Full of the Positive

Pay It Forward :::: Mothers Fighting for Others needs us!

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 10:43:40 -0600

We have all seen those commercials on television about helping children, and they are certainly stories that tear at our heartstrings. I know they do at mine. And all programs to help children are worthy IMO. Children are the part of our world that truly holds our future. ALL children.

Mothers Fighting for Others does a wonderful job of helping young girls in Kenya to realize their potential and to grow and learn in an atmosphere that is not normally available to them. But, sadly, MFFO cannot do that on their own. They need OUR help. Yes, OUR help.

Can you imagine ... going to school, learning new things, growing as a person ... and then told NO. You're a girl and you cannot finish school? Can you imagine how disheartening that would be?

WE can help. All of us.

Listen, learn and search your heart. Help Mothers Fighting for Others to continue to make a difference.

The Gift Of Education - MFFO from Jeff Turner on Vimeo.

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

1986 - It was a VERY good year!

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 07:31:58 -0600

My friend Mike Jones issued a challenge to post a photo from the 1980s era. It took some digginig to find a couple, but thought I would play along.

These were taken in May of 1986 when I had 200 acres in central Florida. My passion was (and still is) horses ... well, any animal really.

This fine looking fella is Chub. Chub was an AQHA registered gelding and was the absolute best horse I ever owned. Or better yet ... he was the best owner I ever had. He was kind, patient, attentive, quick, well mannered and could work cows like no other animal I've ever seen. Chub also enjoyed his turn at a set of barrels from time to time. ;)

I miss this guy. He was 24 years old when he passed away from a stomach cancer, yet he never had a foul day. We should all be so lucky.

Even a city girl can be taught. LOL

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY ::: So round, so full, so soft ....

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:57:37 -0600

... What did you THINK I was talking about? :)

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

Google me this?

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:33:11 -0600

My friend in Charlottesville, VA shared an amazing little tool regarding Google and I wanted to make sure it reached as many people as possible. Hope this will help make the techie end of your business a little easier! Enjoy!

Via Charlottesville Real Estate - Your Trusted Broker Charles McDonald (RE/MAX Assured Properties - No one sells more Real Estate):

Google me this?

Most of us have heard about Google 411.

You can call 1-800-goog-411 and for free you can get information on businesses including addresses, phone and even get them to email you a map. This is a great service.

I was reading www.varbuzz.comand there was a post about Texting Google so I thought I would give it a try and I love it! If you want to read the post see: http://varbuzz.com/google-411/

The idea is that you set up a contact in your address book (on your cell) I called my simply Google. And add the SMS text message 466453

Then you text with a name and a zipcode and hit send.

Within a few seconds you will get a response with the name phone number etc. With my blackberry I just hit highlight the number and hit send….

No more calling information and no additional cost (if you have a text plan).

I just tried "My Charlottesville Agent" and guess who shows up?

I hope you found this useful. I think it is just plain fun!!!

Charles McDonald - BIO

Brought to you by that guy who sells Charlottesville Va Real Estate

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

ALAMANCE COUNTY ::: New Construction @ $159,900!! Seriously!

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:06:36 -0600

Carol Smith | Concept Builders, LLC | csmith@conceptbuilders.net | 919-418-6549

Mckenna Dr, Graham, NC

Welcome to The Addison! The perfect home for a first time buyer!

3BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $159,900

Year Built	2006
Sq Footage	1,598
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	.28 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Beautiful 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath home on corner lot in new Alamance County community. The light and bright design of this home lets the sun shine in, and the wonderful open floor plan lets the family stay connected! If you like to entertain then you will love this home! The open kitchen/family room concept is inviting and classic.

Don't miss your opportunity to own this beautiful home!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor	- Family room
- Dining room	- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Attic	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Marble Fireplace Surround

- Lots of beautiful maple cabinets

- Double paned insulated windows

- Low property taxes! $940.90 ANNUAL tax for 2009!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Welcome to 2007 Mackenna	Come on in!
Can I take your coat?	Come in, have a seat!
Just making dinner!	Join us for dinner!

Contact info:

Carol Smith

Concept Builders, LLC

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

919-418-6549

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 4, 2009, 8:41am PST

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

ALAMANCE COUNTY North Carolina ::: New Construction!! Bring your buyers!

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:01:49 -0500

Luxury, Space and Affordability!

Location: Shamrock Valley

This beautiful home has it all! From the inviting fireplace with the entertainment alcove above it to the comfortable formal dining room to the open and airy kitchen that allows for service to a sunny breakfast area ... you won't be disappointed in the style and grace of this home. Enjoy the front 'sitting' porch or relax on the rear patio ... there's something for everyone. So ... come on in ... check it out! You're going to like what you see!

Information

Contact Information

Carol Smith

919-418-6549

Contact Reply Form

Forward to a Friend

View Other Flyers

Pricing

Price: $204,900

Flexibility: Negotiable

Property Location

3022 Cullens Dr.
Graham, NC 27253
View Map

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.5

Parking Spaces: garage

Year Built: 2006

Subdivision: Southside

Lot Size: .32 acres

Garage Size: two car

Square Footage: 2070

Agent Name: Carol Smith/Sheila Farrell

Broker: Concept Builders, Inc.

MLS #: 60621

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Hardwood Floors

Attic

Tray ceiling

Breakfast bar

Exterior Amenities

Patio

Grass Lawn

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (6 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 2922691

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

On Pre-Occupation and Being Overwhelmed ::: It can be a long journey!

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 11:37:42 -0500

I first must apologize to all my friends here on AR. I have been remiss in my participation and I feel terrible about it!

Between moving, putting all this junk away, starting a new job, starting a new business and just trying to stay afloat ... well, I've had to let some things slide for a while. Unfortunately ... AR was one of those unintended lapses.

But on the up side ... the new house is wonderful! I can see the floor in all 3 bedrooms, the kitchen actually has countertops that are visible to the naked eye, the closets are more organized than my closets have been in several years, many of the boxes of 'treasures' that I've carted around for the last 20+ years have found new homes, and I am finally able to spend more than 10 minutes at the computer.

My new position ... Sales Associate for Concept Builders at Shamrock Valley ... is phenomenal. The company is great, the builder is the most down to earth person I've met in a long time. My sales manager is a real treat. She has a quirky sense of humor that fits so well with mine that we spend a lot of time laughing.

New home sales are solid and we are set to start a fresh build on a new model any day now. We have a closing today and another in 3 weeks. Showings are increasing and interest is returning to the new construction market. And now with the extension of the tax credit ... well, it's all good in my world!

I have been reading some of the posts here on AR but just have not had the energy or focus to make an intelligent comment. So I chose to keep quiet till I could get my act together. I certainly didn't want my readers to think I had taken leave of my senses!

But I'm here. I'm reading, learning and appreciating ALL of you for your sharing. Keep up the good work! I hope to be back in full swing very very soon.

Till then ... enjoy a few photos of the colors that surround me daily ...

And, lastly, there is this little stinker that can only say ... Life is GOOD!

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

So how long is my Pre-Approval Good for?

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 23:42:14 -0500

As always, my friend Jason Sardi has done an outstanding job of outlining the lending process. If you've suffered confusion about the mortgage process or the importance of having a lender you can trust ... then read on. Jason nails it in fine fashion!

Via Jason Sardi, Mortgage Banker (FHA-VA-USDA-Conventional-Pennsylvania Loans):

Easy answer, 60 days. But I guess that depends on what kind of Pre-Approval you received or want for that matter. Actually, the answer to such a question depends upon three factors:

- You, as the consumer.

- The Buyer's Agent who is helping you find a home.

- And the quality of the Pre-Approval you receive in the first place.

Ten Seconds, GO - You're interested in buying a home. You even find a few that tickle your family bone. But you need financing because you probably don't have the cash to buy it outright. Which leads to...

Nine Seconds - You're smart and seek out a Buyer's Agent to represent you. This will provide protection in your favor. They represent you and only you.

Eight Seconds - That agent may turn you onto a few folks like me who can help you out from the financing end. And that doesn't mean you shouldn't shop on your own. But buying a home isn't just about getting the lowest rate with no fees (an oxymoron if I've ever encountered one), it's about trust. Interview those who express interest in earning your business and keeping it. If they have the lowest rate with no fees, I can only hope they are in business when you need to do business again.

Seven Seconds- The Pre-Approval is more than just an application and credit check. There's some serious competency going on. They ask for your most recent pay-stubs, W-2's, bank statements, and the last time you had a wet dream about Richard Gere.

Six Seconds - You find a house that you want to call home and a Sales Agreement has been signed and accepted by all parties. And there you are.

Five Seconds- You're hopefully just padding the documentation that you've already given to the Mortgage Company you choose. I recommend Sardi Mortgage Inc, who isn't licensed just yet ... but when you hear Sardi, that should mean something. I'm not sure what, but it means something. Maybe it just means that there is an individual who is all over your particular file like white on puss.

Four Seconds - Appraisal is ordered and done. The rest of your file is pretty complete because everyone got along and did what needed to be done.

Three Seconds - The complete transaction goes into Underwriting, those dastardly folks we think of who hate closing loans. I'll give you a bit of info here, and I usually don't stick up for Underwriters. They only get paid when folks close loans. Without us, there is no them. So, that's that. In business, there's more to it than that, but that is a pretty accurate description.

Two Seconds - You are CLEAR TO CLOSE. If there were three words that were magical in this industry, those are they.

One Second Left - It's a proclamation of your destination. You hit home!

And when there's no time left, that's the perfect time to be imperfect. And that's the perfect way NOT to close.

Jason Sardi

Mortgage Consultant

610-653-0317

jsardi@ihmci.com

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

SPEECHLESS SUNDAY :::: Simplicity

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 22:43:22 -0500

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

ALAMANCE COUNTY North Carolina ::: New Construction!!

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:00:34 -0500

Carol Smith | Concept Builders, LLC | 919-418-6549

Cullens Drive, Graham, NC

The Haywood ::: Spacious, elegant, affordable.

4BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $209,900

Year Built	2007
Sq Footage	2,245
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	.31 acres
HOA/Maint	$10 per month

DESCRIPTION

The Haywood ::: the beautiful front porch will welcome you home. One level living with a huge bonus room upstairs (could be 4th bedroom). Open kitchen and great room, split bedroom plan with spacious bedrooms and very generous closets.

Conveniently located, just minutes from I85-40. Shopping and schools nearby.

Make this home yours!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Family room
- Bonus/Rec room	- Dining room	- Dishwasher
- Stove/Oven	- Microwave	- Attic
- Laundry area - inside	- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

3034 Cullens Drive	Great room with fireplace
Open kitchen dining area	Lots of cabinets

Contact info:

Carol Smith

Concept Builders, LLC

919-418-6549

For sale by individual owner

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 14, 2009, 12:25pm PDT

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

Alamance County/Burlington North Carolina ::: New Construction!

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:55:46 -0500

Carol Smith | Concept Builders, LLC | csmith@conceptbuilders.net | 919-418-6549

3005 Cullens Dr, Graham, NC

Parade of Homes Winner 2008

5BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $234,900

Year Built	2008
Sq Footage	2,481
Bedrooms	5
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	13,068 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

2008 Parade of Homes Award Winning home has style, class and value!

Four bedrooms PLUS a bonus room/5th bedroom!
Formal dining area with bay window!
Breakfast area with bay window!
Kitchen has custom cabinetry
Solid surface and granite countertops
Upgraded stainless steel appliances
Open foyer and two story great room
Gas log fireplace with niche for television
Wood floors in foyer and dining room
Ceramic tile flooring in kitchen
First floor Master Suite with separate tub & shower

Quality construction = LOTS of value!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Bonus/Rec room	- Dining room
- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Granite countertop	- Stainless steel appliances
- Attic	- Laundry area - inside	- Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Butler's Pantry

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

3005 Cullens Drive	Great Room
Great Room II	Formal Dining Room
Elegant Kitchen	Breakfast area

Contact info:

Carol Smith

Concept Builders, LLC

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

919-418-6549

For sale by individual owner

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 8, 2009, 8:26am PDT

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY ::: I think these things are mutants! They're everywhere!

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 15:48:28 -0500

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

Do you Need to lose a loved one?

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 07:25:37 -0500

I just read this post from my friend Liz Loadholt in South Carolina and was wondering how I missed it in the beginning! But now that I've found it, I hope that you will participate too!

I know there are lots of you out there that have family, friends, neighbors in the armed services. Come on! Jump on board! Let's support our troops and show them we mean business!

Via Liz Loadholt- AgentOwned Realty- Covering SC:

Do you Need to lose a loved one?

Just wondering why only 2 Active Rainers have joined the new group - "Support Our Troops Friday"?

What does it take to get you to participate? This is just one small way that you can show your appreciation.

Join this group and every Friday, post something about our Troops --- maybe a photo showing how your office is wearing red, white & blue to show the support -- may a story about your spouse, your parent, your child or a friend who has served so that we can have our freedom.

Liz Loadholt
Broker, SC Certified Trainer, Relocation Director
Co-founder of AgentOwned Realty
Liz@AgentOwned.com
843-725-5007

The AgentOwned Realty serves your real estate needs for:

Charleston, Johns Island, James Island, Mt. Pleasant,
Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island, Daniel Island, North Charleston,
Summerville,Goose Creek, Moncks Corner, Santee, Manning, Sumter, Florence, & Myrtle Beach, all in South Carolina

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

ALAMANCE COUNTY, NC :::::: Parade of Homes continues!

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 16:53:46 -0500

This is the final weekend for the Alamance County Parade of Homes. If you haven't made the rounds yet ... well you're missing out!

Shamrock Valley is a community built by Concept Builders and is located in Graham, North Carolina. With easy access to the Greensboro, Burlington and Durham/Raleigh metropolitan areas we are in a perfect geographical area to show you your new home!

The Parade of Homes is September 19th and 20th and we would love to see you!

Need a preview? Check this out! These are just a few teasers from the Savanah floorplan. A beautiful 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom garden style townhome of 1,514 sq. feet! And for a new construction home with superb quality ... you cannot beat the price! It's a true value at $152,900 +/-.

Want to see more? Then come on by for the Parade of Homes! Can't make it? Then give me a call and we will schedule your personal tour!

SHAMROCK VALLEY is located at the corner of Monroe Holt Road and Lacy Holt Road in Graham, NC. Come on down!

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

PERSONALITY ::: What is yours?

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 09:58:43 -0500

I received this little quiz in my email today and thought it would make a good challenge to my friends.

Please take just a minute to take the quiz and then post your results in your comment. We may just learn a lot about each other.

Answers are for who you are now and not who you were in the past. Have pen or pencil
and paper ready.

1. When do you feel your best....

A) in the morning
B) during the afternoon and early evening
C) late at night

2.   You usually walk...

A) fairly fast, with long steps
B) fairly fast, with little steps
C) less fast head up, looking the world in the face
D) less fast, head down
E) very slowly

3..   When talking to people you....

A) stand with your arms folded
B) have your hands clasped
C) have one or both your hands on your hips
D) touch or push the person to whom you are talking
E)   Play with your ear, touch your chin, or smooth your hair

4. When relaxing, you sit with...

A)   your knees bent with your legs neatly side by side
B) your legs crossed
C) your legs stretched out or straight
D) one leg curled under you

5. When something really amuses you, you react with..

A) big appreciated laugh
B) a laugh, but not a loud one
C) a quiet chuckle
D) a sheepish smile

6. When you go to a party or social gathering you...

A) make a loud entrance so everyone notices you
B) make a quiet entrance, looking around for someone you know
C) make the quietest entrance, trying to stay unnoticed

7.   You're working very hard, concentrating hard, and you're interrupted...

A) welcome the break
B) feel extremely irritated
C) vary between these two extremes

8. Which of the following colors do you like most...

A) Red or orange
B) black
C) yellow or light blue
D) green
E) dark blue or purple
F) white
G) brown or gray

9.   When you are in bed at night, in those last few moments before going to sleep you are....

A) stretched out on your back
B) stretched out face down on your stomach
C) on your side, slightly curled
D) with your head on one arm
E) with your head under the covers

10.   You often dream that you are....

A) falling
B) fighting or struggling
C) searching for something or somebody
D) flying or floating
E) you usually have dreamless sleep
F) your dreams are always pleasant

Now, using the score card, score your answers accordingly.

POINTS:

1. (a) 2    (b) 4    (c) 6
2. (a) 6    (b) 4    (c) 7    (d) 2    (e) 1
3. (a) 4    (b) 2    (c) 5    (d) 7    (e) 6
4. (a) 4    (b) 6    (c) 2    (d) 1
5. (a) 6    (b) 4    (c) 3    (d) 5    (e) 2
6. (a) 6    (b) 4    (c) 2
7. (a) 6    (b) 2    (c) 4
8. (a) 6    (b) 7    (c) 5    (d) 4    (e) 3    (f) 2    (g) 1
9. (a) 7    (b) 6    (c) 4    (d) 2    (e ) 1
10 (a) 4 (b) 2    (c) 3    (d) 5    (e) 6    (f) 1

The moment of truth is here! Tally your score and let us know your personality in your comment!

OVER 60 POINT: Others see you as someone they should "handle with care". You're seen as vain, self-centered, and who is extremely dominant.... Others may admire you, wishing they could be more like you, but don't always trust you, hesitating to become too deeply involved with you..

51 TO 60 POINTS: Others see you as an exciting, highly volatile, rather impulsive personality, a natural leader, who's quick to make decisions, though not always the right ones. They see you as bold and adventuresome, someone who will try anything once, someone who takes chances and enjoys an adventure. They enjoy being in your company because of the excitement you radiate.

41 TO 50 POINTS: Others see you as fresh, lively, charming, amusing, practical, and always interesting, someone who's constantly in the center of attention, but sufficiently well balanced not to let it go to their head..... They also see you as kind, considerate, and understanding, someone who'll always cheer them up and help them out.

31 TO 40 POINTS: Others see you as sensible, cautious, careful & practical. They see you as clever, gifted, or talented, but modest. Not a person who makes friends too quickly or easily, but someone who's extremely loyal to friends you do make and who expects the same loyalty in return. Those who really get to know you, realize it takes a lot to shake your trust in your friends, but equally that it takes you a long time to get over if that trust is ever broken.

21 TO 30 POINTS: Your friends see you as painstaking and fussy. They see you as very cautious, extremely careful, a slow and steady plodder. It would really surprise them if you ever did something impulsively or on the spur of the moment, expecting you to examine everything carefully from every angle and then, usually decide against it. They think this reaction is caused partly by your careful nature.

UNDER 21 POINTS: People think you are shy, nervous, and indecisive, someone who needs looking after, who always wants someone else to make the decisions and who doesn't want to get involved with anyone or anything! They see you as a worrier who always sees problems that don't exist. Some people think you're boring. Only those who know you well, know that you aren't.

And in the interest of sharing .... I scored a 51!

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

DIRECTION ::: Do you have one?

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Sun, 13 Sep 2009 09:36:25 -0500

We all have goals, don't we? You do, I'm sure.

Do we achieve those goals? Do we have a clue as to how to go about achieving them? Many of us don't.

Positive Ability is a tool that you can employ to help your goal setting easier and more effective.

From a recent post at PositiveAbility.com:

Do you ever wonder why you are doing what you’re doing? Do you wonder what your purpose is in life? In business?

Have you reached your goals? Do you have goals? Really? You do? Do you remember what they are? Are you on track to achieve them? What have you done to achieve/accomplish your goals?

If you'd like to read more, please had on over to Positive Ability!

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

Wells Fargo CEO John Stumpf - Do the right thing (Or Do Something....and QUICK)

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 08:38:54 -0500

Our very own Bob Stewart has done a tremendous post on the abuse of power that is rampant in the banking industry these days. Bob's post refers to the recent news story about a Wells Fargo executive that took it upon herself to take up residence in a foreclosed beachfront estate in Malibu.

If you haven't read it .... you should!

Via Bob Stewart - ActiveRain (ActiveRain):

I don't generally write about anything other than ActiveRain. Every once in a while I'll write about my kid, but for the most part I try to keep my personal views and opinions to myself. I don't want them reflecting on my company (I have pretty strong views and in my personal life I have no issues sharing them if someone asks.........ok, sometimes I'll just butt in and share them even when I wasn't asked).

Have you guys seen this? A Wells Fargo executive in charge of Foreclosed Commerical properties decided to take full advantage of a home that had been foreclosed on in Malibu. The $12,000,000 home was forfeited by a family that was swindled in the Bernard Madoff Scam. You can read the entire story here, here, here or here and probably 1000 other places......I won't rehash it for you. My post is a plea to John G. Stumpf, CEO of Wells Fargo to do something about it.

Dear John,

You must move swiftly. This is not going to bode well for your company if you don't. You have the ability to let the public know that even the appearance of impropriety will not be tolerated within your company. Most stories of foreclosure are heartbreaking enough on their own, let alone knowing the folks who forfeited their home lost it in the Madoff Ponzi scheme.......but really??? One of your Senior VP's was using the place as a Vacation home and throwing parties there like she's the Great Gatsby??

I'll bet she wasn't the only person from the bank at those parties. What do you think? I'll bet there were more than a few people that knew about this. If you find out that was the culture in her division of your bank, what are you going to do about it? This is not acceptable. I'm not a shareholder in your company, I'm just a concerned member of the real estate community. If I was a shareholder though I would be demanding to know the reprecussions. And I'd want to know them quick, because this story is going to reach MILLIONS of people in the next 24 hours.

You are a Minnesota native, from the midwest, the heart of America. How do you think the folks back in Minnesota would feel about this? Let's just pretend this happened in their community. Not a $12,000,000 beach house, but a magnificent $860,000 place in the Highland area of St Paul. And the Senior VP of their local branch was throwing parties and carrying on in the house as if he deserved to. How do you think that would sit with them?

Do you read the news? Do you keep your ears and eyes open to places like Facebook, Twitter, ActiveRain (you really should be here keeping the pulse of the people). In case you haven't heard, banks are getting a pretty bad rap right now. Yep, your reputations as a whole are kind of soiled. Here is a great chance to rise above the other banks slopping around in the mud and do something that shows your bank is different. Or, you can hide behind statements like 'we plan to conduct a thorough investigation'. Buddy, the investigation was done by the Associated Press. I would suggest your investigators call theirs and you compare notes.

The damage to the reputation of your company is being done RIGHT NOW. Where did I see this? Facebook. Do you know how many millions of people are reading this and hearing about this right now? Be decisive and swift, it's your only chance to make this a positive. 'Wells Fargo is not like these other institutions. We do not take advantage of our customers and if we have rogue employees doing such, they will be punished to the full extent of the law. This employee has been suspended until the completion of the investigation'. That is what you should be saying.

John, I don't think you guys in the ivory tower understand how fast information is moving down here on the street. You don't even have a handle on how your own employees are using social media. I'd extend an invitation to help, but I've already done that. I hope you are able to set an example of how to deal with something of this nature within your organization because lots of people are looking at you to see what you're going to do.

What will you do?

Do you care what I'm doing and thinking? (I can not for the life of me imagine why) If you do, you can find me on some of these places........but remember, if you are offended by anything you see or hear, I didn't force you to follow me!!:

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

PARADE OF HOMES ::: Alamance County, North Carolina

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:26:50 -0500

Parade of Homes

Alamance County Home Builders Association - Alamance County North Carolina

This weekend is the opening of the Parade of Homes in Alamance County, North Carolina.

Of all the beautiful homes to view I wanted to point out the new home that is behind my own home in Graham, North Carolina.

Welcome to 2082 River Vista Lane, Graham, NC! This is a gorgeous log home in a wooded setting with a large wraparound deck that will just knock your socks off! Not only is this home beautiful on the outside, it has a warm and welcoming interior - complete with a gorgeous stone fireplace!

Being in a convenient location to commute to Greensboro, Burlington, Chapel Hill or Durham this home is a true paradise with amenities! Secluded yet accessible. There is plenty of space, nice closets, upgraded fixtures like hammered copper sinks in the baths, gorgeous wood floors and windows all around to allow you to see nature at its best.

The open, flowing floorplan is great for entertaining. And with the gorgeous kitchen ... well, you will certainly want to be showing off your culinary talents!

This beautiful log home is #16 on the Parade of Homes route. Make sure to mark it on your map so you don't miss it!

Just take a look! Think it's gorgeous on the outside? Wait till you get inside!

Some of the features of this beautiful home are:

Single Family Property
Status: Active
Area: Graham
County: ALAMANCE
Year Built: 2008
3 total bedroom(s)
2.5 total bath(s)
2 total full bath(s)

1 total half bath(s)
6 total rooms
Approximately 1968 sq. ft.
Style: Log
Master bedroom
Living room is 19'3"x16
Dining room is 20'x12'
Fireplace(s)

Heating features: Electric, Heat Pump
Central air conditioning
Exterior construction: Cedar, Crawl Space
Roofing: Shingle Composition
Utilities present: Septic, Well
Elementary School: ALEX. WILSON
Middle School: SOUTHERN ALAMANCE
High School: SOUTHERN ALAMANCE

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY ::: Summer is fading into fall ...

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 08:05:29 -0500

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY (a day late!) ::: Simple Elegance

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 07:54:10 -0500

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

Rainy Days and Mondays ...

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 10:34:13 -0500

Most of us will remember Karen Carpenter singing about Rainy Days and Mondays, and with today's weather ... that song has been playing over and over in my head.

It's a gray, cool and rainy day here in the Piedmont. The windows are open, the light breeze curling the sheers ... the smell of fresh rain filling the house. Mix it all with the sounds of the birds and the crickets ... it's the closest you can get to heaven on earth.

And like Paul Harvey says ... Here's the rest of the story ...

Have a fabulously productive week!

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

REALITY CHECK! I like getting checks, but this is ...

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 16:49:23 -0500

In the course of any day we are all faced with information, choices and decisions. Some are welcome ... others not.

I have had to make some life altering changes recently, but decided to not let them rule my life. I will remain in control and handle this on my terms.

The one thing I'm sure of ... nothing is impossible. OK - almost nothing is impossible.

But I do know one thing ... we are stronger than we give ourselves credit for.

Read on ... A New Diagnosis

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

SPEECHLESS SUNDAY ::: A new day is dawning!

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 11:01:33 -0500

Unauthorized reproduction is forbidden - thank you

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

Newbies & Rainmakers Alike: Ditch The Gray Avatar!

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Sun, 30 Aug 2009 09:58:56 -0500

My friend Mike Jones shared his thoughts on why YOU need a photo on your blog. And he is right on target with his observations.

Do you like dealing with faceless entities ... relying only on their written message? Would you do business with the 'man behind the curtain' (remember the Great Oz?) having no idea of what they look like, how they present, what's in their eyes? I wouldn't - and don't. I like to see who I'm dealing with!

Take a read. Then take heed! Get that photo uploaded and become visible! It will only help your business!

Via Mike Jones (SUNSTREET MORTGAGE, LLC):

My camera and I were up on Mount Lemmon in the Catalinas, where summer heat is far below (5,000 feet below) on the desert floor. I wouldn't have seen this little lizard had he not moved. His coloration blended so well with the mottled gray granite boulder that he was nearly invisible.

Then he turned around. I guess you can say he put his best face forward. His chin went up. "Look at me," he seemed to say.

The little lizard put the exclamation point on a lesson I learned long ago as a teenager selling Fuller Brushes from door to door:

The only reason people don't do business with you is because they don't know who you are.

Unless the blog reader is a relative of yours, he or she isn't likely to do business with you if they can't see your face.

Put your best face forward. Get someone to take a digital photo of you, upload it to your computer, and get it up on Active Rain!

You'll be surprised at how your blogging relationships will turn around!

___________________

I'm Mike in Tucson, your preferred Tucson, AZ Mortgage lender.

SUNSTREET MORTGAGE
Call me if I can help you or someone you know with a purchase or refi mortgage.
(520) 349-9090

photo copyright Mike in Tucson

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

UNDER ATTACK! The cybercriminal strikes again ... and again ... and .....

Carol Smith (Concept Builders/Shamrock Valley) — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 10:56:12 -0500

SECURITY ALERT

We are all very dependent on technology to carry out our businesses, but there are lots of bad people out there that try to cause us failure - and without cause. They don't know us. They don't care about us. They could care less how much disruption they cause. They don't even care if they cost you time and money because of their mischievious and criminal behavior.

They are in it for them. Pure and simple. No regard for anyone else.

And that's just not right!

I try to stay up on what's happening out there in the internet world. Who's doing what, who's going where, what's happening that can effect me. And right now I'm not too darned pleased with the results!

"Security researchers are raising an alarm for a potent malware cocktail — backdoor Trojans and password stealers — being pushed to Windows users from about 55,000 hacked Web sites."

Yep! 55,000 (that's FIFTY FIVE THOUSAND) websites!!!!!

If you'd like to learn more, you can read the entire article here.

So please, please, please be careful where you're surfing and what you click on. I certainly don't want you to become a cyber casualty!

Carol Smith, Sales Associate

Shamrock Valley

1913 Guinness Drive

Graham, NC 27253

Office: 336-228-7975

Cell: 919-418-6549

csmith@conceptbuilders.net

Full of the Positive

Pay It Forward :::: Mothers Fighting for Others needs us!

1986 - It was a VERY good year!

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY ::: So round, so full, so soft ....

Google me this?

Google me this?

ALAMANCE COUNTY ::: New Construction @ $159,900!! Seriously!

ALAMANCE COUNTY North Carolina ::: New Construction!! Bring your buyers!

On Pre-Occupation and Being Overwhelmed ::: It can be a long journey!

So how long is my Pre-Approval Good for?

SPEECHLESS SUNDAY :::: Simplicity

ALAMANCE COUNTY North Carolina ::: New Construction!!

Alamance County/Burlington North Carolina ::: New Construction!

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY ::: I think these things are mutants! They're everywhere!

Do you Need to lose a loved one?

ALAMANCE COUNTY, NC :::::: Parade of Homes continues!

PERSONALITY ::: What is yours?

DIRECTION ::: Do you have one?

Wells Fargo CEO John Stumpf - Do the right thing (Or Do Something....and QUICK)

PARADE OF HOMES ::: Alamance County, North Carolina

Single Family Property

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY ::: Summer is fading into fall ...

WORDLESS WEDNESDAY (a day late!) ::: Simple Elegance

Rainy Days and Mondays ...

REALITY CHECK! I like getting checks, but this is ...

SPEECHLESS SUNDAY ::: A new day is dawning!

Newbies & Rainmakers Alike: Ditch The Gray Avatar!

UNDER ATTACK! The cybercriminal strikes again ... and again ... and .....