Archives of real estate blog entries for November 11, 2011

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11-11-11. The day that we recognize the heroes that walk among us! - 07:42 AM
It is fitting that Veteran’s Day falls on a date of such numerical significance this year. After all, there is something very special about the brave men and women that have served our country or are currently on active duty.
Were it not for the past and present commitment to defend our national interests with military force, the torch of liberty would have long ago been extinguished.
It’s hard to fathom the dept of courage and dedication to duty that enables our soldiers, sailors and airmen to perform so admirably. And the fact that they walk among us every day generally … (33 comments)

You Hired Someone To Write Your Website Content-Now What - 08:43 AM
You are proud of your new real estate website.  The company who helped build your site sends out an annoucement for you. It's picked up by Google and appears in a Google alert.  Another Realtor® opens the link to see what all the excitement is about.  That's when it happens.  You get an email saying "please remove my content from your website."  You are shocked. The excuse you use in your reply is "we hired a third party" to write our content, we had no idea.  Unfortunately you aren't the first Realtor® who has used that reason as why the content … (89 comments)

Where's Your Humanity? - 08:25 PM
Where's Your Humanity?  I found mine this week when I had the honorable pleasure of volunteering for Habitat for Humanity at NAR's Convention in Anaheim, California.  And what a pleasure it was!
I've always been pretty good at building things.  When I was a little girl, I used to play with Lincoln Logs instead of Barbies.  I loved building 'play' houses... it felt good to create something with my hands.  And fortunately for Habitat for Humanity, my childhood creations paved the way for building dreams... one home at a time. 
This week, I was part of a team of Realtors® who built three homes for … (75 comments)

"STRANGER IN A STRANGE LAND"or... Why Do Local Agents Lose Their Local Focus??? - 09:26 PM
"STRANGER IN A STRANGE LAND" OR...Why do Local Agents lose their Local Focus???
"All real estate is local"...is a well recognized and well understood statement about real estate in general.
Yet the idea of "Local" has been lost just recently, especially as agents attempt to "capture" more business by casting their nets ever further from the local markets. The lure by the likes of Zillow and Trulia for agents as they try to get their feet in the door of an area they know nothing about---(which is in keeping with the reputation of these "Wise guys") has captured a certain type of agent who has no qualms about stepping in as … (67 comments)

Don't get caught "Riding Dirty!" - 08:41 AM
Don't get caught "Riding Dirty!"
Soda cans, fast food bags, old newspapers, candy wrappers and sticky suckers have a place and it's called a garbage can, not the interior of your car. During our weekly Board Tour meeting an agent stood up and told everyone how he has gained other people's clients because their car was filthy and unkempt. I can believe it!
Take heed salespeople. You could lose your clients due to a poor first impression.
Some options to ensure a pristine vehicle:
Avoid eating and drinking on the go Look at the interior from the clients view Get the … (164 comments)

Appraisers are Killing Sales - 06:08 PM
 

With tough loan underwriting guidelines, a market saturated with distressed and bank owned inventory, and reduction in loan programs, selling a home is no walk in the park. Imagine the relief and joy of a homeowner when they do get an offer or even multiple ones? However, the days of celebrating an offer are long over. Homeowners face a new, even bigger problem: the appraiser.
 Appraisers are coming in way below purchase price and killing a sale on the spot. Homeowners can do everything right to get the house in shape for the market from remodeling, staging and making … (81 comments)

How do I market my real estate business? - 03:34 AM
As a real estate agent, I am totally bombarded with emails and classes of all the programs I need to sign up for and pay for to get my real estate marketing off the ground.  I think I could actually take out a second mortgage on my home (if I actually had equity) to pay for all these "necessities."  Where can I get the most bang for my buck?
I've been thinking a lot about those funny little codes in all the advertising I've seen around town. They're called QR codes or "Quick Response Codes". (see photo) Maybe you've noticed them … (90 comments)

My First Year at ActiveRain - The HoneyMoon Stage is Over - 04:43 PM
And now the real work begins, right?
Well here is it. My first full year at ActiveRain. This is my 302 post in that year and I am excited to say, I'm gonna stick around a while! Knowing about ActiveRain for several years I didn't see the point in joining myself until I realized how quickly AR posts got indexed. I thought, this would be perfect for my clients to get instant back-links, more exposure off-site and better rankings. Little did I know how much fun I would have in blogging for myself.
My first post: Real Estate Agent in Bozeman … (92 comments)

CAPTCHA - Stanford University Researchers have Broken the Code - Will CAPTCHA be History? - 02:55 AM
The CAPTCHA Code has been Broken.  "Researchers from Stanford University have developed an automated tool that is capable of deciphering text-based anti-spam tests ... with a significant degree of accuracy," according to IDG News Service.  
 
     Stanford researchers  Elie Bursztein, Matthieu Martin and John C. Mitchel spent a year and a half trying to break the Code. They have succeeded, breaking 75% of eBay CAPTCHAs.
 
 
    
CAPTCHA is an acronym that stands for  "Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans Apart". 





 
     Will the CAPTCHA become … (62 comments)

I Want to Find a House First and then I will Talk to a Lender! - 04:51 PM
I was just approached by a potential buyer,  enquiring about a Los Angeles home for sale.
My first question to her was whether she had spoken to a lender.  Her answer was no.  I told her that she needed to do that before starting the process of buying a Los Angeles home.  Her answer:  "I just don't want to talk to a lender and not find a home. So I figure I could just work backwards."
We do not work backwards when buying a Los Angeles house. We look and work forward.  The very idea of working backwards is a negative … (145 comments)

Questions to Ask a Buyer's Agent Before Accepting That Short Sale Offer - 09:59 AM
One thing I have never had a problem with is speaking my mind. Just coming right out and saying what needs to be said. Some people like it, some hate it. I guess it depends on which side of the fence you stand. More people respect it than otherwise, which is how I've been able to get away with it for so many years.
Just the other day I was at the dry cleaners picking up a dress. The clerk behind the counter said, "That will be $36.18." As I pulled out a couple of $20 bills I said, "That sounds … (50 comments)

Where Oh Where Have You All Gone? - 11:16 PM
Sometimes you look around and all you see is emptiness.  Maybe you're sitting at your desk.  Maybe you're sitting at your favorite coffee shop.  Maybe you're standing in the line at a local store. 
No matter where you might be, in the middle of all that is going on (or is not going on), there seems to be a growing disconnection of people.  Where oh where have you all gone?  Walking down the sidewalk seeing so many heads looking downward at their mobile device....a good number more possibly chatting away on their phone...and no telling how many more reading Facebook posts.
… (52 comments)

I Would Like To Thank Those Who Thanked Me! - 12:05 PM
I woke up this morning to a great surprise. I had 15 facebook messages, 6 emails, and even a few phone calls from friends and family thanking me for my service in the Marine Corps. I have honestly never felt so appreciated as I do today. For that I wanted to thank all of you who thanked me. Looking back on my 14 years in the Marine Corps I can tell you it made me the man I am today. When I went in I was just like thousands of other young men who join the military, naive and wet behind … (51 comments)

Why I can't TELL you which items to repair after an Inspection. - 09:29 AM
Why I can't TELL you which items to repair after an Inspection.
When you have finally reached the point in your home buying contract when the inspection has been completed and now you have to decide which items you want the Seller to repair, this is the second part of the negotiation.  So many people think that the negotiation is over after the almighty "price" has been agreed upon.  Not so fast!
Once the inspection report is available, the Buyers must take a hard look at the report and determine the issues that they feel need to be corrected and repaired. … (43 comments)

Which to Buy – An Older Versus a New Home? - 11:49 PM



There are good arguments on both sides. A lot of buyers I work with have very strong opinions, one way or another. And for some, they haven't given it much thought. Of course there are differences between older homes and newer one.  What will matter most to you? This two-part series addresses some of the pros and cons before you start house-hunting.
Older Homes: The Potential Pluses Location:  these are often times built in the more central parts of a city, offering good walking-shopping options. 
Character: older homes, especially those with historical attributes have some intrinsically charming … (43 comments)

From Appliance Removal to Yard Debris ~ Rubbish Works is the Company For Me ~ Austin, TX - 06:55 AM
Meet Janet Lindgren with "Rubbish Works of Austin".  Janet and her husband, Kevin, are proud owners of this new franchise and are ready to service your needs.
Their company offers on-demand labor, hauling, waste disposal, junk removal, rubbish pick-up and recycling resolutions for both residential and commercial customers in the Greater Austin area. They can remove single items or multiple truckloads.  They will haul away old furniture, appliances, garage items and renovation items.Their mission is to make the landfill the last resort so they donate or recycle items and even yard debris is organically recycled!!  They pride themselves on a quick, professional … (43 comments)

A couple questions for my Active Rain friends Help Please - 09:08 AM
A couple questions for my Active Rain friends.  I have two separate scenarios going on right now and thought I would reach out to all the Active Rain experts to see what they have to say and what their experiences they have had.
 
Scenario 1:  Seller has a vacant home for sale but has a wachovia sba loan tied to the property still.  The home is for sale and we are under contract on the buyers side.  My question is this: The SBA loan is huge! more than the value of the home and more than what our contract is … (62 comments)

How the Heck Do I Get Back Into Blogging and Commenting??? HELP!!! - 01:20 PM
 
We’ll here I sit and sit and sit thinking about how the heck can I get back to my routine? I have been away from AR for what seems like years but it has only been since May. But for months I keep asking this same question but not acting on it.
 
I tried so hard to light the fire under my derriere and stay true to blogging and commenting that in the beginning of this year so I did the 31 days of May challenge 2011. I was so proud that I was blogging every single day … (56 comments)


Blog posts


Price Improvement - Owner Retired - Popular Spa Resort in Primavera State Forest Needs New Owner for Upcoming Season - Mexico Real Estate - 03:29 PM
Delightful Mineralized Hot Springs Retreat - Resort REDUCED TO $3,250,000 … (0 comments)

Condominium with a View in Olympia WA! - 07:04 PM
Condominium with a View in Olympia WA!
Enjoy panoramic views of Budd Inlet, marina, the Capital, and Olympic mountains from your wrap-around deck in your corner unit. The home offers a spacious master suite with a 3/4 bath w/walk-in closet, a kitchen w/eating space, views from the dining room and living room, gas fireplace, and large laundry room. Newer cabinets and appliances, new flooring in entry and hallway. Homeowner dues include water, sewer, garbage, basic cable, clubhouse, pool, and gas to the fireplace.
What a View! … (0 comments)

Nashua, NH Hosts Open House, Food Drive & Toys for Tots - 03:18 PM
 
        NASHUA REALTORS® will be hosting open houses where visitors can drop off nonperishable foods for the Pennichuck Middle School Food Pantry and unwrapped gifts for Toys for Tots. 
 
          On Sunday, November 13th, BHG, The Masiello Group will host open houses and provide drop off stations for folks to make their donations. 
 
          Pennichuck Middle school has started a much needed food pantry and many local families are need of donations of food for the holiday season.  In addition, many children throughout New Hampshire will be able to enjoy toys donated through Toys for Tots.  In addition, … (18 comments)

The Top Rule when Investing In Contra Costa County Real Estate - 04:16 PM
The Top Rule when Investing In Contra Costa County Real Estate!
If you want to Invest in Real Estate you will want to Watch this Short 2 minute Video and Get the Free Real Estate Investing Book. This is one simple lesson of many about Real Estate Investing. There are many things to learn about Real Estate Investing. Subscribe and watch up coming videos, order the book, or give me a call at 925-260-4321. 

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Investment Properties Available Now!
… (0 comments)

Little Lions Grow Up! - 06:53 PM
The Liberty Lions Football Team Ended their season with a Thud last night.  
However, just like Charlie Brown there is always next season and eternal hope.
For my son Nelson Big Number 78 playing on the JV Team this Sophomore year, this year presented some real challenges which (more off the field than on) he has handled with real character.
What amazes be about teenagers is the same sloppy, lazy, and inconsiderate kid can rise to extreme levels of maturity, character and sensitivity.
But his story of this season is for another day. I have been thinking about how … (3 comments)

116 51st St Cir in Palmetto FL - 10:52 PM
… (3 comments)

Remembrance Day & our courage to make a difference 11/11/11 - 09:32 AM
                                                                                                 11/11/11 Please take time to read this message written by one of my favorite clients and now friend, Louise Klein. This is what  Veteran's Day is about. In case you don't read the entire article, here is the last paragraph: "May the volunteerism of today's soldiers -- and the volunteerism of yesterday's veterans -- inspire all of us with courage to be the best we can be and serve our communities, missions and countries.  May we think of their legacy, as well as their sacrifice and hard work, not just on the days when we wear poppies as a tribute." … (9 comments)

11 11 11 11 - in Stowe, Vermont - A Veteran's Day Salute! - 01:07 PM
11 11 11 11 - in Stowe, Vermont - A Veteran's Day Salute!
Today is November 11th, 2011 - thus 11 11 11.  At 11:00 a.m. Stowe had it's annual Veteran's Day Ceremony.  This event is always attended by a small group of locals who are always there.  It happened to be a great November day with a partial sun and cool - around 45 degrees.
The flag in front of the Akely building was at half mask.  The Veterans were wearing their special gear.  Prayers were said in honor of the all the veterans.  And many tears were shed - … (2 comments)

Friends ? Who Needs 'Em ! - 07:41 AM
       Anyone who has been in real estate for 5 minutes and met a buyer or seller....knows that Friends are the ultimate authority in real estate.....you can call any one of them who has ever lived in a house and find out:
  - How much you should pay
  - How much earnest money to put down
  - What the price of the house should be....
  - What an inspector should be paid
  - What an inspector should have known/found/demanded be corrected
  - Under what legal  circumstances earnest money can be kept
  - The definition … (11 comments)

We're Proud...We're Thankful.....Celebrate being an American...Thank A Vet - 01:28 PM
  It  shouldn't be just today....that we remember...Just today that we are thankful...just today that we express to the people we know who have served our country .....who have lost loved ones...sons, daughters, parents, neighbors, friends....not just today...but every day....have an attitude of gratitude.

… (3 comments)

Beautiful Family Home - 11:11 AM
… (1 comments)

Happy Veteran's Day Holiday and Thank YOU to all Veterans around the Globe... - 08:44 AM


Good Morning: In the years since our nation was born, veterans have given selfless service to their country in times of war and peace. At every critical stage in America's history, these men and women stepped up when they were needed, and their efforts to preserve the freedom we now enjoy made an impact at home and abroad. 
Celebrate this wonderful day by offering thanks to a veteran and by spending quality time with loved ones.  Find time each and every day to practice selfless acts of kindness toward others.  Our freedom was built upon the shoulders of heroes.  … (4 comments)

Five Great Reasons to Have Your House on the Market in Yardley Over the Holidays - 05:31 PM
It is REALLY hard for me to believe that we are just a couple of weeks from Thanksgiving…we have already seen snow this October!  The holidays and winter are just around the corner.
I have spoken with several people over the past few days who are planning on selling their homes, and are planning on starting the process just after the new year. So, the question I am often asked this time of the year is, “Why bother putting my house on the market over the holidays, since no one will be looking?”
In fact, I’d like to offer a number … (1 comments)

Are You Facing Foreclosure? - 07:56 PM
Buyers are taking advantage of our Smooth Move Program at closing, Choose between 1% Cash Back,  1 years taxes paid, 1 years insurance paid, Free Home Warranty and Use of our Moving Van or Free Survey with Free Termite. Would you like information on buying or selling Foreclosures / Short sales CLICK HERE
Sellers Flat Fee of $2995 when one of our agents sells your home or if you want MLS (where you home is available to all realtors to sell) then the best program TODAY is $1495 to us +3 % offered to Buyers Agent for bringing the buyer.  When you … (0 comments)

What is a Short Sale? Short Sale Process? Free Information from Los Angeles Short Sale Realtor Specialist - 08:14 PM
Buyers are taking advantage of our Smooth Move Program at closing, Choose between 1% Cash Back,  1 years taxes paid, 1 years insurance paid, Free Home Warranty and Use of our Moving Van or Free Survey with Free Termite. Would you like information on buying or selling Foreclosures / Short sales CLICK HERE
Sellers Flat Fee of $2995 when one of our agents sells your home or if you want MLS (where you home is available to all realtors to sell) then the best program TODAY is $1495 to us +3 % offered to Buyers Agent for bringing the buyer.  When you … (0 comments)

Short Sale Information for Bank of America Mortgage / Countrywide - 08:26 PM
Buyers are taking advantage of our Smooth Move Program at closing, Choose between 1% Cash Back,  1 years taxes paid, 1 years insurance paid, Free Home Warranty and Use of our Moving Van or Free Survey with Free Termite. Would you like information on buying or selling Foreclosures / Short sales CLICK HERE
Sellers Flat Fee of $2995 when one of our agents sells your home or if you want MLS (where you home is available to all realtors to sell) then the best program TODAY is $1495 to us +3 % offered to Buyers Agent for bringing the buyer.  When you … (0 comments)

The Eight Steps in a Short Sale Process - 08:34 PM
Buyers are taking advantage of our Smooth Move Program at closing, Choose between 1% Cash Back,  1 years taxes paid, 1 years insurance paid, Free Home Warranty and Use of our Moving Van or Free Survey with Free Termite. Would you like information on buying or selling Foreclosures / Short sales CLICK HERE
Sellers Flat Fee of $2995 when one of our agents sells your home or if you want MLS (where you home is available to all realtors to sell) then the best program TODAY is $1495 to us +3 % offered to Buyers Agent for bringing the buyer.  When you … (0 comments)

Here Comes the Bride! - 08:33 AM
Here Comes the Bride!

Today Ask Gina & Company will celebrate one of our own, Jennifer Johnson, as she continues to make her dreams come true by marrying Mr. David Warner! Every day Jennifer is committed to helping her clients find their pot of gold at the end of the rainbow and we are thrilled Jennifer and David are about to discover theirs!
Please join us in wishing Jennifer and David a day of lasting memories and a lifetime of wedded bliss!
Congrats Mr. And Mrs. David and Jennifer Warner!
Took the plunge and ready to find a place … (0 comments)

FAQs for Buyers: How many points do I need? - 08:59 AM
How the DVC point system works:A Disney Vacation Club ownership is a real estate interest represented by "vacation points". A customer purchases a number of vacation points as a one-time purchase, becoming a "member" of the "club".  Please see our active listings for prices and availability at all DVC properties. After the initial purchase, members are charged annual dues based on the number of vacation points they own. There are no additional annual charges. Vacation Club members can then use these points to make reservations at one of the Vacation Club resorts or any of the other options available. The number of points needed … (0 comments)

Mobile AL Real Estate Daily Market Snapshot - 11/10/2011 - 09:24 AM

Below you will find a table that contains the Daily Market Activity report for November 10, 2011 activity in the Mobile AL Real Estate market according to the Mobile Association of Realtors MLS system.
This information is derived daily directly from the local MLS System. For more free Mobile AL real estate information, reports, and statistics, please visit http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com or http://www.AlabamaBestHomes.com . Please e-mail me or call 251-215-9382 if you would like additional information on any of the listings shown.
Steve Shaw Gulf Region Properties Team Keller Williams Realty My Website: http://www.GulfRegionProperties.com
… (0 comments)

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