Why NOW may be your last opportunity to stop renting - 01/30/09 07:28 AM
The "economic stimulus" package is expected to add massive growth to one employer, the Federal government, but not much more immediate relief for our ailing country.  So, if you've got a job, it's better to get a mortgage while you're still employed as that may not even be an option if you're out of work.  For those who are currently renting, purchase a moderate house that is within your current means and worry about being jobless later-if and when it happens.  The simple fact is that whether or not you have gainful employment, you need to keep a roof over the … (0 comments)

Real Estate Mergers in Hampton Roads - 01/21/09 01:21 PM
For those who didn't hear the news in the past few days, GSH and two Prudential franchises merged to form a new real estate company in Hampton Roads.  For many of us, this isn't a surprise.  In fact, we not only predicted this merger, but also that mergers will continue as industry consolidation squeezes out the smaller competitors.  It really shouldn't be a surprise to anyone, since we've witnessed consolidation in most other industries.
The big question is, who will be next to go?  I have my theories, but should likely hold my thoughts for private conversations and not post them … (2 comments)

Whizbangs and Whatzits - the next big thing is waiting in your INBOX - 01/06/09 04:07 PM
I saw a post on AR from an agent who was swindled on an advertising scam.
I have noticed an increase in advertising claims and it's irritated me enough to say something.  It's a simple fact that most agents do not have their MBA in Marketing or a technology related field.  In fact, most agents don't have their MBA and might not even have ever taken a business course outside of industry specific courses explicitly presented for agents.  True, most agents have someone to turn to, whether it's a broker, team leader, or peers, but as agents, our email addresses are for … (6 comments)

We Just Got Ripped Off By The Real Estate Home Show On Direct TV - 01/06/09 03:11 PM
Although paying with credit cards might provide an extra level of comfort and a paper trail for authorities to follow, I think we're going to see more questionable practices as marketers scramble to get our advertising dollars.
I hope this works out well in the end, but am glad we have a community like AR to share experiences and hopefully avoid pitfalls.
Via Nestor & Katerina Gasset Realtors® Wellington Florida Luxury Homes (International Properties and Investments, Inc.):
I hope no one else got ripped off but we did. There goes that bad taste in my mouth for paying for marketing these days unless … (0 comments)

Have you ever considered renting it out? - 01/05/09 08:54 PM
I was at a party recently, listening to a guy I just met complain that his vacant house hadn't sold, so I asked the obvious question.  You see, I enjoy property management and include it as a core competency and revenue stream in my business plan.  Turns out he had tried renting it out a few times over the past several years with dismal results.  "Oh," I replied, "who did you have managing it?"  His response, a somber, "I did it myself."  All I could say was, "I think I found the problem."
In a market like we've got now, it's … (3 comments)

Off to a great start in 2009 - 01/02/09 05:35 PM
Well, 2009 is going to be a fantastic year in real estate.  In fact, there will be more millionaires made in real estate in the next decade than currently exist in the country.
Why is it such a great time to buy?  Selection is plentiful and prices are reasonable.  A good agent can identify the housing values in any market, but with so many more now, ANY agent should be able to.  If you're considering a purchase for investment or personal use (either as primary or vacation home), I highly recommend you get your financing in line now and start your search … (0 comments)