Archives of real estate blog entries for December 21, 2006

Featured blog posts


How Active Rain Changed My Life - 12:12 PM
It is true. Active Rain has changed my life.
I joined back in July and immediately fell into the community spirit. Since then I have spent at least 30 minutes of every day reading postings and checking to see who the new members are and if there are any from my area.
I've spoken to a few other members on the telephone, received emails and phone calls from non-members who have read my posts and even met a few members in person. There have even been members and readers who have attended my seminars and for that I am grateful.
Since joining AR … (34 comments)

Are you a POP TART? Responding to Sign and Ad Calls - 12:00 PM
In a recent business planning meeting in my office, the topic of responding to sign and ad calls was being discussed.  A member of a very successful team stated that they were "pop tarts".  Meaning when that call comes in, they immediately pop out of their chairs and rush out to show the property.  Now, I'm not going to criticize this too much because I am guilty of the same thing and it has obviously proved successful for this team but I do want to bring up a couple of issues that this type of behavior causes and hopefully find out … (34 comments)

Craig's List dodges a huge bullet from FHA law suit - 10:08 AM
An Illinois federal court has considered whether a website which allowed users to post information about housing on the website could be liable as a publisher for postings which allegedly contained content that violated prohibitions contained in the federal Fair Housing Act (“FHA”). Craigslist, Inc. (“Website”) operates a website which allows users to post information about jobs, items for sale, personals, and housing opportunities, among other things. The Website allows postings from both users who are either seeking or offering housing for sale or lease. The users communicate with each other if they are interested in the products or services being … (18 comments)

Who's Work is it Anyways? - 04:00 PM
Plagiarism?  What were you thinking?
Let me start out by saying I am not referencing any one person in particular here.  This is in response to a general trend.  Don't take it personally, but I hope this is taken to heart.
How interesting is it that someone would seek to represent themselves and their interests online by stealing the content and information that was created by others.
I have to say in a network of professionals who are working together to elevate their position online and develop the networking connections and relationships that will help them succeed.
I know that a … (57 comments)

ActiveRain Gets a Christmas Toy - 04:42 PM
Introducing the Week-In-Review Editor Tool
The Active Rain Week-In-Review is becoming a regular post on the network. It's a great way for all of us to keep up on the articles we missed. And it provides recognition to the Rainers who publish truly superior articles. BUT, it's also alot of work!
It takes time to read like a madman all week and keep track of all the articles you may want to bring to attention. No offense to the ActiveRain Crew, but the blog interface is not user friendly or flexible. I will be doing the Week-In-Review in January and decided last weekend … (69 comments)

You can fool Broker Bryant some of the time but...................... - 10:38 AM
Have you ever had one of your Sellers call you and pretend they were a Buyer? Well I did yesterday. I'm not 100% positive, but I am about 98% sure that is was one of my own Sellers checking up on me. I could tell that whoever it was, was disguising their voice, and the questions that were being asked me, about their own house, were very odd. It went something like this: One ringy dingy.......two ringy dingy.....................
"Hello, Tutas Towne Realty, this is the incredibly good looking Broker Bryant how can I help you?" "Yes, I was riding around and noticed … (59 comments)

Marketing your Competitions Weakness - 10:06 AM
This was posted Tuesday as part of the Yankee Blog Swap....I have pull the identical article over here..I want to thank Jon Earnest, The Property Monger and his off center sense of humor...and the fact he's a Yankee basher ;)
In honor of my fist Yankee Blog Swap, and considering The Property Mongers audience, I felt like a post addressing the real estate sales community would be in order.  There’s nothing like a little debate to spur blog traffic!  No worries Jon, you can always point the fanatic to me as the source of such socialist banter ;)  I just hope … (43 comments)

Front Of House & Other Really Important Information - 08:03 AM
As I read Rick & Ines' great post Don't Steal The Show this morning, one line from the post caught my attention. "I have never understood why some agents have a fixation with walking people around a house saying "this is the bathroom, this is the kitchen, this is the pool," isn't that obvious?"
It struck me because this is exactly the same behavior some real estate agents display in their marketing of the home.
We don't buy houses based on information. Buying a house is an emotional decision.
And yet, property descriptions are filled with an endless stream of adjectives that … (42 comments)

Understanding the Realtor® Code of Ethics - Article 3: Cooperating & Compensation - 12:27 AM
This is third in a series of posts describing what the Code of Ethics are and what they mean to you - the buyer or seller.  A Realtor® is a member of the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) - the world's largest professional association, and who is bound by a strict Code of Ethics.
Article 3REALTORS® shall cooperate with other brokers except when cooperation is not in the client's best interest. The obligation to cooperate does not include the obligation to share commissions, fees, or to otherwise compensate another broker.
Realtors® are obligated to cooperate with other brokers in the sale of a … (22 comments)

Branding through your network - 09:51 PM
Some people think that networking is handing out business cards. Congrats, they have one step of the business branding idea down.
Real networking is about building your brand with individuals you meet. Like any marketing or branding experience, it takes multiple exposures to your message to create a “memorable” experience. The more the merrier.
As a Business Development kinda guy, working on my branding is the life blood of what I do. Every contact I make is a chance to stick my name out there with a different twist, sometimes I say it, sometimes I write it, and sometimes … (23 comments)

Learning From The Worst Examples in Marketing - 11:12 AM
You are probably already intimately familiar with the store in this story. But the name of the store really doesn't matter; the point is the marketing that takes place inside the store. You walk in to this store and find yourself in an aisle. It doesn't matter what you are looking for, but you are looking for it. Can't find it. Can't find a sales person. Can't find anyone. You are in this huge store and suddenly there is no one around. Moments ago, you walked in the front door and there were hundreds of people and a friendly sales person … (14 comments)

Licensees: Are you a Buyer's Agent or a Tour Guide? - 09:41 AM
I have always worked with buyers from my SOI. I have never had anyone in my SOI sign a buyer's agency agreement. The thought never even occurred to me. It's not required by law here in Nevada, I want my clients to trust me, so there. Problem is, as of late, *I* cannot trust my clients!
While working my 2007 business plan and running across Tim Maitski's Blog on: If My "Agent" Shows me Another Home, I Lose my Rebate I have decided to add my SOI to my list of "those that must make an appointment and get a buyer's agency … (50 comments)


Blog posts


The Gift of Rain - 01:13 AM
Giving and receiving on The Rain.
You've seen it, I know you have, some of you have done it I'm sure.  In this industry there are a lot of you.
Your standing there in line minding your own business and someone comes up to you and says.  "Hey you look like a pretty smart guy ...."
And you're feeling really good about yourself (Yeah I am pretty smart. I wonder how he noticed.) until you find out that you received the complements because the person was interested in selling you on the latest multilevel marketing scheme.
Now I'm not trying … (11 comments)

Who's Work is it Anyways? - 04:00 PM
Plagiarism?  What were you thinking?
Let me start out by saying I am not referencing any one person in particular here.  This is in response to a general trend.  Don't take it personally, but I hope this is taken to heart.
How interesting is it that someone would seek to represent themselves and their interests online by stealing the content and information that was created by others.
I have to say in a network of professionals who are working together to elevate their position online and develop the networking connections and relationships that will help them succeed.
I know that a … (57 comments)

Transform Lives and Make The Most of Life - 05:38 PM
 
In life you can never be to kind or too fair; everyone you meet is carrying a heavy load.  When you go through your day expressing kindness and courtesy to all you meet, you leave behind a feeling of warmth and good cheer, and you help alleviate the burdens everyone is struggling with.  Brian Tracy, American Trainer/Speaker/Author
… (0 comments)

Condo Trends, by Boston's Leading Residential Brokerage and Marketing Company - 05:30 AM
Kevin J. Ahearn, President of Otis & Ahearn, Inc., has been selling and marketing residential property in downtown Boston for over 29 years. Otis & Ahearn has 3 downtown, general brokerage office locations, Back Bay, Charlestown and Waterfront / North End.
Otis & Ahearn is the only residential brokerage firm in downtown Boston that also has in the past and currently acts as a consultant and onsite marketing agent for new condominium developments both renovation and new construction projects. Kevin Ahearn as President of Otis & Ahearn actively oversees and directs both business activities of general brokerage and consulting / onsite … (0 comments)

Things are Looking Better All Over! (Happy Holidays) - 07:46 AM
I've been hearing good news from my clients down south. I've also heard good tidings from a couple up north. I'm told that the real estate downslide is slowing a bit. I'm told that the market, although not yet reflected in the statistics, is getting a bit more activity. Unexpected activity.
Frankly, I'm as surprised as my agents and brokers. I mean, really! It's the holidays. It should be a dead market, right? Nope. *shaking head*
I've not heard the same good news from the folks out west yet, but they usually don't get these changes quite as dramatically or as quickly as … (2 comments)

"Realty Blogging" by Richard Nacht - 01:49 PM
Wow, I just got my copy of Realty Blogging by Richard Nacht and Paul Chaney!  What a wonderful source of information.  I've been picking up tips here and there, but this book puts it all together in a clear, concise manual for all of us agents and real estate related businesses.  It's only 187 pages long, so not a huge undertaking to read, and simplifies ideas so that the whole concept doesn't seem too complex.
I've heard from others about how good this book is, but just didn't believe it could be this clear.  The wonderful thing is that it helps you … (27 comments)

New Subdivision Coming to Bryan/College Station Area - 04:58 PM
The Bluegreen Corporation, based out of Boca Raton, Florida has began development on a new community in the area.  Zoned to the Iola School District, the new King Oaks will have 430 lots available on this new 935 acre property with pricing starting in the 40's and going up to the mid 70's.  For this you'll get a lot resplendant with hardwood trees with access to one of their two large lakes and Panther Creek.  Many lots have small ponds or clearings for horses. 
Some of the amenities of this community include the 2 stocked lakes, one of which will feature a dock and … (3 comments)

Neck Strap For Compact Camera - 07:06 AM
Although I own and love several DSLR cameras, sometimes a small compact camera is just what you need -- it's light and easy to carry, and less intrusive for an informal gathering of family or friends. 
But most compacts come equipped with wrist straps.  And I don't like the wrist strap method of carrying because it is not "hands free".
So, I was delighted to stumble across these lanyard style neck straps for compact cameras on Amazon
I ordered several.  They are made by Canon and the package says "for use on Canon cameras", but a string is a string and you can … (3 comments)

Active Rain Suggested Updates - 07:02 AM
 
I know that you guys at Active Rain are working on your very long punch list.  But I also know you listen to us when we share how we would like to see Active Rain work.  We all seem to be enjoying the new groups feature a lot.   Working with it, I see some things that would make it even better.
When Reading Blogs:
Give moderators a button as they are reading Blogs to post them into their groups.   Right now I have to contact the writer and ask them to join the group and post it to the group.   Others have asked … (6 comments)

I Finally Found An Article I Liked - 03:56 PM
There is a huge variety of information aimed at convincing consumers that they are being "ripped off" or lied to by members of the mortgage industry. This is nothing new. For me, it all became background noise long ago. A solid personal reputaion will overcome most of that noise.
This morning, much to my surprise and delight, I came across this article on RISMedia that refutes those allegations, at least in the subprime mortgage segment.
"Study Reveals Brokers Are Less Costly Option for Sub-Prime Borrowers
New study finds factual evidence that consumers pay less with a broker
Brokers are a more cost-effective option for consumers in the sub-prime … (0 comments)

ActiveRain Gets a Christmas Toy - 04:42 PM
Introducing the Week-In-Review Editor Tool
The Active Rain Week-In-Review is becoming a regular post on the network. It's a great way for all of us to keep up on the articles we missed. And it provides recognition to the Rainers who publish truly superior articles. BUT, it's also alot of work!
It takes time to read like a madman all week and keep track of all the articles you may want to bring to attention. No offense to the ActiveRain Crew, but the blog interface is not user friendly or flexible. I will be doing the Week-In-Review in January and decided last weekend … (69 comments)

Divorce and the Mortgage - Watch out for your future. - 09:18 PM
When it comes to a divorce you have every right to think about the mortgage. If you don't think that you'd be able to pay the mortgage on the home, then you should not go for the house. If you want to get out of the mortgage you may have some trouble. When it comes to the house every state has a different law that pertains to community property. In fact, some states are known as non community property states, where they believe that someone always owns everything; it's just a matter of determining who.
When it comes to the lenders, they … (0 comments)

You can fool Broker Bryant some of the time but...................... - 10:38 AM
Have you ever had one of your Sellers call you and pretend they were a Buyer? Well I did yesterday. I'm not 100% positive, but I am about 98% sure that is was one of my own Sellers checking up on me. I could tell that whoever it was, was disguising their voice, and the questions that were being asked me, about their own house, were very odd. It went something like this: One ringy dingy.......two ringy dingy.....................
"Hello, Tutas Towne Realty, this is the incredibly good looking Broker Bryant how can I help you?" "Yes, I was riding around and noticed … (59 comments)

5 Reasons why realtors should co-host open houses with a mortgage professional - 09:15 AM
 
Dear Realtor,
We all know that most realtors host broker open houses and even public open houses but have you ever thought about inviting a mortgage professional to stand beside you?  Take a look at this list and you decide on if it makes sense to invite a loan officer to your next open house.  I will now share the top 5 realtor advantages of having a mortgage professional with you during an open house (Not in any specific order).
 1 - Save Money: Yes, save money!  Do you spend money on fliers, brochures, advertising, catering, etc.?  Well how about you … (19 comments)

Southport, Connecticut (CT) Mortgage (Home Loan) Refinance or Purchase - 05:14 PM
Mortgage Services in Southport, Connecticut
We want you to expect MORE from us...
More ways to say "YES", more approved buyers , more on-time closings.
When clients call Countrywide, we work hard to qualify them to become approved buyers, fast.  After all, the Countrywide family has become America's #1 Home Loan Lender because Countrywide works to find more ways to put more people into the home of their dreams.  Along the way, we also happen to help real estate professionals realize some pretty big dreams, too.  Call me today!
Loan amounts to $6 million No-to-low down payment loan programs (100% financing) First Time … (0 comments)

Fairfield, Connecticut (CT) Mortgage (Home Loan) Refinance or Purchase - 05:18 PM
Mortgage Services in Fairfield, Connecticut
We want you to expect MORE from us...
More ways to say "YES", more approved buyers , more on-time closings.
When clients call Countrywide, we work hard to qualify them to become approved buyers, fast.  After all, the Countrywide family has become America's #1 Home Loan Lender because Countrywide works to find more ways to put more people into the home of their dreams.  Along the way, we also happen to help real estate professionals realize some pretty big dreams, too.  Call me today!
Loan amounts to $6 million No-to-low down payment loan programs (100% financing) First Time … (0 comments)

Stamford, Connecticut (CT) Mortgage (Home Loans) Refinance or Purchase - 05:24 PM
Mortgage Services in Stamford, Connecticut
We want you to expect MORE from us...
More ways to say "YES", more approved buyers , more on-time closings.
When clients call Countrywide, we work hard to qualify them to become approved buyers, fast.  After all, the Countrywide family has become America's #1 Home Loan Lender because Countrywide works to find more ways to put more people into the home of their dreams.  Along the way, we also happen to help real estate professionals realize some pretty big dreams, too.  Call me today!
Loan amounts to $6 million No-to-low down payment loan programs (100% financing) First … (0 comments)

Nima "Mortgage Man" was Hospitalized last night (For Active Rain Friends/Members Only) - 05:45 PM
 
* Hey, this pic makes me look fat!  Ha ha ha, ok, so I am a bit overweight but it is the shadow, I swear!  When I look at this picture I become so sad and I am so happy that I am still here with you guys today! 
Dear Active Rain Friends,
So I don't even have to fill you all in on what I went through last night but I will..
No, I don't want you to feel bad for me but I want this to be a blog to all of my friends on Active Rain (You Know Who You Are) … (18 comments)

Tis the season for renewals fa-la-la-la-la-la - 09:32 PM
It's that Realtor.com  time of year again... I fall into the medium category listings wise and will need to pay just under $1300 so that I can add tours and pictures... I really miss the days where we could add html... I'll renew for one more year (I say that every year)... but it seems ridiculous to have to pay them to increase their content so that they can sell some poor sap a tower ad on that page.... or so that they can send my potential leads to some cma lead buyer. There is something about re-subscribing to Realtor.com that makes … (40 comments)

Archaeologists Needed ASAP~ Report to Denver! ~ Update! - 04:14 PM
If you are an experienced archaeologist or even just a good wannabe...here's your big chance.  The Denver metro area was recently dumped upon, receiving averages of 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 feet of snow.  The city and the surrounding area has a severe need for professionals who like to DIG.
Are you a good digger?  Do you love working with a shovel in your hand?  Are you able to carefully excavate precious objects, both large and small?  Can you help locate the precise locations of past thoroughfares, side streets and driveways?
Archaeologists with 4 wheel drives are preferred.  Your arrival must be arranged … (32 comments)

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