JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen; Lake County Florida Real Estate & Lifestlye

Excuse Me -- that is unethical (or is it?)

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 21:38:59 -0500

Short sale specialists, please chime in and tell me I am seeing this in the wrong light!

A little background; I have buyers who have been seriously looking for about three weeks. Along the way they told me about a home that they had inquired about before they worked with me. That seller was negotiating an offer at the time so they never pursued it.

I looked up the home and found it was under contract but since it was a short sale I kept it on a "hot list search." The contract fell through and the home went back on the market at the same list price of $179,000.

I contacted the agent and he told me the contract had indeed fallen apart and the home was available but the price was going to increase as there had been an appraisal and the bank wanted $210,000. (They might accept $205,000.)

This price put it out of my client's price range but I left the home on the hot list in order to follow any changes. The list price was changed to $210,000 the day of my initial contact with the agent. Today the home is once again listed at $179,000.

I called the agent and after introducing myself I told him I was a little confused. He knew exactly what I was calling about.

He explained to me that the bank still wanted $210,000 and would probably expect $205,000. (The bank wants to clear $178,000.) The second lien holder has agreed to take $1,000. He had taken four offers on the home all between $200,000 and $210,000 but for some reason or other the negotiations had fallen through.

Now here is where we enter the unethical, bait and switch part of this lengthy tale.

He knows the bank wants $210,000. (They might take $205,000.) He changed the price on the listing to reflect that but then he got to thinking.

When he had the home listed for $179,000 he had many phone calls, lots of showings and from those he got offers. So he decided he should list the home for $179,000 and generate the interest.

When an agent called he would tell them go ahead and show the home; by the way, the bank truly wants $210,000.

If a buyer calls him directly and is interested in putting in an offer he would let them know the bank really wants $210,000.

He does not see an issue with this practice.

I checked our MLS rules and regulations. There is nothing in the rules that specifically says he cannot do this. I checked the Florida Association of Realtors website Legal Center and cannot locate anything that specifically addresses this.

I think this type of behavior is unprofessional, unethical and should not be allowed.

What do you think? What would you do?

Interested in buying or selling a home in northeast Lake County Florida, including Eustis, Mount Dora, Howey-in-the-Hills, Tavares and Sorrento contact JoEllen E. Stranger-Thorsen, REALTOR® for all your real estate needs. Visit my website.

What do you mean the contract fell through and we are asking for $30,000 more?

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:50:03 -0500

My clients and I were out touring homes when we passed a house in a new home community. They said they had inquired about it early on in their search before they contacted me. They loved the model and wish they could have made an offer. It was a short sale and listed well below our top price at $179,000.

They told me they had called the agent who told them he had an offer in on the house and could only submit one offer at a time to his client because the wife was very sick.

That reasoning struck me as a little odd, but it could have been his seller's wishes.

I pulled the information up on the home and found it was under contract so all must have gone well with that offer.

Imagine my delight when I pulled up the hot sheet a few days later and this home was back on the market; still listed at $179,000. I immediately called the agent eager to get my clients in for a showing but wanting more information on the home and what step they were in the short sale process.

I was asking the agent about the layout of the home as the square footage reported was more than the square footage provided by the builder when he told me, "By the way, the price is $210,000 now. I haven't changed it in the system yet."

Being the curious person I am I asked, "Why would it take such an incredible jump in price?"

"The bank had an appraisal done and that is the price they came up with. They might accept $205,000."

I have a couple problems with the information he just gave me.

This same home can be purchased through the builder for $211,000 with a stainless steel appliance package, closing costs paid and down payment assistance. (And I don't have to deal with a third party for contract approval.)
There was either little or no conversation with the bank prior to putting the home at the previous list price so how will this transaction proceed? (Sounds like a bumpy road to me.)
He didn't sound convinced the bank would negotiate even at the new much higher price.

I called my clients with the information. They decided not to view the home. They are disappointed but glad they found out about the bank's position before they pursued it any further.

Do you really know what your sellers are doing?

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 13:19:10 -0500

I am not fond of touring a home when a Seller is present. I think it is a pretty awkward situation all around. However sometimes there isn't an option and I accept that.

This was the case the other day. I was touring homes with my clients and we came to a house where the sellers were home. Now the seller wasn't supposed to be there; but they were.

I wonder if they are home every time the house is shown; if so, it might explain why the home hasn't sold. I am quite sure the listing agent is completely unaware of the problem. (Note to self, I need to call that agent and let her know.)

My clients and I now know the bathing habits of both the husband and wife. We also know the skylight in the master bath makes lights unnecessary in late night trips to the bathroom. We know the role played by the pullout sofa during renovations. We know a lot more, but you get the idea.

There is no way my clients could see themselves in that house. The images the Seller gave them are burned into their retinas.

Why I have decided not to preview properties for my clients

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 22:18:28 -0500

I have always been an advocate of previewing properties prior to having my clients tour them. However I believe I am going to stop this practice. (And it has nothing to do with gas prices!)

Let me explain why...

Three times over the past year I have worked with buyers who were very specific in their wish lists for their new home. I had extensive conversations with them regarding the style, location, size and price of their dream home.

Each time I took them to tour homes I had narrowed the lists down very efficiently by previewing homes. Although each tour produced homes that fit their lists there was no "it" home.

Then somewhere along the way we would come across a home they wanted to see but did not meet the criteria they had set forth.

Naturally I would set up an appointment to preview the home. While I previewed the home I would find several things that would not work for the buyer according to our conversations. Normally I would cross the property off the list at this point. However the buyers had requested to see this particular home so I would set up a showing for them.

Three times my buyers put an offer in on the home that was:

Built before 2004 with frame not block construction
Not a condo with a view of the lake, but a single family home within walking distance to the lake
Not an open floor plan with either a fourth bedroom or den

I truly believe every buyer has one dream and for that dream there is one home. The buyer will know that dream home when they see it. Sometimes a dream home cannot be described, it has to be felt.

For all our four-legged children

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 23:09:37 -0500

Today I want to share someone who doesn't always get the recognition he deserves. Here is to Dr. Beau (Delaporte) our family veterinarian.

When I moved to Eustis about ten years ago I had three cats;

Abigail

Paisley

and Lost Kitty.

I had never found a vet I was completely comfortable with in Orlando so I was definitely in the market for a vet I could trust. (Abigail was 19, Paisley was 9 and Lost Kitty was of unknown age but she had been with me for 4 years.)

My first encounter with a Lake County vet was not good. I came home from work one day and Abigail was obviously ill. I took her to the only vet I could find open that night. That vet was not forthcoming and honest with a prognosis. I left his office that night with a very sick baby and no answers. I ended up waiting until the following morning to call my former vet in Lakeland to discuss the prognosis with him. As always he gave me sound advice and comforting words. Unfortunately Abigail died two days later.

I was determined to find a quality veterinarian immediately. I drove around and looked at offices and the people and animals coming and going. I decided to set up an appointment at Mount Dora Veterinary Clinic for the rest of the family.

I immediately knew I made the right choice when I met Dr. Beau. He had a great "bed-side manner." The last time Lost Kitty had been to the vet it had taken 45 minutes, 3 techs and those huge leather gloves to capture and give her shots. (I had been told by that vet I would need to sedate her prior to ever bringing her back.) With Dr. Beau she was an angel, not as much as a glare.

I like Dr. Beau so much that when my daughter was born and I didn't like the pediatrician I had initially selected I asked who he used for a pediatrician. My logic was Dr. Beau takes really good care of my four legged children and I am pretty sure he would demand just as much if not more for his own child. I was right, the pediatrician he recommended is top-notch but that is for another post.

Dr. Beau has seen my family through the unexpected death of Paisley, Lost Kitty's battle and death of tongue cancer and the new additions to our family of

Bart

Nicholas

Sidney

And last but not least, Rommel

Most recently he has helped our family adjust to Rommel losing his sight and the subsequent diagnosis of SARDs (Sudden Acquired Retinal Degeneration.)

Here's to you Dr. Beau and the entire staff of Mount Dora Veterinary Clinic. Thank you for caring for our family.

Active Rain, Outside Blogs and Content

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 13:13:47 -0500

Am I here for the consumer or other professionals?

I joined Active Rain a few months ago. And it wasn't long (about one week) before I realized that creating a blog was going to be in my best interest.

I started my blog here on Active Rain with the consumer in mind but as I posted I began to feel I wasn't getting it. I was reading posts about SEO, market opinions and photography yet I was contributing posts about Eustis, listings, and Faith Lutheran's golf tournament. These posts, albeit important to the consumer, were contributing nothing to the real estate professionals within the AR community.

And before anybody jumps all over me and says it is all related I agree that information on our areas, listings and local events are essential. (And I even enjoy the occasional recipe, joke or movie recommendation.) What I am trying to convey is that, for me, I felt I needed to contribute more on a professional level.

Maybe I feel this way because the agents in my area don't eagerly share ideas and tips and I want to reciprocate to other Rainers with my own ideas as a matter of courtesy. Or it could be because I have found a community where I can speak my opinion or offer up an idea and receive genuine feedback. Either way I felt it was important to take it a step further.

I decided to start an outside blog. (I actually ended up with two as one is provided with my personal website but somewhere on Active Rain I read that template website blogs would not be picked up by the search engines so I have another blog) Those two blogs are entirely consumer driven. They are in the infancy stages and will require a lot of attention as I find my "voice."

As I decide what to post on my Active Rain blog, I find myself being drawn to not only blog about my area but also about my views and opinions on real estate and life in general. In my opinion this represents who I am and what I am about. As essential as it is to write consumer driven posts I am a member of Active Rain to further my knowledge on the intricacies of the real estate business, the intangibles that cannot be gained in any other way.

Now that I have three blogs and a lot of work ahead of me (more if I keep reading posts about all the cool tools I need) I am curious about you. Do you have an outside blog? Who are your blogs here and elsewhere directed to?

Are you taking a Staycation?

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 22:23:12 -0500

Gas prices are hovering around $4.00/ gallon (diesel is $4.75/ gallon on a good day,) airlines are charging for checked bags and talking of fare increases and surcharges, and restaurants are raising prices because their suppliers are raising prices. The family budget is feeling pinched and you might not be able to eke out the traditional road trip vacation.

Personally I am faced with the children being out of school and I am trying to come up with fun things to do on the cheap for 2 ½ months. I have already checked out The Eustis Memorial Library summer reading program and put it on the schedule. We will travel to exotic locales through the pages of books. We will be limited only by our imaginations. We will also go to the park, take some nature walks and go to the Eustis Pool.

We have several options for weekend getaways all within a couple hours of home. These mini-vacations are fabulous and affordable. I usually find these getaways more relaxing than the week-long road trips. There is less planning, less packing and less preparation.

We are 45 minutes northwest of Walt Disney World, Universal, and SeaWorld.

Fabulous beach locals such as Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach and Cocoa Beach are as close as one hour.

Historic St. Augustine can be reached in just under two hours.

This summer -- as you are feeling the budget crunch, yet yearn to get away-- select a destination close to home and explore your own backyard.

Hi my name is JoEllen and I stalk houses

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 23:02:29 -0500

My accountant gently reprimanded me on my mileage log from 2007. It seems I have to keep a more meticulous log this year. (The sticky notes just weren't working for him.) I not so jokingly told him I should be able to write off every mile I had on my car since I stalk houses for a living.

Although I have specific appointments and the like where I have an accurate tracking of my mileage there are many miles I leave untracked. These are the miles I put in after I drop the kids off at school or as I drive a circuitous route to the store. I meander through the neighborhoods of Eustis and Mount Dora to look at houses.

My kids don't know how to get to the grocery store without first touring a neighborhood. My daughter, age 7, helps me out by taking notes and writing down phone numbers. She proudly tells people Mommy was looking at houses -- again!

As I drive I note new houses on the market, For Sale By Owner homes, and homes undergoing renovations.

I can tell you every change the one house on Lakeview Avenue has gone through since I spotted it four years ago. (Today it was proudly displaying a new American flag.) This is one of the houses I stalk. This house is not on the market and has not been on the market since I first discovered it. I have never seen anybody or any vehicles at the house. The house sits on a double lot and is covered in ivy. The landscaping looks purposefully unkempt.

I want to own this house. I have never seen the inside of the house, not even pictures, as it has not been in our MLS. But I know if given the opportunity, I would buy this house.

I sometimes see myself as Kathleen Turner in The War of the Roses leaving a note for the homeowner...

"Dear Homeowner,

I love your house. If you ever consider selling

please contact me..."

She had her children with her when she wrote that note to the homeowner. (She obviously had done this many times before.) Her children whined and told her it would never work, that it never worked. She bet them five bucks she would get the house, she loved the house. She went to put the note on the door and was welcomed into the owner's wake.

She got the house.

Don't tell me they are going to say "NO"

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 22:31:30 -0500

I had the pleasure today of writing an offer on a home. I had spoken to the other agent several times in anticipation of submitting the offer. In all our conversations he had given me the impression the seller was agreeable to negotiation and in fact had encouraged me to make an offer when I told him my clients might be putting off their purchase for several months.

I submitted what I considered to be a fair and reasonable offer. The other agent called with a counter offer from the seller. I spoke with my client and we countered back. The other agent tried to suppress his opinion but I could tell he wasn't pleased the counter wasn't taken. He called back and the seller had countered with the exact counter offered the first time.

The other agent tries to "sell" me this counter offer. He makes it known that the seller is doing more than he ever would have considered them doing, on and on. I pleasantly told him I would discuss the offer with my client but there were several factors affecting their offer.

I called my client and relayed the "new" counter offer. We discussed the options and decided to counter back once again with a slightly higher offer.

I called the agent and gave him our new counter offer. He wasn't as good at hiding his opinion this time. He stated out right his seller would say "No" and probably not even make another counter offer.

Now I ask you, what kind of attitude is that?

In my opinion it is the wrong attitude. A negative thought will kill any hopes of success.

Who do you write your MLS descriptions for?

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 22:15:54 -0500

When I worked for a Realtor® as a listing manager about fifteen years ago things were a little different. Home searches were not done on the internet. As a matter of fact it was at the end of my tenure there when the national franchise developed a web search for properties. It was not met with open arms; agents grudgingly submitted their listings, usually at the prompting of their client.

One aspect of my job entailed writing all the ad copy for each listing. The Realtor I worked for would write the MLS descriptions but I was responsible for the flyers and all other ad copy. I would go with this agent on all her listing appointments to do the grunt work of taking pictures and measurements while she marketed herself and her services to the seller.

This was a great learning experience for me. I was able to get a feel for the home and therefore was able to make ads more descriptive and geared to the consumer. My job was to draw the consumer in and have them visualize the home. The goal of my ads was to get the buyer to call.

The Realtor would write the MLS description because she was marketing to other agents. Her job was to describe the details to another agent so that agent would show the property. If I'm not mistaken this was a time when there was only one photo in MLS also.

Today things are very different. Homes are extensively advertised on the internet as this is where many buyers begin their search. Gone are the days when the MLS was used exclusively by agents for agents. The question is have we changed with the times?

When you write your MLS descriptions do you have the consumer or other agents in mind? I ask this because I peruse the MLS extensively, as I am sure most of you do also. Lately it seems I have been reading the descriptions and wondering why the agent bothered. The description section, if it even contains a description is so dry and unappealing. It talks of bringing clients and making offers, selling bonuses and seller incentives with no vivid description of the homes assets and amenities.

I think of how these homes are syndicated to various sites and how the consumers must greet these tidbits of non-information.

My husband recently had a desire to move out of state. I researched the location he wanted to consider and began a home search. From the consumer's point of view I was disappointed. My first issue was with the site's search results, it kept feeding me homes that didn't fit the specific criteria I imputed. Then when I was able to weed through the offerings I found a picture, if I was lucky more than one, and a vague description of the house. There was no life, no essence of home.

Now if I had been a serious buyer (this move is two years off, if ever) I would have contacted one, maybe two of the agents to get more information on a house. This was out of an estimated 150 homes I looked at on the internet. The agents I would have contacted had more than one picture of the home, had pictures of the neighborhood or outside property, and the descriptions were vivid and conveyed a true essence of the home and the lifestyle. In other words the marketing was geared to capture the consumer.

Admittedly, sometimes my descriptions lack the oomph that I, as a consumer, desire. However I strive to speak to the consumer when I write my MLS descriptions. I know other agents will be printing out the consumer description for their clients as a guide while touring homes. Depending on the agent the consumer might not receive the photo page so the description has to paint a picture of the house as a whole.

Every seller wants their home marketed on the internet and in order to meet that obligation I believe we need to have our MLS descriptions speak to the consumer.

Kyle Thrush Benefit Basketball Challenge

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 18:53:17 -0500

Kyle Thrush, a former Faith Lutheran School student, is a Mount Plymouth youth who suffered serious head injuries in a dirt bike accident in April. He was given a 4% chance to live. Through his own determination, the power of prayer and skilled specialists he has beaten those odds. Kyle is currently in a rehabilitation center in Jacksonville, FL. He is on track to return home before the end of summer.

Friends of the Thrush family have coordinated several benefits to help offset the family's medical expenses and other related expenses.

This weekend Florida Hospital Waterman is sponsoring a charity basketball game for Kyle. Faith Lutheran School (coached by Michael Repass) and WESH-TV 2 (coached by Greg Fox) will team up on Saturday, June 7, 2008 at Faith Lutheran Christian Life Center, 2715 South Grove Street, Eustis, FL.

The basketball warm up begins at 6:30 PM and game time is 7:00. Tickets are available at the door and seating is limited.

A silent auction including sports memorabilia and a bake sale will begin at 5:30 PM.

All contributions are appreciated and will be directed to the Thrush family to help with the financial burden.

Direct donations may be made at any of the five branches of The First National Bank of Mount Dora or mailed to: FNB, P.O.Box 995, Sorrento, FL 32776. Please note "Kyle Fund" on the check's memo line.

Arthur -- 1st named storm of 2008, Are you ready?

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 16:56:45 -0500

Hurricane season is here and we have already had our first named storm. It is time to check your supplies and make your emergency plan.

Lake County Florida has been fortunate since the 2004 hurricane season when we were pummeled every three weeks by the likes of Charley, Frances, Ivan, and Jeanne.

This year the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is calling for 12 to 16 named storms and 2 to 5 of those being major. Will we experience another season like 2004 or will we have the worry-free season like 2007? We don't know. The key is to be prepared for a 2004 and breathe a sigh of relief when we get 2007.

So what supplies should you have in your emergency kit?

• One (1) gallon of water per person per day (Don't forget additional water for pets.)

• 3-day supply of non-perishable food - ready to eat canned meat, fruit and vegetables-canned juices, high-energy foods, vitamins, baby food - comfort and stress foods

• Can opener

• NOAA weather radio - extra batteries

• First Aid Kit - including bandages, gauze, cold pack small scissors, tweezers, antibiotic ointment, tape, antiseptic wipes, hand wipes, hand sanitizer, pain reliever

• Paper goods - plates, napkins, cups and plastic forks, spoons and knives

• Battery operated radio - extra batteries

• Flashlights - extra batteries

• Fire extinguisher

• Tools - pliers, shut-off wrench

• Large tarps

• Garbage bags

• Rope

• Cash - remember, if the power is out ATMs will not be operational

You should have a full emergency kit at your home. You may choose to have a smaller version of this kit in your vehicle.

If you decide to purchase a generator please learn how to safely operate it prior to an emergency. The same goes for chainsaws and all power tools.

Once your area has been placed under a hurricane watch (which means there is a threat of hurricane conditions within 24 to 36 hours):

• Make sure your emergency kit is properly stocked

• Gas up your vehicle

• Bring in or secure outdoor objects such as patio furniture, toys and garden tools

• Clear your yard of debris

• Install storm protection devices such as hurricane shutters.

• Gather important documents and either put them with your emergency kit or place them in your car.

Remember in the event of a hurricane you may be several days without power and roadways may be unsafe to travel. Take personal responsibility for your well-being and prepare accordingly.

Holy H E Double Hockey Sticks: I've been MeMe'd!

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 15:38:02 -0500

I'm going to forgive Teresa Berry for not realizing that this is recital week, the last week of school and the week of other endless deadlines.

Despite these entire goings ons I have been MeMe'd. I can't tell you my first thoughts when I received the tag.

Suffice it to say they weren't entirely pure.

So here goes. I apologize at the outset for the nothing fancy bare bones post but if you go back to the first paragraph you will understand.

Who is my favorite musical artist? It's always nice to start out with an easy one... I'm musically illiterate. I like to listen to music but 90% of the time I could not tell you the title of the song or the artist. That being said, I grew up in the 80's, nuff said! I am a big hair band 80's music loving type of girl. There is a radio station here that plays 80's music on Friday nights. I love to crank it up Real Loud! I'm also a fan of Jimmy Buffet, The Eagles, Van Morrison and believe it or not The Violent Femmes. I listen to classical in the morning (mainly because it follows NPR news.)

Who is my favorite artist? I am most attracted to French Impressionist art. Maybe it's because I studied French for so many years in high school and college and I was exposed to it on a regular basis. If I had to choose a clear favorite I would say Toulouse Lautrec simply because his work is bold, vibrant and alive. (As a side note my favorite piece in the National Gallery of Art is Watson and the Shark by John Singleton Copley.)

If you could meet anyone (dead or alive) who would it be and what is the most interesting thing about them? Wow, there are so many choices running through my mind. I think I would most like to meet and talk to John Douglas. He has written several books on the FBI's serial crime unit with Mark Olshaker. Actually I would like to sit down with both of them. I would love to pick their brains on the latest theories for behavioral analysis. When I was in college I used to deter conversation while I was working out by taking my latest "serial killer" book to read while doing the treadmill or stair stepper. (This was not leisure reading I was a criminal justice major and then a forensic science major.)

Who has been the person in my life that has had the greatest impact on me? Without a doubt this was the easiest question for me. Elizabeth Frye, my oldest and dearest friend who died last year. I knew Mrs. Frye from the day I was born. She and her husband were members of the same church as my family when I was growing up. She took a special interest in all the children of that community. She used to come to my mom's quilting group (and she couldn't sew at all.) She would come back to my room; I was about five, and talk with me. (And she actually talked to me and listened.) She was a historian, a teacher, and so much more. She and her husband supported the community Little League and they treated every child as if he was their own. After I moved away I would go back and visit her. She was always involved in several committees and groups and I remember hoping I would have her level of commitment to every endeavor. When I visited she still listened. She would ask me my thoughts, my dreams, my opinions. (I am the youngest of four, nobody ever wanted my opinion!) She guided and inspired just by living her life to its fullest.

What did I want to be when I grew up? Shouldn't this be what do I want to be when I grow up? I remember wanting to become a veterinarian and I think I went through a nursing phase. I don't think I ever had one set thing I wanted to be. (I still struggle with this question some days there are so many things that interest me.)

If I could do anything what would I do? I would probably go sail the Greek Islands. That has always been my absolute dream vacation. So if I could do anything that is what I would do first. After I got that out of my system I would buy a huge historic home on about ten acres and open up a children's shelter.

What is the most interesting piece of trivia I know? If you have sensitive stomachs skip this answer and go to my favorite game. A female praying mantis eats her husband. (That wasn't it, I just wanted to warn you one more time before I answered this...)

I'm done warning you the next fact is gross, but you asked...When a body is badly decomposed, in order to take the finger prints you have to remove the skin "glove" and put it over your own gloved hand. (You'll find out how I know that later.)

What is my favorite game? This one is so easy. Scrabble® is my absolute favorite game. I was raised on the game.

Tell me I am not the only one who actually has pictures of winning boards.

If I could live in any point in history what would it be and why? I think I would most want to live in the late 18^th century or early 19^th century. Although I enjoy our creature comforts and modern conveniences I think it would be nice to not be bothered. I would love it if guests had to be announced and received as opposed to barging in on a whim. I am fascinated by and love the art of handwritten correspondence. I would also like to live at the time of the birth of our country; to witness the founding fathers fighting for and creating this great country.

When I look into the mirror, who do I see? I used to see a young, immature girl. Lately I have begun to notice an older version. I first dismissed this woman however I have come to realize that she is a little more wise and confident so I think I will keep her around. (I'm still using eye cream though!)

What is the most interesting job I have ever held? I was a crime scene investigator for the sheriff's office. (And yes I do watch CSI, mainly for the comedy.) I absolutely loved this job. I used to do the trick I revealed in the trivia question along with other equally disgusting tasks. I wasn't able to continue with this career path after the birth of my daughter. (I was on call twice a week and depending on the type of call I could be gone anywhere from 3 to 12 hours, not really workable with a baby.) So I gave up my dream career. I do consider going back on occasion now that the kids are getting older but so far I haven't made the leap.

What is the worst job I have ever had?

Every job is a learning experience.

I learned I never ever want to be the birthday girl at Chuck E. Cheese AGAIN. For those of you without children, Chuck E. Cheese is a place of torture where hundreds of screaming children pile in on a Saturday morning to celebrate their friend's birthday in a noisy arcade setting with large rodent characters. The birthday girl gets to scream into the microphone/ PA, "Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls may I have your attention please. Today we are celebrating (insert child's name and age) Birthday." The speech goes on. The birthday also gets to put on the sweaty rat costume and mingle with the kids. I held this job at the age of sixteen for about one month. One day when I went to work the place was boarded up with a note on the door that it was out of business. I was devastated. So devastated I had to dance all the way to my car. I have never darkened the doorstep of another Chuck E. Cheese.

What is my biggest missed opportunity? I can't really think of a particular opportunity I missed. I know there are some things that I have done or not done that I would change if I could. But I also think that if I did those things differently then I might not be where I am today. I have two absolutely wonderful children that are the light of my world. If I had taken a different path then I might not be blessed with my children and the other gifts of my life.

That took a lot longer to put together than I thought it would. And now I have to bestow this honor on eight more unsuspecting souls. Who might I choose?

In no discernable order: Julie Ferenzi, Klarque Garrison, Nick Ruta, Steve Hoffacker, Lisa Hill, Matthew Gosselin, Brenda Carus, and last but not least Kim Daugherty

Have Fun Guys!

How Cool Is That or...How Active Rain Can Really Work

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Mon, 26 May 2008 21:01:12 -0500

I joined Active Rain for two basic reasons: 1) Networking 2) Learning

I have only been here since March. In the time I have been here I have done more than learn. I have been submerged in information relating to just about every aspect of real estate that exists. And along the way I have made connections to other people in the business. Now I had hoped in the future the connections would be advantageous in some manner but I never imagined in a mere couple of months I would make a comment on a blog and receive a contact message that led to me being able to assist one of my clients.

This is how it all went down. This morning I was reading a blog post by Jeff Belonger. I have read posts by Jeff before and he has always come across as knowledgeable and even more importantly honest and ethical. I made a comment on his blog discussing Interest Only Loans. I am not a mortgage person and I stay out of the financing end business as much as possible (it's best left to the professionals) but I do attempt to understand the different types of loans so I can at least act as a guide.

During the course of the day (while grocery shopping) I had a client call me. He had a question about getting pre-qualified and wanted to know who I recommended. (Mind you this is Memorial Day.) He also had questions about several communities and prices. I told him I would call him back as I had to research one of the communities (and I couldn't think of a loan officer off the top of my head.) Special note; this client needs to be pre-qualified yesterday in order for us to proceed with the time frame we are working with.

When I got home I opened my e-mail and found a contact from Jeff Belonger. Now not only did Jeff reach out to me and let me know he could write loans in Florida (he is in New Jersey) he gave me his website to visit. After checking out Jeff's website, reading a post he referenced and getting a really good vibe I decided to tell my client to call Jeff.

I e-mailed Jeff and let him know I was giving this couple his information. And despite it being Memorial Day, he answered me and gave me that "I'll look out for their best interest" feeling.

Here I am on Memorial Day with two sick kids, a husband who is working and a client who has a question. I signed in to Active Rain and it's still Memorial Day, I still have two sick kids, my husband is still working, but some guy over 1,000 miles away is going to help my client.

How Cool Is That!

My Secret Hobby -- The MLS

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Tue, 20 May 2008 12:08:04 -0500

I love reading through MLS listings. Not only do I get a feel for the area inventory and pricing I get a pretty good laugh out of this practice. Here are some of this week's favorite MLS property descriptions.

•1. $2500 flooring allowance, $5000 landscaping allowance, seller will look at any reasonable offer - motivated. I never would have known this seller was motivated without the agent telling me this. I also have to wonder on a ¼ acre lot where is that $5000 going?

•2. Three bedroom/ really 2 - seller will add closet if buyer desires. I don't know about you but if it isn't a bedroom and the seller can make it a bedroom by simply adding a closet, which they are willing to do, then why not go ahead and add the closet? It certainly would clear up any doubt about whether they are selling a two or three bedroom home.

•3. Priced knowing buyer will have to replace flooring and paint interior. I want to run right out and see this one, it sounds breathtaking.

•4. Decorated with happy colors, neat window treatments. I'm sorry did your six year old write this? What are "happy colors"? Are the window treatments "neat" because they are ironed or did you mean they were "just so cool?"

•5. Could be something really special. This place must really need help as this was the extent of the description. (On the market 182 days and counting.)

•6. Act fast since priced very well. This one has been on the market over 200 days. I think somebody needs to check their price and maybe write something that actually describes the house.

•7. Appealing privacy fencing. The picture shows an 8 foot wooden privacy fence and it is not the board on board style. I rarely find privacy fencing appealing.

And now for my all-time favorite description. This makes me want to run out and preview this property because I absolutely have to see what is meant by...

Ceiling fans positioned for optimal air flow efficiency

I honestly thought there was only one optimal location for the ceiling fan. I guess I need to open my horizons, live and learn.

Have a Beautiful Day!

JoEllen E. Stranger-Thorsen

Florida, Brevard and Volusia County Under Fire

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Mon, 12 May 2008 22:29:08 -0500

Over the past couple days I have been following the news reports on the Brevard and Volusia County Florida Brush Fires. For those who are not aware there are numerous fires threatening the Central Florida Coast communities. Interstate 95 has been shut down, hundreds of homes are threatened and reportedly over 50 homes have burned.

Neighborhoods have been evacuated and most of these people do not know if there house is still standing. As it is deemed safe they will be able to return to their neighborhood and learn the fate of their homes. Information is limited and this has to be most frustrating.

It is reported that several of these fires are an act of arson. An unbelievable and horrendous act.

Firefighters are doing all they can and working around the clock to control and fight the fires. Our emergency systems are being taxed and there is a long battle ahead.

I don't know what relief efforts have been put in place. If you are affected by these fires and know of a need, please put it in the comments section. If you are in an affected area and are okay, I'd like to know that also.

100th Anniversary of Mother's Day

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Sat, 10 May 2008 23:08:54 -0500

I've probably been living under a rock or something. Until today I didn't realize this Mother's Day was the 100th Anniversary of the first Mother's Day. A celebration dedicated to one mom at a small church in West Virginia in 1908 is now recognized globally.

See the Associated Press Article Mother's Day 100th Anniversary

Happy Mother's Day to all you Moms.

And in the spirit of the founder, I wish you all to receive a simple white carnation and a handwritten letter.

For my Mom, Thank you for always being there.

That's so sweet -- You like me, I just don't know why

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Sat, 10 May 2008 19:21:05 -0500

I'm a Newbie, and proud of it. I finally became of member of Active Rain and have been getting absolutely drenched.

I have been happily playing in the Rain, learning about all kinds of new things that I never knew existed. I have been trying out my blog posting skills, which still need some honing but they are coming along. I visit my Home page often. I like to start there because it contains all my activity in one location and I can see where I have been.

And there is a feature I like on this page. The summary at the top of the page tells me how many posts I've made, how many comments and my rankings. I like that, quick easy facts. Then along the left hand column of this page at the bottom is something called Associations.

This line causes me to wonder. I understand what it is. I just am not sure what to make of it.

The first time I gained an association I was a little surprised. I hadn't done anything special and I really wasn't quite sure how to proceed. So I looked at this individual's profile and decided to add her as an associate. When it happened again, I added that guy also.

Then it happened a third time. This time was different. Pam Winterbauer added me as an associate. Now she just didn't add me, she put in a comment about me. "She is a great Lake County agent." Thanks, Pam. I appreciate your kind words.

Suddenly I realized that there was more to this association thing. So I went to the Newbie Group and looked for and found a post from Liz Carter (Associate vs. Associations) that told me all about it. (Did I tell you Active Rain has a lot of great resources?)

After reading up on the subject I went back to my Associates and edited the entry. I did this so maybe they would have some idea as to why I chose to add them.

So far I have six associations. Except for Pam, I have no clue as to why they chose me. I'm glad they did and if I haven't added them as associates already I will be doing so, with comment, soon. I hope you will do the same for your associations.

The Pressure is on... What will I say now?

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Sat, 10 May 2008 16:41:15 -0500

I innocently made a post the other day about a conversation I had with a friend who also happens to be a Realtor. You Can't have It Both Ways

If I had known then that somehow the post would get that elusive gold star status I might have been more prepared.

After that post, before it was featured, I had started to compose two other posts. I don't really plan out what I am going to say in great depth, it sounds unnatural to me when I do. So I am working these out and BAM! I signed in to draft the posts and I see ME on the featured page.

Excuse me, how do I follow up on something like that?

Somewhere, someone decided my post was feature worthy, a high accolade in this community of professionals who have been at this way longer than little old me. And suddenly the two posts I have working in my mind seem flat, certainly not worthy of following this honor.

I appreciate being recognized, truly flattered and definitely taken aback. I'm a newbie and this is certainly the last thing I ever expected. It is also totally COOL!

I now know why so many who post chase the brass ring. It's a real ego boost and, more importantly, when you are featured people comment. When people comment you go to their profile and then to their blog to reciprocate. I might never have had the opportunity to "meet" these other Rainers. If I hadn't been featured I wouldn't have read such a variety of other blogs.

It has been great fun and I want to thank whoever spotted my post and decided it was worthy, because without you I wouldn't have had this great experience.

(Now, back to work. I have to give those other posts some street cred!)

You can't have it both ways

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Fri, 09 May 2008 14:36:22 -0500

I almost threw the phone out my car window...

I placed a call the other day. It was a social call to another agent. We are friends and I hadn't talked to her in a while. So we're chatting it up and as always our conversation turned to business.

Now this agent has been around for a while. I consider her a mentor. When I first entered real estate I knew I could call with questions because she would have the answers.

She stated that she has been incredibly busy with buyers, but the buyers weren't buying. They are sitting because the buyers don't think the market has reached bottom. She agrees with the buyers.

Now that is all fine and dandy until she starts talking about her sellers. She is frustrated because her listings aren't moving. Common problem when the buyers aren't buying. She tells me her sellers won't lower their asking prices.

She isn't talking about one seller, she is talking about FOUR of her sellers.

So I ask the million dollar question, "Did you agree to list the houses at your recommended price or at the price the sellers wanted?"

I'll give you one guess on the answer.

She justifies listing the price at the seller's price because she gave them a letter at the time of the listing that basically states, "You are over pricing your home for the market." (Oh, and these homes are over priced by $50,000 to $100,000)

I don't think she cared for my response.

I told her my opinion and my opinion is this:

The market has not reached bottom and we as professionals need to turn away business when our clients don't value our opinion enough to follow our advice. We can't complain the buyers aren't buying if we are telling our sellers we will sell their home at their price, even if the market won't sustain it. Why would a buyer consider buying a home if you are basically telling them it won't be worth at least the sale price in a year?

Sure I'll help you out... and expect nothing in return

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Wed, 07 May 2008 16:11:54 -0500

I do many things as a professional real estate agent for which I am never compensated. And you know what, I am not complaining.

I love talking real estate. (Actually, I love talking and real estate just happens to a subject everybody is interested in right now.)

That being said, I can't count the number of times I have been asked for my professional opinion and then left to wonder.

For instance, last summer I spent several afternoons working with a couple who were relocating to the area. Somewhere along the line they found a home for lease purchase on their own. It was being offered FSBO and through no fault of their own they dealt directly with the owner to enter into an agreement. They moved into that home and have been quite happy with their decision.

I see this couple regularly and on several occasions over the past year the husband has asked my professional opinion on the local housing market. I have let him know our area is still undergoing a market correction and we will only know we have hit bottom after the fact. So I wasn't surprised when he asked me to run the numbers on their lease purchase.

I ran the numbers and prepared a professional market analysis for them. I found the price they agreed to last summer is now approximately $20,000 over market value. I offered several suggestions. The number one suggestion was to go to the seller and renegotiate the contract. I see them at least once a week and have yet to find out what their plan is.

It's been six weeks...nothing!

I received an e-mail in September from a client who moved out of the area four years ago. They are considering moving back and wanted to know if I could send them information on homes that fit their (long list) of criteria. Of course I have been regularly sending them properties to consider. In every e-mail I ask them to let me know what they think of the properties, likes and dislikes, preferences.

Nine months...nothing!

I deal in information and the silence is deafening.

So I was posting this picture...

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Tue, 06 May 2008 22:00:29 -0500

It isn't really noticeable in my Historic Downtown Eustis Post but as I was posting this picture my laptop almost met its demise.

It would seem Peddler's Wagon was under attack.

Luckily I did not notice this lovely creature while I was taking the photo or I would have regretted not getting that warranty for my camera.

Historic Downtown Eustis

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Tue, 06 May 2008 21:58:47 -0500

Downtown Eustis is experiencing a revitalization, a rebirth if you will. In 2003, Waterman Hospital left its downtown location to new state of the art facilities on HWY 441. The building which housed the hospital and formerly the Waterman Hotel was demolished. The Lake Eustis Foundation was established to develop the property.

The vision the foundation has for the property is retail, restaurant and office space on a lower level with luxury residential living space above. Unfortunately the real estate market and rising costs of development has affected these plans. The Lake Eustis Foundation has placed the property on the market.

Some downtown businesses have suffered with the relocation of the hospital. The many employees, health care professionals, patients and their families provided income to the local merchants.

There are several merchants that have thrived for many years such as Porter's Cameras, Merry Jewelers, the barber shop and Peddler's Wagon. Bay Pharmarcy, a downtown institution for many years has just completed its extensive remodel.

Merry Jewelers, in the heart of Eustis since 1946, offers custom design and remounting, estate jewelry and silver, class rings, a large selection of diamonds, and watch and jewelry repair.

Peddler's Wagon, Gifts and Dried Florals

Magnolia Avenue in historic downtown Eustis is lined with specialty shops and unique restaurants.

No Two Dcuks are Exactly the Same

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Tue, 06 May 2008 19:53:34 -0500

How many of you read that title and muttered something negative about my proofreading? (It's okay, I would have done the same thing.)

Without further ado, I would like to introduce you to DCUKS.

Dcuks are from England. They are handcarved from renewable bamboo root. Each one is a unique character with its own name and attitude.

These unique creations make a great gift and are available right here in historic downtown Eustis, Florida at Peddler's Wagon.

Lake County, Florida...In Bloom

JoEllen Stranger-Thorsen, Lake County, FL (Catherine Hanson Real Estate, Inc.) — Tue, 06 May 2008 19:34:18 -0500

I fell in love with the magnolia several years ago. I don't remember the title of the book I was reading but it was set in New Orleans. The author described the fragrance to such a degree I could actually smell the blossoms in the pages of that book.

From that time on I took note of the magnolia trees. The beauty and the fragrance that author described have stayed with me.

I have a magnolia tree and this picture was taken by me Friday. This was the first bloom of the season on my tree. Today that bloom is gone, destroyed by the heat and lack of rainfall. Fleeting beauty...

Lately I have also been enjoying the wonderful scents of confederate jasmine and gardenias. Lake County Florida is in full bloom.