Welcome to Heather O's Blog

Facebook Fan Pages Will No Longer Have Fans

HeatherO Inc. — Fri, 02 Apr 2010 10:44:22 -0700

Just when you thought you were NOT confused on facebook...

Here comes ANOTHER change!

Facebook recently announced a 'confidential' change to the way people engage with fan pages. While many are still trying to figure out the difference between a group and a fan page, Facebook is now going to change the verbiage from "become a fan" to "like". Not to be confused with liking a post, although you can still do that too! You can like a post, but not the page, or like the page. Confused yet? So was I! But it's ok, we will get through it! Here's the 'what':

Fan pages will still be called fan pages.
You will no longer 'become a fan' though!
You will "like' the page
You can 'like' JUST the post (as you do now)
If you like the post, you just like it
If you like the page, you have subscribed to it (like becoming a fan)
Once you like the page, you will see that page's updates in your stream
(I have no idea whether you will be able to un-like it)

So for those who hated the whole 'fan thing', you've got your wish! No more fans. What will you call your fans?

Facebook suggests that you call them 'connections' or 'people who like us on facebook' (not quite as catchy as facebook fan is it?)

Why the Language Change? Well, according to facebook they are changing the language people are much more likely (twice in fact) to 'like' something as click on 'become a fan'. Since there is huge value for facebook to know what you like (and who, and what you do, etc), they want to make it easier to know what you like! Contrary to popular belief, facebook is a business! The data that we as users provide them is valuable! So they want to make it easier to collect that data. Another reason mentioned is that Facebook is adding the 'like' concept across the web as a whole and they want to maintain consistency. People are already in the 'like' habit, so they see this as an easier thing for people to understand. (See this article for more about that) (I personally question the incentive of generating more ad revenue...) So, what does all of this mean? Well, for business owners it means that:

you will need to change any marketing materials, etc that say "fan" (you won't want to appear out of date)
you may find that you have more 'fans' (or likers?) because they will be more inclined to click like than fan
you won't be as sure that they are true fans however (in my opinion)
you may increase your 'likers' by the nature of more people clicking that like button means more of their friends see that connection

We won't really know until it all begins.

For facebook users it means that you can 'like' a post on a page, or like the page without calling yourself 'a fan'. It also means that you will be 'signing up for' posts from pages when you "like" the page, so you will want to pay attention and be aware of that.

None of us 'likes' change!

As frustrating as it might be at times, I try to remember that Facebook is an incredibly powerful tool than gives us tremendous value in many ways! Both personally and professionally! And we don't pay a dime for it! (We pay only in the information that we provide it). Like everything else in life, when you get stuff for free, you have to take what is provided. "Like it" or not...

So, I will take a deep breath, think about all of the fun, joy and benefit that I value in facebook, and roll with it! Even though right now I dont' really know if

I'll LIKE it :)

What are your thoughts?

How to Create a Useless Facebook Fan Page

HeatherO Inc. — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 06:56:59 -0800

Facebook is all the rage. Like many, I can attest to the power of it. It truly is a powerful place! (*currently 96% of my business comes through facebook*) First let's talk about reasons for having one. Although many consultants don't want or need a fan page, I had very specific reasons for creating one.

1. I wanted to be able to post frequent content relevant to what I do, which wouldn't necessarily be relevant for all of my 'friends'. I wanted people to be able to 'optin' for posts rather than getting them just because we were friends.

2. I wanted people to be able to connect with me without having to 'do the friend thing'. For many, the idea of accepting friends on facebook is still considered literally, and many are uncomfortable sending a request to someone that they don't know.

3. To create a community of people with like-minded interests, and to be able to communicate with them in a 'space' uncluttered by farmville, friends and family.

Unfortunately, many people start fan pages for the wrong reasons. The do so simply because they think that because they have a business, they are 'supposed to', or they do it to have another place to advertise.

In a poll by Exact Target, 70% of facebook users say that they do not want to be advertised to by businesses that they are fans of. This confuses many businesses. They don't understand "why are they fans then?" The answer is, because they are! They became a fan of your page because they like you. They simply 'raised their hand' to say " I am a fan of..." That's it. They didn't say 'hi, I'm a fan, please post your ads on my wall!" In many cases, they only became a fan because they are your friend! This article is about creating and keeping true fans! In some cases they may become a fan because they want to know about upcoming events, MAYBE even sales, or specials (that is more common with larger brands, and they are only interested as long as they are in the market for that specific type of product). More often than not, that does not mean that they want you to advertise them the way that you are used to. Like email, the biggest mistake that businesses make is assuming that because the customer gave them their email address, or connected via facebook or elsewhere, that they can send whatever they want to.

They really only want what 'they want', not what you want them to want! The world has changed. In the old days, you could run commercials and people 'had to watch them', or at least they did. They only had so many channels to choose from, and not a lot of other home entertainment choices, and so they did. Those who could afford TV advertising won. But then there was cable..and Tivo...and... I often hear people say "but it works!" with regard to email spamming, and advertising in social media. "Everybody is doing it, so it must work!" I simply say "ok, then why did people rush to get on the do not call list? why do people have spam filters? why do people use Tivo and other tools to avoid commercials?" Because they don't want to hear it! Because they don't trust you anymore! The good news is, when they connect in social networks, they do so because they like you. As long as you allow them to, and don't abuse them, they will trust you too.

So, first let's talk about how to create a useless fan page:

1. Create a page and never come back! Or post randomly when you feel like it.

2. Create a page and have some assistant somewhere or a robot do all of the posting.

3. Only talk about you and your product and what YOU want to sell!

4. Don't allow fans to post, so it's all about YOU and what YOU have to say!

5. Use it as a billboard, and don't engage in conversation.

6. Delete criticisms/complaints rather than respectfully addressing them.

How to create an effective fan page should be somewhat obvious at this point, but let me clarify and add a few, to be sure!

How to create a GREAT Facebook Fan Page that is useful and effective!

1. Be there at least twice a day. Once to post, and again to respond to any comments.

2. Post content of value to your fans - RELEVANT to THEM and their interests. (this may be articles about the upcoming trends, your vendors, suppliers, or strategic partners, or simply stuff that you know that they care about. It doesn't have to just be about you)

3. Remember it's not all about you!

4. Engage in conversation! Ask questions, say thank you, and respond to comments.

5. Ask them what they want!

6. Think about who you are talking to! Do you know who they are? what they like?

7. Think of ways to add value offline, and tell them about it online. Some ideas: Have a fan appreciation party at your office or store Cold & nasty outside? Tell them you understand and you've made fresh hot cider for them if they want to stop by and warm up! Ask them what they are looking for or need right now & find ways to offer it to them! Reward them!!! Give them deals, information and 'perks' for being your fan! Remember, they publicly raised their hand and said "I like you"! That matters! Let them know that you appreciate them.

8. Be human! Let YOU shine through. The days of corporate identity, and hiding behind logo's is a thing of the past. We like and trust people, not logos. Brand your logo, use your logo, but put a face behind it. If it can't be you, give it to someone in your company that can and will be your face. (You have to let them be real and authentic, and clear about who they are though. They can't be posing as you!).

9. Be bold! So many businesses are so worried about their image that they don't even have one! When you try to please everyone, you please no one. The world is noisy, you've got to stand out. You don't have to be overtly outrageous. Just be you! You are unique already (but nobody will know it if you don't let it show!)

10. Remember, if you want to build your fan base, give them a reason to be there! You wanting a certain number isn't enough. Let's face it, they don't care how many fans you want. Give them value, be remarkable and be relevant!

When you do, they will bring you more fans.

5 Secrets to Adding Value with Facebook - Click to View

You can find my facebook fan page at http://www.facebook.com/RealHeatherO

A Quick Look at the Facebook 2010 Redesign

HeatherO Inc. — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 06:54:53 -0800

Yes, facebook has changed again! Here is a quick video peek at the changes. What do you think?

3 Reasons Why Using Facebook for Business Helps You AND Your Friends

HeatherO Inc. — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 13:12:48 -0800

"I just use facebook for my personal stuff", is a comment that I often hear when talking to people. That's understandable, facebook is a platform where you connect with friends and family members. That doesn't mean that you can't or shouldn't use it to tell others about your business. I don't mean SELL SELL SELL! That will turn friends against you in a hurry! BUT, here are 3 reasons why it benefits them as well as you IF you do it the right way! 1. It helps them to be aware of the value that you offer. They may know (or think they do!) what you "do" but that doesn't tell them how knowledgeable you are, how you provide service to others, etc. They don't usually "see you in action". 2. It helps to maintain top of mind awareness. Reminding people that you exist is critical in business. Even your friends and family can "forget" or just not think about it when a referral opportunity arises. You can't "touch" these prospective referrers multiple times a day, every day any other way (well, you could, but that would be...well, weird!). 3. It makes it easy for them to help. People want to help those that they like. They would like to help you, and help that friend who is looking for someone who offers what you do. Being present, and engaging regularly on facebook makes it easy for them to "introduce you". They get in a conversation with a friend who mentions their need, or they 'see them there' and remember that they mentioned a need and poof! In one fell swoop they can introduce them to you because you are all right there! No digging for your card, telling them to call you (which they never do!) or having to remember to email you, etc. It's simple and easy! Business has always been about people! Those who are successful in business have always been those who connect with others and ADD VALUE vs "selling". This is a just another way that makes it simple and easy for you to add value, connect with others and make it easy for them do send you business! Now that's win win! For more on how to use Facebook for Business "the right way" be sure to visit http://www.heatherO.com or find me on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/realheathero

Twitter is Now "Linked In"...Are YOU?

HeatherO Inc. — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:12:45 -0800

Linkedin just became more relevant and interesting for a lot of people!
The new integration between twitter and LinkedIn is simple, yet powerful! Simple in the sense that this isn't some 'new major change' that you have to learn or understand. Powerful in the sense that you will now feel a sense of connection, and be able to see updates from your LinkedIn connections via their twitter posts.
For many, going to LinkedIn is strange. I often have people ask me "what am I supposed to do there?" For those who have been using LinkedIn for a long time, it may not, but for those who are used to facebook or twitter, it seems...boring!
Enter Twitter...Now you not only have the ability to send your tweets to LinkedIn, but also send status updates from LinkedIn to twitter.
Don't panic! It's all quite simple really.
Go to your profile page in LinkedIn, and you will see an option to add your twitter account. After the prompt to allow access, you will be asked whether to post all tweets to LinkedIN (PLEASE DON"T!) or only those that you choose (via adding the hashtag #in to your tweet).
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The great news here is that you have the ability to bring more of 'you' into LinkedIn, AND the ability to more easily interact with your connections there. For some, sending LinkedIn info out to twitter is no big deal, since they don't post much there anyway. For many the idea of bringing their tweets, which seem inherently more personal into LinkedIn, may create a little heartburn. Since LinkedIn is viewed as a much more zipped up "professional" atmosphere, this creates yet another bridge that people are nervous about crossing.
As in Facebook, where this "gap" often occurs, is fear about crossing the line between 'personal and professional'. The truth is, there is no line any more. Nobody wants there to be! We have had enough of suits in big buildings that we trusted without knowing, only to be betrayed. We want to know who we are doing business with! (We always wanted to know, but couldn't in most cases)
This is an opportunity to be you! An opportunity to be more than your job, education, experience, etc and show your personality. This is a big shift for some. It is critical however in this 'new world' that we have entered. 'Being authentic' is more that a buzz word! Being you, and allowing the world to get to know you is the ONLY way to 'compete"! That is the only way to stand out, and to help others choose you over the countless others out there. (Remember: If you always fit in, you will never stand out!) Your personal brand is who you are, and now your connections in LinkedIn can see it!
Tips to Leverage this:
Choose which tweets go to LinkedIn:
This isn't about hiding you, it's about being you, but also being relevant! If you would chat about it at a corporate event, send it! If it's a reflection of you are (which in and of itself has value) send it.
When in doubt, ask "does this provide value?"
Visit LinkedIn, read the updates and comment! Engage! You will never deepen those relationships if you lurk in the background and never interact.
Recognize this as an opportunity to give more value to those that you are meant to serve. Not just another way to 'get your message out!" This is an opportunity to learn more about others, about what matters to them and discover ways that you can serve them. It is an opportunity to drop a few more breadcrumbs to lead those you are meant to serve, to you. It is an opportunity to share your story, to give people something to identify with, to show people how passionate you are, who you are. And for that person who has been searching for someone just like you, that has tremendous value.
Do you currently use LinkedIn? Will this make you more likely to?
Are you currently using twitter? Will this make you more likely to?
I'd love to know!

For more information on how to use these tools THE RIGHT WAY, or help developing your personal brand& online presence, visit me at
http://www.heathero.com
http://www.facebook.com/realheathero
http://www.twitter.com/heathero
(I can help you make it easy, effective, relevant and FUN!:)

Want the "OLD Facebook" Back?

HeatherO Inc. — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 20:52:31 -0800

Change is hard, and that sentiment is echoing daily among Facebook users since the social networking site made changes to the way that it displays information that is posted.
The bad news is, it's probably not 'coming back'. So rather than pout and suck thumbs, we have to get used to it, or find ways that make it easier! Here are a few explanations and tips to do that.
(Note: there are 3rd party applications that claim to 'go back to the old way' and many folks are missing lots of updates and now cannot figure out how to go back to the new one!)
I will go over the options as follows:
Already exist:
Live Feed
News Feed
Status Updates
Photos, videos, links, Pages

Other options (takes a little time to set up, but worth it!)
Friend lists
Tweetdeck
Live Feed: this is what your feed used to be before the 'highlights' were moved to the sidebar. This is real time as people hit enter, the post appears! Ironically this is one of the features that friendfeed and twitter users love most! This feed will include all updates, and everything that is posted. They have also gone back to including "who friended who" here, which again, many don't like. It's one line, and while that mean seem like noise to you, the truth is, as you scroll by it's a split miniscule of a second of your time! It is also the only way (other than friend suggestions) to meet anyone that you don't already know (one of the greatest values twitter has over facebook in my opinion). The biggest complaint with this feed is "I'm missing stuff!" There is a handy dandy "older posts" link at the bottom of the page. Keep using it until you start seeing posts that you've already seen, and you won't miss anything.
News Feed This is similar to what's known on Friendfeed as "Best of Day". These are posts that Facebook deems to be the most interesting based on the number of people who commented or liked them. Yeah, I know, you don't want Facebook 'deciding for you'! They aren't deleting the others! They are just giving you the option of that view. If you don't like it, don't look at it.
Status Updates
Lots of folks have been posting "Drag the status updates to the top so that will be your default view. That is the old view." Yes, you can drag it, and make it your default, but it's not 'the old view" per se. the Status Updates do not include photos, links, or videos. You can however view these in their own 'feed' however, and just view the status updates, and then go to the left sidebar and click to view:
Photos
Videos
Links

Be sure to click on the "Pages" view too. If you are going to "fan" pages, you might as well skim over their updates.
Friend Lists:
Another option is friend lists. I have used these lists for some time because it is easier to "not miss things' when you are viewing them in "chunks". Think of it like TV. You can create your own channels and then 'surf' those that you want to.
You can put your friends into one or more lists like: "high school, local, work, etc" and view them by group. All of their posts will appear here (pics, vids, etc) and you probably won't have to scroll page after page as with the live feed. This takes a little time to set up, but is well worth it! The extra 'bonus' is that when you post something you can actually set the post to only be seen by, or not be seen by those in a certain list (pretty handy!).

(Visit http://heathero.com/2009/11/654/ for a video on how to create friend lists!)

Lastly, those of you on twitter may be familiar with tweetdeck (if you have not updated tweetdeck recently you need to in order to use these features).
Even if you don't use twitter, you can also use tweetdeck just for facebook (or myspace, but why?). In tweetdeck you can create side by side columns such as: photos, videos, status updates, news feed, etc. This is handy because you can skim over them quickly, and you can actually make comments and like posts from here as well. The columns and text are smaller, so it may take a little getting used to. I still go to facebook to check updates, but do use TD to skim over updates throughout the day. I especially love the photos column because I seem to notice them more.
The color scheme is customizable so when you download Tweetdeck it won't look like mine, it will be black. You will see the facebook "f" at the top, and click that to choose your columns. You can also choose which friends you want to see (put them in a group).
Unfortunately, I can't bring the "old facebook" back, or make you like the new one. I hope that this information will help you to understand it better though, and help you to find ways to use it that will be helpful to you!
Please comment below and let me know if this helps, and any other ways you might be 'navigating' the new layout.
If you have questions, feel free to ask!For more tips and info visit http://www.heathero.com

Your Twitter Presence is Talking and You're Not Even There...Are You a Social Networking NO-SHOW?

HeatherO Inc. — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:40:51 -0700

Having been an active Real Estate Agent for 15 years, I now speak and consult on social networking. My focus is not only on the use of these tools, but more specifically on having and delivering the right message (aka Your image and brand). I often say "you have a brand, whether you mean to or not! How you show up is your image, which is your brand. The problem is, many times it often isn't what people intend or want it to be.

I was recently reminded of this as I found myself staring at a virtual "graveyard" of abandoned "Real Estate Agent Twitter Account." I am working with a client who's clients are agents. I was looking at their new twitter account trying to figure out why there were so few followers. When the account was set up, the client's address book was used to find and follow those people that they "already knew". Since those on this list were active clients or subscribers, and big fans, it would seem logical that they would follow back. But they hadn't...It seemed strange, so I began the process of going through each individual profile. It quickly became clear. They had a twitter ACCOUNT but no one was there. Not only was no one "home" so to speak, no one was paying attention to who was following them, so they weren't following back. Out of nearly 1000, only 12 were active. Less than 20 had "shown up" (tweeted) in the past 60 days, nearly half had no profile photo, and several hundred had never tweeted at all!

As someone who's life has been dramatically changed for the better by twitter, and who has seen first hand how powerful twitter is, this made me sadder by the moment. I understood why. I've heard all of the reasons before. For many the reason is "I don't know what to do there, I don't get it". There is nothing "intuitive" about twitter. Typing 140 characters isn't "hard", but understanding how and where to start, and what to "tweet" isn't obvious.

Having the perspective of having been in Real Estate, I also know that many were quick to find a way to get quick leads, and then seeing none, went off to the next "thing".

Deeply saddened as I deleted them one by one, I also felt frustrated. Frustrated that I couldn't reach out to them and offer to help. Why? Because if I sent them a tweet, they wouldn't be there to get it! Frustrated because I knew I was seeing something that they don't see....the image that they are sending out to anyone who can type the word "google". I'm not sure if most even realize that their twitter account would show up in google, or if it has ever occurred to them to google themselves, but I do know that their prospects have and will. As I stared at all of those empty pages, I couldn't help but think of the common complaints that consumers have about agents: "they just stuck a sign in the yard and I haven't heard from them since." Hmmm...I felt like I was watching a virtual symptom of the same disease. "Hi. I'm Joe the Realtor. I came here and set up a twitter account and never came back. I'm the #1 guy in my company, you should list or buy with me so that I can do the same thing with you!" That's the message! It's not just "what's there" that matters, it's what "what they see, and what it says about you". What's NOT there matters too.

I get it, I really do. You're "busy", or you "don't understand it", etc. That's all well and good, but do something to change the message that you're sending. If you aren't there, be somewhere! If you aren't the "twitter type", delete your account! Don't abandon it.

If you just don't know how, seek to learn. It's not going to come to you all by itself. Decide to replace the time spent that's NOTworking with time spent NETworking. The payoff is truly more than you can imagine. Don't know how to start? Feel free to visit my website (http://www.heathero.com) or facebook page (http://facebook.com/realheathero) for free tips, or reach out to someone else. Just do something! Decide where you want to be, and what you want your message to be and then show up. The world has changed. If you want to win the game, you have to be in it!

And remember: "those who are willing to learn and change will inherit the earth, those who refuse will inherit a world that no longer exists."

Self-Promotion: Effectivey Market Your Biz in 3 Steps for Under $300 (seriously!)

HeatherO Inc. — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 07:19:28 -0700

I work with a LOT of small businesses and independent entrepreneurs, and all too often I find that the biggest challenge that they have isn't just "needing more business".

Yes, that appears to be the challenge but, the business is out there! The challenge is leveraging their time & money in the best ways to GET it! More often than not, when you ask them "how are you letting people know that you WANT more business? they either have no answer, or a bad one!"

The owner of the Brick & Mortar Business waits for people to come in. "I'm here!" That's it! Because "I'm here" they expect people to come in! It's no different online. That website sits there "I'm here!" and expects people to find them. Do you know how many websites are out there???? You expect people to just "know"!?! Think about that. Seems obvious, I know, but it's true. Just EXISTING simply isn't enough. Sorry folks! So, how do you build your business without Trump's bank account?? Here is a 3 Part Plan! But first! Do NOT make the mistake of underestimating the power of it! I know, we always think "simple" can't be effective, but it is! It just has to be focused and consistent! 1. Have a very clear brand! Use it consistently! Make it clear how you serve, not just "what you do"! Your brand is how you appear to others. That includes your logo, store design, how customers are treated and everything in between! 2. Social Media! Yep, I know some of you are thinking "I don't have the time". I don't know about you, but most people don't have the money that it would take to generate what a little "time" w/social media can do! Blog! About what? Help me! Educate me! If you are a store, tell me what the latest trends are, post an article on how to pick a camera, or _____. Post other people's stuff (with credit of course!) like video's, how to's, etc. If you sell expensive, organic makeup, tell me why I need or should want it! If I have no idea that there is road kill in my makeup, I am NOT ever going to buy yours (unless it's easier and cheaper to get, which it probably won't be)! No matter how many emails you send me, or how pretty your website is! (Read: So, now I need a blog?) 3. Advertise Online w/LocalAdLink I know what your thinking! "I already have a website" (remember, it's just sitting there wanting to be found but isn't findable!), or "I tried google adwords and it didn't work" or "I can't afford that"... Try LocalAdLink It was made for you! LocalAdLink offers a very robust set of tools and comprehensive technology that I won't go into, because I don't want to make it any more complicated than it needs to be! So, here is the jist of it: You get a simple landing page (that can link to your website if you have one) that is better than most expensive websites, that people can find without having to spend thousands on SEO, ppc, etc (& if you don't know what that means, you don't have to!). You (or your 9yr old) can easily change it whenever you want! It pushes you out to 1000's of sites and makes you "findable", and best of all, you show up front and center on any computer in the zip codes that you have chosen! Yep! Instead of paying zillions of dollars so that someone in Tahiti sees your website, you can now afford to show up where your customers are! For $100-$249/mo you can have a web presence that people can find, offer coupons without having to print them or pay $100's of dollars to mail them, you can have up to the minute sales, photos, and events without being out-dated, or waiting for someone else to do it! You get control and the power to reach 10's of thousands of people! Without learning a bunch of stuff, spending tons of time, or spending lots of money! Are there other ways? yes.

Are there still print publications and others that work? yes. Should you stop doing what works? NO!

But, for 100 bucks a month (& no long term contract) at least Try It! Not sure if you can afford $100/mo?? (C'mon! I'll bet you blow that much at the grocery store, target or on latte's! I do! They aren't making you money are they?)

So, when do you want to start making more money in your business? Next Month? Next Week? How about today?

(My husband and I were so impressed with LocalAdLink and the value and leverage that it offers small businesses, he has become a reseller. Just so you know! Buy it through whoever you want! Just try it! Really! :) Don't let the simplicity of this fool you! I know we all think it has to be hard, and expensive and complicated! BUT, it doesn't!

Focus on this simple strategy for 3 months and see...

How Will Cap and Trade Effect Your Real Estate Business?

HeatherO Inc. — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 06:49:25 -0700

This is a very important post. I am amazed and how little media coverage it has gotten. So far, NO one that I know was aware of it!

Be informed.

While we all want to be good to the planet, we sometimes lose sight of the forest for the trees. Many people are hypnotized by the "idea" and don't see reality. There are a lot of people who stand to MAKE a lot of money on this, at the cost of every homeowner.

Via Nestor & Katerina Gasset Realtors® Wellington Florida Luxury Homes (International Properties and Investments, Inc.):

Real estate is local when it comes to market conditions and market trends. Real estate differs from region to region in styles, architecture and amenities generally speaking. For instance; in Florida fireplaces are not the norm whereas in cold winter areas such as Colorado, fireplaces are a standard addition to a home. In some areas of our country people have wood burning stoves and others have coal burning furnaces. There are areas of our country such as here in Florida where you would not dare live without Air Conditioning but in many homes in Washington for instance, air conditioning is more of a luxury than a necessity.

So when we are discussing the effects of cap and trade in your real estate business you will need to take into account the region in which you live as some areas will be more effected than others.

Here is a really good interactive map from the New York Times. The map I posted below is the map of the votes in the House for and against the Cap and Tax bill that just passed the House. But if you click on the link of the New York Times map, it is interactive.

You can move your mouse over the map and see who voted, what party they belong to and their district. You will be able to see that no matter whether they were democrats or republicans if they are in the farm country of America, high manufacturing areas of America, low energy bills of America and the heartland of America- they voted NO on this bill and for very good reasons.

"For a household of four, energy costs go up $436 that year, and they eventually reach $1,241 in 2035 and average $829 annually over that span. Electricity costs go up 90 percent by 2035, gasoline by 58 percent, and natural gas by 55 percent by 2035. The cumulative higher energy costs for a family of four by then will be nearly $20,000.

But direct energy costs are only part of the consumer impact. Nearly everything goes up, since higher energy costs raise production costs. If you look at the total cost of Waxman-Markey, it works out to an average of $2,979 annually from 2012-2035 for a household of four. By 2035 alone, the total cost is over $4,600." Heritage Foundation.

You will notice that the states where the votes were yes are also the states that already have the highest energy bills. The states that voted no are mostly states with presently low energy bills.

Instead of calling this to Cap and Trade- We can really call it the Tax On Electricity Bill.

How does this information pertain to real estate agents? If you live in the lower energy pricing states you are going to be seeing huge increases in household energy bills. If you live in states that are coal powered or oil powered you will see the largest increases ever in your energy bills because those energy sources are going to be punished with taxation.

How is that going to effect home prices?

How is that going to effect movement in and out of your state?

How is that going to effect your real estate office utility bills and who is going to pay for this?

The House is at it again. This was a 1,300 page bill and again as with so many large bills was not read by most of those that voted yes or no. What is it that they don't get? The American people expect our leaders to read what they vote on.

So what else is tucked away neatly into this bill that perhaps no one knows the full implications of yet?

How about the Federal imposition and takeover of building codes? Your local planning and building offices will not be qualified for any Federal funding of any kind unless they adopt what the FEDS say is the new energy efficient building standards. This will create higher prices in building new homes which is then passed on the homebuyers and then you as a real estate agent are also effected because less buyers will be able to afford to buy a new home built . Not to mention having to wait for the Feds to come and inspect the builders and the homes.

How about the new Federal Energy Nazis Inspectors who will come and rate your home before you can sell your home. So before you can list a home for sale, the seller will have to wait for the Federal inspectors to come out. DMV lines anyone? Once that inspector comes out, he or she will give the home an energy rating. If the home does not meet the guidelines the seller will be required to do the work necessary to bring the home up to energy standards before they can sell the home! Can we say money? Does that mean that there will be homeowners who will become prisoners in their homes because they can not afford to make the energy repairs that the feds require? Is that an invasion of your privacy as well as an attack on your property rights?

Hmmm, how is that going to effect short sales where the seller has no money to make the repairs and adjustments?

How is that going to effect your ability to get listings in a timely manner?

How is that going to effect your seller who is about to lose their home in a foreclosure?

How is that going to effect the seller who has to relocate for their job?

How is that going to effect the estates with heirs having to do these repairs and such when there won't be any money until the estate is sold?

I wonder if our House of Representatives and our Congress men and women EVER thought to actually ask us in the field working this business day in and day out how these bills will effect the housing market?

Of course, the US will be living Cap and Tax while the real perpetrators of dirty air like China and India get off scott free. There will be an unfair advantage in pricing products and manufacturing to the point that if a US company even stands a chance of staying in the manufacturing business will have no choice but to move their company oversees which in turn will cause a massive layoff of people increasing the already high unemployment problem we are facing in our country.

How will the unemployment effect your real estate business?

How will the unemployment effect the REOs and massive foreclosures in your community?

How will the unemployment effect home values as you get more and more vacant properties in your area?

If you are an agent in America's farmland you will begin to see farms no longer being able to produce a profit. Farms use a lot of energy. Energy use will be punished. This is why nearly every politician from a farm land state no matter what party they are affiliated with voted no to this bill. Their districts will suffer terribly. As this happens we will be buying more and more produce from other countries with far less health standards than our own. I don't trust foods, especially produce from China or other countries except Europe. But we don't import our veggies from Europe!

How is this going to effect your real esate business if you live and work in a farm land state?

When it comes down to the nitty and the gritty about this bill you must remember that GE is the biggest supporter of this bill. They stand to make billions of dollars from the passage of this bill. The politicians voting yes on this bill, many of them are getting paid to vote yes. And Al Gore will become the very first GREEN billionaire. It is just too bad that he is not a real capitalist. He could not become a billionaire playing fair and square. Instead, he has an unfair advantage, legislation to make him filthy rich. Not exactly the free market way. It is all about the money.

Contact your Senators now to vote NO now. Click on this link to find your Senators and contact them by email, phone and fax today. Let them know how this is going to effect your business and your community homeowners and buyers. Pass this on...

Words That Top 5% of Sales Pros Use...

HeatherO Inc. — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 22:51:28 -0700

Kevin Hall, author of "Aspire" is a "words afficianado". He studied the words used by salespeople and discovered a distinct and VERY consistent pattern of differences.

(Consider these words not in a "learn a script" kind of way, but in the "where they come from" way. I mean think about the mindset behind the words, that's where the power comes from!)

Words Used by the
Top 5% of salespeople::Bottom 5%:

We :: Me/I
Plan ::. Proposal
Value :: Cost

They also found that the bottom 5% talked most about the company (what it offers, does, and how it would be better if they...)

The top 5% never talked about the company. They talked exclusively about the customer...

What are YOU saying?

~HeatherO'

You Don't Spam People, or do you?

HeatherO Inc. — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 10:49:15 -0700

Hi ("friend" INSERT NAME HERE), My name is spam. I am called spam because you did not ask for me, and because I was not sent to you personally (I was sent to a "list"). I am called spam because I am the only email or "wall" comment that you have ever received from me, and I am asking you for something! I am spam because you never receive an email or post from my sender just asking how you are, inviting you for coffee, or offering to help you. I'm afraid that I don't offer enough value, so you won't seek out what I have to offer, or say, because I haven't taken the time to get to know you, so I have to throw it at you, ok? I don't realize that just because I think people should read me, or want me, or buy me, just because I think I'm important, doesn't mean other people do... I am spam because I am something that you do not want that really does not serve YOU (only me)...I want you to want me, and I want you to like me and so I think that you should. Do you? Love, Spamme BE SURE TO CHECK OUT MY WEBSITE, BLOG, WIDGETS AT WWW......!!!!!!!!!!! Spam isn't just about following the "Law" or doing what is "Allowed", it's about how you treat people. We are "allowed" to do just about anything! We are ALLOWED to "blow it" every time we turn around. The question is what you want your reputation and results to be! I had to post this because not only have I received more spam via email this week than I ordinarily do, I recently joined another ning social network for small business and found myself feeling quite assaulted! I rec'd a number of "welcome's" on my wall and virtually EVERY one was spam! It kinda felt like going into a bar and having someone walk up to you and say "hi, nice to meet you! wanna sleep w/me?" By the way, here is my profile page w/ the "welcome's " that I rec'd! You've gotta see it! It's almost funny:) http://sta.rtup.biz/profile/HeatherOSullivanCanney

What the World Needs Now is Hope

HeatherO Inc. — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 21:10:06 -0800

Zig Ziglar said "Failure is merely an event...it adds to your experience...it is an attitude". It seems like everywhere I turn these days I am coming across people who are having extremely hard times. We too are feeling VERY challenged right now. Notice I said we are "feeling challenged"? You see, I refuse to state that anything in our lives is a "fact" or a "statement". Why? Because how I see it, feel about it, and affirm it determines how it WILL be. You see, time moves along. So how things are in this moment does not determine how it will be an hour from now, or tomorrow, or the next day. MY attitude however, absolutely will! Many people need lots of things right now, but I dare say that the fundamental need in our world right now is hope. Faith is the only anecdote for failure! We all get to choose whether we are going to think about how bad things are, or affirm that "they are getting better". I know, "just saying it won't change anything." Actually, if you believe it, it will. If you really believe it, you will begin to look for ways to make it better! To paraphrase the great Zig Ziglar, "Do you believe that there is something that you could do today that would make your life worse? Then there MUST be something that you can do to make it better!" But you won't even try, if you don't believe it is possible! Think of the difficult times you have had in your life, that we as a country have had in our history. They have ALWAYS been temporary! They have always gotten better. These times will be no different. Do you find it hard to have hope? Look for reasons to! You will always find what you are looking for! If you are looking for evidence that times are tough, you will always find it. If you look for reasons to hope, you will find those too! Where to start? 1. Gratitude... Not "I know, I know, I have a lot to be thankful for, but..." Get a small notebook and write down 10 things that you have to be thankful for at least 3 times a day. Yes, at least 3 times a day, and yes, you have to write them down. Don't believe it will work? Try it! The more that you are thankful for, the more you will be given to be thankful for! 2. Journal...about the times in your life that you had no hope and how amazing they turned out. Write about the wonderful things and people in your life that you never even imagined you would have. If you are currently journaling about how tough things are, leave space at the end for the "rest of the story". Leave "room" to come back and write about what a blessing it turned out to be. Then, take it one step further...imagine how amazing the "ending" could be. Go ahead and "make up the ending". 3. Look for ways to help others. No matter how much you are struggling. or how little you have, there is ALWAYS something that you can give to someone else. Even if it is just a word of encouragement. This is truly powerful. Don't disregard it! You will create an immediate shift in your thoughts, emotions and potential when you stop looking at yourself and start looking for ways to help others. Tell that pregnant girl who looks down how beautiful she is, ask that grumpy clerk "what's wrong" and tell her that you believe that her day is going to get better. Tell that child that just made a huge mess "building something" what an "amazing imagination" they have and how "cool" that is! 4. Turn off the news! Stop feeding yourself "food" that makes you sick! Look for healthier choices! Find music, videos, and stories that will "feed your soul". They are everywhere! I have a 9 yr old who is very sensitive and gets easily upset when someone says something ugly to him. We have secretly decided that "we have an invisible shield". So when we are confronted (as we all inevitably are)with negative people, stories, etc., we imagine a clear shield coming over us (kind of like Buzz lightyears helmet). You CAN be standing in front of someone and not "really hear" what they are saying. You can! Just smile and go through your "thankful fors" in your head! 5. You can't just eliminate negative thoughts. "The universe abhors a vacuum". Make the conscious choice to affirm the way you want to be. If you tell yourself daily that you are "always late...totally stressed out...completely unorganized,etc", you will be! Instead affirm to yourself that "I am getting better and better every day! I am getting more organized, more punctual, more successful" or whatever it is that you want to be. Imagine things the way that you want them to be! Visualize what that will "look like". Visualization is far more powerful that I can cover here. Just do it! Imagine what you could do if you didn't believe that you couldn't! Do you believe that you "can't" because of a lack of money, or college education? Watch this...

what Should You be Focusing on?

HeatherO Inc. — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 07:32:22 -0800

During this time, much of our focus is on the economy. For many, it is on "lack" vs. Abundance. I talked with someone the other day who was laid off in '08. He is currently doing IT related contract work, and mentioned that he has more work that he can do. He seemed very stressed about money, and "not knowing" how long the work will last. He stated that when he was first laid off, he was doing lot of work "to help others" (for free). He said that it felt great, but that he quickly realized that he wasn't "getting anything for it", and became fearful of his "money running out", so he shifted his focus to "income generating work". He also told me that he had been going to school for his MBA and had received a loan for more than he needed for tuition, which helped with other bills. He is to receive another this month, but is considering quitting the MBA program because he needs to be working, and finding a job, and is concerned that the MBA will just make him "overqualified" for most jobs anyway. As someone who has spent the last 15 years in real estate, and who (along with thousands of other Realtors, developers, builders, and lenders) had their "industry" essentially disappear with no severance, and no "unemployment benefits", I was fascinated by this perspective. Here is someone with so many options, and opportunities and blessings! Most people would LOVE to be in this position! But what struck me the most was the comment about "not getting anything for" the work that he was doing to "help others". I pondered this, and finally asked "How can you be sure that work was for nothing? You said that you have more work than you can do right now, right?" He confirmed that he did, and I responded, "A lot of people don't have that right now. Could it be that the reason that you have been given so much, is actually because of your giving-because of that work that you did for others for free?" I for one, believe that it is! Too many times (esp. now!) we expect to receive compensation when we simply haven't yet earned it! I believe in the Law of Compensation that says "You must first give value", and that you will be compensated in direct proportion to the value that you give. You can't go to the bank and say "Give me my interest, and then I'll make a deposit!" I have heard many conversations recently about focusing on making money right now. "This is not the time to pursue your dream" or "This is not the time for self improvement", "I can't be working for free right now", etc. Maybe this is the perfect time! Maybe the gift in all of this is that when you are at "the bottom" or "unemployed" or whatever, you have less to lose! So, why not now? Maybe the gift in all of this is the abundance of TIME! Many are not terribly busy right now! Most people would typically say that they don't have time to dream, or exercise, or learn, or better themselves, or change careers. Now you do! Wouldn't becoming better, enable you to create more value? When you give to others, even when it's "for free", doesn't that add to your net value? To others, to your self ,and to mankind? Sure, we all need to make a living, and you should absolutely "be in action", but maybe in this New Year instead of burying ourselves in "the grindstone" mentality, or working & stressing ourselves to death because we are so "lack" focused, and fearful, maybe we should tithe ourselves. Give 10% of our time to others, 10% to our family & friends, and 10% to ourselves. We are usually awake for at least 15hrs per day (ie. 6am-9pm), making 30%=5hrs. That still leaves us a whopping 10 hours to "work"! So cut out the wasted hours and give to yourself and others. You never know how that will be rewarded. Just know that the Law of Compensation states that it will!

Do You Take Action?

HeatherO Inc. — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 10:24:27 -0800

It is my opinion that all too often, people choose to do nothing. I even spent a couple of weeks recently thinking about "what to do". I was faced with making some very significant changes in my life, and although we all think having "unlimited possibilities" would be a great thing. It can also be paralyzing! For many of us making a decision is difficult. We think about all of the possible worst case scenarios, second guess our own abilities, blah, blah, blah...So what do we do? NOTHING! I've often said that "sometimes to be successful, you have to be too dumb to know better!" I believe that's true. If we would just "pull the trigger" sometimes, without "thinking it all through" and "doing all of the research", we would be better off! But, we've been taught "think it through", "don't make rash decisions", "don't jump the gun". That would be fine if we also didn't have those voices that say "what if I fail?" "What if I make a fool of myself?" "I'm not that smart" "I'm not good enough". We carry all of those thoughts around every day, and when the opportunity to do something arises, there they are! Ready to jump up and stop us! A few months ago I had been listening to this Andy Andrews CD (it's my all time favorite, and I've almost worn it out!). It's about "taking action", and so when I came across a Craigslist post that said "puppies die tomorrow" complete with a photo of 7 tiny lab pups and the explanation that they were to be "put down" at a shelter at 4pm the following day, I was haunted by it all night. I thought "I have to do something! How am I going to feel at 4:05 if I do nothing?". I knew that I had very little money at the time, but didn't give it much thought. I just decided! I told my husband, we grabbed a big box, picked the boys up from school, and drove to the shelter an hour away. I also didn't think about the fact that I had a horrible middle ear infection and couldn't stand to be in moving car without incredible motion sickness! Anyway, while my husband was driving, I got on my laptop and emailed a few friends about the puppies asking if they knew of anyone who could take one. My emails were forwarded to more people than I could even imagine! Including an amazing rescue group (Marleys Cat Tales). Suddenly, I was getting emails and phone calls from all over! People I didn't even know were either offering help, or just saying "thanks" for what we were doing. When we got home we had people showing up at our house with supplies, and offering to foster some of them. It was truly surreal! At the end of the day, we had not only saved 7 precious little puppies, but taught our children that ANYONE and EVERYONE can do SOMETHING to make a difference. And sometimes, it's just a matter of taking a leap of faith! I KNEW that there were enough people in this area and that there had to be some who would want a puppy. I had NO IDEA how it would all work out. I've heard soooo many times to "just figure out the what, and the how will come". But so many times I still find myself wanting to see the entire plan! When you find yourself in this "place", watch this video! And remember these words by Andy Andrews, "God did not put in you the ability to always make the right decision. But he did put in you the ability to make a decision, and to make it right!"

Andy Andrews - Joshua Chamberlain

Business Social Networking - Loitering and Littering

HeatherO Inc. — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 20:26:05 -0800

I went to an interesting social networking class today.

(Sponsored by a great microbusiness networking group! Check out http://www.insideareacodes.com/)

These Were My "aha's" (and created names for a few)...

1. Don't sign up for a social networking site unless you plan on contributing! If you just sign up for them all and do nothing you appear to be someone with nothing to offer (or you'll look like a "taker").

I'll call this "Loitering"

2. Don't sign up for a social networking site and just ask for business. It's a "relationship" and therefore if it's one-sided it won't work (and you'll look like a "taker"!) You must CONTRIBUTE. Look for ways to help others, not just ask for business. Throwing your logo around, and mass emailing your "stuff" constantly to your "friends" is a no-no. This is what most people call "being pushy". I see this a LOT in facebook and others! (If they "get to know you" and like you, then they will care WHAT you DO and remember you.)

I'll call this Littering!

Blogging and social networking are opportunities for people to get to know you, and for you to help them. They enable you to accomplish this with far greater people, at virtually no cost (and without having to attend nearly as many networking meetings!). The idea is to provide value, and thereby pull them (voluntarily) to you.

Broadcasts, mass emails and blasting people that have trusted you with their email address with "all about me" information is "pushing". You wouldn't get in someone's face (physically) and scream "send me business, send me business, send me business!!!" So don't do that online either.

If you are going to sign up for a social networking site and add "friends", treat your friends as you would want them to treat you! If you don't want friends that are only going to show up to pitch their latest book, or business promoting video, or new listing, your friends probably don't either!

Do We Still Need an MLS?

HeatherO Inc. — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 06:57:07 -0700

Here we are, surrounded with technology. Websites featuring "homes for sale" are found at every turn. Whether you google crime rates, schools or whatever, you will get a Real Estate Agent or Company site in the results.

Many of them offer limited information, but this is primarily due to the fact that they often aggregate from Realtor.com. And don't even get me started on how I feel about Realtor.com and the way that they hold the information of our own listings hostage if we don't pay their "ransom"!

We do have a centralized showing service, but they have an independent site. Listings and showing instructions could simply be posted directly to their site.

I sent an email to our MLS a while back asking why it is that I can go on a plethora of sites and create a slideshow or "video" in minutes, for free for my listings, yet I cannot post them to MLS. Why should I have to pay a virtual tour company to do it? I get the whole "we don't want your information in it" thing, but that is regulated pretty effectively now with the photos, why not just have the same requirements? It's been a couple of months now, I still haven't heard back from them!

But if you think about it, we spend a LOT of money on MLS (in addition to the money that goes to Realtor.com). Six Hundred dollars or more a year! In fact, up until this year, our board has notified us in October that we would not be charged for November and December because their coffers were so full!

I don't know about everyone else, but I can't remember the last time I received an inquiry from either one! Most of my listings have been sold to buyers who found the home on another site, or drove by, and contacted their agent. I can post my listings to hundreds of sites for free. Craigslist, backpage, MyNC, etc, etc, etc, etc. In fact, I don't need to pay for a lot of things anymore. Sites like www.openoffice.org, adobe.com and zoho.com allow me to create presentations, spreadsheets, documents and more without paying for MS office. Dozens of sites exist that allow me to edit and store photos, create albums, avatars and floorplans, and manage my bank accounts and more, for free.

Our industry has always been "behind" when it comes to the world of technology. Our lack of knowledge in this area has made a lot of people a lot of money! Is is time for us to "catch up" here too?

More Good News in The Triangle

HeatherO Inc. — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 22:55:13 -0700

According to various local media sources, we have more good news to be happy about!

In The Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC):

Unemployment rate is down!

Foreclosures are down 46%

Home Sales are up 5.5%

Woohoo! Spread the word!

Home Sales are up...What will the media do?

HeatherO Inc. — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 22:49:45 -0700

I just watched the national news on ABC and almost had to laugh. "Yes, new home sales are up" and "home sales overall were up in September", but "be cautious"...blah blah blah.

It's like they couldn't stand it! They couldn't bear to say "woohoo! good news!"

Some would say it's our fault. Because "we as viewers" are only captivated by bad news. "If it bleeds, it sells" they say.

I disagree. We have a local news station who has made the commitment in the past year to report GOOD news too. The comments on their website seem to indicate that people are thrilled!

Why shouldn't we be? We are bombarded daily with violence, crime, reasons why we should be miserable, reasons to hate our country, reasons to be terrified of our future, the economy, etc.

I say good news is good for all of us! We can't change them, but we can change "us". We can give the media portals our feedback, and we can take the lead (via blogs like these) to spread the news....the GOOD news!

Will Obama Tax Plan Affect Mortgage Interest Deduction?

HeatherO Inc. — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 14:43:32 -0700

I recently read the Obama Tax Plan and was concerned to find (on pg.2) that it stated that homeowners would recieve a 10% tax credit for mortgage interest paid. Since mortgage interest is currently fully deductible, I asked my CPA who said that under the Obama plan, that would change. I can't seem to find any other information regarding this, and haven't heard anyone discussing it. Obviously such a change would dramatically shift the current buy vs. rent advantage (not to mention the fact that it would affect the taxes of all income levels, not just those above $250k). The last thing that we need is something else to deflate the housing industry! Does anyone have any information to support or clarify this?

The "Crisis"...how do you see it?

HeatherO Inc. — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:06:23 -0700

Blame, blame, blame...it's all around us! Everyone seems to be caught up in "who to blame for the crisis". Apparently there are some who think we should be on that list (trulia ).

I attended a toastmasters meeting last night for the first time, and the members were asked to respond to various questions about the bailout and who is to blame. I was blown away by the responses! Every single person felt that the consumer was ultimately responsible! One was even asked to defend the consumer and blame someone else. Her response was that she couldn't. That, in her opinion, there was no one else to blame!

Wow! I was stunned! To be in a room full of people who believe we all have personal responsibility! No way! When I got home, I told my husband about it and his "answer" was that "these are well educated people, that's why". Hmmm...which made me thing of the Trulia post that I read yesterday morning (and couldn't even bring myself to respond to!). I recalled that the poster was a Harvard Business grad who claimed that he was "duped" by his Realtor, and that he bought his home based on his agent telling him that it would increase in value. (I've always said that a degree never gave anybody COMMON sense!).

I personally am frustrated too. We all are. I am further frustrated however, by the fact that we all prospered during the economic boom that resulted from deregulation and the push to increase homeownership that created the subprime market. There are many (of all "classes") who benefitted from the "boom". Whether they made money in the stock market, or their 401k. Everyone from the subcontractor to the small business owner enjoyed some benefit of the booming economy that was driven by the booming housing market. Many many people were able to "have the American dream" of owning a home because the subprime market was created. And that was the intention! The subprime market was "created" to increase homeownership among minorities, and others! This created growth and jobs! If there is anyone out there who doesn't think they benefitted in some way, they were either living under a rock, or simply have no concept of how our economy works.

I find it a bit scary that we live in a world where EVERYTHING ceases to "function" without credit availability, but that didn't come to be because of one person, one entity, or one political party. No, even George Bush didn't do that all by himself! Yes, there was greed and corruption. You will find that anywhere! Even in churches! That's called the fundamental law of good and evil (and free will!), So enough of that excuse!

From "the Traveler's Gift" by Andy Andrews: "The words 'It's not my fault' have been symbolically written on the gravestones of unsuccessful people ever since Eve took her first bite of the apple. Until a person hakes responsibility for where he or she is, there is no basis for moving on".

I, for one, say "Let's move on"....

Buyers and Sellers Asking " Now What? "

HeatherO Inc. — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 07:31:00 -0700

Wow, what a roller coaster the past few weeks have been! The news certainly hasn’t been great, but it’s also being spun in very broad strokes. To say that ALL credit is frozen is about as accurate as the media’s portrayal of the housing market for the past year!

Recent events have definitely affected many financial institutions. No question about it. But there are still strong companies out there, and they are still in the lending business. Look at those who are buying these fallen entities. Citicorp, Bank of America and Wells Fargo are still out there doing business. In fact, I know loan officers at Suntrust and Wells Fargo, who are still quite busy. Wells for one, has loans available for borrowers with credit scores as low as 620, and even some with no down payment!

If you want or need to move, there are ways to do it. First, go to your Credit Union, or the larger companies listed above. Find out the truth, don’t make assumptions based on the “junk food” that the media is feeding you. If you do qualify for a loan, find a professional to help you navigate through the market. This is always my advice, but now so more than ever. There is a lot to choose from, and a lot of “deals “to be had. But don’t be fooled by properties that were priced too high to begin with and then “reduced”, and don’t overlook those that are priced as bargains to begin with. Many people think if they get a home for less than the “asking price” they have gotten a great deal. Many also miss out on great deals if they can’t “get the price down drastically”, because they think that they are supposed to be getting a great deal, and aren’t.

If you don’t qualify for a loan, look at other options. Seller financing, lease options, etc. are all great ways to get into a property, but find a professional with experience in these. Many Realtors have only been in business during the “boom times” and have NO idea how to work in times like these.

Think you can’t buy because you can’t sell? Not always true. You may be able to rent your property, and then buy. You also may need a more experienced professional to get your home sold. Listen to them! Forget what your neighbor sold theirs for last year, what you think it “should be worth” and what you “want to buy”. None of these factors ever had anything to do with real “market value” anyway. It never ceases to amaze me the people who will say “but I need to make $X because I want to buy a home that’s $Y”. I always want to say “I want my home to be worth a million bucks, but that doesn’t make it so!” That’s like saying “I need to sell my kia for $50,000 because I want to buy a Porsche!” Good luck with that!

There have always been people who fail miserably in the worst of times, and those who create huge success in the worst of times. The difference? Mindset!

You will always find what you are looking for. Say “ I can’t” and you will create that reality. Ask “how can I?” and you will find a way…

As Public Servants do WE Have an Obligation to be Fair and Balanced?

HeatherO Inc. — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 07:43:15 -0700

I'm a little puzzled...I have always seen Activerain.com as a place to blog about real estate, and issues that affect us in our industry. I blog about my personal NON real estate related opinions, ideas, etc elsewhere. I came across a post yesterday that solely served to criticize Sarah Palin for the names of her children. Should this be the place for that?

I can watch/read the news for that kind of stuff all day long! (I choose not to most of the time because I believe that it is toxic!) I don't know about the rest of you, but I can use all of the positive energy I can get and every ounce of negativity I allow myself to be assaulted with only undermines that.

Clearly we all have our political opinions. Given.The question of whether ragging on kids for their names (especially one with a disability) is fair game, or even nice for that matter, is one thing...But is this the place for it?

We can certainly choose to blog about whatever we want, but as a professional serving the community (not to mention trying to earn business!), is this smart? Do we have any duty to keep our personal feelings and attacks out of our business as public servants or no? Clearly active rain is read by both industry professionals and consumers. Do we have any obligation to spare our counterparts from it? What about our Customers?

Everyone talks about the media being "fair and balanced". Do we have any obligation to do that? If we aren't obligated, is it prudent?

I see Activerain as a venue to learn about what's going on in our industry, learn new things, further my knowledge and effectiveness as a Broker and share what I can with others. Is that what others are here for, or is it just me?

I need all of the positive "energy" I can get these days, I don't particularly want to come here to hear political name calling! (If it were relevant to how politics affects our business that would be different). In fact, I recently saw an email from Activerain that this was supposed to be place for "positive" information and not criticism. hmmm...does that apply to all things?

In any case, at a time when most of us need sales, and the consumer desperately needs us to reassure them, instill confidence, and help them save, sell or buy property, I would say that a true professional would consider this a frivolous waste of time if nothing else! Just curious to know what others think...

What? Home Values Appreciating? I haven't heard that on the news!

HeatherO Inc. — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 11:05:07 -0700

I had a professor in college who said:

"Statistics are like bikini's. What they reveal may be interesting ,but what they cover up is crucial!".

Truer words were never spoken! For example, (from the article linked below):

Florida prices were off 5.3% from last year and 12.4% from the previous quarter. Which sounds worse? Down 5.3% or 12.4%? If you want it to sound bad, just pick the latter.

We all know that in the media world "what bleeds, sells". There is no drama if the news isn't bad, I guess. Ironically, I have been involved in a number of community meeting that a local news station has sponsored to find out what "we like, don't like, and want in our local news reporting". Every single time, the RESOUNDING consensus is that "we want more good news"! What a concept! You mean we don't want to be completely depressed by our local media providers every day when we wake up and every night at dinner???

I can only speak for our area (which we are very lucky to be in!), but people here are saying "I don't know if I should buy_____ right now, they say the economy is going to get worse". They are NOT saying " I've lost my job", or "I can't afford it" (unless they are a builder, lender, Broker. or small business owner!).

I've said it before, the consumer needs the real "unspun" truth. They need be advised against making bad choices. We don't serve them by not doing so. HOWEVER, it is also our responsibility to make sure that they don't miss out on opportunities! There are loads opportunities out there to generate real wealth right now, and we owe it to ourselves, our clients and our community, to spread the word and to not allow the media, or anyone else screaming "the sky is falling" to rob us of not only opportunities, but of the ability to sleep at night!

Our clients need us to give them truthful advise, valid information, and most of all, hope and confidence! If we don't, who else will!

Need proof? Look at these stats...Yes some numbers are pretty bleak, but many aren't nearly as bad as you think!

In the Raleigh-Cary area, our appreciation rate (1yr) is at +4.84%!

Home Prices by Metro Area - MSN Money 8/26/08

L'Hermitage in Apex NC

HeatherO Inc. — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 07:54:01 -0700

L'Hermitage could have been an exciting new addition to the Apex NC housing market. They had great floorplans, and tons of interest. Which is why everyone was so baffled when construction came to a halt, the weeds started growing, and the mold began to take over unfinished houses. There has been much speculation about "what happened". .. Without getting into all of that, just let it be said that it's a shame that hasn't come to fruition as it should have. However, this is one of THE best real estate markets anywhere. There are numerous investors looking at the property. We all hope it will eventually become all that it should be. In the meantime, for those who were excited about these all brick townhomes, be sure to check out the Brownstones in The Green at Scotts Mill. They are less than a mile away, similar in size and features and will be ready in a few weeks! Related L'Hermitage news article: http://apex.mync.com/site/apex/news/story/5780/

Puppies Need Homes Too! (Apex NC)

HeatherO Inc. — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 23:09:44 -0700

“You can’t do everything, but you can do something!” I tell my boys every morning before school to “Make a difference today. You never know how a small deed can change the world, so do something to change the world today! I wasn’t thinking of that when I saw the craiglist post late last Monday night “puppies die today”. All I could think of was their photo…all night long. I know that animals die in shelters every day, but these…these were going to die the next day at 4pm. How would I feel at 4:05 if I did nothing? I knew I just couldn’t “think about it”. Ironically, I had just told my boys the day before that sometimes “grown ups are just too smart”. Explaining that sometimes the most successful people are those that are “too dumb to know better”. We buy into the idea that we have to be an “expert” before we can do something, we have to know all of the “why’s and how’s”. We buy into all of these “made up stories” that control our every thought and move. “you need to really think long and hard about things” “you’d better know what you’re doing”, “you can’t do THAT!”, “that’s impossible”, etc. I said “where would we be if Einstein or Edison, or Bill Gates or the countless others that have changed our world “bought into what everyone thinks”. Sometimes to be truly “smart” you need to be dumb! Dumb enough to convince your husband to grab a cardboard box, check your kids out of school and drive to Lumberton in search of the (very well hidden!) animal shelter to save 7 puppies! With a middle ear infection (aka. Major car sickness!), with no idea who would adopt them, with no thought about how much I didn’t need to be spending the money, and with a grandma in ICU that could “take a turn for the worse” at any moment. I just knew that there are enough awesome people in this area, that it couldn’t be that hard to find them homes! What I didn’t know was how the 12 emails that I sent to my friends would be forwarded to dozens more who would send it to even more. I had never heard of “Marleys Cat Tails Rescue Group” when my phone started ringing off the hook, and emails pinging left and right. My email had gone to Carol at Marleys, who sent it to her AMAZING network of people. I had no idea how my life would literally be transformed by dozens of people that I didn’t even know, offering help, or just saying “thank you!”. One person even wrote “…I’ve often thought that most people shouldn’t have kids. I’m so glad that you did.” WOW! There are no words to describe it… I didn’t know that late that evening my 9yr old would look at me with the biggest grin you have ever seen and say “you know what the best part is mom? We made a HUGE difference today!” Talk about priceless! You can’t do everything. But you can do something! DO SOMETHING! You have no idea what a gift it will be… (Check out my cute boys on the news!)http://apex.mync.com/site/apex/news/story/7308/apex-family-saves-puppies