Karen's Ocean State Blog

Sharing Live Video from your Phone, What's next?

2008-09-19T09:01:29Z

For all you techies out there.

I am not a techie but I do know a good concept when I see one. And new concepts excite me. I am always on the lookout for the next great internet happening. Some are useful and some are, well just plain dumb. I always try to look at them as "How can I use this technology in my Real Estate business"?

On Twitter, if you like, you can send a "live" photo from your phone. Maybe some of you already know about this.

Even better on QIK you can send a live video from your phone!

Think of the possibilities of sending a live video of something happening and it gets around the world in an instant!

Social networking has reached a new level. I found this (QIK) by surfing through Ecademy, another networking site. I was speaking to someone from Brussels last night who was planning a Chocolate tasting event in Brussels! But that's a whole different post for another time.

Check it out for yourself at QIK

Yes you will need to sign up and join to send videos, but you can view them without signing up.

Let me know what you think.

It's Free, It's Fun, It's Your Credit Report?

2008-08-14T21:32:36Z

A great explanation about your credit report, how to get it and what to do to repair it, by Jason Sardi of PA.

Via Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker:

To say your credit history & score is HUGE these days may be a borderline understatement. For purposes of my experience, I'll concentrate on how credit relates to getting a mortgage to buy a home or trying to refinance the one you currently own.

Talking about credit is about as much fun as chewing broken glass while watching Yanni's latest video on VH1, at least to most. Even for the most severe masochists or staunchest Yanni advocators, it's probably not a subject full of brim excitement.

So, I'll try to make this concise and simple. Educating yourself and working with professionals who can guide you along the way, to make sure your credit is worthy of a three course meal at the White House, is crucial. I'm not just talking about those whose credit is in the crapper. I'm also writing to folks whose credit may be moderate or maybe you've never made a late payment in your life but your score is low. The Credit Reporting Industry is wagging the dog, forget about whining... work and know the system.

Here are a few tips & quips:

* Get a copy of your Credit Report. It may not provide your actual credit score, but at least you can verify the accuracy of the information on your report. I've included information below that you can utilize to do this. Quick thing here, credit modules differ within industries. For example, the credit report a mortgage company pulls may differ from that of the institution giving you a car loan or credit card. Mortgage folks weigh heavy on student loans and car loans and even heavier on your Mortgage History, provided you have one.

* Communication is key with your credit. If you are experiencing rough financial times, call them before they WILL call you. Let your creditors know what is going on. It probably won't stop them from reporting you late to the credit agencies, but it probably will provide you one less of a headache. That's what life's all about... avoiding headaches:-)

* The only thing that may be just as bad or even worse than credit overload, is no credit at all. Establish yourself in the creditor's eyes. If you have no credit, get secured credit that reports to all three credit reporting agencies. This may mean making a deposit at your bank and taking out a loan against it or pre-paying on a credit card. If you are doing the latter, use that credit card and pay it off it off regularly.

...if you have a bankruptcy or foreclosure in your past, establishing 12-24 months worth of a good credit is absolutely crucial!

* Oh, those credit cards. I'll put it bluntly, the bigger the differential between what your current balance is and what your available balance is, the better for your Credit Score. Don't be afraid to call your credit card company and ask them to raise your available balance. Don't use it, just have it there to improve your credit standing and score.

...sidenote on credit cards. Don't be afraid to call your current credit holders and ask them to lower your interest rate. If the first person you talk to can't or won't, ask to speak with a manager. If unsuccessful in that endeavor, call back at a later date. Be persistent & professional in your efforts. Lowering your rate even the slightest bit can save you some serious money now and down the road.

* Pay your bills on time. Yeah, I know, this is a no-brainer to most. Yet, it doesn't report late to the credit bureaus until you fall 30 days late. Try to make sure you don't get 30 days late on anything. Sure, you may incur late fees if you are even a day behind on some credit, though Mortgage Companies typically give you a 15-day grace period before you incur any late fees. From my experience, make sure your mortgage/rent is paid on time first, then student & car loans, then credit cards. If you are a renter...

...pay your rent by check and keep copies of your canceled checks. Twelve months worth will do (pay month by month, pre-paid bulk payments won't do you any favors...create a consistent history). This establishes a housing history. While it doesn't do anything positive for your credit, it does wonders when you apply to buy a home.

* Settle delinquent accounts for pennies on the dollar. If you owe the International Bank of Jason Sardi a cool $5,000.00 and your account is charged off, you should call to arrange a settlement once it goes to collections. Often times, you can come to an agreement for a lump sum of $2,500.00 or less and you may even be able to work out a payment plan. Either case, make sure you pay that account satisfactory and get the paperwork of the agreement and the final pay-off to prove it. Paying off delinquent accounts will probably drop your score at first, but will do wonders for your score down the road (provided you keep paying everything else on time).

* Avoid 'Hard' Inquiries. Your current creditors may check your credit, but that is considered a 'Soft' inquiry and shouldn't affect your credit score. Yet, if you are applying for credit out the behind, those inquiries can adversely affect your score. It raises the red flag that you may be on your way to becoming credit dependent. Psychologically speaking, never give them that drift, make them know that their livelihood depends on you... not the other way around.

* Credit Restoration Companies may be able to help but avoid anything that says, "Consumer Credit Counseling." CCS is considered a form of bankruptcy in many lenders eyes and their ability to pay your debts at a 'consolidated interest rate & lower payment' is suspect and often times worsens the situation. On the other hand, I've only witnessed one Credit Restoration Company worth its weight in the seven years I've been traveling this gig. There may be and probably are more, but I've only witnessed one. If you want more info, contact me. Always remember though, you can do everything to make sure your credit is at it's best, yourself... it's a matter of being educated and persistence in your efforts. That takes time. Though time is a commodity not all of us have.

Below is info on the reporting agencies that you should contact to get started. Even if you have an above average credit score, you'll pay more than you should if your credit score is even 20 points lower than the next guy or gal. Save yourself money, put in the time and seek out the Mortgage Professionals to ensure that time is well spent. Your credit is crucial... our knowledge of the industry and mechanics involved... can save you money and fulfill your dreams of home-ownership. If you already are a homeowner, we can help you get on the path to make finances one less worry in this life.

Equifax

P.O. Box 740241

Atlanta, GA 30374

1-800-685-1111

www.equifax.com

TransUnion

P.O. Box 2000

Chester, PA 19022-2000

1-800-916-8800

www.transunion.com

Experian

P.O. Box 2104

Allen, TX 75013

1-888-397-3742

www.experian.com

Bear in mind, at this point, you're entitled to one free credit report a year. Or, and I'd personally recommend this, you can get the whole batch which is simply called the 'Annual Credit Report Request Form.' That's free as well! The following sites will lead you in the right direction:

http://ftc.gov/credit

www.annualcreditreport.com

The bottom line in all this, the status of your credit can either cost or save you money. Which option sounds better to you?

390 New York Avenue, Providence, Rhode Island Single family home for sale!

2008-07-29T10:15:21Z

Large families!! Do not miss this excellent opportunity to own your own home at an unheard of price!

Yard is fenced on a semi-corner lot. Basement is partially finished with a bath. Ultra large rooms for the space a big family needs.

*Near Rhode Island hospital. Buy now and rent out rooms to pay your mortgage*

Particulars:

Bank owned foreclosure will sell As Is
All offers must be accompanied by proof of funds or prequalification letter
Total sf is 1719
Yards is 3,200 with paved rear and plenty of parking
Vinyl Sided, newer roof
Newer updated windows throughout
Kitchen, 1/2 bath, dining, parlor and den all on first floor fully carpeted
Second floor has four beds, and full bath
Attic could be expanded.
Basement recently redone with bath
Kitchen needs minor updating

Priced for Quick Sale at $100,000!!!!

Call your Realtor or email Karenhurst@rihome.net

55 Wollaston Street, Cranston, Rhode Island Multifamily Home for Sale

2008-07-29T10:00:32Z

Are you looking for a Multi family for an investment? This home is in a wonderfully quiet neighborhood, with highway access. There is a nice garage and a small fenced in rear yard. A front porch is an added bonus!

Particulars:

Bank owned foreclosure will be sold As Is
All offers must be submitted with Prequalification letter or Proof of funds
First floor consists of one bedroom, bath, double parlor, kitchen, rear deck and porch
Second floor consists of two beds, parlor, bath, kitchen
Small fenced in yard in rear
Two car detached garage (left side has been converted into a room)
Separated stalls in basement for separate tenants
First floor is gas, second is oil
Full basement
Total building sf is 1990
Yard sf is 4,000
Vinyl sided

A couple more photos:

This home needs only your personal touch! Offered at $259,000.

Call your Realtor or email Karenhurst@rihome.net

285 Lakeshore Drive, Warwick, Rhode Island Home for Sale

2008-07-29T09:45:04Z

You will not find a home for much less in the Lakeshore Drive area. This is an older Beach cottage which needs your vision and decorative touch!

There is a view of the Lake from the front windows which could be improved by adding some larger windows, a deck on top. Be creative! A fairly good sized fenced in yard and a full basement make this home a good investment while prices are still low!

Particulars:

Bank owned, foreclosed and will be sold As Is
Prequalification letter or Proof of funds must be submitted with All offers
Assessed by City of Warwick as two beds, one bath, full basement
Fenced in yard with patio
View of lake
700sf
Yard is 4,103sf
Vinyl siding and newer roof
Stone fireplace
Gas, forced air heating system
Interior needs either updating or re-design to suit your needs

Incredibly priced at $69,900! Even in this market, finding a home in Warwick, Rhode Island which is also in a nice neighborhood, this is a great price!

Call your Realtor or email me at Karenhurst@rihome.net

38 Largo Road, Warwick Rhode Island Home for Sale

2008-07-29T09:33:17Z

Are you looking for a great deal on a foreclosure in Warwick, Rhode Island.

This home is in the Greenwood section of Warwick, just off Strawberry Field Road, near the airport. There is a fairly large fenced backyard with a shed and nice swingset. Easy to maintain home in a quiet neighborhood.

Particulars.

Bank owned, selling As Is.
Need to be prequalified or Proof of funds to submit an offer
Two beds, one bath, Living Room, breezeway, garage
Partially finished basement
1,088sf
Yard is 7000sf
large deck in rear
Needs some work. Kitchen cupboards need to be replaced. Some minor rot in front, near garage. Could use some updated windows.

Your vision and sweat equity can make this a wonderful home! Reasonably priced at $158,650.00.

Call your Realtor or email Karenhurst@rihome.net for a showing.

The new Real Estate Agent

2008-04-02T12:14:45Z

Are you just starting out in Real Estate?

Here is a list of items and important things you need to know before you get going.

Whether you are planning to work part time or full time, or whomever you decide to work for, you need to have an arsenal of tools in today's Real Estate World.

There is a book, Your first year in Real Estate, making the transistion... that you should all read.

Another good starter book is "21 things I wish my broker had told me"

And of course, the highly rated Millionaire Real Estate Agent. (Whether or not you work for Keller Williams, this is still a great read. "It's not about the money, it's about being the best that you can be!"

As you get going, I would also suggest the E-Myth and all the subsequent E-Myth Books.

As mentioned below by Stacie Colclasure, Jennifer Alans Selling with Soul, an excellent book!

Finally, any of these books or CD's on the Art of Negotiating. I still keep mine in my car to listen to and remind myself.

The above books will get you started on your road to knowledge in Real Estate. There are zillions of other books, but so as not to get information overload, just stick with a few.

Next, you will need most of the following:

Laptop (preferably with wireless capabilities)
Good cell phone (preferably with internet access)
Signs for listings and riders (with your cell phone number)
Be a member of all Real Estate Associations in your area
An office (or comfortable place where you can easily manage your business)
Good printer, scanner, fax and copy machine
Folders (for buyers, for sellers)
A good planning system. You can start with what works for you. (as you get rolling you may want to look into different software that you can use) Meanwhile, you are on a shoestring.
Business Cards (These are a must. I recommend Prints Made Easy, they are reasonable, fast and you can design your own if you like. You can also save your artwork for when you want postcards and letterhead, etc.
Calculator (and no need for a Real Estate Calculator, see Karen Rice's comment)
Filing cabinets
Password software
Blogging platform (we will discuss this in a later post)
SOI (Sphere of influence) Neatly typed somewhere...Outlook, Excel Database, anywhere you can easily access it to contact all your friends, family, clients, doctors, lawyers, paper person, landscaper, any one who you come in contact with.
Digital camera, flashlight and hammer (see Monika McGuillicuddy's comment)
50-foot tape measure (see Margaret Woda's comment) (although may be non essential)
Mace or pepper spray (see Donna Yates comment) Very essential!!!!
Lastly, but most importantly. You will need a minimum of six months income set aside if you are starting Full Time. (This will also be discussed in a future blog)

These are the basic startup essentials. Feel free to leave ideas and I will incorporate them into this post or a future post.

Lil Warwick Neck General Store

2008-02-28T16:57:01Z

If you live in the Warwick Neck Area, you may have already heard of or been into the Lil Warwick Neck Store.

Located on Warwick Neck Avenue, just before the turn off to the boat yards, it has reopened in the past year as a neighborhood deli with cozy little tables and chairs to sit and eat.

You can pick up your staples, like milk, bread and water. (Every New Englanders snowstorm package). Or, you can grab a quick bite to eat.

They have homemade dinners and lunches, a small deli counter, soda, candy, etc.

This little store has the ambiance of an old country store. If you are a boater, the Lil Warwick Neck Store would be the perfect place to pick up your snacks, lunches and dinners. They have just about everything you will need for a day on the water!

The menu is usually different when I stop in, but I have seen some wonderful homemade pies.

If your looking for a cute place right in the neighborhood, this is the place to go!

Warwick Neck General is owned and operated as a mom and pop enterprise. Let's show our appreciation!

TMOBILE WING A review

2008-02-27T08:49:04Z

Let me preface this by telling you I am not a totally techie person.

I like things simple and easy to understand. I need the sounds on my phone to be loud enough to hear.

However, I also need total Internet Access at all times. No I am not addicted to the Internet. I am a businesswoman who believes in returning her phone calls and emails as soon as possible.

I also need access to the Internet for different programs I use daily to conduct my Real Estate business.

With this in mind, I started searching all the different Smartphones and pda's out there. For me, I wanted an all in one solution that would efficiently handle all my tasks.

I had narrowed it down to the Blackberry Curve and the TMobile Wing.

The main differences, for me, were:

The keyboard was way too tiny for my fingers.
The blackberry did not have the same operating system as the Wing which comes with Windows Mobile 6
The Internet access was different from the way I was accustomed.

I searched online and went to a TMobile superstore. It appeared that they seemed to "push" the Blackberry. I have read many rave reviews about the Blackberry but as stated above, I had my own personal reasons for choosing the Wing.

What are the specs?

quad-band GSM/EDGE support
802.11g Wi-Fi
2.8″ touch screen display
slide-out, 40-key QWERTY keyboard
Windows Mobile 6 Professional operating system
Internet Explorer,
Microsoft Office Mobile with Word, Excel, and PowerPoint,
and support for AOL, Yahoo, Windows Live and ICQ Instant messaging
Can connect to Internet email....my most important requirement!
Considered large, but great size for me!
And last but not least, the ability to write with a stylus little notes, like to do lists.
Voice recording does everything and also saves as a note. This is a great tool for someone with a poor memory!
I can now get my bpos while I am out on the road which will pay for this very quickly

Also, the total Internet access with TMobile is only $19.99!

I am very happy with my choice. I was originally looking at the IPhone cause it was pretty.

No, I am not typing this from my Wing, but I could, if I had the time. It does everything my laptop does and more!

Now I need to buy an sdmicro card for more memory

I absolutely love it and I am still figuring out the video and song download features!

Hidden gem in the Rain ~ Barbara Charlton

2008-02-06T15:25:10Z

As many of you know, Melissa Grant started the hidden gem series to challenge members to find people here in the Rain that may have gone unnoticed due to the sheer amount of new members joining daily. You can also join her group Blast from the past and read about the other Hidden Gems in the Rain. Please read Hidden Gems in the Rain because it also has the instructions for posting. They are retyped at the bottom of this post.

The way it works is someone must "tag" you to write about a Hidden Gem. I have been tagged by Deb Brooks who wrote a post about Rebecca Savitski

I tend to read a lot of new to Active Rain posts, but this is not where I chose to look because usually they are still leaning how to navigate the site. I had to delve a little deeper. What I did was go back about three to four months and check out the ones that had blogs. And read, and read and read.....

This was a lot more time consuming than I had imagined originally. I did notice the amount of people who simply sign up and do not even create a blog at all. Here is my choice. Someone who started in late 07 but did not post until January 08 and does not mention that she is new. Lets all welcome her to Active Rain! Barbara appears to already have the basics of a great blogger and I look forward to reading more.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hidden Gem

Barbara Charlton and her first post How Virtual are you Really? from Lakeville, Mn.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My choices for finding hidden gems are Jo Anne Smith, who in case you have never read her articles is by far one of the top 10 writers here in Active Rain. I will be interested to see who she finds

And Secondly Jason Crouch Jason has come a long way in Active Rain and is now a moderator for several groups, blogs consistently and well. I wonder whom he will choose?

Go find yourself a "Hidden Gem" in the Rain....a post or member that was not recognized that you feel should be

Write a post about why you chose your particular member and/or post include a link to their blog in your post and pick 2 other members to do the same as you...

Your headline should include " Hidden Gem in the Rain "

Post it to Blast from the past ! and Active Rain Newbies and any other groups you feel would fit the guidelines for this ( if not a member please join we have good stuff going on in there :) ) Blast from the past !

Send a quick email with a link to the post you have written to the members telling them what you have done and that it's their turn to do the same..and give back in the rain...as well as your "chosen" member to find another gem

As the post's start rolling in on "Hidden Gems" you may want to include a link in the comment section to other post's...this will also help some along.

Dear John Buyer.....I still love you but.............

2008-01-24T18:16:52Z

I am writing to you today to tell you that while I really enjoyed working with you for a full year, I have come to the conclusion that you and I are not compatible.

When we first met, you were so excited and so was I. It was a new relationship and we had the whole world of homes ahead of us! We giddily entered into a contract and I think we both expected great results.

Well, as these things happen, you did not live up to your side of the contract! You were supposed to be a Qualified Buyer! You were supposed to make Reasonable Offers! You commited to me and wanted my opinions, now you say your opinions are the only opinions!

We looked at so many homes together! Traipsing through dark and dinghy basements, freezing together, discussing fix up options. Canceling many of my weekend plans just to be with you. It was great!

Yes, I was pre warned about you. I was told that you would "suck the life" out of me, but I was in love!! I didn't listen!

I should have noticed, in the beginning, when your first offer was so low, but I didn't. I thought you were just testing the market. I thought, when I told you that your offer may be somewhat ignored, that you were just trying to exert your own opinion and I submitted to your feelings. After all, you are my client and you have opinions!

After the fourth lowball offer, I started feeling a little used. What were you thinking? Why weren't you listening to me?

After the third Qualifying mortgage broker letter came, I started thinking, hmmmm? What's up with this? I was a little taken aback, when you were not working and now had no Qualifying letter!

Still, I trudged on, sending you new homes to look at, submitting your offers, meeting your family, becoming an integral part of your life. Trusting you!

All good things must come to an end and this is the end for us.

I really hope you find what you are looking for, but I don't think it was a house! Take care and best of luck.

Sincerely,

Your Ex-Buyer Rep

A Simple Holiday Wish

2007-12-23T12:40:30Z

The next few weeks are very busy for most of us and I wanted to take this moment to wish all my Clients, friends, family and fellow bloggers a Peaceful Holiday Season and a Prosperous and Healthy New Year.

I would also like to give a heartfelt thanks to the Newbie Group Moderators for their unfailing humor and thoughtfulness. I am so grateful to be able to count on them to keep the group fairly clean and informative. This group has morphed into the size of Active Rain when I first joined! There was no way I would have been able to contend with the daily posts all by myself!

If not for them, this group would have gone by the wayside and not been the informational, friendly and inspiring group it has become. Thankyou guys!

To all Realtors, Mortgage persons, Inspectors, RE Virtual Assistants, RE lawyers, Title persons.

Next year we will all start anew, just like all other occupations. Problems will arise, money issues, health issues, disagreements will all still be there. This is life! If each of us gives our all to our profession, we can turn the media around and by domino effect, turn the public perception around.

Real Estate is alive and well! I think a key part of being in Real Estate is the ability to change easily. The same goes for living. We all need to be able to adapt quickly and be aware of the changes as they come. One thing I have certainly learned in life is that change always comes. Nothing is forever.

In parting, my simple wish is for you to live in the moment and prepare for the future. Don't look back until you are in your rocking chair. Save those memories for later, live now.

To all the Active Rain Community, friend or foe, my wish for you is Peace and Prosperity and Health!

Are you good at Reading people?

2007-12-04T16:52:43Z

I have always been a very good judge of people. Until I got into Real Estate, that is. I don't know if it was because of intuition or not, but lately, my judgement seems to have waned.

In this business we meet all kinds of characters. What I have been finding is that many of them lie, outright, staring you in the eyes while they do it. When someone is telling you something, your brain immediately assesses whether or not it is the truth. You use all your experiences, gut feelings, etc. to come to the conclusion of true or false. You use what you know about the other person to decide where they are coming from. Sometimes you know in your gut that they are not being honest, but you are not in a position to call them on it.

In Real Estate, we have to assess people very quickly. What we don't get to see is the "other side". We also do not get to see the other side of people here on Active Rain or in any other blogging venue. (Well on occasion, we do), but for the most part, people write the way they want us to perceive them.

And they write what they want us to know. Or what they want us to buy!

So, how do you judge? What criteria do you use? In person, you have to rely on your gut, but when you are reading the written word, what do you rely on? I have seen people lie. I have read posts and many comments that were blatant untruths. I have seen many readers believe these things.

I have spoken with buyers and had them outright lie. Why? What purpose does it possibly serve? I am representing you, I need the truth, or I cannot do it properly.

I guess what I am really asking, is, how do "you" tell when someone is not telling you the truth?

Where do you Rank in Sales?

2007-12-02T09:07:14Z

I read an article in the Providence Journal yesterday regarding MLS agents in Rhode Island and the measurement of their sales. A side is considered each end of a transaction, ie, Listing side and buying side. If you listed and sold the same property you have two sides.

This article breaks down by percentages how many sides are completed by each agent. The article was mostly referring to the difference between new agents (this year) and more experienced agents, however it gives a good synopis of probability of sales.

•36.24 percent had no sides

•38.51 percent had 1 to 4 sides

•16.4 percent had 5 to 10 sides

•8.85 percent had 11 or more sides

Keep in mind that these are Rhode Island statistics and may vary in other states, yet will give you an idea where you rank in sales.

From these statistics, we can narrow down to 75% 4 sides or under and 25% 5 sides and over.

Image from Beacon Learning Center. Article from Projo.com

Chelo's on the Bay .... One of my favorite Restaurants

2007-11-13T14:23:18Z

Chelos by the Bay is the place that we all go when we want to either have a great, inexpensive meal by the bay, or sit and have a few cocktails by the bay. On a Friday or Saturday night in the summer one can be seated outside and listen to some great entertainers while watching the boats coming in and out. Or you can dance or just sit on the sidelines soaking up the atmosphere.

The parking lot at Chelos by the Bay is adjacent to Basset's Boat and down the road is Brewers Harbor, all located on Masthead Drive in East Greenwich, RI, just a short distance from Warwick.

The food is simple, yet very satisfying. If you are planning an event, this is also a great place to do it.

Click here to go to the Chelos website and get more information.

The tour below are just some of the photos I took the last time we went there. These keep my memories alive throughout the winter. I hope you enjoy them and I also hope you'll remember Chelos by the Bay when you are thinking of where to go to dine out.

Rent to Own in Warwick Rhode Island

2007-11-11T07:01:45Z

Buyers, this is your opportunity to buy a brand new home. This home has been totaly rebuilt from the bottom up!

Central Air, new heating system, laundry area, fenced double lot, hardwoods and wall to wall. There are 2 good sized bedrooms. Close to Narragansett Bay. Ready to move right in. Affordably priced at $198,900.

Seller will consider Lease with an Option. Base rent is $1000 per month. First and last months rent and credit check.

Home is located in the heart of Conimicut. Click here for a Virtual Tour of lthis property.

Don't let this pass you by.

Conctact Karen Hurst, Broker Associate, ABR at Storm Realty LLC, Warwick, RI 02889 401-301-6887

Or email me at khurst@rihome.net

Conimicut Point, Warwick, Rhode Island

2007-10-20T22:04:48Z

Did you know that Conimicut Point used to have a Casino?

Or that the Lighthouse was being rowed to by Lighthouse keepers from across the bay at Nyatt Point?

Or that people used to take a trolley car from Providence, pass through Conimicut, (or stay there), and then travel on to Rocky Point Park?

Or that it was the site of an important Indian meeting?

There's probably lots that you do not know about Conimicut Point. If you would like to read some interesting history about it, read Don D'Amatos "Conimicut, A Modern Village" on the city's web site.

For me, Conimicut has always been the place I would go when I thought I had problems. I would go there and sit and watch the waves and peer at the Conimicut Lighthouse. I have painted that lighthouse and I know every nook and cranny. Something about being there puts all your problems in perspective.

Conimicut is a very cute Bay front community. Back in the '38 hurricane, parts of Conimicut were obliberated. Now, if you drive around you will see many homes "on stilts", or the new hurricane modifications that have been made to protect the homes. The area still retains it's feeling of history. Below is a slideshow of some photos, taken at the waters edge.

Ocean State Six Pack

2007-10-20T20:26:42Z

I just read Dan Cummings post, which led me to Chris Griffiths post about picking out a six pack of our old posts, for people who have been on Active Rain for a long time.

It was fun reading through my old posts to find the best six in my opinion:)

Here they are in no special order.

I would have to say, my best post was: The Blame Game

In a retrospective mood, I did: Random Acts of Kindness

Trying to help newbies in the Rain: Sailing through the Rain

For New Agents: Why would someone us a new Agent?

My introduction to REO and its consequences: Evicted

And just to show, some things never change: The Tone of Active Rain

Things keep changing here, now the ratings are gone. Wonder what will be next?

I'm off to read the others. Check out Chris's post to see all the links.

Patriots Rock!!!!!

2007-10-14T18:59:56Z

Okay, this is not Real Estate Related. I just can't help myself:)!!!!

Undefeated so far!

Bush offers help to troubled homeowners

2007-08-31T16:14:38Z

Today in CNN Money, there is a piece about President Bush outlining his plans to help troubled homeowners. You can read the piece here. It's not very long.

What jumped out at me though was this sentence:

"One thing the president promised not to do was a direct bailout of homeowners facing foreclosures or of lenders with financial problems traced to portfolios of defaulting subprime loans."

Too late for them. I know this is a contradictory statement to a lot of you, but exactly which troubled homeower's will be helped?

153 Finch Avenue, Pawtucket, RI 02860 UNDER CONTRACT!

2007-08-22T17:23:55Z

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Details Photo Gallery Fairlawn (Pawtucket, Rhode Island, US - 02860) MLS® #744873 $179,900 Bring prequalification

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Karen Hurst
Email Karen

Phone:	401-301-6887
Cell:	401-301-6887

This is a BANK owned home. Needs some work, but still a great bargain at this price!

Details

Address: 153 Finch Avenue Type: Residential Style: 1 1/2 Story Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 1 Basement: Yes, Full Size: 960 sq. ft. Lot Type: Rectangular Lot Size: 3550 sq. ft. Year Built: 1945 MLS: 744873

Description

Great 3 bedroom, deceiving from outside, selling AS IS. Needs paint both inside and out. AS IS. Full clean basement. Many closets and fireplace

NLS#1163691

Information is deemed to be correct but not guaranteed.

Tall Ships Newport Rhode Island

2007-07-03T10:32:06Z

Sunday the Tall Ships paraded around Prudence Island passing by the Jamestown Bridge.

I was lucky enough to have a front row seat on our good friends boat. Starting out on our trip with mimosas for the ride, we set up on the stern with food and drinks, soaking up the sun. Peggy, our hostess, served a muffaretto, which is like an Italian grinder on French bread with a New Orleans dressing. Delicious!

We had left a little early to set anchor in a comfortable spot, from which we had a 360 view of the Jamestown Bridge, Jamestown, Prudence Island, Newport and the Tall Ships as they passed behind the Island and then forwarded on to Newport..

We were not close enough to hear the Marching Bands on some of the Tall Ship Decks, but could hear bits of the music drifting over the water. The day was absolutely glorious. When we first arrived, there were not many boats anchoring, but within an hour the bay was absolutely packed! Some boats anchored and some followed along with the Tall Ships. We were a little disappointed that there were not as many real large Ships as we remembered from the last time, but the atmosphere in the bay with all the boats proving once again that Rhode Island is the Ocean State, made it well worth our trip.

People along the coast also had set up White party tents and hosted their friends and family for a beautiful afternoon.

A real pleasant way to spend our day.

Narragansett Bay is home to many boaters, both power and sail. Some homes have docks and some have spectacular views. Both vacation and year round homes alike are stunning.

Sailing through the Rain

2007-06-23T06:08:42Z

I have this sign in my sun room and I see it daily. This slogan is one I try to always remember.

"We can't direct the wind, We can adjust the sails"

Many people have posted here at Active Rain and also commented that they are afraid to blog for fear of being criticised or ridiculed. Just this morning I read a blog from someone who already has their own blog outside of Active Rain, yet is nervous about blogging here.

Here are my thoughts on this.

First, if you have never blogged before, of course this site would be intimidating! Have you been lurking and reading all the comments, some nice and some not so nice? I can completely understand how you would feel about this. It's like jumping off the boat into stormy waters without a life jacket!

You may have read about the oldtimers (1 year old) vs the newbies and thought to yourself, hmmm, thats not really that long a time to have been blogging. The simple fact is, that in this day of technology, 1 year actually is a long time. How long does your PC last? Or your operating system? Since the advent of computers, technology has outpaced us all.

If you are a new agent, you may also feel intimidated, thinking that you have nothing to offer and that everything has already been said.

Below are some easy suggestions:

If you have never blogged before, join Mike Muellers' group called Practice Here and post only to that group. You should put at the bottom of your post that you are requesting critique. You can always remove that sentence later. This is a great chance for people to help you compose your post. Everyone is welcome to practice there if they like.

If you already have blogged on your own blog, then Active Rain is a little different. It is not only an Informational and Business network, it has evolved into a Social Network. You have the choice,when you post, of where your blog should be placed. Social or business, members only or public, etc.

People that only want to read Professional/Business will automatically set their page for that. People that only read Features or Social type blogs will set their pages for those. So you can at least feel that you are reaching your "target" audience.

If you are a new agent, then write a post with some of your questions. Many people are here to mentor you!

Everyone has a different reason for being here. Find yours!

What is the worst thing that can happen if you post here?

No comments? A zillion adverse comments? Someone disagrees with you? Someone thinks you are Whacked Out? Or ignorant?

Here's the thing, and I will refer to my quote above. "You cannot direct the wind, you can adjust the sails."

Change is good. Keep changing and modifying your ideas. Get new insights from other people, reflect on them. Reflect on yourself.

You have the choice to delete your post, or any comments you find disturbing, or answer them and prove your point. You have the choice to slip away and never blog again.

However, if you don't do it at all, you have no choice and you will never have the experience either.

There is an incredible mixture of people here, all with opinions and ideas, issues and knowledge. Connect with the ones that are "like" you. It may take awhile, and a few mistakes along the way, but if you do not at least try, then what have you gained.

Active Rain is a free site allowing people from all over in the same trade to connect and while doing so, you can increase your visibility to the public. What's better than that? The technology for this to happen was not around ten years ago, why not take advantage of it? Who knows where it will lead.

Here's your Life Jacket! Now jump in!

Life jacket can be purchased at Boatingcertificate.com

AN UNDIAGNOSED INTROVERT!!!!!

2007-04-29T00:11:48Z

Today I happened onto Jennifer Allans' post about Celebrating the Introvert within that was announcing her new group at Active Rain.

I had seen the title in my meanderings in the past few days here at AR, but it wasn't one I thought would be something I was interested in. It wasn't until I noticed the post as I was going through the Real Estate Rookie Group (as I try to do once a week) and decided to check it out to make sure it was on topic to the group.

The connection I felt was incredible! This was me, finally, a complete description. Yes I am a possible type E, but not in the realm of outgoingness! (Is that a word?) I immediately joined the group and there, in the group, was yet another and more involved description of myself. Caring for your Introvert!

I have my own way of selling. My customers like me because I do not pressure them in any way. I am there for them, do all the back end work, make sure everything is smooth and try to advise, but ultimately, I feel it is their decision and I let them know that. So being an Introvert is not the end of the world. I love what I do and am happy in my chosen field.

I originally was going to do a blog to announce that I just became a Broker and am now a Broker Associate at Storm Realty, but hey, finding out who I was, or rather finding out that I am not abnormal, was much more exciting.

Thankyou Jennifer Allan for posting about this, you made my day!

15 AURORA AVENUE CRANSTON RI SOLD!!

2007-04-25T15:01:03Z

First time homebuyers, here is your chance to own a three bedroom home on a deadend street with partially finished basement for a very reasonable price! This is a Foreclosed home and all offers must show Proof of funds and be submitted AS IS. If you are even the slightest bit handy, this is the home for you. Contact me at 401-301-6887. Or email me at Khurst@rihome.net. Please let me know you saw this on Active Rain or Localism when you call.

http://www.rihome.net/Homeofthemonth.htm For a virtual tour