Are you one of those agents who use DocuSign and absolutely love it? Perhaps you've been thinking about it and have a few more questions? OR maybe you'll be in the area next Wednesday and would just like to hang out with some really cool folks.
Whatever your reason may be, I want you to know that you're invited to join us on Wednesday, September 9th at 5pm for An's Tweet, Meet & Greet at Depot Cantina.
An works for DocuSign (electronic signature, e-sign and digital signature service) and is the voice behind @docusign on Twitter.
An's Tweet, Meet & Greet is open to all locals (and twits), however, we do need you to RSVP and let us know you're coming (via the Facebook link below).
Feel free to help us spread the word, as well. A quick blog post would be radisome (radial + awesome). Please be sure to include these links:
While reading the newspaper over the weekend, I was astonished at the number of homeless people in Maricopa County and throughout Arizona. While things are tight for all of us, most of us have never slept in a box or under a bridge. It pains me to think of the emotional stress, frustrations and daily challenges that these families face.
While I cannot help them all, I thought we, as a community, could collectively focus on the children of homeless families. While these small faces have done nothing themselves to be put in this position, wouldn't it do us all some good to help alleviate some of the stress these parents are feeling about this already pressurized time called "Back To School"?
Honestly, whether the student wears a uniform or not, there is still the underlying pressure to be "cool". How does a homeless family help their student fit in when spending money on new clothes or needed supplies truly isn't an option? How do you force a parent to chose between food and shoes?
Chandler students return to school in 3 weeks. During the next 20 days, I would ask you to help us restore some dignity to these children.
With permission from the Chandler Unified School District, I would like to humbly ask you to join with me in raising donations for these children.
What's needed?
1) Backpacks
2) Clothing - new, all sizes
3) Shoes - new, all sizes
4) Jackets or Sweatshirts (it's not always going to be 110 outside)
Chandler Unified School District has over 35,000 students that they are responsible for. That's 35,000 opportunities to develop tomorrow's leaders, perhaps a President or UN Ambassador. It's 35,000 minds waiting to be challenged and fulfilled.
We don't need backpacks for all of them - but certainly a few hundred would allow enough students to start the school year off right. Due to the privacy of these families, we will not be distributing the items personally. All donations will be given to the CUSD and distributed to children in need from there.
Will you consider a donation? It would be a shame to forget even one.
Active Rain was my first attempt at blogging. Like most, I was novice writer with little confidence. Even with minuscule qualifications, I took refuge in knowing that the 13,000 others bloggers on Active Rain would accept me into their world.
Although a sea of real estate professionals who knew significantly more than I and could express it more eloquently, still an environment that welcomed this new little guppy into "the club".
I wrote about topics that were relevant to me and my business and surprisingly enough, relevant to others. Guided by comments and personal notes of encouragement, I became comfortable expressing my thoughts and eventually "finding my voice".
As the years have gone by, I still enjoying sharing my thoughts with my fellow Rainers. As I teach blogging classes and introduce Active Rain to these newbies, I'm frequently asked about "Why?" Why share industry related topics with other real estate professionals? Is it anything more than preaching to the choir?
At first, I tried to console them with the foundational basis of social media and transparency. That this was a world void of the "hard sell" and overflowing with all good things. However, my seemingly "Pollyanna" attitude, was not always believed. So, with that in mind, I came up with these 10 reasons why an Active Rain blog is a good place to be:
1) Warmth - Active Rain has always fostered a welcoming atmosphere of camaraderie.
2) Sharing - Writing a blog post is about you engaging others.
3) Education - Active Rain is unique in the depth of information shared. From product reviews to personal experienced, answers are honest and plentiful.
4) Common Ground - Shared industry, similar goals and the belief that we can all make the world (or at least our part of it) a better place to be.
5) Friendships - Real people, real life, real experiences.
6) Networking - 150,000 other real estate industry professionals - from trainers to home stagers, appraisers to marketing gurus, we all stand side by side forging on towards our goals.
7) Support - Through writing, commenting and sharing, Active Rain is at atmosphere of "What can I do for you?"
8) Competition - Through contests, not one-up-man-ship. While you can call it "preaching to the choir", wouldn't it be better to recognize this incredible opportunity to "learn from the masses"? Reinventing the wheel is a waste of time, when the tools and the car have already been provided.
9) Confidence - As time goes on, it becomes easier to share you story, easier to give advice and build real life relationships. Ultimately, the foundation shared on Active Rain gives way to the success of your real estate business.
10) Business - After all, isn't that why we're all here? Learning, creating, building, planning = success
Active Rain has been a diving board into my social media ocean. Merely the first step into a world of pro-active professionals who are just as interested in connecting with me as I am with them.
From all over the world, I have made connections. Real "live" people, with whom I never would have had the opportunity to "meet" without Active Rain. Industry leaders and professionals who have openly shared their knowledge and experiences, expecting nothing in return. But, then again, isn't that the premise on which social media is built?
I am a better person (both personally and professionally) for diving into the Active Rain waters. If you want to jump with me, I assure you the water is just fine.
Dialogue. Communication. Monologue. Yammer. On and on and on. Someone please remind me why I agreed to serve on this committee. This was a long, drawn out meeting with people who wanted to speak just to hear the own voice. It wasn't a meeting of the minds - as much as it was an endless monolgoue of what "should be".
And then - it happened!
Someone said something worth listening to!
After quoting statitistics of the decreasing rate of agents here in Arizona, someone said "Instead of focusing on those leaving the industry, we need to be helping those who want to be in business - stay in business".
Now there's a concept that made sense. Something that, quite honestly, I haven't stopped thinking about since that meeting. Help others? Build a business? Stay in business?
Yes! The Key To Success is Helping others!
Quite honestly, this market is not like any other market. Today's market is unique and to stay in business, agents need to be prophetic or at the very least - ahead of the game. While blogging could be considered one of the steps to stay in business, there's more to finding clients and closing deals then sharing entertaining stories or metaphorical perscriptions.
Want to Stay In Real Estate? Step #1 - Decide What You Want
Does your heart belong to real estate? Someone once said that if you call it "work" then it's not for you. I look forward to the days when my schedule challenges me. I love the details that wake m up energized and my mind reeling. Do you feel that way about real estate? Are you energized by helping others find the home of their dreams?
If not, then why stay in a job that causes you dread? Even if money is the reason, there aren't enough dollars in the day to rob you of your passion or happiness (just a thought).
Assuming that you've decided that real estate is your passion - Then what is step 2 and 3 or 4? What do you need to stay in business? What tools can help you build your business?
Step #2 - Concentrate
Staying in business is going to take some planning. The effort that you've invested in years passed, probably do not require repeating. Focus your efforts on strategies that will actually build your business, increase your sphere and enable you to pay some bills.
Spending countless hours, mindlessly, surfing the Internet, does not build your business. However, spending a couple of hours networking or blogging (with purpose) 3 times a week with focus will bring potential clients to your door. Deciding a head of time what you'd like to be "known for" will also help to focus your efforts. (Just remember, whatever you share, the Internet, never forgets. Consider it forever emblazoned in the annuals of time.)
Step #3 - Connect
The saying "It takes a village" rings ever true in real estate. Think about it. Exactly how many people does it take to get to the close of escrow? Dozen? Two dozen? The beauty of real estate is that you're never really alone.
What a priviledge to be able to call someone to ask questions, get advice or simply meet for lunch. Not to mention, it's always nice to have someone to refer "that client" to...
Reconnect with your sphere. Make it a priority to reach out to those around you. Whether email marketing campaign or a simple "I'm still in business" note, strategically placing your name in front of past clients is renewable energy. The more you give, the more you will get in return.
Reach Out With Purpose: Did you sell houses anytime from 2002 to 2006? If so, NOW is the time to let them know you're still in business. While most homeowners don't stay in their homes for more than 2-3 years, if they're still in the home you sold them, there's a better than average chance they're thinking of selling (or desperately need to).
The success of your real estate business, ultimately depends on you. Begin with a plan, focus your efforts and be real. If there's anything I can do to help you - don't hesitate to ask. I'd be glad to help you on your way.
Today was a really nice June day - Too good to not sit outside and enjoy. After a morning of meetings and home showings, I decided to reward myself with a trip to my local Starbucks. While enjoying the breeze (and almost rain), I checked my email, logged into Twitter, etc.
Then, it happened. Someone came over and asked me if I was on Twitter. Unable to deny it (because it's hard to miss on my cell screen), I confessed and then something profound happened. He sat down and began to talk to me about social media. A complete stranger!
While it normally would seem kind of strange, in this instance it wasn't. It wasn't odd, because we already had a common ground on which to meet. It wasn't uncomfortable, because we spoke the same language. It was a comfortable conversation between two people that both acknowledge the benefits of using social media tools to boost their business.
For me, this is what the true benefit of social media is about. It's about turning on-line connections into in real life relationships. Whether friend or follower, I wonder how many of us miss out on opportunity, because our social media efforts are missing out the "social".
The ironic part of today's meeting? I never did get his name. Oh well, I'm sure we'll meet sometime in cyber space or again at Starbucks :)
If you’re looking for a very fun, community building event - then look no further than downtown Chander.
Tomorrow morning (Sat, 3/7) at approximately 10am, Arizona Ave will be closed to traffic and open for fun! The 21st Annual Thorobred Chevrolet Ostrich Festival Parade will travel south on Arizona Ave from Ray Road to Chicago (just south of the San Marcos Hotel).
It’s always such fun to watch the participating schools, bands, equestrians, motorcycle clubs … and of course, who could ever forget the always entertaining Michael Pollack Band?
For a more enjoyable time, I highly recommend bringing chairs and a blanket (just in case). Water bottles are also very nice to have on hand. All of the restaurants are typically open. Stopping byBosa’s Donuts (just north of Ray on the west side of Arizona) is a great start to the morning. You can pick up an array of freshly baked treats, kid’s drinks, hot coffee or a dozen donut holes for about a buck.
We've participated in the parade for the last several years with the neighborhood elementary school, so I can honestly share with you - that's whether it's raining or sunny - it’s sure to be fun.
Bring the kids, wear comfy shoes and have fun! See you there?
I knew it was coming. How could you not know? Well, today I received the email announcement.
ARMLS Technopalooza ... a technology fair for ARMLS subscribers!
The Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service is really going all out this year planning this extravaganza that marries technology and real estate. Most of us involved in social media are already acutely aware of this union, but it's nice to see it in print from someone of "higher authority".
So - if you're in Arizona and in real estate - you'll want to mark your calendar and plan on attending this day long event.Dustin Luther is a featured speaker with his presentation titled "Using Social Networks to Build and Engage your on-line Community". Sounds too good to pass up.
Also schedule to speak is Jason Edwards who is a Master Trainer with Floyd Blackman. Jason will be speaking on "Blog is the New Black: Converting on-line Blogging to Real Life Appointments"
Both topics sound like viable reasons to attend. Oh yeah, there's also 30 vendors who will be there. If you have any technology questions, this will provide an opportunity to get some good answers. However, if your question does go unanswered, you can always stop by REBarCamp Phoenix the very next day --- guaranteed answers there :)
Wondering when this event will take place? ARMLS Technopalooza is Wednesday, April 22nd from 8:30 to 3:45pm at the Mesa Convention Center - in both buildings B & C.
If you were in attendance for the SEVRAR Technology Fair in January, then you know that the Mesa Convention Center is a great venue with lots of free parking. Continental breakfast is free, but box lunches are $15 and need to be purchased at least 72 hours in advance.
Speaking of box lunches, during lunch there will be a panel of speakers who will share their wisdom and wit with all of us. There's no names named, but I'm sure those who are on the panel will be amazing speakers and will, obviously, share their secrets of success with the rest of us.
In addition to the speakers & vendors, there's also opportunities to do some electronics recycling, sign up to receive prizes, enjoy the free ice cream social and more! Be sure to check out their site for more information.
Well, I guess the only thing left to say is "See you there?"
RE Bar Camp is an ad-hoc gathering born from the desire for people to share and learn in an open environment. It is an intense event with discussions, demos, and interaction from attendees. While we don't quite have a "firm" location, we do have a date. So, consider this post your invitation - kinda of a "Save The Date" announcement.
Jay Thompson, The Phoenix Real Estate Guy, explains “It’s an “unconference” with no set agenda. The agenda is built that day and often morphs through the camp as people gather, talk and share. It’s actually difficult to explain and really needs to be experienced. REALLY. The event is FREE to attend - You’ll even get a t-shirt and lunch. Better yet, you’ll walk away with your head stuffed full of ideas and your rolodex stuffed full of contacts to help you make your business better.”
Got Questions? Just ask! Have a topic suggestion? We're all ears!
The REBarCamp - Phoenix is sure to be an awesome time! I've even heard rumors that Beer with Bloggers (an evening get-together) is also in the works. Hope to see you there!
P.S. If you're planning on coming to REBarCamp-Phoenix on 4/23, plan on coming to the ARMLS Tech-Faire one day earlier on 4/22 - taking place at the Mesa Convention Center.
The Phoenix Metro Light Rail Line arrives on Saturday, December 27th to a host of Grand Opening Celebrations. We have heard projections of up to 200,000 people riding the new trains on opening weekend. Live bands, fun zones, celebrities, community groups and food booths are just a few of the MANY things happening along the entire 20 mile route during the Grand Opening. All rides on the light rail system are free of charge beginning Saturday the 27th at 10 a.m. and continue to be free of charge until January 1, 2009! (see schedule below)
Our new light rail line has been a long time coming. This $1.4 billion project signifies a huge change in an area famous for sprawl. Defining an urban core in the "Valley of the Sun" has yet to fully materialize as development has traditionally spread out, instead of up or in. Walkable neighborhoods here are the exception, not the rule. Light Rail will go a long way in providing an economic engine that will help fuel the development of urban environments throughout the 20 mile line that stretches from Phoenix to Tempe and into Mesa. Prior to the grand opening of the light rail line, experts have attributed approximately $6 Billion in public and private development along the light rail line. (Feel free to contact me for opinions of areas with great potential!)
Some of the most common questions about the Phoenix Light Rail project:
A lot of people wonder how the fare system will work once the light rail trains begin to run in December. Basically, a ride (bus or light rail) is going to cost most people $1.25 and an all day pass is just $2.50. There will be other options available. For instance, you can purchase a 3, 7 or a 31 day pass, the 31 day pass is just $45.00. This is probably a great option for people that live, work, or "play" along the line. One note about those who go to school near the line.. ASU students will be given a free light rail "U-Pass as part of their tuition!
Ticket Vending Machines (tvm"s) will be available for purchasing your light rail pass. The fares are enforced by an "honor system" with random ticket checks aboard trains by employees. Serious folks, no cheating allowed! I understand that you can also buy your fare on line, through the mail, at transit centers etc.
The Park and Ride locations will be a very convenient way to utilize the system. There are 8 park and ride locations. All park and rides will be FREE of charge and will be monitored by security cameras, security officers and municipal police officers. Noovernight parking will be permitted. Park-n-ride locations:
1. Montebello and 19th Avenue (794 spaces) 2. 19th Avenue and Camelback (410 spaces) 3. Central Avenue and Camelback (135 spaces) 4. 38th Street and Washington (189 spaces) 5. Dorsey Lane / Apache Blvd (190 spaces- two lots) 6. McClintock Drive / Apache Blvd (300 spaces) 7. Loop 101 Freeway / Apache Blvd (693 spaces) 8. Sycamore / Main Street (802 spaces)
Once you park and then arrive at a light rail station, you will find that each one will have ticket vending machines. Each Light Rail Station will also have shade canopies, louvered panels to provide additional shade, seating, route maps, timetables, drinking fountains, public telephones and garbage containers.
From December 27th (Grand Opening weekend) through December 31st, all rides are free of charge.
Beginning Thursday, January 1st, 2009 Metro will begin charging normal fares for light rail and bus rides. The normal schedule of service hours are 4 a.m. - midnight with the first full trip, across all 20 miles, occurring at 4:40 a.m. and the last full trip at 11 p.m arriving at the end of the line at midnight.
During the week, trains arrive every 10 minutes from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m - all other times, trains arrive every 20 minutes. On weekends and holidays, the first trip of the day is 5 a.m. and ends the same as week days. (midnight) The frequency of trips changes to every 15 minutes between 6 a.m and 7 p.m- all other times, trains arrive every 20 minutes. Metro operates 365 days a year. For special events, trains may operate more frequently and for longer hours. They have a really cool monitoring system where they can adjust the number of trains necessary by watching the stations from a "command center."
4. What is the best way to learn about things near Arizona's Light Rail system?
Looking for a restaurant near the light rail line? Easy! Soon, they will also have shopping, hotel, entertainment, sports and real estate sections with interactive maps, driving and walking directions and even an "events page" where people can find cool things to do along the line.
5. Sporting, the arts and special events along the line.
Getting to the Sun's and Diamondback's games will be a breeze once light rail begins. Let's use a baseball game for an example: I have talked to a ton of sports fans that are looking forward to taking the light rail to a Suns game or to see a Diamodbacks game at Chase. The stop at 3rd St/Jefferson is VERY close to both of these venues. Most people know that there is a light rail stop at 3rd St/Jefferson near Chase Field but most probably don't realize that this is an east bound train. Not to worry, you just need to know your way around. If coming from North Phoenix, you will arrive right outside of the door at 3rd/Jefferson, but when going home you will walk about a block and a half to the 3rd St/Washington stop. By clicking on this pic of the 3rd St/Washington station, you might get a better idea of what I am talking about. The reverse is obviously true for people coming from the east valley. Before the game, you will exit at the Washington stop and will board the Jefferson stop on your way home. Don't forget the ASU Sun Devil's! There is also a light rail stop right outside of Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe!
There has been a lot of media attention to the "commercial" uses for light rail and there are indeed many. I think the historic and educational opportunities are tremendous as well.
Special events will include the upcoming 2008 Insight Bowl and Block Party, arts fairs, the Rock n Roll Marathon, the 2009 NBA All Star Game and hundreds of other great community events that are now going to be more easily navigated.
For the past three years, I have watched the progress of this light rail system. From public meetings (CAB meetings) with METRO "stakeholders." to city council meetings to research on-line, driving the neighborhoods, talking to residents, business owners, police officers community leaders, students, politicians, you name it. I firmly believe that light rail will help change the life of many of the areas along the light rail line. Is this lifestyle perfect for everyone? Heck no, but for many, it has been a long time coming. According to Metro, about one-third of light-rail passengers walk 1/4 to 1/2 of a mile to a station. Another 1/3 of riders drive, and the remainder will take a bus and transfer to light rail. However, the majority of light-rail passengers live 3 to 5 miles from a station, (source, AZ Republic) - That's a lot of people. Some of what is missed when talking about the majority of users is, business travelers, convention goers and "soccer moms." While these groups might not use the system every day, it is very important for them to be able to navigate the system and to be able to find out how they can benefit from riding the light rail line to their destination.
Everyone is invited to join us at San Felipe's Cantina at Tempe Marketplace. (McClintock Rd & 202 Freeway, south of freeway/east side of the street) Park on the north side of the shops - it's across from Cadillac Ranch.
We've reserved the outside patio area near the fireplace, plus a few extra tables. San Felipe's Cantina serves Mexican food, as well as a few vegetarian dishes. They also have an extensive bar area!
We are especially excited to spend time with Chris Griffith who will be joining us all the way from Bonita Springs, Florida. (She'll get the prize for furthest commute, for sure).
Be sure to RSVP if you're even thinking of coming, so we can let the really cool folks at San Felipe's know how many to expect.
Disclaimer: ActiveRain Corp. does not necessarily endorse the real estate agents, loan officers and brokers listed on this site. These real estate profiles, blogs and blog entries are provided here as a courtesy to our visitors to help them make an informed decision when buying or selling a house. ActiveRain Corp. takes no responsibility for the content in these profiles, that are written by the members of this community.
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