USDA LOAN FUNDING???? IS THIS ANOTHER NAIL IN THE COFFIN OF THE HOUSING INDUSTRY???? - 04/30/10 07:53 AM
THERE APPEARS TO BE ANOTHER "NAIL IN THE COFFIN OF THE U.S. HOUSING INDUSTRY.
No word from USDA.
No word from Congress.
No word from the WH.
Nothing from NAR.
WE HEAR THIS EACH YEAR when funding for the USDA Rural Development loans runs out.
YET!  THIS YEAR IS DIFFERENT!!!
USDA is MUM!
Congress is MUM!
The WH is MUM!
Nothing from NAR!
No word this year about funding.  In fact, lenders are declining mortgage loan applications with UDDA Rural Development funding for the first time I can recall.  How many times have we said,
"Don't worry.  This happens each … (0 comments)

WHY AGENTS WALK ON "TIPPY-TOES" WITH SELLERS. . . . THINK BACK TO YOUR TRAINING DAYS. - 04/29/10 08:18 PM
WHY AGENTS AREN'T HONEST WITH SELLERS. . . .  THINK BACK TO YOUR TRAINING DAYS.
The scenarios in Angela's post are interesting.  However, one of the problem with using scripts is that the seller doesn't have the benefit of the script. 
It reminds me of folks playing a game for the first time where they are the only ones who don't know the rules. 
THINK BACK TO YOUR POST LICENSING TRAINING CLASSES.  How did the trainer or broker suggest you achieve a goal??  They offered more scripts, specifically,
OVERCOMING OBJECTIONS!
However, that isn't going to help if you already have … (1 comments)

Have you ever been embarrassed to show your listing? - 04/29/10 07:48 PM
WHY AGENTS AREN'T HONEST WITH SELLERS. . . .  THINK BACK TO YOUR TRAINING DAYS.
The scenarios in Angela's post are interesting.  However, one of the problem with using scripts is that the seller doesn't have the benefit of the script. 


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Via Angela Voss (Designology Home Staging and Publishing):
You're heading into the break room to get a second cup of coffee and you hear, "Did you see that listing on Hillcrest Road? What a disaster!" Yep, that's your listing they're talking about. You know it's a mess, but she is an older woman who loves all her … (0 comments)

LOVETTSVILLE, VA HOMES FOR SALE * NEW HOMES IN LOVETTSVILLE TOWN CENTER. - 04/28/10 05:06 PM
LOVETTSVILLE, VA HOMES FOR SALE * NEW HOMES IN LOVETTSVILLE TOWN CENTER.
HOME BUYER REBATE * HOME BUYER REBATE * HOME BUYER REBATE * HOME BUYER REBATE
LOOK WHAT YOUR NEW HOME MONEY WILL BUY IN LOVETTSVILLE, VIRGINIA - Loudoun County's best kept secret, a lovely and friendly town in North Western Loudoun County, with both rural and in-town homes for sale. 
YOU'RE GOING TO LOVE THIS PLACE and YOU'RE GOING TO LOVE THESE HOMES. 
The prices below are the base price as of April 28, 2010.  1% REBATE to Homefinders.com Buyers.

 
Beautiful kitchens in lovely homes with 2 Car Garages on … (1 comments)

Is there a new 3.8% "sales tax" on real estate in the Health Care Bill? - 04/27/10 04:55 PM
THE NEW TAX ON REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS?  Not necessarily so.
Matt hss done us all a favor by breaking out how and where this tax is levied. 
No profit (gain), no tax.  If there is a gain, the tax will be charged to high income earners.  You know who you are. 
Of course, IMO, this tax is just piling on the consumer will be paying federal/state/local tax on that gain.  The money could be better spent in so many ways other than giving more financial power to the government.
Oh well.
Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Via Matt … (13 comments)

DID THE "BOOM" TURN INTO A "BLIP"??? WHERE IS THE CRUNCH OF LAST MINUTE HOME SALES?? - 04/27/10 07:22 AM
As many know, I'm a statistical "junkie".  I've often said "nothing in business has any meaning without a statistic". 
NUMBERS DON'T LIE.  That is a fact.  Of course statistics can be interpreted in 10 dirrerent ways by 10 different writers or readers. 
QUESTION:  How has the pending expiration of the federal income tax credit effected the real estate market???   
ANSWER:  WHO SAID IT HAS???  You'd think that the tax credit would have encouraged prospective home buyers to get off the fence and into the market.  Indeed, I've received many buyer calls who specifically want to "BUY PRIOR TO APRIL 30 and CLOSE PRIOR … (24 comments)

Have You Heard ? The Lawsuits are Coming...The Lawsuits are Coming.... - 04/27/10 06:08 AM
LAWSUITS COMING??? 
WHEN??
What is the CAUSE OF ACTION??  THE DAMAGES ARE REAL BUT WHO CAUSED THE DAMAGES???   ARE THE MORTGAGE COMPANIES GOING TO BE NAMED TOO?? 
I don't believe so.  I did once, no more.  Consumers are too broke to pay expensive lawyer to represent them in tort actions.  Lawyers rarely take these cases on contingency.  That means retainers and monthly billings. 
Where are the consumers who have lost their home, their credit, etc. going to get the resources to fund these action?? 
Oh well.
Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Via Sally & David Hanson WI Realtors Res.\Comm\Short … (18 comments)

VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, VDOT, MAINTAINING ROADS IN RURAL LOUDOUN COUNTY, VIRGINIA - 04/26/10 06:38 PM
VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION, VDOT, MAINTAINING ROADS IN RURAL LOUDOUN COUNTY, VIRGINIA
VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION - ROAD MAINTENANCE - MAKE SURE YOUR ROAD IS MAINTAINED.
CAUTION HOME OWNERS!  IF YOU'RE CONSIDERING BUYING A HOME IN LOUDOUN COUNTY, MAKE SURE THE ROAD ON WHICH HOMES ARE CONSIDERED ARE VDOT MAINTAINED. 
ADDENDUM:  I FORGOT TO MENTION THAT THE VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION HAS A WEB SITE AND POTHOLES CAN BE REPORTED.  WHEN THE ROAD IN FRONT OF MY HOME GETS BAD, I REPORT THE METTER, ALONG WITH PHOTOS, TO VDOT AND THEN, ABOUT 4-6 WEEKS LATER, ALONG COMES THOSE LOVELY DUMPSTERS WITH … (12 comments)

IT'S RAINING IN LOVETTSVILLE, BUT I HAVE BEAUTY AND COLOR IN MY SUNROOM. - 04/26/10 05:50 PM
GROWING BULBS INDOOR IN LOVETTSVILE, VIRGINIA - EASY AND SO BEAUTIFUL!
I love flowering bulbs.  They are so easy to grow, you just can't go wrong.  Put them in a pot, give them some water in a well drained pot and in 4-6 weeks, you're going to have some beautiful colorful blossoms.
My latest adventure in indoor bulb growing has just come into bloom.
WELCOME THE AMARYLLIS, BIG BOLD and BEAUTIFUL.
 
 
Simplicity is an art form.  Nothing more was needed than one bulb, one small pot, one sunny window.
 
Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.
… (12 comments)

Closing Day - 04/24/10 06:19 AM
PRE-SETTLEMENT WALK-THROUGH INSPECTION REPORTS are not to be taken lightly. 
Our contract permits this event up to 5 days prior to settlement.  The best time is, of course, after the seller is out of the house.
This is such an important event for buyers in the purchase of a home.  It should be the subject of some "strategy". 
We prefer to do the presettlement walk-through after the seller's furniture and belongings have been removed. 
We then walk the house, prepare a Pre-Settlement Walk-Through Report, send it to the closing attorney's office with an estimate for compensation from the seller to the buyer with instructions to put the cash … (26 comments)

OMPHALOSKEPSIS IS FINE FOR AGENTS WITH A HUGE TRUST FUND $ $ $ . . . HOWEVER, IF YOU ARE MANAGING A REAL ESTATE BUSINESS. . . . . - 04/23/10 07:16 AM
Omphaloskepsis, or, the practice of contemplating one's navel, is fine, if you have a sizeable trust fund and are not engaged in the business of managing a real estate practice that is supposed to support yourself or yourself and a family.
I've been reading post after post about a book or a course of instruction, a webinars, etc., etc., about . . . about what????  Actually, what they are NOT about is probably more important.  They are , , ,
not about gaining real estate knowledge.  not about marketing experiences.  not about advertising suggestions or experiences.  not about creating a viable business plan.  … (60 comments)

LENDERS MAY GO AFTER THE MONEY THROUGH COLLECTION AGENCIES, BUT IT WILL BE MORE THAN THE FORMER HOME OWNER THAT SUFFERS. - 04/21/10 05:09 PM
ANOTHER NAIL IN THE FINANCIAL COFFIN OF THE AMERICAN HOME OWNER.
"LENDERS UPLOAD MORTGAGES TO COLLECTION AGENCIES"
Read this post by Dominick Pallini for the details. 
This should, but probably will not, increase the number of bankruptcy filings.  However, the American home owner will suffer in silence, struggle to keep their life together and pay on these debts for years and years.
During the coming years, while their credit is destroyed, the money paid to collection agencies who have purchased the accounts from the mortgage companies that approved the short sale or the foreclosing bankin recourse states, money that would normally … (63 comments)

SHIPLEY'S CHOICE - LARGE COLONIAL - SEVERNA PARK SCHOOLS - ONLY 12 YEARS OLD - PRICED RIGHT. - 04/21/10 03:00 PM
SHIPLEY'S CHOICE - SEVERNA PARK SCHOOLS - ONLY 12 YEARS OLD - FABULOUS CONDITION - PRICED RIGHT - LARGE COLONIAL - BRICK FRONT - FENCED BACK YARD - CONSTRUCTED BY WINCHESTER - FREE ONE YEAR WARRANTY.   
There's more:
Just minutes from BWI Airport, this home offers convenience to Route 97, Route 32, Veterans Highway, Route 2 and Route 301.  Just minutes from Baltimore to the north and Annapolis to the East and Columbia to the South, see map below. 
SHIPLEY'S CHOICE IN ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY - TOP RANKED SEVERNA PARK SCHOOLS. is a unique community with amenities too numerous to list, but … (2 comments)

ONLY BECAUSE SHE ASKED. . . . . OPINIONS ABOUT A DIRECT MAIL POST CARD. - 04/21/10 12:40 PM
BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU ASK FOR . . . .

Tanya Nouwens asked for comments about an advertising campaign direct mail piece from ActiveRain members, which is always risky.  So, I made a short comment about the post card to the effect that I didn't have a good opinion so would say nothing.    I thought long and hard about posting any comment at all since I don't want to always be perceived as the wet blanket I often am.
However, after e-mail from Tanya asking me to comment, I'll do my best to toss some thoughts in the mix. . . . for what … (45 comments)

GIVE ME YOUR STAGING OR REAL ESTATE SERVICE FOR FREE AND THEN I MIGHT HIRE YOU! ! ! and OTHER URBAN MYTHS. - 04/21/10 06:28 AM
FREE ESTIMATES??  IS THAT ANYTHING LIKE PASSING OUT FREE CMA's TO HOME SELLERS??
Donna Ross, an ActiveRain member who operates a staging company in Sydney, Australia, received a request from a real estate agent to give free estimates to prospective clients. 
"THANKS, BUT NO THANKS".  Donna declined the offer and deserves a rousing "THANKS" from staging company owners and real estate agents and brokers. 
HOW DO YOU PRICE YOUR SERVICES?  For real estate agents, in many cases it's easy, broker policy determines.  However, many brokers give agents in their company the ability to negotiate fees.  However, since we, agents and brokers, are generally paid after the fact, … (17 comments)

ABOUT FAIRFAX COUNTY VA REAL ESTATE AND HOMES - PRICES AND AVAILABILITY. - 04/20/10 07:27 PM
ABOUT FAIRFAX COUNTY REAL ESTATE AND HOMES - PRICES AND AVAILABILITY. 
THERE'S A HOME IN FAIRFAX COUNTY VIRGINIA FOR EVERYONE.
2081 ACTIVE LISTING FOR SINGLE FAMILY DETACHED PROPERTIES FOR SALE.
MODERATE PRICED HOMES IN FAIRFAX COUNTY.  Low to moderate priced single family homes (detached) in Fairfax County range from the low price range of about $200,000 for small Rambler / Rancher styles with about 1,000 square feet and situated on a lot of about 1/4 to 1/3 acre.  There are many older communities constructed in the mid-20th Century that offer wonderful affordable homes for singles and families.  Many such communities can be found … (5 comments)

STUART WOLFF, FORMER EXEC. of REALTOR.COM aka HOMESTORE now MOVE, Didn't Do the Dirty Deed, Only "Gave it the Green Light"!! - 04/20/10 05:24 AM
STUART WOLFF FINALLY SENTENCED - 4 1/2 YEARS.
"Wolff's attorneys maintained that he should receive the lightest possible sentence possible under the agreement because he signed off on the scheme but did not initiate it."  (emphasis added) said Wolff's attorneys in their efforts to obtain a lesser sentence.   Read it on Inman. 
Would that the wheels of justice would grind as well, albeit faster, for the Wall Street Gangs that perpetrated the financial assaults on the American citizenry by stripping them of their financial security and freedom to enjoy the American Dream. 
Wolff's crimes were against investors, which is probably one reason that the criminal justice system finally prevailed.  … (25 comments)

NEWS ALERT FOR FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS - $1,000,000 GRANT MONEY IS AVAILABLE - UP TO $7,500 FOR FIRST TIME HOME BUYER. - 04/19/10 05:24 PM
NEWS ALERT FOR FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS - $1,000,000 GRANT MONEY IS AVAILABLE - UP TO $7,500 FOR FIRST TIME HOME BUYER.
N E W S   A L E R T   F O R   F I R S T   T I M E   H O M E   B U Y E R S
FOR FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS - UP TO $7,500 TO USE FOR DOWN PAYMENT AND OR CLOSING COSTS.
100% FORGIVEABLE.
Contact Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.
We'll help you find a wonderful home in Maryland or Northern Virginia AND help you qualify for up to $7,500 in GRANT … (9 comments)

LOUDOUN COUNTY NEIGHBORS ENJOY THE SPRING SUNSHINE AND NEW GRASS. - 04/19/10 04:52 PM
LOUDOUN COUNTY NEIGHBORS ENJOY THE SPRING SUNSHINE AND NEW GRASS. 
One thing you can count on in Loudoun County Virginia is the presence of quadrupeds behind the fences that line the road ways.  There are more horses in Loudoun County, Virginia than any other area in Virginia.  Horses everywhere, small farmettes with 1-2 horses and large horse farms with beautiful fields of grazing land. 
 
"O.K. son.  This is the way to do it. "       "Pay attention now, it's easy."        "I'm watching mom."

                              "HEY Mom.  I can do it.  Wow!  This stuff is good."
For horse lovers, Loudoun … (0 comments)

CHINESE DRYWALL ALERT - DRYWALL INFORMATION CENTER - INTERIM REMEDIATION GUIDE. A series. - 04/19/10 05:45 AM
CHINESE DRYWALL ALERT - DRYWALL INFORMATION CENTER - INTERIM REMEDIATION GUIDE.  A series.
IN THIS REAL ESTATE BROKER'S OPINION, we've seen only the tip of this gigantic iceberg size burden on the American home owner.  The numbers are just beginning to come inand reflect some disturbing facts about the widespread nature of this assault on American Home Owners:  To date, the CPSC has received about 3,082 reports  from residents in 37 States. 
Sadly, as with any catastrophe that hits the American home owner in the pocketbook, most, if not all, of the cost will be born by the home owners.  Or, worse, … (21 comments)

CHINESE DRYWALL IS ANOTHER NAIL IN THE FINANCIAL COFFIN FOR THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY. - 04/18/10 09:41 AM
CHINESE DRYWALL IS ANOTHER NAIL IN THE FINANCIAL COFFIN FOR THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY. 
HOW MUCH MORE CAN THE AMERICAN HOME OWNER TAKE?
PLEASE PLEASE, PLEASE, read Jay Markanich's timely and comprehensive article, Chinese Drywall - The Final Solution .
THIS MATTER IS SO SERIOUS FOR AMERICAN HOME OWNERS, IT'S HARD TO WRAP YOUR BRAIN AROUND THE SHORT TERM AND LONG TERM DAMAGES.
FACT:  What affects the American home owner affects the real estate industry. FACT:  What affects the real estate industry affects the American economy. Since the White House, the Dept. of the Treasury, the Federal Reserve and the U.S. Congress have no … (41 comments)

HOW TO "RAISE THE BAR" FOR REAL ESTATE LICENSEES. SPEAK TO THE MASSES. - 04/18/10 07:32 AM
* * * *  HARD CORE REAL ESTATE TALK  * * * *
ABOUT RAISING THE BAR FOR REAL ESTATE PRACTITIONERS.  There has been some discussion of late about "RAISING THE BAR" for real estate licensees and brokers.  Surely, no one advocates lowering the bar, OR do they?  There are many, however, who are satisfied with the current license laws through which real estate agents and brokers enter the real estate brokerage business and continue in the business for years with very low performance standards or none. 
THE OPERATIVE WORD THERE IS "BUSINESS" 
HOW THE STATUS QUO SURVIVES.  If you advocate raising the bar … (101 comments)

How High?!? | Raising the Bar - 04/17/10 05:40 PM
RAISE THE BAR?  YES!  GET INTO MY HEAD?  ABSOLUTELY NOT!
I have been advocating to raise the bar for many, many years. I have also advocated higher standards for broker supervision.
However, I can't say that I like the 8 standards outlined in this post.
I read them and, if you'd been in the room, I'd have asked, "In whose image do you wish to create the agents?"
We can raise the bar for tougher entry requirements and increased and better CE.  However, I don't believe that we want to discourage individuality, creativity and drive of new agents. 
They're not going to … (34 comments)

The Closing took Place, But Not Without Some Anxious Moments - 04/17/10 07:23 AM
COUNTING THOSE "CLOSING CHICKENS" CAN BE RISKY THESE DAYS.
Did the underwriter exceed their authority?  Of course, the question is, "On what authority does an underwriter refuse to approve a sale based on the result of a home inspection?"
In this case, the underwriter questioned one area of the home inspection report but not other areas, possibly more serious and life threatening defects. 
If the loan officer defended (supported) his co-worker (underwriter), that would appear to me that the loan package was ill-prepared by the loan officer.
Since this was a bank owned sale, it was no doubt sold "AS IS".  … (10 comments)

I CALLED THE GOLDMAN CHARGES IN ONE OF MY RECENT POSTS; THE WHOLE STORY FOLLOWS: - 04/17/10 07:00 AM
AND DON'T FORGET THE CREDIT DEFAULT SWAPS INSURED BY AIG.
AND DON'T FORGET THE CREDIT RATING AGENCIES LIKE MOODY'S (who collect their fees BTW from the very companies and funds that they rate) that missed or ignored the insolvency of the very companies that sold these bonds and insured them.
AND please, don't even hint that the cause of the collapse of the worldwide financial markets was caused by home owners buying homes they couldn't afford.
I want the word "afford" stricken from the dictionary and the lexicon of every TV and radio talking head that can see only as far … (10 comments)

FNMA Rewards Michigan Homeowners doing a Short Sale or Deed-In-Lieu Instead of Walking-Away (Foreclosure) - 04/17/10 05:45 AM
HA!  This reminds me of the prisoner who was wrongly convicted and when the phony evidence was discovered, the prisoner was given a parole rather than a full pardon and compensated for the loss of years out of his life by a false imprisonment.
The homeowner is still homeless.

Via Drew Sygit (The Lending Edge) Real Estate Financing Expert (The Lending Edge):
Homeowners doing a Short Sale or Deed-In-Lieu instead of Walking-Away (Foreclosure) got some great news from FNMA recently as the agency announced shorter waiting periods to qualify for a new mortgage.
MORTGAGE, EXPERT, MICHIGAN, BIRMINGHAM, BLOOMFIELD, DETROIT, ROCHESTER, ROYAL OAK, … (6 comments)

YOU KNOW IT'S SPRING WHEN THE "BOYS OF SPRING" ARE AT PRACTICE! - 04/16/10 11:36 AM
YOU KNOW IT'S SPRING WHEN THE "BOYS OF SPRING" ARE AT PRACTICE!
The "Boys" below are at practice at the Lovettsville Ball Field along Berline Pike.  This field is active every weekend throughout the season every weekend and many evenings for different teams of all ages. 
The BOYS OF SPRING are a welcome sight indeed.


Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.
Baseball is very popular in Lovettsville and our resident and guests look forward to the games and practice with excitement. 
Come on out.  There's lots of parking and grassy areas for seating.  The baseball field is located … (15 comments)

THINKING OF BUYING A SHORT SALE or FORECLOSURE?? DON'T OVERLOOK THE HOME INSPECTION! - 04/16/10 11:08 AM
THINKING OF BUYING A SHORT SALE or FORECLOSURE??  DON'T OVERLOOK THE HOME INSPECTION! 
WARNING TO HOME BUYERS CONSIDERING SHORT SALES OR FORECLOSURES (BANK OWNED PROPERTIES).  The information below is general in nature and does not apply to Short Sales or Bank Owned (foreclosed) properties.  Short Sales and Foreclosures are generally sold "AS IS".  Buyers may have a home inspection pursuant to a home inspection contingency to the Contract of Sale.  However, the home inspection will be for your information only and no repairs will be made by the seller or bank. 
HOME INSPECTIONS PROTECT HOME BUYERS
Homefinders.com believes that the single … (8 comments)

HOW'S BUSINESS? PRETTY GOOD. HOW'S BUSINESS WITH YOU? PRETTY GOOD. - 04/16/10 10:51 AM
I LOVE THIS! 
Driving through Ashburn VA on the way to a home inspection, I passed this scene.  I thought it was priceless.

Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.
… (10 comments)

CASH HOME BUYERS BEWARE! DO YOUR HOME WORK AND PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT! - 04/16/10 09:10 AM
CASH HOME BUYERS BEWARE!  DO YOUR HOME WORK AND PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT!
A telephone call from a lovely gentleman a few minutes ago serves as a reminder that, just because you're paying cash for a real estate purchase doesn't mean that you should neglect DUE DILIGENCE.
The gentleman has recently received a NOTICE from the County of Prince William in northern Virginia about a roof"that was installed by the previous owner over a patio in the back yard of the town home.  He was been noticed that the "roof" over the patio may have been installed with the benefit of a building permit … (11 comments)

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND REAL ESTATE AND HOMES FOR SALE - PRICES AND ZIP CODES. - 04/16/10 07:16 AM
MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MARYLAND REAL ESTATE AND HOMES FOR SALE - PRICES AND ZIP CODES.
Homefinders.com is a real estate brokerage serving the needs of home buyers in Montgomery County, MD.  Montgomery County homes for sale (excluding Short Sales and Foreclosures) are in many price ranges, styles and types including:
Montgomery County Luxury Single Family Homes for sale ($1,000,000+) - 397 Properties. Homes for sale in Montgomery County with Community Swimming Pools - 713 Properties. Town Homes for sale in Montgomery County - 471 Town Homes for sale. Condominium Homes for sale in Montgomery County - 478 Condos for sale. BANK OWNED HOMES … (4 comments)

We haven't had snow in awhile - CHANGE THE PICTURE - 04/14/10 06:54 AM
AND CHANGE THE COMMENTS TOO!
Old photos taken when we had 5 feet of snow? 
HA!  That's just for starters.
What about the condo or HOA listings that do not list the services included in the condo or HOA fee.  GEEZ!  The condo fee is listed at $665 a month for a one bedroom condo priced at $65,000????  Wouldn't it make sense to show the includes????
How about changing the Agent Remarks that say, "Lock box will be on in 48 hours".  Well, it's now 48 DAYS and the comment hasn't changed. 
How about changing the "Sell B4 I do!" in the Agent Comments 248 … (31 comments)

THAT'S ONE STRANGE CREATURE. . . . . EEEEKKKK . . . . . . IT'S AN OUTHOUSE MOUSE!!! - 04/13/10 05:33 PM
Of course, if one is in an outhouse, where can one climb to get away from the Outhouse Mouse.
Discovered at my gunsmith's shop today. 
WHAT IS IT???
                                                                           IT'S AN OUTHOUSE MOUSE.
        
 
                                                      WHAT WILL THEY THINK OF NEXT??
Of course, in this gunsmith shop, there are lots of places for an Outhouse Mouse to hide, or hang.
                     
Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.
For great gunsmithing services, contact me and I'll introduce you to Straight Shooters Gunsmithing, located in Hillsbory VA.
… (15 comments)

Get Up And Move Your Feet! - 04/13/10 08:50 AM
"BUT MY AGENT DOESN'T KNOW. . . . . "
I get calls daily from consumers who want info about financing, grants, credits, etc., etc. 
When questioned, they often are already working with an agent.  Yet, they are calling me for advice.
I send them back to their agent.  They're comment is usually, "But, she/he doesn't know. . . . . "
To which I reply,
"Then tell them to get off their lazy butt and find the information you need." 
OR,
"Tell your agent to 'get off their lazy butt and find you some money'." 
That usually … (17 comments)

WHAT IS A "BINDING" CONTRACT OF SALE FOR IRS TAX CREDIT PURPOSES?? "Let's all be careful out there.." - 04/13/10 06:34 AM
WHAT IS A "BINDING" CONTRACT OF SALE FOR IRS TAX CREDIT PURPOSES??
Depends on whether you are a
HOME BUYER HOME SELLER REAL ESTATE LICENSEE IRS TAX FORM REVIEWER LEGISLATIVE BILL WRITER OTHER Sadly, this is a perfect example of the fact that the brains who dreamed up the income tax credit do not have the foggiest idea about how their programs effect the tax payers, or should I use the term the IRS uses, "Worker".  You gotta love that.  SEE:
The Worker, Homeownership, and Business Assistance Act of 2009
WHY IS THIS SO IMPORTANT?  Because the determination of what constitutes … (95 comments)

Too Private to Tango - 04/12/10 03:54 PM
DON'T LIKE ASKING QUESTIONS??  I DON'T LIKE WORKING IN THE DARK.
Tanya has a thoughtful post about respecting the privacy of others as she expects her privacy to be respected.
There's another solution.  Use only PULL advertising. 
With PULL advertising, the consumer seeks you out for the service you offer.
In order to provide that service, you need a few facts, such as:
What is your annual income? HoW many in your household? What type of work do you do? Etc., etc., etc.
Not a problem.  I'm perfectly willing to work on the contingency that there will be a real estate … (14 comments)

Oklahoma Supreme Court Makes square footage a material fact - 04/12/10 05:48 AM
DON'T SELL SQUARE FEET!  DON'T SELL SQUARE FEET!  DON'T SELL SQUARE FEET!
Read this post by Joe Pryor and now you'll understand why Lenn doesn't sell homes by square feet.  It's risky.  Very risky. 
Do I use square feet?  Of course, I do.  I know how to use it.  Do I sell by square feet??  No way. 
I have learned over the years to discount all listing agents' claims for square feet in listing reports.  They have a bad habit of including:
Screened porches Garages Finished basements Unfinished basements Attached sheds Crawl apaces when access is inside the property The one … (26 comments)

Property Managers with EXPERIENCE have INSTITUTIONAL KNOWLEDGE that Benefits Clients! - 04/12/10 05:27 AM
INSTITUTIONAL KNOWLEDGE IS WONDERFUL WHEN TOURING HOME BUYERS AND BEING ABLE TO SAY:
"I remember when this community was built."
or
"The builders in this community were XXXXX and XXXX."
or
"There were 5 original builders in this community and all are well respected national companies."
or
"The developer of this community was XXXXXX, one of the most talented developers in the area.  He saved about 850 trees and almost every lot has trees in the back and some in the front of the lot.  I thought you'd like it."
or
"Over the years, the restaurants with gambling all closed and, … (5 comments)

SHIPLEY'S CHOICE IN ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY - TOP RANKED SEVERNA PARK SCHOOLS. - 04/11/10 05:45 PM
SHIPLEY'S CHOICE IN ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY - TOP RANKED SEVERNA PARK SCHOOLS.
MORE:  SHIPLEY'S CHOICE - ONE OF ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY'S MOST POPULAR COMMUNITIES - BEAUTIFUL HOMES AND AMENITIES - SEVERNA PARK PUBLIC SCHOOLS
              
COMING SOON:  A LOVELY HOME FOR SALE IN SHIPLEY'S CHOICE in the Shipley's Choice Elementary School, Severna Park Middle School and Severna Park High School district. 
TAKING RESERVATIONS TO SEE THIS HOME BEGINNING MID-APRIL: 
I sold this home to the owner 12 years ago when she had two young boys at home.  Shipley's Choice was the buyer's choice because of the TOP … (5 comments)

Short Sales, Foreclosures, Bank Owned, Sheriff Sale, if we think it just effects us or your neighbors...then read this.... - 04/11/10 06:31 AM
I JUST LOVE THIS POST ABOUT THE FAILED CITIBANK  AUCTION SALE OF NICHOLAS CAGE'S NOW FORMER HOME.
Goodness, don't any of the folks involved read real estate news?????
They should have done a SHORT SALE! 
The owner was a classic Short Sale candidate.
Insolvent Owner, can you imagine the hardship letter. Mortgagor upside down to Mortgagee, can you imagine the CMA? Sadly, the photos are sufficient to let prospective buyers know that a massive redecorating job will be needed.
YOU DIDN' HEAR IT FROM ME. .. . Perhaps one of the ActiveRain stagers could help with some paint color advice. 
Don't … (24 comments)

LOUDOUN COUNTY NEW HOME BUYERS - ALERT! DO YOU WANT TO ENJOY THE SWIMMING POOL THIS YEAR? or about 3 YEARS FROM NOW?? - 04/10/10 05:54 PM
LOUDOUN COUNTY NEW HOME BUYERS - ALERT!  DO YOU WANT TO ENJOY THE SWIMMING POOL THIS YEAR? or about 3 YEARS FROM NOW??
WHEN WILL THE POOL BE AVAILABLE?  Home buyers don't always understand that builders or developers rarely have the amenities available to residents in the first year or two.  But, why not??  For one thing, the builder will want to have a number of homes completed and residents paying into the Home Owner's Association which is responsible for pool maintenance and the life guard.  Until there are a number of homes completed and occupied, the builder will be paying for … (11 comments)

HOW ABOUT A BLAST FROM THE PAST. . . THE CONGRESSIONAL HEARINGS ON SUBPRIME MORTGAGES - 04/10/10 05:46 AM
Carla Muss-Jacobs wrote a compelling ALERT for ActiveRain folks interested in hearing the "giants" of the mortgage loan industry exercise their Constitutional rights to engage in well written DOUBLESPEAK of the highest order.  SEE:
What Are You Watching On TV?? -- Congressional Hearings On Subprime Mortgage -- Watch it and LEARN: Subprime Lending and Securitization and Government-Sponsored Enterprises I've been watching and listening when time or access permitted.  Granted, I prefer to watch THE MASTERS, but DirectTV doesn't appear to want to cooperate with that quest this year.  So, C-Span on TV and on the car radio when I'm driving gives me an … (27 comments)

What Are You Watching On TV?? -- Congressional Hearings On Subprime Mortgage -- Watch it and LEARN: Subprime Lending and Securitization and Government-Sponsored Enterprises - 04/09/10 05:07 PM
Subprime Lending and Securitization and Government-Sponsored Enterprises
LISTEN AND LEARN.
Carla Muss-Jacobs alerts ActiveRain folk to the hearings on PBS and C-Span this week.  I've been listening off and on. 
t has, indeed, been fascinating.  I've listened on NPR from time to time when in my vehicle.
They are, without doubt, either the most perfidious financial managers in history or the most clueless.
They are surely the most overpaid.
After listening to their "dodging and weaving" to questions, it should be rather difficult for real estate professionals to BLAME THE HOME OWNERS for the mortgage mess, as I've heard so many … (5 comments)

WHEN DO THE DAYS ON THE MARKET FOR A PROPERTY MEAN NOTHING - IN A SHORT SALE - 04/09/10 03:54 PM
WHEN DO THE DAYS ON THE MARKET FOR A PROPERTY MEAN NOTHING - IN A SHORT SALE - or DO THEY???
The listing report below is an FYI, nothing more, nothing less.  Use it as you will, or not.
The below are regular listings, not Short Sales that closed from January 1, 2010 in Woodbridge VA.

Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.
… (11 comments)

WESTERN LOUDOUN COUNTY VIRGINIA IS IN BLOOM. THE CAMELLIA ISN'T ONE YOU SEE EVERY DAY. - 04/09/10 02:50 PM

WESTERN LOUDOUN COUNTY VIRGINIA IS IN BLOOM.
THE BEAUTIFUL CAMELLIA IS ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLANTS AND NOT SEEN EVERY DAY.
 
From Lenn's yard, growing in shade of tall trees.
 
The Camellia is delicate, mysterious and always reminds me of a "noir" movie.  Why, not a clue but both are lovely, engaging and not seen every day.
Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.
… (8 comments)

TAX CREDIT DEADLINE HAS CREATED AN AVALANCHE OF TELEPHONE AND E-MAIL TRAFFIC - 04/08/10 07:16 PM
TAX CREDIT DEADLINE HAS CREATED AN AVALANCHE OF TELEPHONE AND E-MAIL TRAFFIC.
My phone is unplugged for the evening.  I've been qualifying prospective buyers and sending them to agents all day long, all week long.   
I know that if my phone rings, there is a 95% chance that it's a prospective home buyer who wants to buy in time to be eligible for the income tax credit. 
WHAT TOOK THEM SO LONG???
We've known about the deadline for months.  Now that there is hardly 3 weeks left to be under contract, folks are suddenly ready.
O.K.  We'll accommodate as … (34 comments)

SUCCESSFUL REAL ESTATE AGENTS GET PAID FOR WHAT WE KNOW AND NOT WHAT WE DO. - 04/07/10 07:18 AM
The secret of successful real estate practice is being paid for what you know and not what you do or how long it took to get it done. 
Tim Taylor  writes about how many hours he spends  preparing for a listing appointment.
Oh sure, you can keep track of the hours you spend on a CMA for a prospective listing client.  Or, you can keep track of the hours you spend previewing and touring with a prospective buyer.  However, is that the best practice??  Or, is it better to learn from experience and offer the prospective buyer or seller services that … (127 comments)

Mortgages to Exceed Value until 2015 to 2020 - 04/06/10 05:48 PM
It just makes sense. 
If families own about 140% of the amount of their mortgage and prices gradually increase about 3% a year, the average rate of inflation in past years that were considered normal, it would easily take 5-10 years to "liquidate" the negative equity.
I have yet to learn where agents, politicians, regulators, banks, etc. that predict a "quick turn around" of the economy are going to find the consumers in a financial position to fuel this economy.
I know I sound like a broken record, but putting my head in the sand and hoping for the best just … (16 comments)

LUXURY HOMES IN ASHBURN VIRGINIA - LOUDOUN COUNTY HOME SITES - WOODED ONE ACRE LOTS - New Home Buyer's REBATE. - 04/06/10 04:51 PM
LUXURY HOMES IN ASHBURN VIRGINIA in LOUDOUN COUNTY - ONE ACRE HOME SITES ON BEAUTIFUL ONE ACRE LOTS and New Home Buyer's REBATE. 
Priced from $734,990 to $948,990, the floor plan includes luxury features such as: 
Gourmet Kitchen Package with Energy Star Appliances - Side Load Garages - Luxury Moldings - Wood Floors - Owner's Bedroom Suite with Garden Luxury Bath, Separate Shower, Walk-In Closets and more.

SEE MAP GRID #7 for the location of this lovely community ready for your lot and floor plan selection. 

                          
More information about these spectacular homes is available - just click … (2 comments)

FHA, the EPA and Flaking Paint - New Regulations May Increase Selling Costs - 04/06/10 05:06 AM
THANKS TO LESLIE EBERSOLE FOR THIS IMPORTANT NOTICE TO ACTIVERAIN MEMBERS AND READERS.
I am convinced that the EPA, under the present Director, Lisa Jackson, is following an administration mandate to:
SEARCH AND DESTROY any remaining remnant of the housing industry.
Our national economy rises and falls on the viability of the housing industry.
The destruction of the housing industry is clearly an administration goal. 
Now, lest some readers plan to attack me for not caring about lead poisoning in children, don't even try.  For decades, I have followed the law with respect to lead based paint disclosure, even when … (37 comments)

NEW HOME IN ASHBURN, BRAMBLETON, CONSTRUCTION ON SCHEDULE, WAITING FOR PRE-DRY-WALL WALK-THROUGH. - 04/05/10 04:33 PM
NEW HOME IN ASHBURN, BRAMBLETON, CONSTRUCTION ON SCHEDULE, WAITING FOR PRE-DRYWALL WALK-THROUGH.
Delivery for this home is end of May to mid-June.  The builder is right on schedule.  They did lose some time due to the extreme snow and cold in February, but have added manpower to this site to stay on schedule.  This is important for the buyers I'm working with because they have to give notice to vacate their rental.  I love builders who stay on schedule and most in this market do.
The last photos of this home in Ashburn- Brambleton under construction was on March 2, 2010.  … (6 comments)

If it Doesn't Feel Like Home, They Aren't Buying - 04/04/10 05:33 PM
OR, DON'T CALL ME FOR FEEDBACK, I'LL CALL YOU IF THE BUYER IS INTERESTED.
IMO, if a property is priced right, easily available to show, and presents well, the agent wouldn't need or want feedback.
They'd be getting offers.
Where is it written that a buyer's agent must justify their buyer client's decision to pass on a property for sale.
I just got a request for feedback on a home I showed yesterday. 
THERE IS NO WAY THIS BUYER WOULD BE INTERESTED IN THE PROPERTY. 
The price is O.K. 
The location is good.
But, it is a 3 bedroom, 2 full … (16 comments)

What Does The Bank Mean "AS IS" No Disclosures Wave Of The Future - 04/04/10 09:19 AM
IGNORE THE "AS IS" TAG IN LISTINGS FOR RESALE HOMES FOR SALE.
ALL RESALE HOMES ARE SOLD "AS IS", subject to an inspection contingency if the prospective home buyer desires to exercise that option.
Bank owned properties are sold "AS IS" and usually will not make repairs.
Short sales are sold "AS IS" and usually will usually not make repairs.
The "AS IS" sales condition is one of the reasons bank owned and short sale properties are discounted. 
The "AS IS" addendum for bank owned and short sale properties specifically state that the buyer agrees to take the property in the condition as of the … (13 comments)

TULIPS IN MY SUNROOM! AN EARLY SPRING TREAT. FORCING BULBS WORKS. - 04/04/10 08:50 AM
LOVETTSVILLE, VIRGINIA is Western Loudoun County and is about two weeks behind much of the DC/MD/VA areas for Spring bulb blossoms. 
$7,500 GRANT FOR NORTHERN VIRGINIA FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS - INCOME LIMITS AND LOCATIONS
THESE BULBS WERE "FORCED" TO BLOSSOM FOR EASTER WEEK.                        

Planted in October in post an put in a dark corner in my garage.
Brought inside in January as they were peeking out of the soil. 
PUT IN THE SUN and waited. .  and waited. .
EUREKA.
Blossoms on Easter Weekend.
                                                 
 
Coutesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.
 
 
… (18 comments)

Beware of Identity Theft during Easter. . Speechless Sunday - 04/04/10 07:06 AM
YOU JUST HAVE TO SEE THIS!!
A light note from Ed Silva is welcomed on this warm, sunny Sunday morning.
Thanks Ed. 
I appreciate a chuckle in the a.m. and for that, I can always count on a few ActiveRain friends.
Courtesy, Lenn Harely, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Via Ed Silva CDPE, GRI, ABR, Real Estate Agent (RE/MAX Partners, LLC, Prospect, Ct):
Subject: Beware of Identity Theft during Easter...  


 
 
 
 





 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
… (8 comments)

DAFFODILS IN FULL BLOOM IN MY BULB GARDEN - LOUDOUN COUNTY IS IN SPRING BLOOM - APRIL 2010 IS IN THE 70's AND BEAUTIFUL. - 04/03/10 06:07 AM
DAFFODILS IN FULL BLOOM IN MY BULB GARDEN - LOUDOUN COUNTY IS IN SPRING BLOOM - APRIL 2010 IS IN THE 70's AND BEAUTIFUL. 
$7,500 GRANT FOR NORTHERN VIRGINIA FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS - INCOME LIMITS AND LOCATIONS
APRIL 2010 IN LOVETTSVILLE, LOUDOUN COUNTY, VIRGINIA.
THE SPRING BULBS ARE COMING INTO BLOOM.  They are beautiful, cheerful and lasting.  Year after year, they'll be back and they'll produce more every year naturally.   That's one of the wonderful things about spring bulbs, they multiply year after year.   
My bulb garden is too beautiful to describe in mere words.  A picture is worth. . . … (17 comments)

HAYMARKET NEW HOMES IN PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY VIRGINIA - FABULOUS FLOOR PLANS - QUALITY BUILDER - VALUE PRICED @ $369,990 to $450,990. BUYER REBATE! - 04/02/10 09:01 AM
HAYMARKET NEW HOMES IN PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY VA - FABULOUS FLOOR PLANS - QUALITY BUILDER - VALUE PRICED @ $369,990 to $450,990, AND a BUYER REBATE OF $4,000 TO $4,500 CASH BACK TO YOU AT SETTLEMENT.
$7,500 GRANT FOR NORTHERN VIRGINIA FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS - INCOME LIMITS AND LOCATIONS
HAYMARKET IS A LOVELY PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY VILLAGE with the added treat of the presence of one of the quality builders in the area offering new construction in the community of the VILLAGES OF PIEDMONT.
   
No need to build a deck with this fabulous home model.  It's part of the … (2 comments)

If you only address the symptoms and not the root cause, you will never be cured! - 04/02/10 07:55 AM
THEY CAN'T REALLY ADDRESS THE "CAUSE" OF THE HOUSING MESS BECAUSE THEY SPENT ALL THE MONEY ON THE PERPS.
From what I see, "money spent on job creation" by government is also a failure.  They awarded huge sums to political cronies and "vote getting" local governments.  Government uses tax money to perpetuate themselves and their power.
Throwing the $Trillions at the Wall Street Gangs and the banks clearly didn't help, unless you're a Wall Street Gang member or a banker. 
If you're a home owners who lost EVERYTHING to that Wall Street Investment House or that Bank that held your mortgage, … (8 comments)

ACTIVERAIN COMMENTS INDEXED BY GOOGLE?? I THINK NOT and IT MAKES PERFECT SENSE. - 04/02/10 04:46 AM
SOME BACK AND FORTH LATELY ABOUT GOOGLEBOT VISITING AND INDEXING COMMENTS TO ACTIVERAIN POSTS.
COMMENTS AND GOOGLE ALERTS.  I believe that the recent comments to a post about Google indexing comments are, IMO, not necessarily what the writers believe to be so.  The often use of Google alerts doesn't verify that Googlebot spiders and indexes comments, even if it appears to be so.   
IS GOOGLEBOT BLOCKED BY "NO FOLLOW" CODE IN ACTIVERAIN COMMENTS??  If so, I believe it is the right practice.  The opportunities for mischief if Google spidered comments is just too enticing for members who would spam commentsfor Googlebot. 
Commenting 10Xday on different posts for ActiveRain points is one … (105 comments)

IF YOU'RE IN THE MOOD FOR SOME "HARD CORE REAL ESTATE" FACTS, READ THIS. IF NOT, JUST GET BACK UNDER THE COVERS. - 04/01/10 06:38 AM
* * * *     WARNING.. . .  HARD CORE REAL ESTATE TALK    * * * *
Unemployment Experiencing A "Structural" Increase by John Mulkey points ActiveRain members and readers to an article by Dennis Lockhart, President and CEO of the Atlanta Fed.
Mr. Lockhart tries, in vain IMO, to put "a happy face" on the U.S. economy forecast for the near future while providing a veiled warning that we must expect . . . . . WHAT???? 
1.  lowered expectations for economic output. 2.  lowered expectations for economic recovery. 3.  acceptance of permanent lower employment (another way of saying higher unemployment). Mr. … (147 comments)

 


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