Five Years After the Frenzy-- Affordability on the Rise in the Desert - 02/28/10 11:58 PM
According to todays Desert Sun--
The real estate world was very different in the Coachella Valley five years ago. Prospective buyers streamed through model homes while real estate agents poked pins onto maps to reflect constant sales — some posting $10,000 price gains by the month.
Phones rang incessantly. Common were bidding wars, waiting lists, lotteries and house-flippers, the latter often cashing out six-digit profits.
It was fast and frenzied in 2005 as price seemed to be no object and affordability dissipated, squeezing many families out of the market.  Prospective buyers streamed through model homes while real estate agents poked pins … (3 comments)

The Hideaway at La Quinta--Discounted Homesite with amazing Views! - 02/27/10 05:18 PM
 
This wonderful homesite at The Hideaway Golf Club takes in sweeping views of the Santa Rosa Mountains and 14th tee of the Clive Clark course. Offered by The Lori Bowers Goup for $377,000, it measures 16,117 sq.ft. or .370 acres.
 
 
The Hideaway Golf Club at La Quinta is one of the best kept secrets in the Southern California Desert.  The Hideaway's 36-holes of golf are surrounded by a private gated community, combining the amenities of a fine resort with all of the comforts of home.

Hideaway homesites, ranging in size from one-third to over one-half acres, offer … (1 comments)

La Quinta Country Club Condo with Killer Views of the Mountains! - 02/27/10 01:37 PM
 
 

This charming condo has incredible fairway and mountain views and one of the best locations in the development. Situated on a quiet interior cul-de-sac behind the gates of La Quinta Country Club, it faces north across the 17th and 11th fairways. A sparkling community pool is just steps away from the patio. The spacious Master Suite has vaulted ceilings, plenty of closet space, and a slider to the patio. The guest bedroom opens to the front courtyard, and the 3rd bedroom can be used as an office or bedroom. This end-unit with incredible views is in excellent condition … (0 comments)

50 Inexpensive Tips to Dramatically Increase the Value of Your Properties - 02/26/10 11:49 AM

Via Tai DeSa (Significa Corporation):
50 Inexpensive Tips to Dramatically Increase the Value of Your Properties
 By Tai A. DeSa, Significa Corporation
Professional landlords and investors involved in property flipping should constantly seek to improve their property value while keeping costs low.  Below is a list of 50 tips that we shared with our property investment club (the Lehigh Valley Real Estate Investors Group). 
Tip #1:  Add a basic alarm system.  The number one concern for any resident is security.  If a homeowner or tenant does not feel secure, then eventually they will move elsewhere.  Many security alarm providers have lucrative introductory … (0 comments)

Top 5 Vibes Given Off By Homes For Sale-Which One Brings in the Sale and Money? - 02/24/10 02:49 PM
Great post!  Seems like most of the homes in our neigborhood fall in to the old-outdated vibe! 
Via Kristi DeFazio Colorado Springs Real Estate 719-459-5468 (RE/MAX Advantage):
I have been a buyer's agent in Colorado Springs for awhile now and each time I take a buyer into a home, they usually make a comment within the first 5 seconds of entering the home.
I have a theory that each home has a "Vibe" to it and that vibe is noticed immediately.
The questions is- If your home is for sale, which Vibe do you want to portray?
Here they are from the … (1 comments)

Can You Get Facebook Fans from ActiveRain? - 02/24/10 01:39 AM
I wondered if I could gain Facebook Fanpage Friends...by posting a blog on ActiveRain... my fan page is all about Living The Desert Life... and is a direct link to my site about all the fun, cool, happenings in the Coachella Valley desert.
So if you invite them... directly from your ActiveRAin blog.... Will They Join?  ActiveRain is a great connection for social media.  I use my wordpress blog to connect, but also Facebook and Twiitter-- Are you connecting?  I have had great feedback on AR about my photos and fun info about the desert... Can I convert them to fans … (2 comments)

Oh-No , They Call Me the ActiveRain Queen - 02/24/10 01:00 AM
I wrote a blog a few weeks ago about my Broker "forcing" us to join ActiveRain--I'm afraid I am addicted to ActiveRain... so much so, that when a new Agent is introduced to our office-- they say ask-- Kathy about ActiveRain, she will get you going!  I am almost feeling indulgent about sending the "invite" e-mail.  I want the other Agents in our office to get involved and send out those invites to welcome the newbies! 
I post new listings to ActiveRain... I post my latest photos.... When a local event sounds like it should'nt be missed-- I post it to … (7 comments)

Local Growers Bring Fresh Produce to Old Town for YOU! - 02/23/10 05:19 PM
Old Town Farmers MarketSunday, February 28, 2010 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Visit the Certified Farmers Market on Main Street at Old Town La Quinta, where you will find the freshest, best tasting produce including fresh fruit & vegetables, honey, nuts, cheese, cut flowers & plants, fresh-baked breads from L'Artisan Bakery, live chef demonstrations and live musical entertainment. The Farmers Market is open every Sunday through May from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.The Farmers Market is sponsored by The Palm Springs Cultural Center.   Visit us at The Lori Bowers Group on the weekend! For more fun stuff to do in the … (4 comments)

Coachella Valley Rain brings wildflowers - 02/23/10 05:09 PM
 
Via The Lori Bowers Group:
The desert is famous for its sunny days, warm temps and amazing golf courses.  This year however we were blessed with a few more days of rain and some cooler temps and we all were able to pretend a few more days that we were experiencing a real winter.  With 4.98 inches of rain so far this year, we felt like drowned rats. The result?  This year the wildflowers should be spectacular and is already starting to bloom.  Looking around you can see yellow and purples and light green blooms peaking out of their blooms....By March … (2 comments)

Super-Cool Cars in Old Town La Quinta-- See YOU There!! - 02/23/10 05:03 PM
The Desert Classic - Tour ClassiqueMain Street, Old Town La QuintaSaturday, February 27, 20108 a.m. to 12 noonGet a close-up look at stunning classic cars on display along Main Street in Old Town La Quinta! Free admission! Spectators are invited to view the cars on Main Street in Old Town La Quinta and talk with the owners while enjoying live music and the festive atmosphere of Old Town. At 9:30 a.m. the cars will begin departing on a driving tour through the Coachella Valley.   A few very special cars will remain on display in Old Town until noon. The cars are … (1 comments)

Multiple Offers ~ Make an Offer They Can't Refuse - 02/23/10 12:39 AM

Via Stephanie Reynolds (AgentsOfPossibility.com, REALTOR, GRI, ePro at CMI, Inc. ):
Multiple Offers ~ Make an Offer They Can't Refuse            
With California property values being at the lowest in years, a First Time Buyer Tax Credit of $8000, a Move Up Credit of $6500 and low interest rates we have seen a market that has become quite competitive. Multiple offers on properties have become the norm in the San Diego Real Estate Market.
Frustration has hit many of the buyers that are anxious to get into a home as they make offer after offer; only to lose out. The competition is grueling. Many buyers … (1 comments)

Big Fun in Old Town this Week! - 02/22/10 11:47 PM
 
 
 
 
Old Town La Quinta is the place for big fun this week! Wednesday... VIVA-- the new Mexican hot spot is having a Grand Opening on Wednesday from 3:00-5:00-- with LIVE Mariachi music, sangria, cervesas, and apertivos on the House!!
 
 
 
 
On Thursday...Old Town Cellar is hosting the wonderful Napa winery "Plumpjack" for a wine tasting from  5:00=6:00---
Stop on by The Lori Bowers Group in Old Town and say hello!  And visit LiveTheDesertLife.com to check out more fun stuff going on in the desert!
 
… (3 comments)

La Quinta and Coachella Valley Luxury Properties..Price Drops Ahead. - 02/21/10 12:19 PM

Via Kimberley Kelly (HK Lane Real Estate Co.):
La Quinta and Coachella Valley Luxury Properties..Price Drops ahead.  This is a great article from yesterday's Business section of the L.A. Times.  In La Quinta and the Coachella Valley, luxury home Sellers are often left "chasing the market", exactly as our low to middle priced residential Sellers were doing up to about a year ago.  Buyers set the Prices!  Homes priced above $2,000,000, vacant land and of course Commercial properties in La Quinta and the Coachella Valley are still dropping..finding that spot (usually about 50 to 60% below peak pricing), where the Buyers return.  … (0 comments)

Do You Understand Your Relationship with A/Your Realtor - 02/19/10 12:24 AM
 
Via David Monsour (Prudential Bob Yost - Sites, Gettysburg, PA):
I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that about 80% of people have no idea how Realtors get paid, or how Real Estate relationships work.  My goal is to clear that up so that your Realtor doesn't have to deal with constant frustration.  This blog isn't designed to complain or make you, the consumer, feel stupid, but to educate you about the process. 
First - BUYERS -Realtors do not receive salaries, we get paid based on commission only.  This means that if you don't buy something, we … (2 comments)

Good News: Low Prices for My Buyers / Bad News: My Friends Lost Their Homes - 02/18/10 11:15 PM
Today I showed some homes in my neighborhood that are great buys for the area.  They were foreclosures.  My buyers were pleased to finally see some rock-bottom low prices inside the gates.  The bad news is that I have had dinner in these homes-- I have known the families, I have seen them in their glory. 
One home-- the owner had lost his job, his wife, and his home.  The other-- a grandfather whith family and grend kids coming to stay-- had a downturn in his business, and had to let it go.
It was very sad to see how depressing … (2 comments)

Architecture is Amazing in the Palm Springs Area! - 02/18/10 05:31 PM
For The Love of the Land According to the Desert Sun--
John Lautner, a "radically climate-based architect," found his inspiration in nature and sought to unify structures with the landscape. By Morris Newman Elrod House, Palm Springs, 1968
Joshua White/Courtesy Palm Springs Art Museum
The architect John Lautner designed for the desert in an inspired way, if, just this once, the notion of inspiration is admissible. It might be equally true to say the desert inspired the Los Angeles-based architect and gave him ideas for structures. Lautner’s desert projects look so well suited to their respective settings, in fact, that … (1 comments)

Not a Bad Backyard! Wish You Were Here? - 02/18/10 04:49 PM

If you are looking for a place to get away from the cold, a place to inspire you with its beauty, a place to hike, bike, play golf & tennis, swim & sun-- wine & dine.... the LA QUINTA is the place for you!
Our temperature today is 76☼ with a high of 79☼ !  The market is just right for purchasing that 2nd home you have been waiting for-- Come on down to La Quinta and see what a wonderful future you can have here!
Visit The Lori Bowers Group in Old Town La Quinta-- and check out the … (1 comments)

Hot Springs in the Desert? - 02/17/10 11:30 PM
 
 
 
The Spas of Desert Hot Springs Outsiders would never expect to find the Hot Springs that bubble up out of the desert in the Coachella Valley-- known as Palm Springs to most people.  A short 2 hour drive from LA, the Palm Springs desert has become a destination resort for sun worshipers, spa lovers, foodies, and golf fanatics! A trio of pools including two pools and a spa at The Spring Resort & Spa are kept at different temperatures. This pool, which features a gradual walk-in entry path, is kept at 102 degrees. The Spring Resort & Spa … (4 comments)

Wine Tasting in Old Town La Quinta! - 02/16/10 11:02 PM
 


www.oldtowncellar.com
We love going to the Old Town Cellar--wine is amazing and the food is great!  We are so lucky to have this great Wine Bar in Old Town La Quinta!
 
Old Town Cellar
Thursday Wine Tastings
 
Thursday Feb 18
5-6pm   $10
Paul Hobbs Winery Tasting
Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir,
Malbec, 2 Cabernet’s
 
Thursday Feb 25
5-6 pm  $10
Plumpjack Wines
Sauvignon Blanc, Reserve Chardonnay,
Merlot, 2 Cabernet’s
 
Join us and take advantage of some great deals
 
Stick around and enjoy some great food
and Chris Laterzo live on Stage 6:30-8:30
… (3 comments)

Spa Tour of Desert Hot Springs! - 02/16/10 10:35 PM
 
 
 
The Spas of Desert Hot Springs Outsiders would never expect to find the Hot Springs that bubble up out of the desert in the Coachella Valley-- known as Palm Springs to most people.  A short 2 hour drive from LA, the Palm Springs desert has become a destination resort for sun worshipers, spa lovers, foodies, and golf fanatics! A trio of pools including two pools and a spa at The Spring Resort & Spa are kept at different temperatures. This pool, which features a gradual walk-in entry path, is kept at 102 degrees. The Spring Resort & Spa … (1 comments)

WHY HIRE PROFESSIONALS, WHEN YOU WON'T LISTEN TO THEM???? - 02/16/10 06:48 PM
This blog says it all!!
Via Valerie Osterhoudt, ABR ~ Cromwell, CT Real Estate ~ 860.883.8889 (Johnson Real Estate, Inc.):
When it comes to buying and selling property.. even renting property for that matter, there is a lot of stress that comes along with this.  Potential clients are very aware of this.  Hiring a Realtor that looks out for your best interest, and helps in trying to relieve some of this stress.  This is why you have interviewed them and have hired one that you feel is professionial.  Realtors take classes, and continuing ed classes to ensure they are up on all current … (2 comments)

The Chinese New Year 2010--Tips and Advice from Feng Shui Long Island & New York Consultant - 02/16/10 06:07 PM
 
Here are some great tips to get the good vibes flowing in!
 
Via Carole Provenzale Owner, Feng Shui Long Island & New York (Feng Shui Long Island & New York City):
The Chinese New Year 2010-Simple Ways to Ensure Success!
Part One of Feng Shui for The Chinese New Year 2010 by Feng Shui Long Island NY Consultant
There is an intensity of Energy in the Chinese New Year that is almost unmatched in other Celebrations!  Chinese and other Cultures consider this date as New Beginnings and they want to start off with the BEST possible Intentions to have a … (1 comments)

Rock Out in Old Town La Quinta! - 02/15/10 12:12 AM
Live Music in Old TownThere's always something entertaining going on in Old Town La Quinta, like live music almost every night of the week! Devane's Old Town:  Have dinner, drinks and dance the night away on Friday & Saturday nights from 8 p.m. to Midnight, featuring Dr. Paul The Music Doctor & Reggie Vision playing music from the 40's to the 90's. 760-771-5330 www.devanesoldtown.comHog's Breath Inn:  Relax to the soothing sounds of a piano singer (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Saturday nights) or the lively 60's to 80's music of Sergio & Shirley (Friday nights) 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. 760-564-5556  www.hogsbreathinnlaquinta.comOld Town … (2 comments)

How Do You Sell The Dream Without a House or... My First Lot Listing! - 02/14/10 08:56 PM
Tonite I heard from a past client with a Lot for sale at The Hideaway in La Quinta... it has been on the market for a long time and he is ready to get it sold !  I have been given the opportunity to market a wonderful Lot, with a beautiful location on the course at The Hideaway Golf Club-- it has incredible views of the Santa Rosa Mountains in charming La Quinta, California. 
It all sounds swell... but ActiveRainers, this is my first Lot-- How Do You Sell The Dream Without a House?  What resources do you use ?  What … (5 comments)

Don't take a fake wife to a Real Estate closing! - 02/14/10 08:17 PM
These are some great "real" stories about the Real Estate business-- You can't make this stuff up!  Enjoy!
For more great info and fun go to LiveTheDesertLife.com !
Via Bill Swanson - Omaha Homes For Sale (402) 964-4871 (CBSHome Real Estate):
There are oodles of "don't do this" and "be sure to do that" lists available on the net for real estate advice but I thought I would rack my brain of 23+ years of real estate experience for a few ‘non-traditional' pieces of advice. Everything you are about to read is true. SOME names, however, are changed to protect the... the... less … (3 comments)

Here's a Perfect Topic for a Valentine's Day Blog Post: Passion! - 02/14/10 06:37 PM

Via Melissa Zavala Realtor® North San Diego County Homes (Broadpoint Properties):
To all of you romantics out there: I'd like to wish you a Happy Valentine's Day. Yesterday Mr. Zavala and I watched the movie Office Space. It's an oldie, but a goodie. I know lots of folks have seen it before but it really got me to thinkin' about passion in the workplace.
No, I'm not talking about interoffice romances. I'm talking about passion for what you do -real estate, that is. In the movie, the three main characters are Gilbert-type lemmings that work in cubicles and are not too thrilled … (1 comments)

Have a Question ? Need Some Answers? Check ACTIVERAIN First! - 02/13/10 07:11 PM
If you are an ActiveRain member- I hope you realize the incredible resource we have available to us in the ActiveRain Community.  I was contacted by a telemarketer trying to sell me a Real Estate Web-Site service-- and the first place I went for answers was ActiveRain.  I typed in the company's name in the search option-- and it directed me to numerous blogs, with many, many comments regarding the service.  Reviews came in both good and bad-- but I was given current, relevant information that I could immediately apply to my decision! 
Thank you, ActiveRain, for being such a great … (2 comments)

Give Back and Enjoy a Great Evening in Old Town La Quinta! - 02/13/10 01:07 PM
Charity Soup EventOld Town Artisan Studio78-100 Main Street, Suite 104Thursday, February 18, 20106 p.m. to 9 p.m.Enjoy an evening of food, wine and live music and support the Old Town Artisan Studio, a non-profit organization serving the artistic needs of youth, special needs children and seniors with hands on clay pottery and clay sculpture training and education.A sampling of Hors d'oeuvres, soup and cookies from Old Town Restaurants will be served.  A raffle will be held for a spa package at The La Quinta Resort valued at $1,000.  There will also be a silent auction and door prizes running throughout the … (0 comments)

Stroll in the Sunshine and Shop for Fresh Produce in La Quinta! - 02/13/10 12:59 PM
Old Town Farmers MarketSunday, February 14, 20108 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Visit the Certified Farmers Market on Main Street at Old Town La Quinta, where you will find the freshest, best tasting produce including fresh fruit & vegetables, honey, nuts, cheese, cut flowers & plants, fresh-baked breads from L'Artisan Bakery and live chef demonstrations! Come by and see us at The Lori Bowers Group!  For more info on what's hot and happening in the desert go to LiveTheDesertLife.com !The Farmers Market is open every Sunday through May from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. with live music entertainment from 9 a.m. to 12:30 … (0 comments)

How to Make a Creative Valentine! - 02/13/10 12:36 PM
 

                                                         HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!
 
Did you already go buy the box of chocolates, the roses, the pre-made card?  Does'nt your sweetheart deserve a little more than that?  It is'nt about the amount of money you spend--it is about the amount of time-thought-effort you put into it that really matters! 
This year-- take the initiative and use your brain- as well as your heart!  This quick video will give you some new and fun ideas to make that Valentines Day something special!!
How To Make a Creative Valentine on Howcast … (1 comments)

Art Under the Umbrellas in Old Town La Quinta - 02/13/10 12:22 PM

Art Under the UmbrellasSaturday, February 13, 201010 a.m. to 4 p.m.Art Under the Umbrellas is a diverse collection of 70+ artists exhibiting their original creations along Main Street in Old Town La Quinta. This popular event also features live entertainment and wine tasting at Old Town Cellar & Wine Bar. When you are in Old Town, come on by The Lori Bowers Group and see us!  And for more info on what's new and fun in the desert visit LiveTheDesertLife.com !Additional dates include: March 27 and April 10, 2010.  Art Under the Umbrellas is a partnership with Old Town La … (0 comments)

“I’m listing with the agent who suggests the highest asking price! - 02/10/10 10:03 PM
What a timely post! 
Via Mark & Elly Ostrovsky (Howard Hanna Smythe Cramer):
"I'm listing my house with the agent who comes in with the highest asking price on my property."
 
"Tis an old maxim in the schools
That flattery's the food of fools
Yet now and then your men of wit
Will condescend to take a bit."
 
The great writer Jonathan Swift understood that flattery is powerful enough to trick otherwise very bright individuals ... and that was some three hundred years ago. Yes, some agents know that a good way to get the listing is to flatter you by inflating … (2 comments)

Temecula Valley Wine Tour coming up for La Quinta Residents - 02/10/10 11:27 AM
This sounds like a fun event!  For more info on what's happening in the desert check out LiveTheDesertLife.com!
Via The Lori Bowers Group:
For all the wine lovers out here in the Coachella Valley, I wanted to remind you to save the date.
Feb 27 @ 9 am with bus returning around 5:15.
What a great way to enjoy fine wine, tour the beautiful wineries in Temecula and meet new people.  For $29 per person you get a luxury bus ride, time at 3 well known wineries and the best part is you don't have to worry about drinking and driving.  Cost of … (1 comments)

Canadians still love La Quinta, California - even in the rain! - 02/10/10 11:21 AM

Via The Lori Bowers Group:
La Quinta and Indio, California, land of 360 days a year of sunshine has experienced much more rain than usual this year. La Quinta and Indio have had over 5 inches of rain when the average is around 3 inches a year. The Canadians who stop by our office do not mind at all. They are happy to be in 65+ temperatures and playing golf and relaxing. What we feel is bad weather in La Quinta and Indio is wonderful for the Canadians visiting. Now for sure, they would rather have 80 degrees and sunny, but nonetheless … (1 comments)

Time is NOW to invest in Real Estate in La Quinta and Indio, California - 02/10/10 11:18 AM

Via The Lori Bowers Group:
Our prices have leveled out for the past month. It looks like now is the time to invest in real estate in La Quinta and Indio, California. Prices are at prices of 2001 and even lower. There are many nice homes in great locations available. Interest rates are lower than in many years. La Quinta and Indio is where the sun shines 360 days a year and there are over 120 golf courses in the area not to mention hiking trails, biking trails, restaurants, and great shopping too. There are very few apartments in La Quinta and … (2 comments)

Let Your Broker Help YOU! - 02/09/10 08:25 PM
I have several deals going right now-- working with skittish buyers, and frustrated sellers.  It is no accident, that I went to work FOR WITH a very experienced Broker, Lori Bowers.  I have been in the Real Estate business for less than 5 years-- and I sought out a forward thinking, progressive, and saavy Mentor to guide me and help me steer through these challenging markets.
Tomorrow morning we are meeting with Sellers who are anxious to get an offer-- I am hoping to learn some new techniques, verbage, and skills  to help build their confidence,  settle their nerves, and find … (2 comments)

Advanced Social Media Strategies - 02/08/10 10:41 PM

Via Carlos Scarpero (Dayton SEO Services):
If you have been following my other posts, you now know the basics of Twitter and you also know how RSS feeds work. If you have not read those posts yet, please read those before continuing.
Today, I’m going to show you how to put it all together and automate your social media. These services are not anywhere close to all of the services available for social media. However, these are the ones that I personally use and recommend. Best of all, they are all free for basic accounts.
The first service that you should know … (0 comments)

My Broker is Forcing us to Join ActiveRAin! - 02/08/10 06:52 PM
My Broker, Lori Bowers, is a very progressive Broker, Realtor, and Agent... she embraces change, believes in the power of social media and the internet-- and the advantages of joining ActiveRAin ! 
In the last few weeks she has begun a campaign within the office to get our Agents to join the ActiveRain community and get blogging!  She has had contests for fun prizes like gift cards to Old Town Coffee and the requirements are
1. Post 3 Blogs on ACTIVERAIN!
2. 5 Comments on our YOUTube videos
3. Post 3 ads on Craigslist
4. Record 3 Flip Videos of properties
… (97 comments)

Cast Your Vote for Best of the Valley ! - 02/08/10 04:09 PM
Every year they publish the Best of the Valley picks for the Coachella Valley and California Desert area!  The categories include burgers, sports bars, theatres, hiking, happy hours, spas, dog parks, wine shops, furniture stores, tennis courts, car washes, high schools, and many, many more categories! If you love the desert as much as I do-- check out LiveTheDesertLife.com!
You can cast your vote until February 14th-- and I will publish the results to see how your favorites fared! 
Click on the icon below to cast your VOTE !   
… (0 comments)

Short Sale Tips in La Quinta and Indio, California - 02/08/10 03:35 PM
 
Via The Lori Bowers Group:
Do you owe more than your home is worth? Are you having trouble making your payments due to financial hardship like divorce, health issues, loss of job or cut of income on job?Our Company the Lori Bowers Group has been doing many short sales in our area for over 3 years. We are very proficient in getting the short sales excepted by the banks at minimal hassles to our clients.Here are 5 tips to help you get through this process:1. Be sure you have a complete and accurate and professionally presented package. This really makes a … (0 comments)

YELP-- Promote and Build Your Business Online free! - 02/07/10 02:12 PM
Yelp is a n online listing of businesses categorized by city or zip code-- It is a forum for people to share reviews and rate local businesses.  It is also a great way to connect with your customers and clients and answer questions, address concerns, get kudos, and reply to compaints.  This short video will help you get signed up with Yelp-- and show you how to promote your business online!  So get yelping!!
How To Use Yelp For Business Owners on Howcast … (7 comments)

What Can I Expect From A Good Buyers Agent? - 02/07/10 02:48 AM

Via Michelle Morgan (Help-U-Sell Real Estate Specialists):
Competence, efficiency, and ethics. According to the All America's Real Estate Book by Carolyn Janik and Ruth Rejnis, good agents take the time to qualify buyers and show properties in their price range. They plan showing routes carefully and have pre-inspected most properties. They have a thorough knowledge of financing options, are up on the latest housing trends, and share with prospective buyers data on the local housing market and home sales.
While more buyers now use the Internet to gain access to listings, or available properties for sale, it is still a good idea … (0 comments)

Rare Rainy Day in the California Desert! - 02/06/10 05:01 PM
We don't have many days like this in La Quinta, California!  It actually is kind of nice to have some cool cloudy days, considering the California desert has an avg. 340 days of sunshine!  We will have many, many days of bright warm weather coming soon so I am savoring this cozy day in front of the fire!  A perfect day to catch up on correspondence, answer e-mails, work on my web-site, and make some ActiveRain!  If you love the desert, follow my link to livethedesertlife.com!

… (6 comments)

80 Million Reasons to start changing your marketing....Millennials. - 02/06/10 12:53 PM
 
Via Stephen Garner (Security Title Agency. MyTitleGuy.Net (I.D.S.)):
 
I had a conversation with a colleague that I respect greatly today, Gary Miljour with Sunstreet Mortgage.  Many of you know Gary, most days that I log into AR, Gary is there in the upper right corner staring at me. One of the reasons I respect Gary is because, even though he is a loan officer today, he is a former escrow officer. The fact that he was in the escrow world gives him a unique perspective on a Real Estate transaction. It also means that he understands what I go … (0 comments)

Powerpoint, Google Maps & Localism: What A Useful Combination For Real Estate! - 02/06/10 12:49 PM

Via Mike Jones (SUNSTREET MORTGAGE, LLC):
I'm always looking for ways to illustrate my topic with visual images.  The reason?  We think visually ~ in images, and an image conveys immediate understanding in a way that words alone cannot.
This morning, I'm hiking in Agua Caliente Park.  It's an hours' drive across Tucson from my home in the Tucson Mountains.  I'll be photoblogging about it later, and I'll want my readers to have a sense of the physical and ecological context of the photos.
Google Maps will provide the tools I need for my Localism readers to understand what I want … (2 comments)

How to Buy a House! - 02/06/10 01:25 AM
This little video speaks VOLUMES!  A great tutorial for new home buyers- this could work for lenders, appraisers, inspectors,  attorneys, bankers, realtors, you name it!  Send this to newlyweds, college kids, investors and anyone who wants to buy a house!  I love that they include  the internet search along with..... CONTACT YOUR Realtor! 
HOW TO BUY A HOUSE!
How To Buy a House on Howcast … (3 comments)

La Quinta Realtor Successfully Closed More Than 40 Short Sale Transactions In 2009 - 02/06/10 12:41 AM
I am so proud to be part of such a progressive and aggressive, forward thinking Team!  The Lori Bowers Team rocks!
Via Tina Droessler (La Quinta, CA ~ The Lori Bowers Group Desert Properties):
Do you owe more on your house than what it is worth? Are you unsure if you can keep your house because of unemployment or other hardship? Do you know what your options are?
If you've been considering selling your home and you owe more than what it is worth, you may have the option to sell it at no cost to you through an agreed upon short sale with … (0 comments)

Revenge is Sweet - 02/05/10 11:53 PM

Via Jane Peters Los Angeles Living, Los Angeles Homes (BRC Realty Group):
 
Three Little Words That Work!!(1)The three little words are: 'Hold On, Please...' Saying this, while putting down your phone and walking off (instead of hanging-up immediately) would make each telemarketing call so much more time-consuming that boiler room sales would grind to a halt.  Then when you eventually hear the phone company's 'beep-beep-beep' tone, you know it's time to go back and hang up your handset, which has efficiently completed its task.These three little words will help eliminate telephone soliciting.. (2) Do you ever get those annoying phone … (1 comments)

Digital Marketing falls behind for most Real Estate Firms! - 02/05/10 11:43 PM
 
Good thing that The Lori Bowers Group and Schowe Properties work very hard to have a progressive and advanced online presence.... !!  Read on! 
 
Via Wayne Golliday (SEO Redefined):
Recently Brandeis University's International Business School and digital marketing firm inSegment, Inc.did a confidential interview of three hundred investment, commercial and residential real estate companies.  The survey, a "Digital Marketing Survey of the U.S. Real Estate Industry," conducted in 2009 and released this month, found that 76 percent of surveyed companies commit 40 percent or less of their marketing budgets to digital marketing, preferring traditional venues like newspapers and display ad.
We have seen … (3 comments)

The difference between short tail and long tail phrases - 02/05/10 11:37 PM

Via Wayne Golliday (SEO Redefined):
Whether you are going to do your own SEO or if you are going to hire a SEO Company it is imperative that you understand the difference between long tail and short tail keyword phrases.  Each kind is used in a specific way and each one is used in a specific place with-in your website.
Short tail keywords phrases are generally the one or two keyword phrases.  Many times it is as simple as “Miami Fl” or Chicago IL”.  Some would argue that short tail phrases can be three or four word phrases if the words … (3 comments)

Google's Wonder Wheel is Addictive - 02/05/10 05:59 PM
 
Via Dave Roberts (Healdsburg Sotheby's International Realty):
Don't read this post until you're ready to have some fun.
The advice to use keywords when you write is everywhere. Using a few phrases consistently is great for search engine optimization and it can focus your writing. On the other hand, it's easy to start sounding stale if you don't add some variety to your word choice.
Google's team developed a search and keyword tool called Wonder Wheel that generates a graphical mind map (look up Tony Buzan) of keywords and related links.  It only takes a few steps to get started. I … (3 comments)

Old Town La Quinta is Over-Run with Canadians! (in a good way) - 02/05/10 05:50 PM
It seems that every couple I engage with outside our office (The Lori Bowers Group) in Old Town La Quinta lately is from CANADA!  I mean every single one!  I just have to walk outside the office and say hello-- and what part of Canada are you from? 
The Canadian dollar is strong here-- and the weather is bright and sunny ☼... a very potent combination for our northern neighbors.  The desert is the perfect place to come during those long, cold, winter months for golf, hiking, tennis, and beautiful scenery. You can check out the area by visiting LiveTheDesertLife.com
If … (1 comments)

When Friends and Real Estate Collide - 02/05/10 05:26 PM
My broker feels that all of our friends SHOULD do business with us.  They should WANT us to list and sell their homes, and they SHOULD WANT to call us when they want to buy.  But this is not reality. 
There are some (overpriced-underwater) listings that I would NOT want to try to market and sell, even for a very good friend.  Some friends would be IMPOSSIBLE to work with in finding the perfect home.  I am finding that there is alot of business out there-- don't worry if your friends choose to work with another Realtor.
My friendships are very … (8 comments)

Get Buyers Off the Fence... Tom Ferry's Tips - 02/05/10 04:55 PM
If you are like me,  you have buyers-- but they just won't pull the trigger-- it can be very frustrating!  I have been working with some of my buyers for years... they are waiting for "the bottom", waiting for "a steal", waiting for their finances to turn around, waiting and waiting.  Here are some questions to ask your buyers to help them clarify and take action!  3 QUESTIONS to help them get off the FENCE!
… (2 comments)

Beat Candace! - 02/05/10 01:22 AM

Via Mike Mueller (Tech and Social Media Consultant):
No hiding the fact that one of my favorite charities right now is Skip1.org.  You may have seen one of my tweets about them, or a Facebook post.
The fact is that I love the concept.  Skip something small and insignificant in your life, donate what you would have spent on that item, and make a very significant difference in the lives of others.
100% of the donations go directly to make a difference.  No overhead fees, no salaries, $1 in makes a $1 difference there.  Speaking of “there”, while Skip1 works worldwide, right now the … (0 comments)

Indio Golf Course Homes Starting At $294,880 - 02/05/10 12:55 AM
 
Via Tina Droessler (La Quinta, CA ~ The Lori Bowers Group Desert Properties):
Del Webb Sun City Shadow Hills, an active adult community, just released its Phase 3 South facing golf course lots with water views. These golf course lots are ready for you to choose your own floor plan. Floor plans range from 1,652 square feet to an expansive 2,971 square feet.  Prices start as low as $319,880 with South facing mountain views on the golf course. Del Webb Sun City Shadow Hills also offers homes off the golf course starting as low as $181,000. Phase 3 is the final phase of this #1 selling community. Now is the time to buy! 
… (0 comments)

Do You Hold Night-Time Showings? - 02/05/10 12:53 AM
Tonite I held an appointment only OPEN HOUSE, with fire pits, fire place, pool lights, & outside down-lites a blazing!   I opened some wine and softened the lights to create a cozy atomosphere and the buyers came to see a fabulous home at night. Our La Quinta CC Clubhouse created a beautiful backdrop in the distance with the lake fountain on the 18th hole dancing in the distance! I feel that an evening showing can show the buyer my listings in a very unique way.  Some homes are so much more appealing with the lights low and the special fire features … (6 comments)

Adding Your Outside Blog to Your Facebook Fan Pages - 02/04/10 04:29 PM

Via Brooke Villano (The Legacy Group):
Hello all my tech savvy peeps! This is a great way to share your outside Blog (Active Rain or other) with your fans on Facebook.
Go to your Fan Page>Edit Page>Notes Section.
Select >Edit
You will see a light blue shaded box on the right side of your Notes sections...select >Import a blog
On the next screen enter your >blog url address...and select >Start Importing
Facebook will show you a sample of your entries...if the entries your blog...select >Confirm Import.
Now your blog entries will be imported into the Notes section of your Fan Page.
Happy Blogging Everyone!!
… (1 comments)

Home and Condo Sales Statistics for Coachella Valley - 02/03/10 12:40 AM

Via Kimberley Kelly (HK Lane Real Estate Co.):
Home & Condo Sales for Coachella Valley.  As I firmly believe and keep seeing from my daily neighborhood examinations..on the street and through statistics, the Coachella Valley is seeing lots of Sales.  The following sales are MEDIAN SALES PRICES which I do not put much faith in.  However, in my local Coachella Valley area, they are closer to the truth because prices have stabilized in the lowest priced areas.  These stats are courtesy of DataQuick in La Jolla, CA., and were for Nov. of 2009.  Indio:  92201   78 homes @ $159/sf 9 condos @ $89/sfIndio:  … (0 comments)

Seismic activity that shaped the Coachella Valley, Do you know about Earthquakes? - 02/03/10 12:35 AM

Via The Lori Bowers Group:
With the earthquake is Haiti, earthquakes are once again on every ones mind.  The level of destruction, suffering and pain brought on by these quakes is something no one can pretend do not exist.  But do you understand earthquakes? Seismic Activity? How seismic activity shapes the Coachella Valley?
The La Quinta Historical Society is holding an amazing educational tour , you wont want to miss.  February 9th a bus tour narrated by Harry Quinn an author, anthropologist and educator will  visit geographical sites including the famous San Andreas Fault.  Learn not only about the Seismic activity but … (0 comments)

Is the California Market on the rebound? - 02/03/10 12:32 AM

Via The Lori Bowers Group:
I was reading an article in the local paper about the housing market in California.  According to the article Mortgage default notices for California homeowners dropped  24 percent during the fourth quarter. So this sounds like great news right? Should we be rejoicing that the crash is finally over?  Or is there a catch?  As I kept reading I saw the downside.  According to the facts, the median priced home market appears to be stabilizing while the high end homes in the top percent of the market are now taking over in the default department.  So while it … (2 comments)

What Do Homebuyers Want Now? Newest Trends - 02/02/10 01:10 AM
 
Via Shirley Parks, North San Antonio TX Real Estate 210.414.0966 (sands realty):
What do homebuyers want now?
Home designers and builders speaking at the International Builders Show held recently in Las Vegas reported that today's buyers want cost-effective features and don't want things that have no lasting value.  That sounds like a smart idea.
Carol Lavender, president of the Lavender Design Group here in San Antonio says that it's all about family togetherness - casual living, entertaining and flexible spaces. Avid Ratings conducts an annual survey of buyer preferences. Paul Cardis, CEO, says that these are the new must-haves for buyers:
Large kitchens with islands Energy efficiency, including energy-efficient appliances, super … (2 comments)

HELP! I Dropped My Phone in the Pool! - 02/01/10 11:59 PM

Our phones are our lifelines-- to clients, friends,and family.  Okay, I wanted a new phone-- but I did not drop it in the pool on purpose!  How many of us have dropped, kerplunked, flushed, drowned our most important tool for our business?  Here is a short video on how to give your phone CPR--- and perhaps revive it from an unexpected plunge !
How To Fix a Wet Cell Phone on Howcast … (12 comments)

 
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Kathy Schowe~ La Quinta, California 760-333-8886

La Quinta, CA

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Intero Real Estate La Quinta

Address: 78065 Main Street, Suite #107, LaQuinta, CA, 92253

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