Archives of real estate blog entries for February 8, 2010

Featured blog posts


Red Hot and Green Webinar - 11:08 AM
You know that old country song..."I was country before country was cool..." ?  Well ,guess who was "Greenolina"  before sustainability was cool? . . . Remember the old Green is Red Hot Contests that took place in March, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009 right here on Active Rain?  They were fun and informative and as a result, the Eco- All-Star Group went from 2 members (yes just Dena and me back in 2006) to a very nice 1,000+.
Now it looks as if  the trend toward green -sustainability it red hot in a broader audience. As a land broker, I was so pleased to … (18 comments)

The Powerful Web Traffic Profile of Local Breaking News in a Community - 03:59 PM
Most readers of my blog will know we've been focused on buliding unique community engagement strategies with our Breaking News platform. This slideshow explains what we've been learning about broadcasting local breaking news across various channels within the social media. The web traffic is instant and a bit dizzying. If you haven't seen an updated version of Breaking News, watch this slideshow and go over and check out Richard Silver's Downtown Toronto News or Missy Caulk's A2 Breaking News. You'll see that locals can monitor Breaking News across Twitter, Facebook or the website. Our next step is to include hyperlocal features … (30 comments)

Social Media vs Traditional Media: "The New Pepsi Challenge" - 12:35 PM
So there I am watching the Super Bowl on Sunday and notice that I am not seeing one Pepsi commercial.  I look at my friends and say hey isn't Pepsi going to run their commercials.  I found out quickly this morning that Pepsi had made the decision to not run their commercials and decided to take a new approach to marketing their product.  This is not new, Pepsi has always done a great job of going after that younger generation and most of us remember the TV commercials they ran in the Eighties with Michael Jackson  "The Choice of a New … (58 comments)

The Value of the REALTOR® Association #RTB - 01:57 PM
Originally Posted on Hot Property Chicago Blog February 8, 2010

In the #RTB(Raising the Bar) discussions, comments have been made that I am antiNational Association of Realtors®. That in fact is absolutely not the case. As a past staff member of another professional association, I became active in my the Chicago Association of Realtors upon entering my real estate career. Professional organizations are crucial to the profession. The post is long but is my insight as a practitioner and a participator. Think of NAR as a union.
It Does Not Pay But it Gives Back
Over the past decade as a volunteer, … (11 comments)

Hoo Ya's: Best Diner in Central Massachusetts - Brimfield, MA - 06:43 AM
Hoo Ya's:  Best Diner in Central Massachusetts - Brimfield, MA

If you have a hankering for a big ol' breakfast complete with eggs, hash browns, sausage or bacon, toast, and perhaps some pancakes, the best place to satisfy your craving is at Hoo Ya's.
Hoo Ya's, located on Route 20 in the center of Brimfield, MA, is a favorite in Central Massachusetts.  Walk in, sit down, place your order and enjoy the atmosphere at this lively diner.  Hoo Ya's serves up large breakfasts and excellent grilled lunches amidst a friendly room full of local flavor.
Some of our breakfast favorites include … (22 comments)

Huge short sale controversy - 07:45 AM
I've got an idea today that I'm sure is going to be controversial. The Realtor Code of Ethics states that: "Realtors, in attempting to secure a listing, shall not deliberately mislead the owner as to market value. This is under Standard of Practice 1-3. We are all having a problem with high BPOs. In fact, I met one agent who told me she tries to turn in high BPOs. This is what her real estate trainer recommended. Kind of interesting that a trainer would recommend agents break the code of ethics.
What is your opinion on this? Do you think we … (103 comments)

A Different Kind of Activerain Lead - 10:56 PM

A Different Kind of Activerain Lead
I got an interesting email several weeks ago from Jeannette who found my blog while googling "Leah Stern".  She wasn't looking for a Realtor, but it was a lead  nevertheless  - a lead of a different kind.
Jeannette was planning on joining Auschwitz survivor Eva Mozes Kor on a tour to Auschwitz for the 65th anniversary of the liberation.  In preparation for the trip she was assigned a twin to research  - "Leah Stern"  - who she believed might be my mother.  Was she a twin and was she in Auschwitz?  Could I tell … (67 comments)

How to Research a Neighborhood or Subdivision for a Blog - 08:57 AM
Cheryl Ritchie asked me a question recently about doing research for when I blog about a neighborhood or subdivision.  This was in response to my post, One Thing (Blogging Straight Talk).  The point I was making in that piece was that I had a very good lead come in because I had spent time blogging about a listing in a particular neighborhood as well as blogging separately about the neighborhood itself.
Her question was what steps does one take when researching a neighborhood?  So here they are...I think you'll be surprised at how simple they actually are!
1. Do a Google search by name … (80 comments)

Raincamp in Dallas (And On Twitter Everywhere!) - 09:59 AM
I had the privilege of attending RainCamp New York in January.  It was a room full of people where you could actually feel the energy in the air.  At breaks people were literally buzzing with information they'd just learned.  This is on top of the awesome networking opportunity to meet fellow Rainers. 
Because we were so impressed with the event, Zillow wanted to be involved in a bigger way.  I am happy to announce that we will be a sponsor at the Dallas event.  (I am unhappy to say that I won't personally be there, but we'll send someone else you'll … (30 comments)

Phantom Inventory Will Begin Trickling Into Las Vegas Housing Market - 02:01 PM
The real estate market in Las Vegas is gearing up for some additional inventory.  Bank of America recently announced that it expects to release about 6,000 foreclosed properties into the Nevada housing market in 2010, averaging around 500 a month.
This is part of the so-called "phantom inventory" of foreclosed homes being held by banks that we all know are out there, but have not yet hit the market.  They are being added in as the banks work out loan modifications and negotiate short sales, two of the most desirable alternatives to foreclosure.
Because the banks were working to meet the … (23 comments)

Are You an Open House Master? - 11:31 AM
In February 2009, REALTOR® Magazine launched the Masters Series, a video diary of top-producing practitioners, who represent expertise in a certain field within real estate. We traveled all over the country to meet some of the best real estate pros, followed them around for a day, and learned their trade secrets.
We're planning the 2010 series and we want to hear from you. Have you been in the business for over 10 years? Are you a top producer? For May, we're looking for the practitioner who's mastered the open house. Do you throw over-the-top affairs? Attract crowds of lookers? Sell the … (53 comments)

A Call to All Members - ActiveRain University Wants You! - 08:18 PM
ActiveRain University Wants You!!
Now that the ActiveRain University is underway providing training and support sessions for our members, we want to send out this invitation to ALL members inviting them to come present at our new on-line campus.  We are looking for volunteer members who wish to share their knowledge, successes, and "how-to's" with the rest of the community.  We already have a few interested members who are willing and want to come share their secrets and tips on what has made them successful using their Blogs, Internet Marketing, and Social Media skills.
In the weeks ahead, we are inviting … (91 comments)

Find a Mentor that will teach you One on One - 08:10 PM
If you are new to real estate and have a burning desire to learn how to be effective and start making money quickly, find a mentor that will teach you one on one.  Follow that person around like a puppy dog and listen to all that they say and do.  Be their shadow.  If a picture is worth a thousand words, how much more effective is teaching when it is on the job instead of in the classroom.
I enjoy teaching my agents like this.  I give lots of lecture time but the actual  experience of being in the room when a … (61 comments)

My Broker is Forcing us to Join ActiveRAin! - 06:52 PM
My Broker, Lori Bowers, is a very progressive Broker, Realtor, and Agent... she embraces change, believes in the power of social media and the internet-- and the advantages of joining ActiveRAin ! 
In the last few weeks she has begun a campaign within the office to get our Agents to join the ActiveRain community and get blogging!  She has had contests for fun prizes like gift cards to Old Town Coffee and the requirements are
1. Post 3 Blogs on ACTIVERAIN!
2. 5 Comments on our YOUTube videos
3. Post 3 ads on Craigslist
4. Record 3 Flip Videos of properties
… (97 comments)

Selling A Dream! Most Realtors Just Don't Get it! - 06:06 PM
Talk to any vendor besides a Realtor, and they are likely to convice you that eveything you are doing is wrong, especially if they're trying to sell you a website, a group of leads or marketing spot on some other website. They use all their little theories, computations and click rates as ammo, as a way to legitimize their message. Chat with a coaching "guru," and he'll try to convince you that you SHOULD be doing something besides what you are doing, guaranteed. And he'll do it from his "home office" (couch, bed or his toilet). hmmm... Is that Dukes Of Hazzard playing in the … (70 comments)


Blog posts


Market Update - 04:42 PM
INFO THAT HITS US WHERE WE LIVE  
The Pending Home Sales Index recovered from its November slump, increasing 1.0% in December, putting it 10.9% over its level of a year ago. National Association of Realtors chief economist Lawrence Yun sees "...a broad improvement over year-ago levels. December activity was the fifth-highest monthly tally in two years." The slump was attributed to the rush before November to grab the tax credit set to expire at the end of that month. We now know the tax credit was extended to buyers who can sign a contract by April 30 and close on … (0 comments)

A FORMULA FOR DISASTER IN A FRAGILE MARKET PLACE: - 12:55 PM
Very much agree with this article!  We must all work together to get the housing market back in order.
Via Paula Hathaway (Prudential Douglas Elliman Real Estate):
OVER PRICING HOMES = HIGH INVENTORY + LESS SALES + DESPERATE SELLERS = CONTINUED HOUSING CRISIS: A FORMULA FOR DISASTER IN A FRAGILE MARKET PLACE!!!  
We MUST do in-depth research before we price properties!!! ....and we MUST price properties as if our lives depend on it.(...because they do!) If we don't face over-pricing head on, we will see the inventory levels climb like never before! Not only that, the desperation seen and felt by huge numbers of sellers that … (0 comments)

REAL ESTATE MARKET STATS 01/31/2010 - 02/07/2010: NORTHEAST LOS ANGELES - 07:54 AM
New listings entered
Price reductions 
Reported pending
Reported sold and closed 
These zip codes include the Northeast 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)

Do you want to know who is Screwing the Tax Payer and How? - 10:37 AM
Do you want to know who is Screwing the Tax Payer and How?
Follow this link and watch this video.  This is embarrassing to our government and just goes to show how off base we have gotten.  We are being taken and robbed by the people who should be protecting us.
http://www.thinkbigworksmall.com/mypage/player/tbws/23088/1320864
I have heard about this stuff before but here is an easy to follow and understand video.  I cannot even begin to describe this stuff.  You are paying for it.  Where is the outrage?  Pass it on!
… (6 comments)

Lake Travis - Austin TX - Two Year Drought is Over - 01:46 PM
Lake Travis Austin TX is currently ABOVE its average lake level!!  Austin TX, along with Central Texas Hill Country as a whole, has been in a two year drought.  Lake Travis sustained at the beginning, but the Summer of 2009 was hard.  By early September, this is what Lake Travis looked like at my family's cove.  Absolutely NO water, as levels were around 625 feet!

It is just a few months later, and as of this past weekend, Lake Travis is now over 670 feet!!  And the better news?  It's raining today, and will rain most of the week!!  This … (13 comments)

Lots of Holidays on the Way this coming week - 08:02 AM
Lots of stuff to plan for this coming week!
Saturday, February 13 is NELAArt Second Saturday
Sunday, February 14 is Lunar New Year AND Valentine's Day
Monday, February 15 is President's Day
Tuesday, February 16 is Mardi Gras
… (0 comments)

Buying great pre foreclosures - 05:21 AM
Buying great pre foreclosures is one of the most effective ways to find discount property available for direct purchase in today's competitive market. With so many people searching for homes through real estate agents and other traditional forms of property purchase, it can be tough to find any substantial savings. And buying other forms of repossessed or distressed types of houses often means competing with others in an auction scenario. But buying pre-foreclosures means dealing directly with a homeowner on your own to negotiate a sale, so it can be a great way to get the price you want.
These unique … (0 comments)

And My Street is Not Even Plowed! Baltimore is Not Just for the Birds! - 10:25 PM
                                                                           When you are snowed in for 3 days and my street is not even plowed, you find things to amuse you. The absolute beauty is overwhelming. Look at the colors of this cardinal. Is this a perfect red, white and blue photo?      The reason I have two bird feeders with the same food.. the squirrels don't know these containers are squirrel proof. This little guy certainly does not look underfed. So what does this have to do with real estate? Why Advertising is For the Birds
                                                                   And more beauty right outside my window..icicle sculptures and winter trees. 
 OK so there is a bit of work … (25 comments)

Coyote Caution - 08:41 PM
From my village report and some extra research for my real estate blog. 
Coyotes were once rare in Chicago-land. Now we have more coyotes in urban areas near fields and wild areas.
One of the newsletters I read is cautioning us how to live peaceably with our wild coyote neighbors. Here are some cautions, preparations and links.
Don’t feed any wild animals such as raccoons or deer, which encourages coyotes as well. Coyotes have been known to attack pets.   Don’t leave any cat or dog food outside. Secure garbage in areas where coyotes can’t access it; keep yards clean … (7 comments)

Social Media Rock Star Training in Denver - 07:40 PM
Most folks here will not need this, but you could be a hero to someone who does.  Pass the word!  Thanks!
<div style="display: inline;"><iframe src="http://smrockstar.eventbrite.com?ref=eweb" frameborder="0" marginwidth="5" marginheight="5" vspace="0" hspace="0" width="980" height="1000" allowtransparency="true" scrolling="auto"></iframe><a href="http://www.eventbrite.com/r/eweb"><img src="http://www.eventbrite.com/s.gif" alt="Events" border="0"/></a></div>
… (0 comments)

2692 CEDARIDGE CIR, CLERMONT FL 34711 - 12:15 PM
 
 MLS# O4960766                2692 CEDARIDGE CIR, CLERMONT FL 34711     $$$ 149,900 $$$

Purchase this property for as little as 3 percent down! This property is approved for HomePath Mortgage and HomePath Renovation Mortgage. Fabulous home located in the Rolling Hills of Clermont. Nice open floorplan with a spacious kitchen, perfect for entertaining. At the end of a long day you can relax in the Master suite or take a soke in the garden tub. This home has it all! *If exact square footage or room size is a concern, unit should be independently measured.
For the latest status on this … (0 comments)

5303 FALLING WATER DR, ORLANDO FL 32818 - 12:19 PM
 
 MLS# O4959861                5303 FALLING WATER DR, ORLANDO FL 32818    $$$ 43,225 $$$

Purchase this property for as little as 3 percent down! This property is approved for HomePath Mortgage and HomePath Renovation Mortgage. Great home on extra large lot. Needs a small amount of work but has tons of potential. Vaulted ceilings in the living     area make the home feel very spacious. This property will not last long so see it today! *if exact square footage or room size is a concern, unit should be independently measured.
For the latest status on this property and many more in the Orlando area, contact … (0 comments)

5447 VINELAND RD # 1108, ORLANDO FL 32811 - 12:21 PM
 
 MLS# O4960752               5447 VINELAND RD # 1108, ORLANDO FL 32811     $$$ 69,900 $$$

Purchase this property for as little as 3 percent down! This property is approved for HomePath Mortgage and HomePath Renovation Mortgage. Fabulous condo located in Cypress Fairway. New paint and carpet add to the light and bright ambiance of this unit. Spacious rooms and an open kitchen to living room area will make you want to call this place home! This unit will not last long, so see it today! *If exact square footage or room size are a concern, unit should be independently measured.
For … (0 comments)

Glo 10 Spa in Muskego, WI - 04:41 PM
Beat the February Chill with a Sweet Party at GLO 10 !
 
                                                                                       Thursday. February 11th
                                                                                                                         1- 7 p.m
Tastefully Simple - Simply delicious palette pleasing delights ! Gemma Rae's Home Style Cheese Cake - Unique flavor favorites old and new Cella's Jewelry Unique Jewelry, scarves and bags My Essential  Body Wear  Complimentary Bra Fittings Cocina Deleon Homade enchiladas with old world Mexican flavor Feathers and Fur Suet Feeders and Gourmet Dog Treats Precious Metal Refining Services  Top dollars for gold, silver & platinum Free Botox Consultations Teeth Whitening Special - $59  6-9 pm              A new "do"...color, … (3 comments)

No Excuses...Drive Thru Valentines in Wisconsin...Gotta Love it ! - 06:36 PM
  Romeo Romeo....Where for Art Thou ?

At the drive -thru getting those chocolates and flowers sure to set the mood for romance this Valentine's Day.  Locker's Florists has found the perfect answer for "Romeo on the Run"...Drive thru Valentines !
The new "Drive Thru" location at Wisconsin State Fair Park. Stop by the tent in front of the Petit Center at State Fair Park, Thursday, February 11th to Sunday, February 14th!
You don't even have to leave your car to quickly shop for flowers and chocolates. Special deals you won't find anywhere else! Besides...where else can you shop … (9 comments)

SHOW vs TELL - 10:15 AM
This weekly series is courtesy of Mark McIntosh. Mark has remarkable background and has taken his talents from the ballfields to corporate America. I usually start me Monday's with his inspirational thoughts as do many of our agents in our office who listen to Mark's weekly thoughts. I highly recommend starting your week with what works best for you and will help you kick off your week in high gear to get you on the path to produce the results you seek each week. … (1 comments)

A Very Special Lingenfelter Corvette - 04:58 PM
Lingenfelter Performance is my favorite tuner shop and they have done it again.  An 800 horsepower twin turbocharger Corvette Z06.  This isn't your typical tweaked and tuned Z06 either.  It features some insanely expensive upgrades including carbon fiber wheels, Stoptech brakes, Specter Werkes GTR body and even a few interior tweaks.  John Lingenfelter would be very proud of this creation that Ken and his team have created at Lingenfelter Performance Engineering.
 

… (5 comments)

934 Winesap Drive at the Apple Valley Lake (SOLD) - 05:04 PM
Call Sam Miller of REMAX Stars Realty at (740) 397-7800  Apple Valley Ohio
… (1 comments)

Country Ranch on 1.4 Acres of Land in Butler, Ohio - 05:10 PM
View additional listing details, photos and virtual tour at 18423 Mishey Road in Butler, Ohio
Call Sam Miller of REMAX Stars Realty (740) 397-7800  SamMiller.com
… (1 comments)

Real Estate Virtual Assistant Buzz: Detours on the Road to Real Estate Success - 05:17 PM
Real Estate Virtual Assistant Buzz:
Do you remember the brisk Buyers Market of a few years ago? Buyers were beating down your doors. Anyone who could breathe had a real estate license and was selling homes. Then the market went south. Buyers were no where to be found and your pipeline of new business dried up because you hadn’t been doing any marketing. You had neither the time nor the need to keep your name out there. A tougher real estate market requires getting back to basics and evaluating what works in our new reality and what doesn’t.
Brain Buffini … (0 comments)

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