This is a reprint of an article I wrote on July 27, 2008. The reason I am reprinting it is because I located a wonderful home for my clients and closed on their new home today!
Yesterday was one of my most memorable days in years. I've been selling real estate for over 14 years, but yesterday really reminded me of exactly why I am a Realtor. Taking the watch "On Floor" early Saturday morning, I received a call from a man who explained that he and his family were here in Boca living in a long term hotel. Working for the foreign service, he was just transferred from Thailand and virtually just stepped off the plane only a few days ago and needed to find a home for himself and his young family. He was very honest and stated that he wasn't exactly sure where he wanted to live, but was considering Boca Raton. Obviously that's not the perfect situation a realtor wants to hear, but I listened intently and took meticulous notes as we all do. I quickly performed an intense search utilizing his criteria, recognizing that his needs were very specific. I scrambled trying to set up at least 8 appointments, in order for my clients to get the flavor of several different areas within Boca. As it was 1:30 in the afternoon, I soon discovered that I simply couldn't reach anyone to arrange an appointment so late in the day. Either everyone was out showing homes or playing hookey in the gorgeous Florida sun. Either way, I didn't want to disappoint my new clients.
I arranged to meet them at their hotel which was on the other side of town in a commercial area thinking that it would be much easier for them since they didn't know the area. With two young children in tow, a lovely young mother and an anxious husband, we all piled into their car. I explained that although I couldn't confirm any appointments due to the lateness of the day, I was about to perform something that I had never had done in my entire career. I was about to become a tour guide.
Prior to our meeting I had arranged to gain access to the finest communities within Boca so that I could explain the benefits of each different area. We talked and drove for over 2 1/2 hours. By the time we finished, my new friends were so grateful and surprisingly I was so proud of myself. Together we had explored numerous communities, drove past several properties I had wanted to gain access to and shared everything I knew about the benefits of living in Boca Raton.
What an amazing day. Sharing my knowledge and expertise just reinforced why I became a Realtor. Selling real estate is about your heart and your genuine interest in other people. That's a great feeling, one in which I hope to hold onto for a very long time. As it turned out, my new friends will be spending Monday with me and I can't wait to find them the perfect new home. Perhaps I'm being selfish, but it will be wonderful having new friends in my community.
Frequently people ask, "When will we hit bottom? Are we there or do we have a way to go?" Timing is everything. I can tell you with certainty, there is no doubt that things are on the move here in Boca Raton, Florida. We've shifted somewhat, but statistics don't lie and we're selling like crazy. Clearly what that tells us is that we're on the way up. Right now it is impossible to predict if this is the bottom but I can tell you from what I see in Boca Raton and the surrounding areas, that not only are savvy buyers taking advantage of an outstanding market, they are working with realtors who can negotiate the very best possible price for them. What that clearly tells us is that those buyers savvy enough to make their move now are way ahead of the curve. Understanding the market is essential and the ability to skillfully negotiate the best possible price and terms allows your buyers to win.
Unlike many northern areas of the country that are currently in the middle of their "season", Florida's "season" doesn't begin until the fall and early winter. Logically you would think we were slow. But statistics don't lie and we're NOT. Currently now is the very best possible opportunity to purchase that home you've been waiting for. While people are on vacation, others are taking advantage and can see the greater picture. Those people waiting to read the headlines that we've hit bottom, are making a strategic error and will be left behind. With inventory plentiful, buyers have a distinct advantage and anyone considering purchasing a home within the next 6 months, can pick and choose and negotiate a dream deal before the tide turns. That's your answer.
Did I hear you say that you forgot to do something today? Not any more. With Jott.com, a FREE service that reminds you of all the things you have to do every day, life has become so easy. You're just going to love this. Here's the concept. Your phone will now be transformed into your own personal assistant. How? First go to Jott.com and register. It will only take a few seconds and the prompts will register your phone number. Once you are registered, call Jott and leave yourself "instructions" as to how you want to be reminded of important facts, appointments or anything else you can think of. Jott recognizes you from your phone number via caller ID. Then all you need to do is leave yourself a message. That's it. Jott then converts your voice message into emails, text messages, reminders, lists and even appointments. It will call you at a prescribed time sending you a text message, reminding you based on the instructions you leave for yourself. In addition, it will also send you an Email. I don't know about you, but I can definitely use a reminder from time to time. Although I'm very organized, this has become an invaluable tool that has helped me stay clear as to what I want to do the next day....or even a month away. So often there are times when I just can't write down what's on my mind. All I need to do is pick up the phone, call Jott and leave myself a message. Then I receive both a text message and an Email alerting me that I need to perform a task. I now have a virtual assistant reminding me of everything I need to do. Whether it reminders me that I have a listing appointment at 5:00 or need to pick up bread and milk from the supermarket, I am now on top of everything....never missing a beat.
Jott can also be used on an iPhone . It transforms your IPhone into he ultimate mobile notepad by turning your voice into notes. All you need to do is tap the record screen and leave yourself a note with your voice. Then Jott turns that note into text and adds it to your Jott notepad. It can even be added to your lists. No need to use a paper list and cross off each item. All you need to do is run your finger across the Jott list. It's so convenient, no matter where you go, you can easily add anything to your notepad.
Jott also works in conjunction with your Blackberry. You'll be so surprised how simple it is to use Jott with your Blackberry. It will allow you to reply to emails on your BlackBerry just by using your VOICE! It's unbelievable. All you need to do is speak into your Blackberry (wearing your headset). It is integrated into the email application you already have in place but believe it or not, it is 3x faster. For further information, go to Jott.com.
I hope that this was helpful. Have fun! Best to all, Jill Golden and Laura Richter - Boca Real Estate Group at Lang Realty in Boca Raton, Florida.
Yesterday was one of my most memorable days in years. I've been selling real estate for over 14 years, but yesterday really reminded me of exactly why I am a Realtor. Taking the watch "On Floor" early Saturday morning, I received a call from a man who explained that he and his family were here in Boca living in a long term hotel. Working for the foreign service, he was just transferred from Thailand and virtually just stepped off the plane only a few days ago and needed to find a home for himself and his young family. He was very honest and stated that he wasn't exactly sure where he wanted to live, but was considering Boca Raton. Obviously that's not the perfect situation a realtor wants to hear, but I listened intently and took meticulous notes as we all do. I quickly performed an intense search utilizing his criteria, recognizing that his needs were very specific. I scrambled trying to set up at least 8 appointments, in order for my clients to get the flavor of several different areas within Boca. As it was 1:30 in the afternoon, I soon discovered that I simply couldn't reach anyone to arrange an appointment so late in the day. Either everyone was out showing homes or playing hookey in the gorgeous Florida sun. Either way, I didn't want to disappoint my new clients.
I arranged to meet them at their hotel which was on the other side of town in a commercial area thinking that it would be much easier for them since they didn't know the area. With two young children in tow, a lovely young mother and an anxious husband, we all piled into their car. I explained that although I couldn't confirm any appointments due to the lateness of the day, I was about to perform something that I had never had done in my entire career. I was about to become a tour guide.
Prior to our meeting I had arranged to gain access to the finest communities within Boca so that I could explain the benefits of each different area. We talked and drove for over 2 1/2 hours. By the time we finished, my new friends were so grateful and surprisingly I was so proud of myself. Together we had explored numerous communities, drove past several properties I had wanted to gain access to and shared everything I knew about the benefits of living in Boca Raton.
What an amazing day. Sharing my knowledge and expertise just reinforced why I became a Realtor. Selling real estate is about your heart and your genuine interest in other people. That's a great feeling, one in which I hope to hold onto for a very long time. As it turned out, my new friends will be spending Monday with me and I can't wait to find them the perfect new home. Perhaps I'm being selfish, but it will be wonderful having new friends in my community.
Did I hear you say that you forgot to do something today? Not any more. With Jott.com, a FREE service that reminds you of all the things you have to do every day, life has become so easy. You're just going to love this. Here's the concept. Your phone will now be transformed into your own personal assistant. How? First go to Jott.com and register. It will only take a few seconds and the prompts will register your phone number. Once you are registered, call Jott and leave yourself "instructions" as to how you want to be reminded of important facts, appointments or anything else you can think of. Jott recognizes you from your phone number via caller ID. Then all you need to do is leave yourself a message. That's it. Jott then converts your voice message into emails, text messages, reminders, lists and even appointments. It will call you at a prescribed time sending you a text message, reminding you based on the instructions you leave for yourself. In addition, it will also send you an Email. I don't know about you, but I can definitely use a reminder from time to time. Although I'm very organized, this has become an invaluable tool that has helped me stay clear as to what I want to do the next day....or even a month away. So often there are times when I just can't write down what's on my mind. All I need to do is pick up the phone, call Jott and leave myself a message. Then I receive both a text message and an Email alerting me that I need to perform a task. I now have a virtual assistant reminding me of everything I need to do. Whether it reminders me that I have a listing appointment at 5:00 or need to pick up bread and milk from the supermarket, I am now on top of everything....never missing a beat.
Jott can also be used on an iPhone . It transforms your IPhone into he ultimate mobile notepad by turning your voice into notes. All you need to do is tap the record screen and leave yourself a note with your voice. Then Jott turns that note into text and adds it to your Jott notepad. It can even be added to your lists. No need to use a paper list and cross off each item. All you need to do is run your finger across the Jott list. It's so convenient, no matter where you go, you can easily add anything to your notepad.
Jott also works in conjunction with your Blackberry. You'll be so surprised how simple it is to use Jott with your Blackberry. It will allow you to reply to emails on your BlackBerry just by using your VOICE! It's unbelievable. All you need to do is speak into your Blackberry (wearing your headset). It is integrated into the email application you already have in place but believe it or not, it is 3x faster. For further information, go to Jott.com.
I hope that this was helpful. Have fun! Best to all, Jill Golden and Laura Richter - Boca Real Estate Group at Lang Realty in Boca Raton, Florida.
Are you guilty of being selfish while you expect others to be generous? Sharing knowledge with others has a silver lining that is almost invisible, unless you share. You simply aren't aware of all the benefits you'll receive until it hits you over the head and suddenly you realize that sharing actually benefits you too. OMG Somewhere in the back of my mind...was it "Playground 101," I remember mommy saying...Jill, share your toys, but the lesson actually didn't make a lasting impression until I began working and started to mentor.
Most people don't know that I mentor. I like it that way. Certainly it isn't something you brag about or advertise. It's kind of private and certainly doesn't come up in conversation. But boy does it make you feel great. We all started out in the same place not knowing nearly as much as the years of experience have taught us. By this time each and every one of us has to be an "expert" at something. Think about it. We all claim to "know it all".
Opening yourself up to others, allows us an opportunity to share important information that not only benefits other Realtors, it can and will empower you. With so many changes in technology, each and every one of us can certainly benefit from your knowledge. If your area of expertise has to do with recent tax reform or advertising, that's important too. Think about what you can bring to the table and please don't come empty handed next time I see you.
Jill Golden and Laura Richter - Lang Realty - Boca Real Estate Group
There is no doubt that a short sale is considered a better alternative than foreclosure - it's not quite as tough on one's credit rating. As a result, short sale transactions are becoming more and more prevalent. Investors who want to purchase a home at a dramatic discount are jumping in head first, but the entire short sale process can be tricky and working with a professional real estate agent who is experienced in short sales is an absolute must. Understanding how to successfully complete this type of transaction isn't something the uninitiated can easily bring to fruition. It's difficult and involves a great deal of patience, skill and knowledge. I cannot stress how important it is to work with a Realtor who has completed a short sale. Without prior experience, you may just be wasting your client's time. As a result, whether you are a buyer or a seller, here are some things to consider.
One must prove financial distress If you're a homeowner considering listing your home as a short sale, you must prove "financial distress" -- that you are not able to make your mortgage payments or pay off the difference between the current value of your home and your mortgage amount.
Time IS NOT of the essence!Unfortunately although the clock is ticking and the foreclosure process may be looming closer and closer, the approval time for a short sale is typically very slow in coming. It could take as little as 45 days or as long as 6 months. So, if this is something you are considering, begin the process early!
The process may not always be fair Many lenders wait a minimum of 45 days to see how many offers come in and then work with the highest bidder, rather than negotiating each offer as it is received. This creates a very uneven playing field for a buyer.
Buyer beware There are many things you should know when considering a short sale for purchase. Has the property been approved for short sale? Is there a second mortgage on the property with a different lender? Are there offers already on the table? Has a foreclosure date been established? And if you make an offer on one, don't start spending money on appraisals, inspections, etc. until you have been advised in writing from the lender that your offer has been received. Many lenders wait a minimum of 45 days to see how many offers come in and then work with the highest bidder, rather than negotiating each offer as it is received. This creates a very uneven playing field for a buyer.
Remember, there are people who really really care. Together you and an experienced Realtor can find solutions that can resolve these issues.....just ask.
Boca Real Estate Group - Jill F. Golden, PA and Laura Richter, P.A.
I had to make a decision. With no appointments in sight today, I decided to take my precious dog (a rescue poodle) out for some long overdue exercise. It was either the dog park or serious retail therapy. I opted for the outdoors and fluffed up my girl and we pranced out the door. Boca Raton and Delray Beach have so many places to stroll, walking along the beach. But usually I don't have that much free time and decided to enjoy the day. Both locals and tourists can be found window shopping, sipping cocktails or burning to a crisp. I'm still a New Yorker even though I relocated 6 years ago but continue to wear what I like to call.....New York Black. It's hot, but it's perfect for any occasion. At the last minute I put on my Realtor badge and made my way to the boulevard.
I have to admit my dog is absolutely adorable and apparently a great many people think so. As we began to walk through the crowd, people came up to me and began admiring my dog. Soon the conversation turned to, "Where are you from?" I casually mentioned that I'm a Realtor in the area and the minute I began talking about real estate, my new friends were eager to talk to me. This could really work out.
But now I'm so ashamed. It's now gotten to the point that I'm using my dog. Obviously real estate has gone to the dogs. Have fun. Jill
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