Mike Andruff's Blog

Client parties need to appeal to the young at heart

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 20:00:43 -0700

by Mike Andruff, VancouverPropertyFinder.com

We recently had our 15th customer party. We generally pick a theme, plan around the concept for several weeks in advance and then arrange enough manpower to pull it off.

This party was planned as an Ice Cream Social at a local beach. We had roughly 60 participants. So ice cream and hot dogs for at least 60, with games and prizes to make it nice. Prizes by the way ranged from donut holes for the kids to an $1,100 travel credit with Flight Centre for one of our lucky past clients. Oh, it is extra fun if the sunshines like crazy.

My team of four set up our trademark RE/MAX bolloon, a shade tent, a gas bar-b-que, and served four flavors of ice cream and hot dogs with onions and all the fixings. We had the egg and spoon race, the balloon between the legs race and the water balloon toss. The party really took off once the adults got tossing those water ballons. Our elapsed time from start to finish was approximately 6 hours (the party lasted two hours). The team was pretty wiped at the end. Wasn't sure if it was the sun or the nervous energy - always a part of these events.

While we make a point of having fun, no business, inevitably two to three folks will take us aside and talk about future plans in real estate. This is a great way to promote rapport with clients and each year it becomes stronger and stronger.

Here is a brief three minute video of the day:

Westside Division Education Event - June 23, 2010

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Sun, 27 Jun 2010 15:47:00 -0700

By Mike Andruff - VancouverPropertyFinder.com

As all realtors commit to their practice of real estate, they must also commit to the enhancement of the profession of real estate. This is where we engage with our local boards in our service to fellow members.

The Westside Division of the Vancouver Lower Mainland in BC recently hosted a seminar related to changes to our local strata property legislation. While the legislation is "prescibed", which means passed but not enacted until the Regulations are approved, the pending changes are significant for the strata property ownership and most importantly future values of such properties.

The prime change is a call for depreciation reports. This is the document which would detail all necessary upgrades and their schedule for future owners. This calls for developers of new properties to stand soundly behind the quality of their work, and for owners of older properties to have to dig deeper into their pockets to revitalize their homes. Clearly this legislation calls for higher standards for strata title ownership.

Here is a brief video of the seminar:

See similar videos by Mike Andruff: http://www.youtube.com/mandruff

#raincamp bellingham May 27 2010

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Fri, 28 May 2010 22:56:19 -0700

by Mike Andruff, VancouverPropertyFinder.com

On May 27^th it was not raining in Bellingham, but seminar leader Ben Kinney was raining down on his audience with hundreds of social media marketing ideas. In addition to the 300 rainmakers in attendance, sponsor hosts included: Jon Washburn, active rain; Galen Ward, Estately.com; Scott Smith, Market Leader; Spencer Rascoff, Zillow; and An Bui, DocuSign. active rainers included: Brad Andersohn, and Bob Stewart.

A formula offered for building one's ranking went this way:

Content + viral + influence + interaction + communication

Websites offered in the course of discussion included:

Wordle.net (for a summation of who we are on the net)
Wiggio.com (collaboration software)
Goldmail.com (video email)
Runpee.com (we were getting silly here)
Photosynth.com (photo manager)
Meetordie.com (meeting cost evaluator)
Slydial.com (for avoiding conversation but getting your message thru)
Site:www.yourwebsite.com (shows how many pages are indexed)
Link:www.yourwebsite.com (shows links)
hitTail.com (shows the long tail ??)
flowtown.com (convert lead data to social media connects)
xobni.com (cross ref. for emails)

Chris Anderson's book The Long Tail was mentioned as suggested reading.

facebook was addressed as the prime social media platform today. Positioning oneself to engage its massive audience includes the use of fan pages, ads, and FBML.

Ben Kinney promised after the day was done, we would laugh, learn, be shocked with some of the commentary, and cry. He said we would be pumped and excited to be in real estate. Mr. Barry Long provided the humorous and uplifting talk that left us all better for being there. Barry told his story and drew analogies to the challenges we all face in life and real estate. We all left smiling.

Here is a brief video capturing the day:

Vancouver Zoning: Single Family Dwelling or Triple Family Dwelling??

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Thu, 27 May 2010 01:15:16 -0700

by VancouverPropertyFinder.com

At a recent event sponsored by the Westside Division of the Greater Vancouver Real Estate Board, staff from the Vancouver City planning staff explained the numerous changes to city bylaws that were implemented to achieve an "Eco Densification" of Vancouver. This presentation lead one realtor to quip in the question period if the City was contemplating a change in zoning description from single family zoning to triple family zoning. (Under current bylaws, one can have a basement suite within the residence ad a laneway house on the same lot.)

The following presentation was a video of the event:

RE/MAX Technology Workshop

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 01:02:46 -0700

by Mike Andruff - VancouverPropertyFinder.com

Social media, SEO, HTML, widgets, page rank, are all topics we need to know about in contemporary real estate. Why?

85% of first time buyers use the internet to source their real estate information. 67% of internet users expect a response from realtors within one hour of their enquiry. Interestingly, however, only 1-4% are prepared to buy now! The rest of them will transact in 3-24 months. Are you set up to manage a lead generating system with these characteristics? Traditional techniques are not as viable when your customer is thousands of miles away. Are you wired? Plugged in? Programmed for success?

Mike Andruff recently attended the RE/MAX Technology workshop in Denver Co. to look for answers. The following video touches on topics addressed at the workshop:

If you are planning to take courses at the RE/MAX Technology Center, consider staying at The Marriott. It is a five minute walk in the morning. You can come from and go to the airport by the Super Shuttle. I paid $34 and it takes about 45 minutes.

Also consider viewing this related video.

RE/MAX International Headquarters Tour

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:58:43 -0700

by Mike Andruff, VancouverPropertyFinder

As a Canadian Sales Associate, I seldom venture to places like the RE/MAX International Headquarters in Denver Colorado. However, a recent invitation to a Technology Workshop interested me. I planned to fly down, stay at a nearby hotel, and take in the latest trends and concepts from the world of RE/MAX trainers. Between my travel agent and EDR Travel in Denver, everything worked out beautifully. While I plan to present a video of my tecnology experience, the Headquarters themslves were so impressive, I've decided to do a separate feature on it. Here then is my video:

For more videos by Mike Andruff click here.

Vancouver's 2010 Paralympic Games

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 23:52:38 -0800

by Mike Andruff - VancouverPropertyFinder.com

Back in January I posted a blog introducing the forthcoming Winter Olympics. In the video I highlighted a well know monument in Vancouver, The Terry Fox Memorial. I pointed out that it was fitting that Terry, a real Canadian hero, and his memorial was outside the building that would recognize many countries' heros for winning medals at the Celebration Ceremonies. I had no idea that several weeks later at the Paralympics, Terry would be featured as THE hero of the world's paralympians and we would see his parents bring the flame into the stadium.

As I sat in the 60,000 seat audience of BC Place at the Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony last night in Vancouver, I thought of my departed, disabled father (he lost use of his right arm due to a brain injury - he saved me from being trampled by a racehorse - I was three years old at the time). His indomitable spirit was brought to mind. He could do anything he set his mind to, just like the athletes we were introduced to that evening. We can do anything we set our minds to.

Vancouver had set its collective mind to delivering Olympic Games. But, we did so much more than that. We've built beautiful transportation systems, wonderful stadiums and plazas for people to enjoy in great numbers, and most important of all, we've created a new spirit of being Canadians. One body, one spirit, one mind. One inspires Many.

Watch these Paralympic Games. They will teach us our ability as humans to adapt and excel in the face of adversity, they will teach us the grace of those who society treats with absence of thought, and most importantly, they will teach us of the triumph of mind and heart over physical limitations.

If you thought you needed some inspiration, just watch these athletes.

Vancouver Winter Olympics Finale

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 23:39:17 -0800

by Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

After the final competition of these winter olympics, we visited ground zero of the celebrations to soak up the LOVE of the Olympics in Vancouver. Here is our presentation:

For more videos from the series, click here.

Canada's Having a Blast on Day 16 with 3 Golds and a Bronze

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 01:12:09 -0800

by Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

We review other pavilions and visit Vancouver's fabled Nine O'clock Gun as we close out Day 16 of the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics Here is our presentation from Day 16:

For more videos from the series, click here.

US Women's Hockey Team Shows Class in Defeat

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 13:46:31 -0800

by Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

On Day 15 we met with visitor host Wayne Hamill. Wayne and his family have been the family image of the highly successful "I Believe" campaign promoted by CTV, the Olympic Broadcaster. His family were among the first to stand up and say, "Welcome" to the world as hosts. His family's hospitality and generousity is a great example to us all. Here is our presentation from Day 15:

For more videos from the series, click here.

Vancouver 2010's Volunteers are Golden on Day 14

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 22:46:31 -0800

On Day 14, we feature ,and say a big THANK YOU, to our Game's Golden Volunteers. They have come from across the country, and have worked hard during the Games. We love you volunteers! Also featured are Plaza of Nations, Carrall Street Inukshuks, and the Olympic Village.

For more videos from the series, click here.

Fired Up on Super Wednesday Day 13

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 02:10:20 -0800

by Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

On Day 13 we feature the transportation system, more street entertainment and the typical evening fireworks. Quarterfinals for hockey were extremely popular as the Canadian fans saw their team beat the Russians. On this historic day Canada won four medals at the Olympics. Here is our presentation from Day 13:

For more videos from the series, click here.

Hallelujah! Vancouver Accomodates All on Day 12

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 17:31:47 -0800

by Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

Day 12 examines the unique ways in which people are finding accomodation during the 2010 Winter Olympics. Additionally, we meet a busker on Granville Island singing Leonard Cohen's Halleluljah. Here is our presentation from Day 12:

For more videos from the series, click here.

Today's Vancouver Sun paper gave Vancouver212228 a shoutout. View the article via this link.

Europeans Jump the Furthest on Day 11

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 22:45:02 -0800

by Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

On Day 11 at the Men's Team Ski Jump, the Austrians take Gold, the Germans Silver, and the Norwegians Bronze. These extraordinary atheletes, courageously zoom down the slope in the quest for style and distance. In addition to the event, the fans can be entertaining as well. Here is our presentation from Day 11:

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For more videos from the series, click here.

Super Sunday at Canada Hockey House on Day 10

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 22:35:27 -0800

by Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

On Day 10 we went to a hockey game featuring Team Russia and Team Czech. The noon hour tilt was fulling subscribed. The competition was stiff and in the end, Team Russia prevails. Here is our presentation from Day 10:

For more videos from the series, click here.

The Short Track to a Very Entertaining Day 9

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 02:46:44 -0800

by Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

On Day 9 we went to short track skating at the Pacific Coliseum. In doing, so we were completely entertained by street performers and the atheletes. Here is our presentation from Day 9:

For more videos from the series, click here.

Dining, Dancing, and Dazzling Us on Day 8

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 23:31:49 -0800

by Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

Day 8 we set out to enjoy the top rated cuisine of all the visitor countries. We ended up at Switzerland House for the Cheese Fondue. Following lunch we were off to the Granville Mall to soak in the ambience of street performers. Here is our presentation from Day 8:

For more videos from the series, click here.

Curling Up With a Canadian Win On Day 7

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 01:46:44 -0800

by Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

On day 7 we focused on the Curling event. We enjoyed a wonderfully sunny day as we entered the venue. Canadian RCMP greeted us and we met many a curling fan from Russia, Germany, Denmark, USA, China, Japan, and Great Britan. Here is our presentation from Day 7:

For more videos from the series, click here.

Pinning Down Sochi and Live City on Day 6

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:37:20 -0800

By Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

On Day 6 we feature the Russian Pavilion as Sochi will host the next Winter Olympics. We next move over to the Live City Vancouver venue to watch a live performance. Incidentally, we needed our coats today because it was COLD! Here is our presentation of Day 6:

See more video of Vancouver during the Olympics, click here.

The Rich Spirit of Richmond on Day 5

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 23:28:35 -0800

By Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

Day 5 of the Winter Olympics took us to Richmond to enjoy our first Olympic event personally. It was a wonderful day, with no end of fun. We started at the Richmond Oval and ended up at the O Zone. During our transition to the O Zone, we met a Dutch couple who explained how they bicycled to the event. We were intigued by their story. Here is our presentation of Day 5:

To see more segments of this series click here

Canadian Olympic Champion Wins the Day

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:22:50 -0800

By Mike Andruff - Vancouver212228

Every day in Vancouver is a surprize during the Winter Olympics. We start with visiting pavilions, ending up at the Victory Celebrations. Here is our presentation of Day 4:

Aliens Invade Granville Is. on Day 3 of Olympics

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 02:45:30 -0800

When we focus daily on medal counts and sport events, it is refreshing to include cultural events as well. Today on Day 3, Vancouver's Granville Island was rich in culture. From aliens to mimics, and portraits to musicians, this enclave of Vancouver was a treat for the visitor. Here is our presentation of Day 3:

Please visit YouTube.com/Vancouver212228 for a complete list of our Olympic video series

Happy Visitors and Family Fun on Day 2 of Winter Olympics

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 02:42:17 -0800

Vancouver (and Richmond!) are having the time of our city lives as day 2 of the Olympics takes place. After a trimphant opening, the Olympic Caldron now burns at the Convention Centre, overlooking Burrard Inlet.

The Dutch were among the first gold medal winners and so we took our camera to among other places, Richmond's O Zone.

An Emotional & Joyous Opening of the Winter Olympic Games

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 02:18:09 -0800

Downtown Vancouver is packed with Fun Seekers. Today was electric! Everyone was walking about with big smiles, and hearts filled with joy, and excited anticipation of the pending competitions. Vancouver stood tall today. Tallest among us was Vanoc CEO, John Furlong. Today was the proudest day of his life, followed closely by the rest of us.

Win this Flip Camera Contest

Mike Andruff (RE/MAX Crest Realty Westside) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 19:12:15 -0800

Are you ready to start using video in your blogging? You can start doing so FREE! Watch this video and post your answer to Wall of The Group page on Mike Andruff's Facebook page by March 15, 2010. Contest is open to all Canadian and US residents. Watch this video and the video series mentioned below:

For more videos from the series, click here.