Leslie's Blog

Please Go Vote--It is so Important! Access to Voter's Guide etc.

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:42:01 -0600

I was over to help babysit one of my grandsons yesterday while the other was being taken to the doctor by his Dad.

I noticed his voter's ballot on the window sill and asked if it was ready to go. He said "no he hadn't really studied the issues or the people." I have been busy telephoning for both the King County Executive and Mayoral campaigns, and found this disapointing. I will talk to him today--not to persuade but to encourage him to become part of the process.

We in this State have had first hand experience of how important each vote can be. I often think of countries that are dealing with voter fraud and the people that they cannot get elected because of it. Maybe another thing that drives me harder in this is that it took so long for women to get the vote.

On the Washington Women’s History Consortium’s website it says In 1867 the Washington Territorial Legislature passed a law giving the right to vote 'to all white citizens above the age of 21." This law became the rallying point for early women's suffrage advocates who cited the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution in conjunction with the law which defined "citizen" as being "all persons born or naturalized in the United States."

This election will be determined by you. You must return your ballot before 8pm to any King County Elections Drop Box across King County or, with postage, mail by the last drop at the Post Office.

You can get a copy of your voter's guide.

Please ask your family members, friends and neighbors to return their ballot. And forward this message to remind others to vote!

P.S. My son-in-law took his ballot to work with him.

For help with your Seattle/Everett/Bellevue/Kent real estate needs: LuvSeattle.com

Sad News in Seattle/Everett--Boeing moving 2nd 787 line to South Carolina

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:25:34 -0500

I just heard it on the radio. The info. from The Boeing Company: Get info here

This could mean many things to the Seattle area. Real Estate may become even more affordable--and houses may be even more difficult to sell. I worked for The Boeing Company for 23 years and many things are just swirling through my mind.

I have been to Charleston, South Carolina and it is a wonderful place.

For help with your Seattle/Everett/Bellevue/Kent real estate needs: LuvSeattle.com

Could you use another home? Dream House Raffle in Marin County, California

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 15:21:42 -0500

Marketing is high on most business owners mind and the following is a very interesting way to do so.

There is a raffle going on to support Community Action Marin. For over 40 years it has served the neediest in the community by “providing a broad range of support services including early childhood education, mental health, employment and job training, food programs, housing assistance, HIV and AIDS services and much more.”

To continue support of their mission, they have partnered with Wells Fargo Bank, The Marin Independent Journal, and Comcast to raffle off a “Dream Home” among other prizes. Their marketing piece says “you not only stand to win life changing prizes, but you also give life changing opportunities to individuals, families and children in need.”

The 3,000 sq. ft. home is on ¼ acre and has a view of San Francisco Bay from all of the rooms. It is surrounded by open space, shoreline and parkland. It has 3 bedrooms, 3 baths and a private elevator.

The second early bird drawing will be on this Friday, October 30th and another will be on January 8th. There are also “multi-ticket” bonus drawings that has a 2010 Toyota Prius or $25,000 cash for 1st prize.

The price of each ticket is $150. You can enter by mail, fax or telephone. Check out the link and see if you would like to forgo your regular lotto purchases for a while and enter this Dream House Raffle—it is for a good cause.

For your real estate needs in Seattle/Eastside and Kent www.LuvSeattle.com

Another thing for Bob Stewart to get excited about

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 08:50:13 -0500

I just read Bob Stewart's post "Wells Fargo CEO John Stumpf - Do the right thing (Or Do Something....and QUICK)." It was about an employee of Wells Fargo really screwing up and that Bob was advising the CEO to do something soon so that Wells Fargo could keep it's credibility.

As of this writing Bob has received 146 comments. Well, I have an even bigger story. I have been reading Culture of Corruption, by Michelle Malkin and it discusses the "tax cheats, crooks and cronies" that are in very high ranking positions of our government.

I will tell you that she is a conservative columnist and she was quite active right here writing in Seattle. Some of her biography from her website says "Michelle Malkin began her career in newspaper journalism with the Los Angeles Daily News, where she worked as an editorial writer and weekly columnist from 1992-94. In 1995, Michelle Malkin was named Warren Brookes Fellow at the Competitive Enterprise Institute in Washington, D.C. In 1996, Michelle Malkin joined the editorial board of the Seattle Times, where Michelle Malkin penned editorials and weekly columns for three and a half years. Today, Michelle Malkin's syndicated column appears in over 100 papers nationwide. Michelle Malkin's work has been cited in The New York Times, The Washington Post, USA Today, Reader's Digest and U.S. News and World Report. Michelle Malkin's freelance work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, Weekly Standard and Reason magazine. Michelle Malkin has appeared on "The O'Reilly Factor," "Hannity and Colmes," "The McLaughlin Group" and "20/20," and is currently a Fox News commentator."

But before you delete this--take the time to do a little reading and see where the entanglements are. This is important to all of us. Some of the book is too heated for me but the threads that weave back and forth that lead to big money and promotions of people that really have done wrong is quite scary.

I am just tired of corruption--where ever it is. There seem to be several foxes guarding hen houses. And this too, Mr. Stewart, should have some examination and quickly.

What has your client taught you lately? How to change MLS forms to PDF to send to clients

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 13:39:35 -0500

My home scanner was giving me fits and I wanted to send my clients forms from the MLS that I had pre-printed and filled out. He told me about Cute PDF Writer and walked me through it. It is FREE and works well.

I saved my completed mls forms on my computer. Then I downloaded the writer. You then go to your printer and make Cute PDF Writer you default printer. You then go to the pages you have saved and click print and it will open up Cute PDF Writer and you can save it as a PDF. It will then be an attachment that you can email to your clients.

The copies are so much cleaner than faxes.

For your real estate needs in Seattle/Eastside and Kent www.LuvSeattle.com

You may need ISA someday

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 17:38:06 -0500

I have a client from out-of-state that is coming here for a home inspection. The property they are buying is 1 1/2 acres with many trees. They wanted to have an arborist check on the health of the trees. This is the first time this has come up for me and I didn't know where to look for one. I asked some people in the office and they didn't know either.

I had very good luck with a resource because I had taken my youngest grandson to a playfield in Fremont and there were two ladies working in the park gardens. I mentioned my clients need for an arborist and one of them said to go to "ISA" on the internet and find a ISA certified consultant for the properties. ISA "The International Society of Arboriculture is a worldwide professional organization dedicated to fostering a greater appreciation for trees and to promoting research, technology, and the professional practice of arboriculture."

ISA has an excellent website. Their link to "Consumer Education" goes to a site called "Trees Are Good" at http://www.treesaregood.org/ This site has a button "find a tree care service" where you can find a tree care service or check to see if someone has an ISA Certification. There are also buttons called "Frequently Asked Questions" and "Fun Facts."

You may have wondered why a picture of a buck. Well, the property is in Issaquah and wild life is often in the area.

For your real estate needs in Seattle/Eastside and Kent www.LuvSeattle.com

What kind of glasses should a REALTOR wear?

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 18:49:24 -0500

It has been at least four years since I have had an eye exam and well over due for new glasses. A very good thing is that I can see a little better farther away--the doctor says "that sometimes comes with age."

The first thing I told the Optician was that I wanted "to look like Sarah Palin" (no matter what your political leanings are, you have to admit she looks pretty good in those glasses of hers). Well, I tried her glasses on and there was just no big transformation.

Next I told him that red is my best color (not thinking the red glasses would be an option). I did ask what glasses a REALTOR should wear to help them sell more houses. He pointed out some with quite bold frames that made me look very serious--and many others going for that "professional" look. I tried on some frames that wrapped around my face that he said were for "skaters and bikers." I just looked like a big bug!

We then went into green frames--my second favorite color and I was all set to purchase this pair that fit my face quite well...until he showed me the tomato red ones! Naturally they cost quite a bit more than the other ones but they made me feel spunky and full of fun (which is how I am on the inside).

I also needed a pair of sunglasses--yup, they are red!

The Optician said that people will always remember that I am the REALTOR with the red glasses! I must say that he did a great job--I liked his help and I would recommend him. In fact, he is Warren Ruby at Broadway Vision Source and I liked Dr. Riley F. Nakatsu (he conducted the exam). I went to him last week because I was seeing flashes of light and floaters. He was able to get me right in the day I called for a medical exam--and was very thorough. It looks like it is another "age thing" and I have spoken with several friends that have had the same thing--which seems to be insignificant this time. But, these can be symptoms of something very serious so do get checked if you have the same symptoms.

It will take six to ten days to get the glasses and I will need to get new pictures--maybe I will just get pictures of the glasses--it would be a lot cheaper!

LuvSeattle.com for your Seattle/Bellevue real estate needs.

Mega Millions Drawing Tomorrow, 8/28/2009, update 10/9/09 $145 Mil.

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 17:49:35 -0500

Well, obviously, I didn't win the Mega in August but tonight's drawing would suffice. $145 million would go far enough for most people. I would be quite happy if that winner needed help with this REALTOR!

The Mega MillIons Drawing tomorrow will be worth $325 million. I just wanted to encourage you to buy a ticket and if you are lucky enough to be a winner I will gladly help you find the "home of your dreams." While I was buying some tickets today there was a woman waiting in front of me and I asked her if she knew of anyone that needed a REALTOR and that I was one. She said "no, but I will take one of your cards." She said she has six kids and if she wins she will be buying several houses.

It would be a REALTOR's dream to help a big lotto winner! So as my coach always says "I'M HERE FOR YOU!"

It is fun to just dream sometimes.

Our broker said that if he won he would give all of his agents $20,000. His name is Ken Bell of Realty Executives BRIO in Bellevue, Washington.

WWW.LuvSeattle.com

Be Sure to Get your Ballot in the Post Office by 8:00 Tonight--My Recommendations

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 13:36:50 -0500

Dad always taught me to stand up for what I believe in so here goes!

I have been complaining for a long time about our Mayor and some members of the Seattle City Council--now is the time we can make some real changes.

I like Joe Mallahan for Mayor. I am a Republican but I was phone calling on his behalf because we need a change. He has had business experience and that is something this city needs. The Municipal League gave him a rating of "excellent." Check out www.joemallahan.com for information.

I like Sally Bagshaw for Position #4--she is more mainstream. Second choice would be Dorsal Plants, a young and impressive candidate, who might bring a fresh perspective to City Hall.

I like Marty Kaplan for Position #6--is is an architect and has run his own business for years, so his experience would be unique on the Council. My second choice would be Nick Licata who is always will to buck the Mayor's office.

I like Robert Rosencrantz for Position #8. He is a businessman and in commercial real estate, plus he had a solid record of civic achievement--mostly in public housing.

For County Executive is like Susan Hutchison. Her election will bring new Department chairs, which is something badly needed, and a review of previous executive orders. Others in the race will mean business as usual.

Please vote--it is important.

www.LuvSeattle.com

P.S.

Ballots must be postmarked or dropped at a Ballot Drop Box TODAY to be counted in this Primary Election. King County has ballot drop boxes throughout the county to provide voters with a way to securely return their ballots without the cost of postage. For the August 18 primary, ballot drop boxes will close at 8 p.m.

Ballot Drop Box Locations: Auburn Library, 1102 Auburn Way S., Auburn, 98002 Library Connection @ Crossroads, 15600 NE 8th St., Suite K-11, 98008 Black Diamond Library, 24707 Roberts Dr., 98010 Covington Library, 27100 164th Ave SE, 98042 Des Moines Library, 21620 11th Avenue S., 98198 Fall City Library, 33415 SE 42 Pl., 98024 Federal Way Library, 848 S 320th St, 98003 Kent Regional Library, 212 2nd Ave N, 98032 Renton, King County Elections, 919 SW Grady Way, 98057 Lake Forest Pk Library, 17171 Bothell Way NE, 98155 Seattle, King County Administration Building, 500 Fourth Ave., 98104 Seattle, White Center Library, 11220 16th S.W., Seattle, 98146 Woodinville Library, 17105 Avondale Rd NE, 98072

Seattle Neighborhood Service Center locations:

Ballard, 5604 22nd Ave NW, 98107 Delridge, 5405 Delridge Way SW, 98106 Central, 2301 S Jackson, 98144 Lake City, 12525 28th Ave NE, 98125 Southeast, 3815 S Othello St, 98118 University, 4534 University Way NE, 98105

Mixing pain with pleasure for a good cause

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 21:46:13 -0500

It seems every year I charge ahead into something new. Well, this summer it is the “Team in Training” for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Team in Training has marathons and hiking also.

In November I will be riding my new bicycle for 100 miles in Tucson. Until three weeks ago I hadn’t ridden a bicycle in years (and never very well). I have now ridden 17 miles at one time—and am thoroughly enjoying this activity. With the “heat wave” Seattle has been having this summer I find the breeze that comes with biking helps to cool me off--something that I never got when running. This is an activity that I intend to stay with as a future goal is to take bicycling vacations. I will write more on that at another time.

This morning was our first training meeting and I found some helpful tips from the mentors: 1. Gregg’s bicycle shop has a machine you sit on to get fitted for the correct seat. 2. Bicycle shoes with cleats and the corresponding pedals greatly improve your riding because it gets you using the back of your thigh muscle. 3. The cleat releases your shoe when you twist your foot a little. I had envisioned not being able to get my foot off the pedal while I falling over (yes I do that).

I will keep you posted (that is a pun) on how the ride are going and when I come up with new tips.

Now for the most important part—this is a fund raiser for Leukemia. Did you know?

Blood cancers such as leukemia, Hodgkin lymphoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, myeloma and myelodysplastic syndromes are cancers that originate in the bone marrow or lymphatic tissues. They are considered to be related cancers because they involve the uncontrolled growth of cells with similar functions and origins. The diseases result from an acquired genetic injury to the DNA of a single cell, which becomes abnormal (malignant) and multiplies continuously. The accumulation of malignant cells interferes with the body's production of healthy blood cells.

40 years ago the survival rate for children with leukemia was 4%--today it is right around 90%. Leukemia affects 10 times as many adults and survival is significantly less. More than six people every hour die from a blood cancer?

How can you help? You can go to my fundraising website and make a donation, join a team or refer me to folks as a real estate agent so I can contribute more (any or all of the above is welcome!)

Besides School Ratings--Information on How to Judge Good Schools and How to Help Your Child

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Tue, 19 May 2009 13:35:22 -0500

I use GreatSchools.net often to look at the ratings of schools in different areas and suggest that my clients also go to the website. It is a good site to find what each school offers. While on the website today I noticed something I hadn't paid attention to before. There are articles for each level of school.

For instance, under preschool they have several topics:

Preschool 10 Signs of a Great Preschool The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) suggests signs of a great preschool. NAEYC

What to Expect at Preschool: Science Preschool teachers share science by taking advantage of children's innate curiosity about the world. Scholastic

What to Expect at Preschool: Art Hands-on craft projects in preschool build a surprising set of skills.

Scholastic What to Expect at Preschool: Math. Math is an everyday experience for your child. The best teachers know how to capitalize on it.

Scholastic What to Expect at Preschool: Literacy Time-tested classroom strategies will help your preschooler develop early reading skills. Scholastic How Academic Should a Preschool Be? A good preschool will help your child build academic skills while also allowing time to learn through play.

Under each topic they also give suggestions as to what can be done at home. In the science section they talk about watching nature programs on television. They suggest going on nature walks and noticing rocks, leaves, clouds etc. and talking about them. They also mention involving preschoolers in sorting the laundry--what a concept!

Some of the things my three year old grandson loves doing that is science related is playing with flashlights, cooking, going to the Children's Museum (at the Seattle Center), going to the zoo, the aquarium, and the many city parks.

There are enough activities suggested under each topic to keep you all well occupied.

If you know of a school you especially like, you can go onto the website and write a review.

LuvSeattle for property searches and real estate information Seattle, Eastside, King, Pierce and Snohomish Counties. Just click on the "Realty Watcher" button on the home page.

Helpful Hint to Retrieve Valuables that Went Down the Drain

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Sun, 10 May 2009 14:50:11 -0500

I received an email from one of my brother-in-laws and it was so helpful. It is from the website called "familyhack.com." Family hack says on their website "We are a family with three small kids figuring out how to travel the world, work from anywhere while home schooling our kids. We also blather on about life hacks, saving money and cool stuff we love." The website is great, some sample categories they have are: Age 2-4, Age 5-7, Books, Maintenance & Repairs and Work.

This particular feature is on how to get something out of a drain without calling a plumber. You do need a wet and dry vac! View the link if you have time--it could save you lots of time and money! Here

Hope this comes in handy for you!

LuvSeattle for property searches and real estate information Seattle, Eastside, King, Pierce and Snohomish Counties. Just click on Realty Watches on the home page.

To Call or Not to Call--That is the Question?

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Sun, 10 May 2009 13:19:23 -0500

Happy Mother's Day Everyone!

My Mother's Day will begin at 5:00 this evening with dinner with my daughter's family in Wallingford. I should walk around Green Lake after that!

Anyway, I was looking at my list of folks I should call (old friends, past clients, people I am working with and potential clients)and debating if I should make that call! Yes, it is Mother's Day--are people going to feel interrupted?

I have decided I am going to call the "old friends and relatives" the ones that I have not kept in touch with--not because I did it intentionally, but because it is so easy to not keep balance in my life. A perfect balance, would be to see those folks at least once a quarter--because we enjoy each other's company.

Maybe that should be the tradition--call friends and relatives on the holidays--that would do it!!

Enjoy the Day!

P.S. If you don't know how the "Mother's Day" Tradition started click on the "Google" logo today.

www.LuvSeattle.com for full service real estate consultant assistance in Greater Seattle, Eastside and Kent. Ask me for a copy of my Market Watch for your area.

Seattle Friends of the Library, Magnuson Park Book Sale is Coming Soon

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 11:22:57 -0500

This is a reminder that the Friends of the Seattle Public Library is soon having it's Magnuson Park Book Sale. It will be Saturday, April 18, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday April 19, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Magnuson Park is located at 7400 Sand Point Way N..E. Hangar 30, in Seattle

They would like you to please bring your own boxes. I would recommend that you bring your book lists with you. This is a very popular event so you may want to arrive early.

LuvSeattle.com for full service real estate consultant in Greater Seattle, Eastside and Kent. Ask me for a copy of my Market Watch for your area.

What Does Today's "Google" Logo Mean

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 15:55:52 -0500

One of the things I admire about Google is that for holidays they decorate their Logo. I also wonder how long does it take them to do the artwork and enjoy what they come up with. Today's logo has me stumped. It sort of looks like a moon scape but I don't know.

Can anyone out there enlighten me?

LuvSeattle.com for Seattle, Bellevue, Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont, Ballard, Queen Anne, Magnolia, Laurelhurst, View Ridge, Windermere and Kent, Washington Real Estate Property Listings.

Listening to Jeffrey Kleintop Talk About Our Market on Royal Argosy Cruise

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Sat, 14 Mar 2009 15:42:18 -0500

On Thursday, I was invited by my financial advisor, Mike Dukes (with BECU), to go on a Royal Argosy Cruise (leaving Pier 56) to listen to Jeffrey Kleintop, CFA, Chief Market Strategist at LPL Financial. If you "google" his name you can see different interviews he has had.

First of all, it was a beautiful day and Mt. Rainier and the Olympic Mountians were glorious.

Mr. Kleintop spoke about:

How we Got Here
Bubble Trouble
Presidential Pattern
Recommendations

He did say there are some leading indication of some improved signs of growth. Metal prices are rising and the Port traffic is rising.

I asked him "What keeps you awake at night? And, what do you think we should think about investing in?" He said "Inflation is his biggest worry and that he feels techology, industrials and retail should be the first to recover."

He feels dollar cost averaging is the way to go and feels that by "around midyear we'll begin to see a sustainable move higher."

I enjoyed his talk and the luncheon cruise. If you haven't taken a cruise of Seattle's waterfront it is well worth it.

LuvSeattle.com for Seattle, Bellevue, Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont, Ballard, Queen Anne, Magnolia, Laurelhurst, View Ridge, Windermere and Kent, Washington Real Estate Property Listings.

Do you Know What Advantages There are For Borrowers In the new Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan?

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 15:07:55 -0500

Under the Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan, eligible borrowers who stay current on their mortgages but have been unable to refinance to lower their interest rates because their homes have decreased in value, may now have the opportunity to refinance into a 30 or 15 year, fixed rate loan. Through the program, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will allow the refinancing of mortgage loans that they hold in their portfolios or that they placed in mortgage backed securities.

Eligible loans will now include those where the new first mortgage (including any refinancing costs) will not exceed 105% of the current market value of the property. For example, if your property is worth $200,000 but you owe $210,000 (or less) you may qualify. The current value of your property will be determined after you apply to refinance.

This program is limited to loans held or securitized by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Check with your lender as they may have sold the loan to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac but they are still managing the loan.

There is much more information available on: www.whitehouse.gov go to the blog and scroll down to Feb. 18th.

LuvSeattle.com for Seattle, Bellevue, Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont, Ballard, Queen Anne, Magnolia, Laurelhurst, View Ridge, Windermere and Kent, Washington Real Estate Property Listings.

There are Definite Reasons to do a Short Sale Rather Than go Through a Foreclosure

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 14:42:29 -0500

Our sales meeting this morning gave loads of information regarding Foreclosures vs short sales.

The following are a few reasons sellers should seriously consider a short sale rather than go through a foreclosure:

FORECLOSURE

A homeowner who loses a home (primary residence) to foreclosure is ineligible for a Fannie Mae backed mortgage for a period of 5 years.

Future loan with any mortgage company on any future 1003 application (standard loan appication), a prospective borrower will have to answer YES to question C, in Section VIII, that asks, "Have you had property foreclosed upon, or given title or deed in lieu thereof?" This will affect all future rates.

Credit score may be lowered anywhere from 150 to over 300 points. Typically, this will affect the score for over 3 years.

SHORT SALE

A homeowner (on primary residence) who successfully negotiates and closes a short sale will be eligible for a Fannie Mae backed mortgage after only 2 years.

There is no declaration of whether or not you have had a property foreclosed on.

On a short sale, only late payments on mortgage will show, and after sale, mortgage will be reported as paid or negotiated. This will lower the score as little as 50 points, if all other payments are being made. A short sale's effect can be as brief as 12 to 18 months.

If you are at risk of losing your home and would like more information about a short sale, please let me know.

LuvSeattle.com for Seattle, Bellevue, Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont, Ballard, Queen Anne, Magnolia, Laurelhurst, View Ridge, Windermere and Kent, Washington Real Estate Property Listings.

I've been missing from Active Rain--Bad Tenants is Why!

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 15:15:15 -0500

I have been spending very little time on Active Rain and some people have noticed. Charles Buell, Seattle, WA, Home Inspector (Charles Buell Inspections.com) wrote a note on my latest post asking where I have been and hoping that I am all right. I am fine. I have been dealing with bad tenants--have you ever had any? Well, I have learned some great lessons.

Do not be too nice--this is a business.
Always do a credit check (make them pay for it) to see if they can afford the rent.
Always get a contract--even if it is month-to-month.
Check references and if you can--go see where they live.
And the latest I just learned from my insurance agent is make sure they have renter's insurance--make sure you are listed as an interested party on their policy so that you will get a copy if they cancel It should be with at least $500,000 liability. This insurance is cheap for them and it is so if they burn your house down, their insurance picks up the bill.
Take pictures of your stuff if you have any in the house.
Go in and check the place out from time-to-time
Put in important addendums in the lease--such as "tenants are not to do repairs or painting without landlord's permission in writing."

I have had to evict two different tenants because they were not paying their rent. The first family makes a habit of moving into a house and staying until they get kicked out. The emotional frustration of dealing with nasty mouthed, dishonest folks is certainly something I am not used to. The second family wasn't paying the rent and had moved in several people that I knew nothing of and having them give rent money to the tenants.

Also, some of them were drug users. As soon as I found out I told them they had to leave--I didn't want to risk losing my house.

I have been having repairs done to the holes in the walls, broken windows and ruined carpets. And painting walls that I made the mistake of letting tenants paint--Wow, some people can come up with some ugly colors and do a terrible job of painting.

Also, I have had many things stolen and had to pay for the eviction process. How about a huge water bill. Luckily, their electric bill went with them. They tried to tell the electric company that they had moved out months before they did.

There are several good things that have come out of all this.

I have been spending lots of time in the yard getting it in great shape--to me that is very satisfying.
The house is looking very good--just need to pick out a carpet color and get it installed.
My hardwood floors have been refinished and look glorious!
The last tenant is a handy man and working off what he owes.

This is a house that I have not been able to live in since my husband died in a terrible accident seven years ago. It was too depressing. Now, I have finally reached the point that I can return and feel good there. A couple of Sundays ago, early in the morning, I was in the living room with the sun streaming in and felt that I was finally home. So I am moving back in--may find a couple of housemates.

I hope this is helpful to some of you.

LuvSeattle.com for property searches in Seattle, the Eastside, and Kent

If You are Irish or Interested in the Culture---Attend the Irish Festival of Seattle on March 14th.

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 19:23:27 -0600

The Irish Festival of Seattle is going to be at the Seattle Center on Sat., March 14th; Sun, March 15th and again on Tues., March 16th.

On the Irish Heritage Club of Seattle's website they say that the Festival features "booths selling Irish and Celtic products, non-stop Irish music, singing, dancing, workshops, lectures, cultural displays, children's contests and activities, etc. In addition to the Festival Highlights listed below, there will be Genealogy Workshops, Irish Language Workshops, Cultural Exhibits and more. Family-oriented activities include wonderful Irish Musicians along with Champion Irish Stepdancers from around the Pacific Northwest. Events for children include the “Smilingest Irish Eyes Contest” and the “Most Irish-Looking Face Contest”, and other activities in the Children’s Activities Center."

I am providing the link to the Irish Heritage Club of Seattle where you can view pictures from last year's Irish Festival. You can also join the club if you are interested. I have always had an interest in different cultures and this really does look like fun!

LuvSeattle.com for Bellevue, Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont, Ballard, Bellevue, Queen Anne, Magnolia, Laurelhurst, View Ridge, and Windermere, Washington Real Estate Property Listings

Properties that can come with the furnishings

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Sat, 14 Feb 2009 14:17:47 -0600

I showed several very well staged units in one building yesterday. They offered a "just move in program." This is the first time I had seen this.

Buyers can include any of the designs with their new home purchase. That means "turnkey furnishings, no shopping, no hassles."

The cost of the furnishings is negotiated into the Purchase and Sale Agreement. This particular client had said at different showings that she "wished the furnishings came with the unit."

I can see that this could be very advantageouse to some buyers.

LuvSeattle.com

Something Fun to Do at the Airport

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 16:49:09 -0600

We have all spent plenty of time waiting for our flights at airports. I was watching ABC News online and saw a video of a Houston airport having Karaoke machines for their customers to use to entertain themselves--theirs are specifically set up for for Christmas carols. I really think this is a good idea--probably would have to have a time limit on the microphone.

I would encourage the Sea-Tac airport to look into this.

Seattle/Bellevue, Ballard, Wallingford, Queen Anne, Magnolia, Green Lake, Fremont, Washington Real Estate Property Listings.

Being Helpful is Quite Difficult When One Has Laryngitis

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 14:19:03 -0600

I woke up yesterday sounding like Minnie Mouse. I called the doctor's office and they said to come in to make sure I didn't have strep throat. Well the good thing it is not strep (according to the "fast test"--they are sending a sample into the lab for the slow test results) but I do have Laryngitis.

Laryngitis is contagious. Which means no kissing and no sharing drinking glasses and cups. It also means I shouldn't cough on anyone. So I am staying home working on the computer.

The difficult part is that I still need to answer telephone calls. I just received a call from an ActiveRain agent in Utah saying he is going to send me a referral to sell his Aunt's home. I have to take these calls because it maybe a client, or referral or even an emergency.

So if you are calling--just bear with me, I am happy to help. And it is alright to laugh at my voice!

Do you have a story to share?

Bellevue, Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont, Ballard, Bellevue, Queen Anne, Magnolia, Laurelhurst, View Ridge, and Windermere, Washington Real Estate Property Listings. Just click on the blue "homes search" button and then click on the area you wish to view. You can also search by street address or the MLS number.

Giving to the Local Community, Great Working Environment, Excellence, Coaching--Realty Executives Brio has it All!

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 15:34:00 -0600

Back on September 3rd I wrote an article about the merger between the Realty Executives office in Bellevue and BRIO Realty. After some time has gone by I can say that I am more than satisfied with that event. A few reasons that I am singing their praises:

The office members treat each other like family--they are very kind and helpful to each other, therefore, it is a very pleasant working environment. There are many social activities to get involved with (to get to know each other better) from weekly potlucks to occasional parties. We also have a monthly marketing night to focus on a marketing piece we want to get completed (we share ideas).
We give back to the community. Currently, our office is going to participate in the 24th Annual Jingle Bell Run/Walk on December 14th which supports the Arthritis Foundation. I spent several hours yesterday with a fellow agent handing out bags to Safeway shoppers to support Hopelink's food drive (it distributes non perishable food and baby items to the local food banks). Other agents are doing the same thing or going house-to-house dropping bags on door steps to be picked up later. "Since 1971, Hopelink has served homeless and low income families, children, seniors and people with disabilities. Hopelink's mission is to promote self-sufficiency for all members of our community; we help people make lasting change." Throughout the year there are events that help the community that we participate in.
Coaching. I have been in this business for five years and know how to assist a seller and a buyer. I am very good working with them and they will say so. But I cannot say enough about how important coaching is. All very successful sports figures and many business leaders have had coaches. Coaches help us to eliminate little bad habits we have created that get in our way. It also helps create very important "good" habits. But the most important thing I have found is that the use of systems helps us reach every goal. Tom Perry, of our office, has been a real estate coach for many years--he knows his stuff and wants his people to meet their goals. He does this with systems.
We expect excellence of ourselves and balance in our lives.

If you are a client, these things are important when you choose an agent (Executive in our case). If you are an agent--I hope your office does the same. Have a good year!

P.S. Realty Executives is international and has a very large presence back east.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)--the antibiotic-resistant germ + Washington State Hospitals, UPDATE 11/18/08

Leslie Bloss, Seattle Real Estate Professional (REALTY EXECUTIVES BRIO ) — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 13:32:33 -0600

I have written about MRSA before because a close family member had it a few years ago and it was extremely serious. Today, The Seattle Times has started another investigative series this time on this subject dealing with how most Washington State hospitals do not screen all patients (this is done through a cheek swab and costs approximately $20) "so that people with the germ can be isolated from other patients and treated." The article is entitled "How our Hospitals Unleased an Epidemic" by Michael J. Berens and Ken Armstrong.

"The Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that invasive MRSA infections claim at least 18,000 lives a year, more than AIDS." "The nation's most aggressive MRSA screening program is run by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). All patients are tested at 155 VA medical centers, including five in this state." "Outside the VA system, several Washington hospitals have adopted aggressive MRSA screening and isolation policies--for example Seattle Children's hospital."

I would highly recommend everyone read the article--it is part of a series and have another article on Monday and Tuesday. The most important thing I got out of it is that if you are going to have elective surgery besure to have the screening before doing so.

The second installment entitled: After Deadly Outbreaks, Hospital Slow to Change

The third installment entitled: Patients Revolt Against Hospital Secrecy, Inaction

In this last installment the article says Washington State

"passed its own report-card act in spring 2007. But hospitals have to report only one kind of infection this year: bloodstream maladies in patients who receive a central-line intravenous hookup. The report card will add a second type of infection next year, and a third by 2010. But MRSA is not among them.

Twice before, report-card legislation had died in Washington, after drawing fierce opposition from the hospital industry. The current measure represents a compromise or a first step, said state Rep. Tom Campbell, R-Roy, who sponsored the bill.

In Washington, MRSA has been linked to 1,217 deaths in the past decade, a Seattle Times analysis of hospital records shows. At least 23,707 hospital patients have been diagnosed with MRSA infections.

One Seattle hospital estimates that it costs $20,000 to treat a MRSA infection. Using that figure, MRSA's financial toll in Washington exceeds $474 million.

In the report-card bill, Washington lawmakers had included $240,000 for state health officials to investigate MRSA outbreaks, establish surveillance programs and educate health-care workers and the public about stopping the germ's spread.

The Washington Hospital Association supported the measure, which would have allotted public money to address MRSA.

But Gov. Christine Gregoire stripped the provision out, along with all kinds of other spending items. Her veto notes called the measure "valuable" but "not essential to do right now."

My conclusion is that the voter's in this state must get every lawmaker they can on board to insist that all of the hospitals do screening for MRSA, isolate patients that test positive, and use the precautions and recommendations that do eradicate MRSA. People are dying of MRSA and it is preventable.

Wallingford, Green Lake, Fremont, Ballard, Queen Anne, Magnolia, Laurelhurst, View Ridge, and Windermere, Washington Real Estate Property Listings. Just click on the blue "homes search" button and then click on the area you wish to view. You can also search by street address or the MLS number.