Nicole Kraus's Blog

I learned something today and thought I would share.....

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 18:06:54 -0700

After months of spinning my wheels trying to get a deal done, the seller filed for bankrupcty...what she and her attorney did not know, but my title company did is the following:

FL Statue 522(F) states the following:

Judgments that are certified and recorded prior to the bankruptcy "survive the bankruptcy". Bottom line the creditors, cannot pursue her actively anymore, but the lien remains in place on the home, meaning if she tries to borrow any money in the future, she is still required to pay the outstanding debts. WOW!!!!I am not an attorney nor are my folks in the title company....but the bottom line is even after the bankruptcy there is not clear title......What are your thoughts?

It's my BIRTHDAY and I have a Wish!!! I WANT LOTS OF POINTS PLESEEEEE!!!!

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 13:00:20 -0700

Hi Everyone! Yes I am sitting here blogging on my birthday. So I thought to myself, hmmm....I have been trying to increase my points to regain my former ranking and was wondering if my AR community would help. I know it is a bit lame, I don't even really celebrate my birthday, but thought this was a good opportunity. Thanks in advance and I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

AR are we having technical difficulties?

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 12:12:24 -0700

I keep getting bumped out of the system...is anyone out there having the same problem? To boot I just tried to comment on a blog and after finally refreshing it had posted my comment five times. That is embarrassing. Needless to say I deleted them, but I am sure the author got five emails of my one comment. SORRY!!! Just curious please let me know if I am not the only one. Thanks!!!!

Oh Chase.......are they ever going to get it right?

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 13:58:49 -0700

I am sitting here stewing about a listing that I have almost had for a year. It is a short sale that I priced as high (I did this to show the bank that I did everything possible to get the highest price) as I could go and then did the appropriate price reductions. When I got to the right price point "Bingo!". Four offers came in, I submitted the packet with the strongest contract and then I sat. I sat and sat and sat. Left countless voice mail messages/emails and five months later finally was assigned a negotiator. After spending time, gas, money for marketing Chase used some dimwit appraiser who did not know their head from well I won't go there. She came back at $20,000 MORE and comparables that were not appropriate. I even sent Chase my stats that I downloaded from my board, along with estimates for repairs that needed to be done and explained that the offer was right on target. The bank then came back and told me they would only pay 1% towards a buyer's closing costs and wanted more money. I requested a new appraisal be done, they said "No" are you kidding me? Chase then told me to take the house off of the market they were going to foreclose. That was seven months ago.....After that conversation I removed the home from the market per Chase to have my client call me two days later telling me that Chase had just called them and wanted me to re list the house?????? I then with a head that looked like a tomato due to the rage....called Chase and asked them if they were smoking Crack! Yes I actually said that...not one of my proudest moments. Needless to say the rep stated that they would order another appraisal when I got a new contract. She further told me that she did not understand this either, but that "I should go forward and prosper", say what Willis? Needless to say my showings are nonexistent. The house is staler than a week old muffin and to boot it looks like I need to do another price reduction so that I can even get some interest going again. The worst part is there is no water or electric..the roaches are taking over and it is deteriorating every day since it is vacant. Yes Chase, congratulations you have done a wonderful job! This home could have been closed on and off of your books months ago, but because of a lack of knowledge and worse yet NOT using common sense it is thanks to banks like you and your unwillingness to do the right thing we are in the mess that we are now in. Oh. and thanks for wasting my time and money I am so happy that at the end of the week you get a pay check if you do your job or not!!!! Must be nice oh and thanks for leaving me out in the rain.....

To bring a morning smile to my AR community!!!

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 10:46:23 -0700

When I came across this I thought it was to cute not to share......do you ever find yourself doing this in your home office or even at work???? Needless to say I have done it on many occassions, but did not look so cute doing it as this little guy. Have a Wonderful Weekend All!

Can anyone help me with changing the background of my AR page?

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 10:43:25 -0700

I have not been active on AR for quite some time, due to safety issues. Needless to say, I am back and am wanting to get back my ranking and get my life going once again without the interference of a very bad person. As I have been busy commenting on blogs I have noticed that many people out there have wonderful backgrounds on their AR pages. Can anyone tell me how to do this.....I am not very computer savvy and all help would be appreciated. Thanks!

Are we as agents getting greedy charging buyer's agents with high MLS fees?

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:10:03 -0700

Could not help myself with this image....if it would work I would use it and go back......I wonder what happended to the days when we as agents only charged a minimal MLS fee or better yet none at all. It makes me sad, when I go onto the MLS and see fees that are over $300.00 and have actually seen them as high as $500.00. ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!! What ever happened to a little professional curtesy, and actually what is right for the seller? Not only are you earning an average of 3% on the sale, now you are dipping into the other agents pockets for more? I find it just sad. What are your thoughts out there?

Mortgage Versus Not Having a Mortgage.......What do you think?

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:25:53 -0700

In these hard economic times, interest rates being low (especially on savings accounts). Is it smart to pay off your mortgage if you have the money in the bank? That is my question to the AR community....I am not a financial adviseror and someoneposed this question to me. Needless to say I was speechless and told them to consult an expert. However, I am curious....would it not make sense. I know that many people say they have a tax deduction for the interest, but is that really a savings? I mean if a person can save $100,000 in interest payments alone, would they ever get that in the form of a tax deduction? I don't think so. I would really like to hear the communities thoughts on this. Thanks for reading my blog!

A BIG THANK YOU TO SHELLY BOOKWALTER OF LAST CHANCE HIGHWAY!!!

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 12:55:36 -0700

Just a short note to say a BIG THANK YOU TO ONE OF OUR OWN!!! Shelly Bookwalter is a REALTOR in Olive Branch Mississippi who does animal rescue of stray, and forgotten dogs. She is an inspiration that we as REALTORS can make a difference in this world. She currently has a show that is aired on Discovery Channel called "Last Chance Highway", I would like to encourage fellow REALTORS to contact the program to show continued support and that the show will be renewed for next season. The more media attention that Shelly gets, the more support and hopefully volunteers and donations will increase as well. Thank you Shelly for all that you do!!!!!!

CAUTION YOUR BUYERS!!!!!!

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 12:45:48 -0700

I wanted to post a short blog about an experience I had recently. With so many homes going into foreclosure and people out there with not such great credit I am seeing a new type of investor/predator. They claim to buy bank owned homes (often through a third party that deals directly with the bank and flips it to the investor). This investor then "rehabs" the house....not really just a cheap paint job, and some incidentals. They then place the home on the market and target people who are wanting to buy a home, but don't realize with a little credit repair they could actually qualify for a loan without getting involved with such companies. The companies market the homes to this group of unsuspecting buyers, require 4% down payment (NON REFUNDABLE), and expect to have the buyer finance the home 3 to 6 months later or they loose everything? How is this legal? The worst part is that they are not disclosing pertinent facts about the home. In this instancethe buyers were under the impression that the home that they are doing the lease purchase on was built in 1998 when in fact it was built in 1988. To add insult to injury the home had a roof leak, which they repaired, with other roof rot that is not evident to the naked eye. In short this home is going to need a new roof.....are these buyer's going to be able to afford this??? More than likely not. Buyer's need to know that as REALTORS they will get all of the facts and that their interests are protected.

Can anyone help me with loading pictures???

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 12:12:49 -0700

This is so strange....I just uploaded a new profile picture and no I don't like it. So I am trying to change it back but it won't take??? I even changed the pixels, then got kicked out of the system. When I logged back in, my old picture was back for my area, but when I went into my home page...the other one is displaying?? Is it me, or is the system just confused and needs some IT help? Either way any ideas would be appreciated. Thanks!

I am Hopping MAD!!!!! No the legislature did not get it right!!! WE NEED TO STOP DRILLING IN THE GULF!

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Wed, 21 Jul 2010 10:27:26 -0700

I AM MAD!!!!!!! How dare anyone run around stating that what the Florida legislature did was right? Crist had every right to call the session and the bottom line, he could not get anything done, because once again his proposal would not have been popular with the "special interest groups" OIL COMPANIES WHO PAY POLITICIANS DEARLY FOR SPECIAL FAVORS!!!! SHAME ON ALL OF YOU WHO PARTICIPATED AND DID NOT SUPPORT OUR GOVERNOR FOR DOING THE RIGHT THING!!! I am appalled that these people are not spending resources better to find alternative fuel sources versus petrol based products. In Europe we have all kinds of programs from solar to wind....why are we lagging so far behind? Many homes in the smallest of villages have solar panels on their homes in these countries. Why don't we have the same opportunity? I have even researched this and found that such a system is expensive (why in Europe is it affordable?). Simple the oil companies make it impossible for alternative fuel to gain a stronger foot hold. Bottom line, it will eat into their profits, if we all start using alternatives. Shame on BIG government for not stepping up to the plate and actually doing what is right.

Look where the wonderful oil companies got us???? Do you really think innocent animals care about money?

Free Concerts in the Park at Fishhawk, Lithia, Florida

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 11:23:50 -0700

I just wanted to post what will be the final concerts in the park at Fishhawk located in Lithia, FL. It is a wonderful community event that starts each summer. Residents and visitors are welcomed to enjoy this concert series free of charge. Be sure to bring your blankets, and chairs and enjoy the music. This is a unique family oriented activity that has grown popularity. So mark your calenders and who knows maybe I will see you out there?

Friday, July 23
Rock Out with The Go Daddies

Friday, July 30
Mellow Out to the Sounds of Yesterdayze

Friday, August 6
Salsa with Group Havana Swing

Friday, August 13
Find the Sweet Spot in Park Square

Friday, August 20
Revenge of the Spazmatics

Plant City Home seeking new Home Owners....no deed restrictions...some TLC, Awesome Potential

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Fri, 09 Jul 2010 12:06:21 -0700

"Short Sale" DEAL FELL THROUGH, BACK ON THE MARKET. GREAT HOME GREAT LOCATION NEEDS TLC.. "Short Sale" SELLER'S LOSS IS YOUR GAIN!!! LARGE HOME FOR A SMALL PRICE!!! "Short Sale" Located on a Quiet Cul-desac, this Lovely 3 Bedroom 2 Bath Home 2 Car Garage Features a Split Plan, Modern Colors, and Great Location. Formal Dining Room has Nice Decorative Details such as Rounded Pass Through to the Formal Living Room, Chair Rails and Wood laminate. This room is adjoined to the Kitchen through a small hallway and has a Nice Breakfast Bar and Super Nice Oven with Flat top surface, Microwave, and Exhaust Hood. Additionally the Kitchen Overlooks the Family Room which has a lovely set of French Doors that look out onto a Generous Sized Backyard. There is Plenty of Room for a Pool or Kid's Oasis. Seller's Loss is Your Gain. Simply a Beautiful Home that needs a little TLC, but one with GREAT POTENTIAL. This Truly is a Bargain so don't Miss Out! Oh and Did I Mention that the Lot is ALMOST A QUARTER OF AN ACRE LARGE!!!!

Great Town Home Deals in Valrico and Lithia Florida!!!

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 17:57:12 -0700

If you ever wanted to buy a home, but did not want all the maintenance that goes along with it go condo, townhome, or villa. Here in Hillsborough County we have some beautiful communities that offer great living at an affordable price.

Oakwood Terrace is just one of these places. Centrally located with A rated schools, you cannot beat this community. Built by Rottlund these homes are quality with all appliances included. Starting at $118,000 these make wonderful starter homes, or for those that are wanting to downsize. Upstairs bedrooms a concern, not a problem. Chair lifts can be built into the stairwell easily. Should you have any questions or like to see one of these magnificent homes please give me a call to schedule an appointment.

Oh and did I mention they have a community pool?

This is Florida Living at it's Best!

Buying New versus Rehabbing.....

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 15:48:39 -0700

New versus old? There are so many deals out there I am quite surprised that people think buying old or getting a good deal on an REO or short sale is the way to go. Are you really saving money in the end? I don't think so. With the cost of replacing a roof or better yet a new AC unit because the former owner got mad at the bank for taking the home (bad bank!). Many people are getting lost and worse yet their minds are being filled with "you can buy a million dollar house for $200k". Sorry these deals just are not out there. The media and these classes claiming to make anyone a real estate Mogul if you buy their course for $49.99 in five easy payments just don't tell the public the truth. Builders are offering great incentives these days and I have not seen prices this low in ages...the best part is these homes are "NEW!". They come with guarantees, warranties, appliances that are brand new and if you get in early enough you can even choose your colors!!! Why would anyone take on someones old Albatross is beyond me. Oh and if you do decide to go new, make sure to get a Buyer's Agent, often times the builders give us incentives that are never offered to the public and the best part is that our services are free to you as a buyer.

Pitch Sessioons they really do work!

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 11:35:03 -0700

With the market having gone crazy I am seeing more seasoned agents going back to basics. We are once again hosting Barker's opens, attending pitch sessions, and working our contacts list. What is really helpful are the pitch sessions. It is a nice opportunity to not only find out what's hot or not, but allows us as professionals to once again get together and even build a camaraderie. That sounds silly, but let me tell you what, I ended up getting a referral fee out of one such meeting and these days every little bit helps. I hope all in this local area will make the effort to join us. Thanks

Pitch Session.....it is back here in Brandon, FL all are welcomed!!!

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Wed, 23 Jun 2010 11:23:18 -0700

For all of our sales people here in Brandon, I would like to invite you to our weekly pitch session....I realize that I am getting this out late, but we do it every Wenesday.....all are welcomed even affiliates. It is about working together as a professional community so everyon wins!

Keeping it real

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 10:21:30 -0700

Good Morning Everyone! Keeping it real.....that is where it is at. With our industry being hit so hard in these economic times, I find it difficult keeping myself going. With so much false information, banks not doing what they are suppose to and the media, well you know the media? We are dealing with a slew of buyers who just don't get it. Being fed lies about wonderful deals for pennies on the dollar, I have yet to find them. Sure there are some good deals out there, but who is really getting the amazing deals? I have seen banks refuse to do short sales, then they foreclose and end up selling to a flip company who in turn never even puts a dollar down, but manage to close on it and then close with another third party and they actually walk away with cash in hand???? Where did this come from and why are banks dealing with these companies when they could have worked with a professional REALTOR and gotten the bank more money in the end. I just don't get it, it smells fishy and it is happening all over the country????? Why isn't Uncle Sam doing something about this....he seems to stick his nose in where it is not needed, but when we do need our government to step in they seem to go on vacation????

Helping our clients during difficult times.....helping animals and their owners

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 12:47:52 -0700

With the plight of so many people losing their homes so are their pets. I cannot stress enough that if you find yourself in such a situation please do not leave your animals behind, but take the time to find an interim home or new permanent home. Here in Hillsborough county we have a kill shelter. Many people do not realize it, but they only keep the dogs and cats for a short amount of time and are put down there after. Most people think that the animals will be adopted out, but they are not. I cannot stress enough for people to face the hard facts, and encourage them to actually be responsible. It is not your pets fault for your circumstances or bad choices and by simply dumping the innocent animal is not the solution. Animals are helpless and need our help to survive and live a life free of pain and stress. If you find yourself in such a situation take the time and make an effort to do the right thing for your pet. Reach out to rescue groups, family members, friends, but don't just dump them at the pound thinking they will get a home, chances are the won't. Last year alone over 65,000 animals alone were put down at this one shelter for a country that is supposed to be the land of freedom and opportunity we sure are barbaric

Below is a picture of my wonderul dog that I rescued. She was abused, beaten, sick, scared and was going to be put down becasue no one wanted her. Needless to say she is the apple of our eyes.

3 Bedroom/2 Bath Home in Plant City ----NO DEED RESTRICTIONS WITH A BIG LOT------

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 15:05:31 -0700

What ever happeneded to all of those funny words?

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 15:02:36 -0700

Remember when you wrote a post or a comment on a blog and had to type in a word in a box at the bottom of the post? They were often funny made up words that usually made me laugh. I was just curious if anyone out there ever knew what happened to them. Though a pain to do at times, they did make me laugh from time to time. Thanks!

MacDill AFB Pesonnel

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:59:50 -0700

PCS, TDY, and all of the other acronyms....yes I am familiar with them. I worked for both the Air Force and the Army both state side and in USAFE/Europe. Having to relocate every few years can be a headache and I understand the difficulties it can cause. Having been there myself I think that I am in a unique position to help our military community with their real estate needs. Needing a relocation package or simply needing some information regarding schools? Simply write me a email and I will be more than happy to assist you!!! Oh and mention this post and get a discount on my services.

Buyer's it is still a Wonderful time to buy!!!!!

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:52:40 -0700

I cannot stress to all those folks who have been on the fence about buying a home. Interest rates are at an all time low!!!! Prices have adjusted, and what better time than now??? What surprises me is how many buyers go into new home sales centers without a REALTOR? Many people do not realize that the seller pays for our commission, but that we negotiate for the buyer. What is more interesting is the fact that builder's often offer incentives to agents that the public never sees or hears about. The bottom line I have negotiated some incredible deals for my buyers that they could have only dreamed about. Additionally if you have a REALTOR involved you have more power, for instance one of my clients drove five days to Florida for his closing upon arrival he was told that he could close but not get the keys since the money had not funded due to a supposed glitch. Needless to say with a son and cat in tow he was not happy and neither was I. After he told me what had happened and that nothing could be done I asked him to call the mortgage person. After a stern and to the point conversation the problem was solved, we closed within the hour and my client left with his keys. There really is something to be said about having a professional work for you. If I can be of any assistance to anyone out there please don't hesitate to contact me. "Let Me be the KEY to Your New HOME"

The first time home buyer tax credit where are we going without it????

Nicole Kraus (Signature Realty & Associates) — Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:38:06 -0700

What a historic opportunity that was available for so many families wanting to buy a home. I remember when I bought my first home, I did not walk away with a check but walked away with less money in my savings and shaking in my boots that what I had done was the right thing. Needless to say it was, but I sure was jealous of all those people who got in for free. It just did not seem fair for the rest of us who always paid and paid dearly. Why does it seem that the people who screw up end up getting rewarded? It just make no sense. The crazy thing is that I actually had clients that were so picky they totally missed out and yes are still renting in a small apartment with there new born. Does anyone remember the days when you went out and bought your first home? It was not a mansion, nor did it have all the bells and whistles..but it was "your" home. We then worked hard and as we earned more we moved up. What is up with all of "the I have to have it all now thinking and I am entitled to it?" Come again? I really wonder what is going to be happening in our industry especially with the next generation that is coming to age to make such decisions. I feel that they are ill prepared and have a feeling there are going to be many moms and dad out there providing a roof for their adult kids and their children because they just can't get their act together.