Demographic Research Tool - 07/30/06 01:55 PM
Have you visited the FedStats website lately? I hadn't been there in awhile and it seems it has undergone some changes and become much more comprehensive. 
The site basically provides demographic data on cities, counties, states and the nation.  They have a MapStats tool that eliminates the need to search multiple sites for information on income, housing, crime, unemployment, births, deaths, travel time to work, weather and much more.  There are also some very useful links for kids.  It's a fun place to visit. Try it out.
http://www.fedstats.gov
… (0 comments)

Leadership Self-Help Tips - 07/28/06 06:36 PM
Useful Websites as seen at http://www.realtor.org/   Great for Real Estate, but applicable to other business as well........enjoyThe following Web sites offer interesting tidbits & helpful pointers about becoming the best leader you can be: The Pacific Institute - Teaching individuals and organizations how to set and achieve goals, manage change, lead more effectively, and think in ways that create success. EmergingLeader.com - A user-driven site serving as a repository for fresh ideas and candid feedback on lessons learned. About.com Leadership Articles & Resources - Offers a wide-ranging selection of leadership information from essays to research on characteristics and actions associated with … (0 comments)

Food for Thought - 07/27/06 07:33 PM
Don't let your past eat your future
Will your success be achieved without sacrificing your integrity?
Will you attack complacency and do something daily that will move you toward success?
Love your mistakes, they are your most memorable educators
Stop often for a reality check
If you want to win, you have to stay in the game
(Paraphrased exerpts from David Cottrell's book, 12 Choices that Lead to Your Success......great book!)
… (1 comments)

Google Homepage (SEO) - 07/27/06 06:45 PM
Realty Times has some great articles about all aspects of the real estate industry. Here's one I read today that I felt deserved some exposure on ActiveRain.  Let me know what you think, especially all you techies.
Marketing: Customize a Google Homepageby Michael J. Russer
Everyone uses search engines. They are so common that many internet users make them their default homepage.
Here is a powerful and clever way you can leverage this behavior by providing access to the world's most popular search engine yet, customized with your unique brand!
What you are about to see is in beta testing (as of this writing). … (2 comments)

What is SEER? - 07/25/06 09:38 PM
This question came up recently during a discussion in our office about replacing air conditioning units in single family residences.  "What is the change in the AC energy efficiency law all about and what exactly is SEER?"
SEER stands for Season Energy Efiiciency Ratio, a rating system used by the US Govt. to establish the efficiency level of cooling equipment.  The higher the SEER rating, the less electricity the equipment uses and the more energy efficient the equipment. 
As of January 2006, the standard for air conditioning equipment manufactured in the US is 13 SEER.  The previous standard of 10 SEER was … (0 comments)

12 Choices That Lead to Your Success - 07/23/06 05:54 PM
This book by David Cottrell is about Success...how to achieve it, keep it and enjoy it...by making better choices. I was fortunate to receive this book from someone else who continually implements successful changes in their business and their personal life. 
Although I have not finished the book as of yet, it is wealthy with insightful suggestions thus far so I'm putting it on my recommended reading list early.
"12 Choices That Lead to Your Success" David Cottrell   www.cornerstoneleadership.com
Cottrell is a professional speaker on the topics of leadership, customer service, and personal development. 
If anyone has read this book, please share your … (0 comments)

Quick Links for Do it Yourself Pool Repairs - 07/22/06 08:23 PM
As you would suspect, the majority of our homes in Florida have pools.  Some fiberglass some concrete.  In previewing and listing these properties, we have seen some pretty messed up pools from owners trying to save money and do repairs themselves. 
If cared for properly a pool can and will last for many, many years.  There are many small repairs that, if researched properly, educated homeowners can make themselves and help to prolong the life of the pool without costly expense.  Here are some links that pool owners might find beneficial. 
http://www.askalanaquestion.com/leaking_pool_problems.htm
http://www.ehow.com/how_17434_patch-swimming-pool.html
http://www.perfectpoolandspa.com/poolcarelinksbottom.html
http://www.household-helper.com/pool/line.html
http://www.household-helper.com/pool/sand.html
… (2 comments)

What if my appraisal comes back too low? - 07/22/06 06:07 PM
Above all…don’t panic. Usually something can be worked out and most buyers and sellers want to do so. If the terms of the contract cannot be met, then it is subject to further negotiations.
The first option will usually lie with the seller. If the buyer lacks the funds, or is unwilling, to make the extra down payment, the seller can reduce the price to the appraised value and the contract will be in full force and effect.
The second option would rest with the buyer. If the buyer wants the home and has the extra money to add to the … (1 comments)

GOT WEBSITE? - 07/20/06 08:32 PM
Finally, you've joined the ranks....taken the plunge....stepped outside your box.....
Wooohooo! You've got a website!....now the business should start rolling in, right? 
Not so fast.....what are you doing to promote your website? It is sad to see agents spend the money to obtain a website and then do NOTHING to promote it.     Do you have a plan?
Is it on your business card?   Do you promote it on your voicemail?   Is it on your car signs?  Are you using website riders?   Is it on every marketing piece you send out?  
What is the most unique way you have come up with to market your … (3 comments)

What's your Point of Difference? - 07/20/06 08:08 PM
Looking through our local Real Estate Book it seems one ad runs into the next with only the change of colors to differenciate one ad from the other.  Where has the creativity gone?  Can we no longer make it past "Call me for all of your Real Estate needs!" as our mantra?  Very few REALTORS are thinking outside the box they have comfortably built for themselves.
ActiveRain has attracted some very creative real estate professionals to the network.   Share with us please.......
What is your Point of Difference in your sea of local REALTORS ? 
… (0 comments)

Recommended Reading - 07/20/06 07:44 PM
I don't know about you, but I am a believer in self education and I do a great majority of that through reading.  Whether it is sitting down with a good, old-fashioned book or perusing articles on the web, I read alot every day and try to improve my skills in some area.  My favorite topics are those that help me build my effectiveness in communicating with and teaching others.  I'll bet many of you are just like me.  So, what I would like to know is:
What topics do you most gravitate to and what does your recommended reading list look like?
… (3 comments)

Addictive ActiveRain - 07/19/06 10:01 PM
I read and commented on a blog earlier that stated that
                                                 "ActiveRain is addictive!"
I couldn't agree more! 
I am not sure what part of the concept I enjoy the most........getting information.......giving information.......sharing thoughts and musings......it is all good.  So, what is your favorite area?
Is that even something you can determine?
Or are you simply like me and just enjoy the WHOLE of ActiveRain....I even love the name!! 
It would be interesting to hear both from the member perspective AND the non-member perspective.....so share your thougths!
… (6 comments)

Seasonal Vacation Rental Website Recommendations for Investors - 07/18/06 09:25 PM
Often times real estate investors who are interested in renting their investments on a seasonal basis will ask for recommendations on where to advertise on the internet. 
Below are links that either myself, friends, family or customers have used with highly satisfactory results.  My highest recommendation goes to VRBO.com, but all have been instrumental in keeping seasonal rentals rented year-round. 
www.GulfCoastRentals.com
www.Goin2Travel.com
www.CyberRentals.com
www.10KVacationRentals.com
www.FindVacationRentals.com
www.Rentalo.com
www.Holiday-Rentals.com
www.VRBO.com
… (1 comments)

Recruiting Tactics Opinion Poll - 07/18/06 08:31 PM
There are approximately 30 agents in our little beachtown office. Yesterday all of them, including myself, received a seven page direct mail recruiting letter from another well known company in town who is opening a new office.
Each recipient was invited to lunch with the offer that "if your existing office is meeting or beating what we propose, then lunch is on us. Hungry? ...give us a call! " These letters were delivered directly to our office. addressed individually to each Realtor. 
By the end of the day, I had a stack of them on my desk.  Each had been brought to me by the Realtor it was addressed … (1 comments)

Put on Your Advisor's Hat for the Newbies! - 07/17/06 09:09 PM
Scores of new Realtors entered the market over the last two years when real estate in Florida was hotter than hot.  Most of these realtors (or "newbies" as some call them) came into the business with little or no true sales background or marketing skills.  Because of the hot market, they had some sales but, coming in at such a hot time and having the market adjust so quickly has now put them at a disadvantage. 
Many of them have no structured, consistent or disciplined basic skills arsenal to fall back on and/or refuse to believe in a written business plan.  Therefore, … (3 comments)

Good Stuff Going On - 07/17/06 07:53 PM
It isn't everyday that we see Good Stuff Going On. 
Last week at Prudential Florida WCI, we learned that our in-house mortgage company, WCI Title, was forming a joint venture with Wells Fargo.  Today, two loan officers from Wells Fargo visited our office to introduce themselves and visit about the joint venture. 
At the close of that meeting, they handed over a check for $300.00 made payable to the charity we support, Sunshine Kids.  This check was made possible by the kindness of a buyer on the other side of the table in this transaction. 
You see, Wells Fargo routinely gives … (0 comments)

What is the Definition of Insanity?? - 07/16/06 08:50 PM
Read this and see if it makes sense to you! 
The definition of Insanity is ......
Doing the same thing, the same way
over and over again
and expecting different results.
When the market changes, we as Realtors must change, and sometimes that is difficult if we have been in a particular market trend for some time.  If you are in a changing or recently changed market this is a great topic for a sales meeting or group think-tank session.  Read it again and think about it........I think it says it all!  I have been using this definition repetitively for the last month … (5 comments)

Why does everyone hate AOL? - 07/16/06 08:38 PM
Seems like I have been hearing quite a bit more negative talk about AOL lately.  I'd like to know why.  I have used AOL for years and find it to be user friendly, flexible and helpful in warding off viruses and other internet heebie jeebies.  I understand that it is not compatible with several other programs............is that why everyone is in such an uproar?  Some people have told me that I am possibly losing customers because of the spam filter, but my spam folder opens everytime I enter my email and allows me to choose which to delete and which to keep, so … (11 comments)

Englewood Florida Market Changes - 07/16/06 08:32 PM
Englewood Florida----Current Status----Buyers Market
Seller Situation:  Sellers are finally coming around to more appropriate pricing with little push back. The last 10 listings signed are at very attractive pricing levels which can be considered "priced to sell".  In part I believe this to be attributed to our excellent sales team who are well educated on the market and do a great job of consulting and educating the seller. I also believe that sellers are finally coming to terms with current reality. 
Buyer Situation:  Previous to the last few weeks, showings were down and buyers were very intermittant. Showings have definately increased and more … (0 comments)

Englewood Beaches are some of the Best along the Coast - 07/15/06 08:52 PM
After the last Blog I got an email inquiring about our local beaches and parks. The beaches are uncommercialized, very clean and white.....and not heavily populated even during season.  You might also find a sharks tooth or two.....I've collected several (I stopped counting at 6,000...seriously!) 
Beaches Blind Pass Beach (aka Middle Beach) - This beach is located in the center of Manasota Key (north of Beach Road, and south of Manasota Beach Road). The beach side offers restroom facilities with lots of parking. The bay side offers many coves for fishing or kayaking.
Englewood Public Beach - Located on Manasota Key at the west end of … (2 comments)

Where oh Where is Englewood Florida? - 07/15/06 08:43 PM
Being an undiscovered natural beauty of a gulf coast treasure, I guess it's natural that we get that question several times a week when we are talking with referred customers.  9 out of 10 people have never heard of Englewood....which is probably why our waterfront properties are still affordable!  If you are interested you can pop over to this link and use the Google map to get your bearings.
 http://www.google.com/maps?f=q&hl=en&q=englewood+florida&ie=UTF8&ll=26.96247,-82.352142&spn=0.592423,1.468048&om=1
If you haven't used the Google Maps before, stay on the page awhile and play around.......it's a great tool that can provide you or your customer with a bit of education on any area … (1 comments)

9 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Obtaining a Home Mortgage - 07/14/06 09:24 PM
You are about to make what will most likely be the largest transaction of your life: your home mortgage. Unfortunately, many homebuyers do not take the time to research some of the little but weighty intricacies of mortgages. Researching the mortgage process takes little time compared to the tens of thousands of dollars it could save you. Doesn’t it make sense to become as completely informed as possible before you buy your next home? This special report is designed to help you avoid nine common mistakes. Remember that the right lender can help you make good, sound business decisions based on … (0 comments)

Mortgage Terms You Need To Know - 07/14/06 09:22 PM
Buying a home is a major achievement in most everyone’s life. Pride of ownership, tax breaks and equity are just a few of the many benefits you’ll enjoy with your new home. Your home purchase may also be one of the largest you will ever make. During the emotional excitement of buying a home, you may encounter terms with which you are unfamiliar. For some, it can be bit embarrassing to ask what they consider too many questions. Others may make a note of their questions but simply forget to revisit those points. To ensure that you have complete confidence during … (0 comments)

Tips for deciphering which mortgage you need - 07/14/06 09:19 PM
There are several elements of a loan that should be analyzed. While one of these elements may suggest one type of loan, another may call for a different type. You must weigh each ingredient separately and collectively. You will find that your answers to the questions below will ultimately determine the type of mortgage that best fits your needs. How long do you plan to stay in this home? Five years? Ten years? Thirty years? The length of time you will be in the home will certainly play a part in determining which loan to apply for. If you only plan … (0 comments)

How to Make $$$ in Real Estate Investing - 07/13/06 08:58 PM
How to Make Money in Real Estate Investing
Lower Your Taxes
Tax incentives for real estate investors can often make the difference in your tax rates. Deductions for rental property can often be used to offset wage income. Tax breaks can often enable investors to turn a loss into a profit.
For which items can investors get tax breaks? You could claim deductions for actual costs you incur for financing, managing and operating the rental property. This includes mortgage interest payments, real estate taxes, insurance, maintenance, repairs, property management fees, travel, advertising, and utilities (assuming the tenant doesn't pay them). These … (1 comments)

5 Secrets to Buying the Best House for your Money $$$$ - 07/13/06 08:55 PM
1. Get "Pre-Approved" - Not "Pre-Qualified!"
Do you want to get the best property you can for the least amount of money? Then make sure you are in the strongest negotiating position possible. Price is only one element in the negotiations, and not necessarily the most important one. Often other terms, such as the strength of the buyer or the length of escrow, are critical to a seller. <!-- insert ad block -->
In years past, I always recommended that buyers get "pre-qualified" by a lender. This means that you spend a few minutes on the phone with a lender who asks … (0 comments)

FSBO's Why Buyers are Afraid to Buy from YOU! - 07/13/06 08:52 PM
Many homeowners believe that to maximize their profit on a home sale they should sell it themselves. At first glance, they feel selling a home is simple and why should they pay a broker fees for something they could do themselves? In fact, close to 25% of all the homes sold last year were sold for sale by owner (FSBO). However, close to half of the FSBO’s said that they would hire a professional next time they sold. Thirty percent said they were unhappy with the results they achieved by choosing FSBO. Why? Many FSBO’s told us that the time, paperwork … (5 comments)

Help Kids with Cancer by Supporting Sunshine Kids!! - 07/12/06 08:16 PM
Hello!
Last year, Prudential Florida WCI Realty raised $290,000 for a charity that is near and dear to our hearts, the Sunshine Kids organization. Those efforts moved us to the #1 fundraiser spot in the entire Prudential network.
This year our goal is to double our donation so that twice as many children with cancer can participate in the wonderful activities and emotional support provided by the Sunshine Kids organization. (Please visit www.sunshinekids.org for more information on this incredibly important cause.) You can help us reach our goal by ordering online from Current Fundraiser. It’s easy to do, you can choose from … (0 comments)

Quick Tips - 07/12/06 07:35 PM
If you have customers who are changing jobs or moving to a new area, Homefair.com offers a cost-of-living calculator that compares expenses between major cities across the country.  The user can determine the amount of money they will need to live somewhere other than where they are living now.
 http://www.homefair.com/homefair/calc/salcalc.html
Need Health Insurance? Do you know that most Realtors go without Health Insurance? Are you one of them?
Prudential Florida WCI provides our Sales Agents with a true GROUP HEALTH PLAN, which includes Dental.  We also provide 401k plan, progressive, commission splits...with NO ROLLBACKS and NO DESK FEES. 
Prudential Florida WCI makes it easy for … (0 comments)

The Prudential Florida WCI Difference - 07/12/06 07:26 PM
Does your customer's home qualify to be part of our Fine Homes Program?Prudential Florida WCI Realty prides itself on maintaining the highest standards for all its real estate listings. If your customer's home meets certain requirements, it can be further distinguished through our Fine Homes Program.Qualifying for this one-of-a-kind program means your customer's home will automatically be featured in the following fine publications that showcase luxury homes for sale, as well as in a local marketing campaign.** There is a minimum time frame and listing price required. See me for more information.
The following publications feature Prudential Fine Homes Program listings:
Dream … (1 comments)

 
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Louann Nudi

Indianapolis, IN

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TOVIJE Enterprises, Inc.

Address: Indianapolis, IN, 46259

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