Archives of real estate blog entries for February 16, 2012

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Good Thing This Dryer Vents Into The Attic, Cause It Sure Can't Vent Outdoors! - 05:42 AM
Good thing this dryer vents into the attic, cause it sure can't vent outdoors!
Combine a makeshift laundry room, with a holey (not holy) dryer vent, and the most interesting, but clogged, discharge outdoors I have ever seen and what do you have?
Well, for one thing, you have a lot of mold!
Interestingly, most of the mold was not near the dryer vent!
Most of the exhaust was blowing so much toward one end of the house, the end where the homeowner covered up that pesky vent hole on the side of the house, that the mold really developed there!  … (73 comments)

Simple Ways to Tell the World you are a REALTOR® - 07:30 AM
Simple Ways to Tell the World you are a REALTOR®

I wrote a post last year, "What do you mean you didn't know I was a REALTOR®, Shame on Me!", and since then, I have made a point to let folks know what I do.  
I am not the type of person to "push" myself on people, I have always had a difficult time promoting myself at soccer games, PTO meetings, etc. Sometimes, what I do for a living casually works its way into conversation, but.... not always.
By wearing my REALTOR® cap to one local soccer game, I learned … (210 comments)

Boca Raton Home Staging- Want Your Buyers to Fall in Love With Your Home? Then You Need To Know Their Hot Buttons! - 06:51 AM
Want your buyers to fall in love with your home?  Then you need to know their hot buttons. Selling your home in Boca Raton, Delray or anywhere in Palm Beach County is no different from anywhere else.  Your house needs to be in move-in ready condition and appeal to a broad range of Buyers.  A recent survey of over 2200 first time home buyers by Trulia asked men and women what features made them fall in love with a house.   How can this help you …. The Seller?  Well, as you are preparing your home for sale you may want to … (39 comments)

Hi! I'm coming over to set off your alarm and let the cat out! - 10:52 PM
Sometimes I'm amazed at how many MRIS comments use so many words telling us, not about the house we are about to show, but about the complications of showing it.
When we're choosing which properties to show, being able to get into and out of the front door with minimal complications is pretty important.  If you are trying to get your home sold, here are some of the things that give us pause when deciding whether or not your home will make the show list or not:
Where is the key?  Is it in a lockbox that I can open with … (84 comments)

“Back on market because of Buyer jitters” --- entry on the MLS - 10:42 PM
“Back on market because of Buyer jitters”Just what do they mean by Buyer’s Jitters?I see this a lot on our MLS...and wonder what the agents were referring to.  When I read the word “jitters” I think of fear or nervousness. But are buyers truly fearful, or do they need further education on the buying process? And maybe they won't be such scaredy cats?Here are some of the reasons why buyers back out
They weren’t approved for the loan -- although they were previously pre-approved. Through closer and more intense research into their finances, the underwriter disapprove the loan due to … (62 comments)

The basic social contract of personal responsibility is to Repay bad debt??? - 12:39 AM
Is Debt backed by collateral a Social Contract of Personal Responsibility to Pay Back? If you give your word that you are going to pay somebody back that is lending you twenty.
"Hey Mike... I have no cash on me ... lend me $20 and I'll pay you back tomorrow."
That's personal responsibility. Mike lends you $20 and if you don't pay him back... guess what? He's not going to lend you $20 in the future. Your credit from Mike is pretty much cut off... Mike lent you money for nothing in return. His choice... Your basic social contract and personal responsibility was to pay him back … (36 comments)

Agressive Agents.....Pitbull vs Professional - 03:21 PM

 
I had a listing presentation this week. This was a good old fashioned equity seller....remember those? The ones who really cared about what the sales price turned out to be? I love those.
The seller has owned the house for over 15 years; that's a lifetime when it comes to real estate markets. Naturally he had a lot of questions about how to effectively sell his Mission Viejo home.
"How agressive are you in your representation?"
Not that unusual of a question. Buyers and sellers both want to know that their agent is going to represent them and their … (129 comments)

Color Cop: A Cool Tool for Matching Colors - 10:39 AM
Color Cop:  A Cool Tool for Matching Colors
Yesterday I attended a Live Constant Contact Bootcamp from 9am til 4pm.  It was awesome.  Information obtained on the internet, including webinars is fine.  But for me, there is nothing like being in a live classroom environment.
A learned a bunch of stuff which I will post about later, but one of the coolest tools I learned about was a Color Cop. Color Cop is a handy color picker that helps you to match existing colors that you may already be using.
For example, below is a picture of one of my headers.  Yesterday … (37 comments)

YouTube Thursdays - 2/16/2012 - How to make the Change with YouTube on March 7, 2012 - 05:55 PM
You can always count on change. YouTube Channels are changing to a new design on March 7, 2012. I’ve already whined about it in a previous post, so today, I’ll adopt a more accepting and mature attitude and embrace the new options.  Are you buying that? This week, YouTube Thursdays features an instructional video highlighting some of the YouTube Channel changes and how to best navigate in the new format. It’s my hope that you’ll find the information useful and that it will save you some time. If you haven’t already, please join our YouTube Thursdays group. We are determined to … (51 comments)

A Featured Post can be great for your Bottom Line Income!!!! - 03:23 PM
I've always cherished getting a featured post, but it's never been a driving force for me. When I got one, though, I'd enjoy that gold star.  Nice feeling, but again....it's never been the what makes me write.  As of today, February, 16th, 2012, I just recevied my 98th referral since joining the Rain.  Nothing for a bit, but good stuff in the last 24 hours as I received 2 referrals since last evening from the Rain.  I'm 2 from 100, but hey, that's another post altogether!!!!
Over the weekend, I was thinking about the value of featured posts and thought that there … (19 comments)

Video Email...It Doesn't Get Any Easier Than This!! - 07:23 PM
Video email...It cant get any easier than this!!As some of you know for the last week i have been in Orlando FL at Keller Williams Family Reunion... I Learned SO much while I was there I feel like my brain is on overload!! I have to share this first, yes there will be more to come...For sometime now I have been looking for a solution for video emails.  I have tried somethings out but I never got the results that I was looking for, until now! The service is called BombBomb and it is extremely cost effective for what you receive! … (61 comments)

Do we really need to go over this again? - 02:36 PM
 
Do we really need to go over this again???
I know it has been said before because I remember reading it, hearing it and seeing it posted.  I have seen it on blogs, on Facebook, on Twitter, even on Pinterest.  Unfortunately, I’m not sure the message has really sunk in for everyone.  I am still seeing some educated grown ups do some of the silliest things on-line.  So, as a simple review here are some common sense do’s and don’ts for social media.
There we have it folks, bottom line is just use some common sense and don't be a … (102 comments)

What Mad Scientist Scent Is That In This House? - 04:12 PM
You enter some houses to show and immediately think...
What Mad Scientist Scent Is That In This House??? People think french vanilla, orange blossoms, raspberry, flora and fauna, fresh baked cookies sell houses. I tell you what most people think. What are they trying to cover up??
OR, it is plain irritating.
People can be allergic to weird smells too you know.
Unless your Stager says this MAGIC scent she has cooked up for you sells all her homes in a jiffy, just freshly clean the house and leave it
      N E U T R A L.
Like the heavily … (30 comments)

There is no “round to it” clause in a Real Estate Contract. - 11:45 AM
There is no “round to it” clause in a Real Estate Contract.
TIME is the essence of a real estate contract.
 
Dates  and deadlines are in place for the benefit of the buyer;  allowing the buyer ample time to apply for financing, inspect the property and the title documents, negotiate replacement or repair of any unsatisfactory items disclosed by an inspection, obtain and review an appraisal, survey and all loan conditions, among other things.  It can be a little overwhelming for some and it does require a bit of time.
 
Most buyers don’t mind these deadlines because they want … (74 comments)

Realtor of First Resort - 06:18 AM
Realtor of First Resort.  Not last resort no less…no this is a short quip of a story about buyers who turn to their realtor of first resort…WHY?  Their hard wired
Ginny Lacey Gorman - Call her at 401-529-7849!
smoke detectors were going off in their newly bought home.  It seems they had a brand new wood stove installed in their home and the wood stove company forgot to tell them about the ‘curing’ process a wood stove goes through.  See smoke was coming from the finish of the stove.
Who to call, who will know the answer…well Ginny, our realtor, must … (53 comments)

You Used My Picture In Your Magazine, I'm Flattered.........I Think! - 08:39 AM
You Used My Picture In Your Magazine, I'm Flattered.........I Think!I saw one of my pictures in a real estate relocation magazine this week, it was kinda cool! It is one of my favourite pictures, in fact I use it on the front page of my web site, I use it on my business cards. I have used it in blog posts, I got a call from the owners of the store asking if they could have the link to send to their friends.
Here it is
 

What do you think? "I'm no Picasso, but do you like it?"So What … (79 comments)

Do you lock the bathroom door? - 03:09 AM
I went on caravan, or tour as we often call it, the other day.  Most of the time, we are on our own to see as many homes as possible.  It is always refreshing to see the listing agent, at the home, usually with cookies or a handout from time to time.
I was running late and had two more houses I wanted to see.  On this listing, the door was open and all the lights were on.  This really speeds up the process. The funny thing was, I didn’t see the agent or the owner.  Often times I find the agent or owner in the backyard having … (107 comments)

ARE YOU DEALING WITH TOILET FLUSHERS? - 07:03 AM
They call them tire kickers in the automotive business.  The real estate business, these lookers, are called toilet flushers.  These are "buyers" who never buy.  All they do is waste your time.  They love to go to open houses to get "ideas".
One of the many questions I ask is "how long have you been looking"?  If I hear 1,2 or 3 years I cringe.  I ask them what has been the biggest problem with the homes that they have seen?  Their answers speak volumes about their motivation.  If they have seen 20, 30, 50 homes etc. then I officially label … (90 comments)

Doing business with friends - 05:09 AM
I just had a long, difficult conversation with an old friend about why I can no longer give them business. In short, his service is unacceptable. He assumed his friendship would secure my loyalty. I told him that my friendship secured him the opportunity, only. He blew it. I want my friends to know that with me, I would earn your business every day. I want to do such a good job that you would be proud to tell your friends about me. … (69 comments)


Blog posts


USA Retreat - 48 North Carolina Acres - Morganton Lodging, Dining & Conference Center - Blue Ridge Foothills - Morganton NC Real Estate - 10:01 PM
Rehab/Health, School, Spiritual, 48 acres of Quiet and Green, Special Purpose Use - Retreat … (0 comments)

911 Malware - I'm Crashing and I Can't Get UP! - 08:27 PM

If you are frustrated with continued malware and viruses on your site, please read the following:
Keep your Word Press site up-to-date on a weekly basis.  If you cannot do this, hire a virtual assistant or be prepared for malware. Keep your plugins up-to-date on a weekly basis. Word Press is not a platform that can sit for weeks and months without attention.  If you want a site that you don't work on, please hire someone to help you, or use a different type of website. Never use a login like admin / admin. Create a login for your site … (2 comments)

test Flickr - 03:38 PM

Data provided by ActiveRain.com. Join 215,590 Real Estate Agents on the world's largest Real Estate Social Network.
> … (0 comments)

A Housing Bailout Proposal with some Promise! - 12:41 PM
A Housing Bailout Proposal with some Promise!
Today I am going to provide you with some links to a Housing Bailout Proposal that may actually work!
For those of you that read my occasional political rants you might be surprised to find this one comes from a Democrat. Senator Menedez from New Jersey.
Am I missing something here? Here is the basis of the plan:
The principal balance of the loan would be reduced to 95% of the re-assessed value of the home and over a three-year period, provided the homeowner is able to make reduced payments, the principal balance would … (3 comments)

What to offer on a Antioch Investment Property? The Traffic was the first clue! - 04:21 PM
What to offer on a Antioch Investment Property? The Traffic was the first clue!
The other day Mr. Buyer spotted an unbelievable deal on a great Investment Property. It was so far under market it would be a good buy no matter how big of a pit.
So we make an appointment for that day to meet over at the potential Investment Property. It had just come on the market the day before.
As I drive up an agent is leaving the Investment Property, another is letting herself in, and a third is out front speaking with his client. … (3 comments)

The Award I didn't Know I Wanted - Disappointed to be a Finalist? Honored by the PT50!! - 08:17 PM
Back in December, I was at the Austin Music Hall for an awards ceremony. I played it down. I didn't tell but a couple of people. I didn't think it was a big deal.  I still consider myself "new" to Austin, so to be up for some type of award, I figured it was either a mistake or they had a small pool of people to pick from.
The award I'm talking about is the Platinum Top 50 award.  The PT50 is not all about production, but also about commitment to the real estate industry as well as outside contributions.  Do … (24 comments)

Fear of foreclosure is a national epidemic - 09:59 AM
Millions of homeowners fell behind on their mortgage payments last year, and then proceeded to fall further behind every month.
These are tough times and there are no easy answers.
The fact is, major lenders, the federal government, and local agencies across the country have stepped up their efforts to stem the tide of foreclosures. More help is available than ever before.
As a real estate professional who has earned the Certified Distressed Property Expert (CDPE) designation, I am knowledgeable and adept at navigating among the full range of solutions for helping financially distressed homeowners to make a fresh start.
Looking … (0 comments)

'I Like It Like That' ... by Hot Chelle Rae Went Platinum Today! - 07:45 PM
' I Like It Like That' ... by Hot Chelle Rae Went Platinum Today  
 
 Recently wrote a post Share the Music Lady's Excitement!   This was exciting for a teacher to have one of her students be part of a Jeopardy question.  
 
 Quite a few years ago I listed and sold  Sam and Anita's home and helped them purchase their dream home. We have kept in touch and these special clients have also become good friends. These are the same giving people who started Kids Helping Hopkins!                                  
 
 
 Today I received an email from my … (8 comments)

Outer Banks Real Estate Off To A Roaring Start In 2012 - 12:28 PM
 
The Outer Banks real estate market continues to build on the momentum of 2011 with 2012 off to a roaring start!! The numbers are in for January and what a January it was!! Prices continue to rise, up 3.5% from 2011's 5.5% increase, Sales were up 17% from January 2011 and that's not even the most impressive stat. Two stats really blew me away and is an indication that the Outer Banks market is officially back. 1) The number of houses put under contract, up 38% from a year ago, that's huge  2) The number of distressed property sales dropped … (0 comments)

Bristol Heights Subdivision in West Boise - 09:21 PM
When you are looking for Bristol Heights Subdivision in West Boise, you need go no further than the southwest corner of Chinden Blvd. and Eagle Rd.  It was established in the late 1990's.  There are 557 homes within the neighborhood.  Although located in West Boise, the multiple listing service (MLS) shows this subdivision in NE Meridian.
There are single story homes, two-story homes, single story homes with a basement, two-story homes with a basement and with a variety of builders.  Some of the builders are continuing to build in other subdivisions and others are out of business. 
The Bristol Heights … (0 comments)

5720 Los Palma Vista, Orlando FL 32837 Hunters Creek - 03:50 PM
… (1 comments)

Zero Down Payment Loans Are Still Available in Ohio Through USDA - 09:02 AM
We receive a steady flow of buyer inquires each month asking if there are any mortgages available with zero down payment.  Many of these buyers have previously spoken with other real estate agents who have told them that all the no money down loans are gone.  The reality is that there is still a great option for no money down mortgages for most people wanting to buy a home in Knox County Ohio.  The V.A. loan is available for those with military qualifications and for those who have not served in the military we are recommending the USDA home loan.
USDA … (2 comments)

Apple Valley Lake View Showplace for $175,000 - 02:02 PM
Super clean, nice and neat lake view home at the Apple Valley Lake and the price is right at just $175,000.  If you like the looks of this home from the photos be sure to view our additional listing details and extensive virtual tour by visiting 3801 Apple Valley Drive in Howard, Ohio.  You can also view and compare all of our available Apple Valley Lake homes for sale.
Sam Miller Team of REMAX Stars Realty 740-397-7800  Knox County Ohio Real Estate
… (2 comments)

Super Cheap Lot For Sale at the Apple Vally Lake - 02:13 PM
If you are looking for a cheap way to gain access to the lake for boating, jet skiing, swimming or just relaxing on the beach this $3,500 lot may be your ticket to fun and enjoyment.  Listing details available at Lot 130 in the Apple Valley Subdivision.
If you are interested in purchasing an affordable property be sure to check out Lot 130 in the Apple Valley Subdivision at the Apple Valley Lake in Howard, Ohio.
View and compare all of our available lots for sale at the Apple Valley Lake.  You can also see all of our homes for sale at the … (2 comments)

109 Berry Road, Milton, NH | Bank Owned! - 09:45 PM
Take a look at this terrific bank owned home at 109 Berry Road Milton NH. This home sets on almost 3 acres and just across the road is a nature preserve with over a mile of river frontage on the Salmon Falls River.
Lots of great values on bank owned properties (called REOs) which stands for "Real Estate Owned".
Take a look.
Via Jim Lee, Seacoast Realtor Portsmouth, NH, Jewel of the NH Seacoast (RE/MAX Coast to Coast):
Jim Lee , REALTOR®, Certified Residential Specialist (CRS)
http://JimLee.com RE/MAX Coast To Coast Properties
150 Mirona Road, Portsmouth, NH 03801 Phone: … (1 comments)

Government’s Latest Bail-Out Plan – Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP) - 08:58 PM
The Home Affordable Refinance Program Has Been Extended Until December 31, 2013 The Home Affordable Refinance Program or HARP is just a piece of the $75 billion government sponsored Making Home Affordable Program. It can help borrowers reduce their monthly mortgage payments significantly. You can apply for the HARP refinance loan and get the lowest possible home affordable refinance program rates if:...continue reading
… (0 comments)

How Does A Real Estate Agent Get Paid? - 10:24 PM
Tammie writes a very good, easy to understand post about how we as Realtors get bad. I especially and regretfully like the part of how a buyers agent gets cheated. You hear how agents literally do nothing but drive folks around and look at one or two homes and POOF get a huge paycheck of several thousands of dollars. What most don't know is the hours upon hours we preview properties so as to know the inventories and are able to recall home after home, prices, beds, bath and all amenities in between.
We have even touched on the educational hours … (5 comments)

Decisions, Decisions, Decisions - 10:47 PM
Liz and Bill have put together some great decision making choices. Our Pensacola, Pace and Gulf Breeze folks would be wise to look over the choices here in order to make better dicisions as well.
Would you like information on buying or selling Foreclosures / Short sales CLICK HERE or Search All MLS Listings 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 … (2 comments)

Beautiful Rivercrest Home for Sale at 47433 Middle Bluff Place Sterling - 10:36 AM
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Outstanding Value with this Lovely Sterling Single Family Home for Sale: 20414 Cliftons Point Street Sterling - 10:41 AM
… (1 comments)

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