There are many first time buyers out there trying to cash in on the 8k tax credit and they are missing the boat.  The reason for this is the agents are not coaching them to be realistic in this market.  They tend to think that they can get that 400k house for just 150k.  Then they get frustrated on why they can not get an accepted offer!  Agents need to go back to the basics and sit down with the clients and do an actual buyers consultation and find out there real needs and desires then coach the client on the area and trendsso they can get an accepted offer.  Also the agent really needs to have a great relationship with the lender to structure the offer to tailor to the buyers needs.  With so many loan programs available this is a critical move for the buyer to help seal the deal.  Most buyers need closing help but if your familiar with house keys or smart keys you can reduce the amount they need if any at all. What power that is in a multiple offer house that your buyer has to have!   Let get smart and help these buyers have a great buying experience rather than a okay one based upon us brushing up on our knowledge and leaning on our business partners for their expertise. 

Again this morning I was told

"oh I just assumed your listing was a foreclosure because you work for Keller Williams and I just think that all of KW's listing are REO's". 

This was from a top agent in my area. I politely told her that I am my own agent and just because it is a listing with KW sign does not mean it is an REO and she should not assume things like that.  Motivation for me to make a change to change others perspective because other peoples perspectives is reality!  AHH I'm done!

 

I recently discovered an online community web site which of course a Realtor sponsors.  But what I think is really unique is that you can create it to become the number one resource for the neighborhood.  I am just in the very beginning of getting mine up and running but once you can get consumers, businesses, organizations, etc. to advertise for FREE and they begin to spread the word you will become the #1 Realtor in that area.  The company also gives you ideas of how to promote the site and marketing downloads.  You pay a one time set up fee and a monthly fee and they do the initial leg work.  So far I have had over 2,000 hits since mid October.  I can only imagine what it will be like in 6 months once more and more people visit.  Did I mention that I am the onlly Realtor on the site and I have an idx for searches.  Check it out if you would like www.MyCalvertCounty.com.  Any ideas on promoting it would be appreciated.  Remember it will take time to get it full of really good info and vendors.   

In Maryland our market really slowed down and of course the consumers are not on board yet with these times. Last year an Auction Company came to our office and did a presentation to the agents on Auctions for Real Estate.  Shortly after that presentation I had a seller sign up to sell at auction.  It went well!  This particular home had it all, I mean every issue possible, which made it a great choice for auction.  Then recently I was a part of two other auctions and the experience was less than acceptable.  Neither property sold at auction and I am still trying to sell them today.  I believe it was the company and not the actual property.  Has anyone had any experiences to share because I feel that this option is a great soultion for some properties.  Thanks for sharing.