Evelyn's Blog

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston Gets New Shoes at Woldruff's Footwear & Apparel, Goshen, Indiana

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 07:08:23 -0600

Woldruff's Footwear and Apparel in Goshen Indiana has it going on...Let me back up a bit...I was still wearing my summer Birk's, needing to buy a pair of shoes and to busy in Real Estate to slow down long enough to get them. Did someone say Real Estate is slow? I'll bet they aren't in the home selling business! This Elkhart REALTOR is swamped...Now back to my story:

I had an appointment in New Paris and was more than an hour early so I thought, you know Evelyn, you have seen that television commercial for a special shoe store in Goshen that has a wide variety of Brands and Sizes to fit every foot (See Woldruff's, your commercial is working) and I was almost to Downtown, so I slowed down and started looking for the store. I found it in the block between Pike Street and Washington, and there was a parking space right in front with my name on it, so I pulled in.

I opened the door and, there was action everywhere. People were walking in new shoes, heads down, checking out the shoes they had on, I heard a couple of shopper's giggling about a joke only they were aware of, and a Husband & Wife team talking to the Shoe Fitter about how much the Wife likes to spend his money in the shoe store. Immediately I was taken back to my childhood and a Buster Brown Shoe Store in Baldwin Park California, and the week before school started. Buying new shoes was a big deal. And Buster Brown Shoe's were the biggest part of the big deal. I'm not sure, but I think I must have smiled from ear to ear right then. Such a nice memory!

I looked for a place to sit and wait my turn and hadn't found one before I was approached by Dove Leinbach, who offered her services. We spoke for a few minutes about what I was looking for, I sat down and waited and when she returned she was carrying 6 boxes of shoes for my selection. The first pair I tried on were Merrell's and they felt like they were made for my feet alone. Very comfortable! I obediently tried on the other shoes and went back to the Merrells. I bought them and asked if the Manager was there. Scott Woldruff was with a Patron so Dove offered me coffee and a now vacant chair to wait. Now, this coffee wasn't just coffee. It was Barney's Coffee. Delicious! Soon Scott came over to see how he can help me and I asked if I could blog online about his store. So here we are. This is my first experience with Woldruff's Footwear and Apparel. But it won't be my last.

Even in this busy world that we live in, here is a Family Owned Business, thriving with competition like Wal-Mart, and succeeding. Hooray for Goshen's Pride and Joy of a shoe store! Hooray for Scott Woldruff who does business the old fashioned way, taking care of the needs of one customer at a time, and doing a very good job of it...

Evelyn Johnston is an Associate Broker with Prudential One Realty who takes pride also in serving one Client at a time. If you need a pair of shoes, Call Woldruff's Footwear and Apparel at 574-534-5088, if you have Real Estate questions, call Evelyn at 574-304-7148.

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston 23403 Crest Court, Short Sale House For Sale, 3 Bedroom, 1 Bath

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 20:09:54 -0600

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty listed this cute house for sale on a corner lot in Homeland Subdivision, and has had multiple showings and multiple offers. Could the housing market be on the upswing or does the short sale house for sale have appeal because it is a great opportunity to own a home at a great price? So long as you are willing to wait for the complex short sale process, you really can make a great deal!

Not familiar with a Short Sale? A Short Sale is defined as the sale of a home for less than the current Mortgage owed on the property. Not always a Pre-Foreclosure, sometimes a Short Sale is due to the market conditions where the house for sale is located. Such as in a poor economy.

If you seek information about Short Sales, Pre-Foreclosures in the Elkhart County area, call a Certified Short Sale Specialist like Evelyn Johnston at 574-304-7148.

55954 River Shore Estates, Short Sale, 3/4 Bedroom, 3.5 Bath Home For Sale

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:54:12 -0600

River Shore Subdivision is located on CR 16 half way between SR 19 and Ash Road, in Baugo Township. This large home for sale features 3/4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths and a 3+ car garage. This short sale property is in the Jimtown School District and convenient to the US 20 Bypass.

Boating, fishing and swimming in your in ground pool (now closed for the winter) will be at your pleasure, when you live in this home! You can enjoy an afternoon sitting on the multi-level deck and watch the meandering of the Lower St Joe River, grill out, play in the pool or just relax. The choice will be yours!

Inside the main part of the home you will be awash in natural sunlight during the day from the wall of windows and the two skylights facing the back of the property. Nice and cheerfull!

An upper loft is great for an office, play room or study hall. Plenty of storage in the double closets, along with two bathrooms and a full bath.

This home qualifies for the First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit of up to $8,000. What would you do with the extra cash just before the Holidays? Do you qualify? Call your local Elkhart County Real Estate Expert and Certified Short Sale Specialist Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty at 574-304-7148 for your appointment to see this lovely home! Call now, while it is on your mind...

South Bend Indiana Auction No Reserves 1626 Caroline Street Sunday November 22, 2009

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 22:44:30 -0600

1626 Caroline Street in South Bend will be auctioned by Scheerer McCulloch Auctioneers, with no reserves at 11:00 am on Sunday November 22, 2009;

912 square feet, 1 story frame bungalow on a partial basement with a porch. Carpeted, 2 bedroom, 1 bath plus full steps to floored attic. Partial basement with gas forced furnace, waterheater and hook ups for washer and dryer. 1 x 14 deck in fenced back yard with 8 x 10 storage shed. Built in 1926, lot size is 45 x 154, 2007 taxes $1306.73. Zoned residential. Click Here to see photos of the property. Scroll down to November 22, 2009.

For more information contact David Meyers at Scheerer McCulloch Auctioneers at 260-580-3400. Final Open House will be held Tuesday November 17th, 2009 from 4 to 6 pm.

South Bend Indiana Auction No Reserves 1622 Caroline Street Sunday November 22, 2009

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 22:31:10 -0600

1622 Caroline Street in South Bend will be auctioned by Scheerer McCulloch Auctioneers, with no reserves at 11:00 am on Sunday November 22, 2009;

This is a Residential Home with 1620 sf, 1. story frame home on full basement with 2 car detached garage, hardwood floors, 3 season porch, 3 bedrooms, full bath, partial finished basement plus 2nd full bath. Gas forced heat, deck to fenced triple lot with nice shade trees and fenced yard. Built in 1924. Lot size is 138 x 150, 2007 taxes $2277.22, zoned residential.

Contact David Meyers at 260-580-3400 with any quesitons. Final Open House will be held Tuesday November 17, 2009 from 4 to 6 pm. Photos of the property can be seen here. Scroll down to November 22, 2009.

South Bend Indiana Auction No Reserves Richey's Imported Car Care Buildings 1610, 12, 14 Lincolnway East

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 22:22:08 -0600

Richey's Imported Car Care, Inc.Buildings located at 1610, 1612, 1614 Lincolnway East in South Bend will be auctioned on Sunday November 22, 2009 at 11 am. No Reserves, cash is king! Photos can be seen here, then scroll down to November 22, 2009.

1610 Lincolnway East is 1888 SF 2 story wood frame duplex with hardwood floors, natural woodwork, porch, sunroom, and full basement build in 1908. 900 sf 3 car detached garage built in 1972. Lot size is 42 x 150. 2007 taxes $1173.56. Zoned Residential

1612-14 Lincolnway East: 2262 sf cement block building with office, bathroom, service counter, parts bins, waiting room, in floor hydraulic car lift, 2 overhead doors, 4-5 bays, and a customer entrance door. Built in 1965. Lot size is 50 x 150. 2007 taxes 1377.49 zoned commercial.

For more information call David Meyers with Scheerer McCulloch Auctioneers at 260-580-3400.

South Bend Indiana Auction No Reserves business, 2 Homes, Reception Hall and Real Estate Plus Personal Property

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 22:12:50 -0600

Four Tracts will be auctioned off with no reserves in South Bend, Indiana on Sunday November 22, 2009. The properties located at 1612 Lincolnway East, 1622 Caroline, 1626 Caroline and 1617-21 Eldora, all in South Bend will be sold at auction, with no reserves. The terms on Real Estates: Buyer brokers welcome (contact auctioneer for details). $5,000 (per tract) down day of auction ($20,000 down for all tracts), balance on closing. Buyer to pay winning accepted bid price plus 2% buyers premium (2% of winning bid price) due at closing. Property sold absolute, no reserves, sells regardless of price. Property sold as-is, where-is. Property sold for cash. (The sale of this property may be financed, however the sale of this property is not contingent to financing approval). The information stated in this postis the opinion of Scheerer mcCulloch Auctioneers, Inc. and its agents, however, the decision to bid on the real estate property is entirely up to the individual bidders based on their own individual inspections and opinions. All measurements and tax information are from reliable sources, however, are not guaranteed to be accurate. Statements made day of auction takes precedence over any and all previous oral or written matter. Real estate closing to be within 45 days of auction date or sooner.

For the details of property to be sold on the four tracts click here. Photos of the property can be seen here, then scroll down to November 22, 2009.

South Bend Indiana Auction No Reserves Business, 2 Homes, Reception Hall and Real Estate

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 22:00:29 -0600

1612 Lincolnway East in South Bend Indiana is the site for the Auction with No Reserves. A Business, 2 Homes, Reception Hall and Real Estate, 4 tracts in all will be auctioned after the sale of the personal property. Open House to view the property takes place on Tuesday November 17th from 4 to 6 pm. The auction will be held sunday, November 22, 2009 at 11 am. Photo's of all the tracts can be seen here, then scroll down to November 22, 2009.

Scheerer McCullock Auctioneers, Inc. from Fort Wayne, Indiana will be on hand to conduct the auction. David Meyers can be reached at 260-580-3400 for directions or more informaiton.

Tract 1:

Richey's Imported Car Care, Inc., 1610, 1612, 1614 Lincolnway East inclues: 1,888 square foot 2 story wood frame duplex with hardwood floors, natural woodwork, porch, sunroom, and a full basement built in 1908. 90 square feet 3 car detached garage built in 1972. Lot size in 42 X 150,000.; 2007 taxes were $1,377.49. Zoned commercial.

Tract 2:

Residential Home 1622 Caroline, South Bend, In. 46613. 1620 square feet, 1.5 story frame home on full basement with 2 car detached garage. Hardwood floors, 3 season porch, 3 bedrooms, full bath, partial finished basement plus 2nd full bath, gas forced heat, deck to fenced triple lot with nice shade trees. Built in 1924. Lot size is 138 x 150. 2007 taxes $2272.22. Zoned Residential.

Tract 3:

Residential Home, 1626 Caroline, South Bend, In. 46613 912 square feet 1 story frame bungalow ona partial basement with a porch. Carpeted, 2 bedroom, 1 bath, plus full steps to floored attic. Partial basement with gas forced furnace, water heater and hook ups for washer and dryer. 11 x 14 deck in fenced back yard with 8 x 10 shed. Built in 1926. Lot size is 45 x 154. 2007 taxes $1306.73. Zoned Residential.

Tract 4:

Morey's Party House, 1617-1621 Eldora, South Bend, In 46613. 3597 square feet, 1 story over a full finished basement reception hall. 2 full kitchens, mens and womens bath rooms, lobby, stage, storage rooms, ceiling fans, gas forced heat. Approximately 18000 sf of asphalt paved parking. Built in 1938. Lot size is 170 x 154. 2007 taxes $2164.02. Zoned Commercial.

South Bend, Indiana Public Auction-No Reserves-Business-2 Homes-Reception Hall-Real Estate

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 20:17:18 -0600

Scheerer McCulloch Auctioneers will be holding a No Reserves-Auction of a Business, 2 Homes, Reception Hall and Real Estate! Sells Regardless of PRICE! 1612 Lincolnway East, South Bend, Indiana.

Scrap materials, coat rack, 2 upholstered chairs, 15 plastic molded chairs, 54 folding metal chairs, 8 "4 top" tables with heavy base, 6 8' folding tables, 6 6'folding tables, winter and Co upright piano, 15" floor machine, mops and buckets, appliances, window air conditioners, floor jacks, healey engine blocks, British car parts books, gas caps, wooden steering wheels, 13", 14" 15" wire and steel wheels, tires, hub caps, doors, cylinder heads, whole engines, transmissions, oil pumps, mufflers, belts. Pop cooler, chargers, lincoln welder, jack stands, creepers, sioux valve grinder, welding supplies, grease and lube equipment, approximately 100 gallon used oil tank, work benches, wooden and metal rolling benches, nuts and bolts, 2 ton press, parts cars (no titles):TR7, MGB Roadster, TR3, Jaguar, Titled cars: 2 MGB BT's, 2 MG Midgets, Volvo V6 164, '67 Jaguar 420 sedan (80k miles), 66 Buick Rivera Grand Sport (70k miles).

If you are a car buff, tree mechanic or an experienced and licensed mechanic, there is something here for you! Come check it out. Call David Meyers, Sheerer McCulloch Auctioneer at 260-580-3400 for more information. Open House Tuesday November 17th. Photo's of the property can be seen here, then scroll down to November 22, 2009.

South Bend Public Auction Morey's Party House-No Reserves

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:29:05 -0600

Morey's Party House, 1617-1621 Eldora, South Bend, In is being auctioned off, with no reserves on Sundaqy November 22, 2009. This long standing Reception Hall is a one story building with approx. 3597 square feet, a full finished basement. There are 2 full kitchens, men and women's bathrooms, lobby, stage, storage rooms, ceiling fans, and a gas forced heat furnace. Approximately 18,000 square feet of asphalt paved parking. Morey's Pary House was built in 1938 and the lot size is 170' X 154'. There is approximately 18,000 square feet of asphalt paved parving lot, the lot size is 170' X 14' and the buildingn was etrected in 1938. 2007 property taxes were $2164.02 and Morey's is zoned commercial. Click Here to see photos of property. Scroll down to November 22, 2009.

If you are looking for an investment property, come by on Sunday November 22, 2009. This is one of four parcels being auctioned with no reserves. Open house Tuesday November 17, call for directions.

For more information on this auction please call Auctioneer David Meyers at Scheerer McCullock Auctioneers, Inc, 260-580-3400.

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston Lists New Short Sale at 23403 Crest Court, 3 Bedrooms, 1 Bath

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 15:48:11 -0600

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston has listed a new Short Sale at 23403 Crest Court, Elkhart. This beautifuly landscaped corner lot features 3 bedrooms and 1 bath and a great ground level deck with shading to enjoy your evenings in. The

fenced back yard is also landscaped and shaded with a mature oak tree.

What is a Short Sale? It means the property will be sold for less than the current mortgage. It also means that the Mortgage Lender has to agree to the amount someone is willing to pay, since they will be settling for less than full balance. Potentially this is a great bargain for you. Are you a First Time Home Buyer? If so you are elegible for the First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit of up to $8,000, or 10% of the amount you pay for the home. There are some limitations, so give your local Elkhart Real Estate Expert Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty a call at 574-304-7148. She can answer all your questions about this home or any other home listed in the area.

Elkhart REALTOR Evely Johnston: For Those Who Have Decided Not To Decide-Higher Home Prices Ahead!

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 09:31:57 -0600

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston has this to say: For those who have decided not to decide about buying a home, Higher home prices are ahead...

For several months now, I have been receiving multiple offers on properties that I have listed. According to an article I read online,The Pending Home Sales Index says all indications show that house prices are indeed on the upswing.

What does this mean to you? It means the urgency to buy is increasing. For several months, perhaps a year folks have been in no real hurry to make a decision on buying a home, even when they both loved it. People are afraid that after buying, the price will drop even further, and they missed an opportunity to get an even better deal! For those of you who have decided not to decide-higher home prices are ahead!

With the First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit extended and enhanced, now is the time to buy! To begin your search, call your local Elkhart Real Estate Expert Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty at 574-304-7148.

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston Fights The Big Guys Who Hold Up Short Sale Processing

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:46:24 -0600

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty fights the big guys who hold up short sale processing by filing complaints on her Clients behalf with the Indiana Attorny General's Office. A little known rule in Indiana is the House Bill that demands that the Mortgage Lender MUST acknowledge receipt of an offer on a pre-foreclosure property within 10 business days, and make a decision as to acceptance or rejection of the offer within 30 business days. There are only a few Mortgage Lenders who are complying.

So, if you are behind in your Mortgage and would like to sell your home before it goes into foreclosure, speak with a Certified Short Sale Specialist. This complex process is not for the weak or timid REALTOR!

For more information, call Evelyn direct at 574-304-7148.

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston Leadership by Ducks Theory

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 08:44:58 -0500

During our second day at the Indiana REALTOR Leadership Academy, after the Rainbow Leadership Style Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston and 17 others from around the State learned the Duck Theory of Leadership. This was explained in detail by fellow Indiana Realtor Leadership Academy Student Barry Skalski in his blog. Learn the"Ducks" principles here.

If you are interested in Leadership and giving back to our Elkhart County REALTOR's, the 2010-2011 session will begin in October 2010. This is a wonderful thing to participate in and the benefit to you is tremendous... Contact Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty at 574-304-7148 for more information on how you can serve!

Elkhart Indiana REALTOR Evelyn Johnston Attends Leadership Academy

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 07:04:31 -0500

Beautiful Camp Ransburg in Bloomington, Indiana, was the location of the first meeting of the Indiana REALTOR's(r) Leadership Academy that Elkhart Indiana REALTOR Evelyn Johnstonattended. The turning of the leaves, the smell of burning leaves and the definite chill in the air all worked together to bring 17 REALTOR's(r) from across the State together to learn about Leadership!

Some of us had met or talked with one another in our own markets while conducting normal Real Estate Business, but for most of us this was where we met for the first time. Within hours, we were on our way to becoming friends.

The C.O.P.E. Course Leaders at Camp Ransburg started us off with a clever way of learning each others names and after a few more "thought provoking" games to teach us to think outside the box and solve simple puzzles, we moved outdoors. Ahhhhh, fresh air! I choose to walk to the site of the course and slipped once, but didn't go down, and then had to hang onto a tree to swing my legs over a stream! It was a close call! I was under the impression we would be doing athletic type exercises but much to my surprise the activities were more a "team building" exercise. Several of them! In each instance we had to work together to solve various problems. We are building a team of future Leaders. Hopefully in the Real Estate World!

If you have Real Estate Questions, call your local Elkhart County Real Estate Expert Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty at 574-304-7148!

Every Seller Needs To Know, What Sells a house?

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 09:45:11 -0500

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston ran across this "Every Seller Needs To Know, What Sells A House" article and though Seller's in Elkhart would also like to know! Enjoy!

Via Carra Riley CRB, CRS, GRI (Carra Riley Inc.- Real Estate Consultant, Author, Speaker ):

Every Seller Needs To Know, What Sells a house?

There are four varibles that sell a house.

1. Price

2. Terms

3. Condition

4. Location

All four of the variables go together to create the "perfect sale." Each aspect must be taken into consideration if you want a property to sell.

1. Price fixes everything! Don't let anyone tell you different. When the buyer perceives there is a value because of the price, they will buy the home.

The other three varibles always can effect the price.

There are circumstances where a buyer has lost the ability to qualify for a traditional loan because of a foreclosure or bankruptcy and the buyer needs owner financing. With Owner carry Terms that particular buyer may be willing to pay more because they have ownership with possibly a small down payment.

Conversely, if the Condition is bad the price will have to be reduced to reflect a value in the home where a buyer will have to come in and do repairs or cosmetic updates.

Location is the toughest variable in the sale to compensate for. Most people have heard about in Real Estate the terms Location, Location, Location. If the location is bad.. ONLY price will sell the property possibly combined with terms so exciting that a buyer will not be able to pass up the deal.

2. Terms. If the Terms are attractive, sometimes a seller can get more money for the home. For example: a home with a value of $325,000 listed with owner carry terms of $25,000 down and no bank qualifing might be able to sell at $350,000 because of the terms.

Under any owner carry situation, it is important the seller speak with their accountant and attorney before accepting any contract and agreement to finance. The seller should be completely aware of the liability and consequences in owner financing. This is just an example how price can increase with the right terms.

3. Condition is a key factor in selling a home. When the property is in top condition, looking like a show home the seller may get top market value for the property. In times where homes are selling at a slow pace, in order to procur a sale, the home should be the BEST property at the Lowest price to get to the closing table.

Taking a seller on a preview tour of the homes in the area similar to their property can save months of discouragement with a home not selling. When a seller can see the competition and accepts the fact their home needs to be the Best house at the lowest price to sell, the home will sell and the seller will see what they are up against in comparison.

Carpet or paint allowance does NOT work in selling a home. If the home needs carpet, put it in. If the home needs painting, get it painted. Many times this can cost a seller $5,000 to $8,000 to do those upgrades. Investing, yes, investing is the correct term, for getting the house sold. The money invested will come back in the form or a quick sale at full market value.

A picture is worth a thousand words so think about how the property looks and even take some pictures to see what a buyer is looking at. Sellers should look at the pictures like they were a buyer and ask, "would I buy this house in this condition for this price?" Are the kitchen counters cluttered? Are the closets a mess? What does the front door look like and the yard when people drive up to the house?

A seller has 8 seconds for a buyer looking at a home to decide if they really like the house and if it will go on the A list. The buyer starts the decision making process when driving up to the home while looking at the surrounding properties and the entrance to the home.

There are many agents are trained in "staging" a home and there are "staging services" which help a seller to understand what needs to be done to create a "marketable product." Listen to these people if you want to get the house sold.

The seller needs to separate from the house and see it as an investment or product that needs to be sold. The seller needs to take all the emotions out of the happy memories in the home if they are serious about selling.

4. Location is the only variable which cannot be changed. A bad location, is a bad location so only price and terms are going to help this situation.

It does not matter that the same model home across the street sold for thousands more, because it was ACROSS THE STREET and did not back to the highway. A seller needs to get a reality check on location and think about when they purchased. If the seller got a good deal when they bought because it had a bad location then they have to give the new buyer the same good deal to sell.

Sellers should take all the emotion out of the business of selling a home and treat the transaction as an investment decision.

If the goal is to get the home sold then listen to the professionals and let them do their job.

As Donald Trump would say, "It's only business."

Cosmic Cow Pie

Carra Riley

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston Talks About Selling to Different Generations, Part 4, Generation Y

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 15:13:11 -0500

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston talks about selling to different generations, part 3, Generation X. Age plays a critical role in customer buying decisions. In fact, the generation into which we are born has as much impact on buying and purchasing decisions as income and education. Our shared experiences determine what motivates us toward or away from a sale, according to the report I received from Scott York of Metropolitan Title Company here in Elkhart. He may be reached at 574-293-9111. Part 1 was about Seniors/Mature generation, you can read about that here.

Let's see what we have on Generation Y:

Watched parents and grandparents deal with change-growing up in a world that is constantly in motion, revising and restructuring
Amazing optimism-goal oriented
Color blind when they relate to people different from themselves
Have always had technology and assume you should too
Raised on the mantra "You are Special"-shaped them as consumers
Extra solid snse of their individual identity
Many receiving financial help from family members
These buyers are starting from scratch and need a lot of attention
More likely to live near the city rather than the suburbs
Best informed customers but most unresponsive to traditional advertising

Bottom Line:

We are in the people business, take time to know and understand our differences.

Thanks you Scott for this information on how to deal well with Generation X! If you have questions about Title Insurance, call Scott at Metropolitan Title, 574-293-9111. If you have Real Estate questions, call Elkhart Real Estate Expert Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty at 574-304-7148.

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston Talks About Selling to Different Generations, Part 3, Generation X

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 15:06:55 -0500

Let's see what we have on Generation X:

AKA "Baby Busters"
Unpredictable and disloyal to brands and skeptical of big business
First one that was largely a product of divorce (latchkey kids)
Very high expectations about receiving easy and personalized service when they want it, not just when you are open
Self reliant and resourceful when looking for a home
Done a lot of research online-know what they want
Not much landholding
Highly diverse group-large number of Hispanic and Immigrants

Messaging:

Down play the emotional side of the buying process, not likely to get swept away
Take a factual approach-they are skeptical-be well prepared
Prefer communicating through online
Summarize what they will need before closing
Don't sugar coat bad news, use corporate jargon or busswords
Get to the point quickly-give concise information

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston Lists 70 Something Ways To Lose Your Home Part 8

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 14:53:49 -0500

70 something waqys to lose your home started a while back and you can catch up here. eWe are talking about the reasons why you would want to use a reputable Title Company when you purchase your residence or any other real estate. Let's review numbers 71 to 77.

71. Pre-existing viiolation of subdivision mapping laws.

72. Pre-existing violation of zoning ordinances

73. Pre-existing violation of conditions, covenants and restrictions affecting the land.

74. Post-policy forgery against the insured interest.

75. Forced removal of residential improvements due to lack of an appropriate building permit (subject to deductible).

76. Post-policy construction of improvement.

77. Damage to residential structures.

This concludes the series of 70 something ways to lose your home. If you have questions about the Title Insurance on your Property give Scott York a call at Metropolitan Title Company, 574-293-9111. If you have Real Estate questions, call our local Elkhart Real Estate Expert Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty at 574,304-7148.

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston Talks About Selling to Different Generations, Part 2, Baby Boomers

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 12:13:03 -0500

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston talks about selling to different generations, part 2, Baby Boomers. Age plays a critical role in customer buying decisions. In fact, the generation into which we are born has as much impact on buying and purchasing decisions as income and education. Our shared experiences determine what motivates us toward or away from a sale, according to the report I received from Scott York of Metropolitan Title Company here in Elkhart. He may be reached at 574-293-9111. Part 1 was about Seniors/Mature generation, you can read about that here.

Baby Boomers make up 30% of our population and they were born between 1946 and 1964. Here is what you need to know:

Most populous and influential
Enjoyed opportunities in education and employment
Feel good generation-ME generation-take things for granted
One in four boomers owns more than one property-largest share of second homes
In some ways are the most difficult clients to reach effectively, some still don't use computers-forced into learning technology
Understand reasoning if they are upsizing, downsizing or investment
Tend to move slower than the younger generations
Want the best and want it all!

So when communicating with Baby Boomers, your message should include:

Communicate you can help them build their wealth
Promote leading edge
Warm and dynamic environment
Take time for conversation-get well acquainted
Gen involved-get agreements

Are you a Baby Boomer looking to Buy or Sell your property? Baby Boomer Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty can be reached at 574-304-7148. She acts and thinks just like you!

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston Talks About Selling to Different Generations

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 12:01:11 -0500

Age plays a critical role in customer buying decisions. In fact, the generation into which we are born has as much impact on buying and purchasing decisions as income and education. Our shared experiences determine what motivates us toward or away from a sale, according to the report I received from Scott York of Metropolitan Title Company here in Elkhart. He may be reached at 574-293-9111.

Let's take a look at Seniors/Mature catagory. This covers 26% of our population, and they were born between 1909 and 1945. They:

Grew up in a time when things were rationed
Saved for a rainy day, prudent, moral
Buy pruducts and services that satisfy their basic needs
Tend to move slower and may not be tied to a specific market

Your Messaging:

Speak to family, home patriotism and traditional values
Let them know their age and experience are considered an asset.
May be uncomfortable with technology but don't stereotype
Might be uncomforable dealing with the younger generations unless approached with maturity, respect and knowledge of the business
Honor is important

If you are looking to Buy or Sell Real Estate in Elkhart, call your Real Estate Expert Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty at 574-304-7148.

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston Lists 70 Something Ways To Lose Your Home Part 7

Sat, 03 Oct 2009 10:37:43 -0500

70 something waqys to lose your home started a while back and you can catch up here. We are talking about the reasons why you would want to use a reputable Title Company when you purchase your residence or any other real estate. Let's review numbers 61 thru 70...

61. Forged notarization or witness acknowledgment.

62. Deed not propertly recorded (wrong county, missing pages or other contents, or without required payment).

63. Deed from grantor who is claimed to have acquired title through fraud upon creditors of a prior owner,

64. Deed to a purchaser from one who has previously sold or leased the same and to a third party under an unrecorded contract.

65. Claimed prescriptive rights, not of record and not disclosed by survey.

66. Physical location of easement (underground pipe or sewer line) which does not conform with easement of record.

67. Deed to land with improvements encroaching upon land of another.

68. Incorrect survey (misstating location, dimensions, area, easements or improvements upon land).

69. "Mechanices lien" claims (securing payment of contractors and material suppliers for improvements) which may attach without recorded notice.

70. Federal estate or state inheritance tax liens (may attach without recorded notice).

If any of these bring up questions about your property's title, please call Scott York with Metropolitan Title Company at 574-293-9111, If you have questions about Real Estate, call your local Elkhart Real Estate Expert Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty at 574-304-7148.

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston Says: If You Are Behind In Your Mortgage Payment, There Is Hope!

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 20:16:23 -0500

The first thing you should do if you are behind in your mortgage payment, is, call your Mortgage Lender and ask for their help, says Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty. Your Mortgage Lender does not want your home back, they are in the business to loan money, and accept deposits.

Give your Mortgage Lender the opportunity to modify your loan, if possible, and stay in the home. Do not move out! Once you leave the home the Mortgage Lender can accelerate the foreclosure process and take possession of the home, when there may have been a chance for you to keep it.

If you have concerns about your situation, call a government approved counselor like La Casa Goshen, they are a non profit agency who is paid with grant money based on the number of homeowners they help in the community. For Real Estate questions, call your Elkhart Real Estate Expert Evelyn Johnston at 574-304-7148.

Mortgage Delinquencies - The Coming Storm

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 10:56:28 -0500

Elkhart REALTOR Evelyn Johnston reports foreclosures are still rising according to the blog post below. If you are in trouble with your Mortgage Payments, call a Certified Short Sale Specialist who can answer your questions, like Evelyn Johnston with Prudential One Realty, at 574-304-7148.

Via Jeff Geoghan MBA - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group, Coldwell Banker Lancaster PA):

This is one of those posts where I wish I didn't have to write it, but felt it was so important to my readers that I would be remiss not to at least talk about it.

Everyone out there probably knows somebody who is behind on their mortgage payments, looking for alternatives and likely also just finding out that their home's value has dipped below what their loan amount is. I know some within my own personal circles. It's a tough situation for me to advise them as a professional because it's such a personal challenge to their pride and self-worth, not to mention their plans and dreams for the family. The question we're asking is "when is this going to stop and where are we heading?"

I'm going to put up a few graphs that show the trends nationally with regards to mortgage delinquincies:

This chart is by quarter - Single-family mortgages set a new record delinquency rate in the second quarter of 2009, according to a quarterly survey by the Mortgage Bankers Association. Those of us in the real estate business see the foreclosure process (just visit the local Sheriff Sale docket to see the current numbers) but the looming delinqency-to-foreclosure issue is far, far larger.

The Wall Street Journal on 8/3/09 reported the following quote: “While subprime mortgages sparked the first round of housing problems two years ago, now "troubles are lurking further up the food chain," says Joshua Shapiro, chief U.S. economist at MFR Inc. White-collar job losses have accelerated while more adjustable-rate loans to prime borrowers are resetting to higher payments. ‘You put all that together, it leads me to believe that the next leg down on home prices is going to come from the top,’ he says.”

The first objection someone may have would be to say "yes, but historically those who are delinqent usually get their act together and come current on the mortgage after a while". That WAS true, but not anymore! We call that the "Cure Rate", that is the rate of delinquencies that go back to current. The Wall Street Journal reported on 8/24/09 about a Fitch analysis that found that the Cure Rate from 2000-2006 was 45% (which means about half of people fix their delinquency). However, as of July 2009 the rate had dropped to just 6.6%! That means that over 90% of delinquent customers are going to foreclosure. Take a look again at the above chart...

The next thing someone will say is "well, that's the 'sand states' and not my area". Here's the chart for all 50 states showing the same breakdown of delinquencies and foreclosures. Guess what - most states have a significant problem, especially compared to historical figures.

Now the next thing someone may say is "aren't those loans going to get 'fixed' by a loan modification?" I know several people right now who are applying for a Lancaster County loan modification but are waiting and waiting. I hope it works out for them...

In reality, loan modifications are hardly making a dent. To me, that's a burning question. Why arent banks being more aggressive in giving customers the option to extend their loan and/or reset to a lower rate? Why are they being SO difficult? The people I know don't want to be foreclosed. They CAN make payments. They just need the terms redrawn to allow them to catch & keep up. Loan modifications are not helping us get this crisis under control.

What are the causes of all these delinquencies? Here's a chart that is enlightening:

We hear a lot about adjustable rate mortgages being the culprit, but the reality is that it's the loss of jobs and the tanking real estate market that's the perfect storm. See my previous post on unemployment in the nation, the state and Lancaster County.

Keep in mind, this post is not intended to give us "good news". You may be experiencing good things in your market and that's great. My intent is to get us thinking about the challenges that aren't going away and how we're going to address them as homeowners, agents and professionals. I'd love to hear your ideas!

I Need Your Help. Your Reward? Great Blogs With Great Info. REBlogworld/Blogworld Expo In Las Vegas!

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:13:17 -0500

This sounds like a worthwhile project and we could all benefit from Matt's experience with some great information!

Via Matt Stigliano (RE/MAX Access):

photo courtesy of nodomain1

I love blogging.

You may have noticed before, but it's a fact, I love to blog about real estate. It's good for my business, but I actually find it enjoyable too. In that vein, I would like to make it to this year's Blogworld and New Media Expo (including REBlogworld). Of course, these things cost money and there are expenses...blah blah blah. However, Alltop is sponsoring a contest to allow 3 lucky winners to attend this year's event.

I entered, but I need your help. First of all, I misread a rule, which has seriously put me behind the curve. I thought I was doing okay, but realized that the rule was rather specific and I needed to get moving - so I turn to you, the ActiveRain community for help.

The grand prize for the contest is entrance to the conference as well as hotel accommodations. With those two paid for, I can deal with the flights and food for the three days. I need to win this. Imagine how many blogs I'll churn out when I get back with all the new info I've acquired. Think of me as your Blogworld corespondent. I will report back to you - all you have to do is get me to the top! I don't know what it will take to get me there (I don't even know who's in the lead), but with the power of the ActiveRain and Twitter community, I'm willing to bet (Las Vegas - get it?) that I can win this!

Imagine how this will benefit the ActiveRain community as well! Having the power of 160K+ members pushing to help me accomplish this goal will certainly make people think that ActiveRain is the place to be.

Here's what I need:

First, reblog this post if you can. By spreading the word, there will be more opportunity for more people to act upon it. Put it in every category you can think of and make sure everyone of ActiveRain's members see it! I could care less about the points gained from the reblogs, so ActiveRain can pull the points - this is about getting me to Blogworld and REBlogworld.

Second, you need to retweet the information necessary in order for me to be counted. Visit MyAlltop page and at the bottom you will see a "retweet" button:

Click the retweet button. Click it whenever you have a few free seconds. Tell your friends to click it. Please don't sit there and click it 100 times in a row. I don't want to get the boot for "stuffing the ballot box." The contest ends at 8:00 am Pacific Time on October 1, 2009, so I need your clicks up until then. Let's get as many as we can and show everyone the power of ActiveRain, get me to Vegas, and let me bring back and share all that I have learned!

Please use the retweet button and have everyone you know retweet it too! This would be huge for me and I appreciate all the help I can get!
All content ©2008-2009 by Matt Stigliano, Realtor® unless otherwise noted.

Matt Stigliano, Realtor®

RE/MAX Access

(210) 646-HOME

www.RErockstar.com

"Your all access pass to San Antonio real estate."

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