Your thermostat controls 50% of your home's energy usage. - 05/31/12 02:57 AM
This is a fascinating gadget if it accounts for half the energy usage. I am curious about cost, installation and feedback, too. Imagine all the smart house type products that will be coming down the pike. This alone makes you shake your head in wonder!
Via Alan May, Coldwell Banker Realtor® Evanston, Illinois & Northern Suburbs (847.425.3779 almay@aol.com):
There's something that appeals to me about this new Thermostat called "Nest", that's currently available.  It's form and functionality are incredible.
It's a little bit of a throwback to the old Honeywell thermostat that used to hang on the walls of 90% of the homes … (2 comments)

Ipad Paperless Realtor Training Product! - 05/30/12 10:38 AM
Study Guide for Goodlife Team Buyer iPad Class Webinar with Ross Hair! Check out products for sale at  RossHair.com/iPad   for discounted products of two payments $97 apiece. No promo code needed. This product dumb, simple stupids it down for me! My messy notes? Ready set go!

Garry Wise says 30 minutes to prepare all steps below for client appt.

Buyers have an excitement mode even more than Sellers! Manage mood and expectations for five star experience.

Prepare,      and organize docs are three steps.

Like Seller steps, do Calendar appt first.

Detailed notes over coffee. … (7 comments)

iPad Apps that Make Sense for Realtors - 05/29/12 11:27 PM
Ready, Set, Go!Here is Page Four of iPad Apps for Realtors that I want to Show you!Page one is mostly Apple Native Apps.Page two is inspired from the NEW Good Life Team iPad Realtor Training Series.Page three is a Learn to Earn apps page.Page Four is stuff I need to get my paws on fast.The other pages? Folders of apps I enjoy but do not use quite as much as these. P.S. If you need to photograph your iPad screen, press the HOME button and the on off button and then say CHEESE!You'll Retrieve Golden Results with Cheryl Ritchie, RE/MAX 100, for … (7 comments)

What makes your iPad Page One Apps List? - 05/29/12 11:10 PM
Okay PAGE one is for native Apple Apps.The non native apps are what jump out.Evernote and Top Producer Mobile are at the bottom where they can be accessed on every page!Kindle App is page one for easy access to Dummies Books.Smartr is the Coolest Contact Finding Info Source!Weather App means Mom, the official Weather Bureau for the Family, can take a break!Bank, Carbonite and Ignition are Winners!What about you? What rates page one to get the Realtor job done?You'll Retrieve Golden Results with Cheryl Ritchie, RE/MAX 100, for all your Southern Maryland Real Estate Services. … (3 comments)

Learn to Earn iPad Apps for Realtors! - 05/29/12 10:55 PM
Okay, you need to learn a new tech tool or program or website.I like the book called " Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway."Picture the Cowardly Lion and PLUG ahead at FULL steam ahead.Hire a Tutor, rev up a Webinar, pull out a book on your iPAD Kindle app.The learning apps on this Learn to Earn Realtor iPad Apps page? Go ahead and sneak a peek.This is my Learn to Earn APP and Bookmark page.What's up there? Maybe I will tell! Okay, sure I will! Here are the learning lab apps I think are swell!Bookmarks for...Apple Store Reservations, Upcoming Dummies Books, Apps for … (7 comments)

Tips to assist in listening to the Ross Hair Good Life Team Classes - 05/29/12 10:22 PM
Tips to assist in listening to the Ross Hair Good Life Team Classes! 
If you cannot listen to the video after a few seconds, stop the video, pull the white dot back to the start position, watch the light gray button in the background move to the right...be patient and let this gray bar get way, way to the right...then restart the video by touching the white triangle start button. I don't know why, it just works.
If you try to select iBooks or Evernote to open a PDF but they are not in the list, relax. Just delete app by … (3 comments)

FAQ 2. Why was my offer rejected though it was higher than list price? - 05/29/12 09:54 PM
Money is not everything. Look at some of the issues that can be brought up that make the difference between winning or losing an offer on a selected property. What are some more you could add to the list in your area that have mattered?
Via Pacita Dimacali - ePRO, SRES, CDPE, MBA Alain Pinel in Alameda County CA (Alain Pinel):
Why was my offer not accepted by the seller even though we offered higher than the list price?In my neck of the woods in Alameda , Oakland and Piedmont CA, we’ve had listings during which the winning buyers were not always those … (0 comments)

Blog with SEO Success in Mind - 05/29/12 08:03 PM
This makes a handy checklist for Active Rain blogs. The Boot Camp classes have been covering a lot of these  topics! The WordPress Format makes the Header Tags easy to do if you want to create your posts there first and then copy and paste them over.
Via Sharon Sanchez, Broker DRE #01206592 Carson California Homes For Sale (Realty World - Ace Home Realty):
In order to blog with SEO success in mind, you need to take a few things into consideration.  You want to make sure your blog includes the following components:
 
A Title The Body and Tags  
The Title … (0 comments)

Do You Remember? - 05/26/12 11:29 PM
What a great video selection for Memorial Day Weekend and what a perfect word choice. As I remember all my special Memorial Day Weekends, I also choose to remember those who have made each and every one possible for us all.
Via Jerry Newman,REALTOR®,Texas Agent San Antonio Real Estate & Military Reloc (Keller Williams Realty, 210-789-4216):
Do You Remember?Yes, Do you remember that the cost of Freedom is High. Freedom is not Free, and this Memorial Day Weekend, let us all “Take Time to Remember”all those brave men and women, who have sacrificed their lives, their time in service, and their families from … (5 comments)

My indispensable device - 05/26/12 11:18 PM
I agree with Rich's choice of Tech Tools almost one by one until the very end. I have both the iPhone and iPad but I would hold out for the iPad instead for vision alone. I would fire up Skype and use the larger viewing screen all day! Good post, Rich.
Via Richard Iarossi, Crofton MD Real Estate, Annapolis MD Real Estate (Long and Foster® Real Estate, Inc.):
In the dozen or so years that I’ve been in real estate, I’ve managed to stay ahead of the technological curve. Coming from a previous high tech telephone industry, it wasn’t that hard. As I … (2 comments)

Messy notes from iPad Webinar this week! - 05/26/12 06:39 PM
Here are my messy notes from a fabulous Webinar I listened to this week about running your business on an iPad. Ross Hair sponsored it . My notes are messy, grammatically incorrect and full of typos, but here is an overview of one of the best Webinars around if your interest is to go Mobile!
My notes...
Join Facebook.com/smmcamp for interaction on these Webinar Topics later!

Ross Hair brings in many Experts to these SMM Camp Webinars 

Coffee with Krisstina. @KrisstinaWise  #CwKinsights

Apple spent two days filming GoodLife Team for Commercial...Garry Wise and Krisstina Wise

Apps on … (11 comments)

Going iPad Mobile with Cartavi, Docusign & Evernote gets my VOTE! - 05/25/12 06:45 AM
 
Going iPad mobile with Cartavi, Docusign, and Evernote gets my vote!
Check out the Docusign Training at http://www.cartavi.com/DocuSign/
Or view the Video below.
Cartavi lets you SEE who, what, when and where in a Mobile Real Estate Transaction.
Cartavi let's you store, share and archive your Realtor Documents.
It is very, VERY visual and it automatically passes my "Dumb, Simple, Stupid this Tool Down for me" mandate, requirement, request on each tech toy I explore. It is simply SIMPLE in its implementation.
It marries up with Docusign and will also work with Evernote any day!
Hey, that reminds me, maybe they … (7 comments)

Multiple Offers Are More Common Than You Think - 05/23/12 05:12 AM
Multiple Offers are alive and well in Southern Maryland. Sellers appreciate them and Buyers are bewildered by them as they make a Spring Comeback in this Southern Maryland and Anne Arundel County Area. Prepare Offers Wisely!
Via Dan and Amy Schuman- Cleveland OH Luxury Real Estate (Howard Hanna Real Estate Services):
  Bidding wars are taking place more frequently in today's market, a sign of improving conditions. As we start to see more buyers fighting over the same home, we offer words of caution and some helpful advice. 
For those not familar with the term, a "multiple offer" situation or "multiples" in real … (5 comments)

Realtors® Rally Under the Shadow Of The Washington Monument - 05/23/12 04:52 AM
Cindy Jones posted this article that deserves repeating. I like the analogy to the crack on the Washington Monument and the crack in home ownership i.e. the volumes of people who are blocked out! Good post, Cindy Jones!
Via Cindy Jones-Northern Virginia Real Estate & Military Relocation Services (CJ Realty Group, Inc.):

 
Yesterday was the Rally to Protect Homeownership in Washington DC.  According to the count by the National Park Service we were 13,000 strong on the grounds of the Washington Monument yesterday morning. 
The rally was not just a chance to stand around idly to talk about the value … (0 comments)

Now that the NEW iPad is in this Southern Maryland Realtor's Hands! - 05/23/12 04:01 AM
Now that the NEW iPad is in this Southern Maryland Realtor's Hands!
Okay, so I used my Bank points to cover a good chunk of the cost.
Little did I know you could cash in your Rewards Points for Apple Gift Cards.
I do not know the life span of an iPad. I now have all three.
I do know that as the Queen of Crash on laptops that after one year I better start shopping and have one loaded before year two.
Year three they are pooping out on me at the worst possible time. You know, SPRING!
So I … (4 comments)

I Have A New Love! - 05/21/12 04:10 PM
I am loading up a NEW iPAD as I read this so I got a kick out of seeing what someone else sees as their favorite iPAD tips. I like the auction mention below and and also the cart usage for listings. Great Post!
Via Nancy Laswick, Scottsdale & Phoenix Area Realtor, EPRO, CDPE, SFR (REALTY ONE GROUP):
It's true, I have a new love in my life... my iPad! It's my favorite new business tool and it's so much better than I had imagined. I know that many people believe it's just another expensive toy, something to watch videos on or play … (6 comments)

This Southern Maryland Realtor on Lookout for Fed Ex Truck Today! - 05/21/12 04:04 PM
This Southern Maryland Realtor is on Lookout for Fed Ex Truck Today!
Once I realized you can cash in your Bank Points for Apple Gift Cards the decision was made on the spot!
I checked my email and my new iPad is loaded on the delivery truck today.
Yahoo, yahoo, you know what I am going to do this week! It is set up time!
Uh oh! I hear a horn tooting! HEY! Riley Rover please don't scare off the iPAD Fed Ex Driver today!
P.S. Returned with set up TIPS! The original sync via the cloud works for calendar and contacts and … (6 comments)

Crab on Beer. Silent Saturday Photograph. Chesapeake Beach Maryland. - 05/19/12 05:34 PM
I just love, love this! Abner's Crabhouse is one of my favorite haunts in Chesapeake Beach, Maryland. The photo on the top of my Wordpress Blog overlooks the Bay, Beach, Boardwalk, Beach and of course, where else, Abner's Crabhouse. 
Via Steve and Jan Bachman--Northern Virginia Realtors (RE/MAX Gateway, Reston, Herndon, Ashburn, Sterling, Fairfax ):
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
Abner's Crab House ...Cheaapeake Beach Maryland. To buy property in crab's back yard, contact our friend Cheryl Ritchie http://goldenresults.com/
 
 
 
Follow Jan and Steve at the places below

Jan and Steve Bachman are full time Realtors® with … (3 comments)

Want an Easy Search for Calvert County Waterfront? - 05/19/12 01:56 PM
Want an easy Search for Calvert County Waterfront? Here you go! Remember, it's just an hour commute from the Washington, D.C. Area Beltway but it may as well be hundreds of miles when you first feel the sand between your toes and hear the welcome melody of seagulls calling your name!
You'll Retrieve Golden Results with Cheryl Ritchie RE/MAX 100, for all your Southern Maryland Real Estate Services.
Come on, grab the flip flops and head down for a day of Bay Beach and Sun!
Originally Posted at www.GoldenResults.com! Translation? Word Press & Diverse Solutions Guru in the making!
      Showing properties … (2 comments)

Signs of Spring in the The Town of Chesapeake Beach and North Beach - 05/19/12 07:31 AM
Signs of Spring in the The Towns of Chesapeake Beach and North Beach?
The stoplight is so backed up a Local Police Officer is guiding you in!
The restaurants are packed to the brim up and down the little main drag.
Cars and People are Everywhere! Our little sleepy Towns have come to life.
Beach goers are in flip flops walking here and there!
P.S. Washington D.C. is just an hour away!
I think the SECRET is out. Our little quiet Towns have Bay, Boats, Beach and Boardwalks to shout about about...every day of the year!
You 'll Retrieve Golden Results … (4 comments)

Armed Forces Day- May 19- Celebrate and Honor the Day! - 05/19/12 07:12 AM
I was looking for a great Armed Forces Day post on Active Rain today to commerate our Armed Forces....here is Kathy Streib's well written post. I am proud of my Grandfather and special clients and Great Uncles and Cousins and the list goes on!
Via Kathy Streib-Home Stager-Palm Bch County South Florida - 561-914-6224 (Room Service Home Staging):
Armed Forces Day -May 19- Celebrate and Honor the Day!There are so many holidays and events that we celebrate but when the country pays tribute to all who are serving or have served in our Armed Forces we should pause not only to say “Thank … (0 comments)

How Do You Make Those Cute Little Symbols? ♦♫©♣☺☻♂♥ ♀ ♠ ® ♪ - 05/19/12 07:02 AM
Joni Staples, this is a great reblog of the day! If nothing else, I can come find it again when I need to insert one of these cute symbols  in a post! I need to experiment with this more on my iPad, too. Always something to do!
Via Joni Staples, CRS ♥ Broker Associate (936) 650-9017 (Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - Anderson Properties):
♥ How Do You Make Those Cute Little Symbols? ♫

Cathy Bureau wrote a post on Facebook asking how to make the ♥ Heart ♥ symbol. It reminded me of one of the very first blog … (5 comments)

MUST-HAVE NIFTY PROGRAM: SNAGIT - 05/18/12 01:20 AM
Snagit makes the top ten tech tools for me, too. I like the examples used below. It is invaluable fior creating a Keynote app Powerpoint slideshow each year. Plus it is a great tool to attach something to an email that you need the recipient to view. The surprise is that it can record the entire website!
Via Dianne Goode, North Raleigh Realtor ~ Raleigh Cary Realty ~ (Author of Field Guide to Difficult Clients ):

Since I downloaded Snagit a month ago, I have used it almost every day.  I didn't realize how much I needed exactly this piece of … (9 comments)

Sand in your toes & Bay Breezes an HOUR away after long hard workday! - 05/17/12 10:05 PM
Sand in your toes & Bay Breezes are just an HOUR commute away after a long hard Washington, D.C. Area workday!
Picture that dream from your Washington DC Area Job! 
Okay, get your Caboose headed East toward the Chesapeake Bay Beaches.
Go ahead, time it, and set your sites for roughly an hour.
Pack a beach blanket and be prepared to share your perch with a seagull or two.
Okay, pack some Sneakers because you'll want to walk this Town.
Ready to sit down for a mess of crabs? 
Write this Realtor Phone Number down because surely you'll be back. 301-855-2010.
… (4 comments)

New Construction Prince Frederick Md close to Chesapeake Bay! - 05/17/12 07:48 PM
New Construction in  Prince Frederick Md is close to the Chesapeake Bay, under  $300,000 and just 45 days fom completion.
One floor living and comfy feeling 3BR 2BA floor plan are great for first time buyers, vacation home buyers, or Retirees!
Or someone like me who just wants to kick back and smell the Chesapeake Bay or stroll a few blocks to take Riley Rover  for a swim.
We meet with the Cabinet Guys tomorrow. We discussed Warranty plans today. Dry Wall is on the way.
Come on down to check it out. You just have to give a little shout … (1 comments)

How to Add Copyright to Your Photos Using PicMonkey - 05/17/12 06:31 PM
I love this set of easy to understand directions on how to insert copyright on your photos. I want to compare this pic monkey product to ipiccy and see which one I prefer. I need to check out collages on these two products plus Picasa, too!
Via Joni Staples, CRS ♥ Broker Associate (936) 650-9017 (Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate - Anderson Properties):
How to Add Copyright to Your Photos Using PicMonkey
 
 
I just received a comment from an old post that I had written about how to put copyright on photos using Picnik. As we all know, the … (3 comments)

Shhhhh! Some Mobile Top Producer Secret Tips! - 05/16/12 06:38 PM
Shhhhh! Some Mobile Top Producer Secret Tips!
Lookie what I found. Here is the link to a Referral Program for Top Producer! Tip One and I have just begun! Copy this in the URL.
Topproducer.com/12067-tpcrm-referral
Okay, tip two! Did you know you can go to QuickLead.Realtor.com, pull up the site, then send the site to the iPAD Home page, then drop a lead into this i.e. a Buyer or Seller that calls in and starts talking PRONTO? Like there is no time to do a million steps? Just start typing notes in the bottom and then fill  in the rest when … (5 comments)

We Won't Sell Your Home - 05/16/12 08:12 AM
This is aN excellent point. A Listing Agent has a job to get the listing SOLD not necessarily themselves but by whomever can do the job. It is good to establish a realistic expectation on this concept particularly with Agency Rules in place.
Via Liz and Bill Spear RE/MAX Elite Warren County Ohio: Cincinnati to Dayton (513.265.3004 www.LizTour.com):
We Won't Sell Your Home Probably.  That's right, the odds of Liz and Bill Spear of RE/MAX Elite actually personally escorting the buyer through your door if you list with us aren't great.  We're 10 to 1 longshots on us bringing you the buyer that … (3 comments)

Multiple Offers and Appraisals. Learning to Co-Exist Successfully - 05/16/12 08:06 AM
What a great post this morning and applicable to many areas of the country. I like the part about the Listing Gent needs to be ready with the data such as Pendings and Current Listings to effectively demonstrate the Market has risen. Supply and Demand!
Via Gene Mundt Mortgage Lender Chicagoland Mortgage Lending (815.277.4036 www.genemundt.com):
 
Multiple Offers and Appraisals. Learning to Co-Exist Successfully               We are presently in the time of year when Appraisers, Realtors, and Mortgage Originators ... as well as Home Buyers and Sellers are often "anxious". Both good anxious and bad anxious. … (2 comments)

Cool Tips from Final Chapters of the NEW Color iPad for Dummies 2012! - 05/16/12 05:53 AM
Cool Tips from Final Chapters of the NEW Color iPad for Dummies 2012?...Let's GO!
Rev up your pen and paper! Here you go! My favorite surprise tips are....
Never mind, put the pen and paper away.
You can highlight iBooks or Kindle App sections or take notes to review or email later.
You can see a long list of notifications by swiping from top to bottom. Don't panic when you cannot read them quickly enough when you turn on your iPad because you can revisit them easily.
Remember an earlier tip that you can swipe upward to see list of all … (4 comments)

Tips from the end of iPad for Dummies NEW May Release 2012 Kindle Book - 05/15/12 11:50 PM
Tips from the last half of the iPad for Dummies NEW May Release 2012 Kindle Book...
By the way, I have signed up for some iPad classes at Annapolis Mall before and after a Client Open House on Memorial Day Weekend!
Margaret Rome quipped that it would be fun to watch me teach those young boys something. Nuh uh, I am still learning. But I did get a chuckle.
Download the iTunesU app. Those who attended Harvard and Yale etc. will have nothing on you! Just kidding. There are a half million free lectures. Yes, I saw Va Tech and Smithsonian Lectures in … (0 comments)

Waterfront Home for Sale at 1061 Bay Front Ave in Anne Arundel Co MD - 05/15/12 03:02 PM
A Waterfront Home is for Sale at 1061 Bay Front Ave in Anne Arundel Co MD. 
I attended an Open House Today around lunch time.
It was so doggone pretty I just did not want to leave.
So I didn't.
I needed to watch a Docusign Webinar and there was not enough time to get home.
So, I pulled out my iPAD, clicked the link in the email confirmation, and found a cozy spot.
The resident Golden Retriever parked right at my side. Want to talk about feeling welcome!
I filled some plates with strawberries and grapes and chicken salad and … (8 comments)

Should you set an offer date for your real estate listing? - 05/15/12 05:36 AM
This is a really timely post. One additional thought would be why set up such rigid time parameters that an offer cannot be written and submitted for Seller Review? It might be the best offer that would have been written! Just sayin!
Via Pacita Dimacali - ePRO, SRES, CDPE, MBA Alain Pinel in Alameda County CA (Alain Pinel):
Should you set an offer date for your real estate listing?Who turned on the switch? Just a few months ago, we were lucky if we got an offer on our listings within the first 30-60 days. And most of us dared not set offer date … (2 comments)

My One Tool My Business Could Not Live Without... - 05/15/12 05:06 AM
I like Kathy's choice and explanation of Active Rain as the one Tech Tool she could not live without. I start and end the day with it for many of the same reasons. My choice would be the iPad but close somewhere behind I would second the motion for this one!
Via Kathy Streib-Home Stager-Palm Bch County South Florida - 561-914-6224 (Room Service Home Staging):
Even though I began my business in 2007, I look at February 6, 2008 as the true beginning of my home staging company... for that is the day I joined ActiveRain.
Working as a Home Stager … (0 comments)

WHY DO I NEED A PRE-APPROVAL LETTER? - 05/15/12 04:57 AM
Short and Sweet but to the point. Sellers will wait to respond to your offer until you do present the paperwork that you are financially qualified to purchase the home. There is a job for the Seller to do up front...prepare the home for showing. This  is the job for the Buyers. Prepare the paperwork that you qualify to purchase the home.
Via Webster, Ma Conrad Allen, Realtor (Re/Max Professional Asociates):
You can't make an offer without one.  The seller needs to know that you are financially qualified to purchase the property.  The real problem is the pre-approval letters really aren't worth the … (2 comments)

Ideas for writing strong offers if Multiple Offers have become Norm! - 05/14/12 01:21 AM
Ideas for writing strong offers if Multiple Offers have become Norm!
Price or Net to a Seller is King. Remember the best deal may be getting the home of your dreams.
Timing can be Queen. Find out what the Seller wants and accommodate.
Big deposits matter. So do convenient Settlement times and dates and locations.
A synopsis in front with the highlights of the offer strengths...cool!
A letter from the Buyer...neat.
Evaluate which inspections are requested!
Got more? Add to the list!
You 'll Retrieve Golden Results with Cheryl Ritchie, RE/MAX 100, for all your Southern Maryland Real Estate Services. 
 
… (8 comments)

Can buyers see they have to be bold and aggressive when writing an offer in this market? - 05/14/12 01:14 AM
I am thinking of zapping out a post of ideas for offers when you know there will be multiple contracts for the Listing Agent to present. This post points out that this is happening in other reas around the country, too. Be prepared o compete!
Via Pacita Dimacali - ePRO, SRES, CDPE, MBA Alain Pinel in Alameda County CA (Alain Pinel):
Can buyers see they have to be bold and aggressive when writing an offer in this market?How can the real estate market have changed so drastically? And it isn’t just in Alameda , Oakland or Piedmont CA.Last year, my buyers were able … (1 comments)

A Mother's Day Gift for Supermoms: Nine Counter-Balancing Tips - 05/14/12 01:11 AM
I think some of the tips at the bottom for Zmons are great or Mother's Day and the day after, too. I like Google Calendar and be way it integrates with Top Producer Mobile now, too. Or the iCloud Apple Calendar as another concept.
Via Jay Papasan (Keller Williams Realty):

This "do it all" attitude has been popular for decades, but does it make the role of working moms seem too easy?
 
For a mom, the job is always on, and these days, seven out of 10 mothers are also career women. So it’s no wonder “balance” is a hot … (2 comments)

Want to buy an Electric Car? Ask your Landlord FIRST! - 05/14/12 01:07 AM
This is a thought revoking post. Imagine that this may affect new construction on Garages, too. Or commuter lots. Or rental leases as mentioned in Wallace's post. It will even impact insurance policies. Check it out! Electric Cars will impact us!
Via Wallace S. Gibson CPM * LandlordWhisperer (Gibson Management Group, Ltd.):
When I first saw how the Chevy Volt operated, my FIRST thought was where does a "tenant" plug it in?  
Unless the tenant has a garage with an electrical outlet on their electric meter, why would a landlord/property owner want the electrical drain/cost just for the use of a few … (2 comments)

Know The Warning Signs of a Stroke...Last Night I Am Glad I Did - 05/14/12 12:23 AM
This is really valuable information posted by Martha Brown about stroke warning signs. In her case she noticed QUIET behavior and heard comments about the arm feeling numb. Dizzy is also mentioned. Calls to 911 are a must! Read this!
Via Martha Brown Homes & News Around Annapolis (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc):
Know The Warning Signs Of A Stroke...You Could Save A Loved One's Life... Last Night I Did  
Saturday started out beautifully. A normal day, when I am not showing property, of some honey do lists for us both, phone calls for me, etc and then it was time to get … (1 comments)

Highlights of the Google Picasa 100 Page Kindle Book I Just Inhaled? - 05/14/12 12:19 AM
Highlights of the Google Picasa 100 Page Kindle Book I Just Inhaled?
I could not find a Picasa for Dummies book so I picked up a little 100 page Book and blitzed thru it the last couple of hours.
The Highlights are, off the top of my head...
This product has a Picnik like Collage Feature. You can also add print at the bottom or on the photo just like the Picnik Product.
You can tag photos. You can group photos in Virtual Allbums. You can do both so you never lose them.
You can do all kind of sharpening, … (3 comments)

My last blog of the week? What did I learn this week? Let me share! - 05/13/12 09:35 AM
My last blog of the week? What did I learn that's sweet? Let me share!
I spent Friday with Jan and Steve Bachman of Homesbybachman.com. I learned the bewitching hour for photography is the hour before the sun goes down. We walked the Railway Trail and shot some priceless scenes to use for my Southern Maryland Real Estate Marketing Pieces.
I also learned that when you photograph a lot of stuff, you learn to appreciate the beauty of things that surround you because you develop a camera eye.
You better believe I got it after a while! I was noticing all … (2 comments)

When you get one of those Active Rain offers you cannot refuse.... - 05/13/12 09:05 AM
When you get one of those Active Rain offers you cannot refuse....
You've heard me complain. I have paperwork on the floor that looks like it is up to my knees.
It is a Spring Market and it has heated up. There is lots and lots for this Southern Maryland Realtor to do.
But when Jan and Steve Bachman called and said they would like to come over, take me out to eat, their treat, and then shoot video and photos of my gorgeous Southern Maryland Market Area for me to use in Marketing pieces, after I got off the floor … (1 comments)

Happy Mother's Day to all the Active Rain Moms! - 05/13/12 08:30 AM
I love Kristine Ginsberg's collage for Mother's Day! I took my Mom for a Frap and we are also going back to a local Seafood Pub to try a round of Mussels, Shrimp, Garlic Bread, Zuchinni Straws, Clams. Mom deserves a Seafood Feast TREAT!
Via Kristine Ginsberg Morris County, NJ Stager (Morris County, NJ: Elite Staging and Redesign, LLC):
 Happy Mother's Day to all the moms and grand moms on Active Rain! I hope you all have something special planned with your family where you are treated like a queen! Because I am a mom I can say that there is no harder, … (0 comments)

Powerful Ways to Boost Facebook Fan Page Engagement - 05/13/12 08:02 AM
Kathy Streib posted her learning Favorites on Active Rain on Sunday as usual and each one is a GOLDEN reblog! What great tips from Rebekah! She always has great ideas and easy to understand how to do POSTS on Active Rain!
Via Rebekah Radice Social Media Marketing, Management & Strategies (Manager of Industry Engagement, Better Homes & Gardens RE):


Drive growth, build momentum and increase Facebook fan page engagement with a few simple strategies.
Keeping your fans alert, involved and eager to contribute is imperative to your page showing up in their newsfeed.
These tips will help you stay in … (1 comments)

Another Great Source of Blog Illustrations - 05/13/12 07:51 AM
I have wondered and wondered where the stick men are hosted! Here you go! I use iclipart.com but there is another humorous vendor below. I am looking forward to checking both of these ideas out plus using the Facebook permission idea, too!
Via Mike Cooper (Winchester Real Estate Sales, Cornerstone Business Group Inc):
In the early days of my blogging experience I had a difficult time coming up with good graphics for my blogs.  I didn't want to get into a copyright violation, so I struggled a bit to find good illustrations.  Finally, I found two companies that I really like, and I … (2 comments)

A Tale of Love and Loss at a Lake - 05/13/12 07:47 AM
I love this. It is that plain and simple. I found this post today on Kathy Steeib's list of Sunday favorite  LEARNING finds. Kathy always shows posts that teach something during the week that you can learn. My learn here would be how much they are like me to honor their Goldens this way!
Via Gayle Rich-Boxman Fishhawk Lake Realtor® (Vernonia Realty):
A Tale of Love and Loss at a Lake 
 

 
 
 
 
Sit down a spell. Let me tell you a story. There once was a couple who lived in harmony on a lake with forestland surrounding them. … (0 comments)

Active Rain GoldenResults.com HomesbyBachman.com Mini Meetup a Blast! - 05/12/12 04:57 AM
Active Rain GoldenResults.com HomesbyBachman.com Mini Meetup a Blast!
Let me give you a little background info first. I went to Hokie High. Yep, Gobbler Here. So did Steve Bachman. 
Along with the Va Tech Connection, there is a Severn School Connection. Yep, this Va Tech Realtor is a Severn Admiral, too, and proud to tell you.
Go figure, Jan Bachman taught Summer camp at Severn School during the same years I attended.
So, okay, for about 11 to 12 hours yesterday, from the time Steve and Jan Bachman from RE/MAX Gateway of Chantilly VA hit my Southern Maryland Porch and we … (3 comments)

Steve and Jan Bachman are on their way to film Southern MD all day! - 05/11/12 10:48 AM
Steve and Jan Bachman from RE/MAX Gateway in Chantilly, VA are on their way to film Southern MD with me all day!
Translated that means you are going to henceforth see some razzle dazzle, Hollywood type, National Geogrpahic photos and videos hit the airwaves on my posts.
Oh boy, gotta vacuum, gotta dust, gotta clean up and get ready because we are about to start a day of videos and photos all around Southern Maryland.
Oh never mind, I just want to have fun! We're going for Stoney's Crabcakes, too! Mom's going to join us!
Reminds me, I need to surprise … (2 comments)

My NEW iPad Alarm Clock App does EVERYTHING except Quack! - 05/11/12 03:53 AM
My NEW iPad Alarm Clock App does EVERYTHING except Quack!
Okay, okay, I almost did not even need my new alarm clock this morning.
I was so excited to see if my new Ipad Alarm Clock worked that I woke up before the alarm went off.
Okay, don 't laugh. If you ask nicely I might even divulge which one I spent hours selecting last night.
But let me tell you this. My new alarm clock is playing the Clapton song I selected from my iTunes collection called Wonderful Tonight.
It has a video beach scene with the waves hitting the … (8 comments)

How do you start your day? - 05/11/12 02:45 AM
I decided to have some fun below. I reblogged a post by Bliz that caught my attention the other day. This morning I was tapping the photos of anyone  who had commented on one of my posts lately. Imagine my surprise to see my name in the top post. I did not know you could reblog a reblogged post. So the is a triple reblog just or fun! 
Via Rebecca Riopelle, REALTOR® Beth York Real Estate, LLC (Greater Boston 617-794-3023 www.RebeccaRioRE.com):

 
My office is mostly at home these days and here is how I start my day...
 
I wake … (5 comments)

Boot Camp With Bob...Lots of Good Stuff for Bloggers! - 05/11/12 02:19 AM
The Boot Camp for blogging was so good yesterday I am posting some of the blogs reviewing the Second Class. Each Blogger picked up some different tips as their favorite points. Margaret does a fantastic job of thoroughly doing a nuts and bolts recap of the hour!
Via HomeRome Realty Author:Real Estate the Rome Way 410-530-2400:
               Boot Camp With Bob...Lots of Good Stuff for Bloggers!   Today I took notes while listening to Bob Stewart tell us how to write a first blog or in many cases a next blog. I think I got more … (4 comments)

Even an Old Dog Can Learn New Tricks- AR BootCamp! - 05/11/12 02:04 AM
I learned about using the full align tab when you enter a photo to the side of a post plus some of the tips Kathy covers here! What a worthwhile use of time to pick up extra blogging tips over the next six Thursday as Active Rain Boot Camp gathers momentum!
Via Kathy Streib-Home Stager-Palm Bch County South Florida - 561-914-6224 (Room Service Home Staging):
Even an Old Dog Can Learn New Tricks- AR BootCamp!
Many of you know that I love to learn something new every day, and that's always true here at ActiveRain.  So I decided to take the ActiveRain BootCamp … (1 comments)

How to send a 99 cents Postcard for Mother's Day via iPad & Postagram! - 05/10/12 12:37 PM
How to send a 99 cents Postcard for Mother's Day via iPad & Postagram!
P.S. Fraps are half price at Starbucks 3 to 5 the next few days, too, if you want to delight Mom on a BUDGET!
Load the Postagram app on your iPAD. Sign up for an account. 
Follow the easy peasy instructions to create a postcard. You can select photos from your iPAD or even Facebook.
Place order. Here is an iPad screenshot of me and Mom many moons ago! 
You 'll Retrieve Golden Results with Cheryl Ritchie, RE/MAX 100, for all your Southern Maryland Real Estate Services. 
… (3 comments)

Week TWO Active Rain Boot Camp on How to Make your Blog Posts Better! - 05/10/12 10:04 AM
Week TWO Active Rain Boot Camp on How to Make your Blog Posts Better!
I set this post up in DRAFT mode so it is ready on my iPAD to take favorite notes then post as soon as the Week 2 Webinar concludes.
Yes, that means the photo from Flickr.com, the market stats from rbintel.com, and the Real Bird Property info was all inserted hours ago on my iPAD.
I do this for notes I take in Realtor classes, from Dummies Books I am reading, from Webinars I am attending etc. 
In other words, I post my notes and Active Rain … (3 comments)

How Hard Can it Be? Selling Your House FSBO - 05/10/12 06:36 AM
I think you choose or choose not to hire experts in every field when you approach a project or large decision. It is not what you know, but what you do not know. The Expert in any field can cover their cost in savings...and then some!
Via Holly Weatherwax--Your Realtor® in Northern VA (Momentum Realty,LLC):
I am well aware that the general public believes that Realtors are overpaid (I could spend a whole blog post letting you know how the commission we receive is divided and spent until we get a fraction of it to deposit, but I will save that for another … (2 comments)

“That’s exactly the house I want at the price I want to pay but…” - 05/10/12 06:29 AM
This is short and sweet but the message is rock solid as can be! Move the home and the price moves. The value is a product of location and many other factors. A decision on a home is a series of compromises. On which decision are you willing to do a compromise?
Via Richard Weisser Coweta Fayette Real Estate:
Anyone that has ever sold real estate for a living has had this happen more frequently than you would expect:
A buyer views a house in their price range and deems it as perfect except for one minor issue…
They want the house to … (1 comments)

New To Blogging? Where Are You From? - 05/10/12 05:54 AM
I love this simple to follow explanation on how to do a very valuable marketing tool on Active Rain. This tells EVERYONE where you are from and what areas you serve via constant reminders in print and by maps. It is a Billboard of your Business Card!
Via Liz and Bill Spear RE/MAX Elite Warren County Ohio: Cincinnati to Dayton (513.265.3004 www.LizTour.com):
New To Blogging?  Where Are You From? There are many Active Rainers that as soon as we see their comment or post, we instantly associate them with their town or state.  Name a state and chances are we've got someone (or … (5 comments)

A James Taylor's Melody " You've Got a Friend" Inspirational Tale! - 05/09/12 07:44 PM
Think Melody to James Taylor's " You've Got a Friend" then listen to this Active Rain Inspirational Tale.
According to Riley Rover I should spell that TAIL but that is his opinion.
I have listed a lot of Chesapeake Beach and North Beach MD lots lately in Southern Maryland. Matter of fact, a humdinger amount. Plus I have listed a lot of new construction homes around 250k in Prince Frederick MD.
My plan was to shoot more photos on Friday so I am then ready to start on Tour Factory, Real Bird, Mobile Real Estate ID products PLUS Active Rain Blog … (2 comments)

New Cell Phone App Allows Hm Inspectors To See Through Cement, Walls & Sellers. - 05/09/12 02:17 AM
Of course we all want this app zapped right to our cell phones. But since it does not exist, the next best thing is an experienced, reputable home inspector from your area with referrals from your Agent, Friends, or Family Members!
Via Greg Nino Houston Texas (RE/MAX West Houston Professionals):
My home inspector owns a gizmo that allows him to see through 4 feet of cement. He's able to detect termites behind walls by looking through his sun glasses as he levitates around the home like David Blane. He also wears a special belt that he can take off and wrap around a seller … (1 comments)

5 Reasons Why Your House Didn't Appraise For What You Thought it Should - 05/09/12 01:34 AM
What a great list to bookmark and share with clients. I would add to this one more. Homes do not appraise for the number you need to get out of the home. That number has no real  bearing on market value. I might put that addition with red ink!
Via Tom Horn (Thomas Horn, Real Estate Appraiser):
Have you ever gotten an appraisal back on your home for a refinance (or sale) and found that it did not appraise for what you thought it should?  Unfortunately this does occur on occasion.  You may chuckle and say this occurs more times than not and … (2 comments)

RainMaker BootCamp - Still Not Too Late to Join - 05/08/12 07:38 PM
The first class was chocked full of ideas on how to effectively ramp up your effectiveness and navigation skills on Active Rain. I'm looking forward to the blogging staging class! I'm on the yellow team incognito somewhere in the audience outskirts...learning big time! Join me!
Via Bob Stewart - Community Evangelist - ActiveRain (ActiveRain):
I've been training people on how to use ActiveRain for 5 years. In the last 2 years we've had more formal training but only recently did we take our training up an extra notch. With the introduction of Rainmaker Boot Camp, an 8 week formalized training program, we hope … (1 comments)

Memorial Benches at North Beach Maryland are Available! - 05/08/12 12:10 PM
In the Quaint Town of North Beach Maryland, if you would like to order a Memorial Bench for a loved one, here are the steps!
Please contact Marsha Stiner at 301 855 6681 or email her at mstiner@northbeachmd.org.
The link for the downloadable forms is available at http://www.northbeachmd.org/Pages/index
What is most special is that the cost of the bench and plaque is exactly that. You are paying for the cost only and you may select the location.
From that point forward the Town owns and maintains the special benches.
The cost of the Memorial Benches is $1075 which includes the bench and … (2 comments)

Buyers Decide Within 8 Seconds Whether They Are Interested In A Home - 05/08/12 01:23 AM
This eight seconds sounds about right to me. Have the entry area and the curb appeal up to snuff to make sure  by the ninth second your home is the one that is instantly chosen to be their home, too. it just takes seconds to fall in love with the right home.
Via LaNita Cates (REMAX of Joliet):
I am a huge fan of Real Estate Agent and Mogul Barbara Corcoran. Barbara is a Real Estate Contributor on NBC's Today show and the wonderful addition to ABC's Shark Tank. Per Barbara:
"BUYERS DECIDE WITHIN 8 SECONDS WHETHER THEY ARE INTERESTED IN YOUR HOME."
… (6 comments)

Tips and Tricks from the Second Half of the NEW Color iPad for Dummies Kindle Book! - 05/07/12 05:14 AM
Tips and Tricks from the Second Half of the NEW Color iPad for Dummies Kindle Book!
When you save a post or article to read later, you retrieve it under Bookmarks. You open it from the Read folder then swipe the title left to right to tap the delete button after you have finished reading the piece.
Under mail, contacts calendars in Settings, turn off the organize by thread choice and say three cheers. Now your emails will not disappear as they arrive in to past threads.
On maps, a sleeper iPad function, you can search address by contacts, product such … (7 comments)

Staging Open Floor Concept Homes: Before/After Photos - 05/07/12 03:31 AM
Look at the great comparison photos of before and after shots once Stager Kristine Ginsberg has applied her magic. You become more aware of homes that have utilized Stagers once you start to routinely study the photos and read the valuable tips.
Via Kristine Ginsberg Morris County, NJ Stager (Morris County, NJ: Elite Staging and Redesign, LLC):
Staging Open Floor Concept Homes: Before/After Photos
When selling an open concept home it’s very important to stage each space with a purpose that’s cohesive and flows from one space to the next.  My client had lived in this condo for 4 years and … (5 comments)

6 ways to prevent scratches in your hardwood floors - 05/07/12 03:09 AM
Nothing beats the beauty of hardwood floors so an article on how to preserve and enhance this is a welcome topic! There are good ideas such as shoe removal, pads, mats, roller free furniture, rugs and regular clean up. Notice the tip about the poly finish! 
Via Debbie Gartner - Westchester Flooring -Hardwood Floors Carpet Tile Refinish - (Floor Coverings International Westchester NY & Stamford CT):
Many of my customers ask me how to prevent scratching in hardwood floors, so I thought these tips would be helpful.  
First, let me preface this by saying that ALL hardwood scratches. It's just a matter … (3 comments)

Dos and Don'ts before closing - 05/06/12 04:49 AM
Tape this tough love  to the refrigerator. This is a great reminder of what to do and what not to do before closing on your home. A main point is not to go out and change your financial picture with furniture and cars. You may get them but not the new home! 
Via Annette Sievert - Corvallis, Oregon (CB Valley Broker):
You have found the right property, made an offer, got accepted, had an inspection done, agreed on repairs and now you just await closing.
So now onto buying some appliances, cabinets, making a down payment on the contractor bill, after all you … (4 comments)

3 Simple Lessons Learned From Today's Kentucky Derby Winner - I'll Have Another - 05/05/12 05:43 PM
I am seeing Facebook entries, Tweets, etc. but this is as good of an insightful description for Realtors as you will find today. Never, never give up and do not be too hasty to judge whether someone will or will not get something done. P.S. I will have another half price Frap this weekend!
Via Mark Loewenberg PA (Keller Williams of the Palm Beaches):
As we just saw, I'll Have Another, ridden by Mario Gutierrez, has won the 138th running of the Kentucky Derby from the 19th post position.  Another Awesome Kentucky Derby Race is completed.
Lessons learned for me from today's race!
… (2 comments)

A Few More iPad Tips from the 80 cent new Color 2012 iPad for Dummies Just Released Kindle Book - 05/05/12 04:56 PM
A Few More iPad Tips from the 80 cent new Color 2012 iPad for Dummies Just Released Kindle Book....
I guess I am cheap to entertain because this Southern Maryland Realtor is downright fascinated.
Okay, here is another Golden Goodie iPad tip.
When you go to the multitasking screen, which is a left swipe from the main screen or a four finger upward swipe from any screen....
You the take your finger and swipe the bottom row of icons that are open for multitasking.
This takes you to audio controls for iTunes so you can adjust the volume of your songs … (6 comments)

More iPad Tips from the NEW iPad for Dummies May 2012 Book! - 05/05/12 04:13 PM
More iPad Tips from the NEW iPad for Dummies May 2012 Book!
Okay, I am going to type these three letters on the line below and you are going to see a complete sentence.
I am going to type an R then a G then a W because this is the shortcut I just created on my iPad. You, however, will see the sentence.
Here it goes.
RGW
Rats, it failed.
It works in email. 
Back to the drawing board. A Golden Girl's Work is never done.
Let my try again.
Oops, the code is R then G then R. I … (4 comments)

The NEW May Color 2012 iPad for Dummies Kindle Book is Out and Costs a WHOPPING 80 cents! Shiver me Timbers! - 05/05/12 02:50 PM
The NEW May Color 2012 iPad for Dummies Kindle Book is Out and Costs a WHOPPING 80 cents! Shiver me timbers!
Here's the Amazon ink so you have no excuse. Visit http://www.amazon.com/iPad-For-Dummies-ebook/dp/B007WMZ72A/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&qid=1336246528&sr=1-17
I've plowed through a third of the book in a couple of hours and hands down, here is the best tip. Two iPads later and this iPad morsel is new to me!
Go to Settings, go to General, and toggle the Multitasking switch from off to on.
Holy Moly! Now you have three brand new POWER USER Settings to use to act like you are an iPAD PRO. Yo Ho, … (5 comments)

Pin More Than Photos on Your Pinterest Board - 05/05/12 02:23 AM
This is a good tip to explore!  I get so engrossed in Pinterest that I took a forced vacation from it. I know once I step my toes in  gain I will want to check this product out! There's a Pinterest group on Active Rain where you cn share ideas, too!
Via Pamela Cendejas, Second Self Virtual Assistance (928) 692-3235 (Second Self Virtual Assistance):
It seems that Pinterest is all the rage in online social circles lately.  This online bulletin board allows you to share photos of things you find interesting online, including real estate listings, that also include a link back to the … (5 comments)

Janie Coffey is the Real Bird Guest Webinar Speaker at Noon EST Friday! - 05/04/12 07:55 AM
This announcement will be short and sweet but I will tweet and shout and holler that Janie Coffey is the Real Bird Guest Webinar Speaker TODAY at Noon EST Friday!
Take an adventure and come sit with me in the RealBird.com Webinar class in a little over an hour. The Webinar link is on the RealBird.com site.
This Guest Speaker  will delight. 
@JanieC is an expert on Real Bird and  Instagram and Mac and Social Networking. She is THE go to person for all things Realtor Tech. Will I be there? YES!
Stay tuned. I have to go get my iced tea … (4 comments)

Biggest Raindrops (Ideas) from Active Rain Boot Camp Week ONE? - 05/03/12 10:38 AM
What were the Biggest Raindrops (Ideas) from Active Rain Boot Camp Week ONE?
I do not think I grasped the enormity of upgrading and improving your Profile on the front of your own AR blog until Bob Stewart pointed out the easy to read number count on the Home Section. His was around 80,000 views. Uh oh, that gets raised on this Golden Girl's priority list.
Second, I wondered how agents selected Newbies to contact and encourage . There is a membership link on the right of your main page kind of near the Profile Section you also can explore.
On … (5 comments)

Tips to learn on the DC Area MLS Matrix Realtor Product - 05/03/12 03:16 AM
Here you go DC Area Realtors! The Matrix User Guide! Now don't get all flustered. Here are a few hot tidbits I exhumed  out of the almost 160 pages that left me shaking my head. 
First, here is the whole manual if you want to comb through yourself at http://mris.com/_res/downloads/Matrix_Manual_5_3_Compressed.pdf
Second, as a decades old Realtor, what could I learn that I had not already figured out just hitting this button and that?
Spell P L E N T Y as in Good and Plenty candy. Here are the BEST sweet treats!
The biggest surprise is that iPad Junkie that I am, … (2 comments)

Speed, a Hair Dryer and a Bag of Rice...Just In Case. - 05/03/12 02:49 AM
I have tossed a cell phone in the washing machine before but not lost one in the bathroom yet. I thought I would share Margaret's quick thinking tip with you just in case you have a chance to save it before it becomes one very expensive paper weight. Clean one at that!
Via HomeRome Realty Author:Real Estate the Rome Way 410-530-2400:
       Speed, a Hair Dryer and a Bag of Rice...Just In Case. In all the years I've owned a cell phone...this has never happened until... I dropped my iPhone in the toilet. You never saw a faster move to retrieve … (3 comments)

What Happens if There is a Problem with the House I Bought AFTER Settlement? - 05/03/12 01:54 AM
The best source of information? Check with your Realtor that you have hired. Research reputable sources like the local Newspaper Real Estate Section for timely issues. Or read Real Estate books and magazines, not to mention Active Rain.
Via Chris Ann Cleland, Associate Broker, Northern VA (Long & Foster REALTORS®, Gainesville, VA):
What Happens if There is a Problem with the House I Bought AFTER Settlement?
The amount of misinformation in the world of real estate, passed from friend to friend, or relative to relative is astonishing.  I was out with a buyer that had just found a great home.  The home inspection … (4 comments)

Dueling iPad Active Rain Realtor MeetUp anyone? - 05/02/12 06:37 AM
Dueling iPad Active Rain Realtor MeetUp anyone?
Well, I mentioned this to Margaret Rome. She suggested we film it and put the highlights on YouTube.
That means a call to Steve and Jan Bachman who have mastered this stuff.
Maybe it involves a restaurant in Annapolis MD this summer. Hey, let's head towards boats and water!
Hmmm...bring your best daily tips on how you use your iPad for daily Real Estate.
Dueling iPad Active Rain Realtor Annapolis MeetUp anyone? 
You'll Retrieve Golden Results with Cheryl Ritchie, RE/MAX 100, for all your Southern Maryland Real Estate Services.
Flip Flop Over to the … (2 comments)

Starbucks has half priced afternoon New Cookie Crumble Chocolate Fraps May 4 but until then.... - 05/02/12 05:51 AM
Starbucks has half priced afternoon New Cookie Crumble Chocolate Fraps May 4 but until then....
I am experimenting. I am taking ice and yogurt and cool whip lite and fruit and bbbbbzzzzzzz blending it together.
Yes, I then pour it in my Starbucks insulated cups with straws and white stuff on top. 
Meanwhile, I am counting down until the Dunkirk and Prince Frederick MD Starbucks Stores open their 3PM doors for me and Riley Rover on May 4.
Yes, yes, he likes to lick the cup. And when I add extra ice, and he's extra nice, my Golden Guy gets a … (7 comments)

Color of the Year (Perspectives on Real Estate and More From a Home Staging Pro) - 05/02/12 05:14 AM
Okay, yes, as a child I had a bright orange and yellow home at the Beach. But the point is something like color can show your space off as trendy and up to date even when used just as an accessory color. So orange it up for the year!
Via Kathy Strader, ASP (Memorial Staged Homes):
Color of the Year  (Perspectives on Real Estate and More From a Home Staging Pro)                            
        According to their web site, “The PANTONE® name is known worldwide as the standard language for color communication from designer to manufacturer to retailer to customer.”  Frankly, until a … (2 comments)

Home Staging and Emotional Connections: Before/After Photos - 05/02/12 04:57 AM
Isn't this fascinating how Stager Kristine Ginsberg establishes an emotional Connection with her potential viewers?  The flowers and healthy food make you want to jump right in and be a part of the well staged home. Gather lots of great from Ms. Kristine!
Via Kristine Ginsberg Morris County, NJ Stager (Morris County, NJ: Elite Staging and Redesign, LLC):
  Home Staging and Emotional Connections: Before/After Photos
Studies have shown that most buyers tend to purchase homes based on emotions more than any other financial investment. Why? Because a home is several things: where you live and raise your family, a representation of who … (3 comments)

How to make the Paperwork Pile Project Tolerable! An Idea Countdown! - 05/01/12 08:51 PM
How to make the Paperwork Pile Project Tolerable! An Idea Countdown!
Start early. Then the paperwork project will finish earlier.
Break it in to small chores so it is not a bore.
Better yet, put quick walk breaks and refreshment splurges in between paperwork milestones.
Pick a reward for the end of the day. Maybe a walk with Riley Rover by the Chesapeake Bay.
Vow to never let it pile up again. AHEM!
Figure out a system to process it more smoothly and quickly hereon. Now that's Golden Results!
You'll Retrieve Golden Resukts with Cheryl Ritchie, RE/MAX 100, for all your … (3 comments)

The Realtor Tech Tool that makes an Agent Drool? - 05/01/12 08:30 PM
The Realtor Tech Tool that makes an Agent Drool?
Grab a stool. Paws down, the iPad. Life before the iPAD? Sad. Life after the iPad? Glad. Overall score? Four paws up and more.
Here is what you are in store for with this Doggone Realtor Best of Show Tech Tool Winner!
First, you can blog on Active Rain. You can insert photos via Flickr. You can hyperlink via easy HTML code. You can insert iClipart.com, RBIntel.com market stats, iPiccy collages, YouTube videos, RealBird Feature Sheets etc. by using a copy paste function to the HTML side. Check out my almost daily … (12 comments)

ActiveRain Contest: iPhones, Laptops, Google, Electronic Signatures and ActiveRain…What Do These Have in Common? - 05/01/12 09:29 AM
Now does this contest have my name written on it or what? Can you spell iPAD? I am just bringing this psot to your attention, Readers, because this is going to have some cool, cool tips on how to propel your business into the stratosphere via a few new cool tech tools? Besides, you betcha I want the new iPAD, too!
Via ActiveRain Corp.:
There are certain things we cannot live without in our lives – air, food and companionship (at least for most of us) come to mind immediately. Let's just assume those types of things are a given. But what about in your business? … (4 comments)

Knock, Knock. Who’s There? Sellers Beware! - 05/01/12 12:45 AM
Buyers should be accompanied by their Agent. Their agent will have Pre qualified them to know that  they are capable of purchasing the  home. There is no reason to compromise your safety or shortcut the steps to purchase. 
Via Tom Branch | Broker, CDPE, SFR, ACRE | Plano TX Ambassador | 214-227-6626 (RE/MAX Dallas Suburbs):
I received a call this evening from one of my sellers. A potential buyer had showed up at her home, rang the doorbell, and asked to see the home. While this raised red flags for her, she let him into her home and showed him around.
The … (5 comments)

 
Austinedit Rainmaker_large

Cheryl Ritchie Southern Maryland 301-980-7566

Huntingtown, MD

More about me…

RE/MAX Leading Edge www.GoldenResults.com

Address: 2049 West Street Suite D, Annapolis, MD, 21401

Office Phone: (301) 855-5215

Cell Phone: (301) 980-7566

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