Clark Cook Sells Fayetteville NC

Turn Those Red Flags Green

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 08:16:02 -0500

When selling a home , two situations may occur which are red flag indicators of a lengthy sale time. Each requires the property owners' attention in cooperation with their sales agent, and involves either the price or condition of the home.

The first involves a home that has been on the market for 60-90 days, but has been shown only once or twice. More buyers are beginning to enter today's real estate market, and homes for sale should be attracting a number of prospects.

When buyers choose not to tour a home, the reason is often the price. Homes that are attractive, but not being shown, are often priced "above" the market. The key to increasing showings, then is to learn the market price of the home, then reset the price.

The second "red flag" occurs when a home is being shown often, but neither sells nor attracts offers. The home's condition is often the culprit in this situation. Buyers learn the price, then drive by, making a judgement that it is an attractive home. Once they see the home, however, their interest evaporates.

The solution can be a critical "walk-through" by the sellers' agent to identify needed repairs and cosmetic improvements. Until corrected, traffic is likely to remain high, while the chances of selling remain low. Remove these red flags and prepare for a sale!

AN OFFER THEY CAN'T REFUSE

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Fri, 15 May 2009 20:00:03 -0500

In real estate investment, one person's misfortune is another's opportunity. Indeed, with so many foreclosed properties on the market, buyers are poised to take advantage of a literally once-in-a-lifetime chance at investment or ownership.

Every opportunity presents some challenges, however, and you'll need more than luck to effectively buy a distressed property. These transactions are more complex than traditional sales, and you are strongly advised to seek the advice and representation of a real estate professional well versed in this new marketplace.

While a bank-owned home may look like a great deal, don't assume that any offer will be accepted. Most banks list their foreclosed properties through real estate brokerages, and while they want to sell as quickly as possible, the listing agents have a fiduciary responsibility to get a good price for the owner.

An insultingly low offer can table the transaction permanently, so proceed with common sense and a trusted representative. Keep in mind when negotiating your offer that you should have an additional 10% of the price tag set aside for repairs. A foreclosed property, particularly an older one, will almost certainly require some overhauls.

In addition to your agent, consult with a local real estate attorney who can advise you about current foreclosure laws, which vary significantly from state to state. Know exactly who's at the door when your opportunity knocks!

Fayetteville Home buyers Expect What?

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 19:59:38 -0500

I want to address an issue potential buyers should consider. This is aimed at first time buyers who may not know what to expect for their money. If you are working with a limited budget, let's say less than 100K, and you are looking for NEW houses... forget it! In The Fayetteville Area you have to spend at least 130K for new construction. That being said, accept that older properties will have evidence of their age. Meaning they will not be perfect. You think that would be an automatic assumption on the part of the buyer, but not true.

If you are selling, understand that buyers will notice little things, and you should not let that kill your sale. Example, cigarette burns on counter tops. Repair or replace this before your house shows. If you are going to sell your house please go outside and smoke. The smell of tobacco is a turn off for a lot of buyers. If you paint, make sure lines are straight, and colors match. Try to avoid spot painting unless the colors match. If you have peeling wallpaper, glue it back up or take it down and paint. These are easy fixes so don't let them kill your sale.

The fact is there are some agents who are so happy to get a listing that they'll put a house on the market before it's ready to show. Many times without even pointing out to the seller what they should do to prepare their home for showing. This is a mistake! I understand that every situation is different and some sellers don't have the money to make repairs. Some homes should only be shown to investors, or buyers who are looking for fixer uppers.

A house is not a home until you give it a little tender loving care. So buyers be reasonable when looking at older homes. Remember, you get what you pay for. And Finally, if you live in the Fort Bragg Area and you want to sell your home, you can get a professional home evaluation that's quick, convenient, and FREE! Get your home ready so that it sells quick, and for top dollar! And if you are buying, contact me to preview the finest homes for sale in any price range.

My Spring Lake, NC Listing

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 22:19:07 -0500

This home is offered as a short sale and is an excellent buy for a first time home buyer. It's conveniently located in Spring Lake just 5 minutes from Fort Bragg. Make an appointment to see it today.

What's Your Perspective?

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 23:09:15 -0500

Initially this may not seem relevant, but before I'm done it will. Recently I've heard a lot of talk about class envy, socialism, and redistribution of wealth. Well, if everyone would just stop and take a moment to look at what is really happening, perhaps they would see a silver lining amid all the doom and gloom. You see my take on the whole situation is that it's deception by design. It's so simple, so basic, and it works every time. It's the jungle tactic of survival of the fittest, where only the strong survive.

What has happened in America is there's been a shift in political power. And the ideology of the former administration that dominated the way business was done, is diabolically opposed to the new administration and their agenda. It is perceived by the opposition that capitalism is threatened. So what we see is that the rich and powerful, and the institutions with money have pulled out of the stock market in an effort to force their will upon the masses. It is as if they've taken their ball and bat and gone home. Their withdrawal has caused stock prices to fall so fast that panic has set in, and the general public wants out of the stock market before they loose all of their life's savings, namely their 401K's. The rich and powerful have knowingly positioned themselves to make huge profits because the reaction of the masses was predictable.

Once the market bottoms out, the rich and powerful will suddenly, with massive amounts of cash, rush back into the market overnight, and drive stock prices back up to levels higher than before. Then the news will break that confidence has been restored, and that it's safe to invest again. The signal will filter down to the general public and they will buy in at higher prices starting the cycle all over again.

This is the part you've been waiting for. For those of you who are not too timid, BUY NOW! Buy real estate and stocks NOW! What the rich and powerful have knowingly and brilliantly done is create a climate where prices are low enough that most working people can afford to own a piece of the economic recovery, because the economy will recover. The only unanswered question is when? But rest assured that unless the whole world economy collapses, your bet is safe. Be quiet, be confident, and be patient.

What Your Landlord Hopes You Ignore

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Sat, 28 Feb 2009 21:09:52 -0600

First time home buyers can qualify for a tax credit up to $8000. This is not a loan! Imagine this. It's January 2010, and you just filed your tax return. But, in 2009 you bought your first home. Well, on top of what you would normally get back, add a whopping $8000. Now how's that for a stimulus? But before I say another thing, check with your tax advisor first.

Interest rates are very low... new and existing homes are abundant. NOW is the time for anyone with good credit to make their move. Everything runs in cycles. Happy days are here again. Take advantage of the opportunity while it exists, because it will not last forever!!! This is not the time to be skeptical. Real estate is a good long term investment. You don't want to be one of the ones saying I wish I had. I would never suggest anyone buy more house than they can afford, but why pay your landlords mortgage? Why not flip the situation around, and instead of renting, BUY!!! Doesn't that make more cents?

This is especially true for our active duty military. Your basic allowance for housing (BAH) makes your mortgage payment which means Uncle Sam is building your equity. Isn't it foolish to not take advantage of what you are given? Get plugged in with a company, and a Fayetteville agent that can deliver. Don't waste time or money paying rent. Talk with your better half and see if he/she does not agree. $8000 is a lot of money to let go to waste. The choice is yours. If you are going to be in the Fayetteville area anyway for the next three years or so, why not claim some equity and leave the area with some CASH instead of a pile of rent receipts.

If this sounds like a hard sell, I'm sorry. But remember, there are more than 1,800 real estate brokers in the Fayetteville / Fort Bragg Area, and you don't have to call me, but DO call a REALTOR today. America is the land of opportunity for those with the guts and smarts to seize it!! Buy NOW or forever hold your peace!

Ready To Buy Your First Home?

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 23:18:32 -0600

It's not surprising that my Fayetteville NC websites have been delivering lots of leads for rent to own property, and I am happy to receive your request. Many of you have been listening to the national news and think that you are not quite ready to buy a home. Fayetteville, North Carolina is not reflective of the national economy. In fact, Fayetteville was ranked as the no. 1 housing market in the nation for appreciation in the fourth quarter of 2008.

I am happy to receive your request for rent to own property, and when it come to qualifying for a home loan, truth is you don't know what you don't know. That's why I invite you to call one of my preferred lenders. They will tell you based on the information you give them, and the information they get from your credit file, if you qualify for a home loan.

Lately it seems like Christmas. Everybody is getting approved!! Do you believe this BS? Seriously, the harder I try to close a sale, the harder it is. But, because I stopped trying to get the most qualified applicants things have changed. Since I began treating all my requests and inquiries like valued buyers, even the ones that don't qualify thank me! That is, they are telling their friends about me. Keep those referrals coming!!

I know some of you reading this page are wondering; when am I going to see some houses? Hold on, let me explain the process. After you have called one of my preferred lenders and prequalified, click here to see all of my office listings. If you find a home you like, or want to know more about, contact me. if you don't find a home you like here, go to Home Search (MLS), fill out the form ONCE, and you can come back as often as you like. Remember, I built this site for you. You are at the right place at the right time... MAKE IT COUNT!!

...Searching The Web At Work?

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Mon, 23 Feb 2009 20:53:13 -0600

John was tired of waisting money on rent. He'd just got a promotion and finally decided to buy a new home for his growing family. And just like many home buyers, John was at work searching the web for real estate. He visited several sites before he came across my homepage. As the page loaded, John was not prepared for what was about to happen. You see, John did not know that he would be greeted by a live actor introducing him to all the wonderful features offered on my website. John's speakers were turned on and now his co-workers knew that John was doing something other than work on company time. John was BUSTED!!

This scenario stretches a bit to make a point, however this could be a potential problem. So what practical advise could be offered besides the obvious to avoid this situation? First, if you are at work and you have to search the web for anything personal, do it during your lunch break. Most employers don't have a problem if you are off the clock. Secondly, turn your speakers off. And last, if you happen to come across a site with video or an audio player, copy and paste the address in an email to yourself, or better yet write it on a piece of paper and watch it when you get home.

Follow this link for homes for sale in the Fayetteville/Fort Bragg Area without audio.

Do You Have A Web Strategy?

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 09:49:55 -0600

Recently I attended a web strategy training in Garner NC with Exit Brokers and trainer Key Yessaad. I left with a better understanding and appreciation of how our customers think, and I learned how to deliver what they want. Not only will implementing the newly learned web strategy make me a better REALTOR®, it will improve my lead capture rate. In turn if I am as good as I think I am, I will covert more leads into satisfied homeowners and sellers, which means more closings!

The most effective and immediate change I made to my web strategy was directing my visitors to a page within my site where they could see Homes for Sale in Fayetteville NC rather than to my Home Page. I also learned why some visitors may be clicking off my home page instantly! See if you can discover why? Please leave a comment as I would be interested to see if you get it right. I will reveal the reason in another post.

I can't wait for the next training on blogging set for March 10, 2009, location to be announced. Key knows his stuff and is worth every penny and more! To anyone who has not attended one of Key's trainings, I would say make it your goal to get to one. Check you ego at the door, and be prepared to learn what you need to know to advance in our profession.

Clark Cook of Fayetteville, NC
REALTOR®/Broker Associate Exit Realty 1st Class 231 Meed Ct. Suite 202 Fayetteville, NC 28303 Mobile: 910-261-9580 Fax: 910-864-3918

Fayetteville Real Estate Market

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 16:17:09 -0600

It is true that home sales are slower than normal and some property values are off slightly, but we have a better than average market in Fayetteville, because of our huge military presence. It is noteworthy that active duty military, military retirees, veterans, civilians employed by the Department of Defense, and contractors contribute a gazillion dollars to the local economy each month!

Some neighborhoods in our area have actually appreciated according to an article published in The Fayetteville Observer dated February 7, 2009. Contact me if you would like to know if you live in one these neighborhoods.

Everyone can contribute to increasing property values by taking pride in our neighborhoods, and regular maintenance. Even if you rent, realize that you play a role in helping to maintain property values and that one day you too can be a property owner.

View My Most Beautiful Listing Only Minutes From Fort Bragg

Are you guilty?

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Wed, 07 Jan 2009 19:06:23 -0600

Do you have an IDX link on your site and Advertise "search the MLS"? I know I have. Under new NAR rules, that is not accurate. Our visitors think they are searching the whole MLS and they are not with IDX link. I was not aware to the difference. Shame on me, but I know now! Found this youtube video reading an outside blog.

...Network Marketing Without the Pyramid?

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 09:01:06 -0600

I have many years experience with network marketing companies, and in my opinion, this is network marketing at its finest. We are marketing (sharing) our knowledge, skills and abilities with each other, and the consumer. The relationships we build in the AR Community allow us to leverage our ability to earn referrals from our colleagues around the country. The single level residual offered by my company being the exception, there is no better way for an agent to network, than in "The Rain".

We sell the largest single purchase item the average consumer will make in their lifetime. And we EARN a percentage of the sales price, nice huh? And, we get to do it more than on some occasions. For example, how many times have you sold a client a home, and a few years later have them call you, because they want to sell and buy a larger home? If you have had that happen more than once, no doubt you have established yourself in the business, and are benefiting from your NETWORK of satisfied customers, because of the fine job of MARKETING you've done!

So again I ask, is this network marketing without the pyramid? You tell me.

Is Your Listing Too Good To Pass Up?

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Mon, 29 Dec 2008 21:25:10 -0600

As an agent for the seller, we have to advertise their home, and make sure that it is too good to pass up. It must be priced right and ready to show at all times. We know that buyers are going to compare our listing to all the other listings they see. Is our seller working with us? Nothing beats a motivated seller that listens to their trusted agent, and acts on time-tested suggestions.

No doubt the best results can be achieved by hiring a professional stager, but if that's not an option, and we have the skills, by all means we must de-clutter, re-arrange, or do whatever, to make the best possible presentation. That can be a real challenge when the owner, or worse yet, a tenant is living in the property.

When considering whether a listing is too good to pass up, commissions should not be over looked. We know that the driving force should not be about how much money we as agents make. But, if our listings are not being shown, could it be that more money could be made showing another listing? We see this all the time when bonuses and incentives on new construction compete with existing homes. Are we routinely splitting sales commission 50-50? Or, do we offer an extra point to the buyer's agent? Doing so might result in a quicker sale.

In summary, if a home is going to sell in a reasonable amount of time, it must be too good to pass up for both the buyer and the buyer's agent. What say you?

My Personal Prediction - "Doing Fine in 2009"

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 05:51:32 -0600

Well it's that time of year again. You know, time to make resolutions. Except this year I'm calling it my personal prediction. And I have every intention of doing exactly what I write here. It's Christmas Eve and I am listening to my favorite music, enjoying my favorite beverage. :) And yep, I am making my plans. My slogan for the year... "Doing Fine in 2009". Twelve months from now, I will be averaging four closings per month, which for me would be great because in 08 it was less than one! Here's how I will do it.

First I need to point out that I'm not full-time in the business. I am a career Department of Army Civilian with 27 years of service. My projected retirement date... not to exceed January 2013. Now that that's out of the way, let's get back to my strategic plan to achieve my objective.

1. Add four sponsors to my affiliate page on clarkcook.com to cover marketing expense.
2. Devote 80% of my effort to lead generation and 20% listing and selling.
3. Use one, two, three, four lead capture pages
4. Run full page Real Estate Book ad each month.
5. Consistently follow up with every lead
6. Form alliances with agents within our office, refer leads, and split commission
7. Build and maintain 10 listings

In summary, my approach is to dominate as a lead generator and split commissions with other agents. Successful execution of my plan will result in closing four sales each month starting January 2010.

I will end with Happy Holiday Wishes to you, and all of the ActiveRain Community.

Is Continuing Education Necessary?

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 15:13:10 -0600

Continuing education should not just be a set number of hours per year to maintain an active real estate license. Times have changed since the 80's. Today, various on-line forums serve as a source of continuing education for a tech savvy crowd. But then again, continuing education has become a source of income for so many, that I guess we better leave that alone, huh?

Recently I answered a question asked by ActiveRain member Elizabeth Weintraub, a Real Estate Broker from Sacramento CA, that had to do with material fact. There were a lot of good responses and you might want to read them. Better yet, add your own comments if you like. It's amazing how participating in this forum adds to your insight!

The ActiveRain Community is the ideal forum for ongoing education. It just emphasizes the value of REALTORS helping REALTORS, not to mention what it can do for those building a network of professionals. REALTORS across the country can ask questions, get answers, and contribute their ideas to help make us all better. And while there may be slight variations between states, our national code of ethics remains the same. If I were you, I'd take a few moments and read the responses to Elizabeth's question.

Is It Time To Buy, Sell, Or Complain?

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 21:33:21 -0600

Current economic conditions have many wondering if it is time to buy, sell, or complain?
There is an abundance of distressed properties resulting from job loss, divorce, and bank foreclosure. But as with every cloud, there's a silver lining.

If you are looking for a way to create wealth there's probably no better way than buying and selling real estate. History proves that owning real property is a safe way to hedge your bets over time. And that's been true in good and bad economic times.

Have you ever noticed how history seems to repeat itself? It is history that allows forecasters to predict trends because everything seems to cycle or repeat. How many times have you said, "if I only knew then what I know now, I would have done this, or that"? I'm telling you, NOW is the time to buy real estate.

Think about this, for you to buy means it's time for someone to sell. So it really doesn't matter if you're buying or selling, NOW is the time to act. Fortunes are being made right now! Dreams are being fulfilled. The only question is, "Is it your dream"?

Now some people are holding back waiting for times to get better, but that's the surest way to guarantee you will miss the greatest opportunity you will ever have to buy real estate.

Hell if you could eat houses, now would be a good time to get a belly FULL! Obviously, I'm not suggesting anyone over extend themselves. To the contrary, I'm simply stressing the urgency of the moment. Remember these times will not last forever and neither will you. Therefore if you would like to upgrade your living space, or you want a nicer home and you can afford it, go for it! Just remember to call me first.

If you would like a copy of the latest list of distressed properties in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, and surrounding area I would be happy to send it to you without cost or obligation. Just visit my website, complete, and submit the request form.

May you have a very Happy and Safe Holiday Season!

What's Your Personality?

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 08:23:03 -0600

I just discovered Dr. Duckett searching You Tube for info on short sales. (My latest passion) What a worthwhile distraction. I really needed a break... I was beginning to get information overload.

And out of the blue his clip appeared. After viewing the clip I went to his homepage. And what got my attention first was the personality profile test. And being the curious person I am, I had to take the test just to see if I agreed with the results. Of course every test I've ever taken said all nice things, nothing negative. But what was really surprising was the length and depth of the report. And yes, I thought it was spot on. See for yourself.

Visit my affiliate page and take the personality profile test and upgrade your life to the next level. You'll be amazed at what you will learn about yourself. This can help you change your life by re-programming your Mental Codes. Make sure you check this out, don't wait, because you deserve success now!

When is a Home an Investment?

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 21:55:58 -0600

Let me give you the quick, short answer. When it pays you!

If your home is not making you money it is a liability. Or if it's not returning
something of value to you, that you otherwise would not receive without it,
it is not an investment. Perhaps the better question is what makes a home a
good investment? To properly address that question we need to know your
purpose for owning a home. Why are you choosing to buy versus rent?

Answer that to your own satisfaction and call me! I'm a REALTOR®.

You should know what you want in a home, and how long you plan to live
in it. If it is an investment, there should be no emotional attachment. What
you're really looking for is something that a lot of people will also want .

These are questions you should be asking if you are serious about buying a
home. If you are having difficulty coming up with answers Call Me! My job is to
help you find what you are looking for.

Call me for a buying experience that's priceless!

10 Silverthorne Sanford, NC

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:37:27 -0600

Very well kept elegant spacious home. Two separate living areas in addition to bonus room and private wet bar area. Large screened in back porch must see to appreciate.

Full Details: http://www.exitfayetteville.com/moreinfo.html?mlsid=141-304849&noreg=1

Listing Courtesy of Exit Realty 1st Class

402 Virginia Dr. Spring Lake, NC, 28390

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 10:35:45 -0600

-Nice starter home in small neighborhood. Interior Painting and carpet cleaned prior to closing. fenced back yard with two storage buildings to convey.

Full Details: http://www.exitfayetteville.com/moreinfo.html?mlsid=141-319071&noreg=1

Listing Courtesy of Exit Realty 1st Class

Living In An All American City

Clark Cook (Exit Realty 1st Class) — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 23:15:34 -0500

Fayetteville was named an All AmericaCity 2001. We have a rich military history dating back prior to the civil war. Most residents are active duty, retired, or prior service. A strong sense of national pride is inescapable for those who live here. The presence of Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base contributes to our diverse multi-cultural community.

There are many restaurants that cater to our ethnic diversity. My favorite is the Thai Pepper. They feature a great lunch buffet. It is a real challenge to not over eat. I mean the food is so good! It's a little spicy as is, but you can ask for mild.

To get a real sense of the hometown feeling, and what it's like to live in the All American City, watch this video.