Diane's Blog Log

Want To PASS Your Inspection? No Problem.... Just SLIDE ME $300.00!

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:39:35 -0600

As property managers, we have the privilege of undergoing the required city inspections that need to be conducted prior to tenant occupancy. This, of course is for the purpose of providing safe code-enforced housing for our great tenants!!

On one such inspection, at a South Suburban location, in Illinois, my husband, who does the majority of these appointments, FLUNKED the test! It was the most meticulous he had ever undergone!

Not only did the house not pass, the write-ups he received were outrageous! To appease the intense scrutiny of the code enforcer, we'd have to practically do a total REHAB!! Mr. Rice was not very happy for he knew this was ridiculous - we were approved for the previous renter without the need to do these details asked of us!

Seeing Tony's obvious displeasure, the inspector leaned over, whispered to him and said, "look, you guys have plenty of houses.... it's nothing for you to pass.... all you need to do is slide me $300 bucks!

When Tony first shared this with me.... a thick silence began to permeate the room we were in. I checked his face for signs of an upturned lip - evidence that a grin was preparing to break out .... NOPE! Not a grimace, smirk, or any other facial contortion! This was no joke! It was NOT one of those occasions of jesting he's known to amuse me with.... not this time... he was serious!

Now, Tony had not related this to me until after he had successfully passed the inspection the second time with a different examiner. That particular day, he called me, jubilant that it was over and thanked me for the prayers sent up on his behalf! The owner also accompanied him after having been forced to comply to the demands imposed upon him to be in compliance.

It was later that evening, after dinner that this story emerged as my husband began to recite several obstacles he had to face.... he was giving me yet another lesson about this hard, cold, cruel, REAL world.

"Where the RIGHT Price is the RICE Price!"

Rice Property Management & Realty, a property management & real estate company which holds licenses in Indiana & Illinoisis is located in South Holland, Illinois. We are available to service buyers, sellers, reanters, investors, and thoseseeking property mangement services.

(Images courtesy of Bing)

3710 Village Drive, Hazel Crest, IL

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 02:25:50 -0600

Links

My Website

Photo Gallery

Description

Stunning Evergreen Styled 4 Bd 3 Ba Designer Prestigious DYNASTY LAKES Home in Homewood-Flossmoor School District. Features include Cathedral Ceiling, Huge Eat-in Kitchen, Dual Staircase leading to 2nd Fl Level Balcony Overlooking Family Room . Fireplace with View of Deck. Custom-made Blinds w/Remote Control. Enormous Master Bdrm with Seperate Shower. Walk-in Closet, Garden Tub, & Private Toilet. Granduer Awaits New Homeowner!

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	3
Parking Spaces:	6
Year Built:	1994
Subdivision:	Dynasty Lakes
Garage Size:	2
School District:	E/F
Square Footage:	3100
Agent Name:	Diane Rice
Broker:	Rice Property Management & Realty
MLS #:	06638618

Location

3710 Village Drive Hazel Crest IL 60429

vFlyer Id: 2943939

Stuff NOW!! - Pay NEVER!!

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 23:56:42 -0600

There was a generation (possibly you?) who had respect toward paying bills, using credit wisely, and enjoying the rewards of budgeting. In that day, folks did without, for living above their income means was unheard of.... most survived on dreams, hope, prayers, and hard work. There was no such thing as "luck!" Most did not have rich relatives leaving an inheritance to look forward to. This was the time period i was raised up in....

Poor? No, hunnie, we were NOT poor.... we were PO!! (pronounced, "POE" like the poet). I came from the same area God placed his first created man, Adam in.... "the gardens!" Officially known as "Altgeld Gardens", the gardens (of Illinois) was one of the so-called "Projects" - erected (like concentration camps) to herd a multitude of poor Negroes into, residing in Chicago. These low-income rowed structures would be considered "affordable housing" by today's terms.

Was i ashamed? Not until i was old enough to understand the difference, for we were all in this together, and knew nothing else except for a few infrequent reminders heard from the uttered yearnings for a better life expressed by my Mother!

As an adult, responsibility was practiced from the lessons taught by my parents, about waiting, laying aside, and doing without! What a good feeling it was to know that what you had, was earned from the labor of your own hands! In those days, we OWNED what we had. It was an incentive to go to work!

Fast forward... TODAY?? As we look at credit reports coming from potentials tenants, we see repeated patterns in about 85% of the rental applicants.... BAD CREDIT!

Are unwise stewards of credit becoming a trend? This unconcerned attitude is seen from those with a "whateva" attitude, displaying no regard for being responsible to debts made for cell phone bills, clothing, traffic tickets, dishonored checks, auto loans, furniture bills, & others.

Is this the "Stuff NOW - Pay NEVER" era? Just a few years back, merchandisers would woo the public with clever sales gimmicks that would read such as....

"No credit - No problem"
"Buy now - Pay later"
"YOU deserve it TODAY!"

Well, it looks as though we have gone over the limit, and the evidence is shown on the credit reports with no plans for repayment, and continued accumulation of.... STUFF!!

Some readers may see this as an opportunity to quickly place BLAME on an administration, but what this is goes beyond a few elected in government, and it will take more than a few NEW ones to remedy it!

Proverbs 13:11 Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathered by labour shall increase.

Why Does The Real Estate Industry Look DOWN On Property Managers?

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:01:56 -0600

It's sad to be aware that the same industry that doles out REALTOR® licenses is the very one from which frowns upon it's own members!!! We hear what you say about us Property Managers.... "OH, you deal on the low end!!!" Why has such degradation become synonymous with practitioners managing property???

We come from the same beginnings to get our professional orientation, and must abide by and do the exact required continuing education, pay the same amount of dues, and still get rejected by YOU as though we are the scum of the earth!!!

Are not we servicing the SAME client?? Do not MOST buyers have their beginnings as a renter? Do we have to continue to suffer disgrace from our own colleagues as if the origin of and the contamination of the HINI Plague began with US!!! It is a SHAME!!!

In addition to fulfilling the mandatory education, MANY of us go on to earn costly designations through respected professional associations as CPM. GRI. NARPM. MPM. PPM. E-PRO. RPM. etc. How many vowels and consonants behind our name must we acquire to be allowed to sit at the table with YOU???

People..... we are assisting the IDENTICAL customer!!! A person who lives somewhere, whether they rent for a season and purchase later, or if deciding to never own.... is still a patron!!!

Has it come down to factoring based upon a measly penny??? Are we announcing to the public that ONLY top producing Sellers and Listers are worthy to be esteemed??? If so, we have sold ourselves cheaply!!! We are painting pictures to the generation after us, that they should pattern after those who successfully make the biggest bucks from placing the SAME CLIENT in a 30 year lease that WE PREVIOUSLY SERVICED!!!

And, it will be US..... the lowly Property Managers who are the ones who will faithfully take them back in when they get evicted after they fail to live up to the terms of the contract which went with the "DREAM HOUSE" YOU placed them in!!!

When the illusion if over.... WE will still be there for them... will YOU???

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALEX HARB!! LEAVE BIRTHDAY COMMENTS HERE!!

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:03:24 -0600

Today, Tuesday, November 10Th, 2009 is a day to be celebrated! Exactly 4 weeks ago, on the 2ND Tuesday of October, a plane landed at Midway Airport carrying a special passenger from Orlando Florida!

The new arrival has been in the South Suburbs of Windy City Chicago for exactly for 1 Month today! Today is also the day 40 something years ago this dude was born!!!

Won't you join me in celebrating by leaving best wishes to Active Rain's own.....

ALEXANDER HARB

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

HAPPY ONE MONTH ANNIVERSARY

images courtesy of Bing

ONE Last Opportunity To Remove Non Relevant Posts From Property Management Group Before Deletion Time 11/08/09

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 14:05:02 -0600

We have much to SMILE about! Our property management group has GROWN to a record 356 members!!!!! YEAAAA!!!! We thank the recruitment efforts of the moderators and encouragement of membership to post relevant topics!

Within any group, there comes responsibility. The help has been added, but have been reluctant to REMOVE posts that do not belong here. As of November 8Th, 12:00 NOON, 2009, we will begin to clean house!

NO FUTURE WARNINGS will be issued! The purpose of enforcing the rules is to allow exposure to pertinent content for us all to glean from. One of our objectives is to get our share of respect on Active Rain in the property management field! We can do this together! Please check the content of your posts and remove them if they do not have content relevant to Property Management... even IF you are a Property Manager or Property Management Company.

Remember if YOU remove them yourself, points will not be subtracted. If WE remove it, you will automatically have points deducted from your total score.

THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR COOPERATING AND UNDERSTANDING!!!!

Images courtesy of Bing

First Time Home Buyer's $8,000 Credit - Extended Until AFTER Income Tax Day!

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 11:42:55 -0600

If your search to purchase a home for the first time had you in a flabbergasted state to hastily make a choice from what's available on the market... guess what? GOOD NEWS!! The deadline date for qualifying for the tax credit awarded to home buyers has been prolonged!

Agents and buyers can both cease from holding their breath... a bit, for Congress has extended AND expanded the tax credit for qualifying buyers. The official last day for filing (income) taxes with the IRS is April 15Th, 2010. The official last day to have a written binding purchase contract for a home is April 30Th, 2010. As long as the house closes by July 1, 2010, the credit can be taken.

If you are a CURRENT homeowner, and will buy a new home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010, a tax credit benefit of $3250 or $6500.00 (depending upon your filing status) has been made available for you also! This is EXCEPTIONAL news for homeowners who have used their principal residence for 5 of the prior 8 years consecutively.

BEST NEWS OF ALL?? THE TAX CREDIT DOES NOT HAVE TO BE PAID BACK!!

Confused? Do not fret. The National Association of Realtors, has a more thorough explanation at their website. A helpful chart denoting the distinction between the old tax credit rules and the new extended tax credit has been issued by Governors Affairs Division and can be accessed here.

We encourage you to contact your local REALTOR® to acquire personalized information tailored to your needs. To start your search for available homes in the South Suburban or Chicago-land Area, click the Rice Property Management logo below.

"Where the RIGHT Price is the RICE Price!"

Rice Property Management & Realty, located in South Holland, Illinois, has agents that work with first time home buyers seeking homes in Illinois and Indiana. Give us a call at 708-862-7423

(Images courtesy of Bing)

Realtor Exposed & Inappropriately Dressed - Don't Let This Happen To You!

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:01:17 -0600

My last showing appointment last night, was with one of our investors who purchases rental property for us to manage.

He was so excited about this single family home because it passed every item on his check list:

It was the "RICE" Price - ONLY $39,900.00!!
It was the "RICE" Size (3 bdrm 1 & 1/2 Ba)
It was the "RICE" Location (quiet)
It was the "RICE" Type (all brick)

With flashlight in hand, my client had arrived 30 minutes EARLY in his eagerness to case out the neighborhood, visibly inspect the roof, and walk around rear of the vacant potential investment.

We have gone on such appointments in the past, and have found some short sales and pre-foreclosures to be undesirable, but THIS ONE WAS DIFFERENT!!! (So he thought!)

Our eyes are continually on the outlook, for we know that in some areas it's an INVESTORS FLEA MARKET, AND BUYERS CAN RACK UP!!

Upon opening the door, we were both surprised to see the electricity on! Good! We then noticed the beautiful hardwood floors!

So far so good!!! Now, I KNEW in my mind this deal looked too good to be true... so, obviously there had to be SOMETHING wrong....

My thoughts went to an earlier transaction done with the SAME investor, who has a "gift" for locating some of these diamonds in the rough. Could THIS be one of them?

Here we go... this nose of mine detected that familiar water smell.....!! Sure enough, we looked up and there it was.. the beautifully textured ceiling was dotted with circlets of grey!! Upon quickly surveying the home, we discovered infiltration of moisture that bred spores of .... MOLD!!!!!

Let's get OUT of here, "i said!" I want us BOTH to be around to enjoy many business transactions in the future! Mold like this needs to be DISCLOSED prior to permission for access!! It's a detriment to the health of the Realtor and the client!

I was EXPOSED and INAPPROPRIATELY DRESSED!!!! - If you are an agent of investors seeking a deal....don't let this happen to you... From now on, i will be dressed for the occasion and so should you!

"Where the RIGHT Price is the RICE Price!"

Rice Property Management & Realty, located in South Holland, Illinois, has agents that work with first time and experienced investors desirous of obtaining single family homes as rental property.

(Images courtesy of Bing)

Charlotte Property Management Weekly: 5 Signs the “Home Sales Swine Flu” Has Infected Your Rental Market

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:07:14 -0600

Brett Furniss, a Contributor of our Property Management Group online has written a BLOG TO THINK ABOUT....

Via Brett Furniss (BDF Realty, Inc.):

"Yes, I would like some cheese with this whine. Thanks." (Brett Furniss, Charlotte Property Manager and author of Charlotte Property Management Weekly)

"President Obama has declared the swine flu outbreak a national emergency..." (Charlotte Observer, 10/25/09)

Swine flu is now officially both a national emergency and a pandemic! I'm not entirely sure what that means, but it sounds pretty bad and pretty official. I imagine the only party happy about this is the pigs, who take an undeserved public relations hit, but see the demand for its flesh fall among the cautious populous (making its mortality rates decline significantly). If only the scheming cows from the Chick Filet commercials had thought of this, they could have saved themselves millions in dollars of advertising (with better results!).

Fortunately, I have not been personally infected by swine flu (yet...). I have been affected, though. I've seen this new, safer way to catch your sneeze by depositing this spittle storm into your own shirt! Yes, the one you are wearing. I've seen some guys on the street do it recently and I still can't stomach the idea of my shirt doubling as a tissue. This is healthier? What is the point of tissues then? That is the next superfluous budget item to go, I'm sure. I'm thankful I haven't seen any females do this. Apparently they believe in Fernando Lamas's (Billy Crystal's Saturday Night Live character) mantra, "It's better to look good than to feel good." But, I digress.

However, I have been affected by the "home sales swine flu" that has infected the Charlotte rental market. "What the heck does that mean?" you may ask. "And why do you keep italicizing so much in this article?" Well, let me explain. Being that few people can sell their homes, home sellers are flooding the rental market with their houses. This is creating supply and demand issues that are making it difficult for property managers to fill properties quickly and efficiently (sniff, sniff). Unfortunately, it has become painfully obvious Charlotte is infected. I've heard from other real estate professionals in other cities that they are observing the same thing.

So what about your market? If it has been infected by the HS H1N1, the following five symptoms should have started to appear:

Rentals are on the market for a much longer time (duration)

Monthly rental prices have fallen and continue to drop significantly

There are a lot more rental homes on the market! (number)

Realtors who never worked on rentals before are now listing several

Tenants are consistently trying to negotiate down already depressed monthly rents

As your real estate doctor, I can tell you that if your market is showing these symptoms, it is infected. The only known 100% cure for HS H1N1 is a mixture of "Excess Cash" and "Time." If you wait long enough with this mixture, it will go away on its own. You should check with your local economist to get a general range on how much "Time" it will take to subside. And always double your initial estimate on how much "Excess Cash" will be required.

If you are not lucky enough to have a healthy amount of "Excess Cash" and "Time", the following steps can be taken to slow the effects of HS H1N1 until it subsides:

Lock your existing tenants into 1 to 2-year leases ASAP at current rental rates

Lower the rental rates on your vacant homes by 10%

Increase marketing expenditures on vacancies while advertising the lower rate

Do NOT work with tenants who are more than 30 days behind. You must evict and get someone else in your rental!

Trust your doctor. Follow these simple steps to survive the outbreak in your market!

Brett Furniss is the President & Owner of BDF Realty, "Charlotte's Most Innovative Property Management & Investment Company" (www.BDFRealty.com and www.RentToSell.com). You can follow his Twitter thoughts on the Charlotte real estate market by clicking on http://twitter.com/bdfrealty. He is the author of the FREE E-Manual entitled "How to Rent-To-Sell Your Own Home" (http://www.renttosell.com/RTS-Book.html) which details how to get the most potential buyers to your home in this challenging real estate market.

Google "SAUCE" ..... Don't Leave Your Blog Without It!

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 14:43:03 -0600

Google SAUCE you say? Yes, that's what it is! What's that? Well, it simply means that Google finds a VERY IMPORTANT REAL ESTATE BLOG and spreads it to the public.... like SAUCE!!

SAUCE? Yes, SAUCE like in APPLESAUCE!! That's exactly what happened to:

A girl named MARY
Who was NOT contrary
As she washed her apples, you know
From a silver pail
She went on to tell
How to make SAUCE on her Show!

Here's the GOOGLE ALERT Mary received after a post written about HER post!!

Google Web Alert for: "Mary Yonkers"

Real Estate Blog Inspired By Mary Yonkers I Made Applesauce For ...
Now, my mother made everything from scratch while we were growing up, but i honestly had NO interest in cooking..... just eating!

GOOGLE SAUCE.... THE ONLY WAY TO BLOG!!!

Images #1 - courtesy of Mary's Kitchen #2 - courtesy of Diane's Kitchen

In 5 Seconds: What Do Buyers And Sellers Want To Know?

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:53:35 -0600

Post By My Rain Buddy, Gabrielle Rhind, whom i simply call "GAB In the 'Mornin" for she gives us all a shot in the arm as soon as we log onto Active Rain!!

Thank you my ELECTRIFYING friend!!

Via Gabrielle (Kamahele) Rhind (Tierra Antigua Realty, Tucson AZ Real Estate Agent):

Buyers want to know, "How much down and how much a month?"

Sellers want to know, "Can you get me what I want for my home?"

They both want to know, "Why should I hire you?".

Buyers and Sellers knowwhat they want. They have already found the home they want on the internet or they know what to do to help their home generate a better price by the time they call you. With the thousands of Realtors out there, it seems to me that what consumers need or will be looking for, is an agent who they can trust to help get them through the process of getting what they want.

So, how can you set yourself apart from the rest? Simply said - by being credible.

Do what you say - or don't say it at all.

If you don't know something - don't pretend you do. Just say, "I don't know" and follow with, "But I will find out and get back with you."

Be accessible. If someone has to call you more than once to actually "speak" to you - you're losing their confidence.

With Buyers, don't show them what they don't want and what they can't afford; with Sellers, don't tell them what they want to hear - tell them the truth.

At listing presentations or showing homes, don't point out only the good things of a home or just agree with what a client loves about a home. Really look - take note of any flaws or issues and be prepared to guide Seller's on presentation and repairs; and for Buyers, making a well-thought out offer.

Know the market and the inventory first hand. Don't just rely on reading comps. Spend time looking at neighborhoods and previewing homes. When a client says, "Have you seen this home?" or "I was wondering about this home ..." - you are going to know and be able to give them first-hand knowledge.

When you're with your clients - on the phone or in person - be there 100%. Don't get distracted, don't multi-task, don't complain about how much money you're losing on the deal, etc., it's not in your or their best interest.

Develop your people skills. When it comes down to it - real estate is a people business. No matter how much you know - unless you can sincerely interact, listen, understand and empathize with people - you won't be able to meet their needs.

Gabrielle (Kamahele) Rhind - 2009. If you want to reprint parts of this - just email me for my permission rhindohana@msn.com or TucsonsRealEstate@gmail.com. Buying or selling Tucson real estate, Mt Lemmon, Tucson bank-owned homes, Tucson rental homes, or Tucson lease option homes? Visit www.BuyMyTucsonHome.com.

Inspired By Mary Yonkers, I Made Applesauce For The FIRST Time!

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 21:09:51 -0600

Now, my mother made everything from scratch while we were growing up, but i honestly had NO interest in cooking..... just eating! My older sister paid attention while i flunked cooking and sewing! I have no shame, for later on, my skills in the kitchen improved greatly, but some foods were never prepared.

Mary Yonkers of Erie, Pennsylvania inspired me to make applesauce for the FIRST time! In her post, October 27Th, named, "Home style Cooking With Mary: Applesauce," Mary outlined her recipe, complete with pictures!

I was completely enchanted, and asked questions as if a 3 year older would have, which Mary patiently and graciously answered. She had to be thinking, "Now, c'mon... this is the simplest thing!! Is she serious??"

This is not the only time Mary ignited a spark in me. In September, she re-blogged a post authored by Michael Thornton, called, (Colored Text Series - How to Put Easily Put Color in Your Posts...) It was made to sound SO EASY! I figured i could do it too, and created..... My FIRST Colored Post!!

Back to story.......

Friday, the apples were bought, and today a small batch of applesauce was made!! I used Stevia instead of Splenda for the sweetener, and sprinkled cinnamon on the top. Husbo was the first to taste it!

Yum!! Thank you Mary Yonkers!!!

Image courtesy of "Diane's Kitchen"

Regrets? Mistakes? Here's An Opportunity To TOSS Them!!

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:31:08 -0500

Have you ever done something that was STOOPID? Not stupid.... STOOPID!! Stoopid is a dumb thing you did but didn't know it was dumb until you looked back. When you did, all you wanted to do was to hide, and stoop as to not bring attention to onlookers that YOU were the one who did it! Did you wish, "if ONLY i could do it all over again... i'd do it differently!!" Bummer! Instead you keep kicking self in butt... stewing over it time and time again!

GOOD NEWS!! Your redemption time is here! How so? Pile up ALL of your mistakes, regrets, and stoopid stuff, and bring them over to the 2:00 AM Sunday Morning time, November 1st. Why? Because this is the only chance this year you get to FREELY redeem the time! You get another hour to redo your mess ups... whatever they were!

Simply place every last one of these mishaps at the last strikee of the 2:00 AM time period... never to be seen again! After you've done that, change the hand on the clock to read 1:00 AM! That simple? Yep! You get a whole NEW hour! Now, when the second 2:00 AM comes.... don't repeat that same act that made you stoop, OK??

This is EXACTLY what you have been waiting for.... TURN THE CLOCK BACK!! And start anew!

I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before.....

See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

Images courtesy of Bing

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Blog post written by Diane Rice, owner of Rice Property Management & Realty, located in South Holland, IL. Information about rentals, property management, & houses for sale can be found at www.862RICE.com

I Met "My Husbo" 16 Years Ago.... Today

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:01:48 -0500

This is a sentimental mushy post, so for those who have had enough of me raving about "My Husbo"... don't read another word....

Exactly 16 years ago today, a very shy, tall skinny man came into the book store where i worked, and just stood there looking awkward.

What's HIS problem, i thought? Of course, i did not know him from Adam, for at the time, the suffering i endured caused me to look really really bad.... had lost my car, job, my house.... Everyone... had forsook me.... it was awful!!

In the spirit realm though, i was FULL of the JOY of the Lord, for HE and i were having a continual feast, and nothing else mattered at the time.

Now, unbeknown to me... this man, Anthony, had been told that he would "know his wife when he'd first lay eyes upon her"....

Oblivious to that, my only concern was to make sure the customers were buying the right Bibles, books, and tapes! (It was a Christian Book Store)

Back to the story... The reason this day is so significant is because God sent Tony to rescue me.... he was my Moses. His obedience is priceless, for had he looked on me from the outward, he would have run away! He CHOSE instead to see what the Lord's will was.

After we were introduced by his nephew, we got on the topic of marriage. He asked, "Do you believe the Lord will bless ME with a wife?"

Thinking to myself, "what's HIS problem", my answer was... "if you would delight yourself in the Lord, HE will grant you the desires of your heart!" I had NO inclination that this man would be MY husband, because, NO MAN wanted me... i was NOT pretty, and was called a "space cadet"! Abhorred and talked about, i placed myself in a secret hiding spot, a refuge, where i'd get acceptance... hidden in the LORD. Daily HE was my delight! I could run to HIM, for HE alone understood, and gave me comfort from the humiliation i faced.

"MY Husbo" was sent by whom my heart trusted in, and caused me to forget the reason i was crying." He saw me through the eyes of GOD and loved me from the inside out! We were married 6 months later.

(picture courtesy of Bing)

Today, Tony and i took a little time this morning over shared coffee to reminisce with heartfelt gratitude about the immeasurable kindness and goodness shown toward us by a GOD who in His infinite wisdom placed us with one another. My soul does magnify you today my Lord! Receive Glory, Praises & Honor!

It's An Investors Flea Market In Illinois & Indiana - Get Ready To Rack Up!

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 16:26:04 -0500

In Illinois and parts of Indiana, there are currently 425 ACTIVE listed homes on the Multiple Listing Service for $30,000.00 and under! (There are 1196 in the $30K to $70K range) These all have 3+ bedrooms and are ideal for first-time or seasoned investors seeking to develop their single-family-home rental portfolio, because they are so affordable!

Of the 425 listings, 199 of them have 1 & 1/2 + baths. (Of the available 1196 homes in the 30 to 70K price range, 611 of these 3 bedroom homes have 1 & 1/2 baths.) Certainly some of them need entire rehabs, however, there are many that just need light-weight cosmetic work! The locations of these houses are in varying neighborhoods from the North Side of Chicago to the South Suburban communities as well as Northwest Indiana. These would make excellent rental homes, for the demand NOW is huge! It's an investors flea market!!

Financing for these types of homes (including rehab loans) are available from different lending institutions, which we highly recommend doing research about prior to agreeing to a specific loan. If you have cash, which is more favorable, your negotiation power is higher, for many of these houses were foreclosed and are owned by banks which are prepared to settle to get them transferred to new owners.

A licensed Property Management company and a reputable building and construction company can become your best partners with this investment venture. A Property Management company that specializes in managing rental homes can oversee every aspect of your property, like screening, rent collections, maintenance, annual inspections, and all other tenant matters, freeing up your time to tend to new prospective enterprises! A construction company can get your house in habitable condition.

For help with your transaction from beginning to end, it is recommended to choose a company that can walk you through every aspect from selecting a profitable rental property, successfully bargaining the purchase of it, overseeing the managing of it, and assisting with it's re-sale if your interest level changes in the future!

It's an INVESTORS FLEA MARKET in Illinois & Indiana - Get Ready to Rack Up!

"Where the RIGHT Price is the RICE Price!"

Rice Property Management & Realty, located in South Holland, Illinois, has agents that work with first time and experienced investors desirous of obtaining single family homes as rental property.

(handshake graphic courtesy of Bing)

Costs involved in buying a home

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 08:55:03 -0500

Dr. Stacey-Ann Baugh from Upper Marlboro, Maryland, who enjoys educating her clients, has written this post to prepare first-time home buyers on what to expect.

Thank you Dr. Baugh, I believe this will be most helpful to first-timers from all over the globe!

If you or someone you know is seeking to purchase a home in the South Suburban Illinois or Northwest Indiana area, we at Rice Property Management & Realty would be pleased to service you, and can be reached at 708-862-RICE (7423).

Via Dr. Stacey-Ann Baugh (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc):

I work with mostly first-time homebuyers who are not familiar with the process of buying a home and who may be confused about how much money they may need to be able to buy.

DOWN PAYMENT - The minimum down-payment is usually 3.5% of the purchase price. However, this can range from as little as 0% to as much as 20% of the price depending on the type of loan. There are some programs available that assist with down-payment. The Down Payment on your DREAM program in PG County is an example of a down-payment assistance program for first-time home buyers purchasing a vacant foreclosure in the County.

CLOSING COSTS - Closing costs are the costs associated with purchasing the home, acquiring the mortgage, purchasing title insurance, as well as any state or city taxes involved. These costs vary by location and depending on your mortgage arrangements but usually run between 3% and 6% of the purchase price. Sometimes arrangements can be made to have the seller assist the buyer with some or all of the closing costs.

EARNEST MONEY DEPOSIT - This deposit is submitted with the offer. The deposit is held in escrow and credited towards the buyer's down payment and/or closing costs. However, this check is cashed following acceptance of the offer. The seller may be entitled to the deposit if the buyer defaults on the contract. This deposit is usually a minimum of 1% of the purchase price and the amount may need to be increased in competitive situations.

HOME INSPECTION - This is paid for by the buyer at the time of inspection. The costs involved vary depending on the size and purchase price of the home but cost approximately $250-$500.

TERMITE INSPECTION - Many mortgages require a termite inspection. This can either be billed to the closing company and paid at the settlement table or paid for up front. The costs range from $35-$55.

OTHER INSPECTIONS - Any additional inspections that the buyer is interested in having done are paid for by the buyer. These may include radon inspections which can cost between $125 and $200, mold inspections, well water tests, septic system evaluations, chimney inspections, and anything else the buyer is interested in investigating prior to committing to purchase the home.

APPRAISAL - A few lenders will have the appraisal paid for at closing. However, many lenders will have the buyers pay for this up-front. That way if something goes wrong with the contract the lender is not stuck with the cost of the appraisal. This can vary in cost from approximately $350-$550.

If you are interested in learning more about purchasing a home or for more information about the down-payment assistance programs available in Prince George's County, MD don't hesitate to contact me.

Dr. Stacey-Ann Baugh

Long & Foster Real Estate

www.staceybaugh.com

staceyannbaugh@gmail.com

240-481-3565 (C)

301-924-1100 (O)

I Make House-Calls!

"Where the RIGHT Price is the RICE Price!"

Via Dr. Stacey-Ann Baugh (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc):

I work with mostly first-time homebuyers who are not familiar with the process of buying a home and who may be confused about how much money they may need to be able to buy.

DOWN PAYMENT - The minimum down-payment is usually 3.5% of the purchase price. However, this can range from as little as 0% to as much as 20% of the price depending on the type of loan. There are some programs available that assist with down-payment. The Down Payment on your DREAM program in PG County is an example of a down-payment assistance program for first-time home buyers purchasing a vacant foreclosure in the County.

CLOSING COSTS - Closing costs are the costs associated with purchasing the home, acquiring the mortgage, purchasing title insurance, as well as any state or city taxes involved. These costs vary by location and depending on your mortgage arrangements but usually run between 3% and 6% of the purchase price. Sometimes arrangements can be made to have the seller assist the buyer with some or all of the closing costs.

EARNEST MONEY DEPOSIT - This deposit is submitted with the offer. The deposit is held in escrow and credited towards the buyer's down payment and/or closing costs. However, this check is cashed following acceptance of the offer. The seller may be entitled to the deposit if the buyer defaults on the contract. This deposit is usually a minimum of 1% of the purchase price and the amount may need to be increased in competitive situations.

HOME INSPECTION - This is paid for by the buyer at the time of inspection. The costs involved vary depending on the size and purchase price of the home but cost approximately $250-$500.

TERMITE INSPECTION - Many mortgages require a termite inspection. This can either be billed to the closing company and paid at the settlement table or paid for up front. The costs range from $35-$55.

OTHER INSPECTIONS - Any additional inspections that the buyer is interested in having done are paid for by the buyer. These may include radon inspections which can cost between $125 and $200, mold inspections, well water tests, septic system evaluations, chimney inspections, and anything else the buyer is interested in investigating prior to committing to purchase the home.

APPRAISAL - A few lenders will have the appraisal paid for at closing. However, many lenders will have the buyers pay for this up-front. That way if something goes wrong with the contract the lender is not stuck with the cost of the appraisal. This can vary in cost from approximately $350-$550.

If you are interested in learning more about purchasing a home or for more information about the down-payment assistance programs available in Prince George's County, MD don't hesitate to contact me.
Dr. Stacey-Ann Baugh

Long & Foster Real Estate

www.staceybaugh.com

staceyannbaugh@gmail.com

240-481-3565 (C)

301-924-1100 (O)

FINALLY! A DOCTOR WHO MAKES HOUSE-CALLS!

Are you LED or LEAD?

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 20:42:28 -0500

Of all the things i love about my husband, it's his "I will NOT be moved" spirit that gains my highest regard toward him. In our fifteen years of marriage, there has not been a single regret that can be attributed to the decisions he's had to make for our well being, and it's been because of his relationship with our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

When challenges presented itself, what did he do? NOT A THING... until he received clearance and directives from God! Before learning of his ways, i used to stand on my head.... to NO avail! He had no empathy for my childish immature antics, for his mindset as the head, was to steer us in GOD's will.

In the beginning, when we first met, God had previously informed him that he'd "know his wife when he'd first lay eyes upon her"....Of course, when he walked in the door, I DID NOT KNOW A THING.... but HE did!! Even when he proposed marriage, i thought he was kidding.... but the man was trying to OBEY GOD!

Our entire marriage, family life, and business is built upon faith! I have a "gift" of faith, and "my husbo" is a man who walks with GOD.... continually. Traditions, religion, protocol, rules, and regulations placed in the natural by man do not take precedence over obeying the voice of God in our household, for HIS grace has taught us that we have been bought with a price and for a purpose! There is no getting away from it... GOD is continually raising us up!

At times, we look pretty offensive in the eyes of others as we carry out specific orders originating from the Spirit of GOD, but my husband would rather us suffer humiliation and ridicule instead of being lauded with praise and acceptance of man!

Scripture says, the "Sons of GOD are LED by the Spirit of GOD"... another one says, MY sheep, HEAR MY voice, and a stranger they will not follow. Signs and wonders do follow them that believe, says another! The Bible is loaded with pages which affirm "the JUST shall live by faith", and that "it is IMPOSSIBLE to please GOD without faith in HIM!"

From Genesis to Revelation, witness is left throughout for us. How many years do we have to keep reading before we will BELIEVE WHAT IT SAYS??? Our walk on this earth is not in sync with the spirit of this world and it's systems.... they are INFERIOR...contrary to GODS ways and will NEVER please HIM... that's why HE uses FOOLISHNESS to confound the so called know-it-alls in this world!

Saints, we need to STOP bringing conjured up stuff to GOD asking Him to bless it! STOP!! WAIT!! ALL of our righteousness is as... FILTHY NASTY CONTAGIOUS RAGS!! It's like we are placing God on OUR level as if HE is hard of hearing!!! That's being LEAD... and it will sink us AND our fleshly thoughts with our silly ideas to the bottom of the ocean!! (picture courtesy of Bing Images)

Don't you know HE SEES what's going on? HE is STILL IN CHARGE and knows how to take care of us! Did HE give us distinct orders to make something happen??? NO?? Then let us take a chill pill!! Listen, HE has a plan.... Let us WAIT FOR IT! BE LED!!!

Big on "U"....All the way to the letter "i"

Anthony & Diane Rice, owners of Rice Property Management & Realty, AND Rice & Rice Painting & Carpet Cleaning, located in South Holland, Illinois, have been called unto the service of the Lord to do HIS business upon the earth.

Renters: Do YOU Have GOOD Credit?

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 23:24:26 -0500

If your credit is good, it shows you take responsibility for yourself and will most likely make an excellent tenant. Property Management companies have the task of seeking occupants who will faithfully make monthly payments and exercise good housekeeping skills.

At times, available rental homes will remain vacant too long because property managers refuse to take risks in selecting a candidate who has not shown evidence of wise credit usage which reflects on their report. It's always a pleasure to present positive findings back to property owners.

Scores of 600 and up are considered to be good rental potentials. Ratings of lesser points indicate troubling challenges, and could be reasons for denial of a rental home.

Annual credit reports for consumers are available and offered FREE by three major credit reporting bureaus. Credit scores can be obtained for a charge. More information can be found online at: Annual Credit Report or by phone at:

Trans Union: 800-916-8800
Experian: 888-397-3742
Equifax: 800-685-1111

If you are searching for a rental accommodation and possess good credit, the door is wide open with multiple choices in housing, while those with poor credit are limited.

Diane Rice is Broker/Owner of Rice Property Management & Realty, LLC., located in South Holland, Illinois with licenses in Indiana and Illinois. Rental agents of the company can be reached at 708-862-7423.

A MIRACLE At Active Rain!!

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 13:40:25 -0500

What is a miracle? A miracle occurs when a supernatural intervention intercepts an impossible situation and makes it possible. This is exactly what happened when Active Rain's own Alexander Harb, the founder of the group, "Christianity & Real Estate," (we affectionately call him "Alex") and myself enacted together. He from Orlando Florida, and me from a suburb of the Windy City..... Chicago, Illinois!

It began when i gradually crept back into blogging mode after a year's hiatus. Here at Active Rain, there are seasons we individually have to obey or we'll be washed away from our focus. As i sought to restore the neglected Property Management group here at Active Rain, and reacquaint myself with my online buddies, i noticed that Alex was not being that charged up-front General overseeing his troops!! Now, this was quite a change seeing him this way, so naturally, i went behind the scenes to peep into what was up, and spied him actively pursuing the wars in space games on FaceBook!!! He was tripping!!

Seeing he needed a jump start, i wrote a member's only group post, "Please Sign This Petition To Motivate Our Founder" to appeal to the 1365 members of C&RE, hoping to get their help to snap him out of his spell! Sure enough, faithful Bob Sloop responded to the call by featuring the post, prayed on it, and expressed encouragement. Alex then appeared, openly sharing about his closed door predicament. The request for help drew genuine supporters like Heather Crawford, Irene Tron, June Lewis, Jason Sardi, an unidentified old friend, and other silent-behind-the scene prayer warriors. Great! A caring army was positioned... good ground for a miracle to present itself!

The next stage progressed as a one-on-one dialog developed (by email) between Alex and myself beginning September 30^Th. On October 1^st,Alex was offered to come aboard with us! We were in dire need of help, because we were working at a deficit, but desired the surplus of new business coming in from investors seeking property management services. Essential duties like accounting, marketing, and specialized customer service were not getting the attention it needed, as demands for running a brokerage took precedent. It was an IDEAL set-up since Alex had NO job, NO money, NO place to go, and was about to be evicted in a few days.... ALEX NEEDED A MIRACLE... BUT SO DID WE!!

Our conversations were filled with "what ifs" and "thoughts of uncharted possibilities." It all culminated with the phone message we received from Alex, Wednesday, October 7^Th at 9:40 AM, which said (in short) "Diane, did you not tell me that the Lord would come through?? I have been given a one-way plane ticket to Chicago and will be there with you Tuesday morning!'

This is truly a MIRACLE IN THE RAIN! The door is wide OPEN for both Alex & Rice Property Management & Realty to go forward! This could not have taken place without the effectual fervent prayers of those that stood in the gap.... AND the FAITH of ALEX who, by his works, set the atmosphere for GOD to perform this mighty feat!

Alex will be licensed as a Realtor in Illinois and Indiana. Meanwhile, we are all being enhanced and invigorated as he lavishes upon us his knowledge of web optimization, extensive marketing expertise, and a host of other services to benefit our bursting-at-the-seams-to-learn team!!

It's with my deepest gratitude that i humbly come to thank all of the founders of Active Rain, their staff & families, each employee, every volunteer, and all of the membership!

We appreciate you ALL for putting up with me and Alex in our "daze" of immaturity when we (especially me) were out of step with protocol. I'd like to take this time to openly apologize to anyone we may have offended directly or indirectly. Please forgive us...... and.....

THANK YOU FOR THIS MIRACLE IN THE RAIN!!

To GOD be ALL the GLORY for the things HE alone has done!

Help Has Come To The propety Management Group!

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 22:59:30 -0500

It's OFFICIAL! Help has come to the Property Management Group! Starting tomorrow, October 12, 2009, we will have FOUR additional moderators! They are:

They are your fellow colleagues here in the Rain and have come to help us get BOOSTED! Why do we need promoting? It's OUR Time! Property Management has become a necessary service, just in time to handle the influx of structures appearing in the housing market! Whether you manage commercial or residential, small or large portfolios, there is a need, and we share the commonality of it all!

We want our spot on Active Rain to SIZZLE! It will with collective support from our voluntary team members and YOU!! You can help by inviting others, posting regularly, and encouraging members with your comments! All ideas are welcome!

The new moderators are a perfect fit, for they each bring perspectives from different scenarios. They have each been invited to write a post sharing a little bit about themselves and what they'd like to see happen in the group! Please encourage them, for we are in this together.

I am looking forward to the growth that is sure to show as a result of the involvement by our team moderators. Their primary assignments will be to feature your posts, help with recruitment, monitor content that is not related to property management, and encourage participation!

LET'S ROLL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT!!!

Diane Rice

Loving the HELL Out Of Your Enemies

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 11:26:20 -0500

Do you have enemies? OF COURSE you do... they are everywhere... even in the Rain! Seriously, Active Rain? Really? NO!!! Couldn't be... for we are a group of professionals seeking to get our brand out to the public! We work TOGETHER don't we? We LOVE one another.... there are NO haters here!!!

Upon closer examination, you will find that PEOPLE THEMSELVES are not haters....a human is not your enemy.... a person is just a body, a shell, a container, a conveyor, and that's all. It's what is allowed to fester inwardly that is the poison! In simple infantile language.... it's WHAT YOU ARE FULL OF!

Whatever you're grubbing upon will surface.... and whoever is in the path will get a hearty dosage of it! It has NO respecter of people and will be spewed upon anything that moves! Now, it has NO AFFECT on vessels who have been drinking out of the same vat! They'd cancel each other out, resulting in immunity to these death throes.

Ever go pass someone who's full of it? You know not to get too close.... for they seek a target to spill it out upon! It's become their everyday language now, and their original purpose is no longer detected, for contamination has set in. To think it only began with a tiny drop... it grew as it festered.

How does this happen... and what can be done? It happens when the vessel allows a root to set in... like an uncontested weed.... (a weed will REIGN and become a tree... IF you don't pull it out). What will dislodge it is... FORGIVENESS. Is it that simple? Yes. You see, hatred reigns when a vessel places himself/herself as JUDGE over the perceived slights of others and REFUSE to show them any mercy and are offended by decisions they made that are contrary to what they believe. They have entered into a pact with the real enemy to blame and not forgive!

The hater then becomes entrapped in his/her own cocoon... tasting of, and even reveling in their own vomit! Their lifelong pursuit then alters to a new ambition.... "HATE RECRUITER"!! Armed with this venom, the new cadets that join themselves are fed with this same toxicity. WHOA!! It has come to that?? YES!

If YOU are the target, you cannot escape from these fiery darts, however, you can love the hell out of that container! You'd have to get the strategy of LOVE... which is stronger than hate! You must use wisdom, to know how and when to apply it. And one more thing.... THIS CANNOT BE DONE IN YOUR OWN STRENGTH OR YOU WILL GET CLOBBERED!!! There is a STRONGER ONE than you that needs to be IN your vessel! Eat and drink of that vine first.... continually.... then you will become empowered!

If YOU are the one carrying this hate, and recognize yourself, know this.... you are forgiven. You no longer have to be tormented by the lies you were bound by. TIP OVER! That's it.... spill it all out, and allow those tears to flow freely. Your deliverer has come with HIS WORD of release. It's for YOU! You can no longer carry this. It has alienated you. You are not the enemy! The real enemy has manipulated your anger to fuel you. It's one of his devices used to steal your joy, kill your spirit, and destroy you from living an abundant life!

Not to worry.... HIS LOVE will cover. TIP OVER.... and fall into HIS ARMS. HE paid for this so YOU wouldn't have to. For this purpose HE was sent... just receive... open the door to your heart.

There's something waiting for you.

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

Using Schools As A Resource - A few Useful Tips

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 22:35:31 -0500

Doug Hamilton, Superintendent of School District 151, in South Suburban, Illinois was our guest speaker at the South Holland Business Association Luncheon, September 24th, 2009.

The topic: "Schools, An Untapped Market" was presented by Mr. Hamilton with such simplicity, that businesses who who were in attendance must have all been thinking the same thing.... "why hadn't we tapped onto this before?"

"Use US as a resource", he reiterated repeatedly! We listened as the Superintendent, (who remembered when South Holland was mostly made up of onion fields) insisted we view schools as the biggest business in our neighborhood, sharing that we have not taken advantage of it as a neighborhood resource. With there being 30,000 students enrolled, at South Suburban College, it is the biggest employer in South Holland, and is the most marketable.

He went on to list a number of creative ways to get contracts with the schools that would promote products of the businesses . He asked the question..... "What can schools do for you?"

Here are a few of the highlights:

Check School calendars/newsletters for activities to participate in
Go in with other companies to bridge projects with
Invite children to bring report cards in to receive a treat
Display achievements done by students in your place of business
Offer business days/tours of the business to the schools, but KNOW something about the school first!

Below: guest pictures....
We left with renewed inspiration to apply tips learned from the luncheon!

The Luncheon meal was catered by Jimmy Johns, and took place at the South Holland Community Center in South Holland, Illinois.

Left, President of the South Holland Business Association, (SHBA), Mike Abbott, thanks and prepares the well attended audience before introducing Mr. Hamilton.

Abbott's Minute Printing Center, Inc., located at 611 East 170th Street, in South Holland, Illinois has been servicing the community since 1972.

Diane Rice, Owner/ Broker/Realtor & Property Manager Of Rice Property Management & Realty, located in South Holland, Illinois holds Real Estate Licenses in Indiana and Illinois, and is co-owner with her husband, Anthony R. Rice of Rice & Rice Painting & Carpet Cleaning. Diane Rice has current membership with SHBA. Are you seeking Property Management? We can be located at:

www.862RICE.com

Do Not Despair

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 07:54:49 -0500

Posting to Group....

Do NOT despair for help IS on the way! Take courage and know that even though you are at the END of yourself.... you are right where the BEGINNING of GOD is....

Be encouraged and do not look to man.... but wait and hear GOD.... HE really is there, and HE has a specific WORD for YOU.

UPDATE - Property Management Group

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 01:14:54 -0500

A little update for membership....

With 342 members and growing.... plans are underway to further enlighten the group by bringing in fresh professional property management assistance and insights from YOUR COLLEAGUES!! A few of your dedicated members are willing to volunteer their time for our purposes! (If YOU are interested also, shoot me an email ASAP!)

Meanwhile, as we prepare, we are tuned in to hearing creative suggestions from YOU (by email or post) A few reminders:

- Commenting on posts is welcomed and ENCOURAGED!

- There are many groups for LISTING YOUR RENTALS. Here are 3 of them:

- Posts without relevant content to property management is NOT welcomed and DISCOURAGED!

THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR COOPERATION!

Diane Rice

Please Sign This Petition To Motivate OUR Founder.... ALEXANDER HARB!!!!!

Diane Rice, Rice Prprty Mgmnt & Rlty, LLC, South Holland, IL — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 20:31:40 -0500

There are 1365 subscribed members of Christianity & Real Estate. We became this BIG primarily because of the lone footwork of our founder, ALEXANDER HARB who was led to open this forum January 25, 2007, where he humbly posted his FIRST invitation to join.

There were a total of FIVE posts written by him at the very end of that month, and when February came, he wrote 6 more to be posted exclusively for the Christianity & Real Estate audience. Alex continued to encourage the Active Rain community with his evidence of love and care for humanity. One such post was written in the month of April that same year titled, In View Of The Massacre . Many responded to this post by praying for families of the victims of the Virginia Tech mass shooting.

Alex was proving to be a very vital leader and community organizer here in Active Rain, and more were taking note of it, especially new members who hurried to join up! I think i joined somewhere around July of 2007, and see that i responded to a well read post of his named "A Perspective On Forgiveness".

Christianity & Real Estate began to grow to such an extent that moderators were needed to assist with so many postings by members eager to share uplifting words to every one. One of the first was Elizabeth Nieves, and Alex wrote a post to introduce her to the the C&RE family... others were chosen later for a total of 10.

This brings me to the purpose of this petition..... ALEX needs our help to get PUMPED BACK UP!!!! Changes have cause him to grow a little distant, and how many of you know that WITHOUT a leader we cannot stand! Here are Alex's very words on his first post....

"This will NOT be a group where the moderator creates the group and disappears like I heard so many of you say recently. I will visit it every day and I PROMISE to be someone you can talk to and get to know."

Please sign this petition by leaving an encouraging word and/or prayer for Alex and the group, to let him SEE that we need him to stand!!! Thank you in advance for your cooperation!

Diane Rice

But EXHORT one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.