Mike 's Blog

How Will Cap and Trade Effect Your Real Estate Business?

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:01:26 -0500

I think everyone must read this article! That is the same thing that our representatives should have done before they voted! But what can we expect when a 300+ page addendum was sent out at 3AM on the morning of the vote! What was the rush? It is time for us all to speak up!!

Via Nestor & Katerina Gasset Realtors® Wellington Florida Luxury Homes (International Properties and Investments, Inc.):

Real estate is local when it comes to market conditions and market trends. Real estate differs from region to region in styles, architecture and amenities generally speaking. For instance; in Florida fireplaces are not the norm whereas in cold winter areas such as Colorado, fireplaces are a standard addition to a home. In some areas of our country people have wood burning stoves and others have coal burning furnaces. There are areas of our country such as here in Florida where you would not dare live without Air Conditioning but in many homes in Washington for instance, air conditioning is more of a luxury than a necessity.

So when we are discussing the effects of cap and trade in your real estate business you will need to take into account the region in which you live as some areas will be more effected than others.

Here is a really good interactive map from the New York Times. The map I posted below is the map of the votes in the House for and against the Cap and Tax bill that just passed the House. But if you click on the link of the New York Times map, it is interactive.

You can move your mouse over the map and see who voted, what party they belong to and their district. You will be able to see that no matter whether they were democrats or republicans if they are in the farm country of America, high manufacturing areas of America, low energy bills of America and the heartland of America- they voted NO on this bill and for very good reasons.

"For a household of four, energy costs go up $436 that year, and they eventually reach $1,241 in 2035 and average $829 annually over that span. Electricity costs go up 90 percent by 2035, gasoline by 58 percent, and natural gas by 55 percent by 2035. The cumulative higher energy costs for a family of four by then will be nearly $20,000.

But direct energy costs are only part of the consumer impact. Nearly everything goes up, since higher energy costs raise production costs. If you look at the total cost of Waxman-Markey, it works out to an average of $2,979 annually from 2012-2035 for a household of four. By 2035 alone, the total cost is over $4,600." Heritage Foundation.

You will notice that the states where the votes were yes are also the states that already have the highest energy bills. The states that voted no are mostly states with presently low energy bills.

Instead of calling this to Cap and Trade- We can really call it the Tax On Electricity Bill.

How does this information pertain to real estate agents? If you live in the lower energy pricing states you are going to be seeing huge increases in household energy bills. If you live in states that are coal powered or oil powered you will see the largest increases ever in your energy bills because those energy sources are going to be punished with taxation.

How is that going to effect home prices?

How is that going to effect movement in and out of your state?

How is that going to effect your real estate office utility bills and who is going to pay for this?

The House is at it again. This was a 1,300 page bill and again as with so many large bills was not read by most of those that voted yes or no. What is it that they don't get? The American people expect our leaders to read what they vote on.

So what else is tucked away neatly into this bill that perhaps no one knows the full implications of yet?

How about the Federal imposition and takeover of building codes? Your local planning and building offices will not be qualified for any Federal funding of any kind unless they adopt what the FEDS say is the new energy efficient building standards. This will create higher prices in building new homes which is then passed on the homebuyers and then you as a real estate agent are also effected because less buyers will be able to afford to buy a new home built . Not to mention having to wait for the Feds to come and inspect the builders and the homes.

How about the new Federal Energy Nazis Inspectors who will come and rate your home before you can sell your home. So before you can list a home for sale, the seller will have to wait for the Federal inspectors to come out. DMV lines anyone? Once that inspector comes out, he or she will give the home an energy rating. If the home does not meet the guidelines the seller will be required to do the work necessary to bring the home up to energy standards before they can sell the home! Can we say money? Does that mean that there will be homeowners who will become prisoners in their homes because they can not afford to make the energy repairs that the feds require? Is that an invasion of your privacy as well as an attack on your property rights?

Hmmm, how is that going to effect short sales where the seller has no money to make the repairs and adjustments?

How is that going to effect your ability to get listings in a timely manner?

How is that going to effect your seller who is about to lose their home in a foreclosure?

How is that going to effect the seller who has to relocate for their job?

How is that going to effect the estates with heirs having to do these repairs and such when there won't be any money until the estate is sold?

I wonder if our House of Representatives and our Congress men and women EVER thought to actually ask us in the field working this business day in and day out how these bills will effect the housing market?

Of course, the US will be living Cap and Tax while the real perpetrators of dirty air like China and India get off scott free. There will be an unfair advantage in pricing products and manufacturing to the point that if a US company even stands a chance of staying in the manufacturing business will have no choice but to move their company oversees which in turn will cause a massive layoff of people increasing the already high unemployment problem we are facing in our country.

How will the unemployment effect your real estate business?

How will the unemployment effect the REOs and massive foreclosures in your community?

How will the unemployment effect home values as you get more and more vacant properties in your area?

If you are an agent in America's farmland you will begin to see farms no longer being able to produce a profit. Farms use a lot of energy. Energy use will be punished. This is why nearly every politician from a farm land state no matter what party they are affiliated with voted no to this bill. Their districts will suffer terribly. As this happens we will be buying more and more produce from other countries with far less health standards than our own. I don't trust foods, especially produce from China or other countries except Europe. But we don't import our veggies from Europe!

How is this going to effect your real esate business if you live and work in a farm land state?

When it comes down to the nitty and the gritty about this bill you must remember that GE is the biggest supporter of this bill. They stand to make billions of dollars from the passage of this bill. The politicians voting yes on this bill, many of them are getting paid to vote yes. And Al Gore will become the very first GREEN billionaire. It is just too bad that he is not a real capitalist. He could not become a billionaire playing fair and square. Instead, he has an unfair advantage, legislation to make him filthy rich. Not exactly the free market way. It is all about the money.

Contact your Senators now to vote NO now. Click on this link to find your Senators and contact them by email, phone and fax today. Let them know how this is going to effect your business and your community homeowners and buyers. Pass this on...

Some Things Never Change

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 14:26:44 -0500

I was reading a blog post earlier today on Trulia from Renne Porsia, an agent from Philadelphia and it struck a cord with me. Here is the link to Renee's a
post http://www.trulia.com/blog/renee_porsia/2009/06/should_realtors_be_paid_! Then I started thinking about an article I had done a few years ago for my newsletter. While I was looking for it, I was thinking to myself that it will no longer be timely, because the market has changed so much!
When I began to read it I was surprised to see that in any market this article applies. We are professionals and we need to run our business accordingly! Here is my article as it was written 3 years ago:

I remember reading an article a few years ago stating that statistics show that Real Estate agents sell 2 out of every 10 buyers they work with! That means that 80% of their time is wasted. If that is in fact the case, it is not hard to see why a recent NAR survey showed that 86% of Realtors are out of the business in one year and only 7% ever renew their license.

It has become very apparent to me over the last few years, through owing my own brokerage and training nationwide, that this is a sad but true statistic. Everyday I see agents who are continually spending days, weeks and in some cases months, making the same mistakes time and time again. They continue to work with unqualified buyers, who do nothing more than waste their time.

I often ask my agents, "Would you list a property without a contract?" The response I get is always a resounding, "Of course not!" Then I ask, "Why then will you work with a buyer without a contract?" I don't have enough space in this article to even begin to list the responses I get to that question. And to this day, not one of the answers I have heard is acceptable.

Working with buyers is in my opinion the "bread and butter" of a new agent's business. I know you have been told that you must "list to last"; however there is no better way for you to learn your marketplace than showing houses to qualified buyers. The benefits are twofold - first, you will be compensated for your time through your commission and secondly, the market knowledge and sales experience you acquire will be paramount as you begin to build your listing inventory.

In order to have a successful working relationship with buyers and not waste 80% of your time, it is imperative that you meet them at your office prior to showing any real estate. There is information that you must have, to ascertain if they are a buyer or a "looker"! We are not a source of free information or a tour guide! We are real estate sales professionals! We do not get paid for showing houses; we get paid for SELLING houses!

Upon initial contact with a prospective buyer, either on the phone or in person, we need to give them a compelling reason to meet with us. We need to convince them that by meeting with you, before seeing any homes, that this meeting will benefit them in multiple ways; namely saving them time and money! This initial meeting is in my opinion the difference between a sale and frustration.

The purpose of this meeting is to determine what your prospects true intentions are. Are they ready, willing and able to buy NOW! If they are not, they are not buyers. They remain a prospect until they are able to meet our criteria. We do not show houses to someone who is not buying for "a year or so". You can put these prospects in your data base and follow up with them. Email them listings and call them once a month until they become a NOW buyer.

If your prospects inform you that they are pre qualified ask them to bring their paperwork with their mortgage broker's phone number so you can verify this information. If your prospects are not pre qualified, explain to them that you will make the arrangements for them to get this done at your meeting. If they say that they do not want to get pre qualified, this may be a good indication that you do not have a NOW buyer. Ask some follow-up questions to help you determine if a meeting with these prospects is warranted at this time.

When you are meeting with you prospects, in addition to verifying their ability to purchase a home, you also need to explain what you expect from them. You need to explain the importance of being on time for appointments, what to do if they find a For Sale by Owner, what to do if they find a listing from another company, etc.

Finally, insist they sign a contract agreeing that if you do what you say you are going to do and you find them a house, they will purchase it through you! If they are a sincere NOW buyer they will sign it and you will be on your way to a signed contract!

Have a great day and remember this- IN LIFE THERE ARE ONLY REASONS AND RESULTS, AND THE REASONS DO NOT MATTER!

Mike Kelly, Broker/Owner, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida, www.sellstateadvantage.com

Crazy in Cape Coral!!!

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 22:04:44 -0500

I just wanted to let everyone I am alive and well in Cape Coral, Florida! Wow, what a run we have been on the last 3 months. It is like someone turned the faucet back on and we haven't stopped since. It seems that every home on the market is in a "multiple offer" situation and they are looking for "highest and best"! Our agents are busier than they have been in years and although we are making less due to the prices, it is awesome to be busy! I have been working with our agents and clients and it seems that the blog is the last thing I have time for. Shame on me! I will be back to it and I will be posting at least one weekly update! Promise!

Anyway, prices are down, sales are up and the buyers are fighting over the houses. If you or anyone you know wants to take advantage of an unbeleivable opportunity- NOW is the time!! I came to Cape Coral in April of 2000 and the least expensive home was $85,000! I have seen homes selling in our town today for less than $60,000! We are back to 1995 levels and we will never see this again in our lifetime!

Don't miss out grab your piece of Paradise while it lasts! Whether it is Cape Coral, Ft. Myers, Lehigh Acres or anywhere else in Lee County give me a call and let one of our agents assist you. Check out our website at www.sellstateadvantage.com and sign up for your free Listingbook account and get access to our MLS through this great service! Have a great week!

Mike Kelly, Broker/Owner, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida, 239-549-9200

Kids Say The Darndest Things

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 14:06:13 -0600

Greetings from beautiful Cape Coral, Florida! It has been quite busy down here and unfortunately I have not had a lot of time to dedicate to my blog! But I guess that is a good thing that once again the contracts are being written and real estate is hot!

The passed 2 weekends we attended the wedding of two different friends, both of whom are school teachers. I guess that being around school teachers, especially 1st grade teachers, it is very likely that you will hear some great stories. Whether they are true or not, who knows, but they are amusing! I heard 2 stories that are just too funny not to share! Have a great day!

Mrs. C was watching one of her 1st grade students who would continually have his hands down the front of his pants. After trying to ignore it she finally said,"Johnny please take your hand out of there and stop doing that!" Johnny immediately fired back, " Mrs C I have a cramp in my noodle!" Mrs C was speechless!

In another class at the same school a teacher was reading the story of Cicken Little. When the teacher got to the part where Chicken Little went to the farmer and said, "The sky is falling" the teacher asked the class, "What do you think the farmer said?" From the rear of the class a voice said, "Holy S*#t a talking chicken!" I don't think that was the answer she was expecting!

Have a great Thanksgiving and thank god for kids!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida 239-549-9200

Thankful In Cape Coral

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 10:33:56 -0600

As we get ready to celebrate Thanksgiving here in beautiful Cape Coral, many buyers and real estate agents in our marketplace do have reason to give thanks this year! Reports out this morning show that the sale of single family homes in Lee County rose 78% from the same time last year! There were 720 single family homes sold in October up from 405 last October! Condo sales were up 48%!

This increase is due to the fact that the median price for a single family home in October was $139,500 a drop of 42% since last October! With the stock market on a wild ride it appears that many people are now taking advantage of the prices in our real estate market! According to the National Association of Realtors, distressed properties made up 45% of property sales in October!

We had a client this passed week that was able to purchase a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage, pool home for $99,000! Three years ago this home sold for $339,000!! If you or anyone that you know is interested in taking advantage of these prices just let us know! Realtors, if you have clients who are looking to invest in the Cape Coral and Ft. Myers area please contact me directly and I will personally work with you to find what your clients are looking for.

Please visit my website at www.sellstateadvantage.com and sign up for a Listingbook account which will give you access to our MLS. Not only will you be able to see the homes listed for sale, but you will also be able to do your own searches and change your criteria at will! We will never see deals like this again in our lifetime, so take advantage of it while you can!

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida 239-549-9200

This I Understand!!! I Hope We All Do!!

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:51:12 -0500

Finally, an explanation that makes sense! Think about it before you go to the polls!

"Bar Stool Economics"

Suppose that every day, ten men go out for beer and the bill for all ten

comes to $100. If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would

be split something like this:

The first four men (the poorest) would pay nothing.

The fifth would pay $1.

The sixth would pay $3.

The seventh would pay $7.

The eighth would pay $12.

The ninth would pay $18.

The tenth man (the richest) would pay $59.

So, that's what they decided

The ten men drank in the bar every day and seemed quite happy with the

arrangement, until one day, the owner threw them a curve. 'Since you are

all such good customers,' he said, 'I'm going to reduce the cost of your

daily beer by $20.' Drinks for the ten now cost just $80.

The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so the

first four men were unaffected. They would still drink for f

But what about the other six men who were the paying customers? How could

they divide the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his 'fair share?'

They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that from everybody's share,

then the fifth man and the sixth man would each end up being paid to drink his beer.

So, the bar owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each man's

bill by roughly the same amount, and he proceeded to work out the amounts

each one should pay. Even though the rich guy had paid much more all

along and now got much less back, he went along with the plan anyway.

And so:

The fifth man, like the first four, now paid nothing (100% savings).

The sixth now paid $2 instead of $3 (33%savings).

The seventh now pay $5 instead of $7 (28%savings).

The eighth now paid $9 instead of $12 (25% savings).

The ninth now paid $14 instead of $18 (22% savings).

The tenth now paid $49 instead of $59 (16% savings).

Each of the six was better off than before. And the first four continued

to drink for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to

compare their savings.

'I only got a dollar out of the $20,'declared the sixth man. He pointed

to the tenth man,' but he got $10!'

'Yeah, that's right,' exclaimed the fifth man. 'I only saved a dollar,

also. It's unfair that he got ten times more than I got' 'That's true!!'

exclaimed the seventh man. 'Why should he get $10 back when I got only

two? The wealthy get all the breaks!'

'Wait a minute,' yelled the first four men in unison. 'We didn't get

anything at all. The system exploits the poor!'

The nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up.

The next night the tenth man didn't show up for drinks so the nine sat

down and had beers without him. But when it came time to pay the bill,

they discovered something important. They didn't have enough money

between all of them for even half of the bill!

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is how our tax system works. The people

who pay the highest taxes get the biggest benefit from a tax reduction.

Tax them too much and attck them for being wealthy, and they just may

not show up any more. In fact they make start drinking overseas were the

atomosphere is a somewhat friendlier!

Something to think about! Have agreat day!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida 239-549-9200

Everything Is Dropping In Cape Coral

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Wed, 29 Oct 2008 12:18:03 -0500

Baby it's cold outside! We woke to temperatures in the 40's this morning! Brrrrrr! Nothing to worry about though, it is already up to 70 and headed to 80 again by Friday! It was actually refreshing this morning and it is always fun driving around Cape Coral and looking at people dressed like it is 20 below wearing hats, mittens and even ski jackets!!

Although the temps are cooling off, the real estate deals certainly are not! I showed 5 houses yesterday all priced below $100,000! So if you are in the market to buy in Cape Coral or Ft. Myers or you know anybody who is please go to my website www.sellstateadvantage.com and sign up for your very own Listingbook account and we will keep you informed on what is happening! For immediate assistance please call 239-549-9200 and we will have someone set up your account immediately!

Stay warm where ever you are and have a great day!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida, 239-549-9200

The Chili Cook-Off! This is hysterical!!

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Fri, 24 Oct 2008 12:45:58 -0500

Greetings from Cape Coral, Florida! Today has been one of those 5 or 6 days we get every year without any sun at all! So as often happens on those type of days it is a little dreary around town. I always look for things to make me smile on those days and the following is what did it for me on this grey day! It came from a friend of mine in Spokane, Washington! In fact I almost broke a rib laughing! Enjoy and I hope I help you if you are having a grey day!

Maybe my AR friends from Texas can add some comments about this experience!

The Chili Cook Off

For those of you who have lived in West Texas , you know how true this is. They actually have a Chili Cook-off about the time Halloween comes around.. It takes up a major portion of a parking lot at the Old Settlers Reunion Grounds. Judge #3 was an inexperienced Chili taster name Frank, who was visiting from Springfield, IL.

Frank: 'Recently, I was honored to be selected as a judge at a Chili cook-off. The original person called in sick at the last moment and I happened to be standing there at the judge's table, asking for directions to the Coors Light truck, when the call came in. I was assured by the other two judges (Native Texans) that the chili wouldn't be all that spicy; and, besides, they told me I could have free beer during the tasting, so I accepted and became Judge 3.'

Here are the scorecard notes from the event:

CHILI # 1 - MIKE'S MANIAC MONSTER CHILI
Judge # 1 -- A little too heavy on the tomato. Amusing kick. Judge # 2 -- Nice, smooth tomato flavor. Very mild. Judge # 3 (Frank) -- Holy crap, what the hell is this stuff? You could remove dried paint from your driveway. Took me two beers to put the flames out. I hope that's the worst one. These Texans are crazy.

CHILI # 2 - EL RANCHO'S AFTERBURNER CHILI
Judge # 1 -- Smoky, with a hint of pork . Slight jalapeno tang.
Judge # 2 -- Exciting BBQ flavor, needs more peppers to be taken seriously.
Judge # 3 -- Keep this out of the reach of children. I'm not sure what I'm supposed to taste besides pain. I had to wave off two people who wanted to give me the Heimlich maneuver. They had to rush in more beer when they saw the look on my face.

CHILI # 3 - ALFREDO'S FAMOUS BURN DOWN THE BARN CHILI
Judge # 1 -- Excellent firehouse Chili. Great kick.
Judge # 2 -- A bit salty, good use of peppers.
Judge # 3 -- Call the EPA. I've located a uranium spill. My nose feels like I have been snorting Drano. Everyone knows the routine by now. Get me more beer before I ignite. Barmaid pounded me on the back, now my backbone is in the front part of my chest. I'm getting drunk from all of the beer.

CHILI # 4 - BUBBA'S BLACK MAGIC
Judge # 1 -- Black bean chili with almost no spice. Disappointing.
Judge # 2 -- Hint of lime in the black beans. Good side dish for fish or other mild foods, not much of a chili.
Judge # 3 -- I felt something scraping across my tongue, but was unable to taste it. Is it possible to burn out taste buds? Sally, the beer maid, was standing behind me with fresh refills. This 300lb. woman is starting to look as HOT as this nuclear waste I'm eating! Is chili an aphrodisiac?

CHILI # 5 - LISA'S LEGAL LIP RE MOVER
Judge # 1 -- Meaty, strong chili. Jalapeno peppers freshly ground, adding considerable kick. Very impressive.
Judge # 2 -- Chili using shredded beef, could use more tomato. Must admit the jalapeno peppers make a strong statement.
Judge # 3 -- My ears are ringing, sweat is pouring off my
forehead and I can no longer focus my eyes. I farted, and four people behind me needed paramedics. The contestant seemed offended when I told her that her chili had given me brain damage. Sally saved my tongue from bleeding by pouring beer directly on it from the pitcher. I wonder if I'm burning my lips off. It really ticks me off that the other judges asked me to stop screaming. Screw them.

CHILI # 6 - VARGA'S VERY VEGETARIAN VARIETY
Judge # 1 -- Thin yet bold vegetarian variety chili. Good balance of spices and peppers.
Judge # 2 -- The best yet. Aggressive use of peppers, onions, garlic. Superb.
Judge # 3 -- My intestines are now a straight pipe filled with gaseous, sulfuric flames. I crapped on myself when I farted, and I'm worried it will eat through the chair. No one seems inclined to stand behind me except that Sally. I can't feel my lips anymore. I need to wipe my butt with a snow cone.

CHILI # 7 - SUSAN'S SCREAMING SENSATION CHILI
Judge # 1 -- A mediocre chili with too much reliance on canned peppers.
Judge # 2 -- Ho hum, tastes as if the chef literally threw in a can of chili peppers at the last moment. **I should take note that I am worried about judge number 3. He appears to be in a bit of distress as he is cursing uncontrollably.
Judge # 3 -- You could put a grenade in my mouth, pull the pin, and I wouldn't feel a thing. I've lost sight in one eye, and the world sounds like it is made of rushing water. My shirt is covered with chili, which slid unnoticed out of my mouth. My pants are full of lava to match my shirt. At least during the autopsy, they'll know what killed me. I've decided to stop breathing. It's too painful. Screw it; I'm not getting any oxygen anyway. If I need air, I'll just suck it in through the 4-inch hole in my stomach.

CHILI # 8 - BIG TOM'S TOENAIL CURLING CHILI
Judge # 1 -- The perfect ending, this is a nice blend chili. Not too bold but spicy enough to declare its existence.
Judge # 2 -- This final entry is a good, balanced chili. Neither mild nor hot. Sorry to see that most of it was lost when Judge #3 farted, passed out, fell over and pulled the chili pot down on top of himself. Not sure if he's going to make it. Poor fellow, wonder how he'd have reacted to really hot chili?
Judge # 3 - No Report

Have a great Weekend!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida, 239-549-

A Little Humor From Cape Coral

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 16:18:35 -0500

Well the humidity is gone and the nights are cooling down to the 6o's, But that is the only thing cooling off in Cape Coral! The real estate deals are hotter than they have been in years. Buyers are everywhere and it is a welcomed change!

I was reading recently that baby boomers retirement will peak in 2011! More people retiring at one time than ever before! I would like to be one of them but that will probably be a little premature for me! Since turning 50 a few years ago I continually receive emails from friends who want to remind me of my age! Here is a sample:

Perks of reaching 50!!!!

1. Kidnappers are not very interested in you.

2. In a hostage situation you are likely to be released first.

3. No one expects you to run--anywhere.

4. People call at 9 pm and ask you, “Did I wake you?”

5. People no longer view you as a hypochondriac.

6. There is nothing left to learn the hard way.

7. Things you buy now won't wear out.

8. You can eat supper at 4 pm.

9. You get into heated arguments about pension plans.

10. You no longer think of speed limits as a challenge.

11. You quit trying to hold your stomach in no matter who walks into the
room.

12. You sing along with elevator music.

13. Your eyes won't get much worse.

14. Your investment in health insurance is finally beginning to pay
off.

15. Your joints are more accurate meteorologists than the national
weather service.

16. Your secrets are safe with your friends because they can't remember
them either.

17. Your supply of brain cells is finally down to manageable size.

18. You won't remember where you saw this list.

And you notice these are all in Big Print for your convenience.

Most important of all……………………….

Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on
the same night!!!!

I hope it brought a smile to your face! Have a great week!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida, 239-549-9200

Why Realtors Fail!

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 17:46:30 -0500

I seems like only yesterday that I arrived in Cape Coral, Florida and in reality it has been over 8 years! Wow, how time flys when you are having fun! Well, I was having fun,for five years and then the market changed and the fun disappeared, but it is coming back! And although things have changed, I have come to the realization that they remain the same! Let me explain what I mean!

When I arrived in Florida in 2000 I had no intentions of selling real estate! I was working for an investor and it was my job to identify and purchase real estate in Cape Coral, Florida that would appreciate in value! After a very short time my frustration level began to rise with the local Realtor community! If I called on 10 properties on average I would actually hear back from 1 or 2 agents! They would usually call back the next day or even 2 days later! When and if they did call back, they were usually not prepared to answer my questions!

I made a decision shortly after to change places and I got my license and I soon was closing 10 to 12 deals a month! Do you want to know what my secret was? I answered my phone and I returned all calls within 2 hours!! Imagine that, I did what I should have done and I became very successful and I owned my own office within 2 years!

Well for the last few years I would have given anything for the phone to ring! And now it is ringing again! Buyers are taking advantage of the unbelievable prices and they are buying! This passed weekend I had the privilege of speaking to at least a dozen prospective buyers and I was shocked at what I heard! Caller after caller told me of the frustration of calling one agent after another and not being able to speak to anyone. They had called and left messages both at the office and on voice mail and no return phone calls! Wow!

How do we expect to become successful and survive in our chosen career when we don't even do our job! When your phone rings- answer it! Yes I know it is inconvenient at times, but it is what we do! At least if you can not answer it now, call back within an hour or so! Make it a habit to change your voice mail message daily and let people know if you will not be available! If I am in a training seminar or a meeting I change my voice mail to say," This is Mike Kelly and I will be in a meeting this morning until 10AM and I will be returning all calls between 10 and 11! Please leave your name and number and I will return your call shortly!" Now my callers know when I will be calling back and they are no longer wondering if they will hear from me!

So in summary, answer your phone, return all calls promptly and you are on your way to being successful! And always,"Do what you say you are going to do, when you say you are going to do it!"

Mike Kelly, Broker/Owner, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida 239-549-9200

"The Bottom" In Cape Coral, Florida?

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 17:01:15 -0500

I hear this question daily in Cape Coral,"Have you hit bottom yet?" I guess that is the million dollar question! Well here is a little insight, today on the MLS I found a home in Cape Coral for less than $50,000! That is right- LESS THAN $50,000! Wow!! The lot that that home is on probably sold for more than $50,000 a few years ago! I heard that someone sold a lot 3 years ago for $79,000 and they recently sold the lot again for $85,000! The difference- this time the lot had a 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 2 car garage home on it!

So is it now safe to say we have hit bottom! We tried to find a corporate owned home today for under $100,000 that did not have multiple offers on it and found it next to impossible! Most all of the REO's under $100,000 are in multiple offer situations!

As I told someone today,"You never know that you are at the bottom, until you have missed it!"

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida 239-549-9200

Are You Looking For A Way To Make Money Today?

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 22:42:31 -0500

Greetings from beautiful Cape Coral, Florida. It has been a little wet over the last week in our usually sunny city. But considering that it is still hurricane season, I guess a few rainy days should be expected. Over the last few years I have looked at a lot of things to try to supplement my income. I had yet to find anything that had any merit. And then earlier this month someone I had met through a business associate told me about something brand new. I couldn't believe it, I thought I had heard it all!

I do not want to violate any AR rules and post the info here. However I will be happy to share this opportunity with anyone who is interested. It is an amazing opportunity to supplement your income in these difficult times. There is no juice to drink, no inventory to buy and no vitamins to take!!

If this would be of interest to you or anyone you know just send me an email mkelly@sellstateadvantage.com! I will send you all the info!

Have a great day!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty Network, Inc. Cape Coral, Florida 239-549-9200

Good News & Bad News in Cape Coral and Lee County

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 10:35:08 -0500

Greetings from beautiful Cape Coral, Florida! The latest numbers are out for our area sales in August and depending on your perspective the news is either good or bad! For Realtors the numbers are great because sales increased by 32% from this time last year! There were 684 sales which translates to 1368 transaction sides. It was reported as the largest year over year increase in Florida!

For sellers the news was not so encouraging because the median price dropped to$146,900 from $250,800!! Although there are still 15,000 homes on the market it is encouraging to see the increase in sales and the decrease in inventory!

So what can we take from this? If you are in the market for a home in Cape Coral or Ft. Myers, Florida now is the time to buy! Homes are selling at 1999 prices! It is a buyers market so jump in and take advantage of the current market conditions! They won't last forever!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida 239-549-9200

A Little Hump Day Humor From Cape Coral!!

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:03:49 -0500

I posted a few stories about kids some time ago! Well I found a few more! Enjoy and I will be back next week!

KIDS AT BEDTIME

During a violent thunderstorm a mom was tucking her son into bed when he asked,"Mommy, will you sleep with me tonight?"

The mother smiled and patted his head and said,"I can't dear, I have to sleep with daddy!"

The young boy looked at his mom and said," THAT BIG SISSY!"

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

A young boy was sent to bed by his dad! He reluctantly strolled off to bed!

"Daaaaad!"

"What?"

"I'm thirsty!"

"No, go to sleep!"

Five minutes later....................

"Daaaaad!"

"WHAT?"

"I'm thirsty, please can I have a drink?"

"I said NO and if you ask again I will come in there and give you a spanking!"

Five minutes later......................

"Daaaaad!"

"When you come in to spank me can you bring me a drink of water?"

Have a great day!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida 239-549-9200

Cape Coral Is The Place To Be--- If You Are Looking For A Deal!!!!

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 18:42:14 -0500

It has been another big month for buyers in Cape Coral, Florida. The deals are unbelievable! The focus is starting to shift from the entry level homes to the larger waterfront pool homes! In our office the client rooms have been filled daily with buyers from all over! We recently have been receiving a large number of inquiries from German and British buyers!!

I spoke to an agent today who has been in the business in Southwest Florida for five years. I asked her," How is business?" She looked at me and with a big smile she said,"I have sold more houses in the first nine months of this year than in any year before!"

"Wow. you said the market is bad!"

Have a great day!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida 239-549-9200

11929 Princess Grace Ct Cape Coral, Florida FOR SALE by Sellstate Advantage Realty

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 14:03:17 -0500

Upscale family living at its best

11929 Princess Grace Ct , Cape Coral FL

MLS: 200842359

Custom 2 story lakefront home located in Cape Royal on the golf course. Home features a spectacular foyer with grand staircase and two Swarovski crystal chandeliers.

A formal dining room with faux marbled ceiling.

A huge family room with custom color-washed walls that extend throughout the entire downstairs living area.

The large eat-in kitchen is fit for an Iron Chef, featuring a 48" DCS gas stove, 4 burners with grill and griddle, 2 ovens - regular & convection, a 48" GE Monogram series refrigerator and dark cherry solid wood cabinets with granite countertops.

The downstairs guest suite has a home office with an indoor tanning and fitness room. This home also has 4 air conditioning units with plantation shutters for privacy and electric roll down hurricane shutters.

Need I say more!!!

The master suite is 900 square feet without the bathroom.

Custom his & hers closets with faux finished ceiling and a balcony overlooking the pool. Bathroom features his & hers cherry wood cabinets with black granite counters, granite floor and shower. 2 person MTI bath spa with a separate bidet and toilet room.

Upstairs boasts an amazing living room and adult play room with a stone front bar, full size sink, dishwasher, ice maker and fridge. Wood floor, remote controlled gas fireplace, tray ceiling with lighting and a balcony overlooking the pool.

The custom pool includes a 6 person hot tub with granite top and a spacious lanai. This home is surrounded by beautiful landscaping.

Must see to appreciate!

Children's rooms are custom painted, have custom closets and a Jack and Jill bathroom. The oversized laundry room has cabinets with a granite counter top which is great for folding!

Michael R. Kelly Broker / Owner

Act Now!!! (239) 549-9200

Link to Sellstate Advantage Realty

sellstateadvantagerealty@gmail.com

Sellstate Advantage Realty 703 Cape Coral Parkway West Cape Coral, FL 33914

239-549-9200 Office 239-470-9111 Cell

"It doesn't cost any more to hire the best!"

Cape Coral Real Estate SW Florida Real Estate Homes For Sale Lots For Sale Waterfront Homes For Sale Real Estate in Cape Coral Florida Fort Myers real Estate

Does Anybody Know This Guy?

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 20:42:46 -0500

I recently had a friend who became a policeman and I could not help but to wonder how long it will be until his new authority will go to his head! You know the type of person I am talking about.......

A Department of Agriculture representative stops at a Florida ranch
and talks with an old rancher.

He tells the rancher, “I need to inspect your ranch for your water
allocation.”

The old rancher says, “Okay, but don't go in that field over there.”

The Goverment Representative says, “Mister, I have the authority of the
Federal Government with me.”

“Do you see this card?”, the government rep asked?

“This card means I am allowed to go wherever I want, whenever I wish on
any agricultural land.”

“Have I made myself clear?”

“Yes Sir!” replied the rancher as he returns to his chores!

Later, the old rancher hears loud screams and in the distance he sees the Government Rep running for his life and close behind the ranchers bull gaining ground with every step!

So the old rancher immediately throws down his tools, runs to the fence
and yells at the top of his lungs.....

“YOUR CARD…… SHOW HIM YOUR CARD!”

Those Government workers never learn!!!

Have a great day!!!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida 239-549-9200

Back in "Hurricane Free" Cape Coral Florida!!!

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 15:48:28 -0500

I can't believe I've been back in Cape Coral, from vacation for one week and still haven't posted an entry on my blog. I guess my wife that he was wrong, when she said that I could not last without posting an entry on my blog! Since I'd been back in town, the real estate market has been running me crazy! Buyers in all price ranges from the entry level prices right up to the Gulf access waterfront homes! It sure is a welcome change after the last 2 1/2 years!

So let's see what's transpired since I've been gone, well when I left Faye he was threatening to pay us a visit! Then her cousins Gustav and Hanna passed close by but never visited. Then this past weekend we got word that Big Ike was coming to see us! As I write this it appears that Ike is going to head up towards Texas!

Back in 2000 and I relocated to Southwest Florida, one of the deciding factors in settling here was what the likelihood of Cape Coral experiencing a direct hit from hurricane! I was informed by a friend of mine, that one of the reasons Thomas Edison decided to build his winter residence in the Fort Myers, Cape Coral area was that he felt this area was the least likely ever to experience a direct hit from hurricane! I have now been here for eight years, and the closest I've ever come is a brush by hurricane Charley in 2005! If this area was good enough for Thomas Edison, it certainly was good enough for me! Let's face it, Thomas was probably just a little bit smarter than me!

So according to the local paper that taxes are going down, insurance is once again attainable, the hurricanes are heading elsewhere, and real estate prices are where they were eight years ago. Are you starting to get the picture of why they call Cape Coral "Paradise!"

Have a great day!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida, 239-549-9200

Pick Your Words Carefully

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 14:39:21 -0500

Greetings from not so sunny Cape Coral, Florida! I know this is Thursday, and I missed the Hump Day humor! Sorry about that, but we had a date with Faye. We were prepared for the worst, but other then some strong wind, and lots of rain Cape Coral survived unscathed! The outer bands of the tropical storm are still affecting us with intermittent showers throughout the course of the day and some gusty winds!

The buyer activity was back to normal today with contracts being written on houses in all price ranges! Believe it or not, we have somebody submit an offer on a three bedroom two bath home with a pool for $69,000! That's right $69,000! Unbelievable!!!

During one of my training sessions this past week, we talked about the importance of picking your words carefully. People sometimes hear what they want to hear and what they hear is not what we meant! Here is an example of what I'm talking about:

It was a hot Saturday evening in the summer of 1964 in Cape Coral, Florida and Fred had a date with Peggy Sue. He arrived at her house and rang the bell.

"Oh, come on in!" Peggy Sue's mother said as she welcomed Fred in.

"Have a seat in the living room. Would you like something to drink?" Maybe a lemonade or an iced tea?

"Iced tea, please," Fred said. Mom brought the iced tea.

"So, what are you and Peggy planning to do tonight?" she asked.

"Oh, probably catch a movie, and then maybe grab a bite to eat at the ice cream shop, maybe take a walk on the beach..."

"Peggy likes to screw, you know," Mom informed him.

"Really?" Fred replied, shocked to hear this from her mom!

"Oh yes," the mother continued. "When she goes out with her friends, that's all they do!"

"Is that so?" asked Fred, incredulous.

"Yes," said the mother. "As a matter of fact, she'd screw all night if we let her!"

"Well, thanks for the tip!" Fred said as he began thinking about alternate plans for the evening.

A moment later, Peggy Sue came down the stairs looking pretty as a picture wearing a pink blouse and a hoop skirt, and with her hair tied back in a ponytail.

"Hi Fred!",she said!

"Have fun, kids!" mom said as they left.

Half an hour later, a completely disheveled Peggy Sue burst into the house and slammed the front door behind her!

"The Twist, Mom!" she angrily yelled to her mother in the kitchen. "The freakin' dance is called the Twist!"

Have a great day! I will be on vacation for a week celebrating my wedding anniversary in beautiful Myrtle Beach South Carolina! I hope we don't have another date with Faye!!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida, 239-549-9200

Why Are We So Stupid!!

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 19:40:35 -0500

Well it was another hot, humid day down here beautiful Cape Coral Florida! We had our typical late afternoon storms followed by a gorgeous sunset! And of course it's Wednesday, affectionately known as "Hump Day", so it is time for a little humor to get us through the rest of the week!

You know there are certain things that never cease to amaze me and certain questions that I just can't seem to find answers for! And then there are things that are just plain stupid! Let me show you what I mean!

Only in America........ to drugstores make the sick man walk all the way to the back of the store to get his prescriptions, while the healthy man can buy cigarettes right at the front door!

Only in America...... do people order double cheeseburgers, large fries and a diet coke!

Only in America..... do banks leave both doors open, and then chain the pens to the countertops!

Only in America..... do we leave cars were thousands of dollars in the driveway and put useless junk inside the garage!

Only in America..... do we buy hot dogs in packages of 10 and buns in packages of 8!

Only in America..... do they have drive-up ATM machines with braille lettering!

And last but not least something to think about:

POLITICS: is derived from the Latin "poli" meaning many and "tics" meaning blood sucking creatures!

Have a great week!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida, 239-549-9200

Cape Coral Is Heating Up!!!

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 19:01:42 -0500

Cape Coral is definitely heating up, not only temperature and humidity wise, but also when it comes to real estate! As I have told you in previous posts, the real estate market has been busy for the last few months, with most sales being in the lower spectrum. Starter homes anywhere from 80,000 to 150,000 were moving at a great rate! Recently we have seen an influx of buyers for the for higher priced homes, especially Gulf access homes. Homes that a few years ago were selling for $500,000 and $600,000 are now being listed through short sales and foreclosures for less than $350,000!

I saw a home this week 2100 square feet of living area, three bedroom two bath, with a pool on the Gulf access canal in the southwest section of the Cape, that was listed for 275,900! It was a bank foreclosure from Countrywide, and needless to say, in less than two days on the market, it reportedly had 12 offers in place already! When all is said and done, I am sure this home will sell somewhere around $340,000! Now that's a deal!

So if you were in Cape Coral within the last three years, and you thought you were priced out of waterfront property, think again! You can purchase a Gulf access home in Cape Coral for what you would have had to pay for a lot three years ago! Now you still get a lot for the same price- and the house and the pool come free!

Is exciting to me as a real estate broker to see the flurry of activity that we are experiencing in our marketplace! Not only for what it means for our Realtors, but also when people realize that they can have their dream home! YES values have dropped, but one thing that I know for sure, they will rise again! Real Estate always rebounds!

So, if it is waterfront property you are looking for Cape Coral is the place! Check it out and find out why they call Cape Coral, "Paradise!"

Have a great day!

Mike Kelly, Broker/Owner,Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida, 239-549-9200

Good News, Bad News for Cape Coral , Fort Myers and Lee County, Florida!

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 15:28:09 -0500

So is the glass half full or half empty? I guess that's what you have to ask yourself when you review the latest figures just released by the Realtor Association of Greater Fort Myers and the Beach for July 2008. They report that a total of 745 homes were sold in July 2008 and unbelievable increase of 87.7% over July 2007! That's the good news!

Values have dropped again, as the median price of an existing single-family home sale was down to $145,000 a drop of 38% from $235,000 in July 2007! That is the bad news!

The supply of homes has dropped to 9.6 months from 21.6 only one year ago! This is what the experts like to call the absorbtion rate! Great news as we start to climb out of this market! Homes have returned to affordable levels and pending sales of existing single family homes were 1,179 up from 518 a year ago! Buyers who are priced out of the market just a short time ago are now able to jump back in and achieve their goal of owning a home! We are starting to see an influx of first-time homebuyers in the marketplace!

So yes, there is good news and bad news sales are up but prices are down. But as a real estate agent I look at the bright side, with 745 homes sold in July we are coming back with a vengeance! We knew it was not going to be easy, but the end is in sight! There will never be a better time to buy and now is the time to buy in Southwest Florida!

Other sections of the country are well behind us and it will take them longer! Keep in mind over the next 3 years the largest percentage of people ever to retire will occur! I am quite sure that many of them will be retiring to Cape Coral and Ft. Myers!

Don't believe what you read in the papers now is the time to buy! The numbers don't lie! Have a great day!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida 239-549-9200

Don't Beleive What You Read-----------Here is Proof!!!!

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 13:46:07 -0500

It's another beautiful day down here in Cape Coral Florida hot and humid 93°! I certainly have been reading many number of posts that talk about how the media beats up our business! And we have always heard," Don't believe what you read." While I know that is the case, because the media is saying now is a terrible time to buy and prices are back to where they were in 2001! Why would now not be a good time to buy? So once again, I guess it's true,"Don't believe what you read!"

Here's the proof I told you I had. These are actual headlines from newspapers across the nation! Check these out:

Man Kills Self Before Shooting Wife and Daughter!

(Oh really!)

Something Went Wrong In Jet Crash, Expert Says!

(Dah!)

Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over!

(Wow, what a guy!)

Miners Refuse To Work After Death!

(Those lazy bums!)

If Srike Isn't Settled Quickly, It May Last A While!

( Ya think?)

Cold Wave Linked To Temperatures!

( You're kiddin me!)

Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges!

(Does it work better than duct tape!)

Astronaut Takes Blame For Gas In Spacecraft!

(Damn Beans!)

War Dims Hope For Peace!

(That will do it!)

Police Begin Campaign To Run Down Jaywalkers!

(That will teach em!)

So there you have it, "Don't Beleive What You Read!" Have a great day!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Fl 239-549-9200

11929 Princess Grace Ct , Cape Coral FL - FOR SALE

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 12:32:37 -0500

11929 Princess Grace Ct , Cape Coral FL

MLS: 200842359

Elegant custom 2-story home in Cape Royal featuring a grand foyer with custom Swarovski crystal chandelier with electric light lift. Home has an eat-in kitchen with a 48 in. gas stove, oversized refrigerator and built in island with granite counter. There is an exercise room, 4 bedrooms, 4 1/2 baths, a family room and a formal dining room. You won't believe the bonus room with custom stone bar complete with ice maker and stone covered wall with fireplace. Lanai has a custom pool with 6 person hot tub. 3 car garage with electric door openers! 4 Central A/C units. SERIOUS BUYERS ONLY!

Michael R. Kelly Broker / Owner

Act Now!!! (239) 549-9200

Link to Sellstate Advantage Realty

sellstateadvantagerealty@gmail.com

Sellstate Advantage Realty 703 Cape Coral Parkway West Cape Coral, FL 33914

239-549-9200 Office 239-470-9111 Cell

"It doesn't cost any more to hire the best!"

Cape Coral Real Estate SW Florida Real Estate Homes For Sale Lots For Sale Waterfront Homes For Sale Real Estate in Cape Coral Florida Fort Myers real Estate

The Indian With One Testicle

Sellstate Advantage Realty — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 08:48:27 -0500

A little "hump day humor from beautiful Cape Coral, Florida! We are as busy as ever working with both buyers and sellers! There are deals in our marketplace today that are amazing! There will never be a better time to buy! Have a great day! I hope this makes you smile!

There once was an Indian who had only one testicle, and whose given name was "One Stone".

He did not like that name and asked everyone not to call him "One Stone!".

After years and years of being tormented, "One Stone" finally cracked and said," If anyone calls me "One Stone" again I will kill them!"

Word spread and nobody called him that any more.

Then one day a young woman named "Blue Bird" forgot and said, "Good morning, "One Stone." He jumped up, grabbed her and took her deep into the forest where he made love to her all day and all night. He did the same the following day, until "Blue Bird"died from exhaustion.

The word got around that "One Stone" meant what he said..

Years went by and no one dared call him by his given name until a woman named "Yellow Bird" returned to the village after being away for a long time. "Yellow Bird", who was "Blue Bird's" cousin, was overjoyed when she saw "One Stone". She hugged him and said, "It is good to see you, One Stone."

"One Stone" grabbed her, took her deep into the forest, then he made love to her all day, made love to her all night and repeated it again the following day, but "Yellow Bird" wouldn't die!

Do you know why?

OH, come on... take a guess!

You're going to love this!

You can't kill two birds with "One Stone!!

Mike Kelly, Sellstate Advantage Realty, Cape Coral, Florida 239-549-9200