Nick's Blog

Just Listed! 16850-16884 Yolo Ave Esparto, CA 95627

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 20:02:10 -0500

$1,200,000.00
16850-16884 Yolo Ave

Esparto, CA 95627

Beds: 0	Rooms: 0
Baths: 0	Sq. Ft.: 0
Garage: 0	Built: 0

This is a cute little retail building in the town of Esparto. It houses the towns only auto parts/hardware store, the post office and 3 other government offices, a 3 bed 2 bath residence, parking lot and a storage lot. It nets $5,065 per month. Property taxes and incidental maintenance are only op expenses. All tenants are stable and long term. If you want the current owner can have tenants sign long term leases before transfer or leave on monthly. Most unit have own ADA comp. restrooms

This is a new listing that
I thought you might be
interested in. Visit this
listing online to see more
photos of the property,
Google Earth satellite
images, and much more.

If you have any questions
about this property or
require more information,
please feel free to call.

Nick Hoddinott
Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting
9162016475
www.norcalhomefinder.com

Visit this listing at Here

Did you read this? RESPA Violation Suit

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 23:49:52 -0500

Hello all,

I was looking through a news feed and ran across this story I had to give vent to some rather poignant emotions:

http://www.inman.com/news/2008/08/7/brokers-property-id-agree-39-million-settlement

It is sad. As a real estate broker, one of the first things I was often told when I first got into the business as a salesperson, is that in general, real estate agents have a bad reputation. Is it any wonder why? When you read of how several of the large brokerages are looking out for their own best interest and not our clients, no wonder they think ill of us. I know that when I first started in the business of real estate I was told by my broker that I had to use a certain Natural Hazards Disclosure (NHD) provider. I found out later on when I got my license why, as I was offered a fee of $25 for "printing" out the report for every report I ordered through the NHD company that presented it to me (not Property ID). My conscience told me "no." I just didn't think it right or ethical to be pushing my clients business in any direction unless it was because I knew they the company I referred was the best I had found. Now I am really happy I listened. Had I compromised my integrity, I would have to live with it. Folks we have all got to do the same. Listen to our consciences. If there is anything other than our clients best interests at heart, it is probably the wrong answer. What is so bad about this story is that the practice is so common that even in my small brokerage of three people, me and my two assistants, I have had it offered to me by a smaller NDH company. It really disgusts me that the people that end up holding the bag for things like this, are the same ones we ask to refer us time and again. Make no mistake I run my business almost exclusively by referrals, but I earn them as many of my fellow agents and brokers do. This sort of under the table backdoor dealing should never be tolerated. Not that I would ever lump everyone in the boat and say that most do this, but it only takes a few bad apples to ruin the whole barrel, or at least the whole barrel's reputation. Let me know what you think.

Please remember that my business is built almost entirely on referrals. So, please let your friends, family and neighbors know that you have a friend in the real estate business.

It takes a full-time commitment - anything less and you'd be short changed.

Thanks again, your real estate consultant for life,

Nicholas S. Hoddinott

(530) 419-5054 Office
(916) 376-9328 Office
(800) 959-2549 Toll Free
(800) 959-2578 Fax

<Nick@BigNickSells.com>
http://www.NorCalHomeFinder.com

COMSUMER ALERT Part-time agents are a liability

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 17:00:09 -0500

Hello all,

It has been a while since I posted. Business is going great. But I have been seeing a trend that I believe is a direct result of so many agents not having enough business to rely on real estate full-time as their only source of income. The result is that the agent will often have a full-time job that they work 9-5 and then they practice real estate on top of it. In the past 3 months I have closed deals where the agents on the other side were a bookkeeper, a nanny, and one who worked for the state. The problem is that in each of these cases, and all of the others I have found in my real estate career, the agents attentions are inherently divided. In every case that i have worked across the table from an agent with another job, I have found that I almost always end up looking out for their clients more than they do. It takes a full-time commitment - anything less and you'd be short changed. A full-time agent is able to "work the market" for you, keeping up-to-date with new listings and conditions as they impact the market. Besides even if they are giving you an honest effort it most likely could mean that their employer is the one getting short changed. I don't know, but I have always said that if a person is willing to short change someone else in my behalf, it should come as no surprise that they would be willing to short change me for someone else, especially when that someone is them. So folks please look at this for what it is - a warning. More than that though, do you really want someone helping you make decisions in any market place when they can't even make those decisions for themselves in such a way that makes them successful? Can they guarantee your success? I doubt it. Any way those are my thoughts. What are yours?

Thanks again, your real estate consultant for life,

Nicholas S. Hoddinott

(916) 376-9328 Office

(530) 419-5054 office

(800) 959-2549 Toll Free
(800) 959-2578 Fax

Nick@BigNickSells.com
http://www.NorCalHomeFinder.com

Two country homes on one acre

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 00:18:16 -0500

$625,000.00
3190 County Rd 88B

Dunnigan, CA 95937

Beds: 3.0	Rooms: 3
Baths: 2.00	Sq. Ft.: 2450.00
Garage: 1.0	Built: 2004

GREAT value 3 bed + office/2bath CUSTOM home on 1 acre, w/pool PLUS 2nd home 1bed + den/1bath/1car garage/seperate entrance Main home has laminate floors @ entry, hall, kitchen & fam/room*Custom cabinets, bookshelves & entertainment center*upgraded appliances,carpet,baseboards,mouldings etc. Owner may cary up 10% back depending on offer and terms. SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE!

This is a new listing that
I thought you might be
interested in. Visit this
listing online to see more
photos of the property,
Google Earth satellite
images, and much more.

If you have any questions
about this property or
require more information,
please feel free to call.

Nick Hoddinott
Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting
9162016475
www.norcalhomefinder.com

Visit this listing at Here

4 Bed and 2 Baths FOr this Price???? In Great Shape

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:27:02 -0500

$195,000.00
1003 Pierce St.

West Sacramento, CA 95605

Beds: 4.0	Rooms: 4
Baths: 2.00	Sq. Ft.: 1750.00
Garage: 2.0	Built: 1969

Spacious home in friendly neighborhood. Located w/in easy drive of Capitol, Rivercats, and downtown Sac. Large bedrooms, family room and great room perfect for big family. Special Financing Available.

This is a new listing that
I thought you might be
interested in. Visit this
listing online to see more
photos of the property,
Google Earth satellite
images, and much more.

If you have any questions
about this property or
require more information,
please feel free to call.

Nick Hoddinott
Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting
9162016475
www.norcalhomefinder.com

Visit this listing at Here

Lovley 3 Bed 2 bath Antelope Home

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:25:17 -0500

$225,000.00
3838 Almond Grove Ct.

Antelope, CA 95843

Beds: 3.0	Rooms: 3
Baths: 2.00	Sq. Ft.: 1621.00
Garage: 2.0	Built: 0

Must See! Immaculate, well-maintained, close to schools and shopping. Oak Hill Elementary School just a few blocks away. Spacious, open floor plan with laminate h/w floors, tile in bathrooms, and carpet in bedrooms, Liv/din combo. Lots of storage in garage and so much more! Special Financing Available!

This is a new listing that
I thought you might be
interested in. Visit this
listing online to see more
photos of the property,
Google Earth satellite
images, and much more.

If you have any questions
about this property or
require more information,
please feel free to call.

Nick Hoddinott
Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting
9162016475
www.norcalhomefinder.com

Visit this listing at Here

Just Listed! 891 Douglas St. West Sacramento, CA 95605

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 15:29:24 -0500

$165,000.00
891 Douglas St.

West Sacramento, CA 95605

Beds: 4.0	Rooms: 4
Baths: 1.00	Sq. Ft.: 1280.00
Garage: 0	Built: 0

Great 3bed 1 bath 1280 SQF Home for the first time home buyer. Huge back yard with fruit trees. Spacious layout close to downtown and bilingual school. SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE! CALL NOW!

This is a new listing that
I thought you might be
interested in. Visit this
listing online to see more
photos of the property,
Google Earth satellite
images, and much more.

If you have any questions
about this property or
require more information,
please feel free to call.

Nick Hoddinott
Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting
9162016475
www.norcalhomefinder.com

Visit this listing at Here

Just Listed! 2217 Ocean Point Way Elk Grove, CA 95758

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 15:27:32 -0500

$270,000.00
2217 Ocean Point Way

Elk Grove, CA 95758

Beds: 4.0	Rooms: 4
Baths: 2.00	Sq. Ft.: 2056.00
Garage: 2.0	Built: 2005

Nice corner lot 4 bed 2.5 bath home in the coveted Elk Grove School District. Close to Freeway, shopping, Medical facilities, and many other things. High Cielings with plenty of room for you and the family.

This is a new listing that
I thought you might be
interested in. Visit this
listing online to see more
photos of the property,
Google Earth satellite
images, and much more.

If you have any questions
about this property or
require more information,
please feel free to call.

Nick Hoddinott
Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting
9162016475
www.norcalhomefinder.com

Visit this listing at Here

Just Listed! 3730 Pyramid Pl. West Sacramento, CA 95691

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 15:26:03 -0500

$345,000.00
3730 Pyramid Pl.

West Sacramento, CA 95691

Beds: 5.0	Rooms: 5
Baths: 3.00	Sq. Ft.: 2856.00
Garage: 3.0	Built: 2005

Spacious 4 Bed 3 Bath 2856 SQF home in Brand new area. Laundry Upstairs With sink and Cabinetry in Laundry room. Located in a quiet cul-de-sac lot. Plenty of Parking. Close to lakes, schools bus stops, walking trails and parks. SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE! Call Now!

This is a new listing that
I thought you might be
interested in. Visit this
listing online to see more
photos of the property,
Google Earth satellite
images, and much more.

If you have any questions
about this property or
require more information,
please feel free to call.

Nick Hoddinott
Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting
9162016475
www.norcalhomefinder.com

Visit this listing at Here

Just Listed! 3130 County Rd 88B Dunnigan, CA 95937

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 15:24:23 -0500

$360,000.00
3130 County Rd 88B

Dunnigan, CA 95937

Beds: 3.0	Rooms: 3
Baths: 2.00	Sq. Ft.: 1620.00
Garage: 2.0	Built: 2003

This is NOT A SHORT SALE OR Bank owned. This is a lovely 3bed 2 bath 1620 SQF home on a permanent foundation on a full ACRE! Home also has a detached 2 car garage and an out building. In a quiet country setting with plenty of space. It has a covered deck with peaceful views. SPECIAL FINANCING AVAILABLE!

This is a new listing that
I thought you might be
interested in. Visit this
listing online to see more
photos of the property,
Google Earth satellite
images, and much more.

If you have any questions
about this property or
require more information,
please feel free to call.

Nick Hoddinott
Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting
9162016475
www.norcalhomefinder.com

Visit this listing at Here

Just Listed! 112 Midvale Dr. Vacaville, CA 95687

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 15:22:25 -0500

$322,000.00
112 Midvale Dr.

Vacaville, CA 95687

Beds: 4.0	Rooms: 4
Baths: 2.00	Sq. Ft.: 2073.00
Garage: 2.0	Built: 1978

Lovely 4bed 2Bath tri-level home Located in the Travis School District. Newer dual pane windows,roof, central heat and air, fence, electronic air cleaner. Landscaped front and backyard. Popcorn ceiling removed from most of the house. Near park good neighborhood for walking. Close to freeway, travis AFB and shopping.

This is a new listing that
I thought you might be
interested in. Visit this
listing online to see more
photos of the property,
Google Earth satellite
images, and much more.

If you have any questions
about this property or
require more information,
please feel free to call.

Nick Hoddinott
Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting
9162016475
www.norcalhomefinder.com

Visit this listing at Here

What Happens When I Remove Contingencies?

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 15:17:27 -0600

Last week we talked about the term contingency and what it means. As a recap, contingencies are a way of qualifying your obligation to fulfill a contract. In real estate contracts we talk often of removing or waiving your contingencies.

What does it mean to remove or waive your contingencies?

Simply put, it means that you are now saying that the particular contingency you are removing or waiving is no longer a part of the contract. Though waiving and removing an item from a contract are technically different legally, in real estate the end result is usually identical - you can no longer use that particular contingency as a way to back out of the contract gracefully.

What is the effect of removing or waiving a contingency during a home sale?

If you remove or waive a contingency during the purchase or sale of a home, you are in effect saying, "I agree that this particular item is no longer a valid reason to cancel the contract." For instance, if you were to waive the appraisal contingency and subsequently the home appraised for less than the purchase price, you would still be obligated to complete the purchase. What usually is at issue is the disposition of the earnest money deposit. If you cancel because one of the contingencies in the contract is in effect and allows it, usually it is returned to the buyer. However if the contingency is removed, and you attempt to cancel the deposit may go to the seller to be split with the seller and his agent. It may even be that you end up in court to decide what will happen to it. Or you could end up with a specific performance lawsuit that forces you to complete the purchase. This is why you and your agent need to be aggressive in fulfilling all of your obligations according to the contract in the correct timeframe, so that if you do need to cancel you can and still be protected by your contingencies.

Do you need an aggressive agent to look out for you? Give me a call @ 916-376-9328 or email Nick@bignicksells.com I look forward to hearing from you.

What is a Contingency?

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 15:13:46 -0600

Many industries have their own languages. Real estate is no exception. That is what our question this week deals with.

What are contingencies?

Contingencies in a contract are a legal way of saying that unless certain things happen you will not fulfill your end of the agreement. For instance, say you hire a person to do some work for you around your home and you make the agreement that you will not pay him until all of the work is completed satisfactorily. That is a contingency. In other words, you have a contract to pay, but only if all of the work is done to your satisfaction. In other words, if you are not satisfied, no matter how much work was done there is no obligation to pay.

Where contingencies come into play in a real estate contract is as a way to qualify your obligation to complete the purchase and protect the parties in the contract. In a real estate contract almost all for the contingencies must be fulfilled or removed from the contract within a certain timeframe known as the contingency period.

While it is true that most contingencies are designed to protect the buyer, there are a few that protect the seller's obligation to complete the sale to the buyer. For instance, if after the contingency period, it becomes evident that the buyer is not working toward the completion of the sale, the seller may cancel the contract. A buyer has the same contingencies and a few more. For instance if the sellers fails to deliver the required disclosures to the buyer within the contingency period, he may cancel. Also if during the contingency period, the buyer inspects the property, and finds it unsatisfactory, or he can not get the loan, or the property fails to appraise for a satisfactory amount, he may cancel. Next week we will talk about the effect that waiving or removing a contingency can have on the contract.

Do you have a question? Are you ready to make a move in this market? Please call 916-376-9328 or email Nick@bignicksells.com. I would be happy to help. I don't want you to miss the next boom.

Do You Feel Like You Missed The Last Housing Boom?

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 15:08:31 -0600

Do you feel that you missed the last housing boom? Are you afraid that if you don't take the appropriate action you will miss the next big housing boom? That is exactly what we are going to be discussing this week with a question that was submitted by one of our readers.

How do I keep from missing the next housing boom?

In order to answer this we must first understand a little about the economic forces that create a boom or bust. In order to have a boom we have to have three things: a supply, a demand, and the ability to purchase. Without all three of these elements we have what we see today. Today's real estate market is one characterized by a large supply, lower than average demand, and increasingly tighter lending requirements, which in turn lowers purchasing power. Those things together mean that prices have to drop in order to sell your home. Why? Lowering prices on homes on the market creates not only demand (people want a deal) but also increases the purchasing power (lower prices mean that something affordable to more people.) So as prices and interest rates drop the average consumer has more ability or purchasing power. That is why often you will see a news story that mentions the consumer housing affordability index. It is simply a number that regulators and market speculators use to gage the ability to purchase.

Now back to the question of how to get in on the ground floor of the next boom. Simple buy as many houses now, while prices are dropping, as you can afford. (Do not over-extend yourself.) Why? Because the key to any successful investing strategy is buy low - sell high. So if you want in on the ground floor of the next boom buy now while prices and interest rates are low. Hold your investment and sell it later when prices go up. This will work even if you only want to purchase one home for you and your family to live in.

Do you want more information about all of the programs out there making possible to get in on the next boom? Please send me a comment through my website: http://www.norcalhomefinder.com/

Options for First Time home Buyers

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 19:48:36 -0500

In a continuation of our discussion on First Time Home Buyers (FTHB), this week we are going to look at some of the creative programs out there designed to get you into the home of your dreams. There are literally many better options out there now for you than there were a year ago, which brings us to the question.

What are my options, and how are they different?

There are literally more options now than ever before. While they may appear to be the same, they are usually more favorable to the borrower. That is not to say that there are no longer any predatory lenders in the market place. They are still out there, like always. It's just that many of the predators that were in the market place writing substandard loans are going out of business as you read this. Now in the market is when the governmental and non profit agencies start coming up with newer and more creative programs to help FTHB's purchase a home. Why? Because the housing market is one a very large part of the economy, both local and national, they realize it must be stimulated. Even though the lenders tighten the requirements for making home loans, these agencies are at the forefront of making sure that the average person has the opportunity to own their own home.

In fact, right now in the City of West Sacramento, there are many city backed programs that can be paired with state, federal, and non-profit programs to help you get a house. Some of them work even if you have no credit score, no money to put down or other things that would normally equal a "DENIED" stamp on your application. I have used several of these programs to help my clients achieve their dream of home ownership.

Do you want to know more? Are you interested in having an expert help you find the way to move into the home you've always wanted? Do you know someone that is interested in purchasing a home? Then please call me 916-376-9328 or email me Nick@BigNickSells.com. I look forward to hearing from you.

Is now a good time for a first-time home buyer (FTHB) to purchase a home?

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 16:34:43 -0500

At the risk of stating the obvious, the market has definitely changed in the last year. It is now more of a buyers market than it has been in at least 7 years. That means it is time for all the first-time home buyers to come out of the woodwork. The deals probably aren't going to get much better than they are. That is precisely what the next series of articles are going to be about - first-time home buyers.

Is now a good time for a first-time home buyer (FTHB) to purchase a home?

YES! Now is one of the best times for FTHB's to buy a home. The reason is both simple and complicated. The simple reason is prices are down and so are interest rates. The slightly more complicated reason is the fact that we're in one of the largest foreclosure gluts in US history. This means that the banks now have to deal with almost impossible number of foreclosures sitting on the books. This helps you because a foreclosure can cost the bank more than $200 per day to keep. Multiply that by each foreclosure that they own and they may literally be losing hundreds of thousands of dollars a day. This is good news for FTHB's because the banks must move these homes quickly or face higher losses. It isn't a guarantee of a deal, but when banks are in this situation it causes them to lower their prices. This means that even houses which aren't foreclosures must compete with bank owned properties. This means prices continue to drop. So combine that with the lower interest rates and several special government programs and non-profit agency's FTHB programs and you could literally purchase a home for the same or less than you are paying in rent. So in closing, NOW IS A GREAT TIME FOR A FIRST TIME HOME BUYER TO PURCHASE A HOME.

Are you a first time home buyer? Would you like more information about how I can help you purchase your first home? Please call me @ 916-376-9328 or drop me a line Nick@bignicksells.com. I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks for reading. Please call to have your question featured.

My Interest Rate is Going Up! What Can I Do?

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 13:15:38 -0500

This article involves a question that a potential client called and asked me, that I think is fairly typical of today's housing market. I spoke with this young man, who was just bewildered and beside himself. Why? Because he knew that in three months his interest rate was set to adjust, and he can't make the payment when it does. He asked me, "What should I do? Should I stop making payments and let it go into foreclosure or should I consider doing a short sale?" I felt for him and helped him consider his options. Let's take those questions in order.

What should I do? The first step is almost always calling your lender and letting them know that you are in that situation. Many times they are willing to renegotiate the terms of the loan. Often they are willing to lock in a rate, lower a rate, or lock in your payment. Why? They want to avoid a short sale or a foreclosure, which will always result in a loss for them. If you find them less than helpful, sometimes an attorney who offers credit counseling services can assist you for a fee.

Should I stop making payments and let it go into foreclosure? BAD IDEA! A foreclosure is the last possible resort only after you have exhausted all other options. It can stay on your credit for ten years. Also, they have the ability to sue you for additional funds taken from the homes equity in certain circumstances.

Should I consider doing a short sale? This is a good idea. In a short sale the lender agrees to consider the amount owed as paid in full if you can sell the house for a lesser amount. The catch is that sometimes they can send you a 1099 for what the IRS calls debt relief income. But the Short sale typically stays on your credit only for three years. In order to do this you will need to contact a real estate broker, as most lenders will not work with a homeowner on short sales unless they have engaged the services of a broker. Good news is they pay the broker, so you don't have to.

Do you have questions about this subject? Please call me @ 916-376-9328. I will be glad to help.

ARE YOU A FIRST TIME HOME BUYER?

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 13:47:12 -0500

Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting has teamed with several area lenders and service providers. We are holding a Firs-Time home buyer seminar. If you are interested in attending please email or call me for dates and times. This is only for the Sacramento, Solano, Placer, and Yolo Counties. We are holding this semiar free of charge and close to you. Please give me a call for more information.

About Nick Hoddinott:

Nick is a Real Estate Broker and the owner of Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting. He founded HREC on the principle we sometimes refer to as the golden rule, "do unto others as you would have them do unto you." That having been said Education of you, the consumer is one of our biggest driving forces behind all we do. We believe that if we take care of people, people will take care of us. How? When they see how interested we are and how critical we are to their sucess, we know that our clients will tell others about us.

What Are CC&R's Anyway?

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Tue, 28 Aug 2007 13:13:41 -0500

This question deals with something that I have been asked quite a few times. It came up while I was helping a first-time home buyer client of mine look for a house.

What are "CC&R's"?

CC&R's stands for Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions. As you can probably tell, they are really three different things that are usually handled in the same document.

A covenant is a promise to do or not do certain things. For example a covenant may include that you will make certain repairs or that a property be used only for a specific purpose. The penalty for violation of a covenant is usually a monetary fine of some sort.

A condition is much the same as a covenant, in that it too is a promise to do or not do a certain thing, but difference is that the penalty for breaking a condition is the return of the property to the grantor.

A restriction is a limitation placed on the use of a property and may be placed by a private owner, developer, or government. It is usually placed on property to assure that land use is consistent and uniform within a certain area.

If a property has CC&R's is it a bad thing?

In general no, it is not a bad thing. Although some can be quite restrictive, most are there to ensure that none of the other homeowners near your particular property can so significantly alter the use of the property that it would affect the value of other properties nearby. In other words they are designed to keep your neighbors, and you, from doing anything that would negatively impact others. A good example of this is the guy who wants to run an auto shop from his home. No one wants that next door. If you have a restriction that stops him from doing it, you have another legal means to make him stop, even if there is no law against it.

Are you a first time home buyer? Do you want someone to educate you in your decision to purchase a home? Or do you just have a question? Drop me a line by visiting my website or calling me. http://www.norcalhomefinder.com/ 800-959-2549

Blogging Etiquette

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 05:26:39 -0500

Does anyone out there have any opinion on posting items to someone else's blog to promote your business without their permission???

I mention this because a very over zealous agent posted a comment on one of my blog sites advertising his own business. Don't get me wrong we all run these things to promote ourselves, but I think it is a little presumptuous to go into someone else's place of business and promote yourself. I just think it is rude! Especially when I am basically offering employment and you post on MY site the way that YOU think your company is better. Real estate companies are like ice cream, there are a lot of flavors. That is why we all have our site to recruit individuals whose approach to business matches our personal philosophy in business. But I say this, use YOUR OWN site to promote your flavor, NOT MINE!!!! No wonder people look at realtors sideways. Why wouldn't they when there are so many people out there willing to resort to less than considerate means to promote their ideas over the competition?

Let me know what you think,

Nick

How Is Microwave Popcorn A Metaphor For The Real Estate Market?

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Tue, 21 Aug 2007 17:04:18 -0500

Right now you probably read that title and thought "What is he talking about?" Please allow me to explain.

Picture this: You're sitting there, watching your favorite movie on the TV and you think, "I want some popcorn." So what do you do? Like most Americans, you go to the cupboard and grab a bag of your favorite brand of microwave popcorn. Now, if you are like me, your microwave may not have one of those buttons labeled "POPCORN," so you read the directions on the package, which always has words to the effect of, "Time varies according to the power of the microwave. To tell if your popping corn is finished wait until you hear 2-3 seconds between pops."

Therein lies the little test of your moral character. Are you a risk taker, or someone who likes to play it safe? If you are a risk taker you wait and wait at the risk of burning the whole bag in hopes of getting more popcorn to pop, after all, you did pay for it so why not get as much for your money as possible? If you like to play it safe you wait and the first time you can count," one thousand one, one thousand two" you stop the microwave because even though you may not get quite as much as if you waited, at least this way there is no chance you could ruin the whole thing.

Now to the application. Many of us when contemplating a real estate transaction do exactly the same thing. We either want to wait until the market "bottoms out" or buy now because we know for sure that we are getting the best deal we could today. Which is the better course of action? It really depends on you. You see, not even the most experienced real estate investor in the world can tell you exactly when and how the market will ebb and flow. They guess. Some of their guesses are very educated, but they are just that, guesses.

If you want to wait until the market gets to the lowest point there is a good chance you'll miss it. Which makes you a greater risk taker in reality than someone who buys today. Why? Because the only way we can tell the for sure is by looking back in hindsight, once prices rise again. Which means by the time most people know the market "bottomed" they already missed it. The whole bag may just have been burnt.

If you are a person who less of a risk taker, you buy now with the knowledge that prices may drop a little more, but at least you got in before they went up. Also you know that overall in the real estate game while the market does ebb and flow, values tend to rise over time. So you get in early to avoid burning the bag and losing it all.

That my friends is the psychology behind any waiting game, beit microwave popcorn, home sales, or poker. I hope this helps you in your contemplation of your next move in this current real estate market.

Why Use A REALTOR®?

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 18:34:24 -0500

Ethics in Real Estate

As your agents, we promise to adhere to a strict code of ethics in conducting any and all activities related to your sale or purchase of a home.In some businesses, simply doing what is legal may be good enough. But in my real estate practice we demand an ethical standard that goes above and beyond the legal requirements. The guiding principle of ethics comes from the Latin primum non nocere, meaning first do no harm. By adhering to strict ethical guidelines I will earn your trust. By establishing trust we'll build a long term business model based on long term clients.

As a member of the National Association of REALTORS, we are bound by our code of ethics which you can find at:

http://www.realtor.org/mempolweb.nsf/pages/Code?OpenDocument

There are rules pertaining to: Disclosure of agency, financial arrangements, following the law of the land, marketing practices, negotiation methods, how clients are charged for services, how offers are presented, confidentiality, and more. All of these rules are intended to protect your interest.

Toll Free Phone: (800) 959-2549 Cell: (916) 201-6475 Fax: (800) 959-2578 E-mail: nick@bignicksells.com

Just What Is Mello-Roos?

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 18:18:05 -0500

Mello-Roos Taxes

Mello-Roos taxes are assessed to special tax districts, known as Mello-Roos Districts or Community Facilities Districts, for the purpose of financing public services and/or facilities including streets, police protection, fire protection, elementary schools, parks, libraries, museums, and cultural facilities.

California State Senator Henry Mello and Assemblyman Mike Roos spearheaded the successful passage of the Mello-Roos Community Facilities District Act in 1982. The Act passed in response to Proposition 13 (enacted in 1978), which limited the ability of local governments and developers to finance new projects. Proposition 13 does not restrict Mello-Roos taxes.

Mello Roos District
The Mello-Roos act authorized any county, city, special district, school district or joint powers of authority to create a Mello Roos District with approval of a two-thirds margin of qualified voters in the district.

Property Owners
The Mello Roos District can issue bonds to pay for public improvements. The district's property owners are responsible for payment of a "special tax" to repay these bonds. The act allows for considerable flexibility on how the special tax is calculated. The calculation often takes into account property characteristics such as square footage of the home and parcel size. Typically, the tax is included with your general property tax bill.

Time Limit
The special Mello-Roos tax stays in effect as long as needed to repay the principal and interest on the special bond along with any reasonable administrative costs. The tax may not stay in effect for a period longer than 40 years.

Property Sale
An increased value of the property does not affect the amount of the tax when property is sold.

REAL ESTATE CAREERS

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 16:23:32 -0500

Whether you are just beginning to think about a career in real estate or you are a seasoned veteran, we want you to think about working with us here at Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting.

If you are just beginning to contemplate a career in real estate you should know that I have made special arrangements with one of the top real estate schools to get your education taken care of at substantially reduced rates, and then when you close your first deal I will reimburse you for the cost of these classes.

If you have been in the business for many years there are many distinct advantages to working for Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting. Please read on.

I want to take this opportunity to write and tell you a little about myself. When I first started in the real estate business, I found out rather quickly that the real estate companies would promise you the sun, the moon, and the stars to get you in the door, but more often than not, all they really did was hold meetings wherein they would point out the top producer in the office and say, "Be more like them. Now, go make money!" There is nothing wrong with that, I suppose, but it is not the most inspiring way of doing things. It got me wondering, "What is my broker doing to earn my share of the commissions that he was keeping?" The answer was, "not much." I wanted to do things differently. I started Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting because I wanted to build a company that was there to help make the agents successful.

In order to help you succeed in your chosen career, Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting offers the following:

· Tuition reimbursement for all classes taken through Allied Real Estate Schools, up to $300.

· Mentoring - I will become your personal coach for success.

· Training - I will show you all of the practical ins and outs of the business and how to avoid the pitfalls

· State of the art technologies

· I will help you pass the test - I will tutor you, if needed, with no obligation and free of charge.

· Generous commission splits - You can earn 100% of your commissions.

· Recruiting residuals - You can earn 5%, from the broker's share of any licensed person you help recruit to the company as your own residual income. This means you could earn more than 100% of your own commission base.

Our company's mission and vision can be seen here:

http://www.norcalhomefinder.com/OurMission

I believe in doing business by the golden rule: "Treat others the way I want to be treated." That translates into some very interesting things in the real estate business. As the home page of my website shows.

I want you to be successful, and satisfied with your career choice. I ask you to please check out my website, fill out the contact form at the bottom, or give me a call at my office @ 916-376-9328. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

Thanks again, your real estate Broker for life,

Nicholas S. Hoddinott

(916) 201-6475 Direct
(916) 376-9328 Office
(800) 959-2549 Toll Free
(800) 959-2578 Fax

<Nick@BigNickSells.com>
http://www.norcalhomefinder.com/

BREAKING NEWS FOR FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS

Nick Hoddinott (Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting) — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 16:21:06 -0500

Dear Friends,

We have got some exciting news! We have found a first time home buyer program, (that is a person who does not own a home right now) that is wonderful. We just felt that we had to share it with you. We have made arrangements with a lender that is running a special program specifically looking to help first time home buyers purchase their first home. The program is great, in that it is not based on your credit score. It is not a variable interest rate. There are no teaser rates. You can lock in at very low rates with nothing down. It will even work with the CalHFA down payment assistance programs. As with all programs there are qualifications that an applicant must meet, but this program is one of the easiest to qualify for that we have seen, and it is with a very well known national bank. We are not sure how long this program will last, but right now if you are a first time home buyer or know someone who is please give us a call and we will help them to take advantage of this program's many benefits. We can be reached via email or by telephone, or just fill out the form below for more info. We look forward to hearing from you.

Your real estate consultants for life,

Hoddinott Real Estate Consulting

Nick's Blog

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