Noelle Hipke's Blog

Listing Presentation

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Wed, 23 May 2012 13:38:54 -0700

It took me a good 2 years to dial in a detailed listing presentation. I fine tune it every time I utilize it & update the data as needed. It's really important agents take the time to present themselves in the best possible light.

What sets you apart from the other agents?
What are you doing that no one else is doing?
How do you market?

These are just a few of the items you can touch on to show yourself off. I enjoy marketing and it shows in everything I do. I also help my clients stage & prep their home before they go on the market to put their best foot forward. In addition, I take the house photos myself since I have a background in photography.

Today everything is viral & so are we. However, putting it in print & giving them something to ponder over may be the way to go if you want to be the last one standing!

It's worth the time to put yourself on paper...after all you are giving them your resume & interviewing for the BIG job of changing their life forever!

The Market is HOT, HOT, HOT!!

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 12:38:52 -0700

Real Estate seems to moving rather quickly here in California. Short sales are getting multiple offers on the first day, interest rates are low, & prices have finally become so low we don't seem to have enough inventory for all the Buyers. Good for Sellers that have to sell quickly & buyers that move fast. Well folks this is buying season...Spring & Summer. So if you are looking to move up in your home now is a great time to do so. Heck, you might even be able to hold onto your old home as a rental. The investors are out in full force, so just be prepared...you might have to fight for what you want. Happy Home Selling Season!

WEBINAR QUEEN

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 04:23:00 -0700

This week I am the Webinar Queen. Thanks to all the boards I belong to I can learn new techniques from the comfort of my office. It's getting better every day, since many of them are recording them and offering the classes online anytime. Life is a constant evolvement & in order to be at the top of our game we have to change with the times and keep up with the information. This way I will know how to market, stage & present properties the best light possbile for this day and age. Learning how to showcase a property is only part of the battle, the rest is up to you!

I miss my clients!

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 11:45:40 -0700

When working with my clients on a purchase or sale of a home, I tend to talk to them almost every single day when we are in the process. We discuss everything under the sun when it comes to the home & many times we end up going into our personal lives a bit too. Purchasing a home to raise your family & create a new lifestyle just opens up the door to how someone lives...their wants, wishes, dreams & desires. We go thru this mad process of dotting the I's & crossing the T's...addressing every issue, repair, decor, furniture placement, etc. They are constantly on my mind until the deal closes successfully. Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night with a brilliant idea I can't wait to share.

Many times we Realtors have to act more like a therapist & have to put out fire after fire, keeping us on our toes. Eventually the deal willl close & then "poof" they are onto their new lives & we don't have a reason to talk everyday anymore. An adjustment period surfaces to reset the mind again & find a new focus. Often I find myself missing the personal contact I had with these clients...kinda like I lost a friend.

California Boasts Top 3 Most Expensive Zip Codes

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 12:55:44 -0800

California boasts the top 3 most expensive zip codes in the Country.

Duarte (91008) $4.2 Million
Atherton (94027) $4 Million
Rolling Hills (90274) $3.8 Million

Prestegious Beverly Hills (90210) ranked in 6th place @ $3.6 Million.

Landlords Needs To Give IRS FORM 1099 To Service Providers

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Sun, 23 Jan 2011 18:31:57 -0800

If a Landlord pays $600 or more over the year for work done on rental properties, they will need to issue a 1099 Form to the service party. Under one provision of a new federal law, Section 2101 (h) of H.R. 5297, went into effect jan. 1, 2011. Any person who receives rental income must provide an IRS Form 1099 for all aggregate annual payments of $600 or more made to a service provider such as a plumber, carpenter, handyman or gardener. This new law applies to both residential & commerical property. In previous years, only real estate licensees doing property management were required to file the 1099, not property owners. Congress has extended this requirment to "a person receiving rental income from real estate." Make note...this is one of the new 2011 State & Federal Laws for California!

What A Seller Pays For

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 15:20:44 -0800

Notary fees - Escrow fees
Taxes
Bonds or assessments
Recording charges to clear all docs of record against seller
Unpaid homeowner's dues
Tax proration
Judgements, tax liens against the seller
Home Warranty
Termite work (section 1 items)
Termite inspection
Title insurance premium
Statement fees, reconveyance fees, prepayment penalties
Interest accrued to lender
Payoff of all loans in seller's name
Any loan fees required by buyer's lender
Document prep fee for deed
City transfter/conveyance tax
County documentary transfer tax
Escrow fees
Real estate commission
Repairs

Gain more insight from my website:

www.StarOpenHouse.com

What A BUYER Typically Pays For

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 14:08:42 -0700

BUYER Usually Pays For:

Charge of records fees for take-over of existing loan
Beneficiary Statement fee for assumption of exisitng loan
Inspection fee
Lender's Policy
Escrow fees
Document preparation
Notary fees
Recording charges for all documents in Buyer's name
Tax Proration
Homeowner's transfer fee
All new loan charges
Interest on new loan from date of funding to 30 days prior to first payment date

Gain more insight from my website:

wwwStarOpenHouse.com

Noelle Hipke Featured In The OC Register Newspaper & OC Homes Online

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:01:38 -0700

ocregister.com/realestate
http://ochomes.ocregister.com/2010/07/30/noelle-hipke-earns-nar-short-sales-and-foreclosure-certification/2733/

AS SEEN IN OCHOMES

Noelle Hipke earns short-sale certification (as printed in the OC Register Newspaper & OC Homes Online)
Noelle Hipke with Star Real Estate has earned the nationally recognized Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource certification. The National Association of REALTORS® offers the SFR certification to REALTORS® who want to help both buyers and sellers navigate these complicated transactions. Buyers and Sellers benefit from Hipke’s expertise in distressed sales, earned through the SFR certification, on how to help sellers maneuver the complexities of short sales as well as help buyers pursue short sale and foreclosure opportunities.
Unfortunately, there are situations in which people just cannot afford to keep their homes, and a foreclosure or a short sale results. Foreclosures and short sales can offer opportunities for home buyers and benefit the larger community as well, but it’s extremely important to have the help of a real estate professional like Noelle Hipke, who has earned the SFR certification for these kinds of purchases.
Understanding the importance of education in today’s market, Hipke is also a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) who helps seniors benefit and save money by receiving transaction fee discounts on title and escrow, in addition to offering seniors a discount for her real estate services and knowledge. Hipke says, “I am devoted to my client’s interests, and stay current with the latest developments in the real estate industry to provide them with the facts they need to make informed decisions.”
For answers to your real estate questions, call Noelle at 714-290-4500 or visit her website www.StarOpenHouse.com

Noelle Hipke

Real Estate Web TV Series Lien On Me

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 14:26:45 -0700

Lien On Me Web TV Real Estate Series

While helping out at the SoCal Film Festival I met a great group of talented people. I met director Daivd Beatty, of the film Seed of Perfection & we instantly hit it off, probably because we are both Sagittarious. He is a talented Actor who has appeared in Criminal Minds (CBS), Beverly Hills 90210 (CBS), Suddenly Susan (NBC), Lois & Clark (ABC) as well as many other credits. As an aspiring Actor, Beatty has recently directed & starred in an online web TV production geared toward Real Estate called Lien On Me. As a Realtor myself, I have to laugh my head off at this concept I think so many of us can relate to in this day & age with the economy. Boy, do I have a few episode ideas from my crazy experiences! If you have a few minutes & would like to get a good chucle, go check out my friend, David Beatty who plays Realtor Johnny. The series is directed by Nino Mancuso & produced by Ammar Ramzi, Nino Mancuso & David Beatty. To view all episodes currently playing go to www.LienOnMeTheSeries.com

Favorite Living Green Websites!

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 12:11:34 -0700

Check out these sites for green living!

www.susnset.com/greenliving
~ Planet-friendly picks, tips & products.

www.greenyour.com
~ How to green anything in your life, home & wardrobe.

www.efficiencyfirst.org
    ~ Blogs on the latest government news & rebates as well as resources for smarter home performance.

www.lazyenvironmentalist.com
    ~ Founder Josh Dorfman fills you in. Sign up for eco-tip emails.

www.re-nest.com
    ~ Features affordable green home projects & cool home tours.

www.inhabitat.org
~ Great coverage of design competitions & the latest in sustainable style.

www.lowimpactliving.com
~Check out the impact calculator w/ helpful eco projects & services.

And for something totally off the cuff....check out www.lovelylisting.com for odd finds, marketing eyesores & some downright horrifying interior decorating faux pas in real estate.

Great Property in Downtown Huntington Beach!

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:35:52 -0700

JUST LISTED!

PACIFIC RANCH TOWN HOME

$675,000

7582 Seabluff Dr. #105, Huntington Beach CA 92648

4 Bedrooms/4 Baths (2 Master Suites)
2723 sq.ft.
Private end unit Town Home
Central Air Conditioning
Decked out 3 1/2 Car Garage w/ lots of Storage & Finished Floor
Inside Laundry Room
Closet Organizers
Mirrored Closet Doors
Built-In Office
Plasma TV Niche
Guard Gated Community
3 Pools & 2 Club Houses
Less than 2 miles to the BEACH!

Get more infomation by going to www.StarOpenHouse.com

Progressing RE Agents read Real Estate Magazines

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Mon, 24 May 2010 15:58:09 -0700

Well, I am happy to say I have been able to keep one of my New Years resolutions...reading my real estate magazines! As a Realtor I get several magazines sent to me on a monthly basis. Often agents throw them away, toss them into a pile or don't read them. However, these real estate magazines are chock full of good ideas, technology, life experiences, agent input, etc. one cannot afford to read them. I have been able to further my knowledge, ideas, contacts & impress my clients with my cutting edge concepts. People are working hard to help us Realtors keep in the loop, change with the times & improve our overall ability. Do not shy away from technology...conquer it! Life is a constant learning process, so be open to learning endlessly for eternity & you can change your life as well as others!

World's Best Home Sellers

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 07:44:15 -0700

I just worked with the best home Sellers in the world & I just gotta share the positive adventure. It started out with an email contact thru Active Rain. Checking my email as I normally do, I came across an email from someone in my local neighborhood farm that I live & drop off my info in. They were considering selling their home & they wanted to meet with me for an interview. I have to say, this is the first time I have been contacted thru Active Rain by a client (usually thru my website) & I was wondering if it really was a viable client. I proceeded to converse with them via email & set up an appointment to meet. When I went in for the appointment I found out they had lived in the neighborhood for 20 years & I had never meet them before. They had been receiving my newsletter/info for quite awhile & decided I was the one to call first. Their home was upgraded to the hilt & they were eager to hear what I had to say. We sat and talked for awhile & I proceeded to go thru their home advising them of the positive changes they could easily make for low cost to help sell the home faster. Paint these rooms this color, get a new roll up garage door, etc. The best part was these clients were willing to do whatever I asked without complaint or argument. They told me...."we were willing to do whatever you say within reason because we know you are the expert." Now that was music to my ears & so refreshing.

Often Sellers are constantly challenging us agents at our job & questioning our tactics, making it harder to get the job done. Go with the flow & good things will happen. Well, the home did end up selling in 12 days with a very good offer close to asking price. For the most part things went smoothly, and my Sellers went with it & didn't freak out over every little detail. The Sellers wanted to make sure the Buyers felt good about their purchase. Therefore, the Sellers were willing to allocate a fair amount to repairs for the Buyers, knowing their home was 30+ years old & some things weren't going to be up to today's code. This made the Buyers happy & my Sellers are walking away with good karma & excited to start their new lifestyle. This has been the sweetest deal I have closed on my records so far. It's rare to find good clients that appreciate all the work I do! I am here to shout it from the rooftops....GREAT CLIENTS ROCK! Please keep them coming....

Just Listed in Downtown Huntington Beach, California

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 07:28:33 -0800

JUST LISTED!

DOWNTOWN HUNTINGTON BEACH

$525,000

504 Utica, Huntington Beach, CA 92648

~3 Bedroom, 1.75 Bath, 1,342 sq.ft.

Buyers are gonna wanna see this! Single Story COMPLETE REMODEL! 2 Patios! Custom Patio Cover w/ Dimmable Lighting & Built In Speakers.Double Pane Milgard Vinyl Windows makes this home Energy Efficient w/ Additional Upper Windows added to high walls & 3 Skylights make this home EXTRA LIGHT & BRIGHT! Built in Buffet & Upper Cabinet w/ Glass Doors, Wall Unit & Bookshelves included! Open Floorplan w/ Designer Kitchen featuring Top-notch Appliances, Spacious Counter Tops,Pantry & Lots of Storage. Kitchen & Family Room feature Eco-Smart Dimmable Downlights.Updated Bathrooms with beautiful Tile Work, Custom Cabinets & Fixtures.Rear patio has Garden Gate to keep pets in backyard.New fencing & rear double-hung gate. Attractive landscaping & slate entry.Built in Garage Cabinets w/ Work Area & New Garage Door.Excellent downtown location...bike to the Beach,Pier,The Strand or Hyatt Hotel. Walk to Stores,Restaurants,Banks & more. LESS THAN 2 MILES TO THE BEACH! Open House 2/26, 2/27 & 2/28.

Features Home Buyers are seeking in 2010

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 13:25:43 -0800

Walk-in Closets = more storage & custom shelving
Laundry Rooms = closes off the noise
Insulated Front Doors = muffles sounds & keeps the warm/cool air in
Great Rooms = the area where we spend most of our time as a family
Energy-efficient Windows = green wave
Linen Closets = storage
Programmable Thermostats = heat/cool the house when you are home
Energy-Efficient Appliances & Lighting = going green
Separate Shower & Tub in Master Bath = older homes don't seem to have this
9ft. Ceilings on the first floor = gives the illusion of more space
Outdoor Kitchens = great for entertaining
Outdoor Fireplaces = good gathering spot
Sunrooms = additional sq. footage, light & bright
Butler's Pantries = more storage & space
Media Rooms = movie theaters & high technology
Desks in Kitchen = a working place in the center of it all

How important is a home inspection?

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Tue, 20 May 2008 19:59:18 -0700

When you are buying, home inspection information helps you know what to look for. When selling, it helps you prepare for the sale. Information is power. During both events, you want the power to protect your investment.

For buyers, the Better Business Bureau recommends that you have the home you are about to purchase inspected to prevent unanticipated repairs in the future-for both old and brand new homes. An inspection impacts your buying decision and the price you are willing to pay.

When selling, a home inspection before you put your property on the market gives you the information of what needs to be fixed. With that knowledge, you can then decide what you are willing to invest in and what repairs you want to hand over to the buyer. A pre-inspection empowers you during the sales process, reduces contingencies, and minimizes closing delays due to repairs. Pre-inspection can also prevent failure-to-disclose lawsuits. Nowadays, ignorance is rarely accepted as a viable argument.

The home inspection process involves visual and system checks of the home to insure it is structurally sound and in good condition. It should be conducted in day light.

"Normal operating controls" need to be functioning. Which means that the gas, electricity, and water are on, pilot lights lit. The typical inspection lasts 2-3 hours and the cost averages from $300-$500.

What do they inspect?
While it may seem like everything, inspectors most frequently check the roof, attic, insulation, walls, ceilings, floors, basements, foundations, windows, systems for air conditioning and heating, plumbing, electrical systems and appliances.

What can you share about inspectors that you have used?

Has an inspector helped you sell a home?

Has an inspector hindered the sell of a home?

Red Flags to Look For When Hiring a Moving Company

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Mon, 19 May 2008 15:35:07 -0700

Minimize your risk of a scam or shady service the next time you move by looking out for these warning signs.

Demands for payment by cash - moving companies are also required to accept credit cards or personal checks.
Anonymous-looking trucks - beware of traditional rental trucks or a truck with no distinct markings at all.
Blank documents & contracts - moving scammers try to get consumers to agree to, & sign, blank documents. DO NOT sign anything that you have not reviewed and approved. Make sure to get all your questions and concerns addressed and answered before signing the contract.
Rates based on cubic feet - prices should be based on weight, which can always be verified by state-certified scales. Cubic feet methods will not allow you to verify the amount you will be charged.
Requests for deposits - a legitimate company will not ask for a deposit, but will expect payment on delivery & before the shipment is unloaded from the truck.
Refusal to visit your home prior to the move - Avoid movers who only give estimates over the phone or refuse to physically examine the goods prior to moving day. An in-house estimate should be required and offered without asking.
No company visibility in your area - Pick a company that has a presence in your area. Don't assume a nice website or ad in the yellow pages translates into a genuine moving operation. Research the moving company, check with the Better Business Bureau, and follow up with any referrals.
Deals that sound too good to be true - Get at least 3 estimates, and be cautious of rock-bottom prices.

What other signs should consumers be aware of when searching for a good moving company?

Do you have any moving stories to share?

Spring Cleaning = Garage Sales = CLIENTS

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Thu, 08 May 2008 19:07:18 -0700

Spring cleaning....

It's that time to get organized and take care of those unwanted items. A good way to do this and expose yourself it by hosting a garage sale. Get everyone in the neighborhood involved and make your rounds. Start by passing out flyers. It is a good way to introduce yourself to the neighbors and get to know them while they get to know you. Put together a memo and hand it out to the neighbhood with requests for interested parties to contact you for a "yard sale" packet. In the packet talk about pricing and include stickers for sellers to mark their items to be sold Hand deliver each packet to the homeowner introducing yourself and filling them on all the details. Place an ad in your local paper or penny saver and watch the customers flock. Don't forget to put out signs (with your name of course) once again reminding people who sponsored the event. It is best to give them at least one month's notice, so the homeowners have time to clean out their closets, garage, cabinets etc. On the morning on the day of the sale, go around with coffee and donuts for a quick visit. You never know what you may find to buy along the way. And buying from someone helps them remember you give back! Another good idea would be to schedule a truck to pick up the unsold items to donate or for charity. Help out the community and they will think of all the good things you have done and call you first!

What other good things do you do for your neighborhood?

What sets you apart?

Spring Cleaning = Garage Sales = CLIENTS

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Thu, 08 May 2008 18:48:46 -0700

Spring cleaning....

It's that time to get organized and take care of those unwanted items. A good way to do this and expose yourself is by hosting a garage sale. Get everyone in the neighborhood involved and make your rounds. Start by passing out flyers. It is a good way to introduce yourself to the neighbors and get to know them while they get to know you. Put together a memo and hand it out to the neighbhood with requests for interested parties to contact you for a "yard sale" packet. In the packet talk about pricing and include stickers for sellers to mark their items to be sold. Hand deliver each packet to the homeowner introducing yourself and filling them on all the details. Place an ad in your local paper or Penny Saver and watch the customers flock. Don't forget to put out signs (with your name of course) once again reminding people who sponsored the event. It is best to give them at least one month's notice, so the homeowners have time to clean out their closets, garage, cabinets etc. On the morning on the day of the sale, go around with coffee and donuts for a quick visit. You never know what you may find to buy along the way, and buying from someone helps them remember you give back! Another good idea would be to schedule a truck to pick up the unsold items to donate or for charity. Help out the community and they will think of all the good things you have done and call you first!

What other good things do you do for your neighborhood?

What sets you apart?

Beach Life in Huntington Beach

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 20:02:58 -0700

The lifestyle here in Huntington Beach is absolutely fabulous! And with so much to do and so many great places to go, it is no wonder people come in flocks. Living in the downtown area and heading to the beach practically every few days is just the tip of the iceberg. Huntington Beach hosts a wide variety of events on the beach, at the pier and on Main St. Currently on Tuesday's Main Street is shut down to traffic and is pedestrian friendly only during the evenings. Vendors of all types come out to sell, entertain, or give you a taste test. Tuesday nights have turned into quite the event, and Huntington Beach is even considering shutting down the street on a permanent basis.

There is also quite a bit of brand new developments taking place. Pacific City, Blue Canvas and The Stand will be debuting in no time. They will be hosting new hotels, shops, condos, and town homes.

Living in the downtown area one can ride their bike virtually everywhere and never need a car. Having a cool bike in Huntington Beach is like having a cool car.

Homes in Huntington Beach can range from $400 (for a condo) to several millions in the Harbor (on the Harbor w/ a boat dock). Compared to other beach cities, Huntington Beach is very affordable for the great schools, beautiful surroundings, and great life it has to offer.

What makes the city you live in a great lifestyle for you?

What draws people to your town?

Taking Your Website To The NEXT LEVEL

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 14:27:10 -0700

How often do you update your website? I am pretty tech savy, but with the constant changes in the web industry keeping on the up and up is a full time job in itself.

Website management can be time consuming and typing errors count against you, but it is a good way to keep your face in the forefront without having to waste paper and spend money on costly mailers. With the going green campaign kick, this is one sure fire way to contribute. Nevertheless, I am always looking for ways to take it to the next level. I read everything I get my hands on to be knowledgeable and resourceful.

Do you know of any great websites or widgets that have helped your website go to the next level?

When was the last time you updated your website? And how often do you do it?

What do you do to get more website traffic?

Simple Steps to becoming a Millionaire

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 15:32:22 -0700

Develop written financial plan goals-putting the pen to paper some how makes it more real, and having a plan to work with right from the start will get you going in the right direction. Come up with a workable plan you can put into action and making changes as you evolve and grow. Revisit your plan every quarter to ensure you are always on the right track.
Live below your means-you do not need to be a walking fashionista with overpriced designer clothes, shoes & accessories. Invest in a few smart pieces and build inexpensively off of that. Don't allow on overpriced house or car to kill your budget. Cut coupons to save a few bucks and grocery shop smart by reading and comparing products and prices. Do live and eat well, while enjoying activities that don't cost money, like biking, walking, hiking, gardening, going to the park or beach.
Ditch your credit cards-credit cards should not be used if you are not able to pay off your purchases within two to three months. Just think about how much extra money you would have to spend if you didn't have to pay interest on the money you borrowed. Instead pay them off every month, and don't pay interest at all! And why not get a credit card that offers you miles as well? Be smart about having your money work for you! If you can not pay it off, do not buy anything unless it is an absolute necessity. You only need a few credit cards. If you have a bunch in your wallet, pay them off and cancel them. This may even help your FICO score. Debt will only hold you back.
SAVE IT! - Get into the good habit of saving money! You should aim your plan to be a systematic investment. Build an emergency fund so you don't have to raid your savings in the event of an emergency. Save no less than 10% of each paycheck & half of all pay raises. You did without the $ before, and will cherish it more later than you will an old pair of shoes.
Start your own business-they say two thirds of millionaires are self-employed, with 75% of them being entrepreneurs, and the rest being professionals such as doctors and lawyers.
Get professional financial advice-Find a trusted professional that you can work with. Learn about your investments, pay attention to how they perform, and do not be afraid to ask questions and make decisions for yourself.
Have your money work for YOU-You don't need a lot of money to get started. Many money market accounts can be opened with only $1,000.00. Look for companies that offer no-load funds, and low expense ratios. Build yourself a diverse portfolio and where you can reasonably expect to earn 8 to 10 percent annually on your investments over the long run.
Re-think your purchases - ask yourself...do I really need this or do I want this? That $5 cup of coffee can accumulate to over $1,210 per year. Cut back and treat yourself less often and watch the savings add up. Going to the bank to get cash? Make sure you go to the bank you bank at, or you can incur major fees. Choosing to bank at banks that are easily accessible in your area is a smart choice to cut high cost fees.

What do you do to save money?

What is your retirement plan?

BUYERS GET OFF THE FENCE!!!

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 12:52:02 -0700

I've been watching the real estate market especially close in the areas I farm and sell real estate. I have to tell you I am seeing 2004 housing prices in Huntington Beach, CA. Homes that sold for $642,000, $645,000, $657,000 only a year ago are now going for $520,000, $505,000, $470,000 and another is pending at a list price of $444,000. THAT IS A PRICE DROP OF $200,000!!!!!!!

BUYERS!!!! What are you waiting for? Sure a few of these lower prices are due to foreclosures and bank owned properties and brought down the values in the neighborhoods, but what do you think will happen when we don't have anymore bank owned properties in the neighborhoods you want to live in? I understand you want a good deal, but standing on the sidelines isn't going to get you a good deal. When a killer buy is found, you have to move on it, and move on it quick. Don't wait to see if it is a good buy when someone else gets it! Call your trusted Realtor; get your financing in line as well as the necessary paperwork and ACT RIGHT AWAY! These great buys aren't going to last forever, and with the large inventory and the banks viewpoint to get rid of it... NOW IS THE TIME TO BUY! Don't wait until the newspapers tell you the real estate marketing is picking up...then the real estate market is on the up swing. In addition, if sellers have to sell and want to compete in today's real estate market, they too are going to have to price their home right. So it is a win, win situation for buyers in today's real estate market. Go for it, you will be glad you did!

What is holding you back?

MOVING BOXES GOING GREEN!

Noelle Hipke (Realty ONE Group) — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 13:38:34 -0700

Did you know 20% of the US is moving every year? Now that is a lot of people moving....and this means each American will move about once every 5 years!

You can save your clients time, money & Earth by reducing their stress and aggravation from packing and moving their property by offering the Recopack & Earth-Friendly Moving service.

Earthfriendly Moving by Packing Partners is an eco-friendly company that is changing how America packs and moves. For a delivery fee, rent the Recopack in 5 sizes for a buck a box a week. Earth Friendly Moving will deliver the Recopacks and your clients pack, stack & move. When your clients are done unpackcing, they'll pick up the Recopacks too!

Eartyfriendly Moving currently serves Orange County, Los Angeles & Inland Empire areas. Over the next five years they will be expanding nationwide. You can check out their website at http://www.earthfriendlymoving.com/ for new service areas.

When you rent a 100 Recopacks during a pack and move, we remove 256 lbs. of trash from our landfills and here's YOUR impact on OUR environment! Now that is aiming to reduce waste in our landfills!

What do you do to reduce waste?