Christopher's Hemet CA REO Real Estate Blog - Mission Grove Realty

40796 Whittier Ave - Bank Owned Home and Guest House !

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:13:02 -0500

The Valleys Premier Real Estate Offices | Mission Grove Realty | 951-927-8940

40796 Whitiier Ave, Hemet, CA

Investor Special. To be listed on local MLS 06/18/09 - A rare opportunity - be the first to offer !!! Bank owned home and guest house. East Hemet.

3BR/2BA Single Family House - PENDING SALE

offered at $46,300 - PENDING SALE - BACKUP OFFERS ONLY

Year Built	1956
Sq Footage	1,326
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	9,583 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

With a total of 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, this is the perfect home for investors wanting to generate immediate income. This bank owned home and guest house are perfect for larger families that require a little extra space. 2 car attached garage and a good, East Hemet location. Make your highest and best offer upfront with Mission Grove Realty today (951)927-8940.

see additional photos below

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

1 Bed 1 Bath Permitted Guest House

2 Bedroom 1 bath Main House

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1

Photo 2

Contact info:

The Valleys Premier Real Estate Offices

Mission Grove Realty

951-927-8940

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Join the Active Rain Network Now,
it's FREE
Christopher Walker - Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

Posted: Jun 16, 2009, 2:04pm PDT

4.55 ac Vacant Commercial Land - Hemet, CA - Bank Owned REO

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:52:50 -0500

The Valleys Premier Real Estate Offices | Mission Grove Realty | 951-927-8940

State Street, Hemet, CA

Institutionally owned commercial land - Rare Opportunity

4.55 acres Vacant Land

offered at $198,000

Lot Size

4.55 acres

DESCRIPTION

4.55 + - Acres of vacant commercial land with M1 zoning. Parcel is institutionally owned. Prospective buyers to verify all information and complete due diligence before presenting offers. Substantial State Street frontage. Highly visible.

see additional photos below

LOCATION FEATURES

4.55 Acres ML

M1 Zoning

Flat Parcel

Highway Frontage

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Bank Owned

REO Land

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4

Contact info:

The Valleys Premier Real Estate Offices

Mission Grove Realty

951-927-8940

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Join the Active Rain Network Now,
it's FREE
Christopher Walker - Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

Posted: Jun 1, 2009, 1:40pm PDT

Hemet Bank Owned Home - 27364 Cloudrest Way - $78,300 - SOLD

Thu, 07 May 2009 13:22:39 -0500

The Valleys Premier Real Estate Offices | Mission Grove Realty, Inc. | 951-927-8940

27364 Cloudrest, Hemet, CA

Bank owned Hemet home with popular East Hemet location.

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $78,300 - SOLD

Year Built	1975
Sq Footage	1,260
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	7,405 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Fantastic opportunity to purchase a bank owned property in one of the most desireable areas of East Hemet. Perfect as a rental property, a first home or investment. This 3 bedroom 2 bath home is situated on a large lot with many upgrades already complete like new kitchen cabinets, new dual pane windows and upgraded flooring in living room, family room and kitchen. Very little work remaining to be done and most appears cosmetic! A great opportunity for the right buyer with cash or approved financing in place and ready to close quickly.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
Family room	Living room	Dining room
Dishwasher	Stove/Oven

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Bank Owned

Below Wholesale

Submit Your Best Offer

Contact Mission Grove NOW (951)927-8940

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1	Photo 2
Photo 3	Photo 4
Photo 5	Photo 6

SOLD-SOLD-SOLD- Find more bank owned homes with Mission Grove Realty by calling 951-927-8940

Contact info:

The Valleys Premier Real Estate Offices

Mission Grove Realty, Inc.

951-927-8940

For sale by agent/broker

Join the Active Rain Network Now,
it's FREE
Christopher Walker - Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 7, 2009, 10:07am PDT

1061 Menlo Ave Hemet CA 92544 - Bank Owned - $109900 - SOLD

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 16:00:52 -0500

Christopher Walker | Mission Grove Realty | 951-927-8940 SOLD

1061 Menlo Ave., Hemet, CA

SOLD

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $109,000

Year Built	2007
Sq Footage	1,715
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	6,969 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This Home Built In 2007 Has 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths... Granite Countertops, Fireplace in Family room, Indoor Laundry room, Room for RV Parking... and Much, Much More!!! SOLD

see additional photos below

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front View	Kitchen
Front Room	Master bathroom
Master Bathroom	Laundry Room

call us today for more bank owned homes in Hemet, CA 951-927-8940

Contact info:

Christopher Walker

Mission Grove Realty

(951) 927-8940

SOLD by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD SOLD

Join the Active Rain Network Now,
it's FREE

Christopher Walker - Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

A Viable Solution to the Housing Crisis?

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 11:18:08 -0500

I am re-posting this to see f anyone still feels this idea is any less viable than the current schemes that have provided banks with countless, and unaccounted for, millions.

It is easy to complain about the issue. We all hear it blasted across all lines of media and....in the workplace. Complaining about it, without the offer of a potential solution, no matter how far-fetched, just would not seem right so here is my offering :

Wipe the slate clean and start over. The "bail out" schemes on the table offer very little, if anything at all, to those who need it most. And, only a temporary band aid to hemorrhaging financial institutions and investors. Legislators have provided promises to "fix" the problem but are offering little in the way of an economically viable solution.

Forgive every mortgage, on a primary residence, of less than.....say $300,000.00 AND, let them keep their home.

Each household would be responsible for income tax on the forgiven amount with the ability to repay the tax obligation over 5-10 years.
Homeowners would be responsible for the property taxes and, if not paid when due (Barring extenuating circumstances) ownership could revert back to the original lender.
Only primary homes would qualify.
Homeowners must remain in their homes for a period of 5+ years (No rentals).
When sold, a percentage of the proceeds X% (after time limitation) would go to ???
Those applying for program must currently reside in their home.

Viable?

Think of the economic stimulus this could truly provide.

Homeowners would be able to complete home improvements putting contractors, construction workers and skilled laborers back to work.,
The car industry would have an immediate boost allowing auto manufacturers the ability to increase production putting thousands back to work and increase spending on "green" fuel alternatives.
disposable income, consumer spending could reach an all time high putting money in the pockets of everyone.
Unemployment could drop to an all time low and confidence levels could rise dramatically.
Consumer saving levels could rise and investment firms could recapture some of the losses they are sure to take....at the expense of all of us.

Possible?

Probable?

The alternative is to continue throwing BILLIONS of dollars at financial institutions....OUR DOLLARS. Money that certainly wont go to assisting those that are truly in need. Regardless of what is being promised. Is the current path working? It may be time to try something new before it is too late.

Join the Active Rain Network Now,
it's FREE

Christopher Walker - Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

Task Management for REO Agents and Brokers

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 16:48:46 -0600

For all of you that are active on the REO side of things, I though I would pass some information on to you and, express my appreciation to the folks at TAZA REO.....A special thanks to Darcy Duffin!

I have spent the past few months researching tools like REO Maestro, REO Professor and other tools needed to grow our REO business. One item missing has been an easy to use system for management of tasks and procedures relating to the listing side of bank owned properties.

Most of us are using a combination of Excel, Outlook and other software applications to track the process from BPO to close. We do the same and, quite frankly, takes a ton of time and a bit of a learning curve to train a new agent, assistant or transaction coordinator.

The TAZA system has streamlined our process and simplified the daily aspects of REO management. Their system is easy to implement (They help with everything you need to launch in a courteous and efficient manner), easy to use, affordable and fully customizable. You can communicate with vendors, asset managers and team members effortlessly and professionally. I can mot say enough here to due their system justice so, if you are considering an online solution to your REO tasking and management, contact Darcy for a demo. It will be well worth your time!

I do not typically take the time to recommend outside services but, this is one company that I will make the exception for......without hesitation or reservation. THANK YOU TAZA REO!!!!

You can reach Darcy Duffin at (858)248-8204 for more information. You will be glad you did!

ActiveRain is a social network of real estate agents, Realtors and mortgage brokers providing valuable information about the industry, themselves and the communities they serve. Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain network.
- Join The Active Rain Network -
it's free

Christopher Walker
Mission Grove Realty
Riverside County, CA

41847 Kandis Court Hemet CA Rental - LEASED

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:24:54 -0500

The Valleys Premier Real Estate Offices | Mission Grove Realty | 951-927-8940

41847 Kandis Ct, Hemet, CA

Beautiful East Hemet Rental. Near Hemet High. LEASED

4BR/2.5BA Single Family House

LEASED

Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Sq Footage	2,063
Parking	3+ dedicated
Pet Policy	Small dogs (< 25lbs)
Deposit	$1,450

DESCRIPTION

Beautiful South East Hemet home for lease. Quiet cul de sac across from Hemet High. Very spacious feel with gracious, 2 story entry. 4 bedrooms plus office, living room, family room, dining room and breakfast nook, covered patio and large yard (gardener included). Excellent, local landlord. Easy qualifying for those that may have faced, or currently facing foreclosure. Home is owned free and clear !! Great for long term lease.
Directions Stanford south past Stetson. First street on left is Kandis Ct. Home is at end of cul de sac on right.

see additional photos below

RENTAL FEATURES

Air conditioning	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Tile floor	Family room
Living room	Bonus/Rec room	Office/Den
Dining room	Breakfast nook	Dishwasher
Stove/Oven	Yard

LEASE TERMS

First and last plus pet deposit (Negotiable on pet approval). Available immediately.

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Renter contact info:

The Valleys Premier Real Estate Offices

Mission Grove Realty

951-927-8940

Hemetreo.com

Equal Opportunity Housing

Join the Active Rain Network Now
it's FREE

Christopher Walker - Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

Are Electronic Lockboxes Hindering Sales ?

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 12:12:59 -0600

A Realtor posed a question about the effects of using a different electronic lock box than surrounding Boards. A great question is this market and something all of us must consider when making the switch:

We saw the effects of this when our board switched to electronic boxes a few years ago. We are a small community that is completely surrounded by larger ones in all directions. Our electronic boxes are not the same as any surrounding community yet, all surrounding communities share the same.

Our board decided on the change for various reasons yet, in my opinion, the change was made to effectively "shut out" "out of area" agents in an attempt to "protect" local agents. The biggest problem is that more than 80% of those moving to our community at the time were not from our area and had their trusted agent of choice in tow. Did this help our market? Quite the contrary in my opinion. Many homes were sold by agents that included a second lock box.....a combo box just for out of town agents. Choosing a local agent is important but, when representing a seller, my main concern is selling their home regardless of where the buyers agent comes from. Accessibility, as we all know, is an issue. If a home can not be shown....it can not be sold. Electronic lock box, combo box or???? Will it really stop the criminal from entering a home?

Look at REO listings. The respective lenders require combination boxes for easy accessibility. This is for many reasons including easy access for contractors but, there are any agents coming to our market to sell REO properties. Would the bank, or any self respecting agent, want to stop them? Does it truly stop, or hinder, a thief or vandal from doing what they are going to do anyway? Nope. We have had REO properties with missing kitchens, appliances and vandalism. One thing in common with them all is that the lock box was not used to gain entry. They broke a window, a door or picked a lock and in one case, removed the front door altogether. Lockbox still intact and unopened. Issues that will not be solved by an electronic lock box or other method.

Lockboxes are great for one thing. Hindering access from agents out of the area who do not have a particular boards electronic key. Do I want to stop any agent that may have a buyer from showing a property? Would my seller if they knew all of the facts? Buyers are gold and I would not ever think that I will be able to capture the market by hindering accessibility to an "out of town" agent.

One great aspect of electronic boxes is that I can get showing data sent to my cell phone. I know when an agent was there and, who they were. I could then call them and grill them about why I don't have an offer (not the best usage of the system). I can also request that feedback be entered at the time of opening when the agent is using their PDA to access. I like that part, a great tool for sure. One that is used by less than 1% of agents.

I believe that we should all consider having state wide electronic lockboxes. Accessible by all subscribing members regardless of where they are. It would help to foster better relationships between boards, would be of great benefit to our clients (This is why we are here) and add value to our services as REALTORS and real estate professionals.

Christopher Walker
Mission Grove Realty
Riverside County, CA

2002 Whispering Bells - 6 Bd, 3ba, 4 car garage - $315,000 - SOLD

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 20:53:00 -0600

The Valleys Premier Real Estate Offices | Mission Grove Realty | 951-927-8940

2002 Whispering Bells, San Jacinto, CA

A Truly Exceptional home at an exceptional price.

6 Bdrm Single Family House

SOLD at $315,000

Year Built	2004
Sq Footage	3,107
Bedrooms	6
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	4+ Car garage
Lot Size	7,405 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Enjoy the quiet life on the north west of the Hemet-San Jacinto Valley. 5 Bedroom plus office and a separate loft – study area, living and dining areas, spacious open kitchen with breakfast bar and casual dining area and large family room with media niche and warm fireplace. This beautiful and spacious home was completed in 2004 and features 4 second story bedrooms, an office and a computer / study loft and 2 full baths. The main level includes 1 bedroom with full bath, spacious laundry area with extra cabinetry for storage. Further features include an attached 4 car tandem garage with front and rear doors, front and rear landscaping with oversized concrete patio area and a covered front porch with recessed lighting for enjoying evenings in this friendly neighborhood of newer homes. Custom window blinds, neutral color scheme and many thoughtful upgrades make this one of the best buys in the area. This is a true turnkey home.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Tile floor
Family room	Living room	Office/Den
Dining room	Breakfast nook	Dishwasher
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Granite countertop
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Immaculate

Spacious, Bright and Open Floor Plan

Hemet School District

Desireable North West Location

5 Bedrooms plus office (6 Bedroom Home)

Study-Media Loft

4 Car Tandem - Pull Through Garage

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

The Valleys Premier Real Estate Offices

Mission Grove Realty

951-927-8940

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Join the Active Rain Network Now,
it's FREE

Christopher Walker - Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

Whats in a domain name? Realtors beware

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 11:58:06 -0500

Are you using the Trademark "Realtor" as part of your web marketing? This may be the one post you dont want to miss.

Most of us understand the power of a domain name in order to drive traffic but, did you know that is could also drive a potential lawsuit?

The days of "parking" domain names with a brand attached to them in hopes of selling it to the real owner later are all but gone. You can not simply park "microsoftsoftware.com" in hopes of selling it back to Microsoft for big profits. Although nothing prohibits you form registering a domain that contains a trademarked name or the name of a company or entity that you do not own, you may subject yourself to a lawsuit and thousands of dollars in attorneys fees.

For Realtors, using the Realtor trademark improperly within a domain name, blog, site title or print publication will eventually land you in some pretty deep trouble. At the very least, you will end up handing your site over...for free. A site that you may have spent your money and months or even years of your time developing and promoting.

As Realtors, we are given permission to use the Realtor trademark within their terms of use.

How can you use the trademark, Realtor?

JohnSimthRealtor.com
JohnandBettySmithRealtors.com
YourBrokernamerealtors.com

With VERY few exceptions...this is about the extent of acceptable use of "Realtor" within a domain name.

I see many agents, both old and new, that get sucked in to purchasing a domain name containing the Realtor trademark thinking that they will gain advantage over other Realtors in an area. (Precisely why NAR and it's members protect the use of the trademark "Realtor") In any case, it would be very wise, if you are using the Realtor trademark inappropriately, to cease doing so before you are ordered to do so.

What is unacceptable use and in violation of the Trademark?

YourtownRealtor.com
YourcityRealtor.com
ThebestRealtor.com
Yourcitysbestrealtor.com
toprealtor.com
bloggingrealtor.com

Just about ANY usage that does not ONLY contain your proper name, your brokerage's proper name and then the trademark "Realtor" would be a violation and a costly mistake.

Improper use is not something to be taken lightly and is a conscious choice. Waiting for someone to catch on and do something about it would not be a wise choice. If you are using "Realtor" within your website, now is the time to make certain that you are also using the trademark properly there too.

Some examples of proper trademark usage in print or web content would be:

Jane Smith, Realtor
Your Proper Brokerage Name, Realtors
Jane and John Compliant, Realtors

Unacceptable trademark usage looks like this:

Your Town Realtors
John, the Realtor Guy
Jane, the super fantastic Realtor
The top producing Realtor

I hope that you get the picture. Improper usage is monitored by the legal staff at the National Association of Realtors AND it's members. It takes only 1 (ONE) person to report improper use of the trademark "Realtor".

Are you encouraging a potential lawsuit? Are you and your Broker prepared to fight the National Association of Realtors? Do you want to? Your competition may just get you there sooner than you think.

Visit the NAR Legal Center for complete information on the use of the Realtor trademark before it's too late. Like cut and paste Blogging....it is only a matter of time before that Monkey on your back...BITES!

Join the Active Rain Network Now,
it's FREE

Christopher Walker - REO Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

U.K. Based Tesco Foods Coming to Hemet

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 16:35:52 -0500

Hemet is soon to have one of the first of over 100 new "Fresh & Easy" food stores slated to open throughout the South West. Opening soon at the South West Corner of Florida Ave. and Lyon, U.K. based Tesco Foods has high hopes for this location and over 100 others scattered across the State of California, Nevada and Arizona to follow over the coming months.

At the very least, the shopping center at Florida and Lyon has received a much needed face lift as a result of the soon to open food store. Although complete details of the products and services to be offered at the Fresh and Easy stores is not readily available, it seems that these stores may mirror U.K. Tesco stores on a smaller scale.

Tesco in the U.K. offers a wide range of standard food and household products plus regional variations designed to attract more local business. You can find Tesco stores throughout England similar to what we see with Stater Brothers throughout the state of California. Just about every neighborhood has one within a stones throw. Major differences between the two other than being located half way around the globe and across the "pond", are Tesco's focus on prepared foods and offerings that change to meet a specific region. Although you will find many Asian products in all stores, the variety will change from each region. Focusing on the consumers needs has helped them maintain market share.

Can California handle another food store? If they focus on the needs of the consumer on a local level, there is certainly room for them in this market. Stores like Wal-Mart, Trader Joe's and Stater Brothers rely on the "all things to everyone" approach. You can find just about the same items at all stores with little varietal change between locations. You will likely find the same items at all stores.

If Tesco's Fresh and Easy stores focus on area consumers by changing their offerings as they have done in the United Kingdom and offer freshly prepared foods that meet local tastes with a good variety, they may just fill a niche in the market. Maybe they will bring back the feel of the long missing neighborhood store. Only time will tell and we wont have to wait long to see the results. I look forward to seeing the store's grand opening.

More Tesco - Fresh & Easy News

California Real Estate - September 2007 Market Snapshot, News and Views

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 14:31:18 -0500

State of California Market Report	Current Period	Last Period	Prior Year	Month Change	Year Change
Existing Home Sales	$350,980	$364,280	$453,980	-3.7%	-22.7%
Median Home Price	$586,030	$594,280	$567,860	-1.4%	3.2%
Unsold Inventory	10.7 mo.	10.4 mo.	7.3 mo.	5.9%	46.6%
Mortgage Rates 30y	6.70%	6.66%	6.76%	0.04%	-0.06%
Median Days on Market	51.8	51.7	47.7	0.2%	8.5%

California's Real Estate Market Snapshot for September 2007 shows a
dramatic drop in the average home sale prices. Dont let this one fool you
though as the higher end of the market has seen a substantial drop in activity mainly due to turmoil withing the lending industry which has greatly effected the "Jumbo" loan market.

Unsold inventory is on the rise as expected yet only up 5.9% over last year. This report does not include new home inventory or sale data. One surprise is the median days on market compared to the median days on market. With sales down by 22% and iventory up a staggering 46.6%, one would expect the average days on market to be increasing.

What does all of this mean to to the average consumer or investor? Not a whole lot that you can hang your hat on unfortunately. New home builders continue to build and their increased inventories will continue to cause concern and further supress some of the market. This could be a great time for investors to seek out failing builders and purchase unsold inventory. I would not recommend this approach to the average home buyer.

The next few months will provide us a more solid view of things to come. With the stock market reaching all time highs, it would suggest that what the real estate market is experiencing is much less of a 'Bubble" than a result of lenders being exposed due to the lack of rapid appreciation. Do we all think that with lenders offering 100% financing, negative amortization and loans with little to no qualifying documentation that these practices would not come back to haunt them? Some of these loan products would require 12-20% annual appreciation in order to go unnoticed. Lenders have been caught, the market has been effected and it will take some time to figure out how this will be handled.

The bottom line.....We still have demand for housing, California has the fifth largest economy IN THE WORLD, and regardeless of East Coast opinion, the state is not set to fall into the ocean due to a major earthquake. California IS and will always be an expensive place to live. Housing affordability issues will, in all likelyhood, never be solved.

A recipe for disaster? I dont think so.

Will Your Escrow Close on Time? - Only 30% are making it to closing.

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:51:47 -0500

Riverside County closings are at an all time low of 30% on average.

What does this mean to clients who have their home "sold" and in escrow. Only 3 out of 10 property sales in Riverside County, California are making it to close. I would imaging that Riverside County is not the only place in the County experiencing this.

The drop, from an average close ratio of 70%, has been attributed to a combination of lending issues and foreclosure proceeding that were not stopped before close. Lending issues were the main cause of escrow "fall out". Only a small percentage of fall out has been attributed to foreclosure issues which might have been avoided through client and agent communication. Within the "lending issues" cause were sellers who cancelled because of extension requests from buyers or other issues related to escrow time extensions.

Mortgage industry issues have left fewer lenders providing funds and those lenders are, at this point, having to work double time to process loans. Particularly when it comes to Government guaranteed loans (FHA, VA, Section 184 and others) Investors are also requiring more information and taking their time investigating buyer qualifications and waiting for verifications of employment, assets and lastly, the verification of a properties appraised value. It simply takes more time to process the average loan, regardless of what some lenders will say when they are looking for business.

Although a 14 day, 20 or 30 day escrow is still possible....I would not count on ANY escrow closing on time. Not that it cant or wont happen....just doesnt count on it. You will be setting yourself up for an emotional roller coaster ride that may leave you as a statistic rather than being a successful home seller. Do you want to go through the process a second time? I sure hope not. Neither does anyone else involved. Whatever you do, do not buy another home, unless you are financially and emotionally prepared to do so, until your current home has closed escrow and the funds are in your hands.

So, what do you do when your home doesnt close on time?

Threatening your agent, escrow or anyone else will certainly not help your situation. Everyone involved has a vested interest in making it to the close. No one benefits when your escrow goes beyond the close date or fails to close entirely.

What can you do?

KEEP YOUR COOL!
Keep an open line of communication with your agent and escrow.
Grant an extension.
Ask for per Diem charges in Oder to grand an extension (ASK....Do Not DEMAND)
Be Patient....The answers you may want today may not be available....or known.
Keep your cool.
Ask to speak to the lender directly. Be polite as your agent has already rattled their cage.
Ask if there is anything that YOU can do to assist the buyer.
Keep an open mind.
Trust that all involved are doing everything they can to close the transaction.
Cancel and put back on the market.
KEEP YOUR COOL.

Remember that everything happens as it is supposed to happen. Adding additional stress to the situation will not make anything, other than the shortening your life span, happen any sooner. Rest assured, everyone involved is working behind the scenes to to get the job done. Keeping you cool may help you from becoming a statistic and having to see that "for sale sign" go up....again.

Shoot First, Ask Questions Later

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:39:29 -0500

So, you have made a listing appointment. A listing that you want to take.

Assuming that you already have a great listing presentation. You are confident and well prepared. When do you review your presentation with the seller?

When attending listing presentations with other agents, I have found the transition from the personal side to the business side of a listing to be the most difficult and awkward for both the agent and the seller. An intial investment of your time, before your presentation, can have huge benefits for everyone involved.

Why not shoot first and ask questions later?

After a brief introduction and confirmation, I will ask the homeowner to turn on every light in the home before we tour it together. While the homeowner is turning on all of the lights, I prepare my camera and have a note pad and pen in hand. When they return, I let them know that I will be taking photos as we go. Rarely will they object and confirms ther committment to listing their home.

While touring the home and taking photographs, make notes and fill out a visual inspection form (AVI if utilized in your area) along the way. Keep the homeowner involved in the process and use the time to ask all of your questions about the property. If you need something moved for a photograph, your client can assist you then and there. Most are more than willing to make immediate changes to get the best photos.

If a home needs major help before taking photos for your marketing materials, take them anyway. Review them with your seller and e-mail or hand deliver copies of the photos along with a list of items they have agreed to address. Most sellers will be more motivated to follow your suggestions and make those corrections quicker when you have completed this step with them. The bottom line....ALWAYS take photos first and return for more after any work required is completed.

When you keep the seller involved in the process , you will find that moving to the business side of the listing is more natural and easier for both parties. You will both be better prepared, more relaxed, confident, and ready to complete the listing.

- Join The Active Rain Network -

Real Estate Math, Meteorology and YOU

Sun, 23 Sep 2007 04:48:53 -0500

We all know that the past 5 years, the number of people attempting the practice of real estate has more than doubled.

It is estimated that, by years end, nearly 50% of those practicing real estate will leave the business in pursuit of...something else.

Although it is sad to see some of them go, this cloud does have a silver lining.

If the real estate business as a whole were down 50% and

50% of agents leave the market ......

Just how much business if left for me....and YOU?

     The fact of the matter is that someone is busy.
                         Someone is working.
                Some one's business is booming.
     Not everyone's business, SOMEONES BUSINESS.

That someone might as well be YOU!

Real estate math can work as easily for you as against you. Look at the figures here and really think about the math and how it relates to your business. 50 percent of the buyers...GONE. 50 percent of real estate practitioners....GONE. Business does exist. You have to go out and get it. Get your share before someone else does.

Join the Active Rain Network Now,
it's FREE

Christopher Walker - REO Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

Merry Christmas - First Official Active Rain Holiday Greeting of 2007

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 16:05:17 -0500

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL !

I would like to be be the first to wish you all a Happy Holidayand start the controversy rolling. Last years Bahh Humbug over why "Merry Christmas" should or should not be used in today's society was a real bummer so, since Wal-Mart can get away with stocking Christmas items in September.....l am proud to be the first to wish you all a very,
Merry Christmas.

May all of your dreams come true and may you experience success beyond your expectations. Whether or not you celebrate Christmas. My best wishes are offered to EVERYONE....equally, and without regard to the holiday you celebrate!

Twas' 3 months before Christmas and all round the Rain
Were posts of real estate's doom... Just who was to blame?

Agents round' the country, hung signs and placed ads with great care
In hopes they would find a buyer....but where?

They placed ads in the paper. Sent emails and flyers
Could another agent help to find us some buyers?

With Ma working overtime , and I working late
Could a mortage collapse help in sealing our fate?

What would so many do that were conceding defeat
Get holiday jobs hocking tubes of chopped meat?

These holiday questions I pose to all here
While I sit back and crack open another cold beer.

Are you part of the problem or part of the cure
Are you convinced ........ are you sure?

For all of the others relying on talismans and charms
We will see you round Christmas at Hickory Farms.

The ActiveRain Real Estate Network is a social network of real estate agents, mortgage professionals and others involved in the real estate industry. The information provided in this blog and elsewhere can help homeowners, investors and Realtors find the information they need to make better, and informed real estate decisions. Mission Grove Realty is proud to be a contributing member of Active Rain.
Join Active Rain Today! it's free.

Home Security Doesn't Have to Break the Bank

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 13:45:32 -0500

Can a few minutes of your time and less than $50.00 be all you need to protect your home?

You don't have to rush out and buy a home security system to protect your home and your valuables. Not unless you have a Million dollar art collection. If you do, there is no need to read on. For the rest of us, effective home protection does not have to break the bank.

Making certain that all of your windows and doors have working and properly installed locks is the first line of defense in stopping would be thieves. The #1 entrance point thieves use is through an unlocked window or door. Inspect all of your locks and secure them when you leave.
Install secondary window and door locks.
Installing security system and community watch decals and community watch, in a visible location, on windows and doors along with the addition of a yard sign can be just as effective as installing a security system in most cases. You can purchase decals and yard signs online, from various sources, for less than $10.00. Buy them only from a reputable seller. Remember that they will have your address. I recommend having these items shipped to another location such as your office. Just in case.
Inspect the lighting around your home. A well lit home will deter thieves and increase safety bot inside and outside of your home.
Your nosy neighbor just may be they key to completing a home protection plan. Get to know your neighbors, exchange phone numbers and agree to watch out for each others homes.

An ounce of prevention (Develop a home security plan) is worth a pound of cure (Insurance claims that increase premiums).

Home security does not have to be expensive and you probably don't need the added, monthly expense of a security system. In many cases, they are more hassle than they are truly worth. Thieves will enter a home and be gone long before someone arrives to respond.

Join the Active Rain Network Now,
it's FREE

Christopher Walker - REO Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

Limited Service - The Right Choice When Listing?

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 16:55:46 -0500

There are many "flat fee" real estate start ups revolving around "partial service" and "do it yourself" listing platforms....There are also thousands of homes available in almost any market area. Could choosing Redfin, or one of many others desperate for your business be the right choice when considering the sale of your home?

How could your choice effect you?

Most "limited full service" listing companies, and their "clients", find that other agents avoid their listings. Having no single agent to turn to for required documentation, additional information and a lack of "personal" service creates tension and, in many cases, additional work for the selling agent. Work that is typically handled by a listing agent. Worse yet, some "limited service" and "flat fee services" provide some of the necessary forms and advice yet, leave their completion to the homeowner. This could create additional liability for both the home seller and the agent who represents a potential buyer. This, in itself, requires thorough consideration by all parties involved. Burdening a potential buyer and agent with additional, and unnecessary liability is something that any responsible broker will surely not allow.

Another basic reason that this type of listing may be avoided is that there are many other homes available. After narrowing potential properties to meet a clients specific needs,. agents may find that they still have far too many to remaining. How might a professional Realtor narrow their search ?

Familiarity - Does the Realtor recognize the listing agent or agency? Does the agent play well with others? Are they responsive knowledgeable, have a reputation for closing on time?
Accessibility - Is the property easy to show? Does it have a lockbox typical to the area or will it require multiple calls, appointment setting and additional effort to schedule a simple showing.
Commission - What will an agent be paid to sell the home? An offer of 1 -2% is certain to influence a decision when there is an exact model match offering 3.5% or more. Listing a property and offering compensation is a job offer. Will you be attracting applicants?
Time on Market - The time on market can be an indicator of many things. Some will be quite obvious and others only evident to an experienced agent. Local agents may know of neighborhood issues, past or current issues with a particular builder, prior physical issues with the property itself a local agent can address these issues. Can you?

Selling your home involves much more than analyzing the cost of listing. You will be offering compensation to a selling agent if you plan on listing on the MLS. want additional "add on" services offered by "DIY" listing providers and the cost will usually go up. Add a full marketing package and???? You may ultimately spend more than you think and end up with no one at your door. Carefully consider all of your options and weigh all of the costs before making any choice. A choice that could cost you much more than you ever imagined.

Join the Active Rain Network Now,
it's FREE

Christopher Walker - REO Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

Redfin is Excellent for Home Sellers

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 14:48:13 -0500

Redfin and other "Hybrid" real estate service provider's "less is more" business models can help sellers realize higher gains on the sale of their property.

Some agencies, when seeing an offer presented by web based information companies like Redfin will cringe. Having an informational, rebate driven, company rather than a Realtor with personal involvement on the other side of a transaction does tend to create additional issues. Issues that must be addressed by a home seller and their real estate agent. Although both the seller and their real estate agent must be prepared for a little additional work, that work comes with huge paybacks.

An overlooked side to offers from "limited full service" startups like Redfin is the buyers motivation. With the Redfin "rebate at closing" enticement, an uneducated or disillusioned buyer is usually motivated only by receiving a 2/3 rebate at closing. By Redfin's own claims, a buyer could receive a rebate averaging $10,000.00.

Why is this great news for a home seller? All one has to do is search Google for comments from Redfin "Satisfied Clients". The majority comment only on the rebate they received at close. Not their satisfaction with negotiations or the money they saved between the listed and sold price. Some are proud and quick to tout that there was no need to negotiate as they would receive a rebate at close. A rebate averaging $10,000.00. "No need to negotiate!" "I got a rebate at closing". Want top dollar for your home? Your Realtor should be soliciting Redfin for business. Welcoming them into your community....and encouraging them to send buyers to your door.

It is easy to see the upside for sellers when you have an experienced, local Realtor on your side and a rebate driven buyer on the other! One that could mean much more for your home when you, and your agent, are willing to put forth a little extra effort.

Does your listing agent understand the various business philosophies out there when it comes to the changing world of real estate? You had better hope they do. Without this understanding, they may not be able to capitalize on the buyers true motivation and leave money on the table...worse yet, they may encourage you to walk away from a great offer. An offer from someone who says...who cares about price...Im getting a rebate!

Mary Lost Her BMW! - What Might You Lose?

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 06:09:04 -0500

Since the beginning of the year, there have been well over 40,000 jobs lost in the mortgage industry. I hate to say, I will not lose too much sleep over it. Not that I am cold hearted, it is just that we tend to forget those that will be effected the most as a result of the current "opportunities" facing all of us.

The mortgage side?...40k is a ton of folks...most of the folks involved in the "front end" of the industry entered that job market in the past few years.....they did not migrate from lending...to lending. Most will go back to retail or wherever they came from? The "back end" folks will go back to Dr's offices, accounting firms and other administrative positions that are readily available. Every local and regional paper has MANY of this type of job posting. Not too hard to find another job....just not the "easy money" they once had. Back to reality. Although their families will be effected in the short run, it is an easier transition with little trickle down effect. Paper, staples, Monster Beverage Company, Coffee?....some effect...just not anywhere near the effect the downturn in housing starts will surely have.

The loss of jobs on the construction side, in my opinion, is the biggest problem we are facing. Do you even stop to think about Ol' Bill the framer?....what about the roofer, sheetrock, cabinet maker, electrician, plumber and....all of the products and people associated with the building industry.....lumber, manufacturing, steel, copper, concrete and all of the workers down the line...Specialized tradesmen and women..Think of all of the products and people effected. . From basic commodities to computer systems, the chain is long and nearly endless.

The real estate agent side is not too different than the mortgage side.... A near mirror with a higher median age group. Many will leave....just as quick as they entered real estate. Did most ever even practice real estate? They too will go back to their "regular" jobs. MANY industries lost large percentages of their workforce to the real estate industry over the past 5 years. They will now...get them back.

I still worry about "Bill the framer" though....and everyone down the line. Specialized tradesmen and women with no where to go. Most tend to look down on them and disregard the effects of real estate greed will have on them. We tend to look at the 20 something that will now be faced with losing the BMW, the ROLEX and all of the other STUFF we use to gauge success (Poor kid lost their BMW...what now? Awwww). Dont forget about Bill though. For he...and other men and women like him, form the largest percentage of our population. They will lose not a BMW, Mercedes or Rolex. They will lose the BASICS...food clothing and shelter. And they are not just 40,00 strong.....They are the Millions. They are the ones we should have a true concern for. They are the ones that will truly be needing and deserving our help. A fine time for all of us to look at our priorities and....lose some STUFF.

Join the Active Rain Network Now,
it's FREE

Christopher Walker - REO Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

The Thomas Guide appoints Miss Teen South Carolina as spokesperson

Fri, 31 Aug 2007 17:08:48 -0500

Watch the video first. You will be glad you did."

Catlin Upton was named as spokesperson for the Thomas Guide Companies at an offical press conference today. The President and CEO of the Thomas group of companies stated that "Miss Uption is a role model to all teens and all U.S. Americans. It is with great pleasure that we are announcing her as our spokesperson and look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship".

Miss Upton said in the press conference:

"I personally believe that U.S. real estate agents are unable to find like streets and stuff because, um, some people out there in our nation don't have maps and, uh, I believe that our, uh, the Thomas’ Guide like such as, uh, houses and, uh, breakfasts, and I believe that they should...or... uh, our map people over here in the U.S. should help the U.S. uh, help real estate people and stuff and should help them and the other countries, so we will be able to build up our future using the maps and breakfast stuff from the Thomas’ Company. Because, like everyone, even the others like, um, can have an English muffin too cause it is um, like breakfast is important and, um, some countries like such as in South Africa don’t have like, breakfast and stuff. I am sooo happy and stuff to get this money from these people that make maps and make like breakfast muffins. They gave to me and to my friend maps to give and like no muffins or anything but, like it’s lunch time. I like to make those pizza things with their muffins and such as with cheese but…not too much cause I am like on a diet and stuff. Thank you.”

Internet......InterNUT !! Why the web wont work in real estate.

Thu, 30 Aug 2007 16:25:42 -0500

Top 10 reasons why a real estate agent should NEVER advertise on the web:

Advertising on the Internet is too expensive.
It doesn't work....The Internet is just a fad.
Everyone in the community already knows me.
Everyone in the world already knows me.
I already know everyone in my community.
I already know everyone in the world.
My clients don't want to be on the Internet...See #2.
The homes I list have interest only to the people I know. See #3-6.
The phonebook IS the ONLY place to be.
Internet, what's the internet?

I heard a statement the other day that made perfect sense. "No one buys a home from the internet".

I thought for a minute.....the statement IS true. No one does buy a home FROM the internet.

Plain and simple...the internet is a useless tool for real estate agents.

Join the Active Rain Network Now,
it's FREE

Christopher Walker - REO Broker and Realtor with Mission Grove Realty is a proud member of the Active Rain real estate network.

Are Our National Parks in Trouble?

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 18:54:39 -0500

It would seem so according to a recent news story.

Seems that we may soon see Corporate logos emblazoned for all to see on our Nations Treasures. Will we soon see the likes of:

Liberty Mutual's Statue of Liberty?
The Mall of America's National Mall?
Bill Gates' Golden Gate Bridge?
Hanna Barbera's Yellowstone Park?
The Alaskan Wilderness by Exxon Mobil?
Taco Bell's Liberty Bell?
The White House sponsored by Dubai World?

Today's news story tells us that we are not to see advertising that shadows our National Treasures. It suggests "tasteful" advertising without co-branding but, leave it to the corporate giants to eventually find the loopholes left there for them by government officials. It may come sooner than we think!

What would be your favorite Site / Corporate Sponsor Combo?

And I invited YOU to this party?

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 19:20:30 -0500

This is a call to action from all that I have invited to the Active Rain Network. Those that have accepted my invitation and....those yet to make the plunge. For those of you that have joined the Active Rain Network:

Why are you sitting in a corner? When I invited you to this party, it was not to have you sit, lurking in the corner. Do you really want to be the one that everyone asks...."hey, who brought that one to the party?"

This is a place, like any party, for you to interact with others...to network....to make new friends and maybe enrich that, so called, life of yours.

You are the same people that call me and ask what you can do to grow your business. You have to start somewhere and I don't have all of the answers. You can find answers to almost any question on Active Rain so, what are you waiting for? You have to take the first step......take the plunge...do something for yourself.

Do you want some great ideas?
Do you want to grow your professional network?
Do you need more business?
Do you want to connect with Potential buyers and sellers?
Do you want additional web exposure?
Do you want to join the party?

YES? Then participate! Participation is what this community is all about. Look around and find your place. Comment on a post or 2, ask a question, post a new idea or.....revisit an old one. No one will fault you for it. Well......most of the time they wont. It is all a learning experience. Get out of the corner, get out into the room and mingle with the crowd.

I DARE YOU!

For those of you that have yet to take the plunge...here is your chance: Click to jump in and Join the party!

Go ahead....click it!

And you call yourself a professional. GO AHEAD....Click it....I know you want to. CLICK IT!!!

Churning Your Listings? - You Had Better be Making Butter!

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 07:30:32 -0500

After reading The Silliest Realtor Game In Town (A Great Post) by George Tallabas , I felt that we all may need a serious "Heads Up" with regards to the practice of re-listing a property in order to "freshin' it up" or whatever you might wish to call this practice.

The "Churning" of a listing is a breech of the Realtor Code of Ethics.

What is Churning? This is when an agent cancels or withdraws a listing from the MLS in order to re-list it back on the MLS in order to create the appearance that it is a new on the market. In many cases, re-listing will reset the "days on market" for the "churned" listing. This is usually done to gain additional interest in an old or poorly represented listing. In doing this, the listing may reappear on an MLS "hot sheet" and on various e-mail alerts that are sent to clients through "listing alert subscriptions" or, move to the top of a website.

So....Everyone does it. It must be O.k.

The following is commentary from the California Association of Realtors Legal Center which would apply to ALL REALTORS regardless of geographic location:

"While practitioners want to zealously market their seller's listing, the big issue concerning this practice is that it makes a representation that can be misleading and inaccurate. Entering inaccurate data and making misleading representations are both violations set forth in existing MLS Rules . The REALTOR® Code of Ethics also requires REALTORS® to be careful to present a "true picture" in their advertising and representations to the public. Furthermore, misleading representations in the MLS pose potential legal liabilities to those involved in the listing transaction"

MLS rules apply to all Realtors regardless of whether the MLS you belong chooses, or has the resources to enforce the MLS regulations.
"Churning" is misleading and deceptive therefore violates the Realtor Code of Ethics and may lead to potential legal liabilities to those involved in the listing transaction (The Realtor AND the Seller).
MLS "manipultion" of any kind renders the MLS data wothless when presenting to a potential client, when viewing a picture of the health of your market or...for any other use other than wallpapering the spare bath with MLS data sheets. Makes for good bathroom reading but...little else. If the only thing you use the MLS for is to look up listings, you wont be able to understand why this practice is a problem. The MLS is so much more than a place to look up listings to so many people.

Harmless?.....Tell that to your seller and your broker when they both get served! And I am not talking about breakfast. You're toast!

In this market, homeowners facing foreclosure are looking for anyone to place blame on. If their lender leaves the market, and they may have well done, who else is left as a target? Why open yourself, your seller and your broker to this potential liability. It will cost everyone involved a ton more than your potential gain. If you do a great job at presenting the property the 1st time...there would be no need to "freshin' it up". You dont get a second chance to make a great 1st impression and "churning" wont change that.