Midwest Canada Minute - August 22, 2010 - 08/24/10 11:21 AM
Emotion Trumps Logic
The dictionary describes emotion as a "heightened feeling" about something or somebody.  In real estate you never know when emotion will enter in the equation, but it almost certainly will.  Let me give you an example or two.
Some of the toughest property to sell for a client is the home quarter or the cabin at the lake.  Both evoke strong memories and even mental anguish at the thought of having to let it go.  Ask any farmer or rancher, they don't want to be the last generation to own the family farm.  Same applies to lake property.  … (0 comments)

Midwest Canada Minute - August 15, 2010 - 08/17/10 11:14 AM
Don't be a Victim
I would be the first to admit that my Scottish heritage makes me somewhat cautious with my personal spending, particularly if it is a big ticket item.  A number of years of experience as a Realtor have also opened my eyes to the number of things that can go wrong in a real estate transaction.  I am always amazed how some people will spend more time researching the features of their next cell phone or winter vacation than they will on property worth several hundred thousand dollars.
Over the years organized real estate has developed a systematic … (0 comments)

Midwest Canada Minute - August 08, 2010 - 08/10/10 11:39 AM
Small Towns
It struck me the other day as I pulled into one of the many smaller communities scattered throughout the Midwest region we serve that towns and rural districts are truly indeed special places to live, most of it positive. Let me give you some examples drawn from my personal experience.
If you choose to take the direct route between the post office and bank by jaywalking across the street, most drivers will stop and wave you through.  Some might even roll down their window and jokingly suggest that they would be doing your wife a favour if they … (1 comments)

Midwest Canada Minute - August 01, 2010 - 08/03/10 11:39 AM
Debatable Home Improvement Ideas
We are often asked in to clients' homes to offer recommendations on what improvements will provide increased value upon re-sale.  Here are some of things on the "do" or "not to do" list.
Swimming pools, saunas and hot tubs are wonderful personal choice enhancements but most buyers could care less.  In fact, they may even be scared of moisture issues or don't want to be burdened with energy costs or maintenance.  I have seen buyers discount their offers significantly to allow for pools to be filled in giving them more space.
Over the top designs like turrets, … (0 comments)