Archives of real estate blog entries for March 23, 2010

Featured blog posts


Fresh Ideas for Listing Success - 11:52 AM
For years I've had a one step listing packet to present to a Hawaii Home Seller at our immediate first appointment. I thought it was very extensive and  complete with my marketing plan, comps, any building permits, city and county tax info, listing agreement, SRPDS (Seller's Real Property Disclosure Statement), Seller's Service Pledge and loads of info. I was proud of my marketing plan, especially since I had so much to show for my efforts with my websites, blogging articles and so forth.
That's what I get for thinking.
Education is key to getting our license and continuing education is key … (95 comments)

Active Rain Power is MUCH MORE THAN JUST LEADS! - 11:42 PM
Active Rain Power is MUCH MORE THAN JUST LEADS!!!
What do you expect from the power of Active Rain?
Listings?...Buyers?...Leads from out of town?...Points?...Features?...And outside blog to post to?...Education?...Cool people?
What do the following people have in common besides Active Rain?
Bob Haywood - Owasso, OKMary Yonkers - Erie, PARussell Ray - San Diego, CAAl & Peggy - Canada
I recently posted a real need for help, Give it 100% or Get Out. that seemed to get lost in rain because some times it's just pouring down here.  Bob, Mary,Russell and Al & Peggy found it and didn't just offer advice, but put … (68 comments)

Setting, Circumstance and Decorum: Two Days In The Life Of Lenn Harley - 07:57 AM

Setting, Circumstance and Decorum: Two Days In The Life Of Lenn Harley
I remember the first time Lenn Harley affectionately described her home as "the one surrounded by the moat." Being a Native New Yorker, this was something I really wanted to see (LOL). Lenn was sure that if I started down that road (on another impromptu AR Road Trip to share an eye candy adventure), I would not be able to miss it or her if I followed my directions carefully. In case you were wondering: Me plus Driving Directions sometimes equals Oxymoron (LOL). When I neared my destination, … (63 comments)

Post Black Out Musings: Hooked up or simply hooked? - 01:28 AM
The power failure in Westchester County that left many without power for up to a week has in some ways brought to the forefront how much web 2.o become a part of our lives.  The internet has gone from being a convenience and diversion at the turn of the century to a major centerpiece of lives – both at work and play.
We started along this path prior to 21st century – but we’ve traveled a long way down the internet super highway since the fears of Y2K dominated our lives.   Indeed it was  the events of 9/11 that first … (17 comments)

Time to Get Hyper Local Again - 7000 points for everyone - 07:53 PM
Last summer I did a contest where our members could write 7 blog posts in 7 days and get 1000 points for every post they wrote. I'm sure many of you reading were able to take advantage of that contest then. Well guess what......
It's back! (although this time I'm going to give you 14 days to write 7 posts)
Hyper Local blog posts are a great way to create content that's desired by your next potential client. We ran a brokerage prior to starting ActiveRain and one of the things we discovered was that the closer a person was to … (253 comments)

Where Referrals Don't Come From - 02:01 AM
The source of referrals isn't anyone we know.  It isn't our past or present clients.  Referrals don't originate from our family members, neighbors, co-workers, or anyone else.
The sole source of our referrals is our work.
We do several different kinds of work.  We work to protect the interests and serve the goals of our clients.  We work to market properties and to market ourselves.  We work at meeting more people and at learning more about our profession and how to sharpen our craft.  All of these activities and everything else we work at, are the seeds of referrals.
The optimum … (65 comments)

I consider ALL of my posts as PUBLIC POSTS... EVEN THE MEMBERS ONLY POSTS, Do You? - 02:39 PM
I consider ALL of my posts as PUBLIC POSTS... EVEN THE MEMBERS ONLY POSTSThis was not the case when I first joined Active Rain but with the size of this real estate network reaching the proportion that it has... I mean, come on now 177,862 people. 
That's a nice sized city.  There are only 34,000 people in all of McCurtain County and less than 16,000 in all of Choctaw County. 
The largest city near me is Texarkana, Arkansas. 
 
It's population is approximately the same as McCurtain County Oklahoma. 
 
  There is no way that I would post … (68 comments)

Good News for the Long Term - 04:51 PM
Finally, some good news about our market and economy.
 I heard that the "all knowing" Warren Buffet has shifted a great deal of his portfolio into the new construction industry in businesses such as lumber yards, plumbing, windows, doors, furniture and other businesses centered around new construction.
Also, it is anticipated for the first time in a while, we will see a 200,000 growth in jobs. That is what our economy/real estate market needs.
I received my new Realtor magazine today. On page 10 Lawrence Yun (NAR Chief economist)  states "With about 4 million births, 2 million deaths, and 1 million … (35 comments)

Bringing The Rain - 11:48 AM
Excited for RainCamp to come to your state, but can't wait any longer? Counting the days until the real estate conference you've been waiting for all year? Jazzed about your local RE Barcamp? 
... well, don't just sit on it! Let us know!

In addition to our ongoing schedule of RainCamp events, we are looking for the best North American real estate events to "bring the Rain" to this year.. and we need your help! If you've been waiting for your opportunity to network with other members and meet the ActiveRain team in person, this may be your opportunity before we have a chance to … (38 comments)

Is Real Estate in Our Genes? --- - 04:23 PM
Is Real Estate in Our Genes? ---
It seems it takes a special disposition to last for a long time in the many professions involved in real estate transactions. In order to put up with all the inevitable frustrations, conflicts, and occasional disrespect, we must maintain a very strong mental focus on something more important than ourselves and the potential income to stay in the game.


Perhaps it is connected to our genetic drive to survive as a species. We respect and understand the need that others have for a home and shelter. At our highest motivation we are compassionate … (65 comments)

I just have to get this off my chest, I am behind many of the rest of you. - 03:14 PM
I just have to get this off my chest, I am behind many of the rest of you. I have not had ANY dealings with short sales, not representing buyer or seller. Until now.... I have attended a few seminars, read a multitude of information on short sales, joined ShortSaleSuperStars.com, tried to get ready for when the day would arrive. And arrive it has. I have a listing that will be a short sale, barring a miracle. So what did I do first? I went to ShortSaleSuperStars.com and ordered the "Listing Packet". Easy as pie. Then I downloaded it and started … (82 comments)


Blog posts


Victory Park’s Cirque Apartments - 10:40 AM
The stunning, 75-acre neighborhood of Victory Park is hip, chic and dynamic, and it is filled with enough shopping, dining, entertainment and nightlife to satisfy even the most socially forward individual. The green spaces of Victory Park, including the famed Katy Trail, provide a peaceful oasis, while the outstanding location allows professionals to get in and around the city in no time.
Victory Park is located near many progressive district of Dallas, including Uptown, the Design District, the Central Business District and, of course, downtown Dallas. The DART commuter rail station and the Trinity Railway Express connect Victory Park to both … (0 comments)

Nalda Family Chiropractic-I Love You! - 07:03 AM
I am going to use Lance Armstrong as an example..simply because clearly he is an example of someone who lead a very healthy life...more than likely he ate properly...its clear he exercises...and still was diagnosed with cancer.  Ever wonder how this happened?  Recently I sat and listened to my doctor talk about disease...living a healthy lifestyle..as he talked about Lance Armstrong...it made perfect sense...consider the natural alignment of your body...and Lance Armstrong spent hours upon hours riding a bike...is that the natural alignment of the body?

NO Pain Medication For Me!
Approximately 14 years ago..I was under tremendous stress...working hard...and … (9 comments)

Bringing The Rain - 11:48 AM
Excited for RainCamp to come to your state, but can't wait any longer? Counting the days until the real estate conference you've been waiting for all year? Jazzed about your local RE Barcamp? 
... well, don't just sit on it! Let us know!

In addition to our ongoing schedule of RainCamp events, we are looking for the best North American real estate events to "bring the Rain" to this year.. and we need your help! If you've been waiting for your opportunity to network with other members and meet the ActiveRain team in person, this may be your opportunity before we have a chance to … (38 comments)

The Cards of Social Networking - 06:57 PM
The Cards of Social Networking
Our esteemed fellow blogger Russel Ray recently did a Post: Adopt! Adapt! It's in the cards! In the post he recommended a book called "It's in the Cards," by Ivan Misner. I went ahead an ordered the book from Amazaon and got it used with shipping included for about 5 to 6 dollars.  Not bad for a nice hard back in new condition that is autographed. 
Today I caught a video by Mike Krisa entitled How To Turn You Business Card Into A Lead Generating Magnet.
Misner's book is an interesting little read, but about seven … (5 comments)

Legends Bay in Bradenton - 11:51 AM
Legends Bay homes for sale in Bradenton Florida - Bradenton Homes and Real Estate by Communities.
This is an MLS search for: Legends Bay Homes, in the Bradenton Real Estate market of Bradenton, FL. School information, Buyers tips and relocation guide for homebuyers available.
We're your Bradenton Realtors with experience, knowledge, and dedication to service. Here you will find listings in the Legends Bay community / subdivision but may include Bradenton townhomes, condos, and villas on a custom MLS search.
… (0 comments)

I ain't signing no frickin' promissory note on my Short Sale!!! - 05:25 PM

I've got news for ya. You already did. When you purchased the property. You signed two documents. The mortgage. That created the lien and gave the lender the right to foreclose on your property (their collateral). And, you signed a promissory note. That was/is your personal promise to pay back the money you borrowed.
The Short Sale releases the lien (mortgage). It may or may not release you from the note. If the Lender is offering to swap out your $200,000 note, that you already signed, for a $10,000 at ZERO interest over 10 years then......why not sign and be … (34 comments)

Corolla Short Sale Real Estate: Price Reduction 626-A Sandfiddler Cir In Ocean Sands - 12:19 PM
Ocean Sands, Corolla  -  Announcing a price reduction on 626 A Sandfiddler Cir, a 1,300 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm 2 story. Now MLS® $225,000 - Huge Price Reduction.
Location, Location with only steps to the beach from this end unit in Sealoft Village. Great rental history and sold fully funished!!
Property information
About the author of this blog:
Matt Huband, SFR is Broker/Owner of Hometown Realty in Kitty Hawk, NC and a Certified Short Sale & Foreclosure Specialist. Matt works with buyers and sellers from Corolla to Hatteras interested in foreclosures, short sales, 2nd home, investment property, new construction, … (0 comments)

Denver's American Girl Store Opens on March 27th! - 12:17 AM
Denver's American Girl Store Opens on March 27th!
The Denver area has finally reached the big leagues of New York City, Chicago, Dallas, Boston, Los Angeles, and Atlanta. Why, you ask? No, this has nothing to do with sports. Our great city is getting a much sought-after American Girl store!
An American Girl store is true bliss for a young girl, or a guilty pleasure for us older ones! It is a multi-level store filled with dolls, clothes, accessories, dishes, decorations, a doll hospital, a doll hair salon and much more! Did I mention that the stores even do doll ear … (0 comments)

RULE OF "72" - 08:45 PM
RULE OF "72"
I've always found the concept of compound interest fascinating!
The Rule of "72" basically calculates that your money will "double" at an exact point by dividing 72 by the % of interest!
72 - 1% interest = 72 years*
72 - 3% interest = 24 years
72 - 6% interest = 12 years
72- 9% interest = 8 years
72- 12% interest = 6 years
72 - 15% interest = 4 years, 10 months
* If you had invested $1,000 and received 1% interest, it would have grown to $2,000 in exactly 72 years.
This is especially important … (6 comments)

Sale Fell... Idaho Real Estate Investment Opportunity! - 09:10 PM
Sale Fell... Idaho Real Estate Investment Opportunity!
15050 Vanita Ct.  Caldwell, ID  83607
This 1719 SF home sits on a .28 acre lot just off Hwy 55 (Karcher Road) in South Caldwell, Idaho.
This approved short sale home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2-car garage, separate living room & family room and was built in 2000!
Approved at only $46.54 / SF, this is a fabulous buy for the area and the market!
Now available for a short time as the short sale is approved and the foreclosure date is coming near!
           
           
           
For only $80,000, … (4 comments)

Technology Group - Now Approaching 1300 Members and Still Growing! - 06:07 PM
The Technology group is approaching the 1300 member milestone mark! As always, thanks to all of you who are contributing informative blogs and comments and sharing with the others in this group. We desire to continue providing a venue for technology information and resources that is useful as well as interesting -- to which you can keep coming back, knowing you will be learning something new, picking up a new idea or sparking new understanding that will be useful to you and/or your family and your business. Please reach out and encourage other members to share in the group.NOTE: We are also looking for members who would be willing to volunteer as moderators.  (See messsage at … (2 comments)

Commercial Group - Still Growing and Approaching 900 Members! - 06:21 PM
The Commercial Real Estate group is approaching the 900 member milestone mark! As always, thanks to all of you who are contributing informative blogs and comments and sharing with the others in this group. We desire to continue providing a venue for Commercial Real Estate information and resources that is useful as well as interesting -- to which you can keep coming back, knowing you will be learning something new, picking up a new idea or sparking new understanding that will be useful to you and/or your family and your business. Please reach out and encourage other members to share in the group.NOTE: We are also looking for members who would be willing to volunteer as moderators.  (See messsage … (0 comments)

South Jersey Group - Now 200 Members and Growing! - 06:31 PM
The Technology group recently reached the 200 member milestone mark! As always, thanks to all of you who are contributing informative blogs and comments and sharing with the others in this group. We desire to continue providing a venue for South Jersey information and resources that is useful as well as interesting -- to which you can keep coming back, knowing you will be learning something new, picking up a new idea or sparking new understanding that will be useful to you and/or your family and your business. Please reach out and encourage other members to share in the group.NOTE: We are also looking for members who would be willing to volunteer as moderators.  (See messsage at top of … (0 comments)

Business to Business Group - Now 200 Members and Growing! - 06:38 PM
The Business to Business group recently reached the 200 member milestone mark! As always, thanks to all of you who are contributing informative blogs and comments and sharing with the others in this group. We desire to continue providing a venue for Business-to-Business information and resources that is useful as well as interesting -- to which you can keep coming back, knowing you will be learning something new, picking up a new idea or sparking new understanding that will be useful to you and/or your family and your business. Please reach out and encourage other members to share in the group.NOTE: We are also looking for members who would be willing to volunteer as moderators.  (See messsage at top … (0 comments)

Seniors Issues Group - Over 200 Members and Growing! - 06:43 PM
The Seniors Issues group is over the 200 member milestone mark! As always, thanks to all of you who are contributing informative blogs and comments and sharing with the others in this group. We desire to continue providing a venue for Seniors information and resources that is useful as well as interesting -- to which you can keep coming back, knowing you will be learning something new, picking up a new idea or sparking new understanding that will be useful to you and/or your family and your business. Please reach out and encourage other members to share in the group.NOTE: We are also looking for members who would be willing to volunteer as moderators.  (See messsage … (0 comments)

Area Agent Is Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) - 09:06 PM
LAWRENCE YERKES EARNS PRESTIGIOUS DESIGNATION TO HELP HOMEOWNERS IN DANGER OF FORECLOSURE
Lawrence Yerkes, of RE/MAX Preferred in South Jersey, has earned the prestigious Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, having completed extensive training in foreclosure avoidance and short sales. This is invaluable expertise to offer at a time when the area is ravaged by "distressed" homes in the foreclosure process.
Short sales allow the cash-strapped seller to repay the mortgage at the price that the home sells for, even though it is lower than what is owed on the property. With plummeting property values, this can save many people from … (2 comments)

Feeling Lucky? - 06:12 AM
Wise words from our Southern Home Inspection Expert...trusting luck...Yicks !
Via Michael Thornton - Nashville, TN area Home Inspector (Complete Home Inspections, Inc.):
Feeling Lucky?     As consumers, we trust that items placed in our homes will function properly. We trust that trades men are competent and will install items according to accepted trade practices. Don't push your luck! This is not always the case.       One of the most common items we have in our homes are GFI outlets. While the newer ones are pretty much idiot proof, the older styles were not. Apprentices, handymen, weekend warriors and even experienced journeymen were prone … (5 comments)

My Own Re-Blog...Honoring The Life, The Memory of My Dad - 06:43 AM
Today my Father would have celebrated another birthday....and I think he is just on a different plane...and we won't be with him physically...he is in my heart, my mind and my memory every day....You would have all enjoyed him...his quiet wit, ready smile...and I miss him more today....Happy Birthday Dad....we work every day to make you proud of the people we have become...I think without asking...I can sign my sister and brother to this tribute...Sally K. (Repa) Hanson, Barbara Kate Repa (San Francisco,CA) and John Joseph Repa (Palm Beach, CA). The Daisies Bloomed Today (edit/delete)                                              
 
   My Dad … (6 comments)

Come to Matty's in New Berlin...a Little Bit Country - 10:23 AM
  Celebrate country living...and the newest Wisconsin Country Western (Ok midwestern) singer to hit the recording scene.

 
 
Matty's has a special music event coming up and we  want you to be part of it. Please join us on  March 27th 2010 at 9:00pm-1:30am. We'll be jammin to the country sounds of Michael Scott.  Country Music's newest upcoming star.   
… (1 comments)

Advertise Your Listings on Face Book - 09:35 PM
This is just good stuff and FREE. I have been trying it since Saturday and it has worked great.
Via Ginny Lee, CRS,Americas Best Agent,Naples,FL (Americas Best Agents, Inc):
Display your listings from REALTOR.com® on your Facebook wall!  If you are a real estate agent, your listings are already displayed on REALTOR.com® for FREE.
Now you can add your listings on Facebook with the FREE REALTOR.com® See My Listings application.
How do you do it? It's Easy, Trust me!
Go to this website: http://www.realtor.com/seemylistings/ Click on "Add my Listings" Click on "Allow" to let realtor.com access needed information. Select your MLS and … (5 comments)

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