Grand Haven, Michigan Renee Parker Realtor Blog

When opportunity knocks ~ making the decision

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 13:31:48 -0600

As many of you know, at this moment, my home is in Grand Haven along the Lakeshore in Michigan and I am madly in love with this quaint tourist area. So when a fabulous offer knocked on my door to return to the Lansing area and rejoin Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood as a team member with one of the areas Top Producers....the decision was not made until after much prayer and meditation.

At first I waited for the loud voice of guidance or better yet a letter from my higher power arriving in my mailbox ~ of course, neither happened. I now realize that decisions like this come on a whisper, doors just keep opening in the same direction, and the feeling of wholeness begins to wash over you while you sleep.

I am excited to say that I am returning to my "home" town of Lansing, Michigan. Happy to join my family at Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood and of course all my wonderful friends and clients in the area. Right now I am busy updating all my sites, marketing, etc to now reflect Mid Michigan, the area that has been home to me most of my life and where my Real Estate career began.

Still passionate about our Great Lakes, I will continue to be an advocate for these wonderful bodies of water. And this summer, when the desire hits to get my feet back into the sand, I am only a short drive away. I am very blessed to have two homes in the beautiful State of Michigan...One in Grand Haven and one in Lansing. Life is good.

The doors we open and close each day decide the lives we live."
Flora Whittemore quotes

For all your Real Estate needs, callreneeparker@yahoo.com

Boating on Lake Michigan

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 13:36:13 -0600

One of the best past times in the summer is boating on Lake Michigan. I love to walk the Grand Haven Board Walk and watch all the boats going in & out of the channel. You can boat from Spring Lake into Lake Michigan for a day of leisurely sun and swimming. From there you can go down to Holland or Saugatuck and grab a nice lunch and then catch the gorgeous sun set on your way back to your boat slip in Grand Haven.

For some, their weekend cottage is actually a boat ~ whether it be a stunning yacht or that beautiful sailboat, most boaters work all week dreaming of the upcoming weekend of being on the water...sun on their back, warm breezes and mist spraying their hair ~ quenching their soul for the love of being "one" with the water.

I am most drawn to the large Clipper Sail Boats gracefully sailing along the horizon, filling me with a sense of romance with the water.

And the names....reading the names of boats is such fun. I do not own a boat, but have often thought about what I would name one if I did...maybe it would be called "Out On Showings".

Regardless of the kind or size of your boat, there seems to be a huge camaraderie amongst boaters. They laugh together, dine together, and have a deep shared love for playing on the water.

Below are links to some of the Grand Haven area Marina's.

- http://www.wharfmarina.com/

-www.grandislemarina.com

- http://www.northshoremarina.com/

- www.southerngrandmarina.com

http://www.barrettboatworks.com/

Renee Parker, Realtor

Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt

616-850-1116

callreneeparker@yahoo.com

Pirates, Wenches and Wipe outs

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 14:49:08 -0600

Well, I lived through the organization of the Card Board Sled race in Grand Haven to tell about it. My first year doing the event was quit the learning experience for me. I never dreamed so many people would come out and join in the day's fun activities. We had over 130 sleds register for the race (with 1-10 people per sled) plus all the friends and family to cheer everyone on! It was a great, great day!! Lots of snow. Lots of sleds. Lots of wipe outs.

Thanks to WZZM13 we now have this fun video showing some of the high lights of this Winterfest event. Click below to view.

http://www.wzzm13.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=86909

HarbourFront Condo's ~ Story & Clark Piano Factory

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 14:50:07 -0600

Harbour Front Condo's in Grand Haven, Michigan are located in the old Story & Clark Piano Factory in the heart of downtown Grand Haven with beautiful views of the harbor, marina and a nice walk on the boardwalk to the lighthouse and beach.

The Story & Clark Piano factory was built in the early 1900's with manufacturing through 1984. After the manufacturing of piano's ended, renovations began to turn this factory into over 60 Condo's complete with a resturant and shops. The original floors and brick walls are found through out this building and many of the condo owners have also kept the flavor of the original architecture, making this a true gem. Each condo is unique. You can find studio condo's perfect for that weekend get-away to 3 story condo's, complete with dumbbell waiters to bring up your groceries from the lower level parking. Prices vary as each condo is so unique. Ranges any where from $159,00 to $795,00. Contact me for information on the Condo's currently for sale.

For many of the Condo's the elevator in Harbour-Front allows you to go directly from the comfort of your home to dinner at Porto Bella Italian Restaurant, grab a coffee and morning newspaper at the Coffee Grounds, or shop in one of the fabulous boutiques without going outside. High ceilings, brick walls, beautiful wood floors, location...this is truly one of Grand Haven's finest historic buildings.

Looking to buy or sell a home in the West MichiganLakeshore communities? One the best places to live and vacation! Call me today.

Renee Parker, Realtor, Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt

616-850-1116

callreneeparker@yahoo.com

Card Board Sled Race ~ Ready, Set...GO!

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 19:53:14 -0600

I guess we won't need to have the snow brought in for this weekends snow events in Grand Haven~ Winterfest 2008. The local news said tonight that we have a total of 19 inches right now and more to come. So all you card board sled competitors...get building those sleds!

The race begins this Saturday Jan 26th at 11am at Mulligans Hollow. Registration begins at 10am. All entrants must wear protective head gear. Call me for the general rules if you are interested in joining the fun. There will be prizes for Best Wipe Out, Best Use of Cardboard, Most Creative, etc.

Let the race begin!!!!

(even our local Coast Guard joins in the fun! What a sled guys!)

Renee Parker, Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt

616-850-1116 Direct Line

Callreneeparker@yahoo.com

The Coast Guard City ~ Grand Haven, Michigan

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 10:59:43 -0600

Grand Haven Michigan is often referred to as "The US Coast Guard City" and has celebrated the Coast Guard for 83 years with a festival, which today has become a week long event each summer.. This years event runs from July 23 - August 3, 2008. (I will post more details later) The Coast Guard festival is one of the largest festivals in Western Michigan, attracting more than 300,000 visitors. The community has also created a National Memorial Service during the week ~ giving honor to those men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Grand Haven residents are proud! Proud to be part of the lives of our Coast Guard families living here along the Lake Shore.

The Grand Haven Coast Guard sits on the Grand River with a beautiful view of the light house and Lake Michigan. http://www.uscg.mil/d9/grugh/

There is no place better to be part of the Coast Guard family than in beautiful Grand Haven, Michigan.

For information on buying or selling a home in Grand Haven ~ call me today! I would be proud to be part of this exciting time in your life.

Renee Parker, Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt

Direct Line ~ 616-850-1116

Removing Wall Paper ~ Sellers get overwhelmed with the thought of it

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 10:07:29 -0600

We have all seen those homes where every room is wall papered. I had a buyer once looking at a very high end home and did not purchase it due to the work entailed in removing all the wall paper in the house!

I am sure the seller did not remove it for the same reason. HARD WORK! But wall paper usually does not sell, unless it is current with today's trends.

I have heard of an easy way to get this job done. Fabric softener. I personally have not tried it, but have heard from a few different people that this works so well. You just wet a sponge in liquid fabric softener and soak the wall of wall paper. "They say" it peels right off.

Has anyone else tried this or another technique with any success?

Investors and thier agents need to know about the local Zoning

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Sat, 19 Jan 2008 14:15:18 -0600

My town of Grand Haven is a very tourist community. With that comes a lot of rental cottages around town. A lot of the people are able to get what we call a "Winter Renter" for the months of Sept-May and then rent weekly in the summer tourism months. It is a great investment. If you are well informed.

I met a woman who purchased a cottage style home and it was licensed as a rental. It was in an area that the tourist love....walking distance to downtown, the pier, boardwalk, parks and Lake Michigan. She assumed that she would rent it out in the winter months and then do the weekly rentals all summer long. After she began renting weekly, the City contacted her and told her that this home was not zoned for "Seasonal Rentals" and that she would need to cease all weekly rentals immediately. You can imagine her shock and disbelief. She purchase this as an investment property only to find out that there are two types of Licensed Rentals in the area. Also, the zoning areas had changed for the "Seasonal Rentals" due to many of the areas being high residential and the folks living in those areas did not want it to become Party Central during the summer months.

She assumed and her realtor either did not know the zoning guidelines or just did'nt speak up at the time of purchase. She was given the Rental License at the time of closing, but it was not for the type of renting she intended to do. Now she owns an investment property that she never would of purchased if given the correct information.

The moral to this story is....KNOW your zoning. Especially in a resort town where a lot of people like to invest in rental properties. Just because it looks like a great location for rentals...does not mean that it can be used as such. Zoning changes. You need to keep well informed if you sell to investors!

Winterfest 2008 ~ The cure for cabin fever

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 10:22:30 -0600

Tired of being stuck inside?

Looking for something fun to do with the entire family?

Well, break out of the house and join us for Winterfest 2008 in Grand Haven, Michigan. An entire weekend beginning on January 24th through the 27th packed full of fun crazy winter actives.

Human Dog Sled Race
Polar Ice Cap Golf Tournament
Cardboard Sled Race
Ice Sculpting
Luau Extravaganza ~ yes, a Luau in the middle of winter! Complete with Conga lines, palm trees, tropical beverages and music!
Dollar family ski and board
Prizes
and more......

So, grab your gloves and boots and join us for an entire weekend of FUN!!

For more information go to: http://www.winterfestonline.org/

Looking to buy or sell a home in the West Michigan Lakeshore communities? One the best places to live and vacation! Call me today.

Renee Parker, Realtor, Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt

616-850-1116

callreneeparker@yahoo.com

The Great Lakes of Michigan

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 06:44:41 -0600

Do you live or vacation around the Great Lakes of Michigan? If so, you know the beauty and most likely have a strong love for these bodies of water. Breathtaking year around, the Great Lakes are one of the worlds largest resources of natural water. But they need help. From you. Your friends, family. From me. I find the people not involved in saving these pristine bodies of water, want to...but just don't know what to do or where to go.

There are many great organizations that you can contact with.

I am involved with Alliance For The Great Lakes ~ http://www.greatlakes.org/ They have two headquarters, one in Chicago and one in Grand Haven, Michigan. If you check out their web site you will find publications, special reports and more. If you want to get involved you can become a member and/or:

Current Volunteer Opportunities:

Adopt-A-Beach: Year-round and Annual September Events

Volunteer for the Coastal Allies Network

Coastal Allies Network: September Adopt-a-Beach Office Assistant

You can help by yourself, as a family, organization, club, or business. Small or large, every effort makes a difference!

If you are already doing things to help preserve the Great Lakes, I would love to hear "your story." Email me at callreneeparker@yahoo.com

Looking to buy or sell a home in the West Michigan Lakeshore communities? One the best places to live and vacation! Call me today.

Renee Parker, Realtor, Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt

616-850-1116

callreneeparker@yahoo.com

Quarterly Sold Stats ~ North Ottawa County, Michigan

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 13:12:01 -0600

Sold Stats ~ North Ottawa County, Michigan

Quarterly Report ~ 10/1/07 through 12/31/07

Price Range ~ $50,000 to 74,900

14 out of 28 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 92.39%

Average time on market ~ 109 days

Price Range ~ $75,000 to 99,900

15 out of 133 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 93.67%

Average time on market ~ 74 days

Price Range ~ $100,000 to 124,900

24 out of 145 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 95.03%

Average time on market ~ 71 days

Price Range ~ $125,000 to 149,900

31 out of 148 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 97.55%

Average time on market ~ 111 days

Price Range ~ $150,000 to 174,900

18 out of 93 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 95.85%

Average time on market ~ 121 days

Price Range ~ $175,000 to 199,900

12 out of 88 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 96.30%

Average time on market ~ 159 days

Price Range ~ $200,000 to 224,900

7 out of 50 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 90.37%

Average time on market ~ 247 days

Price Range ~ $225,000 to 249,900

3 out of 78 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 95.94%

Average time on market ~ 98 days

Price Range ~ $250,000 to 274,900

5 out of 53 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 91.60%

Average time on market ~ 68 days

Price Range ~ $275,000 to 299,900

5 out of 54 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 99.48%

Average time on market ~ 215 days

Price Range ~ $300,000 to 349,900

6 out of 74 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 95.03%

Average time on market ~ 174 days

Price Range ~ $350,000 to 399,900

3 out of 65 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 93.67%

Average time on market ~ 53 days

Price Range ~ $400,000 to 499,900

2 out of 56 listings sold

Sales price % Listing price ~ 94.14%

Average time on market ~ 243 days

This report gives valuable information for sellers. What does it mean to you? We can take this data and dig deeper into the solutions for selling your home.

Pick up the phone and call me today.

Presented by:

Renee Parker, Realtor

Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt

Web site: http://www.callreneeparker.com/

616-950-1116 Direct Line

Email: callreneeparker@yahoo.com

All information contained herein should be deemed reliable but not guaranteed, all representations are approximate and individual verification is recommended

Everywhere we turn, is economy gloom. What's a person to do?

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 18:47:36 -0600

When I just got on line to check my emails, Yahoo had the headline "Pain Street USA ~ 08 Housing Outlook." At first I just click right by it. I didn't want to hear anymore doom and gloom. But like an accident on the highway, I just had to take a quick look. Then I was sucked into the whole story.

It starts right out by saying, "The United States is deep in its worst housing slump since the Great Depression, and according to a new report, it's not going to get better any time soon."

Continueing on with "In a new survey, Moody's Economy.com says many metro areas will record losses of 20 percent or more during the downturn, with the national median price for single-family homes dropping 13 percent through early 2009. Factoring in discount offers from sellers, the actual price decline would be well over 15 percent."

Talking about all the areas hit by this fall, California and Florida of course were rated high, along with other large metro areas. The housing slump is here to stay for some time, maybe even 3-4 more years.

The story ended by saying, "For the slump to end, much of the excess inventory will have to be worked through. Zandi doesn't envision that happening much before 2010, which he forecasts to be a very modest recovery year with low, single-digit growth."

As I sit here staring at my computer, I am full of questions.

What does this mean for Realtors?

What does it mean for sellers?

Is there a way to stay positive when the only thing you read is doom and gloom with no forecast for the coming end to all of this in the near future.

I do know in my area, Grand Haven, Michigan we did not see a fall sales from last years numbers. In fact, it was up a bit. But many areas are hard hit, with the markets continuing to fall.

I understand the fear that some people have right now. Everywhere we look, it stares us in the face. I understand how hard it is to stay positive and maintain a "I can survive" attitude. That takes work on a daily basis.

I for one, believe...have to believe that this too shall pass. There still are buyers. It is a great time to buy if you are financially able. A lot of smart buyers would rather buy in a down turn than an up turn. Long term investments, with the inventory and pricing....investors are buying also. For sellers they need to know that homes do sell. However, sellers need to take more care in presentation and price. They need a realtor who can market in all areas, especially the web based arena. A full time agent who gives full time service. And for us agents, times like this just call for a change in the way we do business. Sharpening our saws as Covey would say.

Am I being a "polly anna?"

What are your thoughts?

Winter at Lake Michigan

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 15:24:22 -0600

I still walk the beach on a regular basis even though it is winter and freezing temps outside. The wind, ice, sand and snow mixture makes the most amazing sights. I call it GOD Art. Each day I go down to the waters edge, it is completely different from my last visit. Always some new spectacular Art, forever changing (kind of like us). Living in Grand Haven, Michigan is beautiful in every season! I hope you enjoy a small snip of some the photo's I have taken.

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in the West Michigan Lakeshore communities ~ Contact Renee Parker, Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt. You may email me at callreneeparker@yahoo.com

Grand Haven, Michigan SOLD Market Report 2006-2007

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 16:47:06 -0600

Grand Haven, Michigan

Residential SOLD Market Statistics Report

2006 - 2007 Comparable

Year Units Sold Av. List Price Av. Sold Price Av. Market Time % of List Price

2007 355 $223,332 $212,905 106 Days 95.33%

2006 343 $214,347 $204,591 109 Days 95.45%

All information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed. All representations are approximate and individual verification is recommended.

Information from Rapattoni Corporation

If you are considering selling or buying a home in the West Michigan Lakeshore areas

Call Renee Parker, Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt ~ 616-850-1116

Your opion matters

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 20:05:30 -0600

I am in the process of revamping my web site. (after Realtor.com totally wiped my last web site out. Long story...and I don't want my blood pressure to rise tonight so I will spare you all the ugly details)

I would love to have you take a look at my site and tell me what you think is good, great, bad or ugly. I value other agents point of views and would like some feedback. A GREAT web site is important to me and I think another set of eyes would help.

www.callreneeparker.com

Thanks!!

MeMe'd and not quite sure what to do with it......

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 01:01:14 -0600

I am fairly new here to AR and just got MeMe'd. I didn't even know what that meant or what I was to do. When I asked, I was told to tell 5 things about myself and link it back (that part I am not sure how to do) but the 5 things about ME...well, that is pretty easy.

1. I am a "seeker." Combine that with a book junkie and you guessed it....books everywhere. Being a Seeker, I tend to read the spiritual, mental energy, metaphysical, how to become...type books. Books and journals scattered through out my house. I also love a good "story". If it is non fiction...the better. And cook books, lets not forget those fun ones. Right now I am reading....The Power of Now, Sacred Contracts and Into the Wild. Yea...I get more than one going at a time. (A true sickness)

2. I LOVE the water. Currently I live by Lake Michigan and feel so blessed to live in this charming beach town, Grand Haven.

Lake Michigan, the Gulf of Mexico, the Islands in the Caribbean....water sooths my soul.

3. When I was a little girl, I always wished my dad was Jacques Cousteau. (sorry dad)

4. When I become independently wealthy and retire.....I want to travel, travel, and travel some more. I love going to new places, meeting new people, drink coffee outside at a cafe, find out of the way hidden jewels, take photos. Yea....someday, thats what I will do.

5. I am terrified of heights! Always have been. Sure wish that I wasn't. I miss a lot of great "views" of the world. But scared I am. So I stay clear of skinny winding mountain roads.

6. Oh, one more thing. The DREAM job I always would of liked would to be a photographer for National Geographic.

There you have it. 5 + 1 things about MeMe.

Grand Haven Michigan Light Show

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 08:19:28 -0600

What a spectacular event! This holiday light shows go over and beyond anything I have ever seen.

When Brad Boyink decorated his home last year all choreographed to music, the police had to shut him down due to the amount of traffic jams it caused in his neighborhood. So, he decided to create a display for everyone to enjoy out on Harbor Island this year. With 140,000 lights spread over an acre on Harbor Island -- and they're all choreographed to holiday music. The display includes 20,000 feet of wires and more than 10,000 cable ties.

There are dancing bears, Santa in a boat, candles, spiral Christmas trees and lots of snowflakes. It also features a Nativity scene, a Kwanzaa candle and a Menorah.

Traditional holiday music will be played Sundays through Thursdays. On the weekends starting in December, the shows will feature the Transiberian Orchestra, which performs holiday music that blends classical instruments and modern arrangements.

Crews started building the set the first week of October. The Board of Light and Power installed six power poles, wires and cables.

The nightly display opens Thanksgiving and runs through Dec. 30.

Visitors will be able to watch the shows from their cars and listen to the short-wave broadcast on 88.1 FM.

You will love this! A must see this holiday season for the entire family!

Where to go for Training?

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 07:59:29 -0600

I am a Realtor in Grand Haven, Michigan and want to add "home stager" to my credentials. Not for the credential itself, but because Sellers need help! I have taught a class for the last couple of years "how to prepare your home to sell" to try and help sellers understand. But now I want to take this a step further and offer staging as part of my Real Estate services.

I have been searching on line for training seminars in Michigan and also if there are any home study seminars. Price of the training is important to me at this time of year, so I am trying to find something that is inexpensive yet good. I can always add on to my training later.

Any suggestions? I would love to hear from all of you.

So Many Agents are chanting...."its just not fun anymore!"

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 22:49:41 -0600

I hear this over and over again every week. And personally I don't get it. Why is not fun anymore? Because we have to think outside the box, prospect, write a business plan, change?? Didn't everyone have to do that when they first entered into Real Estate? Of course they did. Was your first day, your first week, or even your first year all that FUN? Wasn't if full of work, planning and learning. Maybe these people hit an easy road, business was flowing their way, no need to plan, prospect, change anymore. The gravy train arrived and was going to be there forever.

The economy goes up and it comes down. It never stays put in one place forever. Thank God!

I go to work excited. Hopeful. Planning. Learning. And I get tired of hearing other agents talking about how this career is just not fun anymore. I guess if this was not fun for me, I would get out. But honestly...I love what I do. These times just call for change. And I am up for that.

Grand Haven, Michigan ~ Affordable Summer Get-Away Home for Sale

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 14:39:25 -0600

GRAND HAVEN, MICHIGAN ~ Summer Get-Away Home For Sale

$135,000 ~` Completely Furnished

This charming Grand Haven cottage style home is completely furnished right down to the coffee pot. You just need to bring your beach towels & enjoy a summer of fun. Sleeps 6. Built in 1900 this home is complete with wonderful charm and character! On the main level is a bedroom w/full size bed, extra large living room complete with pull out couch, bath, bright large kitchen with breakfast bar & adjoining dining area. Upstairs features a loft area & large bedroom w/walk-in closet.

Excellent in-town location, walking distance to boardwalk, downtown, beach & parks. Watch the Coast Guard parade from your front yard! Spacious back deck enclosed w/privacy fence to enjoy summertime BBQ's. Washer/dryer. Central air. Currently is rented on a month to month basis for the winter months.

Seller is a licensed Realtor in the State of Michigan.

Renee Parker, Realtor

Coldwell Banker Woodland Schmidt

616-850-1116 Direct Line

Callreneeparker@yahoo.com

Trying to enlarge my Christmas Music collection, but where do I begin?

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 18:39:06 -0600

It is that time of year that I love to have Christmas music playing in my home. Especially today with all the snow we got here in Michigan! Just really helps put you in the mood for sharing, family, food, fun...all that glitters.

But my music collection is, well...lame. I have the Amy Grand CD which is beautiful. and of course the Chipmonks, which I refuse to listen to anymore that my kids are grown.

Then there is the Celtic Christmas music which is nice. A couple blues Christmas. Thats about it.

But I am looking to expand my range of music and talent this year....any ideas? I go to the stores and look at millions of CD's...not sure which ones really are Fav's of anyone. I have bought a couple only to come home and rush to my stereo, plop the CD in, and presto....disappointment. The cover looked pretty. It said, all time favorite music. So, now I realize I need recommendations. Can you help ?

What is your favorite Holiday CD's?

SOI includes other Realtors, Lenders and Home Inspectors!

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 10:35:50 -0600

We always hear....build good relationships with past clients and the referrals will come. Stay in touch on a regular basis with our SOI. This is definitely a relationship industry. But what about the relationships we build with fellow Realtors, Realtors within our own company or who work for our compitiion down the street? How important is that? Or the relationship with lenders, inspectors, etc.

I know first hand how important industry relationships are! After working in the Lansing, Michigan area my entire life and now relocating to beautiful Grand Haven, Michigan...the past relationships I built with Realtors, Lenders and home inspectors have been my reward. Referrals have been coming through to me on a regular basis.

Relationship building 101 with the people we work with begins like this:

1. Be professional to other agents.

2. Return calls in a timely fashion.

3. Don't flip out when things are going down the tube. Don't hide. Don't yell.

4. Show some compassion.

5. Be helpful. Do a little more than is expected.

6. Say Thank You. Let them know how terrific you think they are.

7. Stay in touch with them even after the sale.

8. Talk highly of them to others. When someone comes through your open house and says there are working with XYZ Realtor and you know this person is top notch...say so. Tell the client they are in good hands.

9. Don't be cut throat! There is plenty of business for all of us.

10. Be ethical. Be honest. Be trustworthy.

What are you thinking when you start your busy day?

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 18:53:52 -0600

Our thoughts create the life we live. Are your thoughts working for you or against you?

I read somewhere that we have 230,000 thoughts per day. That seems quite high to me, but even if we cut those stats in half...115,000 thoughts per day is still staggering. Then lets break that down again. Lets say that we do pretty darn good at keeping our minds thinking "positive" thoughts. Lets say, just for fun that only half of our thoughts are worrisome, fearful, negative, judgemental, angry, jealous, thoughts of lack, (you get the message here) then we would have somewhere between 58,000 - 115,000 negative thoughts per day. Wow!

Our thoughts radiate from us, they are a live energy, every action we take started with a thought, our life as we live it....was a thought first. All we have to do is look at our life and we will know.....are our thoughts working for us or against us?

One of the ways I keep my mind focused is with a "Gratitude Journal." It sits in my office, waiting for me to arrive each morning. Before I do one thing at work, I sit down and write down a minimum of 10 things I am grateful for. (more if the juices are flowing) Then I write a minimum of 5 things I am proud of myself for, a sort of "high five to me." This forces my mind to think of all the wonderful things in my life. It helps me stop thinking about the lack in life and more about all the abundance that I already have. With this process of thinking about all the abundance in my life, I also begin to "feel" it. It sets the stage for a happy day. Currently my Journal is over a year old, filled with pages upon pages of my own handwriting, describing all the wonderful things in my life that I am grateful for. If I have a bad moment, just opening the book at random and reading a page, can steer me back to where I belong. Grateful!

A sample from yesterday's writing: I am Grateful for....

1. my first cup of fresh hazelnut coffee. 2. A garage to keep my car clean from snow. 3. The wild turkeys wondering in my front yard this morning. 4. All my bills are paid and on time 5. living close to the lake 6. Active Rain and all the other wonderful sites I am beginning to enjoy 6. The creativity that flows to me 7. my beautiful baby grand daughter who makes me smile with just a thought of her 8. these cute new brown shoes 9. my adorable little cottage home 10. my daughters phone calls everyday, just to check in with mom.

It sounds like such a simple exercise. And it is.

Try it for 30 days, every-morning...before you begin your day and let me know how things change in your life.

Realtor.com Featured Website ~ should I continue on?

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 13:04:05 -0600

Okay, I just need to vent.

A few months back I decided to create and purchase a web site. I had heard about the Featured Web Sites through Realtor.com and thought, hey...they probably are a good place for me to start. After-all, they are Realtor.com. Well, I purchased my website a little over 2 months ago and paid for 1 year in advance in addition to IDX monthly fees. So far so good. I was excited to get started!

When you purchase your site through Realtor.com, it comes with a lot of templates that you can personalize. I spent hours (and I mean hours) personalizing the template pages, from the written text, links, pictures, etc. Proudly I attached my web site address on all my marketing tools.

About a week ago, I noticed my site was "under construction." I called and found out that a new employee had set up my account and somehow through error, deleted my entire website and credited my credit card for the purchase. If I want another web site, I have to start from the beginning.....purchase, start over with all templates, etc. Well, I must say I am a bit angry today over this. Some of the information I put on the site I will have to "dig" to find again. I am also embarrassed that my e-newsletter has gone out with a non-working website, all my materials advertise this non working web site. And if I want my site through Realtor.com, I have to start all over!!!

I have asked for some type of compensation if in fact I decide to purchase another site with them. At this time, I am waiting for their response.

I am hoping that this is a fluke. That mistakes happen and this is not an indicator to my business relationship with them. Then on the other hand, I wonder if I should get a web site from another source.

Right now, I just needed to vent. Thanks for listening.

7 Tips To Prepare Your Home To SELL

Renee Parker, Lansing Realtor (Coldwell Banker Hubbell BriarWood) — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 12:21:06 -0600

This topic has been talked about and talked about. However, in a BUYERS MARKET, I think it is worth talking about some more.

Buyers hold the cards in today's market. Inventory is high. There are many many homes for buyers to choose from. So why would they want to buy your home?

When you list your home "For Sale" you are going from a homeowner with years of memories and love for where you live, to a marketing a product....YOUR HOME! With competition high, you need to do some research and work upfront before you sell. For example, if you wanted to sell your car...would you just stick a for sale sign in the car window and hope to get top dollar? I doubt it. First off, you would clean it. Make is shine. Make it smell good. Make it look brand new and loved. The same holds true, if not more so, when selling your home!

Below are areas that I coach my sellers on BEFORE we list their home. If they truly want to sell....these items are crucial. More so in todays market.

Prepare your home to sell!

Curb appeal. The outside of your house is the buyer's first impression. Keep the grass mowed and trimmed. Cut back overgrowth. Remove large over grown bushes or trees that block the view of your home. Plant some blooming flowers. Store toys, bicycles, gardening equipment and the like out of sight. Apply a fresh coat of paint to the front door. Sweep the porch and the front walkway. Winter months are just as important...keep all sidewalks and driveway shoveled. Remove any summer items that do not belong.
Clear out the clutter. If you don't do anything else...this is most important! If your home has too much furniture and decorative pieces (which most homes do), overflowing closets, crowded kitchen and bathroom counter-tops or lots of family photos hung on the walls for display, potential buyers won't be able to see your home. Start packing NOW. After all, you will be moving, so now is a good time to get a jump start on all the packing. Most sellers need to pack away ½ of all their belongings. You can store these full moving boxes neatly in the basement or garage. This will make your home appear bigger and brighter. Clutter does not sell!
Clean. I know we don't always have a lot of time to spring clean the entire house from top to bottom. But clean homes sell better, bottom line. If you don't have the time or don't particularly like to clean, hire a cleaning company to come in. It is worth the investment!
The sense of smell. To eliminate bad smells, bathe your pets, change the cat litter box frequently, shampoo your carpets and furniture, empty trash cans, keep clean linens on the beds, place some plug-in air fresheners around the home. (The new Glade fan plug-in works great!) If you are a smoker, DO NOT smoke inside during the entire duration of your listing.
Make all necessary repairs. Picky buyers (and most of them are) definitely will notice and likely magnify ~ minor maintenance problems you've ignored for months or even years. Leaky faucets, burned out light bulbs, windows that don't open easily and the like should be fixed before you put your home on the market. Buyers want to purchase homes that have been well taken care of.
Introduce lifestyle accessories. Set the dining room table with your best dishes. Put out your "only-for-company towels". Make up the spare bed. Hang some fresh curtains. Put some logs in the fireplace. Open all drapes and window blinds to let the light in. Put on soft music. Use your imagination.
Get the true buyer's view. Walk up to your home and pretend you've never seen it before. What do you notice? How do you feel about what you see? Does the home seem inviting? Well-maintained? Would you want to buy this home? Your answer should be an enthusiastic yes! You may want to go to Open Houses and see how others have "staged" their homes to sell. What did you like and dislike about the homes you saw? Use this to critique your own home.

A house that "shines" and is "clutter free" will sell faster than its" UN-kept" neighbor, even though both are structurally well-maintained and very similar in design, size and layout.