Brian's Blog

10 Things I Learned Working with Internet Leads

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:38:02 -0500

Blogging has slowed as I have been focused on refining my internet lead generation skills these past couple months. It has been a long haul, missing my Active Rain friends, but I believe my internet lead generation program is now to the point that little needs to be done to maintain it.

Here are some things I have learned in putting together my system:

1) Pay-per-click actually works

2) Internet users are people too and like to be treated with respect and not by pushy salespeople.

3) Internet users are typically at the beginning stage of searching, so it takes time to nurture.

4) Quick responses increase the liklihood of conversion.

5) Having a quality website makes a big difference.

6) Offer something of value and increase the amount of responses.

7) Use of systems for follow-up is essential.

8) Take the time to set up email responses that are more on the personal side and have a call to action.

9) Don't be pushy, the people don't know you. Offer value first - Build it and They will come!

10) Deciding where to capture leads is a tough call. How much do you let them see before capture?

As I am learning, I would love to hear what has worked or not worked for others. At this time, my website is converting about 10% of the hits to leads and I am converting about 30% of those with correct info into prospects. Follow-up, Follow-Up, Follow-Up!

Internet users can be tricky, but they are out there and looking for homes. Stay tuned for some of the tricks I have learned to get a response. Feel free to share your thoughts here!

Short Sale Specialist

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 00:21:24 -0500

So, it has come to this. Time and time again, I am hearing the phrase "short sale specialist" attached to some of the most "successful" real estate agents of the day. Some agents have found short sales to be a niche that is turning quite lucrative, but takes so much time to accomplish.

"Is it worth it?" I asked a "short sale specialist" recently.

The reply was an overwhelming "yes". This particular agent had average numbers for years as an agent, but know is carrying 147 listings, all short sales. In an office of over 300 agents, she and her team have refined the process and have assigned tasks to make the system work for them, rather than working for the system.

Their team, I am told, is closing 25-30 transactions a month! Quite impressive, and everyone refers short sale listings to their team, because they are the best at getting them closed.

Today, I referred a client to their team, as they are located out of my area, and look forward to following the process through to "close?". As a buyer's agent on short sales, I have found them to be painsakingly slow, but fortunately have never had to "cut" my commission to make it work.

Please feel free to share your thoughts on short sales. I would love to hear what is working and not working for others out there. Who knows, maybe "short sale specialist" will be a niche I can pursue.

Puyallup Real Estate Market Report - September 2008

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 23:57:41 -0500

The Puyallup market has mixed reviews for the month of September 2008. For the first time this year, sales cracked the 100 homes sold and 10% of listed homes sold in September. Pending sales were also up in September as compared to previous months.

On the flip side, the median sales price dropped $19,000 from August to $249,950 and the average sales price dropped $20,000 from the August average.

If buyers continue to gain confidence and more homes are sold, we should see the median sales price increase in the coming months. However, if buyers fall back into the "fear of the market crashing" mentality, then we will see drops in sales and in prices.

Being that the holiday season is just around the corner, it will be interested to see what happens in the Puyallup market in the coming months.

My recommendation is to buy before the holidays, if you have the ability to get approved. Interest rates are near the lowest levels of the year, home prices are at the lowest level of the year, and you can anticipate the inventory to drop as we enter the holiday season. If you want the best rates, the lowest prices, and the best selection now is a great time to be a buyer.

Sellers that need to sell should list if they are ready, willing, and able to price correctly for the market. Consider that home values dropped 7% in a month in the Puyallup market. Sellers must understand the need to price below the market to even have a chance to sell at this time.

*statistics are from a reliable source, but are not guaranteed. For more information regarding your area, contact a full-time real estate specialist.

Forza's 2 for 1 Special Continues!

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 17:56:00 -0500

Hey all you coffee drinkers in the Puyallup area. The Solinsky Home Team has requested to continue the 2 for 1 drink special at Forza's on South Hill for the month of October.

Guess what? They will do it!

In the month of October, visit this location and receive 2 drinks for the price of 1.

All you have to do is mention the Solinsky Home Team sent you and you get the 2 for 1 special!

Forza Drive Through is located on Meridian near 128th in the Rite-Aid/Goodwill parking lot.

Drive Through today and pick up your Forza's!

The Solinsky Home Team at Keller Williams is committed to building community through the real estate business.

We enjoy parternering with other locally-owned businesses to provide discounts for our clients and friends.

Be part of our community and tell others about the Solinsky Home Team at Keller Williams!

Wren Hollow by Legacy NW Homebuilders in the Mid-200's

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 17:41:40 -0500

WREN HOLLOW

Wren Hollow is a new construction plat located in Tacoma, WA, near Spanaway. The homes are built by Legacy NW Homebuilders, a high quality local builder who takes great care of his clients.

As you enter the development, close to Ft. Lewis and McCord, a one-block cul-de-sac on 19th Ave E and Military Rd, you will find superior landscaping and homes wrapped in hardi-plank siding.

There are three styles of home being either completed or under construction in Wren Hollow. The first is a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1953 sq. foot rambler with a 2 car garage. The home features high vaulted ceilings with an open layout just right for entertaining. The spacious kitchen has plenty of storage space with quality 42" upper cabinets and stainless steel appliances.

As you enter the master suite, you will find plenty of room for a king-sized bed and dressers and still have room to move around. Attached to the master is the 5-piece master bath and walk-in closet.

Enjoy the privacy of your backyard lined with an 8-foot high fence. Most lots have a landscape tract included in the back yard.

1953 square foot Rambler. LISTED AT $259,950

Spacious Kitchen in Rambler.

Looking for bedrooms and a garage? Consider the 1999 sq.ft - 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath two-story home with a 3-car tandum garage. It features a cozy living area and a spacious kitchen. The master suite comes complete with a 5 -piece master bath and walkin closet.

1999 square foot 2-story. LISTED AT $264,950

Need that extra room? The 2200 sq. foot 2-story is still under construction. Featuring 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bath and a bonus room with a 2 car garage. Once again, Legacy provides a quality kitchen and master suite with 5-piece master bath.

Pictures are not yet available. LISTED AT $269,950.

See more of Wren Hollow by visiting the site on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am - 4pm or by appointment. Call Brian Solinsky at 253-278-7857 for more pictures and specifics.

You can also visit www.WrenHollow.com (site currently under construction, so keep checking back).

Brian Solinsky

253-278-7857

bsolinsky@kw.com

www.SolinskyHomeTeam.com

Puyallup Real Estate Update 9/8-9/14

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 23:20:26 -0500

The Puyallup real estate market hit some strides this past week, be it small strides, but strides none-the-less. Residential pending sales were up and closed sales quadrupled from the second week of August.

Most of the sales took place in the $200,000 - $299,000 range, located on the far south end of town. Maybe with the Canyon Road expansion and the project underway on 94th, combined with the new strip mall developments on Meridian, south of 152nd, buyers are finding deals and finding that traffic isn't so bad.

With a new Target, Wal-Mart and other shopping lining the streets of Meridian, the far South Hill is more self-sufficient than it was even a year ago.

Home values continue to decline in that area as well and it appears buyers are finding the deals they need to get in "buying" mode.

Another positive development was the drop in the median days on market from 72 days in August to 67 days on market in the second week of September. Could this be the shift in the market we need or is it more of a late summer push? We shall see.

New Logo Competition

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 02:12:31 -0500

I need help with designing a logo for my Real Estate Business. I am an agent at Keller Williams Real Estate operating under the name Solinsky Home Team. You can see my current logo at www.SolinskyHomeTeam.com or on my profile page.

As of October 1, I will be changing the name of my business to West Valley Home Team. I'll continue to conduct business at Keller Williams, so West Valley Home Team at Keller Williams would work too.

Currently, I'm using the slogan, "Bringing Home Your Dreams".

I am open to ideas and samples of what you can do to be my logo designer. Let me know if you have further questions.

Submit your design for my logo with your name, phone number and email address by Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 11:59pm. I'll select the one I like best and award the winner (prize to be determined).

Winning logo will be featured on my website on October 1, 2008 and the winner will be highlighted in my blog at www.BlogsByBrian.com

Thank you for your help.

Coffee Drinkers in Puyallup get 2 for 1 at Drive Through Forzas

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 03:08:21 -0500

Forza's Coffee opened a new location this month on the South Hill of Puyallup. It's just a little drive through stand, but in a great location for those morning commuters that need that cup of Jo!

Manager, Bryan Reynolds, takes great pride in operating a quality coffee shop. In two years of Forza's presence in downtown Puyallup, under his direction, it has become a regular stop for students and business professionals.

Awaiting you at both locations is always a friendly face with a smile and plenty of choices for your caffeine fix or appetite.

"It's all about the community and the relationships in the community." says Reynolds.

As evidence of this, Forza Coffee has teamed up with the Solinsky Home Team for this special offer.

Special Offer:

For the month of September visit the new FORZA on South Hill, mention the Solinsky Home Team and get a 2 for 1 special on your drinks. Be sure to take a friend!

Visit as often as you like and tell others about this amazing September special.

Location: 128th and Meridian near the Goodwill and Rite Aid (east side).

First-time Homebuyers Tax Credit - President Bush signs Housing and Economic Relief Bill

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 11:23:36 -0500

Good news for first time home buyers with the Housing and Economic Relief Bill signed today (July 30,2008) by President Bush!

In the bill, first time home buyers who purchase between April 9,2008 and July 1, 2009 will receive up to a $7,500 tax credit!

For those who have been waiting, now is the time to buy. With this bill it is likely to turn things around in the housing market, which means purchase prices will likely go up in the coming months. Interest rates are still around 6.5%, which is historically low, but they might go up in the next few months.

If you are considering making a purchase, now is the time to talk to a real estate professional and mortgage professional to see if it is the right time for you to buy a home.

Here are some links that might be of interest to you:

Info on the First-time homebuyers tax credit

Brian's Blog with links to articles about the housing bill

Real Estate Professional - Brian Solinsky's email

Mortgage Professional - Lissa Solinsky's email

Bush Signs Housing and Economic Relief Bill

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 11:08:04 -0500

Relief for many homeowners facing foreclosure looks to be on the way as President Bush signs into law the Housing and Economic Recovery bill. In an article by JENNIFER LOVEN, Associated Press Writer, the bill takes "several approaches to curing the ailing housing market".

HENRY J. PULIZZI and MICHAEL R. CRITTENDEN write in the Wall Street Journal about different aspects of the bill and how it is meant to stimulate the housing sector.

For those facing foreclosure, the bill looks to provide options and counseling to restructure loans for homeowners to keep their home.

First time home buyers benefit with a tax credit if they purchase a home or condo between April 9, 2008 and July 1, 2009. A tax credit of up to $7,500 could get those buyers that are on the fence to make the move.

Overall, the bill looks to provide relief and the potential for growth in the housing sector, while also giving aid to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Puyallup Real Estate Market Update 7/14/08-7/21/08

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 16:45:01 -0500

The third week of July in the Puyallup Real Estate market can be marked by steady consistency. Pending sales rose for the third consecutive week, which is a sign more buyers are out there and more are making offers on homes.

Sold listings remained the same from week 2 to week 3 of July in Puyallup. More homes were on the market in Week 3 of July as well. With more homes on the market and the same number of solds, it appears the Puyallup real estate market is moving slightly in the buyers direction this week. The increase in pending sales is off-set by the increase in active listings.

Homes priced in the $200,000 - $260,000 range reported the most solds and the most pendings in week 3. The highest price sale this week was $415,000.

When searching for homes and/or looking to sell your home, be sure to choose a REALTOR you trust to know the market. Thousands of dollars can be gained or lost based on market conditions in your area.

Feature Blog Artist - Trey Affolter

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 22:00:55 -0500

This week I have found Trey Affolter's blog to be an inspiration due to it's content and the way he has taken on producing quality posts in such a short time on Active Rain.

Trey has a cool logo too!

Not only is Trey a great agent, but the volunteer work he does at the Boy's and Girl's club of Tacoma provides hope to some of the neediest kids in the area.

One way Trey provides hope is through his feature of Lexi Bonner in Realtors, Family & Friends support 2 yr old Lexi Bonner & her Battle.

Take a look at some other great posts by Trey like

McChord Air Expo 2008 feat. the Thunderbirds - Tacoma, WA

American Lake - Tacoma, WA (Pierce County) Recreation, Beauty & Homes

The Open Championship - 2008, Share your thoughts???

Widgets can Jazz up your message!

Congratulations, Trey! You are the featured Blog Artist of the Week! Thank you for providing great information, pictures, and links.

Goals Make a Difference

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 01:01:22 -0500

Soccer is a sport that really relates well to life. Teams spend most of the game working the ball to score a goal and rarely actually score.

Goals in life are much the same. We seem to start each year with a "New Year's Resolution" or at the very least set a goal in our mind to have a better year and rarely see the goal to completion.

In soccer, teams set up a game plan to beat the defenders, but so often get denied by the defense, goalkeeper, or their own mistakes. Much like in life, where we set up a plan of action, but busy schedules, poor attitudes, or our own lack of persistance thwarts our plans to reach the goal.

I could go on an on, but I'm sure you can add your own comparisons for all of us to see.

The point here, is that today I reached a blogging goal that started two months ago and was set for July 15, 2008. My goal was to be the number 1 featured agent in Puyallup by this date, and with this post I have accomplished my goal.

Another part of my goal was to make my posts worthy of being read, not just a post for points, but to actually have something worth saying. So, I started the group, Active Rain Running Challenge and with Matt Thomson's support, have been able to workout 3 times a week for at least 20 minutes each while helping encourage others to join the group and do the same.

The next part of my goal was to comment on others posts twice as much as I write my own posts. Yesterday, I reached 200 comments on other's peoples blogs and this post is number 97 for me. I believe when you give to others you will receive in return.

To this date, I have yet to receive a referral or client from my blogging, but I have been able to refer out two buyers to other agents I met on Active Rain, and I'm grateful to have met these two agents, along with so many others. I've yet to receive a referral or client from blogging, but I believe that day will come.

Heck, I have a long way to go to match Lanre Folayan, who has 75,000 points and still no referrals. Keep on blogging, Lanre, you are an inspiration to me.

All this to say, set a goal and be consistent in your pursuit of it. There are many times I wanted to give up and some days, those nasty defenders got in my way and I just didn't blog. Still, through some creative offensive attacks (inviting others to join the rain) and writing even when it hurt, I feel great to reach the goal I set out to achieve.

Thank you, Active Rainers!

Response to Referrals

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 20:49:19 -0500

A day ago I posted a blog looking for an agent in Spokane who could care for my buyer looking to move to the area immediately. At the same time, I put the referral on Active Rain's referral network. You know the tab at the top of the page between Search and Q&A?

There was quite a response! Then came the decision on how to choose. I didn't have time to interview all the agents and each one seemed to have something that stuck out as unique to that agent.

So, first of all I want to thank all those who responded to my request on the AR referral post. The agent I decided to go with replied with a comment on my blog post, emailed me, and called and left a message on my voicemail. Being that I was in a class all day, the voice mail was the first response I received.

The agent left a messge that allowed me to know a bit about him and his way of doing business. I especially liked that he had a shared foundation of beliefs, is a top blogger on AR, and is up on the technology that will help my buyer. Also, he is willing to team with me on some business he has coming to my side of the mountains in the future.

So many factors play into making a decision on where to send a trusted referral, but I think the response from Ross made the difference. He briefly told me what he offers and was willing to work with my requests. By doing so, I reduced the referral fee I originally requested and look forward to see how this pans out.

For all those others who responded, "Thank you so much." I think any one of you would have been a terrific choice for my referral and who knows, maybe I'll send someone your way in the future.

In the end, I am so thankful for Active Rain and the ability to network with agents around the country.

Spokane Real Estate Agent Needed

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 00:58:51 -0500

I love Spokane! It is my home town and I visit every year for Hoopfest. This year was no exception. You can see the fun we had this year in the posts Spokane Hoopfest Day 1 and Spokane Hoopfest Day 2. Yes, we actually made it to the second day!

All that to say, I am a Spokane native and love my hometown, but am currently in Puyallup with my family working at Keller Williams Realty. Often times I have people in the Spokane area that are in need of real estate services and I am looking for someone to team with in Spokane to trade referrals.

Currently, I have one client heading that direction and there is a possibility for more business, maybe even a couple listings.

Do you know a great agent in Spokane that can handle quality clients that are referred to them? Is there an agent willing to refer back to the West Side when clients move this direction?

Please let me know via email at bsolinsky@kw.com

Thank you Spokane!

Puyallup Real Estate Update 7/7/08 - 7/14/08

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 13:40:12 -0500

Puyallup residential real estate pending sales were up from the previous week, which is a sign the real estate market in Puyallup is making the turn towards a sellers market, however it has a long climb to get there.

Buyers still have a significant advantage when purchasing in Puyallup. Oftentimes, sellers are paying the closing costs for buyers as an incentive to get a buyer to make the purchase. Some sellers are even providing downpayment assistance, in an FHA program such as Nehemiah or the Grant America Program. Several other grant programs are FHA and HUD approved and can be found on the FHA Grant website.

Many buyers are finding homes that are bank owned or in pre-foreclosure. These properties can typically be purchased for under market value as banks are trying to rid themselves of holding these properties and owners are trying to save their credit by selling before a foreclosure.

When looking to purchase these properties, buyers must be aware there are some risks involved. Banks usually have their own set of documents or addendums that the buyer must sign in order to purchase. In most cases, the bank documents weigh heavy on the side of protecting the bank in the transaction. When looking to purchase a short sale property, Washington State buyers need to be aware of the new Distressed Property Law that went into effect on June 12, 2008.

Generally, in Puyallup the real estate market is steady and showing signs of improvement. Talk to a real estate professional for more details about specific neighborhoods within Puyallup. Brian Solinsky studies Puyallup neighborhoods to know what is available and can help on pricing. Whether you are buying or selling in Puyallup, the Solinsky Home Team is a great place to start.

Hands Free Driving - Watch this video and laugh

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 02:45:58 -0500

This new Hands Free Driving law has got me all worked up. So hard to remember my keys and wallet, let alone my cell phone and now my bluetooth.

Last week I wrote a blog on the new LAW - Hands Free Driving, but I gotta hand it to Trey Affolter who posted a blog titled, Pssst...Hands-Free Law now in effect. In it, there is a link to this You Tube video that you just gotta see.

Video - Click Here!

I was laughing so hard my stomach hurt and just had to share with my readers too. Thank you, Trey for the laughs.

Drive safe!

Pit Stop - Featured Business (Puyallup)

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 02:21:52 -0500

Looking for convenience on Puyallup's South Hill could not be easier than a quick drive into Pit Stop Express.

Located just off the freeway on South Hill Park drive, next to Bethany Baptist Church, Dennys, and Holiday Inn Express.

Directions Pit Stop.

When you pull into the parking lot you will find lots of other people like to use the convenience of this location as well.

Surprisingly, service is quick and easy as should be expected at a Pit Stop. They want to get you back on the road as quickly as possible.

Drive right up to the front door and run inside to grab a Red Bull,

fill up a fountain soda, or use the restroom (always kept clean).

As you can see the car wash service is touch free. No bristles touching your car to make those nasty scratches you can never get out.

You can pay at the Car Wash entrance or get your receipt inside after pumping gas.

My favorite Car Wash day is Monday, because it is manager special day when you can get the Night On the Town, full-service wash, for just $9,99.

With Night on the Town you get wax and tire buffing along with a great wash.

On days other than Monday you can still find terrific service with reasonable prices on the car wash of your choice.

A typical car wash takes about 10 minutes. Be sure to ask for a dash towel too.

Pit Stop is the place I like to go for convenience when I am in a hurry. It doesn't take long to drop by and fill up my drink (pop refills are only 97 cents). Others enjoy the Bigfoot Java and the Subway that are in the same location.

If you live in Puyallup or are just driving through, make Pit Stop the place to take a break, fill up the tank, and then get back on the road.

For current Puyallup weather and other places of interest in Puyallup, click here.

Brought to you by the Solinsky Home Team.

Fannie and Freddie Takeover?

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Sat, 12 Jul 2008 02:06:03 -0500

News on Friday, July 11th, shows once again the volitility of our market. Fannie and Freddie are in trouble and facing the possible need for further government assistance.

If you are in the real estate business you need to be aware of what is happening with Freddie and Fannie. I don't completely understand it, but it helped to read this article, "Economic Storm Brews as Fannie, Freddie pushed to the brink" by Rob Lever.

Weigh-in with your thoughts on the situation with Freddie and Fannie. What do you see as a solution?

Is a government take over the best scenario for our nation?

Have we hit bottom or is there more fallout in our future?

I want to read about something positive that will come out of all this.

Help with Images?

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 03:09:49 -0500

So much to do and so little time. For weeks I've been wanting to know how to get my text around my images on my blogs. I seem to always type about the image, then insert it.

and I want to have my text wrap around my image like everyone else. Please help? Point me in the right direction.

Also, how do I change font, font size, and font color - why aren't those options at the top. Bold, Italic, and underline are great, but I know there must be a way to add some FLAIR to my text without capitalization.

Please help, again?

Sincerely,

AR Running Challenge - Evening Runs

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 02:24:03 -0500

Yes, the Active Rain Running Challenge continues. My 20 minute workouts, at least 3 times a week are getting easier as I enter week 5.

The past couple workouts have been in the evening, as the sun is setting, and the heat of the day settles into the night sky. One night was a series of basketball games with some friends on the Sport court.

It was a tough night after a full Bar-Be-Que with steak, potato salad, hot dogs, and salmon (Yes, I sampled each, okay I ate large). The court was not friendly to me and after about an hour of straight two on two with some of the toughest hoopsters around, I was ready to lose my din-din.

The next night I just had to get out and run, so I put on the headphones and went out the door, listening to some Floyd Wickman to inspire me.

Yes, Floyd, I am committed, reaching my goals, and living S.M.A.R.T.

Okay, all you Active Rain members, time to jump on-board and get into the Active Rain Running Challenge (it's okay to walk). As Floyd says, "you just gotta get the first shoe on".

Join the group and be inspired to get in shape in the Active Rain Running Challenge.

If you are not sure how to join a group go to Active Brad's blog on how to join Groups on Active Rain.

Puyallup Park Reviews - Bradley Lake + Contest

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 02:00:49 -0500

A month ago, my kids and I set out to review parks in Puyallup for all those kids out there that like to play and for parents who like to find a place to take their kids.

We started with a review of Rainier Woods Park, also known as Picture Park, as my kids call it.

Bradley Lake Park - soon to open the new and improved play area. According to my new friend, Matt, who I met at Peach Park, the new Bradley Lake Play Area will be one of only three parks in all of Washington State that is designed for kids with special needs. According to the City of Puyallup, dedication is scheduled for July 26th at 10:00am.

Look for more park reviews coming soon.

CONTEST: Name the park you think will be reviewed next and you can win a prize. Here's how to enter:

Email your Name, Address, and Phone number with your answer to

brian@briansolinsky.com

Make sure to enter before the winning blog is posted!

Also, if you would like to see a park reviewed, let us know and I'll take the kids to do a review.

Hands Free Driving

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 01:33:48 -0500

In Washington State a new law went into affect on July 1st, requiring drivers talking on cell phones to be hands free. The new law is meant to make the roads safer for all drivers and I suppose it is a good law to keep people focused on the road.

What I have experienced in the past week is some difficulty making the adjustment. First, I found a bluetooth that I thought would work for me, which took time to research and money to buy.

I decided on the Plantronics model for a cost of about $60.

After finding the one for me, I then went to connect it with my Treo Palm, which was only a problem because I didn't know the password, but after looking through the manual found it to be easy to sync.

Once having my phone and bluetooth in sync it was time to hit the road. Does anyone else feel like an alien with that thing hanging from their ear? Well, I did, so I took it off.

Now here is where I feel it is more dangerous with the new law, but I really don't want a ticket.

While driving, my ringtone interrupted my concentration and things got a bit hectic. Rather than just answering the phone as usual, I now had to find my bluetooth, tossed in the passenger seat, hook it to my ear, press the button and hope it all worked.

Well, it didn't. Apparently, I had to turn the bluetooth on with the phone, then push the little button on the bluetooth to answer my call.

I missed it - the call I mean -and my next turn.

So, I then checked my voicemail, still careful to follow the rules of the road so not to end up like this guy.

or get a ticket from the guy in my rearview mirror.

In the end, I was able to call the person back on my bluetooth and make it safely to my destination. Hopefully, I'll get better at this with more practice, but at this time, I think it is just as dangerous with the new law.

Let me know your thoughts or experiences with cell phones and driving, especially if you are in a state with a hands-free law.

Brad Andersohn - Blog Hero of the Week!

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 01:33:50 -0500

Brad Andersohn, also known as Active Brad, has been selected as my Active Rain Blog Hero of the Week!

The announcement of Outside Blogs was the most exciting, exhiliarating moment in my blogging career.

Now I can connect with my consumers AND connect with the real estate professionals without intermingling the two. However, there were some problems with getting my blog set up to my domain name at www.blogsbybrian.com .

Enter my hero of the week:

better than and even better than .

ACTIVE BRAD came to the rescue!

Brad took time to call me and walk through step by step what I needed to do to fix my problem. Not only that, Brad also shared some cool tips for me, for example linking to highly used websites like Google and Yahoo for stronger SEO. In just a couple minutes with Brad, I was able to get my Outside Blog problem resolved and learn more about SEO.

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Puyallup Market Update 6/30/08 - 7/7/08

Brian Solinsky, ABR (Keller Williams Realty) — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:39:56 -0500

Puyallup real estate continues to see more activity. Following a June that witnessed the most solds in a month so far this year, the first week of July continued to show an increase in activity.

There were three times as many solds in the first week of July as compared to the first week of June 2008. Interestingly enough the number of active listings in Puyallup dropped from 980 in the first week of June to only 904 in the first week of July.

The trend developing is fewer homes on the market and more people buying homes, which tends to lead to an increase in market value.

Continue to watch what happens throughout the summer to see if Puyallup remains on the road to a more balanced market.

For more information about specific neighborhoods in the Puyallup and Pierce County area, visit the Solinsky Home Team.