Archives of real estate blog entries for December 22, 2008

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Active Rain Gathering Annapolis Maryland - 11:18 PM
I always love reading about the AR gatherings and I love to look at all of the photos.  I think the more the merrier.  So I have loaded up this one with plenty.  Some of the others were there with their cameras too and will be sharing as well. 
Jeff Belonger sent the message out for the local rainers to hook up and so we had a lunch at the Famous Daves in Annapolis Maryland.
This is everyone.

In attendence were;
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                                                                                  Margaret Rome and Jeff Belonger
 

 
Then I got to meet the one … (62 comments)

Out with the old, in with the ... old? - 06:58 PM
It's interesting to prowl around the internet these days. Anyone in search of ways to promote a website or a profession will stumble across a seemingly endless number of articles touting the advantages of Social Networking. Regardless of the industry, harnessing social networks seems to be the dominant idea behind effective website promotion. Lists of Social Networking sites are published. Discussions on the merits of each, the effectiveness of each and the usability of each abound. Yawn...
Let me clarify that
Social networking works. I won't try to argue that point. What's interesting is the fact that many people think social networking … (90 comments)

Do You Lack The "Lead Generation" Skills To Survive?? - 01:56 PM
If you follow me at all...you know that in just about any given moment, you can find me involved in one conversation or another on Twitter.  Usually more than one...And the day that this conversation occurred is no different. 
See, I was talking with Tamara Dorris about lead generation.  We were talking about the fundamental importance of lead generation and the fact that most agents simply don't have enough leads and why I think most agents simply fail when it comes to this activity.  Below is an exerpt from that conversation from Twitter (If you don't use Twitter, I am talking … (92 comments)

Everyone should see this . . you think you got it bad!??!?!? - 02:36 PM
There are people out in the world who don't view the glass as half full.  It is always half empty.  There are people in this world who think that their problems are the worst. .  .no one could have it worse than me!  They wallow in their own self pity.  Have you ever seen someone get so mad about something so stupid and then wondered if they have ever had a  real problem in their life?  If they can get so angry over something so trivial, how are they going to deal with a REAL problem?
This is an incredible story … (74 comments)

Tale of the Zilker Park Christmas Tree and the “almost” Bad Santa - 02:00 PM
Many years ago, during the Holiday Season, my brother along with some others would rent a bus to tour Austin and look at all of the various holiday lights and decorations. A theme party of sorts and an annual affair, the bus was filled with all types of people in the party mode and stocked with snacks, a couple of kegs of beer and other assorted party favors. I think Wild Turkey may also have been involved. For several years I had the duty of taking the role of Santa Claus and dressing the part. It may seem silly to some of you … (75 comments)

Getting Started RIGHT in the RAIN - 01:54 PM
Getting Started RIGHT in the RAIN
New to The RAIN? In celebration of my arrival at the 200K mark, I thought I'd practice what I preach--paying it forward!  Rather than 'boast' about achieving 200K points and how I got to this point, I decided to share with all of the newcomers to Active Rain that it CAN be done--and it's really pretty painless!  


One year ago, I skeptically joined Active Rain.  As I was recently chatting with WooHoo Sally, we laughed at our initial thoughts of this forum:   Both of us were weary of this social networking 'thing' … (119 comments)

The Lament of the Chronic Commenter - 02:40 PM
I comment on other's posts because other people are always writing interesting and thought provoking posts.  Mostly, I think I write pretty good comments...not just your average, "thanks for sharing," or "Awesome post!"  Real comments, including my point of view or a relay of a similar event in my own experience, whatever is appropriate.
But I know I need to post to my own blog.
So, here I sit...staring at this big white box with 2 tabs (WYSIWYG and HTML)...also a decent toolbar across the top.
Why isn't there a tool with a "?"...it could help me with ideas, scan what I've … (67 comments)

Artists At Work! On the Corner of Campbell & Grant in Tucson, Arizona (LOCALISM FEATURED) - 05:06 PM
My Darlin' and I were coming home from church this morning, and I stopped by the office to pick up a list of FHA clients.  (My office is 45 minutes from our home in the Tucson Mountains.)
I'm not usually in town on Sunday, but here we were, traveling west on Grant Road.  As I approached the intersection at Campbell, I noticed a man on the corner, painting a picture. 
It's a busy intersection, and we had the green light, so I couldn't change lanes immediately.  "I've got to go back and take a picture," I said.  "There's a story back there on … (48 comments)

The Frustrations of Buying "Green" and An E-Book To Help - 08:26 AM
Just in the past year and a half we have gone from the majority of people not ever hearing about Green Building/Green Homes- To the majority of people wanting to go Green in their homes in one way or another.  What I find fascinating about this movement is that it is truly a Consumer Driven market right now. 
I mean, who would NOT want a more Energy Efficient, Healthier home right?
Now, I can't speak for all areas of the Nation, but in Houston, this has created some what of a...Frustration.  There are more people looking for a 'Green' New Construction … (53 comments)

The one thing missing from a housing recovery plan... - 02:52 PM
The psychology of making investments, including purchasing a home, is a funny thing.
The perception during a boom, stock or housing, is that values and prices will always go higher.  In other words, "You can't lose."
And by this same reasoning, during a bust or contraction, there is always the lingering doubt about whether prices and values will go lower.  Nobody wants to invest in something only later to find out that if they had waited 6, 12, or 24 months later, they could have bought the same stock or house for less.
Call it irrational exuberance or fear, it is very real in both … (53 comments)

DEAR PRESIDENT OBAMA - I WANT A JOB IN YOUR ADMINISTRATION - CZAR OF ECONOMIC COMMON SENSE - 06:33 AM
PROPOSAL FOR POSITION OF CZAR OF ECONOMIC COMMON SENSE
Dear Mr. President. 
   Re:  COMMON SENSE IN GOVERNMENT
POSITION:  Kindly accept this application for the newly created position of CZAR OF ECONOMIC COMMON SENSE.  Hopefully, you'll consider making this a cabinet level position because many Americans understand that common sense is sadly mission from government today.
STATEMENT OF NEED:   The United States of America is in recession.  Strong and innovative management of the economy is essential for the viability of financial health of the citizens of this great country.  Management of the economy of the country has been reactive, wrongheaded and dangerous … (158 comments)

A Harsh Conversation With My Dad-The Holiday Blues! - 02:10 PM

 
My parents are enjoying their new home in Alabama.  When my dad got on the phone on Friday..
I started to cry...during the holiday season I am usually this way and I've been this way since I was a little girl...
I get very blue...so blue..one might call it depressed....I've learned through time to change my focus and my take on the holiday season....for me the holidays are the gift of giving....and help the less fortunate..for me it helps..and I get through it..
With the feeling of joy and I actually feel the true holiday spirit in what the … (64 comments)

With This Tether "I Take Thee To Have" and To Use Everywhere! - 06:57 AM
Little did I know that for the past few years I had a couple of things around that could have made things a little easier in many situations with Buyers and Sellers - or even spending more time on Active Rain to read, search and comment.  (For many people who have smart phones - you've likely been doing this for a while now.  So this is geared toward the newbie or "basic-tools" only smart-phone user like myself.)
I've had a Blackberry Curve for a little while and love it! With the exception of a couple features- it's pretty simple for someone like me to use and set up.  The downside is that … (38 comments)

BPO Agents Beware - 02:48 PM
 
The world of short sales and REO's is not without its predators in Realtor's clothing.
Some of you, for example, may have had a short sale listing or sale blown out of the water because of an inflated BPO (Broker's Price Opinion) designed to negatively sway a lender's/negotiator's decision regarding offer(s) on the table. Often, these inflated BPO's are generated to gain an unethical financial or business advantage--generally to obtain a listing agreement from lenders and loan servicers.
When this practice occurs, it harms not only potential buyers, but also owners whose homes end up going to foreclosure, the buyers' and sellers' agents, and the lenders … (75 comments)

A Special Delivery from Santa and His "RAIN"deer! - 09:51 PM
                            
 
Just a few of the friends that Santa will be sure to visit this year!

                                                             



                                                         

Don't forget To Look In The Box! … (108 comments)

So I know this is a Personal Question but... - 02:08 PM
I love getting to know all of the people here on Active Rain. Some of you are local and I may actually get to work a deal with you.Some of you are across the country, and if I ever visit I will look you up and stop by. Of course I will always send referrals your way when I can. But I have a question left unanswered by most of you, that I can not find in your blog...When is your AR BLOGDAY? Do you celebrate? I have been on Active Rain Since August 17th, 2008. I definitely plan to write a … (68 comments)

Twas The Nightmare 'for Christmas! - 08:06 PM
Twas the nightmare 'for Christmas, when all through the house
The only creature stirring was wearing a blouse.
Her stockings were hung by the chimney with care
As she hoped that her loved ones wouldn't notice her hair.
The Rainers were shocked as their eyes turned so red
With visions of Bertha burned in their heads
And TLW suffered with agony of living with me
Sometimes all man and sometimes a she.
Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!
Oh screw it......just watch the video!!! 



Disclosure: Before actually clicking on the video please remove any objects from … (144 comments)

I paid Google $70,000 3 Years Ago, Learning SEO was NO LONGER A Choice - 02:47 PM

    3 years ago it was money well spent, everybody was selling in our company, Jodi & I were BOTH busy and often we BOTH would be with different clients on the same day. Sometimes when you write the check you say to yourself, Holy Smokes that's a lot of money, then you would get a check and fuhgetaboutit.
    Our accountant thought I was nuts, she said are you really getting a good return on this? Yes, well, for awhile that is. We ran 2 different adword campaigns, one was local (actually state wide) and the other was only outside the state of … (75 comments)


Blog posts


A Harsh Conversation With My Dad-The Holiday Blues! - 02:10 PM

 
My parents are enjoying their new home in Alabama.  When my dad got on the phone on Friday..
I started to cry...during the holiday season I am usually this way and I've been this way since I was a little girl...
I get very blue...so blue..one might call it depressed....I've learned through time to change my focus and my take on the holiday season....for me the holidays are the gift of giving....and help the less fortunate..for me it helps..and I get through it..
With the feeling of joy and I actually feel the true holiday spirit in what the … (64 comments)

The Joy of Christmas - 07:21 PM

 
Years ago, when I first began my career in real estate,
one of my associates, gifted as he was connecting with clients and of delightful demeanor, was easily breaking 6 digits every year. He was new to the industry, but exceptional with clients and a great fit for the industry. In that one year where we both worked for the same company, I saw my associate purchase one new luxury car, and then another (owning two simultaneously), a luxury home, a new wardrobe, and the list went on and on.
I set up my associate with a charming girl … (33 comments)

Wondering What A Community Association Manager Is/Does? - 12:21 PM
Often when I tell people I'm a Community Association Manager I need to explain to them what I do. The short version could best describe me as the person that manages the common property and services of planned communities and/or condominiums through their homeowners' associations. 
At my office, most of the community managers have eight to twelve properties that they are responsible for and oversee.  I currently have 8 properties that I manage and I co-manage two more with another person.  Our typical day starts about 8:00a.m. and each of us can construct our day to the needs of our communities and job responsibilities. 
When we are … (9 comments)

Fun with Snowflakes - 11:58 AM
Ever wanted to use a snowflake in your blog or as a graphic anywhere from your computer?  These snowflakes are all made online, for free at this site. Make a snowflake 
Be careful because like Active Rain...making snowflakes can also be addictive! When I first arrived there, I didn't understand how to use it, but you need to take the scissors (the middle will turn green for cutting) and cut out whatever you like. You can view it, cut some more and then save it in your desired format.
Go have some fun!   and check out the flakes made by others … (43 comments)

Out with the old, in with the ... old? - 06:58 PM
It's interesting to prowl around the internet these days. Anyone in search of ways to promote a website or a profession will stumble across a seemingly endless number of articles touting the advantages of Social Networking. Regardless of the industry, harnessing social networks seems to be the dominant idea behind effective website promotion. Lists of Social Networking sites are published. Discussions on the merits of each, the effectiveness of each and the usability of each abound. Yawn...
Let me clarify that
Social networking works. I won't try to argue that point. What's interesting is the fact that many people think social networking … (90 comments)

Now is the time to buy property in the Orlando Florida Area - 03:16 PM
There will not be a better time to by property than now in the Orlando Florida area. Interest rates are near an all time low and prices are down right affordable. Bargains galore, as alot of bank owned properties are on the market now at unbelievable prices. You may have to do a few repairs on the bank owned but it will be worth it in the longwhile. Don't think that this is going to last. Experts are predicting that the market will begin to recover by late Spring. This will cause prices and interest rates to rise.  Don't be left … (0 comments)

Alice's Pretty Party - 10:14 PM
Some people just have the knack to create a magical party; Alice is one of those people.
The house was perfect, warm, and inviting, and everywhere you looked were tasteful Christmas decorations. The flowers were perfect, long stem white roses, poinsettias and five very different Christmas trees.
One tree is all Waterford glass. You could spend hours looking at each of the sparkling ornaments, like the stocking that glitters like crystal...just so special.
I did not want to spend too much time with the camera because then I would have missed the good friends and conversation. Did I say mention this … (26 comments)

Twas The Nightmare 'for Christmas! - 08:06 PM
Twas the nightmare 'for Christmas, when all through the house
The only creature stirring was wearing a blouse.
Her stockings were hung by the chimney with care
As she hoped that her loved ones wouldn't notice her hair.
The Rainers were shocked as their eyes turned so red
With visions of Bertha burned in their heads
And TLW suffered with agony of living with me
Sometimes all man and sometimes a she.
Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen!
Oh screw it......just watch the video!!! 



Disclosure: Before actually clicking on the video please remove any objects from … (144 comments)

What is My San Jose Home Worth in Today's Market? Free Online CMA and Home Valuations Here! - 10:58 AM
With the real estate market in a bad slump, many San Jose homeowners are wondering what their home is now worth. Are you one of them?I will tell you where to get no-cost, no-obligation, online and automatic valuations of your San Jose house, condo or townhouse, several without registering anywhere. 
But there's one caveat: the more automatic these services are, the less likely they are to be accurate. It will be more precise if a human being who's a real estate professional active in your area runs the numbers. And it will be more accurate still if an experienced Realtor or appraiser visits … (2 comments)

Assert Yourself in 2009 - 07:50 PM
Over the past month I have had long private conversations with the associates in my brokerage, and many others outside my company. I continue meeting and speaking with Realtors in the Denver market, but following are what I believe are the consistent themes of those conversations:
1. All of you are questioning at some level the market and your relationship to that market, the real estate business and the long term health of your business. 2. Most of you are struggling at least a bit, and you feel alone. 3. The looming changes forecast for the structure of the industry is … (9 comments)

Perfect Storm - 09:48 AM
We're in a 'perfect storm' where the seasonal and economic cycles are coincidentally at low points, so the market is understandably quiet.  Our real estate market usually reawakens in January and slowly builds to a crescendo in August.  The wild card this year, of course, is whether the economic cycle will cooperate with some signs of turning around during the first half of 2009.   Let me assure you that we've never had a buyer come into our office and say "I want to steal a home".  Nor have we had a buyer say "I want to bail someone out by paying … (0 comments)

4640 CAPITAL BLVD, SAINT CLOUD, FL 34769 - 11:46 AM
 
 MLS# S4647027      4640 CAPITAL BLVD, SAINT CLOUD FL 34769   $$$ 135,000 $$$

NICE STARTER HOME IN A GREAT LOCATION!!!!! 3 BEDROOMS 2.5 BATHS 2 CAR GARAGE, FENCED COURTYARD AND SPACIOUS FLOOR PLAN. Great location, Nice schools, state of the art club house with cutting edge exercise equipment, and community pool. Minutes to; Major highways(Turnpike north bound & 192), Major shopping area locations, the New VA Medical Center, Disney, Universal Studios and many more attractions. Please submit all reasonable offers. Must see!!! This is a SHORT SALE "Listing price may not be sufficient to pay the total of all liens … (0 comments)

315 GRAND MAGNOLIA AVE # 312, CELEBRATION FL 34747 - 11:50 AM
 
MLS#  S4646918         315 GRAND MAGNOLIA AVE # 312, CELEBRATION FL 34747   $$$ 164,900 $$$

 
THIS BEAUTIFUL AND WELL MAINTAINED 952 SQUARE FOOT 1 BEDROOM, 1 BATHROOM GEORGETOWN CONDO COMES WITH A ONE CAR GARAGE.  PERFECTLY LOCATED.  VERY CLOSE TO THE FITNESS CENTER AND POOL.  TOP FLOOR WITH TWO BALCONIES IN AN ELEVATOR BUILDING.  GREAT AS A  STARTER HOME OR THE OWNER OF A SECOND HOME WHO DESIRES CAREFREE LIVING.  GARAGE IS LOCATED VERY CLOSE TO CONDO UNIT.  SPACIOUS FLOOR PLAN WITH SUNROOM/DEN. Listing price may not be sufficient to pay the total of all liens & costs of sale … (0 comments)

1440 CAREY GLEN CIR, ORLANDO FL 32824 - 11:57 AM
 
 MLS# S4647030              1440 CAREY GLEN CIR, ORLANDO FL 32824   $$$ 116,900 $$$

WONDERFUL 4/2.1 IN FAMILY NEIGHBORHOOD. COMMUNITY HAS POOL AND PAYGROUND. HOUSE HAS SCREEK POOL AND A  NICE POND VIEW. READY FOR NEW ONWER. THIS PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY LISTED AS A SHORT SALE. BRING YOUR BUYERS TODAY BECAUSE THIS HOUSE WILL BE GONE TOMORROW.
For more information on this property and many more like it in Orlando, contact Steve Glose with Keller Williams Realty at 407-616-7286 or visit www.thefloridalivingteam.com.
… (0 comments)

Three Ways YOU can Contribute to Real Estate Recovery..... - 07:21 AM
   Soooo...you think the housing market is feeling a little "under the weather" ? If you live in the frozen tundra of the north where we REALLY know how to get ready for Santa's sleigh....then you REALLY know what "under" is all about....



   If you REALLY want to contribute to the recovery we know is on the way...here are some things that will speed the process...Just do or in some cases...don't do....and watch what happens !




Price to SELL,...Not to SIT !  Realtors...if you buy into a Sellers' : "I need, I have to … (0 comments)

Short Sale Tale Part 31 "Why do they care what the offer is...." - 10:08 PM

 

      We recently got an offer on a short sale...which had been priced tooo high for too long. The buyers are well qualified but they wrote considerably under the already generously discounted price...the selling agent had no understanding of a short sale...had never written on or listed one.  We explained that while the buyer is welcome to have an inspection...test the septic and the well...do a radon test and any other test that they thought was appropriate....the seller was not paying for any repairs or replacement. There are often at least two lenders in short sales....and this was … (0 comments)

232 Sunnybrook Lane -- $69,900 -- SOLD FEBRUARY 2009! - 03:11 PM
… (0 comments)

Are We Remembering the True Meaning of Christmas? - 11:57 PM
As I think about what the true meaning of Christmas is, I am reminded of the many people without a warm bed, or food for their stomachs, or families or children to love or friends. I love how innocent and trusting little children are. I feel very blessed, and am focusing more this year on the needs of others. There are many good people who are - despite their economical situations - donating to the poor and to those in need.
I was looking through all of my files for something that I could share that would help warm the hearts … (12 comments)

November 2008 Market Report - 01:44 PM
It's been a crazy month with tons of economic news, and lots of it not so good. With the Detroit 3 thrown a lifeline just in time for the holidays, let's hope that the rest of the economy stabilizes soon so people start buying cars again.
The local real estate market had record sales again for the 11th straight month in 2008, with an increase of 20.5% over November 2007. Realcomp, our local MLS, reports that 2008 year-to-date sales increased 18.1% over 2007. Oakland County posted the highest percentage sales increase for November at 31.8%.
There are a couple … (0 comments)

REALTORS are "Action Junkies" - 10:30 PM
So many people are out shopping and handling their children who are out of school now, that very few people are out looking at real estate.  This time of year brings a two-fold issue for a REALTOR.  While it's a welcome reprieve from the busy day-to-day that being a real estate agent is normally, it's also a bit disconcerting to have all my prospective business "on hold."
 
I know I should be out shopping, visting with friends and family, and enjoying the down time.  But the truth is, I enjoy helping people with real estate.  And I'm addicted to the … (4 comments)

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