Cheryl (MO Broker)Real Estate Blog

Coming Soon--new listing in Mt Vernon MO

Fri, 03 Aug 2012 14:24:55 -0700

Hold this spot, I went out today to preview for a new listing.

I have friends/peers in other areas of the country that just can't believe how much house and land we can purchase for so little $$ compared to their areas.

I thought I would give a little tease- you show me yours and I will show you mine-

What do you list/sell a 4,000+ sq ft 2 1/2 story, w/full unfinished 2,000 sq ft walk-out basement, attached 2 car garage on 28 acres home.

This custom built home is a work in progress. The acreage offers additional sites to sub-divide or use for recreational fun. Paths through the woods make for exciting hiking trails or bike riding.

You are going to be so excited when you see the inside photos and I reveal this unbelievable sales price.

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Did you know I have peers in all 50 states?

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 12:34:39 -0700

Today a cyber friend told me she wants to sell her place and move (to another place). She 'knows' her market is terrible so she hasn't even started the process.

I don't 'know' her area BUT I do know how to contact peers who do.

A quick search in the Active Rain posting and I found a great Seller's Agent that I can feel confident in referring her too.

A couple of minutes searching the community she hopes to move too and I 'found' a great Buyer's Agent.

I know it sounds like I am bragging but I am really am just sharing what we can all do in this community of bloggers. I am sharing one more tool we have to help our family/friends/cyber-friend/etc find great agents to work with in areas outside our personal sandboxes.

Do you have a cyber-friend that is considering moving to SW Missouri? If so, share my website to get them started looking at properties while they wait for you to sell their home.

www.OzarkCastle.com

I look forward to working with your referrals :)

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Teefy in Springfield RE/MAX tech conference

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 11:09:40 -0700

wow, I am loving the new things we can do with our websites!

If you are not signed up yet to view properties in SW Missouri- check out my site- www.OzarkCastle.com

Let me know when you are ready to write that contract on your new abode- cw

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Aurora MO quilt Show 2012

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 09:24:01 -0700

2012 "Heavenly" Quilts, presented by the Aurora Quilt Guild and the First Christian Church will be this Friday April 20th, (1:00pm- 6:00pm) and Saturday, April 21, (10am- 4:00pm)

There are NO fees to enter. For more information, please call 417-246-1117 or 417-763-5199

Dawn and I are both going to show off a couple of our favorites.

Pam is going to have her booth set up. She is stocked with the GO, BABY and lots of Dies!
She also carries the new Celtic Knot pattern and Fats to fill your every TO DO on the Wish list!

Hope to see ya this weekend. I am hoping to hand out butterfly sets to cyber friends, I'll be at Pam's Booth if you want to 'find' me- cw

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Guest Blogger on www.SewWeQuilt.com

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 19:20:09 -0800

If you read my last couple of posts it looks like all I do is 'talk' quilting- lol

Actually I just don't have time to write about business- my bad (you know how it is, I am working all day so I want to unwind and visit my creative side)

If you are having a 'let's get creative moment" please check out my Guest Post and leave a comment so I know who else in the RAIN I can hollar at: "dibs on your fabric stash"

My Buyers and Sellers are all trained to save Scraps for me, we have made many beautiful donation quilts over the years.

www.OzarkCastle.BlogSpot.com if you missed me in the Rain.

be good cheryl(still from MO and still selling)willis

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Cassville, Exeter, MO Saturday Fabric Sale

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 18:11:10 -0700

Got an E-mail from my good Friend Pam, thought I would share with my readers that I will be on site this Saturday. Plans are to show off a few quilts from my private collection and do a couple of Demos of new products available.

I show properties by appointment only on Saturdays so if you need to get on my schedule give me a call. I will be taking a half day personal time to show off my creative side- join us!

P-Dub’s Quilt Stuff

12203 State Hwy.76/86

Exeter, MO 65647

Phone: 417-847-9276

Email: pdubsquiltstuff@centurylink.net

WHAT:FALL QUILTING EXTRAVAGANZA JJJ

NEW HOURS: every Saturday until November 26^th, then Monday through Saturday from November 28^th until December 17^th.

TIME:9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

It’s that time of year again! We’ve received so many new things, we want you to be able to enjoy them as soon as possible:

AccuQuilt Go! Cutters and dies—15% off all dies with purchase of cutter (I love mine!)
Warm and Natural batting-all sizes (the names says it all)
Hundreds of new fabrics, including Moda (oohh-la-la)
New layer cakes, jelly rolls, charm packs and scrap bags from Moda (yummy)
Lots of new reproduction, 1930’s and vintage fabrics (reminds me of Mom’s aprons)
New batiks (makes me want to go to Bali )
New flannels (makes me want to get a cup of hot chocolate)
quilting books and magazines (gives me ideas)
lots of new patterns (gives me more ideas!)
several different styles of Gingher scissors (no, not Ginger…Gingher!)
Quilt kits (most of the work is already done)
New cutting mats, rulers, Dritz rotary cutters and blades (yippee)
A mountain of scraps (if you’re a scrappy quilter, you’ll love these)
A “sale” section that’s growing daily. If it’s been here too long, it’s gotta go!

And last but not least….“Sit-N-Sew”: Can’t find the time to work on your latest project? Kids under foot? Working on something for hubby you don’t want him to see? Bring your latest project(s) and a sewing machine, sit a spell and get ‘r done! If you can’t sit-n-sew, pleasebring your project(s) anyway. We’d love to see what you’re working on.

Cassville’s quilt show will be March 3^rd and 4^th, 2012 in the high school gym. We will be open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. both days so you can stop by before (and after) the show but, if there is snow on the ground (or falling out of the sky) we will be closed.

I love giving shouts out for favorite friends and businesses in our area. Give me a call if you are interested in a spot light post on my Blog- cw

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Homes Don’t Always Sell Fast

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 12:32:08 -0700

I checked in to see what my peers are writing about and came across this great post by Randy. If you are on his Island and looking for a great agent to work with, please give him a call. If you are in my area of beautiful SW Missouri, call me.

Our goal is to work with sellers to get the deal done and the goals meet. Homes Don't Always Sell Fast but working with a great agent can speed the process up.- Thanks Randy for letting me share your post- be good cw

Via Randy L. Prothero - Hawaii REALTOR® (Century 21 Liberty Homes):

Selling a home can be quite a stressful process for sellers. Many homes are on the market for months and sometimes longer. Sellers need to maintain their home in showing condition during that period. That can be a big burden while trying to live their lives. They are paying mortgage and can’t finalize their future plans until it sells.

Homes may linger around for a couple of reasons.

1)      Failed marketing. It may be one or more of the following.

a.       Over priced

b.      Now showing well

c.       Not properly advertised (MLS, Internet, virtual tours, flyers, open houses, etc.)

d.      Hard to show

e.      Bad neighbors

f.        Poor location

                                                               i.      Next to a pig farm.

                                                             ii.      Not convenient to transportation, shopping or schools.

                                                            iii.      Across from the sewage plant.

                                                           iv.      Surrounded by industrial properties, etc.

(Items b through f - can be overcome with a lower price.)

2)      Changing market conditions.

a.       Short sales and foreclosures in the area.

b.      Bad economy (increasing unemployment in the area, etc.)

c.       Prices falling

d.      Surplus inventory

       (Items a through d - can be overcome with price)

In the end there are many variables you have to deal with, when selling your home. The price is the great equalizer. Any home in any condition can be sold in one day at the right price. The question for sellers is, “How close to the one day price do you want to be? “

By properly marketing the home and having it better prepared (repairs and upgrades completed and the home staged), along with making it easy to show; the home will sell faster and possibly for more money.

If the home is not selling after being for sale for a long period of time, the market has rejected your home at that price. Buyers are able to find another home at equal or above condition for a better price. In some cases sellers hang on too long to their price because they are either convinced their home is worth more than buyers are willing to pay or because they need to hit a certain price. In a some cases the home is not being properly marketed.

Tips for sellers:

1)      Get a top full time Realtor® who specializes in your area.

2)      Listen to your Realtors® advice for getting your home ready, pricing and marketing strategy.

3)      Be prepared to adjust the price after it has been on the market a period of time.

a.       Remember time is money. If it is not selling, you are paying carrying costs. (Mortgage, utilities, taxes, insurance, maintenance, etc.)

4)      Have reasonable expectations and plan accordingly. If the average sale time in your area is X number of days and you want to sell faster than that, you have to do something to make your home a better deal than those you are competing with.

5)      If on Oahu call me for a free consultation. I would be honored to evaluate your home and present you a marketing plan for your home.

Good Luck and Happy Home Selling!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Randy L. Prothero, REALTOR®, ABR, AHWD, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, SFR

Century 21 Liberty Homes

Randy Prothero is well established as an expert in working with military / VA clients and first time home buyers. His home seller's (listing) campaign is one of the most aggressive marketing programs in the area.
Based out of Mililani, Hawaii. Randy services the island of Oahu (Honolulu County) and the Leeward Regional Chairman of the Honolulu Board of Realtors.  To improve overall professionalism in his area Randy also offers classes for real estate agents.

www.HawaiiRandy.com * Oahu (Honolulu County) Property Search * Hawaii Military Relocations

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Quilted Garden- Aurora MO Quilt Shop Sale! July 15-16 2011

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 14:49:31 -0700

The Quilted Garden in Aurora is having a 1^st anniversary sale this Friday and Saturday. Fabric, books and patterns are all 30% off. Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed Sunday & Mondays)

The address is: 620 McNatt, Aurora , MO. The phone number is: 417-678-1600.

Thought you'd want to know. Oh- I call dibs on your scraps!

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

This message is for Wake Island Spirit members -

Thu, 19 May 2011 19:16:31 -0700

This message is for the Wake Island Spirit members that did not reply to the inital
reunion letter sent out by Richard White.

Here is the link if you wish to check out the web site and Facebook page. I love the beautiful
pictures of Wake!

wwv.wakeislandspirit.com and www.spiritofwakeisland.com.

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Willis Wheel 2011

Tue, 17 May 2011 20:53:53 -0700

When is the last time you had this much fun on a Tuesday?

Trying to decided do I post the new listing photos or show off getting to spend time with the grandkids? New listing will be up and running tomorrow!- be good cw

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Happy B-day to ME!

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:00:50 -0700

Today is my B-day! I am working from my home office, but NOT in my B-day suit- sorry for the fake out-

One of my favorite quilting groups has the participants post a Show and Tell of what is being worked on. I thought I would share a bit of my semi-creative side with my peers and readers.

This piece is a work in progress (WIP) The block is part of an on-going Monochromatic Challenge (MC). The 'color' for April is Orange. My interpretation was to celebrate my B-day (I swear this is the cake I use to draw when I was in grade school!)

The Bunny and Eggs are for easter- duh, not to original.

The Three candles are for my son, Jess DOB 4-4, SIL, Dustin 4-9, and Favorite DIL, Kelly 4-9, I of course am the BIG 5-0.

Yet to be added are the Spider Web (april fools reference) and a rain cloud over a small ship (April Showers bring Mayflowers- that's really bad- right?)

I am going to the lumber yard to see if they sell Gopher wood, with as much RAIN as I am going to get today, I might need to build a boat!

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

You 'Break It", You "Buy It!"... yes, I remember saying that to the buyers...

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 15:33:19 -0700

There have been several times over the years that I have had experiences out of the normal. I warn my clients that I occasionally write a blog post or two and if they don't behave I will 'write' about them.

That warning is usually enough to get the situation back under control.

Several months ago I showed a place that had an open gun safe in the basement. The gun room was about 12 x 12 with 8 inch cement walls and ceiling. The Safe door was straight out of the movies- huge and nothing to play with.

At the time, we all commented that this looked like trouble waiting to happen. The buyer even stated that it would be removed and a more normal door installed.

Fast forward to last night.... here's where the story gets fun.

We met at the vacant home to sign final papers to put it Under Contract. The buyer brought the boys (both well over the age of 12) one was 16 the other 23. I think you know where this is going.....

While we were upstairs going over the contract, one of the idiots boys playfully (yeah right) locked the other in the safe room.

I called the listing agent to see if there was a record of the combo. He called the county sheriff to come check on us. We all decided that the kid was in less danger locked in the room then he would be freed -lol

There is a handle on the inside of the door that can be used to open it. That is unless the outside handle has been turned and the lock engaged! Guess what? LOCKED up TIGHT!

We found the original owner and he came to help, the people he sold it too had changed the locks and were now out of state.

I asked the officers if we could just dynamite a hole in the wall and they said "NO"

(One did show me his tazer but that is a different story)

I can't add 'Safe Cracking" to my skill set but I can add 'aiding and abating". The only way to get in was to take the door off. Seriously, the men pry-ed it from the outside enough to snap the re-bar bolts. The the kid did something from inside and they moved the 2,500 lb door enough for him to exit

As a good agent I did ask the crowd if anyone was looking to buy or sell in Barry County. I may have found a way to procure buyers. I did get to hand out my card- that will be a future post.

Happy Ending,

Buyers have finished signing the contract- They won't need to hire someone to come take out the safe door.

I get to say I told you SO! After all if you break it- you buy it! In this case they are thrilled to be buying it.

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Open House -- Under Contract! Thanks Aaron's

Sat, 09 Apr 2011 17:49:51 -0700

I had an open house this weekend on a fantastic property. Back on the Market after buyer's failed to secure funding. Sellers have moved and now the question is how does one show a vacant home?

No problem: Turn big beautiful empty rooms, into big beautiful staged rooms with just one phone call!

Call the guys at Aaron's in Monett to see what is available for your personal space. If you are renting a home/apartment check into leasing your furniture. You too can go from empty to full with a phone call.

Had to revisit this post to say it is Under Contract we expect to have new owners in May!

Great Open House BTW- sorry if you missed it.- cw

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

I need an agent near Watkins Woolen Mill Stat Park between Kearney and Lawson MO

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 11:35:46 -0700

Giving a shout out to my peer group- I have a couple looking for a place close to the park.

First person to contact me with an agent who knows this area will be added to my "Great Big Thank You" list.

as a disclosure, I have searched the members here in the RAIN and have not found a live body that can return phone calls (YET) I did find a couple that are no longer in the business (SO SAD)

I am sure YOU will know the perfect peer to send my way.

I look forward to meeting a new agent to referr too- call me, my sellers are closing tomorrow and can be your buyers on Thrusday!

One of the services I am most proud to offer my sellers is a peer to assist in their move to their new location.

When you sell with me in SW Missouri, I do what I can to make your transaction as smooth as possible.

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

I want that big house. But how much of a mortgage can I truly afford?

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 11:04:56 -0800

Thanks Jeff for an excellent post for Buyers to consider. Just b/c one wants it doesn't mean it is a good thing to tie yourself down too. I work with a lot of first time home buyers and we always have the 'Talk' about wants and needs.

As always it is fun to share what my peers are passionate about- If you are a new buyer in SW Missouri and would like to work with an Agent that will help you figure out how to purchase the next roof over your head, plz give me a call!

I can help you get the house, it is up to you to make it a home!- be good Cheryl(417-366-0057)Willis

Re/Max Solutions

Via Jeff Belonger-The FHA Expert - FHA Loans - FHA mortgages - USDA loans - VA Loans ( - FHA Home Loans - Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc):

It’s very easy to assume and or want something without always thinking it through. Emotions can play a role in your decision when purchasing a new home. But are you always asked the right questions or led down the right path?

How much of a mortgage can I have now is a question often asked. But what about what you can personally afford, without strapping yourself financially on a monthly basis. Many focus on the interest rate or how much of a house they can afford and lose site of their basic goals.

When a loan officer starts asking the borrower a question, in my opinion, the first thing that should be asked of that borrower is how much of a mortgage payment can they afford and not based on their income. Secondly, the loan officer should be asking about the buyers goals also. This is also true for someone refinancing their mortgage.

So what should you do first? Before you even look at houses or even speak to a loan officer, you should go over your finances, making some sort of budget. Again, defining your monthly mortgage payment is the most important part when buying a home. This mortgage payment is to include your principal interest payment, your property taxes, and your homeowners insurance. If you are buying a townhouse or a condo to where there are association dues or even a single family home that is a PUD, you need to add this monthly expense into your budget.

Defining your budget to include your short term and long term goals. Things that should be thought of :

Having children or have children. If so, school expenses, clothing, and food.

How old is your car(s). Do you plan on buying a new car soon?

How are your spending habits when you have money. Do you like to shop often?

Do you like to travel?

Do you have to take care of your parents or could this take place in the near future?

Assets are extremely important also. Will you have money left over after closing? Will the house need some initial repairs upfront after moving in? Will you need a new roof in two years? You should always think about setting up a housing account to where you always have two months of mortgage payments in that account. Plus having an additional $1,000 in your account for housing emergencies. If you say, hey Jeff, I can barely get enough money now to buy a home. Well, maybe you should save for six more months until this is possible. My point, just be pro-active and not sweating things later on when something unexpected does happen.

Credit and credit scores – How is your credit? Does it need work? I still see many trying to buy a new home before their credit has been viewed and or fixed. Many lenders require credit scores of 640 or above. We can still do them down to 620, but it can be a case-by-case scenario at times. – Truly understand your credit scores -

Summary : It’s just natural for a buyer to want to know the maximum mortgage amount or the price of the home that they could qualify for based on their total income. Keeping up with the Joneses sometimes got people in trouble. Worry about what you can afford and not what you can be approved for. Understand your finances, your long and short times goals, and have a budget. Good luck…

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

FOLLOW ME ON FACEBOOK

- FHA Loans - USDA Loans - VA Loans -

- Energy Efficient Mortgages -

- Conventional Loans - 203 k loans -

- FHA Home Loans - Mortgages -

Experience & Knowledge at its BEST !!!

Follow me on:

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________

For more information on FHA loans, please go to this link. The FHA Expert

For important mortgage insight to watch for, please read : Consumers need to be aware of these Red Flags!

For information about FHA myths & FHA rumors, please read : FHA Myths & Rumors

Copyright © 2011 by Jeff Belonger of Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Main Street Market Mt Vernon MO 849-0907

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 11:47:34 -0800

I got a call this morning from a guy looking for a phone number for M&M.

He found my number doing a GOOGLE search of the Main and Market.

Looks like it is time to do a follow up post on one of the most fun flea markets in the area.

I am a fan of double knit quilt tops and purchased this lovely utility quilt to use at the lake.

Always a variety of large items for sale along with collectibles and nick knacks.

Call and speak with Chris or Shelia for info on how to rent a booth. 849-0907

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

MR. CONSUMER, ARE YOU REALLY INTERESTED IN BUYING A HOME? OR, ARE YOU JUST PLAYING A BOARD GAME?

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 13:03:13 -0800

Another great article by a favorite peer in the RAIN.

As agents we strive to meet the expectations of our clients. Communicaton is Key! Are you wanting to buy or sell in SW Missouri? Give me a call to see if I can help you meet your goals.

I look forward to working with you soon- be good Cheryl 366-0057 Willis REMAX Solutions

www.OzarkCastle.com

Via Lenn Harley, Real Estate Broker, Virginia & Maryland (Lenn Harley, Homefinders.com, MD & VA Homes and Real Estate):

MR. AND MRS. BUYER. WHAT IS YOUR GOAL? TO GET A GOOD HOME AT A GOOD PRICE? OR ARE YOU TRYING TO PLAY INVESTOR? Buying real estate is not a board game.

FACT: BANKS DON'T KNOW HOW TO SELL REAL ESTATE.

FACT: CONSUMERS DON'T KNOW HOW TO BUY REAL ESTATE.

When it comes to short sales, some things have to be understood from the outset. For one, banks are not perfect in their analysis of various buyer offers. However, neither are buyers when designing their offers.

WHO HAS THE EXPERIENCE TO PRICE SHORT SALES? Banks have access to pricing experts.

the listing agent's pricing advice

more than one price opinion from objective brokers

appraisals.

SHORT SALES ARE USUALLY PRICED BELOW MARKET. Sure, banks often consider what they have in the property and the amount of their loss, etc. However, in the end, the prices for short sales are generally quite advantageous for home buyers when compared with home owner listings and even bank owned properties for sale. Buyer's agents can usually provide the buyers with solid pricing examples that support a short sale listing.

HOW SERIOUS IS THE BUYER? When weighing the pricing information, location, house design and condition and all of the evidence shows that the house is priced fairly, if the prospective buyer then makes an offer that is unrealistically low and stubbornly sticks to their original offer and refuses to negotiate price or terms, etc., then it must be accepted that individual making the offer is NOT A SERIOUS HOME BUYER!

THE BIGGEST CLUE THAT A CONSUMER IS NOT A SERIOUS HOME BUYER??

When the prospective home buyer says:

"We don't have to buy now"

"The bank has to come down to my price"

"The bank needs to sell more than I need to buy"

"It's a buyer's market"

"I'm looking for a real deal"

BUYING REAL ESTATE IS NOT A BOARD GAME!

When a prospective home buyer makes unrealististically low offers, they have simply made sure that they will NOT HAVE TO BUY THAT HOUSE. When the consumer ignores pricing documentation and logic and insists that everyone involved reward them for their superior real estate buying skills, they simply are giving themselves a guarantee that they will NOT have to buy a house.

THEY WERE NOT SERIOUS HOME BUYERS. In 2009, I dropped two prospective home buyers. Both were in the market for new construction. One made an offer of $300,000 on a $400,000 home. I knew that the builder had closed that model for no less than a net of $390,000. The other prospective buyer made an offer of $790,000 on new construction that priced out with their upgrades and options at $1,190,000. the builder countered to $900,000. BOTH BUYERS WERE PLAYING CHICKEN WITH THE BUILDERS. BOTH OFFERS WERE RIDICULOUS and, IMO, designed to fail!

FACT: As of today, neither of those buyers have purchased a property. They were never serious home buyers.

FACT: Once a buyer makes a low offer and receives a reasonable and workable counter-offer and does not proceed to buy the house, they were probably NOT SERIOUS HOME BUYERS.

REAL ESTATE AGENTS make a significant investment of their resources when they accept a buyer-client. We use our skills and experience for:

financial analysis

property research

previewing

showings

preparing offers

Working with buyers requires a huge investment of time and gasoline.

FACT: Agents can lose a lot of valuable time by not know the maximum qualified price range for a prospective buyer. If the buyer is making low offers, perhaps that's all they're qualified to buy. I have spoken with buyers who were qualified for a certain amount but insisted on looking at properties that were 25% or more in price. If you get a buyer who wants to look way over their qualified range. . . . . . . be careful. Save your time.

WHEN WE SPEND TIME WITH CONSUMERS WHO ARE NOT SERIOUS HOME BUYERS, we may be missing the opportunity to work with serious home buyers. It's your business, invest your time wisely and learn to identify consumers who are merely playing a REAL ESTATE BOARD GAME.

Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.

_______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Want to learn more about Loudoun County, VA? Join Loudoun County, VA on Facebook!

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

I Love a Prepared Buyer, Don't You? | Are YOU a Prepared Buyer?

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 15:22:51 -0700

I agree with my peer, Jeff, I love working with prepared buyers too!

Part of my 'job' as a Buyer's Limited Agent is to assist you in getting your act together!!

Give me a call if/when you need/want to work with a great agent in SW MISSOURI- I am a Broker and work with both Buyers and Sellers.

Still CRAZY about Real Estate- celebrating 6 amazing years helping clients just like you.- be good - cw

Via Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate ~ 760-840-1360 (RE/MAX Moonlight Beach (CA DRE Lic. # 01490977)):

I Love a Prepared Buyer, Don't You?

Are YOU a Prepared Buyer?

I love working with a prepared buyer. One who has gotten their act together, and is ready to make a decision, and move through the transaction.

Sadly, it can be kinda rare these days. There are many hopefuls who are simply not prepared for the challenges our market presents.

But there are folks who ARE appropriately prepared and ready to go.

WHAT DOES THE PREPARED BUYER LOOK LIKE?

They are pre-approved, or have the cash wherewithal with proof of funds

*   *   *   *

They know their budget, vis-à-vis what the bank will loan, and can tell you what they want to spend, and perhaps their absolute max. Saying "we're flexible" makes me squirrelly. I'm not sure what that means.

*   *   *   *

They know what they want. Sure it can shift some but overall they have a good idea of the things that are really important and what they can flex on. And they can articulate it. Somehow "we'll know it when we see it" seems a bit vapid and vague.

*   *   *   *

They've done their research on-line and elsewhere, and have a good sense of what the market is doing, but they still need YOUR input, data, and perhaps a reality check.

*   *   *   *

The prepared buyer asks good questions, and plenty of them. They know they need information, and seek it out from you (notice how the prepared buyer has already decided they want to work with the best person in their desired area of purchase - you). They listen to what you have to say, ask for clarification, and share their thoughts and opinions for you to respond.

*   *   *   *

A prepared buyer typically makes decision quickly. If they are wishy washy, well, how serious are they?

*   *   *   *

If a buyer is prepared, they tend to be organized. They keep paperwork in order. Perhaps they bring a clipboard, camera, measuring tape, etc. to tours of homes. They know what information they have, but also what they don't

*   *   *   *

They tend to respond quickly, with answer to your questions, asking questions, signing documents, and making decisions. Life is busy but they make their home buying a priority and work with you to meet deadlines and keep things moving. What a pleasure this is.

*   *   *   *

You get the idea, and perhaps have thoughts of your own.

Certainly things do not always go to plan. Being prepared means also being ready for surprises, having contingency plans, and simply coping with the problem and getting it resolved.

If you are not prepared, you might be in for a surprise, and perhaps many disappointments.

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If I can provide more information about Carlsbad real estate and surrounding areas, the housing market, or otherwise assist you, friends or family in a home search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360 or email me at JDowler@remax.net.

Serving Carlsbad, Encinitas, Cardiff, Solana Beach, Del Mar, La Jolla, Carmel Valley, Rancho Santa Fe, San Marcos, Escondido, Oceanside and San Diego

Carlsbad Breaking News ~ Oceanside Breaking News ~ Encinitas Breaking News

All content ©Copyright by Jeff Dowler. All rights reserved.

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

So You Want to be a Real Estate Agent? - call me, we can 'talk'-

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 11:28:01 -0700

Lisa has been in the 'business' a few years longer than I have. I agree that there is no secret formula to guarantee an agent's success. However, I also know this industry is one that offers a lot of different sandboxes to work and play in.

I have a good friend that is considering getting her license. I thought this would be a great post to share with her.

FYI- I am not the official 'recurter' for our office, but I am a big fan of how we do things. If you think now is the time to get a real estate education give us a call to discuss your future in the industry.

SW Missouri is a great place to live and work- be good - cheryl

Via LISA ORME, Broker/REALTOR®, ABR, CRS, GRI, PSCS, SFR, Notary Public (The Master's Key Realty LLC):

You've got to be kidding, right? If I had $100 for every person I've seen get into and out of real estate in three years or less, it's doubtful I'd need to sell another house; and I'd probably own the one I live in debt-free! <SMILE!>

Real estate is an intriguing profession and it attracts a wide variety of people and skill sets. Because of this, there's no secret formula to guarantee an agent's success.

To sell real estate, you need excellent people skills, and a big Rolodex. (Oops! I'm dating myself. Not a Rolodex anymore, but a big memory chip in that Blackberry?) Even more important is that your Rolodex Blackberry is full of personal contacts that TRUST you. If you're not known for honesty, integrity and excellence, it's hard to get people to entrust their most expensive asset or purchase into your hands. And if you lose their trust for any reason, you lose the opportunity for repeat business and referrals, as well as damaging your relationship and your reputation.

Don't worry if you don't have that solid reputation for getting the job done or that big database of names yet. If you focus on excellence and service, you will build them both over time. You'll also need self-discipline, patience, and perseverance.

Before you worry about whether you've got the skills you need to succeed, you'll want to make sure you have sufficient cash flow to get started. "What?" you say? You want to get into real estate to make money? Well yes, but probably not so fast. In real estate, this old adage is particularly true: You've got to spend money to make money.

Did I mention that real estate agents are normally paid on a commission basis? While these commissions may seem like a lot of money, they are still shared with your broker. And if you don't sell something, you don't get paid. In fact, the real estate business is a career opportunity that will cost you at least a couple thousand dollars to get started, and a repeat of that each and every year just to have the opportunity to stay in business, whether you make any money or not!

Even before you can begin selling real estate, you have to take required classes and pass the course exam, and then the licensing exam. These both cost up-front money; and if you're not a good test-taker, more money for re-takes.

Now you need to find a broker and pay your start-up expenses: an application and fee to your local Board of Realtors, Board dues till the end of the year, Multiple Listing Service fees, lockboxes and access fees for electronic key box systems, business cards, sign riders, and hopefully some money set aside for extra advertising and car expenses. (Before the current higher prices on gasoline this was a less critical amount to have set aside, but now it is crucial to be prepared and plan well ahead.)

Beyond all this, it's important to realize there is often a substantial lag time between getting started in real estate, and getting paid. So you'll need to be able to manage your living expenses until the money starts coming in.

Most new agents work with buyers first because it's usually a shorter road to that first commission check. Certainly you must spend several days, or perhaps even weeks, to find your buyer the house they want to buy; if they are actually a buyer, that is. Some are not. They are either professional "lookers", not quite ready, or ready but just not qualified to buy. If they really are a buyer though, and you successfully get through getting your buyer qualified, their contract successfully negotiated, and the inspection results are acceptable; well, it should only be another 30-45 days or so until your first closing.

Even so, working with a seller always takes just as long, if not longer. Depending on your market, it may take a few weeks, or several months to get that interested buyer with an acceptable contract. Then you still have to wait for the buyer to go through their process to be ready to close.

Delays are frequently inevitable in real estate. Your personal need for a closing to happen on a certain date can be over-ruled by the buyer, the seller, the lender, the attorney, the moving company, or any number of other circumstances not in your control. But if you like living on the edge, maybe real estate is just the right job for you.

Real estate agents, especially in the first three to five years of their career, and sometimes for a lifetime, often live in a "feast or famine" state. You get a big paycheck (feast) and then you pay everyone you can (famine). Cash flow fluctuations demand you be an excellent money manager. You must be able to "tighten the belt" in a difficult market, and keep a good attitude when everyone else is talking gloom and doom. Judicious use of credit is paramount; many agents have left the business to take a job with a steady paycheck so they could make their credit card payments every month.

Just to make it a little bit more exciting, your broker does not withhold taxes and social security from those commission checks for you. It's always a challenge to gather up all the proof of your legitimate business deductions to reduce your taxable income while you are in the middle of a juggling act to come up with enough money to pay Uncle Sam at tax time. Good record keeping is not just a business skill, it's a survival skill!

If you are still undaunted, then consider your personal skills set. Do you have those good people skills? Are you detail oriented and a good record keeper? A real estate agent is usually part finance manager, home decor expert, teacher, chauffer, photographer, marriage counselor, construction estimator, regional tour guide, investigator, home stager, negotiator, researcher, blogger, data analyst, computer geek, friend, and trusted source of information about house values, market conditions, interest rates, towns, taxes, schools, restaurants, recreation programs, town services, neighborhoods, and more. Realtors are not builders, tax advisors, accountants, inspectors, surveyors, lawyers, bankers, computer geeks, graphic designers, advertising experts, SEO experts, copywriters, telemarketers, miracle workers, or the decision makers; although their customers and clients will usually expect them to do the jobs of all of them at one time or another.

Still interested? Good. There's nothing more rewarding than helping a buyer get into that first house, or helping that seller get their home sold so they can join their spouse in their new job location. It's more than gratifying when you can help a buyer sell their home and avoid foreclosure, or move into that new larger home they've always wanted, or help them settle into something requiring less time and energy after the kids are done with college. You'll deal with people as they resolve the burdens of handling property concerns that result from changes in jobs, health, death, divorce, marriage, and growing families.

You can really make a positive difference as you do your job with excellence. Most of the time, you won't be appreciated nearly enough, especially on the really tough transactions. So make sure you have a lot of inner motivation if you want to take on this profession.

If you still think you want to be a real estate agent, then you're probably just the kind of person who can take the challenge and succeed. So what are you waiting for? See you in the trenches!

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Serving the North Central Connecticut region, Hartford County, and the communities of Windsor, Bloomfield, Hartford, East Hartford, South Windsor, Manchester, Windsor Locks, Suffield, Enfield, East Windsor, Somers and the Granbys...

Opening Doors to Home Ownership . . . The Master's Key . . .

Residential Sales, Short Sales and Foreclosure Prevention, Multi-Family and Investment Properties, Condominium and Property Management

LISA ORME

Licensed in the State of Connecticut, ABR, CRS, GRI, PSCS, SFR, Notary Public, Lic. #REB.755648

Broker/Owner of The Master's Key Realty LLC, 340 Broad Street, #320, Windsor, Connecticut 06095

To contact Lisa, call 860-688-1400 or send an e-mail to lisa@masterskeyrealty.com

Copyright, Lisa Orme, 2010. All rights reserved.

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Great Deal on a home in AVA, MO $79,900 3 bed 2 bath

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:45:50 -0700

This property is SOLD to see other homes in AVA : www.ozarkcastle.com

Jim Springer, one of my favorite agents in our office has a steal of a deal on a property in AVA, MO.

This one is too good to pass up, so I am going to share it with you. Give me a call to write a contract.

MOVE IN READY!!!

Very nice home with a great floor plan! See more photo's here

Features include vaulted ceiling in living area, fresh paint and recently replaced carpet and great deck in back for those outdoor cookouts.

Small town feel but close to businesses.

Home is in great condition and ready for move in!

This is a Fannie Mae HomePath property.

Purchase this property for as little as 3% down! This property is approved for HomePath Renovation Mortgage Financing.

Call me to schedule a private tour.

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Quilted Garden- new QUILT shop in AURORA, MO 620 McNatt 678-1600

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 08:52:59 -0700

My good friend "Pam" sent me an exciting e-mail this morning! Of course I have to get the 'word' out-

I have been so busy working with buyers and sellers that I have been neglecting my Fabric Side-

To: "'Cheryl Willis'" <ozarkcastle@yahoo.com>

There is a new quilt shop in Aurora . The address is: 620 McNatt. Phone number is: 678-1600, they're open 10a-5p Monday-Saturday. McNatt is the street perpendicular to Hog Wild BBQ, 6 blocks north on McNatt, through the stop sign and it's on the right. It's called the Quilted Garden . Blue metal building across from an elementary school.

They haven't been open very long. The fabric is very reasonable and they have lots of patterns.

One of the owners is Cheryl Briggs from Aurora . I met her last year at the Pierce City quilt show. She and her husband do embroidery on quilts, totes, whatever. They had a booth at the show. After going to the quilt show in Cassville this year, they decided to open a shop.

Disclaimer: I am a scrapper- a new shop to me means that all my quilting friends are going to be buying new patterns and fabrics and I am going to wait for the trickle down to add to my stash!!

I will stop in and say 'HI' as soon as I can.- (If you bet me there, be good and save a little material for me please- cw)

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

Best Wedding video by a Willis child

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 21:19:32 -0700

Best Wedding entrance by a Willis child in the month of August. The award goes to SARAH!

When one has four children she learns to do qualifying statements!

Youngest daughter, Sarah, exchanged vows with her new hubby, our new son-in-law, Nick on August 14th. (It never matters how 'old' they get she is still our youngest!)

I thought my readers might enjoy seeing a bit of the 'opening ceremony'.

Yes, I made the flowers.

No, this was not the rehearsal (they didn't do one). I hope all our your weddings are as fun.

Best wishes to the new couple.

His mom and I are still fighting over who got the better end of the deal. I think we won by adding Nick, she thinks they did by getting Sarah. For now we will just be happy for the union and share the both of them.

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

What is your success story?

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 14:21:22 -0700

I don't even know where to begin!

Active Rain is entertainment when I need to 'look' busy.

It is education when I need a quick 'need to know'.

It is the most wonderful group of peers that I get to hand pick whenever I need anything.

I have had several success b/c of my time in the RAIN.

One of the biggest has to be the quick turn around I made when my former office shut down.

I was told on a Saturday we were closing and had my license in hand to place with my new brokerage on Monday. I owe this to wonderful mentors in the RAIN.

I was able to keep working with out missing a beat.

I could go on and on. SEO, good peer pressure, ideas, information, this place is priceless!

be good Cheryl(I was doing OK before I met you, but baby look at me now!)willis

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

ARE MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATION FEES DEDUCTIBLE?? YES, YES, YES.

Sun, 25 Jul 2010 23:02:14 -0700

My reader's know how I love to re-blog. With peers in my network like Lenn it is easy to get excellent content to share.

Let's get you Under Contract and Closed so you can see for yourself. I don't give tax advice but I do list and sell properties.

Call your CPA or check out the IRS Web Page if you are curious what this article is about. Call me when you are ready to purchase in the beautiful state of Missouri!- be good - cheryl

Via Lenn Harley, Real Estate Broker, Virginia & Maryland (Lenn Harley, Homefinders.com, MD & VA Homes and Real Estate):

ARE MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATION FEES DEDUCTIBLE?? YES, YES, YES.

YOU'D BE SURPRISED HOW EASY THE IRS WEB PAGE IS TO READ.

Agents and loan officers sometimes advise buyers and sellers about the deductability of the certain items on the HUD-1.

For instance, home buyers often ask their real estate agent or loan officer questions about detectability of closing costs. Sellers ask too, but not as often. Buyers often depend on the detectability of mortgage interest to bridge the gap between renting and buying. Clearly, the higher the income, the more valuable the tax deduction is to a home buyer.

DON'T GIVE TAX ADVICE. Send that buyer to the IRS web page and let them read the section on HOME MORTGAGE INTEREST AND POINTS. However, many agents and loan officers make the mistake of telling buyers that the discount point is deductible but that the "origination fee" is NOT. WRONG!!

THE ORIGINATION FEE or point IS DEDICTABLE. That's not Lenn's advice. That's from the IRS.

Read the IRS Instructions for Points.

http://www.irs.gov/publications/p936/ar02.html#en_US_publink1000229936

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Points

The term "points" is used to describe certain charges paid, or treated as paid, by a borrower to obtain a home mortgage. Points may also be called loan origination fees, maximum loan charges, loan discount, or discount points (emphasis added).

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ATTENTION HOME BUYERS! Don't ask your real estate agents or loan officer for tax advice. Consult your accountant or the IRS web page. It's in plain English and very helpful.

Let's get this matter cleared up once and for all. A POINT IS A POINT IS A POINT.  A point is ONE PERCENT of the loan amount. Call it a butterfly or a shark. An Origination Fee is a POINT.

Save your HUD-1. The points, all of them, even if paid by the seller are deductable for you. You can find that on the IRS site too.

ARE MORTGAGE LOAN ORIGINATION FEES DEDUCTIBLE?? YES, YES, YES.

Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.

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Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis

It is just a place to chase the old lady around in!

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 12:53:42 -0700

Long live the RE-BLOG! Thanks, Charles for sharing--

I help clients/customers buy and sell houses (properties). It is then their job/joy to develop them into homes.

If you are looking for a place to chase the old lady/man around in here in SW Missoui, give me a call- cheryl

Via Charles Buell, Seattle, WA, Home Inspector (Charles Buell Inspections.com):

     I think that one of the things that went horribly wrong a while back (hard to pinpoint an exact starting point) was when people started thinking of their houses as “investments.”

     Now I am no economic genius----they are all in the other Washington----and I certainly am no expert in the sales side of real estate either---even though I was a decent builder in my day. I read a statistic somewhere that claims that over the long haul, a home’s value stays relatively flat-----after adjustments for inflation and all that. So how did people get persuaded to jump on the “investment bandwagon?”

     Once on board though, it makes sense that they would now be so upset with the huge supposed loses that have resulted in the most recent downturn.

     Nobody likes to be a sucker.

     So if a house is not a good “investment” what is it and why would anyone buy one?

     Mainly because it is a “HOME.” (And that is not to say that a rental could not also be a home.)

     Here is a short list of what makes a house a home as opposed to an investment (I am sure you can think of other things to add and are encouraged to do so in your comments).

1.      You can paint it whatever color you choose (in most cases).

2.      You can remodel it any way you choose (with proper permits of course).

3.      You don’t HAVE to mow the lawn or you can mow in either a diagonal or horizontal pattern (in most cases).

4.      You can punch holes in the walls and you don’t HAVE to fix them (there is no damage deposit).

5.      You can let the toilet leak until it falls through the floor.

6.      Being able to fart at will.

7.      You can change your own damn furnace filter.

8.      You can turn your whole yard into a vegetable garden if you want (in most cases).

9.      You can plant a cherry tree.

10.      You can cut down that 40 foot tall tree that you are afraid the airplanes might hit.

     Now here are a few things that also make a house a home----although ownership is not required. And this list is also an “investment” albeit a more valuable asset than what “investment” has come to mean.

1.      A place to chase the old lady or old man around in, which results in:

2.      Having babies in them.

3.      Raising babies in them (translate to: a place to change diapers and feel the babies smiles----not all smiles mean they have gas).

4.      Fixing the windows the babies kick soccer balls through.

5.      Sending the babies off to college or war.

6.      Grieving the loss of a parent.

7.      Grieving the loss of a child.

8.      Grieving the loss of a spouse.

9.      Divorcing the old lady or old man you chased around the house.

10.   Discussing politics, religion and food.

11.   A place to be a believer.

12.   A place to be one that does not believe.

13.   Thanksgiving Dinner.

14.   Getting wasted (you pick your poison).

15.   Watching television (could be included in #11)

16.   A place to be sick.

17.   A place to be taken care of when you are sick.

18.   A place to care for sick people.

19.   Eventually a place to change your own diaper; and finally:

20.   Something to pass on to your kids (by then they will KNOW it is not a “monetary investment” but is actually their own personal money-pit---but they will take it for the memories).

     When all is said and done----a home becomes a collection of memories that gets embedded in the structure of the house that forms its character over time----a social investment that can be read in the worn floors, the nicked door jambs and the stains on the ceilings.

Charles Buell, Seattle Home Inspector

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PS, for those of you that are new to my blog (or for some other "unexplained" reason have never noticed)all pictures and smiley-face inserts (emoticons) (when I use them) have messages that show up when you point at them with your cursor.

DeCroe, is my "ethereal" home inspector assistant and occasionally flies into my blog and other people's blogs to offer assistance. To find out more about her beginnings just click on Raven.

Crazy About Real Estate- Your MO Broker- Cheryl Willis