Today marks the 143rd anniversary of Lee and Grant signing documents that ended the Civil War in the sleepy little Southern town of Appomattox in the McLean House nestled in the village.  Sorry I didn't include a photo (been too busy trying to keep clients happy).  Now, why would I blog about this?  Well, I am from Appomattox and guess where my first job was -- I was a tour guide at the McLEAN HOUSE!!!  (That probably started my fascination with homes and explains why I love this crazy business we're in).  That's right, I had an aunt who worked as one of the administrators there, they needed another seasonal tour guide, and she thought I would be perfect.  And I loved it!  I was amazed at how many people would come from all over the world and sign our little registers just to experience this bit of American history.  Some of the nicest people you could ever meet.  It was a privilege, really, the pay was low (almost volunteer), but the experience was awesome.  No, I don't live in Appomattox anymore.  I now live in Forest, VA west of Appomattox (a few miles from Poplar Forest, you know, Thomas Jefferson's summer home).  Wow, I guess I do have a fascination with HOMES!  Look me up if you're ever in the central Virginia area, and SEND ME YOUR PEOPLE, I mean your relocating clients!  Posted By: Nadine Blakely, Lynchburg, VA, RE/MAX 1st Olympic

Hello fellow AR realtors.  I have a question.  What are you doing to increase traffic flow at your Open Houses lately?   I have some great listings that are priced well, some resale, many new construction, several all brick colonials, beautiful homes.   Traditionally our Open Houses are Sundays 2-4, and yes I have one tomorrow!  I have advertised, held drawings and given away Olive Garden and Lowes Gift Certificates, etc.   I don't know whether its the price of gas these days or what, but the traffic at my Open Houses lately just stinks!   I would love to know what some of you are doing to draw in more buyers.  I wouldn't mind the outrageous cost of advertising the Open Houses so much if I knew I could pick up more buyers.  We all know that's really what the O/H scenario is about most of the time.  (Unless you watch too much HGTV and then you'll see "multiple offers" from every "Design to Sell" O/H).  I am an optimistic person, but that doesn't happen much around here!  I need to rev up these Sunday afternoons.  HELP!