Tom's Blog

How Real Estate Professionals Help

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 22:52:11 -0700

Some people do not see the value of a real estate professional because most realtors are so good at what they do (I did say most just like in any industry, there are some that give everyone a bad name) that it seems all it takes to sell a house is put an ad in the paper, a sign on the lawn and ta da!!!

Many companies have become very wealthy by selling a do-it your self kit. It's only after a professional's value comes to light. Why do some people try and reinvent the wheel? Because of lack of information.

When the time comes to either buy or sell your home, call me Tom Ikonomou for an in-depth analysis. I'll make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision. Lets make sure your selling experience becomes an exciting one!!!

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

Serving the following Areas of Kamloops: Aberdeen, Barnhartvale, Batchelor Heights, Brocklehurst, Campbell Creek/Deloro, Cherry Creek/Savona, Dallas, Dufferin/Southgate, Heffley, Juniper Heights, Knutsford-Lac Le Jeune, McLure/Vinsula, Monte Lake/Westwold, North Kamloops, Paul Lake, Pinantan, Pineview Valley, Pritchard, Rayleigh, Red Lake, Sahali, South Kamloops, Sun Peaks, Sun Rivers, Tobiano, Valleyview, Westmount and Westsyde

Copyright © 2008-2012 By Tom Ikonomou, All Rights Reserved. Trademarks REALTOR® & MLS® owned or controlled by the Canadian Real Estate Association. Used under licence"All information provided by this author is only an opinion, is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, and may be time sensitive. It is not necessarily representative of the opinions of Best-West Realty Ltd..

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

My Listing made Global News! Scroll to 23 minutes to view

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 17:45:39 -0700

To View this listing and others like it, visit 3457 Overlander

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

The New Style of Negotiation - COLLABORATION (Part 1)

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 04:48:48 -0700

There is more to selling a house than putting a sign on the lawn, an ad in the paper and waiting for buyers to call. Although it seems like it on the surface, there is a lot more. In addition to marketing, there is negotiating an offer. Depending on the other agent involved, I have used all five styles as the following explains in full detail.

Via Loreena Yeo, Realtor®| Frisco TX Community Ambassador (214)783-2210 (3:16 team REALTY ~ Locally-owned Frisco TX Real Estate Co.):

It's not new and neither is it unheard of - that the COLLABORATIVE style of NEGOTIATION is what every party in a negotiation should strive for. However, the reality is that most people (by default) negotiate in the COMPETITIVE STYLE even without realizing it.

This 2-part NEGOTIATION STYLE is a result of my short experience in one of my contracts after I put into action what I learned from my Certified Negotiation Class.
If you want to read about my experience and overview of the class, please read:

Some thoughts of my Negotiations Class Day 1

Certified Negotiation Expert - Blown Away by Day 2

Some of the COMPETITIVE STYLE NEGOTIATION include:

Good guy, bad guy

Nibble

Intimidation (includes silence, walk away, escalation to higher authority)

Short deadlines

Bluffing (Walk away, all I can afford)

Competitive negotiators uses alot of manipulating, aggressive or threathening language, abuse power as well as hard bargaining tactics. I'm sure you have experienced some of these in your real estate negotiations.

What I experienced in my past, although an agent says s/he wants a WIN-WIN negotiation for all parties, it doesn't mean that's what is achieved.

Instead a COLLABORATIVE STYLE of NEGOTIATION includes:

Asking alot of questions - not to take advantage of the other party but instead using them to formulate the best outcome for all parties involved.

Build trust - include open sharing of information (I understand about CONFIDENTIALITY in the COE. I have some changes views about them yet not giving away my client's position. A fine line to trade there)

Willingness to be influenced

Expectations sharing and meeting

Check out my next blog on how to apply a COLLABORATIVE STYLE of NEGOTIATION for a successful real estate transaction! Stay tuned!!!

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

What do you mean, you're getting a divorce?!? How I survived an 11th hour crisis and sold my house.

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 04:42:36 -0700

Selling a home can have a stress level second to divorce and should not be taken lightly. Saving the commission by going alone may seem worth it. But is it? Although the following senerio is rare, I've come across many simular ones.

Via Indy Beacon Homes Jamie Willis and Deb Kent (Indy Beacon Homes of Keller Williams):

It was 11pm when the call came, a time when any phone call is bound to be bad news. "Deb? It's Betsy. Oh God. I'm so sorry."

The voice on the other end of the line was trembling and clotted with tears. Betsy and her husband had agreed to buy my house --my personal home, a McMansion in the suburbs of Indianapolis. We were under contract. Closing was two weeks away. After staging it to perfection, I'd received her offer in only nine days, even in the midst of a tanking market.

I knew it had to be too good to be true.

"Sorry about what?" I asked, my heart already sinking.

"It's my husband," she said, pausing to blow her nose. "He...he wants a divorce! We're not going to be able to buy your house after all." She was bawling now.

I empathized with her, talked to her as a friend, told her everything would be okay, one way or the other. But I also told her, calmly, that she was under contract and I had every confidence that we'd proceed to closing. I recommended a good marriage counselor. Then I called my attorney.

I couldn't possibly put the house back on the market. It was no longer staged to sparkle, it was poised to move. Boxes were everywhere. The vignettes I'd carefully crafted around the house and out in the yard were dismantled in favor of real life concerns. Above all, I had a contract and, even under these apparently untenable circumstances, I had every intention of moving forward. With the sale. With my life.

My attorney sent a letter reminding the buyers that they had signed an agreement and were indeed under every obligation to fulfill it, divorce or not. The next few weeks were nail-biters as I waited to see whether they'd push back and pull out of the deal. Nervewracking. I know that some couples will buy a house when the relationship is struggling, in the same way others will have a child, or adopt a new pet. Maybe that was the case for Betsy.

If nothing else, the experience put me in a good position to help others interested in Indianapolis real estate. I learned that a crisis doesn't mean the end of a deal. I learned that you can be empathic without shifting course.

Bottom line, I sold my house. Betsy called a few weeks later to say that her husband had moved to the basement while they "worked it out." And they did work it out. Two years later they're still together and my guess is that their relationship is no better or worse than most these days.

Who knows, maybe by holding them to the contract I saved their marriage.

Do you have an 11th hour crisis to share? How did you handle it? What did you learn from it?

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Ethics & The Realtor: The Sleep Test!

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Sun, 04 Sep 2011 20:26:33 -0700

One of the things I know before, during and after negotiations, I can sleep well at night. Through the many dealings with clients and their individual circumstances, a big part of my job is to make sure veryone is dealt with in an ethical and professional manner.

This blog sums up my beliefs when working with clients whether they are buying or selleing real estate in the Kamloops & district market scene.

Via Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate:

Can you sleep at night? We all have occasional sleepless nights. Nights you toss & turn and worry about what you did today (and didn't get time to do)... and what you'd better not forget to do tomorrow.

I tend to replay scenes in my head and go over things I must do tomorrow until I am wide-eyed and in no condition to sleep. Then I'll get up and do some work, on the computer until I get it out of my system.

A while ago, an agent outside my company asked me how to define my ETHICS. He was having trouble sleeping because a deal was "haunting" him (his words). He felt he may not have done the right thing in a particular situation.

It was not illegal. It was not "wrong" from a real estate commission standard. But it was definitely not "right". And it was causing him to lay awake thinking about it over and over again.

It was in what I consider a gray area. I told him I'm a Rotarian, and we have a 4-way test that I believe firmly in:

1. Is it the truth?

2. Is it fair to all concerned?

3. Will it build good will & better friendships?

4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Now you could argue that being a Rotarian and being a realtor don't always mesh with the Rotary test. For example, Is it fair to all concerned? If you represent one side, are you always fair to all concerned? Probably not. It's your JOB to represent the one side, not be fair to the other one.

Yes we have the realtor code of ethics we are to live by. But I think it's a sad state of our industry that this code takes up pages and pages of small print! Do we really have to define every possible violation and what is right / wrong? Identify every situation where an agent could be ethical/unethical? It shouldn't be that tough.

I dug a little deeper and here is what I consider rules to live by, to test if my actions are right or wrong.

1. First, do no harm. To other agents, to buyers, to sellers, to anyone involved in a transaction

2. Make the world a little better than it was before. Does my action make things better or worse for the parties involved?

3. Treat everyone involved with respect. No matter how rude they are to you!

4. Tell the truth. No white lies, no puffing or bluffing or exaggerations.

5. Treat everyone fair--the way you'd like to be treated if you were in the other guy's shoes.

6. Show compassion.

7. Represent your client to the utmost, best of your abilities. Never put your own benefit above theirs.

8. All decisions are theirs, not yours. Remember that.

9. Words said in confidence should remain secret, unless they give you permission to divulge.

10. If you cannot sleep because you wonder if something is right or wrong, there is your answer. It's wrong.

None of us are perfect, and we can all learn from the mistakes we make. We just have to admit it and move on. I hope this agent sleeps better now!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA. If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006. Serving all of Schuylkill County ... Pottsville, Orwigsburg, Schuylkill Haven, Auburn, Pine Grove, Frackville, Minersville, Ashland, Shenandoah, Port Carbon, Palo Alto, St. Clair, Barnesville real estate. Click on the link above to search Pottsville PA homes for sale or anySchuylkill County homes for sale. We have all properties listed for sale in theSchuylkill MLS on our website -- free search! No registration is required!

We also run Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs in the area. If you need an appraisal, we are your Schuylkill County appraisal source.

And for all your commercial needs in Schuylkill County check out Schuylkill Business for your Schuylkill County commercial real estate.

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

New Listing! 5 year old 3 Bed 2 Bath home in Kamloops BC Pineview Valley

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 01:20:06 -0700

FOR MORE INFO AND A PERSONAL VIEWING VISIT 39-1760 Copperhead

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Great Family Day in Vancouver BC Canada

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 02:46:05 -0700

Great Day at Vancouver's famed Greek festival. All the elements of a greek party were there. Godess Athena, Posieden and King Lionidis were among the few walking and and taking part of what Greeks are known for. Diaskedesi (Have a party)

Although with the constant reminder of the riot that broke out st the Stanley Cup playoffs and the black eye vancouver has taken, The day was great and I just could not be in a safer place. My kds were out and we had a ball.

The day was perfect, Souvlaki on a stick, baklava and of course...Dancing!

And you thought all I knew was how to sell real estate

OPA!

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Kamloops Water Meter Installation Program

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Thu, 09 Jun 2011 02:25:57 -0700

The City of Kamloops is moving forward with the installation of water meters in your area. The program is already in place for all businesses and multi-family properties serviced by the City of Kamloops and we are now installing meters in all residential homes. Neptune Technology Group Canada Ltd. has been contracted by the City to supply and conduct the installation in your home.

In the next few weeks, you will receive a booklet from Neptune Technology Group providing additional information on the meters, the standard installation process, water conservation tips, and how to book your installation appointment.

There will be no additional charge to you for the meter or the standard installation. With the introduction of water meters, our community is taking a very important step towards managing our drinking water and conserving one of our most precious resources.

Water meters make people aware of their water use and give homeowners the power to change their consumption patterns. Water meters are an important tool for measuring and reducing the demand for treated water. By predicting water consumption patterns, the utility is able to control the treated volume of water, and will defer millions of dollars for the water utility system, resulting in cost savings to the City of Kamloops' water utility customers.

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Your Kamloops home sold in two minutes! ok, maybe not.

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Sat, 28 May 2011 21:17:29 -0700

I got offered $1,000 today to sell somebodys home. Although my commission is negotiable, I dont see myself being in business very long if I accepted. The property is a 2 bedroom 1 bath 980 sqft rancher style home. The reasoning by the seller was, that the home is not very big and would only take me two minutes to show the home so $1,000 is plently of money for the work involved. Let me take a moment to re-group my thoughts before I give my side of the story.

Well, it took more than two minutes just think about all the work that is involved in selling a home for the most money the market can bear. By that I mean, anyone can sell a home. Getting the most money is a different story.

Seems that as Realtors®, we make selling a home so easy that it looks like all we do is just walk through the home and BINGO! a sold sign goes up!

If you or anyone you know is interested in a detailed list of all the work involved in the successful sale of a home, please send me an email to homes@forsalebytom.com

I guarantee it will take you longer than two minutes to do so.

Copyright © 2011 By Tom Ikonomou, All Rights Reserved. Trademarks REALTOR® & MLS® owned or controlled by the Canadian Real Estate Association. Used under licence"All information provided by this author is only an opinion, is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, and may be time sensitive. It is not necessarily representative of the opinions of Best-West Realty Ltd..

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Kamloops BC - Home of the world famous Salmon Run

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Fri, 27 May 2011 02:09:59 -0700

"Can you imagine swimming 400 kilometres against a raging current, encountering thousands of obstacles along the way, not eating a bite of nourishment, with only one purpose to your journey -- to reproduce and die? Such is the fate of the Adams River sockeye salmon. After spending a life time (five years in Salmon years)in the Pacific Ocean, the drama of reproduction is played out in exactly the same way every cycle as millions of sockeye make their way back to the gravel beds of the Adams River, the place of their birth, to spawn and die.

The shuswap offers a tremendous amount of vacation homes right now. Whether you are in the market to buy one or just want more information of the area, Call me Tom Ikonomou direct. I'd be happy to be your Realtor® until the day I die.

For more info about the world famous Salmon Run

Adams River Salmon Society

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

How to make your Kamloops home go from drab to fab

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Wed, 25 May 2011 13:24:46 -0700

If you're tired of your less-than-functional kitchen (which happens every so often) or need to update your flooring, it’s a good idea to search for a reputable remodeling company for any potential home improvement projects you may have. These places can help you get your property in top condition. Explore a few of your options below.

Revamp Your Bathroom

Your bathroom should be your haven or place of peace. Yet if you are cramped up in a small space, it’s hard to relax. If you need some serious home remodeling when it comes to your bathroom, you shouldn’t hesitate to reach out to skilled professionals. There are numerous design options for bathrooms, so many that you may feel overwhelmed at first. There’s something for everyone, so if you’re hoping to recreate a spa-like atmosphere in your house, it will be well within your reach simply by contacting a pro.

Install Wood Flooring

Sure... a nice, plush carpet can be really comfortable on your feet, but nothing beats the beauty and richness of nice hardwood flooring. And if you want to give your home a well-deserved makeover, talk with a home remodeling expert about how you can get this flooring inside your home. You can choose from dark or light wood, depending on what looks better with your home’s decor. Regardless of what you choose, you cannot go wrong with wood.

Expand a Room

When the idea of moving is not in your future, but you really need more space, then consider a home expansion. By contacting a professional, you can find out what can be done to give you the space you need. It may be something as simple as knocking out a wall or adding some height to the ceiling. There are a variety of options for you when you seek to create the living space you deserve.

Apply Fresh Paint

An easy way to really change the look of your property so that your neighbors think you did some serious home remodeling is to apply fresh paint to the inside and outside of your house. This is a simple way to give your property a much-needed facelift and it won’t be nearly as expensive as some other projects you may consider. Best of all, if you don’t like a particular color, you can paint over it.

Get New Tile

There’s a lot to consider when deciding on new tile flooring. The good thing is that you can get this type of flooring installed and won’t have to worry about spills and getting your carpet dirty ever again. With tile, you can simply wipe up anything that hits the floor and it will look as good as new. And if you simply mop it on a regular basis, it will continue to look great for years to come.

Redo Windows

If you’re someone that has the same windows in your home since you bought it 20 years, then it’s time to do some serious home remodeling. There are a ton of new options available to help you beautify your windows. You could simply add plantation shutters or install totally new windows that are not only beautiful to look at, but also really energy efficient. As a result, you will save money on heating and cooling costs.

Copyright © 2009 By Tom Ikonomou, All Rights Reserved. All information provided by this author is only an opinion, is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, and may be time sensitive. It is not necessarily representative of the opinions of Best-West Realty Ltd..

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Library Square's first Buyer gets Occupancy!

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 19:16:25 -0800

It was a great day today during the key ceremony at Library Square, Kamloops most unique multiplex. Many units are in the final stages and available to pre-sale buyers.

More info on purchasing these units is available at

www.librarysquare.info

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Luxury Country Living in Kamloops BC Canada

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 16:38:01 -0700

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Strata Laws changes Benefit Owners, Buyers and Renters In British Columbia

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:47:46 -0700

This news release came out from the Ministry of Housing and Social Development September 21, 2009. Do you think these changes will affect the sale of strata real estate in Kamloops?

Changes to the Strata Property Act will create more rental housing and improve the dispute resolution process for strata owners and strata corporations, Housing and Social Development Minister Rich Coleman announced today.

"These amendments will help owners and buyers protect their hard-earned investments," said Coleman. "As well, in new strata developments, owners, tenants and buyers will have greater flexibility to rent a strata unit, creating more rental units, which we know are in demand in our tight housing market here in British Columbia."

The proposals will mean that new strata corporations cannot change rules about rental units that impact the rights of owners and purchasers or the marketability of the units. Owners will be able to continue to rent their units until the date the rental period originally disclosed by the developer expires. Existing strata owners will not be affected by the change.

"We support legislative amendments that will result in more rental units coming onto the market," said Martha Lewis, executive director of the Tenant Resource and Advisory Centre. "It is upsetting to have condo units sitting empty at a time when many people are searching for appropriate housing. The sooner the amendments come into effect, the better."

The proposed changes will allow disputes to be heard in Small Claims Court, rather than the B.C. Supreme Court. Strata corporations and strata owners will also be able to use arbitration or mediation rather than going to court. Strata corporations will have to provide audited financial statements and obtain depreciation reports to help them prepare for future repairs or upgrades. Owners and potential buyers will be able to access these reports.

The amendments also confirm that strata corporations can set age restriction bylaws to create adult and seniors' communities, under both the Strata Property Act and the BC Human Rights Code.

The Strata Property Act provides a framework for the creation and operation of strata developments in British Columbia and sets out the guidelines under which strata corporations must operate. Amendments were previously introduced earlier in 2009.

Contact:
Seumas Gordon: Media Relations Officer, Ministry of Housing and Social Development Phone: 250 387-6490 Link

Copyright © 2009 By Tom Ikonomou, All Rights Reserved. All information provided by this author is only an opinion, is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, and may be time sensitive. It is not necessarily representative of the opinions of Best-West Realty Ltd.. www.forsalebytom.com

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

In the name of saving a commission!

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:05:49 -0700

Many companies charge home owners a fee to supply them a lawn sign and a website listing to market their home claiming the home owner will save thousands in commissions. Some will even let you keep it on their website until it's sold. They will tell you a lot of things. However,

Here is what they will not tell you;

• They do not have any agency with you. Your best interests are not served.

• They have no legal obligation to you. In the event you get sued, they assume no liability in any way, shape or form.

• Their primary goal is to charge for their service not sell your home (even if you don't sell they already got paid) If I do not sell your home for the most money you do not pay a thing.

• They do not have answers and solutions to the countless questions potential buyers have before they make a buying decision.

• They do not have to show your home during odd hours (often at a drop of a hat).

• They do not network with other REALTORS® and their qualified buyers.

• They have no "Course knowledge" of your market area and cannot help you determine the best asking price.

• Thieves acting as buyers may scope your place out. (you can tell who they are by how long they spend looking at your laptop or other valuables)

• Buyers are aware you will not be paying a commission and want that "savings" passed on to them.

• Most qualified buyers have a representative working on their behalf and will not see your home. Most REALTORS® do not show non-listed homes since these homes are overpriced and the potential for lawsuits is greater. The bulk of the homes are listed ont the MLS®

• Over 90% of owners eventually use the assistance of a REALTOR® within 30 days of trying to sell on their own.

• Of all the applications submitted from direct buyers, only 15% successfully closed as apposed to 85% closing with buyers represented by REALTORS®.

There's a lot more to selling a house, than just putting a sign on the lawn...an ad on the web and waiting for buyers. I can provide you that for FREE! However, if you want the most money, the quickest sale, with the fewest problems...call me direct for a free, no obligation consultation today. email: homes@forsalebytom.com or visit: www.sellmyhousetom.com

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

When the Seller Won't Budge

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Wed, 20 May 2009 00:33:45 -0700

So you finally decided to make an offer on the home you saw three times in the past 30 days. You sit down with your agent and decide on the best price.

Contrary to the REALTORS® CMA you decide to offer below FMV. You wait all night and wonder what the seller will decide. Late the next day, your REALTOR® calls to tell you your offer was countered...FULL PRICE! Woah...now wait a minute, who does this seller think they are you wonder.

Dont take it personal. It does not mean they will not negotiate. All it means is that they do not feel your top line will reach their bottom line, so they dont want to continue negotiations. It does not mean they will not accept less.

They may be willing to accept just slightly higher than your top line. If you are in this situation, dont frett. You may still be able to get your favorite home. You just need to counter no later than a day or two while the iron is still hot.

Nothing excites me more than negotiating real estate deals. It's my business and I can be your greatest asset when you purchase your next home. Call me for a consultation today and see how easy a real estate transaction with me can be.

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

What I think your home is worth has no merit

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 22:48:51 -0700

Although I am an expert of the market, my opinion of what a home is worth has no merit. My experience has merit, facts have merit, but that's all. The only thing that counts is what buyers are willing to pay for a certain property in a certain area at a certain time.

Anything else is just an estimated guess. Your home is far too important to price based on an estimated guess. Surprisingly, many home owners ask less than market value but most ask for far more. When you decide that you want to get the most money from the sale of your home, give me a call. You'll be glad you did.

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

If March comes in like a lion April goes out like a lamb.

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 21:45:56 -0700

I can't believe it's snowing! Again! well at least the skiers are happy. I have to say that in all my years living in Kamloops, I have never seen such a long and cold winter. Kamloops is supposed to be a place where you can golf in feb, a place where you can walk outside and not have to wear a face mask. Well I can only think that we will have an extraordinary hot summer. Which is bearable since the climate is so dry.

Which way to the Beach!

Copyright © 2008 By Tom Ikonomou, All Rights Reserved. All information provided by this author is only an opinion, is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, and may be time sensitive. It is not necessarily representative of the opinions of Best-West Realty Ltd..

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Real Estate Boards Say Market Has Bottomed

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 14:47:54 -0700

I attended the AGM yesterday morning and had the pleasure of listening to the Presidents of CREA, BCREA, KDREA and the information was very positive. According to the Real estate economist the kamloops market has bottomed out with a median price of $295,000. The discussion regarding the US markets came up and it is evident, unlike NAFTA, the markets are not related. Time will surely tell however, rents have remained steady and you can get more home for your dollar than the same time last year which has been about a 30% drop.

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Why Move to Kamloops

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 10:34:00 -0700

Kamloops is nestled in the Thompson Nicola Valley which is located in the south central interior of British Columbia, Canada. It serves a trading population of 170,000 and offers a generous mix of industry, forestry, mining, eco-friendly manufacturing, agricultural, ranching, commerce, recreation, tourism, and government. This encourages a broad range of activities which enhances tremendous potential for economic growth and investment.

Five major arterial highways converge at the junction of Kamloops. As well, the area is serviced by two feeder airlines, a major bus line, 2 train companies, and numerous tour operators. The area is surrounded by world class ski resorts, golf courses (Robert Trent Jones) and summer recreation areas unsurpassed in their beauty. With an average of more than 2100 hours of sunshine per year and very little precipitation, we attract sports and recreation enthusiasts from the Pacific Northwest and Pacific Rim countries.

The scenic Shuswap Lake chains offer over 1,600 kms of accessible shoreline. Those who are sports minded will appreciate that Kamloops is known as the tournament capital of Canada., and proud home to the Kamloops Blazers of the Western Hockey League. The community and surrounding area have gained a reputation as the place to go if you want to stage a major event (i.e. Canadian Brier, Canada's Jr. Hockey championship, The Memorial Cup, and the Canada Summer Games).

Can you imagine the investment potential? Housing costs are extremely reasonable and a good inventory exists of single family residences and condominiums. Industrial, Commercial and Investment land is well priced for value, and new business in encouraged by local government.

Whether you are considering to start a business, retire to enjoy life, or just raise a family - Kamloops just may be the perfect place considering the safety of the region and its progressive attitude to quality of life and family values.

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Kamloops Market Update March 5, 2009

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 00:49:53 -0800

Kamloops Median House prices finished at $295,000 in Feb down from $314,000 in Jan showing the market is continuing to decline. Although prices are coming down, sellers are still holding strong and many houses are coming off the market which is keeping inventory down to 704 Single Family homes with an average DOM of 112. There were 45 sales in Feb with an average 81 DOM

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Selling your own Home? Saving money is a good thing!

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 01:53:12 -0800

Selling your home without a representative. You are probably taking on this task to save money. That's ok, I may not be able to save you money depending on how much you need out of your home. However, I am able to save you money in your search for your next home. I am able to assist you as a buyers agent and my services are at no cost to you. I get paid by the seller. You may be wondering why you should use me if you can go to the seller direct? Almost every seller wants more than market value for their home, which in most cases is the reason they are selling without the services of a real estate company. Some Realtors® refuse to take overpriced listings which leaves the sellers no choice but to sell on their own.

Many MLS® listings are overpriced as well and if there is an offer, you can be sure the listing agent is looking after the sellers best interest, not the buyers. As your representative, once we find your home I will find it's true market value and make sure you do not pay too much. I have saved thousands of asking price for my buyers. I have a database of for sale by owners and properties not currently advertised as well as the MLS. Using me as your buyers agent will give you the competitive edge when it comes time to buy your next home. I Guarantee It! In fact I offer buyers my Love it or Leave Guarantee. If you are not happy with your home within the first year, I will list it for FREE.

Looking to $ave Tommorro? Call me Today!

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

Listing Expired?

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 23:18:29 -0800

If you're still SERIOUS about selling your home I can help. But I wouldn't be interested in selling it UNLESS we sat down together first to discuss the reasons it didn't sell the first time.

I have a very special tool we'd need to go over together...called a Merchandising Review Form. It lists every factor that determines whether or not a property will sell, and how quickly it will sell. It takes about 15 minutes to go over, and it actually guarantees your property will sell. The fact is, it's the only goof proof way to sell a house.

Actually, the worst thing that could happen is that you'd find out the real reason why it didn't sell the first time. So if you do decide to list it again you won't make the same mistake twice.

There's no charge for this service but I would ask that you only call if you are SERIOUS about selling.

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

The Cat that ate the Canary

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 22:05:11 -0800

Buying your first home doesn't have to be scary.

When it comes to buying your first home, things can look pretty frightening, especially if you're going it alone. I specialize in helping people who might be thinking about buying their first home. And I can help you in more ways than you might imagine.

There's no cost to you!

The first thing to know is that my services to you are absolutely free, and that's a promise. No hidden charges, and no surprises. So, there's really nothing to lose, and everything to gain by giving me a call.

First things first.

You'll want to begin the process by learning exactly how much home you can afford, and I can do this for you in just a few minutes. Once you know what you can afford, I can begin showing you homes that fit your price range. The rest is pretty simple. But it comes down to you. If you're serious about getting out of the rent habit, and getting into a home of your own, give me a call. I can help.

Call today for a Free First Time Home Buyer Analysis

When you call, we'll set up a convenient time to get together, have a cup of coffee, and discuss your alternatives. The whole process takes less than 20 minutes, and we can even do it in the comfort of your own home. When we've completed your First Time Home Buyer Analysis, we can start searching for the home that best suits your needs. It's an exciting thing, and before you know it, you'll be enjoying life in your brand new home.

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!

"Fortune Teller wins the Lottery"

Tom Ikonomou, Kamloops B.C Real Estate (250-318-0479) (Best-West Realty Ltd.) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 01:49:52 -0800

Has anyone ever seen this headline? I can't say that I have. I can tell you one thing for sure, I have about five buyers that are sitting on the fence right now waiting for the front page headline's to say "Now is the Time to Buy"

Correct me if I'm wrong but by the time that anouncement hits the papers, it's too late! The ship has sailed because the media is re-active not pro-active. Things have to happen before they can report.

If you are in the market for a home whether buying or selling, we need to talk. There are great opportunities in the real estate market today however it is only for those that are buying and selling for the right reasons.

Tom Ikonomou - Best-West Realty Ltd.

Direct: 250-318-0479 · Office: 250-554-4511 · 700 Tranquille Rd. Kamloops, BC V2B 8R3

For access to thousands of listing in Kamloops BC Click Here!