Archives of real estate blog entries for January 17, 2010

Featured blog posts


Pickleball in Arizona, a Growing Trend - 02:01 AM
Last night I had dinner with clients who live in Sun City West AZ.  The topic of conversation throughout the dinner table was the 10 new Sun City West Pickleball Courts  and the Grand opening  yesterday at the Palm Ridge Recreation Center.  The R.H. Johnson Recreation Center already had 5 pickleball courts making the total pickleball courts available to Sun City West homeowners as 15.  All courts are available to individuals who possess a current Sun City West homeowners recreation activity card.  

I haven't had the opportunity to participate in the sport that is a growing trend throughout the nation  and has swept through Arizona retirement communities.  Pickleball … (61 comments)

Give a HOOT about your Tweets: HootSuite vs. TweetDeck - 01:49 PM
Give a HOOT about your Tweets: HootSuite vs. TweetDeck
Someone asked me recently if I preferred HootSuite or TweetDeck, and the answer is that I use them BOTH. I keep them both open and minimized at all times.
I prefer HootSuite to post tweets that I want to schedule. For example, on Sunday mornings I try to schedule tweets for events for the coming week.This morning I scheduled tweets for upcoming Martin Luther King events and plays and community meetings - happenings that will occur during the week. Now, I can cross that off my "to do" list. There is an … (95 comments)

Short Sale Parachute? - 09:50 PM
 
 

I work with a lot of short sale clients as their attorney in Springfield, MA. I give a lot of credit to the Realtors that I work with on these short sales because they can take a long time and require a great deal more handholding, etc. . . These days I find myself in the same position that many of you may find yourselves in with regard to the short sales that just don't go through: "What re-assurances can we really give these Sellers?"
The fact is we can only give so much. We can give ourselves … (13 comments)

ACTIVERAIN - YOU DON'T HAVE TO UNDERSTAND ACTIVERAIN TO BENEFIT FROM THIS AMAZING REAL ESTATE NETWORK. - 06:04 AM
SOME "HARD CORE REAL ESTATE TALK" ABOUT ACTIVERAIN. 
 
ACTIVERAIN IS A POWERFUL REFERRAL DIRECTORY.  ActiveRain is unique in it's ability to connect members who take this platform seriously to learn to benefit from the Internet synergy it provides.  Your ActiveRain profile puts your resume' right in the hands of agent and brokers with valuable real estate industry referrals.
 

BUILDING ACTIVERAIN CONTENT BENEFITS ALL MEMBERS.  Members who benefit the most are those who contribute their time and energy to the ActiveRain community on a regular basis.  Google crawls the ActiveRain member profiles and blog posts daily.  The more often you contribute content, the … (179 comments)

The Showing - 08:31 AM
 The Showing
It started on Monday. Bob and I talked several times and landed on Saturday as the preferred day for the Showing.
Saturday morning at 9:30 at my office. Good enough.
You make a list of homes you are interested in seeing the inside of and I will do the same. Get them to me by Thursday, or Friday at the latest so I can call through the list and make sure we can get in.
Friday I got "The Big Box", washed and waxed and vacuumed. (That is my pet name for my trusty Lincoln Navigator)
I received the … (103 comments)

Punishing Foreclosure Victims Only Continues The Pain For All Of Us - 08:08 PM
While news stories, articles, and blogs continue to be written about “Strategic Default” and how those facing foreclosure shouldn’t be allowed to walk away or have their mortgage balance reduced, punishing foreclosure victims only continues the pain for all of us. The problem we face isn’t one of a few hundred or even a few thousand who carelessly spent beyond their means; this issue touches tens of millions of U. S. homeowners, the majority of whom acted responsibly, and with the knowledge available to them at the time. Most thought they were making wise choices.
 
How can we blame the … (261 comments)

To Do Orange County NY - January 17, 2010 - 06:37 AM
Sunday January 17, 2010 in Orange County NY Sunday's Weather - Winter Is Back-Snow Is Forecast  (click here for the latest NOAA Information.) Special Events Skiing and Snow Boarding - Warwick, NY Mount Peter, 40 Ski Lane, Warwick, NY has been making snow and lifts will be open from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM today.  Try out that new equipment close to home. For Further Information 845-986-4992 Breakfast on the Farm - Pine Island, NY Gather around the pot belly stove for a country farm breakfast with fresh eggs to order, bacon, hot cider, and coffee at the Rogowski Farm,327 Glenwood Road, … (30 comments)

Scott's Place Wellington FL Community Build - 04:21 PM
Scott's Place Wellington FL Community Build Today was the last day of the Wellington FL community build for Scott's Place, which will be the newest park in Wellington FL. However unlike other Wellington Parks Scott's Place is going to be a barrier-free playground for children of every ability.
Scott's Place in Wellington FL was made possible by an extremely generous donation of $250,000 by Del & Barbara Williamson. Their donation was in honor of their son Scott, who they lost to cerebral palsy. Both Del & Barbara Williamson participated in the build of Scott's Place and are some of the nicest … (22 comments)

Gloucester County First Time Home Buyer Assistance Program: Update - 10:11 PM
Gloucester County First Time Home Buyer Assistance Program: Update The Gloucester County, NJ first time home buyer grant program is a great option for home buyers looking to purchase in this South Jersey area. More recently, this program has changed. Here is an update on how this great program works;
The amount allowed as assistance is $10,000 The assistance can be used for closing costs and/or down payment The assistance is provided at closing, not before. UPDATE: A home buyer is now required to receive home buyer counseling, such as that approved by HUD. There are several local areas to obtain … (16 comments)

Train your buyers to curb the enthusiasm just a tad - 10:26 PM
Train your buyers to curb the enthusiasm just a tad when going to open houses.  I mean you don't want them making the negotiations any harder then they have to be do you??  If you read my blog you will see that I had an open house today and it was extremely busy.  I considered it to be quite the success.  Of course one couple in particular was extremely interested.  I mean they stayed longer then anyone else and then they started placing their furniture.  Hmm now when do we really know that someone is interested whether we are the buyer … (22 comments)

Success With Google Adwords (Pay Per Click) - 11:08 AM
You Can Succeed Using Google Adwords
I've heard many complaints and questions about Google Adwords. This is a Pay Per Click advertising program that can produce ecellent website traffic if managed correctly. I've generated 75 to 100 leads a month using this program. But, one has to do it right. The adwords program generates visitor traffic , not leads. So, if your landing page does not compel the visitor to contact you your results will be poor.
Mulitple ComponentsThere are multiple components involved in an adwords campaign. There is the AD itself, the bid price, a daily budget and the landing page. In addition … (44 comments)

Last Week On Active Rain: January 10th-17th - 03:32 PM
This was an exciting week for me, having spent most of it attending Rain Camp and Inman Connect in New York.  It was fun, and I learned a lot, not just from the sessions I attended, but also from having Cindy Jones as a room mate. 
Last week, Cindy wrote a wonderful post, Is Your Blog Just “White Noise” or Are You Engaging Your Audience?  Now, I'm not going to include it among this week's picks, because the Gold Star Pixie beat me to the punch, and I'm still going to suggest that, if you've not already read this one, that … (52 comments)

What to do with clients who have fooled you before - 10:32 PM
So here is my situation:
Over a year ago I showed this couple several houses, set them up a custom search page, and spent a pretty fair amount of time helping them find a new home. Then one day out of nowhere they disappeared. A few weeks later I got an e-mail thanking me for my time and telling me that they bought a townhome in a nearby neighborhood but had been told by the on-site agent that they would get a better deal if they didn't use their own agent.
Now I was surprised by this because we had a pretty … (38 comments)


Blog posts


A New Year, a New Code of Ethics - 10:22 PM
Ok, well maybe not entirely new, but there have been some changes the National Association of Realtors Code of Ethics (COE).  This important document governs our conduct with not only the public but also with each other and the standards outlined are what set us apart as an organization and as a profession from other salespeople. 
 In the interest of space I am not listing all the language specifically so to review the entire COE and understand better the context of these changes, go to http://www.realtor.org/mempolweb.nsf/pages/code .
Here are the changes affecting the COE this year:
•·         Standard of Practice 3-2 … (8 comments)

What Can You Buy for a Million Bucks? - 11:55 AM
I have said for a long time that the Hemet - San Jacinto CA real estate market is one of the most affordable in the country and that a buyer with $200,000 could buy just about anything we have listed in our local MLS.So I got to thinking, what could a million bucks buy in different markets across the country?  so, I jumped over to Zillow to do some research and check out what I found. with a search criteria of $950,000 to $1,25,000...
 
HEMETUnfortunately, there is nothing in this field in the local Hemet - San Jacinto real estate … (9 comments)

Pray for Haiti - 12:22 PM
We all know the devastation that can be caused by natural disasters, regardless of where they strike in the world.
Well, earlier this week our Caribbean neighbor, Haiti was hit hard with a 7.0 earthquake that depending on who you listen to has left anywhere for 50,000 to 150,000 dead or missing from this tiny island nation.The hard part is for the millions who survived and really don't have the time to grieve for the loss of loved ones as they continue to fight for their own survival.Please pray for both the living and the dead.

 
There are so many things … (5 comments)

FHA is Becoming Pro-Active in Mortgage Fraud - 12:54 PM
Let me first disclaim that I am not in law enforcement and I have no special knowledge of what has been taking place in the world of mortgage fraud - but I am a student of the real estate industry - which includes mortgges - and from where I sit, it appears as if most mortgage fraud is the result of someone getting caught with their fingers in the cookie jar.I just read yesterday that the U.S. Department of Houseing and Urban Development (HUD) is now agressively looking at mortgage companies that have a higher than normal rate of froblems with … (13 comments)

California Prop 8 - The Reason for the Reduction - 02:27 PM
California Voters started a Tax Revolt in 1978 with the passage of both Prop 13 and Prop 8.  Now the glory has always gone to Prop 13 as that is the voter mandated constitutional amendment that directed the County Assessors to roll back assessed value and to limit the way property taxes could be assessed for the future.Prop 13 is an incredible piece of legislation and has saved Californians billions nd billions of dollars, if not more, since it became law in 1978.  However, without it's cousin Prop 13 would be a very evil law right now, considering the rapid decline … (0 comments)

As the Market Changes - More Rehab Homes for First Time Homebuyers - 03:22 PM
With the recent change in HUD policy allowing investors to purchase homes and flip them right away and not forcing them to hold title before they can be sold with FHA financing will definitely help the flipper but drive the first time home buyer away from the distressed homes for sale in the Hemet -San Jacinto CA valley.
The investors have the cash and the first time buyers have the credit.  all of the good deals are bought quickly with cash buyers and the FHA buyers are cut out of the market - especially if there is a low appraisal on … (4 comments)

What is Transparency?? Best Mortgage Rates/Online services/Real Estate Services - (Part 1 of 2) - 03:31 PM
Jeff Belonger is one of ht e authorities I turn to when I want to research anything that has to do with FHA loans or the mortgage side of the real estate industry, in general.
Well, he has done it again with this poet - pretty much telling it like it is.
So, what are you going to do with this valuable information?
Via Jeff Belonger -- The FHA Expert.com -- FHA Loans -- FHA mortgages - USDA loans (Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc):
Transparency in the Real Estate world… what does it truly mean?
 
 

How many of you … (2 comments)

January 11 is National Clean Off Your Desk Day - 05:34 PM
This should be a national holiday that takes place every week.
I know I am guilty of a messy desk - always have been and wish I could figure out a way to do better - but I am afraid that this is just one of those things that I live with...
Via Shay Hargus Webb (Austin Avenue Real Estate Company):
January 11 is National Clean Off Your Desk Day.  This would be a great time to not only clean off your deak, but to also gather up all your paperwork, receipts, etc. for your taxes.  Here are a few tips to get … (1 comments)

Don't Show Your Home to Strangers Without an Appointment - 05:38 PM
Seems like no matter how many times we hear the advice that we should not open our doors to strangers...some motivated seller always does.  It's simple, a knock at the door a quick introduction and a plea...let me inside your house so I can steal from you, rape you and kill you...and guess what, people open up as if it is OK, just because they have a "For Sale" sign in the front yard.
Via J. Philip Faranda, J. Philip Real Estate Briarcliff Manor NY:
The other day a seller client told me that she showed her home to strangers off the street … (2 comments)

OPEN HOUSES FOR SUNDAY JANUARY 17 IN NORTHEAST LOS ANGELES - 07:03 AM
Listing of Sunday's Open Houses from I-Tech MLS Listing of Sunday's Open Houses from Combined L.A. Westside MLS
Featuring Open Houses in the Los Angeles communities of Eagle Rock, Highland Park, Mount Washington, Glassell Park, Sycamore Grove, Garvanza, Montecito Heights, Cypress Park, Lincoln Heights, El Sereno, Monterey Hills, and Hermon.

… (0 comments)

The Diet Continues - Week 19 - Reversal - 01:41 PM
Oops this week I weighed in with a weight gain of .8 pounds.  Overall my weigh in's seem to be heading down.  My weight fluctuates a lot.  The top end seems to be coming down still.  I am not going to let it get to me too much.
… (3 comments)

The Power of Active Rain - 07:19 PM
A few weeks ago, during my Active Rain browsing, it occurred to me that a lot of people write about things that Active Rain has done for them and many times I hear read the phrase "the power of Active Rain"
I started a group called just that "the power of Active Rain". I think we could use a group like this where all the positive things that have happened to people can be compiled.
I think it would be a useful group to send someone new to get an idea of just what could happen if they started to blog … (70 comments)

Short Sale Knowledge At Your Fingertips. - 08:10 AM

Hi folks. Here's a short compilation of some of the conversations going on this week at www.ShortSaleSuperStars.com

Short Sale Lenders asking for cash contributions off the HUD.
Sellers of Short Sales wanting to rent the property back.
2nd lien holders being unreasonable.
Is a hardship really needed to qualify for a Short Sale?
Getting Short Sales approved through REOTrans/Equator
Investors refusing to postpone the foreclosure auction.
Bank of America and Titaninum Solutions
Short Sale Lenders seizing bank accounts
Dealing with Multiple offers and Short Sales
Tools to assist you with your Short Sales
Available Short Sale Agent Training:
LEARN, … (15 comments)

Sunday Sermon... - 10:43 PM
For some reason, our pastor seems to think that what we think can make a difference in our lives.  hmmm...
This morning, he talked about the impact of what we think and how it can so effect our outcome in situations, relationships...life.
It's so true!
Phillipians 4:8 says, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things."  NIV
He mentioned that we shouldn't just shout at the darkness... TURN ON THE LIGHT!
As Disney puts it, "Go to your happy place." 
There … (10 comments)

Stowe Vermont Condo and Townhome Sales - Market Report 2005 through 2009 - 07:07 PM
Stowe Vermont Condo and Townhome Sales - Market Report 2005 through 2009
Stowe, Vermont as a four season resort has many condo/townhome projects.  The majority of these properties are owned by second home and vacation home owners.  As a result of the real estate bubble in 2005, the stock market crash in 2008, and the recession of 2009, it is not surprising to see a reduction in sales.  To further complicate condo sales, the mortgage companies have made the purchase of condos, especially in a resort town, much more difficult.  Below are market statistics by year with accompanying charts.  You can … (2 comments)

FHA has lifted the 90-day seasoning requirement! - 08:28 AM
I guess the BIG QUESTION IS: Are flippers still out there? Is the criteria of 20% enough incentive, or does anyone meet these guidelines? Those are the questions.
I'll be doing some research to the details of these questions. It's all in the details.
 
Via Dave Rosenmarkle (Highland Realty):
The news is spreading fast...  As reported out from FHA on January 15, 2010 -
HUD TAKES ACTION TO SPEED RESALE OF FORECLOSED PROPERTIES TO NEW OWNERS
Measure to help bring stability to home values and accelerate sale of vacant properties WASHINGTON -
In an effort to stabilize home values and improve conditions … (1 comments)

Park Ridge => It's a Wonderful Life=>21 S. Delphia - 08:34 AM

21 S. Delphia, Park Ridge- 2 Story =>It's a Wonderful Life  
In this picturesque village of Park Ridge, you feel you've jumped into the movies like "It's a Wonderful Life". 21 S. Delphia, Park Ridge is a bit over 1/2 mile from the train, library, boutique shops and national branding stores. Delphia is centrally located to Washington Grade School, Lincoln Middle School and Maine South High School ~ the top preferred schools by the residences in Park Ridge. Can't you picture meeting friends at the art deco movie theater, Pickwick Theater and enjoy a sundae next door at the … (0 comments)

Arlington Heights-Berkley Square-15 E. Canterbury, Arlington Heights, IL - 08:41 AM
Arlington Heights, Berkley Square, 15 Canterbury A  Split with Distinction! Marketing by Jan McNulty, RE/MAX SUBURBAN, Il
Conveniently located 15 Canterbury, Arlington Heights located in Berkley Square subdivision, north of Rand & Palatine Rd, this 4 bedroom split offers you 2 bonus rooms, that enhances your lifestyle. Serviced by Ivy Hill Elementary School, Thomas Middle School and Buffalo Grove High School, this home offers commuting traffic ease with Rand, Palatine, Dundee, Arlington Hts Rds to the expressways 53/355 and 90. Ceramic tiled entry leads to french doored 1st floor bonus room. This room could easily be your home office, or guest room or … (0 comments)

RECOVERY? WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE REAL ESTATE MARKET? - 08:46 AM
What's happening in our Real Estate Market?  
Whew, when it comes to the Real Estate Market, the theme is Change. The general sentiment is "Thank God, we are putting 2009 in the past, shelved next to 2008". We're (the Realtors, Banks and Federal Government) are all looking forward to 2010 to be a better, and brighter year. Currently, prices are low, much more affordable and interest rates are at the historic low end, and the Federal Thanksgiving bonus of a Tax Credit is still available for a while. So in a nut shell, it's a great time to change residences or … (0 comments)

"How Many Contingencies do you want in the Offer ? Asked the Selling Agent. - 06:33 AM
   We got a quick call shortly after a showing on one of our short sales...
                             "She just loves the house...sooo much room...good comdition...and it
                                   isn't even trashed." the agent commented....
 
                               "Trashed ? No.....we do quite a few short sales...not one has
                                          been  trashed.
                            Most are in very good shape; and all have passed inspection with
                                            flying colors !" I replied.
 
                                 "Oh good...this will be a cash offer...how many contingencies do you want ?"
 
                            (My thought process) Bite tongue...cover mouth...stifle laugh
 
                      "None would be good !" … (14 comments)

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