Larry Morris's (larrym) Blog

There are a lot of great closing or thank you gifts, but have you ever thought of a box of good quality cigars? No, they are not for everyone, but for the right person they speak volumes. Plus, as they hand out their premium handmade cigars made with Dominican Republic tobacco to their friends, a...

Today is my 5 year anniversary. It's amazing to reflect on all of the changes that have taken place. It is both of our first, and only, marriages and we are both in our 40's. 6 years ago I wasn't married, didn't have a kid, worked part-time in ministry, lived with a bunch of guys in what Portland...

When is a Mortgage Pre Approval not a Pre Approval?   There is a lot of discussion about the need for a pre-approval letter when buying a new home. Most Realtors will not accept an offer on a home without one, and many will not even show a home. But what is a pre-approval letter and is it really ...

Buydown options A buydown is a type of financing where the buyer or seller pays extra points (also called discount points) to reduce the interest rate on a loan.Buydowns make it easier to qualify for a loan because they lower a loans interest rate. They can also allow you to buy more house for yo...

The Internet is a great source of information and the savvy consumer can get a great deal in many cases. Often, at prices that your local business cannot compete against. This is especially true with commodities, like consumer electronics, books, and clothes... In some cases service is good, othe...

All too many people join an Association or a Chamber of Commerce, attend 3 meetings, drop out and say: "What a waste of time!"Effective use of Chamber and Association memberships, (like life) starts with giving:Go up to a stranger, stick out your hand, say: "I don't think we've met before. I'm . ...

What's your thought? Barry Stone of Inman News was recently posed this question. He brought out a few good points. But I thought that I would take it to the Active Rain community and see what our thoughts are.For me, as a buyer, I would not want the seller there to muddy the water, or possibly ma...

HERE'S THE INSIDE SCOOP ON HOW TO DO IT RIGHT! First:  make sure you are working with an experienced, professional loan officer.  The largest financial transaction of your life is far too important to place into the hands of someone who is not capable of advising you properly and troubleshooting ...

Sherwood, Oregon has been pegged to be the southern anchor of Washington counity's tourism drive. If approved, the scenic drive will start near Helvetia and travel for approximately 60 miles. It will be near 15 of the 18 wineries in Washington County. It will be marked by signs and have an accomp...

If you could have 3 wishes what would they be?  (Be honest. "Peace on Earth" is best left for beauty shows. Search your heart and come to an honest conclusion...)How satisfying would they leave you?How long would it last?Solomon was the richest and wisest king ever. Scripture tells us in 2 Chron....