PERL is sponsoring the Chicago Spring Half on May 17, 2009. We are giving away FREE race registration ($45 value) to the first eight people who email us requesting a spot for the half marathon or 10k.

The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA) has also offered to give a discount on membership to our customers for race training. Ready. Set. Go!

You can email us at info@perlmortgage.com.

Proceeds from the race will go to Chicago Youth Programs, Inc.
Chicago Youth Programs, Inc. (CYP) is an innovative non-profit organization founded and sustained by volunteers with the mission to improve the life opportunities and health of at-risk youth using a comprehensive approach aimed at developing their capabilities. The highly effective Cabrini Green Youth Program (CGYP), founded in 1984 by Northwestern University medical students, distressed by the challenges posed to youth growing up in these isolated public housing projects, served as a model for future expansion and the addition of the Washington Park Youth Program (WPYP), established in 1995, and the Uptown Community Youth Program (UCYP) which began in 1998. Today, CYP serves over 450 at-risk youth from birth through college from these three disadvantaged/impoverished communities.

On November 21st, PERL Mortgage sponsored Powernet, a networking event at Chicago’s Midtown Tennis Club. Club members and guests enjoyed drinks, appetizers and a brief “state of the union” address by PERL Mortgage founder and president, Ken Perlmutter. He addressed some of the “tough issues” such as credit, down payments and tightened lending guidelines and shared his optimism for the future of the housing market.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHICAGO (Oct. 10, 2008) - PERL Mortgage partners with Jameson Real Estate to co-host the 2nd annual Crystal Ball on Thursday, Oct. 23, 2008, to allow industry professionals the opportunity to network and also raise funds for Windy City Habitat for Humanity. This landmark event takes place from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum on 2430 N. Cannon Dr., Chicago, Illinois.

“As a trusted lender in Chicago, PERL Mortgage is excited to be a part of this year’s Crystal Ball and give back to the community,” says Ken Perlmutter, president and founder of Chicago’s leading mortgage banker, PERL Mortgage. “This is a great opportunity to gather with fellow industry professionals and spend some time networking, while giving back to an important and worthy organization.”

This year’s Crystal Ball unites Chicago’s top real estate professionals for the opportunity to network with some of Chicago’s finest, while saluting the spirit of stewardship that helps Windy City Habitat for Humanity bring the American dream to life. Industry experts, including developers, realtors, mortgage professionals, insurers, builders, attorneys, and marketing executives are expected.

The night of entertainment and celebration marks the second year of hosting for Jameson Real Estate and sponsorship for PERL Mortgage. Billed “The Party of the Year” by attendees, the Crystal Ball drew more than 800 real estate professionals in 2007 - this year’s event projects a sellout.

Sponsorship packages are available and donations to the Windy City Habitat for Humanity organization are welcomed. With the help of generous industry professionals, donations from the event can raise enough money to allow Windy City Habitat for Humanity to build a home for a deserving family.

About PERL Mortgage
PERL Mortgage is a leading, independent Chicago-based mortgage banker — distinctly offering unparalleled customer service, flexible financing options, and seamless loan execution. One of Chicago’s leading lenders since its inception in 1994 by mortgage expert Ken Perlmutter. PERL Mortgage loans and services create exceptional value for customers with competitive rates and unparalleled customer support. With offices throughout Chicagoland, PERL Mortgage offers loans across the nation. For more information, visit www.perlmortgage.com or call 773-862-1530.

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Mortgage bond prices fell last week, pushing mortgage interest rates higher. Rates remained high during the middle portion of the week following the Fed meeting and reports of significant stock strength. Fortunately, that trend reversed during the latter portion of the week with higher-than-expected weekly jobless claims and strong foreign demand for US debt. For the week, interest rates on government and conventional loans rose by about .375% of a point.

Thursday’s consumer price index will be the most important event of the upcoming week.

As you know, interest rates change every day. It’s often difficult to make the right decision regarding floating or locking. Remember, there’s a difference between gambling and taking a calculated risk when making interest rate decisions for your mortgage. Interest rates tend to improve slowly, while negative movements tend to happen very fast. The potential for interest rates to push lower is real, considering the current uncertainty of the US economy.

Home Tip of the Week
When selling your home, make minor improvements: consider a Home Equity Line of Credit to provide you with extra money needed for decorating and minor home improvements. This is a great short-term flexible solution – you only pay interest on the portion of the line you access.

For the past five years, PERL staff members have built a mini golf course which meanders through our main Chicago office. Complete with trophy and prize money, it’s an event not to be missed.
Our 5th annual mini golf event was captured in the January 2008 issue of Real Estate Executive Magazine.