Craig's Raleigh, Cary Apex and Wake County Real Estate Blog and Other Assorted Musings!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 07:40:47 -0600

To yours…..

Here’s wishing each and every one of you a very

Happy Thanksgiving!

About The Author

Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Happy Birthday Duane Allman!

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:45:07 -0600

Duane Allman

Nov. 20, 1946 – Oct. 29, 1971

Duane Allman was born in Nashville, Tennessee on this day in 1946. He would have been 63 today had he not tragically been killed in a motorcycle crash on his way to his home in Macon, Georgia.

Arguably the greatest slide guitarist to have ever lived, Duane Allman was best known for his role alongside his brother Greg, in the Allman Brothers Band. Duane Allman was also a well respected studio musician having recorded with the likes of Clarence Carter, Aretha Franklin, Otis Rush, and most notably with Eric Clapton.

Derek and the Dominoes, a band that featured Eric Clapton and Duane Allman, produced Layla, one of Rolling Stone Magazine's "Greatest Songs of All Time", clocking in at #27. Duane Allman discography

While Duane Allman's life was sadly cut short, he left an indelible mark on the music world.

So, today my fellow Rainers, take a moment out of your busy day to watch the attached video and when you’re done, go out into the world and…

Eat a Peach for Peace

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Ambassador Craig is At Your Service!!!

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 07:00:46 -0600

Folks, I don’t know how I managed this one, but the ActiveRain Gods have put their heads together and deemed me worthy of a new role…

Ambassador.

This is a role I do not take lightly. It’s an honor to have.

As you may or may not know, I've actually had some experience in an ambassador capacity.

I was the official U. S. Ambassador to Pig’s Knuckle, Arkansas a while back. I’m not so sure why the U. S. needed an ambassador to a small city already in the country, but I suspect it had something to do with PK’s plan to secede from the nation. Apparently our government felt I was just the guy to stop them!

Anyway, as an ActiveRain Ambassador, one of my responsibilities is to help you folks out in an effort to increase your presence, not only here in the Rain, but on the web too.

So, with that being said, below are some links to blogs I’ve written that you might find useful. I’m also just a phone call or email away if you ever have any questions that you want answered.

Please do yourself a favor. Subscribe to some of the other Ambassador’s blogs. There’s a wealth of knowledge out there and these guys are happy to share it with you.

Remember, we’re not reinventing the wheel here, just honing it! So take it all in, learn something you can apply to your business, make some new friends, and, above all, have some fun in the process!

Start with this post my friends. If you’re not convinced that social media is important, you will be after reading this blog:

So You Think Social Media Isn't For You? Think Again

Then find out where you stand here in the Rain and make a goal to climb the ladder:

ActiveRain - Where Do You Rank Amongst Your Peers?

This next post is a pretty good primer on how to write blogs that will actually get read:

Did You Really Subscribe To My Blog?

These next two blogs illustrate some of the importance I've placed on why blogging is not the wave of the future, but why it's essential NOW:

Using My Blog to Enhance Relationships - A Blog Inspired by Bob "the Builder" Stewart!!!

Life Before ActiveRain... And Now!!! What A Long Strange Trip It's Been!

Finally, these last few posts are just some fun and FREE ways to spice up your listing presentations, web sites and your computer as well:

A VERY Cool Freebie For the Technically Challenged and Pros As Well!

YouTube, Photo Show and You! Create Videos of Your Photos for Free!

Free (and Easy to Use!) Slideshow Maker

Buying a New Laptop or Home PC? This Should Be the First Program You Install

Turn Powerpoint Presentations Into Videos

Please remember folks, I don’t pretend to know it all. In fact, I’m still learning all about this blogging, Social Media-ing, Twittering stuff. But I do know some and I’m happy to share it with you. I hope you find these little tips and tricks useful.

Enjoy! And Happy Blogging!

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

200,000 Points and 300 Blog Posts...But What Have I Learned?

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 09:23:06 -0600

Well my dear readers, I now have 200,000 points and 300 blog posts under my belt. It took me quite a while to get here. My first post in January of 2007 was hideous! But, just as ActiveRain has evolved, so have my blogs!

I think they’re at least readable now! I know I might be analyzing the obvious, but this blogging stuff is a lot harder than it looks!

Since joining ActiveRain:

I've met some truly wonderful people who I now think of as friends.

I’ve received and given out some referrals.

I’ve even picked up a few clients along the way from some of my Localism posts.

But, as I sit here in front of a blank page, I know you’re thinking...

“So what Craig. What have you really learned since joining ActiveRain?”

Well, I’m glad you asked!

When I first signed up on ActiveRain, I made really good use of the “Contact ActiveRain” link on the bottom of the page!

No sooner than I clicked that link, I received a phone call from AR Staff member Brad Andersohn in response to one of my questions. He was so pumped to help me that I knew right away this ActiveRain thing was going to be good! Not only is Brad one of the best bloggers on ActiveRain, the dude can rock too!

See Brad Rock!

I’ve also learned that Bob “The Builder” Stewart is always there to help you out when you have an ActiveRain question. Bob Rocks too….Although, I’m sad to say, not as good as Brad does!

I can’t confirm this, but I got it from a good source, that this is Bob rocking out.

See Bob Rock!

I’ve learned that Alan May has a great sense of humor, writes a wonderful blog, and is the modern day reincarnation of Elvis himself! Over the years, I’ve watched Alan go through a metamorphosis ….

From his Heavy Metal look…

To his Sanjaya look…..

But Alan will always be ActiveRain’s resident Elvis!

I’ve learned that Charles Buell, home inspector extraordinaire from Seattle, WA is a lot older than his profile picture shows…

The same holds true for MichaelThornton, the best home inspector this side of the Rockies…

Both of these guys, aside from needing to update their profile pictures, write excellent blogs. Insightful, motivational, humorous and visually appealing.

I’ve learned that Bill Gasset, from Hopkinton, MA, was originally the fifth Beatle before embarking upon his illustrious Real Estate career…and right after that spat with Yoko!

I’ve learned that Jim and Maria Hart are not only the HART of Charleston, SC Real Estate, but, along with their son Josh, are the epitome of the all American family….

I’ve learned that Debi Boucher from Woodland Park, CO, is not only one of the best photographers here in the Rain, she’s got a sense of humor that can’t be beat. Before her photographic career, Debi was a waitress at some greasy spoon with one of those neon signs out front that just read, “EAT”.

By the way, if you’re looking for some great closing gifts or holiday cards for your friends, family or clients, contact Debi. She’s got some great stuff available for you…Mention my name and you’ll pay full price!

I’ve learned that Mary Douglas from Red Feather Lakes, CO is one of the nicest people in the world! And she lives in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. I’ve also learned that Mary has issues with Saran Wrap!

I’ve learned that all of our furry friends must see Kristin Johnston, the Queen of Waukesha, WI Real Estate, as some kind of Super Woman for all she’s done to battle injustices against them…

I’ve learned that Toula Rosebrock, of Lacey Township, NJ and I share the love of all the same New York sports teams. And, that after much emailing back and forth, is without doubt the best Toula I’ve ever known! She’s also so interesting that they’ve made a movie about her life!

I’ve learned that Greg Nino, of Houston, TX fame, is certifiably off his rocker! Want a blog that will make you laugh, make you mad, or just leave you shaking your head in disbelief? Greg’s will do it!

I’ve learned that Caren Wallace, of Akron, OH, whom I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, is as delightful and adorable today as I’m sure she was back when she was hugging trees in Haight Ashbury!

I’ve learned through his blog posts that Richard Weisser, of Newnan, GA knows his stuff when it comes to Real Estate. And that he’s come a long way from his days as a fussy little boy!

I’ve learned Matt Stigliano, the RERockstar from San Antonio, TX, only writes great blogs because he never sleeps. You didn’t hear it from me, but word on the street is that Matt is really a vampire. Hey, pictures don’t lie!

I’ve learned that Nevin Williams, mortgage broker supreme, is licensed in more states than I can even name. Aside from being a friend of mine, Nevin is my resource for everything in home financing. Nevin knows lending better than anyone I’ve ever met. Even though he’s a three time recipient of the “Personalized Pocket Protector” award, he’s actually a pretty cool guy!

I’ve learned that Russell Lewis, who works, lives and plays in Austin, TX, was the cover guy for all those romance novels before he took the Austin Real Estate Market by storm!

I’ve learned that Jason Crouch, the King of all things Real Estate, should he ever decide to leave the business, would probably make a great politician. I think he knows it too. So, recently, in an effort to become ballot worthy, Jason’s changed his appearance to give him that “Vote for me” look!

I’ve learned that Betina Foreman, from Austin, TX, and, one of my best buddies here in the Rain, is slightly amused when I do things like this…..

The only thing that scares me about Betina, and I love her dearly, is that as smart as she is, she consistently comes back to my low brow blogs! What’s up with that?!!!

And then there’s Andrea Swiedler who actually called ME for advice one time! And Wanda Kubat-Nerdin, the “Locks of Love” hero here in the Rain.

There’s Sheldon Neal, my brutha from across the pond and CarolProvenzale, the Feng Shui Queen from Long Island who's blogs always make me miss my old stomping grounds!

There’s Sandy Aichner and Debe Maxwell both from the Lake Norman/ Charlotte area of North Carolina, and both who have helped me either through referrals or through their blogging insight.

There’s Terrie Leighton and Brenda Mullen. There’s Teresa Berry and my first ever subscriber Laura Giannotta.

Leesa Finley whom I’ve had the pleasure of working with, Kathleen Cooper, Amy Hahn, Robin Rogers and so many others who I’ve learned so much from...and who I now call friend.

But most of all, I’ve learned that while the Real Estate industry can be trying at times, it’s folks like you guys, who, at the end of the day, make it all worthwhile.

I love you all…Some of you more than the others, but you know what I mean...and you know who you are!!!

Thank you one and all for being part of my ActiveRain family!

Disclaimer time: If I didn’t mention you in this post, it’s not that I don’t think of you as my friend... or love you any less. It’s just that I really need to go eat something and get out the door to pick up my check from my closing! But don’t worry; you’ll make a guest appearance in one of my future posts!

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Happy Birthday Neil Young!

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 12:29:02 -0600

Neil Young, one of my all time favorite musicians, celebrates his 64^th birthday today!

Best known for his work with Crosby, Stills and Nash, Neil has enjoyed musical success since the 1960’s.

Young was a founding member of Buffalo Springfield, as well as his own band, Crazy Horse.

With his signature voice, unique style of guitar playing, and songs written from the heart, Neil Young is an icon in the music world.

Hit songs like Sugar Mountain, Heart of Gold, and Helpless are as great to listen to today as they were when they were released years ago.

But Neil Young isn’t just living off the success his oldies. His latest albums, Greendale, Prairie Wind and Living With War have all been chart toppers.

Mr. Young has also been an advocate for many societal issues. He is one of the originators of Farm Aid and is a co-founder, along with his wife Peggy, of The Bridge School, an organization that helps to educate children with severe speech and physical impairments.

I’ve had the opportunity to see Neil Young in concert numerous times and I met him once backstage in 2000 at a CSNY concert in NYC. He is as genuine as the songs he sings.

Happy Birthday Neil Young!

Heart of Gold

Helpless

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Wordless Wednesday - Veteran's Day - 11/11/09

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 11:57:20 -0600

Veteran’s Day

November 11, 2009

Remember, as you go about your day, that today is Veteran's Day.

So thank a veteran today because many have sacrificed and many have given their lives.

But one thing is a constant from all of them:

Their dedication to our great country enables us to enjoy many of the freedoms we often take for granted.

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Tired of Lugging Around the Tools of Our Trade? This Might Help Some...

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:15:20 -0600

As Real Estate agents we’re forever on the go...

Whether we’re out and about showing homes to our buyer clients, or heading on over to put brochures in our seller client’s flyer boxes, we’re rarely chained to a desk in an office somewhere.

We constantly lug around our cell phones, our briefcases and our laptops. Some of which can get rather cumbersome at times.

Wouldn’t it be kind of neat if we could streamline at least the laptop portion of the baggage we haul around from home to home?

In the not too distant future, this little goodie might help lessen our load…

The Future of Laptops

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

The New York Yankees Win the 2009 World Series...But They Couldn't Have Done It Without Me!!!

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 09:38:05 -0600

Congratulations to the New York Yankees on their World Series victory over the Philadelphia Phillies last night!

Of course we all knew they were going to win. But, like any great team, they couldn’t have done it without some help…

Just like the time I helped the Yankees win it all with Joe DiMaggio by my side…

...And who can forget that great lineup of ’61 featuring Maris, Mantle and Rutman?

…Or those few years I took off from baseball to help the Jets win the Super Bowl?

Of course there was that time in 1969, when I was out with an injury – naturally, it was a sports related injury as I fell off a barstool watching a football game! - that I helped my teammates at NASA land on the moon…

But when I returned, I was ready to lend my hand to help the New York Rangers win their first Stanley Cup in 54 years…

They even retired my uniform after that spectacular season! It still hangs today in the Rangers locker room at Madison Square Garden!

Last night, as the Yankees pummeled the Phillies, I watched as my teammates, Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, Andy Petite, and all the rest, cruised on to victory and wrap up their 27th World Series Championship. Hideki Matsui won the series MVP award, even though some say I really deserved it. But he’s a good guy, so I’m happy for him…kind of.

All in all, it was a good series with a great outcome!

Congratulations to the 2009 World Series Champions, the New York Yankees!

About The Author

Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530

Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

So You Think Your Day's Not Going Well, Huh? Just Remember, It Could Always Be Worse!

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:32:57 -0600

In the Real Estate industry, when things go well, life is wonderful. But from time to time, things don’t go so well.

Little things like a total economic meltdown can put a blemish on an otherwise great day!

Or, your buyer clients decided Little Johnny should come to look at houses with them.

But Little Johnny decided instead to puke up Cheetos all over the back seat of your car…before you even got to your first appointment!

Or your sellers decided to hold their very own La Tomatina Festival in their living room…the night before an interested buyer is coming back for a second viewing!

Well, you get the idea.

But no matter how bad your day ever gets, it’s probably not as bad as the day this guy just had…

This Guy's Having a Bad Day!

So, remember, life is short. Keep smiling. And, even if you’re having a bad day, things could always be worse!

Oh, and just for the record, I’m having a great day! I just needed a vehicle in which to incorporate this video into!

Have a great day my friends!

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Enjoy Country Club Style Living In This Immaculate Town Home! 3 Pools, An Athletic Club and 2 Golf Courses Are just the Beginning!

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:54:51 -0600

Craig Rutman | www.justnchomes.com | 919-349-9530

1009 Savin Landing, Knightdale, NC

Country Club Style Living in this immaculate townhome!

2BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $112,500

Year Built 2006

Sq Footage 1,054

Bedrooms 2

Bathrooms 2 full, 1 partial

Floors Unspecified

Parking Unspecified

Lot Size .03 acres

HOA/Maint $74 per month

DESCRIPTION

Immaculately maintained 2 bedroom 2.5 bathroom townhome only minutes from downtown Raleigh. Enjoy country club style living as Mingo Creek offers access to 3 pools, 2 golf courses, an athletic club and multiple community playgrounds! This home backs up to a wooded buffer and over 20 acres of privately owned land. Each generously sized bedroom has its own full bath. A great floor plan, new carpet, upgraded lighting and many ceiling fans throughout make this house a home. Maintenance free exterior and grounds!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C - Central heat - High/Vaulted ceiling

- Hardwood floor - Family room - Dining room

- Dishwasher - Stove/Oven - Microwave

- Laundry area - inside - Balcony, Deck, or Patio - Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Clubhouse - Fitness center - Swimming pool(s)

- Golf course - Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- New carpet

- Upgraded lighting

- Ceiling fans

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Maintenance free exterior

Master bedroom

Kitchen

Living Room

Living Room

3 Pools to choose from!

Contact info:

Craig Rutman

www.justnchomes.com

919-349-9530

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 1, 2009, 9:11am PST

See a Vitrual Tour of 1009 Savin Landing

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Happy Halloween Everyone From Craig-en-stein!!!

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 11:44:50 -0500

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Not Many People Know This About Our ActiveRain Superstars Greg, Brad and Jason

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 09:57:16 -0500

Not many people know this, but…….

Before Greg Nino became the renowned Houston area Realtor that he is…...

Before Brad Andersohn became the ActiveRain guru that he is…..

Before Jason Crouch became the King of all things Real Estate……

They were the original Bee Gees!

That’s right folks!

They were the original Bee Gees!

Apparently, and forgive me here, but the story is a tad fuzzy as there is very little documentation on this topic, Greg and Jason met while singing at a karaoke bar somewhere in between their respective home towns of Houston and Austin, Texas.

They immediately clicked and formed a short lived, albeit moderately successful duet, the...

“Oh Jeez”!!!

After a few months of performing at dingy night clubs and highway rest stops, the Oh Jeez realized that something was missing…And then it happened...

Brad Andersohn was bagging groceries at the local Piggly Wiggly when the Oh Jeez came in to do their weekly shopping. The two heard Brad singing while making sure their eggs were carefully bagged so as not to break.

The missing piece was found!

Brad decided to give up on his lifelong dream of perfecting the, “Would you like paper or plastic, ma’am?” line, and the Bee Gees were formed!

Perhaps they needed someone to sing those high notes! Perhaps they needed someone with big hair! Perhaps he just looked good in those 70’s outfits the group wore! But, whatever the reason, the newly formed trio set out to make a life of music.

And, the rest, as they say, is history!

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Using My Blog to Enhance Relationships - A Blog Inspired by Bob "the Builder" Stewart!!!

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:17:56 -0500

How am I using my ActiveRain blog to enhance existing relationships? (A blog inspired by Bob "the Builder" Stewart!)

When I created my ActiveRain account way back when the wheel was still square and sliced bread was just a dream, I originally thought AR was just going to be a social networking atmosphere where I could expand my referral base.

But nearly 2 years into my existence here, I’ve come to discover that it’s so much more than that!

Ahh, what a long strange trip it's been!

There’s so much to learn everyday here in the Rain; and after reading blogs from some of the best in the business, I’ve realized that ActiveRain is a very powerful marketing tool.

As ActiveRain has evolved, so have my reasons for being here. I still use my blogs to generate referrals and learn from other agents, but now I also use my blogs to enhance existing relationships and create new ones in the process.

How have I done that?

Well, I’m glad you asked!

1. All of my Localism themed posts are emailed to everyone in my database. After all, if they’re thinking of moving here, or they already live here, shouldn’t I inform them of what’s happening in the area?

2. New listings are also emailed to my database. The sellers love it because they get to see the comments other Rainers have left about their home; and prospective buyer clients can get a feel for what’s available to them when they’re ready to make the move.

3. I've been lucky enough to achieve a certain level of success here in the Rain and I have incorporated that into my listing presentations. When a seller client sees how I can reach over 160,000 agents across the country to market their home to, that goes a lot further than you might think. I work in an area with a lot of relocating buyers. So being able to reach out to agents in other parts of the country increases my chances of getting the home noticed....and eventually sold!

4. My irreverent posts, and there are many of them, are sent to my crazy clients and friends! Not only do they seem to love them, it’s a great way to “touch” them so they don’t forget me when they’re ready to buy or sell. They also won’t forget me when they know of someone who needs the help of a Realtor.

5. I've become a much better blogger and marketer since joining ActiveRain. I've been able to enhance relationships by sending "reminders" to my clients, friends and family that I'm here ready to help you with all your Real Estate needs.

6. Lastly, and this is possibly one of the biggest ways I’ve used my blogs and ActiveRain to enhance my relationships, is the fact that anyone who comments on my blog gets a response. I also try to “payback” those folks by commenting on their posts. If that sounds silly, just keep in mind that one Rainer loved some of my Photoshop enhanced posts so much, she called me and asked me to create a logo for her. Naturally I obliged and a few weeks later she called me again. But this time it was a referral to an REO company. That company has given me three listings with the promise of many more coming up soon!

Not only have I utilized ActiveRain to enhance my existing relationships, I’ve been fortunate enough to meet some wonderful people along the way, generate more business, and, most of all, have some fun in the process!

Thank you ActiveRain!

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530

Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Are Realtors the Rodney Dangerfield of the Business World? What's Your Theory?

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:11:44 -0500

Are Realtors the Rodney Dangerfield

of the business world?

The other day I took one of my heavy hitter buyers out to look at some homes. They’re looking for a home in the $600-$750,000 price range in Cary and Apex, North Carolina.

Now I don’t know about your market, but here in the Cary/ Apex area, that buys quite a bit of home. These folks are very serious, very qualified, and looking to be in before the year’s end. Naturally I’m excited to finish off the year with a sale of this magnitude.

We look at a few homes on Saturday, and then a few more on Sunday. But none of them had the “Wow” factor that they were seeking. They’re very particular buyers and they realize that there is no such thing as a perfect home. But, for that kind of money, they should, at a minimum, be wowed to some extent.

Now, just to make it very clear, I love these people. We have a great time going out together. We laugh, we get serious, and we have a fun time. We just haven’t found that just right home yet.

So the search goes on…

But the point of this post reflects on something they said to me during the day.

After admitting that they were nuts and were probably going to make me crazy in the process, they said,

“I could never do what you do for a living”.

And they’re right! Most people can’t do what we do for a living. It’s not an easy job, and it seems that more and more along the way, my buyers come to realize this. They see how hard we work. They see how difficult it is to find the homes that meet their criteria, schedule the appointments, map out the day, only to have to re-adjust everything when a seller calls to cancel the showing.

They see that you can’t buy a home on the internet. The pictures look great, but when we arrive, there are power lines running through the backyard or there is some other deal killing encumbrance that couldn’t be discovered from the MLS listing sheet.

They also see that our day does not begin at 9AM and end at 5PM with an hour in the middle for lunch. They see that we pay for all our own business expenses and are only compensated if we actually make it to the closing table.

Now don’t get me wrong here. I am NOT complaining, I’m curious. I love most of my clients. We end up maintaining friendships. We end up socializing, going to each other’s homes and, well, just being friends!

But, to finally get to the real point of my post today, why is it that we, as Realtors, don’t get the level of respect that some other professions get, especially since more and more of them keep saying to me…

“I could never do what you do for a living.”

I have my theories. I even know some solid reasons why this is an issue. But I'd love to hear from you, my dear readers, why are Realtors sometimes treated like the Rodney Dangerfield's of the business world?

By the way, if you've not seen the ActiveRain video of the day, this one sheds some light on one of my theories...

This Guy Is Not a Good Realtor!

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Help me Choose My Halloween Costume!

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 11:24:57 -0500

With Halloween rapidly approaching, I find myself once again facing my annual dilemma. What costume should I wear when I go door to door trick or treating?

Please help me make my decision! Time is running out and I need to be prepared. Hey, there's a lot of Snickers bars out there just waiting to be put in my trick or treating bag!

As the sun goes down and I finish up my day in Real Estate....

Should I go as the always cute and adorable Panda?

Or does this Transformer costume suit me better?

Perhaps I should consider being the Court Jester this year?

Oh, decisions, decisions, decisions.

Maybe dressing up as a samurai works best.

Superman?

Spock?

An astronaut?

Oh please help me!

Jimi Hendrix?

Whoever this guy is?

Robin?

What to do? What to do?

Time is running out. I need your help. Please vote today before it’s too late!

Results will be posted in a future blog…along with pictures of course!!!

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

(Not So) Wordless Wednesday - I Found Your Dream Home and I'm Not Letting It Go!

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:00:29 -0500

Mr. & Mrs. Buyer, I want you to know that I was up all night searching for that just right home for you. I looked through hundreds of listings on the MLS. My desk was a disaster as I was working on your file.

I was about to give up all hope….And then I saw it! The home that meets all your criteria! Your dream home!

It’s the one we’ve been looking for but thought we’d never find!

It’s in the perfect location!

It’s even priced right!

I raced right on over to take a look at it. The interior is immaculate, the grounds are well kept, and the sellers are very motivated!

I can’t wait for you to see it. I got a little messy in the process, but I’m holding onto your dream home and I'm not letting it go until you arrive….

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Life Before ActiveRain...And Now!!! What a Long Strange Trip It's Been!

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 14:35:18 -0500

Before ActiveRain I was just another starving Realtor looking for a listing in all the wrong places….

As I started making friends here in the Rain, I grew my referral base and got my first listing referral…..

Then, before I knew it, I had over 100 subscribers, lots of new friends and referral partners, and my business grew and grew.

It was then that I traded in my old car…

… for a new one…

I was even able to afford the Craigster-1 with all the business I was getting from my efforts here in ActiveRain…

Now, I’m happy, fat and content….

All because of ActiveRain!

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Help Musicians On Call to Bring the Healing Power of Music to More People (Spread the Word, too!)

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:11:37 -0500

As many of you already know, music is a big part of my life. I listen, I try to play, and I go to lots of concerts.

I also know that music is a great healer for many ills.

I’ve only re-blogged a few times before. But this post, by our very own Jason Crouch, was one that I felt needed to be seen by a whole other group of readers.

So, folks, give this a read, and if you can, please help out this worthy cause.

Any donation amount helps.

Music heals.

The following is Jason’s blog:

Jason Crouch, Broker - Austin Texas Real Estate (512-796-7653) (Austin Texas Homes, LLC):

A couple of months ago, we were pleased to meet Danny Brown on our online radio program, Social Media Edge. Danny is the founder of 12for12k, which has the exciting goal of raising $12,000 for 12 different charities throughout the year.

This month's charity focus is Musicians on Call, which seeks to bring both live and recorded music to hospital patients. They have the Bedside Performance Program, along with a "CD Pharmacy", which provides an extensive library of CD's along with players, free of charge. They even work with patients to help them write and produce their own music via the Project Playback program.

$10 brings one song to the bedside of a patient in a healthcare facility

$50 brings 5 songs to the bedsides of patients in a healthcare facility

$150 brings music to 15 patients through MOC's Bedside Performance Program

$250 buys 20 "Discmen" for a CD Pharmacy so patients can listen to music in their beds

$500 brings the Performance Program for three weeks to a healthcare facility

$1000 brings the Performance Program for six weeks to a healthcare facility

$2500 creates a CD Pharmacy in your name or in honour of someone

$5000 brings the Performance Program for six months to a healthcare facility

$10000 brings the Bedside Performance Program to a healthcare facility for one year

Below, you will see a ChipIn widget. If you're interested in donating to this worthy cause, just click the big green button to get started.

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Happy 62nd Birthday Bob Weir!

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:35:56 -0500

Happy Birthday Bob Weir!

Bob Weir, best known for being a founding member of the Grateful Dead, celebrates his 62nd birthday today.

Weir, a singer, songwriter and musician, is, along with the Grateful Dead arguably one of the most recorded musicians on the planet!

I was fortunate to have the opportunity to meet Bobby on numerous occasions and each and every time he was most cordial. Whether it was backstage or poolside, whenever I saw him, Bobby always took the time with whoever came by, to talk, share a joke or sign an autograph.

If you’ve never seen Bob Weir in concert, tune in to this video and you’ll see why he’s not only a wonderful rhythm guitarist, but also a beautiful songwriter. Bobby was always credited with the “Rock n Roll” portion of Grateful Dead concerts. But songs like “Cassidy”, “Weather Report Suite” and “Looks Like Rain” showed his versatility in being able to pen some truly moving music in ballad form.

Currently Bob Weir is playing and touring with his solo band Ratdog.

By the way, if you click on the picture of Bobby, my daughter Laura and me, you can see a fun article CNN wrote...featuring yours truly!

I'm famous! But no autographs please!

Bob Weir and Ratdog "Standing on the Moon"

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Wordless Wednesday - Corn Maze for the Intellectually Challenged!

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:21:55 -0500

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

New Construction Foreclosure Home Complete and Ready to Move Right In!

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:34:13 -0500

Links
See my listings!
Free MLS Search!
Visual Tour
Visit Me on the Web!

Photo Gallery

Granite counters, SS appliances.

One of two fireplaces.

Bonus room wired for surround sound.

Beautifully appointed dining room

Hardwoods galore!

Rear view of oversized deck.

Welcome home!
Description
Spectacular opportunity to own this 3 bedroom 3.5 bathroom bank owned foreclosure home for a fraction of the comparables. Situated in an estate style community only minutes from 264 and 540. This home is complete and ready NOW! 8400 Battle Abby boasts a great floor plan, ceramic tile baths, stainless steel appliances, extensive hardwoods, a 1st floor Master suite, security pre-wire, intercom system, ceiling fans and much more. All this on a 1.23 acre lot and NO city taxes! Call Craig today at 919-349-9530 for more details or to schedule an appointment.

Features
Bedrooms: 3
Bathrooms: 3.5
Year Built: 2009
Subdivision: Estates at Smith Crossing
Lot Size: 1.23 acres
Garage Size: 2 car side load
School District: Wake
Square Footage: 3050
Agent Name: Craig Rutman
Broker: Raleigh Cary Realty
MLS #: 1689782

Location
8400 Battle Abby Court Knightdale NC 27545

Powered by vFlyer.com vFlyer Id: 2875379

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Come and Knock On Our Door....

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 08:43:23 -0500

…We’ve been waiting for you!

With the $8,000 first time homebuyer’s tax credit deadline rapidly approaching it’s time to knock on my door!

With the team of lenders and inspectors I’ve assembled; and with my expertise of Raleigh - Cary - Apex Real Estate, we still have some time to get you that tax credit.

But we don’t have much time. In fact, you have about 2-3 weeks to get into a contract that will close on time to qualify for the credit.

You’re ready to buy your first home. I’ve assembled the team for you….

Come and knock on our door!

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Happy Birthday John Lennon

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:32:16 -0500

John Lennon

October 9, 1940- December 8, 1980

John Winston Lennon was born in Liverpool on this day in 1940. He would have been 69 today had he not been tragically murdered outside his hotel in Manhattan.

From the day he picked up his first guitar, the music world was never the same. As a founding member of the Beatles, John Lennon took music to new levels and led the way for a social and cultural revolution. Whether you agreed with his methodology or not, Lennon’s intentions evoked a simple philosophy:

Give Peace A Chance

From the Beatles debut album, 1963's Please Please Me, to Abbey Road six years later, every record represented a considerable artistic progression. But all of them were themed around peace, love and good will towards your fellow man. This was a message that John Lennon constantly spread in his music, his art, his interviews, and, sadly posthumously.

Imagine all the people living life in peace…

I recently went to visit my old stomping grounds in Manhattan with my dear friend Christy who had never been north of DC. We immediately gravitated to Strawberry Fields in Central Park to spend a few minutes. It turned out to be a few hours as an impromptu band had set up and played Beatles tunes. People just continued to stop and listen, and before you knew it, there was a large group just singing Beatles songs and sharing a moment of peace and music in the middle of the world’s craziest of cities. John Lennon himself probably would have been proud to see people of all ages, colors and backgrounds gathering as one with a shared goal:

And the world will be as one…

So, today my fellow Rainers, take a moment out of your busy day to watch the attached video and when you’re done, go out into the world and…

Give Peace A Chance

Imagine All the People Living Life In Peace...

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

Did You Really Subscribe to My Blog?!!!

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 10:13:18 -0500

Today when I logged on to ActiveRain, I discovered that Kathleen Frawley has become my 100^th blog subscriber! I'm not sure whether she should be congratulated or reprimanded. But she is my 100th blog subscriber!!!

Now, I’m no Jason Crouch or Brad Andersohn when it comes to blogging.

I’m no Lenn Harley or TLW either.

These guys are among the most subscribed to bloggers here in the Rain.

But I am happy to have my little blogging family join me for the ride as I try to entertain, market myself and build relationships both on a social level and on a referral of business level.

So far it’s all working out!

I know 100 subscribers is no big deal in the grand scheme of things, but it's a goal I set out to achieve in 2009.

How did I get to 100 subscribers? Well, I’m glad you asked!

When I first started blogging, I was spewing out some pretty lame stuff. No one commented. No one subscribed. And from the “statistics” page, I could see that no one was even clicking on my posts.

But as I read more blogs, listened and learned from my peers here in the Rain, I discovered that to get people to read your blogs, and eventually subscribe to them, there are a few simple steps to take along the way.

1. Start with a good title/ headline!

This is a no brainer folks. If your title is boring, why would you even go click to read the post? Grab your audience right away.

2. Include pictures!

People are very visual by nature. If you have nothing but words on the page, people tend to get bored rather quickly. They’re not stimulated enough to read paragraph after paragraph.

3. Subscribe to people who comment on your blogs!

Once again, this is a no brainer. If you “payback” those who support your efforts, they’ll keep coming back for more. You’ll also build relationships in the process.

4. Respond to those who comment on your blogs!

Right or wrong, I acknowledge every single person who makes a comment on my blog posts. Whether it’s a thank you for stopping by, a silly retort, or a goofy picture, I make sure to let everyone know I appreciate that they took the time to read and comment on my blog.

Oh, and everyone who subscribes to my blog gets one of these....

5. Have some fun with your blogs!

Folks, market statistics and Real Estate trends are all very important to let the world know we’re on top of what’s happening in our local markets. Yes, you will connect with some clients. The SEO capabilities of ActiveRain are undeniable.

And some Rainers will thoroughly enjoy reading your local stats. I’m not saying don’t post market reports. I do it. We all do it.

But if all you are is a statistician, then what kind of bond are you forming with your readers?

Let your audience know who you are. Make them smile. Show them you’re a real person behind that computer screen! If people know who you are, and like what you’re sharing with them, they’ll keep coming back…and eventually, they’ll even subscribe to your blog!

If anyone has additional tips to help increase subscribership please let us know! Any and all comments will be responded to!

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions

The Waybacks On Tour in North Carolina - October 11th and 13th

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 06:37:24 -0500

The original purveyors of "acoustic mayhem”, the Waybacks, are once again, hitting the road this fall!

As uninhibited and unpredictable as the eclectic San Francisco Bay area that claims them, the Waybacks will be playing two shows right here in North Carolina.

October 11^th at the Grey Eagle in Asheville

October 13^th at the McGlohan Theatre in Charlotte

For tickets and tour information visit the Waybacks newly revamped web site!

Check Out The Waybacks Performing Live!

About The Author
Craig Rutman is a North Carolina Residential Real Estate Specialist that can assist you with the purchase and/or sale of real estate in the Raleigh - Cary – Apex metro areas; or any place else in the country by connecting you with a relocation professional in your destination of choice.

To find all available homes for sale in the Triangle area of North Carolina, please visit www.justnchomes.com

Call me TODAY at 919-349-9530
Email me with your Raleigh - Cary – Apex area questions