Nathan Simpson's Blog

Indiana Forclosure Rate second highest behind Ohio

Nathan Simpson (Century 21 Executive Realty) — Sun, 11 Nov 2007 09:16:43 -0800

Not sure if this will come up, but some useful information

Have a great Sunday!

http://www.journalgazette.net/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071111/NEWS07/711110316/1002/LOCAL

Halloween Trick or Treat Times ~ Lake and Porter County

Nathan Simpson (Century 21 Executive Realty) — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 11:24:08 -0700

Trick or Treat Times: (subject to change)
Lake County

Cedar Lake, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

DeMotte, 4-7 p.m. Oct. 31

Crown Point, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

Dyer, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

East Chicago, 4-6 p.m. Oct. 31

Gary, 4-7 p.m. Oct. 31

Griffith, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

Hammond, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

Highland, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

Hobart, 4-6 p.m. door-to-door and 6-8 p.m. at the Lakefront clock tower Halloween Parade

Lake Station, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

Lowell, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

Merrillville, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Oct. 31

Munster, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

Schererville, 5:00 pm to 7:00 p.m. Oct. 31

St. John, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

Whiting, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

Porter County

Chesterton, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Oct. 31

Hebron, 5:30-7:30 Oct. 31

Kouts 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

Portage 5:30-7:30 p.m. Oct. 31

Unincorporated Porter County 5:30-7:30 p.m. Oct. 31

Valparaiso, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Oct. 31

Porter, 5:30-8 p.m. Oct. 31

Wanatah 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31

South Haven 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Trick-or-treat hours for Oct. 31.

Complements of NWI.com

A Little Humor ~ 50 Things to do in an elevator

Nathan Simpson (Century 21 Executive Realty) — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 17:46:02 -0700

50 Fun Things to Do in an Elevator

1. Make race car noises when anyone gets on or off.
2. Blow your nose and offer to show the contents of your tissue to other passengers.
3. Grimace painfully while smacking your forehead and muttering, "Shutup, dammit, all of you just shut UP!"
4. Whistle the first seven notes of 'It's a Small World' incessantly.
5. Sell Girl Scout cookies.
6. On a long ride, crash from side to side as if you're on rough seas.
7. Shave. (Especially if you're a woman.)
8. Crack open your briefcase or purse, and while peering inside, ask:"Got enough air in there?"
9. Offer name tags to everyone getting on the elevator. Wear yours upside-down.
10. Stand silent and motionless in the corner, facing the wall, without getting off.
11. When arriving at your floor, grunt and strain to yank the doors open, then act embarrassed
      when they open by themselves.
12. Lean over to another passenger and whisper: "Noogie patrol coming!"
13. Greet everyone getting on the elevator with a warm handshake and ask them to call you, "Admiral".
14. One word: Flatulence!
15. On the highest floor, hold the door open and demand that it stay open until you hear the
      penny you dropped down the shaft go "plink" at the bottom.
16. Do Tai Chi exercises.
17. Stare, grinning, at another passenger for a while, and then announce, "I've got new socks on!"
18. When at least 8 people have boarded, moan from the back, "Oh, not now. Damn motion sickness!"
19. Give religious literature to each passenger.
20. Meow occasionally.
21. Bet the other passengers you can fit a quarter in your nose.
22. Frown and mutter "Gotta go, gotta go," then sigh and say, "oops!"
23. Show other passengers a wound and ask if it looks infected.
24. Sing, "Mary Had a Little Lamb," while continually pushing buttons.
25. Holler, "Chutes away!" whenever the elevator descends.
26. Walk on with a cooler that says "human head" on the side.
27. Stare at another passenger for a while, then announce, "You're one of THEM!" and move to
      the far corner of the elevator.
28. Burp, and then say "Mmmm...tasty!"
29. Leave a box between the doors.
30. Ask each passenger getting on if you can push the button for them.
31. Wear a puppet on your hand and make it talk to the other passengers.
32. Start a sing-along.
33. When the elevator is silent, look around and ask, "Is that your beeper?"
34. Play the harmonica.
35. Shadow box.
36. Say, "Ding!" at each floor.
37. Lean against the button panel.
38. Say, "I wonder what all these do," and push the red buttons.
39. Listen to the elevator walls with a stethoscope.
40. Draw a little square on the floor with chalk and announce to the other passengers that
      this is your "personal space".
41. Bring a chair along.
42. Take a bite of a sandwich and ask another passenger: "Wanna see wha in muh mouf?"
43. Blow spit bubbles.
44. Pull your gum out of your mouth in long strings.
45. Announce in a demonic voice: "I must find a more suitable host body."
46. Carry a blanket and clutch it protectively.
47. Make explosion noises when anyone presses a button.
48. Wear "X-Ray Specs" and leer suggestively at other passengers.
49. Stare at your thumb and say, "I think it's getting larger."
50. If anyone brushes against you, recoil and holler, "Bad touch!"

My Client Needs....a babysitter??

Nathan Simpson (Century 21 Executive Realty) — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 17:18:05 -0700

Ever had that question from out of area clients? Do you know any childcare providers? After School Programs? Ministries?

I think this week was the 3rd time a client has asked me that in the course of an inspection. On my way home, I thought about it. I discussed it with the wife, and of course, she gets on the net looking it up.

So, for you Indiana Real Estate Professionals, here is a great website to locate licensed childcare in Indiana. Share it with your out of area clients.

http://www.in.gov/fssa/carefinder/

The Communication Ball...How did it get dropped?

Nathan Simpson (Century 21 Executive Realty) — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 16:43:03 -0700

Communication between Agent, Client, and Inspector is important. I find that real estate agents have many different ways of communicating with the inspector, from the time that an inspection gets booked to the time that a report is in the hands of the client and their representative. Communication with a home inspector is as important as with any other service provider of the real estate industry.

I am going to post past experiences that I have had in regards to the agent, client, inspector communication drop. The purpose is to educate others on what could happen when communication is broken. My office and I learn and try to make the inspection process as easy as possible.

CLIENT MAKES THE CALL to book inspection. After answering a series of questions, the client is asked if they would like us to contact their agent to get access to the home. The client says yes. The buyer's agent is contacted by email and message left by phone. Inspection is set in 2 days. A message is left again for agent the next day. The day before the inspection, client is contacted and told contact with their agent was unsuccessful and we do not have access to home for inspection. Client calls agent, then calls us to let us know that sellers will be home to open door. Next day, 15 minutes into the inspection, agent calls client, client hands phone to me, agent yells at me for making her look unprofessional to her client and that she had not received any notification of inspection or need to access the house. She hangs up on me. I hand the phone back to the client, and proceed with inspection.

AGENT MAKES CALL to book inspection. When asked for client's contact information, agent says that they are from out of state and to work exclusively through her. Agent says she will be attending inspection on behalf of her client, but will be running late, so gives my office access code. She will also give client inspection amount and my address to send payment. Day of inspection, payment had not been received, so I would talk to agent about it at inspection. I do the inspection, and agent never shows up. Also, access to the attic is not available to me. I upload report and send note to agent through invoice that inspection has not been paid and that access to attic not available. Payment is received the next day. Agent calls a few days later for re-inspection. She was told that payment was received for original inspection. Re-inspection was set up with fee to be paid at closing. Few weeks later, client calls, out of the blue, and accuses us of double charging them for the original inspection. Office has no idea what happened. Client is outraged. I contact agent, and she tells me that the original invoice was put in at closing as well as the re-inspection. She says that she was not informed that we were not paid for the original inspection. There was one check. (Our office does not submit invoices for closing) She told her clients that we were honest and would refund the clients money. Before check from title is received, clients at my door wanting their money. I write the check, apologize to them for the misunderstanding and say nothing.

I CALL agents that use me just to touch base on how things are going, especially in these slow times. One agent in particular, used me a lot. I had not heard from her in a while, so I thought we could chat for a bit about the market. When I had her on the phone, we went through the formal niceties, and she hit me with; Why did you tell my clients on XXX Street that the house they were buying would fall in in 5 years?? You know, they backed out of that house, and your report didn't even indicate the issue as major! After picking myself up off the floor, I asked her why she would think I would say something like that? Her answer was, "My clients told me you did." Thinking back, I remember that these clients were first time home owners, the house was an older, somewhat run down home, but no major problems. Just some maintenance issues. Why did they back out, I don't know. Buyer's remorse? Didn't like the home? Too much to maintain an older home? I knew it was not because of my report, or the words that I used. I told the agent such, and she agreed that I had never scared any of her past clients. But yet, I have not received another inspection from her.

So you see, COMMUNICATION is key in this relationship. All three of the issues above could have been resolved if the phone had only been picked up and talking like professional inspectors, real estate agents, and clients.

Make it a great day~

Recycled Home Inspections

Nathan Simpson (Century 21 Executive Realty) — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 10:58:18 -0700

Recently, someone called me about a home that I inspected several months ago. The home was a forclosure, and had several major issues. This person had a copy of my summary page from the report, and was requesting the whole report. Indiana State Law states that I cannot give information about a report without permission from my client. I asked how he obtained the summary report, and he said the listing agent gave it to him. He went on to say that he waived his inspection based on this summary, but he was now spooked, and wanted to see the whole report. He was from out of state, and had only seen the home one time.

I would like to know how other inspectors would have handled this situation. Would you give him the report? Would you be upset that this person had a copy of your summary page?

I would also like to know if this is standard practice for the real estate industry.

Does Blockbuster Do This?

Nathan Simpson (Century 21 Executive Realty) — Sat, 20 Oct 2007 11:49:02 -0700

I am a firm believer of shopping locally. Not only does it show community committment, but you just don't see big chains putting forth an effort of support to the area they serve.

For example, Rick Holobowski and his wife, owners of MOVIE MADNESS in DeMotte. When you walk up to his establishment, you find on his door, advertisement for the local school play, local bands playing in the area, or an event put on by the Chamber of Commerce or the local church. On the right side of the building, you find a board with featured homes in DeMotte. (Rick is also a REALTOR with McColly in DeMotte) As you walk inside, it looks like the typical movie store, but as you get closer to the front, you hear laughing as "the two blonds" (sorry, this is what the wife and I refer them as) are laughing and talking with customers and each other. Simon, the blond dog (can you believe it, I know the dogs name.) comes out of the back to see if I brought a treat for him. If I did, he will sit and say "MaMa" for me. Besides many many choices of DVDs and Videos for rent and sale, there is a shelf on the wall of Soy Candles in many different fragrances to buy. A local candle maker has set up an area to sell their wares. In the display case, you find candy supplied by the local candy store. Near the registers, you will find advertisement for animals to give away or sell.

But Rick and his employee's biggest effort is the Care Packages sent overseas to our troops. Rick has been doing this for quite some time. Community members can stop by and drop off items for the UPS boxes on the counter bound for soldiers in foreign lands. Movie Madness also sends 20 DVD's in the box for the soldiers to enjoy. The community can also donate money for the freight charge.

You would think that with such a busy schedule, Rick and his wife would be inaccessible. But they will take the time to buff out that favorite CD that your grandchildren decided to use as a Frisbee, or research and find that favorite 1959 John Wayne Movie, "The Horse Soldiers."

If you would like to stop by, MOVIE MADNESSis located at 607 N Halleck Street, DeMotte. Their phone number is 219.987.4041.

UPDATE: The two blonds have names! Kellie and Sheila.

Four Simple Things Agents Should Consider Before They Refer a Home Inspector

Nathan Simpson (Century 21 Executive Realty) — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 20:00:27 -0700

Note: In Indiana, Home Inspectors are required to have a license. If you need to check a license status, you can go to http://www.in.gov/. Its important to check, because unlicensed home inspectors are still out there.

1. Know Your Inspector's Background, Experience, and Credentials

All agents should consider the inspection experience of the inspector they refer including how many inspections they have performed, their certifications, licenses, memberships, and how long they have been in this business. Why? Because all inspectors are not created equal. A properly trained individual who is well versed in all aspects of residential construction is critical to a well rounded inspector. Also consider the inspector's relationship to their company. Are they the owner or just an employee? This is important because in my mind and my experience, an owner of a home inspection business cares deeply about their work and reports they produce because they are concerned about potential liability. However, an employee may not perform as well as an owner-operator because they have less at stake.

2. Does Your Inspector Have Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance?

Errors and omissions insurance (hereinafter "E&O") is an important consideration. E&O may help resolve claims against the inspector, for items they may have missed during the inspection, after close of escrow. Consider asking the inspector for a current declarations page of their E&O policy. The declarations page shows the type of policy, i.e. claims made or occurrence, coverage limits, and the policy periods. An inspector who does not have E&O may have a broad range of reasons why they are not insured. Whatever the reason consider referring an inspector who has E&O to provide better overall protection and value for your client.

3. Does Your Inspector Use An Inspection Agreement?

Today, most inspectors have their customers, your clients, sign inspection agreements prior to the inspection. These agreements detail the ground rules, the inspector's scope of work, and items outside of their scope. Consider getting your client a copy of the agreement well in advance of the inspection to give them a fair amount of time to read, consider, digest and then agree to the terms. If you or your client has questions about the terms make sure they are answered before your client signs the agreement.

4. How Does Your Inspector Handle Callbacks?

Callbacks are a fact of life. The first call or email you receive from your client stating that the inspector you referred "missed something" will probably be a frightening moment in your career. It can be a lot less disconcerting if you know the inspector is a stand-up business person, has a procedure to deal with these situations, and has E&O insurance. Make sure you know the procedure that your inspector has in place to deal with this situation. A smooth and simple callback procedure will calm nerves and will hopefully facilitate any repairs that may be necessary before tempers raise and attorneys get involved.

Information on Home Inspections

Nathan Simpson (Century 21 Executive Realty) — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 19:06:13 -0700

Hi All!

I would like to say Thank You for inviting me to this group. I wanted to post something about home inspections for everyone, to describe what I do. I found this article on moneyarticle.com. I hope it is informative. If anyone has any questions about home inspections, please let me know.

Have a wonderful evening!

Nathan SimpsonT

he larger and more complex your financial transaction, the more important it is for you to be an informed consumer. For most people, the purchase or sale of a home is the biggest and most involved business deal of their lifetime. So no matter which side of the transaction you're on, it makes good sense to be as informed as possible. That includes knowing as much as you can about the condition of the property so that you can make wise and prudent decisions throughout the entire process.

Now, how do you maximize your knowledge about the property's condition? That's where a professional home inspection can help. A professional home inspection is a complete physical examination of property from top to bottom by an independent third party. The inspection covers components that are visible and accessible. This includes structural elements such as foundation, roof, chimneys, walls, windows, doors, insulation, basement, crawlspaces, and attic.

Systems like heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical are also inspected as well as mechanical components such as appliances. Inspectors also look for evidence of wood-destroying insects such as termites. Overall, an inspector identifies potential health and safety concerns, both positive and negative conditions of the property and any conditions that might warrant further specialized inspection.

Inspection results are delivered in the form a written report. Report formats vary and can range from a simple checklist to full narrative or anywhere in between. Preferably you should receive a comprehensive report, with annotated photos, that details findings. It should also include a summary that highlights any items of major concern. When reviewing the inspection report, remember that it is a snapshot in time. This report does not provide a warranty or guarantee for the future. It only reflects property condition and operation of systems on the day the inspection was performed, not any time beyond that.

Requiring home inspections is pretty much standard practice today for homebuyers. The requirement is usually in the form of a contingency clause in the purchase contract that specifies what happens based on the findings from a home inspection. Those findings provide buyers with the information needed to make effective decisions about their next actions in their transaction. Armed with knowledge of present property condition, buyers can better evaluate price, determine what conditions to accept or negotiate remedies for, and make judicious decisions on if/how to move forward with the purchase.

Inspections are not just for buyers though. If you are a seller, contracting for a pre-sale inspection can be beneficial too. You get advance, objective information that helps you set a fair price and address any issues that might delay your sale or even result in the transaction falling through. You get the option to make those repairs before prospective buyers see your home. If you elect not to make repairs, you are able to more accurately disclose any adverse conditions. All in all, you should find yourself in a better position for fewer contingencies and concessions and a quicker sale. Keep in mind that even when you have a pre-sale inspection, buyers may still request a professional inspection of their own.

Typically when buyers request the inspection, they are responsible for covering the costs. Sellers who have a pre-sale inspection done would pay the inspector's fees. Either way, how much can you expect a professional home inspection to cost? Inspection fees vary by geographic location and size and feature of the property. Typically, you might expect to pay $200 to $500 for a professional home inspection. Prices vary however, and it is a good idea to check and compare costs in your area.

In addition to cost, other obvious questions are: What do you look for when hiring an inspector and where do you look? Reputation, experience, training, certifications and professional affiliations are important considerations in making your selection for an inspector. Friends or real estate professionals may refer you to qualified inspectors. Other sources are your local Yellow Pages directory and online directories of professional organizations. No matter which party you are in a real estate transaction, contracting for a professional home inspection is a smart move. With it, you can approach and complete your real estate transaction with the confidence that comes from knowing the good, bad and ugly about current property condition.