Fayetteville Homes For Sale By Clark Cook

Fayetteville Homes For Sale By Clark Cook http://activerain.com/blogs/clarkcook en-us http://activerain.com/blogsview/2315181/new-fayetteville-nc-blog New Fayetteville NC Blog <p><a href="http://www.fayettevilleblogs.com/" title="Fayetteville NC News & Event Blog" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Fayetteville has a</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">new news and local event blog</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">sponsored by First Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC. The purpose of the blog is to provide local residents with relevant information and generate serious leads for our agents. Our goal is to use the latest and greatest technology to produce a steady flow of cost effective leads for the company. It is estimated to take up to six months to reach the maximum potential. That is why we have stepped up our search for agents in the Fayetteville NC area.  It’s a fact that many agents long for a source of leads that that won’t take away huge chunks of their hard earned commission. Savvy agents who associate with us now, have the opportunity to benefit from our marketing effort.</span><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">First Choice Realty of Fayetteville also recognizes that training and support</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">is a major concern for agents as well. In addition to local training by experienced brokers, we have added state of the art, 24-7 online training to augment your personal development. The office is set up as a paperless hub, which gives you, the agent, the option of working from home, and eliminates the need for a desk fee. First Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC is ideally located in McPherson Square, a quaint business setting, well suited for meeting clients.   </span><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Our firm offers competitive commissions and personal production bonuses</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> that separate us from most of the field. Agents looking for a distinct advantage would do well to consider a career with First Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC. Interested persons should send an email to: <a href="mailto:cc28304@gmail.com" target="_blank">Clark Cook</a>.</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Tue, 24 May 2011 21:17:03 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2315181/new-fayetteville-nc-blog http://activerain.com/blogsview/2282974/benefits-on-both-sides Benefits On Both Sides <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">There are new rules regarding short sales meant to improve</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> the experience for both sellers and buyers, but the legalities and legwork can overwhelm even the most savvy.  Of course, that's where the real estate agent shines, handling the paperwork and the phone calls, leaving you to focus on your move.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><img title="Fayetteville Area Home Sales" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/8/4/4/1/ar130473758414481.jpg" height="419" alt="Fayetteville Couple" width="279" style="float: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Keep in mind that if you're expecting to buy a home on short sale,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">you can get a great deal, but don't expect miracles from a bank that has agreed to accept a price lower than what the sellers owe on their mortgage.  These short sales often generate multiple offers, and if a home has been approved to sell for $200,000, don't expect to waltz in and offer $125,000.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">The real advantage of a short sale deal is that the home</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">will likely be in much better physical condition than its foreclosure counterpart.  Often, a foreclosed home will have been abandoned for months, and perhaps trashed before being vacated.  A short sale property in better condition is in and of itself a benefit with real value that offsets any lower price you could offer on a foreclosure.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">And for sellers, a short sale preserves your dignity, </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">reduces some of the stress, and won't damage your credit history as much as a foreclosure.  Whether selling or buying, consult a 1st Choice Agent for the best results.</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Fri, 06 May 2011 23:09:58 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2282974/benefits-on-both-sides http://activerain.com/blogsview/2279599/thinking-of-shrinking- Thinking of Shrinking? <p><img title="Fayetteville Area Home Sales" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/7/8/4/1/ar130456349414874.jpg" height="424" alt="Fayetteville Couple" width="283" style="float: right;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">It's not just the economy that may have you thinking of downsizing.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">  It could be retirement, a recently emptied nest, or just plain "maintenance fatigue."  Whatever the reason, plan your new lifestyle carefully.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">When looking for a smaller home, don't forget that Location</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> is still the key ingredient.  Even if you don't have kids or they've flown the coop, a good school district and proximity to public transportation and recreation are still the best bets for retaining value. </span><a href="http://www.fayettevilleareahomesales.com/" title="Fayetteville Area Home Sales" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Fayetteville Area Home Sales</span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> is the ideal place to begin your search.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">I</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">f this will be a retirement move, think about the future</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> and seek out homes on one level, or at the very least, with the master bedroom on the ground floor.  For practicality's sake, at least one bathroom should be handicap-accessible or easily remodeled as such.  Even if you don't think you'll need it later on, your visitors might appreciate the convenience.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">If downsizing </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">to you means less maintenance, you may be tempted</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> by to</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">wn home or condominium living, but be aware of "hidden costs," like</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> annual or monthly homeowners association fees.  Check recent association meeting reports t</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">o see if there is a building renovation planned, as you could be hit with an assessment fee in the future, to</span><img title="Fayetteville Area Home Sales" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/9/9/3/6/ar130456366563999.jpg" height="197" alt="Fayetteville Phone" width="337" style="float: left;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">o.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">There are a lot of considerations in advance of your move, </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">so pic</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">k up the phone and call us today for more advice, and enjoy your new lifestyle!</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Wed, 04 May 2011 23:04:16 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2279599/thinking-of-shrinking- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2208076/best-realtor-helps-you-get-the-credit-you-deserve BEST REALTOR HELPS YOU GET THE CREDIT YOU DESERVE <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Find the </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Best Realtor</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;"> in </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Fayetteville </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">and get the credit you deserve. A recent conversation with a local </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Fayetteville </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">loan officer revealed that mortgage applications are being reviewed far more thoroughly now than in the past, and that your credit score should be 680 or higher to qualify for the best interest rates.  So how do I determine my score, and what does the </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Best Realtor</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> in </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Fayetteville</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> have to do with getting the credit I deserve? The following paragraphs will highlight facts and figures you should know, and how the </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Best Realtor</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> can assist.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Everyone is allowed one free credit report </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">per year from the three reporting agencies (Experian, Equifax and TransUnion).  Review the reports for accuracy and act quickly to correct any errors or omissions. </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Approximately 35% of your credit score</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> is based on the timeliness of your payments.  Make sure that no late payments older than seven years are still on your report.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">If you have paid off loans or credit cards,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> a zero balance should appear on those accounts.  Sometimes, agencies don't properly update those balances after settlement.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">15% of your credit score is based </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">on the length of your credit history, so make sure that the opening dates of all your accounts are accurate.  Also make sure that the limits on your credit cards are correct, and keep the balances under 50% of those limits.  Total debt accounts for 30% of your credit score.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Think twice about closing credit card accounts</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> with zero balances, because this negatively reduces your ratio of "available credit" to your debt. Try this instead. First, order copies of your credit reports, then make </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">corrections. Finally, apply for home financing and call the </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Best Realtor</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> you can find in </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Fayetteville</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">. As stated in the first paragraph, the </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Best Realtor</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> in Fayetteville will have a </span><a href="http://clarkstoncook.point2agent.com/" title="Best Realtor" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">list of local lenders</span></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> you can choose from, if you don’t have your own. So don’t hesitate... do your due diligence and find the </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Best Realtor</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> in Fayetteville. You’ll be glad you did!</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Fri, 25 Mar 2011 15:58:23 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2208076/best-realtor-helps-you-get-the-credit-you-deserve http://activerain.com/blogsview/2202630/best-realtor-in-fayetteville-nc Best Realtor in Fayetteville NC <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; text-decoration: underline;">Best Realtor in Fayetteville, NC</span><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Who would be so bold as to proclaim to be the</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Best Realtor</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> in any locality? It certainly would not be someone seeking the respect and admiration of their peers. And, if there were to be such a claim, should it not come from satisfied clients instead of an agent? One would think so!</span></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://clarkstoncook.point2agent.com/MLS_Search/page_2119528.html" title="best realtor in fayetteville" target="_blank"><img title="Best Realtor in Fayetteville" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/9/8/3/0/ar130084993503895.jpg" height="254" alt="Best Realtor in Fayetteville NC" width="278" style="float: left;"></a><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">But, if you are a buyer or seller and you are looking</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> for the </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Best Realtor</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> in Fayetteville, NC, why not start by doing a web search. One thing for sure, you would have several thousand results, but most likely you would focus on the</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> first couple of pages. It makes perfect sense that the</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> Best Realtor</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> would not only have excellent credentials, but also provide you with helpful information, and allow you access to that information without attaching strings, such as requiring your name, email address, and possibly your phone number, would it not?</span></p> <p><br><img title="Best Realtor in Fayetteville" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/8/6/0/7/ar130084846970683.jpg" height="227" alt="Best Realtor in Fayetteville" width="304" style="float: right;"></p> <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">At the end of the day, what you want is someo</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">ne </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">who w</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">ill listen to your need</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">s and act in your best interest; a real professional who has the knowledge and skill to guide you through the process of buying  or selling your home. The </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Best Realtor  </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">is likely to be someone you feel comfortable with and would gladly recommend to your family and friends.</span></p> <p><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">The last point to consider when looking</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> for the </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Best Realtor</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> in Fayetteville, NC is; does this person have a sense of humor? So go ahead and conduct your search, after all, you wouldn’t want me calling you… would you?</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Tue, 22 Mar 2011 23:22:51 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2202630/best-realtor-in-fayetteville-nc http://activerain.com/blogsview/2193893/happy-st-patrick-s-day Happy St Patrick's Day <p id="internal-source-marker_0.55077316198254" style="text-align: center; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 18pt; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Happy St. Patrick’s Day</span></p> <p style="text-align: center; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 24pt; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">To All My AR Family of Friends</span></p> <p style="text-align: center; margin-top: 0pt; margin-bottom: 0pt;"><span style="font-size: 18pt; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Hope you get a kick out of this!</span></p> <p></p> <div style="background-color: #e9e9e9; width: 425px;"> <object data="http://aka.zero.jibjab.com/client/zero/ClientZero_EmbedViewer.swf?external_make_id=0qRCR1NUqqUc2nvF&service=sendables.jibjab.com&partnerID=ecards" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" id="A64060" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" height="319" width="425"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"> <param name="movie" value="http://aka.zero.jibjab.com/client/zero/ClientZero_EmbedViewer.swf?external_make_id=0qRCR1NUqqUc2nvF&service=sendables.jibjab.com&partnerID=ecards"> <param name="scaleMode" value="showAll"> <param name="quality" value="high"> <param name="allowNetworking" value="all"> <param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"> <param name="FlashVars" value="external_make_id=0qRCR1NUqqUc2nvF&service=sendables.jibjab.com&partnerID=ecards"> <param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></object><div style="text-align: center; width: 435px; margin-top: 6px;">Personalize funny videos and birthday <a href="http://sendables.jibjab.com/ecards">eCards</a> at JibJab!</div> </div> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Thu, 17 Mar 2011 18:15:05 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2193893/happy-st-patrick-s-day http://activerain.com/blogsview/2192414/return-on-improvement RETURN ON IMPROVEMENT <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">If you plan to remodel or update before selling your home, </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">you have to find the balance between what's appropriate and what qualifies as over-improvement. If you're in a mid-range neighborhood and install granite countertops, you're unlikely to recoup your costs.  But if you're in a higher-end community, laminate may be too little, too late, resulting in a lower sales price.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">So what will always work?  Painting, inside or out,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> is one of the most affordable ways to increase your resale value. If you've got wood floors underneath carpeting, show them off.  Old light fixtures in the kitchen, bath and hallways should be updated to popular styles with stainless steel or brushed nickel finishes.  And be sure to make a good first impression outdoors with a maintained yard and perhaps a new mailbox, doorknobs and house numbers.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Before you plan your updates, visit some open houses</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> or new home communities where you can see the latest styles, and update your home's features accordingly.  Just remember to keep your improvements clean, neutral and timeless.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Try not to be the last one on your block to remodel or update,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> because buyers will pass your listing over for one up the road that's already been updated. If you are thinking of selling, call <a href="http://firstchoicerealtyoffayetteville.com/marketing/" title="Fayetteville Buyer Agent" target="_blank">1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC </a> and let us help you improve your chances for a quicker sale at a higher price, by discussing which improvements provide the greatest return.</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Wed, 16 Mar 2011 22:58:18 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2192414/return-on-improvement http://activerain.com/blogsview/2190426/start-at-the-beginning START AT THE BEGINNING <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">So you’ve decided to buy a home in the Fayetteville Area.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> What's the first question you ask yourself?  It should be, "How much can I afford?"  Without that crucial piece of information, you can't even begin your search.  Figure your monthly income and debt payments, order your credit reports, and determine how much you can put down.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Next, get pre-approved for a home loan. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> If you don’t have a preference, or you need help finding a lender, contact <a href="http://firstchoicerealtyoffayetteville.com/marketing/" title="Fayetteville Buyer Agent" target="_blank"> 1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC </a>for assistance. We will point you in the right direction, so you can choose a lender that offers the best interest rate and terms. The lender you choose can answer all of your questions about the different types of mortgages.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Now, what do you want out of your new home?</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">  Want a location within the city, right downtown, in the suburbs, or a rural setting?  How many bedrooms and bathrooms, in a single family home or townhouse or condo? You will also want to consider schools, your work commute, and proximity to shopping and recreation.  </span><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Now that you've figured out what you're looking for</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> and what you can afford, let us help you locate the neighborhoods that satisfy your requirements. We will schedule tours and arrange for a private showing of  the properties that interest you most! No matter how long it takes, our commitment to you is to do everything possible to make your home buying experience one you will remember, and happily share with your family and friends!</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Tue, 15 Mar 2011 21:30:17 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2190426/start-at-the-beginning http://activerain.com/blogsview/2186609/granddaughter-places-platinum GRANDDAUGHTER PLACES PLATINUM <p><img title="Taylor" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/8/1/5/1/ar130007077315183.jpg" height="425" alt="dance group" width="640"></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">My granddaughter, Taylor Steele,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> a student, and group participant, at the Linda Kinlaw School of dance in Fayetteville, NC, took platinum  for lyrical dance routine, “Pure Imagination” at the Kannapolis Performing Arts Center in Kannapolis NC. The competition was held March 12 & 13, 2011.</span><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Taylor is an honor student at 71st Classical School in Fayetteville.  </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">She has been dancing for 9 years. Needless to say her paw paw and nana are proud of her!</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Sun, 13 Mar 2011 22:53:33 -0700 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2186609/granddaughter-places-platinum http://activerain.com/blogsview/2183843/all-in-the-family ALL IN THE FAMILY <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Fayetteville, NC, like many areas of the country</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> are experiencing buyers markets, and current tax laws make this a very attractive time for parents who have the financial ability, to help their children become homeowners.  Home prices and interest rates are still low, so you may want to consider this potential investment in your children's future.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">As parents, you can provide a significant downpayment,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> free of taxation. Individually you may gift up to $13,000 per year, so two parents making gifts to their child and spouse can give a total of $52,000 in one year without paying gift tax!</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Above and beyond the outright gift,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> you may loan your family money, as long as you charge a minimum interest rate, which is currently very low.  Then you can make your gifts each year, and your child's family can use the gifts to pay the loan!</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">If neither of these options is attractive,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> you could purchase the home yourself and then set up a Qualified Personal Residence Trust (QPRT), with the home passing to the children at the end of an established term, tax free.  You will need to consult with your financial advisor and employ an attorney to handle this kind of transaction, but... </span><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">You</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">begin by meeting with your local real estate professional,<a href="http://firstchoicerealtyoffayetteville.com/marketing/" title="Your Fayetteville Realtor" target="_blank"> </a></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"><a href="http://firstchoicerealtyoffayetteville.com/marketing/" title="Your Fayetteville Realtor" target="_blank">Clark Cook</a>, and let him explain how to keep it all in the family! Contrary to what you may have heard, there is practically no better investment today than real estate.</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Fri, 11 Mar 2011 21:08:26 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2183843/all-in-the-family http://activerain.com/blogsview/2180074/a-pricing-puzzle A PRICING PUZZLE <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">If you need to sell your home, but you don’t have enough equity,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> you're facing a pricing puzzle, because you don’t want to come out of pocket with more than you have to.  But, before deciding on a fair price that may be below what you really want, ask yourself...</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">If your home sits on the market, waiting for a higher offer,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> how much will it cost you each month in mortgage payments, utilities, maintenance and insurance? </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Compare the asking prices of homes similar to yours</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> to their actual sales prices. Understand that sales price is often determined more by the lenders than the buyers.  For example, if you’re asking more than your home's current value, the required appraisal will show that, and the lender won't approve the buyer's loan, leaving you back at Square One.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">You can save the time and hassle of doing all of the leg work</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> yourself by enlisting the help of a  <a href="http://clarkstoncook.point2agent.com/" title="Fayetteville REALTOR Clark Cook" target="_blank">competent REALTOR®</a>.  He or she can arrange to tour similar homes listed in your area, compare their price per square foot,  and see how yours stacks up against the competition in terms of value.  This should help you arrive at an aggressive asking price that will hopefully be your sale price.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Your REALTOR® can explain the <a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/20685/how-absorption-rate-is-figured" title="How Absorption Rate is Figured" target="_blank">absorption rate</a></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> for your local area as it too will likely affect your asking price. If you have questions or want help solving your pricing puzzle, contact  1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC. </span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Wed, 09 Mar 2011 22:32:41 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2180074/a-pricing-puzzle http://activerain.com/blogsview/2177775/how-to-buy-like-a-seller- HOW TO BUY LIKE A SELLER <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">If you're in the market to buy a home </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">in Fayetteville, NC take a counter-intuitive tip and imagine the day you'll be selling it.  That's right - whether you're a first time buyer, or relocating, this home probably won't be your last, so look for features that will pay off when the day comes to move again.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">The biggest amenity the next buyer will likely look for</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> is central air conditioning.  In this part of the country, over 90% of buyers rank central air as critically important, and three-quarters of buyers everywhere else put it high on the list.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Another often-overlooked feature is storage. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> Over half of buyers desire a two-car garage and a walk-in closet for the master bedroom.  Ample closets and storage space just can't be stressed enough.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">If at all possible, avoid costly upgrades</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #0b5394;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">and purchase an energy efficient home with newer windows, pervasive insulation, and Energy Star appliances.  If the home is already wired for cable, satellite, and high-speed Internet, so much the better.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Finally, it’s still all about location, location, location.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #990000;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> It's the one thing you can't change about the home you buy, so look for good schools (even if you don't have children) and proximity to shopping and recreation.  Just call<a href="http://firstchoicerealtyoffayetteville.com/marketing/" title="Fayetteville Buyer Agent" target="_blank"><strong> 1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC </strong></a>and let us help you find a home in an area that's right for you!</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Tue, 08 Mar 2011 21:36:10 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2177775/how-to-buy-like-a-seller- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2168878/money-bags- MONEY BAGS! <p><img title="July 2011 Calendar" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/6/3/0/6/ar129920299360369.jpg" height="535" alt="July 2011" width="617"></p> <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">I got an email chain letter today </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">that points to the month of July this year as having 5 Sundays, 5 Fridays, and 5 Saturdays. Reportedly this only happens every 823 years. And, according to the email, this is known in Chinese Feng Shui as Money Bags! Since this is the first I’ve ever heard of this, and because I wasn’t around 823 years ago; </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">I did some research of my own and here’s what I found! </span></p> <ul> <li style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">The email is a hoax</span></li> <li style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">It has nothing to do with Chinese Feng Shui</span></li> <li style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">This occurs much more often than every 823 years </span></li> <li style="font-size: 14pt; font-family: Arial; color: #000000; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">July having 5 Fridays, 5 Saturdays, and 5 Sundays happened in 1983, 1988, 1994, 2005... and it will happen again this year, and in 2016, 2022, and a lot more years if you care to know.</span></li> </ul> <p><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Here is a little known fact.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Every month with 31 days will have this occur. The day that falls on the 1st, 2nd, & 3rd will have 5 days that month. So, now you know!</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Thu, 03 Mar 2011 20:48:37 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2168878/money-bags- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2166884/is-this-you- IS THIS YOU? <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">I just read a post by <a href="http://activerain.com/isellhuntsville%20%20%20%20" title="AR Member" target="_blank">Elizabeth Cooper-Golden</a></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> that talked about <a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/2166510/-how-are-we-going-to-fix-this-" title="Elizabeth's Post" target="_blank">how to better protect the consumer when purchasing a home with an HOA.</a> Too many people see us as mercenary! Their perception is all we care about is the commission we earn, and in their opinion that’s too much! Some complain that we are incompetent and don’t listen. </span><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">My question is why would anyone choose</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> to work with such a person? But, this woman, “MRS I HATE REALTORS” claims to have had only one good experience out of six as she moved across the country! If this is true, I’d say she has a problem.  But that aside, let’s get back to the issue of our image.</span></p> <p><img title="Money Hungry REALTOR" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/1/7/2/4/ar12991238742718.jpg" height="355" alt="Dollar Signs in Eyes" width="239" style="float: right;"><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Is this you? When you meet with a client,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> is this what they see? Are dollar signs in your eyes? Or, do put them at ease, and take the time to find out what their needs are? Do you help them find properties that match their search criteria?</span><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">The unanswered question is, what can we do</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> to change the perception that we don’t know what we are doing, and only care about making money? Education and credentials go a long way, but they alone are not the answer. So, let the discussion begin!  <br></span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Wed, 02 Mar 2011 22:52:11 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2166884/is-this-you- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2164586/if-they-should-ask IF THEY SHOULD ASK <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">When you tell friends and family</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> you're going to buy or sell a home, and they ask, "Why are you working through a real estate agent when you can just use the internet," how will you respond?  Your first answer should be to have a professional handle all the paperwork - disclosure forms, inspection reports, deeds and titles, settlement statements... they’ll get the picture.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">You could describe your representative's</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> knowledge about the area - schools, zoning, and property values.  You want to know that the neighborhood matches your needs, and that your home holds resale value for the future.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Tell them there's more to advertising than websites,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> and that your agent will more likely find a buyer instead through their relationships with other agents and past and current clients. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Not to mention the fact that you don't want complete strangers visiting your home, and you're more comfortable knowing that your representative has screened and qualified all potential buyers.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">And once you're on either side of an offer, </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">you trust a professional's ability to negotiate successfully when it comes to terms like price, financing, inspections and repairs, and other contractual commitments.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Your final argument might be that most people </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">may buy or sell a handful of homes in their lifetime, but your agent has been successful hundreds of times, on both sides of the transaction.  Case closed!</span><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">For representation with your next sale or purchase, </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Call the professionals at 1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC at 910-339-1335.</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Tue, 01 Mar 2011 19:25:33 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2164586/if-they-should-ask http://activerain.com/blogsview/2160933/a-first-time-for-everything A FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">A trusted colleague told me a story</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> that beautifully illustrates the opportunities today's real estate market offers.  A mother working two jobs saved up for a down payment and managed to buy a large home with a pool for $187,000.  Four years ago, that same home had sold for $370,000!</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">While sellers are still feeling pressure,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">buyers with stable incomes and good credit histories are beginning to spread a "feel good" vibe throughout the industry.  Conditions have literally never been better for first-time buyers.  Affordability has seldom been higher and interest rates have hardly been lower.  Selection of inventory is vast, and sellers are highly motivated.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">As more buyers enter the marketplace,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">the ripple effect will be felt far and wide.  When they purchase a highly affordable foreclosure or "short sale," they have removed a distressed property from the listings, improving values for other homes in the area.  When they buy a "traditional" listing, that in turn sets off a chain reaction whereby the sellers in turn will purchase another home, from sellers who will in turn buy another home, and so on and so on. </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">You probably get the picture now. </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> As we approach some stability in real estate, all indications are that prices will begin rising again.  As the market approaches recovery, don't miss your opportunity for the buy of a lifetime. To learn about <strong>"the hottest homes in Fayetteville under $250K"</strong> contact <strong><a href="http://firstchoicerealtyoffayetteville.com/marketing/" title="Fayetteville Buyer Agent" target="_blank">Fayetteville Buyer Agent Clark Cook.</a></strong></span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Sun, 27 Feb 2011 21:41:41 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2160933/a-first-time-for-everything http://activerain.com/blogsview/2156214/give-them-a-hand GIVE THEM A HAND <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">With all of the changes enacted in real estate and related industries</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">, </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">the appraisal process has not been immune.  Because some lenders were found to be pressuring the appraisers they hired, they are now largely work with independent appraisers, and they're finding themselves buried in a backlog of jobs.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Because of their workloads, some appraisers may gladly consider</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">any information you can provide about your property, and hopefully they will generate a more accurate report.  As a seller, list the best features of your home, including recent improvements, professional landscaping, or even benefits of your location (like access to public transportation and schools).</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">While you won't necessarily be graded for your housekeeping skills,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">appraisers do pay attention to the very appearance and cleanliness of your home.  You can positively affect your appraisal's outcome if your lawn is mowed or raked, your windows sparkle, and your closets look spacious.  Appraisers are practically looking through the buyer's eyes, so pretend you're preparing for an open house before their arrival.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Finally, be sure to request a copy of the report, because lenders are required to provide it</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> but you've got to ask.  If you find any errors in important features like square footage or property description, contact the appraiser directly.  Let the lender and your agent know, too, but understand that they cannot take any direct action under the new rules.</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Thu, 24 Feb 2011 22:35:57 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2156214/give-them-a-hand http://activerain.com/blogsview/2154269/a-chore-next-door A CHORE NEXT DOOR <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">While not a very common problem, if you've got it,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> it can have a terrible impact on your listing: The Messy Neighbor.  If you live next door to a "neglected" property, you might lose up to 20% of your home's market value, particularly with buyers looking for any excuse to reduce their offer.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">It's technically not your problem, but ask not</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> for whom the bell tolls.  It's well worth your time and effort to resolve this situation amicably.  Always be respectful, and don't let your emotions get the best of you.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Unless you believe your neighbor is "unhinged,"</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">you should begin with a visit to their home and a positive attitude - no name-calling or finger-pointing.  Don't grab everyone on the block and gang up on your neighbor - you'll get better results if you go alone or with one other person.</span></p> <p><img title="Needed Repairs" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/6/7/2/4/ar129851933042766.jpg" height="361" alt="Disrepair Shutter" width="240" style="float: right;"><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">If you find your messy neighbor is unwilling to take care</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">of their maintenance, it may still be in your best interest to do the work yourself or with the help of other neighbors.  No, it's not fair, but if you want a fair sales price, this may be your only option.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">As a last resort, you could file a complaint</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> with your property owners association or city government.  You could be referred to a mediator who will help settle your disagreement cordially</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Wed, 23 Feb 2011 22:55:10 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2154269/a-chore-next-door http://activerain.com/blogsview/2152141/comparison-shopping-for-schools COMPARISON SHOPPING FOR SCHOOLS <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #6aa84f;">Real estate professionals are very often faced with a question</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> from buyers that has nothing to do with houses: "What are the best schools in the area to which we’re moving?"  When you relocate, the most important thing you'll be moving is your child, and you want to be certain you are making the right choice for education.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #6aa84f;">One excellent resource for beginning your research is <a href="http://www.schoolmatters.com/schools.aspx/q/page=hm" title="School Matters" target="_blank">SchoolMatters.com,</a></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #6aa84f;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">an online database of public schools.  Begin with statistics that illustrate students' achievement levels in each school.  Compare reports for all students, including minorities and children in low-income families.  Schools in which all students perform well are providing balanced educational opportunities.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #6aa84f;">Also pay attention to extra-curricular activities offered,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> particularly if your child is interested in sports and other pursuits outside the classroom.  The School Matters database offers ratings and reviews directly from the parents, so you can learn from those with experience.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #6aa84f;">One thing you can't determine online, however, is the actual classroom environment, </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">so you should absolutely schedule a visit to one or more schools in the area before making your decision.  Meet with the principal and watch the manner in which teachers and students interact.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #6aa84f;">Once you have an understanding of the distinctions between schools,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> your choice will become clear.  You wouldn't buy the first home you see, and "shopping" for a school is no different!</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Tue, 22 Feb 2011 20:59:25 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2152141/comparison-shopping-for-schools http://activerain.com/blogsview/2146876/every-town-needs-one EVERY TOWN NEEDS ONE <p><img title="Bill Thompson" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/2/6/5/7/ar129816877875627.jpg" height="458" alt="Meet Mr. Thompson" width="680"></p> <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Meet Bill Thompson, 82 year old Fayetteville business man</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> and owner of the House of Vacuums on Hope Mills Road. Mr. Thompson opened his business in 1983 and is still there today! When you walk through the door for the first time, you immediately sense he’s never met a stranger. Mr. Thompson has unbelievable charisma and can tell countless stories that will captivate you for hours! He is honest and a very giving person.</span></p> <p><img title="Vacuum Shop" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/0/1/7/2/ar129816923327102.jpg" height="452" alt="The Vacuum House Hope Mill Road" width="680"><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">I met Mr. Thompson in the mid-eighties when I was selling insurance.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> If my memory serves me right I’ve bought two vacuum cleaners to date from Mr. Thompson, and he has always serviced them for me. Today I needed a new belt and he would not let me pay him. But there was no point in me arguing with him because that’s Mr. Thompson. I can’t recall ever meeting a more genuine person. He’s the type of fellow everyone would do well to meet in their lifetime.</span><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Mr. Thompson knows vacuums inside and out.</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> If you are ever in the area, and need a new vacuum cleaner or need to have one repaired be sure to stop by the House of Vacuums and see Mr. Thompson. Tell him <a href="http://firstchoicerealtyoffayetteville.com/marketing/" title="Clark Cook" target="_blank">Clark Cook,</a> the “Real Estate Man” sent you!</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Sat, 19 Feb 2011 21:42:25 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2146876/every-town-needs-one http://activerain.com/blogsview/2145472/how-much-longer- HOW MUCH LONGER? <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"><strong>The question on every one's lips is, </strong>"When are things going to return to normal in real estate?"  Well, if the "normal" being referred to is the conditions and shady financial dealings that created the artificially inflated markets of five years ago, then we need to be thinking about redefining “normal.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"><strong>The bad lending practices of the past</strong> are indeed making it more difficult now to secure financing, but try to understand that's not necessarily a bad thing.  Those days of lower standards and easy money led us into this predicament in the first place.  It's good for housing and for the economy when banks become interested in whether loans will be repaid.</span></p> <p><img title="good news" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/5/1/3/3/ar129808046133158.jpg" height="299" alt="newspaper" width="401"><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"><strong>In the “new” normal, home prices </strong>will stabilize, the number of sales will start gaining, and more people will again realize the benefits that home ownership offers, for both personal and financial security.  With historically low interest rates, affordable prices, and motivated sellers, the housing market is already experiencing the initial signs of recovery.</span></p> <p><img title="Low Rates" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/6/0/7/3/ar129807925937063.jpg" height="282" alt="Display of Bank rates" width="425"><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"><strong>All of these factors combine</strong> to get first-time buyers excited about a purchase.  As these consumers enter the market, they will trigger other purchases, and the chain of transactions grows.  Expect 1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville to reveal a wide range of affordable choices and guide you toward securing the financing you need to make your dream come true.</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Fri, 18 Feb 2011 20:58:20 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2145472/how-much-longer- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2134896/protect-your-home-and-your-wallet PROTECT YOUR HOME AND YOUR WALLET <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">If you own or plan to purchase a home,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> then you know that insurance is not just a luxury, it’s a requirement.  While you should not skimp on certain coverage items, there are some steps you can take to reduce your overall premium.</span></p> <p><img title="Insurance Policy" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/6/0/3/8/ar129763662483068.jpg" height="293" alt="Homeowners Policy" width="410"><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">If you have a security system installed (and operating!),</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> you might lower your premium by 5% or more.  You'll just need to provide your insurer with a copy of your contract or latest statement.  Also, while newer homes have smoke alarms already installed, hooking them up in an older home might also reduce your premium by as much as 10%.</span></p> <p><img title="Setting the alarm" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/7/6/2/3/ar129763673532673.jpg" height="282" alt="Alarm Keypad" width="425"><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Just like health or auto insurance, if you increase </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">your deductible on homeowners insurance, you'll reduce your premium.  Just be sure you're prepared to pocket smaller repairs like broken windows or damages from leaks.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">If your policy is held by a company that also offers</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> auto or health insurance, look into discounts for multiple policies.  You could save a percentage on both your homeowners and auto policies, for example.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Another money (and time and stress) saver is </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">to document everything in your home with a photographic inventory.  Store photos, cds or videos in a fireproof box or, preferably, a safe deposit box off site.  This will reduce the time and effort required to complete a claim, and guarantee an accurate replacement payment.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Finally, if you want to buy or sell a home in Fayetteville </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">or the surrounding area:</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;">Dial 910-339-1335</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #38761d;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">to insure you speak with a representative from First Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Sun, 13 Feb 2011 17:43:44 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2134896/protect-your-home-and-your-wallet http://activerain.com/blogsview/2133784/luck-is-a-four-letter-word LUCK IS A FOUR-LETTER WORD <p> </p> <p class="Editorial"><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">A "buyers' market" is just what it implies</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> - a market in which buyers have the advantage and exploit it.  It's not a market that rewards foot-dragging, hesitation or indecision.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Unfortunately, all the factors that created</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> the buyers' market we have today have been reported so negatively and rampantly by various media outlets that buyers are themselves too spooked to even enter the fray.  Strangely, people were buying like crazy during the previous sellers' market, when the advantage was actually all to the sellers.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">That's when buyers didn't fear paying too much,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> and now that prices are so low and inventories so high, suddenly buyers DO fear paying too much!  However, it's impossible to purposefully time the market to buy at the bottom and sell at the top. </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Once the market begins to settle</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> and subsequently improve (and it will), the amazing buying opportunities we've been seeing will begin to disappear.  With decreased buying activity now, pent up demand for homes will explode when the market recovers, and buyers will once again be competing for the best homes. </span></p> <p class="Editorial"><img title="Crap Out!" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/4/4/4/8/ar129756055684442.jpg" height="282" alt="Red Dice" width="425"><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Don't rely on luck in the marketplace</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> - rely on planning.  Make a careful decision with a predictable outcome.  Has the market dropped enough, right now, to make such a purchase?  Absolutely!  Forget about the top and the bottom and BUY in your comfort zone.<a href="http://firstchoicerealtyoffayetteville.com/marketing/" title="Your Fayetteville Realtor" target="_blank"> Call First Choice Realty</a> of Fayetteville, LLC today and BUY with confidence.</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Sat, 12 Feb 2011 20:31:10 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2133784/luck-is-a-four-letter-word http://activerain.com/blogsview/2132477/time-is-money- TIME IS MONEY! <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Whether buying or selling a home, the Offer To Purchase</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> is the starting point for making the sale go through.  If the sellers do not accept the offer outright, they may make a counter-offer, which the buyers may likewise accept or counter again.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">In the interest of speed and success, it's best to keep </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">counter-offers to a minimum.  If you are trying to sell with urgency (and who isn't?), weigh the buyers' offer against your need to move quickly.  Perhaps the value of the concession is quite small against the profit you'll see upon a sale.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">If you are asking $200,000 and receive an offer of $196,000, </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">that's equivalent to just 2% less, which is like offering $.98 instead of $1.  Similarly, buyers must also be realistic about the possible costs of "over negotiating" in today's rapidly changing economic atmosphere.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">If you balk at the sellers' counter-offer now, <strong>and decide to walk </strong></span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">away and begin your home search over again, you could be facing higher interest rates and/or rising home prices.  Today, time literally is money, and the longer you postpone your purchase, the more it will likely cost you.</span></p> <p><img title="Time is Money!" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/3/7/7/4/ar129747504847731.jpg" height="282" alt="stop watch in hand money on table" width="425"><br><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">If you are considering buying or selling a home in Fayetteville, NC </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"><a href="http://firstchoicerealtyoffayetteville.com/our-agents/" title="Our Agents" target="_blank">call us today!</a> Let us show  what to expect, and oversee the deal to a successful close.</span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Fri, 11 Feb 2011 20:50:07 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2132477/time-is-money- http://activerain.com/blogsview/2130579/don-t-take-everything DON’T TAKE EVERYTHING <p><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">If you plan to move while your home is still listed for sale,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> you may face a marketing challenge - the vacant home.  While lived-in homes may be more attractive during showings, there is much you can do to present your vacant property successfully.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">On the outside, give your home an occupied look</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> by asking a neighbor to park their car in your driveway, open and close your drapes, and retrieve any mail that still arrives.  During the warm season, have a lawn service maintain the yard (in the winter, a snow removal service may be in order).</span></p> <p><img title="Ready to Market" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/1/1/7/7/ar129738962677112.jpg" height="282" alt="Beautiful Brick House" width="425"><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">On the inside, create a sense of space by leaving some </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">strategically placed pieces of furniture, like a few chairs, tables and lamps.  You can create a "bed" by covering an empty mattress box or several moving boxes with a thick comforter.</span></p> <p><img title="semi-staged" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/6/3/5/2/ar129738976025361.jpg" height="282" alt="Room w/table" width="426"><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">I</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">f you remove furniture that reveals blemishes on the walls,</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> repair and repaint those.  If you notice that the carpeting is faded after you've moved furniture, consider replacing it if possible.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Keep it feeling pleasant indoors during all seasons</span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> by keeping your power on after you move, and having a neighbor or family member set the temperature at a minimum comfortable setting according to seasonal conditions.</span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;"> </span><br><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">Consult with us for even more suggestions </span><span style="font-size: 14pt; background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; font-family: Arial; color: #000000;">for marketing a vacant home, so <a href="http://firstchoicerealtyoffayetteville.com/our-agents/" title="Our Agents" target="_blank">put our experience to good use!</a></span></p> <div class="agent_signature"> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Company Logo" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/7/3/6/ar12858025863792.jpg" height="142" alt="1st Choice logo_2" width="357"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>201 S. McPherson Church Rd. Suite 208</strong><br><strong>Fayetteville,NC 28303</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>910-339-1335<br>910-261-9580</strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Clark Cook" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/9/8/7/ar132354098978993.png" height="144" alt="QR_Signature" width="324"></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Clark Cook Fayetteville Realtor"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><br>Fayetteville Realtor Clark Cook</strong></span></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong><a href="mailto:clark@clarkcook.com">clark@clarkcook.com</a></strong></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Ready To Find Fayetteville Real Estate?</strong></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"><strong>Get Started Here!</strong></a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://fayettevillehomesbyclarkcook.com/index.cfm" title="Search MLS"> </a></p> <p style="text-align: center;"> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/clark.cook" title="Facebook Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Facebook Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/8/4/3/7/ar128580095773484.png" height="100" alt="facebook icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/clarkcook" title="My Linkedin Profile" target="_blank"><img title="Linkedin Profile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/7/8/8/1/ar128580104118878.png" height="100" alt="linkedin icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.google.com/search?client=gmail&rls=gm&q=clark%20cook%20fayetteville%20nc" title="Google Me" target="_blank"><img title="Google Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/5/6/1/7/ar128585149971654.png" height="98" alt="google " width="112"></a><a href="http://twitter.com/clarkcook" title="Follow Me on Twitter" target="_blank"><img title="Follow Me" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/1/8/ar128580108881288.png" height="100" alt="twwitter icon" width="100"></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/clark28304?feature=mhum" title="Watch My Videos" target="_blank"><img title="My Videos" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/6/5/2/ar128580113725643.png" height="100" alt="youtube icon" width="100"></a></p> </div> Clark Cook (1st Choice Realty of Fayetteville, LLC) Thu, 10 Feb 2011 21:10:51 -0800 http://activerain.com/blogsview/2130579/don-t-take-everything