Lake Zurich Illinois Real Estate - Your Lake Zurich Area RE/MAX Real Estate Specialist

Lake Zurich dog owners: "I ran out of bags" is NOT an excuse.

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 09:14:53 -0500

Since I work at home, I'm lucky enough to be able to take Zoey on walks at least twice a day. Last night, I failed to grab a bag before we headed out the door. The walk was a last minute decision and she had already "done her business" so I figured (wrongly) that she wouldn't need to go again. Well, you know what happened next. About a block from home.

Now, as a responsible pet owner, I am usually armed with bags and ALWAYS pick up after Zoey. So imagine my complete mortification when I realize I don't have any bags with me! I was forced to leave it there, hoping that nobody saw me fail to pick it up. Of course, as soon as we got home I hopped in the car and went back to pick it up, so if anyone did see me leave it - I hope they saw me return to pick it up as well!

Which begs the question (no pun intended): Are you a responsible pet owner?

Someone in my neighborhood sure isn't. Twice in the past few weeks I've found a big pile of you-know-what in MY front yard. Now, Zoey is hand-walked out into the back yard every time to do her business and we immediately pick it up. We don't have a fence and therefore never let her out without a leash. So it isn't hers. Plus, she is a little dog and these are, how else do I say this? BIG poops. (sorry)

To my unknown and irresponsible neighbor-who-owns-a-big-dog: Why did you let your dog go on MY lawn and fail to pick it up? Are you really that lazy? Because the "I ran out of bags" excuse is NOT an excuse, especially when you allowed your dog to do it on TWO separate occasions! YUK!

To all Lake Zurich dog owners: May I remind you that picking up after your pooch is not just good etiquette or common courtesy. It's important for the environment and the health of our children and pets. It is unlawful, smelly and polluting our community.

So be a good neighbor dog owner. Pick it up, please.

Kelly Sibilsky provides a superior level of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in Lake Zurich and the Northwest Suburbs of Illinois. Please visit www.getmovingwithkelly.com to search for homes in Lake Zurich or anywhere throughout Northern Illinois.

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Lake Zurich, Hawthorn Woods, Kildeer, Long Grove SNAPSHOT OF THE MARKET

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 08:06:49 -0500

If you are clamoring for timely market information, you've come to the right place!

Here are the statistics (looking back 1 month) for listings currently on the market in the Lake Zurich, Hawthorn Woods, Kildeer and Long Grove areas:

There are currently 609 active listings (detached single family homes). The average list price is $773,587.00 and the average market time is 221 days.

There are currently 68 active listings (attached single family homes). The average list price is $348,925.00 and the average market time is 177 days.

Now for the statistics (looking back 1 month) for listings that are off the market:

The average sale price for detached single family homes is $435,000.00. Only 2 properties have sold in the past month. Detached single family homes are selling at approximately 95% of list price. The average market time for sold properties is 42 days.

No attached single family homes have sold in the past month.

*information gathered from MRED Market Statistics Criteria Reports. Sold = closed.

The market has changed from when you may have last bought or sold a home. Market times are long and the inventory is high. If you are considering selling your home, plan ahead, factor in those market times and together we will make sure your home is properly prepared and priced to sell.

Our offices report that the average number of showings for all listings was 2.0 per month for the month of June. Last year, the average number of showings per month was slightly higher, at 2.6 per month. Back in 2006 it was 3.7. It used to take about 8 to10 showings to generate an offer. Simply put, generating an offer was accomplished in less time when showings were more frequent. Prior to 2006, homes were selling in 30-60 days on average.

If you are considering buying a home...you have many to choose from, making NOW an excellent time to purchase!

You can rely on me for experienced, expert real estate advice and assistance throughout the buying and selling process. Remember, I also serve the nearby communities! Call or email me today...I'm here to help.

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Sellers: Don't drop the ball!

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 15:00:44 -0500

Many of today's sellers have painstakingly prepared their home prior to listing. Inside, they've buffed, polished, scrubbed, painted, cleaned carpets and staged. Outside, they've trimmed, weeded, mowed and mulched. They've struggled (sometimes for months) to keep their home and yard show ready at all times for their prospective buyers.

Finally, all that hard work paid off in a signed contract for the sale of their home!

Now, Sellers: Don't drop the ball!

One of the things I've noticed is that many sellers feel that their work is over once they have a signed contract for the sale of their home. IT'S NOT! While sellers can relax a bit once their home is under contract, they are still obligated to maintain the property in the same condition it was at the time of contract acceptance.

Paragraph 22 of our real estate contract, CONDITION OF REAL ESTATE AND INSPECTION, states the seller's obligations very clearly:

"Seller agrees to leave the Real Estate in broom clean condition. All refuse and personal property that is not to be conveyed to Buyer shall be removed from the Real Estate at Seller's expense before possession. Buyer shall have the right to inspect the real estate, fixtures and personal property prior to possession to verify that the Real Estate, improvements and included personal property are in substantially the same condition as of the Date of Acceptance, normal wear and tear excepted."

The final walkthrough is the buyer's opportunity to inspect the condition of the property as well as to make sure that everything is in good working order and any necessary and agreed upon repairs have been made. The most important thing sellers can do to ensure a smooth closing is to make sure the house is clean, the yard mowed, the weeds pulled and the trash removed.

Not only is it a contract obligation, it is simple common courtesy. However, many sellers overlook this tiny detail and end up with irate buyers at the closing table. Buyers who can and do refuse to close unless the seller pays for cleaning, yard maintenance and trash removal.

Sellers, don't jeopardize your closing by dropping the ball. Maintain your property until the day of closing and leave it in good condition when you walk out the door (for an extra-nice touch leave a bottle of wine or some snacks in the refrigerator for your buyers along with a few good wishes). Your buyers will thank you and you'll be repaid with a smooth closing!

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

If you live in or near Lake Zurich, then it's time to get blogging with Kelly!

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 15:24:20 -0500

If you live in Lake Zurich or the surrounding communities, it's time to get blogging with Kelly!

Many of you know that my main website is: www.getmovingwithkelly.com.

My email is: ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

My tagline is: When you're ready to move...get moving with Kelly...and start packing!

So of course my blog site is: www.getbloggingwithkelly.com!

Since ActiveRain launched the new Localism, I've noticed an increase in posts with purely local content. Market reports, restaurants, subdivisions, local events...you name it and it's making it's way into posts all over ActiveRain.

This is all well and good (and valuable of course), but I miss the posts about buying and selling! Staging! Pricing! Listing presentations! Mortgage information! Coping with the market! I even miss the posts about nothing in particular!

So as for me and my readers, I intend to keep writing about my take on the local real estate market as well as tidbits about my favorite people, places and things to do in Lake Zurich and the surrounding communities. After all, I'm a real estate agent, not a travel agent or member of the local Chamber of Commerce. I don't work for the Lake Zurich Alpine Lions Club or the Lake Zurich Community School District 95. They all do a fine job promoting our wonderful community. While I am happy and pleased to be able to share information about my community from time to time, my main objective is to provide real estate related information to my readers.

The name of my blog may have changed from http://activerain.com/blogs/getmovingwithkelly to the much simpler and easier to remember www.getbloggingwithkelly.com but my blog itself remains essentially the same. After all, when readers mention my blog they most often remark on my posts that showcase my real estate expertise...not my ability to pick a good restaurant.

If it isn't broken, I don't plan to fix it. What do you think?

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

ZaZa's Tavola Italiano in Lake Barrington...Like a Trip to Italy!

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 16:27:13 -0500

When Brian and I were in Italy last September, we fell in love with the charming, intimate restaurants in Rome, Florence, Tuscany and Venice (not to mention the delicious food). Luckily we can now get a little bit of Italy locally - at ZaZa's Tavola Italiana in Lake Barrington.

The decor of ZaZa's and the small size of the restaurant are what charmed us initially. I, personally, love the mixture of dark wood, white tablecloths, venetian plaster and black and white vintage photography. It's not stuffy or pretentious but it is classy...the perfect place for a romantic dinner for two...but families with small children are also welcome. It is not what you expect being tucked into a strip mall near Lake Barrington Shores, that's for sure.

The Northern Italian food is simply delicious. Last night I had the Penne con Pollo, which is penne pasta with chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, peas and broccoli in a white wine garlic sauce topped with fresh-shaved parmesan cheese. It was absolutely delicious and I even had enough left over for lunch today (i.e the portions are huge). We've been there several times now and we've tried several different meals and they've all been delicious. The menu changes occasionally to feature different items at different times of the year and there are nightly specials, which is a nice touch. The bread is crusty and fresh and there is always olive oil on the table for dipping.

ZaZa's has a cozy bar and live entertainment on Thursday evenings. If you go early, you probably don't need to make a reservation, but if you want to arrive a little later in the evening you might want to call ahead. Of course, you can always quench your thirst a the well-stocked bar while you wait.

If you crave a delicious meal in a fantastic Italian atmosphere, try ZaZa's today! ZaZa's Tavola Italiana is located near Lake Barrington Shores at 5047 Shoreline Road; call (847)381-1333 for reservations or visit their website here for more information, to view the menu and see photos of the interior!

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Why you should wait for "the one"

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 15:41:31 -0500

Buying a house is a lot like finding a life partner. You search and search for "the one" and you only know it when you get that special feeling inside.

Just like when dating, many people get impatient and settle. While no person or house is perfect (in fact the right house may be downright UGLY, but more about that later) one should never settle. If you do, you will regret it!

This I learned from personal experience. Not on the relationship front, for my husband and I have been happily married for 21 years and counting, but we once settled for a "not-quite-right" house simply because we felt pressured into making a decision.

Let me tell you about our big mistake, in the hopes that you can avoid making a similar mistake when you purchase your next home.

When my family and I relocated to Illinois from Michigan, we quickly discovered that houses in Illinois were much more expensive than comparable houses in Michigan. We were paired with a real estate agent who was nice enough, but who we could tell quickly grew tired of spending weekend after weekend looking at homes with us. Brian was already here in Illinois living in an apartment provided by Motorola, and I was back in Michigan with the kids and would drive to Illinois nearly every weekend to look at house after house. The housing market at that time was a strong sellers market and the best houses would already be sold prior to my weekend house-hunting trip. On top of that, it was the middle of winter.

So December then January and February came and went. The pressure to get the family back together and get the kids enrolled in school was mounting; it was stressful. We decided to concentrate on a particular community known for its popularity and good school system. We eventually found a "not-quite-right" house that met most of our criteria in terms of bedrooms, bathrooms and school district scores. There was no excitement about the house, no emotional connection, but the pressure to buy (both from the agent who was tired of driving us around and our own desire to get settled) pushed us into making a decision.

We bought that house despite our reservations (we settled) and spent the next several months gutting it and updating it throughout, trying to make the best of it. It was an attractive enough house, but it just wasn't home. Try as we might, the house, the neighborhood, even the good school system just wasn't the right fit for us. I think we moved into that house in March, and by October (when Halloween failed to illicit even a single trick-or-treater!) we knew it was time to move on.

We started our search for a new home by December of that year, with a new real estate agent (who eventually became one of my very good friends) who understood exactly what we were looking for and didn't pressure us. We did a lot of research, looked at a few houses in different neighborhoods, and eventually discovered the perfect neighborhood for us: Chestnut Corners in Lake Zurich.

At that time, we were still in a strong sellers market so we listed our "not-quite-right" home for sale, got pre-approved to purchase an new house without having to sell our current one (just in case) and looked at every house that came on the market in our target neighborhood. One house in particular caught our eye but needed a lot of work so we passed it over and kept looking (we were understandably a little gun-shy). It took several months but we finally found ourselves going back to the house we had passed over previously. It simply felt right. It was far from perfect (read Go Ahead...Buy that UGLY House!) and we would spend several years updating it from top to bottom. But we did get that feeling that it was home. The neighborhood, school district, floor plan, square footage, etc. all combined to make it "the one" and we were really excited about moving in and making it our home.

On the surface, it seems like a nice happy ending, after all, we did eventually find the right house and it has appreciated quite a bit throughout the years. But in reality, this was an expensive lesson in many ways. First of all, although we were lucky enough to sell our "not-quite-right" house in only 3 weeks and for a reasonable price (remember multiple offers?), we barely broke even because we had spent so much time, energy and money updating that house from top to bottom. We then had to pay the moving costs themselves, and we also had to transfer the kids to a new school district, which is always traumatic at best. Did we learn a valuable lesson? You bet. One I want YOU to avoid.

Now, you could search forever and never find the "perfect" house. This is not about finding the "perfect" house. This is about finding "the one", the "right" house. There is a difference. If you have champagne taste but a beer budget, you may not get everything you want in a house, particularly in your first house. I don't consider that to be settling, as you have to be realistic about what you can afford and pick "the one" from what is available all things considered. The bottom line is that you'll know it when you find it. I'll help you do just that.

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

It's not the sticks and bricks that make a house a home

Mon, 07 Jul 2008 16:26:13 -0500

Last week I was on vacation in Northern Michigan and pretty much unplugged from the world of real estate, mostly because cell phone and internet service was spotty at best and completely unavailable unless I drove about 30 minutes to the closest "big" town. Since I spent the week prior to leaving in a flurry of activity tying up loose ends and making sure my back-up was informed just in case anything would be needed on the home front, I was able to actually relax by the lake for a few days without worries. Now I'm back and plugged back in...and reminded anew that there's no place like home.

What I've come to understand over the years is that it's not the house itself, which however nice is really just sticks and bricks; it is the little things that make a house a home. It is my own pillow, a full sized shampoo bottle, the ability to grab a soda out of the refrigerator when I'm thirsty. It is sinking into my favorite spot on the couch and being able to find just what I am looking for when I need it. It is walking to the mailbox and waving at a neighbor, and making my own coffee in the morning. It is the way the light shines through the window while I work which brightens my day. It is the overall comfort of being surrounded by family and memories and my favorite things.

Real estate agents are in the business of helping people find the sticks and bricks that make up the house they will eventually fill with all the things that truly make a house a home. I guess that is why I take such care to help my clients find the right house for them. I don't want them to buy the "okay" house. I want them to buy the house that makes their heart sing. The one they mentally place furniture in after the first few minutes and can imagine spending many happy years in. I can see it in their eyes from the first visit; they don't have to look for reasons to like the house or talk themselves into it, they just feel that it's right. If I don't see that in their eyes, I encourage them to keep looking.

No house is ever perfect, of course, but it's generally not perfection that buyers are seeking. Usually it's a feeling, almost as if the house speaks to them. Perhaps it is the back porch like the one grandma used to have, or the climbing tree in the front yard. Sometimes it is the new kitchen or granite countertops. It might be the tree-lined street and sidewalks. More often than not, however, the right house is a mixture of bits and pieces of the house they grew up in, which is why finding the right house is such a personal decision. While I will absolutely guide you through the process and help educate you about the plusses and minuses of each house, I will never put any pressure on you to buy.

Your right house is out there. Let me help you discover that there's no place like home.

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Is your puppy a little shaggy?

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 10:25:52 -0500

Are you one of those puppy parents who are so enamored with your cute, fluffy little puppy that you worry about taking her to the groomer? Are you afraid that your adorable pup will end up with a bad hairdo or worse, shaved bald?

I was. Poor Zoey could barely see by the time I took her to the groomer. But I finally took the plunge and trusted my wonder puppy to Shaggy Paws in Lake Zurich. I couldn't be more pleased!

Deb Owen, the owner of Shaggy Paws, has 20 years of experience. She listened to my concerns and didn't even roll her eyes when I brought in pictures of other puppies to illustrate how I wanted Zoey trimmed (yes, I'm one of those). She even bought some Spa Fresh Facial Scrub for her shop that I had suggested when I first met her (which works wonderfully on those stubborn tear stains).

The staff at Shaggy Paws treated Zoey with tender loving care. They gave her lots of treats and even sent her home with a little stuffed frog that she loves!

If you have a shaggy puppy and live in the Lake Zurich area, please consider Shaggy Paws Pet Grooming. Shaggy Paws is located at 446 Rand Road in Lake Zurich, (847)438-5505.

I'd post an "after" shot but my camera was with my son in Tennessee at the time of Zoey's grooming...so I missed that opportunity! Take my word for it, she is cute as a button!

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Do you like macaroni & cheese?

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 08:42:58 -0500

I pretty much survived on macaroni & cheese, cereal, ramen noodles and taco bell in college. It was cheap and I was broke.

One of the things I routinely ask my new buyers is, "do you like macaroni & cheese?" The reason I ask this is not because I'm curious about the eating habits of my buyer clients. I use it to open a discussion about the difference between what the loan officer tells them they can afford and what they may actually be able to afford in real life.

Loan officers are notorious for painting a best case scenerio for buyers. "Congratulations!" they say, "you're pre-approved for a $300,000 house!" Of course, my buyers are surprised and excited to hear that they can afford so much more than they originally thought and want to run right out and look at $300,000 houses.

"Not so fast" I say, "do you like macaroni & cheese?"

"Um, yes" they say.

"Do you like it so much that you are willing to eat it every day?"

"No. Why do you ask?"

This is when I encourage them to think about what they are truly comfortable paying for a house on a monthly basis. Are they willing to eat macaroni & cheese or ramen noodles every day (because they can't afford 'real' food)? Do they want to furnish their new house or be able to make improvements or repairs once they move in? Do they have a vacation planned or are they saving for a wedding or other future event? Do they want to contribute to their 401K or are they expecting a baby? In other words, how does the purchase of a house fit into their overall financial picture and their other hopes, dreams and life goals?

Many times, my buyers will tell me that they are willing to sacrifice literally anything to get into the house of their dreams. Other buyers will tell me that they hadn't thought of it that way and they scale back slightly and decide to focus on a price range that will allow them to live more comfortably after the purchase.

In either case, the decisions are solely theirs to make, but I feel better knowing that they fully understand and are comfortable moving forward with the purchase of their new home. Who knows, maybe macaroni & cheese is their favorite food!

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Hungry? Check out Kathy's Lakeside Inn in Lake Zurich, Illinois

Sun, 22 Jun 2008 11:45:07 -0500

Are you looking for a totally relaxing place to grab a beer and a burger? Then head on over to Kathy's Lakeside Inn in Lake Zurich, Illinois.

I must admit that even though I've been a resident of Lake Zurich for many years, last night was my first visit to Kathy's. Clients of mine (thanks, Dave & Joanne!) told me that the food was good and the view spectacular from the outdoor patio. Last night the weather was ideal so Brian and I headed on over to check it out.

The burgers were perfect, the view of Forest Lake was gorgeous and the beer icy cold. The atmosphere was welcoming and friendly. If you are looking for something fancy, then this may not be the place for you. But if you crave a truly good burger and a beautiful lake view on a warm summer evening, give me a call and I'll gladly meet you there.

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Real estate reality TV

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 23:55:44 -0500

I admit it. I love watching real estate related reality shows on TV. The decorating, remodeling and gardening shows never fail to give me plenty of ideas for my own house. The house hunting shows, on the other hand, usually just amuse me, because I've found that many times things aren't quite like they appear on TV.

I would love to see a reality house hunting show based on finding and purchasing a short sale or foreclosure property!

Imagine this scenario:

Agent and buyer walk up to the property, sidestepping weeds and broken concrete. Agent comments on the gorgeous peonies (the only nice thing visible) while opening door for buyer, after first removing notices from the authorities that the water is being turned off, and that the home is in violation for having an un-mowed lawn. When the door opens, buyer hesitates, then wrinkles nose as smell wafts out. Gathering deep breaths, agent and buyer enter the property. The camera pans around to highlight discarded furniture, garbage and other debris. Ever determined, buyer and agent press on (maybe it's just dirty?) and discover that the house is, in fact, a total gut job. Buyer refuses to go in the basement, afraid of what might be down there. Agent and buyer leave, with buyer rooting around in her purse for her Purell hand sanitizer. Agent and buyer chuckle...on to the next one!

Now, some of these properties are truly a diamond in the rough (albeit very rough). It might make for interesting reality TV to show the distressed property search, the offer/acceptance process (imagine the drama produced by buyers nervously awaiting the acceptance or rejection by the bank!) and the home inspection (egads!). Then, finally, showing the buyers several weeks months after closing when all the improvements have been made and the house is actually habitable again (you know, the happy ending).

Now there's some reality for you! Hmmm, I wonder what they would call the show?

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Friday the 13th is a LUCKY day!

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 15:30:58 -0500

After 250 days, one of my listings finally closed today. At first glance, 250 days on the market seems like nothing to cheer about. However, to put it in perspective, the average market time for currently listed 4 bedroom homes in Hawthorn Woods priced between $450,000 and $550,000 (for the same time frame we were listed) is 283 days right now. The average closed market time is 271 days. Therefore, my sellers feel lucky. I feel lucky too!

When I first listed the house back in October, the market was entirely different than the market we are in today. The closed comparables supported a higher list price at that time. The broker open house and number of showings (over 55 showings in all) supported that price as well. My sellers did not want to do expensive updates prior to selling, but they painted, removed wallpaper, and the house showed beautifully every time. Feedback was almost always positive, but time after time, the buyer's agent would say that the buyers simply weren't ready to buy yet. They weren't buying a different house; they simply weren't buying at all. It was frustrating, to say the least, for all concerned.

Thanksgiving, then Christmas, came and went. My marketing efforts brought a steady stream of potential buyers. Every Monday morning I sent reports to my sellers showing them the current market statistics. Our market prices were declining, and a particularly harsh winter didn't help either. We were forced to reposition the home in the market several times. My sellers (bless them) continually told me that they trusted me and my expertise. I, in turn, promised I would do everything I could to retain as much of their equity as possible. They listened and followed my suggestions. Truthfully, this has been one of the most pleasant listing experiences I've ever had, because of the sellers I was working with.

When the offer (and later, the home inspection results) came in, my sellers did everything in their power to make it work for both parties. It was to be a quick closing, so the past few weeks have been a whirlwind of packing, finding temporary housing, searching for their next house, writing an offer, negotiating, attending the home inspection, etc., all the while trying to maintain some semblance of family and work life. But through it all, they kept their positive outlook and just worked through it. They moved out yesterday in 90 degree heat and oppressive humidity, then went back and spent 3 hours cleaning the house to make it perfect for the new buyers. Amazing.

At the closing a few hours ago, I got to meet the wonderful new owners of the home. I couldn't be happier for them, as they are getting a fantastic "forever" home with a huge park-like lot and lots of space for their family. With a few updates and within a few years, they will most certainly reap big rewards. I think they feel lucky, too.

A while back I wrote an article entitled, The 4, no 5 P's of Marketing Your Lake Zurich Area Home. My 5^th P was Perseverance. Well, that perseverance paid off today, on Friday the 13^th no less. It was an occasion where agents, sellers, buyers, attorneys and the lender all worked together to make it happen, and everyone is happy as a result. It's been a lucky day, indeed.

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

They sit, and sit, and sit on the market...gee I wonder why?

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 21:18:53 -0500

There are lots of foreclosure, pre-foreclosure and short sale properties on the market. Despite the abnormally low list prices, these properties sit, and sit, and sit on the market. Ever wonder why? I'm sure all the agents out there know the reasons already, but apparently the banks are completely clueless!

This past weekend I showed several of these properties. Here is some of what I noticed on this particular outing. Banks, please take note!

1. It's nearly impossible to make a showing appointment. I need to call Agent Missing-in-Action that you hired (for some unknown reason since the home is not being marketed) and leave a message. Then I must wait for a return phone call confirming my showing. Sometimes that call is returned, sometimes it's not. Sometimes I get the privilege of calling a remote showing service. Instead of asking my agent ID number first (too easy), they ask me to spell my last name 100 times. Then they ask my agent ID number <sigh>. I picture them sitting in a cubby in Timbuktu with headphones on like telemarketers filing their nails.

2. Banks may or may not pay the commission offered in the MLS as evidenced by these 5 little words: "commission subject to bank approval." And they wonder why any of us want to show their properties, let alone sell them. Trust me, you need us. Pay up.

3. Dirty, smelly, broken doors, missing appliances, un-mowed grass, and worse. Much, much, worse. Of course, the remarks say, "move-in ready!" Honestly, has anyone from the bank ever visited one of their properties? Apparently Agent Missing-in-Action hasn't either, at least not recently.

4. I show up for my scheduled appointment and even though I was told that the "owner-tenant" would be there to let me in, nobody is home. Yeah, I can imagine the soon-to-be-homeless "owner-tenant" is going to be super cooperative and help get the home sold lickety-split. What are you thinking? <eye roll>

5. Four or five families living in a 3 bedroom, 1 bath home. Enough said.

6. "Allow time for bank approval" which happens to be 4.5 weeks on average according to the Illinois Association of REALTORS. I could build a whole new house in 4.5 weeks with my own two hands and a little pink hammer. It's not War and Peace, it's an offer. It should take about 4.5 minutes to accept or reject. Just do it.

Your foreclosures are clogging up the market with unsold inventory. You, the bank, are losing money by the minute. You've already made bad lending decisions, now you are compounding the problem by making them difficult to sell. The first thing you should do is hire a professional REALTOR who will market it properly and (shocking, I know) guarantee to pay the full commission. Make sure the home is at least clean. Make it easy to show, easy to sell, easy to get a response.

Oops, you just lost another dollar...better act quick...there goes another one...

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

The wish list

Tue, 10 Jun 2008 11:03:50 -0500

Buyers often come with a wish list of what they would like in their new home. Wish lists can be lofty, realistic, practical or optimistic.

I like optimism. I like wishes. I like having a list of what my clients want and/or need in their new home. What is important to them vs. what is not so important. I like having a starting point.

I'm working with some first time homebuyers who have a great wish list. They are young, smart and practical. Having lived in an apartment for a while that is, well, lacking, they know what they want. They met with their lender before meeting with me for the first time to get pre-approved. They ask questions. They listen. They're fun to be with. They are determined.

A real estate agent's dream.

My job is to take their wish list and figure out a way to make it happen for them. It may take a few twists and turns, a little tweak here or there, perhaps a compromise on their part for no house is perfect. We will see plenty of homes that just won't make the cut. Wrong neighborhood, wrong layout, too much work needed or too far a drive to and from work. And we will see a few with great potential; the ones that might just work after all.

The key is that in the days and weeks ahead we will be working towards fulfilling their wish list together. For that's what real estate agents do, really. We are in the business of helping our clients make their wishes come true. How cool is that?

Kelly Sibilsky provides a superior level of real estate services to home buyers and sellers in Lake Zurich and the Northwest Suburbs of Illinois. Please visit www.getmovingwithkelly.com to search for homes in Lake Zurich or anywhere throughout Northern Illinois.

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Writer's block...and random thoughts

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 18:06:54 -0500

I have writer's block. So, I'm just going to throw out there a few random thoughts that have crossed my mind this week instead of trying to write an intelligent blog post.

RANDOM THOUGHTS/MUSINGS/QUESTIONS

1. Why would anyone use AOL? Especially for a work email address? Now that they advertise at the bottom of every email (which is ridiculous by the way) emails come with "trade secrets for amazing burgers." Maybe it's just me, but I don't want a link to the Food Network on my email.

2. Properties that require bank approval (ie. short sales and foreclosures) sometimes reduce the amount of commission offered in the MLS to the selling agent. Not wanting to work for free or drastically reduced commission, I ask if the buyer is willing to pay the commission (or pay the difference between what the bank would pay and 2.5% commission) and ask them to sign a buyer agency agreement to cover that possibility. What would you do?

3. When a client says they want to downsize, what do they mean? As real estate agents, we must be careful to listen to our clients carefully. One client may actually desire a smaller house but can move up in price, another may want a larger house with a smaller price tag. Still another may want a smaller house with a smaller price. Listen.

4. Are you sick of political crap talk yet? I am.

5. How come every time I log onto certain websites, I receive their catalog 2 days later in the mail? I feel like I'm being cyber-stalked.

6. Have you logged onto realtor.com as a consumer might recently? I'm not sure why anyone would use it. It's slow, there are ads going "blinky-blinky" all over the place, listings that have sold are still showing as available, and you can't search by subdivision. And to think of all the money I throw at them every year for the priviledge of placing my listings there. Sheesh.

7. It's so fun to come home when you have a puppy. Who knew?

Okay, not only do I have writer's block but I'm also out of random thoughts. Scary. Anybody have a real estate topic they want to discuss?

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

A milestone

Fri, 30 May 2008 13:08:27 -0500

Tomorrow is a milestone day for many parents in Lake Zurich, including me and my husband. Tomorrow the Lake Zurich High School Class of 2008 will graduate.

In 1990, we were blessed with the birth of our first child, a perfect baby boy. Like many first time parents, we were totally unprepared for the changes this event would bring to our lives. We were just excited and happy.

Those first few weeks of sleepless nights and countless feedings had us wishing the days and nights would pass faster so that our little bundle of joy would sleep through the night. Now, we look back at those days and wonder how the time went by so fast. Suddenly, our baby is an 18 year old young man about to embark on his own life's journey. It just doesn't seem possible.

As parents, we commit to memory and cherish all those little moments in time that make up a life. The first tooth, the first word, the first steps. We carefully hold the reins through the years and sometimes gently, sometimes firmly, guide our child throughout his growing years; keeping him on the right path. We nudge him on when he is reluctant to go off to school on that first day of kindergarten. We rein him in when he wants to stay out past curfew. We educate, we mentor, we protect and we love, all the while knowing that someday we must release the reins and allow him to continue on the path on his own.

Truth be told, this year has been a difficult one for me as a mom. I've known this day is coming and both looked forward to it and dreaded it at the same time. Together, my son and I have completed college applications and received acceptance letters. We've had senior pictures taken. We've mailed out graduation announcements. We've argued as I try to hold him close while he pulls away. Some days I feel an incredible sense of accomplishment and other days I feel the sand in the hourglass slipping away. His childhood is officially over.

Tomorrow I will not be showing houses. I will be watching my first born son graduate from high school and filing away in my mind yet another treasured memory of the wonderful boy, now man, that my husband and I have been blessed to share our lives with. My heart is bursting with pride. I'm so excited for him and know that he is ready - more than ready, really - to leave the nest. Yet the tears flow anyway. I'm sure I'll be in good company with the rest of the parents of LZHS graduating seniors as we try not to embarrass ourselves or our kids. I'll bring extra tissues, just in case.

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Whining about your lack of AR featured posts? Don't! Here's why.

Wed, 28 May 2008 15:59:19 -0500

I have been blogging now for over a year and I've had a grand total of 11 featured posts.

That's 11 out of the 165 posts I've written to date.

You might not think that's very impressive; after all, there are bloggers who write posts that are featured on AR regularly! But do I care? Nope! Here's why:

Because I've been featured elsewhere, in print and online, offering me even greater visibility than an AR featured post ever could. Don't get me wrong, finding out your post has been featured on AR is flattering, helps you pick up new subscribers and is just, well, fun. It may help you get noticed by outside readers as well. However, it is entirely unnecessary to your success as a blogger.

Instead of whining about my lack of featured posts, I've been busy writing. Imagine my surprise and delight to find myself getting noticed. Not just by the consumer, although more and more clients are finding me because of my AR blog, but by editors and columnists who want to feature me and my writing. As a result, I've recently been featured in the following trade publications:

Metro Chicago Real Estate Magazine

RE/MAX Times Online

The Real Estate Professional Magazine

I've also been informed that I will be featured in the Agent Snapshot in an upcoming edition of Chicago Agent Magazine.

Interestingly, the post (Will 2008 be the year you wish you'd bought real estate?) that received the most outside attention was NOT featured on AR. In fact, it only garnered an average number of comments. But someone else out there was reading and taking notice!

In addition, I've discovered (thanks to Google Alerts) that some of my posts have been "borrowed" by other agents across the country for their blogs (they all gave me credit). So I'm now reaching audiences in Georgia, Alaska and California, just to name a few!

Allow me to put this in perspective for you. Active Rain has 89,000 + members, which is impressive, but RE/MAX has more than 100,000 associates. Metro Chicago Real Estate Magazine is read by residential broker/owners, top producers, residential real estate offices, homebuilders/developers, Chicago area relocation directors (Fortune 500), mortgage brokers, mortgage bankers, wholesale/correspondent lenders, attorneys, appraisers, technology providers, investors, title, credit and mortgage insurance firms. The Real Estate Professional Magazine has been serving Real Estate's top professionals since 1977. Chicago Agent Magazine serves the entire residential real estate industry of Chicagoland, including top-level real estate executives, brokers, agents, developers, builders and mortgage professionals.

Can anyone say: Referrals? New business? Increased professional reputation? Huge exposure both nationally and locally?

So if you've been whining about your lack of featured posts, quit your whining and just keep writing. Your success is guaranteed.

Hmmm...I wonder if this post will be featured?

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Let's put the "go" back in negotiation!

Tue, 27 May 2008 11:03:34 -0500

Negotiation is a key element of most real estate transactions. It is so commonplace that most buyers and sellers recognize that the list price is merely the seller's starting price and that the actual price paid for the house will be either lower, or in some cases higher, than the list price quoted. What happens in between is negotiation.

Back when it was a seller's market, it was common for houses to sell at or very near list price. Sometimes, multiple offers would push the purchase price over list price as buyers competed for a particular house. Inventory was low and good houses were hard to come by, so sellers could hold firm and had more negotiating power. You would sometimes see the words, "seller firm" in the MLS remarks which would basically give buyer's agents notice that the seller was more or less unwilling to negotiate off list price. The buyers and their agents could then tailor their offers accordingly to provide the buyer with the best chance to get the house of their dreams. It was a common courtesy.

Now that it is a buyer's market, houses are typically selling for less than asking price because inventory is high and buyers are in the driver's seat. This has resulted in very low initial offers and, more recently, an unwillingness of buyers to negotiate from their initial offer position. However, this rarely results in the buyers getting the house they made an offer on, not only because low initial offers are insulting to a seller, but because the buyers fail to do their homework prior to writing an offer and have no idea what the fair market value of the house is. They are simply throwing a number out there hoping to get a great "deal" with no thought given to what would be a reasonable amount to pay for the house.

Buyer's agents need to educate buyers prior to writing an offer, which includes discussing an appropriate negotiation strategy. The buyer's agent should present the buyer with recent comparable sales so that the buyer can be informed. The buyer's agent should then help a buyer prepare to make a reasonable offer on the house. This preparation includes helping a buyer use common sense instead of emotion. The buyer must be willing to either walk away or step up to the plate to get the house they want. The key is having the information at hand to back up the offer. Finally, the buyer's agent must make sure the buyer is realistic about what to expect in this process.

Buyers are under the impression that they can make ridiculous offers on well-priced homes. It is the buyer's agents job to make sure the buyer doesn't make a ridiculous offer that could cost them the house or, if they are able to get the house, won't cost them more in the long run due to annoying the seller in the beginning.

If it is the buyer's intention to present a "firm" initial offer, which they have every right to do, then common courtesy should dictate that they clearly state that their offer is "firm" and that they are unwilling to negotiate. A trend of sorts has emerged recently whereby buyers and their agents are presenting ridiculously low offers on well-priced houses with no bearing on reality or recently closed comparables (and by recent, I mean within 2-3 months). The sellers and their agents then take the time to craft a reasonable counteroffer, often coming down from list price $5,000 to $10,000 in an effort to open negotiations and work towards a win-win for both parties. The buyers then simply withdraw their offer without negotiating at all, claiming "they don't think that they will be able to get the house for the price they desire."

What? How do they know this? Can they read the seller's mind? If they don't take the time to negotiate, how will they ever know if they could have come to an agreement on price and terms with the seller?

It makes me wonder whether buyer's agents are taking the time to inform and prepare their buyers. Perhaps they are just so desperate for a sale that they are willing to write multiple ridiculously low offers for unrealistic buyers. Maybe they don't know how to negotiate.

The only thing I do know for sure is that there are a lot of buyers out there that still don't have a house...and a lot of sellers out there with homes to sell.

Negotiation is a key element of buying and selling real estate. Let's put the "go" back in negotiation and get these deals together!

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

I must be crazy

Thu, 22 May 2008 09:51:09 -0500

I must be crazy.

I turn down business sometimes. Here are some examples:

I discouraged sellers from listing their home right now because they simply can't afford to sell without digging a financial hole they won't soon climb out of.

I turned down a potential listing because it was a 45 minute drive away from my office.

I asked a buyer to speak with a lender and get pre-approved before we look at houses.

I advised a couple who were potential renters that it is in their best interest to stay in their current rental for another year, instead of moving into a new larger rental now.

I must be crazy.

I don't like to turn down business. Who does? I try to refer it out if at all possible, but sometimes it's just me doing what I believe to be in the best interest of the potential client.

I mentioned this to another agent the other day and this person basically told me I was crazy.

Yep.

I must be crazy to have standards. I must be crazy to have compassion for others. I must be crazy to believe that profitability is more important than sales volume. I must be crazy to resist the old school ideas and choose to do things differently. I must be crazy to really want what is best for my clients. I must be crazy to want success for my sellers instead of just my sign in their yard. I must be crazy to refer out business that I feel is outside my market area or expertise. I must be crazy to screen clients and only work with those who fit my "best client" criteria.

I must be crazy. Either that or I'm very, very smart. I like to think I'm the latter. Are you crazy, too?

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Lake Zurich, Hawthorn Woods, Kildeer, Long Grove SNAPSHOT OF THE MARKET

Thu, 22 May 2008 07:37:25 -0500

If you are clamoring for timely market information, you've come to the right place!

Here are the statistics (looking back 1 month) for listings currently on the market in the Lake Zurich, Hawthorn Woods, Kildeer and Long Grove areas:

There are currently 596 active listings (detached single family homes). The average list price is $802,711.00 and the average market time is 214 days.

There are currently 69 active listings (attached single family homes). The average list price is $350,253.00 and the average market time is 152 days.

Now for the statistics (looking back 1 month) for listings that are off the market:

The average sale price for detached single family homes is $320,000.00. Only 2 properties have sold in the past month. Detached single family homes are selling at approximately 95% of list price. The average market time for sold properties is 63 days.

No attached single family homes have sold in the past month.

*information gathered from MRED Market Statistics Criteria Reports. Sold = closed.

Our offices report that the average number of showings for all listings was 2.5 per month for the month of April. Last year, the average number of showings per month was slightly higher, at 3.1 per month. Back in 2006 it was 4.9. It used to take about 8 to10 showings to generate an offer. Simply put, generating an offer was accomplished in less time when showings were more frequent. Prior to 2006, homes were selling in 30-60 days on average.

If you are considering buying a home...you have many to choose from, making NOW an excellent time to purchase!

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

The 4, no, make that 5 P’s of Marketing Your Lake Zurich Area Home

Tue, 20 May 2008 09:25:34 -0500

As a real estate marketer, I strive to create a marketing mix that will showcase your home to create the highest perceived value, reach the widest possible audience and generate the largest buyer response.

Traditionally, the 4 P's of marketing are:

PRODUCT

The product is, obviously, your house. The number of bedrooms and bathrooms, lot size, fixtures, amenities, updates, and the location are key components. Additionally, how well your house is staged, how clean it is, and your flexibility in accommodating showings will affect its salability.

PRICE

Together we will go over the recent comparable sales, current active listings and pending sales to arrive at a pricing strategy that takes into account both your needs and the current market conditions. Some additional components of pricing include your flexibility, your timeframe for moving, and the current competition for your house.

PLACE

Since I can't put your house on a shelf in a retail store like a gallon of milk, this means I will figure out where the most likely buyer of your house will come from...and will subsequently target that buyer. In other words, I'll bring the market to your doorstep!

PROMOTION

This is the exact combination of advertising and marketing that I will use to promote your home. My marketing strategy includes promoting your home to other agents as well as directly to buyers through a combination including, but not limited to, postcards, flyers, signage, broker open houses, the multiple listing service, as well as an explosive internet marketing program.

So, what is the 5^th P of marketing? In today's market, I think the 5^th P should be...

PERSEVERANCE

With increased inventory and tighter lending practices, even the best priced, best prepared and best marketed homes are taking longer to sell than in the boom years. Our offices report that the average number of showings for all listings was 2.5 per month for the month of April. Last year, the average number of showings per month was slightly higher, at 3.1 per month. Back in 2006 it was 4.9. It used to take about 8 to10 showings to generate an offer. Simply put, generating an offer was accomplished in less time when showings were more frequent. Prior to 2006, homes were selling in 30-60 days on average. With average marketing times in the Lake Zurich area for detached single family homes now hovering around 214 days, and attached single family homes at around 150 days, perseverance is a must!

The real estate marketing process is like putting together a puzzle...without all of the pieces it's just a waste of time. My 24/7 marketing plan puts all the pieces together for a winning combination of marketing and advertising designed to position your home for success. Call me today!

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

A nip here, a tuck there

Sat, 17 May 2008 19:28:45 -0500

Nearly everyone I know (in every industry) has made a few nips and tucks to their personal budget this year. Amid fears of layoffs, the stock market, rising gas prices...and of course the housing market...many have decided to curtail a few luxuries for a healthier bottom line.

Maybe it's that morning Starbucks run. Or perhaps you've taken to mowing your own lawn. I know some people who are eating out less and brown bagging more. It's generally the little luxuries that go first, although sometimes more drastic cuts are taken. One friend of mine has gotten a second job. A past client traded in her SUV for a Honda Civic, because the gas prices were killing her. I've started cleaning my own house again and my husband is going to install a new sliding glass door himself instead of hiring the pros to do it. We also sold a motorcycle and laser printer that were no longer being used.

These little changes can add up to a whole lot of extra cash. For me, simply cleaning my own house will save me about $2000 per year...which is going to really help pay that University of Illinois college tuition in the Fall. Okay, it's a drop in the bucket (have you seen how much college tuition is these days?) but hey, every little bit helps!

For my first time buyer clients who are looking to purchase a house sometime in the next year, making small changes to the way you live today can make a big difference in your financial situation when the time comes to purchase. Do you really need that grande mocha frappacino or would a plain old cup of joe get you through the day? Can you get your nails done once a month instead of every other week? Is it possible to get by with only basic cable (gasp!)?

Has your personal budget undergone a little financial surgery this year? Care to share your best tips for saving a few bucks?

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

What do YOU want?

Sat, 17 May 2008 17:36:49 -0500

Buying a house can be very scary. It's a big purchase. Most buyers will, rightfully so, ask the opinions of friends, family or colleagues. This can be extremely helpful and help point you in the right direction.

However, just because someone else loves an area or a house, doesn't mean you will. I've seen many buyers make the mistake of relying too heavily on the opinions of others and neglecting that little voice in their heads asking them..."but is it right for me?"

Listen to your inner voice!

My husband, Brian, and I moved to Massachusetts from Michigan when we were newly married. We loved it. Massachuetts is beautiful and we made many friends (young transplants just like us). My son was born in Massachusetts, and soon thereafter the pressure began. "Move back home" begged the in-laws, "we want to be near the baby." So, of course, we eventually caved to the pressure and packed up and moved back to Michigan. Brian found a job and we built a house in Chelsea, Michigan. But not long after moving into our newly built home, the company my husband worked for decided to close down their operations in Ann Arbor. Thus began a pattern of companies closing their doors or spinning off segments of the business, forcing us to relocate. You see, moving back to Michigan just wasn't the right move for us, after all. Maybe if we'd been a little older or a little more confident, we would have taken more time to decide what was right for us, instead of relying so heavily on the opinions of others (and what would make them happy).

SO...

If you are a country person at heart, don't move to the city because it's what all your friends are doing.

If you are a retiree, but hate hot humid weather, rethink the popular convention of buying your second home in Florida.

Resist that urge to buy a move up home that will stretch your budget to the max just to keep up with the Joneses.

First timers: Your Mom and Dad like the ranch on one acre but you like the two story near the park? Pick the park!

Trust me when I say that you need to know what YOUR criteria is, what makes YOU happy and what fits YOUR budget and should choose where and what type of housing to buy accordingly. Who is going to live there? YOU are!

As your real estate agent, I will help YOU find YOUR perfect place. My opinions are optional ~ feel free to form your own!

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

Mmmm...dandelions

Tue, 13 May 2008 12:38:17 -0500

Did you know that dandelions are edible? They must be pretty tasty too, since Zoey the Wonder Puppy consumes several on a daily basis!

When she thinks I am not paying attention, she will zoom in and decapitate the unsuspecting blooms without even pausing to slow down. She just loves them.

Of course, being the careful puppy owner that I am, I thought I'd better look it up to make sure they wouldn't make her sick. Imagine my surprise to see several recipes for dandelions! And to think we've spent years trying to eradicate the darn weeds (um, plants) from our lawn.

Who knew that we could've been enjoying fried dandelion blooms, added the leaves to our salads, and even made dandelion tea. See the recipes and read more about the benefits of eating dandelions here. Not sure if I will partake in the feast, but at least Zoey won't be harmed by eating them.

By the way, if you are the type that sprays or spreads countless amounts of chemicals on your lawn each season, maybe now is the time to switch to safer kid and pet friendly organic fertilizers. Go green and make the world little healthier this year. That way, when Zoey and I walk around the block, she can snack on your dandelions, too!

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.

I'm getting so F-A-T!

Mon, 12 May 2008 15:31:00 -0500

Yes, I have to confess, I'm getting F-A-T.

Frustrated, Anxious and Tired!

Frustrated, because the market is rapidly changing and what was a good price yesterday is no longer a good price today. Frustrated because buyers are sitting on the fence instead of making offers. Frustrated because gas prices are soaring and, well, part of my job involves driving all over town.

Anxious, because I'm the kind of person who truly wants what is best for my clients, and when they are anxious, so am I. And this market is causing my buyers and sellers to feel very anxious indeed. I feel their pain. Literally.

Tired, because it is my nature to be a very positive person and I've been maintaining my positive outlook since the market started it's turn for the worse back in 2006. I believe we have two choices, to be positive or to be negative. It's harder to remain positive (takes more energy) but that is just the way I am, even though it can be tiring at times.

Are you F-A-T? I think it's okay if you are. I'm sure many buyers and sellers are F-A-T too. We are human, after all. But being F-A-T does not mean we give up or pull the covers over our heads and go back to bed. It means that we need to come together and brainstorm. We need to support and encourage one another. We need to trust in our skills and keep working hard to reach our goals and to help our clients reach theirs.

Before you know it, the energy and ideas will start flowing again, the economy will improve, the market will slowly start to turn around, and we will no longer be F-A-T, we will be P-H-A-T.

Profitable, Happy, Appreciative and Thrilled!

Profitable, because the market will recover and not only will our buyers and sellers see home appreciation again, but our increased skills and marketing abilities (not to mention our budgeting abilities) will help increase our profitability as well.

Happy, because we will be busy and productive, instead of just busy. Happy because our clients will be more relaxed and less anxious. Happy, because we will all have less pain and more gain for our efforts.

Appreciative, because we will all recognize the lessons this market has taught us. What goes up, must come down. We won't let history repeat itself.

Thrilled, because we will have made it through a very tough time, not just in the housing market, but in the economy as a whole. Thrilled, because we triumphed over lost income, uncertainty and despair. Thrilled because we came out the other side as better people and better agents.

I'm looking forward to being P-H-A-T, aren't you?

phat -adjective

Slang. great; wonderful; terrific.

Kelly Sibilsky, RE/MAX Unlimited Northwest, (847)909-2337, ks@getmovingwithkelly.com.