CreativNess - Real Estate Virtual Assistants

Increase Your Business Quickly Using My Real Estate Letters

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Thu, 17 May 2012 07:50:35 -0700

The #1 Source for Ready-to-Use Real Estate Marketing Letters

Generate more listings, More Sales, More Satisfied clients, and more Referrals – GUARANTEED!

I am a HUGE fan of implementing a system into your business, I have spoken about this before in my blogs. You all know as Real Estate Sales Representatives that if you don’t have a handle on your business and how you will run your business, you success rate declines.

I have had the pleasure of working with Real Estate Professionals from many different locations for the past six years. One of their biggest issues is finding content to include in their blog, trying to find valuable information to insert into their newsletters or even perhaps what to include on their drip campaigns.

You need to stand out from your competition

For as long as I have run my business, I have used this AMAZING tool behind the scenes and I finally decided I would share my little hidden gem with you.

My Real Estate Letters has allowed me to help my clients create fantastic content for their blog, newsletters, drip campaigns etc. I have shared this product with my clients for six years but I have finally thought, Why can’t EVERYONE enjoy this nifty little tool?

The Benefits to You

Increase sales – Analysts estimate that it takes between four and seven contacts to connect with a client and make a sale. After all, a sale is not an event, but a process. My Real Estate Letters works for you to make that contact and demonstrates to your potential client why you are the best choice for his or her real estate needs.
Communicate more effectively – Real estate clients absolutely crave attention and communication. In order to ensure their satisfaction and your success you must provide that contact! With My Real Estate Letters, we’ve made that process easy for you.
Maintain relationships with clients – Stay in touch with clients so they will provide you with a referral or remember you the next time they buy or sell a home.
Save precious time and effort – Spend more time with your family by being able to put your marketing on auto-pilot. Simply fill in your personal information and the letter is ready to go. Plus, each letter can be easily edited or personalized to fit your specific needs.

Why Realtors Choose My Real Estate Letters

My Real Estate Letters is dedicated to creating letters that are clear, engaging and effective. Our dedication to this goal has enabled us to become an industry leader in providing professional real estate letters across the globe!

We use expert writers – We use professional writers from the real estate industry to write our letters. They know exactly what to say and how to say it with style and expertise.

We provide guaranteed results – We are so confident that our letters will increase your business that we provide a full 90-Day Money Back Guarantee.
We listen to our customers – When you tell us the type of letter you need, we inform our writers. Our experts then expand the range of our letters.

100% Risk Free Guarantee

Your success in using these powerful, pre-written letter templates is completely guaranteed. In fact, we are so confident that our letters will increase your income that we provide a FULL 90 Day MONEY BACK GUARANTEE.

If you aren’t 100% satisfied, we will happily refund your money in full. That means you can’t lose no matter what! You really can’t afford not to invest in these My Real Estate LettersTemplates.

Buy this Amazing Product Now.

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

Bank of Canada Hints at Higher Rates

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 05:48:33 -0700

JEREMY TOROBIN
OTTAWA— Globe and Mail Update Published Tuesday, Apr. 17, 2012 9:02AM EDT Last updated Tuesday, Apr. 17, 2012 10:02AM EDT

The Bank of Canada left its main interest rate untouched at 1 per cent Tuesday, while painting a brighter economic outlook and hinting for the first time since last summer that it is beginning to look for an opportunity to raise borrowing costs.

The decision to stand pat for a 13th consecutive meeting was expected. But after weeks of sunnier rhetoric from Governor Mark Carney amid a strengthening domestic recovery, Bay Street analysts had been debating how far he would go in trying to reshape expectations that he may be on hold until late next year.

The statement on Tuesday’s decision was vague about timing, saying only that it may become necessary to increase rates, but that this would depend on “domestic and global economic developments.” However, just by saying so, Mr. Carney is clearly starting to lay the ground work for rate hikes if the Canadian economy and the global backdrop continue to improve. Significantly, he boosted his 2012 growth forecast for Canada by four tenths of a percentage point, to 2.4 per cent. And though he cut his 2013 forecast by the same amount, to 2.4 per cent, the slack in the economy is now projected to be chewed up in the first half of 2013 instead of in the third quarter of next year, so possibly six months earlier.

“The external headwinds facing Canada have abated somewhat, with the U.S. recovery more resilient and financial conditions more supportive than previously anticipated,” Mr. Carney and his rate-setting panel said, adding that the confidence of households and businesses is improving more quickly as a result and both are driving the recovery. “In light of the reduced slack in the economy and firmer underlying inflation, some modest withdrawal of the present considerable monetary policy stimulus may become appropriate.”

That last point may not sound like much, but it represents the first time since last September that the central bank has made any formal reference in a rate statement to the possibility of hiking interest rates. In that instance, it was to say that the need to remove monetary stimulus had “diminished,” as escalating debt dramas on either side of the Atlantic Ocean threatened to scuttle the global rebound, a reversal of a decision in July that had been used to hint that a hike might come sooner than later.

Mr. Carney and his team will release a quarterly forecast paper on Wednesday, but Tuesday’s decision included some of the highlights.

On top of the new growth forecasts and the earlier timeline for the economy to be running at full tilt — which may prompt analysts to pencil in the possibility of a rate hike before the end of 2012 — the central bank confirmed recent hints that the outlook for inflation in Canada is “somewhat firmer” due to the stronger recovery and higher gasoline prices. (Still, inflation is expected to be around the central bank’s 2 per cent target for the bulk of policy makers’ projection period.)

Policy makers repeated that household debt remains the biggest domestic economic risk, and that exports will be restrained by competitiveness challenges such as the strong Canadian dollar. While the central bank also said private domestic demand will account for almost all of Canada’s growth over the next couple of years, an indication of healthy momentum, those other two remarks are likely reminders that any tightening will be very cautious and gradual.

Globally, policy makers made no specific reference to the ongoing euro crisis for the first time in several months, other than to say that Europe will “emerge slowly from recession in the second half of 2012” and to acknowledge that the risks around that upgraded view “remain high.” The outlook for U.S. growth is “slightly stronger,” the bank said, as the world’s biggest economy sees better labour-market and financial conditions, but will be held back as households and governments trim their debt.

The emerging markets that have led global growth since the recession will moderate to a “still-robust pace,” as policy makers in those countries take various easing measures.

At the same time, the central bank warned that global oil prices have risen to the point where they are “considerably higher” than the compensation received by Canadian producers. “If sustained, these oil price developments could dampen the improvement in economic momentum,” said the central bank, which is expected to include an analysis in its forecast of how oil prices affect the Canadian economy.

The central bank will expand on all of these themes in the full forecast that it will release Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in Ottawa, followed by a press conference later in the morning with Mr. Carney and Senior Deputy Governor Tiff Macklem. The next policy decision is on June 5.

{CreativNess Guest Blogger}

Thank you for your business, please let me know if I can assist.

Tim Bloomfield | Mortgage Specialist | Greater Waterloo and Surrounding Area | Royal Bank of Canada

Cell 519-497-0512 | F. 519-208-2678 | tim.bloomfield@rbc.com

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

Just a quick update

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 10:41:57 -0700

I was having trouble with the on-line store.

It's now up and running with new templates available.

Check it out...

http://creativnessdesigns.com/

Have a fabulous Tuesday!

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

{NEW} White Space Feature Sheet Design

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 06:34:43 -0700

CreativNess Designs launches new white space feature sheet design. Buy affordable real estate templates and add leverage to your real estate business today.

White space designs are elegant and modern feature sheets that are made to capture the most of the white space allowing these designs to be more attractive to the eye.

Grab the attention of prospective home buyers and get your sellers listing sold fast!

Buy your white space real estate feature sheet today!

Feature Sheet Includes the following:

Space for business head shot
Brokerage Logo
Contact details
7 placeholders for listing pictures
Large section on back page for listing script
Bullet points of main features
Customizable disclaimer

This simple feature sheet is made to be printed portrait style, double-sided on 8.5×11 paper.

Printing Tip: Print this feature sheet on glossy paper to enhance the design. You can also print it on cardstock, for a thicker design.

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

Day 1: Social Media Marketing Plan - How'd You Do?

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 17:13:03 -0700

Good Evening Folks,

For those of you following along this weeks business challenge, I wanted to touch base and see how day 1 went for you.

Today, your focus should have been on your Social Media Marketing. I encouraged you to visit your current plan or start to implement a new one.

I also suggested that you create one of the following: Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn Account, in addition to your website.

So, as the evening is upon us, I would love to hear your feedback on how today went for you.

The good and the bad, I would like us to discuss it.

I'm here for you,

Ness

As an added bonus to today's challenge, swing on over to Hubspot and down their free ebook - How to Monitor Social Media in 10 Minutes!

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

Sleep Tight Friends. You Will Need It.

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 19:33:51 -0700

Well, I don't know about you but. This weekend sure went by fast.

This is your friendly reminder to hit the sack.

We have a busy week ahead of us.

You have one week to turn your business around.

See you in the am.

Ness

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

1 Week to Turn Your Business Around

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 19:52:14 -0800

Well friends, here we are once again. The Friday evening before the March Break. You either fit into one of two categories.

You’re reading this blog post which probably means you’re not travelling for the March Break. No worries. I feel your pain. *Smile*
You’re reading this blog post AFTER the March Break because you quickly escaped the craziness of…er…life and work. God love you!

Maybe, there is a third category here?

You ARE a groupie of category 2 but you haven’t left yet. In which case, stop reading now. Click on the cool icon at the bottom of this post and print this document, stuff it in your pocket. It is a great reading piece while you’re on the plane.

If you fit into category one, I have some March Break Madness tips for you. So, grab your java and keep reading. I will wait here for you and if you wouldn’t mind bringing me one as well.

That would be swell.

Boost Your Business Over the March Break

Ladies and Gentlemen, raise your hand if you wish to increase your leads, listings, and leverage.

We’re almost in and are about to go full swing into the spring market. Hard to believe, I know.

The market is picking up. Potential home sellers are starting to wonder what their home is worth and prospective buyers are starting their search for their perfect dream home.

Now is the time you want to make sure you have all your ducks in a row. Use this coming week to kick-start your business into the spring market the right way. Not everyone has gone to the land of beaches and sun. So, revamp and reach out now.

5 Days of Blood, Sweat, and Tears

We are going to write out your action plan for success. If you do the 5 days as outlined below, you will increase your chances of connecting with people in your community and your listings will soar.

Are you ready?

Day 1. Monday.

Create a Social Media Marketing Plan. If you’re not using social media the way you should be, you need to start now.

Put together an action plan that will start to merge social media into your everyday business. Folks, this is so important. How people do business now-a-days has changed.

Start conversations and engage with people and businesses within your community. If you have a social media plan but aren’t using it as you should, today is the day to revamp that plan and put everything into action.

You should have at least one of the following social media sites in addition to your website. (I’ve linked to my own websites to show you exactly what I’m talking about.

If you have questions or need help with this step, shoot me over an email at Ness@CreativNess.com – I would be delighted to help you.

Note to Self: Don’t forget to check your social media sites including your website to make sure everything is in working order and your information is up-to-date.

Day 2. Tuesday.

Database Recovery Day. When was the last time you went through your entire database? Not your assistant, not your team members but you.

Today is a great day to focus your attention on your database. Has everyone been recently contacted? Sending out a direct mailing is a nifty tool, but it doesn’t give you immediate results. Sort your database, if there are contacts that haven’t been connected with in a while, use the afternoon to start making phone calls.

If you don’t have an organized database. You need one. Like yesterday. Give me a call and I will help you with this task as well. 905.703.1793.

Tip: Sort your database into 3 different categories.

A – High Referral Client – These are contacts that refer you to family, friends and associates often. These are key players in helping you build your business.

B – Medium Referral Client – These are clients that sometimes refer you to family, friends and associates.

C – Low Referral Client – These are clients that rarely refer you to clients. Can you turn them into an A client? Have you asked them for a referral? Why don’t they refer? Find out!

Day 3. Wednesday

Advertising/Marketing. Do you now advertise your business? Are you keeping track of your advertising ventures? Do you know what works and what does?

It’s important to have a plan, but also to know what works. Create an advertising plan that is measurable. How will people know you exist if you aren’t showing and telling them?

If you already have a plan. Review your systems. What has worked in the past? Are your dollars being spent wisely?

Take today to check everything marketing and advertising related with a fine tooth comb.

Day 4. Thursday.

System Implementation. It amazes me how many clients come through my door that don’t have a systematic approach to their business. Making sure each of your clients, no matter the category they fit into, receive the same level of service is vital.

Here’s some food for thought. How often are you ‘touching’ your clients? Once a month? You need to make sure you are keeping in touch with your clients regularly. Hence why Tuesday’s work was important.

Make sure all of your contacts are on some sort of touch program. Make use of your database management program so that you can easily handle this task. If you haven’t sent out a newsletter or some way to keep in touch and let past clients know you are in business, now is the time.

Make sure you have a system to handle your new leads coming into your office. Clients questions should be handled in a timely fashion and receive the answers they need.

I’ve helped many clients make a systematic approach to their business. I’d be honoured to help you as well.

Day 5. Friday.

Party time? Nope. Sorry. Friday is not the let’s take off early for the weekend day. There is still work to be done.

Target Market. Many of my clients’ choose to run their business where they don’t really have a focus of clients they wish to work with. Some will just work within the Halton Region, Kitchener/Waterloo, Greater Toronto Area, and so forth.

It is valuable to select and market to a specific target market and/or farm area.

This will allow you to hone in on your skills and market yourself for all your worth. They say you need to show someone something 7 times before they actually remember it. If you’re attempting to market to an entire Region all at once, it can be hurting your leads.

Start small and grow big. Maybe there is a new sub-division in your area? Perhaps an older part of town, a particular area that caters to the elderly? What about an area that is filled with young families? Any empty nester area?

Use today to research your immediate community and find an area that you can use days 1 through 4′s work and put it to use in your new target area. Once you have targeted this area for a while, you can then start to look at branching out the scope of your business to more areas.

Note to Self: Don’t tackle the area of “everywhere”. Start small. Grow Big.

Day 6. Saturday.

Grab your favourite drink and put your feet up for the day. You deserve it.

Day 7. Sunday.

Use the evening to do a complete review of this weeks work. You want to hit the ground running come Monday morning!

Cheers to your success,

Ness

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

6 Tips to Capture the Best of Real Estate Listing Photography

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 10:50:17 -0800

Photo Courtesy of http://ft2.ca/photography.html

I wanted to share with you today some great tips on how to capture the best images for your listing photography. I know some agents hire out this service and have a professional take their listing pictures. This is fantastic and truly does make a difference.

But, if you’re a new agent, or just a Sales Representative that enjoys complete the tasks independently, these tips below were written with you in mind!

I find it interesting the amount of marketing material I see out there that is horribly designed or the pictures on feature sheets aren’t suffice to show the true value in a home.

6 Photography tidbits for listing photography

1. Take pictures of your new listing when the sun is shining on the front of the house.
2. Know the direction the front of the home faces.
3. Use of digital equipment is essential. Not only are they user-friendly but they most certainly will give you the best quality in your pictures.
4. Not only is it important to use digital equipment. It is important for you to know how to use your equipment effectively. (Taking a quick course at your local camera store is well worth the investment.
5. Be sure to take a few pictures from different angles and distances. You’ll have a chance to check your pictures later and pick the ones that best show the features of the home.
6. Perhaps most important, make sure the home is ready for you to take pictures. Remove any clutter from the yard, close doors, and garages, make sure there are no drawers open in bedrooms, or closet doors. A quick check and tidy will make sure you capture the home in the best light.

If you’re not 100% confident in your ability to take the best images of your new listing, I highly recommend you invest in a professional. Pictures are often the first impression setter. Don’t leave a bad impression with your prospective buyers!

How to take better landscape photos (visitwales.co.uk)
Taking Real Estate Pictures, Part I… Getting Started (lanebailey.info)
How To Take Greater Photos (boldstate.com)
{NEW} CreativNess Launches Online Store – Buy Templates Now! (creativness.com)

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

{NEW} Elegant Landscape Feature Sheet

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 20:47:53 -0800

Front of Feature Sheet

I am proud to present our newest real estate template into our store. You can now buy our elegantly designed 2 page landscape style feature sheet.

Superior Quality to Showcase Your Hot New Listing

Stylishly designed template to showcase your hot new listing. Designated space for your headshot photo, company logo and contact details. 6 placeholders for listing pictures. Large section on front page for listing script with space for bullet points of features on the back. Template created in Microsoft Word for easy do-it-yourself customization. Includes section for disclosure. Made to be printed in landscape format, double-sided on 8.5×11 paper.

*Printing Tip: Print on high gloss paper to capture the beauty of this design.

Back of Feature Sheet

Buy Now and Get $5.00 off Until Friday Only

Swing on over to our CreativNess Designs store front and pick up your new feature sheet and receive $5.00 off until this Friday ONLY!

Would love if you could share this page and template with your Associates.

Any feedback would be most welcome. You can reach me directly at Ness@CreativNess.com.

I appreciate you,

Ness

P.S. Don’t forget to grab your elegant feature sheet here and share this sweet deal with your Associates so they too can buy their own customizable template.

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

{NEW} CreativNess Launches Online Store – Buy Templates Now!

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 10:54:21 -0800

Good Afternoon Folks!

For six years, I have had the pleasure of running my Real Estate Virtual Assistant business and creating templates for real estate agents. My goal as always is helping Sales Representatives like yourself work smarter, not harder.

Templates are a create way to systematize your brand across all marketing avenues and gives you the leverage you need to grow your business by focusing your time on sales.

I’ve had several requests to build an on-line store that will allow you to buy some of my pre-designed templates on-line. I’ve taken all your comments and feedback into consideration and I’m super excited to introduceCreativNess Designs!!!

What Will CreativNess Designs Do For You?

CreativNess Designs is built with you in mind. You’re a Real Estate Sales Representative who probably spends more time in front of your computer screen,training assistants or finding adequate outsourcing companies to help build your brand through your marketing strategies.

The problem is, you’re spending too much valuable time completing mundane tasks when you should be doing what you do best – working with people in your community to help them buy and sell their home.

I have a solution to your problem!

CreativNess Designs Offers Pre-Designed Templates

We will continually be working behind the scenes to create irresistible templates for you to add leverage to your business. These templates are created in programs that are easy to use such as Microsoft Word. Whether you wish to input your information yourself, have your in-house assistant do it for you, or have CreativNess Designs complete the project – the template is yours to buy!

Subscribe and Stay in the Loop!

Join our CreativNess Designs subscriber list to keep you in the loop of discount rates, and new templates as they become available. You don’t want to miss out on these great values.

Add Leverage to Your Real Estate Business Now

Swing on over to the CreativNess Designs on-line store now and pick up your pre-designed feature sheet template for 50% off the list price. But hurry, the offer ends this Wednesday. Don’t forget to add yourself to the subscriber list and stay in the loop of insider specials and templates.

P.S. The greatest compliment you could give us is the referral to one of your Associates! Have them visit our on-line store and join our subscriber list as well.

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

4 Reasons Why You Should Have Your Home Inspected Before It Hits the Market

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 15:00:52 -0800

Guest Blog Post Written By: Jeffrey Brookfield Business Owner, AmeriSpec Home Inspection Service | http://www.HowHomeInspectorsHelp.com

Traditionally a home inspection is arranged by the buyer of a home and is oftentimes used to renegotiate the purchase price. Today, some 90% of all homes are inspected -- these inspections, in all likelihood, are costing sellers tens of thousands of dollars in loss of equity in their homes.

One Solution: a pre-listing home inspection arranged by the seller.

A pre-listing home inspection can be a very powerful tool for both the seller and the listing agent. The benefits include:

1. Protecting your equity — A traditional home inspection is a condition of sale for most buyers, and is completed after an offer has been accepted by the seller. Since most Agreements of Purchase and Sale have a short window of time to complete the transaction, buyers sometimes use the inspection findings to reduce the sales price. The seller often is faced with a decision to fix the problems or take a reduction on the selling price.

Unfortunately, sellers often are unable to get competitive bids due to the time constraints and are either forced into taking a single bid for the repair or renegotiating the price. Most buyers will have a tendency to over-exaggerate the true cost of repair by a factor of 5. In other words, if it would cost you $200 to repair windows, buyer will ask for a reduction of say, $1,000 from the selling price to cover the same repair. This can make the renegotiating process difficult.

2. Smoother transaction at closing - Without the renegotiations that often follow a traditional home inspection, the real estate transaction is smoother. Some Realtors who religiously use pre-listing home inspections say it saves an average of 15-20 hours of time per transaction.

3. More buyers — What better way to make a home stand out from others on the market, especially those on the same street. AmeriSpec can provide the homeseller with a sign that can be attached to the For Sale sign stating that the home has been inspected by an independent inspection company.

Once the pre-listing inspection is complete, your Realtor can also add a comment to your MLS listing, which most likely will also increase your traffic -— and increase the likelihood of selling your home. Research shows that pre-inspected homes sell an average of 15 days sooner than homes that aren't pre-inspected.

4. Seller peace of mind — Eliminate the stress, anxiety and frustration of rushing to complete repairs or renegotiate the sales price after a traditional home inspection. A pre-listing inspection identifies issues up front, and allows the seller to make repairs on her schedule and budget. Why risk losing a potential buyer?

But why should the seller pay for the home inspection?

In today’s real estate market, buyers pay for traditional home inspections to learn the condition of the home before they buy it. The market has been conditioned to believe that a home inspection should be paid by the buyer. However, when the seller pays for the inspection, they have more control over the transaction and save money in the end because of less price negotiations. The value produced by the pre-listing inspection in time and money saved can be over 5 times the cost of the pre-listing inspection, making it well worth the investment.

_____

For more information on pre-listing home inspections, contact:

Jeffrey Brookfield

AmeriSpec Home Inspection Service

Waterloo Region, Guelph, Halton Hills, Brampton, Caledon & Orangeville

1-800-794-5880

www.HowHomeInspectorsHelp.com

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

Would You Agree?: Women Entrepreneurs Fear Failure More than Men?

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 12:10:17 -0800

I was reading an article today over at Reuters.com called Q&A: Women Entrepreneurs Fear Failure More Than Men: Study. Babson College and theGlobal Entrepreneurship Monitor have recently released their 2010 Study about women’s entrepreneurship around the world.

Women Fear Failure More Than Men

Their study found in 2010, 104 million women representing more than half the world’s population and 84 percent of world gross domestic product started and managed new business ventures. While these numbers seem to be high to me, the study concluded women in general have lower perceptions than men about their capabilities for starting a business.

The United States ranks highest among wealthy economies in terms of women’s capabilities perceptions-their belief that they have the capabilities to start a business.

Women are there. They get it. They have the education but lack the drive to move forward. Fear hinders their momentum forward.

Donna J. Kelley one of the lead report authors said: “Women need to work on their confidence nad their perceived abilities. Entrepreneurship has to feel accessible to women. There needs to be local role models that say to women, I can do this. A need for practical education that lets women experiment with entrepreneurship and learn to become confident.”

It Got Me Thinking…

I know from personal experiences, fear is a huge learning curve for me. I’m afraid to fail in my business, especially during the early stages. As I’ve worked in the industry for years now, my confidence has definitely been the driving force to keep me moving forward.

What do you think?

Do you believe that women fear failure more than men?

Do you fear failure today?

What do you recommend us women can do to overcome our fear?

Looking forward to hearing your take.

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

Johnny B. Truant – The Bialy Pimps Book FREE for Today Only!

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:18:40 -0800

If you have never heard of Johnny B. Truant and the complete wholeness he brings to his readers – You’re missing out. You really should take the time to read his stuff and follow him on Twitter.

He is a super cool dude who has an insane readership and is one of the kings of Blogging. He often discusses topics like - entrepreneurship, outside-the-box thinking, and human potential. I’ve been a fan of Johnny’s since I’ve been in business and some of my models are inspired by his work.

Today only download The Bialy Pimps free

Yes, I swear you heard me correctly. The Bialy Pimps book is free today only! Go now and get your free copy before the day is out. Be sure to share the link with your friends!

What’s the Book About?

Here is a product overview:

Life is good at Bingham’s Bagel Deli. The loathed customers are dealt the poor treatment they seem to deserve, bad rap music is played loudly, and The Rat is killed often enough to stem his immortality. And the insane homeless regulars — like drunken Little Johnny Redbeard — keep life interesting.

But when a rival tricks the crew into thinking that the deli’s closure is imminent, they do the only logical thing: instead of giving up, they decide to go out in a blaze of glory, handing their customers the humiliation and abuse that the pesky social contract had previously forbidden. But as insults turn to assaults and snide remarks turn to harassment and pro wrestling moves, a strange thing happens. Business goes up — way up — as people come back in droves, begging for more.

But the flame that burns twice as bright burns half as long, and as pop-culture welcomes the parody musical group “The Bialy Pimps” and its frivolous merchandising machine — and as the crew pushes to see how much bad behavior society will accept — the violent road to fame begins to feel like a runaway train, out of control and headed for destruction…

The Bialy Pimps is a tale that could only be spun by the twisted, vaguely profane mind of outspoken blogger Johnny B. Truant. Combining hilarity with questions about conformity and whether the tail or the dog is the one doing the wagging, this story can’t help but raise a question for the reader: If the rest of your friends decided to submit to the Face-Kicking Machine, would you do it too?

I Should Be Working…

I really should be working. Today is a busy day at the office, but I can’t help switching my screens to read another page or two from his book. I’m hooked on The Bialy Pimps!

So, swing on over and get your FREE copy while you still can. Even if you don’t have time to read it now. It’s free people! Get it now, read it later or whatever….just get it.

P.S. Just so you know…none of the links above are affiliate links for me. I am not making any money whatsoever for promoting his book. So, why am I doing it you ask? Because he is that cool.

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

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CreativNess Real Estate Services

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 10:22:14 -0800

There is no question, every Real Estate Sales Representative has unique needs for their business. Not everyone is at the same stage in their business and therefore, you’ll want customized services that suit your needs.

I’ve recently adjusting my pricing for all the services offered at CreativNess. Check out the list below. If you have a task to complete but don’t see it below, don’t fret – shoot me over an email and let me know. I’m always eager to take on new challenges.

Feature Sheet Template

Beautifully designed template to showcase your hot new listing. Designated space for your headshot photo, company logo and contact details. 13 placeholders for listing pictures. Large section on back page for listing script with space for bullet points of features. Designed for double-sided printing on 8.5×11 paper. Full ownership rights to adjust template to your desire. *You have the choice of six different pre-designed templates to choose from.

Ness Customize Feature Sheet Template

Purchase this package if you would like a feature sheet template but wish for me to customize the template for you. I will customize your feature sheet purchase to include the following: uploading your picture, contact details, Brokerage logo, and change of colour and/or adjust the fine print disclaimer.

Complete Custom Feature Sheet Template

If my template feature sheets aren’t exactly what you’re looking for, purchase this complete custom feature sheet design. I will build you your own to your specifications. Designed for double-sided printing on 8.5×11 paper.

New Listing CreativNess Feature Sheet

Did you just purchase my feature sheet template but now have a new listing to market? Send me over the details of your new listing and I will create the feature sheet for you and email back to you the same day in a PDF document. *This pricing ONLY applies to a feature sheet template you have purchased through CreativNess.

New Listing, Your Own Feature Sheet

If you already have your own custom feature sheet but don’t want to spend your time uploading each new listing, send the details over to CreativNess and I will be sure to upload your new listing and get it emailed back to you the same day in a PDF document.

Broker Loading of Listings

Tired of wasting away valuable time watching your pictures upload sometimes the slowest real estate boards? I will happily give you your valuable time back and complete your broker loading of listings. This package includes:

Uploading your new listing on up to 2 real estate boards (i.e. TREB and Oakville Board)

Have your listing uploaded on up to 4 social media avenues. (ie. Personal website, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Kijiji, Craigslist, etc)

Contact Management Cleanup

Is your database getting away from you? When was the last time you connected with everyone in your database? Are all of your contacts applied to the proper action plan? Hand over your database and I will make sure it is up-to-date for you.

Contact Management Accountability

Life is busy! Sometimes our best of intentions don’t always work out how we expected them to. Take advantage of CreativNess’s Contact Management Accountability program. Once you’ve purchased the Contact Management Clean-up Package, Ness will make sure you’re accountable for all new contacts moving forward. Together we will pick a day each week for me to call you and a time that is convenient for you. Over the telephone, Ness will ask for the contact details of all the new people you have met during that week. Ness will then upload all contacts into your database management system and make sure they are applied to the proper action plan. *This package can be completed on a daily or weekly basis. Whatever works best for you.

Client Showing Feedback

Providing your home sellers with feedback from showings of their home is imperative. It allows you an opportunity to stay in contact with the home seller but more importantly, it provides your home seller with insight into what prospective buyers think of their home. Often times your home seller can make slight adjustments based on the feedback that will increase the salability of their home. Ness will call the showing agent for the proper feedback. Enter the information into your database management program and compose an email with a summary. This can either be emailed directly to your home seller and/or directly to you. Why spend your precious time on a tedious task when you could be doing what you do best?

Weekly/Monthly Featured Listing Email to Your Contacts

Upon your personal preference, Ness will either weekly or monthly send out an email to your prospective buyers with a list of feature listings on the market. Sometimes our marketing strategies are overlooked. Take this opportunity to shine light on your featured listings and increase the chances of your listings being seen.

Personal Notes/Thank You/Birthday Cards/Anniversary and Special Occasions

What better way to add value to your clients then sending them an unexpected handwritten card?

Following your pre-designed script, Ness will give handwritten notes to your contacts upon request. These cards are written, inserted into an envelope, labelled, sealed and mailed same day. I recommend you include at least 2 business cards per mailing.*You are to give Ness the proper cards and stamps. Arrangements can be made for Ness to purchase for you at an extra fee.

One Page Flyer

Do you have a featured listing you would like to market to your farm area? Perhaps you have a particular service or market niche that you would like to share with others. Ness will design a one page flyer to your specifications. Send her over the information and your vision and she will get it done!

Monthly Newsletter Creation

Keeping in touch with your clients is important. It allows you to stay in the fore-front of your competition and share with your contact database what’s going on in the real estate market. Ness will design and write content for your monthly newsletter. This is to be printed double-sided on 8.5x11paper or uploaded into your email marketing campaign program. *Printing is extra but can be arranged.

Excel Expense Sheet

Do you have a pile of receipts that you just don’t have time to organize for your Accountant? Not a problem. Ness will keep an ongoing excel spreadsheet for you recording all your expenses. She can give you an at-a-glance overview or tallies upon your request.

Lead Management

Gary Keller says you need leads, listings and leverage in your real estate business. Don’t allow a new lead to slip through the cracks by accident. There is no better time than now to allow Ness to be the leverage you need to take charge of your leads and secure more listings! Ness will learn and improve upon your current lead management system. She will make sure no lead goes unnoticed and all new leads are handled in a systematic approach assuring each new lead receives the same level of service across the board. Remember, action plans are key! * I will track where the leads are coming from, enter the information into your database, apply to action plan, send required information to new lead and supply you with a daily new lead summary if required.

New Listings to Social Media Avenues

Exposure. Exposure. Exposure. Making sure your new listing receives the greatest marketing exposure is a crucial element. Your seller’s home being seen by prospective buyers and Real Estate Representatives is first priority. Send the details of your new listing over to Ness and she will make sure you’re listing get exposure on the social media avenues of your choice. Social Media Avenues can include but are not limited to: Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Pinterest, Kijiji, Craigslist and so forth.

Mass Mailing

Stop spending your time folding, stuffing and sending your monthly mass mailings. Ness can handle the details for you. Whether you’re sending an item of value out each month, quarterly or yearly, Ness can save you time. You give all the supplies required and Ness will get it done! This is a great package if you send out newsletters, referral requests, and testimony request and/or customer service feedback forms.*Arrangements can be made to have Ness print the required items. Additional costs will apply.

Biography

Does the bio you’re currently using sound like a robot wrote it? Do you need something to spice up your site that makes you sound completely irresistible? Email over your details and Ness will create a new bio for you that will attract the attention of prospective home buyers and sellers. Bios now-a-days are filled with transparency. Today’s market is about making connections and building relationships. What better way to connect with others than through your personal biography?

Home Buyer or Home Seller Workbooks

Here is your opportunity to offer prospects with an in-depth workbook that will allow you to answer their objectives before they have a chance to ask them. Each book is jam-packed with valuable information for the home buyer or home seller. Questions to ask themselves, checklist to follow and tips and tricks to help them meet their goals. When you buy the template one-time fee booklet. You have full rights to adjust each booklet to your likely and print as many times as you like.

Custom Banner Design for Website

Your branded identity is imperative to your business. People need to connect with you. You must make sure that your look is consistent across the board. If you have a look and feel for your newspaper ad but your website isn’t the same, it could be seen unprofessional. Allow Ness to streamline your brand and your business website with a visually appealing banner.

Bonus Goodness – Check Out These Resources

StudioPress AgentPress Child Theme

Learn How to Become a Top Producer

Go Daddy Deal of the Week: Get 30% off your order! Offer expires 2/7/12.

Don’t See a Service? – No Worries!

Do you need a service that isn’t listed above? Don’t fret! I’m always looking for hot new challenges. Simply send me over an email with your vision and I will be happy to make it happen for you.

The Real Estate Industry is ever-changing and very competitive. Allow my company CreativNess to be the leverage you need to grow your business.

Ness – Real Estate Virtual Assistant – The Leverage You Need!

I’m pretty confident that while you dreamed of being a Real Estate Representative – paperwork and long hours in the office was not among the visions within your dreams. So, now I am giving you the opportunity for me to be leverage you need. Step away from the paperwork, the computer and endless office hours. Let me be smashing at what I do and you get back on the road and meeting people…follow your passion!

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

What You Need to Know About Kitec Plumbing and Your Home

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 08:36:07 -0800

This post is written by CreativNess Guest Blogger Jeffrey Brookfield. Jeffrey Brookfield is the owner of AmeriSpec Home Inspection Service and Guest Blogger at CreativNess. Jeff is responsible for the management of the business, improving the customer experience and quality control. "I'd like to hear your feedback. We're always looking for ways to improve our services and your comments are invaluable in that regard. 1-800-794-5880"

What kind of plumbing do you have in your home? It could be prone to failure.

There are a number of types of products used for water supply in North American homes. One type of plumbing that hasn’t had a very good track record is Kitec Plumbing.

Kitec is a brand of plastic plumbing supply lines with brass fittings (with the letters KITEC or KTC stamped on the fitting) used between around 1995 and 2007. The system was recalled in 2005 due to corrosion issues of the brass fittings.

This type of plumbing is often characterized by Blue and Orange pipes and sold under the the names “”IPEX Aqua”, “IPEX Homerite”, and under the more generic name “PEX-Al-PEX”, and others.

The problem is that the fittings were manufactured with a high level of zinc. As the zinc leached from the fittings, a powdery build-up formed which then weakened the fitting. In some cases, the pipe can leak or burst causing damage to the home. Some estimates suggest repair/replacement costs in the order of $6,000 to $8,000.

So how to tell if your plumbing lines are Kitec?

There may be a number of clues to determine if your home is plumbed with KITEC lines, however there is no substitute for an assessment by a licensed plumber:

In some cases, a notice may be found on the electrical panel stating that Kitec was used in the home and that the electrical system should not be grounded to it.
Look for the series of orange and blue pipes (although other colours were also used) in visible areas of the home (near the water heater or under sinks are good places to look)
Look for the letters KITEC or KTC stamped on the brass fittings.
The plumbing lines may be labelled with the word Kitec.

We are unable to determine how much of an issue this is in Canada or this Region, however some estimates suggest that 60,000 + homeowners in the US Southwest could be affected. However, we are seeing evidence of Kitec inWaterloo Region.

What can you do? Click here to find out a Class Action lawsuit against the manufacturer and what your next steps should be.

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

What Budweiser Can Teach Us About Making a Connection

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Sat, 11 Feb 2012 17:59:18 -0800

There is much to learn about your real estate business after watching this year's Budweiser Commercial for the Super Bowl.

If you didn’t know, Hockey in Canada is our way of life. The sport no doubt has embraced the hearts of millions. Budweiser not only created probably one of the best Super Bowl commercialsin history, they connected on a level with its audience companies strive to do but don't.

What Budweiser Can Teach You

Be Unique and Memorable. Make your marketing strategies completely awesome that people can’t help but tell others about. Don’t settle for second best. Find a marketing strategy that rids your zebra stripes and turns you into a lion.
Make a Connection. What is important to your prospective clients? What do they value? How would they want to be treated? What do they need? Research, figure it out and run with it!
Add Value to Your Clients. Budweiser gave these recreational hockey players an experience of a lifetime. There is no question Budweiser as a company has affected the lives of these men, while winning the hearts of millions.

Find Your Golden Nugget

Whatever it is you do in your business it is imperative to stand out above the crowd. Be unique. Be You. All the while, finding that little golden nugget that will allow you to make a connection and add value to your clients and prospective clients. Take a look at the man sitting on the ice at the end of the commercial. It is in this moment I got a lump and Budweiser sealed my connection. It was also the first time in my life I have ever saw a commercial make a room full of men silent as they watched the TV with tears in their eyes.

...PRICELESS!

Watch the video here

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

WANTED: Guest Bloggers for CreativNess

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:05:26 -0800

Do you specialize in an industry that would add value to the real estate market? If so, CreativNess is now accepting applications to become a guest blogger and I would like you to share your voice.

I had an intense discussion over coffee the other day with a friend of mine. During our conversation, I decided to give the Guest blogger option a try. There are many people who work with the real estate industry and as such, could offer value to my readers. So, if you think you have what it takes…keep reading!

Share Your Voice

Do you have a unique take on your particular market niche directly relating to the real estate market? Have some ideas and insight you’d like to share with Sales Representatives, Brokerages and other businesses? Want to receive advertising for your own personal business?

Submit a Proposal

Prior to submitting your request for a CreativNess Guest Blogger, there are some easy guidelines I’d like you to check first.

All Guest Blogger requests MUST be your own content. Your own words. Your own voice.
Your entry must NOT be previously published. Including your personal site. You may however, link back from your site to mine and your guest post.
Ensure your post is visually appealing. Headlines, bullets, one picture, etc is highly recommended.
Submitting your request to CreativNess does not guarantee your post being published. I review your request and if I feel your post could be a benefit to my readers, I will more than likely accept it.
There is no compensation given for your Guest Blogging position however, you’re shown as the author of the post with a link to your website and social media platforms.
Your post will appear on the CreativNess website, posted on my Activerain blog and you will also receive a mention in my monthly e-newletter as well as on my social media platforms.

Be a Guest Blogger Now

Swing on over to the application page and get started!

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

If We Reduce Our Price, Will You Reduce Your Commission? {2cent Wednesday}

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:44:05 -0800

I thought it would be interesting to start a 2cent Wednesday series. Each Wednesday moving forward, we’ll discuss some not-so-pleasant experiences and share our thoughts on how we would handle them so we are better equipped for the future.

I’ve had the pleasure of listening to Real Estate Sales Representatives share their experiences with me. Some stories moved and inspired me. While others…not so much. I believe, sharing is a great way to learn and grow together.

Experiences Define Us

I have given a high-five to a REALTOR® during their biggest triumph and have hugged it out when a REALTOR® sadly lost a deal or even worse, a client.

Through it all, each Sales Representative’s experience and lessons learned are different. How one person handles a particular situation will differ from another. It goes without question – we are all unique.

It is important to share knowledge, learn from each other and grow as people. The same stands true for the real estate industry.

Hypothetically Speaking

You have a client who has listed their home for sale. It has sat on the market for a while. You’ve received a few showings but overall, nothing promising. You realize the price of the home needs an adjustment. You make the decision to set up an appointment with your home seller to discuss pricing.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Let Today’s Lesson Begin! When you propose a price reduction, your client says: “If we reduce our price, will you reduce your commission?”

How would you handle this tough question?

So, here you are asking your client to agree to a price reduction. You’re trying to sell their home and in return they ask you to reduce your commission. What would your response be?

Reduce My Commission? …NO DICE

Would you say something like this?

“…I’d like to bring to your attention, that when the sale price goes down, so does my commission. As my commission is purely a percentage of what you receive, I’m already agreeing to a reduced amount. In the meantime, my advertising and marketing costs are fixed, as are all the closing costs I absorb when you sell your property. So my potential income is already dropping along with your asking price…”

Reduce My Commission? …ABSOLUTELY!

OR…would you say something like this?

“…You are a valued client of mine and I strive to meet the expectations of my clients’ to make sure they’re completely satisfied with my services. As a price reduction is needed to leverage your home effectively in your current market, I will meet your request and lower my commission rate…”

You may or may not have already been dealt this card when working with your clients. How did you handle the situation?

Would you reduce your commission rate when asking for a price reduction?

I’d love to hear your two cents.

Happy Wednesday!

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

{VIDEO} Social Media Tips with Chris Brogan

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:18:29 -0800

Chris Brogan popular blogger shares Social Media tips

There is no question. Social Media is where it is at now-a-days. Especially for small business owners striving to get into their target market.

"If you were at a cocktail party, you wouldn't come up and shake someone's hand and say, 'You should see what I sell. I'm amazing!' You would ask about the other person," says Brogan, president of Human Business Works, a small-business education and growth company. "The same holds true [on social networks]. You really need to build a relationship before you go for the sale."

And if you think you can skip social media and it won't affect your business, Brogan says think again.

Check out this video with Chris Brogan who discusses some tips on Social Media and how you can easily join it into your daily business.

Watch the video now

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

Attention Twitter & Google+ Users: Let's Connect!

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:21:04 -0800

Happy Friday Everyone!

I hope this day is finding you filled with peace, wealth and happiness.

I just wanted to give a shout out to everyone using twitter and/or Google+.

I'd love the opportunity to build a relationship with you through one of these social media avenues.

You can either join me at the links below or comment on this post with your details and I will join you!

Let's hug it out on Twitter

Let's connect on Google+

Can't wait to see you there,

Ness

P.S. When we connect on Twitter, I will add you to the ever popular Real Estate, Mortgage Specialists, Home Inspectors, and Virtual Assistant lists that are growing fast!!!

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

Styling Spaces Home Staging & Design - Business Spotlight

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:29:26 -0800

As we find ourselves facing a new year ahead, I figured now is a perfect time to introduce January’s Business Spotlight.

There isn’t a better time to have Fabia MacNair from Styling Spaces over for a little face-lift in your home.

Check them out. A new year brings change. Introducing Styling Space Home Staging!!

Selling or staying - We’ll make your space a better place!

Are you working on your dream home or getting ready to sell? Either way – Fabia MacNair and her team from Styling Spaces can make your home a joy to live in and magazine worthy all at once.

Fabia has the ability to see what others cannot – a picture, a clear vision as to how a space can look if given the chance. She also works with her clients to understand what they want to achieve in their living space, and ensures her design recommendations achieve those goals.

The Styling Spaces Team is experienced and educated in interior design, as well as architecture, so their design recommendations are guaranteed to fit perfectly in your home.

At Styling Spaces, we take the stress out of styling your home. Call us today and let’s envision the possibilities together!

Beautified Services

Renovations

Renovations don’t need to be stressful. From choosing finishes for your home to basement renovations, let Styling Spaces make the whole renovation process just that much easier!

Space planning and furniture layouts

Using Feng Shui principles, we will make sure your home has optimal flow and functionality so you have more time, energy and opportunity to be productive in your living space.

Proposed floor changes and built in storage designs

We’ll use our architectural expertise to facilitate floor plan changes and built in storage solutions so your home is easy to organize, live in and maintain.

Colour consultations

We will help you choose a colour scheme that suits your home’s personality and compliments your décor.

Lighting and Accessory Selections

We’ll help you choose lighting to showcase your home’s best features and reapply feng shui principles to ensure you’re content in your newly lit space. We’ll also help you choose accessories to give your rooms that perfect finishing touch.

Window Treatments and Flooring

We’ll design window treatments and help you choose flooring that adds warmth, character and privacy to your home.

Adding Curb appeal

Get Ready! Neighbours and drive-bys will stop to look at your house once your new window displays, plants, flowers and window box creations are in place. Read more

Contact Styling Spaces Today

P: 905-702-7420

F: 905-702-8497

fabia@stylingspaces.ca

http://www.stylingspaces.ca/

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

Dear Activerain Blog Creators...

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 18:07:23 -0800

I am wondering if it is at all possible to have the option to post-date blog posts?

My life would be so much less complicated if this option was available.

This is my wish...

That is all...

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

Merry After Christmas - Resolutions Anyone?

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 21:13:05 -0800

I don’t know about you, but I certainly had a beautiful Christmas holiday. I cannot however, believe how fast the time has past. I truly hope however you celebrate the holiday season, you took time for yourself and your loved ones.

New Year’s Resolution Anyone?

About this time of year, everyone starts to decide what New Year’s resolution they will undertake. You have some of the most popular…lose weight, get out of debt, buy a home…the list goes on.

Does anyone really stick to their resolutions?

After talking with family and friends over the holiday season, I determined that while most people select a resolution, not everyone sticks to them. So, why if this is the case, do we make the resolution to begin with?

I triumphantly pick a new resolution each year. I strive my hardest to attain my goal and sometimes make alternations along the way.

This year. I’m not sure what I want my new goal to be. I have a few in mind. But, I like to keep things simple. Pick one, work at it until it’s achieved and then move onto the next. I feel more accomplished when I do this.

So, I figured I would scope things out and see what everyone else has decided to pick for their resolution or if you are going to pick one at all.

A few questions to ponder…

If you could pick one thing you want to achieve for the new year what would it be?

If you didn’t FEAR…what could you achieve?

I look forward to hearing what you have to say.

Let’s hash it out together.

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

10 Tips for On-line Holiday Shopping You Can't Live Without

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 13:07:56 -0800

This holiday season remember cyber criminals aggressively create new ways to steal money and personal information. Scammers use many techniques to fool potential victims, including;

Fraudulent Classified Ads and Auction Sales

Fraudsters receive an order from a victim, charge the victim’s credit card for the amount of the order, then use a separate, stolen credit card for the actual purchase. They pocket the purchase price obtained from the victim’s credit card and have the merchant ship the item directly to the victim. Consequently, an item purchased from an online auction but received directly from the merchant is a strong indication of fraud.

Gift Card Scam

Be careful when purchasing gift cards through auction sites or classified ads. It is safest to purchase gift cards directly from the merchant or retail store. If the gift card merchant discovers that your card is fraudulent, the merchant will deactivate the gift card and refuse to honour it for purchases. Victims of this scam lose the money paid for the gift card purchase.

Phishing and Smishing Schemes

In phishing schemes, a fraudster poses as a legitimate entity and uses e-mail and scam websites to obtain victims’ personal information, such as account numbers, user names, passwords, etc. Smishing is the act of sending fraudulent text messages to bait a victim into revealing personal information.

Be leery of e-mails or text messages that indicate a problem or question regarding your financial accounts. In this scam, fraudsters direct victims to follow a link or call a number to update an account or correct a purported problem. The link directs the victim to a fraudulent website or message that appears legitimate. Instead, the site allows the fraudster to steal any personal information the victim provides.

Current smishing schemes involve fraudsters calling victims’ cell phones offering to lower the interest rates for credit cards the victims do not even possess. If a victim asserts that they do not own the credit card, the caller hangs up.

Phishing schemes related to deliveries are also rampant. Legitimate delivery service providers do not e-mail shippers regarding scheduled deliveries nor state when a package is intercepted or being temporarily held. Consequently, e-mails informing of such delivery issues are phishing scams that can lead to personal information breaches and financial losses.

10 tips you can use to avoid becoming a victim of cyber fraud:

Do not provide financial information directly to an online seller, Always use a legitimate payment service to ensure a safe, legitimate purchase.
Do not respond to unsolicited (spam) e-mail or do not click on links contained within an unsolicited e-mail.
Log directly onto the official website for the business identified in the e-mail, instead of “linking” to it from an unsolicited e-mail. If the e-mail appears to be from your bank, credit card issuer, or other company you deal with frequently, your statements or official correspondence from the business will provide the proper contact information.
Be cautious of e-mail claiming to contain pictures in attached files, as the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders. Scan the attachments for viruses if possible.
Avoid filling out forms contained in e-mail messages that ask for personal information.
Always compare the link in the e-mail with the link to which you are directed and determine if they match and will lead you to a legitimate site.
Contact the actual business that supposedly sent the e-mail to verify if the e-mail is genuine.
If you are asked to act quickly, or there is an emergency, it may be a scam. Fraudsters create a sense of urgency to get you to act quickly.
Verify any requests for personal information from any business or financial institution by contacting them using the main contact information.
Remember if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

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Communication Tip #1 - Do you hear what I hear?

Ness . (CreativNess (Formally Ness Lindsay)) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 13:56:07 -0800

Effective listening is an essential and valuable skill. Unfortunately becoming a good listener takes time and practice.

3 Stages to Listening

Hearing: Hearing just means listening enough to catch what the speaker is saying. For example, say you were listening to a report on zebras, and the speaker mentioned that no two are alike. If you can repeat the fact, then you have heard what has been said.
Understanding: The next part of listening happens when you take what you have heard and understand it in your own way. Let’s go back to that report on zebras. When you hear that no two are alike, think about what that might mean. You might think, “Maybe this means that the pattern of stripes is different for each zebra.
Judging: After you are sure you understand what the speaker has said, think about whether it makes sense. Do you believe what you have heard? You might think, “How could the stripes be different for every zebra? But then again, the fingerprints are different for every person. I think this seems believable.”

8 Tips for being a good listener

Give your full attention on the person who is speaking. Don’t look out the window or at what else is going on in the room.
Make sure your mind is focused. It can be easy to let your mind wander if you think you know what the person is going to say next, but you might be wrong! Most individuals speak at the rate of 175 to 200 words per minute. However, research suggests that we are capable of listening and processing words at the rate of 600 to 1,000 words per minute. If you feel your mind wandering, change the position of your body and try to concentrate on the speaker’s words.
Let the speaker finish before you begin to talk. Speakers appreciate having the chance to say everything they would like to say without being interrupted. By interrupting before letting the speaker finish, you’re essentially saying that you don’t value what they are saying. Showing respect to the speaker is a crucial element of good listening.
Let yourself finish listening before you begin to speak! You can’t really listen if you are busy thinking about what you want to say next.
Listen for main ideas. The main ideas are the most important points the speaker wants to get across. They may be mentioned at the start or end of a talk, and repeated a number of times. Pay special attention to statements that begin with phrases such as “My point is…” or “The thing to remember is…”
Ask questions. If you are not sure you understand what the speaker has said, just ask.
Practice paraphrasing. Paraphrasing is the art of putting into your own words what you thought you heard and saying it back to the speaker.
Give feedback. Sit up straight and look directly at the speaker. Now and then, nod to show that you understand. At appropriate points you may also smile, frown, laugh, or be silent. These are all ways to let the speaker know that you are really listening. Remember, you listen with your face as well as your ears!

"Knowledge speaks but wisdom listens"

I appreciate you,

Ness, Real Estate Professional Assistant (REPA)

Proud Owner of CreativNess - Formally Ness Lindsay

Direct: 905 703 1793

Web: www.creativNess.com

Store: www.CreativNessDesigns.com

Let's hash it out on Twitter

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