Asset Managers are People Too... - 04/30/10 05:43 PM

Via Concord Real Estate-Sellstate Concord Realty:
Yesterday I received an email from one of my Bank Client Asset Managers. We had riverfront lots that had been pulled after 6 months of heavy marketing and reassigned to another agent. That agent finally sold them because the lots were finally reduced and listed in the price range that the market would bare.
First of all- as an REO Agent, you can't take these things personally. We told the Bank all along that they would sell where they ended up selling. We sent them comps after comps to support our prices. After the initial BPO … (0 comments)

1800 Canary Road Quakertown PA Just Listed - 04/30/10 04:29 PM
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1044 Spring Meadow Drive Quakertown Open House May 2nd New Low Price! - 04/30/10 04:26 PM
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2009 Lantern Drive Green Lane PA Giant Price Reduction! $499,000 - 04/30/10 04:14 PM
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Marketing, Short Sales, and Social Media - A Winning Combination! - 04/30/10 04:09 PM

Via Son Nguyen (PartnerFirst ):
“The highest level of human connection is when we can see the world through another’s eyes and set aside our own motives in order to fulfill the needs of another”. – Anonymous.
This statement is true now more than ever in the world of marketing and connecting with distressed homeowners. Our future clients do not care how much we sold in 2009, or how many awards we won. The concerns on distressed homeowner’s minds are:
·         Does this person have the answers I seek?
·         Can I trust this agent?
·         How is he/she different … (0 comments)

A ROSE OF SHARON COMPLETES THE CIRCLE OF LIFE ON CAPE COD - 04/29/10 09:06 PM

Via J. Stephen Gregory (ERA Cape Real Estate):
A Rose of Sharon completes the Circle of Life on Cape Cod.
We're new in our little neighborhood, having moved to our little Dancing Brook ranch in Brookhaven (that’s in South Yarmouth, on Cape Cod) only three years ago. We haven’t met a lot of folks in the neighborhood, this being New England and all, although we have tried.
One of the people we did meet I'll call "Laurie". She’s an older woman (I’m pretty sure she said she’s in her late eighties) who accomplishes more in a day than most people do in … (0 comments)

Accompanied Showings in Real Estate Do Not Sell Homes - 04/27/10 08:59 AM

Via Bill Gassett Metrowest Massachusetts Real Estate (RE/MAX Executive Realty):
ORIGINAL SOURCE: Holliston MA Real Estate
                                                                                                                                                           
In the Metrowest Massachusetts area where I am located it is pretty rare to see an accompanied showing. In towards Boston it becomes much more common place. Some areas around the country have them and others don’t.
Why? Who knows but more than likely it has to do with tradition. I am glad the policy has never caught on in my neck of the woods.
Frankly an accompanied showing is a waste of a listing agents time and does nothing to facilitate a sale.
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5 Reasons Why YOU Need a Real Estate Virtual Assistant! - 04/27/10 07:29 AM

Via RealSupport Real Estate Virtual Assistant (RealSupport Inc.):
1.) You have 3 new listings....and you just promised all 3 sellers that their homes would be effectively displayed online and professionally showcased in print.  Now what?  You’re only one person and you may have just over promised. 
Don’t under deliver!  Delegate the marketing efforts to your real estate virtual assistant!  MLS entry, writing the ad copy, enhancing the photos, ordering your sign rider, creating a visual tour, home brochure and just listed postcard, adding the listing to your website and all of the other top real estate sites, enhancing the listing on REALTOR.com … (3 comments)

2035 Baker Drive Allentown Open House Giant Price Reduction! - 04/26/10 04:27 PM
2053 Baker Dr Allentown PA 2053 Baker Dr, Allentown, PA 18103 View Map This well maintained home in the Westbrook Park community of South Allentown is a great buy for the first time home buyer that is eligible for the recently extended $8,000 tax credit, and is just starting out. Walk to shopping, playground, swimming pool and busses. Close to Little League Fields as well. Backs up to the South Mountain Middle School. Modern Kitchen, Attractive decor, nice sized dining room and living room. Basement Laundry with walkout to back yard and attached garage. Parking access to garage through back alley. … (3 comments)

How To Embed Your Youtube Video into Google Maps - 04/26/10 04:26 PM

Via Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager (ActiveRain):
How To Embed Your Youtube Video into Google Maps
We had over 700 people register for the Youtube Video and Blogging Classes we held over at ActiveRain University this last month. In these sessions, we covered how to create and use video more effectively for your Blogs and websites. We shared some cool tips and important tools regarding the use of video and how to get the most out of Youtube's new look and their added features.
The one thing we didn't have time to teach was "How To Embed Your Youtube Video into … (2 comments)

How To Embed Your Youtube Video into Google Maps - 04/26/10 04:25 PM

Via Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager (ActiveRain):
How To Embed Your Youtube Video into Google Maps
We had over 700 people register for the Youtube Video and Blogging Classes we held over at ActiveRain University this last month. In these sessions, we covered how to create and use video more effectively for your Blogs and websites. We shared some cool tips and important tools regarding the use of video and how to get the most out of Youtube's new look and their added features.
The one thing we didn't have time to teach was "How To Embed Your Youtube Video into … (1 comments)

16 Cherry St East Greenville PA USA. Just Listed!AND just sold! - 04/24/10 07:58 PM
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741 Cedar Ct Red Hill PA Just SOLD! - 04/24/10 07:47 PM
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The House Made Of Bricks - 04/24/10 07:30 PM

Via Carla Muss-Jacobs Principal Broker/Owner EBA Portland LLC | www.EBAPortland.com | (Exclusive Buyers Agent Beaverton Portland):
This post was inspired by Karen Rittenhouse: Protecting Your Property Rights
Karen's post got me to think about all the INTRUSIVE actions that are now taking place.  She makes a point about how the bills 'sound' good but questions, are they?. 
Yesterday I was out showing property and I saw quite a few homes made of brick.  Quite common for the larger parcels being partioned and sold off as separate lots.  It was common back in the day and allowed many buyers to own a small lot, and build on it.  A lot … (1 comments)

1044 Spring Meadow Drive Quakertown PA 18951 Open House My 2nd New Lower Price! - 04/24/10 12:41 PM
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Bed placement...what a difference a few feet can make - 04/24/10 12:24 PM

Via Michelle King (Home Harmony):
Bed placement is critical to how future home buyers perceive a home. As much as possible bedding should be rich, comfortable, clean and even luxurious. Apart from the bedding and even the furniture style the placement of the bed needs to be considered. Each of these examples show what a difference simply moving the bed can make. 
 
Homeowners should think about bed placement as much for their own use as for the selling process. Space around a bed can make the room feel lighter, happier and with more breathing room...and therefore making it a much … (1 comments)

Short Sale Legal Issues Affecting Real Estate Agents - Part #1 - 04/23/10 09:52 PM

Via Drew Sygit (The Lending Edge) Real Estate Financing Expert (The Lending Edge):
Short Sale Legal Issues Affecting Real Estate Agents - Part #1
This series of posts is meant to assist real estate agents in recognizing: 
Legal & Tax Issues their clients are exposed to through a short sale. The legal liabilities agents may expose themselves to when representing short sale sellers. How did I come up with this series idea? 
I do a lot of networking which leads me to meet quite a few attorneys.  Many of them seem to be getting into loan modifications and short sales and approach … (0 comments)

1800 Canary Road Quakertown PA Open House April 25th - 04/23/10 01:14 PM
1800 Canary Rd Quakertown Lower Price 1800 Canary Road, Quakertown, PA 18951 View Map THIS HOME IS IN THE 5-K PROMOTION. CALL FOR DETAILS ON AWARDS FOR BUYERS AND AGENTS! Home is very well maintained, large & updated, stone & brick Rancher on over 2 acres in the sought after Milford Township in Quakertown. Sunshine-filled living room w/enormous bay window & wood fireplace makes it a great place to enjoy spending time. Very large unfinished full basement with walkout access; New driveway, wide pathway suitable for wheelchair or scooter, shiny hardwood flooring through out. Eat-in kitchen with new flooring provides plenty … (1 comments)

Leaving Money on the Table - 04/22/10 09:18 PM

Via Wayne Johnson Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper Realtors (San Antonio Area Real Estate):
I've been leaving money on the table for too long. For years we've received incentives, invitations, and coupons for discounted and even free products. Seldom have I taken the time to use the offers. What an idiot--this is free stuff, or at least reduced price stuff. Had I grown up in the era of my parents or grandparents, the Great Depression, I would have known better. Every dollar saved in one area of life can be put to use in another area of life.One of the things I noticed generally … (1 comments)

7777 Carlton Road Coopersburg 12 acres for $299,900 - 04/22/10 08:24 PM
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Glen road Coopersburg PA- A Great Building Lot is Perk Approved! - 04/22/10 08:11 PM
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It’s Earth Day! How are you helping to save 837 Tons of Paper? - 04/22/10 07:46 PM

Via Suzanne Alberti (DocuSign):
From the first Earth Day in 1970, going green has become a serious issue with businesses and consumers creating positive change by making simple changes such as paying bills online, using public transportation, recycling and other conservation initiatives. For businesses around the globe, DocuSign Electronic Signature Service is a key factor in successful green initiatives.
Where can you go to find a green solution for your business? 
It's easy.  DocuSign Electronic Signature service.  To commemorate Earth Day, DocuSign calculated that users of DocuSign have created a more eco-friendly environment by reducing consumption of approximately 837 tons of paper … (0 comments)

1923 Sycamore Drive Quakertown Just Listed! - 04/22/10 07:29 PM
Elegant Quakertown Colonial 1923 Sycamore Drive, Quakertown, PA 18951 View Map THIS HOME IS IN THE 5-K PROMOTION. CALL FOR DETAILS ON AWARDS FOR BUYERS & AGENTS. Conveniently located near Rtes 309, 663 & PA Turnpike in the elite community of Parkside Estates. Enter the stunningly dramatic 2-story foyer showcasing pristine trim work, inspired decor & h/w flrs leading to an exceptional gourmet KIT. You’ll love the granite countertops, cherry cabinets, oversized island/breakfast bar, sun filled morning rm & open floor plan. Sunken Family Rm boasts gorgeous stone fireplace. Spectacular Master Suite has tray ceiling, decorative columns, 2 large walk in … (0 comments)

...Pants On Fire! - 04/22/10 02:49 PM

Via Kristen Wheatley (Keller Williams Realty Mid Maine):
Liar, liar, pants on fire!  Well, I guess I could have titled this "Every lie takes an hour off your life."  I must be honest, the childhood chant was a shameless attempt to get your attention.
I have this quandary and I am curious what my fellow Rainers think.  A long time ago, I made the active decision to never lie, and I mean NEVER.  Not to myself (no pretending I look like I did when I was 20,) not to my children (yes, that includes Santa Claus,) not to anyone.  This is how … (0 comments)

Doesn't Under Contract Mean Sold? - 04/21/10 07:42 PM

Via Doug Rogers (Century 21 Millennium):
Once an offer is accepted most sellers breath a sign of relief. After sometimes months of marketing, their wait is over! Or is it?? When my sellers sign that buy/sell agreement I let them hug, cry, scream, etc... then we have "the talk".  Let's look at what can go wrong between signing that contract and closing.
1) The Home Inspection--Sooo mr seller, did you know air conditions are supposed to blow COLD air?? That's probably going to need fixing. A listing of mine that went under contract last week needs a new roof due to a recent hail … (1 comments)

2009 Lantern Drive Green Lane PA New Lower Price! - 04/21/10 07:26 PM
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1800 Canary Road Quakertown PA Open House April 25th - 04/21/10 06:50 PM
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Beware the Home Inspection! - 04/21/10 06:44 PM

Via Brett Reichel (Pacific Residential Mtg., LLC):
What?  Home inspections are a good thing aren't they? 
Of course home inspections are a good thing.  Any smart buyer would get one.  It only makes sense to make sure you understand the condition of a purchase as big as a home.  Why beware?
Because, your lender could require a copy.  Again, this is not automatically a bad thing.  The lender is concerned about the condition of the collateral on your loan.  They want your home ownership to be successful, and not end up as one of the many that are being foreclosed on.  They also … (0 comments)

1800 Canary Road Quakertown PA Open House April 25th - 04/21/10 07:08 AM
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"Find a house you like, and pay for it like you like it!" - 04/21/10 06:55 AM

Via Damon Gettier Broker/Owner ABRM, GRI, CDPE (RE/MAX 1st REALTY- Roanoke Virginia Short Sale Expert):
I think those were the wisest words to a buyer I have ever heard and they were actually spoken by my girlfriend to her buyer clients last year. 
I am sorry if I step on some toes here but Roanoke Virginia buyers need to realize that INVESTORS make low ball offers because they DO NOT HAVE TO LIVE THERE!  If you are buying a home in Roanoke VA or the surrounding Counties to live in with your family, "Find a house you like, and pay for … (2 comments)

Dancing Rattlers: Be Careful When You're Showing That New Listing! - 04/20/10 07:52 PM

Via Mike Jones (SUNSTREET MORTGAGE, LLC):
Our friend Linda was about to go out on her back patio when this idyllic love scene caught her attention.  I like Linda; her first instinct was to grab her camera!
Desert Critters
The desert southwest is home to many species of wildlife, and that's part of the reason that buyers are attracted to our region.
These two Western Diamondback rattlesnakes were gracefully swaying and rubbing themselves against each other as they danced their courtship dance.
Desert Manners
Usually we're looking up at the new home when we arrive at a new listing, taking in the … (1 comments)

Dancing Rattlers: Be Careful When You're Showing That New Listing! - 04/20/10 07:52 PM

Via Mike Jones (SUNSTREET MORTGAGE, LLC):
Our friend Linda was about to go out on her back patio when this idyllic love scene caught her attention.  I like Linda; her first instinct was to grab her camera!
Desert Critters
The desert southwest is home to many species of wildlife, and that's part of the reason that buyers are attracted to our region.
These two Western Diamondback rattlesnakes were gracefully swaying and rubbing themselves against each other as they danced their courtship dance.
Desert Manners
Usually we're looking up at the new home when we arrive at a new listing, taking in the … (0 comments)

HOA Websites: What kind of content do you think they should have? - 04/20/10 07:53 AM

Via Ralph Gorgoglione (EcoBroker Certified - John Aaroe Group, Inc.):
HOA Websites: What kind of content do you think they should have?
I'm Vice President of the Valencia North Valley Homeowners Association, and it was my project to get a website up and running.
I volunteered not only because I knew that we needed one, but prior to becoming a realtor I was a web designer and knew I could get something simple up and running very quickly.
Well, we're up and running and we're off to a great start.  I just felt it was important for our association to at least … (1 comments)

activerain reaches human beings - 04/20/10 07:53 AM

Via Dave Roberts (Healdsburg Sotheby's International Realty):
I never doubt activerain's power to reach people.
I got two contacts from activerain today. One may eventually lead to a transaction, but the other was simply a great opportunity for networking. A local agent I don't know found me on activerain due to a post about auctions. He needed to get more information since his actual courthouse steps auction experience was the same as most of us...zero.
I was happy to share my Sonoma County auction insight with him and give him a few tips on how to bring funds and what to watch for. … (1 comments)

Freddie Mac Reports on Emerging Short Sale Fraud Trends - 04/20/10 07:52 AM

Via Melissa Zavala Realtor® North San Diego County Homes (Broadpoint Properties):
I received a few emails today with regard to what seems to be an update to the Freddie Mac website. More specifically, Freddie Mac has updated one page of their website which discusses what they call Short Payoff Fraud.
I reviewed the site, and am not surprised by either their definitions or their solutions. In a nutshell, here is what Freddie Mac has to say about Short Payoff (or Short Sale) Fraud:
Freddie Mac's Investigation Unit describes Short Payoff Fraud as "Any misrepresentation or deliberate omission of fact that would induce … (1 comments)

Do you post lousy photos in MLS? You may be hurting yourself even more than you hurt your trusting clients! - 04/20/10 07:39 AM

Via Mike Jaquish Cary, NC, Real Estate (KELLER WILLIAMS® Realty):
It is clearly our duty to properly market property.  Photo quality and selection are part of it.
I cringe everytime I see obvious cell phone photos, with just a few crooked smeary foggy images from smeary, foggy cell phone lenses.  Somehow the agent is able to fool the seller into thinking the home is being professionally marketed.  For 400 days.  I don't get it, but it seems to work for some people.
I sold a listing recently, one that was fun to photo and to do the Real Estate Show.  At one of the … (3 comments)

1800 Canary Road Quakertown PA Open House April 25th - 04/19/10 08:57 PM
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HOW TO "RAISE THE BAR" FOR REAL ESTATE LICENSEES. SPEAK TO THE MASSES. - 04/19/10 08:39 PM

Via Lenn Harley, Homefinders.com, MD & VA Homes and Real Estate:
* * * *  HARD CORE REAL ESTATE TALK  * * * *
ABOUT RAISING THE BAR FOR REAL ESTATE PRACTITIONERS.  There has been some discussion of late about "RAISING THE BAR" for real estate licensees and brokers.  Surely, no one advocates lowering the bar, OR do they?  There are many, however, who are satisfied with the current license laws through which real estate agents and brokers enter the real estate brokerage business and continue in the business for years with very low performance standards or none. 
THE OPERATIVE WORD THERE IS "BUSINESS" 
HOW … (0 comments)

1044 Spring Meadow Drive Quakertown PA 18951 Open House Today, April 18th - 04/18/10 10:44 AM
1044 Spring Meadow Drive Quakertown PA 1044 Spring Meadow Drive, Quakertown, PA 18951 View Map Spectacular 3BR, 2 ½ BA Spring Meadow Estates single family home is a must see! Check out why this homes boasts desirablity well beyond its neighboring competition. Enter this immaculate home through its dramatic 2 story foyer, w/ hardwood floors extending to powder room & gorgeous shadow boxes continuing through the hallway, stairway & dining room. The eat-in kitchen has beautiful upgraded cherry cabinets & sliders that open to a large composite deck perfect for summer bar-b-ques. Family room showcases striking 2 story ceilings, custom shutters … (1 comments)

We Need Not Be A Cowardly Lion - 04/18/10 10:42 AM

Via Gary Woltal - Associate Broker REALTOR® Dallas Ft. Worth (Keller Williams Realty):
In the 1939 classic movie the Wizard of Oz, the three characters with Dorothy are presented towards the end symbols for their afflictions. A diploma for the brain with the Scarecrow, a ticking heart for the Tinman, and one of my favorite gifts, the medal for the Cowardly Lion.
    We Need Not Be A Cowardly Lion.
In real estate and other "producing" occupations, awards are given for various achievements, and show we "pushed through the fear" and performed better or at a higher level than our peers for … (0 comments)

Raising the Bar? Forget the Bar! Let's extend ourselves to operating on a higher plane of achievement! - 04/18/10 06:57 AM

Via Mike Jaquish Cary, NC, Real Estate (KELLER WILLIAMS® Realty):
Todd Waller wrote a post, "How High? Raising the Bar" that deserves more discussion.  I applaud the effort to increase the level of professionalism in his firm.  Really, I do.
Lenn Harley reblogged,"How High? Raising the Bar" and the reader comments indicate that many commenters posted without reading Todd's post.  That is my interpretation of their focus on the 4-year degree.
I read Todd's criteria as saying there are other qualifying criteria that can offset lack of a degree.  I think the underlined criteria are clearly meant to legitimately offset a diploma, if necessary:
"Possess a … (1 comments)

Real Estate Is Technical Warfare! - 04/18/10 06:57 AM

Via Florida Real Estate Trainer | Daytona Beach After School Training | Midori (Sunnet Realty):
Creating your place on the web is extremely important...finding your voice...your favorite places to socialize....consistency....and the time spent is crucial too.  Many people on the net are the Curious George type. At least I can speak for myself....when I am looking to purchase something...I don't just run to one site...I look around...and the site I select...is not based on domain name...or the first site I come across...I got to get that warm....fuzzy feeling...no not girlie but a comfort...based on information..and content found on the site...I want to … (1 comments)

19 Winchester Dr Quakertown PA JUST SOLD! - 04/17/10 09:04 PM
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1923 Sycamore Drive Quakertown Just Listed! - 04/17/10 09:02 PM
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16 Cherry St East Greenville PA USA. Just Listed!AND just sold! - 04/17/10 09:00 PM
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2053 Baker Drive Allentown PA Price Reduced! - 04/17/10 08:57 PM
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2009 Lantern Drive Green Lane PA Price Reduction - 04/17/10 08:54 PM
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1800 Canary Road Quakertown PA Open House April 25th 1 to 4 pm - 04/17/10 08:51 PM
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1044 Spring Meadow Drive Quakertown PA 18951 Open House April 18th - 04/17/10 08:49 PM
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Got Toilet Paper? - 04/17/10 08:39 PM

Via Michelle Minch Home Staging Los Angeles & Pasadena, CA (Moving Mountains Design Home Staging, Pasadena, CA):
At Moving Mountains Design, we provide certain comfort items in all our vacant staged homes, regardless of price point.
One of those items is a fresh roll of toilet paper. We do this, in part, out of self defense. There's not much worse than having to "go" when you're staging, with not a square of toilet paper in sight.

Another reason we provide 1 roll of toilet paper is that I like to control which bathrooms get used and which ones are "for display … (0 comments)

Charges Of Fraud And Strategic Default At Goldman Sachs - 04/16/10 06:47 PM

Via John Mulkey, Housing Guru (TheHousingGuru.com):
An article in the Wall Street Journal has reported that Goldman Sachs Group and one of its vice presidents, Fabrice Tourre, have been charged with fraud in a civil complaint filed by the SEC. The complaint alleges that Goldman failed to disclose to purchasers of CDOs, collateralized-debt obligations, that the selection of the underlying mortgage backed securities had been influenced by Paulson & Company. With the bursting of the housing market bubble, the CDO investors lost $1 billion, Paulson raked in profits of $1 billion, and Goldman earned $15 million for handling the transactions.
 
And … (0 comments)

When will we see this "Brokerage of the Future" - 04/16/10 10:55 AM

Via Jim Marks (Virtual Results):
In a LOT of ways... Its already here.
As an Internet marketing consultant who prides himself in debunking current thoughts on what actually works and doesnt? I invest a fair amount of time with my clients across the Country..
I travel a lot. I mean, a lot.
Because I visit different regions of the country, I get to hear first-hand not only what brokerages and agents are talking about, but also the public at large. Its amazing what you can learn in a Starbucks for 4 hours with 20 $5 cards and a clipboard of questions.
Here's … (0 comments)

408 S 2nd St Emmaus Lehigh County GIANT PRICE REDUCTION - 04/15/10 08:21 PM
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Sellers May Not Realize That...... - 04/15/10 07:36 PM

Via Greg Nino Houston Texas (RE/MAX West Houston Professionals):
 
1. Staying home for the appraisal. The Appraiser is licensed by the state and is required to perform an unbiased appraisal. Offering cookies, charm or discussion about why your home is VALUABLE will not help the appraisal.. After the appraisal is done the mortgage company almost always reviews the appraisal from afar. In other words, if the Appraiser inflated your home by 3% the Underwriter would likely catch it and order a new appraisal. The loan would be delayed and the buyer may become paranoid about buying the home all together. … (0 comments)

Beware - Flippers May Be Wolf In Sheep's Clothing - 04/14/10 07:16 PM

Via Harvey Collier (First Trust Mortgage):
Let's face it, there are lots of investors out there buying properties very cheap and looking to make a quick profit. That's how capitalism and the American way is suppose to work, ... right? I certainly don't have a problem with someone making money, as long as it's on the up and up.

As a Florida mortgage broker, it never ceases to amaze me the new schemes "Flippers" come up with to try to make a buck. Is it me, or does Florida always seems to be on the cutting edge of these types of real … (1 comments)

1800 Canary Road Quakertown PA Open House April 25th - 04/14/10 08:06 AM
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The FINAL CURTAIN for the Tax Credit..panics the fussy buyers!!!! - 04/14/10 07:52 AM

Via Andretta Pierce Realtor Matteson Homes Foreclosures/Short Sales (ReMax 10):
The Final Curtain is here  for the tax credit and those buyers who have seen every house in their price range, over their price range, underbidding on bank owned properties, taking Realtors to more homes than their file can hold.....are now in panic mode.  Missing $8000 because they did not listen to their Realtor or who have watched their friends and family buy homes...who by the way got good deals and wonder why not me?....are now finding themselves in a crunch!  What to do, what to do? 
We hear......"I am not gonna let … (0 comments)

Breaking News!!! Approximately 93% of Homeowners are just fine!! - 04/14/10 07:51 AM

Via Bryant Tutas-Tutas Towne Realty, Inc:
That's right. By far, the overwhelming majority of Homeowners in this country are NOT losing their homes. They either own their properties free and clear or are making their payments on time.
It's hard for us to see this because we are in the business. If you are like me you live and breathe Real Estate. We talk to people all day long who are struggling and it's very easy for us to forget that most Homeowners are living in and enjoying their homes.I've mentioned many times over the last couple of years how … (1 comments)

Breaking News!!! Approximately 93% of Homeowners are just fine!! - 04/14/10 07:50 AM

Via Bryant Tutas-Tutas Towne Realty, Inc:
That's right. By far, the overwhelming majority of Homeowners in this country are NOT losing their homes. They either own their properties free and clear or are making their payments on time.
It's hard for us to see this because we are in the business. If you are like me you live and breathe Real Estate. We talk to people all day long who are struggling and it's very easy for us to forget that most Homeowners are living in and enjoying their homes.I've mentioned many times over the last couple of years how … (1 comments)

When times are tough the “Get Rich Quick” schemes enjoy a revival. Don’t make a bad situation worse by throwing away your money. - 04/13/10 09:34 PM

Via Richard Weisser Coweta Fayette Real Estate:
Tough times can lead to desperation. And desperation will cause normally reasonable people to do anything to try to change their situation for the better.
And it’s a sad commentary on our society to say that there are those that will always seek to take advantage of someone else’s misery and attempt to profit from it.
The premise of the scheme is always the same, scene after scene of apparently wealthy people living in the lap of luxury and proudly proclaiming that they work very little and that the money just rolls in of … (0 comments)

Real Estate Confidence Index Is On The Rise - 04/13/10 06:01 AM

Via San Diego Real Estate Voice authored by William Johnson GRI CRS e-Pro CDPE (RE/MAX Associates):
R.E.C.IThe Real Estate Confidence Index is generated by real estate professionals and measures the market from our perspective.
As Real Estate professionals we are asked to rate, on a scale of 1 to 10, how confident we are in our current markets, the market in the next 3-6 months (near term), and in our markets in the next 12-18 months (long term). We are also given the option to add comments. The responses are purely subjective.
Once these responses are gathered, a statistical mean on the … (1 comments)

Your Reputation in Today's Internet World is Eternal, Researchable FOREVER! - 04/12/10 05:07 PM

Via Carol Costanzo, GRI, SFR (Montague Miller and Company):
Your reputation as a Sales Representative, which has always been precious, is in today's world, incalculably important. The internet has forever changed the way we do business, and now that we have entered the social media setting, we are leaving an audit trail on the web, which will allow any future client or customer to find out all about you.
If you do something unethical, screw up with a client or customer, you can no longer run and hide, or sweep it under the carpet. It will follow you around forever. In our … (0 comments)

When The Phone Ain't Ringing, And The Door Ain't Swinging What Are You Doing?? - 04/12/10 05:06 PM

Via Patrick Chicklinski (F&M Mortgage):
So I am in my second month on Active Rain and I am trying to make it RAIN! I know that in order to really make this work you need to do some basics, I was told about a webinar for blogging, and a bunch of other support tools. To be honest I have not had the time to go and do any of that yet, I have learned so far by reading other blogs. There is a ton of information on AR but lets face it, the main goal is to try to improve your business. … (0 comments)

Happy Birthday Dad! - 04/12/10 04:48 PM
Today is my Dad's Birthday.
He would have been 88 today.
I think of him on this special day.
I think of him every time I look at the Moon and the Big Dipper, as he loved to view them through his telescope.
The other day, we  planted a new rose bush in front of them both, as Mom loved red roses.
I have learned that no matter how long they have been gone,
I will never stop missing them.
Dad, I remember we took you out to dinner every year on your birthday after you hit 75.
Those were good … (3 comments)

1044 Spring Meadow Drive Quakertown PA 18951 Open House April 18th - 04/12/10 04:20 PM
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How To Use Interactive Google Maps Using Google Base Data - 04/12/10 04:10 PM

Via Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager (ActiveRain):
AR University Presents - How To Use Interactive Google Maps & Embed Them Using Google Base

This "advanced" sample above was created using Google's API feature with Flash, Maps and Videos,Load then Click on any of the seven circles in the playback bar to jump to that location and video.
This Wednesday, April 14th at 4:00pm PDT (7:00pm EST) ActiveRain University invites you to come by and learn "How and Why" you need to know more about Google Base, and the importance of using interactive and embedded maps into your Blog posts. This is … (1 comments)

Do Home Buyers Need a Short Sale Agent to Write a Short Sale Offer? - 04/11/10 05:21 PM

Via Elizabeth Weintraub, Sacramento Short Sale Agent, 916.233.6759, Lyon RE (Lyon Real Estate):
My husband has a problem with other Sacramento drivers. Whenever he spots a driver doing something erratic, he furls his eyebrows and grumbles: "Hang up the phone and drive." He always sees accidents waiting to happen. I see vehicles on the road. He sees trouble. That's because he's paying attention to driving while I'm just a passenger.
On the other hand, it's my job as a Sacramento short sale agent to spot potential roadblocks when I represent a buyer and to take steps to protect the buyer. For example, … (0 comments)

1044 Spring Meadow Drive Quakertown PA 18951 Open House April 11th - 04/11/10 08:20 AM
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408 S 2nd St Emmaus Lehigh County Open House April 11th - 04/11/10 08:16 AM
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1923 Sycamore Drive Quakertown PA Open House April 11th 1 to 4 pm - 04/11/10 08:13 AM
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Oklahoma Supreme Court Makes square footage a material fact - 04/11/10 08:09 AM

Via Joe Pryor.com Realtor Oklahoma Investment Properties (Redbud Realty):
The Oklahoma Surpeme Court recently ruled that square footage is a material fact and that a BUYER can RELY on what a real estate agent tells them regarding square footage as a fact. Because of the ruling any lawsuits based on what someone belives is an erroroneous representation of the size will go to a jury trial and not a summary ruling by a judge. This is now the LAW. Therefore quoting square footage incorrectly is considered FRAUD. Since the ruling, as you would expect, the number of lawsuits based on this have … (0 comments)

Why Some Homes Will Never Sell - 04/10/10 08:03 PM

Via Southern Maryland Real Estate~ Jonathan Benya:
Teresa Boardman over at the St. Paul Real Estate Blog recently posted a very direct article about homes that "eat" Realtors. The concept sounds funny, yet the reality behind it is anything but. The fact is, some homes sit on the market for years without being able to sell and the home ends up going through several different listing agents, each failing to get the home sold.
Here's how it happens: Step 1: A seller lists their property in Southern Maryland with a Realtor. Realtor does a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA), and determines the home … (4 comments)

First "Agent Network" emerges to satisfy HAFA requirements: - 04/09/10 08:18 PM

Via Son Nguyen (PartnerFirst ):
With the first to market agent network emerging to satisfy the demands of HAFA, component mortgage servicers may now with confidence refer distressed homeowners to pre-foreclosure specialist as part of a massive call to action to bring solutions to the short sale market.
Component servicers will now be handling a lot of the heavy lifting and streamlining the short sale process for some of the nations largest banks.
 
Question: What does that mean to an agent who is working on a short sale that is shifted to a component servicer?   Answer: Your short sale file is … (0 comments)

Real Estate WEB Marketing - Can We Really Make A Difference? - 04/09/10 06:33 PM

Via Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager (ActiveRain):
Real Estate WEB Marketing - Make A Bid on Ebay, and "Make A Difference in The World!"
Today, some great industry service and marketing solution providers have joined forces and created a "Real Estate WEB Marketing Package" that you will now find available on EBAY.  We've bundled together a custom package designed for one lucky bidder/winner, and we're doing it all for one great cause.  If you happen to be the lucky winner/bidder of this unique, one time, first ever compilation of services, you may also be the largest single contributor to an organization that … (0 comments)

16 Cherry St East Greenville PA USA. Just Listed! - 04/09/10 02:11 PM
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Attorneys Killing Short Sales - 04/09/10 01:51 PM

Via J. Philip Faranda (J. Philip LLC) Westchester County NY:
Here in New York we have attorneys heavily involved in real estate transactions. Their function technically is to handle contracts, act as escrowees in the holding of good faith deposits, and examine title. They are another advocate for our clients. By and large, most attorneys play it straight and do not mother hen, interfere, or sabotage. But some do. I could write posts on attorneys who take a week to send contracts out, debate language with the other side's lawyer until the buyer walks, who won't return phone calls, or who 2nd-guess brokers until … (0 comments)

Trulia, Zillow, Move & Others Sued - 04/08/10 09:44 PM

Via Pinecrest | Coral Gables| Maggie Dokic, SFR (Prudential Florida Realty):
The company Smarter Agent, has filed a complaint against Trulia, Zillow, Move, HotPads, IDX, ZipRealty and others claiming patent infringement.
The lawsuit claims that these companies are infringing on 3 of the patents they hold for mobile home search technology.
The best I can understand is that it is specifically regarding their GPS technology.  I am not in a position to interpret the 62 page document, but here's a link to it.  However, I do not believe this is regarding a mobile application which allows you to only search listings.  From … (0 comments)

How To Add .PDF Files To Your Blog Post and Website - 04/08/10 07:08 AM

Via Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager (ActiveRain):
How To Add a .PDF File To Your Blog Post or Website
Once you've learned to add photos, embed video and audio files, create hyper-links and anchor text etc, inevitably you'll want to know how you can add a .pdf file to your Blog post.  An Adobe Acrobat .PDF (Portable Document Format) file is a document that typically cannot be edited and is usually created from an original document using the Adobe Acrobat software or similar application.  .PDF files can be viewed by downloading the FREE Adobe Acrobat Reader.
Adding a .PDF file to your … (4 comments)

1044 Spring Meadow Drive Quakertown PA 18951 New Lower Price! - 04/07/10 02:58 PM
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ActiveRain University - How to use your AR Blog, Listings, Videos and Facebook Fan Page for a Winning Combination - 04/07/10 02:28 PM

Via Real Bird (RealBird Inc.):

ActiveRain University
Thu, Apr 8, 2010 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM PDT
Signup link: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/496413472
 
 
The Cheese has moved in online lead generation! What to do?
 
Please join us for this power webinar presented by RealBird’s founders at the new ActiveRain Online University. This webinar will be no-nonsense, hands-on, examples-packed, with Q&A at the end.
 
Just a few short years ago all you had to worry about was making your website prominent in search engines. Once consumers found your website they would then use your property search tool to find a home … (2 comments)

Trulia Launches Rentals- What Does This Mean for the Industry - 04/07/10 11:40 AM

Via Jeremy Blanton (210 Consulting~ Social Media Advisors):
I was really excited this morning to see the big news from Trulia.  In case you missed it, let me give you the highlights.  Today Trulia announced the launch of their Homes For Rent Page.  This opens up an entire new avenue to both buyers and those in the real estate industry.  Landlords, property managers, real estate agents & brokers can all list their homes for rent on Trulia. Millions of homes for rent will be added making it the largest website for consumers for find homes for rent in their area. 
Why … (2 comments)

1800 Canary Road Quakertown PA Just Listed! - 04/06/10 01:44 PM
1800 Canary Rd Quakertown Lower Price 1800 Canary Road, Quakertown, PA 18951 View Map THIS HOME IS IN THE 5-K PROMOTION. CALL FOR DETAILS ON AWARDS FOR BUYERS AND AGENTS! Home is very well maintained, large & updated, stone & brick Rancher on over 2 acres in the sought after Milford Township in Quakertown. Sunshine-filled living room w/enormous bay window & wood fireplace makes it a great place to enjoy spending time. Very large unfinished full basement with walkout access; New driveway, wide pathway suitable for wheelchair or scooter, shiny hardwood flooring through out. Eat-in kitchen with new flooring provides plenty … (1 comments)

1923 Sycamore Drive Quakertown Open House April 11th - 04/06/10 01:26 PM
Elegant Quakertown Colonial 1923 Sycamore Drive, Quakertown, PA 18951 View Map THIS HOME IS IN THE 5-K PROMOTION. CALL FOR DETAILS ON AWARDS FOR BUYERS & AGENTS. Conveniently located near Rtes 309, 663 & PA Turnpike in the elite community of Parkside Estates. Enter the stunningly dramatic 2-story foyer showcasing pristine trim work, inspired decor & h/w flrs leading to an exceptional gourmet KIT. You’ll love the granite countertops, cherry cabinets, oversized island/breakfast bar, sun filled morning rm & open floor plan. Sunken Family Rm boasts gorgeous stone fireplace. Spectacular Master Suite has tray ceiling, decorative columns, 2 large walk in … (0 comments)

BofA Short Sale Success...Sometimes, The Squeaky Wheel DOES Get The Grease! - 04/06/10 01:21 PM

Via Robert G Hertzog (Summit Home Consultants):
BofA Short Sale Success...Sometimes, The Squeaky Wheel DOES Get The Grease!
Many of you read the blog I wrote last week titled, "Is BofA Servicing Your FNMA Short Sale? If So, You Need To Read This....".  
If you haven't read it already, please click here before continuing.
Basically, BofA was servicing a FNMA-owned loan.  FNMA had given their approval for the short sale, but BofA decided to foreclose on the home less than two weeks later, despite telling us that the foreclosure had been postponed.  I immediately contacted our local NBC affiliate, and they … (1 comments)

Technology- Is It Really Necessary? - 04/06/10 06:58 AM

Via Russ Gordon, Real Estate Broker Colorado Springs and Pikes Peak Region (RE/MAX Properties):
    
 
Most folks have jumped on the bandwagon of technology to one degree or another, but there are skeptics who say there's too much emphasis on the tech and not enough on the touch.  So who's right?  Maybe everyone.
     As social networking and cloud computing grow exponentially, you have to make a choice.  You either stay with the veteran methods of marketing, communicating and running your business or you adopt the new methods (and hope to be able to keep up.)  The good news for the … (0 comments)

Woodley Road in Winnetka - 04/05/10 07:52 PM

Via Margaret Goss, Realtor Winnetka & North Shore Real Estate (Baird & Warner):
Woodley Road in Winnetka – this exclusive, winding road has a Winnetka zip code but is actually part of unincorporated Cook County. Considered one of Winnetka’s toniest addresses, homes here are generally on lots between one and two acres, with lots of woodsy areas between homes.
People are drawn to this area because of privacy and exclusivity. It’s easy to get lost when you enter between the stone pillars announcing “Woodley Road.” The street winds around, has small dead-end turn offs, and circles back onto itself. Ultimately, the road … (0 comments)

How to Use Video and Youtube to Enhance Your Blog and Business - 04/05/10 11:50 AM

Via Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager (ActiveRain):
ActiveRain University - How to Use Video and Youtube to Enhance Your Blog and Business
How are you using Video in Real Estate and on your ActiveRain Blog? Are you creating or using Video Listings, Virtual Property and Community tours?  Does your video show up on Google Earth? Can your videos make you money?  Want to generate more traffic to your videos and visitors to your Blog?  This week at ARU, we are going to be sharing some things about video and Youtube that will be very beneficial to your Video library on Youtube and … (0 comments)

404 Brookside De Perkasie PA Just Listed - 04/05/10 07:24 AM
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Sellers, Buyers, And Lenders Want To Know About Lease Purchase Agreements - 04/05/10 07:20 AM

Via Century 21 First Realty:
Lease Purchase Agreements continue to grow in popularity as a solution for home sellers because it increases the pool of potential home buyers for their property. As with any type of creative financing for home buyers, an agreement which allows a buyer to rent for a period of time before buying the property makes it more appealing to those who either have damaged credit or perhaps a home of their own to sell.
We have written numerous posts explaining the benefits of using a lease purchase contract for selling real estate and for buying real estate, but … (1 comments)

If it Doesn't Feel Like Home, They Aren't Buying - 04/04/10 06:18 PM

Via J. Philip Faranda (J. Philip LLC) Westchester County NY:
I just received a "rebuttal" to feedback I left on a home I showed earlier this week. 
The issue was that this 3 bedroom home wasn't really a 3 bedroom home unless you like walking through one bedroom to get to another. The only solution would be to cannibalize the middle room with a wall to create a hallway, rendering the room absurdly tiny. There is no good answer. The "hall" solution created a new problem. There may be people who didn't mind the tandem arrangement. One thing is for sure- nobody likes closet-sized … (0 comments)

Glen road Coopersburg PA- A Great Building Lot is Perk Approved! - 04/04/10 09:28 AM
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Upside Down on Your Home? – Here’s Your Playbook - 04/04/10 07:22 AM

Via Charles Dailey (iLoan):
In my home state of Minnesota, Minneapolis and Saint Paul have nearly 39 percent of homeowners under water.   I've had the question, "I'm upside down on my home, what are my options?" so many times that I wanted to prepare a menu of options for people to reference.  This article briefly outlines 9 potential solutions that may serve you well.  The target audience here is not necessarily someone who's in default on their loan but simply one who owes more than the home is worth.
All too often, when one is upside down on their home and/or struggling … (0 comments)

7777 Carlton Road Coopersburg PA 12 acres of land for sale - 04/03/10 08:24 PM
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222 Franklin St Quakertown PA - 3 Unit Apartment Building for Sale - 04/03/10 08:23 PM
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7777 Carlton Road Coopersburg 12+ acres for sale - 04/03/10 08:21 PM
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222 Franklin St Quakertown PA - 3 Unit Apartment Building for Sale - 04/03/10 08:18 PM
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Back to the Future - 04/03/10 08:13 PM

Via Mark Warner (RealEspace):
The other day I happened upon a conversation between two colleagues.  While channel surfing, they had both come across a rerun of the 1985 classic "Back to the Future", and were discussing what things they would change if they, too, could pop back in time.  After listening to their ideas-one of which centered on ensuring that a particular person's parents never met, thus eliminating the possibility of them having to deal with, shall we say, his rather unique personal grooming habits-I wandered off, shaking my head and chuckling. 
But as I headed down the hall, I started thinking … (1 comments)

Back to the Future - 04/03/10 08:13 PM

Via Mark Warner (RealEspace):
The other day I happened upon a conversation between two colleagues.  While channel surfing, they had both come across a rerun of the 1985 classic "Back to the Future", and were discussing what things they would change if they, too, could pop back in time.  After listening to their ideas-one of which centered on ensuring that a particular person's parents never met, thus eliminating the possibility of them having to deal with, shall we say, his rather unique personal grooming habits-I wandered off, shaking my head and chuckling. 
But as I headed down the hall, I started thinking … (0 comments)

1044 Spring Meadow Drive Quakertown PA 18951 Just Listed! - 04/03/10 11:07 AM
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2009 Lantern Drive Green Lane PA New Lower Price! - 04/03/10 11:03 AM
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408 S 2nd St Emmaus Lehigh County New Lower Price! - 04/02/10 09:09 PM
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1800 Canary Road Quakertown PA Just Listed! - 04/02/10 09:07 PM
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Top 5 Tips for Growing Your Facebook Page - 04/02/10 08:54 PM

Via Real Bird (RealBird Inc.):
By now, most of you have heard about Facebook Pages and many of you have set up one or more for your real estate business or local communities.
I noticed that most real estate Facebook Pages however have very little content and low number of Fans. Our RealBird Facebook Page has been growing nicely and I thought I share some of the things that we learned. You may be able to apply these techniques to your own Facebook Pages.
1) Your Facebook Page should be a community, so allow your Fans' posts to show up on … (2 comments)

Loan Modifications Fail to Stem Tide of Foreclosure - 04/02/10 09:17 AM

Via Dave Rosenmarkle (Highland Realty):
The government’s Mortgage Metrics Report by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC) and the Office of Thrift Supervision (OTS) reveals that half of the loans modified under HAMP at the beginning of 2009 were once again delinquent by the fourth quarter of 2009.
Fully 14% of all mortgage loans were delinquent by the end of 2009 according to this report. There were twice the modifications in the fourth quarter as occurred the same quarter a year before. Most payments were reduced by at least 20%.
New foreclosure filings fell 15% in the fourth quarter … (0 comments)

Real estate agents breaking federal law by negotiating Short Sales? - 04/01/10 09:30 PM

Via Ken Cook, FHA Home Loans 678-439-8683:
This post has the potential to be inflammatory so let me begin by saying, "I'm just the messenger."
In Georgia there are two attorneys who are considered to be and are, in fact, held out to be the real estate contract experts. By experts I mean they wrote the book on Georgia real estate contract law. "The Red Book on Real Estate Contracts in Georgia" published by the Georgia Association of Realtors was authored by firm partners Ned Blumenthal and Seth Weissman of Weissman, Nowack, Curry & Wilco, P.C.
Mr. Blumenthal recently wrote an opinion … (0 comments)

2053 Baker Dr Allentown PA New Lower Price - 04/01/10 01:33 PM
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2009 Lantern Drive Green Lane PA Elegance and Quality! - 04/01/10 01:29 PM
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The Joys Real Estate - 04/01/10 01:13 PM

Via Destination Realty:
The Joys of Real Estate  Can real estate be fun?  Buying and selling real estate is often stressful. It does not have to be that way. Buyers and sellers want the same thing- a good deal. Oh, maybe that is the problem.  Unrealistic expectations of what a property is worth and petty holdouts can scuttle many deals. Whether a seller or buyer be, do your research and get professional advice. Sellers need to understand and accept what their house is worth today. It may have no relation to what it could have sold for in 2005, how much they owe, … (1 comments)

Using Virtual Flyers and Slideshows to Promote Your Listings - 04/01/10 01:12 PM

Via Rich Jacobson Your Kitsap County WA Real Estate Agent (Windermere West Sound, Inc.):
With over 85% of all Home Buyers accessing the Internet for their Home searches, the responsibility falls on us as Listing Agents to generate the greatest amount of meaningful exposure for our Seller's properties. Additionally, many markets across the country have a significant amount of competing inventory which demands that your marketing materials offer a quality presentation that effectively sets your listings apart from all the rest.
Fortunately, there are an abundance of excellent on-line tools available for just such challenges! Allow me to share some of the … (0 comments)

St. Paul Enhances City Skyline! - 04/01/10 01:11 PM

Via Kristal Kraft ~Denver Real Estate~303-589-2022 (The Berkshire Group Realtors):
 
St. Paul, MN.  
Spring in St. Paul will be very welcome this year as the City prepares to show off their newly constructed mountain range. 
In an effort to increase tourism, St. Paul, MN has rewritten the geology books for the Mississippi River.  A foreward-thinking City Council with strong encouragement from the Economic Council voted to enhance the City's skyline by having a mountain range developed. 
After a short environmental study, it was determined St. Paul would benefit from winter tourism, extra snow capture from the expanded land mass … (1 comments)

IF YOU'RE IN THE MOOD FOR SOME "HARD CORE REAL ESTATE" FACTS, READ THIS. IF NOT, JUST GET BACK UNDER THE COVERS. - 04/01/10 01:10 PM

Via Lenn Harley, Homefinders.com, MD & VA Homes and Real Estate:
* * * *     WARNING.. . .  HARD CORE REAL ESTATE TALK    * * * *
Unemployment Experiencing A "Structural" Increase by John Mulkey points ActiveRain members and readers to an article by Dennis Lockhart, President and CEO of the Atlanta Fed.
Mr. Lockhart tries, in vain IMO, to put "a happy face" on the U.S. economy forecast for the near future while providing a veiled warning that we must expect . . . . . WHAT???? 
1.  lowered expectations for economic output. 2.  lowered expectations for economic recovery. 3.  acceptance of … (0 comments)

 
Don11 Rainmaker_large

Donald Bradbury, e-PRO®, 610-952-3578 REALTOR Bucks County PA

Quakertown, PA

More about me…

Bradbury Team Prudential Patt, White Real Estate

Address: 2 North Main Street, Coopersburg, PA, 18036

Office Phone: (610) 282-4444

Cell Phone: (610) 952-3578

Email Me

www.bradburyteam.com We provide such Superior Customer Service that our clients offer to pass out our cards to their friends and family.


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