Archives of real estate blog entries for September 25, 2009

Featured blog posts


WHY Las Vegas Pendings Aren't Closing - 04:54 PM
I have had a good number of astute real estate professionals recently ask me "why aren't your pendings closing?" on my market reports!
Here is just a peek at some market reports for one specific area (June, July and August Respectively):

What you are seeing here is that the Pendings (red) has been gaining ground and the Sales have been slowing down (green).  This doesn't make sense with rising pendings, you should see rising closings.
There several very good reasons and I am here to explain why this is going on.
When I got my license here in 2005 our … (58 comments)

Are you giving "Realtors" a bad name? - 12:04 PM

Like most of you, I received an email today highlighting the post "Give us your commission or else..."
1) Do not get involved with REO or Short Sale properties, if you do not understand the concept of "short".
2) If you are going to write a post about how everyone should give til it hurts [except YOU] have the good sense to make it a Members Only post.
3) To whomever chooses the posts that go into the highlighted list via newsletter...don't pretend you are a friend to the industry, and then highlight posts that pander to the negative realities of … (325 comments)

New ActiveRain and Localism embed code is available for your RealBird listings - SEO benefits - 04:21 PM
We extended the available options for embedding your listings that are published via RealBird. The new ActiveRain, Localism and blog post widget is an HTML embed code and designed for maximizing the SEO benefits of reposting your RealBird listings to your blogs. As opposed to the other RealBird listing widgets, this new version generates an embeddable flyer as a HTML code, that you can copy and paste into your blog post and it has many deep links to your RealBird single property website, to your social media accounts (Twitter, Facebook, MyBlogLog, AR) to your regular website, to your other homes for … (69 comments)

A Nameless Faceless Lender From Somewhere Across the Country May Not Be Able to Get That House to Closing for You - 12:59 PM
This week a client was referred to me that wants to buy a house. 
During our initial phone conversation, one of the first things I always ask is whether they have a lender and are pre approved for a loan. 
He indicated that he did have a lender, that he found online. (Uh-oh).  And, that he was preapproved. The Brevard County Real Estate market is considered a distressed market.  It is so important for a buyer to have a local lender and a local appraiser that understands our market.  
My next question was whether or not he had received … (97 comments)

Only 15% of the Real Estate Agents in Sacramento Sell 1 or More Homes a Month - 10:10 AM
People find it difficult to believe that when I started in this business in the 1970s, I sold homes without inspecting them. Never saw them. I owned a small real estate company and was responsible for counseling buyers, writing and negotiating the transactions. My agents tracked down the deals. Almost every transaction involved owner financing. To work like that today would be unthinkable and ripe with liability.
I had previously been an escrow officer and before that a title searcher at a title company. I thought I knew everything about real estate. I was young and cocky. That's why I took … (48 comments)

Unique Architecture: Ez-Kim-In-Zin Picnic Area In Tucson's Saguaro National Park West - 09:39 AM

Ez-Kim-In-Zin Picnic Area in Tucson's Saguaro National Park West is the most remote in the park...  and it's an easy drive from anywhere in Tucson.
This lovely rock structure is easily the most unique (and beautiful) picnic spot I've seen anywhere in the southwest.
Check this out:
Unparalleled views of Wasson and Amole peaks, in the Tucson Mountains. Magnificent evening sunsets surrounded by a forest of Giant Saguaros. 1,000 year old petroglyphs at the nearby Signal Hill Picnic Area Children-friendly, the picnic area has bathrooms! Quiet and peaceful.  Tucson is on the other side of the mountains. Hiking trails created … (29 comments)

How to Break Writer's Block - 07:26 AM
Not sure what to write about?
Looking to write about something to inspire your Real Estate Readers? Write about a variety of things to keep your website or blog fresh. Here are some areas that you will want to write about.
Some of the best ideas come from reading other writers.   Read all your local publications -- there are always great article ideas that you can generate writing about things happening in your area.  Spend time reading other blogs to gather ideas.   Keep a notebook with you to write down ideas down for the future. 
Sites that are great to … (73 comments)

Misleading Reports Do Not Help The Real Estate Market - 06:56 AM
Do people who report on real estate market activity actually think about what they are doing? I understand the concept of sensationalism in reporting, where a newspaper can sell more copy with an exciting headline.
Today's Business Section Of The Tallahassee Democrat In the real estate report pictured below, a reporter's message is that the market improved.

 
Today's Real Estate Blog - Tallahassee Democrat In the real estate blog pictured below, I report the actual activity in Tallahassee. Still declining, though not as bad.

 
 

Do Not Mislead With Real Estate Reporting I get the fact … (92 comments)

What do you mean you want to know how much longer the roof will last? - 08:57 AM
     One of the most common things a buyer wants to know about the house is, “How old is the roof.”  This is code for, “How much longer will the roof last.”
     These questions are not all that easy to answer---especially the later one.
     While I do my best to give some “general” guidance regarding these questions, I make it very clear that whatever I say should be considered a “guesstimate” at best.  There are many factors that can contribute to the condition of a roof:  color, type, style, installation methods, exposure, maintenance, factory defects and many others.
… (78 comments)

Ever Experienced A Heart Encounter? Won't You Share Them? - 10:35 AM
Have you ever experienced a "heart encounter?  Something that shook you out of your lethargic existence beyond politics, past business as usual,  and above world issues?  I will share one of mine...
A few years back, while waiting in a fast-food drive through line, i saw a man digging in the garbage for food.  My heart did a sinking dive and the appetite for a meal diminished along with my taste buds.   Tears welled up in my eyes, and i could think of nothing else short of giving my order to this man.
He hadn't seen it coming....  I had gotten out of my car … (86 comments)


Blog posts


Strategic Defaults – Right or Wrong? - 09:58 AM
A recent article by Ken Harney at the LA Times cited a study done by Experian (one of the 3 major credit reporting bureaus) that highlighted some very interesting information about foreclosures.  Think foreclosures only happen to people with bad credit?  Think again!
Traditional thinking indicates that foreclosures happen to people who are "down on their luck", maybe they lost a job, maybe they got sick or maybe they were careless, overspent and are getting foreclosed on because they are in over their heads.  There is typically a pattern that appears in their credit history, late  payments, missed payments delinquencies on … (4 comments)

Home Systems and Appliance Maintenance - 07:31 AM
Home Systems and Appliance MaintenanceAs the local Hemet - San Jacinto CA local area expert in all things residential real estate I am always on a quest to find useful information to share with the readers of my blog.In this short article I came across a web page hosted by Home Warranty of America (HWA).  Let me start by saying that these guys are one of the biggest players in the home warranty field that separates themselves from the competition, on the surface, by offering a 13 month warranty instead of the typical 12.  Once you dive deeper into their business … (4 comments)

Amazing New Tool For All Phone Users || Works with VOIP, Land Line & Cellular - 11:08 AM
OK, this morning I was turned on to a new tool that I find exciting and already have numerous applications for.  The tool is simple to use and the best part is the tool is FREE!OK, we can all agree we are in the age of communication.  Right?Old school communication is face to face.  Although the most effective it is very time consuming and can at times be awkward or uncomfortable.Next generation is the telephone.  Much quicker, because there is no travel time to get face to face - but certainly can be time consuming if either party likes  to gab.Communication … (6 comments)

Day 50: 100 Days of Central Mass Features The Basketball Hall of Fame - 07:34 PM
Being this is day #50, it's only fitting that the Baseketball Hall of Fame, celebrating it's 50th anniversary this very year, be in this spot.  The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame was first in a small building on the campus of Springfield College where the game was first introduced.  The first baseketball game was played on December 21st in 1891.  James Naismith, a physical education teacher, introduced this game to a class of 18 men.  The original Hall of Fame was opened in February 17, 1968
Who is your team?  Boston Celtics...Orlando Magic...Dallas Mavericks?  No matter your team, if you're … (1 comments)

Countdown to Eagle Rock Music Festival October 3: The Tracs - 06:33 AM
The Tracs will appear at the Eagle Rock Music Festival October 3,  at 7:15, on the City Hall Stage.
The Tracs play classsic and alternative rock .... plus they are youthful, energetic and cute!!

Image from the Band's MySpace Page
Check out their videos on the FaceBook FanPage. 
 
… (1 comments)

Still Waiting for Google Wave - 08:01 AM
I have several ideas about how I want to implement Google Wave .... but it's not released yet.
Here's the latest discussion I found about whether or not Google going to make the planned release date of September 30, 2009: 
http://www.seekomega.com/2009/09/still-some-ripples-in-google-wave-beta.htm
I sure hope my invite goes out in one of the first batches. http://www.downloadsquad.com/2009/07/21/google-wave-to-send-out-100-000-invites-in-september/   
Here's Google August 11 video with the offical update:
 
… (4 comments)

How to Break Writer's Block - 07:26 AM
Not sure what to write about?
Looking to write about something to inspire your Real Estate Readers? Write about a variety of things to keep your website or blog fresh. Here are some areas that you will want to write about.
Some of the best ideas come from reading other writers.   Read all your local publications -- there are always great article ideas that you can generate writing about things happening in your area.  Spend time reading other blogs to gather ideas.   Keep a notebook with you to write down ideas down for the future. 
Sites that are great to … (73 comments)

Rising Interest Rates: How Will They Impact You?? - 11:03 AM
If you have been following the financial news lately you may have started to hear talk about when the FED is going to raise interest rates. It should be no surprise that sooner or later the FED will have to raise rates since they have been at all time lows for many years.  The FED is going to have to be extra careful when the time comes to raise rates. When do they do it?? How much?? When do they stop?? In the next 3 to 6 months I think we will find out the answer to all of those questions.  … (1 comments)

Pueblo Chile and Frijoles Festival - 12:45 PM
This weekend (September 25-27, 2009) is the 15th Annual Loaf ‘N Jug Chile & Frijoles Festival!
The Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce created the festival to celebrate the harvest of the Mira Sol Chile (otherwise known as the Pueblo Chile) and to promote our area's agriculture, especially its home-grown chilies and pinto beans, as well as to display the works of many talented artisans and crafts people. The festival will take place in downtown Pueblo, at the Union Avenue Historic District, on Union Avenue between 1st and "B" Streets. Festival hours are Friday, 3pm-11pm; Saturday, 10am-11pm; Sunday, 10am-6pm. For more information … (3 comments)

Thinking of Buying a Home in Knoxville? Check out Knoxville's Best Kept Secret- Holston Hills / Chilhowee Area - 08:46 AM
I agree; Holston Hills and Chilhowee Hills are 2 often overlooked, great communities in east Knoxville,
 
Via Christine McInerney & Jennifer Halinkowski, Green, EcoBroker, e-Pro (Keller Williams Realty):
Conveniently located just minutes from Downtown Knoxville and the University of Tennessee Knoxville, lies a quaint and often overlooked subarea known as the Holston Hills / Chilhowee area. 
The Holston Hills / Chilhowee Hills area can be easily accessed from Interstate I-40 from the Ashville Highway exit and runs alongside the beautiful Holston River.  Many of these homes boast beautiful historic architecture, mature landscaping, large lots, and pristine views.
View Larger Map

Nestled … (0 comments)

Swindler uses my office to cheat my business associates - 10:36 AM
AR can be the new "America's Most Wanted" and get this guy caught before he rips off any more people.
Via Mike Frazier, Dyersburg Tn Real Estate (Carousel Realty of Dyer County):
Jim Frazier dba Advertising Associates came to my office over a year ago offering to give me new presentation folders on which he solds ads.
What he did was use one of my offices to call businesses (some of them I recommended) and ask for a time to come by and discuss an advertising campaign.
He would then meet with the business person and make the pitch for a nice ad … (3 comments)

1095 BLUEGRASS DR, GROVELAND FL 34736 - 09:24 AM
 
 MLS# O4937289             1095 BLUEGRASS DR, GROVELAND FL 34736    $$$ 87,900 $$$

Purchase this property for as little as 3 percent down! This property is approved for HomePath Mortgage and HomePath Renovation Mortgage. This property is the one you have been looking for! Bright, open airy floor plan. Vaulted ceilings and architectural detail, including pillars in the main living area. Nice spacious kitchen, perfect for the cook in the family. Come see this one today before it is gone! *If exact square footage is a concern, unit should be independently measured.
For the latest status on this property and many … (0 comments)

3379 S KIRKMAN RD # 1021, ORLANDO FL 32811 - 09:29 AM
 
 MLS# O4937327              3379 S KIRKMAN RD # 1021, ORLANDO FL 32811       $$$$ 39,000 $$$$

Purchase this property for as little as 3 percent down! This property is approved for HomePath Mortgage and HomePath Renovation Mortgage. This is a fabulous condo and priced just right! Very bright and open floorplan with volume ceilings. Nice spacious kitchen area, perfect for entertaining. Don't let this one get away, see it today! *If exact square footage is a concern, unit should be independently measured.
For the latest status on this property and many more like it in Orlando, contact Steve Glose with Keller Williams … (0 comments)

3091 MANDOLIN DR, KISSIMMEE, FL 34744 - 09:33 AM
 
 MLS# O4937342                    3091 MANDOLIN DR, KISSIMMEE FL 34744    $$$ 219,950 $$$

Not A short sale.   WOW, nearly 4,000 sq. foot home and only 2 years NEW. Large family that needs lots of space to grow?? Huge formal dining room just off of the kitchen. Kitchen has tons of counter space PLUS an island. Bedroom and full bath down stairs that is perfect for visitors. Upstairs is your large bonus room / office PLUS 4 more bedrooms. Mater bedroom is enormous with plenty of storage room in the 4 closets. NO waiting on banks response, sellers are motivated and looking … (1 comments)

AGENT DRIVEN....Hang on for a Prosperous Ride at Keller Williams !!!! - 07:10 AM
   We call the 4th of July our own personal Independence Day...it is the day we officially mailed our license transfer to the state and became Keller Williams agents.  While Keller Williams is well known in many parts of the country...southeastern Wisconsin is just waking up to 'Keller Who ?' We are sure glad WE did !
     I could probably do a dozen blogs about what "agent driven" has meant to our real estate practice and how I wish there were 48 hours in a day so I could do as much as there is to take in with more … (11 comments)

Recommendations for Rental Property Investors - 08:56 PM
Pensacola, Florida: I am continuing my best best of the best series by choosing articles on different real estate topics beneficial to Pensacola REO's Investors, home buyers and sellers. This weeks topic is on the Investor and who wants to be the next millionaire in Pensacola, Pace, Gulf Breeze, Florida. With a well know, little used strategy we can make you the next millionaire. Unbelievable, put me to the test and see.     I hope you find this series to be educational as well as informative. Call me to discuss the use of the of this little used strategy and to discuss how we work and if it will benefit you here in Pensacola, Pace … (1 comments)

Freaky Fridays in Pensacola, Florida 32514 - 09:43 PM
Freaky Friday is all about the freaky things, like here in Pensacola. We have a bridge here on Hwy 90 that has a ghost train that runs where the old railroad tracks were of 100 years ago. At night around 10 PM you can still hear a whistle ina faint distance supposedly marking it last run before plunging into the bay where all 18 passengers died.
And... here are to post that I found a little freakess and enjoyable.
Enjoy the ride; There is no return ticket Posted by Roy T Robinette
Freaky Friday ~ Remarkable Illusion Posted by Jim & … (2 comments)

Renter Protection from Foreclosure - 09:48 PM
Pensacola, Florida: I am continuing my best best of the best series by choosing articles on different real estate topics beneficial to Pensacola Investors, Landlords, Tenants and almost anything to do with rentals. This weeks topic is on Homes for Rent in Pensacola, Pace, Gulf Breeze, Florida or property management in general.  I hope you find this series to be educational as well as informative. Looking to rent or need a property manager call 800-309-3414 to discuss how we can be of great service to you here in Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Fl. Call Charles Stallions 800-309-3414 or E-mail charles@charlesstallions.com. To view homes for rent in  Pensacola, Pace or Gulf Breeze, Florida Click … (2 comments)

BETTER than store bought! Learn how to do this at HOME! - 07:48 AM
Quick Reminder that the Giant Foods and the Loudoun County Faith-Based Community organization will provide an Interactive Community Canning workshop tomorrow, September 26th from 10am-1pm to teach methods of how YOU can preserve your own fresh produce like the pros!
The event will be held at the Giant in Ashburn located in the Junction Plaza at the intersection of Claiborne & Ashburn Farm Pkwy.
Can't make it tomorrow? No problem! The event will be held again on the following upcoming Saturdays (same time, same place):
October 3, 17, & 31November 14 & 28The workshop costs a small fee of $10 per person … (4 comments)

You CAN afford a home * Check out these incentives! - 09:59 AM
Interested in purchasing a new home in the Winchester area?? Check out the lovely town of Boyce, Virginia just outside of Winchester and within minutes of commuter roads such as Rt. 7 & Rt. 50.
Richmond America Homes in Boyce, Virginia, will be having a sale September 25th - October 4th on New Construction homes with incredible financing options as well as closing cost assistance!
Currently there are 3 Quick Move-In Homes which are available for you to move in within a couple of months with the opportunity to customize interior options to fit your personal tastes. Richmond American Homes is … (0 comments)

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