Nancy's Bloghttp://activerain.com/blogs/nmoeller2008-08-23T22:52:30ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)Why realtors get a bad wraphttp://activerain.com/blogsview/656691/Why-realtors-get-a-bad-wrap2008-08-23T22:52:30ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>One of our team members wrote me in frustration today, not because today was unusual or what she experienced was unique in any way, but rather because she just needed to vent.</p>
<p>Here's just one of the examples she provided in her email:</p>
<p>I was about to call on this one, when I read:</p>
<p>Short sale price, terms, & commission subject to lender approval. Commission to be split 50/50. <strong>No agent calls please-send offers to XXX. Agents - Use your MLS tools to answer questions. Too many calls to take all of your calls.</strong></p>
<p>What the (censored)? Am I in 2<sup>nd</sup> grade or what?? What is "use your mls tools to answer questions" supposed to mean? ... Damn it, if you're too busy or too lazy, get an assistant or stop taking so many listings.</p>
<p>I don't know about you ... but we run into this everyday, too. I cannot tell you how many times the MLS or agents insist that their "listings are updated daily - do not call us", so we showed the property, wrote an offer ... just to find out that was already in escrow ... or "just went in". Either way, some other poor agent just pulled up your "active" listing, drove his client out at $4 a gallon to write an offer to hear the same thing in a few hours.</p>
<p>I agree with our partner, if you're too busy to handle a 30 second agent call, get an assistant or don't take the listing. I wonder if these agents promote their "no call, use the computer" marketing and realtor networking strategy in their listing presentations? Nah, I don't think so.</p>
<p>Of course now, we call on these listing first and deal with the rudeness we often get from agents who are just too busy for our inquiry. "Didn't you read the MLS", they almost shout! Oh well - get over it. You could have been polite, answered my question and been off the phone by now. Until the communication system is perfect, I'd rather waste 30 seconds of your time, then hours of my client's time.</p> IRS Helps First Time (and almost first time) Home Buyershttp://activerain.com/blogsview/562464/IRS-Helps-First-Time-and-almost-first-time-Home-Buyers2008-06-23T09:18:00ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>The IRS offers a little talked about exception to the 10% penalty on early withdrawns from IRAs to help first time home buyers (which the IRS defines loosely as anyone who hasn't owned a primary residence in two years) use IRA funds without penalty. Of course, the regular tax would still apply, but it's an option to consider if it means the difference between getting into the real estate market while its low or watching the market come back up beyond your reach.</p>
<p>A couple buying a house can use up to $20,000 of IRA funds to help with their down or closing costs ... read on ...</p>
<p><strong><em>From IRS publication 590:</em></strong></p>
<p>Even if you are under age 59½, you do not have to pay the 10% additional tax on up to $10,000 of distributions you receive to buy, build, or rebuild a first home. To qualify for treatment as a first-time homebuyer distribution, the distribution must meet all the following requirements.</p>
<ol type="1">
<li>
<p>It must be used to pay qualified acquisition costs (defined later) before the close of the 120th day after the day you received it.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>It must be used to pay qualified acquisition costs for the main home of a first-time homebuyer (defined later) who is any of the following.</p>
<ol type="a">
<li>
<p>Yourself.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Your spouse.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Your or your spouse's child.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Your or your spouse's grandchild.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Your or your spouse's parent or other ancestor.</p>
</li>
</ol></li>
<li>
<p>When added to all your prior qualified first-time homebuyer distributions, if any, total qualifying distributions cannot be more than $10,000.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p> <strong><em>Qualified acquisition costs.</em></strong> Qualified acquisition costs include the following items.</p>
<ul type="disc">
<li>
<p>Costs of buying, building, or rebuilding a home.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Any usual or reasonable settlement, financing, or other closing costs.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><em>First-time homebuyer.</em></strong> Generally, you are a first-time homebuyer if you had no present interest in a main home during the 2-year period ending on the date of acquisition of the home which the distribution is being used to buy, build, or rebuild. If you are married, your spouse must also meet this no-ownership requirement.</p>
<p><strong><em>Date of acquisition.</em></strong> The date of acquisition is the date that:</p>
<ul type="disc">
<li>
<p>You enter into a binding contract to buy the main home for which the distribution is being used, or</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>The building or rebuilding of the main home for which the distribution is being used begins.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><em>Note from Nancy:</em></strong> If your retirement funds are in an employer account, they must first be transfered to an IRA to apply this exception. Check with your CPA and Employer for details.</p>
<p>Of course, this nugget of knowledge is not meant to be tax advice, just good information for first time home buyers to research with their CPA and Realtor as another option to get into this hot buyers market.</p>
<p>Much success,</p>
<p>Nancy Moeller, CPA, REALTOR</p>
<p>RE/MAX Real Estate Services</p>
<p>714 276-7006</p>
<p> </p> The Real Estate Formula For Successhttp://activerain.com/blogsview/485771/The-Real-Estate-Formula-For-Success2008-04-26T17:31:35ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p><strong>The Real Estate Formula For Success</strong></p><p>Todd and I are often asked whether we believe it's a good time to buy or sell real estate. While I believe there are good times to sell, as a rule - here is our ULTIMATE Real Estate Formula for Success:</p><p><strong>Step 1 - Afford </strong></p><p>Frankly folks, we wouldn't be in this mess if people followed Step 1. Don't buy anything you can't afford! When people buy what they can afford, an amazing thing happens - people don't have to worry about temporary or even longterm market declines. Because the payments are affordable, people who buy what they can afford can continue to make the payments even when the market shifts.</p><p><strong>Step 2 - Buy</strong></p><p>Buy the best property for your money. Do your research. Work with the best REALTOR in your area. Remember that you can always upgrade a house, but you can never change it's location or view. </p><p><strong>Step 3 - Hold</strong></p><p>There are exceptions (not many), but as a RULE - we recommend NOT selling. The worst financial decisions I have ever made concerned selling property. Keep it, take care of it and save for another one.</p><p><strong>Step 4 - Repeat</strong></p><p>Again, get with a great REALTOR and CPA and figure out what type of property you can afford next. Usually this involves a financial projection based on rents, tax breaks, expenses, etc. There is a fortune to be made by investing correctly in Real Estate.</p><p>Good success , </p><p>Nancy Moeller, Broker Associate, CPA, REALTOR</p><p>RE/MAX Real Estate Service </p><p>The OC Experts, Inc.</p><p>Direct: 714 404-9540</p><p><strong><em>Visit Us Online:</em></strong></p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="http://www.ocbankdeals.com/">http://www.ocbankdeals.com/</a></p><p><a href="http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/">http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/</a></p><p><a href="http://www.ocmanagers.com/">http://www.ocmanagers.com/</a></p><p><a href="http://www.bankdealsnow.com/">http://www.bankdealsnow.com/</a></p><p><a href="http://www.emailmebuyers.com/">http://www.emailmebuyers.com/</a></p> Orange County Bank Dealshttp://activerain.com/blogsview/457296/Orange-County-Bank-Deals2008-04-06T18:42:41ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p><strong>Orange County Bank Deals</strong></p><p><a href="http://www.ocbankdeals.com/"><strong>www.OCBankDeals.com</strong></a></p><p>For people just starting their search for a new home or investment property, looking at bank owned foreclosures is a great place to start. </p><p>Banks tend to price their properties aggressively, often below current market value, to attract the attention of buyers currently in the market. </p><p>With over 15,000 properties on the market in Orange County, finding these possible "diamonds in the crowd" may be difficult. </p><p>If you are a buyer interested in receiving exclusive access to bank owned properties in Orange County that match your personal criteria, visit <a href="http://www.ocbankdeals.com/">http://www.ocbankdeals.com/</a> to register. Registration takes less than 2 minutes and is absolutely FREE. </p><p>Within 24 hours, you will receive a link to your personal Real Estate Web Page where you can view new bank owned listings, classify listings by "favorites, possibilities and rejects". Plus if there is a price reduction, you'll be notified. You can even expand your search to include other properties on our "Value List" that may not be bank owned, but appear to be aggressively priced or distressed in some way.</p><p>We hope you enjoy the service, </p><p>Nancy Moeller, Broker Associate, CPA, REALTOR</p><p>RE/MAX Real Estate Service </p><p>The OC Experts, Inc.</p><p>Direct: 714 404-9540</p><p><strong><em>Visit Us Online:</em></strong></p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="http://www.ocbankdeals.com/">http://www.ocbankdeals.com/</a></p><p><a href="http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/">http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/</a></p><p> </p> Welcome Micki O'Toolehttp://activerain.com/blogsview/425309/Welcome-Micki-OToole2008-03-16T10:51:38ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>Welcome Micki O'Toole</p><p>The OC Experts proudly welcomes Micki O'Toole to our Experts Team. Micki brings years of industry experience as a mortgage advisor and buyer advocate. As a valued partner, Micki will be serving Riverside and Orange County, specializing in foreclosure property and buyer transactions. </p><p>Micki often says she has the best job in the world because she gets to educate her clients and help them make the right decisions for their family. It's rare to meet someone with her unwavering degree of integrity, vast knowledge and keen insight into the real estate market. </p><p>When she's not working with her clients, Micki enjoys walking, reading, traveling, listening to U2 and spending time with her beautiful daughter, Madison.</p><p>Welcome Micki and thank you for adding such tremendous value to our team and family.</p><p>Nancy Moeller, Broker Associate, CPA, REALTOR</p><p>RE/MAX Real Estate Service </p><p>The OC Experts, Inc.</p><p>Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p><em><strong>Visit Us Online:</strong></em></p><p><em><strong>Orange County Real Estate</strong></em></p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="http://www.ocbankdeals.com/">http://www.ocbankdeals.com/</a></p><p><a href="http://www.ocmanagers.com/">http://www.ocmanagers.com/</a> (Property Management)</p><p><a href="http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/">http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/</a> (Updated Every 2 Weeks)</p><p><em><strong>Nationwide Services</strong></em></p><p><a href="http://www.bankdealsnow.com/">http://www.bankdealsnow.com/</a> </p> Would you buy TODAY if you knew housing prices were going to drop 10%?http://activerain.com/blogsview/425304/Would-you-buy-TODAY-if-you-knew-housing-prices-were-going-to-drop-102008-03-16T10:48:25ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>"No way!" is the answer I hear from 90% of the people I ask. The other 10% wisely answer that it depends on their interest rate. Here's a simple example.</p><p><strong>$500,000</strong> mortgage with a <strong>5.5%</strong> fixed rate for 30 years = <strong>$2,839</strong> monthly payment</p><p>Let's say prices drop 10%, BUT interest rates go up just 1% ...</p><p> <strong>$450,000</strong> mortgage with a <strong>6.5%</strong> fixed rate for 30 years = <strong>$2,844</strong> monthly payment</p><p>In other words, the mortgage payment is essentially the same with a 10% price decline coupled with a 1% interest rate increase. </p><p>So if you are still sitting on the fence, hoping to perfectly time the market, you may want to consider that NOW is the PERFECT time because the moment the general public agrees with you ...</p><ol><li>Interest rates will go <strong>UP</strong></li><li>Prices will go back <strong>UP</strong></li><li>Selection will do <strong>DOWN</strong></li></ol><p>I don't know about you, but I'd rather buy when ...</p><ol><li>Interest rates are <strong>LOW</strong></li><li>Prices are <strong>GOOD</strong></li><li>Selection is <strong>GREAT</strong></li></ol><p>The fact remains, we will not know when the PERFECT time WAS until the PERFECT time has PASSED. Don't miss out ... it's time to hop off the fence before everyone else.</p><p>Nancy Moeller, Broker Associate, CPA, REALTOR</p><p>RE/MAX Real Estate Service </p><p>The OC Experts, Inc.</p><p>Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p><strong><em>Visit Us Online:</em></strong></p><p><strong><em>Orange County Real Estate</em></strong></p><p><a href="http://www.TheOCExperts.com">www.TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p><a href="http://www.OCBankDeals.com">www.OCBankDeals.com</a></p><p><a href="http://www.OCManagers.com">www.OCManagers.com</a> (Property Management)</p><p><a href="http://www.OCMarketUpdate.com">www.OCMarketUpdate.com</a> (Updated Every 2 Weeks)</p><p><strong><em>Nationwide Services</em></strong></p><p><a href="http://www.BankDealsNow.com">www.BankDealsNow.com</a> </p><p> </p> OC Market Update - 2007 in Review, 2008 Projectionhttp://activerain.com/blogsview/323465/OC-Market-Update-2007-in-Review-2008-Projection2008-01-01T18:00:02ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p><a href="http://www.OCMarketUpdate.com"><strong>www.OCMarketUpdate.com</strong></a><strong> </strong>has been updated today with the lastest statistics, analysis and relevant links to articles available for Orange County real estate.</p><p>Do you want to know exactly what's going on in the Orange County Real Estate Market? Invest 10 minutes twice a month and you'll know more than 99% of the OC population about Orange County real estate. </p><p><a href="http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/">http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/</a></p><ul><li>Current Inventory Snapshot </li><li>Current Market Influencers </li><li>How a Seller Should Approach The Market </li><li>How a Buyer Should Approach The Market </li><li>What We Can Expect In The Upcoming Months </li><li>Links to Relevant Articles written by Nancy Moeller, CPA of <a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></li></ul><p>Provided by RE/MAX Real Estate Services with additional links to relevant articles and blogs. </p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/"></a></p><p>Interested in bank owned properties in Orange County? Register at <a href="http://www.ocbankdeals.com/">http://www.ocbankdeals.com/</a> to receive FREE daily updates of bank owned properties and other well priced values in Orange County.</p><p>For complete information on buying, selling and investing in Orange County, visit us online at <a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p>Have a terrific day!</p><p>Nancy Moeller, CPA, REALTOR®</p><p>Nancy@TheOCExperts.com</p><p>Direct: (714) 276-7006</p><p>Serving Orange County Real Estate, Anaheim Hills Based</p> I'm tried to kill my partner this morning ...http://activerain.com/blogsview/302879/Im-tried-to-kill-my-partner-this-morning2007-12-10T20:17:00ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>Not really. Or at least that wasn't my goal. I asked Todd if he wanted to go on a hike with me this morning. As he's more of a lifter and less of a cardio guy, I was pleasantly surprised by the 2nd ever "yes". (The first time was 10 years ago on our second date!)</p><p>He kept asking me if we were almost "there" and the answer was always "yes". Unfortunately, "there" was eventually the half way/turn around point and I'm sure he was hoping it was the END.</p><p>The hike is a beautiful, hilly track in Anaheim Hills. I'd share the location, but the fact that I rarely see anyone is part of the allure. However, I must say, sharing it for the first time with Todd today was magical. Thank you for the hike and for the day off shopping for Anna's Christmas. We needed it.</p><p>In return, I believe I will be in the garage on the BowFlex with Todd tomorrow - equally miserable but happy to share our time together away from work.</p><p>Have a terrific day and enjoy your partner,</p><p>Nancy Moeller, CPA, REALTOR®</p><p>Nancy@TheOCExperts.com</p><p>Direct: (714) 276-7006</p><p><a href="http://activerain.com/action/blogs_admin/www.TheOCExperts.com">http://activerain.com/action/blogs_admin/www.TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Serving Orange County Real Estate, Anaheim Hills Based</p> Geek tip: Copy file names into Excelhttp://activerain.com/blogsview/301482/Geek-tip-Copy-file-names-into-Excel2007-12-09T16:18:41ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>Thought I'd share a great tool that saved me a lot of time. I needed to copy over 100 folder names into a spreadsheet to track the payment of those items. I installed this free shareware and less than a minute later, I had a great spreadsheet of file names. </p><p><a href="http://www.karenware.com/powertools/ptdirprn.asp">http://www.karenware.com/powertools/ptdirprn.asp</a></p><p>Have a great week!</p><p>Nancy Moeller, CPA, REALTOR®</p><p>Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p><a href="http://www.TheOCExperts.com">www.TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p><a href="http://www.OCBankDeals.com">www.OCBankDeals.com</a></p><p><a href="http://www.OCMarketUpdate.com">www.OCMarketUpdate.com</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Nancy@TheOCExperts.com">Nancy@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p> </p> Branding like Applehttp://activerain.com/blogsview/298674/Branding-like-Apple2007-12-06T20:14:14ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>Todd and I decided to buy "the family" (Todd and Anna) a "Wii" for Christmas. I'm not sure it's my thing ... although I hear they have an interactive poker game, so I may change my mind. </p><p>Anyway, we wanted to test drive the product to make sure our 5 year old could grasp the technology and I naturally assuming we should go to an Apple store. Why, because not knowing anything about WI or video games, I assumed it was an Apple product since it was white. </p><p>How cool would it be to be able to brand an entire color ... </p><p>Have an incredible day, </p><p>Nancy Moeller, CPA, REALTOR®</p><p>Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/">http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/</a></p><p><a href="http://www.ocbankdeals.com/">http://www.ocbankdeals.com/</a></p> Donate, donate, donate - deduct, deduct, deducthttp://activerain.com/blogsview/292377/Donate-donate-donate-deduct-deduct-deduct2007-12-01T17:48:42ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>December is a great month to clean house and figure out what you can give to those who are less fortunate.</p><p>Of course, an ancillary benefit is the wonderful tax deduction.And here are my quick tips:</p><p>1. Prepare a detailed list of the items your are donating. Ask the charity to sign your list with the receipt they give you.You must also have their organization's name and address. </p><p>2. Take a digital picture of each item and back up the pictures on a CD or flash drive with your tax records for that year.</p><p>3. For regular household items, estimate the value based on "thrift shop value". If the value exceed $5,000 - get an appraisal.</p><p>Give all of this informationi to a qualified CPA or tax advisor to prepare your return.</p><p>Have an amazing day!</p><p>Todd & Nancy Moeller</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Admin@TheOCExperts.com">Admin@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Nancy Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p>Todd Direct: 714 404-9540</p><p> </p> Did you buy a house in 2007?http://activerain.com/blogsview/292365/Did-you-buy-a-house-in-20072007-12-01T17:38:14ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>Be sure to ask your Realtor for a copy of your Settlement Statement if you can't find yours. </p><p>There are usually deductible expenses such as points, interest and taxes that may or may not appear on your year-end tax statements. Be sure to take a copy of this statement to your tax advisor.</p><p>Have an amazing day!</p><p>Todd & Nancy Moeller</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Admin@TheOCExperts.com">Admin@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Nancy Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p>Todd Direct: 714 404-9540</p> Don’t forget these points about points …http://activerain.com/blogsview/292362/Dont-forget-these-points-about-points2007-12-01T17:37:00ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p><strong>Home acquisition or home improvement loan points.</strong> If you paid points to acquire improve your home in 2007, those points are fully deductible in the year you paid them.</p><p><strong>Points to refinance or take out equity.</strong> These points are deductible over the life of the loan. Just remember to check for the deduction in subsequent years so you don't miss out. And most importantly, if you refinance again, you can deduct the remaining undeducted points in the year the loan is paid off.</p><p>As always, this isn't intended to be tax advice. Be sure to talk with your trusted tax advisor before acting on this or any article.</p><p>Have an amazing day!</p><p>Todd & Nancy Moeller</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Admin@TheOCExperts.com">Admin@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Nancy Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p>Todd Direct: 714 404-9540</p> Banks are human toohttp://activerain.com/blogsview/291378/Banks-are-human-too2007-11-30T16:34:38ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>We had a buyer place a "low ball" offer on one of our bank owned listings. Our initial thought was, no big deal - the bank is not human, will not get offended like a traditional seller, and make a reasonable counteroffer. To our surprise, the bank is human - at least their employees are human - they <em>were </em>offended and countered at something close to full price.</p><p>Here's the lesson to be shared. The bank is looking at the comparables sales every month and will not accept a deal that is too far off current market value. If they would be willing to accept $350,000 for a house listed at $450,000 - they would have already reduced the price and sold it. </p><p>Can you get a great deal? Absolutely. Bank owned properties are leading the price declines in certain neighborhoods. They are creating their own comparables and there are many great deals to be made with bank owned properties. </p><p>To address this unique niche market, we have created <a href="http://www.ocbankdeals.com/">http://www.ocbankdeals.com/</a> to provide Orange County residences a free website to evaluate bank owned properties in Orange County. </p><p>Registered users can simply save a bank owned property to their "favorites" to let us know they are interested. We'll schedule a convenient showing time, bring all of the comparables and arm our clients with the best data to make a well informed decision.</p><p>Good success,</p><p>Todd & Nancy Moeller</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Admin@TheOCExperts.com">Admin@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Nancy Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p>Todd Direct: 714 404-9540</p> Our new nightmare client ... http://activerain.com/blogsview/291375/Our-new-nightmare-client2007-11-30T16:32:51ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>We have a new buyer prospect. They are picky, think they know everything and are afraid of making a bad decision in a market that seems to be continuing to decline. Sound familiar? Yes, many buyers will fit this bill. Of course, our new nightmare client is us. Todd and I are looking for a new place. </p><p>The best part about being buyers is that we can genuinely relate to our clients. Instead of arguing with their fears, we can relate. Plus, we can even effectively use a version of the "feel, felt, found" sales technique.</p><p>"We know how you feel. We're going through the same thing right now. And after analyzing all of the facts, we've come to realize ..."</p><ul><li><div>No matter when we buy in the next 12 - 18 months, we'll be making a great decision</div></li><li>We're lucky to have the selection of homes we have today</li><li>Interest rates will not stay this low for long</li><li>We'd rather buy what we know we can afford now, knowing prices may go down a little further, than to wait too long and watch them extend beyond our reach.</li><li>Orange County will continue to be an excellent long term investment</li></ul><p>Good success,</p><p>Todd & Nancy Moeller</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Admin@TheOCExperts.com">Admin@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Nancy Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p>Todd Direct: 714 404-9540</p> The Best of Goal Setting - Step 3http://activerain.com/blogsview/291372/The-Best-of-Goal-Setting-Step-32007-11-30T16:29:56ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>Like many people, I have read dozens of books on goal setting. There are similarities in every approach and each "magic formula" promises results and delivers when action is taken. And unlike many other systems, goal setting really does work when the steps are followed. Of course, the challenge is following the steps. Here is the formula that works for me based on everything I have read and applied in life.</p><p><strong>Step 1</strong> - The goal must pass the "5 Why/Benefit" test. <a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/284437/The-Best-of-Goal" title="Goal Setting - Part 2" target="_blank">See blog article.</a></p><p><strong>Step 2</strong> - The goal must have a "Journey Plan". <a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/291367/The-Best-of-Goal" title="Goal Setting - Part 3" target="_blank">See blog article.</a></p><p><strong>Step 3</strong> - The journey must align with your values, motivate your spirit and add value to your life.</p><p>No matter how important the goal, if the journey does not meet these criteria, we'll either fail in either reaching the goal or fail in getting to the real benefits we desired in setting the goal.</p><p>Life is about what we do with our journey.</p><p>Good success,</p><p>Todd & Nancy Moeller</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Admin@TheOCExperts.com">Admin@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Nancy Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p>Todd Direct: 714 404-9540</p><p> </p><p>Serving Orange County, California, Anaheim Hills based</p> The Best of Goal Setting - Step 2http://activerain.com/blogsview/291367/The-Best-of-Goal-Setting-Step-22007-11-30T16:27:15ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>Like many people, I have read dozens of books on goal setting. There are similarities in every approach and each "magic formula" promises results and delivers when action is taken. And unlike many other systems, goal setting really does work when the steps are followed. Of course, the challenge is following the steps. Here is the formula that works for me based on everything I have read and applied in life.</p><p><strong>Step 1</strong> - The goal must pass the "5 Why/Benefit" test. <a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/284437/The-Best-of-Goal" title="Goal Setting - Part 1" target="_blank">See blog article</a>.</p><p><strong>Step 2</strong> - The goal must have a "Journey Plan". How will you accomplish your goal? What activities are required to get you from where you are now to where you want to be?</p><p>The key is this step is tracking and evaluating. You must know what current activities are leading to your current results. If you have an income goal, you need to look at your activities and sales in 2007 and analyze the results. </p><ul><li>Where did your sales come from? </li><li>Where did your prospects come from?</li><li>How much time did you spend on each activity?</li><li>Without a plan, your goal is just a wish. </li></ul><p>Good success,</p><p>Todd & Nancy Moeller</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Admin@TheOCExperts.com">Admin@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Nancy Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p>Todd Direct: 714 404-9540</p><p> </p><p>Serving Orange County, California, Anaheim Hills based</p> This is the best time of year ...http://activerain.com/blogsview/284448/This-is-the-best-time-of-year2007-11-24T20:40:34ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>After a 6 hour drive back from Arizona where we spent a wonderful few days with my parents, we decided to go back out and buy our Christmas Tree. What a great time we had!</p><p>Now we are finished and patiently waiting for our Pizza Guy (a member of our extended family) to deliver our dinner and I'm posting the blogs I wrote on the way home, but this one is a quick one to say how appreciative I am for the time real estate affords me for these magical moments with my family. </p><p>Enjoy the season ... remember what's important ... and always act like you were writing a manual for your children to live by ...</p><p>Happy holidays,</p><p>Nancy Moeller, CPA, REALTOR®</p><p>Nancy@TheOCExperts.com</p><p>Direct: (714) 276-7006</p><p><a href="http://activerain.com/action/blogs_admin/www.TheOCExperts.com">http://activerain.com/action/blogs_admin/www.TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Serving Orange County Real Estate, Anaheim Hills Based</p> The Best of Goal Setting - Step 1http://activerain.com/blogsview/284437/The-Best-of-Goal-Setting-Step-12007-11-24T20:34:24ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>Like many people, I have read dozens of books on goal setting. There are similarities in every approach and each "magic formula" promises results and delivers when action is taken. And unlike many other systems, goal setting really does work when the steps are followed. Of course, the challenge is following the steps. Here is the formula that works for me based on everything I have read and applied in life.</p><p><strong>Step 1</strong> - The goal must pass the "5 Why/Benefit" test. Take the goal and ask yourself "why" and "what's the short benefit" five times. If you can't make it to the final why with benefit, the goal may not be important enough to you. Here's an example:</p><p><strong>Goal </strong>- To earn X in 2008</p><p><strong>Why </strong>- To save more money in case of emergencies (security)</p><p><strong>Why </strong>- To invest in a lightning fast computer system (efficiency)</p><p><strong>Why </strong>- To buy a house with a view and a pool in Anaheim Hills (comfort)</p><p><strong>Why </strong>- To save money for regular vacations (relaxation)</p><p><strong>Why </strong>- To exceed our results in 2007 (growth)</p><p>If the goal doesn't have enough benefit, we may not follow the steps to get us to our goal. </p><p>Good success,</p><p>Todd & Nancy Moeller</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Admin@TheOCExperts.com">Admin@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Nancy Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p>Todd Direct: 714 404-9540</p><p>Serving Orange County, California, Anaheim Hills based</p> "The unaimed arrow never misses"http://activerain.com/blogsview/284436/The-unaimed-arrow-never-misses2007-11-24T20:33:19ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>"The unaimed arrow never misses"</p><p>I read this on a tee-shirt in Maui a few years ago and thought it was an interesting reflection on goal setting. While I'm a huge fan of goal setting, I do see the beauty in this simple statement for certain areas of life. What areas of your life might benefit from <em>less</em> goal setting? </p><p>For me, I decided to stop setting exercise goals and instead - just play. If it works for my daughter, it can work for me. My 5 year old never complains about exercise, she only complains when she's not moving. For me, jog/hiking on the trials of Anaheim Hills is play. It's beautiful, peaceful and challenging. I can listen to my Ipod or just go with my thoughts. And unlike "exercise", I only complain when I don't go.</p><p>Todd & Nancy Moeller</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Admin@TheOCExperts.com">Admin@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Nancy Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p>Todd Direct: 714 404-9540</p><p>Serving Orange County, California, Anaheim Hills based </p> New Year Resolutions - Yes or No?http://activerain.com/blogsview/284434/New-Year-Resolutions-Yes-or-No2007-11-24T20:32:25ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>What are your thoughts regarding New Year's Resolutions. I'm not a fan. I believe if it's important enough to start on January 1, it's even more important to start now. Not only will you gain results faster, but you'll conquer obstacles including time restrictions during the holiday season and holiday temptations (for those with health related goals).</p><p>So, if you're answer is "yes" to New Year Resolutions, I challenge you to start today instead and get a 36 day jump on the rest of the population!</p><p>Have an outstanding conclusion to the year!</p><p>Todd & Nancy Moeller</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Admin@TheOCExperts.com">Admin@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Nancy Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p>Todd Direct: 714 404-9540</p><p>Serving Orange County, California, Anaheim Hills based </p> 7303 Calle Durango, Anaheim Hills Open House http://activerain.com/blogsview/284432/7303-Calle-Durango-Anaheim-Hills-Open-House2007-11-24T20:31:36ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>7303 Calle Durango, Anaheim Hills Open House </p><p><strong><em>Open House - Sunday, November 25 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.</em></strong></p><p align="left"><strong><em>Great Sized Pool House - $729,000!</em></strong></p><p>Seller found their replacement home! <strong><em>Just reduced $46,000</em></strong> after just 2 weeks on the market!</p><p>If you've been looking for the needle in the haystack ...</p><p align="center">Great neighborhood - close to Starbucks, Restaurants, Freeways and Shopping!</p><p align="center">Hosted on Sunday by Nancy Moeller. </p><p>Come say hi!</p><p>Todd & Nancy Moeller</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Admin@TheOCExperts.com">Admin@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Nancy Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p>Todd Direct: 714 404-9540</p><p>Serving Orange County, California, Anaheim Hills based</p> The Golden Rule Revisitedhttp://activerain.com/blogsview/284427/The-Golden-Rule-Revisited2007-11-24T20:30:04ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>Everyone knows one or more variations of the golden rule - "do unto others as you would have done onto you". Perhaps in sales we misapply this mandate and limit our effectiveness. Many of us treat our customers the way we would want to be treated. This is good ... if our customers want to be treated the <u>same</u> way we want to be treated.</p><p>In sales and life, I prefer rule "treat others the way <u>they</u> want to be treated". </p><p>By asking high quality questions, we work to discover our individual client's unique goals, needs and housing requirements. Instead of a typical presentation, we prefer to include more open ended "benefits" of working with TheOCExperts by asking what our customer's want from an agent. </p><p>What made you decide to buy this house?</p><ul><ul><li>What do you think it takes to sell a house in this market?</li><li>Why aren't you working with the same agent who helped you last time?</li><li>What made you decide to interview us?</li><li>Describe the perfect real estate agent.</li></ul></ul><p>Once we understand our client's requirements, we can present a custom plan that aligns our skills with their needs. An approach that works for one client, will not necessary work for another.</p><p>Have an outstanding day!</p><p>Todd & Nancy Moeller</p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p><a href="mailto:Admin@TheOCExperts.com">Admin@TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Nancy Direct: 714 276-7006</p><p>Todd Direct: 714 404-9540</p><p>Serving Orange County, California, Anaheim Hills based</p> Get your Turkey juiced up on Champagne this year!http://activerain.com/blogsview/279135/Get-your-Turkey-juiced-up-on-Champagne-this-year2007-11-19T10:39:33ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p>My sister-in-law shared a secret that has made every Thanksgiving turkey for 20 years perfect. After we season and stuff our turkey, we place the turkey in a roasting bag with a bottle of cheap champagne. 3 hours or so later ... moist and perfect.</p><p>Of course, all of the alchohol disappears ... so you'll have to have a better bottle to open with dinner.</p><p>Have a magical Thanksgiving holiday, </p><p>Nancy Moeller, CPA, REALTOR®</p><p>Nancy@TheOCExperts.com</p><p>Direct: (714) 276-7006</p><p><a href="http://activerain.com/action/blogs_admin/www.TheOCExperts.com">http://activerain.com/action/blogs_admin/www.TheOCExperts.com</a></p><p>Serving Orange County Real Estate, Anaheim Hills Based</p><p> </p> Latest Orange County Market Update at www.OCMarketUpdate.comhttp://activerain.com/blogsview/279130/Latest-Orange-County-Market-Update-at-wwwOCMarketUpdatecom2007-11-19T10:33:53ZNancy Moeller (Seven Gables Real Estate)
<p><a href="http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/"><strong>www.OCMarketUpdate.com</strong></a><strong> </strong>has been updated today with the lastest statistics, analysis and relevant links to articles available for Orange County real estate.</p><p>Do you want to know exactly what's going on in the Orange County Real Estate Market? Invest 10 minutes twice a month and you'll know more than 99% of the OC population about Orange County real estate. </p><p><a href="http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/">http://www.ocmarketupdate.com/</a></p><ul><li>Current Inventory Snapshot </li><li>Current Market Influencers </li><li>How a Seller Should Approach The Market </li><li>How a Buyer Should Approach The Market </li><li>What We Can Expect In The Upcoming Months </li><li>Links to Relevant Articles written by Nancy Moeller, CPA of <a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></li></ul><p>Provided by RE/MAX Real Estate Services with additional links to relevant articles and blogs. </p><p><a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/"></a></p><p>Interested in bank owned properties in Orange County? Register at <a href="http://www.ocbankdeals.com/">http://www.ocbankdeals.com/</a> to receive FREE daily updates of bank owned properties and other well priced values in Orange County.</p><p>For complete information on buying, selling and investing in Orange County, visit us online at <a href="http://www.theocexperts.com/">http://www.theocexperts.com/</a></p><p>Have a terrific day!</p><p>Nancy Moeller, CPA, REALTOR®</p><p>Nancy@TheOCExperts.com</p><p>Direct: (714) 276-7006</p><p>Serving Orange County Real Estate, Anaheim Hills Based</p>