[quote author="EvaLSeraphim" date=1216894353]I really don't understand why people so often bristle at the suggestion of the search function. I didn't know that the terms and condition of a reply called for a substantive response or no response at all. I actually suggest the search function <em>far</em> less than I could. Sometimes I regurgitate what's been said, sometimes I suggest the search function, but more often than not, I don't say anything. So not only does the person not get the info they are looking for, they also don't learn that it is readily available for them to find.
I think Bkshopr said it best:
[quote author="bkshopr" date=1211541845]Panda,
The reasons we like this blog so much are the personalities and the willingness to share knowledge and advice. Most blogs seek political correctness as not to step on any corporate sponsors? interests. Consumers read enough of crappy freebie OC Metro magazines and nothing in there is told from the heart and articles are heavily edited. The specialists here are incredibly knowledgeable and candid. That is why many consumers log on to learn about all aspect of the housing industry.
Newbies often sign on for the first time purely to take advantage of the goodwill and time dedication of the professionals on this blog in answering certain questions. In real life without this blog one has to seek the advice of financial consultant or RE specialists at billing rate of $130/hr. This asking for advice scenario occurred too frequently and is getting old so members would take every opportunity to vent some frustration. Since moderators? time is valuable so reciprocate the courtesy by researching the subject first before posting.
Hey Graph, What is Mello Roos?</blockquote>
For some folks, developing a reputation on here has been profitable for their career. For me, my time here does not benefit my family relationships, career, or hobbies (and in some instances, is actually a detriment). In a very long week such as this one, while I would like to be helpful, I am not particularly inclined to spend what little free time I have reexplaining something I or someone else has already explained, so I suggest the search function. No one pays for the info found here. It's a <em>gift</em> of someone's time and expertise. And yet, I get the distinct impression that people think simply because they ask a question, someone else then becomes obligated to give a full and complete answer. So if the choice is between recommending the search function and saying nothing, from henceforth, I will leave y'all in peace and keep my trap shut.</blockquote>
I have to agree with you in everything you wrote. I will either post a snarky but funny response with the search button jpg, just the search button jpg, or say nothing at all. You can take the snark or you get nothing at all, what would you rather have? I have said this before, but go to the <a href="http://forums.bimmerforums.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?s=7616c016d17b50ecce8afab1d8591805&f=14">E36 thread on bimmerforums</a>, and I dare you, I double dare you to ask about the coolant level light, climate control going haywire, or are these Ebay headlights good. You think I am bad... my gawd, you will want to go play catch with by yourself on the 5 freeway at noon, after you get responses. My post count there is like 1 or 2, but I have figured out the coolant level light, saved myself $300+ soldering the right thing in the climate control, and I have and never will buy headlights on Ebay. Why or how? I used the search function. Now, there are times the search function doesn't work, but people will state: "I tried the search, but I couldn't find info on such and such." If that happens here, then I will go and try the search myself. If it doesn't work, then I will point you in the right direction. If it does work, and even I have been proven wrong on this and didn't take offense, then I will have a snarky response on how the search function works.
But... come on, try the search function first. If you can't find out what the difference is between fee simple and leasehold, then maybe you shouldn't be buying a home. Seriously, if you are not aware of how you hold title, then that is freakin scary, and you need to know this. And, if the search function doesn't work for you, then state the keywords you searched and what it is you are looking for, and there will be plenty of people here to help point you in the right direction. But, please show some respect to the regular contributors here, because their time is valuable, and mine and many others' seems to be increasing almost as fast as home prices are decreasing. You wouldn't want an hourly bill from some posters here... trust me, and I am working hard to get to that point too. So would you rather have some snark and a jpg, or just a jpg, or nothing at all?
<blockquote>Hey Graph, how do I find the best mortgage?</blockquote>
You PM me. My calls to Mozilo's cell phone now get forwarded to Ken Lewis' cell phone. It is awesome, and I think Ken hates me.
