We all decide to sell our homes for different reasons. No matter what the reason, most everyone I meet here in Orange County, California wants me to help them sell their homes and condos in the shortest period of time, for the most money with the least amount of hassle.
For years, print advertising was a great way to advertise properties that are for sale. If you've met with a Realtor® lately to discuss selling your home, you may have been surprised when they told you they wouldn't be advertising your home in the newspaper or in a glossy magazine. Watch this compelling video to see why...then ask your Realtor® how they will be using social media and other types of internet marketing to get your home S O L D...
If you or someone you know is thinking about buying or selling a home in Orange County California it would be my pleasure to work alongside to help. Helping you achieve your goals and dreams is what I get to do...it's my profession and my joy...I'm here to help!
Marlene Bridges, REALTOR®
800 777-1775 - Toll Free ~ or ~ Text Me 714 745-2592
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce 2007-2009
President - Southern California Chapter Certified Residential Specialists® 2010
Marlene is an experienced and respected South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods (formerly Leisure World), Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, and Mission Viejo.
547-P Via Estrada, Laguna Woods, CA 92637 View Map
Spacious Upper Corner Unit Casa Blanca model features large living room and deck with tree and street view-Interior location easily accessible from gates 1,2 & 3. Walk to Laguna Hills Mall-Free bus to shopping, restaurants, medical, etc. HOA includes property taxes, water, cable tv, bus service, use of 7 clubhouses, guard gate & security patrol-This active 55 and better community has 2 golf courses (golf only $8 for 18 holes), lighted tennis courts, over 200 clubs, an equestrian center, garden center, lawnbowling, 7 swimming pools & much more-Laguna Woods Village is active senior living at it's best-Beautiful Laguna Beach is just minutes away-Use a City Taxi Voucher & ride anywhere in the city for only $2 or for $4 go to the Performing Arts Center or South Coast Plaza for the day-Take one of the many day trips to a casino or one of the longer trips to exciting ports of call-Lots to do here & fun people do it with! Buy this unit FURNISHED OR UNFURNISHED-ALL FURNITURE AVAILABLE.
Today, while researching properties for a buyer I came across a listing that piqued my interest. The reason I decided to look further at this particular property is that it was priced at nearly double the asking price of any property in the development. The description suggests that the property is "A Must See" and that needs to be taken literally rather than figuratively...Why? Sadly, after 34 days on the Multiple Listing Service there is "No picture available". Here's what prospective buyers of this property saw on MLS:
GREAT REMODELED UNIT; NEW KITCHEN, BOTH BATHROOMS, NEW FLOORING, NEW PAINT, NEW WINDOWS, --- A MUST SEE !!!!!!! 3 LARGE BEDROOMS, MASTER BEDROOM WITH PRIVATE BATHROOMS, 2 BATHROOMS, PRIVATE PATIO, ---------------------- A MUST SEE !!!!!!
In today's market, people rarely sell because they want to. There is typically a need that causes them to put their property on the market. It may very well be that this seller needs the price they are asking. But it would be very surprising that anyone would even look at this property that appears to be so overpriced. Even if someone decided to look at it and make a full price offer (pretty much a long shot, but let's just say it happened) the buyer would need to be prepared to pay cash or pretty close to all cash to get it to close escrow. There simply is no loan available for overpriced properties. The buyer would need to come in with cash to cover the gap between the loan amount and the purchase price.
The simple truth of the matter is when hiring a real estate agent, which would you prefer?
Are you looking for an agent who tells you what you want to hear or a real estate agent who knows the current market and tells you the truth about what your home should sell for?
Are you looking for a real estateagent who will actually market yourhome or a real estate agent who does the minimum and of just placing a sign on your property and a cursory job of putting your property on MLS?
The agent you choose to represent you is a critical factor in how quickly your home is going to sell. The speed of the sale becomes one of the most important factors to consider when home prices are in a downward trend. To avoid becoming an example of what not to do when hiring a real estate agent ask good questions during the interview with your prospective agent. For a list of questions to ask your real estate agent during the interview, email me and I'd be happy to email you a great set of questions to ask your prospective agent.
If you or someone you know is thinking about buying or selling a home in Orange County California it would be my pleasure to work alongside to help. Helping you achieve your goals and dreams is what I get to do...it's my profession and my joy...I'm here to help!
Marlene Bridges, REALTOR®
800 777-1775 - Toll Free ~ or ~ Text Me 714 745-2592
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce 2007-2009
President Elect - Southern California Chapter Certified Residential Specialists® 2008 - 2009
Marlene is an experienced and respected South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods (formerly Leisure World), Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, and Mission Viejo.
This morning is a beautiful Spring Saturday. I came downstairs to check my emails and get ready for the day ahead. The first thing I saw was Sally Cheesman's email announcing the winners of her latest POSITIVE ATTITUDE for the Weary Soul.Group's contest - Spring Fresh Contest. So of course I needed to check the list to see how many of my old friends made the cut. I met some new friends there and of course saw the names of some great old friends and now have a great list of positive reading for the next couple of weeks as I work through the list.
Today in many ways is like a lot of Saturdays. I get to show property. That's not just part of my job, it's a privilege. There are some nice folks who have entrusted me with the responsibility of making the many phone calls to line up the properties that are appropriate for them to see. This task has become a bit more lengthy than in previous years. Selecting the properties, then calling each agent to see if the short sale truly is a short sale and if the agent is skilled at working with short sales or REO's is an added layer of effort. The few extra hours of effort in the office can save countless hours and possible disappointment for my clients.
Today, as I began collecting all the materials and staging them next to my front door, I thought about how many times I've gone through this process before. It's a little like a matador who prepares in advance for his work (my job isn't quite so glamorous or dangerous). I won't be donning a suit of lights, but I will be putting on appropriate attire for the day including flat shoes that allow me to keep up with the long strides of my 6'2" client. My shoes are also slip-on so I can easily kick them off to protect the freshly cleaned carpets in homes we will be seeing today. All the listings of the homes we'll be visiting are neatly organized in little books for both my clients. Pens have been attached for their convenience. My GPS has been programmed with the addresses we'll be visiting. The car is clean and has a full gas tank.
As I began preparing for the day, I thought of how many times I've done this before and yet each time it is brand new. There's a hint of excitement in the air as I think that today may be the day that we find the perfect house for my clients. Today may be the day that we all get to experience that wonderful AHA moment where we all know that this is it...the home we've been hoping to find. No matter how many times that happens, it seems new every time. That's just one of the best parts of what I get to do as a REALTOR®. I get to participate in one of the most exciting times of another person's life. I get to helpthem find their dream homes. What an extraordinary opportunity that is and one of the many reasons I realize that I love what I get to do for a living. It's an honor, privilege and joy. Today is a good day!
If you or someone you know is thinking about buying or selling a home in Orange County California it would be my pleasure to work alongside to help. Helping you achieve your goals and dreams is what I get to do...it's my profession and my joy...I'm here to help!
Marlene Bridges, REALTOR®
800 777-1775 - Toll Free ~ or ~ Text Me 714 745-2592
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce 2007-2009
President Elect - Southern California Chapter Certified Residential Specialists® 2008 - 2009
Marlene is an experienced and respected South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods (formerly Leisure World), Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, and Mission Viejo.
A Realtor® friend of mine called me today to ask my advice on what to do to be sure his buyers were able to see houses while he's going to be on vacation for the next week and a half. He hasn't taken a vacation in years, so wasn't sure how to make sure his clients needs were being met. He explained that in the price range his buyers are looking in they've been making offers, but have been getting beaten out in multiple offer situations. He wants to assure that while he's away they won't skip a beat in seeing properties as soon as they come on the market and getting their offers in early.
My friend plans to take his laptop with him and to write up any offers and negotiate them on behalf of his clients while he is out of state. He was wondering what kind of compensation he should offer to an agent who would show houses to a couple of his clients while he's away.
I suggested that rather than doing a commission split, he might want to consider paying one of the office agents an hourly rate ($25/hr.) just to set the appointments with the sellers and open the doors for his clients. I have done this in the past when I just couldn't be in two places at one time. It works well because your clients feel that you're making sure they get to see the houses as they come on the market. And, they know that you are still the one who will be handling presenting the offer, doing the negotiating for them and walking them through the process to closing.
It's a win-win-win situation:
Buyer's Agent is happy...he gets a vacation
Showing Agent is happy - he gets paid without having to much more than just show up
Buyers are happy - they don't feel that they are missing out on making offers on properties while you take a well-deserved vacation
Over the years, I have been surprised when I tell my clients that I'll be away for a few days to attend a seminar or to take a vacation that they consistently are very supportive and tell me to relax and have a great time because I deserve it. Try it, you'll come back rejuvenated, refreshed and ready to deliver even better service after more training or some well-deserved rest.
Marlene Bridges, REALTOR®
800 777-1775 - Toll Free ~ or ~ Text Me 714 745-2592
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce 2007-2009
President Elect - Southern California Chapter Certified Residential Specialists® 2008 - 2009
Marlene is an experienced and respected South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods (formerly Leisure World), Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, and Mission Viejo.
In working with a nice couple we came across a home that was listed in the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) in Orange County, California.
Here are a few highlights that were included in the listing:
One picture of the front of the house
Good price for the current market and size of the property
Listing Agent's telephone number that when called had an outgoing message that said, "the subscriber is not taking calls at this time".
Listing Broker's telephone number - "The number you have reached is not in service at this time."
Lockbox location - "see agent remarks"
Agent Remarks - blank
Currently listed for sale for 1 1/2 years
My clients have been looking at this house off and on for a period of a couple of years. They first saw it when it was offered for sale by the builder at a much higher price. When they saw it on MLS they asked me to check on it for them. I was intrigued, so I drove by to take a look thinking maybe I could find a lockbox somewhere at this vacant property.
Here's what I found when I got to the property:
No sign on the property (that's what it said in MLS, but I didn't really believe it-why would you not want to let people driving by know the house is for sale?)
Lawn and shrubs dying for lack of water
Checked every door, hose bib, gas meter, everywhere I could think of...no lockbox
This is an absolutely lovely property that is scheduled for foreclosure in about 2 weeks. I've emailed the listing agent to see how I can get inside the home to assess the condition before we make an offer...no reply.
So, how does one make an offer on a property like this? I wrote another post about this particular listing that will tell you how we are going to be handling making an offer. Read it here.
In this interesting market, Realtors® are having to do far more legwork than ever before. Many homes have multiple offers, many buyers are having to make numerous offers before they actually get to buy a home. If you or someone you know needs help navigating their way to buy or sell a home, I'm here to help.
Marlene Bridges, REALTOR®
800 777-1775 - Toll Free ~ or ~ Text Me 714 745-2592
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce 2007-2009
President Elect - Southern California Chapter Certified Residential Specialists® 2008 - 2009
Marlene is a highly experienced and respected South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
If you are a kid from the 60's this is sure to bring a smile to your face. Just imagine what you would think if you were waiting in a train station and this started happening around you. What do you think you would do?
It's no secret that the flagging Orange County, California real estate market has caused many real estate agents and people in real estate related industries to take other jobs. Some of us have been fortunate enough to be able to afford to stay in this business to ride out the storm. There was a long period when the phone just didn't ring, so I began looking for ways to use the quiet time to improve my business for the days ahead.
A friend told me about a company that helps homeowners make a connection with lenders to do loan modifications. This isn't one of those companies that asks the homeowner for money and makes a lot of empty promises. They actually are contacted by the lenders to make a human contact with homeowners who have fallen behind in their payments that are good candidates for loan modifications. I've been working with them for about a month now.
This week, I met with a woman who has had a very tough time of it; Business failures, job layoff after 10 years, just a really hard time. We met on Friday morning and were able to get her approved to begin the loan modification process. There's still work ahead for her, but the chances are very good that things will work out.
There is so much negative press these days, but this one small success gave me so much hope. The hug that I got from this very grateful lady who appreciated someone who could come alongside her and give her some hope was like a tonic. I felt my step lighten, my shoulders lift and walked out of her home appreciating the sun on my face.
I know this sounds very sappy, but countless surveys have shown that what drives most real estate agents is that it is a profession that provides us the opportunity to help people. That dear lady helped me to remember what it feels like to be able to help someone. For that reminder and the hope of more opportunity to come is just what I needed for a complete attitude adjustment.
Here's a wonderful video that encourages me and is a wonderful metaphor for today and the days of recovery ahead.
Do you know of someone who is currently struggling to make their house payments? Please let them know that there is someone who is willing to stand alongside them and give them some help. It is my pleasure to provide my clients with information to assist them in making informed decisions regarding real estate matters and when contemplating buying and selling homes in Orange County, California. If you have questions and would like some honest answers or need more resources, please give me a call, text me or email me.
Marlene Bridges, REALTOR®
800 777-1775 - Toll Free ~ or ~ Text Me 714 745-2592
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce 2007-2009
President Elect - Southern California Chapter Certified Residential Specialists® 2008 - 2009
Marlene is a highly experienced and respected South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
Today I had an unusual opportunity to speak with an investor who has had an investment- gone-bad listed for over one year. It came close to being sold at Trustee's Sale this month. Just in the nick of time, an offer came through and the Trustee's Sale was postponed to next month. Unfortunately, the buyer just backed out.
The reason I was speaking directly to the seller was because the listing agent seems to have disappeared (temporarily I hope). The office phone number is no longer working and the cell phone number is not accepting any calls nor does it have voice mail. Fortunately, the owner is also a broker so I felt safe in contacting him directly for information.
I was calling with some pretty normal questions about the property and to check to see if it made sense for the buyers I'm representing to make an offer. When I asked if there had been any offers, the seller said, "Yes, there had been seven offers so far." He went on to say that, "There were only two that we took seriously and presented to the bank. The rest were ‘bottom-feeders' just scavenging to see what they could get. Frankly, I'd rather let the bank foreclose than to deal with that type (of buyer)."
Ouch. I found his response interesting because this was a seasoned investor who had purchased the property as an investment. His reaction was one that I might expect from someone selling their personal residence. But generally speaking investors tend to take things less personally and just see it as a business transaction.
I thought it was an interesting opportunity to hear this investor's opinion of people who make numerous ridiculously low offers. In this case, they were not even countered they immediately hit the shredder because in the investor's opinion they were not even worthy of being presented to the bank for review.
The price of a property whether being set by the seller or by the buyer in making an offer needs to be supported by facts. Market trends, recent sales, pending sales, property condition, and current demand for similar properties are just a few of the factors that need to be considered. Property prices should never be picked out of thin air or based on feeling whether you are the buyer or the seller.
If you are a buyer who is looking for a "good deal" I'm happy to assist you in making an offer that will be low enough to make it a good deal for you and high enough that it will be taken seriously by the seller...and the bank in the case of a short sale. If you are considering buying or selling a home or condo, it's my pleasure to provide my clients with information to assist them in making informed decisions when contemplating buying and selling homes in Orange County, California. If you have questions and would like some honest answers or need more resources, please give me a call, text me or email me.
Marlene Bridges, REALTOR®
800 777-1775 - Toll Free ~ or ~ Text Me 714 745-2592
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce 2007-2009
President Elect - Southern California Chapter Certified Residential Specialists® 2008 - 2009
Marlene is a highly experienced and respected South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
Disclaimer: ActiveRain Corp. does not necessarily endorse the real estate agents, loan officers and brokers listed on this site. These real estate profiles, blogs and blog entries are provided here as a courtesy to our visitors to help them make an informed decision when buying or selling a house. ActiveRain Corp. takes no responsibility for the content in these profiles, that are written by the members of this community.
Today in many ways is like a lot of Saturdays. I get to show property. That's not just part of my job, it's a privilege. There are some nice folks who have entrusted me with the responsibility of making the many phone calls to line up the properties that are appropriate for them to see. This task has become a bit more lengthy than in previous years. Selecting the properties, then calling each agent to see if the short sale truly is a short sale and if the agent is skilled at working with short sales or REO's is an added layer of effort. The few extra hours of effort in the office can save countless hours and possible disappointment for my clients.
A Realtor® friend of mine called me today to ask my advice on what to do to be sure his buyers were able to see houses while he's going to be on vacation for the next week and a half. He hasn't taken a vacation in years, so wasn't sure how to make sure his clients needs were being met. He explained that in the price range his buyers are looking in they've been making offers, but have been getting beaten out in multiple offer situations. He wants to assure that while he's away they won't skip a beat in seeing properties as soon as they come on the market and getting their offers in early.
;)
;)
