All About Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate Blog

FAQ About the Extension of the Home Buyer Tax Credit...What You Need to Know & Where to Look to Find it.

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:01:21 -0600

This morning, my inbox has received several notifications about the formal extension of the Homebuyer Tax Credit which will provide financial assistance to many New Home Buyers and Existing Homeowners who are considering the purchase of their next home. Later in the day, a conversation with a client underscored our need to make sure that as real estate professionals, we provide accurate information from the Federal Government about this tax credit. Here's the question:

Question: If an existing homeowner sells a home and qualifies to utilize the extended Tax Credit, is the date on the contract OR the settlement closing date the one which is used to determine qualifying eligibility?

I spoke with 2 mortgage officers, both of whom were not certain about the answer. Than I visited the Federal Tax Credit information site (which had not yet been updated to reflect the news of the morning 11/06/09) and also read the FAQ from our State Association & the National Association of Realtors. Why was this necessary? Well, the answer in part may be the result of rapid changes which sometimes create a lack of clarity. However, here's the response from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) which was obtained from my local and state Board.

Question: I am an existing homeowner. On October 25, 2009, I signed a contract to purchase a new home. I have lived in my current home for more than 5 consecutive years and am within the new income limits. I will go to settlement on November 20. If President Obama has signed the bill by the time I go to settlement, will I qualify for the new $6500 tax credit?

Answer: Yes. The existing homeowner credit goes into effect for purchases after the date of enactment (when the bill is signed). There is no reference to the date of contract for the new credit. The provision looks solely to the date of purchase, which is generally the date of settlement.

This is just on example of the types of questions which consumers will be asking. Do you know where to send them to get accurate information? The Michigan Association of Realtors has been proactive in getting information out about this program. Other detailed questions about the change in the provisions for the Tax Credit can be found here.

Kris Wales recently wrote an excellent blog (Members Only) about the dangers of rushing to provide information which may not be fully accurate and the harm this can do to a consumer. In a rapidly shifting environment, even loan officers are not necessarily getting information prior to the general public or real estate agents. It becomes even more critical for real estate agents to direct clients to reliable sources and to ask their clients to contact the appropriate professionals for additional guidance when appropriate.

Lola Audu, is the Designated Broker & Owner of Audu Real Estate. Our company specializes in helping people buy and sell homes in the greater Grand Rapids, West Michigan area. We've had the privilege of helping hundreds of clients succeed in their goals of purchasing and selling property including demonstrated success in the negotiation of Short Sale Transactions. You can contact us via e-mail @ info@auduhomes.com or by phone at 616-791-0511.

Calculating the Cost of Opportunity as Grand Rapids, MI Enjoys Dramatic 35% Increase in Home Sales over 2008!

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:17:56 -0600

Good News on the housing front & just in time for the Holidays in Grand Rapids, MI. In a market which has seen the worst of times in recent years, a recent article in the Grand Rapids Press heralding an increase of 35 PERCENT in home sales over 2008 was more than welcome...local professionals are ecstatic!

It's been great to touch base with so many agents who tell me they are busy again. We sold most of our inventory within the last couple of months and are "re-stocking the shelves." The 'HOT PRICE' range is $100,000 ~ $140,000.

This has helped to increase the average Home Sale Price to $109, 826 which was 3.2 percent higher than the same period in 2008. But...year to date, home prices are still down by 15.1% over 2008, a number which can be attributed to the on-going issues with foreclosures and short sales in the local market.

Other noteworthy improvements in the Grand Rapids, MI market include the decreased number of Short Sales and Foreclosures in September and the possibility of the extension of the Home Buyer tax credit which served to enable over 200,000 new jobs last year according to a quote by Jerry Howard, President of the National Home Builders Association in this article.

Now, all this good news does not necessarily indicate we are totally OK. There are still huge inventory of foreclosed properties which have not yet been placed on the market and joblessness continues to be a scourge on the Michigan economy. As we near the end of the year, what happens in these two areas as well as the credit markets will send strong signals about the on-going journey of recovery.

If You're a Homeowner...

These past several months have created some glimmers of hope. Inventory levels have declined and housing prices have inched up. More importantly, Sales have increased substantially. One of the critical assessments that homeowners who need to sell a home can make is the OPPORTUNITY COSTS CALCULATION. It's a fairly simple calculation which aids in determining how long you should hold on to your home, if this is a time to sell your home and what your carrying costs without a Sale actually are.

An Example...Calculating the OPPORTUNITY COST

For example, let's say your home is valued at $140,000. You've been in the home for less than a decade and you currently owe approximately $120,000. The OPPORTUNITY COST is determined by taking approximately 10% of your current expected Sales Price and dividing it by 12. In this case:

140,000 X .10 = 14,000

14,000 / 12 = $1,167 = OPPORTUNITY COST per month

That number $1, 167 is approximately what it will cost you EACH MONTH if home prices DECLINE another 10% over the next 12 months. This year, home prices declined approximately 15% overall from last year, and since 2006, there has been a 30% DECLINE nationwide. So an improvement to a decline of only 10% is not unreasonable. You can manipulate the numbers to see a range of options, but most experts seem to think that we can expect declines within the neighborhood of 6% - 10% in home prices over the next year.

An Example...Calculating Your Specific OVER-PRICING PENALTY

OPPORTUNITY COST + CURRENT MORTGAGE PAYMENT = OVER-PRICING PENALTY

For example: $1,167 + $1,100( est. Mortgage Payment) = $2, 267 (OVER-PRICING PENALTY PER MONTH)

OR...$27,204 PER YEAR

Adding the OPPORTUNITY COST to your current mortgage payment gives you a unique perspective of what it will actually be costing you to OVER-PRICE your house in today's market. If you'd like a detailed report about housing & pricing in your specific Grand Rapids, MI neighborhood, please give us a call at 616-791-0511 or e-mail us at info@auduhomes.com.

Can Your Tweets Be Used Against You? Google Indexing of the "Random Stream of Babbel"

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 18:03:23 -0500

It made headlines on national news and was the focus of considerable debate on "Hot Topics" for the View television program today. The story of former school teacher Nicole Howell's acquittal after being falsely accused of having sexual relationships with a sixteen year old student. Although, this was not the first time that the nation's attention has been riveted by a story like this, what was unique about this situation was the role of electronic media.

Apparently, the young man had been sending sexually explicit messages to his teacher and there had been an exchange of hundreds of text messages between them according to news reports. The student said that he had been seduced and given vodka. The text messages were deleted by the phone company and never seen, BUT...a teacher lost her job & reputation in large part due to her lack of discretion about the use of electronic media. Instructive...and extraordinary.

Many of us today fail to truly comprehend the extent to which electronic media and social media is set to change our lives. Recently, Google announced that it had reached an agreement with Twitter and would be indexing Twitter comments in Google Search results. Did you know this?

Twitter postings aka 'tweets' are now a part of permanent public record. They can be used as evidence and once something is online, the shelf life for practical purposes can be assumed to be...forever. This has implications for real estate agents and the brokers who manage them. It could be argued that what Ms. Howell did was likely mostly conducted outside of normal working hours. But, that didn't matter.

Today, many real estate professionals have accounts on various social media portals where they mix personal and professional postings together. As the topic was discussed on the View, one of the co-hosts noted that there should have been a public forum in which conversations between students and teachers could take place and be MONITORED. I can see the benefit in this for protecting students AND teachers.

I wonder if there would have been such a rush to pre-judge if Ms. Howell was not a professional? Is there a higher standard expected when there is a perception of expertise? In the future, is there a possibility that our comment stream, blogs and postings may be viewed in an entirely different light? What do you think?

Image courtesy of Sister72 on Flickr by Creative Commons license

Before you Walk Out That Door for the LAST TIME...

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:29:42 -0500

The world of real estate has always held a fascination for folks like me. But things have a way of getting really strange when people who don't spend their waking, working moments around the mayhem and milieu of the brokerage world start telling astounding tales about their recent 'encounters' in real estate country.

Over the past month, I've had several conversations which would have been considered 'beyond bizzare' just a few short years ago. Folks talking about people they know walking out the door of their homes and just giving the home back to the bank as casually as they might refer to a decision to perhaps purchase a car.

I know you might be thinking at a cursory reading that this reckless attitude is just symptomatic of the chaos that has been the hallmark of so much recent madness, but often during these exchanges, I actually sensed something else. As I listen intently, the story involves so much more than initially stated. There's an underlying, increasingly recognizable sad thread.

The bundle of trial includes years of struggle, trying to find jobs, being laid off, piling up debt to survive, ravaging investment accounts, pulling home equity out to last just a little longer, and then the straw that breaks the camel's back occurs...one more thing that could not be anticipated which tips the scales.

Absolute & total weariness...and with resources strained beyond measure, it seems that the only thing to do is ...WALK AWAY. But before you do...

STOP.

Before your feet set in motion a chain of events which will potentially impact your life for the NEXT DECADE, please consider ALL your options. TALK to someone. I'm astounded by the number of people who go through the ENTIRE Foreclosure process without talking to ANYONE about their options.

That's right...

You do have OPTIONS. Before making a decision to simply stop attending to your obligations, ASK someone for help. Speak to an Attorney, contact a Real Estate Broker or your Mortgage Lender. Preferably, engage with all three sources or more... Information is power when it comes to a decision which can handicap not just your ability to get a new home, but your ability to have a measure of control over your financial life for the foreseeable future.

Just for Starters, Ask about the following:

Will your bank accept a Deed in Lieu of Foreclosure AND forgive your debt in it's entirety?

Can you pursue a Short Sale?

What are your options for Loan Modification?

What are your legal options and obligations?

An old African Proverb reminds us that "No Condition is Permanent in this world." Remember this truth...especially when things are tough. This too shall pass...eventually.

picture courtesy of hoyasmeg on flickr

One Extra-ordinary Day! Michigan Young Professionals Providing Fresh Perspective in the Real Estate Community

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 19:14:14 -0500

Just about 3 years ago, I decided to write a blog post. Within a month, I stumbled upon Active Rain and signed up. I had absolutely NO idea how much that simple decision would change my life and career.

Yesterday, 2 extraordinary events intersected together in 1 day aka 1,440 Minutes. During the Annual Broker Meeting of the Grand Rapids Association of Realtors®, I was nominated by Pat Vredevoodg, 2007 NAR President for the position of President-Elect (2009) & elected by the board of Brokers of the Grand Rapids Association of Realtors®.

It was a moment ripe with symbolism on a variety of levels. Pat captured a unique essence during her brief nomination speech which she termed as a 'tweet' about why the Brokers present should cast their vote in favor of the nomination.

Here's Pat's insightful Twitter nomination: Vote for Lola Audu because she is "Smart, Caring, Cutting Edge, Daring, Forward & Clear Thinking, Humble, Funny, RE Pro, Motivator, Responsible, Experienced, Mom, Inspiration"

Later that afternoon, I picked up a direct message on Twitter from Todd Carpenter, NAR's Social Media Manager who asked me to check my in-box for a message from President-Elect of NAR, Vickie Cox Golder. Here are excerpts from the e-mail which showed up this morning,

Dear Lola,

Congratulations! You have been identified as an influencer in progressive ideas about real estate and, as a result, we invite you to participate in a new pilot program for the National Association of Realtors ®. NAR's leadership would like to include your voice in our governance system in 2010 and have selected a national NAR committee for you to join. .....

By serving on a national NAR committee, you will have the opportunity to bring your ideas about today's competitive and evolving marketplace to the industry's leaders and you will be in a position to spark change within the business......

NAR has made a commitment to elevating the voice of young professionals and early adopter of social media in the real estate business, and we want to hear from you.....you were recommended to serve on the Housing Opportunity Committee.

What an opportunity! I'm so grateful to God that the tapestry which He weaves in our lives through our experiences is never conventional nor is He ever limited by pre-conceived limitations about who we are or can become.

I'd like to also congratulate another fresh young perspective and voice from Michigan...Christa Caulk who has also been selected to a NAR committee , the Political Action Involvement Committee. Congratulations to you Christa, I know that your contributions will enrich the dialog of leaders in our industry! And...Kudos to NAR for embracing a fresh perspective for the future of our profession!

*Christa Caulk is the daughter of Missy Caulk, a leader and innovative thinker in the real estate industry and in social media.

Real Estate Agent...Will Your Grade Determine Your Value in the Future?

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 11:40:10 -0500

I'm one of those people who checks things out online BEFORE I go. Why not? I figure there is more to be gained from taking advantage of the benefit of other people's experiences before spending the gas, time and money to discover the truth myself. Apparently, there are a lot of folks like me.

Did you know that the according to Wikepedia, the first ratings site was created by Michael Hussey and called 'RateMyFace.com. I was intrigued to discover that ratings sites started out as dating sites for the most part and evolved over time to include all sorts of other services, including sites rating professionals such as lawyers, doctors and teachers.

It was also interesting to learn from this book about the founding of Facebook that this popular site also had a ratings component behind it's inspiration. It's founders envisioned it as tool to enhance their social/dating scene during the college experience at an Ivy league school.

Today, the concept of consumers determining the Value of a product or service through ratings is quickly developing a huge cache in terms of credibility. People trust what other people have to say about something, even more than the owner or creator of the product.

The viral nature of social media has accelerated the trend. In Grand Rapids, the concept of ratings by a community took a giant leap forward through the launching of Art Prize this fall. Artists from all over the world will be displaying their work from September 23 through October 10, 2009 in venues throughout the city. The winner of the Art Prize ($250,000) will be decided on by...you guessed it, members of the public who register to vote!

This is why I find it especially intriguing that a Google search for the term 'Rating Services for Realtors' with a hit total of approximately 2 Million, does not highlight a single comprehensive ratings database for real estate professionals or their services on the first 2 pages! A perplexed consumer asks the question on Ask.com... wondering WHY one can find information on a number of other professions, but not a comprehensive database for Realtors?

There are a few associations which are exploring the utilization of a Ratings Service such as the Houston Association of Realtors®, but these are few and far between. It might also interest you to know that the Google search results for Rate your Realtor number 13,000,000! Some of the sites on the first page are powered by consumer generated content and data exchanges. This is something consumers want, are searching for...and may ultimately successfully create for themselves.

And it won't just be about Realtors®. Can you foresee a time in the near future in which community ratings will play a bigger part of defining the value of any particular area? Today, Walkability scores for neighborhoods are increasingly a part of the data supplied to prospective new home owners on some aggregate databases.

The list of options which consumers might be interested in about a community is potentially endless...think school ratings, environmental awareness, diversity, employment opportunities, medical services. From a consumer perspective, it would be helpful to be able to download a comprehensive profile of a community, then select the issues that were most important and see what others are saying or not saying in one place. What do you think? Are Realtors® missing the boat by their lack of proactivity in this area?

Picture courtesy of Wolfgang Staudts' photostream on flickr

1457 N Saxony Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508 ~ Contemporary Style w/ Warm Earthtone Accents!

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 19:19:48 -0500

Kentwood Condo~1457 N Saxony Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508

1457 N Saxony Dr. SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508 View Map

The stunning contemporary style in this condo invites you to move right in without having to do anything but enjoy.

Tasteful pottery barn style greets you as you walk in to the wood style floored open entry way continuing to the dining area.

The Living room features fireplace, double sliders to patio and brick wall. In the Kitchen, note the ceramic tile, stainless steel sink and the inclusion of all appliances.

There are 3 large bedrooms upstairs (one currently used for extra living area). The finished area in basement used for family entertainment/work-out room. So much room here! Motivated Sellers

Lola Audu | Associate Broker, CRS GRI
Cell 616-293-3813 | Dir 616-791-0511 | Email | Website

Royal Treatment...Are Your Clients Getting What they Think They Deserve?

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 19:24:53 -0500

It seems that every year, a new study comes out which highlights WHY real estate commissions should be lower. This one was written by academic researchers from Stanford University. The conclusions were:

"the typical commission paid for the average real estate transaction does not impact the initial price offering for a home or the sale price. However, the home does tend to sell more quickly. In the estimation of the researchers, the average Commission of $34,000 (6% was the number quoted) on the average home they researched was too steep a price to pay for the efficiency gained in time."

In a related article, NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun, provides some additional insights about the conclusions reached in this study and others like it such as the conclusions in the book Freakonomics which indicated similar findings.

According to Yun, many of these studies are often debunked later due to issues relating to methodology or new data which was not available to the researchers at the time. Unfortunately, these findings are rarely publicized with the fanfare and aplomb with which the initial report is.

Yun makes some important observations about consumer perceptions. The most revealing being this: CONSUMERS ARE NOT STUPID. They are more likely to do what makes sense for them. In fact, Yun indicates that consumers are like Royalty. They know what they want and why they are willing to pay for it; something that research conducted within the petri dish of an academic survey may be unable to capture...because it is an "unquantifiable" intangible.

CASE IN POINT. In spite of the fact that consumers have always been able to sell their own homes, and in recent years been able to advertise them on the MLS for a few hundred dollars, most home owners still prefer to list their homes with Realtors when they decide to sell them. The percentage of home owners utilizing the services of real estate agents to Sell their homes has remained around 85 ~ 87% for years despite increased options & opportunities for self-promotion by home owners.

Yun also points out that although the public perception of Realtors is one of suspicion, in general this attitude changes dramatically when consumers are asked about THEIR SPECIFIC dealing with THEIR REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL. In this case, consumers overwhelmingly indicate that they appreciate and hold dear their OWN REALTOR. One wonders how much of this "general suspicion" towards Realtors is media driven. The vast majority of my clients are repeat and referral clients. Hardly, an indication of deep loathing for the profession.

In addition, it is highly instructive to look at the sorts of homes which are Sold by Unrepresented Homeowners. Over the years, I've noticed that a larger percentage of these homes tend to be in the lower price ranges. This is also a trend that NAR's economist observes. When you drive into neighborhoods in Grand Rapids that are in the higher price ranges, well, you see very few For Sale By Owner Signs. Why is this?

According to Yun, this is because

"Time is evidently money, and many well-to-do people prefer not wasting their valuable time trying to sell a home - even though some may actually have the skills to do so."

I would agree to a certain extent with this observation. But, I would add that there are additional issues which may less obvious, but are no less important such as:

PROTECTION: Real Estate Agents provide a very critical barrier of protection in screening potential buyers by determining a buyer's ability and motivation in purchasing a home. It is unwise and unsafe to have buyers for whom you cannot verify their authenticity exploring your home in detail without independent verification and oversight.

TRUST: A trusted professional is a source of valuable "insider" information. The vast majority of consumers indicate that they would definitely or probably use their Realtor again. (approx 87%) Real Estate Agents who garner loyalty and repeat and referral business don't do it by accident. It's a result of providing extraordinary service and Results! If it was easy to sell homes, everyone would be doing it.

EXPERIENCE: Experience matters! In his widely read book about excellence, 'The Outliers', Malcolm Gladwell points out that the time to become really skillful is about a decade...that's 10 years! This also holds true for competent professionals in the real estate industry. Selling real estate is a complex transaction and increasingly so in a challenging market. Working with a seasoned professional can save time, money and the hassle of being a part of someone's 'learning curve.'

When Consumers are Treated Like Royalty, they respond by giving Loyalty and Referrals. Consumers are NOT FORCED to use real estate agents, they do so because it makes good sense to do so. Nor, are they forced to pay any commission. The Value of Service is determined by the return on the investment.

So...If it makes sense to:

Spend money to save Time,

Protect the Value of my Investment,

Protect the Safety of my family,

Protect My Privacy & Secure Authorized Access to My Premises,

Access a network of Qualified Potential Buyers for My property,

Benefit from the Vast Experience gained through numerous sales,

Market my Home Professionally on a Worldwide basis

AND...

Sell More Quickly...

Well, Being Treated LIKE Royalty and paying a small commission may be deemed well worth it.

photo courtesy of crown: lincolnian(Brian) photostream on flickr.com

photo courtesy of Dr. Yun: tboards photostream on flickr.com

Snatching Opportunity from the Jaws of Defeat...Lessons within a Time of Crisis

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 18:11:13 -0500

It is said that the Chinese symbol for crisis contains elements of both danger and opportunity. Over the past couple of years, we've all borne witness to a real estate market gone awry.

Nothing in my experience could have prepared me for the dramatic market downturn or the escalation in crisis sales which resulted at one point in one out of every ten homes in my county being at risk for foreclosure.

Yet, as I look back over this period, I'm struck by the fact that so many other worthwhile things may not have taken place or had the same impact in my life as they did precisely because of the moment of crisis.

For instance, over three years ago, I started blogging...almost by accident. That first keystroke opened up my world of experience to include friends from across the nation and educational opportunities which have enhanced my professional skills.

This afternoon, I attended a Board of Directors meeting for our local board. During the meeting we were shown a video clip highlighting the new programs and opportunities that have emerged within the past year. It was remarkable to reflect on how much has been accomplished inspite of very challenging odds. It's definitely not been easy, but I can't help but think that there would have been far less impetus to move forward in many critical areas apart from the stark realities which invaded our professional lives.

Now, change has not come without cost. The membership of our Board decreased significantly as many agents found they could no longer make a living from selling homes. Home listings soared even as home prices dipped to record low levels. Agents discovered that amassing new skill sets (i.e. short sales) sometimes meant working harder for less pay.

While doing some research about the Chinese word for crisis, I was surprised to find out the the widespread meaning of the term is actually incorrect/incomplete. There are many nuances which are lost in translation. But one element which did provide additional insight for me is the concept of the symbol encompassing the idea of an incipient moment or a crucial point which can turn out for good or ill.

We're not completely out of the woods yet. Although there are signs of some light at the end of this tunnel, this moment does have within it the potential for good or ill. In our market, there seems to be a stabilization and for the first time in a long while, house prices actually went up a tiny bit. But...we're at a crossroads, a moment in time in which we hold in our hands the awesome responsibility of determining exactly how we will choose to move forward into the future. Our capacity to exercise responsible leadership with integrity will make a crucial difference.

At the end of the day, we're in this thing together and the responsibility of making things work is not ultimately at the mercy of circumstances and situations. That power resides within us and how we choose to respond to crisis, even when it requires us to snatch opportunity from the jaws of defeat.

picture is courtesy of respres on flickr.

Wordless Wednesday...What Summer looks like...

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 12:35:45 -0500

Watching oyster boats on the Chesapeake Bay puts one relaxed vacationer (my hubby) to sleep.

The 3 Biggest Hurdles Your Real Estate Career Will Face As You Head From Here...to There!

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:58:25 -0500

"If the grass looks greener on the other side of the fence, you can rest assured that the water bill is higher there too." Maya Angelou

In the world of real estate, my experience is not necessarily considered the norm. Prior to starting my own company, I have only worked with 2 other Brokers. So, I'll be upfront in stating that my expertise does not come from a lengthy history of jumping ship.

However, almost 15 years in the industry has allowed me to observe and experience some of the ramifications of changing the address on ones business card and wall license.

As our profession rapidly shifts course over the next few years, I think that one of the most important issues for agents will be in the area of alignments and relationships. In fact, I think that success in the future will be not just about WHAT you know but WHO you know and WHY the connection matters. Let's look at 3 of the more popular reasons why agents remain on the move.

Underestimating the True Cost...

For many agents, the search for lower costs is the biggest reason to consider a change in venue. Brokers in some markets have found themselves tripping over one another in their race down to the bottom. But has the lowest cost always been the best deal for the agent?

When I observe poorly trained agents trying to put piecemeal transactions together, I'm struck by the true cost of LOW COST. Low costs which results in a lack of supervision and training may be the most expensive agreement an agent can enter into if it results in a career which is placed on a short circuit due to avoidable, expensive mis-steps and mistakes.

Real estate is one of the rare professions in which many operate under the assumption that money does not necessarily track with expertise. This fallacy has severely impacted the level of trust the consumer has in the validity of our services. It takes time to really know something well...approximately 10 years to gain true expertise according to Malcolm Gladwell in his new book on the subject, The Outliers. Those who understand that anything of VALUE costs someone something will spend more time figuring out how to increase their personal skill level so they warrant the trust and compensation levels that they desire.

Burnt Bridges...

The problem with a burning bridge is that this results in severely limited options. Unlike a broken fence which can be mended with time and effort, a bridge which collapses into the teaming waters below requires considerably more effort and expense to rebuild. Bridges provide a means of mutual exchange across the divide. When this connector collapses, so much is lost.

Sometimes an agents' departure from a broker seems to presume that they will never see the other party again. In the shrunken, close-knit world of real estate, this is highly unlikely. It's really easier to be cordial than to be mean-spirited. A parting of ways between individuals can be about business without being personal. You never know when you will need to cross the divide which you thought you had turned your back on forever.

The fact remains, no broker will be perfect. If they've contributed to your life and career, Thank them. Even if the experience has been less than ideal, this can serve as a catalyst to move your life forward in a positive way if you embrace the learning experience. To this day, I remain grateful to the leaders who invested in my life at critical points.

Not Understanding the times...

To say we live in extraordinary times is an understatement. Jeremy Conaway of RECON Intelligence Services, one of the leading visionary minds in the real estate industry has likened what is going on in the real estate industry today to being on a ship which is in the process of going through a storm which threatens to ship wreak. Eventually the ship will come ashore in some fashion, but the key question is WHERE it will be. Certainly not in the place where it set sail. And then there is this question..WHO will still be on the ship?

If you're an individual who thinks that your career is merely a matter of chance and coincidence, then what happens and why it happens are not issues which really concern you. But if you're someone who cares about the direction you're heading, it's important to take a look at where you are and where you want to be.

The relationships you invest time in building NOW, may turn out to be some of the most important decisions you've ever made in your career. The landscape may remain barren for some time to come. Expecting a re-bound which magically takes us back to 'normal' is unrealistic. Become a student of the industry, avoid the temptation to walk around with a blind-fold on. We will all need both eyes open and vigilance in order to survive and thrive.

Picture is courtesy of Gray Monk's photostream on Flickr.

6 Hidden Issues Which Can Stop You From Successfully Moving From Here...to There.

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 22:37:56 -0500

"In the age of knowledge workers, the cliche that information is power is truer than ever". This facts makes withholding information even more extreme & irritating" Quote from "What Got you Here Won't Get You There" by Marshall Goldsmith.

This challenging & provocative book was a recommendation from my sister. During a visit, she kept on commenting that she thought she had bought the book to recommend as reading for her mangers...but found herself reading it more & more for herself.

The author, Goldsmith is a corporate trainer who has evaluated and coached many of the nation's leaders and captains of industry writes about 25 habits that will prevent Successful people from reaching their highest potential.

With surprising insight & clarity he pinpoints several annoying & destructive habits & character traits that we tend to ignore or minimize as problems when they apply to us. Habit #9 "Withholding Information" is the Subject of this post.

"Intentionally withholding information is the opposite of adding value. We are deleting value. Yet is has the same purpose: To gain power. It's the same old need to win, only more devious." Quote from "What Got you Here Won't Get You There"

Withholding information is a method by which power can wielded like a weapon. It often shows up in personal & professional life & real estate is no exception.

So, Let's Talk About Keeping Secrets:

Keeping Secrets is less about information than it is about obtaining & retaining or regaining control & power. Agents are tempted to withhold information that should be forwarded to their trainers or brokers particularly when the news might jeopardize their ability to earn the commission.

Sellers are tempted to withhold information on Seller's Disclosure forms and even lie when presented with the evidence to the contrary.

Buyers can be tempted to withhold information from the agent who is trying to assist them while moonlighting with other agents to see homes on the side. People applying for loans "forget" pertinent information about their finances. The list of ways in which we withhold information is endless.

Withholding information is a means of protecting ourselves from further scrutiny.

Sometimes, when a deal is going sour, the agent, or client suddenly disappears...they are unreachable in spite of all the modern conveniences of phone, e-mail and fax. They simply stop responding to human beings...at least if you're the individual they don't want to talk to. This is keeping secrets passive aggressively by defaulting to Mute!

The problem is this never solves the problem.

The mantra I repeat to agents who I train is this: "When you see an issue developing...Run Towards it, Not Away from it! " There is the temptation to believe the lie that convinces you that what you ignore will disappear or that one is gaining the upper hand by keeping things "secret." Actually the exact opposite is the case.

Keeping secrets can be very costly in a real estate transaction.

It can cost a lot of money. When seller's are presented with a Seller's Disclosure during a listing presentation, I strongly advise them to be brutally honest. "You cannot be faulted for telling what you know. Yes, someone may not buy a house because of what is revealed on a seller's disclosure...but they won't be suing you for lying either. I won't even fill out the address on a Seller's Disclosure for the seller...this is their chance to let go and come clean of any potential damage that keeping secrets can create.

Keeping secrets gives birth to two ugly twins...fear & suspicion.

When secrets are kept, it becomes very important to remember who knows what. This can be an exhausting mental hyperactivity. In addition to all the stresses of a real estate transaction, parties who keep secrets have to contend with the fact having the secret revealed is a distinct possibility at any moment. They live with the dread that the moment of revelation will not be pleasant. Keeping secrets exacts a huge TAX on all who are involved in the process...eventually.

There's a much easier way to live...It's called full disclosure.

Amongst other benefits ,such as a sound nights sleep, and the ability to look another clearly in the eye, here are some that come readily to mind within the context of a real estate transaction.

You can't be convicted when you tell the Whole, Entire truth about what you know about the home you are selling.

Returning a phone call, even to deliver unpleasant news is better than hanging onto it for several more days...hours..minutes..

Telling your manager that you've botched up a transaction is always better than someone else telling her/him

Being honest about who you're working with in a real estate transaction saves you Money...You won't be Paying 2 Commissions.

There are many benefits to Not Keeping Secret, but even these limited few are proof positive that a truly empowered Life is a Transparent one. True power does not come from withholding information, it comes from building loyalty and trust!

This blog post was originally published in 2007 with the title, "Sshh...Are You Too Good At Keeping Secrets" It is re-published in updated form here as a part of the "oldies but goodies" series.

Contrary to Appearances....

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 19:41:46 -0500

I've wondered about this sign. This picture was taken while visiting Harbor Springs, Michigan; a delightful resort style community. Michigan is sometimes referred to as the land of a thousand lakes. During the summer, large bodies of water are almost irresistible as the weather warms up.

Along the pier, there were many, many boats anchored to the docks; almost as far as the eyes could see. I had to wonder where their owners were. On such a gorgeous day, isn't it the right of any seaworthy craft to be on the water where boats belong? But, perhaps these lucky individuals were busy making the money to pay to anchor the boats along the pier. After all, the last I checked, money doesn't grow on trees does it?

But there is an irony to such things. Kinda like the no diving, no swimming sign perhaps... Such is life.

Cool Weather Challenges Expectations of Summer in West Michigan.

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 23:19:06 -0500

This has been one of the oddest summers I've ever experienced in West Michigan. July has been mild and temperate. Sometimes, it's actually felt more like spring sweater weather. I haven't minded too much because fall is my all time favorite season of the year. The flowers seem to love the weather too. The rainfall and moderate sunshine has allowed to them to bloom beautifully. Mother Nature seems to enjoy challenging our expectations from time to time.

Our Just in Time Listing...6471 Avalon Dr. SE, Caledonia MI 49316

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 18:26:55 -0500

Several months ago, I was sitting in a real estate class when the instructor asked a question:

What's going to happen on June 30,2009?

The crowd of real estate brokers looked around at each other perplexed. You could see folks turning over their mental inventory trying to figure out what we had all missed.

Finally he broke the suspense and told us...'There will be the most lucrative turnover of real estate inventory in history. The number of real estate listings which will expire coupled with the impetuous for using the $8,000 tax credit will place those who take listings on July 1st in a very strong position for the remainder of the year!'

Well, in June, we witnessed a significant reduction in housing inventory in the West Michigan area as homes which had been on the market for what seemed like forever began to move off the shelf in a rapid fashion. Yeah! And as we've been getting the word out that it's time to list your home...the tide seems to be stabilizing and may be shifting as home prices begin to inch up and inventory levels are shrinking for the first time in a couple of years.

So, hence we present to you our latest "Just In Time Listing" 6471 Avalon Dr. SE, Caledonia MI 49316. It's on the market "Just In Time" to take full advantage of this evolving series of events and "Just In Time" for new home buyers to get in before school starts and/or the Tax Credit incentive ends.

This better than new home, built in 2007 features all the things that we love about new homes without the hassle of getting the new home kinks out. There are 4 bedrooms, including a surprisingly large master bedroom suite, a living room with a fireplace and a dining area large enough to have Thanksgiving for 16! All this for $170,000! What's not to love. If you're a first time home buyer, you can check out the $8,000 Tax Credit. Plus, because of the area, this home qualifies for the Rural Home Development Program which can get you in for under $1,000 if your income qualifies. Give us a call at 616-791-0511 to find out more. info@auduhomes.com

Correction: This home does NOT qualify for the Rural Home Development Program area boundares. 7/30/2009

So...Do You Know Who is Paying a Social Call on Your Blog Today?

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 13:04:14 -0500

I've had a series of world travelers visit my blog today. This one was all the way from Namibia...

Good evening. Make love, not war. Help me! There is an urgent need for sites: Radiologists bachelor degree programs ms. I found only this - bachelor degree Australia. Tips to earn an accredited online bachelor degree. A typical statement by a court is that pencil designers of ordinary skill as of January had a bachelor degree in mechanical engineering and years of work experience designing pencils. With respect :confused:, Cadence from Namibia.

*Link underlined and disabled

These anonymous commentators look for old posts and leave their spam link hoping that you won't notice and they can trade off your traffic. After all, that's probably how they found you in the first place. Unattended blogs and social media sites are a magnet for spammers!

Do You Know Who's Paying a Social Call on Your Site Today?

Recently, social media sites like Twitter and Facebook and even Active Rain have faced an increased onslaught of Spam from nefarious individuals and organizations using abbreviated URL's to get you to click on dubious links. There has also been an increase in pornographic sites which view this as a new potential source of traffic for their trade.

So, it's becoming increasingly important to Pay Attention! Here are a few ideas which may be useful.

1. Recognize that it's your job to maintain Control.

One of the more daunting aspects of setting up profiles everywhere online, is there may be a tendency to forget just where you left parts of yourself. This is not wise. It's important to check up on your profiles from time to time OR if they no longer serve any useful purpose...DELETE them. Use the Preference and Settings Tools on the sites which you choose to continue to set up appropriate notifications and to monitor who has access to you.

2. Look before you Click.

Don't just automatically accept everyone. Make a habit of doing some form of preliminary investigation...take a look at their website, their comment stream etc. Keep in mind that giving access is not just a click, it's an invitation to co-mingle data, ideas and contacts. It's a mistake to think that access has no value...it does and should be treated accordingly.

3. Organize your Virtual Bookshelf...

As your associations increase, the potential for expanding your relationships grows. This can be a very good thing. But, it can also leave you somewhat fragmented as you wonder WHO all these people are who you are 'connected' to. One of the best ways to handle this is to Organize your contacts.

For instance, on Facebook, this can be done very easily by simply setting up 'List Groups' on your home page. This allow you to categorize HOW you are connected to different individuals. Doing this on a regular basis when you add contacts/friends/tweeps will greatly aid in avoiding the tendency to simply collect names on your account and compel you to evaluate who this individual is and how you desire to relate to them.

It also provides a very easy way to keep up with people who form different aspects of your life. For instance, I can easily find out what my school buddies are up to by clicking on their list. Using Facebook in this way has been a wonderful aid in deepening friendships.

And Why is this Important?

And...in the final analysis, this is ultimately where social media will serve it's highest potential. It will not be in the race to advertise that you got 400 followers today or to send out a barrage of self serving messages to promote yourself. Rather, the real gold mine is the opportunity to share and connect in ways that increase and create value in new and meaningful ways. After all the chaff and fluff are blown away, this is the true grit that will remain and endure.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Relate

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 09:12:33 -0500

Wordless Wednesday ~ Relax

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 09:08:04 -0500

Pew Twitters...Can Twitter Change Sunday Morning 140 bits @ a time?

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 19:43:12 -0500

I just read an interesting article from our local newspaper about a church in the Grand Rapids, Mi area which is using Twitter broadcasts during the sermon to enlarge the conversation of faith amongst followers. Fascinating!

Leaves me wondering 'What Would Jesus Do?' if he lived in our global culture today? In his day, he preached sermons on mountains and from a boat adrift on the shoreline to amplify his message to crowds. So, would this be a medium he would embrace?

Jesus was a master of communication and chose to use simple stories and parables which captivated the imagination to lead people into a deeper relationship with God. This was in stark contrast to the teaching of the religious leaders of the day whose descent into the minutiae of the law complicated life.

Does a tool like Twitter have the ability to simplify profound truths into small bite sized pieces that people can readily absorb? Or is there a risk that profound truths will be diluted and manipulated in ways that minimize the power of the message?

Interested in knowing...how is your church or religious organization responding to the use of social media? Is it considered a welcome tool or a threat?

Twitter follow picture courtesy of szlea on flickr

So...What's the Difference Between a Pit Bull & a Good Short Sale Negotiator?

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 18:23:04 -0500

So, what's the difference between a pit bull and a Good Short Sale Negotiator? Possible answers below:

A. The patience of Job

B. A persistent capacity to hound loss mitigation specialists to give an answer

C. Lipstick

D. All of the Above

If you answered "D", you're right in my book! :) Seriously though, negotiating a Short Sale successfully is one of the most demanding aspects of the job for professional real estate agents today. The job is made even more difficult by the fact that the success rate is so low for so many. One instructor told me recently that he estimated the success rate to be 10%!

The problem with that dismal failure rate is that a Short Sale negotiation will often require 90% MORE work than a normal transaction prior to the sale, during the transaction and in closing the deal. This starts with the research. Many Short Sales are set up to fail from the get go...aka, the Listing Price.

Research...

A good Short Sale Negotiator will do extensive research to ensure that the home is priced appropriately to sell and should be able to document if required with comparables. Research also involves a thorough understanding of the underlying factors which may impact the ability to sell the home such as multiple liens, the owner's financial condition, the payment history on the mortgage etc.

Organization..

The closing file for normal transactions may look positively anemic when compared to the pile of documents which comprise the documentation necessary to close a Short Sale. Being organized will aid in the request for immediate action on a file which has languished on someones desk for months but now suddenly has a demand for an immediate closing!

Persistence...

In addition to the listing paperwork, the lender will sometimes request additional documents from the homeowner...MULTIPLE TIMES. As a result, it is sometimes expedient to keep all this documentation on file and continue to re-send it to loss mitigation who have a propensity to "lose" things...

Positivity...

Yes, I made up the word! But, how else can you describe the optimism required to keep on keeping on when numerous messages remain un-returned, buyers become as skittish as a deer on the run, and tempers flare up with impatience? The ability to keep all parties informed and moving in the same direction sometimes feels like a Herculean feat.

So, that's my list. What makes a good Short Sale Negotiator from your perspective?

*Short Sales are defined as properties which are sold for less than what is owed on the mortgage note. Audu Real Estate has successfully negotiated a variety of Short Sales with multiple lenders. Contact us for a confidential inquiry.

A Play On Expectations...

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 09:40:46 -0500

It's funny how the mind works. We all form mental pictures of what we think someone will look like. That's why a movie of a good book rarely meets our expectations.

You see, I had spoken to her on the phone several times. We had established a good rapport. She had contacted me via an on-line real estate referral service and was traveling to Grand Rapids to start a new life.

With heart breaking honesty, she shared the difficulty of the past year with the passing of her husband and the challenges she had faced. Her voice played out an image in my mind...young, perhaps mid 30's, long dark hair, tallish, engagingly vulnerable, sweet & now...engaged to be married again.

They walked into my office, hesitant...seemingly unsure of where they were. There were three of us waiting to meet them; a new trainee, the mortgage officer and myself. We knew there would be some credit repair issues and I'd invited the trainee to be a part of the process as she would eventually be handling the file.

They seemed a little overwhelmed..."Now, which one of you is Lola?" I stepped forward and re-introduced myself; it must have seemed to them that we were all talking at once. The mind makes quick adjustments. Definitely not youngish...She had a sweet girlish quality about her face, but appeared more mature than her voice suggested. He, a portly, middle aged man seemed wary. It became rapidly obvious that he did not want to be there.

Laurie, the loan officer started the interview. He interrupted her. He needed to tell her his story. It started with these words, "Nothing ever works out for me, every place I have been to has denied my loan, nobody has ever been willing to give me a chance and I'm sure you are all here to do a song and dance and then come back and tell me you can't help me, so I'm telling you right now..."

We were all startled; the credit file remained unopened as we stared at him trying to reprocess again...just who was sitting in front of us. After significant effort, Laurie, an experienced loan officer got him calmed down, but he remained extremely agitated. I sat back to observe, stunned by the juxtaposition of two sets of assumptions. Mine, contoured by what I imagined about the voice on the phone and his imagining the results of our meeting based on seemingly numerous experiences in the past. We were both way off!

Finally, I interrupted the jousting. Cutting in on yet another negative monologue, I said to him..."This isn't working for you is it, this story you insist on telling everyone? If it was, you'd have your house by now". He was startled momentarily and then admitted sheepishly..."No, it's not working for me. I do it because I don't want to be hurt anymore and want to protect myself".

I replied, "well, you've been creating your own reality. You expect to be denied and lo and behold the lie that you have manufactured in your mind about your inability to get a home even though you have an excellent job has become true for you." The air in his hot air rant, evaporated revealing beneath the bombast and suspicion a man who was looking at something truly scary...the prospect of regaining control of his own life and destiny and eschewing the easy route of blame and supposed bad fortune.

After the meeting that night, as I relaxed at home, I got a call from my sister reminding me to watch Oprah's program about her academy in South Africa. As we watched the show, my husband and I were entranced by the power and courage these young women displayed.

In spite of incredible obstacles; homes with no running water or toilet facilities, dangerous routes to get to school, loss of parents, and extreme poverty, these young ladies exuded a brilliance in courage and hope so bright it was breathtaking. Not, at all what I had expected when I saw the promo for the show. I hadn't so much formed a picture in my mind as I had a lowered my expectations.

Once, again my expectations were off the mark. These young women defied you to pity them...they considered themselves blessed and fully expect to transform the world. How different from the limited pictures in my mind of another poor Africa story replete with western salvation in the form of a generous aid package. Oprah summed up what many must have felt who watched that broadcast, she said "I came her to give to you, but you have given me so much more".

So here, in one evening, I saw it clearly. There are two types of poverty that we tend to focus scant attention on... poverty of Spirit and Poverty of the Mind. Just as physical impoverishment depletes life's promise, poverty of Spirit and Mind also clamp their ugly vice grip to squash out life's potential, only the mechanism by which it manifests is different - they rape the soul of hope.

In the western world, we tend to function on the assumption that as long as there is access to material comforts and the trappings of modernity, human beings will be OK. That's not necessarily true. I met a man last night whose spirit had been so impoverished and malnourished that he was barely able to even contemplate the prospect of financial prosperity. He had allowed his belief in a lie to rob his future to the point where even protestations to the contrary by a professional who could lead him to success were barely heard. As I listened to the stories that the girls in Oprah's academy shared, I was struck by the contrast, they were poor on the outside, but had the stuff of true riches were it counts the most...in their hearts.

Update: This blog post was originally published in 2007. I wish I could say that I was reporting a good ending to this story. The couple contacted us a few more times, but didn't follow through and eventually went on their way. Expectations are powerful...

Picture of young South African student is courtesy of lebeccios' photostream on flickr. Please visit www.focalpointaid.org to learn more about how your contribution can make a difference in a young child's life.

The Mis-matched Hanger...

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 19:00:50 -0500

A few years ago, I received an unusual housewarming gift. It was wrapped within a tastefully crafted large gift bag. Inside, the bag was filled with solid, dark mahogany stained wood hangers. They were beautiful, but I was a tad perplexed. I had plenty of hangers...all sorts; wire rimmed hangers, clear plastic hangers from clothes bought at the store, padded hangers, solid plastic hangers, paper covered hangers from the dry cleaners & even some wooden hangers...

My friend politely explained her gift. She said, "Lola, you have moved into such a beautiful home. Everything in your home seems to match your gracious decor. Except, when you took our coats to hang them, I noticed that the hangers in your closet didn't match your house. So, I bought you some new hangers."

I really hadn't paid much attention to my hangers; after all, they were hidden in my closet and glimpsed only for a few moments when I took one out to hang a coat. But, the principle behind the gift got me to thinking...how many mis-matched items were still hanging around in my life even as I had moved on?

In fact, most of the hangers in my closet were simply items that I had randomly collected from a variety of sources. As long as they hung clothes, who cared what they looked like. But upon reflection, I had to admit, some of them did a much better job of preserving my clothes than others. In fact, some of the hangers actually ended up mis-shaping garments that were placed on them.

I'm thinking about how this relates to life. How often do we continue to 'carry around' all sorts of things and people contacts which are no longer active or vibrant in our lives? To what extent are we filling the closets of our lives with issues that no longer resonate with the direction in which we desire to move?

Hanger picture is courtesy of aldrin muya's photostream on flickr.

Grand Rapids Real Estate Agent, Sue Prins ....Stretching Threads of Compassion.

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:34:43 -0500

Grand Rapids, MI agents don't have to wait for the yearly announcement of the 'Good Neighbor Award' to support and celebrate one of our own local Realtors®. It's wonderful to live in a community in which so many individuals give of their time and talents to serve our local community.

And then, there are some agents like Sue Prins, a real estate agent with Five Star Real Estate, who stretch arms of compassion across the globe to touch the lives of those who are less fortunate.

I recently completed a transaction with Sue; one which took about 3 months to negotiate. It was really refreshing to work with a professional. One of the unanticipated results of our 'extended deal' was that I became aware of Sue's interest in helping people in an impoverished area of South Africa become self-sustaining by starting a business. The initiative is Vox Threads.

Here's a few excerpts from Sue's letter about the project:

The initiative is basically set up to help impoverished communities like Kliptown to be able to produce sustainable income for their livelihood ( food, clothing, water, electricity, and schooling for the children etc.)

The intention of Vox Threads is to work with the men and women in these communities and set up an ongoing (assembly line type) of sewing business. We will teach them how to sew and how to market the products.

We will be setting up sewing stations with work teams, finding out what skills people have, teaching them the skills they need and helping them produce the products for market. We will also set up teams for marketing the product. There are various markets they can bring them to in SA. We are excited too that we have a number of stores here in the US that have already committed to carrying the products here as well.

The people in Kliptown are so excited to begin the initiative and to have the opportunity to produce income.

We are excited to bring the people of Kliptown this hope of income but we are even more excited to share with them the HOPE that is inside our hearts- that is the Love and Eternal HOPE of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour.

This is quite an expensive undertaking for Sue and her family. Her daughter is also accompanying her on the trip. They are not only raising money for the trip (ariline tickets have recently increased significantly), but are also buying equipment when they get to South Africa.

If you'd like to know more about Vox Threads or would be interested in supporting this mission, please contact Sue Prins @ sueprins@grar.com

To learn more about Kliptown, South Africa....click the link.

Additional Support Information for Sue Prins Vox United Trip:

Tax deductible contributions can be made by check to VOX United. It is very important however that it is written in the memo where you want your contribution to go. If you want it to go towards sewing kits write "Vox threads sewing kits" in the memo

If you wish to support me and my daughter's trip expenses you will need to write "Vox threads

Understanding the Power of the Gift...

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 11:46:18 -0500

I just read a post by Sally Cheeseman that stopped me in my tracks. Sally quotes Qunicy Jones in an interview about Michael Jackson.

Quincy goes on to say:

You have to be spiritually grounded and you are really a terminal for a higher power,

And if you don't understand that, you know, it can be very complicated.

And.....I've seen a lot of people misinterpret what success is all about.

One online descriptive defines a terminal in the following way: "a contact on an electrical device (such as a battery) at which electric current enters or leaves." If a terminal is not grounded, the results can be disasterous and even fatal, because the electricity which is passing through the unit is so incredibly powerful.

Had you ever thought about how powerful the breath of life in you is? Every human being is an expression of the Divine power of God. Every gift and talent is an expression of His creative genius and inspiration.

It occurs to me that being grounded spiritually has it's base in humility; an understanding that whatever gifts and advantages we bring to this planet are a gift that simply flows through us...not a possession which we own. Humilty also serves to protect us from being blown away by hype, which will topple you over as quickly as it lifts you up with hot air.

Understanding this, as Quincy says makes all the difference in the world.

Picture is courtesy of jdl deleon on flickr

And...NO, it's NOT a Short Sale!

Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 17:56:49 -0500

In a real estate market in which strange sometimes competes with downright wierd and just plain freaky as descriptive of the myriad of things that can happen in a transaction, one of the most interesting developments lately has been increased number of homes which are being advertized in the 'Negative'.

Negative as in...

This home is NOT bank owned

This home is NOT in a short sales

This home will NOT require you to deal with anyone other than a single party home owner trying to sell their home!

As weary buyers deal with sales (i.e. many short sales) that take forever (90 - 180 days) and bidding wars for homes which are severely under valued for quick sale during distress sales, some potential buyers are actually shying away from transactions which create more stress in what is typically already a challenging process.

If you're a home owner in Grand Rapids, MI who has been wondering if the tide may be shifting and would like to know what your home is valued for in today's market, you may have a unique selling proposition if selling your home will not require negotiation with a bank in addition to yourself. To make this determination, you will need a detailed price evaluation of your home and neighborhood.

We're rapidly selling our inventory and would love to talk with you about how our marketing strategies and online marketing can help you to MOVE to your next home. So give us a call, you might be pleasantly surprised by what you hear. (info@auduhomes.com or 616-791-0511)

Visit Audu Real Estate to view our current inventory and pre-view all the homes listed for sale in the Grand Rapids Association of Realtors® MLS database.