RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate's Blog

Myths About Realtors

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 16:47:06 -0700

This is worthy of a re-blog and, as a REALTOR®, I would be remiss not to do so. It amazes me that so many people out there do not know the value of working with a trained professional when it comes to the largest single financial investment they may make in their lives.

Via Susan Zwarych (Century 21 Fusion):

There are a lot of myths about Realtors out there and we receive a lot of bad press and unfair attacks from a lot of people. I'm here to de-bunk some of the common myths about real estate agents.

1. Realtors do very little work in order to make a lot of money - The average Realtor does NOT make that much money and can't be considered anything other than middle class. If a Realtor were to work out their hourly wage, it comes out to very little.

2. Realtors never tell the truth - Almost every Realtor I know is an honest, hard working person who will be upfront and honest in every situation. There is no industry that doesn't have a few bad eggs in it, but Realtors are just as honest, if not more honest, than every other professional industry.

3. Realtors charge commissions to do the same thing I could have just done myself - Again, this is simply not true. Realtors are professionally trained to sell your home, have far more knowledge about local laws, the market, the process and are there to help and protect you. Why do people feel that they are just as knowledgable as a Realtor about selling a home, yet go to a lawyer for help with law, go to a doctor for medicine and go to an accountant for accounting? Check out my articles about working with a Realtor to buy your home and working with a Realtor to sell your home.

4. Realtors don't care about their clients - Realtors do care very much about their clients, I place my clients' needs ahead of me receiving a paycheck.

5. Anybody can become a Realtor - While it may not be the most difficult process in the world to become a Realtor, there is an examination and training process that is required. Beyond that, you won't last long in real estate if you are not educated, honest and hard working. So while any one could probably get a real estate license if they want to, to survive in the business you must act as any professional business person would.

Be sure to check out http://www.saskatoonrealty.com, my personal website if you are looking for a Saskatoon Realtor that fits none of these myths above! Feel free to add any to the list that you think the general public is thoroughly convinced of and need to be de-bunked.

10 Things NOT To Do When Your Home Is For Sale And You're Going On Vacation!

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Tue, 19 Jun 2012 13:43:58 -0700

This is definitely worth re-blogging. I think that all sellers should be made aware, so thanks to Liz and William Spear for this great blog!

Via Liz and Bill Spear RE/MAX Elite Warren County Ohio: Cincinnati to Dayton (513.265.3004 www.LizTour.com):

10 Things NOT To Do When Your Home Is For Sale And You're Going On Vacation!

You're home is on the market, ready for sale. Spiffed up and ready for the sellers at all times. Unfortunately our market isn't the world's fastest, so putting a sign in the yard and launching a full marketing blitz didn't sell it by Day 3. You're coming up on your family's annual vacation and you're not postponing until after the sale. We don't blame you, everyone needs some R&R time and we don't know if the buyer will show up tomorrow or next month, so go, have fun, relax.

But DON'T:

1) Say "No showings until we return". Like we said, your buyer might be showing up tomorrow, and if they can't get in they'll buy another home. And who knows how long until Right Buyer #2 may appear.

2) Drop off the grid. Don't go to the Himalayas or somewhere that Kinko's or equivalent doesn't exist. We need to be able to reach you if we get an offer. We don't expect you to answer your phone at all times, but don't go somewhere that your cell phone is in constant "Searching for Service" mode.

3) Set your thermostat to the extremes. Yes, you might save a little money, but you don't want buyers to be uncomfortable when looking at your home.

4) Forget to get your mail held while you're gone. And if you still get the newspaper, either stop delivery or ask a neighbor to collect for you.

5) Order anything from Amazon or the like to be delivered while you're gone unless you've made arrangements with the neighbors. Packages setting on the front steps for days are a signal you're not home.

6) Post about it on Facebook, or Tweet, or Blog, or LinkedIn or ANYTHING that announces to the world that you're going to be gone. Bad guys have access to social media too.

7) Forget that your flowers need watered and your lawn mowed. Hire someone if you need to, but don't let the hard work you've done on curb appeal go downhill while you've got your toes in the sand and a Corona on the table next to the chair.

8) Forget to tell your agent you're leaving town!! We'll probably need to alter the showing instructions so you don't have to approve the showings while you're gone.

9) Forget to take out ALL the trash before you leave. Get the kitchen, the bathrooms, ALL of them. You do not want the first impression of the buyers to be "EWWWWW" because you forgot about the leftover salmon you tossed before leaving. That also means take care of the dirty dishes and dirty laundry before you go. AND don't forget kitty's super atomic deposits in the litter box and Rover's landmines in the back yard.

10) Forget to ask a friend to check the locks after showings. Hate to say this, but sometimes agents aren't as careful as they should be about making sure a home is secure before they leave. Going by and checking post showing is something we've regularly done for clients out of town. Wish it wasn't necessary, but it's good to be cautious.

We could add some more to this list, but you get the drift. Be careful, be available, and leave your home ready for the buyers to fall in love with it!

If you have other questions regarding real estate, please don't hesitate to ask us!

Serving Warren County's residential real estate needs,
Liz and Bill aka BLiz

The Liz Spear Team
Elizabeth & William Spear
RE/MAX Elite: Ask for us by name if you visit the office!
Two locations: Lebanon & Mason, OH
Liz direct: 513-265-3004
Bill direct: 513-520-5305 Fax: 866-302-8418

MailTo: Liz@LizSpear.com Our Website: Warren County Ohio Homes

Buttons created at www.ButtonGenerator.com

Follow us on Social Media:

Social Media buttons courtesy of http://www.chethstudios.net

OUR SERVICE AREA:

THE BC FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS BONUS HAS FINALLY PASSED LEGISLATION!

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 18:46:20 -0700

THE BC FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS BONUS HAS FINALLY PASSED LEGISLATION! It's easy to apply for the BC FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS BONUS; Simply click here. Now all you FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS that have been tossing around the idea of buying a new home can finally take advantage of this. As a FIRST TIME HOME BUYER that extra money in your pocket, instead of the provincial government's pocket will come in very handy, lowering your expenses and easing your mortgage costs. As well, this is an excellent market for BC FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS as interest rates are still very good and there is a lot of great inventory on the market from which to select. Nanaimo offers superbly affordable properties in an attractive coastal setting which offers stunning mountain and ocean views. It's a perfect setting for starting out, raising a family,or retiring as it offers loads of things to do and see and is nestled on an island paradise with numerous lakes, campgrounds, resorts and more. So take advantage now, and BUY YOUR FIRST HOME IN BEAUTIFUL NANAIMO, BC.

Nanaimo 1/2 Duplex Backing on to Nature Pond and Trails

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:04:38 -0800

Nanaimo 1/2 Duplex Backing on to Nature Pond and Trails

This attractive, well kept 1/2 duplex has almost 2000 sq. ft. of living space. With 4 great sized bedrooms (3 up and 1 down) and 3 full baths, this home has room to spare. Nestled on a level, landscaped lot with a fully fenced yard that features plum, pear and apple trees. It is well located on a quiet cul-de-sac (zero traffic noise) and backs onto a nature pond and walking trails. Enjoy breakfast on your private back deck as you take in the stunning views. Fully & beautifully finished on both levels, this home is completed with 2 hot water tanks, a single garage & extra parking. Downstairs features a large, bright laundry room, loads of storage, and a massive family room that opens out to the backyard. Walking distance to Uplands Elementary School, Oliver Woods Community Center, Rutherford Mall, and major bus route. All this and more in a great home offering north-end living at an affordable price.

Furnished Mobile Home at $59,900!

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 14:38:09 -0800

Furnished Mobile Home at $59,900!

Honey, stop the car! Check out this well laid out, well maintained, affordable double-wide mobile home situated in an excellent park. An added bonus is that this can be purchased as currently furnished! This great unit offers newer laminate flooring & new waterproof laminate flooring in bathroom. The large, sunny custom kitchen has a new dishwasher & adjoining laundry (with a newer laundry team). This home also has newer siding, bonus shed/workshop and many more extras. Freshly painted and ready to go: Located in easy proximity to Nanaimo Airport & Duke Point ferries. Walking trails are also all around this area for your enjoyment. Pets allowed upon park approval. Quiet country living within proximity to all amenities...A must see.

Five Reasons Why the Canadian Housing Market Won't Crash; An Interesting Read

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:25:19 -0800

I just read this article by Larry MacDonald of Canadian Business In it he reviews five reasons why the housing market in Canada won't crash. I have to say he made a very strong case on all five. He certainly is bang on when talking about the differences in local markets. As a resident of Nanaimo, I immediately make the comparison with the insanely high prices in Vancouver and can agree with him whole heartedly.

Also of great note is the difference between Canadian and US housing markets with Canada having greater recourse rights and the fact that the subprime mortgage market was far less advanced in Canada. These are valid points that made a huge difference with regard to the last crash and how we Canadians fared as a nation.

At any rate I feel that this is a must read so am giving you the link. This would be a great topic for discussion amongst both Canadian and American ActiveRainers and I look forward to seeing the commentary.

Good News for Canada and the US

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:03:45 -0800

Good News for Canada and the US

According to the British Columbia Real Estate Association, things are looking bright on the horizon, on both sides of the border. Most certainly this is welcome news, so I must share it! Below is their latest take on things:

"Canadian Manufacturing and US Housing Starts - January 19, 2012"

"Canadian manufacturing sales bounced 2 per cent higher in November, following an 0.8 per cent monthly decline in October. The gains were driven by higher sales in the petroleum and coal products industries along with strength in the auto sector. Total manufacturing sales were 1.7 per cent higher in volume terms. Higher sales were reported in 80 per cent of the manufacturing sectors surveyed. Sales by BC manufacturing firms grew 0.9 per cent month over month in November and were almost 6 per cent higher than in November 2010.

South of the border, US housing starts (a key bellwether for BC's forestry sector) fell 4.1 per cent in December, coming in at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 657,000 units. However, the pace of housing starts in the fourth quarter of 2011 represented a post-recession high, a strong signal that US home construction should continue to improve in 2012."

What a pleasureable read this is!

It appears that they are anticipating 2012 to be a year of good growth for both countries, and as real estate agents, we are more than ready to ride that tide...are we not? I look forward to a year of doing business with my Active Rain family and of prosperity for us all. What is your take on this? Looking forward to your comments!

Merry Christmas to My Happy Clients!

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 15:58:24 -0800

Merry Christmas to My Happy Clients!

759 St George Street , NANAIMO . $229,500 . MLS®: 322866 Sold

CENTRAL NANAIMO CHERRY. Opportunity knocks and your imagination is awakened when you view this well laid out 3 bed, 2 bath rancher. Among its many attributes, it offers a new cedar fence, newer Valour fireplace, and 3 year old fridge, washer and dryer. The large sunny, south facing backyard has, as added features, a large shop and a garden area. It's a perfect retreat with loads of potential. This sweet property also boasts plenty of parking for your vehicles and RV. With some cosmetic upgrades, this solid home could be exactly what you are looking for. Affordably priced and well located, this appealing home is not a drive by, but a must see.

SOLD! Just in time for Christmas!

Nanaimo's market is surprisingly busy for this time of year. I have been run off my feet for the last two and a half months! If this is any indication of what is to come, then 2012 is looking good. If

Another Happy Buyer and Seller in Nanaimo!

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 16:42:42 -0800

Another happy buyer and seller in Nanaimo! This gorgeous condo I had listed just sold after only 2 days on the market:

BEAUTIFUL MARINA VIEWS at an affordable price is what you'll find in this centrally located unit at Harbour City One. Having undergone extensive remediation this building is now like new. All the special levy for this unit is paid and no more is expected. Upon entering you are welcomed by a bright, open main living area and loads of view windows. There are also two decks to take in the views. In the kitchen you will find all new appliances and there is also an in-unit laundry team. Freshly painted throughout in soft, easy colours, this canvas awaits your artistic decorating touches. As an added bonus, the common area offers a meeting room, hot tub and sauna areas. Centrally located with lovely views, easy access to buses and shopping, or simply strolling along the marina; This unit is a must see.

To Use A Disclosure Statement Or To Not Use A Disclosure Statement: That Is The Question

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 15:54:00 -0800

To Use A Disclosure Statement Or To Not Use A Disclosure Statement: That Is The Question

I know I am opening up a real can of worms here, but how often in our careers as real estate agents has this question arisen? This article and news clip was on CBC last night and really nails the issue. I believe the rule is, "Disclose, disclose, disclose....and if in doubt: DISCLOSE".

This real estate agent and seller may have gotten away with it, but I personally think the agent should be reprimanded for a breach of ethics....Do we not have a code of ethics? I recall that we do, as I had to learn it when I took my licensing course. This kind of thing makes the rest of us look bad; untrustworthy.

Personally, I would have let the seller go as a client, rather than have my name tied to the result. There is plenty more business than just this one sale out there: All the details should have been disclosed.

On another point, the infra red tool that they mention the inspector did not have should be a mandatory tool in their tool kits if they want to be licensed inspectors. The client needs, is paying for and deserves protection. This man and his wife just bought the house, just had their baby, and now cannot live in the lower part of their home a all as a result of deliberate concealment of ALL the facts behind the original issue that was "resolved".

News flash for the seller: Band-aids don't stop hemorrhages. Too bad there isn't a lawyer out there willing to do a little pro-bono work to help this guy and his young family. I feel for them.This buyer is right: This is DISGUSTING.

Here is the link to the article and news clip. (Just wait for the short work safe commercial segment to end...It's right behind that.)

Do You Understand Market Value?

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:51:51 -0700

Do You Understand Market Value?

Let's say it's time to sell the car. What steps would you take? It probably would go something like this:

Check the classifieds section of your newspaper, checking out prices on cars similar to yours.

2. Advertise priced within that range.

Though you may not realize it yet, you've just determined the market value of your car.
Simply stated, market value is what buyers are willing to pay for that car.

What if you want to put your house on the market, though?

It should go something like this:

You and your REALTOR® will determine the market value of your property. It's critical you get this right.

If it's priced too much above its' market value, you probably won’t get any offers.
Alternatively, if it's priced too low, it likely will sell quickly but you’ll have left a lot of money on the table.

How does a REALTOR® help you determine your home’s current
market value?

He or she will examine a variety of factors:

The desirability of the neighbourhood
The features of your home
How well it has been maintained?
Have there been renovations?
Any other improvements made?
Location
What have similar homes in your area recently sold for – which is the strongest indicator of current market value as that is what it took to open the buyers' wallet.

Knowing your homes' market value allows you to make
an informed decision regarding correct pricing that it will attract
the right type of buyers and earn you the best possible sale price.
Pricing your home high above its market value in the
hopes that some unwary buyer will buy it rarely works.

Your property may be worth more than you
think. If you want to find out, invite a good
REALTOR® to your home to do an assessment.

Want to know more? Call your REALTOR® today.

Too Late For This Beautiful Cedar Peach!

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 15:58:35 -0700

Too Late For This Beautiful Cedar Peach! That's because it just sold 10 minutes ago. Sorry you missed out, but I can help you find another one! Here's what you missed:

BEAUTIFUL CEDAR PEACH with sweet extras now offered for sale. This great property features a bright, well maintained, freshly painted (in & out) home that's easy to heat and is cool in the summer. An added bonus is the attractive water resistant German laminate flooring in the kitchen and ensuite (25 yr flooring warranty). Gaze out upon your inviting garden from the bright living and dining areas. Protecting your castle is a 7 yr old metal shake roof with a lifetime transferable warranty. The grounds offer up multiple garden areas, (rock, vegetable & flower) a greenhouse, playhouse/garden shed, protected septic system access, and did I mention the Man-Cave of a workshop? Picture this: 1,966 sq. feet of 220-wired serious workshop, beautifully done: great for a home based business or a serious hobbyist. This property has been lovingly fine-tuned and is a one of a kind must-see, not a drive-by.

CINNABAR VALLEY VIEWS

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 20:34:57 -0700

ENJOY CINNABAR VALLEY views from this 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom family home, well situated in a great family neighbourhood. Close to schools and shopping, this home features a bright, open concept main living area with two patio doors accessing it's massive view deck. Downstairs you'll find a five piece bathroom, two bedrooms and a huge family room. This leads directly out to the fully fenced backyard; perfect for children, pets and gardening enjoyment. This is your opportunity to put down roots in beautiful Cinnabar Valley. Call your agent now to view.

Sophisticated Elegance is Married With Great Design

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 18:41:54 -0700

SOPHISTICATED ELEGANCE is married with great design in this quality home, built by one of Nanaimo's most reputable builders, Alpine Pacific Homes. Nestled in one of Nanaimo's most prestigious locations, surrounded by million dollar homes, offers superior quality construction & finishing, which is evident throughout this fine home. With an 18 ft ceiling at the entry, 14 ft ceiling in the great room & 9 ft ceilings throughout the rest of the main floor, it makes a statement as soon as you open the front door. Cabinets of solid maple meet gorgeous black granite countertops in the beautifully appointed kitchen. Also on the main is the gorgeous Master Retreat offering sanctuary with an outstanding 5 piece ensuite bath & spacious walk-in closet. Right outside your front door the Linley Valley Park & its' beautiful trails await. Take a stroll in the woodlands & leave your car at home. Quality,location & beauty wrapped in a New Home Warranty package. Not a drive by, but a must see. Call your agent now to view.

Another Nanaimo Home Sold

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 22:16:04 -0700

Another Nanaimo Home Sold!

This great looking half duplex comes completely furnished and is turn-key. Situated close to bus routes and the university, it lends itself to versatility either as a family home, or a rental. Perhaps you can have students stay in the spare bedrooms as a mortgage helper! The choice is yours. Beautifully kept and turn-key, it`s a great opportunity all the way around. Don`t miss your chance at this one!

Sold to a Very Happy Buyer

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Fri, 07 Oct 2011 22:01:06 -0700

Sold to a Very Happy Buyer!

Looking for a well kept, affordable family home in a great area? Need more room? This attractive 2,320 square foot 1/2 duplex is located on quiet street in popular Stephenson Point. As you enter the foyer gleaming hardwood floors greet you and open into an attractive living room that features warm colours, custom faux wood blinds and a gas fireplace. This space flows out to a sunny back deck in your fully fenced back yard which offers a concrete patio and mature landscaping. Also on the main is a 2 piece powder room and a spacious kitchen with pearl stained cabinets & attractive tile back splash. All this opens into a comfortable dining area. Three large bedrooms up include an inviting master with huge cheater ensuite that offers a dressing area and linen closet. In the basement is a huge bedroom and ensuite: perfect for a student, guest room, or teen cave. Great location for your family and affordably priced!

2011 World Masters Championships Video

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 01:07:05 -0700

Hi Everyone,

I am posting my Youtube page so you can see the video of some of my lifting at the 2011 World Masters Powerlifting Championships. I would have posted it on my last blog, but had not had time to upload them. My Real Estate career is doing nearly as well as my lifting career these days and has been occupying much of my time, I'm happy to say!

At any rate, here it is: Video from the 2011 Worlds. The last squat video is the World Bronze, the last bench video is the World Silver, and the last deadlift video is the World Gold. All are new Canadian records, and I am waiting for confirmation that some or all are also new Commonwealth Records as well.

FOUND: NEW HARDWARE

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:25:56 -0700

FOUND: NEW HARDWARE - Four World Championship Medals! I just got home and am tired but elated. At the World Masters Powerlifting Championships on September 27th, I medaled four times! I have Bronze in the Squat, Silver in the Bench and Gold in the Deadlift. I took Silver over all, making me the second strongest woman on this planet in my category. With this I broke all my old Canadian records, and several Commonwealth records as well. At a bodyweight of 61.84 kilos, I squatted 147.5 kg, benched 100 kg and deadlifted 162.5 kg, for a total of 410 kilos to take a World Silver. (To convert to pounds, multiply these numbers by 2.2) I have been blessed with good health and no injuries, fantastic support from family and friends, and that includes my wonderful Activerain family. At 53 I can still dream, believe and achieve; We all can!

I think I'm going to try the 2012 Nationals and Worlds....Guess I'm hooked again!

AND HELLO, KAREN ANNE! THE WORLDS WILL BE IN TEXAS!! We need to meet :)

Last Workout Done!

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 22:48:19 -0700

Last Workout Done! Chek TV interviewed me today during my last workout before the 2011 World Championships. I tripled a 225 lb benchpress, which was videoed, and compete next Tuesday. Now I am ready: I kow my numbers and am comfortable that I can execute the lifts....So time to bring it!

They tell me it will air on Sunday at 7pm Pacific Coast time. Of course, it may be changed but that's the date they gave me. Here's the link if you miss it on TV. http://www.cheknews.ca/index.php?option=com_jumi&fileid=7&Itemid=126

Tonight I'm packing my lifting gear and my dreams up for the trip and tomorrow morning I catch the plane for the World Championships. It seems surreal.

I will continue to share this experience with you as things progress. Dreaming of a medal!

Ocean View Cilaire Jewel

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 23:08:11 -0700

OCEAN VIEW CILAIRE jewel. Classic Cilaire views you'll never take for granted are offered from the living room, dining room, kitchen & expansive sunny deck. The large, bright, ocean view kitchen is spectacular, featuring an ocean of gorgeous granite countertops capping off beautiful cabinetry. A massive walk-in pantry (approx 40 square feet) as an added surprise is nestled behind tall cabinet doors. Flowing off this area on one side is the dining room & expansive livingroom with fireplace; perfect for entertaining. On the other side, it opens out to the ocean view deck. The master bedroom, also on the main & privately located at the back of the home boasts a spacious walk-in closet. Downstairs features two bedrooms, a bathroom and a generous family room offering a second fireplace and loads of room for a media room or playroom. If that's not enough, there is also a huge in-home workshop with tons of work space for the carpenter or hobbyist to enjoy. All this on a large lot with mature landscaping, RV parking, and did I mention the great views?

Don't miss your chance to enjoy Cilaire living

in this inviting, attractive well maintained home. Call your agent now to view.

Looking For New Hardware

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 23:05:56 -0700

Hi Everyone,

Next Tuesday I will be lfting at the 2011 World Womens Masters Powerlifting Championships against the best the planet can throw at me. I will be looking for new hardware and especially hungry for Gold. I want to share this incredible day with you and hopefully some of the adrenaline rush, too. I am nervous, yes, but strong and ready; I feel like a rocket idling on a launching pad and the countdown is on. Fear, excitement, joy...all at once as the time to lift closes in. I may be 53, but that is just a number...Life is an awesome experience!

Here is the link to the live stream of the 2011 World Masters Championships I mentioned. You should be able to see my session from it. I lift at 5:30pm on Sept 27th (St. Catharines, Ont. time)

http://goodlift.info/live.php

This is the link to the schedule. My session is on Tuesday the 27th (63 kg Womens Masters II) at 5:30 pm Ontario time which is 2:30 pm our time on the island. It is subject to change still, but I will be lifting on Tuesday nevertheless.

http://2011ipfworldmasters.ca/LIftingSchedule.html

Here is the roster. Scroll down to Womens Masters II 63 kg class. Currently I am ranked #2 next to Russia in #1. I will be totalling very close to what she has there, well above my 390 kg total at Nationals, as all my numbers are up in training now.

http://goodlift.info/onenomination.php?cid=211

As well, I attach a link to my latest REM article. I am on the front page and on page 12.

http://www.remonline.com/home/?page_id=2624

I will be flying out on Saturday morning, September 24th, and back home on the 4th of October. Activerain going for gold!

Chase and Attract

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 23:04:34 -0700

There are basically two methods to getting new clients:

Chase
Attract.

The “Chase” Method:

This involves going after new clients one at a time. Typically you
might cold call a list of homeowners, ask them if they plan on making a move
some time in the near future. If you call two hundred homeowners, youʼre bound to
get one or two yes's.

But wait! The funʼs just starting.

NEXT: Work those leads - Try to convert them into new listings .Difficult to do when youʼre starting off the relationship as a “salesperson”.

In fact, not only is it a real time consumer, but it can be downright exhausting. However sometimes
you do have to do some “chasing” to win those new clients.

Personally, I think it'd be better to have potential clients call me when
they have a need for my services. Thatʼs the “Attract” method.

The "Attract" Method

How do you make it happen?

Simply be a friendly, knowledgeable expert to the people you want to do

business with.

2. Build loyalty with your past clients and business-to-business referral sources;

Motivate them to spread the word about you. So when a loyal past client has
a friend who needs real estate help, heʼs going to say, “You need to speak to the expert,my
REALTOR®, _________.”
Remember: PAST CLIENTS ARE GOLDEN. Thatʼs what makes referral and repeat marketing the best “attract” strategy there is for
growing your business and building a strong client base.
So the next time you update your database, plan
a client appreciation event, or schedule an annual homeowner check-up with a past
client, remember: The “attract” method sure beats cold calling! It's more enjoyable and much more effective.

Want to attract? Call your past clients...You might be amazed at how well it will go.

Central Nanaimo Cherry

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 22:24:12 -0700

CENTRAL NANAIMO CHERRY. Opportunity knocks and your imagination is awakened when you view this well laid out 3 bed, 2 bath rancher. Among its many attributes, it offers a new cedar fence, newer Valour fireplace, and 3 year old fridge, washer and dryer. The large sunny, south facing backyard has, as added features, a large shop and a garden area. It's a perfect retreat with loads of potential. This sweet property also boasts plenty of parking for your vehicles and RV. With some cosmetic upgrades, this solid home could be exactly what you are looking for. Affordably priced and well located, this appealing home is not a drive by, but a must see. Call now to view.

What's on My Mind? 2011 Worlds This Month!

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 13:46:04 -0700

I am wanting to blog on a personal note today. I am less than a month away from representing Canada at the 2011 World Masters Powerlifting Championships and my thoughts and energies turn to it now every night when I go to bed, and again in the morning when I awaken. The work ethic it demands permeates my efforts in both my career and personal life, causing me to strive harder for perfection, push the envelope to sharpen my skills and strengths, and accept nothing less than success. It has, indeed, awakened the warrior within. I am grateful for my sport...and I am grateful for my competitors, whom I am honoured to measure myself against. They are the best on the planet and I am honoured to lift against them and be counted among them.

An added honour has been given to me recently: I have been made the cover story for this months' REM Magazine, which is received by every licensed real estate agent in Canada. I am blown away to be asked to be in their publication as the best agents in the country are always found there. Here is the link to my story.

I will be sharing with our ActiveRain community all that I can about this journey as I want you to experience some of the adrenaline fueled joy it gives me. It's simply too wonderful to keep to myself. If it inspires you to pursue your own measure of greatness, to push the envelope, to dream, believe and achieve the best of the best things in your life, then I am doubly grateful.

The Worlds run from Sept 26th - Oct 2nd. I fly out on the 24th, lift at 5pm Ontario time on the 27th, and fly home on Oct 3rd. (Closing ceremonies will be Oct 2nd.) I will be posting on Facebook, tweeting on Twitter, and blogging on ActiveRain.

Attractive, Affordable North Nanaimo Living Offered at $404,900

RhondaHeaslip NanaimoRealEstate (RE/MAX of Nanaimo) — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 15:26:57 -0700

Looking for attractive, affordable north Nanaimo living? Welcome to this well kept 4 bedroom home in desirable North Nanaimo. From the main floor take in views of the mainland mountains. Or, if you prefer, retreat and relax in your private, serene and beautifully landscaped back yard; complete with a pond, and fully enclosed for your private enjoyment. Once inside you'll notice great looking hardwood floors, new carpeting and fresh paint. Well located on a quiet cul-de-sac and very near to the ocean, this attractive home features a sprinkler system, wired in security system, a kitchen skylight, a bathroom skylight, 2 fireplaces, a very large garage, RV parking and more. As well, there is potential to suite. Enjoy both the quietness of the area and the close proximity to shopping, beaches and both levels of schools. An inviting home in a great neighbourhood - Don't miss out on this one! Contact your agent now to view.