ActiveRain Blogs

Hiking in Southern Oregon

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:59:04 -0600

Hiking in Southern Oregon. Southern Oregon offers hikers many options for a great outdoor entertaining vacation. Oregon has thousands of miles of isolated deciduous and old growth forests, along with hundreds of miles of trail systems. Much of this is high country, although three are several ocean and coastal beach trails. Hikers are advised to visit high mountain old growth forest trails, with icy bubbling springs and streams, jewel like mountain lakes and canyon bottoms covered with moss and fern. It also will pay to visit the Pacific Ocean vistas with their quiet beaches. Based on the time of year, there may be snow in the higher elevations. It is always best for vacationers to plan a hiking vacation properly and well in advance. Vacationers can get necessary travel information from agencies that control the forest they plan to hike in. This information may include rules, regulation, fees, registration and more.

The Illinois Trail offers a hike through the north end of the Kalmiopsis Wilderness. It is a reasonably difficult trail and is especially close to the Bald Mountain. However, it offers spectacular views of the rugged canyon. From late May through July, a variety of wildflowers are in bloom, and there are camping sites along the trail. Additionally, there are a number of side trails intersecting this trail. Once in a while, fishing can be a good option, especially in late fall or early winter. No power-driven or mechanized equipment (such as bicycles) are permissible within the wilderness or on the trail, and other sections are closed to motor vehicles from May 15 till September 15. The trail features stunning wildflowers, old-growth trees, strong and steep river canyons and a variety of wildlife.

Melinda Peterson, Broker/Owner

Grants Pass, Oregon ~ Southern Oregon Real Estate

541-659-1620

Lunar New Year Events -- 2010

Tom McEvoy (RE/MAX Santa Clara Valley) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:51:48 -0600

Happy New Year! OK, Happy Lunar New Year! In the Chinese calendar, the longest chronological record in history dating back to 2600 B.C., this year marks the lunar year 4708 -- Year of the Tiger. The first day of the lunar year is February 14, 2010. Wow, same day this year as Valentine's Day.

Famous people born in the Year of the Tiger include: Agatha Christie, Alanis Morissette, Beatrix Potter, Bill Murray, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Enya, H.G. Wells, Hugh Hefner, Jay Leno, Jodie Foster, John Bon Jovi, Kenny Rogers, Leonardo DiCaprio, Lionel Richie, Ludvig Van Beethoven, Marco Polo, Marilyn Monroe, Paula Abdul, Penelope Cruz, Phil Collins, Sheryl Crow, Stevie Wonder, Tom Cruise, Tony Bennett, Wesley Snipes. Guess what? I also was born in the Year of the Tiger!

Here are selected local events celebrating the Lunar New Year in Santa Clara, San Mateo and San Francisco counties.

Silicon Valley/Santa Clara County:

* Spring Festival Silicon Valley 2010 - Chinese New Year Gala. Featuring San Jose Taiko, Ballet San Jose, Ustad Farida Mahwash. Saturday, February 20th at 7:30pm. San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, San Jose

*Lion Dancing. Enjoy traditional dim sum or dinner at a Year of the Tiger celebration featuring The Young Lion Dancers. 12:30pm, February 21st, Ming's Chinese Cuisine &; Bar, 1700 Embarcadero Road, Palo Alto.

San Mateo/San Mateo County:

* Chinese New Year Celebration. Features several performances on the Amphitheater Stage and Chinese food. Thursday, February 11th from 12:30pm to 2:00pm, Free. Cañada Community College, Redwood City

San Francisco:

San Francisco's Chinese New Year Parade began in 1860 and was named by the IFEA to be one of the top ten parades in the world! It is also one of the remaining night illuminated parades left in the country. Since 1958 the parade has been organized and directed by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce.

* 2010 Chinese New Year Festival and Parade, Saturday, February 27th. 5:15-8:00 pm, Market and Second Streets to Kearney and Jackson. Check out ";Gum Lung";, the 201-foot-long Golden Dragon!

• YMCA Chinese New Year Run. This event raises funds for the YMCA's youth and teen programs. This year's proceeds will benefit PEP, the Physical Education Program serving more than 1,100 youth in Chinatown with weekly physical fitness programs. Sunday, February 21st, 7:00am starts at Grant and Clay, San Francisco

A Hundred Years of the Chinese Calendar (1924 to 2024) --

The Chinese Calendar names each year after an animal and legend has it that a person born under a certain animal will display traits of that animal. What sign are you in the Chinese 12-year calendar cycle? Look up in the table below what year you were born and the corresponding animal.

Rat: 1924 1936 1948 1960 1972 1984 1996 2008 2020

Ox: 1925 1937 1949 1961 1973 1985 1997 2009 2021

Tiger: 1926 1938 1950 1962 1974 1986 1998 2010 2022

Rabbit: 1927 1939 1951 1963 1975 1987 1999 2011 2023

Dragon: 1928 1940 1952 1964 1976 1988 2000 2012 2024

Snake: 1929 1941 1953 1965 1977 1989 2001 2013

Horse: 1930 1942 1954 1966 1978 1990 2002 2014

Ram: 1931 1943 1955 1967 1979 1991 2003 2015

Monkey: 1932 1944 1956 1968 1980 1992 2004 2016

Rooster: 1933 1945 1957 1969 1981 1993 2005 2017

Dog: 1934 1946 1958 1970 1982 1994 2006 2018

Boar: 1935 1947 1959 1971 1983 1995 2007 2019

Gung Hey Fat Choy! Happy Year of the Tiger!

Chúc Mừng Năm Mới! Happy Year of the Tiger!

Website online view and Hardcopy printout

Jim Mushinsky (Centsable Inspection) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:51:29 -0600

We thought our webstie was informative to relatively easy to read. During 2009 we noticed an increase in hardcopy printouts of our website pages from our clients. Well when reading the hardcopy printout instead of the online web page, our opinion changed. It was uncomfortable to watch clients flipping back and forth between pages.

There is quite a bit of difference between scolling up/down versus turning the page.

For 2010 we added a new website. Microsoft Office Live Small Business was the easy choice to create our new website. In addition to the website development tools, we also have online worksapces to manage our documents and projects.

In 2009 our clients searching for a Natick MA home inspection would find our website. http://www.unitedinspection.com/home_inspection.php with information on our home inspection services and information about Natick MA. This page takes 13 pages to print, and not all of the information is related to a Natick MA home inspection.

In 2010 we added a new website using Microsoft Office Live Small Business. http://unitedinspection.web.officelive.com/ that prints a 1 page hardcopy.

Our new web page for Natick MA home inspection of http://unitedinspection.web.officelive.com/NatickMAHomeInspection.aspx prints cleanly on 2 pages. One page for our home inspection services and one page for Natick MA home buyer resources.

Create your own free website with Microsoft Offlice Live Small Business

Now we are comfortable and happy to see our clients bringing clean printouts of our website pages.

Why Rockland County, NY Home Buyers Choose Me - Anthony Stokes Pereira, Better Homes and Garden Rand Realty

Anthony Stokes-Pereira (Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:50:43 -0600

The BEST Real Estate Service Experience!

Hire A True Professional for All Your Real Estate Needs!

The home buying process should entail much more than internet searches and looking through newspaper ads. Most people buy only a few homes in a lifetime, usually with quite a few years in between each purchase. And even if you've done it before, laws and regulations change. That's why having a Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty professional on your side is critical. You need to be sure you have all the information such as market conditions, inventory, negotiating ideas, new construction variables, etc. This is where my experience, technology and skills will absolutely contribute to your successful home buying experience.

As your Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty Sales Professional, I will provide you with the information you need to make an educated decision.

The relationship between a home buyer or seller and their Realtor is based on trust, shared goals and understanding. I strive to continually improve and to do this I listen and take the needs and wants into consideration.

Nothing is more exciting to me than the gratifying feeling I get from helping my clients meet their real estate needs. You can count on me to always do what's in your best interest. I pride myself on being honest, trustworthy, and knowledgeable in the real estate market. I know how important it is to find your dream home or get the best offer for your property. Therefore I will make it my responsibility to help you achieve those goals.

I am fully committed to providing you with a noticeably higher level of service at all times while demonstrating knowledge, friendliness and professionalism throughout the transaction. The blending of my experience and strength of Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty assures you the competitive edge in today's real estate market. My pledge to you is to use all resources available to benefit you that will make your real estate experience as easy and as stress-free as possible.

Anthony Stokes Pereira of Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty

I can help you with every aspect of buying or selling your home because I'm experienced, because I am a Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty Real Estate Professional . . .and because I care.

As your Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty Sales Professional, I will provide you with the information you need to make an educated decision.

The relationship between a home buyer or seller and their agent is based on trust, shared goals and understanding. I strive to continually improve and to do this I listen and take the needs and wants into consideration.

For assistance with any of your real estate needs, please contact me, whether it's to get started on helping you realize your goals and dreams, or just to ask a question - no pressure, no hassle, no obligation - just a friendly conversation. I would welcome the opportunity to make a difference for you.

Anthony Stokes Pereira

Office: (845) 770-2188

Cell: (845) 538-7021

Fax: (845) 624-7137

Email: anthony.stokespereira@randrealty.com

www.anthonystokespereira.com

Snow in Williamsburg

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:49:10 -0600

Snow in Williamsburg

We had snow in Williamsburg during the last weekend of January and the first week of February, yes I said snow in Williamsburg in Virginia!

It was so beautiful when we woke up and saw that snow had covered everything! The latest storm (February 6, 2010) left a layer of ice on the tree branches and snow piled up on the branches of evergreen and pine trees. It was absolutely spectacular!

The trees that were covered in ice sparkled like diamonds in the sun!

But alas the sun began to melt the beautiful ice and snow in Williamsburg quickly.

So my hubby and I jumped into his 4 wheel drive (he is a self proclaimed redneck) and headed down to Colonial Williamsburg to take pictures before all of the beauty melted away.

The photo above is of some of the homes and shops on Duke of Gloucester street. The Bruton Parrish Church steeple can also be seen above the roof lines of the homes and shops.

For more photos of the snow in Williamsburg click here.

For more information about the Williamsburg area check out my blog, or my website.

Sybil Campbell, REALTOR®, ABR, SRES

Long and Foster REALTORS®

(757) 897-5889

www.urhomecompass.com

WHATEVER THE DIRECTION SYBIL CAN HELP YOU LOCATE THE HOME OF YOUR DREAMS

www.buywilliamsburghomes.com

sybilcampbell@cox.net

licensed in the commonwealth of Virginia

From Purple to Pleasing - Painting is worth the Investment

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:45:23 -0600

Last week Synergy Staging had the opportunity to stage this beautiful home in Lake Oswego. When we visited the property to do our walk through it was clear that some of the colors had to be toned down. Fortunately the owner understood that the colors would not appeal to everyone and was prepared to paint the interior of the home.

How one prefers to live in a home is almost always different from how one should sell their home. We personally love bold and vibrant colors, but when selling your home, keeping a nice warm neutral is going to be appealing to the broadest range of potential buyers.

In the before picture you can see the living room had a mix of white and mint green. Although the ceilings were very high, the room was small and broken up with a lot of different angles. Painting one neutral color throughout the space made it feel larger and buyers were less distracted by the architecture.

And check out this purple dining room that needed a facelift. By using the same neutral that was used in the living room, the entire space flowed together. After staging, the dining room became a key selling feature in the home with it's inviting feel and beautiful views.

When selling your home, the investments you make in preparing your property will pay off. Home staging, painting, minor cosmetic fixes, cleaning, etc. will typically result in a quicker sale for more money. Listen to the professionals who are trying to help you! =)

We'll be posting more pictures of this gorgeous home shortly.

Join the Realtors, Investors, and Homeowners who call Synergy Staging to make their properties irresistible and sell quickly! Read what our clients have said about their experience with our company. For more tips or to see our latest home staging projects, read our Portland Home Staging Blog and visit us on Facebook. Please call us at (503) 557-2244 for a free no obligation quote so we can help your home sell faster in 2010.

Dare to be different....

Russel Ray, San Diego Marketing & Business Consultant (Russel Ray) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:45:02 -0600

I like to be different, so I try to determine when everyone else does something, and then I do something different, or, when required, I do the same something at a different time.

For example, I get inundated with newsletter emails during the first few days or the last few days of the month. Consequently, it's probably a safe bet that the rest of the world is getting inundated with emails at the same time.

When I send out my newsletters, I send them either before or after everyone else. I've found that the fifteenth of the month leaves me in good company with, uh, just myself. If you find that you don't get a good response from your newsletter, try sending it at a different time of the month.

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Lake Front Properties For Sale Hayward Wisconsin, Northern WI.

Eric Ristey (Erlandson Realty) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:43:26 -0600

Lake Front Properties For Sale for more information please feel free to call Eric at 1-800-771-4259 or visitEric Ristey's Website.

We at wilandandhome.com feel fortunate enough to be able to offer you our client a great deal of diversity with the inventory of Lake Front Properties For Sale.

Buying lake front real estate is a serious investment. Your experience could be a down right night mare or it can be a fun and memorable. Erlandson Realty and wilandandhome is a independent real estate company that puts the emphasis on helping you find the right property. There are many types of Lake Front Properties For Sale .

Therefore you need to take the time to sit down with everyone involved with the purchase and make a list of the most important items in a piece of land. Once that step is done you can say I think I know what I want. Some people will prefer a more open type feeling, while others will want a tuck yourself into the woods type feeling, and then there will be the ones who want the I am the King of the Hill type feeling. So when you decide to look at Lake Front Properties For Sale , what type of property is just as important as where

I give you my word that wilandandhome and Erlandson Realty will make your real estate experience enjoyable and professional. We will be with you every step of the way when it comes to looking at Lake Front Properties For Sale, writing a offer, assisting in financing options, and making sure the closing goes trouble free. We take the time to LISTEN to you, finding out all of your wants and needs and only then will we discuss the Lake Front Properties For Sale.

At Erlandson Realty and wilandandhome we treat you and your concerns as if they were our own. This is the type of experience we strive to offer you because YOU are our number 1 concern, you are not another number. I hope you can see that every real estate agent is not the same, in actuality there are only a hand-full of agents who do what we do. If I have done my job we should have minimizes the stress level and increased the happiness. We are the ones that you will want to do business with. If all of this seems a little over whelming, well that why were here you have a professional on your side, and by the way you (the buyer) gets all these services for free, as the seller is the one who pays any commission.

Once again for more information on Lake Front Properties For Sale call Eric at 1-800-771-4259. or visit Eric Ristey's website.

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Semper-Fi

Eric Ristey

Real Estate Agent

Erlandson Realty

800-771-4259

eric@wilandandhome.com

Breaking Down the Financial Aspect of a Residential Purchase Contract

Jessica Steele (Welcome Home Realty) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:42:05 -0600

Breaking down the finances in a residential purchase contract can be overwhelming, even for those mathematicians amongst us. For the first-time home buyer, interpreting Section 2 of Arizona's Residential Purchase Contractcan be about as appealing as scooping kitty litter. Verbiage such as "discount points", "A.L.T.A. Lender Title Insurance Policy" and "loan contingency" might as well be written in Chinese symbols, and as agents, we often get lost in our own word vomit as we try to piece it all together for our glazey-eyed buyer. So, tonight we will break down Section 2 of the purchase contract, in terms even my basset can comprehend.

2a. Loan Contingency: A loan contingency is just what the name suggests. Before the close of escrow can occur, the buyer's financing must be secured. If the buyer is unable to obtain financing without conditions before close of escrow (commonly referred to as COE), then the buyer is obligated to deliver notice of this event to the seller or escrow (title) company. This must be done before the close of escrow date, and as always, timeliness in a real estate transaction is of utter importance.

2b. Unfulfilled Loan Contingency: The buyer may be entitled to a refund of his or her earnest money at this point in the transaction, if the buyer has given every effort on his or her behalf to obtain the loan (i.e. has cooperated with the loan officer in obtaining the paperwork necessary to complete the transaction, etc.). This does not include a lack of funds on the buyer's behalf to come up with the down payment, or other fees necessary to close the transaction.

2c. Appraisal Contingency: A successful close of escrow is also dependent on the home's ability to appraise for the amount the buyer has offered to pay for the subject property. If the home fails to appraise (which can be common in an area deemed as a "declining market", like most of Maricopa County), the buyer has 5 days after receiving notice of the appraised value to cancel the contract and be entitled to a refund of earnest money. If the buyer fails to cancel the contract within this period of time, he or she may not receive their earnest money. Again, time is of the essence.

2d. Loan Status Report: Commonly referred to as the LSR, the Loan Status Report is submitted with each offer in which the buyer is obtaining financing (i.e., a mortgage). This form originates from the buyer's lender, and contains information about the type of loan to be secured by the buyer, such as the loan type (conventional, FHA, VA), and terms (number of years, fixed or variable rate, etc).

2e. Loan Application: The buyer's loan application must be completed within 5 days of contract acceptance. This will be discussed with the buyer by his or her lender at the beginning of the home-buying process. It is vital that the buyer know how important it is to get the lender the information and documentation necessary to complete the financial aspect of the transaction in a timely manner. It is important during this time for the buyer to remember that he or she is approved to purchase a home based on one's current financial situation. It is not a good idea to make any major purchases between the time one is pre-approved for a home loan, and the close of escrow. Large purchases could affect one's debt-to-income ratio, and ability to be qualify for the loan.

2f. Loan Processing During Escrow: During this period the buyer agrees, as stated previously, to work diligently to obtain all documentation necessary to secure the loan in a timely manner.

2g. Type of Financing: The buyer's loan officer will assist him or her in determining which type of financing to obtain. There are several different loan options available in today's market, and there is not one best fit for everyone. One tends to try on loans and loan programs kind of like one tries on dresses before the prom. Not every style works on all body types.

2h. Loan Costs: In my personal experience, this is one of the most difficult aspects of the financing section. Here, it is important to understand the verbiage and terminology to understand who pays for what.

Discount pointsare prepaid interest on the mortgage loan. The more points the buyer pays, the lower the interest rate on the loan, and vice versa. Buyers typically can pay between 0 and 3 or 4 points, depending on how much they want to lower their rate.
Loan Origination Fee: This is the fee charged by the lender to cover the costs for making the loan.
A.L.T.A. Lender Title Insurance Policy: This policy insures the lender against any risks on the subject property, such as mechanical liens, encroachments, easements, water rights, etc, for the entire life of the loan.

Purchasing a new home can be incredibly overwhelming, especially when dealing with uncommon language while treading in unfamiliar territory. As always, don't sign unless you understand what you are signing! As a buyer's agent, we are training to translate the Chinese to layman's English, much like a pharmacist interprets a doctor's scribble. But we don't know what you don't understand. Speak your mind! Be heard! That is your most important job throughout the signing of the purchase contract, and throughout the real estate transaction as a whole.

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Check out more from me and Surprise, Arizona at my Localism site!

Suprise! A New Style of Desert Living - See and share what's new in up-and-coming Surprise!

Jessica Steele Welcome Home Realty 13020 W Rancho Santa Fe Blvd #102 Avondale, Arizona, 85392 US	Work: 623-243-9550 Mobile: 513-307-6630 Fax: 623-298-5645 jsteele53@cox.net www.jessicasteele.org

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3278 Gardenia Place • Eugene, Oregon • $239,000

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:36:41 -0600

Property provided with a Staging Makeover by The Notably Well-Dressed Home. Listing Agents Don and Gwen De-Groote, Keller Williams Real Estate; 541-431-6490.

Listing Information

MLS ® : 9066986
Bedrooms: 3
Baths: 2
Sq Ft: 1624
Lot Size: .28
Garage: 2 Car
Heat Source: Gas
Taxes: $1,926.00

Wonderful neighborhood, large fenced yard, remodel including carpet, lighting, window covers, landscaping, interior and exterior paint. Office/4th bedroom and utility not included in square footage, buyer verify. Storage/shop and irrigation well (needs new pump). Call for information about FHA 203K loan that allows you to make needed updates after close of escrow. 541-431-6490 or Chase at Wells Fargo 541-221-1070.

The Truth About Short Sales and Loan Modification

Debbie Baldes, Roseville, CA RE Broker-Owner (Executive Properties) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:35:01 -0600

Having a hard time getting your loan modified? Check this out! Click on the "truth behind short sales" link below and what what YOUR banks are doing...

Via Maria Marriott (Executive Mortgage):

I watched a video yesterday that made my blood boil and since then I have been trying to share with everyone I know AND don't know. It talks about the truth behind short sales and loan modification and why buyers sometimes have such a hard time getting their loans modified.

This video really shows us a piece of what's really going on. It makes you wonder who's really getting the help. It certainly isn't the home owner who's trying to keep his home.

If you have a few minutes, I encourage you to listen to it. It's hard to believe the amount of greed that has been going around hurting this country so bad. I fear not much for myself and my future. But for my children.

I would love to hear your comments...

Take Care ~
Maria Marriott is a Mortgage Advisor serving the Greater Sacramento area

Join me in the conversation...

CADRELicense#: 01372198

Varsity Village Calgary Real Estate for Sale

Robert Steele (Internet Brokers Group) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:31:49 -0600

View the latest Varsity Village Calgary Real Estate available in the Calgary market, check out Varsity Village Calgary Real Estate listings. This Real Estate site has been set up to profile Real Estate in North West Calgary.

Looking to buy Calgary Real Estate in Calgary North West then you should check out the NW Calgary Real Estate for the current listed Calgary Real Estate for sale in Calgary Alberta.

You can also visit other Calgary Real Estate listings to find Calgary Real Estate in different areas of Calgary Alberta.

North West Calgary Real Estate
North East Calgary Real Estate
South East Calgary Real Estate
South West Calgary Real Estate

Brought to you by:

Robert Steele
Internet Brokers Group

www.internetbrokers.ca
twitter.com/internetbrokers

1-877-232-1032

Easy Ways to Get No Cosigner Car Loans

John Tuffy (USLoanz) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:31:15 -0600

The few privileged ones with excellent credit scores can easily avail inexpensive vehicle loans. However for the not-so-lucky buyers, there are some propositions available. One just has to explore the right places. The one big mistake bad credit consumers make is not surveying the market thoroughly. The top finance institutions will have a long list of good credit customers. So, they will be brutal towards the imperfect borrowers. Interest rates will be sky rocketing, and repayment terms very severe. Hence, individuals with any sort of credit issues should approach specialists. Bad credit car loan without cosigner is one such avenue worth exploring. It permits all types of borrowers to enjoy the comforts of an automobile.

Traditional lenders do not offer such loans. One has to approach financial institutions that concentrate on this area. Because of the high risk involved for the lenders, the borrower may be required to pay it off in a shorter time period. Typical duration is around forty eight months. Plus, interest will be a few points higher than conventional car loans. Usually, lenders suggest going for used cars as they come cheaper compared to their new counterparts. So, auto loans for used cars will be more affordable for the low credit borrowers. Plus with used car loan, there is greater probability of amortization, and one gets the chance to better credit scores.

Here are a few things to bear in mind before applying for an auto loan:

• Get a rough idea of the car loan rates in your locality. Contact lenders in your area as well in other states. If the difference is considerable, go for the more feasible deal.

• Moreover, if you are planning for used cars, check for the credibility of the dealer. Get a test drive to check performance.

• Also, there is a limit to the age of the car for which you can get loans. Some lenders do not grant loans for cars that are older than five years, unless they are vintage cars.

• Keep all documentation handy. Also, a transcript of your credit report. This will enable you get accurate estimations.

No cosigner auto loans may not be easy to acquire. Some persistent efforts and patience will be helpful. And there is a bright side to it. A cost-effective loan solution will help you build your credit standing, which will be valuable in the future.

Apply for a Car Loan Today! CLICK HERE!

President of EXIT Realty’s US Organization is honored at Annual Convention

EXIT REALTY NEXUS Minneapolis MN — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:30:07 -0600

Via The Team at EXIT Realty (EXIT Realty Corp. International):

Mississauga, ON (Grassroots Newswire) – As a 30-year veteran in the real estate field, Tami Bonnell continues to lead the way when it comes to her vast knowledge and understanding of the industry. From her background in mergers and acquisitions to her countless speaking engagements, her passion is relentless and EXIT Realty is proud to have her on their team.

“Tami Bonnell’s leadership goes above and beyond the call of duty”, commented EXIT Realty Corp. International Founder and CEO, Steve Morris, “She commands the absolute respect, reverence and esteem of every EXIT Realty associate at all levels of the corporation throughout North America. She sets the tone and tempo for our leaders and radiates an example of the finest quality as a clear pathway for others to follow.”

Since becoming President of the US Organization for EXIT Realty Corp. International, her focus is on growth and profitability for Regions, Brokers and Agents. Bonnell has been featured several times in major industry publications, including Real Estate Magazine, Bay State REALTOR® and Frog Pond Communications. She is a much sought-after international speaker, addressing thousands at events such as RISMedia’s Leadership Conference in NY, Inman News Conference in San Francisco and the Top 500 Power Brokers at The National Association of REALTORS® Convention, and regularly speaks at Women’s Council of REALTORS® meetings across the country. “Tami is a relentless communicator, her experience naturally comes through and there is nothing artificial about her” says Jeff Lobb, EXIT Realty Trainer and Technology expert, “She has a very logical approach and the innate ability to motivate people to take action.”

At EXIT’s Annual Convention in Washington DC, this past October, Bonnell was presented with the Leader’s Leader award for her hard work, dedication, knowledge and professionalism.

"In my forty years in real estate I’ve had the opportunity to know and work with many executives and leaders. Tami Bonnell speaks boldly from her heart with strong convictions about what she believes is needed to improve our industry and works harder that anyone I have ever known. Her heart, vision and a strong work ethic earns my utmost respect," said Bob McKinnon, EXIT Realty’s Senior Regional Consultant.

Ms Bonnell’s upcoming speaking engagements include an address to the Women’s Council of REALTORS® in New York in March entitled “Prepare for Change”.

Frank D'Angelo Minneapolis MN Broker/Owner

EXIT REALTY NEXUS of Minneapolis, MN

(763) 548-1444

CLICK HERE FOR ACCESS TO OUR 7 NON MLS DATABASES

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West Hillhurst Calgary Real Estate for Sale

Robert Steele (Internet Brokers Group) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:27:49 -0600

View the latest West Hillhurst Calgary Real Estate available in the Calgary market, check out West Hillhurst Calgary Real Estate listings. This Real Estate site has been set up to profile Real Estate in North West Calgary.

Looking to buy Calgary Real Estate in Calgary North West then you should check out the NW Calgary Real Estate for the current listed Calgary Real Estate for sale in Calgary Alberta.

You can also visit other Calgary Real Estate listings to find Calgary Real Estate in different areas of Calgary Alberta.

North West Calgary Real Estate
North East Calgary Real Estate
South East Calgary Real Estate
South West Calgary Real Estate

Brought to you by:

Robert Steele
Internet Brokers Group

www.internetbrokers.ca
twitter.com/internetbrokers

1-877-232-1032

Winston Heights Calgary Real Estate for Sale

Robert Steele (Internet Brokers Group) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:24:19 -0600

View the latest Winston Heights Calgary Real Estate available in the Calgary market, check out Winston Heights Calgary Real Estate listings. This Real Estate site has been set up to profile Real Estate in North West Calgary.

Looking to buy Calgary Real Estate in Calgary North West then you should check out the NW Calgary Real Estate for the current listed Calgary Real Estate for sale in Calgary Alberta.

You can also visit other Calgary Real Estate listings to find Calgary Real Estate in different areas of Calgary Alberta.

North West Calgary Real Estate

North East Calgary Real Estate

South East Calgary Real Estate

South West Calgary Real Estate

Brought to you by:

Robert Steele

Internet Brokers Group

www.internetbrokers.ca

twitter.com/internetbrokers

1-877-232-1032

Ready for Some Goosebumps? Come Hear the Vancouver Olympic theme song “I Believe” by Nikki Yanofsky

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:22:25 -0600

Ready for Some Goosebumps? Come Hear the Vancouver Olympic theme song "I Believe" by Nikki Yanofsky.

Well its almost here! 4 Days to Go to the Opening Ceremonies! I wish I had tickets - but like most of us I think I'll be relegated to watching it on T.V. even though it's happening practically in my backyard!

With all the kafuffle about the weather - it's been positively tropical....yeah yeah they're delivering snow by hekilopter (as my kids used to say) but what can I say? It's going to be amazing - the snow may not be up to par - but heck it's set in one of the most beautiful cities in the world........Come see!

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If you or someone you know is thinking of Buying or Selling property in Cultus Lake, Chilliwack, Hope, Abbotsford, Langley or anywhere in the Fraser Valley Area of B.C. - or if you would like more information please give Liz Moras of Landmark Realty Chilliwack a call at- 604-799-0459 or e-mail at lizmoras@gmail.com.

Copyright © 2009 By Liz Moras, All Rights Reserved. All photos taken by Liz Moras and copywritten. Please do not use without permission. Information provided by this author is only an opinion, it is not guaranteed, may be based on information collected from several sources, and may be time sensitive. It is not necessarily representative of the opinions of Landmark Realty Chwk. Ltd.

Active Rain Is The Media's Go To Source For Everything Real Estate!

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:20:59 -0600

Active Rain is the media's go to source for everything real estate!

We received a call last month from Realtor® Magazine.

The writer had found our blog on Active Rain along with the posts that we write about our expired marketing niche and system.

We will be in the Realtor® Magazine; the March issue. So be sure to pick yours up and let us know what you think about the article. It is an honor to be in a magazine that is for our peers.

It was a long interview and there was a lot of information and stats that we had to prove and provide. Going through some of our old files to gather up the facts correctly was my biggest obstacle as being paperwork organized is not my strength! Memories came to the surface of breaking into the luxury markets here in Wellington Florida. We are looking forward to seeing the article.

I was hoping to have my coaching website up and running before the article comes out as I know we will be getting more calls and it may be hard for me to return each of them. I already have so many calls and emails from agents with short sale questions and SEO questions and then a lot of agents want us to send them our brochure, etc. I do need to get on getting something on our new website!

A few weeks after the interview we get a call from the Realtor® Magazine's photography department.

She was so nice! In fact, we must commend all the staff we worked with at Realtor® Magazine- they were all so courteous, respectful of our time and polite. I was very impressed. They contracted with a top notch Photographer here in the Palm Beach County area- Randy Smith. When she told me he was a good and very professional photographer, that was an understatement.

Randy spent time going to our website. He viewed all of our listings to get a feel for our market. He then spent 2 hours talking to me on the phone. He is a mac fan so he gave me some photo tips working on the macs. We set up a photo shoot which was going to take 3/4 of a day. We set up indoor and outdoor scenes. It was a lot of work. When I was 16 and 17; I had a lot more energy to stand up all day long on the sets and in front of photographers' cameras! It was like going back in time:)

After the shoot, Nestor invited Randy to go out to dinner with us. At the end of the day, we marked it up as a great success plus we got the side benefit of hooking up with a photographer that is really talented. Here is Randy Smith's Website. He travels throughout the world on photo shoots as you can see as you browse his virtual galleries.

I have his permission to post some of his photographs. The one right above is at a Bed and Breakfast in Loxahatchee Florida- which borders Wellington to the north. We can not show you any of the photos that he took of us yet because Realtor® Magazine gets to publish them first. I am excited to show you some of the photos because they turned out really professional, showing our personalities and are a great representation of our brand.

Here is to more video blogging with us setting up for the indoor photo shoot. One of our friends, Jorge, allowed us to use his home for our photo shoot and you will get that during the video.

Enjoy more video blogging!

Would you like to learn more about using Twitter, Facebook, Posterous, YouTube, and More?

Scott Gephart CRS - Medford Real Estate (RE/MAX Platinum) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:20:49 -0600

Via Jason Crouch, Broker - Austin Texas Real Estate (512-796-7653) (Austin Texas Homes, LLC):

On Monday, February 15th, 210 Consulting is offering a webinar entitled:

"Cashing In on Your Social Media Investment"

During our (approximate) two-hour session, Jeremy Blanton and I will share a number of items that will help you to better leverage your online marketing efforts. Our first webinar was very well-received, and a good number of students signed up for individual coaching. We have the recorded version available for that one at http://budurl.com/210recording.

For the upcoming class, we will be providing lots of details on specific tools that we have used to make it easier to engage with others. We can also show you some tricks using Twitter and Facebook to connect with others in your geographic area and to find potential clients.

We will be covering the following topics in a fun, laidback atmosphere:

How to effectively listen in order to identify potential clients

How to add valuable content to engage with those around you

Some basic "etiquette" for Twitter, Facebook, and blogging

Techniques for promoting yourself and your events

The cost is $50, but if you sign up by Wednesday at midnight, you can use the CODE "earlybird" and get a $15 discount! Space is limited to the first 25 people to sign up, and we do offer a money-back guarantee if you aren't satisfied with the class.

Some praise from our students:

REALLY enjoyed my coaching session today and am looking forward to working with you both! Already made suggested changes on AR! - Lori Cain

I picked up some valuable lessons from your class. I have tried a few other Blog platforms including Blogger, Live Journal, Typepad and Wordpress. Wordpress seems to be ideal for what my needs are. Still learning it. Thank you for the class. I look forward to future sessions. - Dawn O.

Here are a couple of full posts that others have written about us:

Want To Blog Better & More Effectively? Check Out These Guys: by Kent Simpson of Tucson

Why I hired Jason Crouch as my social media coach. by Bruce Brockmeier

If you enjoyed this post, why not connect with me elsewhere?

If you're looking for a home in the Austin area, you can visit my primary Austin real estate website at www.austintexashomes.com. Thanks!

The Only Thing Short in a Short Sale is the Payoff

Keith Kyle (South Bay Brokers) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:19:02 -0600

Although I keep telling myself, and my clients, to not be surprised by anything the banks do in a short sale, it's sometimes hard to heed my own advice. Last night I got the dreaded call from the buyers agent "my clients have found something else and can no longer wait for the banks to approve their offer". This is just so frustrating and despite all of my efforts to keep the first time buyer and the buyers agent involved (weekly updates even though there's generally nothing to report, a slow and steady stream of disclosures, etc) it's just so hard for buyers, especially first time home buyers, to wait out the process. This one was with Wells Fargo and they are generally pretty good with their time frames but now 10 weeks into the 6 to 8 week process I find myself without a buyer. The new MLS rules which everyone seems to think is a great thing (although I disagree), requires the status of the property be put into pending, backup, or contingent, basically meaning that nobody has been looking at this listing for the past 10 weeks.

I'm sure this is happening hundreds, if not thousands of times a day around the country but each time this happens, and banks take even longer than their normally long time to respond, they ultimately end up losing even more money. I realize that there is quite a bit to consider for the banks and their decision, but it seems pretty clear that the normal 6-8 week period once they have and offer really is about 7 weeks of nothing happening and one week of the file actually being looked at. I'm certainly looking forward to the process becoming more efficient and hopefully uniform in the coming months.

Would you like to learn more about using Twitter, Facebook, Posterous, YouTube, and More?

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:16:44 -0600

On Monday, February 15th at 1pm Eastern time (noon Central, 11am Mountain, 10am Pacific), 210 Consulting is offering a webinar entitled:

"Cashing In on Your Social Media Investment"

During our (approximate) two-hour session, Jeremy Blanton and I will share a number of items that will help you to better leverage your online marketing efforts. Our first webinar was very well-received, and a good number of students signed up for individual coaching. We have the recorded version available for that one at http://budurl.com/210recording.

For the upcoming class, we will be providing lots of details on specific tools that we have used to make it easier to engage with others. We can also show you some tricks using Twitter and Facebook to connect with others in your geographic area and to find potential clients.

We will be covering the following topics in a fun, laidback atmosphere:

How to effectively listen in order to identify potential clients
How to add valuable content to engage with those around you
Some basic "etiquette" for Twitter, Facebook, and blogging
Techniques for promoting yourself and your events

The cost is $50, but if you sign up by Friday at midnight, you can use the CODE "earlybird" and get a $15 discount! Space is limited to the first 25 people to sign up, and we do offer a money-back guarantee if you aren't satisfied with the class.

Some praise from our students:

REALLY enjoyed my coaching session today and am looking forward to working with you both! Already made suggested changes on AR! - Lori Cain

I picked up some valuable lessons from your class. I have tried a few other Blog platforms including Blogger, Live Journal, Typepad and Wordpress. Wordpress seems to be ideal for what my needs are. Still learning it. Thank you for the class. I look forward to future sessions. - Dawn O.

Here are a couple of full posts that others have written about us:

Want To Blog Better & More Effectively? Check Out These Guys: by Kent Simpson of Tucson

Why I hired Jason Crouch as my social media coach. by Bruce Brockmeier

If you enjoyed this post, why not connect with me elsewhere?

If you're looking for a home in the Austin area, you can visit my primary Austin real estate website at www.austintexashomes.com. Thanks!

Homes For Sale In North Royalton, Ohio $139,900. Just Reduced

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:16:30 -0600

3340 Valley Parkway
North Royalton, OH 44133
Home For Sale In North Royalton, Ohio-FHA Approved

Rita Legan ASP Staging Realtor

Mobile:	440-227-4461
Office:	440-572-1200
Website:	Visit Website

Price	:	$139,900
Bedrooms	:	3
Bathrooms	:	2
Square Foot	:	1,612
Lot Size	:	23,958
Community	:	Metro Park
County	:	Cuyahoga
Property Type	:	Detached
Year Built	:	1976
MLS Number	:	3085617

click for more information and pictures

Property Description

Live In the Park Updated Ranch. Country-in-the-city wooded lot. Newer: Furnace, Roof, H2o, Kitchen Cabs W/Granite Counters, Pergo, Ceramic, Carpet. Cozy Fireplace, Deck, Circular Drive Painted In Soft Neutral. Award Winning Schools. Close to shopping.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Features List

Hardwood Floors	Big Windows	Newer Roof
Tiled Floors	Newer Oak Cabinets	Granite Counters
Spacious Dining	Crown Moldings	Woodburning Stove
Pergo Floors	Family Room	Newer H2O
Aration Septic	Drinking Water Syste	Newer baths
Built 1978	Wood Deck	Attic Storage
Circular Drive	In the Park

Equal Housing Opportunity.

Keller Williams Realty Greater Cleveland Southwest : 18318 Pearl Road - Strongsville Oh 44136 : 440-227-4461

Rita Legan

Free Relocation Information to St Augustine. Best Deals, New Homes, Distressed Properties, Fixer Uppers, First Time Home Buyers, USDA

Pavel Martynenko (Prime Real Estate Company) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:16:14 -0600

For

first time home buyers I have a properties from $84,900

You can put little as 3% down.

Or USDA loan with no down payment.

Contact me direct (904)859-5002

If your are an investor, ask me about exclusive garantee tenant placement.

Ask me for Complete List of New Homes, Foreclosures and short sale listings.

Buy and Sell with Pavel. Rentals. Full Service Realtor specializing in New Construction Homes, Condos. Short Sale, REO and Bank foreclosure expert. Auctions. Serving St Augustine, Jacksonville, Palm Coast.

Pavel Martynenko, Realtor

Prime Real Estate Company

Phone (904)859-5002

Fax (904)425-1066

www.SellBuyJax.com

Video Blog- "Is The FDIC Killing Short Sales?"- A MUST WATCH

Tom Burris | Texas Mortgage Dallas Mortgage FHA (DallasLoanGuy.com) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:15:50 -0600

Interesting.....

Do NOT miss this....

Via Robert G Hertzog (Summit Home Consultants):

Video Blog- "Is The FDIC Killing Short Sales?"- A MUST WATCH

Many of you read the blog I wrote in September/2009, entitled "Is The FDIC Killing Short Sales?" In the blog, I explained how OneWest Bank, who had received a sweetheart deal from the FDIC called a "shared-loss agreement", was holding my client hostage for a $75,000 promissory note demand.

In the end, once I reminded them of how much money they were getting from the FDIC, they agreed to drop their demand for the promissory note, and the short sale closed 3 weeks later.

Today, they guys at "Think Big Work Small" did a great video blog, describing my case. If this doesn't get your blood boiling, I don't know what will! Take 5 minutes out of your busy day to watch this video. It does a great job of what could be causing your short sales to stall.

Video Blog-"Is The FDIC Killing Short Sales?"- A MUST WATCH

Please Please Please do your part and re-post this blog to everyone you know. The "Think Big Work Small" website gets several thousand hits per day, and this story needs to get out!

Bob Hertzog

Designated Broker-Summit Home Consultants

www.phxshortsalehelp.com

P.S.- "Think Big, Work Small" did a follow-up to the story yesterday. Fast-Forward to the 1:50 mark to view it.

Video Blog-Follow Up

IS IT WRONG TO PRICE A SHORT SALE PROPERTY LOW?

Linda DeRusha Broker/Realtor, ABR,ASP,CDPE (Coldwell Banker Advantage) — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:15:39 -0600

I am seeing other agents listing their short sales at the very lowest price that they can. Is this fair to the homeowner, the buyer and the buyer agent? In my opinion it seems to be misleading. Maybe I am missing something here.

Where do we need to price the short sale? I thought it was supposed to be at a "fair market price". It seems like this is just a marketing ploy to get more interest in the property. Any input would be appreciated. I hope to be busier with this segment of the market this year and I would like to get this question cleared up.

Thank you & Have a great day,

Linda W DeRusha

Coldwell Banker Advantage
620 NC hwy 42 W
Clayton NC 27520
Office (919)553-4003 Fax (866)601-1874
mobile (919)418-7442
lindawderusha@hotmail.com
www.MoveToClaytonNCcom http://activerain.com/blogs/lindawderusha

Linda W DeRusha is a licensed real estate broker in the state of North Carolina selling residential real estate in Clayton, Smithfield, Angier, Benson, McGee's Crossroads, Garner, Wendell, Knightdale and Raleigh.

For more information on our local real estate market, or to see or sell a home in Clayton, Smithfield, Angier, Benson, McGee's Crossroads, Garner, Wendell, Knightdale and Raleigh., visit my website at WWW.MoveToClaytonNC.com or give me a call at 919-418-7442.