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Omaha Real Estate, Will The Market Stablize?

RE/MAX The Producers — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 16:30:48 -0800

Should You Buy a Home or Should You Wait?

by Don Keeton Broker/Owner RE/MAX The Producers

The housing supply is expected to stablize in two to four years.

Household formation is a reflection of population growth and housing affordability which has drastically dropped since 2007, reaching about 300,000 to 500,000 per year. Historically, the rate is about 1.25 million.

Home prices will likely see a minor appreciation this year (that’s after falling 3 to 4 percent through March), Barclays Capital estimates.

Some predict appreciation to be 1% this year, and for 2013 & 2014, followed by 2 percent to 3 percent appreciation levels. But to reach those goals, the housing supply needs to continue to shrink first.

The big problem is the upcoming foreclosures, and Short Sales which could hold prices down and in some markets push them further down.

In my opinion, if you have a stable job now is the time to buy. If you're contemplating downsizing, now is the time to sell and buy. If you want to buy a property and rent it, now is the time to buy. If you want to buy an expensive home or a second home and your finances are at the edge, then I think you should wait.

The real estate market will improve, but we have alot of economic issues to work through.

If you're thinking about making your home purchase go ahead, just don't over extend you finances.

Don Keeton donkeeton@remax.net 402-496-3700

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

FHA Raises Mortgage Insurance Fees

RE/MAX The Producers — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 14:55:53 -0800

FHA Raises Mortgage Insurance Fees-Omaha Real Estate Experts

Home buyers looking to finance their new home backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) will see a rise in fees in April 2012.

FHA is raising its fees in an effort to try to regain some of its lost reserves that were paid due to the rising number of home owners who defaulted on their mortgages. In my readings it’s been said that FHA is raising fees to encourage home buyers to consider the private financing market (5% to 20% down Loans).

A huge benefit to FHA loans is… FHA allows for smaller down payments as low as 3.5 percent compared to traditional loans requiring larger down payments and fees. FHA also has easier credit requirements, which is why more buyers use FHA in recent years. FHA insures loans, but doesn’t issue loans. About 40 percent of all new mortgages for home purchases in 2010 were FHA-backed mortgages.

When I first started selling real estate in 1976 FHA and VA were the dominant form of financing, but when the era of creative financing came about, less loans were insured by FHA. As we know, those creative loans is what got our real estate market into trouble.

FHA will increase two fees that borrowers must pay. Starting April 1, 2012 FHA will increase its annual mortgage insurance premium for loans under $625,500,00 bringing the total cost from 1.15 percent of the loan amount to 1.25 percent. Starting June 1, 2012 larger loan premiums will see an increase of 0.35 percent of a percentage point, bringing the total premium costs up to 1.5 percent of the loan amount. This will result in an small increase in a buyers monthly payment, plus the upfront fee if added to the mortgage.

In addition, FHA will raise their upfront mortgage premium by 0.75 of a percentage point, which will now total 1.75 percent of the loan amount. For example, if a borrower purchases a $200,000.00 home borrower with a 3.5 percent down payment they would have a mortgage of $193,000.00. The buyer can expect to pay an upfront mortgage premium alone of $3,377, compared to the prior $1,930. A benefit to the buyer is they can add the mortgage insurance into the loan. Depending on the interest rate their mortgage payment would increase $9.00 to $10.00 per month.

If you’re a new homebuyer you should look for a reputable lender and become pre-approved before you begin your home search. Many professional real estate agents have 1-4 loan officers that they can recommend.

As a real estate experts in Omaha Nebraska, Don and Valerie Keeton are the Broker/Owners of RE/MAX The Producers. Should you have any questions about real estate please feel free to call them at 402-496-3700 or email donkeeton@remax.net.

The new fees will also apply to home owners who want to refinance their mortgages, the agency announced.

The new fees are expected to bring just over 1 billion in additional revenue to FHA, so they can continue to insure loans till September 2013.

Don and Valerie Keeton www.TourOmahaHouses.com

RE/MAX The Producers www.TourOmahaHomes.com

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Hire a Real Estate Expert In Omaha Nebraska

RE/MAX The Producers — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 13:41:04 -0800

You should hire Real Estate Expert?

In the early 1970’s a house could be purchased with a one page contract in many states. Today many contracts are 4 or 5 pages long with several addenda and disclosures attached. Real Estate Experts like Don and Valerie Keeton will help you navigate these documents and make sure they are air tight so you don’t end up in front of a judge with thousands in legal fees. The devil truly does hide in the details when it comes to real estate sales.

Real estate professionals build databases of buyers and agents and spend thousands of dollars putting tools in place to show off a listing. The more people that see your home the better the odds of finding the buyer that will buy. Often times if the original buyer backs out, the real estate professional will have back up buyers who are still interested and save your sale. Real Estate Experts spend countless hours networking and honing their skills in order to sell houses entrusted to them.

Real Estate Experts tell you the hard truths. They give detailed explanations of the market data. They have a well researched marketing plan that has a proven track record of finding buyers interested in your house. In short, Real Estate Experts want to make you happy by selling your house for top dollar, within a timeframe that makes sense to you. They are looking for long term business relationships and future referrals.

Do you think a real estate agent should be able to sell a house for 1 to 4 percent higher than a non real estate professional? They do it everyday. Statistics prove it. Great listing agents are experts at negotiation and pricing a home. Don and Valerie Keeton are Real Estate Experts in Omaha, Nebraska, and if you have any questions do not hesitate to give them a call at 402-496-3700 or email donkeeton@remax.net www.TourOmahaHouses.com

Don & Valerie Keeton are the Broker/Owners of RE/MAX The Producers in Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Thank You Active Rain For the Training-Don Keeton Real Estate Expert

RE/MAX The Producers — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 17:10:04 -0800

We Generated a Seller

After reading several blogs and taking some webinars through Active Rain on blogging, I decided to get more active in blogging.

A few months ago, I closed a sale that was due to my blogging skills (Chuckle) acquired by Active Rain and all the wonderful agents that write blogs on Active Rain. I wrote a blog on foreclosures, and a lady found my blog, and called me because she was facing foreclosure.

After visiting with her on the phone, I suggested she might qualify for a Short Sale. After my listing presentation we listed as a Short Sale and sold in 2 weeks and closed 4 months later. She ended very happy and relieved.

Thanks Active Rain For All You Do For Us

Don Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Omaha Real Estate Fireclosures-Revisited

RE/MAX The Producers — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 15:41:20 -0800

Omaha Nebraska Real Estate Foreclosures

A recent report from a research firm stated that Nebraska had one of the lowest rates of foreclosures in the United States in 2011.

As an active real estate professional (Don Keeton www.TourOmahaHouses.com )with RE/MAX The Producers (www.TourOmahaHomes.com ) I found this to be true in Omaha. Yes we have some foreclosures, but not that many especially when come to upper scale homes. As a real estate expert in the Omaha, Millard, Elkhorn and Papillion areas I continue to monitor real estate sales activity. The bulk of our real estate sales activity is in Douglas and Sarpy county.

Approximately one percent of Nebraska homes were in the foreclosure process by the end of 2011 which is the fourth lowest rate in the United States. The national foreclosure rate was 3.4 percent by the end of 2011 because 1.4 million homes were in the foreclosure process.

Omaha Nebraska likely has the highest percentage of foreclosures because we have the largest population and real estate inventory, but our market is reasonably strong and offers many great buys.

The Omaha real estate market is relatively strong for those selling homes that are clean, well maintained and priced accurately. If you're thinking of buying your first home, moving up, or wanting to downsize now is a great time to jump off the fence. Many of my recent clients have enjoyed the benefits of a low interest rate, and the decline of home prices. When helping sellers I encourage them not to price their home more than 3% above the Market Value.

When my wife Valerie returns home from showing homes in the $250,000.00 to $300,000.00 she always comes home with a new home she loves. Our current home is worth over $600,000.00 and we regularly talk about selling and downsizing, this just might be the year.

Foreclosures will continue to grow and prices will likely continue to drop, but not as quickly as previous years. If you have any real estate questions or wish to contact me please feel free to email donkeeton@remax.net .

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Omaha Real Estate Foreclosures by Don and Valerie Keeton

RE/MAX The Producers — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:26:24 -0800

Omaha Real Estate Foreclosures

A recent report from a research firm stated that Nebraska had one of the lowest rates of foreclosures in the United States in 2011.

As active Broker owners of RE/MAX The Producers we found this to be true in Omaha. Yes we have some foreclosures, but not that many especially when come to upper scale homes.

Omaha Nebraska is likely has the highest percentage of foreclosures but our market is reasonably strong and offers many great buys. With today' interest rates at an all time low now is a great time to purchase your new home. Whether you're buying your first home, second home, or getting ready to downsize, now is a great time.

Homes in the Omaha real estate market are selling reasonably fast if they are well maintained and priced accurately. If you're a seller or a buyer on the fence, now is a great time to jump the fence.

Don and Valerie Keeton

RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

www.TourOmahaHouses.com

402-496-3700

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Is It True That Prudential Real Estate Sold To Canadian Firm?

RE/MAX The Producers — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 10:36:00 -0800

Recently I heard that Prudential Real Estate sold to a Canadian firm Real Living. I was wondering if anyone knew if this is true and when it would go in effect.

There are lots of rumors but know details or specifics. can anyone help me out on this.

thanks

don

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Busness PLan Short and Simple For Real Estate Agents 2012

RE/MAX The Producers — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:12:53 -0800

Here's your test to survive this market. To succeed an agent must market on a regular basis, and they must make an investment of Their Time or Their Money...

The best sources of income is generated by marketing to prospects on a regular basis. Below is a really simple but effective plan with #1 being the highest return on investment.

Past Clients, Friends and Family (database) should be contacted monthly either by phone or mail. Ask for their business or a referral. This typically accounts for 75%-80% of your Total income.Calls and or handwriiten notes are the best.
Expired Listings call them and work them and ask if they are going to put their home back on the market (what ever they say divide it by 3), and then keep in touch every 2 weeks.
Cancelled Listings Same as Expired.In our market many agents cancell instead of letting them expire.
Open Houses do 2-3 per month or 2 seperate Open Houses on a sunday twice a month but never less than a $150,000 house a go where the market is active.Build a databse with names you get they will likely buy in 3-9 months. Don't expect immediate gratification.
FSBO just call and ask if you can be of help and what's their PLAN B if they don't sell themselves, Then ask if you Can you be part of Plan B.

NOTE: you should get 1 listings for every 75 to 80 calls to FSBOs, Expireds, Cancelled. 80 calls divided by 5 days = 16 calls day thats less than 2 hours a day. Be Brief Be Brilliant Be Gone.

This is a great plan all you need to do is call 2-3 hours a day and your spouse can help then mail to your data base daily by dividing the database by 20 (5 days x 4wks) and send a handwritten note.

Good Luck

Don Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

www.TheProducersRealEstate.com

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Are You Getting Ready For The Big One?

RE/MAX The Producers — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 17:08:30 -0700

Are You Getting Ready For The Big One? and Would Love To Hear Your Views.

Our office is getting ready for the next economic melt down which is likely to happen in the next two years. I believe and my agents believe that we need to be prepared,

We are excited about our new training and coaching program offered by Tom Ferry Organization/ Son of Mike Ferry.

After reading several recent books about our economy, I think our office and agent need to get way ahead of this downward trend. In Omaha Nebraska, I have estimated that approximately 300 or more agents will be pushed out of the real estate business in the next few years, and I don't want it to be me or any of our agents. In 2007 Omaha had about 2,500 agents, and today it's about 2,100 and still declining at approximately 4% year.

We need to look differently on how we generated business over the last 10 years, and go back to some of the basics, BUT INCLUDE today's New Technoogy.

Agents need to recognize the following 2 Evolutions that are impacting our business.

Technology Evolution: The need to improve your social media and web business
Customer Evolution: The decline of the baby-boomer market, and the rise of the X&Y Generation, and how they want to do business with you.

I will be Blogging On what we've learned

Thanks

Don Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Why Real Estate Agènts Shouldn't Drink-Your Morning Smile

RE/MAX The Producers — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 19:48:44 -0700

A male real estate agent walks into a lounge for a drink. He notices a female agent from a competing company, so he asks "May I Buy You a Drink".

No thank you says the female agent. Why not he asked? she says "alcohol is bad for my legs".

Oh Im sorry to here that he says, and then asked do your legs swell?

No she says... they spread.

hang in there

Don Keeton

RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

take a vacation and Recharge Your Real Esate Career

RE/MAX The Producers — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 17:16:38 -0700

wowww! i didn't realize how much i needed it. i just spent over 8 hrs in the Florida sun and read a great book to get me motiivated.

im now in my room with ipad writing this blog. read the book "The 7 Levels of Communication". i actually follow many of the points. Howver, after 35 yrs of real estate and thinking i have it figured out, im going to implement this books ideas, and i would to suggest it to you.

Best of Luck

Don Keeton REMAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska and we love referral

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Remember The Details When a House is For Sale

RE/MAX The Producers — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:01:45 -0700

Many Times Agents are in a Hurry To Set The Appointment But Remember It's All In The Details,

House For Sale

A real estate agent was driving around with a new trainee when she spotted a charming little house with a hand-lettered "For Sale" sign out front.

After briskly introducing herself and her associate to the startled occupant, the real estate agent proceeded to cruise from room to room, opening closets and cupboards, testing faucets and pointing out where, "a new light fixture here and a little paint there", would help. "Oh, and the dogs will have to be closed off outside during viewings!"

Pleased with her assertiveness, the new realtor was confident that the owner would sign an exclusive mandate.

"Ma'am," the man said, "I appreciate the home-improvement tips and all, but I think you read my sign wrong. It says, ‘Hounds for sale'"

Hang In There

Don Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska and We Love Referrals

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

How to Know Where Your Real Estate Agent Was Raised When Driving-Your Moring Smile

RE/MAX The Producers — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 16:45:39 -0700

How to Know Where Your Real Estate Agent Was Raised When Driving

One hand on wheel, one hand on horn: New York

One hand on wheel, one finger out window: Chicago

One hand on wheel, one hand on newspaper, foot solidly on accelerator: Boston

One hand on wheel, cradling cell phone,brick on accelerator:
California

With gun in lap:
L.A.

Both hands on wheel, eyes shut, both feet on brake, quivering in terror: Ohio, but driving in California.

Both hands in air, gesturing, both feet on accelerator, head turned to talk to someone in back seat:
Italy

One hand on latte, one knee on wheel, cradling cell phone, foot on brake, mind on game:
Seattle

One hand on wheel, one hand on hunting rifle, alternating between both feet being on the accelerator and both on the brake, throwing a McDonalds bag out the window:
Texas city male

One hand on wheel, one hand hanging out the window, keeping speed steadily at 70mph, driving down the center of the road unless coming around a blind curve, in which case they are on the left side of the road:
Texas country male

Have Some Fun

Don Keeton RE/MAX The producers of Omaha Nebraska and We Love Referrals
One hand constantly refocusing the rear-view mirror to show different angles of the BIG hair, one hand going between mousse, brush, and rat-tail to keep the helmet hair going, both feet on the accelerator, poodle steering the car, chrome .38 revolver with mother of pearl inlaid handle in the glove compartment:
Texas female

Both hands on steering wheel in a relaxed posture, eyes constantly checking the rear-view mirror to watch for visible emissions from their own or another's car:
Colorado

One hand on steering wheel, yelling obscenities, the other hand waving gun out the window and firing repeatedly, keeping a careful eye out for landmarks along the way so as to be able to come back and pick up any bullets that didn't hit other motorists so as not to litter:
Colorado resident on spotting a car with Texas plate.

Four wheel drive pickup truck, shotgun mounted in rear window, beer cans on floor, squirrel tails attached to antenna:
West Virginia male.

Two hands gripping wheel, blue hair barely visible above window level, driving 35 on the interstate in the left lane with the left blinker on:
Florida "seasoned citizen" driver, also known as "no-see-um"

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Are You A Redneck Real Estate Agent-Your Morning Smile

RE/MAX The Producers — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 16:16:40 -0700

You Might Be A Redneck Real Estate Agent If

* You recycle your own toilet paper

* Your mom has to shave more times a month than your dad

* You see a bill board that says "Don't do crack" and it reminds you to pull up your pants.

* You stare at a carton of orange juice because it says "concentrate."

* The nativity scene you set up in your yard at Christmas includes two pink flamingos and baby Jesus lying in a painted tire.

* Most of your teeth are on a chain around your neck.

* You hunt from your bedroom window.

* Your dad walks you to school because you're in the same grade.

* You refrigerate your food stamps.

* You use a 10 penny nail to pick your teeth after a night of road kill.

* You have ever dressed your child as a "Snot-rag" for Halloween.

* Your idea of a loaded dishwasher is getting your wife drunk.

* You and your spouse get divorced and you are still relatives.

* You go to your local ice cream store and order Copenhagen "sprinkles" on your cone.

* You know instinctively that red wine goes with opossum.

* You're always looking to find your Mother-in-Law's picture on the back of a milk carton!

* The officer that just pulled you over asks if "you have any I.D."..and you respond "About whut?"

* You take a beer to a Listing Presentation.

* You are caught roll'n your trailer down the street to jump start the heater.

* When you finish eatin' your bologna you use the rind for dental floss.

* You go to Goodwill to meet women.

* You and your friends are putting an engine in a pickup, drinking beer, and the conversation is: Which county jail has the best food!

Havin Fun in Real Estate and We Love Referrals

Don Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Hillbilly Real Estate Agent-Your Morning Smile

RE/MAX The Producers — Sat, 25 Jun 2011 16:11:34 -0700

Elevator Magic

Hillbilly Real Estate Agent

A real estate agent from the hills took his family on a vacation to New York City. One day, the father took his son into a large building. They were amazed by everything they saw, especially the elevator at one end of the lobby. The boy asked, "What's this, Paw?"

The father responded, "Son, I have never seen anything like this in my life. I don't know what it is!"

While the boy and his father were watching in wide-eyed astonishment, an old lady in a wheelchair rolled up to the moving walls and pressed a button. The walls opened and the lady rolled between them into a small room. The walls closed and the boy and his father watched small circles of lights above the walls light up.

They continued to watch the circles light up in the reverse direction. The walls opened again, and a voluptuous twenty-four-year old woman stepped out.

The father turned to his son and said, "Go get your maw!"

Have A Great Year and We Love Referrals

Don & Valerie Keeton REMAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

I have a computer Question-Your Morning Smile

RE/MAX The Producers — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 20:57:53 -0700

Is Windows a Virus

No, Windows is not a virus.

Here's what viruses do:

1.They replicate quickly - okay, Windows does that.

2.Viruses use up valuable system resources, slowing down the system as they do so - okay, Windows does that.

3.Viruses will, from time to time, trash your hard disk - okay, Windows does that too.

4.Viruses are usually carried, unknown to the user, along with valuable programs and systems. - Sigh.. Windows does that, too.

5.Viruses will occasionally make the user suspect their system is too slow (see 2) and the user will buy new hardware. - Yup, Windows does that, too.

Until now it seems Windows is a virus but there are fundamental differences: Viruses are well supported by their authors, are running on most systems, their program code is fast, compact and efficient and they tend to become more sophisticated as they mature.

So Windows is not a virus.

It's a bug

Have a GReat Year

Don Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Are You a Generous REALTOR-Your Morning Smile

RE/MAX The Producers — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 20:46:21 -0700

Generous REALTOR

A local United Way office realized that the organization had never received a donation from the town's most successful REALTOR. The person in charge of contributions called him to persuade him to contribute.

"Our research shows that out of a yearly income of at least $500,000, you give not a penny to charity. Wouldn't you like to give back to the community in some way?"

The real estate agent mulled this over for a moment and replied,

"First, did your research also show that my mother is dying after a long illness, and has medical bills that are several times her annual income?"

Embarrassed, the United Way rep mumbled, "Um ... no."

The real estate agent interrupts, "or that my brother, a disabled veteran, is blind and confined to a wheelchair?"

The stricken United Way rep began to stammer out an apology, but was interrupted again.

"or that my sister's husband died in a traffic accident," the REALTORS voice rising in indignation, "leaving her penniless with three children?!"

The humiliated United Way rep, completely beaten, said simply, "I had no idea..."

On a roll, the real estate agent cut him off once again, "So if I don't give any money to them, why should I give any to you?"

Now You Know Why We Should Give Back To Our Community In Some Way.

Don & Valerie Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska and We Love Referrrrals

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Divorces and Quit Claim Deeds In Todays Market

RE/MAX The Producers — Wed, 22 Jun 2011 13:45:38 -0700

Let me start out with a disclaimer that I'm not giving legal advice, But I would watch out what you agree to during a divorce in todays real estate market.

I went out on a listing appointment last night, and something became appearant to me that I haven't really observed before.

I met with a lady who was divorced about a year ago, and her husband Quit Claimed the property to her which gives her full-ownership and equity. Now that sounds okay, but what happens now that she found she is about $15,000.00 up-side down and can't afford the home, and she must sell. Also, the divorce decree says she must sell in 2012.

Whoo she has a problem...

I would be careful with Quit Claims today because you might be taking on the ex-spouses negative equity also. Now I might be violating my Male Union Card organization with this advice, but hear goes.

I suggested, that I believe her ex husband is still on the mortgage and a Quit Claim Deed doesn't remove him from the responsibilty of the mortgage. I suggested that she contact him and see if they can work this out, if that doesn't work contact her lawyer, and the mortgage company to find out what happens if the property is Forclosed upon. Yes I did suggest a "Short Sale" because I'm sure she meets the hardship requirements.

What's Your Thoughts?

Thanks

Don Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

How To Get Motivated To Sell More Real Estate

RE/MAX The Producers — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 16:53:18 -0700

I found the solution to getting more motivated to sell real estate. After 35 yrs in the business and being the Broker Owner, I sometimes find myself just waiting for the phone to ring instead of dialing the phone.

Well today I found the motivation... My oldest son starts college this fall (I was a late bloomer to marriage), and I just got back from paying for a dorm room, unlimited meal plan, 15 hours of tuition, parking fees, stuff for his room, and I know the books are coming, and he's done with classes by 1130am.

You should see the new Dorms at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, sign me up. I'm not sure if I just sent my kid to college or a resort designed to tempt him, to be a student forever.

I've decided that I'm going to retire, go back to college and stay at the dorm, and I'll visit my wife on holidays. I hope she doesn't read my plan.

Looking For a Dorm Room-mate

Don Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

After 10 Husbands and She Is Still a Virgin real estate agent-Your Morning Smile

RE/MAX The Producers — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 16:39:29 -0700

10 Husbands, Still a Virgin

A lawyer married a woman real estate agent who had previously divorced ten husbands.

On their wedding night, she told her new husband, "Please be gentle, I'm still a virgin."

"What?" said the puzzled groom.

"How can that be if you've been married ten times?"

"Well, Husband #1 was a sales representative: he kept telling me how great it was going to be.

Husband #2 was in software services: he was never really sure how it was supposed to function, but he said he'd look into it and get back to me.

Husband #3 was from field services: he said everything checked out diagnostically but he just couldn't get the system up.

Husband #4 was in telemarketing: even though he knew he had the order, he didn't know when he would be able to deliver.

Husband #5 was an engineer: he understood the basic process but wanted three years to research, implement, and design a new state-of-the-art method.

Husband #6 was from finance and administration: he thought he knew how, but he wasn't sure whether it was his job or not.

Husband #7 was in marketing: although he had a nice product, he was never sure how to position it.

Husband #8 was a psychologist: all he ever did was talk about it.

Husband #9 was a gynecologist: all he did was look at it.

Husband #10 was a stamp collector: all he ever did was... God! I miss him! But now that I've married you, I'm really excited!"

"Good," said the new husband, "but, why?"

"You're a lawyer. This time I know I'm gonna get screwed!"

Good Luck Out There

Don Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Mommy, where do babies come from?"- Your Morning Smile

RE/MAX The Producers — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 22:37:16 -0700

"Mommy, where do babies come from?"

"Mommy, where do babies come from?" Mommy sighs, knowing this day would come so she sits her daughter down for a long talk about the birds and the bees.

After Mommy has told her little girl all about the making of babies, the little girl is now silent for a while.

"You understand it now?" Mommy asks.

"Yes," replies her daughter.

"Do you still have any questions?"

"Yes, how about little kittens, how does that work?"

"In exactly the same way as with babies."

"Wow," the girl exclaims, "my daddy can do ANYTHING!"

Hang In There and Have A Great Year,

Don Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

The Potato Family-Your Morning Real Estate Smile

RE/MAX The Producers — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 00:06:19 -0700

You're Gonna Hate Me For This

One night, the Potato family sat down to dinner-Mother Potato and her three daughters. Midway through the meal, the eldest daughter spoke up. "Mother Potato?" she said. "I have an announcement to make."

"And what might that be?" said Mother, seeing the obvious excitement in her eldest daughter's eyes.

"Well," replied the daughter, with a proud but sheepish grin, "I'm getting married!"

The other daughters squealed with surprise as Mother Potato exclaimed, "Married! That's wonderful! And who are you marrying, Eldest daughter?"

"I'm marrying a Russet!"

"A Russet!" replied Mother Potato with pride.

"Oh, a Russet is a fine tater, a fine tater indeed!"

As the family shared in the eldest daughter's joy, the middle daughter spoke up. "Mother? I, too, have an announcement."

"And what might that be?" encouraged Mother Potato.

Not knowing quite how to begin, the middle daughter paused, then said with conviction, "I, too, am getting married!"

"You, too!" Mother Potato said with joy. "That's wonderful! Twice the good news in one evening! And who are you marrying, Middle Daughter?"

"I'm marrying an Idaho!" beamed the middle daughter.

"An Idaho!" said Mother Potato with joy. "Oh, an Idaho is a fine tater, a fine tater indeed!"

Once again, the room came alive with laughter and excited plan for the future, when the youngest Potato daughter interrupted. "Mother? Mother Potato? Um, I, too, have an announcement to make."

"Yes?" said Mother Potato with great anticipation.

"Well," began the youngest Potato daughter with the same sheepish grin as her eldest sister before her, "I hope this doesn't come as a shock to you, but I am getting married, as well!"

"Really?" said Mother Potato with sincere excitement. "All of my lovely daughters married! What wonderful news! And who, pray tell, are you marrying, Youngest Daughter?"

"I'm marrying Peter Jennings!"

"Peter Jennings?!" Mother Potato scowled suddenly. "But he's just a common tater!"

Sorry I Just Had To Do It...

Hang In There

Don Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

When Should A Seller Accept A Low Bid?

RE/MAX The Producers — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 10:20:22 -0700

When Should You Accept A Low Bid?

If you are selling your home and are motivated to get the deal done quickly, you may be tempted to accept a low bid. Whether you need to sell because you are being relocated or need to downsize to save your financial investment, there are several things you should consider before accepting a bid that is below your asking price. Here are a few tips on making that decision a bit easier.

How Motivated Are You?

The decision to accept a low bid should always be influenced by your actual financial position rather than simply wanting a quick sale. If you are in a situation in which you may lose your home due to foreclosure, accepting a low bid may be your only option. If, on the other hand, you are simply tempted to take a low bid because it is more than you originally paid for the home, you may want to reconsider. For most people, the motivation will lie somewhere in the middle, and balancing your motivation to sell and the potential financial loss of accepting a low bid should be carefully evaluated.

Avoid Becoming A Motivated Seller

The best way to sidestep having to take a low bid is by avoiding the position of being a truly motivated seller in the first place. If you are having trouble paying your mortgage, be sure you have exhausted any refinancing options that may exist. Another common reason people feel obligated to accept a low bid is that they have already purchased a new home and do not want to be in the position of paying two mortgages at once. So before purchasing a new home, first sell your existing home.

No matter your reason for considering accepting a low bid for your home, be sure you get the advice of both a REALTOR® and a financial advisor to ensure you are making the right decision.

I hope this may help you when working with your seller, and REMEMBER we Love REFERRALS.

Don & Valerie Keeton

RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Ten Tips To Successfully Market Your Home

RE/MAX The Producers — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 10:17:19 -0700

Ten Tips To Successfully Market Your Home

These 10 tips are only a few approaches to marketing a home, and I would love to hear some other strategies from you.

There is a lot more to putting your home up for sale than placing a sign on the front lawn. Selling your home quickly and getting the best price possible requires marketing your property and using the services of an experienced agent. Here are some of the strategies you can use to market your home.

Hire A Professional REALTOR®-The ability to market your home is always best served by hiring a real estate expert. They have access to resources that you as an individual do not, and their experience and knowledge are certainly worth the commission.

Photograph The Exterior Of Your Home-Good high quality photographs of the entire exterior of your home can really spark the interest of potential buyers. These photographs can be used in a variety of online and print marketing campaigns.

Photograph The Interior Of Your Home-Be sure you also have good quality photos of every major room in your home, especially the kitchen, bathrooms, and master bedroom. Also ensure that these pictures are taken in good light, and from angles that best highlight the space they are to represent.

Purchase A Virtual Tour-Virtual tours are one of the latest and most effective marketing methods in the real estate industry. Essentially a virtual tour allows potential viewers to get a 360-degree perspective of your property from the comfort of their home or office. This method is also a great way to assure that only interested buyers show up at an open house. Your agent can have these tours put on multiple listing websites as well as on their own pages.

Print Advertising-While this may seem to be a costly and outdated marketing method, there are still a considerable number of potential buyers who use print resources to find prospective properties.

Signage-Be sure you have clear, visible signage on your property that indicates it is for sale. Also, be sure your agent's contact information can be seen from a distance so that those passing by can take down their name and number.

Direct Mail-Again, this may seem like an outdated method of advertising, but it is still effective, especially if your home may appeal to an older demographic.

Open Houses-This is still the most effective way to get a sale. Be sure your home is in clean and presentable condition before hosting an open house, and ask your REALTOR® for advice about preparing your home for such an opening.

Agent Tours-These tours can give agents a better look at your home without having the general public in your house, and can assist them in matching your home with their clients. Your agent can arrange these tours.

E-marketing-Like print advertising, this is a fairly inexpensive and effective method of marketing your home that your REALTOR® can offer to you as part of their services.

Thanks and Remember We Love REFERRALS.

Don Keeton

RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700

Staging An Open House That Won't Cost You A Fortune

RE/MAX The Producers — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 10:13:53 -0700

Staging An Open House That Won't Cost You A Fortune

If you are thinking of putting your home up for sale, or already have your property listed, you may want to consider hosting an open house as part of your marketing strategy to get your home sold. An open house is still one of the most effective methods for getting a quick and profitable sale, and here are a few tips to hosting a successful open house that won't eat into your profits.

Clean And De-clutter

This is probably the simplest and most inexpensive way to make your home its best for an open house. Be sure the kitchen and bathrooms are spotless, all the beds are made, and messes tidied up. Also remove any personal items and photos that may make it more difficult for potential buyers to see themselves in your home.

Smell Is A Powerful Tool

There have been countless studies done that have shown having pleasant, homey smells present during an open house has a positive effect on potential buyers. Baking cookies or sticky buns leaves an inviting smell throughout the home, and placing flowers in the hallways, bedrooms, and bathrooms can leave a lasting sensory impression.

Clear Out Your Pets And Yourself

Though your pets and family may be the most valued possessions in your home, they are not going to sell your home. People who attend an open house are looking to see if your home is a potential fit with their lifestyle and family life. The easier you make it for them to picture themselves in your home the better. This means that if you are not around, they will feel more comfortable in being objective about the home. Also, pets do not appeal to all people, and for those who may be allergic, keeping them out of the way can make a big difference.

Make Your House A Home. Their Home!

If your home has rooms with no obvious purpose, or rooms with little to no furniture, you may want to consider renting furniture or other home décor items to give your house a homier feel. You may also want to consider such things as the amount of light particular spaces in the house get, and whether or not you are emphasizing any sellable features such as fireplaces or finished basements.

Overall, these simple and fairly inexpensive tricks can make your home a more inviting place during an open house, and will likely get you a sale more quickly and at the right price.

I hope this will be of value to you and your sellers, and REMEMBER we Love REFERRALS.

Don Keeton RE/MAX The Producers of Omaha Nebraska

We're Not Just Building The #1 Real Estate Company... We're Building Careers in Real Estate.

If you're an agent looking for a company that cares about your success, then you should Join The RE/MAX The Producers.

Don has been a top producing agent since 1976 and he enjoys Training, Coaching and Mentoring. If you're looking for a chance to run your real estate business your way this is the company for you.

Contact Don Keeton 402-496-3700