Susan's Blog

SOLD QUICKLY AT FULL PRICE...DARN IT!!!!

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 13:31:56 -0600

When the job is done right, the Sellers take the given advice, the Buyer's present themselves immediately and the deal is done. Everyone moves on with their lives with as little stress and incovenience as possible!

Via Paula Swayne Realtor - Land Park, East Sac & Curtis Park Homes Specialist (Windermere Dunnigan Realtors, Sacramento (916) 425-9715):

When setting a listing price for a home, accurate information and evaluation of that information is critical. The nuances of the neighborhood, knowledge of the comparable properties, current issues facing homeowners and buyers all come into play when setting a market value of a property. Realtorscarry on a thorough discussion with their sellers, explaining all of the factors that affect their home's value. The discussion can take the tact of why the property is worth more than the sellers thought, but more often than not, the Realtor is explaining why it isn't valued at the same amount that the sellers thought. Of course, there is an emotional tie for the sellers...fond memories and endearing features of the property that add value for the present homeowners, but are simply a perk for a buyer. So, after long deliberation, the Realtor and property owners come to agreement on an acceptable listing price.

However, does the Realtor have the same discussion on the seller's expectations after the property goes on the market? For the Realtor, an ideal situation would be the property selling in a reasonable amount of time at very close to asking price. From a seller's perspective, receiving an offer too quickly and at asking price translates into not asking enough for the property. When the property is listed, it is critical to include this conversation. If we do our evaluation correctly, and market the home properly, the property should sell quickly and close to, if not at, asking price. The sellers should not be surprised by an early offer - rather they should congratulate themselves for hiring a Realtor that was professional, knowledgeable and thorough enough to do exactly what the sellers required of them.

www.PaulaSwayne.com
CA DRE# 01188158

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

5 Easy Upgrades that Raise House Value - Coldwell Banker TV

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:47:34 -0600

Easy Peesy Tips that are cheap and cheerful too!

Via Darrin Friedman - Coldwell Banker Chevy Chase:

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

How Much Is My House Worth?

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:23:38 -0600

There's some great information here if you're wondering what your house is worth.

Via Christine Hynes (American Loan & Mitigation Specialists):

How much is My House Worth?

Are you wondering "how much is my house worth?" I have two answers for you. First, if you don't really need to move, it is worth whatever you say it is. If you think, "I wouldn't sell this house for less than $300,000," then it is worth that much to you. If you need to sell it, though, what it is worth to you is irrelevant.

Market value is the only relevant value once you are ready to sell. This is the value according to all the home buyers out there. They don't care what you spent renovating the house, or what you originally paid. Spend $50,000 adding a pool, and they may only pay $20,000 more for the home. Real estate is worth what the market says it is worth.

How Much Is My House Worth - Part One

To estimate the market value of your home, use "comparables." This is how appraisers do it. Find at least three similar homes nearby that have sold within the last two to three months (these are your comparables). Also, plan on requesting current listings as some banks are actually looking at new listings for value since the markets tend to trend to the decline in value. This information is in county records (sometimes online now), or ask a real estate agent with access to the multiple listing service. Get the sales prices, terms of sale, description of the property, and other information.

Take your first comparable, write down the selling price, and review the description item by item. Add to the sales price of the comparable for each thing it doesn't have that your subject home has, and subtract for each thing it has that your subject home does not have. This sounds confusing, but it will make sense once you try it a couple times.

For example, if your home has a second bathroom, and the comparable doesn't, add the value of the bathroom to the sales price of the comparable. You'll have to estimate what these things are worth, or ask for professional help. Sometimes it is just worth paying the price for an appraisal to get it done right, or maybe your local realtor can help.

You are rectifying differences, to see what the comparable home WOULD have sold for if it was just like yours. If a comparable sold for $242,000, with one less bathroom than your home, and a bathroom is worth $15,000 in your area (ask a real estate agent for help with these figures), then you ADD $15,000 for the bathroom it doesn't have. Subtract, say $5,000, for the paved driveway it does have, that your home doesn't have. $242,000 plus $15,000, minus $5,000 gives you a comparable sales price of $252,000.

Do these with each comparable, then average the three comparable prices. If, for example, the three comparables now have adjusted sales prices of $252,000, $262,000, and $249,000, add the three figures and divide by three. The indicated value of your home is $254,300. This is about what it should sell for.

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

Another flu floating around :0)

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:44:13 -0600

My friend went to a dinner party on the weekend, where she and other guests enjoyed copious amounts of alcohol. She awoke Sunday morning not feeling well, with what could be described as flu-like symptoms; headache, nausea, chills, sore eyes, etc.

From the results of some initial testing, she has unfortunately tested positive for what experts are now calling "Wine Flu".

This debilitating condition is very serious - and it appears this is not an isolated case.

Reports are flooding in from all around the country of others diagnosed with Wine Flu. To anyone that starts to exhibit the aforementioned tell-tale signs, experts are recommending a cup of tea and a bit of a lie down.

However, should your condition worsen, you should immediately hire a DVD and take some Tylonal (it seems to be one of few drugs available that has been proven to help combat this unusual type of flu).

Others are reporting a McDonald's or a Full English Breakfast can also help in some cases. If not, then further application of the original liquid, in similar quantities to the original dose, has been shown to do the trick.

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly in Gananoque Ontario

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:55:00 -0500

~ Gananoque, Ontario

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly . . .

It's not the worst house you'll see but it does have the best looking price! Gas furnace & Central Air/04, Windows & Roof/ 97. 3 bedrooms, 1 new bathroom, with a whirlpool tub. TLC could result in a big payoff. Only $98,000.00 Call Susan Emo today for your personal showing!

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

Where can you get the Perfect EyeTini? Gananoque!!

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:09:43 -0500

~ Gananoque, Ontario

EyeTinis are the perfect beginning to your Halloween Menu. You can have them with Gin if you like but Emo's Eating Emporium prefer Vodka with their eyeballs! For children, you can use 7up or Sprite too.

Materials:

1 radish, best if root is still attached
1 pimiento stuffed green olive
Vegetable peeler or small, sharp knife

Peel radish, leaving thin streaks of red skin on to represent blood vessels. Using the tip of the vegetable peeler or knife, carefully scoop out a small hole in each radish, roughly the size of an olive. Stuff a green olive, pimiento side out, in each hole. Freeze overnight if desired.

Make martinis or other drinks, using your favorite recipe. For children, 7up or Sprite works well. Pop a radish or two into each glass and watch the faces of your guests - priceless!

FOR THE FULL MENU CHECK MY BLOG

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

FLOATING EYEBALLS ANYONE?

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 10:22:41 -0500

Floating Eyeballs make a great dessert. Of course, you have begun your meal with EyeTinis which have a different kind of eyeball in it. This dessert is wonderful especially if you like cheesecake :0) Would you like the recipe?

3 oz lemon gelatin
1 cup hot water
1/2 cup miniature marshmallows
1 cup pineapple juice
8 oz cream cheese

Dissolve lemon gelatin in 1 cup water, add marshmallows and stir to melt. Remove from heat. Add pineapple juice and cream cheese. Beat until well blended. Cool slightly.

If you have round ice cube trays, spary them with non-stick cooking spray first, then pour the mixture in the molds and leave to set in the fridge.

Otherwise pour into a deep dish and chill until thickened or firm enough to use a melonballer to scoop full balls of the mixture and set aside for decoration.

To decorate, use liquid food coloring and an artists paintbrush and get creative. You could use black food coloring for the pupils but I like the gel icing that comes in a little tube - makes the pupils shiny.

HAVE FUN !

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

FINGERS OF PUS, YET STILL WITH THAT FRESH CRUNCH!

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 10:12:05 -0500

There is nothing worse than biting into a nice Finger of Pus and finding it limp and stale! But these delectable fingers still have that fresh crunch when you sink your teeth into them.

See receipe below:

What you'll need is slices of ham that you roll around crisp gerkins that you've sliced in half, lengthwise. You next spread cream cheese all over the outside of the ham. Cover the cream cheese with salsa from end to end and then roll in grated Parmesan. Cut black olives into the fingernail shape and press onto one end of the 'finger' and cover the other end in salsa, to look like a fresh chopped finger! Yum

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

EMO'S EATING EMPORIUM'S HALLOWED EXTRAVAGANZA MENU

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 09:46:55 -0500

~ Gananoque, Ontario

Emo's Eating Emporium is proud to present their diabolical menu for Halloween night. Dare to be different! Recipes and photos to follow:

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

Live like you are dying and list like you're bank owned.

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 08:15:04 -0500

I loved the song, but I love the advice more! Thanks Steve for a great post!

Via Steve Loynd, Alpine Lakes Real Estate Inc., Loon Mt, NH.:

Live like you are dying, the lyrics of this Tim McGraw song speaks volumes to many different people.

As I listened to what this song is advocating, It occurred to me many sellers should heed this lesson. They put a price on a property that they think "someday" it may sell for. If moving on with your life requires the sale of a property you own...there is not an infinite amount of time to accomplish this sale. Life is Short.

What got me thinking about this, is I have several short sales a bank owned sale and a probate property that are pending. With these sales the process to close will be longer (in some cases much longer) than the time it took to find a buyer. The price was right, the buyers where motivated and the sellers showed their willingness to sell, by pricing the property to sell.

List like the market is dying. Life is Short.

#1 If you are going to buy after this sale...the sooner you sell the sooner you are in the buyers shoes (you are merely trading equity...if you buy a replacement property).

#2 Moving on is far less painful than hanging on (how many months of mortgages, taxes, insurance utilities will be spend holding...after you admit you want to sell).

#3 You may be better off renting for a time (dropping the major maintenance costs and healing your credit may put you in a better place in the long run than draining your savings, while waiting to score on unrealistic re-sales).

My Bucket list doesn't include living in a home I can't afford...and waiting for someone to over pay me for the same privileges. Life is Short.

                                                                                                                      Steve Loynd, White Mountain New Hampshire real Estate Expert

   steve@alpinelakes.com toll free 800-926-5653 /cell 603-381-7898

    MLS search and Realtor web site: www.alpinelakes.com

    My outside Blog: www.steveswhitemountainblog.com

   Lincoln NH & Local interest site: www.localism.com/nh/lincoln

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

Spiced Couscous with Raisins and Almonds

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 22:33:02 -0500

Spiced Couscous with Raisins and Almonds

(goes great with Moroccan Chicken with Green Olives and Lemon)

2 cups hot water
3/4 cup raisins
4 tablespoons ( 1/2 stick) butter, divided
3 tablespoons dry white wine
1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
1 cup couscous
1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
3/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Combine 2 cups hot water and raisins in small bowl. Soak raisins until softened, about 15 minutes. Drain water into large saucepan; reserve raisins. Add 2 tablespoons butter, wine, and saffron to pan; bring to boil. Stir in couscous. Cover, remove from heat, and let stand until liquid is absorbed, about 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter in medium skillet over medium-low heat. Add onion; cover and cook until translucent and tender, stirring occasionally, about 8 minutes. Mix onion, reserved raisins, almonds, and cinnamon into couscous. Season to taste with salt and pepper and serve.

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

Sat Night Dinner is Moroccan Chicken with Green Olives and Lemon

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 22:22:06 -0500

Moroccan Chicken with Green Olives and Lemon

2 lemons
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, halved, thinly sliced
2 garlic cloves, pressed
1 tablespoon paprika
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
2 cups chicken broth
8 pieces chicken, skin removed (or boneless chicken breasts if you prefer)
1/2 cup green olives

Cut 1 lemon into 8 wedges. Squeeze enough juice from second lemon to measure 2 tablespoons; set wedges and juice aside. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and sprinkle with salt and pepper; sauté until golden brown, about 8 minutes. Add next 5 ingredients; stir 1 minute. Add broth; bring to boil. Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper; add to skillet. Add lemon wedges. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until chicken is cooked through, turning occasionally, 25 to 30 minutes. Transfer chicken to platter. Add olives and 2 tablespoons lemon juice to skillet. Increase heat to high; boil uncovered to thicken slightly, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Pour over chicken.

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

What kind of day is it for you?

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 21:34:58 -0500

I enjoyed this and I hope you will too!

Via Laura Jefferson (Acquire Real Estate):

I received this from a friend of mine today and thought it was worth sharing.

A blind boy sat on the steps of a building with a hat by his feet. He held up a sign which said: "I am blind, please help." There were only a few coins in the hat.

A man was walking by. He took a few coins from his pocket and dropped them into the hat. He then took the sign, turned it around, and wrote some words. He put the sign back so that everyone who walked by would see the new words.

Soon the hat began to fill up. A lot more people were giving money to the blind boy. That afternoon the man who had changed the sign came to see how things were. The boy recognized his footsteps and asked, "Were you the one who changed my sign this morning? What did you write?"

The man said, "I only wrote the truth. I said what you said but in a different way." I wrote: "Today is a beautiful day but I cannot see it."

Both signs told people that the boy was blind. But the first sign simply said the boy was blind. The second sign told people that they were so lucky that they were not blind. Should we be surprised that the second sign was more effective?

Moral of the Story: Be thankful for what you have. Be creative. Be innovative. Think differently and positively.

When life gives you a 100 reasons to cry, show life that you have 1000 reasons to smile Face your past without regret. Handle your present with confidence. Prepare for the future without fear. Keep the faith and drop the fear.

Copyright © 2009 by Laura Jefferson, Acquire Real Estate

I specialize in Buying and Selling Lexington South Carolina Real Estate in and around the Midlands of South Carolina. If you are thinking about buying or selling your home in Lexington, Lake Murray, Gilbert, Irmo, West Columbia, Columbia, Red bank, Pelion, Gaston, Chapin, Prosperity, Saluda, Newberry or other surrounding areas of South Carolina, and more importantly, want to work with the local area expert, please contact me at your earliest convenience.

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

GANANOQUE HAS A NEW FAMILY MOVING IN ACROSS THE STREET FROM ME!

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:51:22 -0500

Gananoque, Ontario

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

I have a new neighbour moving in across the street from me because my listing at 159 Pine St, Gananoque went FIRM today! Yay!!

Gananoque will welcome my Buyer into town from out of province and she'll be here the middle of November. She is going to LOVE Christmas on Pine St. We have the prettiest street in town and it gets decorated so beautifully. There are always block parties and everyone is so friendly especially the friendliest neighbourhood Realtor - SUSAN EMO!!!!

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

Stage the exterior for under $50

Sat, 17 Oct 2009 14:57:44 -0500

Something worth considering Sellers!!!

Via Jennifer Grant (Low Country Home Staging & Interior Design):

Anybody can dress up an entrance or yard by simple adding a seasonal display outside. This will make the home seem warm and inviting. Don't forget those potential home buyers are already forming opinions as they are pulling up to the house. Having an inviting display outside of the home can give the potential home buyer the "warm fuzzy" feeling right from the start. Setting the tone when showing a home starts the entire emotional attachment. So when you are staging a home, don't forget about the outside too!

This is a quick and easy display that you can duplicate under $50. Enjoy~

Thanks for visiting my site! Please visit often for upcoming homestaging tips and creative ideas!

Jennifer Grant
843-457-2167
Pawleys Island, South Carolina
Low Country Home Staging & Interior Design
Website:http://www.lowcountryhomestaging.com
Email:jennifer@lowcountryhomestaging.com

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

VODKA FOR CHRISTMAS !

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 13:53:24 -0500

I have spent the morning creating and putting away bottles of Spiced Vodka in a dark cupboard to make them perfect for Christmas, gifts for friends and of course for myself!! If you've never had it before, it is well worth the tiny effort it requires.

makes 500 ml

1 tsp whole coriander seeds
3 cardamom pods, bruised
1/2 tsp cumin seed
1 cinnamon stick
1 dried chilli
500 ml vodka

Put all ingred. into sterilized bottle, seal and put it away to steep in a cool, dark cupboard or anywhere away from the light.

To quote Nigella, the original creator of this masterpiece: It is suggested that this be knocked back in shots, used to make a festively spiced martini or with the addition of some tomato/clamato juice, a sprinkle of salt and a dash of Worcestershire sauce, a particularly memorable Christmassy Bloody Mary!

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

Reduce Your Heating Costs

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 15:39:50 -0500

Great tips for passing on to everyone you know!

Via Jana Caudill (Keller Williams Realty Leaders):

The chill is in the air! As you can tell by walking outside, fall has arrived in Northwest Indiana. Falling temperatures usually means higher utility bills. The Jana Caudill Team would like to share with you some inexpensive energy saving tips to keep your heating bills in check.

Take Advantage of Heat from the Sun. Open curtains on your south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home, and close them at night to reduce the chill you may feel from cold windows.

Cover Drafty Windows. Use a heavy-duty, clear plastic sheet on a frame or tape clear plastic film to the inside of your window frames during the cold winter months. Make sure the plastic is sealed tightly to the frame to help reduce infiltration.

Adjust the Temperature. When you are home and awake, set your thermostat as low as is comfortable. When you are asleep or out of the house, turn your thermostat back 10°-15° for eight hours and save around 10% a year on your heating and cooling bills. A programmable thermostat can make it easy to set back your temperature.

Find and Seal Leaks. Seal the air leaks around utility cut-throughs for pipes ("plumbing penetrations"), gaps around chimneys and recessed lights in insulated ceilings, and unfinished spaces behind cupboards and closets. Add caulk or weatherstripping to seal air leaks around leaky doors and windows.

Lower Your Water Heating Costs. Water heating can account for 14%-25% of the energy consumed in your home. Turn down the temperature of your water heater to the warm setting (120°F). You'll not only save energy, you'll avoid scalding your hands.

Lower Your Holiday Lighting Costs. Use light-emitting diode-or "LED"-holiday light strings to reduce the cost of decorating your home for the winter holidays.

The Jana Caudill Team would love to help you find or sell your home in Northwest Indiana. Contact us today for all your real estate needs.

*Reprinted from the US Department of Energy

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

Why'd You Hire THAT Guy?

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 14:08:46 -0500

I just HAD to send this out to more people. Funny as it is, it is sad because it is so true! Thanks for sharing it Kathleen!

Via JCKC Realty, Broker, SRES, REALTOR®:

Here's a funny list of all of the WRONG reasons consumers choose their agent to represent them. I always hear these stories and wonder...Why'd you hire THAT guy???

He's my mother's boyfriend's brother, he has to represent me.

She's a bartender at the local hot spot. Plus, she's hot!

We work together 6 days a week at the car lot. He has a real estate license for the nights and weekends.

He has 30 listings, he must be "the best".

She has a website, must know what she's doing.

Their office is located 1/2 a mile from my house.

We went to grade school together.

He drives a fancy car!

She's been in real estate since the age of the dinosaurs!

AND THE 10TH MOST HORRIBLE REASON WHY A CONSUMER WOULD CHOOSE THEIR AGENT:

    10. He bid the HIGHEST price to list my house for sale & has the LOWEST commission!

When you are looking for a real estate professional to represent you, who you know DOES matter, but it's not the only reason why you should choose the right one for you. Make sure you find someone that is professional, has a good web presence, has experience with a real track record of sales and someone that is going to treat you right. If you want to be updated with feedback and market reports, make that known. Don't assume that we are all the same and will all treat your home sale or purchase the same. There are thousands or real estate agents in each market, but they're not all there for the same reasons. You need to be #1 in the transaction. Sometimes friends and family are the ones you can trust the most, other times they are the ones that are going to give you the most casual service because they may feel too laid back working with someone they've known forever. Make sure you will be priority and treated just like each of their other clients. Check their references and ask for testimonials to make sure you're making the right choice.   It pays to do your research the first time around and to interview a few for the job. It could cost you thousands of dollars hiring someone with weak negotiating skills or someone that's going to list your home way above market value. Figure out the right reasons to hire THAT guy!



Kathleen Cooper
JCKC Realty
135 Main Street
Sturbridge, MA 01566
508-523-8632

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

So there's a Bear, a Lion and a Pig .. .

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 10:55:58 -0500

A bear, a lion and a pig meet.

Bear says: "if I roar in the forest, the entire forest is shivering with fear."

Lion says: "if I roar in the jungle, the entire jungle is afraid of me."

Pig says: "big deal.... I only have to cough, and the entire planet shites itself."

(did I mention the pig was Irish?)

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

Gananoque is getting a facelift - YAY!

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 22:20:40 -0500

Gananoque Kick-Starts Downtown Revitalization -

Gananoque is revitalizing its downtown core to promote and support economic development and create jobs. Through the Rural Economic Development Program, Ontario is helping Gananoque to:

enhance landscaping and signage in the downtown core
Market special events promoting downtown Gananoque
Encourage tourists and residents to stop and shop in the community
Attract new businesses
Create opportunities for new jobs

"This project will create jobs and help beautify the streetscape in Gananoque's downtown core, bringing new investment and retail opportunities to the town. Renewing interest in the downtown core will increase traffic and customers for the local businesses." - Leona Dombrowsky
Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

"We are thrilled to welcome the province as a partner in helping to revitalize Gananoque's historical downtown area. With this support, we move even closer to our goal of attracting and supporting new businesses, by improving and marketing our downtown commercial area."

- James E. Garrah
Mayor of the Town of Gananoque

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

An Edible Potato Rose Garnish

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:30:16 -0500

An edible rose garnished our plates this weekend. A Potato Rose. I thinly sliced potatoes and parboiled them for a minute and then drained them and dried them with paper towel.

You then tightly roll the slices together from a long slightly overlapped row, securing with a toothpick or two. Slice the bottom off one end to allow it to stand upright. Brush with melted butter and roast in a slow oven for 45 minutes.

Or, like we did this weekend, deep fry them til crispy and sprinkle with salt. They turn out a bit darker this way but they're very tasty. When roasted, you'll want to serve them immediately. I've been told they keep for a day in a covered container but I have never had any luck with that - they seem to blacken on me within a few hours.

When they're deep fried, they become Potato crisp/chip Roses - YUMM

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

Happy Canadian Thanksgiving!

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 14:45:30 -0500

Gananoque, Ontario

The fall foliage is fantastic this year and we decided to bring some of it into the house to decorate the dining room for Thanksgiving. We did a huge arrangement on the corner fireplace.

We did another on the side table and then still one more on the buffet we built to insert in the window seat on those holidays where the table gets too full for food :0)

Of course, Thanksgiving wouldn't be Thanksgiving without the turkey :0)

We celebrated yesterday to make it more convenient for out of town family members. This year we had only 10 for dinner so we have two fridges filled with leftovers. Should make for a good week of nibbling on turkey and ham made into cornbread sandwiches.

To all my fellow Canadians, Gobble Gobble!

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

GORGEOUS GANANOQUE ONTARIO HOME FOR SALE - $335,000.

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 15:56:12 -0500

LOCATION - LOCATION - LOCATION - 180 GARFIELD ST, GANANOQUE, ONTARIO

Fine homes and finer people can be found in this prestigious cul-de-sac
development in Rocky Acres, Gananoque, Ontario.

If it's elegance you're after, then try this on for sighs:
Only 4 years young with all the bells and whistles. ICF foundation,
custom kitchen, hardwood & ceramic floors, Central Air, gorgeous gas fire in HUGE rec room.

Be nimble-be quick-or be sorry - call for your showing today!

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

When Is The Best Time to Sell?

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:37:06 -0500

Paul in Orleans is right on the money with this post:

Via Paul Rushforth (The Paul Rushforth Team - Keller Williams Ottawa Realty):

This has always been one of the most talked about subjects as long as houses have been standing.

What season, what market, what time is the best time to sell your biggest asset. The consumers will tell you, “that is an easy one- the spring of course”. Is the spring the best time to sell your home, most would say yes. I will raise a few arguments to go against that theory.

I have always been able to see things that others can’t and I pride myself on thinking outside the box and different from the average realtor or consumer. I will agree that spring is a great time to sell, people are starting to look for homes for the end of the school year and people look to change locations as their personal situations change. The spring is definitely the most active market, the most amount of buyers are looking for homes and the most amount of homes will hit the market to sell. Great, a lot of active buyers and a lot of inspired sellers. Do you see the problem starting to rise. The more sellers on the market, the more the competition on the market, therefore the tighter your price has to be to sell before the others. In contrast putting your home on the market in fall or even winter means less buyers, yet less competition amongst sellers. See the advantage, the less competition on the market, the better chance you have to cheat a little on price. I have seen over the years better results for sellers in fall markets than in spring markets.

Would you agree that anyone looking for a home in November and December would be a very serious buyer. Wouldn’t it be nice if you were the only home in your price range on the market at the time these buyers were looking to buy. My point is don’t get caught up in market timing, you either sell when there are lots of buyers but lots of competition on the market, or you sell when there are less buyers, but less competition on the market.The right advice and the right marketing plan will always ensure your home is sold anytime of the year. Happy selling!

Find Out More About Selling Your HOme! Click HERE

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

Home Staging Cheat Sheet

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 18:59:35 -0500

I think this is a great list of what to do BEFORE you list your house for sale:

Via Michelle Davis (Keller Williams Main Line Realty):

Here's How:

Disassociate Yourself With Your Home.

Say to yourself, "This is not my home; it is a house -- a product to be sold much like a box of cereal on the grocery store shelf.

Make the mental decision to "let go" of your emotions and focus on the fact that soon this house will no longer be yours.

Picture yourself handing over the keys and envelopes containing appliance warranties to the new owners!

Say goodbye to every room.

Don't look backwards -- look toward the future.

De-Personalize.
Pack up those personal photographs and family heirlooms. Buyers can't see past personal artifacts, and you don't want them to be distracted. You want buyers to imagine their own photos on the walls, and they can't do that if yours are there! You don't want to make any buyer ask, "I wonder what kind of people live in this home?" You want buyers to say, "I can see myself living here."

De-Clutter!
People collect an amazing quantity of junk. Consider this: if you haven't used it in over a year, you probably don't need it.

If you don't need it, why not donate it or throw it away?

Remove all books from bookcases.

Pack up those knickknacks.

Clean off everything on kitchen counters.

Put essential items used daily in a small box that can be stored in a closet when not in use.

Think of this process as a head-start on the packing you will eventually need to do anyway.

Rearrange Bedroom Closets and Kitchen Cabinets.
Buyers love to snoop and will open closet and cabinet doors. Think of the message it sends if items fall out! Now imagine what a buyer believes about you if she sees everything organized. It says you probably take good care of the rest of the house as well. This means:

line up spice jars.

Neatly stack dishes.

Turn coffee cup handles facing the same way.

Hang shirts together, buttoned and facing the same direction.

Line up shoes.

Rent a Storage Unit.
Almost every home shows better with less furniture. Remove pieces of furniture that block or hamper paths and walkways and put them in storage. Since your bookcases are now empty, store them. Remove extra leaves from your dining room table to make the room appear larger. Leave just enough furniture in each room to showcase the room's purpose and plenty of room to move around. You don't want buyers scratching their heads and saying, "What is this room used for?"

Remove/Replace Favorite Items.
If you want to take window coverings, built-in appliances or fixtures with you, remove them now. If the chandelier in the dining room once belonged to your great grandmother, take it down. If a buyer never sees it, she won't want it. Once you tell a buyer she can't have an item, she will covet it, and it could blow your deal. Pack those items and replace them, if necessary.

Make Minor Repairs.

Replace cracked floor or counter tiles.

Patch holes in walls.

Fix leaky faucets.

Fix doors that don't close properly and kitchen drawers that jam.

Consider painting your walls neutral colors, especially if you have grown accustomed to purple or pink walls.
(Don't give buyers any reason to remember your home as "the house with the orange bathroom.")

Replace burned-out light bulbs.

If you've considered replacing a worn bedspread, do so now!

Make the House Sparkle!

Wash windows inside and out.

Rent a pressure washer and spray down sidewalks and exterior.

Clean out cobwebs.

Re-caulk tubs, showers and sinks.

Polish chrome faucets and mirrors.

Clean out the refrigerator.

Vacuum daily.

Wax floors.

Dust furniture, ceiling fan blades and light fixtures.

Bleach dingy grout.

Replace worn rugs.

Hang up fresh towels.

Bathroom towels look great fastened with ribbon and bows.

Clean and air out any musty smelling areas. Odors are a no-no.

Scrutinize.

Go outside and open your front door. Stand there. Do you want to go inside? Does the house welcome you?

Linger in the doorway of every single room and imagine how your house will look to a buyer.

Examine carefully how furniture is arranged and move pieces around until it makes sense.

Make sure window coverings hang level.

Tune in to the room's statement and its emotional pull. Does it have impact and pizzazz?

Does it look like nobody lives in this house? You're almost finished.

Check Curb Appeal.
If a buyer won't get out of her agent's car because she doesn't like the exterior of your home, you'll never get her inside.

Keep the sidewalks cleared.

Mow the lawn.

Paint faded window trim.

Plant yellow flowers or group flower pots together. Yellow evokes a buying emotion. Marigolds are inexpensive.

Trim your bushes.

Make sure visitors can clearly read your house number.

Please call me if you have any questions about Real Estate in the Main Line and Philadelphia areas.

Michelle Davis

Keller Williams Main Line Realty

610-662-3982 cell

610-520-0100 office

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
RE/MAX Riverview Realty Ltd. Brokerage*
Gananoque, Ontario
613-382-2211

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Gananoque, Kingston, 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated

Susan's Blog

SOLD QUICKLY AT FULL PRICE...DARN IT!!!!

5 Easy Upgrades that Raise House Value - Coldwell Banker TV

How Much Is My House Worth?

Another flu floating around :0)

The Good, The Bad and The Ugly in Gananoque Ontario

Where can you get the Perfect EyeTini? Gananoque!!

FLOATING EYEBALLS ANYONE?

FINGERS OF PUS, YET STILL WITH THAT FRESH CRUNCH!

EMO'S EATING EMPORIUM'S HALLOWED EXTRAVAGANZA MENU

Live like you are dying and list like you're bank owned.

Spiced Couscous with Raisins and Almonds

Sat Night Dinner is Moroccan Chicken with Green Olives and Lemon

What kind of day is it for you?

GANANOQUE HAS A NEW FAMILY MOVING IN ACROSS THE STREET FROM ME!

Stage the exterior for under $50

VODKA FOR CHRISTMAS !

Reduce Your Heating Costs

Why'd You Hire THAT Guy?

So there's a Bear, a Lion and a Pig .. .

Gananoque is getting a facelift - YAY!

Gananoque Kick-Starts Downtown Revitalization -

Gananoque is revitalizing its downtown core to promote and support economic development and create jobs. Through the Rural Economic Development Program, Ontario is helping Gananoque to:

enhance landscaping and signage in the downtown core

Market special events promoting downtown Gananoque

Encourage tourists and residents to stop and shop in the community

Attract new businesses

Create opportunities for new jobs

"We are thrilled to welcome the province as a partner in helping to revitalize Gananoque's historical downtown area. With this support, we move even closer to our goal of attracting and supporting new businesses, by improving and marketing our downtown commercial area."

- James E. GarrahMayor of the Town of Gananoque

An Edible Potato Rose Garnish

Happy Canadian Thanksgiving!

GORGEOUS GANANOQUE ONTARIO HOME FOR SALE - $335,000.

When Is The Best Time to Sell?

Home Staging Cheat Sheet

- James E. Garrah
Mayor of the Town of Gananoque