Archives of real estate blog entries for November 26, 2011

Featured blog posts


Short Sales are Selling! - 11:56 PM
Here in South East King County, there have been over 200 single family homes approved and closed as Short Sales. The average market time for these listings (market time being time from first being listed to accepting an offer, not the waiting period for the short sale approval) was 96 days.
I enjoy helping owners navigate the short sale process, and I don't mind one bit the extra hoops and huge time committment it takes to have a successful outcome. I also like to help buyers determine whether a particular short sale listing might work for them....asking the right questions and evaluating … (28 comments)

When in Doubt, Just Make Up Words! - 07:37 AM
When in Doubt, Just Make Up Words! At least that's what I thought when I saw this in a real estate listing:

"Owner in Process of Removing Adondance of Personal Property." Adondance?  Adondance??  I had to read that sentence three times before I finally figured out what the agent was trying to say.
Now the only thing "Adondance" brought to mind for me was a family event where my father-in-law, Don, inadvertently started dirty dancing with his step daughter and her friend.  Talk about A Don Dance!  But that's just me.  And no amount of brain bleach is going to … (41 comments)

Sellers, Do You Wish You Could Read A Buyer's Mind? - 11:10 PM
Sellers, Do You Wish You Could Read A Buyer's Mind?

Well, now you can! After many months of interviewing buyers, this post will provide some insight into what buyers are really thinking when they go into your home! I have gathered the input from a focus group of buyers who have asked to remain anonymous.
Nina: What is the most surprising thing you see when you look at a house for sale?
Buyer 1: Sometimes I have to remind myself that I came to an open house and not a yard sale. There's so much stuff on every surface!
… (104 comments)

Want holiday readers? Blog about local, seasonal businesses! - 10:01 AM
Take a look at all the local seasonal businesses in your area, from Christmas Tree lots to stores and services catering to the holidays.  I'll bet many of them either don't have a website (especially the tree lots) or the website they do have is not very high quality.  I noticed this with a local Christmas tree lot.  They not only didn't have a website, but nothing about their address, hours, or phone number.  So, guess what?  I'm going to blog about them!
When I did this for a local pumpkin patch, I got hundreds of hits on the blog article.  … (32 comments)

Wilderness Lodge in Disney World-Orlando-The Only Thing Missing is Snow - 10:35 AM
Wilderness Lodge in Disney World-Orlando-The Only Thing Missing is Snow
We were at our favorite vacation spot back in September and wandered over to Wilderness Lodge. (DisneyWorld for those who don’t know what our favorite spot is). I love to see the gardens there because they are like wild mountain meadows.Wilderness Lodge is a beautiful place to stay if you’re coming down to Disney World in Orlando, Florida. The only thing missing is the snow but we don’t mind that at all.The lobby is incredible and quite interesting the lodge poles are carved with animal faces Wilderness Lodge rests on the … (23 comments)

How many homes should you look at before making an offer? - 10:45 PM
How many homes should you look at before making an offer? Recently I have read blogs about agents showing sixty or more homes before getting a purchase offer.
Although there is a large inventory of homes, and buyers have far more options there is really no need to look at an entire inventory before making a purchase.
So how can you avoid this trap?
1. Start the process off right by first having a consultation with the agent of your choice. The purpose of the meeting is to get an understanding of your need so that the selection of properties can … (91 comments)

Random Act of Kindness : Balloons to Heaven - 12:18 PM
38 Random Acts of Kindness - Balloons to Heaven !   This year, so many people that I hold dear to my heart, have taught me more than they could ever imagine, through their strength and their loved ones. So many have had to endure what no person ever should. From parents, grandparents, brothers, sister, aunts and uncles, losing a loved one, to friends who have lost their courageous fight to cancer and other illnesses.  Having lost many loved ones in my life, I know the hole and void it can leave in your heart. Although, I cannot ever imagine what … (12 comments)

Question: Realtor Conduct? Is it okay to show a home while another agent is there?? - 02:17 PM
I have a burning question that I would love for my Active Rain Agents to chime in...
If you go to show a home, and another agent is there, can you go in and show your client??
 
As our markets in Northern California heat up I have had numerous occasions where I drive up
to show a property and another agent is there. I am getting my brokers license right now and
I have not come across anything stating it is against Realtor conduct to show a home while
another agent is there.
To me...I say go right in!
This … (101 comments)

Road to 300K in the Rain - 09:33 PM
With this post I will surpass 300K points here in the Rain. For this milestone, I am giving myself a gold star. I had planned on writing an awesome thoughtful post that would leave everyone in awe and then reality hit. Short and Sweet gets the job done.
When I first started in Active Rain I was in a race with myself to hit that 100,000 milestone. I hit my 10 posts a week, spent way too much time reading others thoughts and with an occasional Featured Acrticle was conent on climbing the ladder to be the Featured Agent for my … (55 comments)

Scared to buy a home? Overcome the fear by taking these 6 steps! - 01:56 PM
Scared to buy a home?  Overcome the fear by taking these 6 steps!
A week ago yesterday I had my first adult surgery.  I had a few friends tell me what a breeze it would be and that I would be ready to go back to work the next day.  Well my mom could have told you from back when I was 17 that I'm a huge BABY when it comes to being a patient.  In the past week I have weened myself off the pain pills but ventured out very very little. I've picked up a couple of things from Kroger … (43 comments)

Time Marches On - and Things Change - 05:53 PM
Last week I saw new real estate signs go up in our little town. Century 21 Riverstone replaced River Mountain Realty.
Nine years ago, River Mountain Realty replaced Cliff Realty.
Gee… has it really been THAT long?
Times have changed, so this time I expect their entry into our small town will be more successful. Back when Cliff Realty was a presence in town, residents didn't look too kindly on franchise real estate companies. There was an inherent distrust, as in "We don't know those people!"
So when our landlord kindly rented the space next door to … (17 comments)

Small Business Saturday 11.26.2011 ....Where Will You Shop Small? - 08:00 AM
Small Business Saturday 11.26.2011 ....Where Will You Shop Small?

I am using an old store to illustrate how important this day is ....If we make a concerted effort to support our local small businesses then they will be here for years to come ....just like these old images of time going by that give us so much pleasure!
Saturday November 26th is Support a  Local Small Business day.  If everyone made a small purchase from a local business .... be it earrings to furniture, it would show great support for the spirit of our small entrepreneurs everywhere and help keep … (52 comments)

That First Impression That Sets Us Apart from Others - 11:05 AM
 
Sometimes, we just get ONE chance to ‘prove ourselves’ during that initial meeting on the phone or in person. It could be a call from a Military Family Relocating to Hawaii and inquiring about their VA Loan home loan benefits and buying a home in Hawaii.  It could be a call from a Mililani Home Seller asking if we can schedule an appointment for an ‘interview’ in regards to selling their home
 
That first impression could be the difference between just a lead or securing a client.
How’s about when we’re searching for just that right real estate agent … (30 comments)

Rid Yourself of the Nonpaying Busywork - 01:01 PM
Have you ever had a something happen that originally felt like a small disaster, that later turned out to be a blessing? I had one of those situations this past week.
As I was heading to a morning appointment, I realized the screen on my cellphone had gone dead. This was a real bummer for me, 'cause I pretty much use my cellphone like a laptop. The worst part was I had downloaded several applications with tons of information that I would now be lost because it was not tranferable to my sim card. I know I should always have this kind of valuable info backed up, but isn't that why we have "smart" phones? (Just jokin'.)
As I … (54 comments)

5 "Grass Roots" Signs That the Economy is Improving by Jennifer Prestwich- your Henderson, Thornton and Broomfield REALTOR® - 11:16 AM
If you follow the news at all, you would think that our economy has collapsed entirely.  At best it seems to be limping along, day by day, grasping at any little crumb that drops.....
I am not an economist, nor do I play one on TV. In fact, I didn't even sleep at a Holiday Inn Express last night.
But I do have eyes, and I see a lot.  And I have noticed some very encouraging things about the economy lately.
I like to call this a "grass-roots" study of the economy. It is non-scientific and won't be filled with any sort of jargon. … (32 comments)

What Do Realtors and Bookstore People Have in Common? - 07:18 PM
Working at a brick and mortar books store these days must be rough. Amazon, eBooks, dot-coms, Costco, all these places makes it sure easy to buy books and even get recommendations. But it's not the same.
Zillow, Trulia, Redfin, county records, FSBO's, all these places makes if sure easy to shop and a get real estate advice. Again, not the same.

But let's stand back and look what value-add a bookstore employees brings. 
•    You can tell them what you like and they can recommend another great book.
•             You can tell them what experience your seeking or what you want … (50 comments)

It's all about Main Street, USA... - 10:47 AM

If you grew up on a small street in a small town you likely learned young to appreciate the small enticing stores on Main Street, USA. You know the ones I'm talking about.
It could be Kemper Drug... the place to stop in for a candy or Gramma's medicine. It could be The Old Main Eatery, Sunshine Depot, Pompeii Neapolitan Pizzaria or Daddy-O's Cafe... all small town eateries supporting downtown visitors.Perhaps you prefer Diamond City Bread and it's unique staircase into ancient Elk River (underground). The many flavors of daily made bread go a long way toward special as well!The … (17 comments)

Roof's out of sight, out of mind? In most cases, yes. - 06:16 AM
Roof's out of sight, out of mind? In most cases, yes.
As everyone knows there are a lot of roofs out there. Each and every home has at least one on the top of it.
It may sound funny talking about what everyone already knows. But the fact is, the roof is one of the most neglected parts of a home.
Here is a home that had a new roof installed just five years ago. But the standpipes did'nt get the upgrade.
Was this to save money? Unknown. When a new roof is installed, have the boots replaced as well as the roofing … (62 comments)

"My Client Made A Change To The Contract. Would YOU Please Write-Up An Addendum And Get Your Clients To Sign It." - 01:46 PM
"My Cient Made A Change To The Contract. Would YOU Please Write-Up An Addendum And Get Your Clients To Sign It."
Coop Agent's Client Initiated A Change And The Coop Agent Wants YOU To Initiate The Addendum.
It's Their Change.  The Coop Agent Has The Duty To Write-Up The Addendum.
You have a ratified contract between your buyers and a coop agent's sellers.  The sellers have to change the something.  Maybe the settlement date needs to be pushed back a day for a termite treatment, or to accommodate the seller's business travel schedule.
No matter what the change might be, it … (55 comments)

The One That Got Away- Open House Insert Sucker! - 05:22 PM
The One That Got Away- A Contest For Learning
My story begins with a buyer that was referred to me through another Realtor, someone for whom, I have great respect. The buyer and I were in contact by phone and email prior to his coming into town. We met at my office and seemed to hit it off. We looked at several homes over a two day period. He was qualified for and looking for something in the $650,000 - $800,000 range.
Towards the end of the second day we stopped at a home that was being held open by an … (53 comments)

Our Client Appreciation Party was a success! - 05:17 PM
Back in October I wrote a blog post, Client Appreciation Parties - Are they worth it? to get advice on whether or not we should hold a client appreciation party.  Ater almost 20 years in the real estate business we had never had a get together for our clients, so were nervous about doing it and it would turn out.
Well, I am here to tell you, that it was great! And well worth it!  I certainly wish we had started this tradition years ago!  We held it at McConnell Estates Winery in Elk Grove, had it catered and invited our clients from the past … (30 comments)


Blog posts


USA 60 Unit Hotel for Sale - 20,360 sq ft Off I-65 in Southwestern Alabama - AL Real Estate - 08:56 PM
Alabama Hotel for Sale … (0 comments)

Random Acts of Kindness - - 02:22 PM

… (0 comments)

Whole Foods Coming to Bee Cave - 09:46 AM
OK, this isn't the best shot because of weather conditions, but it shows the new Whole Foods that is being built at the Hill Country Galleria Mall in Bee Cave.
People all the way from Steiner Ranch to Lakeway to Bee Cave to Spicewood and even as far as Dripping Springs and Marble Falls have been very excited about this store coming to Bee Cave.
The approximately 35,000 square foot store should open in the spring of 2012.
… (3 comments)

Selling a Home in Brentwood Ca - Help! This Room Was Swallowed up by too much Big Furniture - 01:14 PM
Selling a Home in Brentwood Ca
If you are thinking about Selling a Home here is a great staging tip to help you get the house ready.
For more information on Selling a Home in Brentwood or Beyond and a Free Home Evaluation go to Home Point Real Estate.   
Via Maureen Bray ~ Home Stager Portland OR ~ Home Staging Portland Oregon (Room Solutions Home Staging Portland OR):
Help! This Room Was Swallowed up by too much Big Furniture
Before you list your home to sell, remember to ask your listing agent about who the likely buyer of your home might … (1 comments)

Selling a Home in Brentwood Ca - With Kids! - 01:24 PM
Selling a Home in Brentwood Ca
Selling a Home with kids living in it can be tough.  Here is some advise from a stager.
For more information on Selling a Home in Brentwood Ca or Beyond and a Free Home Market Evaluation go to Home Point Real Estate.  
Via Ginger Foust-Home Stager Oakhurst CA, Dream Interior Redesign & Staging (Certified Staging Professional):
Selling Staging to Children
As professional stagers we frequently have sellers tell us that their family cannot live in a staged home.  Part of the reason that they object is that they cannot imagine convincing their children that "staging" … (1 comments)

Facebook - The CIA - Social Media and YOU! - 02:26 PM
This is a very Funny video in this reblog.  Sadly there is probably an element of truth in it.  For years I have listened to people fighting for their privacy and now I see them just giving away everything they have fought for.  
Watch the video and let me know what you think.
Via Kathleen Daniels, San Jose Short Sale Agent (San Jose Real Estate - 800-972-1822):
I recently received my personally signed copy of Money and Power by Steven Sadleir who I met for the first time about 6 years ago.  I am impressed with Steven’s background and his message to … (2 comments)

The Sunday Morning Song! - 02:41 PM
As I set here enjoying a few days off and trying to get over this cold I am surfing a bit and finding cool things.
I love Johnny Cash. This here is one of my favorite Johnny Cash songs. Not sure why, it is kind of sad. The imagery in it is amazing. I can visualize this guy he is singing about (no doubt himself).
Enjoy the music!


… (3 comments)

What's the Rate? - 07:10 PM
What's the Rate?
People often ask what the interest rate is. There are so many variables it is hard to give a simple answer.
However, in this on-line Wall Street Journal article the discuss the average 30 and 15 year loans across the country and the points involved for each loan.

I will give you a hint they are under 4% and that is amazing.
No two mortgages are a like. Comparing rates without looking at other factors is not a good way to do it.
If you need a referral to a quality lender give me a call … (2 comments)

Real Estate Investors - Renting Out the 2nd Home. - 07:23 PM
Real Estate Investors – Renting out the 2nd Home.
Many people have 2nd homes in vacation spots and in this economy it makes sense to profit on the 2nd home in any way you can.
However, if you are not experienced in property management or have only rented full time primary home rentals this can be a challenge.
The On-Line Wall Street Journal has this Short Article on vacation rentals. 
… (1 comments)

Thinking Putty...Have You Tried It Yet? - 11:59 PM
   This has nothing to do with real estate, nothing to do with technology but it is an addictive product. You have to try Thinking Putty.  In case you are somewhere and you can not use your iPhone or iPad or any other device...this is the sure thing to keep your hands occupied. Thinking Putty is like a silly putty but more for adults. It relieves (or gives) stress and may even spark some creative thoughts while keeping your hands busy and away from the computer. Watching and listening to my daughter, Erica, who has many of the 30 different colors … (9 comments)

Candy Cane Lane...A Wisconsin Holiday Tradition...Enjoy ! - 07:44 AM
 
 

 
  Black Friday began the Season of Lights in the southeastern Wisconsin suburb of West Allis...for the 26th year, 300 homes celebrate the season with elaborate outdoor holiday displays.  You may even find Santa "dashing thru the snow"....though we don't have any just yet !
 
  "Candy Cane Lane" is located  between Oklahoma and Montana avenues from 92nd to 96th streets.
 
Visitors can drive or walk through the neighborhood from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on weeknights, and from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays .
    It will warm your heart...to … (9 comments)

EXECUTIVE CUSTOM HOME - BREAR CREEK, LAKEWOOD, COLORADO - 10:47 AM
… (0 comments)

I HATE OUSTIDE BROCHURES - 11:35 AM
I HATE OUTSIDE BROCHURES. There I’ve said it again. I see absolutely no reason why real estate agents think this is an effective strategy to sell a home. Let’s look at the common scenario. A car pulls up to the front of the home. They take a moment an “eye” the curb appeal of the home. Then someone opens the car door steps out and walks to the brochure box. If the box is empty, right off the bat they have a bad perception of the agent. If there is a brochure in the box they then pull it out and … (9 comments)

Mount Vernon Ohio Home Sales Continue To Rise This Fall - SOLD - 02:24 PM
December is almost here and home sales in Mount Vernon and Knox County Ohio continue to resemble home sales activity that we typically see during the spring season.  Buyer interest, internet web traffic, virtual tour viewings and physical home showings have been some of the strongest our team has experienced compared to any November since 2007.  Buyers know it's a great time to make a move especially with the lower housing prices available combined with some of the lowest interest rates in nearly 60 years.  Today is the absolute most affordable time to be a homebuyer that I have experienced during … (1 comments)

Happy Holidays from Boston, Massachusetts - 09:09 AM

 
 
Good Morning:  Happy Holidays! There, I said it!  Yes, the holidays are here.  That means fun, excitement, and probably a bit of stress too.  I was reading a great article today on www.pcworld.com with all the great apps available to make your holidays stress free.  So, when feeling stressed check your App Store because it is very likely that somebody in the world felt your pain and built an app that would result in a more enjoyable holiday season.  I mean seriously, an app that will find your car in the crowded mall parking lot?  Who knew!  Wishing you a … (1 comments)

Pensacola Rental 4612 Marseille Dr Pensacola Florida home for rent - 12:31 AM
… (3 comments)

Why Small Business Loses - 08:48 AM
Erica has explained it well as to why a Small Business will lose out over a big box. I always try a different approach whether it is Big Box or Small SHop I trained people how to treat me, now thay may sound terrible and it doesn't always work but 99% of the time I believe and certainly in my case it work, how you treat others they can't help but respond. Here are some short examples. I buy flowers for many occassions during the month, when I call I always tell them who I am and what I do, with … (1 comments)

643 Courtland Dr - Apple valley Lake, Ohio Home for sale - Video Tour - 02:50 PM
… (5 comments)

The Dillon: Market Update Townhouse Units - 11:14 AM
The Dillion - Clinton/Hells Kitchen - New Condo Development The Dillon, a new development, 83-unit condominium at 425 West 53rd Street between Ninth and 10th avenues, had a broker party recently to debut its townhouse units and showcase its penthouses. Walls are angled to draw the eye out and through. The building’s rippled exterior allows for views westward, towards the river, and to the iconic eastern cityscape. The  designer apartments' walls, hand-painted by New York painter Mark Chamberlain in colorful stripes and honeycomb patterns. BMWs were temporarily on display in the garage to show off the underground parking. Developed by SDS … (3 comments)

Columbus Christmas* Shopping Poll - 2011 - 09:58 AM
Columbus Christmas* Shopping Poll!
Where will you do your Christmas shopping? Outlet malls... I forgot Outlet malls. Do you go down to Jeffersonville for a good deal? Choose all that apply. Add your choice if it is not there.



*Holiday shopping....

Shopping in Columbus
High Street in Worthington - Small Business Saturday
Graceland Shopping Center
Polaris
Shops at Worthington Place
Worthington Last year! Only one business bit the dust since? Many new businesses in Worthington.
… (2 comments)

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