Robert Nichols' Blog

Clients to Realtors: Don't Push Me, Educate Me!

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:50:06 -0700

Over the years, numerous clients have told me that they enjoy working me because of my approach when working with them. Simply put, they like that fact that I don't push them, and spend time educating them about the buying the process and market conditions. Clients have said things like, "I enjoy working with you because you're not pushy" or "my last agent was always pushing me to make offers". I truly believe in educating clients so that they are empowered to make smart real estate decisions that benefit them and their families for years to come. As real estate professionals it is not our job to make decisions on behalf of our clients, but rather, teach them how to come to the right conclusions on their own. One of the lessons I learned early on in my career is that, people don't believe what you tell them, they believe what they tell themselves. If you choose to Empower, Educate, and be Patient, your client's will make the right choices based on the information you have provided to them. They will truly appreicate you for empowring them and will also spread the word about you to their friends and family.

About the author: The above Real Estate information was provided by Robert L Nichols Jr. Robert is a is real estate consultant and Entrepreneur. His services encompass real estate brokering, development, short sales, and innovative listing services.

Robert Has founded several real estate stratups and is the Founder of Boston Trust Realty Group, a Boston based brokerage firm. Robert's companies also include MungoList.com and Rigid Capital Investors, LLC.

Boston Market Recap April 20, 2013

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 18:37:59 -0700

The Boston Real Estate Market is really heating up and and the tide has shifted from a from a buyers market to a sellers market. If you want to purchase a home this spring you have to move swiftly and commit to making strong offers. Otherwise you may end up missing out this spring!

Rookies Beware - This Spring Is For The Seasoned Buyers

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Thu, 07 Mar 2013 10:46:36 -0800

If you are looking to purchase a home this Spring, be prepared to act quickly and have all your financials in order. With inventories near historic lows around the country, the competition will be fierce and there will be bidding wars! Successful buyers will be defined by speed and preparation. This market is not for the faint at heart. My advice to buyers is simple; once you find the right home, present the best offer possible. For more information on Buying a home in the Boston area visit http://BTRealtygroup.com

The Fiscal Cliff And How It Will Impact Short Sales

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 12:40:38 -0800

While the majority of conversations surrounding the fiscal Cliff are about tax increases and spending, the impact it will have on home owners looking to do a short sale is significant. It is estimated that there will be nearly 350,000 short sales in 2013. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that this amounts $1.3 Billion Dollars of taxes that will need to be paid by home owners that do a short sale, if nothing is done.

The particular piece of legislation that needs to be extended to stave off this massive tax hike for distressed home owners is The Mortgage Forgiveness Debt Relief Act. This Act enables homeowners to avoid paying taxes on income (in the form of written off debt) that results from doing a short sale. For Example if you purchased a home for $150k and complete a short sale for $90k, the difference is $60k. Under the current legislation the $60k would not count as income and would be forgiven by the IRS. If it is not extend, a home owner would have to pay taxes on the $60k as income.

Several politicians have stated they are confident there will be an extension in Wall Street Journal and other publications, but the problem is the timing. The ‘unknown’ nature of the where things stand is nerve racking for home owners and realtors that are actively negotiating short sales that may close in early 2013. For more information about doing a short sale or general information about working with a quality real estate professional visit http://BTRealtyGroup.com or call 617-674-2077.

Commitment Dates Are Bigger Than Birthdays In Real Estate!

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 12:12:46 -0800

Thinking About Buying A Condo? Here Are 3 Things You Should Know

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Wed, 05 Dec 2012 12:08:07 -0800

Thinking About Buying a Condo? Here are 3 Things You MUST Know

Review The Condo Docs and Look For Restrictions
Review The Budget
Ask About The Management: Professionally Managed Or Self Managed

Quincy First Time Homebuyer Class

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Thu, 29 Nov 2012 11:54:02 -0800

If you are Considering purchasing a home in Quincy, Our Home Buyer Class will educate you on the home buying process from start to finish! Attend our FREE Quincy home buying class to learn:

• Renting vs. Buying: Whether it even makes sense for you to buy right now
• Home buying process and time line: How long it actually takes to buy
• Working with a buyer agent: How it works and whether or not you really need one
• What mortgages are still available and how much cash you need to buy.
• Using neighborhood level data (like discount ratios and real time trend graphs) to value properties
• Negotiating 101: How to make the seller an offer they cant refuse

Is this class for you? If you’re looking for a fun, low key, and informal way to learn the Quincy real estate market from the experts, then this class is the Right fit. You’ll have a chance to ask questions and get straight answers. Plus we’ll have plenty of pizza and refreshments. Our office is located in the Neponset Circle on The Quincy/Dorchester Line, just over the bridge.

Our next class will Take Place on January 8, 2013 at 6 PM @ 404 Neponset Ave. To sign up, visit http://btrgbuyerclass.eventbrite.com/ and Sign Up Today!

Roxbury, MA: Boston's Best Kept Secret...Not for long.

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Fri, 23 Nov 2012 10:41:30 -0800

The Roxbury Neighborhood of Boston is a diverse community that abuts the South End, Jamaica Plain and Dorchester. It is geographically one the best neighborhoods to live reside in within Boston, due to its closeness to downtown, and many area amenities. It is also great because homes are comparatively much more affordable than in neighborhoods such as the South End and JP. For Example, a 700 square foot 2 bedroom 1 bath condo in the South End goes for approximately $450,000 (on the lower end), while Roxbury has similarly sized condos in the Fort Hill Section of Roxbury, priced just under $210,000.

While Roxbury presents a great opportunity for young professionals to buy homes in the city, the numbers show that values are rapidly on the rise. When comparing sales and volume from the first 3 quarters of 2012 to the same period in 2011, the average sales price has increase by 35% and sales volume is up 23%. These increase can be attributed to factors such as consumer optimism regarding the economy and low interest rates, but there is also another side to the story.

The City of Boston has begun a multi- phase redevelopment of Roxbury's Dudley Square. This $115 Million Dollar project includes the redevelopment of the old Ferdinand Department Store building and two adjacent buildings. The most significant part of this project is that the City of Boston will be relocating the Boston School Department Headquarters to the Ferdinand building, which employs over 450 administrative staff.

The City as taken a proactive approach in effort to revitalize Roxbury and the numbers show that theRoxbury Real Estate Market is poised for significant growth in the years to come. If you are considering purchasing a home in the city of Boston, consider Roxbury because smart investments today, will yield great returns tomorrow.

Dorchester Condo Like New Construction

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 21:39:58 -0700

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Robert L. Nichols Jr

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Description

Renovated 2 bedroom 1.5 bath second floor condo features New kitchen with stainless appliances, hardwood floors,washer & dryer in the unit,central air, and tons of updates including newer windows, new cabinets, two private balconies and much more.

Features

Bedrooms:	2
Bathrooms:	1
Parking Spaces:	On Street
Year Built:	2008
Located on Floor #:	2
Floors in Bldg:	3
School District:	BOS
Square Footage:	800
Agent Name:	Robert L. Nichols Jr.
Broker:	Boston Trust Realty Group
MLS #:	71433218

Location

77 Ridgewood Street Boston MA 02122

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vFlyer Id: 156372011

Dorchester Two Family Like New Construction

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 19:04:53 -0700

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Robert L. Nichols Jr

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Description

This beautifully renovated home is like new construction and features a new roof, all new heating, electrical and plumbing. There are hardwood floors throughout and a new kitchen with granite counter tops and appliances. The bathrooms have a clean design that includes granite tops on the vanities and ceramic tile flooring. Convenient to public transportation and area amenities. Buyer must be an owner occ. and meet HUD 120% AMI income guidelines. Contact listing agent for details.

Features

Units:	2
Bedrooms:	6
Bathrooms:	2
Year Built:	1903
Parking Spaces:	4
Square Footage:	3441
Lot Size:	3081
Floors in Bldg:	3
School District:	BPS
Broker:	Boston Trust Realty Group
Agent Name:	Robert Nichols
MLS #:	71428181
Separate Meters:	Yes

Location

36-38 Fowler Street Boston MA 02122

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Mattapan Single Family For Sale - Fixer Upper Victorian

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Mon, 13 Aug 2012 20:19:01 -0700

Boston Single Family Home Needs A Lot Of Love

Location: Mattapan

SINGLE FAMILY HOME WITH LOTS OF CHARACTER. SPACIOUS DOUBLE LOT, HARDWOOD FLOORS THROUGHOUT, EAT IN KITCHEN AND DINING ROOM, 5 BEDROOMS, AMPLE OFF-STREET PARKING, WILL NOT QUALIFY FOR TRADITIONAL FINANCING. CASH BUYERS AND REHAB LOANS ONLY. ALL OFFERS WILL BE CONSIDERED.

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Robert L. Nichols Jr

6174485112

Robert is an experienced real estate professional serving the Greater Boston community!

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Pricing

Price: $250,000

Flexibility: Negotiable

Additional Pricing Information: All Offers Will Be Considered.

Property Location

619 Walk Hill Street
Boston, MA 02126
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Features

Bedrooms: 5

Bathrooms: 1

Parking Spaces: 2

Year Built: 1928

Lot Size: 12234

School District: BPS

Square Footage: 2477

Agent Name: Robert Nichols

Broker: Boston Trust Realty Group

MLS #: 71420147

Attributes

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Hardwood Floors

Basement

Attic

Exterior Amenities

Fenced Yard

Grass Lawn

Photo Gallery

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VFLYER ID: 176388014

Real Estate Market Report Boston MA - Q2 2012

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 09:07:47 -0700

The 2012 second quarter numbers for Boston residential real estate sales show that while volume has increased significantly, values still remain steady. In Q2 2012 the total sales volume for Boston increased by 20% for the same period last year and increased 93% vs Q1 2012. While the average sales price increased by 31% vs Q2 2011, there was only a 1% increase in the average sale price vs Q1 2012. The increase in volume can be attributed to mortgage interest rates being at historical lows but it will be interesting to see what happens in Q3 2012. While rates are fantastic, the lending guidelines still remain relatively tight which is putting downward pressure on home values.

Like New Construction Dorchester Single Family For Sale

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Sat, 21 Jul 2012 08:49:05 -0700

Like New Construction Dorchester Single Family

Description: This 5 bedroom, 1.5 bath colonial features hardwood floors throughout all new systems, an updated kitchen, stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops new heating system and much more. Convenient to public transportation and area amenities. Buyer must be an owner occ. and meet HUD 120% AMI income guidelines. Contact listing agent for details.

Information

Contact Information

Robert L. Nichols Jr

6174485112

Robert is an experienced real estate professional serving the Greater Boston community!

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Pricing

Price: $275,000

Flexibility: Firm

Additional Pricing Information: Subject to DND Approval of Buyer

Property Location

26 Bradlee Street
Boston, MA 02124
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Features

Bedrooms: 5

Bathrooms: 1.5

Parking Spaces: 1

Year Built: 1890

Lot Size: 4688

School District: BPS

Square Footage: 2000

Agent Name: Robert Nichols

Broker: Boston Trust Realty Group

MLS #: 71411222

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Hardwood Floors

Basement

Exterior Amenities

Fenced Yard

Grass Lawn

Photo Gallery

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VFLYER ID: 84366002

Sellers Should Stay Away From Home Inspecitons

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 09:56:40 -0700

When it comes to buying and selling a home, a home inspection is a significant step in the process. It can be likened to removing a veil of sorts, in that, a home may look great and appear to be everything you ever dreamed of, but a home inspection reveals the good and the bad. Having a home inspection allows you to see a house up close and personal, and enables you to make an educated decision on how to move forward after seeing the good and the bad. Sometimes and inspection can lead to a buyer deciding not to move forward, but if nothing else it is leverage to get a better deal. On a side note to sellers, If a home inspection is being performed on your house, STAY AWAY! As a seller it is natural to want to defend the defects found in your home, but a home inspection is no the time or place for this, so please do not attend the inspection.

Let The Seller Pay Your Closing Costs

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Sun, 20 May 2012 20:52:35 -0700

When purchasing a home, it is common to request that the seller pay your closing costs. This provides a great opportunity for buyers to minimize their out of pocket expenses for lender fees and other prepaid expenses that come along with purchasing a home.

South End Condos Market Report April 2012

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Thu, 17 May 2012 20:11:59 -0700

Boston’s South End Condo Market on the uptick and showing no signs of weakness. In April of 2012 there were healthy increases in both sales volume and value relative to the same month last year. Sales volume increased by 17% while median values went up by a respectable 12%, from $535,600 to $600,000. The market is on the uptick so if you are thinking about purchasing a home in the South End, you should seriously explore your options. To search for a South End condo visit http://www.BTRealtyGroup.com or give me a call today at 617-448-5112.

Roxbury Three Family For Sale Foreclosure

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Wed, 16 May 2012 08:37:26 -0700

Roxbury is a historic neighborhood in Boston that is right out side of the South End. There are many Brownstones and Victorians that feature tons of original detail and charm. In this video tour, I walk you through a foreclosed Three unit Brownstone that needs a lot of work, but still has many of its original details. If you are interested in purchasing a historic Boston home and are willing to do some work, this may be a great fit for you at only $184,900. To set up a showing give me a call at 617-674-2077 or visit my website at http://BTRealtyGroup.com

New Construction Town House For Sale In Hyde Park

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Wed, 16 May 2012 08:26:16 -0700

New Construction Hyde Park Town House For Sale

Location: Hyde Park

New Construction Town House! Beautiful hardwood floors, new cherry cabinets, granite counters, stainless steel appliances, central air and a brand new deck. Open floor plan offers great space for entertaining family and friends. Basement offers expansion possibilities, open w/high ceilings.

Information

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Robert L. Nichols Jr

6174485112

Robert is an experienced real estate professional serving the Greater Boston community!

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Pricing

Price: $279,000

Flexibility: Negotiable

Property Location

31 Riverside Sq
Boston, MA 02136
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Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 2.5

Parking Spaces: 2

Year Built: 2011

Attached on: 1 Side

School District: BPS

Square Footage: 1400

Agent Name: Robert Nichols

Broker: Boston Trust Realty Group

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Dishwasher

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Hardwood Floors

Basement

Attic

Photo Gallery

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EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 157729004

Dorchester Two Family For Sale

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Fri, 11 May 2012 13:05:45 -0700

Dorchester Two Family For Sale

Location: Dorchester

Features

Bedrooms: 6

Bathrooms: 2

Parking Spaces: 2

Year Built: 1910

School District: BPS

Square Footage: 2928

Agent Name: Robert Nichols

Broker: Boston Trust Realty Group

Information

Contact Information

Robert L. Nichols Jr

6174485112

Robert is an experienced real estate professional serving the Greater Boston community!

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Pricing

Price: $325,000

Flexibility: Negotiable

Property Location

323 Fuller Street
Boston, MA 02124
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Links

Search For Boston Homes

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Hardwood Floors

Basement

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (7 Photos)

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VFLYER ID: 156956021

Spacious Dorchester Single Family

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Thu, 10 May 2012 13:52:56 -0700

Spacious Dorchester Single Family For Sale

Location: Dorchester

This 4 bedroom, 2 full bath and 2 half bath colonial features hardwood floors throughout an updated kitchen, stainless steel appliances, a Jacuzzi in the master bath and many more updates.

Features

Bedrooms: 4

Bathrooms: 3

Parking Spaces: 4

Year Built: 1920

Lot Size: 4197

School District: BPS

Square Footage: 2437

Agent Name: Robert Nichols

Broker: Boston Trust Realty Group

Information

Contact Information

Robert L. Nichols Jr

6174485112

Robert is an experienced real estate professional serving the Greater Boston community!

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Pricing

Price: $259,900

Flexibility: Negotiable

Property Location

41 Wales Street
Boston, MA 02124
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Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Hardwood Floors

Basement

Exterior Amenities

Fenced Yard

Grass Lawn

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (6 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 84366002

Dorchester Condo For Sale - Newly Renovated

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Tue, 08 May 2012 20:06:22 -0700

Dorchester Condo For Sale

Location: Dorchester

Renovated 2 bedroom second floor condo! Views of Boston harbor and large park across the street. New kitchen with stainless appliances, hardwood floors,washer & dryer connection in the unit,central air, and tons of original detail including pocket doors and stained glass. Extra large deck

Information

Contact Information

Robert L. Nichols Jr

6174485112

Robert is an experienced real estate professional serving the Greater Boston community!

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Pricing

Price: $164,900

Flexibility: Negotiable

Homeowner Dues: $200.00

Property Location

58 Percival Street
Unit 2
Boston, MA 02122
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Links

Search MLS

Features

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 1

Parking Spaces: On Street

Year Built: 2005

Located on Floor #: 2

Floors in Bldg: 3

School District: BOS

Square Footage: 1000

Agent Name: Robert L. Nichols Jr.

Broker: Boston Trust Realty Group

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Dishwasher

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Hardwood Floors

Basement

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (5 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 156372011

South Boston Condo For Sale

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Tue, 08 May 2012 19:11:37 -0700

South Boston Condo For Sale

Location: South Boston

This renovated condo features, stainless steel appliances, granite counter tops, hardwood floors and includes a washer and dryer in the unit. It is conveniently located near many area amenities and minutes away from Andrew station.

Information

Contact Information

Robert L. Nichols Jr

6174485112

Robert is an experienced real estate professional serving the Greater Boston community!

Contact Reply Form

Forward to a Friend

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Pricing

Price: $289,900

Flexibility: Negotiable

Homeowner Dues: $200.00

Property Location

224 W 6Th Street
Unit 4
Boston, MA 02127
View Map

Features

Bedrooms: 2

Bathrooms: 1

Parking Spaces: On Street

Year Built: 1994

Located on Floor #: 2

Floors in Bldg: 3

School District: BPS

Square Footage: 759

Agent Name: Robert L. Nichols Jr.

Broker: Boston Trust Realty Group

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Full Refrigerator

Washer/Dryer

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Hardwood Floors

Photo Gallery

View as Slideshow View Photo Gallery (7 Photos)

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 156370003

South Boston Condo Market Is Hot!

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Wed, 02 May 2012 13:08:24 -0700

In 2012 the average sales price of a condo in South Boston rose 6% while median price remained pretty much the same. Total sale volume increased by a healthy 24% and the total market value sold jumped 31%. March was a very strong month for real estate sales in the city of Boston as a whole and all signs point to one of the best Spring markets we’ve seen in recent years. You can view the full report below or by visiting BTRealtyGroup.com:

Q1 2012

Lowest Price: $180,000 Median Price: $385,000

Highest Price: $1,277,500 Average Price: $410,189

Total Market Volume: $36,506,813

Total Sales Volume: 89

Q1 2011

Lowest Price: $99,000 Median Price: $395,000

Highest Price: $695,000 Average Price: $386,424

Total Market Volume: $27,822,500

Total Sales Volume: 72

Real Estate Market Report - Q1 Quincy MA

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 10:51:41 -0700

Overall Quincy, MA looks to be poised for a recovery based on the 2012 Q1 numbers relative to Q1 2011. While the median price for a home fell by 4%, the total sales volume increased by 24%. This is a healthy sign that the market will soon recover. As more buyers look to purchase residential homes, the inventory will continue you to shrink and hopefully a reduced supply , coupled with strong demand will begin to yield increased home values. It will be interesting to see what the Q2 numbers look like for Quincy MA in 2012. You can view the full report below or by visiting BTRealtyGroup.com.

Q1 2012

Lowest Price: $97,001Median Price: $284,375

Highest Price: $1,225,000Average Price: $297,303

Total Market Volume: $49,946,855

Total Properties Sold: 168

Q1 2011

Lowest Price: $10Median Price: $296,000

Highest Price: $1,050,000Average Price: $309,452

Total Market Volume: $42,085,536

Total Properties Sold: 136

MungoList.com SEO Strategy Helps Increase Listing Traffic For Realtors

Robert Nichols (Boston Trust Realty Group) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 11:52:21 -0700

Since launching on Thanksgiving day 2011, my team and I have seen a healthy and steady increase in new visitors to MungoList.com. Every Listing on MungoList has a unique SEO (Search Engine Optimization) friendly URL that links directly to your listings and your contact info so that all prospective buyers can contact you directly. The key is that the property address is in the URL so when buyers use search engines to perform searches in a particular neighborhood, your listing will appear in the search results. This is similar to Trulia and Zillow, however we do not charge you a fee to be exclusively featured on your own listings. As we continue to grow, we will always be looking to improve our strategy to help you increase your listings exposure and sell faster! Increased traffic on MungoList means more views for your listings and more exposure for your personal brand.