Atlanta Buckhead Midtown Westside Homes Blog by Lynn

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Blog Editor Enhancements

Fri, 17 May 2013 08:21:41 -0700

Hello to the new AR Blog Editor enhancements!

Our own Kerrie Greenhalgh will walk you through all the changes in this brief informative video. I subscribed to AR's Keeping You in the Loop Blog so I will always understand the changes! Hopefully the enhancements will make our post writing go more smoothly.

Have a happy day - Lynn

Via ActiveRain: Keeping You In The Loop! (ActiveRain Corp.):

We asked, you answered and now it's delivery time! Check out the short video belowing highlighting the newest AR Blog Editor enhancements including:

Font Size

Font Color

Word Counter

Undo/Redo

Embed Media Button

Style Template

Post Date Option

AutoSave

In addition to the enhanced blog editor, we've also fixed a few bugs and improved a few back-end applications to improve overall AR performance.

A big thank you to IT for making this possible!

Have a question, or a find a bug that needs squashing?

Just click the envelope to open a support ticket!

Keep Up In the Rain!

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How Much Do You Pay For Your Domain Names?

Thu, 16 May 2013 20:25:48 -0700

MARK DID A LOT OF RESEARCH - and the comments add more data!!!!

Thanks Mark for the detailed analysis of this topic. I have puzzled over the pricing differences and waited for sales. Several years brings the prices way down. And offers protection - building the value of the name takes time. No point in letting another person grab the name because your ownership of the name expired.

Have a happy day - Lynn

Via Mark Loewenberg PA 561-214-0370, Mark Loewenberg PA (Keller Williams of the Palm Beaches):

How Much Do You Pay For Your Domain Names?

Recently I was thinking about all the domain names I own and was curious if I was getting the best deal in the marketplace so I did some homework. I knew outright that Network Solutions has probably the largest market share, but they are also one of the most expensive. I was curious to see if GoDaddy was the cheapest.. to my surprise it was not.

I realize that each company offers different types of names from .com, .net, .info, .org.... to keep it simple I only checked on .com pricing. The chart to the right represents pricing as of today for a wide selection of 15 companies that provide domain names. The list is in descending order of price. Not surprisingly Network Solutions and Register.com were two of the most expensive. GoDaddy ended up in the middle. Yahoo Small Business names was an eye opener as I had never heard of that service but with a name brand like them it may be worth the discounted savings too.

Unsurprisingly the company that was the lowest price was the one that I have been buying my names from! www.CheapDomainsForSale.net

I have well over 100 names, the vast majority are real estate related, and now I realize that I am saving several hundred dollars on my names and renewals.

This graphic below was especially interesting as it gave me a baseline to not spend more than 10.69/year/name. Against what I pay, I am saving $1.91/name!

What are your thoughts? Any suggestions?

Mark Loewenberg PA

561-214-0370

Broker Associate
Keller Williams REALTOR®

Live MLS Search!
www.ForSaleHomeSearch.com

Luxury Home Search
www.LuxuryHomesPlus.com

Equestrian, Multi-Acre & Horse Property Search
www.EquusProperties.net www.MultiAcre.com

Realtor Geek Out With IMSD!
www.imsd.net/ref/markloewenbergpa

Google Search Me Here!

Mark Loewenberg

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Ask an Ambassador-Will Incorporating Video in my Blog Really Help

Thu, 16 May 2013 19:04:58 -0700

Brenda gives excellent advice in this post.

Some of our AR members are experts on the video inclusion. I marvel at their self-confidence. Some offer full transcripts of their video post in the YouTube explanation below. Some offer Client Testimonials for their videos. Brenda's post gives practical suggestions for us to follow. GOOD ON YA, Brenda!!!!!

Have a happy day -
Lynn

PS The question remains - "OK, Lynn - when are you going to get started?????"

Via Brenda Mullen-ABR, e-Pro-210-807-0819 Selling San Antonio TX Area Real Estate (RE/MAX Access):

Ask an Ambassador-Will Incorporating Video in my Blog Really Help

Ummm, yes! Yes is the answer to the question above.  Done correctly, Video WILL make your phone ring and bring you potential business.

For some unknown reason...Google LOVES YouTube Video and if you post your video correctly, it will rank fairly high in the search engine and rather quickly. It's really quite amazing actually (and a bit scary lol). Why do I know it will make your phone ring? Well, because about forever ago, I made this horrible video on a subdivision in my neighborhood. I went driving along and held the camera out and kind of showed what the neighborhood looked like and told a little bit about it. Then I posted it on YouTube, wrote a blog post about it and went upon my merry way.

I didn't think about that post again until I got called (a lot later) from a potential client who saw that video and wanted to know more about the area.  Now, when I did that video, I didn't optimize it well, mainly because I didn't know I was supposed to. That was really my fault...but I digress. The point is, is that someone called me from it and I closed them on a home just from that phone call. One blog post and one video that cost me nothing made me a mighty fine profit if I do say so myself.

You want another example of how fast Google will rank your post should you include video? Fine...nary a problem. I did a market report for Cibolo TX two months ago. I decided to input a quick video of me blabbing about the market on my trusty iPhone...I post and within maybe an hour..(maybe) I Googled Cibolo TX Market Report and my Video (NOT MY POST), showed up on page 1 of Google. I was signed out of Google so it didn't know that it was me looking for me. By the way, if you ever search for you on Google in the form of your key words, make sure you are signed out so that you get true results...if you are signed into Google plus, Google is going to pull you right up because it knows (creepy huh) what you are looking for.

Anyway, you can do video cheap (do you have a smart phone?) and quickly.  The point is to remember to keep it short, (less than 3 minutes is ideal) and to be genuine and not afraid. (See below). Additionally, once you get that video done, make sure that you Title it correctly (KEYWORDS) and tag it correctly (MORE KEYWORDS) and make it public...and then put it in your blog post that has more written info. I would bet that a really good hyperlocal post with video would just knock Googles socks right off!

People love video (you know you do) and knowing who is behind what they are reading about.  It gives them a chance to get to know you a bit before they call you...(and again, if done right..they will call you). You can even join a few group in Active Rain that are fairly dedicated to Video. The VBloggers Group and YouTube Thursdays. Posts in these groups will give you tips and tricks and get you on your way :)!!

So, if your asking this Ambassador...Video is a must in today's Real Estate World :)!

Brenda Mullen – San Antonio Texas Real Estate Professional

Selling a San Antonio Texas area home involves many steps and having an experienced  San Antonio  Texas Real Estate Agent by your side will make the transaction run a lot smoother. I would love to be your San Antonio Texas Area Real Estate Professional! I assist both buyers and sellers in the San Antonio Texas area with either the purchase and or sale of residential real estate.

As an Accredited Buyer’s Agent, I have received special training to guide and educate you through the entire home buying process. From start to finish, I listen to your needs and desires in what you would like and take the information you give me to find you home.

As your San Antonio Texas listing agent I am well versed on the local San Antonio Texas area Real Estate Market. You can expect personalized service that includes a detailed consultation on how to best position your home to be competitive in today’s market with an in depth comparative market analysis, and advice on staging. I use the latest and most up-to-date marketing methods to get your home in front of as many buyers as possible. Being your San Antonio Texas area Realtor® not only involves just finding the home or selling the home, but being your guide, negotiator, advisor and advocate and making sure that your needs and goals are met. Being your San Antonio Texas area Realtor® is one of my truest passions, and “Helping You Find Home” is my number one priority.

Map of San Antonio, Texas

View Larger Map

--

Follow Me at These Cool Places



Brenda Mullen
Realtor®, ACRE®, ABR®, ePro®

RE/MAX Access - Helping You Find Home
19115 FM 2252 STE 7

Garden Ridge, TX 78266
210-807-0819
brenda.mullen@sbcglobal.net
http://www.findurwayhome.com

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Who Put Those CRIMINALS in Your Rental Home? OH! You Did?

Thu, 16 May 2013 18:17:07 -0700

MANAGING RENTALS IS A DEMANDING PROPOSITION

Follow Wallace's posts & take a course in DO's and DON'T's for Property Management.

Thanks for your clear and constant teaching here on AR, Wallace. Best to put the responsibility on the shoulders of the people responsible - the ones who screen the Tenants.

Have a happy day -
Lynn

Via Wallace S. Gibson CPM *, LandlordWhisperer (Gibson Management Group, Ltd.):

Our local media is buzzing about a raid local authorities made on an UPscale home in an established neighborhood adjacet to the University of Virginia.

On the heels of the Boston Marathon Bombings * seeing SWAT teams in this quiet area was chilling for local residents.

What is even more chilling is that the rental residents of the home - several single/UNrelated males with multiple vehicles with differet state license plates - were making FAKE IDs and that the authorities had had them on their RADAR for almost 6 months based on a sting of faux IDs being mailed from a local post office box.

In addition to equipment for making fake IDs, the authorities found 18 GUNS!

When interviewed by local authorities * the local BUILDER and his REAL ESTATE AGENT wife indicated....they rented the home to a man who identified himself as XXXX YYYY. He alwsys PAID IN CASH, mentioned he housed a LARGE SAFE there and said he ONCE PAID $60,000 in CASH for a vehicle. The property owner said that during a maintenance visit in December, 2011, they observed a ROOM "fortified by (the tenant) with several BOXES OF LATEX GLOVES"

The landlords also indicated that their tenant USED MULTIPLE NAMES and IDENTIFYING information.

I have added the CAPITAL letters in these DIY Landlords' printed interviews as RED FLAGS for their SCREENING PROCESS.

They now have 1) upset neighbors; 2) a stigmatized property; 3) an eviction of those residents NOT CURRENTLY IN JAIL; 4) lots of property damage probably not covered by their insurance; and 5) NO INCOME or CASH COMING IN because the AUTHORITIES HAVE IT ALL.

LANDLORDING and PROPERTY MANAGEMENT are HARD......it takes diligence, resources and HARD WORK....seeing past the FLASH WAD OF CASH, FANCY CARS and prospects with a SILVER TONGUE area ALL part of the SCREENING PROCESS.

Wallace S. Gibson, CPM * GIBSON MANAGEMENT GROUP, Ltd.

LandlordWhisperer

View our available Charlottesville, Albemarle and Lake Monticello rental homes online with photos and floor plans

"...to be a Virginian, either by Birth, Marriage, Adoption, or even on one's Mother's side, is an Introduction to any State in the Union, a Passport to any Foreign Country, and a Benediction from the Almighty God...." Anonymous

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If we ran our business like the Apple Store...

Thu, 16 May 2013 18:00:55 -0700

Wayne and Jean -

Thanks for sharing the experience with us! Your comment about the "only game in town" is so appropriate as it relates to Apple.

Turn it around and it appears that there are many "games in town" with Real Estate BUT IT ISN'T ACTUALLY TRUE. Our dedication to Client Service can make each of our companies "the only game in town".

LUCKY US!!! AR provides us with opportunities for education to sharpen our skills and allow us to be the "only game in town" in our niche markets!

Have a happy day -
Lynn

Via Wayne and Jean Marie Zuhl (Hallmark Realtors):

Last evening, Jean's iPod stopped working. We tried to fix it ourselves but eventually gave up and decided to go to the Apple Store to have it fixed or replaced.

I looked on their website and found out that we needed to make an appointment!

What??? Did I read this wrong? To buy something, from a store in a mall, we have to make an appointment??? Yup...

So I scheduled the appointment online for 8pm, the earliest available appointment. We arrived at the mall about 20 minutes early, parked and went in. The store was busy, but there were TEN employees standing around talking to each other, not helping any customers. A blue shirted twenty-something checked us in using his iPad and told us we're next in the queue, but will have to wait. And wait we did, for nearly a half hour.

At one point I asked the man with the iPad why we had to wait while nearly a dozen of his co-workers were not helping us, and just chatting amongst themselves. His answer: "They're not qualified."

Finally after almost 30 minutes a "qualified" employee was able to help us at the "Genius Bar" (no they don't even serve drinks there). He looked at our busted old iPod, entered the serial number in his iPad and said: "We can't repair it, but will give you a 10% discount if you trade it in." This exchange took less than a minute and required a "qualified" employee. Thanks a bunch!

Finally one of the idle employees was sent our way to show us what replacements were available. In less than 10 minutes we were back in the car, Jean's new iPod in hand waiting to have her latest podcasts loaded on to it.

As we were driving home our discussion went like this:

"What if we ran our business the way that the Apple Store runs theirs?"

"All our customers and clients will have to go on line to schedule an appointment, weeks in advance. Then when we meet with them, we'll tell them that we can't help them and refer them to someone else."

This is a great business plan when you're the only game in town. I guess we'll keep doing it they way we have been and actually help people quickly by providing them with great cusotmer service.

~ Wayne & Jean

Union County, NJ - a great place to live and work!

If you're looking to buy or sell a property in Union County, call us at 908-917-4189 or email TeamZuhl@gmail.com.

Check us out on Facebook at Real Estate Today and Things to Do in Union County! Follow us on Pinterest and Twitter.

All opinions, information and data provided is deemed reliable but is subject to errors and omissions. Not intended to solicit other Brokers' clients. We cooperate with them fully.

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A Little Different Look and Feel

Thu, 16 May 2013 16:46:53 -0700

KNOWING WHAT IS REALLY GOING ON IS SO COMFORTING!

Thanks to the staff for keeping us posted about changes.
Now we can all subscribe to the Blog and we can always read the FACTS about AR changes.

DISCLOSURE: Some of you on AR may relate to this ... Coming from a big family, growing up included lots of "discussions" about the reason that something had changed or would change or shouldn't change without any basis in reality. After years of that procedure, I prefer to know what REALLY is going on! THANKS AGAIN STAFF!

Have a happy day -
Lynn

Via ActiveRain: Keeping You In The Loop! (ActiveRain Corp.):

ActiveRain Gets a New Header Design

Lots of fun announcements taking place recently.

This is one that I'm really excited to get to share with you. Depending on when you are reading this, you may already notice something a little different about the look and feel on the top of the ActiveRain site. This newly designed header for the site is the first step in a pretty decent renovation that will take place over the coming months on ActiveRain.

This is just the first step in the redesign

We'd love to have you play around with it. Functionally there isn't too much change. We are trying to bring a little bit more order to where you find things on the site. As with any kind of change it will take just a tad bit of getting used to. A couple of links that you might have been used to clicking in a certain spot may have moved slightly. The mega menu drop downs still hold everything that the header menu held before.

In the future you can expect to see some pretty major upgrades to the layout of your blog posts and also your profile on ActiveRain. As I said, this is just a first step in the process with the primary focus being:

To make ActiveRain more visually appealing

To have more responsive design and a better consumer experience

To allow you to generate more leads from your blog

To give the site a more current look and feel

We've continued to make iterative adjustments to the SEO on ActiveRain to get more traffic and better rankings. We'll also continue to work on the stability of the site throughout the redesign process (Although we have already made dramatic improvements there). Many of these changes are so minor as not to be noticed but are important to keep ActiveRain in a position to get your content ranking in the search engines.

Would love your Feedback

As we will do in the future, we let our Ambassadors take a spin with the new layout and will be taking their feedback to make minor adjustments as we continue to refine the user experience on the site. Let us know what you think and please, if you have any questions or something doesn't seem to be working like it should, or you can't find something, leave a comment here. We'll be looking at your feedback as well.

If you would like to take a little tour with Bob (I'm actually writing this so for the time being just let me speak in the third person, but please understand that I know it's ridiculous) he'll be walking you through the new design. And he (which is really I) has a big mouth so don't be surprised if he talks about some of the other design elements coming down the road as well. He (I) will most likely get in trouble for sharing these things, but he (I) is too excited to keep them to himself any longer.

Register for the Tour of the New Header Design on Monday May 20th at 10am Pacific Time (1pm Eastern Time)

Have a question, or a find a bug that needs squashing?

Just click the envelope to open a support ticket!

Keep Up In the Rain!

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Mothers Day Greetings to one and all from Buckhead Atlanta GA 2013

Sun, 12 May 2013 11:57:44 -0700

Mothers Day Greetings to one and all from Buckhead Atlanta GA 2013

Happy Mother’s Day to one and all!

Thought I would spend a few minutes seeking older Mother’s Day poetry today. Enjoyed every minute. Decided to use the poem below. Interesting to find a brief and loving thought from an author best known for satire. Thackeray wrote Vanity Fair and The Luck of Barry Lyndon among others.

Liked this short poem so much because one could easily adapt the meaning to suit anything done with one’s own mother. That’s the ticket - right ? - “DONE WITH” ...

Those activities, whatever they were in each mother/child relationship, those are the moments that provide us the best of memories - the joys we recall each year on Mother’s Day. So thanks Thackeray ...

“You may have tangible wealth untold;

Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold.

Richer than I you can never be -

I had a mother who read to me.”

William Makepeace Thackeray (1811-1863)

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Listen to this ACTIVERAIN ISMD MARKET LEADER Being Acquired by TRULIA

Thu, 09 May 2013 11:57:03 -0700

Listen to this
ACTIVERAIN ISMD MARKET LEADER
Being Acquired by TRULIA

Yes, it is true - well - if the regulatory agencies allow it!

Today Ian Morris, President & CEO of Market leader, made the formal announcement. He includes a full set of Q&A for those interested in reading them.

Here's one Q&A that interested me -

"Q: How will the companies be integrated?

"ANSWER:For the foreseeable future, we’ll continue to operate separately.
It will be business as usual."

This was the important answer for me. I must admit I love ActiveRain as is. So much has been done by the staff to enchace our business. I, for one, am truly grateful for all the AR learning and community benefits since I joined.

The entire announcement may be accessed via the Google document at this link or by going to the original announcement at this link.

Have a happy day -
Lynn

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What Info Do You Give To EVERYONE While Talking On A Cell Phone?

Tue, 07 May 2013 18:05:47 -0700

ERIC --- what a great post - Short and to the point!!!! Thanks!
People sometimes forget that not only can anyone hear them but others could be taking down valuable financial information from them.
Have a happy day - Lynn

Via Eric Michael, Metro Detroit Real Estate Professional 734.564.1519 (Remerica Integrity, Realtors®, Northville, MI):

What Info Do You Give To EVERYONE While Talking On A Cell Phone?

I was sitting with a friend having lunch the other day. There was a person behind me on their cell phone, obviously trying to buy something. As he talked, I wrote down what he said on a piece of paper.

Full Name

Address

Credit Card Number

Expiration Date

The 3 digit number on the back

Without saying anything, I slid the paper across the table to my lunch partner. He looked at it and then up at me.

I simply said, "This is why you don't talk about personal stuff on a cell phone when other people are around."

Eric Michael, Real Estate Professional
Remerica Integrity, Realtors
41000 W. 7 Mile #105
Northville, MI 48167

Cell: 734.564.1519
Fax: 248.912.9996

www.ShortSaleInfoMI.com

www.EricMichaelOnline.com

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Choosing the Right Virtual Assistant

Tue, 07 May 2013 16:59:08 -0700

Hmmmmm - a topic to explore ...

Pamela provides an in-depth look at VIRTUAL ASSISTANT. The video is lengthy but certainly informative. She suggests getting settled in to watch! Popcorn anyone?

Have a happy day -
Lynn

Via Pamela Cendejas, Second Self Virtual Assistance (928) 692-3235 (Second Self Virtual Assistance):

I was a guest speaker for the Women's Council of Realtors® and was asked to tell the audience about being a Real Estate Virtual Assistant; what I do for Realtors®, how Realtors® can benefit from my services, etc.

The first question I asked was, "Is there anyone here who has never heard of a Real Estate Virtual Assistant?". To my surprise, a few hands went up. I would have expected that 17 years ago when I first started out. The response I usually got back then was a blank, deer in the headlights stare.

I've been wanting to create a video about choosing the right virtual assistant for a long time. But, I wanted it to be an in depth tutorial about more than just what a VA could do for you.

Here's What's Included in my "Choosing the Right Virtual Assistant" video:

What is Outsourcing?

Example of Outsourcing

Difference between a Virtual Assistant and an Employee

Creating an Outsourcing Plan

Budgeting for a Virtual Assistant

Interviewing a Virtual Assistant

Questions to ask a Potential VA

Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid and How to Avoid Them

Where to Find a Qualified Virtual Assistant

How to Get a Free 1/2 Hour Plan of Action Consultation - my shameless plug

As I said previously, this is an in depth video. So grab something to drink, put your feet up and see how to choose the right virtual assistant for you.

Originally posted at Real Estate Support Blog by Second Self Virtual Assistance.

List Of Real Estate Support Services

View more presentations from Second Self Virtual Assistance.

Subscribe in a reader

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Contact Relationship Manager for ODAT Realty Atlanta is ixactcontact!

Tue, 07 May 2013 15:40:59 -0700

Contact Relationship Manager for
ODAT Realty Atlanta is
ixactcontact!

Managing contacts is never an easy task. How much contact is enough? How much contact is too much? What contact method works best? What does a CRM offer that would assist me? ODAT Realty benefits by using IXACTcontact!

After many years - let’s say many years procrastinating about which CRM to choose - we went with IXACTcontact. We found that using IXACTcontact helps build lasting relationships with past clients, hot prospects, and important referral sources, keep in touch with clients the right way, generate high quality new leads, and manage the transaction side of our business, keeping us organized and in control. Plus ixactcontact offers newsletter templates, post cards, flyers and mass mail analytics - lots of extras!

Be sure to read Pat Kennedy’s post about hyper-local and her new venture - a targeted newsletter.

Enjoy TWO FULL MONTHS FREE(instead of the standard five weeks free)by signing up here!

Support is great and always cheerful.
They even help upload your data!
Give IXACTcontact a try!

Have a happy day -
Lynn

Here's an infographic from IXACTcontact:

DISCLOSURE: ODAT Realty encourages the use of IXACTcontact because of its many benefits. As an affiliate of ixactcontact, we receive compensation when someone signs up at our link. Each year, we donate 100% of the compensation we receive to a school. Lynn

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Why unduly complicate the whole buying and selling experience?

Mon, 06 May 2013 19:59:02 -0700

GREAT THOUGHTS from Hella as usual !!!

I especially like the way she says:
“Let's be realistic, when potential new clients call you, they have already previewed you!”

Her other point that I love is #3(b) - BUYER AGREEMENT …

When we act as professionals - we are treated as professionals.

Have a happy day -
Lynn

Via Hella Rothwell - 831-626-4000 Broker/Owner/Realtor® (CA DRE#01772851):

Let's be realistic, when potential new clients call you, they have already previewed you!

Don't talk them out of hiring you.

Handling those calls with a little finesse will make them feel comfortable with you.

WHY DO I SAY THAT?

Every potential client that calls me has already looked at a lot of material about me on the Internet:

1. My websites of which I have several; just GOOGLE "HELLA ROTHWELL"

2. My blogs of which ACTIVERAIN is my most shining example and, again, can be found on GOOGLE.

3. "Keywords" in your search, that will bring you to any or many of #1 & #2.

4. And various other social media websites where I keep some information.

So when the client-to-be calls me, I don't have to RE-SELL MYSELF. He/she is already sold or would not be calling me.

BUT WHEN THEY DO CALL, I DO THE FOLLOWING:

1. First and foremost, I answer my phone! They are not THAT sold on you if you IGNORE THEM RIGHT OUT THE GATE.

2. I make myself available to show property, or to go on a listing call AT THEIR CONVENIENCE.

3. Establish a "client relationship" as soon as possible, and that means for them to:

(a) Sign a listing agreement, or

(b) Sign a Buyers Representation Agreement and/or

(c) Make an offer on a property with me as the BUYERS BROKER.

Regarding, (b), above, there are times I forego this step, but there are times when I feel the client has been in the market too long, has been talking to too many other agents without a commitment, etc. This client needs some "roping in".

I had one buyer who had been dealing with the listing agent on a piece of property, and then was not happy with her. I don't think she explained her FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITY WAS TO HER SELLER. When he came to me, I had him sign a Buyers Representation Agreement and submitted that along with his offer.

And that brings me to (a), above. What if your new "client" has had a "pocket listing" (no written agreement) with another agent but now is no longer happy? And now wants YOU. Well, YOU better get that WRITTEN LISTING AGREEMENT.

There are times when "pocket listings" can work for the seller, but it is way too open ended for me. The seller, when it then doesn't sell, feels like the agent just wants to double-end the sale.

IN CONCLUSION, A CLIENT IS NOT A CLIENT UNLESS I HAVE A WRITTEN AGREEMENT OF SOME SORT.

If you are in the market to buy or sell a property, call me and I will guide you through the process without undue pressure or out-of-the-box sales tactics that just unduly complicates the whole experience.

__________________________________________________________________

Hella Rothwell

Broker Owner/Realtor®

California DRE #01772851

Tel. 831-626-4000

Fax 1-877-822-9332

Address: 1301-B Northcrest Drive, #54

Mailing: P.O. Box 2144, Crescent City, CA 95531

Email: Hella@95531.com

www.hellarothwell.com

For affordable oceanfront and oceanview property in Del Norte County, Crescent City and Smith River, Northern California, contact me to list or sell your property. I am a real estate broker licensed in California with contacts throughout the State.

Disclaimer: Hella Rothwell does not guarantee nor is in any way responsible for the accuracy of the information provided herein, and provides said information without warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied.

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Top 5 Myths When Buying A Suffolk County Long Island Home

Sun, 05 May 2013 06:51:01 -0700

Dear Sheila and Larry -

A big

THANK YOU

for the wonderful post.

Every day we work, we hear about these “myths”.
And, of course, another biggie:

“I will save money if I buy from the Listing Agent.”

Please keep writing! We all learn so much from you two!

Have a happy day -
Lynn

Via Lawrence(Larry)& Sheila Agranoff,Realtor Long Island Homes & Condos~631-805-4400, Long Island Condo & Home Sales (Charles Rutenberg Realty 255 Executive Dr,Plainview NY 11803):

Sometimes when buying a home, expectations may be high. If you are looking to purchase a home, remember it's still a business transaction.



Here Are Our Top 5 Myths For Home Buyers:

1. The Listing Information Is Always Correct ~ Wrong.

When it comes to listings, don't always take the information on the house as being on-target. Some times listing agents don't bother to check out facts they receive from the sellers and the wrong data is posted. Always verify!

2. We Will Find The PERFECT House ~ Not Always.

Buyers may try to focus on something that's wrong with a house rather than all of its good points. Don't expect to get everything on your wish list but zero in on the items that are the most important to you.

3. If We Have Different Realtors Looking For Homes On Our Behalf, We'll Find A House Quicker ~ Wrong Again.

By working exclusively with one Realtor you will improve the momentum and your end results. Working with your Buyers Agent thrives on communication, loyalty and trust!

4. When A House Remains On The Market Longer, The More You Can Negotiate A Better Deal ~ Not Always.

Buyers always ask, "How long has this home been on the market?" They may think the longer its been on the market the more they can negotiate the price down. However, it often means the seller is determined to hold on to their price.

5. If The Offer Is Accepted Right Away, It Was Too Much To Offer ~ Wrong.

It May Be Buyers Remorse. There's no point in second-guessing what the bottom line is, go with your goal and everyone will be a winner.



Now, when you're ready to buy that almost "perfect" Long Island home, call Realtors Larry (Lawrence) and Sheila at 631-805-4400.



http://www.suffolkexperts.com

Email: sheila@suffolkexperts.com

Join us on Google+

Do You Have Questions About Your Long Island Neighborhood? Need More Specific Information On Your Long Island Home or Condo For Purchase Or To Sell?

Call Larry And Sheila For More Comprehensive Reporting At 631-805-4400.

We Welcome Your Call!

If you or anyone you know is considering to sell their existing home on The North Shore Of Long Island, or is purchasing their first home, dream home, step-up home, or retirement residence, we would appreciate the opportunity to serve them. We can also recommend a relocation professional in the destination of choice outside our Long Island area!

All content, including text, photographs and images, remains the exclusive property of Suffolk Experts.  Only with written permission of Larry & Sheila may anything be used by others. All information is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed. Suffolk Experts and Larry & Sheila make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, delays in information, any losses, inuuries, or damages arising from its display or use.

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AR Challenge based on Jay Papasan's book The ONE Thing Part Three

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 01:41:04 -0700

AR Challenge based on Jay Papasan's book
The ONE Thing Part Three

Although I began to read the book chapters for the Challenge points, just being honest here folks, I must admit the book engaged my brain and my tenents. In just these three chapters, I learned a lot of useful information. I think I will go to the Library and reserve a copy so I may finish it.

What new in Chapter Seven? WILLPOWER is his focus. Not so much “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” but more when your “willpower tank” is full, there’s a way! He sees willpower as a measurable asset.

If I had to give an example of his theory, I would say if I wanted to cook a full, fancy meal outside, I wouldn‘t try to cook with twigs, I would need full logs. I believe that’s his premise about willpower, it has to be at full strength.

Papasan cites the famous marshmallow study and several others about willpower. Later on in Chapter Seven, he supplies data about the contrast between the size of the brain, only 1/50 of body mass versus the brain’s usage of 1/5 of the calories we expend every day. Hmmmm - in the chapter, when he stresses the idea of using one’s brain at maximum level of possibility, that need for energy makes sense. What a disproportionate usage of energy!

He suggests a willpower “budget” so one may continue productively throughout the day. To meet the budget requirements, one must “eat right and regularly.” I guess I have to forgo the mini-Milky Ways and the mini-packs of oreo cookies and go for the carrot packs!

Tying into the concept of the book title The ONE Thing, the author suggests that we access our maximum brain capacity by doing the ONE thing in the morning when our willpower is at peak performance levels.

I guess that the other way to summarize this chapter would be to say “Do first things first.” It seems all his examples lead to the instruction “TIME YOUR TASK”

Have a happy day,

Lynn

PS AR Members - You still have today to enter the Challenge! L.

Link to Part One Link to Part Two

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In A Multiple Offer Situation There Is Only One Offer That Matters

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 20:40:36 -0700

AS USUAL -

Cindy gives us important ideas to consider.

Even the title: ... only one offer that matters ... I always learn from the insights that Cindy shares in her posts.

Sharing her experience makes each of our jobs easier day after day in our own cities. THANKS!!

Have a happy day -
Lynn

Via Cindy Jones-Northern Virginia Real Estate & Military Relocation Services (CJ Realty Group, Inc.):

And it's yours.

What do I mean? Don't worry about how many other offers might be out there, think only about writing the strongest offer you can the first time.

In a multiple offer situation it often comes down to the sellers net but there could be something you can do to sweeten the deal that isn't all about the price. For example has the owner said they need to find a new home? if so give them a reasonable time frame to find that home. If you have lost out on a home or two they might as well. If they are forced to make a quick decision it might scare them off. Instead of 14 days offer them 30 days.

What about a rent back? If the owners don't want to move until school is out consider closing as soon as possible and allowing them to rent back for 30-45 days. Make sure you check with your lender as most VA and FHA loans do not allow a rent back for more than 60 days.

Provide a strong Earnest Money Deposit (EMD). Even if you are using a VA loan with Zero down payment don't expect a seller to have confidence in your offer if you write a check for $500 or a $1000. Remember the EMD will be applied to your HUD-1 as a credit and you could get most or all of it back at closing. Of course the check you write will be deposited within 5 business banking days (per the contract) so be prepared to have the cash in the bank.

My recommendation is you have your contract prepared, signed and delivered electronically. This assures a clean and legible copy for the listing agent and the seller's to read. There's nothing more frustrating than having to reasamble pages from a fax machine or try and decipher handwriting when you have multiple offers to review.

Remember it's not about the other offer. It's all about yours. You can win in a competitive offer situation if your buyer's agent does their homework and you play your A game upfront.

No Hassle-No Pressure-Just Straight Talk About The Northern Virginia Real Estate Market
If you are interested in learning more about the Northern Virginia Real Estate market including Alexandria, Arlington, Fairfax and Prince William Counties give Cindy Jones and CJ Realty Group, Inc a call at 703-346-2213.

Military Relocation Specialist serving military families relocating to and from the Pentagon, Fort Belvoir, Quantico MCB and all of the Military District of Washington installations.

Check out www.varealestatetalk.com and www.cjrealtygroup.com for more information.

Licensed in Virginia

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AR Challenge based on Jay Papasan's book The ONE Thing Part Two

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 16:48:15 -0700

AR Challenge based on Jay Papasan's book
The ONE Thing Part Two

The ONE Thing book, Chapter Five, begins with a quotation from PUBLILIUS SYRUS. A Syrian slave, captured in the 1st century BCE, Publilius was brought to Italy where he wrote many forms of literature. His efforts were so successful that he was freed by his “master”. Although famous for his mimes - he even won a first place award from Caesar himself in 46 BCE - only a collection of his maxims survives. Those are found in a 2nd century CE document called SENTENCES.

Papasan uses the following maxim from Publilius:

“TO DO TWO THINGS AT ONCE IS TO DO NEITHER.”

In Chapter Five, Papasan shares his thoughts about the failures of multi-tasking.

He believes that multi-tasking is a “lie. It’s an effective way to get less done.” The term “nulti-task” came from computer technology in the 1960’s he says. He states further that even that wasn’t accurate. The computer doesn’t do two things at once - it switches back and forth!

Papasan cites statistics about the TIME COST of switching as he calls multi-tasking. He quotes a 28% loss of time each work day. As a person shifts attention to the next task, the set-up and take-down times must be considered he says. No time savings there at all is his point.

In this chapter, Papasan also cites statistics about cell phone usage while driving and its negative effects.

Greg Vetter, in his book, FIND IT IN 5 Seconds, decries the concept of multi-tasking as well. I bet he’d agree with Papasan’s statement that “It’s not that we have too little time to do all the things we need to do, it’s that we feel the need to do too many things in the time we have.”

When discussing personal relationships, Papasan quotes author Dave Crenshaw, “The people we live with and work with on a daily basis deserve our full attention. When we give people segmented attention, piecemeal time, switching back and forth, the switching cost is higher than just the time involved. We end up damaging relationships.”

You still have time to enter the Challenge !

Lots to consider - in yet another chapter.

Have a happy day -
Lynn

Link to Part One of Three ........... Link to Part Three of Three

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AR Challenge based on Jay Papasan's book The ONE Thing Part One

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 15:31:01 -0700

AR Challenge based on Jay Papasan's book The ONE Thing Part One

WHAT???

DO ONE THING AT A TIME???

You would think that this would be easy for me since I named my boutique Real Estate company in Buckhead Atlanta, Georgia - ONE DAY AT A TIME - ODAT Realty Services, Inc.

In the current challenge, we are asked to explore three chapters of a book and do a report on each chapter. The first chapter is a very important introduction to the concept - in fact, it is deceptively simple sounding. It is about getting to ONE by taking away.

Reading the first chapter of the book, however, I see that I really didn’t understand the full meaning of “ONE” at all. I thought it meant stay in the present. In this context, ONE means focus on only one thing at a time. Now that has been almost impossible for me to understand. The message keeps coming up lately and so I think I need to work on “getting” it.

My caring husband of 45 years acts as a “news service” for me. I don’t read any newspapers or listen to the news on radio or TV so as to free my mind from all the repeated disaster stories. They don’t bother him! While reading, he cuts out the articles he thinks I will enjoy from the NYT and WSJ daily. One NYT article was about an executive transferred to Japan who finds an anonymous note on his desk one day.

“To attain knowledge, add things every day. To attain wisdom, subtract things every day,” it said, capsulizing teachings of Lao Tzu. “Profit comes from what is there, usefulness from what is not there.”That note led to a transformation for tht writer, Matthew May. He wrote a book about the change in his thinking - The Laws of Subtraction: 6 Simple Rules for Winning in the Age of Excess Everything. First message ...

Second message ... Atlanta is so spread out - a large geographical area to cover. Let’s reflect on Bob Stewart’s teachings that we must focus our posts based on HYPER-LOCAL. Many times one begins with a Client near the City Center and mile by mile, the search moves outside until it passes the Perimeter Highway and still keeps going! That is a 70 mile stretch and certainly outside the concept of “local” by anyone’s standards!

Yet, isn’t “HYPER-LOCAL” a type of “ONE”-ness? It has taken me many, many months to be able to follow Bob’s teaching in our market. Now I refer Clients for the other areas to other AR members and keep my focus on Buckhead Atlanta GA.

Third message - In architecture, LESS IS MORE is a tenent popularized by Mies Van Der Rohe (1886-1969) although it appeared first in a poem by Robert Browning in 1855. LESS IS MORE is certainly another type of ONE-ness.

How do I see that working for me?

Well, dedicated time to each task would be a first step. Just listed a home and replied to an agent’s message in Atlanta. His voicemail message was “We appreciate your call. We respond to calls from 8 am to 9 am and from 4 pm to 5 pm every day. We look forward to talking to you then.” It seems to me that he does that one thing then - answers calls! What a lot of time disappears each day when the phone rings and VITAL is overcome by URGENT.(Well, VITAL and URGENT will be another post one day! Back to ONE now ... )

Perhaps I should start with ONE trial task.
I could start with the unending telephone calls.
This week I will see about returning calls on a schedule.

You still have time to follow this link and join the Challenge.

Have a happy day -
Lynn

Link to Part Two ....... Link to Part Three

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AVOID RENTAL SCAMS Ask to Meet Agent or Owner in Buckhead Atlanta (2)

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 14:14:49 -0700

AVOID RENTAL SCAMS
Ask to Meet Agent or Owner in Buckhead Atlanta Part 2

Avoid these previously identified SCAMMERS:

barbaradgray@yahoo.com, Barbaragray123@hotmail.com, kingshawnal@yahoo.com, bryanhickman725@yahoo.com, iriscpolfer@yahoo.com, ricardomarmolejo629@yahoo.com, oscargzamorasr@yahoo.com, hromadajeri@yahoo.com, ricardomarmolejo629@yahoo.com, jieh.lin@yahoo.com, rachelmartinez448@yahoo.com, freitasgloriam@yahoo.com, beehang357@yahoo.com, johnrcole703@yahoo.com, joserflores405@yahoo.com, charlenehrichmond@yahoo.com, scargzamorasr@yahoo.com, teresanbrummett@yahoo.com, estebandzamora@yahoo.com, lacey.roop@yahoo.com, kingshawnal@yahoo.com, geraldcsweeting@yahoo.com, markhanna638@yahoo.com,

shawnmike335@yahoo.com, iriscpolfer@yahoo.com,

Telephone numbers to avoid as well:

910-250-9276 - (910)250-9276 - (910)250-9276 - (248) 979-0580 - 248-979-0580 -

This information comes from JIM SUPPLES. Read his full comments online.

Contact a Professional REALTOR(R) and save yourself money in the long-run!
Please add more in names and emails in COMMENTS if you have others.

Have a happy day -
Lynn

Part One - Examples of fraudulant approaches

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AVOID RENTAL SCAMS Ask to Meet Agent or Owner in Buckhead Atlanta (1)

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 13:49:01 -0700

AVOID RENTAL SCAMS
Ask to Meet Agent or Owner in Buckhead Atlanta

REMEMBER - if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

Watch out for the following signals!

-- Rent is WAY TOO LOW!

-- Bad grammar or spelling

-- You can’t meet with Owner or Agent at Property

-- Request to reply to a “personal” email address or phone

Watch out for the CLEAR EXAMPLES of FRAUD!

-- “I can’t use my bank account due to (some drama).”
-- “Send the money by Western Union because ...”

Remember, the minute Western Union releases that money, IT IS GONE FOR GOOD!!!

Watch out for the following explanations!

-- “I am out-of-the country working.”

-- “I have to rent it so low because (some emergency) happened.”

-- “Just send the Security Deposit now and I will send the keys.”

-- “My job already moved to another city so I have to do this quickly.”

REMEMBER - if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!

What can you do?

1. Check to see if the home is also for sale. Often the Scammers merely copy the MLS photos and make up a fake POSTLET or Craig's List ad.
2. Call a REALTOR(R) and have a professional represent you.

3. Call ODAT Realty in Metro Atlanta GA. 404-355-4466.

Have a happy day -

Lynn

In Part Two - Partial List of names and telephone numbers of known scammers

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FAFSA No Longer Required in Buckhead Atlanta GA for State Colleges

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 21:10:23 -0700

FAFSA No Longer Required in Buckhead Atlanta GA for State Colleges

Announcement from Georgia Student Finance Commission

As a result of newly passed legislation (House Bill 324) during the 2013 Legislative Session, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will NOT be required for those students planning to attend a college in Georgia who are seeking state financial aid. If a student and their family do not wish to complete a FAFSA, the GSFAPPS application can continue to be used to apply for financial aid programs administered by the State of Georgia. (See list below.)

FAFSA/GSFAPPS Retraction: FAFSA NOT Required for State Financial Aid Programs
(Including HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships)

Earlier this year, it was announced that a FAFSA would be required for students seeking state financial assistance to attend a college in Georgia. In addition, the GSFAPPS process would no longer be available as a means to apply for state financial aid programs. These changes to the method by which students could apply for state aid were being implemented to comply with the requirements for verification of lawful presence in Georgia.

Legislators cited the potential for hardship and inconvenience for many families that would accompany the FAFSA requirement and the elimination of the GSFAPPS option as the reason for the passing of HB 324.

The FAFSA continues to be an essential part of applying for financial aid. Unlike GSFAPPS, the FAFSA considers federal and state financial aid opportunities for students whether they plan to attend an in-state or out-of-state school. We strongly encourage students and their families to complete a FAFSA to ensure they are receiving all financial aid available to them.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at 770.724.9000 or 800.505.GSFC (4732) or by email at clientservices@gsfc.org.

Thank you,
Georgia Student Finance Commission

Georgia Financial Aid Programs
ACCEL • Georgia Military College State Service Scholarship Loan Program HERO Scholarship • HOPE GED Grant • HOPE Grant • HOPE Scholarship • North Georgia College & State University Military Scholarship Loan • North Georgia College & State University ROTC Grant and ROTC Grant for Future Officers • Public Safety Memorial Grant • Scholarship for Engineering Education Program • Student Access Loan (SAL) Program • Tuition Equalization Grant • Zell Miller Scholarship.

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Buyer Representation Agreements Buckhead Atlanta Homes Good or Bad ? 1

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:25:40 -0700

Buyer Representation Agreements Buckhead Atlanta Homes Good or Bad? 1

Buyer Representation Agreements provide understanding to both the Buyer and to the REALTOR® before entering into a transaction. The Buyer Representation Agreement specifies what the REALTOR®’s obligations are to the Buyer. A very important reason for using a written agreement is to assure the Buyers that their personal information will be used to protect their own goals.

Many other reasons exist as well. For example, in some states including Georgia, state law (O.C.G.A. § 10-6A-1 et. seq.) requires a written Buyer Representation Agreement before showing homes. To understand each person’s responsibilities ahead of time is essential. Faulty assumptions are eliminated by using a Buyer Representation Agreement.

Preparation is the best way to start any relationship. Assumptions don’t work in a business transaction. Full knowledge of mutual expectations is the key to success in a business transaction. Having all the information on the table to start is critical. The Georgia Buyer Representation Agreement used by Buckhead Atlanta Homes responds to the following questions - just in case you don’t know the answers!

Whose responsibility is it in Georgia to:

1. be sure that all Buyer “duties and deadlines” are met? (¶ 9-D)

2. keep all confidential information from the Seller or Seller representative? (¶ 10-A)

3. investigate the tax and legal consequences of the transaction? (¶ 9-B)

4. report suspected illegal or fraudulent activity? (¶ 11-A)

5. pay the Buyer Brokerage’s commission on a “FSBO” property? (¶ 7-C)

6. know the terms, conditions and availability of financing options? (¶ 9-B)

What other advantages are there for the Buyer who signs a Buyer Representation Agreement? Benefits include access to the Buyer rep’s varied resources. Many services are needed to be sure the purchase goes smoothly. The Buyer rep may suggest a House Inspector or a Mortgage source or a Moving company or even a Storage facility. At ODAT Realty Services, Inc., the years of using the same sub-contractors and services companies result in quicker appointments when needed. ODAT Realty does not accept any “referral fees” from the companies recommended. However, the quick response to meet ODAT Realty’s Buyer Clients’ schedules is graciously offered and gratefully accepted.

Coming in Part Two of Buyer Representation Agreements, read about the benefits to the REALTOR® of having the Agreement (besides the obvious one of following state law!).

Have a happy day -
Lynn

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Buckhead Atlanta Homes ODAT Realty 404-939-2727

proud to be a

SHORT SALE
Perhaps the best answer for

your family and

for your home.

"Real Estate is our product -
SERVICE is our business."

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GOOGLE DOES IT AGAIN A Revolutionary Change now GMAIL BLUE!

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 09:12:50 -0700

GOOGLE DOES IT AGAIN A Revolutionary Change now GMAIL BLUE!

GOOGLE DOES IT AGAIN

A Revolutionary Change now GMAIL BLUE!

Imagine that our world didn’t have GOOGLE? What would we have ever accomplished? Now we can do every bit of our email in BLUE!

And - BTW - when you finish with this presentation - you may want to see GMAIL MOTION(Physical Email 2011) or GOOGLE FIBER(Health Enhancement 2012) - all especially created for our use and comfort.

Technology will never be the same again - no more matching up the PANTONE colors or trying to blend color ranges from two or more sources - see for yourself!

Have a happy (BLUE) day -

Lynn

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Wonderful Clients!

CDPE Advanced
Buckhead Atlanta Homes ODAT Realty 404-939-2727

proud to be a

SHORT SALE
Perhaps the best answer for

your family and

for your home.

"Real Estate is our product -
SERVICE is our business."

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

Q: Don't I Get Better Price When I Buy Home From Listing Agent?

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 01:01:30 -0700

Thank you - PRAFUL - Great topic!

You have written about a very serious self-deception that some Buyers carry around with them. Representation is what gets a Buyer the best price possible - not asking for a discount from an agent who is NOT obligated to assist a Buyer’s interests!

Great post for all of us and especially for all the BUYERS to read.

Have a happy day -
Lynn

Via Andover Luxury Homes For Sale Andover Real Estate, Praful Thakkar (Keller Williams Realty):

Q: Don't I Get Better Price When I buy Home From Listing Agent?

Q: Don't I Get Discount When I Work With Listing Agent?

A buyer at OPEN HOUSE asked me this question. Will you not cut your commission if I buy the home directly from you? It did not surprise me a bit - after all, we all want to save money, correct?

This is how it all started.

I used all my tricks to market the first open house of great listing - and was glad to see lot of traffic. As much as I prefer to show homes to buyers on weekends, my seller clients do expect that I host the open house once in a while. I do agree to their request - as long as one condition is met: Either it's a brand new listing or there is a price change. A reason to invite buyers to look at the home with a new look.

I know it takes time for buyers to get a 'feel' of the market so visiting open house is a nice way to begin the house-hunt. I do feel, though, it's a good idea to connect with an agent even before buyers look at their first home. Yes, they can always browse the homes on Internet - thanks to a new real estate model. Buyers know about many things even before visiting the home for the first time.

The traffic at the open house was simply unbelievable. Like most open houses, I had visitors who were just venturing out for the first time and there were visitors who were working with other agents. And there was one buyer who had been at many open houses and looked A REAL EXPERT! This buyer seems to have liked (or loved?) this home.

That's when I heard this question: Will you not cut a 'deal' for me if I buy directly from you?

This was my answer to this buyer:

"NO!"

No,I did not scream. I just explained the following to this buyer:

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 The listing agent is hired by and works for the seller, not for the buyer, unless listing agent has prior exclusive agreement with the buyer.

 It may be difficult for the listing agent to fulfill the obligation of FULL DISCLOSURE, LOYALTY, OBIDIENCE, ACCONTABILITY and CONFIDNETIALITY if the listing agent represents an unrepresented buyer.

 The listing agent represents the best interest of the seller - be it price, terms or conditions. Clearly, this is Advantage Seller!

 The listing office has an agreement with the seller about the compensation. It has nothing to do with where buyers come from.

 In multiple offer scenario, which is not so uncommon now, the listing agnet has to present ALL the offers without having a bias to the one presented by this buyer.

 It becomes almost impossible to negotiate on behalf of two opposite parties for the listing agent.

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In fact, one of the biggest mistake home buyers make is calling a real estate agent on the sign in the yard.

I know this is not very easy to digest from buyer's perspective as they try to pocket the buyer's agent's share themselves. I am sure, at my next open house, I will have another buyer who will ask me this same question....

Don't I Get Discount When

I Work With Listing Agent?

Get Your Market Reports For Specific Market in Andover and neighborhoods....

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UPDATED EVERY 30 MINUTES!

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Wonderful Clients!

CDPE Advanced
Buckhead Atlanta Homes ODAT Realty 404-939-2727

proud to be a

SHORT SALE
Perhaps the best answer for

your family and

for your home.