David's Blog

Little things mean a lot..

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 12:30:01 -0600

There's a golden rule that should never be violated when dealing with customers and that is keeping faith with them.

It's important to make the sale, but it's more important to be there after the sale to provide any follow up service that may be required. Never forget that your customers are real people who have placed their trust in you to deliver on their behalf.

Old fashioned after sale service doesn't go out of style.

Never look for the profit angle in after sales service....it's something that should be an automatic policy of your business. Invite home buyers to give you a call anytime.

Make an announced visit while your buyers are moving in and carry a small box or lamp from the delivery van into their new home for them as a symbolic gesture. Check back with your buyers by phone a month after their move to find out how things are going.

Stay in contact. A non-commercial looking card at holiday times....or birthdays will keep you fresh in their minds without the appearance of being invasive. They'll remember you and tell their friends.

These are things you should want to do anyway....rather than feel the necessity to do. Being a good person is part of who and what you are.....and how you want to be remembered. In the world of Real Estate sales, little things mean a lot.

Thanks. Sincerely, David

www.TailGateTags.com

A promise made is a debt unpaid...

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 11:27:27 -0600

I posted this a couple of blogs ago...but not everyone saw it, so I'm posting it again to show that I really do follow my own advice.

I received a query from James Barath (www.MyBenchmarkMtg.com) asking why I never published endorsements for TailGateTags, or showed a picture of my car with TailGateTags on the back. Anyone who reads my blogs regularly will know I routinely publish endorsements from satisfied customers who are now enjoying their benefits. I sent James a few endorsements via email and promised that today I'd publish a video of my car with a TailGateTag on the back.

Before you view the video here's something you should know. This is a trophy winning classic automobile that I drive everyday. It's appraised and insured at $55K and it was paid for completely (and then some) by placing a single $39.95 TailGateTag on the back. What could TailGateTags do for you?

If you have questions...concerns...etc...please don't be afraid to give me a call or drop me an email. All questions answered to your complete satisfaction, honestly and openly.

Thanks. Sincerely, David
www.TailGateTags.com

Retirement ain't what it used to was...

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 00:04:46 -0600

I love being in business. I'll tell you why. Where else could anyone meet so many nice people and have so much fun doing exactly what they love doing the most.

When I retired from my 32 year career how could I know there was a second career waiting just around the corner. It's like that for a lot of folks who dread the boredom of retirement. I've never been a rocking chair or park bench kinda guy.

This second career, which began more than a decade ago has given me an opportunity to branch out in a new direction.....to acquire new skills......and to meet a whole new group of friends I never could have become acquainted with otherwise.

Each one of them offers something to make life just a little sweeter. 27 people joined my Ameri-Plates marketing program today. That represents 27 new acquaintances I've made in one day. How much better does it get than that?!

It is after-all the people that we meet on our journey and the experiences we share that makes the ride so much fun. Retirement should never mean slowing down, but rather a smooth transition from one venue to another.

I'm not a real estate agent....but Realtors (in most cases) have the luxury of pursuing their career as long as they want.....and when it's time for a change (should they decide to do so) there are dozens of new opportunities that their knowledge will lead them into to provide a fresh challenge.

Retirement doesn't have to be true retirement any more as long as there's a spark of ambition and good health.

Here's to getting the most out of life everyday.

Thanks. Sincerely, David

27 new affiliates joined our marketing program today. Here's your invitation.

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 22:51:21 -0600

PrimeLinx Ameri-Plates has embarked on a new program to include 1,000 new affiliates in our marketing program. We'd like to invite you to join us. It's easy and there are no hassles.

Being part of our group is all about you and a great way to offer something special to your website visitors. As an Ameri-Plates partner you're in complete control of marketing. Devote as much time or as little as you like. Your website banner will do most of the work.

Best of all you'll earn a substantial commission with every sale. Our checks go out as regular as clockwork on the first day of each month. We'd like to send a check to you.

Our marketing program is absolutely FREE to join and there are no strings attached. Here's what we offer to you.

- A banner for your home page

- A website link which is carried on our server, so there is no bandwidth loss to you.

- A secure online ordering system dedicated exclusively to you. Your name & email address will appear on every order received by us for easy ID.

- A check made out directly to you on the first day of each month based on sales.

- We handle all manufacture, delivery and customer service.

PrimeLinx Ameri-Plates is a reputable company serving happy, satisfied customers since 1998.

Contact us in confidence for more information at:

info@primelinx.com

www.Ameri-Plates.com

Without dreams..... the good things in today's reality would not have been possible.

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 20:17:12 -0600

NOTHING TRUER WAS EVER SAID... In order to achieve any great endeavor....first you must have a vision.

Martin Luther King Jr. knew it.. NASA knows it.. Abraham Lincoln knew it.... so did (and do) all the great success stories of our time. Down through the ages every advance began with a vision. If the mind can think it....it can be done.

This philosophy filters down to everything.....including real estate sales.

If you really want SUCCESS, then you must first have a VISION of that success..

How many of us have actually sat down and thought about who we are and what our purpose in life is? It's not exactly "What's it all about Alfie" stuff.......but rather what you are all about. Everyone has a rough idea of who they are, what they wish to become and what their goals in life are. Most of these thoughts are in the short term. The journey to our end goals often evaporates as quickly as yesterday's rain.

It's time to begin something permanent. Something that will last a lifetime.

Having a vision of what you want from life is not fantasy... It's real live PROVEN FACT stuff...and it works. How would we have ever reached the moon, unless someone had the vision to carry it through. VISION IS WHAT MAKES DREAMS REALITY.

Humor me on this.. HAVE A PEN AND PAPER AT HAND AND WRITE DOWN YOUR THOUGHTS. Get a clear vision in your mind of who you really are and what your life has been to date. Think about what you've done to bring you to this point.

Once you've done this.... shift your focus to the vision you have for yourself at the end of your career. Focus clearly on the end result you want from your life.....both business and personal. Don't rush the thought.....really think about it and be honest with yourself. This is not a "hurry up and do it" exercise. The process requires serious concentration.

Once you have a clear understanding of who you are and where you want to be, place your mind's eye firmly on that end destination.

The question now becomes how do you get to that point.

Work backwards with pen and paper and WRITE DOWN each step in reverse order as if you've already reached your goal. The answers you give yourself will set the pattern for life.

Once you've done this, (It may take several days...) begin putting the details in motion. DO NOT LET YOUR CLEAR BEGINNING EVAPORATE.. DO NOT MAKE EXCUSES FOR YOUR LACK OF FOLLOW THROUGH. FOCUS on what you have to do and make it an essential part of your everyday life.

SELF VISION is nothing to take lightly. VISION requires ongoing commitment and work. If you think back over the centuries....it was VISION that brought us to where we are today. The great advances in medicine, technology, space exploration and everything we enjoy today is brought about by VISION.

See it clearly as if it's already there. Keep in mind that visions are little more than shallow ideas until you take steps to make them realities.

Always on your side.

Sincerely, David

www.TailGateTags.com

James wanted to know....so here's the reply.

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 15:01:25 -0600

In my last blog I received a query from James Barath (www.MyBenchmarkMtg.com) asking why I never published endorsements for TailGateTags, or showed a picture of my car with TailGateTags on the back. Anyone who reads my blogs regularly knows I routinely publish endorsements from satisfied customers who are now enjoying their benefits. I sent James a few endorsements via email and promised that today I'd publish a video of my car with a TailGateTag on the back.

Before you view the video here's something you should know. This is a trophy winning classic automobile that I drive everyday. It's appraised and insured at $55K and it was paid for completely (and then some) by a single $39.95 TailGateTag on the back.

James...... this video is for you..

If you have questions...concerns...etc...please don't be afraid to give me a call or drop me an email. All questions answered to your complete satisfaction, honestly and openly.

Thanks. Sincerely, David
www.TailGateTags.com

A prompt reply begins with a single email.

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 01:26:49 -0600

PrimeLinx Ameri-Plates has embarked on a new program to include 1,000 new affiliates in our marketing program.

Being part of our group is all about you and a great way to offer something special to your website visitors. Our banner will heighten interest in your website, by giving visitors an extra level of service. With Ameri-Plates you're in control of marketing...and best of all you'll earn a substantial commission on every sale. Checks go out regular as clockwork on the first day of each month. We'd like to send one to you.

Our marketing program is absolutely FREE to join and there are no strings attached. Here's what we offer to you.

- A banner for your home page

- A website link which is carried on our server, so there is no bandwidth loss to you.

- A secure online ordering system dedicated exclusively to you. You name will appear on every order received by us for easy ID.

- A check mailed directly to you on the first day of each month based on sales.

- We handle all manufacture, delivery and customer service.

PrimeLinx Ameri-Plates is a reputable company serving happy, satisfied customers since 1998.

Contact us in confidence at:

info@primelinx.com

www.Ameri-Plates.com

Your website is your best business partner.

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 23:04:48 -0600

Everyone knows at least 85% of home buyers make the internet
their first stop when searching for real estate.

If you didn't know it..... You know it now. It's true. Practically everyone has
internet access these days and your website is probably the single most
important asset you have in your arsenal for sales.

Here are my suggestions... Make sure your website is your
own....and not an extension of your company's website. This means
getting your own personal domain registration and unique URL.

Now...Lets get into the nuts and bolts of why BRANDING is
key to your success. This is one of those cases where I'll ask you to
believe everything I suggest on BLIND FAITH ALONE. I won't mislead
you.

Your personal name is a BRAND. Mary Smith....John
Doe.....and Your Name are all brand names. Treat them as such. Elvis
is a brand name. Madonna is a brand name. Ronald McDonald is a BRAND
name. You get the idea.

When the home buying public thinks of real estate....they
should think of your name as a synonym for real estate. That's the
idea of branding. As as an example, when you think of any celebrity's
name you automatically associate that name with what they do. You need
to become a celebrity in your own community known for what you do.
That's where branding comes into play. Are you with me so far??

Most home buyers access local real estate websites by using
a search engine. Nearly all enter the city name and the words "Real
Estate." Example: "Denver Real Estate" This brings up an entire
list of real estate agencies and real estate search directories. The
chances are more than good your website will not be among the top 20.
If you're not in the top 20, it's unlikely searchers will find you.

However, if you type your first and last name into the
search engine along with the words "Real Estate".... BAM!!! THERE YOU
ARE, RIGHT ON TOP. Give it a try.

Here's where this is leading. Your name is a brand. Make
your name known within your city as a commonly recognized synonym for
real estate and you'll receive more website visitors and more business
because of it.

This is only one reason why BRANDING is so vital for success. There are many others.

Nothing, but nothing, but nothing anywhere BRANDS your name like
TailGateTags. Depending on your city size and amount driven, your
name, website URL and contact info is seen by thousands of individual
people every day for years.... That's because there's always a car
right behind, or beside you in traffic. Get BRANDED....and get known.

Thanks. Sincerely, David

www.TailGateTags.com

Give your car plenty of extra power...

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 21:51:56 -0600

Yep... It works.

You know where to find us.

REALTOR.......KNOW THY VIABLE MARKET.

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 16:00:58 -0600

I've been reading again. This is something I do every day to stay on top of the market, learn the latest tips & tricks and keep current what's happening in the business world.

Like most, I don't always like what I read...but there's no walking away from accurate statistics. PLEASE DON'T SHOOT THE MESSENGER..

Nationwide1 in 4 homeowners are underwater and 1 in 9 homes are sitting empty. A recent study indicates that 1 in 3 Americans are worried about their job loss.....and an article in Forbes quotes economists who believe in some states the Real Estate crunch won't abate until 2014.

Noelle Knox, regarded as one of the top real estate writers in the country believes the retirement of Baby Boomers will have an even more drastic effect on sales. According to research, the next two decades will see millions of aging baby boomers will put their homes on the market. In doing so, they'll put downward pressure on prices. Their exodus will reshape neighborhoods and cities nationwide.

The number of Americans that have trouble putting food on the table shot up last year to an unprecedented record of 17 million households. That translates to about one in six Americans...and the working poor top the list. A report released in October of last year by the Working Poor Families Project indicates that more than 28 percent of American families with one or both parents employed are living in poverty.

I know this is not a pleasant pill to swallow.... I don't like it either, but these statistics should form the basis of how you sell real estate.

If there ever was a case for niche marketing.......if there ever was added reasoning to specialize.....this should be it. It's clear that Realtors can no longer afford the luxury of being all things to all people. All people are not in the position to buy groceries...let alone real estate.

Discover who your available market is...and who's not in your target market. By carving out a unique, in demand niche you reduce or eliminate competition and place your emphais on those who are in a position to buy. Give it some very serious thought.....then put all your energy into marketing to your specialized demographic.

It's not a great real estate world we live in, but it's the one we've got and the sooner Realtors can adjust and adapt to the new reality the sooner their fortunes will improve..

It may be time to "Make a New Plan....Stan!"

Don't forget to subscribe to my blog just below my photo.

Thanks. David

Toronto and Vancouver Real Estate markets red hot

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 11:04:13 -0600

Toronto Real Estate is red hot.... It's like that all over the city.

Here's an example...

A new 44 story condo building has just opened and there are long lines of real estate agent buyers with cash in hand waiting to pounce. At one point the queue became so heated they actually pounced on each other as they jockeyed for position. Many agents have been camped out in lines for a week for the chance to be first in the door to buy.

So why the mad rush by so many to spend hard dollars on Toronto real estate. Realtor Philip Birnbaum says Toronto is one of the most desirable cities in the world to live in. In fact many of the real estate agents in lines are acting on behalf of foreign buyers. Birnbaum says Toronto Real estate has nowhere to go but up.

This week, the Toronto Real Estate Board reported mid-month sales of 3,666 – a 84% increase from last November. Sales for the month of October totaled 8,476, with new homes representing 4,150 of these – according to the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD), a more than 100% increase and the highest monthly total since July, 2007.

Credit for the booming market goes to low interest rates and consumer confidence.

Vancouver's real estate market is also booming thanks largely to immigrants and foreign buyers mainly from China.

In both of these cities bidding wars are quite common and buyers dole out the cash.

The surge in real estate selling is expected to continue in these cities at least until 2011 when a hike in interest rates is likely.

If you'd like to see what an active real estate market looks like....read this. These realtors are literally fighting to be first in line to spend some heavy cash.

Thanks. Sincerely, David

www.TailGateTags.com

I've never made a fortune in Real Estate...

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 16:52:42 -0600

But that being said..... I've always made a profit on any home or property I've ever owned and sold.

I don't claim to be an expert on real estate buying and selling. My forte is marketing and promotion....however I've always followed a couple of basic rules.

- Buy the lowest priced home that suits your needs in the best neighbourhood in town.....or discover what neighborhood is about to emerge as the next great area of revitalization and follow the same purchasing plan.

- Never use a home inspector recommended by the real estate agent. Do your own independent research and find out exactly what the inspector will be looking for on your behalf. Get it in writing so there's no disupute later on. A good inspection should take the better part of a day. You'll want the inspector to get his hands and clothes dirty in his home check. Be sure the inspection is very detailed.

- Do a minor inspection of your own. Make a check list and ask the realtor about upgrades already made. e.g.. age of roof, check for water marks on window sills, mold or mildew in basement, ask about plumbing and wiring, is the area prone to flooding, insulation "R factor", water heater, etc. etc.. Write down the agent's reply.

- Barter for upgrades. Trading services with a contractor is an excellent way to save money and receive value for value.

- Shop the home improvement recycle shops for excellent quality home renovation materials. This move alone could save you thousands of dollars on upgrades.

- Visit the neighbors before signing on the dotted line. Find out who lives in your neighborhood and if there have been any problems. 5 minutes talking with your next door neighbors will give you a good idea if you want to live there or not.

- Look to see if the interior of the house has been altered in any way that could affect the soundness of the structure.

- Check for cracks in the foundation.....or if brick needs repointing.

Do your homework and make a detailed list of checkpoints before ever signing on the dotted line.

Lastly, consider who the next buyer of the house might be and if it falls into a desirable catagory.

An ounce of forethought can prevent an expensive repair job later on.

Happy Thanksgiving from us to you..

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 13:34:11 -0600

It's not what you say....but how you say it.

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:12:36 -0600

Sometimes blog comments form the basis of a new blog.

One of my blogs recently received a reply from the Knowles Real Estate Team. In their reply they announced that they had taken the Ameri-Plates concept a step further by adding decals to the back of their vehicle. As indicated in the photo below.

I highly agree with the Knowles team that this is an excellent way to promote their business and brand their name.

However, the Knowles vehicle, like most other real estate agent vehicles also doubles as the family car......and the family car should not look like a commercial vehicle.

The decals used on the Knowles family car are exactly the same as those used on pizza delivery wagons, plumbers' trucks and city busses. For these vehicles, they're perfectly acceptable....but not for the family car. As a real estate agent, you are a professional person and your family vehicle should not look overtly commercial. It's a matter of discreet good taste.

I asked the question..... Would the splashy sign on the Knowles family vehicle be considered in good taste at a wedding, or a funeral? Probably not.

PrimeLinx Ameri-Plates are not large and splashy. They are considerably smaller and designed to blend with the car's natural bright trim. The message is clearly seen from a distance of 20 feet, yet it does not scream at the viewer......nor does it offend in any situation. Ameri-Plates do get your message across in a non-invasive way.

In real estate like any professional occupation, image is all important. Ameri-Plates are not a SPLASHY DECAL. They are a custom made personalized nameplate available in polished chrome and luxurious matte gold finishes which speak volumes about you to your clients.

Getting your message seen by multitudes of potential customers on a daily basis is vital to success.....but how you do it is more important.. Your image and good taste as a professional Realtor should be reflected in all things.

Big and splashy has its place....but not on a professional person's car....and certainly not on your family car.

Ameri-Plates are the epitome of high fashion and good taste, while accomplishing their desired effect. Our cutomers' testimonials bear this out.

Thank you. Sincerely, David

What Separates a Winner from a Loser? The answer is imagination and action.

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:11:56 -0600

I firmly believe we can achieve anything we want to achieve, if we just work at it every day. There is nothing that is not within our power if only we put some serious thought into our plans....and act.

The best way to achieve success is to have a blast at everything you do. This attitude means nothing is ever boring and you're meeting new people and having new experiences all the time.

Setting reasonable goals and achieving them is also vital for success and your own personal ego. Everyone loves to WIN!! But....there's no winning without doing.

Yesterday I wrote a blog inviting realtors to join our Ameri-Plates marketing program. Most looked at the blog and passed on the invitation......but a great many have written and have joined our program.

My goal in the short term is to bring aboard 1000 new affiliate marketers....and encourage them to bring aboard their own affiliate marketers. It's working.

One affiliate joined only a week ago and already has 6 - 8 affiliates. It only took him a few phone calls and already he's earning from their sales. We'll be writing him a good check at the first of the month. His short term goal is also 1000 affiliates.

We know there are thousands of realtors out there who are earning dollars by the bushel. Our program is not for them....but there are hungry realtors who want to earn more, have the connections to earn more......but through lack of action are stuck in a rut. It will be a lean Xmas for them. Success in our program is only limited by enthusiasm and imagination.

If you have the drive to earn more, see our website at www.Ameri-Plates.com, then write to me at info@primelinx.com about joining our affiliate program. See my previous blog on this subject HERE.

Making new friends and expanding our reach..

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 15:11:26 -0600

PrimeLinx Ameri-Plates has embarked on a new program to add 1,000 new affiliates to our marketing program. Being part of our group is a great way to add something special for your website visitors.

Our banner will heighten interest in your website....and best of all you'll earn a substantial commission on every sale.

Our marketing program is absolutley FREE to join and there are no strings attached. Here's what we offer to you.

- A banner for your home page

- A website link which is carried on our server, so there is no bandwidth loss to you.

- A secure online ordering system dedicated exclusively to you. You name will appear on every order received by us for easy ID.

- A check mailed directly to you on the first day of each month based on sales.

- PrimeLinx handles all manufacture, delivery and customer service.

Contact us at:

info@primelinx.com

www.Ameri-Plates.com

Be part of the Ameri-Plates system. It's easy and it's FREE.

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:55:27 -0600

PrimeLinx Ameri-Plates has embarked on a new program to add 1,000 new affiliates to our marketing program. Being part of our group a great way to add something special for your website visitors. Including our banner will heighten interest in your website....and best of all you'll earn a substantial commission on every sale.

Our marketing program is absolutley FREE to join and there are no strings attached. Here's what we offer to you.

- A banner for your home page

- A website link which is carried on our server, so there is no bandwidth loss to you.

- A secure online ordering system dedicated exclusively to you. You name will appear on every order received by us for easy ID.

- A check mailed directly to you on the first day of each month based on sales.

- PrimeLinx handles all manufacture, delivery and customer service.

Contact us at:

info@primelinx.com

www.Ameri-Plates.com

Start with the impression that your website sucks...and find ways to improve!

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 10:28:56 -0600

Take a critical look at your website.

Statistics show about 85% of buyers make the web their first stop when looking to purchase. Getting people your website is vital to your success. That goes without saying....but there's something you must do before you even think about inviting potential customers to your site.

You wouldn't dream of inviting guests to your home without clearing away all the clutter that's mounded up in day to day living. Why would you invite clients to your site, only to view a cluttered mess?

Have a good look at your website to make sure it's easy to navigate and understand. Clear away all distractions that spin, go wherrrrrrrr and buzz. Make your website neat as a pin, super easy to understand and free of turn offs.

Just like at election time....the public usually doesn't vote for those whom they like.....but rather votes against those they don't like. The least offensive is often the winner. Eliminate turn-offs from your website.

Rule #1.... Spic and span website...easy to navigate and not offensive.

Rule #2.... You wouldn't invite guests to your home and spend all your time talking about yourself. It's doubtful many guests would accept your invitation if that were the case. But yet......many websites do exactly that.

Buyers don't give a Sweet Fanny Adam about you, your spouse, your dog, your kindness and goodness....or any other useless self serving trivia that is spewed at them. They care only about their own personal needs and what can be done to help them.

The words "I, ME, WE, US, OUR" etc. should receive very little play in your website. Concentrate on "YOU, YOUR" a lot more. Make your website speak directly to your client and his/her needs.

Rule #3.... Just as when inviting guests to your home make your website inviting. Make photos crisp with clear home descriptions and information. Lay them out in an orderly fashion that allows the visitor to go from listing to listing and receive the kind of info that's useful to them. Make every photo a treat for the eye and don't hide homes behind trees and shrubs. Remove cars from the driveway before taking your picture. Good photo taking is an art....learn the skill.

Lastly.... Create "sticky" in your website. Sticky is that certain something that entices your visitor to hang around, browse your website thoroughly and return again and again. Find ways to lead your visitor past the first page to delve deeper into your site. The best way to encourage visitors to go to the next page of your site is to ask them to do it. This may include adding a blog, tips and ideas, a mortgage calculator, video etc..

You have about 3 seconds to make a good impression before your visitor is gone forever. Make your website a work of art....but always with the client in mind first.

Thanks. Sincerely, David

www.TailGateTags.com

No sales again this week??? How often to you need to hear the answer until you order.

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 09:02:31 -0600

We've been selling a lot of TailGateTags this week to Realtors. Not sure why. It seems sales are consistent, but to different market demographics every week.

For example, last week the majority of TailGateTags went to hair dressers.. The week before the majority of sales went to insurance agents and website designers. This month most orders went to Netherlands.

If you haven't ordered your TailgateTags yet....please do so. If you want more recognition listen to what others are telling you about their TailGateTags experience. Here's another endorsement. This one is from Realtor Barbara Holbein. www.heavnlehomes.com

"I want to express to you the tremendous response that I have had from TailGateTags for my Real Estate Business. I have never invested in anything that has given me more results in my business, looks classy and a perfect way for people to open a conversation with us about real estate. Thank you for providing such a quality advertising tool. We like this so much that we have members of our team using them as well."

These TailGateTags endorsements come from real people just like you who are getting the daily benefits of TailGateTags.

Realtor Kelly Frank says ordering TailgateTags was the best business decision she ever made. She highly recommends them.

Order your TailGateTags today and start getting the recognition.....and response you deserve.

Here's the website.. Click on the blue. www.TailGateTags.com

TailgateTags are tax deductable.

ActiveRain too busy for my taste....

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:54:12 -0600

Bloggers may be the victim of ActiveRain's success.

Have you noticed that your blog is remaining on the main blog page of ActiveRain for shorter and shorter periods of time?

Seems like I post a blog and almost immediatly it's 3 down the list from the top. In another 5 minutes it's gone completely from the main page.

Unless the blog is read immediatly the chances of it being seen are reduced quickly by a newer blog taking it's place in the rotation. This forces readers to go searching in secondary AR locations.

The result is fewer and fewer readers ever see my blogs. The same is probably true for you.

Believe it or not, it actually takes longer to write a blog than the time it appears on the front blog page. IT'S NOT THE FAULT OF ACTIVE RAIN! As mentioned earlier, AR bloggers and blog readers are the victim of AR's popularity. It's hard to blame AR for being popular.

For this reason and this reason alone, I'm concentrating my blogging efforts on other blogging websites that are not as popular, but where my blogs are read by more people because they remain on the front page much longer. Many of these other blogging websites also offer more features that can be added to enhance the blog.

I'll continue to write blogs on ActiveRain occasionally.

Thanks. Sincerely, David

Making a lasting tasteful impression

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 09:40:07 -0600

Developing a special one to one relationship with clients is what good business practice is all about. Servicing customer needs and creating a campaign which works for their unique circumstance has been the key element to Ameri-Plates success over the years.

It's humbling to know how many good friends we've made through our product and our blogs. A golden rule around here is to check back with customers after the sale to insure complete happiness. That's one reason why so many Realtors return again and again to Ameri-Plates and recommend them to their friends.

Liz Chapman of Paradise, CA is a steady customer.

"I have been using PrimeLinx plates with my web address , http://LiznParadise.com, for 5 years. I have repurchased several as I have changed vehicles and PrimeLinx Ameri-Plates have always been prompt and the customer service is extremely helpful and cooperative. Being in Real Estate, it is important to have name recognition in my working area and this is an inexpensive and effective way of getting my name out there to potential clients. I am happy to endorse their products."

Another California client Debbie Ferrari, of San Clemente credits $50,000 in new commissions over the years directly to her Ameri-Plates. These are extra commissions she's aware of. Who knows how many more Ameri-Plates sales came about that she's not aware of. People see the Ameri-Plates message and tell their friends.

When you're ready for more sales and recognition I hope you'll remember Ameri-Plates are on your side as well.

Click on the blue.. www.Ameri-Plates.com 1-888-847-9212

Save a little something for the end...

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:07:35 -0600

Grabbing customer attention is important....but keeping that attention is even more important. Once you have your customer's attention save a little mystery and suspense that will keep them coming back for more.

Don't impress them with everything you know about real estate all at once. It's one thing to be knowledgeable about your profession......and quite another to over-impress with a lecture. It's a little like watching an Agatha Christy murder mystery.. The clues are revealed a little at a time to peak your curiosity and imagination....and keep you hanging on wanting to know more.

No one would watch a mystery movie in reverse where the plot is revealed and the who-dun-it character was exposed right off the top. Always save a little something to keep the interest peaked and as in the movie reserve the best for last at the closing.

By the way.... Colonel Mustard did it in the parlor with the pipe wrench...

OH RATS!!! I just gave away the punch line.

Thanks. Sincerely, David

www.TailGateTags.com

Like a good mystery....Keep them on the edge of their seats wanting more.

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:01:52 -0600

Don't impress them with everything you know about real estate all at once. It's one thing to be knowledgeable about your profession......and quite another to over-impress with a lecture.

It's a little like watching an Agatha Christy murder mystery.. The clues are revealed a little at a time to peak your curiosity and imagination....and keep you hanging on wanting to know more.

No one would watch a mystery movie in reverse where the plot is revealed and the who-dun-it character was exposed right off the top.

Always save a little something to keep the interest peaked and as in the movie reserve the best for last at the closing.

By the way.... Colonel Mustard did it in the parlor with the pipe wrench...

OH RATS!!! I just gave away the punch line.

Thanks. Sincerely, David

www.TailGateTags.com

Capture or induce emotion. You'll sell more real estate.

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 10:39:16 -0600

Do you remember back when you were a teenager that classic automobile you just had to own....or that special dress you coveted so much? That was your emotion talking to you.

If you've ever watched bidders at an auction sale get carried away over something being sold, or taken a spur of the moment get-away with your spouse.....that was emotion again. You've seen on TV the long line ups outside an electronics store for the first offering of the latest electronic what's it. Some people camp out all night just to be first in line. That's emotion.

We all say to ourselves that we're smarter than that....but think back and you'll recall many moments when emotion played the deciding roll in your purchasing decision.

It's emotion that drives nearly everything we do. Logic and reason may only play a small part in our buying habits.

Emotion is that overpowering drive to own something that twigs our imagination and tugs at our sensibilities.

It's like that for home buyers as well. Everyone has their dream home in mind....and it may have nothing to do with anything but their own personal vision. During more affluent real estate times there were often bidding wars among prospective buyers which far exceeded the seller's asking price. The reason behind the bidding was based on pure emotion.

The question is how to you plug into your client's emotions to know exactly what they want.

The short answer is listening carefully and studying body language. Usually the main motivator in the buying process is either the husband or the wife. Decide which one you have to win over....and show them a property which exactly meets their emotional demands.

Hard facts are facts....but hard facts are hard and cold on the sensibilities and don't always sell. However, if you can capture someone's heart and tug at their emotions you'll have a better chance of closing a sale. Once you've learned your client's emotional requirements....paint a picture in their mind that meets their emotional desires and is impossible to resist.

- Keep the tone of your engagement with customers light. Smile a lot and share some humor with your clients.

- Discover the impact of color in your marketing. (This is a study by its self.) Color does matter.

The worst thing you can do is create blandness and incite no sense of passion or emotion in your client's mind.

Good luck.

Thanks. Sincerely, David

www.TailGateTags.com

Opportunities can come at anytime

David W. Langford (PrimeLinx.com) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 10:39:22 -0600

I had a meeting yesterday in one of Detroit's better suburbs with a new affiliate joining our marketing program. As we sat talking and enjoying our coffee coffee in a nice little cafe I couldn't help but notice most coffee sippers surrounding us were working on their lap top computers. There must have been at least a dozen people plugged in and typing away.

It was clearly a place where people came to enjoy a coffee and work through their break. Immediatley the lights went on in by brain. I asked the manager if it was common to have so many people with lap top computers working in his cafe. "Yes," he replied. "It's like this every day, and the clientele turns over often."

As we spoke I suggested locating a small tasteful sign in a plastic holder on each table promoting Amer-Plates to his clientele. The sign would require a maximum of 9 square inches of table space and the cafe would receive a payment for each Ameri-plate sold. He instantly liked the idea.

The idea is a good one because the message is taken directly to target customers who have the means to view Ameri-Plates online through their computer, read the advantages in our website and order right from the cafe.

The moral of the story is to look for opportunities where you find them. There may be similar opportunites for real estate sales, such as placing your small sign or business cards in places where you regularly do business. E.G.....The beauty parlor, barber shop, local restaurant, hardware store, grocery store etc...

If you're giving your business to a local retailer, it may be only right to ask them for help in promoting your business. One hand washes the other. Give it a try...... The most the retailer can say is "NO!"

Someone is always looking to buy or sell a home and I can't think of anyplace where there's more chatter than in a beauty parlor or barbershop. Ask barbers or hair dressers to mention your name should the subject of real estate come up. It may be a good idea to stop in quickly at every barbershop and beauty parlor you see in your travels around town to get acquainted. Emulate a politician running for election. Let everyone know who you are and leave a small stack of business cards.

Sometime opportunities are found in the most unlikely places. Keep your mind open.

Thanks. Sincerely, David