Within the last week, I've spoken with two potential home sellers that seem to think that Craig's list is the best way for them to sell their homes. While I agree that Craigslist is a small part of the big puzzle, and every little piece fits together to make a complete picture, I don't think that Craigslist will be taking over as the number one source to sell homes any day soon. I post my listings on Craigslist, but I certainly do not rely that that's going to be the only thing that I need to do to sell homes.

The first people have been trying to sell their home "for sale by owner" for several weeks. They've admitted that most of their calls have included a lot of people with credit issues and hardship stories. But they feel confident that if they "stick it out", they will eventually get a good lead. I wonder how many "good leads" they may be passing up, by not having their home listed in the mls, and allow realtors to bring their ready, willing and able buyers to the home?

The second gentleman has never even seen Craigslist. He does not like computers. However, he has been told by a friend that Craigslist is the "only way to go" when selling a home.

As a realtor, I have never gone to Craigslist to seek out homes for my potential ready, willing and able buyers, and I don't foresee that happening, at least in the near future. I think a lot of Realtors in the Canton, Ohio, Stark County market, use it more for a sales tool, to find "for sale by owners".

I've heard of some fellow landlords that have great success on Craigslist. As far as a rental tool, I probably will use it myself the next time we have an opening, to see if we are successful. I think it's important to always keep an open mind, and to try and experiment, don't you?

I don't think the expertise of a real estate agent will ever be replaced. Specializing in the Canton, Ohio Home Market, with a niche in Stark County, I know that there are many aspects that go into affect when buying or selling a home. So I will use Craigslist as part of my marketing package, but I know that it certainly can't replace me in the future.

Being a big facebook fan, I've watched my own friends list grow to over 500 friends. Since I am a Realtor that specializes in the Stark County, Ohio, area, with a niche in Plain Township, Ohio, I decided to add a page that I will use to promote my real estate business.

The goal for this facebook page is to offer education and to answer questions about buying and selling homes. I'd like to also discuss topics such as auctions, first-time homebuyers, downsizing to a smaller home, moving into an assisted-living facility, buying land, new construction, and much more.

I have viewed other Realtor's facebook pages for ideas, and it's very interesting to see how everyone's facebook pages are similar, yet different. I think a  personal touch certainly helps, too, so my plan is to interject a very personal aspect to the page as well.

I can say that I have had 2 leads from facebook that have generated either a listing or sale so far. Let's "face" it, I think facebook is an important little piece of the marketing tool puzzle for real estate, at least for now! And just think, someday we'll all look back, and remember when we used to "facebook!"

About a month ago, I started a Plain Township, Community Page on Facebook. Since Plain Township, Canton, Ohio, did not have any community page, I thought it would be a good idea. The page's intentions are to be a place where fellow community members can post good news, events, happenings, and activities in the greater Plain Township area.

In less than a month, the page already has over 415 fans and is growing every day. Discussions have included churches, sports teams, parks, science fair winners, concerts, and so forth. There is an issue about incorporation for Plain Township on the May ballot, and there have been some good discussions about that topic as well. I've posted some beautiful springtime pictures around Plain Township, and also have a "neighborhood" section where I have taken photos of the many neighborhood signs around our community.

There has only been one person so far that I have had to block from the group, who I guess just didn't like the idea that I was hosting this page. It only takes one, I guess! However, the rest of the feedback has been wonderful.

Future plans for the Plain Township, Ohio Community Page include birthdays, anniversaries, pets, kids of character, garage sales, open houses, neighborhood block parties, and much more. I'd like to showcase small businesses as well, and to encourage our residents to patronize these establishments. It's fun to have a place where fellow residents can share their good news and help promote the wonderful community that we live in at the same time.

Living less than an hour from "Amish Country", we here in Canton, Ohio see the words "Amish built", "Amish cooking", "Amish made" quite a bit. Those billboards and ads certainly tempt us that our tummies are going to be so satisfied after a meal, and that a handmade Amish quilt is going to hold some exceptional value above and beyond what we could purchase elsewhere. I have to agree, I certainly DO love Amish cooking, and I myself have a handmade Amish quilt.

Coming from a family owned business, we had many Amish and Mennonite Customers, and developed some great friendships over the years. When my family travels thru Wilmot, Ohio, I still recall one of my "favorite" clients, Mr. Wayne Miller. Next time we pass thru, I certainly have to make sure to pay Wayne a call. Wayne does not have any electricity in his home, nor a telephone, but he did have one across the street in his barn/machine shop. He used to tell me to "let the phone ring a long time" because he had to cross the busy highway if he heard the phone ringing!

I'm just wondering if this term is being used loosely, and perhaps being USED AND ABUSED by many. A client recently told me that she had "Amish builders" put a roof on her home. I think most consumers are lead to believe that the word "Amish" always means quality work. The client did not ask for any references, and did not get any guarantees or warranties in writing. She was not given a phone number to contact anyone (Amish don't have phones, right??) She was not given an address as an alternative. In my clients case, these "Amish builders" 9 years later have left her with a bad roof job that is going to need replaced, and now are nowhere to be found. I've seen some "Amish built" homes that certainly cannot compare in quality to other local builders, and recall a home with a hideous vinyl siding job.

It angers me that some people may use this term as a slick sales tool to take advantage of unsuspecting customers. Being in the real estate business, I'm actually surprised I haven't heard of an "Amish Realtor" yet - I know they are out there! I myself have heard my Mom say that a friend chose a contractor because they were "Amish". For all I know, the guys couldn't be further from the Amish religion or culture. And certainly no offense, but just because you are Amish, does that mean that your work/craftsmanship is far superior to all others? Does that mean that everyone else that is not Amish is in some way inferior in their trade?

I guess the bottom line is as with any product or service, be sure to get the details of what work is going to be performed, what materials, that building codes are going to be followed, and no corners will be cut. Find out the name of the company, their credentials, their background. Ask for a list of prior jobs that they have performed.

One of my home sellers recently had to replace a roof with out-of-pocket dollars because the roofing contractor apparently did not properly register the roofing product warranty with the manufacturer.

The homeowner purchased a new roof in 2001 that carried a 30 year warranty. The roofing contractor can no longer be reached by phone - they apparently have gone out of business, or else have changed cell phone numbers and the homeowner cannot locate them. The product manufacturer cannot honor the warranty because no paperwork was filed by the contractor. If the roofing contractor HAD properly registered the paperwork with the manufacturer, the manufacturer would have honored it, even without being able to track down the contractor.

After this happened to my seller, I myself called our roof contractor (we just had a new roof put on our house about a month ago.) I got a copy of the warranty that was filed with the manufacturer. If I had not asked for this, I'm not sure the company would have automatically given it to me or not. Probably not, as a matter of fact, since our roof has been on for over a month. Since this time, I also have a call in to our heating and cooling contractor who just installed a new furnace at our home in the spring, and a new generator.

These items cost a lot of money and warranties are certainly so important for our protection! So the next time you make a purchase for a home improvement item, make sure that your CONTRACTOR REGISTERS THE WARRANTY WITH THE MANUFACTURER. Be sure by asking for a copy of it. Same thing when you buy an appliance or electronic item - be sure to mail in the warranty postcard with your name and address.

This gives me some motivation to do a better job of organizing our home files over the upcoming winter months!

Hello,

It is with great thanks, relief, and happiness that I write this blog today. After many, many attempts, our School Levy in Plain Township, Canton, Ohio, finally passed yesterday. It was a long struggle that was achieved through the passion of our residents who truly made that extra effort because they care about our community.

I wonder how others in our community, or any community in fact, can even possibly consider voting against such issues. Now, I understand that we are all facing financial difficulties right now, and none of us like to pay more taxes. I have several friends that have lost their jobs or have had their hours cut. Our family has experienced struggles as well.

But all this does not change the fact that we live in a community, and that we need to take pride in our community, and every day do our very best to make our community a great place to live. Live is not just about "what's in it for me". If we live our lives that way, we will be taking a very dark and cold path. We need to support our schools because they are a vital part of our community. It is my belief that every resident gains when we live in a community that supports its schools. Our real estate values, our community spirit, and our spirits are lifted in a supportive community.

I choose to support our local charities, community organizations, public transportation, churches, volunteer groups and special causes simply because it is the right thing to do. I have always supported our schools since I was old enough to vote, long before our children, and will continue to do so long after my own children and grandchildren, good lord willing.

Denise Evans, Realtor, will be offering FREE Real Estate Classes through the Plain Township Parks Department this Spring.

Buying a Home

Saturday, April 11th, 10 - 11:30 AM
Diamond Community Park, Community Room

Now is one of the BEST times in years to buy a home! Come learn about how to get pre-approved for a mortgage, what to look for in a home, and what to expect. We'll also discuss HUD homes that can be purchased with $100 down, bank-owned homes and fixer-uppers, and so much more! Take advantage of the market and attend this free class so you can get started on the road to homeownership!

Selling a Home

Saturday, April 25th, 10 - 11:30 AM
Diamond Community Park, Community Room

Don't be scared of the market! There is a FLOOD of buyers hitting the market this spring and homes are selling! Learn what to do to make YOUR home the best deal on the block! We'll discuss pricing your home, marketing strategies, and you'll learn tips to make your home stand out from the crowd!  Take advantage of the huge pool of buyers out there and get your home sold!

Investing in Real Estate

Saturday, May 9th, 10 - 11:30 AM
Diamond Community Park, Community Room

Have you been considering purchasing an investment property to rent or rehab? Don't be scared of the market, take advantage of it! There are tons of good deals out there. We'll discuss the current market in Stark County, some tips on buying/rehabbing investment properties, and what to look for. We'll also discuss what it takes to be a landlord, and what you need to know to get started.

To attend any of these free classes, visit my website at: www.HomesByDeniseEvans.com, or call Denise at (330) 575-1832

As part of our new government's stimulus package, first time homebuyers can receive up to an $8,000 permanent tax credit if they purchase a home between now and December 1, 2009.

To qualify, an applicant must not have owned a home for at least 3 prior years, and the maximum tax credit is $8,000, or 10% of the home purchase. The applicant must also stay in their home for a minimum of 3 years.

Now is one of the best times in decades to own a home, and I can help you every step of the way.

To learn more about this wonderful tax savings, be sure to visit my website at: www.HomesByDeniseEvans.com

or contact Denise Evans at (330) 575-1832

As a lifetime resident of Plain Township, and a member of the Plain Bicentennial Committee, I'm proud to say that Plain Township will be celebrating it's Bicentennial Anniversary this year. As the Chairperson for the Plain Township Parade, I'm especially looking forward to a wonderful day that our community can participate in.

There are many wonderful events planned for 2009, including:

Church Bells Ring Along
Monday, March 16th at 12:00 PM

Earth Day Tree Planting
Wednesday, April 22nd
Plain Township Hall, 2600 Easton Street NE

Cruise In Car Show and Balloon Liftoff 
Saturday, June 6th at 5:00 PM
GlenOak High School, 1801 Schneider Street NE

Plain Township Parade and Festival
Saturday, July 18th
Diamond Community Park, 2782 Diamond Street NE

Historic Tour
Saturday, October 3rd from 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Diamond Community Park, 2782 Diamond Street NE

Plain Township Fire Department's Fire Prevention Week 
Saturday, October 10th (whole week of October 4-11, 2009)

Township Christmas Tree Planting and Lighting
Saturday, November 28th at 6:00 PM
Diamond Community Park, 2782 Diamond NE

OTHER EVENTS IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE BICENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

Warstler Cemetary Bicentennial Celebration
Saturday, May 16th from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

2nd Annual Plain Pride Festival 
Friday, August 14th and Saturday, August 15th
GlenOak High School, 1801 Schneider St., NE

Plain Family Fun Day and Civil War Living History
Saturday, September 26th at 8:00 AM
GlenOak High School, 1801 Schneider Street NE

COME JOIN THE FUN! FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE FEEL FREE TO CONTACT ME, DENISE EVANS AT (330) 575-1832 OR VISIT MY WEBSITE AT: MyPlainTownship.com

 As I'm sure we all can agree, the world of real estate offers many funny encounters with folks from all walks of life. Here are just a few of my "moments", and more to come over the next several weeks! Please share your funny stories with me, too!

All Stinky

Recently I showed a STINKY couple a REALLY STINKY house where TWO STINKY lost dogs were! After the STINKY couple left, I helped the neighbor lady catch the STINKY dogs and put them on her porch while we called the owner.  I couldn't wait to get home and wash off the STINK! Just then my son's school called and said he was sick. So I had to go into school ALL STINKY, hoping no one would notice. Of course, my son came to the rescue! MOM, YOU STINK!!! was how I was greeted. Great first impression with the Principal, right???

A Room with a View

I recall showing a home to a couple who were very proper and put-together. I admit they were a little intimidating to me, being a rookie, but I handled myself with grace and pointed out all the features of this 3 story older home. I remember pointing out to the couple that the large windows offered great views. Well, we got more than we bargained for. On the 3rd floor, we saw there was a pickup truck parked in the alley right beside the house. There was a young boyfriend and girlfriend in the back of the pickup. They were uh, well, uh, ....you know what....oh,uh! "Wow!! said the husband "that REALLY is some view!" Needless to say, that broke the ice! And no, they didn't buy the house.

Did your buyer like the house?

A few years ago I was helping my brother and sister-in-law look for homes. My brother and I were in a split-level home that offered some potential, so we were taking our time and looking all thru the house. About half way thru, I saw there was a bug on my brothers head. We weren't sure what it was. We looked down, and both of our legs were coated in fleas! We ran screaming out the front door, stamping our feet and waving our arms. The man across the street was riding on his lawn mower and saw us. We ran down the driveway screaming and yelling. I hated the thought of having to go back and lock the door. I called the agent - "your house is infested with fleas!!!" I declared. Guess what she asked me? "Did your buyer like the house?"

You go first

I work with a lot of rehabbers/investors. I always joke to my male clients "you go first" when it comes to going down the basement steps. I recall a time when I was showing an old farmhouse that had a hand-dug basement. "Ah, you're a sissy!" they would tell me, and teased me a lot. On this particular day, "Joe" headed down the basement steps first. One, two, ......... aaaahhhhh!!!!!!! It seemed this basement only had 2 steps that weren't rotted. Down he went, straight in the dirt, flat on his rear end. Now who's the one laughing?

Velcro Carpet

Remember your first listings? I remember the call I received - "I've got 7 houses to sell - about $120,000". Wow, I thought, this real estate gig is easy. 7 new listings at $120,000 each - I've got it made! You can imagine my surprise when I realized he meant $120,000 for all 7! Being the trooper I was, I took on the challenge. I had several adventures in these 7 homes - I met a guinea pig who ate, slept, and went potty on the same table as his owners. In another home, the grease was so thick on the kitchen floor that I slipped and fell. In that same home, still with grease on my feet, I then "stuck" to the living room carpet and pulled some of it away and it stuck to my shoes like velcro. I also had to retrieve one of my signs that had been found by the police department with about a dozen bullet holes in it. But, I sold them all! My first 7 sales!

More to follow....