Brenda Ballard, At the Beach!in Emerald Isle

Thankfulness for The Problems

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 20:22:13 -0600

Via Joeann Fossland, Master Certified Coach (Advantage Solutions Group):

Thankfulness is good all the time and I so love we have a holiday for it. Thanksgiving is my second favorite holiday (Gotta confess I LOVE Christmas best!). However, it is so nice to have people's awareness of what they are thankful for be the theme of the week...Fun to receive greetings and blessings that give me pause to think.

This morning, in thinking about all of this, I discovered what I am most grateful for right now is for the things that don't look like good news. I know that it is said life is perfect and we are learning from every situation. Certainly, it seems, I often learn more when things are NOT like I want them to be. And, I read something the other day in Mike Dooley's book, Infinite Possibilities:The Art of Living Your Dreams that made me stop and think. He said the universe wants us to have fun and learn and we'd be bored if everything we wanted just manifested immediately. Hmmmmm.... I don't know, I think I could handle that. LOL ...

But I also know..... that a little more patience and recognition that the lessons that come with the waiting for my dreams to manifest are much of what my life lessons are about. The analogy of the importance being in the journey, not the destination seems to apply here for me.

So, while I am blessed with much: my family, my health, my work and the amazing people I get to play with...this week, I am taking some time to appreciate the perfection of the things I am struggling with: A close relationship marred by betrayal, the realization we probably will never move out to our 40 acres and build a home to retire in, the need for all new plumbing in this 47 year old home and a husband who wants to be the contractor but moves much more slowly than I'd like! Although my magic wand of intention is powerful...and cognitively, I understand the lessons in these problems are a gift, I am sure, my challenge is how to handle them with grace and even, perhaps, detachment. This life is so interesting!

Do you have some problems you can be thankful for this week? I hope you have a very Happy Thanksgiving!

1906 Paulette Road, Morehead City, NC

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:14:36 -0600

Brenda Ballard | Angelfish Properties, Inc | 1-800-COAST NC

1906 Paulette Road, Morehead City, NC

Close to schools and shopping.

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $179,900

Year Built	1989
Sq Footage	1,420
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	.54 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Good home in small subdivison-close to schools, health care, shopping and beaches.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Dining room	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Main View	Kitchen
Living Area

Contact info:

Brenda Ballard

Angelfish Properties, Inc

1-800-COAST NC

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 9, 2009, 11:56am PST

127 Sea Shell Lane, Salter Path NC

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 15:39:52 -0600

Brenda Ballard | Angelfish Properties, Inc | 1-800-COAST NC

127 Sea Shell Lane, Salter Path, NC

Nestled behind the protective dune of the Roosevelt Nature Preserve in the village of Salter Path, this maintained home is private yet secluded.

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $799,999

Year Built	1966
Sq Footage	1,260
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	.43 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Living room	- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Washer	- Dryer

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Ocean View

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Main View	Back Yard
Water View	Kitchen
Living Area	Dining Area

Contact info:

Brenda Ballard

Angelfish Properties, Inc

1-800-COAST NC

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 8, 2009, 11:31am PST

135 Oak Grove Road, Newport

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 15:27:15 -0600

Brenda Ballard | Angelfish Properties, Inc | 1-800-COAST NC

135 Oak Grove Road, Newport, NC

Nicely maintained home. Convenient to Hwy 70 and Hwy 24, easy
access to Cherry Point.

3BR/1.5BA Single Family House

offered at $154,900

Year Built	1975
Sq Footage	1,550
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	None
Lot Size	.50 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Living room	- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven
- Washer	- Dryer	- Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Fenced in back yard

- 25 x 30 workshop with 220 electrical service.

- Large back deck

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Living Area 1
Living Area 3	Principal Bedroom
Bedroom 2

Contact info:

Brenda Ballard

Angelfish Properties, Inc

1-800-COAST NC

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 8, 2009, 11:30am PST

123 Sea Shell Lane, Salter Path NC

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 15:25:02 -0600

Brenda Ballard | Angelfish Properties, Inc | 1-800-COAST NC

123 Sea Shell Lane, Salter Path, NC

Nestled behind the protective dunes of Roosevelt Nature Preserve in the village of Salter Path. This beautiful home is private and secluded.

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $999,999

Year Built	1971
Sq Footage	1,600
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	None
Lot Size	05 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Washer	- Dryer	- Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Ocean Front

- Screened Porch

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Main	Kitchen
Living Area	Principal Bedroom
Bedroom 2	Yard

Contact info:

Brenda Ballard

Angelfish Properties, Inc

1-800-COAST NC

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 8, 2009, 8:50am PST

3510 Country Club Road, Morehead City

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 15:05:57 -0600

Brenda Ballard | Angelfish Properties, Inc | 1-800-COAST NC

3510 Country Club Road, Morehead City, NC

Lovely, older home on huge lot in very desirable Country Club Heights. Moments away from shopping, schools, medical facilities.

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $180,000

Year Built	1965
Sq Footage	1,740
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	None
Lot Size	.69 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Highly desirable Country Club Heights location. Convenient to medical facilities, shopping, beaches.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Hardwood floor	- Living room	- Refrigerator
- Stove/Oven	- Attic	- Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

View 1	View 2
View 3	View 4

Contact info:

Brenda Ballard

Angelfish Properties, Inc

1-800-COAST NC

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 8, 2009, 11:32am PST

Summerwinds Condo, Unit 433

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:47:42 -0600

Brenda Ballard | Angelfish Properties, Inc | 1-800-COAST NC

1505 Salter Path Road, Unit 433, Salter Path, NC

Nicely maintained and decorated unit; sold furnished. Ocean and pool view.

4BR/3BA Condo

offered at $320,000

Year Built	1985
Sq Footage	1,314
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	None
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$363 per month

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Living room
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Basement	- Washer
- Dryer

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Guest parking	- Storage space(s)	- Fitness center
- Swimming pool(s)	- Sauna/Spa	- Tennis court(s)
- Gated property

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Ocean front

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Ocean	Living Area 1
Living Area 2	Dining
Principal Bedroom

Contact info:

Brenda Ballard

Angelfish Properties, Inc

1-800-COAST NC

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 6, 2009, 4:33am PST

Check Out This Listing!

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 14:19:02 -0600

Brenda Ballard | Angelfish Properties, Inc | 1-800-COAST NC

1505 Salter Path Road, Unit #217, Salter Path, NC

Second floor, Unit 217, 3 bedroom, 2 bath unit with oceanviews and overlooking main SW pool. Completely furnished and very nicely decorated.

3BR/2BA Condo

offered at $369,000

Year Built	1983
Sq Footage	1,314
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	None
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$422 per month

DESCRIPTION

Really popular 3 bedroom unit, beautifully decorated with solid rental history in 2009.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Washer	- Dryer

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Storage space(s)	- Fitness center	- Swimming pool(s)
- Sauna/Spa	- Tennis court(s)	- Gated property
- Elevator

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Oceanview, overlooking main pool

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

View	View 2
Kitchen	Dining Area
Living Area	Principal Bedroom

Contact info:

Brenda Ballard

Angelfish Properties, Inc

1-800-COAST NC

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 2, 2009, 4:11pm PST

Check out this listing!

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 11:48:01 -0600

Brenda Ballard | Angelfish Properties, Inc. | 1-800-COAST NC

307 Jasmine Street, Swansboro, NC

Lovely home in the Villages of Swansboro. One person in the household must be age 55 or older.

2BR/2BA Condo

offered at $185,000

Year Built	2005
Sq Footage	1,360
Bedrooms	2
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$165 per month

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Living room
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Washer	- Dryer

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Main View	Kitchen
Dining Room	Living Area
Principal Bedroom	2nd Bedroom

Contact info:

Brenda Ballard

Angelfish Properties, Inc.

1-800-COAST NC

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 6, 2009, 4:40am PST

Kick Back or Kick Ass?

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 13:05:53 -0500

Thanks for the superb motivation today!

Via Joeann Fossland, Master Certified Coach (Advantage Solutions Group):

There are 100 days left in 2009. You have a choice right now to coast through the Fall and Holidays or to take charge and decide this will be the best quarter of the year. While many agents are feeling the busy part of the year is now gone and they "know" things are slower over the holidays....the smart agents are seeing where the opportunities are and seizing them. Instead of kicking back, you can ramp up a blitz for your sphere, your farm area, or your client base. Plan a client appreciation party or just take a client out to lunch each week. It can not only make for a better last 100 days, but set you up to hit the ground running in 2010.

So.....Let's stop and take a few minutes to put this into place:

     What would be a "kick ass" last 100 days? Define on paper the vision. Keep it simple.

     Write down a goal in both of these areas :

                     1.     A business goal that is measurable: i.e. # of transactions, # of new contacts, # of new strategic partners

                     2. A personal goal: i.e. Lose 20 lb, stop smoking, start meditating or doing yoga

    Plan what remarkable actions you'll be taking to make this happen: Plug the time into your weekly calendar as an appointment.

Start each day by reviewing your goals and determine for that day, what action will provide the most leverage to get you closer.

Get an accountability partner: Get a buddy, Hire a coach, go public with it on your Facebook page.

Have FUN!!!!! Choose targets that excite you!

If you find you are holding yourself back, it may be time to do some work on that part of you! The WCR Harnessing The Power Course is one way to break free of the self-limiting thinking that you may not even be aware of.

"Due Diligence Contract" debuting in North Carolina January 2010

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:52:56 -0500

This is a fantastic blog and great info. Thanks!

Via Kathryn Gorham Emerald Isle Crystal Coast NC (Green Key Properties):

North Carolina Offer to Purchase and Contract (Form 2-T)
"Major Changes in Store for 2010"

For all the agents, brokers, buyers and sellers in North Carolina who read this and say: "More changes? So what? They change the form almost every year? Get Ready!

This is not just a tweak here and a tweak there this is a major overhaul of the form. Drum roll... the new Due Diligence Contract - is coming to town. See below the article on the North Carolina Association of Realtors site from July 21, 2009.

So what's in the new form you ask? I cannot say for sure as it is still in draft mode and I have not personally seen the new NC Offer to Purchase and Contract Form 2-T...
BUT I have heard a few things that I can share with you.

- Alternative 1 and Alternative 2 will no longer exist
- In place of both Alternatives there will be a new "Due Diligence" period
- How long of a due diligence period - not pre-determined it will be a negotiable item
- There will no longer be an "option fee" as there was in Alternative 2
- Will the delaying party fee/fines section of the contract still exist - YES

How big of a deal is this new contract? Well it is so big that there will be extensive training rolled out by NCAR in January with the launch of the new form and continue through the mandatory usage date which will be July 2010.

So what is Due Diligence? Due Diligence has often been a term used in commercial and business transactions. Is this where this is coming from a commercial contract?

According to Wikipedia: Due Diligence is a term used for a number of concepts involving either the performance of an investigation of a business or person, or the performance of an act with a certain standard of care. It can be a legal obligation, but the term will more commonly apply to voluntary investigations. A common example of due diligence in various industries is the process through which a potential acquirer evaluates a target company or its assets for acquisition.

According to Merriam-Webster: Main Entry: due diligence - Function: noun - Date: 1903
1 : the care that a reasonable person exercises under the circumstances to avoid harm to other persons or their property

2 : research and analysis of a company or organization done in preparation for a business transaction (as a corporate merger or purchase of securities)

How does all this apply to buying and selling houses and what will it mean to how we buy and sell homes in North Carolina? That is not completely clear at this point. My guess is what that we are moving back to caveat emptor.

According to Merriam-Webster caveat emptor: Main Entry: caveat emp·tor - Function: noun - Date: 1523
Etymology: New Latin, let the buyer beware -- a principle in commerce: without a warranty the buyer takes the risk

I will keep you posted, but my guess at this date (9/23/2009) is that there will be a period of time in which the buyer will be permitted to do any and all investigation and inspections on the property. During the due diligence period if for any or no reason they change their mind they can notify sellers and terminate the deal. If no notification is given then a contract exists.

http://ncrealtors1.blogspot.com/2009/07/major-changes-in-store-for-offer-to.html

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Major Changes in Store for Offer to Purchase & Contract (2-T) in 2010

The NC REALTORS® Forms Committee has been working closely with real estate lawyers representing the NC Bar Association over the course of the past year on exciting new modifications to the standard Offer to Purchase and Contract (2-T). The purpose of the modifications is to simplify the contract in ways that will help buyers, sellers and their agents avoid disputes that oftentimes plague real estate transactions, particularly repair disputes. The current plan is to finalize the new "Due Diligence Contract" this fall and obtain approval of the new form from the NC REALTORS® and the NC Bar Association next January. Following approval, an extensive, multi-pronged educational initiative will be launched so that NC REALTORS® members will have ample opportunities to receive training on the revised contract prior to its official roll-out in July, 2010.

Monica Huckaby, e-PRO

Legal Programs Coordinator

Posted by NC Assn of REALTORS at 9:29 AM

Labels: forms, legal
__________________

Connect with Kathryn Gorham - Green Key Properties
8754 Reed Drive - Suite 14 - Emerald Isle, NC 28594
252.646.4656 cell · 252.354.7007 office
www.greenkeyproperties.com · kkathryn@greenkeyproperties.com
ActiveRain - an online real estate network/span>
Women's Council of REALTORS® a National Referral Network

Roosevelt Preserve home for sale

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 14:35:00 -0500

NC Beachfront cottage for sale

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 14:32:27 -0500

Summerwinds Condo, Unit 217A

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 14:11:52 -0500

135 Oak Grove Road, Newport

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 10:46:06 -0500

Affordable home, convenient location. Call for details.

7 FREE "Killer Contact" Website Services

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Tue, 19 May 2009 20:48:18 -0500

Hooray, Kathryn! I was there too, and loved Pat's session. You won, and got it on you blog first. Thanks, I'll just re-blog yours.

Via Kathryn Gorham Emerald Isle Crystal Coast NC (Green Key Properties):

Another tip learned at the NAR/CCAR mid-year convention in DC. This tip is courtesy of Pat Zaby (www.patzaby.com) who spoke at the Women's Council of REALTORS meetings at the Capitol Hilton.

1. www.jott.com - Jott converts your voice into emails, text messages, reminders, lists and appointments

2. www.YouSendIt.com - sends files up to 1GB each and recipeint can download across the internet

3. Google Text Message Search - Text 46645 and ask for anything; be specific

4. ChaCha - (242242) ask any question to have a "real person" search for an answer

5. www.GoToMeeting.com - consider using this for presentations over the phone to buyers and sellers - local or out of town

6. www.Issuu.com - publication web site that gives you embedded code for your email and website

7. www.WalkScore.com - map mashup of any address to show locations

8. www.ZipSkinny.com - see US Census data for any zip code

9. www.JingProject.com - free screen capture application

Thanks Pat for the tips and the informative presentation at the WCR convention!

CIPS and NAR Mid Year Meetings in Washington DC

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Fri, 15 May 2009 12:35:38 -0500

Our meetings in Washington DC have been wonderful. It is always great to see you all at these gatherings. The CIPS breakfast was fun and we welcomed the newest CIPS designees! I then attended the International Operations committee meeting where we were updated on a variety of issues and NAR positions from immigration reform(Silver Visa), foreign investor regulations, and other housing initiatives. I am so honored to be a presidential appointee to that committee.

Of particular interest to me was the announcement of a possible trade mission to Chile, scheduled for later in the year. Jose Serrano of Raleigh NC will be coordinating that. I really would like to participate in that. The Peru mission a few years ago was wonderful!

My dear friend Bonnie Carris, of Gig Harbor, Washington, invited me as her guest to the FIABCI gathering here in Washington and has finally talked me into joining FIABCI. Watch out, here I come everyone! Bonnie is really working the international business, from China to Viet Nam, to Central America and beyond. She has recently been appointed as the world FIABCI marketing chairperson. Bonnie and I go way back. Once upon a time, we were office partners in Emerald Isle, North Carolina. She will travel later this year to Cannes, France for a FIABCI gathering. Hooray for Bonnie!

Now I must trade hats and enter my other area of real estate speciality, the Women's Council of Realtors. Our activities begin today. The first session this morning was all about different aspects of social networking. LinkedIn, FaceBook, ActiveRain, and Twitter were all discussed with pros and cons for each. It proved to be an interesting and lively session.

I return to North Carolina on Sunday, to list and sell at the beach! I welcome your referrals!

NAR/WCR MidYear Meetings, Washington DC May 11-17

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Thu, 14 May 2009 07:11:18 -0500

I've been in Washington DC since Monday, and while I love all the reconnecting with political folks, the economic summits, the international sessions(FIABCI, CIPS were great) I was so pleased that my North Carolina Crystal Coast posse arrived last night. We convened for a relaxing, fun dinner out, wearing jeans and flats. No one to meet, greet or impress! We had some good food, loads of laughter, adult beverages, and plotted the rest of our week.

WCR meetings officially begin today. I'm looking forward to the education, and networking with my fellow professional real estate practicioners in WCR. WCR still feels like home!

Brenda Ballard:This Blog is 4 U and for WCR!

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 07:22:42 -0500

I am very grateful and yes, honored to have had this blog written with the focus on Women's Council and me! We had a super meeting. Valuable networking took place; I heard some referrals being made!

Via Elizabeth Ward Small (Coldwell Banker TRIAD, REALTOR & CEO The 3B Method Seminars):

I arrived in Raleigh today to be the guest speaker to the Women's Council of REALTORS General membership meeting. As I entered the Sheraton I felt like I was entering a great convention for REALTORS as I saw tons of great billboards and professional agents proudly wearing NAR badges...

Before the presentation we were all asked to introduce who we were and where we were from, as well as if we were a guest or a member or if we held any significant titles with WCR. I noticed as the room was full and everyone quickly went across each aisle the answers all had one thing in common...There was no mention of what company or firm anyone represented...

It was obvious that I was amongst a group of the elite, most highly trained and the most professional men and women! You see...We all had one thing that linked us together and it was a powerful connection.

WE WERE ALL REALTORS and we all live to see our business help others for the good of all!

As the name announcements came closer to where I was sitting I had heard titles of all sorts from Governor to current and past Presidents and Secretaries of chapters. The titles were really all new to me as this is my 1st year as a WCR member at large. (I joined in January and yes I have already had two referrals just from attending one meeting!) Then, finally as the call outs were closer to me I turned to see who was next and I heard - "I am Brenda Ballard - NO TITLES"... I am NO ONE!" - Everyone laughed...and I knew why!

This was sorta like a joke because I think if Brenda were to list all of her titles we would have been there all afternoon and I would not have been able to talk! She has had LOTS of titles and has even been a past WCR National President and has done so much for this organization. Honestly, I feel almost guilty for being a REALTOR for 15 years and JUST NOW joining this powerful networking group! So, I felt today since Brenda really had not titles I would give her the spotlight she so well deserves!

I dedicate this little blog to

Brenda Ballard!

FOUR KEY REASONS WHY:

1) When I think of WCR I think of Brenda Ballard and everything I heard about her when I was not a member...

2) Because Brenda you WILL NEVER be a NO ONE!

3) Because she is subscribed to my blogs and I want to test to see if she gets this!

4) Because I know that this blog would make her day if you read it and if you would think twice possibly on why you have not joined the WCR...National Dues are only 86.00 a year and you get a free business listing on the www.wcr.org site. The reasons to join are priceless...The networking is powerful and the group is there to serve you and to help you as a REALTOR!

So - AR friends I would like to pour a few showers on Brenda Ballard! Please visit her site and add her as an associate! http://activerain.com/ballard51

She will be a great connection for you to have as she has lots to GIVE and SHARE with all of us!

WHO IS BRENDA BALLARD?

Currently a broker with ERA Tetterton Management Group in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, Brenda Ballard has been licensed since 1989 and is a consistent multi-million dollar producer.

In 1995, Brenda was elected as President of the Carteret County Association of REALTORS, and has been named REALTOR of the Year.

In December 2008, Brenda was honored as the Crystal Coast Chapter Women's Council of REALTORS Member of the Year. She has also served as Local Chapter President, State Chapter President, and Governor for the North Carolina Women's Council of REALTORS, and has been distinguished as the NC Member of the Year. Brenda is the 2000 WCR National President and continues her involvement at the national level.

Brenda Ballard has served on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee for North Carolina Association of REALTORS, and many other state committees. Additionally, she was appointed to the Executive Committee of the National Association of REALTORS.

Receiving unique appointments to the NAR International Operations Committee for the last three years, in 2004 Brenda represented WCR and NAR in Lima, Peru at the 1^st Andean Housing Conference. This year, she has received a presidential appointment to the International Operations Committee . An instructor for the NAR Cultural Diversity program, Brenda has also been certified as a real estate licensing instructor in North Carolina. In addition to being an educator and trainer, she is a much sought-after public speaker for various professional and civic organizations. Brenda has served on the Board of Directors for the American Red Cross in North Carolina, supports Habitat for Humanity, & the Carteret County Domestic Violence Programs. Currently serving her third term as president of the Swansboro United Methodist Women, Brenda is also active in the administrative activities of her church and chairs the Administrative Board of her church.

Thank you!

Liz

Not just another meeting!

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 15:28:46 -0500

On the 4th Wednesday of each month, the local chapter of the Women's Council of Realtors, the Crystal Coast Chapter meets to learn, network, and yes, upon occasion, we socialize!

Our programs are always stellar. You can check out our programs for yourself at www.wcrcrystalcoast.com! Today's meeting was one of the very best. Our ‘young turk' president, Amy Hahn, presented Blogging for Dummies. Folks, this was a great program! It was organized, and absolutely chock-full of great, useful information.

This is the same ‘young Gen Y turk', who about a year ago, would barely speak above a whisper from the podium. Today she had the audience in the palm of her hand! There was plenty of lively audience participation, and loads of humor. Thanks, Amy! You rock!

On a personal note, I am so proud of her for all she is doing and I am so grateful for Amy's diplomatic and skillful leadership this year. Her leadership potential is enormous. I am looking forward to, with great anticipation, her future volunteer roles. What an asset for our local chapter! The Crystal Coast Chapter is so fortunate to have her.

Amy

Our Mission

"We are a network of successful REALTORS® empowering women to exercise their potential as entrepreneurs and industry leaders."

Yes, I love WCR and I love 4^th Wednesdays. For one hour, I get to ‘feed' off the expertise, experience, and energy from a roomful of fellow professionals in the real estate industry. For the price of lunch, I always take away something that will help me in my own professional development and business. In one room, there is no question too insignificant to ask, no competition to worry over, and no industry issue which cannot be discussed. WCR is my professional organization of choice and my professional home.

Oh, in case you were wondering, we do eat real food too! The Country Club of the Crystal Coast has a phenomenal menu and chef.

For more information about WCR or for property anywhere in Carteret or Onslow Counties, call me, Brenda Ballard, 1 800 COAST NC or email me at Brenda@BrendaBallard.com

Does the contract survive?

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 13:11:36 -0500

Paul,

As I understand NC Real Estate Law, the Seller's heir/assigns may be obligated to proceed if the seller dies. However, in the event of the buyer's demise, he/she likely needs no new home. Sorry, couldn't resist that! If there is a surviving spouse, he or she may not qualify for their own financing, assuming they even want to go through with the sale.

I don't believe your seller client can force any kind of sale.

Brenda

Via Paul Hockaday (Exit Coastal Connection Realty (Wilmington, NC)):

Here we go...

Contract pending. I represent the seller. Closing date is set for 4/13/09. Buyer passes away 3 days ago while sale is pending. What are your thoughts? Is the contract binding? Do we continue with the transaction? Although the buyer is deceased, are the heirs or the estate still obligated? Give me your input. I await your response and thank you in advance. I eagerly await any and all responses.

Paul

www.myNCbroker.com

Resolutions and Planning

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 22:19:22 -0600

I am no exception! I've been reviewing, revamping, reenergizing for 2009. Here are my resolutions, not to be confused with the business plan.

2009 Resolutions

Fine tune systems and techniques; eliminate what is NOT working.
Empty drawers and closets of clutter
Refuse negative impulses and thoughts
Ensure that private, meditation time is NEVER preempted
Eat healthier
Walk each day
Pray without ceasing
Sing more
Envision future and goals each day
Keep learning, take more classes
Review my Spanish and practice it
Digitize all snapshots
Communicate more regularly with friends
Work international market-Central America

Regarding the business plan: is anyone else out there having a problem determining how many units they need to sell in 09? Based on my 08 production, those numbers would be ridiculous. So where does one begin? Do I start over, as if a rookie, when I've been in the business almost 20 years? Do I just pull a number from thin air and work toward it?

Last year, I took out my plan and looked at it each month and tried to pull rabbits from the hat. Nothing seemed to make a difference. This year, I am not even sure how to construct a realistic plan. My 2009 business planning process is speculative and based on concept rather than actual data. That makes me nervous. Is this something I can honestly say is going to be a business tool for me? Or, is it simply a paper exercise?

As I intend to remain in this business, I will NOT fold my tent and seek another career path, although my ‘numbers' might indicate that is the case. So, for tonight, my 2009 business plan is fluid. I will continue to be the real estate professional I know I am and work this business with all the energy, integrity and skill I possess. How's that?

ISP woes

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 16:11:58 -0600

My ISP has not provided email service for 2 days. Please use machosmom1@gmail.com until further notice. Thanks. Sorry for sending out the notice this way.

2009 is bound to be a great year!

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 16:29:17 -0600

Amy and team,

I am so happy to live and work at the Crystal Coast and to call this chapter my home. I am so NOT your mother, but I hope I am allowed to feel very proud of you and all your 2009 team. I applaud your every success in advance and await great things for our chapter.

Hugs,

Brenda

I just love this time of year!

Brenda Ballard (Angelfish Properties, Inc.) — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 21:38:22 -0600

The day is just about over. It began quite early with an early service at church. What a wonderful time of the year. The Christmas music is so glorious and our church choir sang a cantata this morning. They did very well and the string quartet from the NC Symphony was awesome! I sang all the way home in my car. No one to hear me!

After preparing a late breakfast for Mama and Daddy, the Sabbath became a not so Sabbath Day! I worked at finishing the Christmas tree! It's beautiful. While ornamenting the tree, I listened to music of the season on CD's. Everything from the Robert Shaw Chorale, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, Renee Fleming, the Three Tenors, Il Divo, Kenny G, Josh Groban, to Bing Crosby. Eclectic, I guess! Something to please everyone, for sure.

Some of my ornaments date back over 40 years. I've been collecting for a long time, and can hardly believe I just admitted that! As I hung each ornament, I remembered the person who gave it to me, or the actual Christmas I bought it. Many are treasured as they bring to mind those loved ones who are no longer with me.

There are funny ornaments and silly ornaments. There are delicate and precious ornaments. There are handmade, plastic ornaments from daycare projects.

The topmost portion of the tree is always reserved for the angelic host. There are about 50 of those. Some are crystal, porcelain, pottery, paper mache, silver, pewter, and cloth. No two are alike!

OCD person that I am, I have a special location for some ornaments. Of course, as I wrote above, the angels occupy the top; closest to heaven I suppose. Just below the angels are the musical instruments and bells. I have always thought that made perfect sense. If you don't get it, then let me know. I will explain.

Then, there's the bird's nest, which is always hidden on an interior branch, just below eye level. Don't want to frighten the mama bird! Into the mix are fishes and shore creatures. Well, I do live at the beach now!

Santa's are all over the tree, except at the top. Interspersed are toys, and glass ornaments of all types.

I love my tree! It's colorful, it's never has a theme, but it is full of memories, character, and once it is completed, my Christmas season can begin.

And to all, a great night!