Blogging with Barbara Hensley…..Living & Loving Rockwall, Texas - 11/30/10 04:29 PM
Blogging with Barbara Hensley…..Living & Loving Rockwall, Texas
 
2010 Life Time Fitness Triathlon Series Race to the Toyota Cup Hosted in Rockwall
 
Rockwall is the smallest county in Texas and is nestled along the eastern shoreline of Lake Ray Hubbard.

Recently Rockwall welcomed the 2010 Life Time Fitness Triathlon Series Race to the Toyota Cup. The event was a huge success with more than 1,200m professional and amateur athletes from Rockwall and around the world.
 Local Hotels were reported to have a 90% occupancy rate on Friday and 100% on Saturday.
 This event has been held in Dallas … (7 comments)

Business Planning 202 - Making 2011 Super Successful - 11/30/10 08:30 AM
'Tis the Season!  Enough can not be said about the importance of getting your Business Plan for 2011 in place quickly.
This post is a well organized step by step to assist with getting that plan in place.
Via Debbie Gartner, Westchester Flooring (Floor Coverings International :Westchester NY & Fairfield CT):
Business Planning 202 - Making 2011 Super Successful.  This is inspired by David Popoff's post 1-3-5 Business Plan for Real Estate Agents and his challenge for me to take it to the next level.  As background, I have an MBA in marketing and 12 yrs biz experience running multimillion dollar and almost … (15 comments)

Pay It Forward Accountability Group - Growing in Numbers, so VERY IMPORTANT: please read this! - 11/30/10 07:07 AM
I love the Pay It forward Accountability Group; however, I do find that it is difficult to remember all the rules, etc.  Thanks to Ralph, this post is an excellent reminder.
Via Ralph Gorgoglione - California Sunset Team - Los Angeles (Relocation Certified - EcoBroker - Keller Williams Realty):
Pay It Forward Accountability Group - Growing in Numbers, so VERY IMPORTANT: please read this!
We're in our 3rd month of our Pay It Forward accountability group that receives 2,500 bonus points per month.
We are now at 187 members and growing!
But peeps, I DESPERATELY NEED YOUR HELP HERE.

I've sent several emails … (3 comments)

How to Add Your Real Estate Business Listing to Google Places - 11/30/10 07:01 AM
Great Detail!  Simple Instructions!  Easy!  Free!
How much better can it get?  Thanks to this tutorial we can all be in Google Places in 10 simple Steps.
 
Via Rebecca Levinson, Real Estate Marketing Consultant (Real Skillz-Clear Marketing for Your Real Estate Vision):
How to Add Your Real Estate Business Listing to Google Places All real estate is local and now real estate on Google is becoming a more local search friendly place to be.  If you haven't already claimed/added your real estate business listing to Google Places, here's how to do so in 10 Simple Steps with emphasis on the little details … (5 comments)

Soooo - Your Seller Thinks They are doing the Buyer a *FAVOR* by leaving their 10 year old paint cans, huh? - 11/29/10 04:29 PM
Get Rid of Those Old Paint Cans!
Sellers absolutely do not do buyers a favor by leaving the paint cans and the other hazardous stuff they often leave behind.  This is "taking care of business" - take all the stuff with you or hire someone to do this for you!
Via Lori Robertson-Stoudt BROKER * ABR * CRS * CDPE (Virtual Homes Real Estate):
Time and time again as sellers are talking about their "moving day" and the "final buyer walk through" they say ... "oh, and I left that fushia paint for the bedroom, just in case the buyer wants to touch … (2 comments)

Top 10 Cool Tools to Share - A Zillow Update and Review - 11/29/10 02:46 PM
Way Cool Stuff! 
This is worth reading again and again...and saving to come back to if you are like me.   I like being kept up to date on what is going on at Zillow as I never much understood it nor did I really try to find out the details.
This is an easy well organized read that works for me.
Via Brad Andersohn (Industry Outreach Manager - Zillow.com):
When I joined Zillow about 6-7 weeks ago, many friends and associates here asked me to keep them posted about my new position over at Zillow.  So far, it's been an incredible blast and … (2 comments)

Is Real Estate a Public Service? - 11/29/10 02:23 PM
True!  Well Said!  Must Read! 
I have heard this issue discussed many times, but this post states it very clearly. I am Not a Public Servant; however, I do want to provide my clients with the highest and best service available in the marketplace. AND, I do want to be paid for my service.
 
Via Loreena Yeo, Realtor® Frisco TX Homes www.316teamREALTY.com (214) 783-2210 (3:16 team REALTY):
My good friend, Tom Branch recently wrote a post - Is Real Estate a Public Service? Tom's post is a Member's Only post. But it wasn't all that content that inspired what's on my heart. It … (2 comments)

Rockwall County, Texas Leasing Market Is Strong. Act Fast when You See A Home You like! - 11/28/10 08:23 PM
Rockwall County, Texas  Leasing Market Continues to Be Strong. 
Leasing is hot now!  The homes that are in good condition, well located and priced right tend to go quickly in Rockwall County, Texas.  Prospective tenants stand to lose out on getting a home if they delay too much.  The last five homes that I have offered for lease have all been leased in a week or less and there were multiple applications.  Like it - act quickly!
People looking to lease should be prepared with all the information needed to make a Credit application.  I suggest that they do this at the very beginning so … (2 comments)

2.76 Commercial Acres with Good Road Frontage in Rockwall, Texas 75087 - 11/23/10 04:05 PM
2.76 Commercial Acres with Good Road Frontage in Rockwall, Texas 75087
2.76 Commercial Acres with Good Road Frontage in Rockwall, Texas 75087 is zoned NS, Neighborhood Services.  This property is ideally located just north side of Downtown Rockwall amid nice neighborhoods.
 
Lake Pointe Hospital is a brief few minutes.  Ideal for business or medical related office.
 




Rockwall, Texas is an upscale happening place, in demand for both living and business.
 
Featured by Barbara Hensley, RE/MAX Hometown and The Barbara Hensley Collection. 
  
Buying or Selling Real Estate.....Call Barbara Hensley @ RE/MAX Hometown.
                         … (4 comments)

If You Were Gambling On Lower Rates, You May Have Lost - 11/23/10 07:21 AM
The biggest gamble and risk is waiting too long to move!  Timely advise to buyers...Just Do It Now!
This is worth repeating again and again.  Buyers who keep waiting to get one more tiny percent of a percent lower interest will be standing in line to pay higher interest.
Via Daniel Polimino (Fuller Towne and Country Properties):
Interest rates rose sharply last week for fixed rate mortgages.  Freddie Mac reported Thursday that rates for a 30 year fixed rate mortgage rose to 4.39% from 4.17%. The 15 year loan increased to 3.76%.
It is impossible to consistently and accurately predict the direction of interest … (5 comments)

Reasons to Reduce Your Price - 11/22/10 06:06 PM
Pricing!  Pricing!  Pricing!  Three magic words in today's real estate market!
This is a good reminder to stress at time of listing to set the price right, to go over it again and again when it is not showing and selling in a reasonable about of time.
It has been found many times that over priced properties end up getting the lowest prices...less than they might have gotten had it been priced right in the beginning.
You can not say too ofter.....CONSIDER A REDUCTION!

Via Evelyn Bruder, CRS, GRI, ABR, E-PRO (Steinborn & Associates Real Estate):
There's no doubt about it. When you set … (2 comments)

What Would I Do with an Extra $220 in Savings This Year? Let Me Count the Ways!!! - 11/22/10 04:15 PM
What Would I Do with an Extra $220 in Savings This Year?   Let Me Count the Ways!!!
WOW....this would be $220 FOUND MONEY!  LOL...just give me the chance and I can get this done!
  
Let Me Count the Ways!   Here are seven ways that immediately come to mind & I am sure I can think of many others.
There are many worthwhile charities. I could use additional marketing money. Customer gifts for my December closings, Lottie Moon Offering at Church. A Spa Day to relax after the holidays. Enjoy dining out with fav friends When nothing else comes to mind...buy … (4 comments)

Be the “proto-plast” of your agency. - 11/22/10 07:22 AM
This Is Soooo Me!  Being First Sets You Aside in the Business!  Be Bold!
This is a great post and is an attitude that I have had for many years.  Some people feel there is a risk involved in being the first one to do something that is different.  I say, "IT IS WORTH THE RISK!"
I would rather lead the pack then be in the middle of the pack...or worst yet...not even be there!
Times are changing so rapidly and new technology is in place daily, I find it is a must to be part of a group that offers education … (6 comments)

Success in the Rain - 11/22/10 06:46 AM
Feeling a Little Down?  Read ActiveRain Success Stories! It Works Every Time!
I take a little time each week to read a few ActiveRain Success Stories and they are a great motivation and encouragement to me as I learn and grow in this wonderful ActiveRain world.
Kerri makes it quick and easy to check out some great ActiveRain Success Stories in this post.
Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!
Via Kerrie Greenhalgh (ActiveRain):
Thanksgiving is just around the corner.  Last night I attended a performance by my king, Dave Matthews at a local mall.  Random, right?!?  The new Microsoft store opened and he was there to kick … (3 comments)

Common SEO Mistakes New Bloggers Make And How To Fix Them - 11/22/10 06:30 AM
WOW!  WOW!  WOW!  These are the three words that describe this post!   
SEO is high on my list for taking my blogging to the next level in 2011, thus this post is not only filled with information but comes at exactly the right time as I am working on my business plan for the New Year.
Not light reading...but certainly must reading!
Via Lisa Udy Logan Utah Realtor ( Platinum Real Estate Group):
When starting out in the blogging world I didn't have a clue about SEO. I soon began to realize, in order to take my blogging to the next level, … (8 comments)

Pocono Featured Communities! - 11/21/10 08:24 AM
Good Presentation of Featured Communities.  I am just now getting into blogging about communities in my area and am checking out how other successful ActiveRain members are doing this.
The pictures are beautiful and the post is organized and easy to read. I like it!
Via Jeff and Heather Rickert, Realtor®, RSPS (Keller Williams Real Estate):

… (2 comments)

ONE WAY TO CURE THE ECONOMY.....TAKE THE LOSS AND MOVE ON.... - 11/21/10 07:59 AM
Excellent Advise!  Accept the Situation!  Figure Out a Way to Move On!  Don't Let the Current Situation Take Over Your Life!  Hold Your Head Up and Do the Right Thing!
This is a sort of "tough love" post and it makes sense.
There is a New Year coming and time for many to face reality that sometimes bad things happen to good people. 
Via Richie Naggar Ran Right Realty Riverside, Ca:
People who have lost something suffer for the experience. Have you ever had a car stolen, a home burglarized....your purse or wallet taken? How about people who gamble. They play and lose and hide … (3 comments)

QR Codes in a Flash! at 1 Wilton Crest, Wilton, CT 06897 - 11/20/10 07:58 AM
Snap, Flash, Done!  More QR Madness!
I have just started using the QR Codes, thanks to ActiveRain!  I find it exciting, cutting edge, and just plain FUN!
It is time for the next level!
Happy Holidays from Your Dallas, Texas Real Estate....on the Sweet Side of Dallas.....Lake Ray Hubbard, Rockwall and Heath, Texas.
Via Dagny Eason Wilton and area of Fairfield County CT Real Estate (William Raveis):
QR Codes in a Flash!  at 1 Wilton Crest, Wilton, CT 06897
Mike Jaquish, of Cary, NC just taught me how to do the QR code for 1 Wilton Crest in Wilton CT 06897! His blog post made it … (4 comments)

Are You Posting to YouTube Yet? - 11/20/10 07:30 AM
This is a MUST read for new YouTubers, or wanna be YouTubers! 
This is NOT the wave of the future...it is where we are now and this is a great post to help us all move forward!  Enjoy!
Relocating to Dallas, Texas?  I am your Real Estate Connection!
 

Via Ginny L Gorman North Kingstown RI Expert (401)529.7849 www.RIHouseHunt.com (Phillips Post Road Realty):
 Are You posting to YouTube yet?  Of course you are right?...but what else are you doing with your YouTube videos?
- Are you embedding them here on ActiveRain...and if not why not?  Buyers and sellers like to see … (4 comments)

Foreclosures & Short Sales Seem to Bring Out the Worst in Some Listing Agents! - 11/19/10 08:14 AM
Is there a class I have missed?  There must be class that teaches agents who list Short Sale and Foreclosure properties marketing methods of which I know nothing.  I have listed both Short Sales and Foreclosures but, for some reason, I am not "getting" the newer marketing techniques that some agents seem to have well in place.
 Several things come to mind:
First....Don't call back agents who are showing and trying to sell the listing.  There are agents in this area who actually have a voice mail message that says something like, "If you are an agent, DO NOT LEAVE A MESSAGE, … (5 comments)

Horse Property on 35 Acres Has Barn, Pond, Two Workshops & Four Bedroom Custom Home with Pool in Royse City, Texas - 11/19/10 07:18 AM
Horse Property on 35 Acres Has Barn, Pond, Two Workshops & Four Bedroom Custom Home with Pool in Royse City, Texas

Horse Property on 35 Acres Has Barn, Pond, and Two Workshops & Four Bedroom Custom Home with Pool in Royse City, Texas. This country estate is  featured by Barbara Hensley in The Barbara Hensley Collection at RE/MAX Hometown.  Dreaming of a luxurious yet country lifestyle, this .property has it all...a beautiful four bedroom one-owner custom home has 4,261 square feet with three & half baths, formal dining, and study.  Media and third living are up...all else down. 
 
Kitchen is the … (4 comments)

Three Bedroom Custom Home on 12-1/2 Acres Is Great Horse Property in Royse City, Texas 75189 - 11/18/10 02:25 PM
Three Bedroom Custom Home on 12-1/2 Acres Is Great Horse Property in Royse City, Texas 75189
 
Three Bedroom Custom Home on 12-1/2 Acres Is Great Horse Property in Royce City, Texas 75189  Must See This One!  This Is a Special feature of The Barbara Hensley Collection.  Ideally located within an easy commute to Dallas, Texas, minutes off I 30.  Shop in near-by downtown Royse City, Texas, your new hometown, or pop over to Rockwall, Texas for convenient shopping and dining. 
 
The Harbor on Lake Ray Hubbard, Lake Ray Hubbard's Waterfront Dining and Entertainment area is a brief few minutes. 
… (2 comments)

Learn From An ActiveRain Millionaire - 11/18/10 07:28 AM
Want to Be a Millionaire???  I am attending this "computer side chat" webinar.  It has to be interesting!
In case the original post was missed, I think it worthwhie to post it again...hope to be with you all in the "chat"!l
 
Via Bob Stewart - ActiveRain (ActiveRain):
On April 27th 2010, Todd Clark became the first ActiveRain member to reach 1 million points. Since then, we have had three others join the Millionaire club on ActiveRain as well.
In my post congratulating Todd on this mind blowing accomplishment, I raised the question "How the heck does someone stay that focused and have … (7 comments)

What Makes a Website Work? - 11/17/10 08:16 PM
Great Information!  I have had my website, www.barbarahensley.com since the late 1990s and it has been an excellent source of business for me.
Site needs to be updated often!  Weekly would be excellent!  Monthly would be OK!  Why or why, is it so difficult to do this????  This is a No Brainer...but, hey, it is the real world!  JUST DO IT!
The Barbara Hensley Collection is Your Dallas, Texas Real Estate Connection!  

Via Ann Dail, Broker/Realtor,ePRO, SRS, B.A.Chem (Baton Rouge Area Homes, Louisiana, 225-761-0551):
I have been working to improve my company website for 5 years now. Here are some important … (0 comments)

Uh Oh. I was either Grounded or Cast into the Fiery Pits of Hell..... - 11/17/10 07:46 PM
WOW...This is a scary post to me, a newbie to ActiveRain! 
Lots to check out and think about in our search for "photos",  To use others' PHOTOS...or not...That Is The Question!
Barbara Hensley, Your Dallas, Texas Real Estate Connection! 

Via Jennifer Prestwich (Your Castle Real Estate):
I guess I was a bad girl.  I didn't even know I was doing it.  But there is always someone watching- whether you are 4 years old or somewhere around 40....
There has been so much talk about copyright infringement on AR.  Just the other day, Russel Ray  launched a lively discussion on this very topic. … (7 comments)

Do you really like talking to a brick wall?? That's what posting without comments is like. - 11/17/10 07:34 PM
Comments!  To Comment or Not!  Why Do I Not Get Comments?
I have been in ActiveRain for just a little over 8 weeks and this is interesting to me.  This is one of the things I wonder about but have not asked...here it is in a great Blog Post.
Read it and Comment!
Barbara Hensley, The Barbara Hensley Collection...Your Dallas, Texas Real Estate connection!
Via Actively Raining Thoughts-Kathy Streib- Stager-South Florida - 561-914-6224 (Room Service Home Staging):
Robert Swetz (Vegas Bob) wrote 2 interesting posts in the last two days that addressed what he says is the declining number of comments left on … (3 comments)

6807 Lakehurst Avenue Dallas Texas 75230 Is Located in One of Dallas, Texas's Premier Neighborhoods, Preston Hollow, with Easy Access to the Best of Dallas! - 11/17/10 02:39 PM
6807 Lakehurst Avenue Dallas Texas 75230 Is Located in One of Dallas, Texas's Premier Neighborhoods, Preston Hollow, with Easy Access to the Best of Dallas!
 6807 Lakehurst Avenue Dallas Texas 75230 Is Located in One of Dallas, Texas's Premier Neighborhoods, Preston Hollow, with Easy Access to the Best of Dallas! Featured by The Barbara Hensley Collection @ RE/MAX Hometown, this home is ideally located close to all the Best of Dallas...North Park Mall, Three Private Schools, Toll Way Access, Upscale Shops, Fine and Casual Dining, as well as World Class Shopping, Major Sports, and the Arts and Theatre Centers.   
  
6807 Lakehurst … (0 comments)

Pay It Forward.....Shared Tech Tips, ActiveRain & Lunch with Six Agents! - 11/16/10 05:43 PM
Pay It Forward....I wanted to Pay It Forward some of the exciting things I have learned during the last eight weeks of being in ActiveRain.  I have learned and put to use dozens of new things.
It is my firm belief that agents who do not change and grow in this industry will not be much of a long time player in the business.  I had one agent say, "I would rather dig a hole in the ground than get on my computer after being out showing property".   
Oh My, This Was Like Waving a Red Flag At Me!  Fortunately he is a … (13 comments)

Monday Morning Wash Day....It's a Long Day! Where's the Stew? - 11/15/10 09:05 PM
When I was a little girl growing up in East Texas, my Mother washed clothes every Monday.  She washed clothes ALL DAY on Monday.  I was the oldest of two brothers and a sister so we were a family of six.  Nothing much went to the dry cleaner.  The washing machine was a big tub like washer with a ringer on top, and it was located on the large back screened in porch.  The washer went into action early in the morning and worked a long day without a break.
It was hot is summer, cold in winter but the washer kept … (5 comments)

SEO Copywriting for Real Estate - 11/15/10 10:00 AM
WOW!!!  This is great information!  I sent it to my team members and we are going to meet this week regarding how to fine tune our SEO.  
Speaking of "searching" - No Need to Search - I Am Your Dallas, Texas Real EstateConnection."

Via Victoria Stankard (Get Found Now ):
A professional SEO real estate content writer's job is to drive traffic to your website utilizing good SEO practices AND encourage site visitors to employ your services and contact you. Quality, optimized content is the cornerstone of a successful real estate online presence!
Optimized Real Estate Content for Your Target Market  

Whether the focus of your website is luxury homes, REO bank-owned property, short sales, flat-rate … (5 comments)

Pay It Forward......Pray It Forward! Week Two...Fantastic Blessing! - 11/14/10 08:10 AM
This is my second week in the amazing Pay It Forward Group.  I received the greatest blessing this week!  Wait a minute....this was to be a Pay It Forward to Others....AND...here I am receiving an awesome blessing!
Last week, my first week, I set a goal of praying each day for a special prayer list made up on an assortment of twenty family members, friends, associates and other special people.  There was a reason for placing each one on the list.
Starting the day off with a special prayer for all these people has provided me with a great start for my day … (7 comments)

Gifts for Buyers Who Seem to Have Everything! - 11/13/10 04:50 PM
What Do You Buy Buyers Who Have Everything? 
No one likes to buy a gift that will not be used...so what do you do for those special buyers who have everything...certainly not something for the home that will be professionally decorated by a professional decorator.
The one never failing gift(s) that I find anyone will enjoy is doing something for their children.  It does not matter what the price of the home is.  Simple or fun gifts for the children always hit the mark.  I like to get something sort of "local" for the children of people moving in from another … (11 comments)

Pay It Forward...helping colleague (Nov #2) - 11/13/10 03:57 PM
I Love This Pay It Forward Post! 
It is often the simple things such as helping out our buddies at the office that make a big difference in their days. 
I attend to watch for these Pay It Forward moments in my days at the office.
Via Praful Thakkar (ReMax Partners):
Mostly, I work from home, but it was Tuesday - my office meeting day. I always try to attend the office meetings on Tuesdays - and this week, it was almost after 4 weeks, so I headed to the office and after the meeting, I was checking with my colleagues - Hi … (3 comments)

You Lost How Much When You sold Your Home???!!!! WOW!!! - 11/13/10 09:54 AM
I am working with buyers now who recently sold their home in another state and are moving to the Dallas, Texas area.  They say that they lost over $350,000 when they sold their home.  It took two years to sell the home.
I find it interesting how some buyers figure their losses on the home they just sold.  I realize there are many methods, but two ways seem to be at the head of the list.
1.  They listed their home at a high priced, often way over actual value.  It usually took a long time to sell  the home, during which it got stale on the … (10 comments)

Twitter: 8 Easy Ways To Maximize Your Tweets - 11/12/10 08:08 PM
WOW! 
So Much to Learn....About Tweets...Puts Me in a Twitter to Think About It!
I am printing this to perhaps lead me to find a way to understand all it is that I do not know about Twitter!
 
Good Post!  
Via Josh Millar - President at theibisnetwork.com (The Ibis Network):
You’d think it would be easy to catch the attention of a few of Twitter’s 54 million monthly visitors with nothing more than a few informative tweets. But being one among Twitter’s 175 million users means you’re likely getting lost in the chatter and not reaching the audience you’d hoped for. … (4 comments)

Happy Birthday to Me! Happy Birthday to Me! WOW...Unexpected Surprise! - 11/11/10 10:57 AM
WOW!  Yesterday was my birthday!  Starting early in the AM my email was flooded with dozens and dozens of emails which continued through the late PM....ALL...wishing me a Happy Birthday!
The Big Surprise Was That These Came From All Over the World!  Each wishing me Happy Birthday.  These were from my "friends" on Facebook.  I am rather new to working the social media game so this was a complete surprise to me.
I have received notice in the past of when my "friends" were having a birthday.  I did not respond unless I knew that these were my "in my face friends".  I did not … (6 comments)

Active Rain stop it! First a liquor license, now its Egyptian sheets AND Nordstroms!! - 11/11/10 01:53 AM
ActiveRain Strikes Again!  This Is a Fun Post....Confirms Again That ActiveRain Is THE Place to Get the Word Out....ABOUT ANYTHING!
I am amazed at how ActiveRain works, helping us all make connections I never dreamed were possible...also...HOW QUICK IT WORKS!
Please remember...I Am You Dallas Real Estate Connection! 

Via Sun City Grand Real Estate Surprise AZ Leolinda Bowers,MBA,CRS,Associate Broker (Ken Meade Realty):
You've done it again Active Rain!  This time I'm trying to find out who was selling sheets!
July 2010 I wrote a blog about the grand opening of Coco's Restaurant in Sun City Grand in Surprise AZ.  After posting that blog, I … (4 comments)

City Ranch Offer 25 Acres & 3 Houses in Sunnyvale, Texas 10 Minutes to Dallas, Texas! - 11/10/10 05:39 PM
City Ranch Offer 25 Acres & 3 Houses in Sunnyvale, Texas 10 Minutes to Dallas, Texas!
 
City Ranch Offer 25 Acres & 3 Houses in Sunnyvale, Texas 10 Minutes to Dallas, Texas and is a feature of The Barbara Hensley Collection at RE/MAX Hometown.
 
This 25 Acre City Ranch in Sunnyvale, Texas has unlimited potential.  The 25 Acres are gorgeous, fully fenced and offers the ultimate in privacy, just minutes from Dallas, Texas.  This is the best of worlds, you can order pizza delivered and be secluded in your own private world.
  
THIS IS TEXAS AT ITS … (4 comments)

The Barbara Hensley Collection Presents a Dramatic Modern Style Home which is Built for Green Living & Located in Forney, Texas Minutes from Dallas, Texas! - 11/10/10 02:26 PM
The Barbara Hensley Collection Presents a Dramatic Modern Style Home which is Built for Green Living & Located in Forney, Texas Minutes from Dallas, Texas!
 
The Barbara Hensley Collection Presents a Dramatic Modern Style Home which  is Built for Green Living & Located in Forney, Texas Minutes from Dallas, Texas!
Dramatic Design!  Luxurious Living!  Live Green!  This outstanding near new home is a MASTERPIECE, inside and out specifically designed for stylish entertaining and easy living.  Situated on spacious 3.65 Acres surrounded by native trees in exclusive neighborhood located in Forney, Texas out of the hustle and bustle of the big … (2 comments)

Jobs! Jobs! Jobs! - 11/10/10 08:59 AM
Jobs!  Jobs!  Jobs!  These are the three most often heard words today. 
Yea, yea....we still know the other three...Location!  Location!  Location!
I have noticed that there are large numbers of agents that act as though they do not have a job anymore.  I hear agents say, "Since the market is so bad, I am doing things I have not done in years...bake, work in my garden, long lunches with friends, sleeping a little late and enjoying staying around the house in my PJs."
Excuse me, but these agents have not been fired, I think they have retired!  I find that I … (6 comments)

Pay it Forward: A small good deed - 11/09/10 10:58 PM
I, too, don't usually give to the man standing on the corner with a placard...this post caused me to give this a second look.  Right, it is not up to me to judge rather it is up to me to be supportive.
Worst that could happen is the man on the corner could run to buy a bottle of rum or cheap wine.  Best is that he would buy food, feel encouraged and of value.  $10.00 is not much....potential impact is priceless. The next time I see a man on the corner with sign asking for a hand-out...I will likely give him a … (2 comments)

Updated Listing Marketing - Delivered to Sellers Today! QR Codes & More! - 11/09/10 10:18 PM
New Sign Riders with QR Codes....Text....Property Website - these were surprises delivered to sellers today!  I sent them an email message yesterday telling them to watch for their new rider signs.
Sellers loved this and it was a cool surprise for them.  RE/MAX red, white and blue riders with the property website and codes to text for information...PLUS the QR Code tag in black & white looked fantastic.
My clients were glad to be the first in their area to have these signs.  A mailer card will go out to the surrounding homes telling about the new signs and marketing.  Perhaps a new listing????
Thanks … (2 comments)

Am I The Only One That Accidently Logs Out of ActiveRain? - 11/09/10 08:09 AM
I have learned to blog, to comment, to use photos, widgets, QR codes, to "like", and dozens of other way cool things in ActiveRain.
WHY do I keep getting out of ActiveRain?  I find that I accidentally get out of the Rain at least once a day or more!
This is not tough...it is basic PC stuff, but I just keep on doing it.  Does anyone else find themselves doing this?  I am not blond so it must be those Senior moments taking control.  No insult meant to our beautiful blond rainmakers...would I were blond...could I possibly have more fun!
Please remember The … (13 comments)

Pay It Forward......Pray It Forward! - 11/09/10 07:19 AM
Pay It Forward....Pray It Forward!   I have been richly blessed all my life, not to say I have not suffered by the untimely death of my husband and losing my parents.  As a single mom I put two daughters through college supported by being a Realtor.  God always placed me in the right place at the right time from the beginning when he placed me with my mom before birth.  
I know I could not have made it alone....it is with God's constant looking after me, even during the times I would be distant.
I intend to Pay It Forward...by Praying It … (10 comments)

How Do Consumers Find You on ActiveRain? How Do They Know About ActiveRain? - 11/08/10 09:37 PM
How Do Consumers Find You on ActiveRain?  How Do They Know About ActiveRain?
Please bear with me on this.  I am only about 8 weeks old in ActiveRain.  Some days I am on overload, some days I am sailing and singing in the rain!  I have learned dozens of new things which I have already put to use in my marketing, I have commented, received comments, had two featured posts, have done 68 posts...and today...referred a seller to an ActiveRain member in New York (what a great ActiveRain was to me in placing this referral!).
What I am wondering is... just how do … (12 comments)

Back Up Your Cell Phone Data! Lose Your Phone - Out of Business!!! - 11/08/10 08:14 AM
Back Up Your Cell Phone Data Base - This is my task for today.
I have always known that I should back up my cell phone data, but had never done this. 
I have every client's multiple numbers, dozens of Realtors, lenders' cells, children, grandchildren, friends, doctors, dentists, bank and dozens of other important numbers that I use daily.
Almost everyone I know uses their cell numbers so these are not easy numbers to get back.
Yesterday I thought I lost my Blackberry.  My heart sank and I had to fight hard not to panic.  I knew it was gone, I did not … (18 comments)

You Have Got to Be Kidding! Agents Function This Way? - 11/07/10 08:55 PM
Please Tell Me You Are Kidding! 
I see one questionable word, "FUNCTION".  I don't think you could call this a functioning agent in any context.  No cell, no email, no working on the weekend, NO CLUE....results in NO CLIENTS!
Via Dagny Eason Wilton and area of Fairfield County CT Real Estate (William Raveis):
You Have Got to Be Kidding!   Agents Function This Way? I received an offer from an agent the other day on a listing of mine.     A very nice agent, I must add.    The agent gave me the paperwork all filled out by hand, which is fine, but then told me that since … (4 comments)

You Don't Call! You Don't Write! Why Won't My Realtor Call Me Back? - 11/07/10 08:43 PM
Lots of changes going on in this industry...but one thing does not seem to change, there are some agents who just do not, will not, call their clients in a timely manner.
This has always been a mystery to me as calling a client is perhaps the very easiest thing to do.  I like calling them before they call me as I feel more in control.   
Every broker and manager has received the calls from clients complaining they can't seem to find their agent.  They ask "Is he/she still with the company?  Are they sick?  Are they out of town?   They won't call … (4 comments)

How much lower will your Seller go? - 11/07/10 08:38 AM
Perfect Response to Agents Who Dare to Ask....How Low Will the Seller Go!
This type of agent behavior seems to be happening more and more.  First, they are working with non-qualified buyer prospects, showing listings priced far above their ability to buy, AND....THEN...have the gall to ask the "HOW LOW WILL THE GO QUESTION.
 
Via Tish Lloyd Real Estate Agent Wrightsville Beach, NC (Prudential Laney Real Estate 910.547.1446):
"Tish Lloyd."
"Hi.  I have a Buyer that is interested in your listing at xxxxxxxx.  We were wondering, how much lower will your Seller go?"
"They will accept the list price."
"Sure, but, just … (4 comments)

Foreclosing on a House, Not a Home - 11/07/10 08:09 AM
Home Is Where he Heart Is!  This Post Is Excellent Encouragement for Those Losing Their Houses.
It is sad walking through these homes with the broken toys and other signs of the happy family who once lived and loved and made these houses their homes.  They all need encouragement as they go on to make another home.
 
Via Loreena Yeo, Realtor® Frisco TX Homes www.316teamREALTY.com (214) 783-2210 (3:16 team REALTY):
A house is where we live, where we lay our heads down at night and where we get up in the morning. A home is where memories are made, where love grows.
… (2 comments)

Are QR Codes Worthy of the Hype? - 11/06/10 07:32 PM
A Month Ago I Did Not Know What a QR Code Is....Let Alone Know It Would Become a New Tool in My Real Estate Tool Box!
Where did I learn about QR codes....ActiveRain, of course!  I now have three rider signs with QR Code as well as the Text info.  The rest of my listings will be getting these riders in the next couple of weeks.
Will this replace other marketing?  Not now, perhaps never, but it is a tool I am excited about.  What it does do is provide another of those cutting edge tools that sellers may appreciate in the marketing of … (9 comments)

Would e-Signatures Change The Way We Do Business? - 11/06/10 06:26 PM
YES!  Save Time, Provide Convenience for Other Agents & Clients, Show You Are Cutting Edge!
I do believe that e-Signatures may well change the way I do business.  This was strongly recommended to me recently by an agent that sold one of my listings.  I am signing up for this next week and am excited to have one more new time saving tech tool in my tool kit. 
 
Via Song San, Broker, MBA (Coldwell Banker Dynasty):
   In real estate there are a lot of documents that need to be signed. Many times we need to set an appointment to meet up with the client … (3 comments)

Property Management - Another Animial! Do You Do It? - 11/05/10 09:33 PM
Property Management - Another Animal!  Do You Do It?
Personally, I Don't do Property Management.  I know agents that do it and I think that overall most do a lousy job.
Property Management requires special training and a mind set completely different from that of the average listing and selling agent.  Following are issues that I see as red flags and results in "don't even think about doing it!" for me.
These are just my thoughts and I would love hearing different thoughts regarding this as the leasing market is taking off and the opportunities to take on Property Management are increasing.
1.  … (6 comments)

Success quote for November 5, 2010 - 11/05/10 09:02 PM
I Love This Success Quote Enough to Send It Out Again! 
I Agree That The World Does Need People Who Come Alive!
I plan on taking this quote to heart and keeping my focus on "coming alive" all through this week.  
Read...Heed...and...Succeed!
Via Jeffrey Richman - The Unclaimed Money Expert (Equity Recovery Systems):
Good Morning,
Today is November 5 and the possibilities are endless as to how good the day can be.
Each day I'll be posting a quote that will, hopefully be thought-provoking.
I thought it would be nice to help give us all a little added inspiration to our day.  
… (1 comments)

Paying It Forward: We Haven't Sold a Car in 20 Years! - 11/05/10 08:56 PM
Paying It Forward - This Is One of the Best Examples I Have Heard - Wish I Had Thought About This!
I sold a car about a year ago and would much rather have donated......but, alas, I was not thinking!  This just makes good sense to me and it is certainly something I will do the next time around!
Read...Donate Cars...Pay It Forward!  Greata example for the rest of us!
Via Liz and Bill Spear RE/MAX Elite (Southwestern Ohio) (Northern Cincinnati to Southern Dayton):
We're not up on the latest fashions, we don't live in the biggest home, we don't drive the newest cars,we're … (4 comments)

Renters Are Flooding the Market! Are You Also a Leasing Agent? - 11/05/10 08:37 AM
Renters Are Flooding the Market in Many Areas.  Do You Work with Renters?
Realtors that never acted as a leasing agent are now showing rentals to clients, many happy to add this to their income stream.
Leasing is something I never did much except as a service to my clients who were also buyers or sellers.  My service area did not have a lot of rentals available.  Recently sellers not able to sell their home have turned to leasing.
There are now many people looking to lease because of having their home foreclosed or who can not qualify for a loan.  Financial stress seems to … (4 comments)

How to write Real Estate blog posts and NOT make your reader fall asleep, or worst yet, hit the "back" button! - 11/04/10 08:18 AM
These Tips Are Worth Printing!  Blah, blah, blah....AND BLAH! 
I often find myself saying in a 1,000 words what could be said in 500!  Which blog post is likely to be read, the 1,000 word or the 500 word post?  DUH! 
This post says it all...says it right!

Via Jim Gatos (Keller Williams Realty):
1. Write on a topic "Slightly Controversial".. No one wants to fall asleep while reading .. at least not you. 2. Write on a topic YOU Yourself would definitely respond to.. That way you attract "Like Minded" people. 3. Write about 3 or 4 short, concise paragraphs.  … (6 comments)

Tech Tuesday Is Coming to RE/MAX Hometown in Heath/Rockwall, Texas! Another Thanks to ActiveRain! - 11/03/10 08:20 PM
Tech Tuesdays Are Coming to RE/MAX Hometown in Heath/Rockwall, Texas!  Another Big Thank You to ActiveRain!
I can't seem to stop singing in the Rain, about the Rain, ActiveRain that is!  Since joining ActiveRain nearly eight weeks ago I just can't stop singing its praises.  My goal has always been to stay ahead of the curve in new marketing, technology and anything to do with real estate.
Staying ahead of the curve gets harder each day as something new last week may be this week's old hat.
I have learned so much in the brief weeks since joining ActiveRain and I can't stop thinking about … (5 comments)

Other People's Dirt is Hard to Sell - Seller Tip - 11/03/10 06:47 PM
Selling Other People's Dirt = Hard Sale!  Why is this so hard to hear from some sellers?
Somehow some sellers think their dirt does not turn to mud!  They love their personal photos, the medals and trophies, the cute drink glasses from the last office party, etc. etc. - the list goes on!
One recent seller must have been a party animal as he had his fridge filled with cases of beer, no food...just beer.  The home did not have a bar, but he had his liquor displayed on the kitchen counter tops...all over the counter tops - man, you could mix a … (0 comments)

How Much Is Your Assistant Worth? Mine....Priceless! - 11/03/10 12:41 PM
How Much Is Your Assistant Worth!  Mine....Priceless!
We all know the old saying that behind every successful man stands a woman.  I am not exactly sure of this; however,I do know that my assistant, Darlene Gillenwater, is a force behind me.  We have been together for ten great years now.  What wonderful growing years!
The Realtor-Assistant relationship is much like a marriage with the keyword being COMMUNICATION! 
Ten years ago when Darlene came to work with me our market was very different.  My passion is marketing and she quickly got in the mind set that our marketing had to be unique, exceed our … (1 comments)

If I Had Your Money, I'd Burn Mine!!!! - 11/03/10 03:57 AM
Oh to Have Money to Burn!
Actually many of us do burn money...by not properly handling our business, by not being the best that we can be.  I especially like Barbara's point about bringing someone on the team to assure that quality goes up rather than down.
I recently brought a new member on board, and she is bringing many new ideas and strengths to the The Barbara Hensley Collection at RE/MAX Hometown.  My passion is listing and marketing and I believe that I provide the best service available; however, bringing Marnie White on my team I have immediately pushed the service up another … (0 comments)

ActiveRain Launches Google Analytics for Outside Blogs - 11/02/10 01:23 PM
Working Hard to Get Up My Outside Blog Up & Running .....THIS LOOKS GREAT!
I will be spending much of my ActiveRain scheduled time this week to checking out what I need to do on My Outside Blog.  Cool Stuff Here!!!
Via Brad Andersohn (Industry Outreach Manager - Zillow.com):
Finally, after numerous requests from members, and months of hard work, ActiveRain added the Google Analytics Widget to Outside Blogs today.  Google Analytics is a free service that provides detailed statistics about visitors to your blog.  This only applies to the ActiveBlogs, ActiveRains Outside Blog Platform.
How To Install the Google Analytics Widget 1. … (4 comments)

How To Create and Maximize Your Outside Blog - 11/02/10 01:13 PM
ActiveRain Blogs, Outside Blogs....I Am Confused...HELP ME, PLEASE!
I found this excellent How To on Outside Blogs and can't wait to go through the steps to customize mine. 
Thanks again, ActiveRain for great help!
Via ActiveRain Approved Business Builders (ActiveRain - Approved Business Builders):
Here's the quickest and easiest 7-step plan to setup and maximize your ActiveRain Outside Blog.  These directions should help you to have your Blog set-up in no time at all.  Allow 30-60 minutes to complete these steps. ActiveBlogs are currently available to ALL Rainmaker and Grandfathered AR members. Find Out More

Step One:
Creating Your ActiveRain Outside … (0 comments)

How to protect your credit in a Divorce! - 11/02/10 02:42 AM
Great Information for Our Clients Who Are Getting a Divorce!
Divorce is hard on all parties, but wouldn't it be great if couples could at least come out of a deadly divorce with both of their credit protected?
 
Via Adam Malachi QSC,CIPS,CNE,CRB,CRS,E-pro,GRI,MRE,SFR (Your Castle Real Estate, LLC):
How to protect your credit in a Divorce!
Divorce is a postmortem to a dead marriage! In my opinion divorce should the last resorts! Couple should try hard to save the marriage!
Anyway in the event of dissolution of a marriage or separation (Divorce) all financial obligations incurred during the marriage are the responsibilities of both … (2 comments)

Don't Move to Dallas Until You See Rockwall on Lake Ray Hubbard - 11/01/10 05:11 PM
Don’t Move to Dallas Until You See Rockwall on Lake Ray Hubbard!
 
“Don’t Move to Dallas Until You See Rockwall on ”Lake Ray Hubbard” was the advertising slogan touted far and wide by me, Barbara Hensley, for many years. The intro of this now well known slogan started back in the early 1990s when the Dallas Chamber of Commerce extended their scope and contacted Realtors in the adjoining county of Rockwall on Lake Ray Hubbard to sell ads for the Relocation Guide.
 
The Salesman made an appointment with me to sell a business card size ad in their Relocation … (2 comments)

Your Long Tail - Don't keep it between your legs, let it grow - 11/01/10 08:31 AM
Great Information Just Seems to Rain on Us Here in ActiveRain!
I am still WOWED by the constant stream of great information that seems to just come pouring in each day.  It arrives in the form of great posts such as this one without my having to search for it.
 
 
Via Jeff Belonger-The FHA Expert - FHA Loans - FHA mortgages - USDA loans - VA Loans ( - FHA Home Loans - Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc):
How many of you bloggers keep your tail between your legs?  Here is where you would want your tail to grow, to … (4 comments)

 
Barbara Hensley, Homes for Sale, Luxury, Acreage, Waterfront, Golf Course,Ranches (RE/MAX Properties, Rockwall, Heath, Royse City, Rowlett, TX) Rainmaker_large

Barbara Hensley, Homes for Sale, Luxury, Acreage, Waterfront, Golf Course,Ranches

Rockwall, TX

More about me…

RE/MAX Properties, Rockwall, Heath, Royse City, Rowlett, TX

Address: Heath, Rockwall, Royse City, Rowlett, Sunnyvale, Garland, Mesquite, Fate, Forney, , Rockwall ISD, 75087, 75032, Heath, Tx., 75032

Office Phone: (972) 772-9699

Cell Phone: (214) 789-0061

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