Bonnie's Virginia Beach and Greater South Hampton Roads Blog

Thankful for the Richness that Is Much Deeper...

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 19:27:25 -0600

I am RICH BEYOND MY WILDEST DREAMS!

When I woke up at 4:30am this morning (I didn't need to-just couldn't sleep!), I was stressing over lack of means for Christmas for my children and grandchild, Alana, as well as other issues. O-o-o-o-oh, I SO wanted to sleep in - at least until 8:00am! This was not a great way to start Thanksgiving! I needed to re-arrange my thought processes and focus on what I do have! Here is my list:

I'm thankful to have three wonderful children, two who are now young adults and on there own. I know there are many out there that want but cannot have children.

I'm thankful for my granddaughter, Alana, who I have the priveledge (and challenge) to raise her full-time - a second chance to correct the mistakes I made the first time around and joy of being able to see her much more often than many other grandparents!

I'm thankful I have a challenging career that I truly enjoy and the opportunity to meet so many different people with different values, views, opinions, talents. What an enriching experience!

I'm thankful for being given a true strength to overcome such things as Encephalo-Meningitis (at 7), cancer (early 30's), almost loosing my home (early 30's), being told there was a great possibility that I could've contracted HIV (was and have been tested-CLEAN!)...falling into poverty level many times (and climbing back out unscathed). I'm lucky! I'm alive, healthy and so much stronger from overcoming these trials. I know more will come throughout the rest of my life (hey, I'm only "29.95 plus shipping and handling" and lots of it in age!) - ALIVE AND KICKING!!

I'm thankful I could share a Thanksgiving meal with family. We've got great charities throughout the nation but still, many families are left unfed!

I'm thankful my 17-year-old Siberian Husky, Nicki, is STILL with me! Who would've guessed that!

I'm thankful I had the opportunity to take my granddaughter, Alana, to DisneyWorld and see family while I was there, that i hadn't seen in 2-12 years!

I'm thankful I found out about ActiveRain! I've met so many knowledgeable and inspiring people, here, and have learned so much!

I was researching some programs tonight and somehow stumbled into this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-galhgKDvNg

What a reinforcement.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving, everyone, and THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU!!

Carrier'd Away From Norfolk, Virginia?

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 18:51:19 -0600

The Navy released a lengthy study today to make its case for homeporting a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier in Florida. Arguments for the move cite the Pearl Harbor Attack on December 7, 1941. Sixty-seven years later, they are worried about a repeat incident?

This is an extremely costly move in many ways. First, to get Mayport ready for a nuclear carrier would be costly- an estimated $600 million! This includes the need to dredge the port so they can fit a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier in there! Why spend the money now, to make a port fit an aircraft carrier? This is like trying to cram shoes that are too small on one's foot! In this present economy, do taxpayers need, yet, MORE COSTS??

This will also have a HUGE impact on the economy of the Hampton Roads area. The Hampton Roads chamber of Commerce estimates that a move like this would cost the region 11,000 jobs and $650 million if the carrier is relocated. Imagine what it will also due to the local housing market, as well?

Okay, Virginians and others who do not support this move: it's time to speak out! Write letters to the Editor of the Virginian-Pilot and other local newspapers. Makes sure elected officials hear your thoughts on how this would impact the community as well as how much we SUPPORT OUR MILITARY PERSONNEL.

A Fannie and Freddie Holiday Gift?

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:41:05 -0600

HAPPY HOLIDAYS TO MANY HOUSEHOLDS who are currently facing foreclosure! Mortgage Finance compaines Fannie Mae and Freddie mac are suspending foreclosures for approximately 16,000 households during the holiday season. According to the Washington Times, the two companies said Thursday that they will halt lforeclosure sales between November 26th and January 9th, while they evaluate whether borrowers qualify for a new loan modicfication program announced last week. Fannie Mae said approximately 10,000 households would be affected while Freddie Mac said about 6,000 borrowers would be affected who are facing foreclosure however, this change does not apply to vacant homes. During this suspension, they will be evaluating what borrowers qualify for loan modification programs. Hopefully this will lighten the pressure and stress on these families over the holidays!

Can't Miss These Holiday Attractions in Virginia Beach & Norfolk!!

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 14:26:46 -0600

When can you drive at night on the boardwalk in Virginia Beach?

The Holiday Lights at the Beach!

This is a truly incredible display of lights along the oceanfront and boardwalk! As you enter at 2nd street, you will recieve a free CD to play as you drive through the illumination of ships, mermaids, surfing Santas and a canopy of fish bubbling overhead. The light display runs all the way to 33rd street. This is a very inexpensive event - just $10.00 per car (vehicles larger than 15 passengers and motorcoaches are a little more). If you choose not to drive your car, view the lights on a horse-and-carriage!

In addition, they have a combo package available (limited) to enjoy both the Holiday Lights at the Beach AND the Garden of Lights at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. Both are absolute treats for both the young and old - a great way to enjoy the Season's Celebrations!

These are just two events out of many, many more and are the faves of my family!

Enjoy!

Do You Remember FHA-235's?

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 12:22:05 -0600

I remember buying my first house back in the late 80's. We didn't qualify for a conventional loan however, we purchased a home that was under the FHA-235 program. The house payments were based on income allowing more families who otherwise could not purchase a home, to do so. I felt so lucky because it was a major stepping stone to selling and purchasing my "dream home".

This program has disappeared but WOW! Wouldn't it be nice to have it back now?

Because of lenders tightening up qualifications etc. fewer people are qualifying and when they do, I'm finding they qualify for much less!

I think this could possibly stimulate the housing market even more! What do you think?

Left Behind-Our Economy's Forgotten Pets!

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Sun, 09 Nov 2008 09:43:15 -0600

I'm saddened today by an article I read in the Virginian Pilot, Sunday edition about the pets that are left behind due to the economy. I knew this would be an issue because very few rentals will allow pets and many people are struggling to feed their own families and pay their bills. I'm sure we have all thought about this but the statistics are alarming! The Norfolk Animal Care Center expects to take in as many as 1,000 more dogs and cats this year, above the "normal" 5,300 pets per year.

The article mentions a breeder who turned in thirteen Standard Poodles because she could no longer care for them. Sadly, with the increase in the pets turned in to local SPCA's we are also finding a decrease in donations - again, due to the economy!

Not only are pets being surrendered at local shelters, some are just left behind in the streets, unclaimed. One man found a Pomeranian on the side of the road. This dog had been recently groomed, however, never claimed! Those considered at one time, Companions, "Man's Best Friend" are being left behind!

At least two shelters have become "no-kill" agencies. The ones noted in this article are at the Portsmouth Humane Society and the Norfolk SPCA, here in Virginia. Instead of adding to the overloaded shelters, these agencies are assisting the pet owners and providing pet food "until they get back on their feet". I'm sure there are many others out there (or I should hope!).

I know what I'll be doing: donating pet food and supplies and maybe start a "CARE BOX" for donations of pet foods and supplies for needy pet owners. What can you do in your community? If we all pool our creativity, we may be able to help some of these loyal "friends" and keep them in their families.

I am open to any suggestions!

I MISSED IT!!

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 18:28:09 -0600

I missed the NAR convention! Shame on me!! Okay, I will let you in on something...I was in Orlando most of the week. BUT, I left friday morning to go back to Virginia Beach. I flew down there with my granddaughter, Alana for my mother's birthday...sorry! I will NOT tell how old she is! That would date me even more!!

Anyway, this is the first trip I have taken there. To let Alana experience Disney World was a dream-come-true! She's only three but had the time of her life and most importantly, saw her great-grandfather for the first time; her Uncle Bryan and Aunt Tannis for the first time; her Great-Aunt Megan for the first time...okay, I'll stop.

I HAD a closing on Friday, November 9th. The operative word is "HAD". It didn't happen for several reasons but the main one was the asset manager (yes, foreclosure) had lost the file! Flight arrangements were already made so...we came home...to mud, poop and pee all over the carpet and walls!

I left my 17-year-old Husky, Nicki, for the first time since I adopted her six years ago. SHE WAS MAD to say the least. The neighbors did the best they could in the pouring rain, to take care of her but...

Anyway, the house is cleaned up, the closing will take place sometime....you know how the story goes!

And, I'm nursing my 3-year-old granddaughter back to health-seems she caught a cold in all the traveling bliss!

Maybe next year???

Monsters at Halloween? How 'bout the ones after?

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Sat, 01 Nov 2008 18:07:57 -0500

WOW! I thought the monsters on all the shows and movies before and during Halloween were bad! Every Halloween, Christmas, Valentines Day (maybe) and Easter another is unleashed!!! Moo-ooh-ah-ah-aaaaaah!!!! That would be the little ones on a sugar high and CRA-A-A-A-ASH!!! So it is with Alana, my granddaughter! Aunty Britney (my oldest daughter) took her out trick-or-treating last night. I stayed home to pass out candy (so my house wouldn't be egged or toilet-papered).

They went out last night. Alana was dressed up in her pretty princess costume - she looked so innocent and adorable! They came back two hours later with a FULL BUCKET of candy...emptied it and went back out for another half hour. Not much came back that time - PHEW!!!!! I screaned the candy for the semi- or unwrapped and removed TWO PIECES. One was a candy Kiss with the foil not totally around it and the other (from my son's dad and ex-#2) was a CHOCOLATE COVERED MARSHMALLOW SNOWMAN FROM CHRISTMAS!!!!!! Got rid of that as well. According to "reports" he was offering red, green, silver candy kisses and the snowmen for Halloween! Ugh!

Things are going okay! Alana had a couple of pieces of candy and we visited with the neighbors for a bit.

After Halloween???? OH, MY!! I let her have a couple to snack on. What a mistake!! Let's just say a three-year-old shouldn't have an attitude and mouth like that (thanks to her mom) and it took four hours for her to pick up her toys!!

The Halloween candy? it's at the neighbors right now so she doesn't have the visual!

By the way, yes, I'm doing this ALONE! I'm a single mom/granmother! Have been for years and years!

Watch out for the "After-Halloween Monsters"!

I've been "sh-h-h-h-h-shed"!!

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:50:14 -0500

I have come to realize that my 3-year-old granddaughter, Alana, has taken to watching and imitating me. She has her "cell phone", imaginary rolling briefcase, imaginary lockbox key, etc. She has her appointment calendar (just like Me-Ma's) and likes to go out on appointments on her car.

I have also been teaching her the importance of being quiet while Me-Ma is on the phone. Sometimes I have to go as far as a "sh-h-h-h-h!" I was on a call a while ago. She came out on "her call" as well. I must've gotten too loud for her because she "sh-h-h-h-shed" me!!

Gotta' love Grandparenting!

Agent-in-Training

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 06:25:59 -0500

My three-year-old granddaughter, Alana is quite the observer! I didn't realize how much she learned from me until I was watching her in my backyard last Summer. This particular afternoon had been a busy one! I had several showings with different clients and many phone calls.

As we were both enjoying the warmth and she was "driving" her ride-on car (actually too small for her but she loves it!), I noticed she was talking on her imaginary cell phone. I could here her say, "Yes, that's right", "let me check on that", and "fabulous" in her own little high-pitched toddler way. At one point, she stopped and said, "We're Here!" and proceeded to "get out" of her car.

The cincher in this story is when she opened the imaginary back door to her car and lugged out her imaginary briefcase. She pulled up the imaginary handle and began pulling it around the pool. Then she pulled out her imaginary Ibox key, punched the imaginary keypad and opened the imaginary lockbox.

I never realized how many details she picked up on!

New SecondTimeAround Group

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 06:15:40 -0500

We are in a new age of parenting! Some of us have made the choice and embraced the need/opportunity to raise our grandchildren! This group is a great place to share stories, thoughts, experiences from that particular role.

Most of us understand that parenting is challenging. We get to the "finish line" (or almost), looking forward to new independence & freedom, only to find that we are starting over!

I love raising my 3-year old granddaughter! She has been in my home since she was born (I actually helped deliver her!). I have many fun stories to share (and some regarding daily challenges of not only being a "MeeMa but a full-time real estate professional as well).

I welcome anyone to come join or just read! This should be quite interesting!

Bonnie Tegge wants to join your group!

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 07:54:37 -0500

I service the Greater South Hampton Roads area in Virginia including Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Isle of Wight, Newport News, York County...and I venture out further if need be! You can contact me by e-mail at BTegge@PrudentialDeckerRealty.com or directly by cell at 757-270-9132. I service not only buyers and sellers but renters as well.

UPDATE-Call To Action-This Family Needs Us

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 10:16:20 -0500

Last week I posted a blog regarding a family in DIRE NEED. I recieved one response (THANK YOU SO MUCH, Virginia Hepp!!). And for those of you who didn't respond, I still hope and pray that you are sending help through the address I posted.

I've been in touch with Mike Gray, the Agent that alerted us and who has been paying the Carter family's rent FOR THE PAST YEAR (Mike, this world needs more like you - your're AWESOME!). So far, $1690.00 has been collected. We are $210.00 short of covering two months rent. In addition, Mike put fliers out in his neighborhood of about fifty homes. His community pitched in with approximately twelve bags of groceries for this family. It's incredible to see how much can be done by giving just a little when you see someone in need!

I'm sure we all know of people in our communities that are in need of assistance. We know of many families who are losing their homes to foreclosure, are crippled with illness, or many other horrible situations. If we all just helped a little, the impact would be enormous!

I am hoping that we will be able to raise enough money so that Mrs. Carter can afford her medication for MS - maybe she will be able to make it through a 45-hour work week in less agony. I'm hoping that we will be able to help this family get back on their feet so they will KNOW there really is HOPE AND HUMANITY out there. I'll bet they will be the first to help someone else out in need after they make it through this. This is a very hard working family who was dealt a really BAD HAND!

My final HOPE in closing this update is that NOT ONE OF YOU will ever have to face similar circumstances. I know from personal experience, IT'S NOT FUN!

God Bless all of You!

Bonnie Tegge

Call To Action - This Family Needs Us!

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:19:58 -0500

It was brought to my attention two days ago by a Realtor in my company is trying desperately to help past clients...a family in DIRE need! The e-mail that day described how this family had one hot dog in the refrigerator to be shared with a family of two adults, both with major health issues, and three teenage children. This Realtor, Mike Gray, was asking our Company to bring non-perishable foods and donations to the Company Sales meeting the following day to help this family.

I asked him if he would e-mail the family's situation to me so I could post it here, in ActiveRain. I truly believe all of you, as well as the general public will respond to this with your hearts and generosity. Here is the e-mail I recieved from Mike, this morning:

"It was so nice hearing from you. Anything we can do to help this family in dire need will be greatly appreciated. This family are past clients of mine, and have 3 children. Here is their story.

Ruby (the mother) lost her job at Geico. Shortly after, her husband, John, was injured at the new construction site he was working at. He was crushed by a piece of heavy equipment. He was flown by Nightingale to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. He is permanantly disabled. He suffers from migrane headaches, constant back pain, memory loss, and have lost all feeling in one arm. He cannot lift anything over 5 lbs. He will be taking morphine for the rest of his life. Not a good future for someone in their 40's. After he was injured, they were unable to pay her Cobra Insurance, so she lost her insurance coverage which was needed since she suffers from MS. About 3 months after he was injured, their house was forclosed on and their car was repossessed.

This family of 5 was now homeless. She found a new job, not making as much as she ws, but nonetheless it was a job. I bought her get a $600 car to be able to get to and from work. Her insurance will not cover her MS medications since it is considered a pre-existing condition. So she works 45 hours a week, with MS and no medications to support her family of 5 off of $1,200 a month! I was able to get her into a rental, and have been paying her rent since she does not have the money to afford it, but due to the slowing real estate market, I can no longer pay her rent. Three years ago, she had gastric bypass surgery. It was a success. She went from 252 lbs down to 100 lbs. Last month though, tragedy again struck. She had been feeling very sick about a month. not having the money to go to the doctor, she just delt with her pain. Finally, she was rushed to the hospital. It was discover that due to the gastric bypass surgery she had 2 holes in her intestines and one in her stomach. She was being poisoned from all of the fluids and blood entering her bosy through these 3 holes. They did emergency surgery to save her life. She was told if she had not come in, she would have been dead in an hour. She was given 9 units of blood, and took 250 stiches and staples to close her back up. She was supposed to be out of work for 6 weeks, but retured in only 2 weeks because she said " I have to work. My kids have no food in the house".

The husbands disability was denied. Their attorney said that typically every one is denied their first try, but they are in the process of re-applying for disability. Eventually, they should get a settlement for his injury, but as we know, nothing happens when it needs to. In the meantime, this family is in great need of our help. It is my goal to raise $250,000 for this family. I want to buy them a modest home and a reliable car for her to go to work, and afford to buy her MS medications until her insurance kicks-in next April. Our local ABC affiliate will be covering her story next week, and help me in this endevour to change this families life for good. Thank you so much for your effort and concern for this wonderful family. May God richly bless you! Sincerely, Mike Gray"

A website for this family is under construction right now and should be ready next week. When I recieve the link I will update this blog with the information. In addition, I will keep all of you posted on the progess we make in helping this family survive and to achieve the goals.

At our Company sales meeting, several bags of groceries were brought by fellow agents. Others donated money. In that short time period at the meeting, over $1600.00 was raised to assist. For the past year, Mike Gray has been paying their rent however, the real estate market is making this more difficult right now.

For the time being, please contact me if you wish to help this family. When I have the website address, you will be able to link into it and the information will be there as to where you can send your generous assistance and support. I will also post any new information on a trust account etc. as this comes available.

I should also have pictures of the family and will send them.

I thank you for taking the time to read this and for your contributions toward this family's needs.

After hearing about this, I truly feel blessed for what I have!

Donations can be made out to Mike Gray

and sent to: Bonnie Tegge, Prudential Decker Realty, ATTN: Carter Trust, 2008-B General Booth Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23454

My favorite supporter's...the Friedrichsmeyer's

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 20:18:39 -0600

He-he-he! Try writing that last name on an ACT test or signing it on that really small line on the check! Okay, I'll get to the point!

I've started my LICENSED real estate career late and life, and at the very best of times...when the market went DOWNWARD! That's a scary scenario when you are single parenting two kids and a grand-daughter full time, and another child "part-time" (believe me, he may live with dad, but I'm THERE for him)with no support. My PASSION for real estate brought me here after marketing real estate for quite some time and LOVING EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!

In steps...my support, family, teachers - from across the U.S - my mother and father! Through years and years of teaching, preaching, disciplining and watching rebellion, they are still HERE!

Mom has taught me all the tricks of domestic life including cooking, sewing, cleaning and managing a career/domestic life all in one! In addition, she's taught me to be strong-willed and head-strong, great when used at prescribed amounts!

Dad taught me algebra (okay, he tried but it wasn't my cup-o'-tea!), how to maintain a car; home maintenance and repair.

THEY BOTH TAUGHT ME THAT I CAN DO ANYTHING I SET MY MIND TO!

After being across the U.S. (they live in Idaho, I live in Virginia) for almost 10 years, my parents/family are still WITH ME! Not once have they told me, "You won't make it in this market" or "If you haven't done it now, you won't". They listen to me droan on and on....Yawn! and they are still THERE/HERE! If I could kidnap them and bring them to an awards ceremony, I would make sure they were up there with me!

Mom, Dad, Thank you for STILL being there after ALL THESE YEARS! YOU ARE THE BEST!

I'll be there for you too, always!

I would like to introduce Diana Graham...

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 19:44:44 -0600

Diana Graham is with The Real Estate Group here in the Greater South Hampton Roads, Virginia. After never meeting her in person but talking on the phone and working with her on what could be a very difficult transaction (my clients...they need the credit for that!), I have a tremendous amount of respect and truly enjoy my association with her. She is responsive and has a great follow-up plan (Diana, I need a few extra pointers from you to keep me on TRACK!) and has NEVER, EVER been pushy, ugly, snotty...well, you know what I mean.

I truly believe that anyone who is in contact with this Professional, will have a super positive experience like I have so far.

PLEASE WELCOME DIANA GRAHAM...SHE'S AWESOME!!

The Prudential Tools...

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Sat, 09 Feb 2008 19:02:54 -0600

I've been with Prudential for almost a year. When I first started, I was e-certified in a week, on the Yahoo! platform, RELO certified in two weeks and ready to roll!!

This isn't about WHAT I'VE DONE, but what's available through our company. After attending numerous seminars, trainings, meetings AND talking with other agents in my company, I realized that many were very unfamiliar with what we have available.

Part of my ongoing campaign with anyone I have an e-mail address for is to send e-cards. The recipe cards go out once a month (and very well recieved-MANY positive responses); e-newsletters are sent quarterly (I research and write these), and of course the holiday greetings. My Just Listed and Just Sold cards are sent to them (yes, I also have cards mailed through the "regular" way). Yes, I have several who opt out. I have more that let me know they enjoy them, and some that ask me to re-send a card accidentally lost! It keeps my face in front of them and gives them more than just real estate "stuff".

Many other opportunities exist including Birdview campaign with leadmine and prospectpro. I'm sure I haven't tapped into everything but I'm willing to find and learn!

Everything we have available takes time, patience and willingness to learn. I realize all of you must be pretty savy because you are also here. Pass this on...

Prudential opened many, many more doors and opportunities for me beyond the "Back to Basics" and "Real Estate 101".

If you aren't familiar with some of this, just ask!

Hi Everyone!

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 07:16:30 -0600

It's taken me a little less than a couple of weeks to find the Prudential Group! Now I really feel at home! Are any of you active in the E-team (Yahoo! platform)? Any suggestion or stories on lead conversions? I would love to convert more than I have already and what works for you is VERY WORTH TRYING!!

Thanks!

Tired and Empty...The Plight of the Vacant House

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 18:52:01 -0600

I search for my heart to be filled with family and friends. I miss the laughter from children as they run through me - somethimes crying and receiving a hug from a loved-one, but mostly playing, running, laughing. A voice from inside calls, "Jessie! Please STOP running in the house!"

I miss the quiet winter nights with a fire warming me - what happened? It was so-o-o peaceful and relaxing. I'm getting COLD from the lack of heat! I grow weary of the deafining silence that fills the rooms.

I long for the aroma of home-cooked meals, or any food for that matter! Mom's home-made pot roast, simmering all day in the crockpot - O-o-oh, I really MISS that!

Where did the excitement go? I remember the birthday parties, family gatheriings, barbeques in summer. Everyone laughed, played, cooked and had a great time! *Sigh*...nothing now.

I no longer feel that firm but gently hand ensuring that I am still strong, healthy and safe. I long for the improvements, repairs that keep me standing tall! I miss seeing through clear "eyes".

Okay, that old '63 Rambler that was pulled in to be worked on choked me up a little, but it was all good! I felt wanted, useful, fullfilled. I held "stuff" when there was no other place to put it.

I wish for those "massages" throughout the day, you know! The pitter-patter of tiny and large feet through my rooms, halls. Even late at night, I sometimes enjoyed a "quicky" as someone searched for that mid-night snack!

Now, I'm just an empty house, wishing, wanting and waiting for you to fill me up again!

You Know They're New When...

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Sun, 03 Feb 2008 12:50:57 -0600

I've had a new experience with a new seller, nothing I have every heard of or experienced before. Please add to this with your "new" experiences as well...

It was no surprise that this Seller was very inexperienced with the home-selling process. He was very clear about it. He asked quite a number of questions such as, "What will your advertising cost me?" "How do I reimburse your for your expenses?" But this next one caught me completely OFF GUARD!!

My seller was out of town for a week. We had a agreed that I would host an open house in his home on the Saturday he was arriving back. I really didn't have any calls on the property that week although, I stopped by to check the info box and add updated fliers. After an early day showing property, I arrived at his home about fifteen minutes before the open house was advertised to begin. I stepped through the front door and was surprised to find I didn't need to disarm his alarm system although, it seemed rather unusual (I'm the one who, no matter what you tell me and how hard I try NOT TO, tend to set off the security and much panic!). I strolled into the kitchen armed with my supplies (cinnamon rolls to bake, more fliers, etc.). Looking around, I noticed the clock on the microwave and stove weren't working. "OH, no", I groaned to myself. "The power's out!" I walked around and no lights would turn on. I was truly worried! I found the electrical panel and realized ALL OF THE BREAKERS WERE SHUT OFF! I turned them all back on and viola! We had power. Now that my hands felt a little grimy from the garage, I decided to wash my hands. Guess what? NO WATER!! I realized the seller had turned both the power and water off before he left "to save water and energy". Who would've thought that someone wanting his home shown and marketed would've done this? A NEW SELLER!

We have talked about this since and he has agreed not to do this. He never thought about people wishing to see the property while he was gone!

Does anyone have anything to add? Would love to hear another one!

WOW! I would've never guessed...

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 18:33:31 -0600

Hi Everyone!

I'n the one-pplus week I've been on Active Rain I have received so many messages of welcome, etc.

I would've never guessed this community would be so active, supportive and informative!!

I FEEL THE LOVE!!

The MENTOR (Experience)

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 13:55:57 -0600

After I received my Real Estate license and signed on with a local firm, I was encouraged to "sign up" with a mentor and recieve VALUABLE experience with a seasoned agent. This makes sense, doesn't it? This was in addition to weekly training classes that were mostly videos and discussion (yawn!).

I accelerated through the classes by watching the videos and doing extra worksheets on my own time. I was done four weeks earlier than the other "newbies". I wanted to jump in and get going FAST!

My first mentor was a seasoned agent with approximately 20 years experience. She was sweet, pleasant, seemed successful (in the business that long?? Shouldn't she?) and we got along well. I was to learn from her by hosting open houses with her; follow along on property showings/viewings etc. Well, by the time we hosted our open house together, I already had hosted two others by myself. By the time I started going on property viewings with her, I was already getting experience by showing to renters. I was sending out Thank You notes, etc. It really wasn't working. I was OUTPACING HER. After a lengthy discussion with my manager, we dissolved the agreement. As part of the agreement I was suppose to split my commission on my first three transactions with her 50/50. I truly felt she hadn't earned it.

IN STEPS MENTOR #2. I felt I still could benefit from the expertise of an experienced agent and had some hands-on training. I had been enjoying many helpful hints, ride-alongs etc. with one who also became my best friend. We had quite a lot of fun doing it!

Here's the biggest lesson I learned (no regrets, really...): NEVER come into the opposing side of a transaction with your MENTOR! When you think they are there to guide you through, they aren't (as a Newbie, I wasn't thinking!). This is especially true if your Mentor gave this client to you - in this case, it was a renter my Mentor didn't have time for and asked me if I would "service" her. While showing her property, I converted her to a buyer. I was so excited and proud (gush!). My Mentor felt betrayed. I began showing her property for sale. She fell in love with a listing my Mentor had. My Mentor and I worked together on the Market Analysis (I still wanted some advise in that area). We wrote the offer, negotiated it to ratification. The inspections went beautifully! Then, the Appraisal came back LOW!! We were never able to put the contract back together.

The converted buyer? Now, diverted back to RENTER.

Moral of this story: Stay away from working transaction on the opposite side of your Mentor until the program is over.

On the other hand, it's an experience I WILL NEVER FORGET!!

A Testimonial - Following my "Don't Forget The Little One's" Blog

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 14:28:32 -0600

Hey All!

After writing a blog about servicing Tenants, this showed up in my e-mail (after three favorable responses, Thank You!). This just reinforces my beliefs:

"I would like to take the time to express my gratitude for the wonderful service I have received from Bonnie Tegge. It is rare when some one goes above and beyond the expectations of a client and when it happens I believe that acknowledgement is due. Please see my story below about my experience working with Bonnie.

I moved to Virginia from California because my fiancé was stationed here with the Navy. We were not sure how long we would be in Virginia so we decided that renting was the best option for us. With little knowledge of the area we began the grueling task of driving around to find something to our likings. After making several calls we came across a property being represented by Bonnie Tegge. She asked how we heard about the rental and when I told her that we were driving around she immediately jumped into action. She set up a search and began sending information on rental properties directly to my email. I was able to continue my searching from the comfort of my own home. She set up appointments for us to see the properties that we liked and seemed very concerned with helping us find something to fit our needs.

We ended up choosing a property that neither she nor her company represented but she was still just as helpful as ever. She worked with us after normal business hours and made sure we got into our new place quickly. She even followed up with a phone call after we moved in to make sure everything went smoothly. This was a very pleasant and personal experience. We are now at the end of our lease and looking to rent a larger place and have chosen to work with Bonnie again. This experience as been just as great as the first one and I am greatly appreciative.

I have recommended Bonnie to my friends and I am confident that she will accommodate them just as well. It is rare in any industry to find good customer service especially in the crazy world of real estate. Bonnie is a true diamond in this field. Her responsiveness and diligence are extremely impressive. If ever I find that I will be in for Virginia for a while and the time is right for us to buy, I have no doubt who I will depend on for representation. Until then it gives me great piece of mind knowing that I have an experienced real estate professional to help me with my renting needs. Prudential Decker should be proud to have someone such as Bonnie to represent their name in business.

Thank you for your time and great service."

Don't Forget The "Little" Ones!!

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 12:55:09 -0600

Most of us are feeling the tightening of the market right now. It's been my experience lately that Buyer's have such a great sellection, they can be picky! Some Seller's are still in the mind-frame that their home can sell for much more (and for less effort to make it ready). Some times it I just feel like a "SnapDragon"! By the end of the day, I'm draggin' and about ready to SNAP!! Then I get an e-mail that puts a big grin on my face.

A past Tenant I've worked with has contacted me with a request for assistance in looking for a new home. They still aren't ready to buy because they are military and don't know how long their stay will be. What would you do? The Finder's Fee is tiny for the amount of time I spend showing Tenants property. I could possibly spend this valuable time doing something else, right?

I disagree! I still work with them. Not only is it still money that can be used toward a bill or advertising, it's a long-term referral! I have received more referrals from tenant-clients and that referral base is still growing. AND, they won't rent a home forever! They will eventually be your next Buyer! Their referrals will also. Get the picture?

I enjoy working with Tenants. They are probably the most appreciative of all clients because they are so easily ignored or forgotten!

5417 Heatherton Court, Virginia Beach VA 23454

Bonnie Tegge (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.) — Thu, 24 Jan 2008 08:27:08 -0600

Affordable waterfront in Virginia Beach! 15,48 square feet of living area with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, bonus room (could be 4th bedroom) and formal rooms. All appliances convey (as-is). Fully fenced backyard with shed. Fish from your own backyard! Bonnie Tegge, Prudential Decker Realty - 757-270-9132.