C.
Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ
9/10
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