Archives of real estate blog entries for November 12, 2011

Featured blog posts


So you want to buy A Victoria BC Condominium, Or Do You? - 12:30 PM
So you want to buy A Victoria BC Condominium, Or Do You? In Greater Victoria well over 50% of all real estate sold in recent years is either a Condominium Suite, a 1/2 Duplex, a Town-House, a Bare Land strata, or one of those funky conversion suites in one of those cool renovated historic houses. All of these have one thing in common;    They are all part of the legal concept we in British Columbia call "Strata Property" or "Condominiums" (the names can be used inter-changeably) and are all governed by the BC Strata Property Act. The reasons for buying … (24 comments)

Is The Blog The Most Important Part Of Online Presence? - 01:48 PM

I recently saw this question posed on another forum, "Is the blog the most important part of online presence?"
 
The answer is not cut-and-dry for me. My blogs are part of a system of tools designed to drive traffic to my website, capture leads, incubate those leads over time, and generate revenue.  Blogging with no end in mind or system in-place is going to produce little results.
 
Let’s look at my basic formula: Revenue = Blogs + IDX + Lead Capture + CRM. (Edit - Another way to look at it is: Revenue = Traffic + Content + Lead … (79 comments)

Graphics For Bloggers [#7] - Creative Cropping - 02:35 PM
Photography is something that we want to leverage in our blogging and presentation work for our business. Do you carry your camera with you wherever you go? Do you let photo ops pass you by because you weren't prepared to capture the moment?
Having imagery in our our blogs makes our posts much more interesting! Can you imagine a magazine where every page was only words. Do you think you would subscribe?
Before we take a photo, we should give some thought to the composition. Do you use the rule of thirds? Do you move about the scene a little looking … (86 comments)

Do you check the wall plugs? - 05:13 PM
We call them electrical receptacles. Some people call them electrical outlets and, yes, we do check them. Not every single one because receptacles are often behind furniture or stored items that are not readily movable; but we spot-check at least one in each room.
   Two circuit analysis tools, one low-tech and one high-tech, are used: a simple 3-light tester that checks wiring configuration, and also a more sophisticated circuit analyzer that checks voltage, voltage drop under load, resistance to ground, plus tests GFCI and AFCI receptacles.
   Before we go into what defects the electrical receptacles are tested for, let’s … (46 comments)

The most common defect found during Ogden, Utah Home Inspections - 06:27 AM
 The most common defect found during Ogden, Utah Home Inspections
 
The lack of DOWNSPOUT EXTENSIONS. THIS PROBLEM SHOULD BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY.

Most home owners pay little attention to their downspouts. The majority of Ogden, Utah homes lack any form of downspout extensions at all which basically defeats the entire point of having gutters.
 
Many home owners assume that since they have new gutters or nice gutters that their downspout extensions are sufficient. Such assumptions are wrong. Downspout extensions aren't usually provided by the gutter installation company because anything past the lower 45 degree angle is considered landscaping.
 
… (20 comments)

Marketing Your Open House Event Every Weekend....Standard Kuney-Todaro Team Procedure - 10:52 AM
Do you write blog posts about your open house events?  There are many agents who do not, and I can’t understand why that happens.  If you were thinking of visiting local open house events on a weekend, how would you find them?
The most reasonable way is to Google for that information.  Let Google do the research and deliver that information to you.  Google the date and geographic location, and you’ll understand who markets properly.  You’ll see where the advertised open house events are taking place.
You should search for those open house events on Yahoo, Bing and other search engines.  … (79 comments)

Sometimes You Just Need to Push Away The Keyboard - 01:50 PM
Sometimes You Just Need to Push Away The Keyboard Our regulars have probably noticed we're "out of sync" this week.  Posting times running late and no double postings any day this week.  We could blame it on the time change...yeah, that's the ticket.... but honestly that's got nothing to do with it.
Is it for lack of ideas?  Nope, that's generally not a problem either, we've got plenty of those.  A lot of it just comes down to time challenges and where this week we decided to place our efforts.  Writing that 2nd post just didn't quite make it to the … (64 comments)

Lakeland FL Homes For Sale - Zip Code 33801 - 04:59 PM
Lakeland Homes For Sale – Zip Code 33801   Lakeland homes for sale in 33801 is an exclusive and unique neighborhood in the  much desired area of Lakeland in Polk County Florida. In this location you will not find any homes that look alike, this is definitely not a cookie cutter neighborhood,  in this Lakeland community. You will find many homes to choose from in this area including: single family homes, muliti-family homes, estate sizes homes, and town houses.
Lakeland homes for sale in 33801 is located within city limits in the more rural area of Florida. This location is sure to … (11 comments)

Just a little rant - 06:08 PM
I just showed a property to an agent and her clients.  During the showing her client pointed to the house directly behind the property I have listed.  The buyer mentioned how her agent didn't  let her go into  that house because the agent didn't like how the house was on a hill.  The agent further stated "l can just see the water just flowing down into the basement."
This is wrong on so many different levels.  If the other property did happen to get water in the basement, which I know for a fact that it does not, there are ways to remedy that issue.  To … (69 comments)

My IDX Can Beat Up Your IDX - 01:44 AM
My IDX Can Beat Up Your IDX
 
 
OK so there have been a lot of conversations, blogs and basic chatter going on about websites and the best IDX to have on it.  Questions ranging from lead capture and CRM and just basic search capability.  
 
Well I utilize two IDX functions.  One which is going live in a short time that you have seen just blogged about by our own Tom Branch.  I am very excited about this new feature.  The visitors to our websites will be able to find everything that is important to them.  For example … (48 comments)

No Dear Buyer, You May Not Ride In My Jeep - 07:15 PM

 Much is expected of my little Jeep. Between four growing kids, piles of real estate paperwork, and various heavy objects (including multiple giant Christmas trees), she certainly earns her keep. Though you may find a three year old M&M, odds are you will never find a buyer riding shotgun.
 I made the choice about a year into my real estate career to stop transporting buyers. Though such policy may seem Draconian, here are a few arguments against the buyer riding shotgun...
1) Show me the money--- I live in the lawsuit capital of the country. When we relocated here from … (122 comments)

Seller and Investor mistakes when "upgrading" a home - 05:51 PM
Older homes can greatly benefit from some sprucing up. Cracked tile counters in kitchens, scratched and stained artificial marble in baths, non-functioning windows and bent wooden garage doors are bound to date a property and in the case of a sale or planned rental, may deter some buyers or tenants. Sometimes simple improvements can increase marketability.
There are two kinds of home improvements: What homeowners install for their own enjoyment and without a view towards future added value. Pretty much anything goes if the owner likes it. The second category is the type of refurbishing owners may do in order to put a home on … (69 comments)

How To Handle A Post On Activerain That Offends You. - 02:00 AM
1. Navigate away. You've got better things to do.
2. Type a 6 paragraph email and send it off to Activerain. Your hair falls out because you are so upset. Your sphincter is so puckered you can hardly stand it. Somebody said "shit" on AR. THE NERVE.
3. Navigate away. After all, you could be folding laundry, walking on the treadmill or sweeping out the garage.
4. Immediately contact your spiritual adviser. How dare someone say they DO NOT believe in the same religious views as you. They are so going to hell. You can't prove it, but you are sure … (95 comments)

Your High School Photo is Not Acceptable if You're 40 - 10:43 AM
Excuse the rant but why do some agents insist on using photos on their business cards, advertisements, Active Rain profiles, Facebook etc etc that are outdated?
I recall early in my career (all of 6 years ago) having an impression of how a certain REALTOR looked based on her photo that she was using. I ended up doing a deal with her and imagine my surprise when I dropped off the deposit cheque and someone who looked JUST LIKE the Mom of the person in the photo introduced herself as the REALTOR I was doing business with!!!
I'm currently at NAR in … (64 comments)


Blog posts


USA Condos & Townhouses - Blue Ridge Mountain Views - Luxury & Leisure - NC Real Estate - 05:22 PM
Mountain View Luxury & Leisure Condos … (0 comments)

Timberlakes Lot with a 360 sq. ft garage/shop with electrical and attached 4 stall carport area 1128 sq. ft. - 02:07 PM
Timberlakes lot with a 360 sq. ft garage/shop with electrical and attached 4 stall carport area 1128 sq. ft.
NEW PRICE $24,950
Bring the RV and the boat! Enjoy your weekend/vacation get away. Water skiing, or fishing on Timberlakes two lakes or crabbing and fishing,on Timberlakes private saltwater dock and boat launch that is located on Pickering Passage. The Community Parks feature a sports court for basketball, tennis, a picnic shelter, and disc golf course. Water at street.
Lot with a 360 sq. ft garage See these listings and more at www.jimshepherd.pnwre.net or www.sheltonhomesnow.com
… (0 comments)

What will happen to patterns of Home Ownership? - 11:54 AM
What will happen to patterns of Home Ownership?
For better or for worse we have promoted the value of home ownership in this country for many years.  Home ownership in my opinion is a good thing.  It builds stability in communities and provides people with a bigger stake in the American Dream.  
However, this article in the Wall Street Journal points out how long it took housing to bounce back after the great depression and how many people did not view ownership as an asset for a long time.
I think most people want Home Ownership but uncertainty over real … (4 comments)

Fannie Mae Follies! - 12:03 PM
Fannie Mae Follies
Well as the government makes it harder and harder for the average family to buy a home they seem to be making it easier and easier for themselves.
Now I understand that the old days of lending any body money that claims they might have a job is gone. However, at this point legitimate buyers who could shore up the market are being kept from buying.
But Fannie Mae continues to do it's real job of being a political slush fund and a place where well connected people with no other real qualifications can find jobs.
This … (5 comments)

9913 Middle Mill Drive...You Don't Have to Wait For An Open House! - 12:57 PM
 9913 Middle Mill Drive...You Don't Have to Wait For An Open House!
 
You don't have to wait for an open house, just give me a call and we will OPEN the house to fit your schedule!
 
 

 
 
Author of Real Estate the Rome Way
www.HomeRome.com
410-530-2400
… (19 comments)

Am I Now A Florida Short Sale “Expert”? - 12:37 PM
I don’t think so. Even though my new CDPE designation says I am!!! Yes that’s right I am now a Certified Distressed Property Expert (R).
As you may know, my partner Wendy Rulnick and I own the most active Short Sale Network in the World at ShortSaleSuperstars.com and we have been teaching agents how to do short sales for several years now. BUT....we are not Short Sale Experts.
So.....we both decided to attend the CDPE classes and get our Certified Distressed Property Expert (R) designations.

Wendy took hers online and I attended the 2 day CDPE class in Orlando Florida … (19 comments)

4739 CAPE HATTERAS DR, CLERMONT FL 34714 Tradds Landing - 06:38 PM
4739 CAPE HATTERAS DR, CLERMONT FL 34714                                                          $$$ 144,900 $$$
Short Sale.  Beautiful and immaculate home that is a great floorplan. Beautiful curb appeal welcomes you home. As you walk in you are greeted by the formal living and dining. The 4th bedroom could also serve as a den or study. Large kitchen w/ eat-in dinnette area that opens up to the family room.  Enjoy large master suite w. dual vanities, garden tub, separate shower & large closet space.  Split plan offers two more large bedrooms w/ bathroom. This home is move-in ready and also offers great privacy with no rear … (0 comments)

7303 PARTRIDGE LN, ORLANDO FL 32807 Tiffany Acres - 06:41 PM
7303 PARTRIDGE LN, ORLANDO FL 32807                                                                   $$$ 115,000 $$$
Quaint 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath 1,455 Sq Ft Pool Home on a huge corner lot close to UCF, the airport, downtown and major highways. Large galley kitchen has been updated with solid wood cabinets and newer appliances. The family room has a brick fireplace for those rare cold Florida nights. Huge master suite with sitting area with direct access to the pool through the master bath. Large screened patio with swimming pool for entertaining or cooling off on warm days. The home has been replumbed, as well as having a new A/C … (0 comments)

2237 SETTLERS TRL, ORLANDO FL 32837 Hunters Creek - 06:44 PM
2237 SETTLERS TRL, ORLANDO FL 32837                                                                   $$$ 144,900 $$$
A captivating roof line and a lush lawn welcome you home after a long day.  Leave your day at the door step and pass the threshold into your own tranquil retreat.  Expansive volume ceilings refract light inducing ambient feelings of contentment. Your oversized family room offers a multitude of lighted ledges for you to display your personal effects.  Take a deep breath and relax on your screened in patio with your Kindle and latest download.  Let your worries fade away and re-coop because tomorrow is a new day!  With the peace and … (0 comments)

1345 DARNABY WAY, ORLANDO FL 32824 Harbor Lakes - 06:47 PM
1345 DARNABY WAY, ORLANDO FL 32824                                                           $$$ 151,500 $$$
Impeccable, flawless, culminating, and ideal are the words that flood your mind at the first glance of what will be your new home.  You cannot believe that you have found the purchase of a lifetime.  Infinite ceilings with a multitude of windows flood your home with natural sunlight.  The open kitchen with built-in desk, wine rack, and pantry, boast ample storage space for you and your family.   Have a bite to eat in the dining area in the kitchen or enjoy a family dinner in the dining room.  The master bedroom is … (1 comments)

1943 AMERICUS MINOR DR, WINTER GARDEN FL 34787 Fullers Crossing - 06:51 PM
1943 AMERICUS MINOR DR, WINTER GARDEN FL 34787                                                         $$$ 160,000 $$$
Tired Of Waiting On Short Sales?  Then This Is The Home For You.  Traditional Sale!!  Original Owners Have Cared For And Maintained This Lovely Home.  This Cambridge One Story Home Has 4 Bedrooms/2 Bathrooms And A Wonderful Open Floor Plan. Family Room Overlooks The Screened In Lanai With A Large Backyard Which Is Completely Fenced For Privacy.  You Will Also Find A Seperate Childrens Play Area With Their Very Own White Picket Fence.  This Home Is Move In Ready.  Located Only Minutes From The West Orange Trail, Chapin Station Park … (0 comments)

233 SPRING LEAP CIR, WINTER GARDEN FL 34787 Dearfield Place - 06:57 PM
233 SPRING LEAP CIR, WINTER GARDEN FL 34787                                                        $$$ 167,000 $$$
Beautiful waterfront home located in the back of this small subdivision located just down the road from Winter Garden's open air mall, Fowler's Grove. Watch the eagles & hawks go fishing while relaxing on your 40x10 covered, screened and tiled lanai overlooking the water. Additional benefits include: no rear neighbors, conservation  views, ceramic tile, real hardwood floors, corian counters, tile backsplash, upgraded cabinets with hardware, stainless steel appliances, upgraded A/C, crown moulding, ceiling fans throughout and so much more. This home is clean and well maintained.  It is also just … (2 comments)

Unbelievable Value...Updates Everywhere...Man Cave ...Milwaukee Wisconsin - 07:22 AM
Updated Kitchen and Bath....Finished Lower Level...Convenient Location..OUTSTANDING Price...a little patience with this short sale....and it's all yours! Call the Hansons: 414-525-0563 find out how you can make this house your home ! … (10 comments)

5 "SHORT SALE" TIPS -- WALNUT CREEK, CA - 11:26 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)

Banks offer deals to encourage short sales instead of foreclosures - 11:27 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 … (1 comments)

Open Sunday * November 13, 2011 * 1-4pm * Ashburn * Virginia - 08:32 PM
Charming Colonial Brick Front Home! … (2 comments)

Single Family For Rent in Great Falls, Virginia 22066*Granite Countertops/Hardwood Flooring/Pets Case By Case - 08:58 AM
… (0 comments)

Townhome for Rent in Fairfax/Centreville 22030/20120*2004 built/in Faircrest neighborhood/Granite Countertops/Hardwood Flooring/2 Car Garage - 09:01 AM
… (1 comments)

Fairfax County Housing Market Report for Oct. 2011- Home Price are Down or Up? - 10:08 AM
Fall market is always full of surprises in the Northern Virginia Real Estate roller coaster market. While Sept 2011 we have big headlines" " DC Metro Sold Price Highest in September 2011 in four Years". On the other hand Oct. 2011 has shown weakness in the housing market.
Analyst analyzes blame reduction in the FHA loan limit as one of the major reason that that affected the housing slow down in Oct. 2011. As a Fairfax County Realtor I know after the school reopens housing market tends to slow down and the effects are clearly reflected in the Fall and … (0 comments)

Manhattan Monthly Market Report - October 2011 - 12:58 AM
| Record Low Interest Rates | Rental Vacancy Rates Below 1% | All -Time High Average Rents |
I like to provide a sense of the Manhattan market conditions each month in my Manhattan market reports and I find myself trying to constantly gain a market-wide perspective on demand, pricing and market psychology.
While the macro-level market analysis below is certainly helpful in placing real estate opportunities in context and weighing up relative negotiating strength, what matters most are the individual sale transactions. Each market segment and neighborhood has it's own nuances.
My current perspective is that the market has picked up … (7 comments)

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