Schuylkill County Real Estate Information - Your Guide to Homes in Pottsville & The Region

Is a Seller's "pre-listing inspection" a good idea?

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 14:50:06 -0600

I am asked if a seller should get a pre-listing inspection quite often. I do recommend one, as it can never hurt to know what you're up against if a buyer wants a home inspection. We work with several home inspectors who will provide this service for a reasonable fee.

Via Athina Boukas (Keller Williams Realty):

Lately, I have been recommending to most sellers that they pre-inspect their home prior to putting it on the market. This often comes with resistance because at first, it doesn't seem like the expense will be recouped on the sale. I advise that this is a good strategy and could net a seller more in a slow market. Here are some reasons:

a pre-inspection catches what the buyer may find during their own inspection so that the seller can repair and/or price the house accordingly from the outset

by making necessary repairs in advance, the seller can better manage the repairs on their own terms and there is no time constraint to having the job done; the seller can shop around for estimates

the pre-inspection report can be offered to potential buyers to provide disclosure and evidence of repairs and/or defects that a seller may choose not to repair

a report gives nervous buyers more confidence to submit an offer, especially if the home is older and competes with new construction

it is less likely that the buyer will "renegotiate" the offer after their own inspection because it is less likely they will find a surprise or a "new" deal breaker; the buyer will likely submit their highest offer at the outset

a pre-inspection can uncover a huge potential "deal breaker" like toxic mold, termite damage, code violations, etc. If a buyer discovers this after submitting an offer they are more likely to back out, rather than adjust the price or ask for repairs

if the first buyer backs out due to a large defect, the seller stills has to make the repairs for the next buyer while the house remains on the market longer; possibly needing a further price reduction

making the repairs after the buyer discovers them does not "add value" after the fact, it only prolongs the sale process

I'm sure my colleagues can add more good reasons here....and maybe add any reason why this would not be a good idea?

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

Serving all of Schuylkill County ... Pottsville, Orwigsburg, Schuylkill Haven, Auburn, Pine Grove, Frackville, Minersville, Ashland, Shenandoah, Port Carbon, Palo Alto, St. Clair, Barnesville real estate. Click on the link above to search Pottsville PA homes for sale or any Schuylkill County homes for sale. We have all properties listed for sale in the Schuylkill MLS on our website -- free search!

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

December Poinsettia & Wreath Sale - Lessie's Garden & Gift Shop

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 19:41:56 -0600

For the entire month of December, Lessie's Garden & Gift Shop in Pottsville is hosting their annual Poinsettia & Wreath Sale. Held weekdays 8 am - 4 pm, Saturday 9 am - 1 pm

Lessie's Garden & Gift Shop is a great cause and very special operation. It is run by trained individuals who are either physically or mentally challenged. These individuals learn all types of planting skills through our greenhouse coordinator, supervisors, and program specialist.

Lessie's Garden & Gift Shop offers a variety of plants and gift items.We not only have beautiful plants, but we also sell balloon bouquets, snack baskets planters, seasonal items, seasonal flowers, dried arrangements and many other creative items.

Lessie's Garden & Gift Shop, 2 Park Street, Pottsville 17901

Poinsettias, wreath and holiday decor sale. 570-622-7368.

www.avenuesofpa.org

Lessie's Garden & Gift Shop in Pottsville

http://www.freefoto.com

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Buying A Home - How credit influences your home financing options!

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 19:19:17 -0600

If you're thinking of buying a home, this post explains how credit will influence your financing options.

Right now, credit is tight. Banks are requiring higher credit scores than EVER to loan money to buyers.

This is a nice summary of why your credit is important to you in this homebuying process.

Via Anthony Stokes-Pereira (Better Homes and Gardens Rand Realty):

One of the most important steps in buying a house is financing the purchase. Your credit is one of the first things that lenders examine when considering you for a loan. Making payments on time is the most important way to establish good credit. A pattern or history of frequent late payments can lead to a poor credit score that could negatively affect your ability to be approved for future loans, or result in home financing at a higher interest rate. Conversely, having a good credit score will let you secure a home loan at a lower interest rate.

Your credit report

When you are being considered for a home loan, mortgage lenders will review your credit report, which displays your credit history and credit score. Your credit score, also called credit rating, is based on a summary of your overall credit history. It is shown as a number that provides lenders with a fast and objective way to predict how likely you are to repay a loan.

Lenders use your credit report to decide on the following:

Whether or not to approve you for a loan

The type of loan for which you qualify

The interest rate to charge you

The importance of good credit

Your credit history will follow you throughout your life. Therefore, making good credit decisions along the way will help a great deal when you're ready to realize the dream of home ownership.

Getting a copy of your credit report

Under the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003 you're entitled to a free copy of your report, once a year, from each of the three credit bureaus - Equifax, Experian and TransUnion. Your free credit report should tell you what's in your file both outstanding debts and those you've paid off, along with how well you've kept up with your payments and who has seen the information.

Important Links

Search

Open Houses

Home Valuator

Why you should hire Me as your Realtor

Contact Me

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

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

The Real Estate Relationship That Wasn't

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 16:52:01 -0600

A Lancaster real estate agent wrote this excellent summary of how we work, as agents. If you're a buyer, please read!

Via Jeff Geoghan MBA - Lancaster PA Real Estate Expert (The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group, Coldwell Banker Lancaster PA):

Consumers in Pennsylvania are protected in a myriad of ways from potential frauds and dangers. State licensing and regulation make it all but impossible for a real estate practitioner to “get away” with an offense against a consumer. New licensees are indoctrinated into this matrix, and must undergo biannual ethics training to reinforce the state policy. Lastly, all practitioners who are members of the National Association of Realtors MUST subscribe to it’s NAR Code of Ethics (one of the first of it’s kind in the nation) and local branches of the NAR are aggressive in prosecuting reported violations.

So why is it that Real Estate agents are still considered one of the most “shady” people in business?

In a nutshell, it’s because the typical consumer has no idea about the process by which they engage the real estate community for the purpose of purchasing a house. And as a result of that ignorance combined with poor communication from real estate practitioners, the public finds that their expectations have not been met.

Not a week goes by when I don’t interact with a consumer (not a client) who has found me on the internet. In most cases, they are in the initial stages of looking at homes, mostly online. Often they declare their intention “not to sign with anyone” and “check out open houses”, etc. When I question what the problem is with hiring a buyer’s agent they become either a) confused or b)suspicious (OK, sometimes both). This is the conversation where I’m supposed to explain the role of a buyer’s agent (per PA law – known as the “first substantive discussion about real estate”). Most consumers will tend to view this as a thinly-veiled sales pitch. It’s frustrating to me as a professional agent on several levels:

a) I HATE being considered a sales pitchman. Not to mention the fact that buyers aren’t financially obligated to a buyer’s agent anyway!

b) I’m REQUIRED to take the time to explain the law in Pennsylvania (BTW this is known as the PA Consumer Notice). I know it can be boring.

c) I just KNOW that the consumer isn’t going to retain any of what I’m saying. I know I wouldn’t myself…legaleze is sooo dry.

What’s worse, it does make perfect sense to use this juncture of my new relationship to promote my services over those of my competitors, right? Would would you do, if you were just told by a prospective customer that they intended to go look at homes without you, thereby exposing them to your competitors without you having “fired a shot”? Hence the title of this post.

The question is “how to get the Consumer law into the consumer’s hands and understood by them ahead of time, as well as the opening presentation of the agent’s services so as to pique the consumer’s interest in talking some more…

There’s nothing so empowered as a home buyer who knows exactly what’ going on and why. That’s my goal from moment one when I meet a prospective client.

So, the challenge the real estate industry faces is educating the public about the process of home sales and the necessary relationships that arise from it, as well as the points at which a consumer can elect to retain a pro on their behalf. Educated customers can spot the experienced agents and avoid getting stuck in a business relationship they regret. Agents are held to a higher standard by the consumer. Everyone knows where they stand. I like it! How to make that happen….hmm.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

10 Tips to Help Take the Stress Out of Home Buying

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:31:02 -0600

This is an excellen list of 10 Tips to help take the stress out of home buying. If you're even thinking of buying a home, read these please.

Via Fox Cities Real Estate Hotline--- Bob Edwards- Appleton, WI (Coldwell Banker- The Real Estate Group):

Buying a home should be fun, not stressful. As you look for your dream home, keep in mind these 10 Tips for making the process as peaceful and stress free as possible.

Find a Real Estate Agent who you can connect with. Home buying is not only a big financial commitment, but also an emotional one. It's critical that the Realtor you choose is both highly skilled and a good fit with your personality.

Remember, there's no "right" time to buy, just as there's no perfect time to sell. If you find a home now, don't try to second-guess interest rates or the housing market by waiting longer- you risk losing out on the home of your dreams. The housing market usually doesn't change fast enough to make much difference in price, and a good home won't stay on the market long.

Don't ask for too many opinions. It's natural to want reassurance for such a big decision, but too many ideas from too many people will make it much harder when it's time to make a decision. Focus on the wants and needs of your immediate family- the people who will be living in the home.

Accept that no house is ever perfect. If it's in the right location, the yard may be a bit smaller than you had hoped. The kitchen may be perfect, but the bathroom is dated. Make a list of your top priorities and focus in on the things that are most important to you. Let the minor ones go.

Don't try to be a killer negotiator. Negotiation is definitely a part of the real estate process, but trying to "win" by getting an extra-low price or by refusing to budge on your offer may cost you the home you love. Negotiation is give and take.

Remember your home doesn't exist in a vacuum. Don't get so caught up in the physical aspects of the house itself- room size, kitchen, etc, -that you forget about important issues such as noise level, location to amenities, and other aspects that also have a big impact on your life.

Plan ahead. Don't wait until you've found a home and made an offer to get approved for a mortgage, investigate home insurance, and consider a schedule for moving. Presenting an offer contingent on a lot of unresolved issues will make your bid much less attractive to sellers.

Factor in maintenance and repair costs in your post home buying budget. Even if you buy a new home, there will be costs. Don't leave yourself short and let your home deteriorate.

Accept that a little buyer's remorse is inevitable and will probably pass. Buying a home, especially for the first time, is a big financial commitment and it also yields big benefits. Don't lose sight of why you wanted to buy a home and what made you fall in love with the property you purchased.

Choose a home first because you love it; then think about appreciation. While U.S. homes have appreciated a historically stable average of 5.4 percent annually (National Association of Realtors), a home's most important role is to serve as a comfortable, safe place to live.

An important thing to remember is that you don't have to go through the home buying process alone. I can't emphasize enough how important it is to have the right Realtor by your side. For a smooth, easy and stress-free as possible home buying experience in the Fox Cities Valley and Appleton, WI; call Bob Edwards from Coldwell Banker- The Real Estate Group today! 920-202-2431 is my cell phone or email me at bedwards@coldwellhomes.com to schedule a no cost, no obligation consultation.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Purchasing a HUD Home-Misconceptions and Advantages

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:39:41 -0600

HUD homes in Schuylkill County

This is an excellent post on Buying A HUD Home. The agent is from Arizona, but it applies equally to Pennsylvania as well. Here in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, we can help you buy any HUD home you're interested in. We are one of the few brokerage firms in Schuylkill County licensed to put bids in on HUD homes in Schuylkill County. Call us for all your HUD home needs in Pennsylvania.

Erica Ramus

Via Deanne Olivas (American Allstar Realty):

When purchasing a HUD home, there are misconceptions to replace with facts and advantages to consider. The following is information about the purchase of Arizona HUD homes.

First, exactly what is a HUD home? When a home is purchased with a FHA (Federal Housing Administration which is a sub-agency of HUD) insured loan and the borrower defaults on the loan, the lender may file a claim against the FHA insurance fund and convey ownership to HUD who then sells the home at market value to get back some of the loss from the foreclosure.

One misconception I have heard is that HUD homes are always in poor condition. I find that just like bank owned or short sales, HUD homes can be very clean and well taken care of or a disaster or anywhere in between. One of the advantages to a HUD home is that before HUD homes are listed, HUD orders an appraisal and property/pest inspection of the home. Anyone can go to the HUD website http://www.mcbreo.com/and read the report to see the condition of the property before viewing it.

If the property inspection determined that the property needs repairs but less than $5,000 and the buyer is using an FHA insured loan, for the home to be eligible for the FHA loan an escrow repair is established to cover the costs of the repairs to the home. The costs of the repairs are included in the loan amount and repaid by the borrower as part of the house payment.

It is advised that a potential buyer conduct their own home inspection by hiring a competent inspector. HUD homes are sold in "as-is "condition and HUD makes no warranties or quarantees about the condition of the home and will make no repairs. This is also the case in the purchase of a lender owned foreclosure property.

Another advantage for owner occupants (person that will live in the home as his or her primary residence within 30 days of the close of escrow) who are interested in purchasing a HUD home is that during the first 10 days a HUD property is listed to the general public, there is no competition from investors. Bids from Owner Occupant Purchasers only are accepted. All bids placed by Owner Occupants that are submitted during those ten days are opened on the 11th day and are considered as though they were received simultaneously. If there is no winning bid during those ten days the bidding is opened to include investors.

Another misconception is that HUD provides loans to persons who would not under other circumstances qualify for a loan. HUD does not provide financing for its properties. Before a person can place a bid on a HUD home they must be pre-approved for a real estate loan or have proof of sufficent cash to purchase.

A great advantage for those who do not have the downpayment required for a typical loan is that a buyer can purchase a HUD home for as little as $100 down. It is important to discuss the costs with an experienced lender and the price to bid with a HUD approved agent. Before a bid can be submitted, the buyer must have on deposit with the real estate broker an earnest deposit check. If the purchase price is $50,000 or less the required check amount is $500. If the purchase price is more than $50,000 the check amount is $1,000. Any unused portion will be reimbursed to the buyer at close of escrow.

The advantage of the sealed bid process is it eliminates many of the hassles associated with the typical lender owned or preforeclosure transaction where bidding wars and long waits are common. If during the first ten days of owner occupant bidding, no offer is accepted, bids are reviewed daily and the bidder with the winning bid is notified the following day. If more than one acceptable bid is placed, the bid with the highest net amount to HUD wins the sale.

If you have hesitated about considering purchasing a HUD home, realize that these properties open up another opportunity for purchasing a home at an afforadable price. With the assistance of an experienced HUD approved agent and a lender who understands the process, replace the misconceptions with facts and consider the advantages of purchasing a HUD home.

The process for buying a HUD home is different from a normal home purchase. Access to view HUD homes and place bids is restricted to a HUD approved real estate agent. For a partial list of AZ HUD homes http://www.eastvalleyphoenixhomes.com/hudhomes.html).

To get a list of all HUD homes that meet your criteria or to discuss if a HUD home purchase would be in your best interest, call Deanne Olivas, an approved HUD agent, at American Allstar Realty 480 452-5567.
Deanne Olivas

American Allstar Realty

480 452-5567

http://eastvalleyphoenixhomes.com

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

JUST WHAT IS IT THAT REAL ESTATE LICENSEES DO?? Part I.

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 15:37:05 -0600

This is an excellent summary of what we do in this business!

Via Lenn Harley, Homefinders.com, MD & VA Homes and Real Estate:

JUST WHAT IS IT THAT REAL ESTATE LICENSEES DO?? Part I.

"YOUR MISSION, SHOULD YOU CHOOSE TO ACCEPT IT . . . " is to manage the orderly transfer of real property from a seller to a buyer. The average consumer doesn't understand a fraction of what we do to help them accomplish their goal.

SELLERS. Home sellers are presented a simple-to-complex marketing plan by listing agents prior to listing the property for sale. The listing agent promises to perform a series of showing, advertising activities geared to receiving contract offers.

BUYERS. Buyers are assisted in their home search by agent(s) who helps to locate, tour properties for sale, write and negotiate the contract and arranging for settlement services.

Sounds easy doesn't it? Actually it is, in the hands of experienced listing and buyers agents and if nothing unusual occurs.

THE MOST HELPFUL AND LEAST UNDERSTOOD PART OF LISTING AND SELLING REAL PROPERTY is the complex and institutionalized systems which include the brokerages employing the licensed agents and brokers, the Multiple List Systems that make the homes for sale information available to licensees and now to the public, the board approved forms that provide consumer protections,

Achieving the consumer's goal of selling or buying real property requires the services of a variety of service providers in addition to the real estate licensee. Achieving the orderly transfer of real property from a seller to a buyer requires services of vendors that perform critical tasks to help the consumer achieve their goal. The vendors include but are not limited to: mortgage providers, home inspectors, termite/radon inspectors, appraisers, title services which include or are managed by attorneys.

WOW! How do we keep up with all of these tasks that are necessary to get to the settlement table? I'm going to disclose a secret that will help many consumers understand how things can go so smoothly and the consumer's goal of selling and buying real estate is achieved.

IT'S ALL IN THE CONTRACT!

That's right. IT'S ALL IN THE CONTRACT!

Getting to the settlement table begins with the selection of an experienced listing or buyer's agent who will MANAGE THE CONTRACT OF SALE.   To demonstrate the importance of understanding contract management, below are the titles included in a typical Contract of Sale.

Description of Real Property

Price and Financing

Deed of Trust

Deposit

Down Payment

Settlement

Equipment, Maintenance and Condition

Utilities

Personal Property and Fixtures

Financing Terms

Appraisal

Purchasers Representations

Access to Property

Termite Inspection

Repairs

Damage and Loss

Title

Possession Date

Fees

Broker's Fee

Adjustments

Attorney's Fees

Performance

Default

Assignability

Definitions

Void Contract

Warranty

Listing agents and Buyers agents must not only understand the meaning and execution of each of these titles, they should help the seller or buyer understand the meaning of all parts of the contract that apply to their particular transaction.

Next: What Real Estate Licensees Do Not Do.

Courtesy, Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com, 800-711-7988.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Shhh ... Don't Tell My Competitors ... How to Have a GREAT January! PART 6

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:25:15 -0600

Week 6: Final Burst of Speed!

Bring back 10-10-10 calls this week. (see links below if you missed prior weeks)

This is the week before Thanksgiving, so it might be harder to reach some people, easier to reach others.

Prepare (but don't mail) an envelope for every buyer/seller (even those who you did not represent). In the envelope you'll enclose the HUD-1 from week 2 and a letter and 2 business cards. The letter will state "Enclosed is a copy of your closing sheet from the property you purchased/sold in 2009. Your accountant will need a copy of this to file your 2009 taxes, so if you don't have your paperwork handy, just forward this to him or her."

Then add a PS that they should contact you if they have any questions, and Happy New Year! You will prepare these now, and mail the envelopes the first week of January.

Do you have a farm? If so, send a 2010 postcard calendar to your farm this week, or something similar. Get out and walk this week. Besides your 10-10-10 calls, get in FRONT of people.

Buy an a small seasonal item (last year I bought 25 small pumpkins) and stop by and see 25 people in person! These people should be people who send you business, or past clients.

You're finishing up the program, so wind down on a fun, positive note. Deliver those pumpkins (or pies or whatever!) with a smile and know you're planting seeds for a successful 2010.

Links to prior weeks

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Friedensburg Country Restaurant Serves Free Thanksgiving Dinner

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:10:47 -0600

The Friedensburg Country Restaurant will sponsor a free Thanksgiving dinner this year on Thursday, November 26 from 12 noon to 1 pm. The meal is for anyone who does not have somewhere to go on Thanksgiving, and also for those in financial need. There are no age restrictions.

The restaurant's owner, Christopher Clauser, says they will serve a full Thanksgiving meal served buffet-style including dessert and beverage.

The meal will be served between noon an 1 p.m. Reservations are not required, but Clauser asks if you plan on attending, please call withh an approximate number of those planning to attend so they can better prepare.

Anyone who would like to volunteer to help prepare or serve the meal is asked to contact the restaurant.

Right next to the Friedensburg Country Restaurant you'll find C&C Candies and Country Store, which is also owned by the Clauser family. Homemade chocolates and other candies are sold right next to groceries and everyday staples. You can buy the candies already made, or pick up candy-making supplies such as molds and chocolate. They also make and sell homemade bakegoods. It is indeed one of Schuylkill County's more unique shops.

Their website says: "Candy making is quickly becoming a lost art, but at C&C Candies and Country Store, you can find everything you need to rediscover the delicious skill of homemade candies. Among the over 2000 affordable molds, you'll find many unique and hard-to-find items for your candy creations. Unlike other stores that might leave you to your own devices, you’ll not only get your needed supplies, but also personal instructions. So if you’d like to perfect your candy craft we’ll also provide you tips so your creations turn out perfect every time. Just ask one of our knowledgeable employees and you'll get exceptional service with a smile."

For more information on the Thanksgiving dinner, contact Christopher Clauser, Friedensburg Country Restaurant, 1305 Long Run Road (Route 443), at 739-0008 or via e-mail at chrisclauser@comcast.net.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Any KINDLE owners out there?

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:17:17 -0600

Let me start this by saying I LOVE BOOKS. I LOVE PAPER. I have a real problem at my house and office. It is overflowing with BOOKS. I am a book junkie.

I love the feel of books, the smell of books... you get it.

Yet I am tempted to buy the Amazon Kindle. They dropped the price to $259. Most books you can get INSTANTLY on a wireless download for $9.99 or less.

So tell me what you think, if you have tried one of these.

Are they easy to read, on the eyes? Have you managed to get used to it yet?

Do you MISS BOOKS?????

If you don't know what the Kindle is, here's its specs:

Slim: Just over 1/3 of an inch, as thin as most magazines

Lightweight: At 10.2 ounces, lighter than a typical paperback

Books in Under 60 Seconds: Get books delivered wirelessly in less than 60 seconds; no PC required

3G Wireless: 3G wireless lets you download books right from your Kindle; no annual contracts, no monthly fees, and no hunting for Wi-Fi hotspots

Global Coverage: Enjoy 3G wireless coverage at home or abroad in over 100 countries. See details. Check wireless coverage map.

Paper-Like Display: Reads like real paper without glare, even in bright sunlight

Carry Your Library: Holds up to 1,500 books Long Battery Life: Read for days without recharging

Read-to-Me: With the experimental Text-to-Speech feature, Kindle can read newspapers, magazines, blogs, and books out loud to you, unless the book's rights holder made the feature unavailable

Free Book Samples: Download and read first chapters for free before you decide to buy

Large Selection: Over 360,000 books, including 101 of 112 New York Times® Best Sellers, plus U.S. and international newspapers, magazines, and blogs. For non-U.S. customers, content availability and pricing will vary. Check your country.

Low Book Prices: New York Times Best Sellers and New Releases are $9.99, unless marked otherwise. When traveling abroad, you can download books wirelessly from the Kindle Store or your Archived Items. U.S. customers will be charged a fee of $1.99 for international downloads.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

So how long is my Pre-Approval Good for?

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 14:09:03 -0600

Via Jason Sardi, Mortgage Banker (FHA-VA-USDA-Conventional-Pennsylvania Loans):

Easy answer, 60 days. But I guess that depends on what kind of Pre-Approval you received or want for that matter. Actually, the answer to such a question depends upon three factors:

- You, as the consumer.

- The Buyer's Agent who is helping you find a home.

- And the quality of the Pre-Approval you receive in the first place.

Ten Seconds, GO - You're interested in buying a home. You even find a few that tickle your family bone. But you need financing because you probably don't have the cash to buy it outright. Which leads to...

Nine Seconds - You're smart and seek out a Buyer's Agent to represent you. This will provide protection in your favor. They represent you and only you.

Eight Seconds - That agent may turn you onto a few folks like me who can help you out from the financing end. And that doesn't mean you shouldn't shop on your own. But buying a home isn't just about getting the lowest rate with no fees (an oxymoron if I've ever encountered one), it's about trust. Interview those who express interest in earning your business and keeping it. If they have the lowest rate with no fees, I can only hope they are in business when you need to do business again.

Seven Seconds- The Pre-Approval is more than just an application and credit check. There's some serious competency going on. They ask for your most recent pay-stubs, W-2's, bank statements, and the last time you had a wet dream about Richard Gere.

Six Seconds - You find a house that you want to call home and a Sales Agreement has been signed and accepted by all parties. And there you are.

Five Seconds- You're hopefully just padding the documentation that you've already given to the Mortgage Company you choose. I recommend Sardi Mortgage Inc, who isn't licensed just yet ... but when you hear Sardi, that should mean something. I'm not sure what, but it means something. Maybe it just means that there is an individual who is all over your particular file like white on puss.

Four Seconds - Appraisal is ordered and done. The rest of your file is pretty complete because everyone got along and did what needed to be done.

Three Seconds - The complete transaction goes into Underwriting, those dastardly folks we think of who hate closing loans. I'll give you a bit of info here, and I usually don't stick up for Underwriters. They only get paid when folks close loans. Without us, there is no them. So, that's that. In business, there's more to it than that, but that is a pretty accurate description.

Two Seconds - You are CLEAR TO CLOSE. If there were three words that were magical in this industry, those are they.

One Second Left - It's a proclamation of your destination. You hit home!

And when there's no time left, that's the perfect time to be imperfect. And that's the perfect way NOT to close.

Jason Sardi

Mortgage Consultant

610-653-0317

jsardi@ihmci.com

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Why It Pays to Work with a Lender You KNOW

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 13:09:25 -0600

Twice recently, our office had a situation where buyers were "pre-qualified" by non-local, no-name lenders and in both instances, the deals fell thru.... because the original lenders suddenly couldn't get the deal done.

When you first start looking for a new home, real estate agents will tell you it's wise to get PREQUALIFIED. This means you call a bank or other lender and tell them your situation. Tell them how much you make, how much money you have saved to put down, and let them pull your credit history to get a credit score. Then the lender tells you if you are qualified for a loan, and how much house you should be shopping for.

First, we recommend calling your OWN BANK or credit union. If you already have a mortgage, or a local bank you like, call them. Start there.

If you are not pleased with what you hear, or don't have a personal bank or credit union, ask your agent for recommendations (several--not just one!).

Does it matter who you call to prequalify you? Yes! Here is why.

If you do not know the lender you're calling -- don't have a prior relationship, or are calling off a website or other ad -- you don't know how trustworthy they are. They might prequalify you and not even pull your credit. They might provide you with a figure or a letter to give your agent, and might not know that you are NOT truly qualified to buy a house right now. This happens all the time with lenders we are NOT familiar with! They sweet talk a buyer and make all kinds of promises, and frequently find they cannot deliver later. Maybe they promise one interest rate, then jack it up later. Or they throw in all kinds of junk fees and closing costs. I just saw one Good Faith where the lender charged $1500 wire transfer fee. Huh????

In case 1, a young couple got a pre-qual letter from an out of area lender, and we had never heard of them. We wrote up an offer based on that letter, and asked the lender for a Good Faith estimate of closing costs. The costs were THROUGH THE ROOF! The rate was 3 points higher than average right now, and the closing costs were ridiculous.

We recommended this couple call another lender, from a list we provided of lenders we had worked with. The couple called around and repeately were told their credit scores were too low, and they had one large debt that had to be paid off, before they would even be considered for a loan. They also had zero cash saved.

What was this original company thinking???? Based on the conversations they had with the other lenders, this couple decided they needed to repair their credit and build a fund of money before buying a house. If we had pushed this deal through, they might have been turned down at the last minute, or at the very least would have paid through the NOSE to move into their first house.

In case 2, a buyer was given a prequal letter from a no-name lender we had never heard of. The buyer insisted the lender was solid and his credit was good. We wrote the offer, and 2 days before closing the buyer was rejected due to poor credit scores, a prior bankruptcy and outstanding debt that suddenly was "found". The lender dropped him like a hot potato, and said "sorry we didn't really pull credit before we wrote that prequal."

If you are a buyer making an offer on a home, pick your lender carefully. Otherwise, you may get a big surprise at settlement (or, at NON settlement).

In our office Realty Executives has a list of several lenders -- local and national -- that our agents have SUCCESSFULLY worked with in the past. You are free of course to call any lenders you choose. But on our list we have lenders we trust to not lead you down a rosy path ... only to be disappointed or bait-and-switched in the end. Only lenders who we trust are on this list, lenders who have closed deals with us in a timely manner, with reasonable fees and interest rates, and good communication skills, to keep you in the loop at all times.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

The Restaurant at the Station, Tamaqua: Nouveau Wine Party

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 09:53:26 -0600

The Restaurant at the Station, Tamaqua: Nouveau Wine Party

November 20, 2009

Nouveau Wine Dinner 6:00 p.m.

This is the earliest chance to sample the first vintages of the new harvest. It’s also a great opportunity to purchase wines for the upcoming holiday season to give as gifts or to drink at dinner. This 4-course wine dinner will focus specifically on Beaujolais from around the region. Reservations are necessary.

If you have never visited The Restaurant at the Station, you're in for a treat!

Also going on this month:

ANNUAL TOYS FOR TOTS GINGERBREAD HOUSE CONTEST on display beginning Friday November 27

Make sure you stop in and vote for your favorite house, created by local artisans. All proceeds are donated to Toys for Tots plus the creator of the winning house will recieve $100 for Christmas gift giving!

The Restaurant at the Station, 18 N Railroad St., Tamaqua PA 570-668-5020

http://www.therestaurantatthestation.com

Directions:

From Interstate 81 North or South Take the MCADOO/TAMAQUA exit 138 to PA-309 South Follow PA-309 SOUTH directly into TAMAQUA

From Philadelphia / Lehigh Valley Take I-95 SOUTH toward DELAWARE Take exit #7 onto I-476 NORTH toward PLYMOUTH MEETING Take exit #56 onto US-22 EAST toward ALLENTOWN Take the PA-309 NORTH exit toward TAMAQUA Take PA-309 NORTH directly into TAMAQUA

The Restaurant at the Station, Tamaqua: Nouveau Wine Party

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Shhh ... Don't Tell My Competitors ... How to Have a GREAT January! PART 5

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 08:04:11 -0600

WHEW... we made it to Week 5! You're almost there... we have 1 more week of work then you can hit the holiday season in stride. Here's your instructions

Week 5: Feed the Group who Feeds your Pipeline

Look at your list again of WHO sent your business in 2009?

Make a list of the top 3 groups and 10 individuals who referred business to you.

For example - GROUPS: Church, Kiwanis Club, Book group - INDIVIDUALS: Lender Larry, Attorney Bob, Accountant Karen, Friends Becky & Nick, and Past Clients Tom, Dick, Harry, Jane and Mary

These 3 groups and 10 individuals deserve special attention/thanks. They are feeding your pipeline.

For the individuals, invite each one out to breakfast or coffee or lunch in the next 2 weeks. They may be busy, and say they don't have time. If so, drop by their home or office and bring them a cup of Dunkin Donuts coffee or Starbucks, and a treat. They probably will enjoy the attention! When you meet with them, make sure you thank them for TRUSTING YOU with their referrals.

For the groups, make a donation to the group, or take an ad out in the church bulletin, or bring a special treat to the next gathering. If you have more than 10 individuals or 3 groups, that's even better! Take this task into future weeks if the group isn't meeting this week.

The point is to recognize the groups and the people who are filling your pipeline.

Did you miss weeks 1-4?

Here are hotlinks to the series

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Shhh ... Don't Tell My Competitors ... How to Have a GREAT January! PART 4

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:40:07 -0600

Week 4: Give Thanks

This is the first week of November... so we'll start to think about THANKS

Write your Thanksgiving letter, to your past clients, current clients & SOI on Monday-Weds.

Spend the rest of the week mailing them (hand addressing labels if you can).

Your letter will be brief, light, and friendly. It will THANK the recipient for helping make 2009 a great year for you (I don't care what your numbers were, they were GREAT!).

Add a brief paragraph about your family, something you've accomplished this year, something personal!

PS-You will add a PS at the end, reminding them you are always THANKFUL for referrals.

Deadline to mail: November 14.

Week 1

Week 2

Week 3

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Schuylkill Women in Crisis Launches E-Newsletter

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 06:30:36 -0600

Schuylkill Women in Crisis launches E-Newletter

Schuylkill Women in Crisis is a private, nonprofit domestic violence organization that has served the Schuylkill County community since 1983. All services are free, confidential and provided to all victims regardless of sex.

Now SWIC is reaching out via the Internet with its new E-Newsletter. Each month's edition will include topics of special interest to supporters of the local domestic violence agency, as well as special events and fundraisers.

The fall issues include a contest to name the monthly volunteer and community column. The winning entry will receive products from The Grateful Thread, SWIC's weaving shop. The Grateful Thread, a weaving business operated by Schuylkill Women in Crisis, will be open for holiday shopping from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Tuesday, December 1, through Saturday, December 5. Come see many popular items available in seasonal and holiday colors and also the handmade artistry of several consignment artists. The store is located at 20 North Centre Street, Pottsville. And check out The Grateful Thread’s new website and online store at www.gratefulthread.org.

To be added to the mailing list, visit SWIC's Web site at www.s-wic.org or e-mail swicagency@comcast.net.

For more information about SWIC services, call 622-3991.

In addition to assisting victims, Schuylkill Women in Crisis is working to confront the societal issues that contribute to this problem. SWIC is motivated by the belief that all individuals are entitled to live free of the fear and pain caused by emotional and physical abuse. While the agency provides services to all individuals regardless of gender, they acknowledge that women and children are most vulnerable to this problem.

Schuylkill Women in Crisis launches E-Newletter

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Schuylkill County Judicial Sale: November 12, 2009

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 09:45:52 -0500

For the first time, Schuylkill County will hold a judicial sale in the evening:

Thursday, November 12, 6 pm at the Schuylkill County Courthouse in Pottsville, PA

The county is hoping the evening hours will draw more bidders than a daytime sale.

NOTE: All buyers should use caution - what you buy is what you get. Caveat emptor.

70 homes in Schuylkill County municipalities will be available.

According to an article in the Pottsville Republican, no promises are made on the homes' conditions, but they come with absolutely no strings attached. There are no mortgages, liens or tax commitments of any kind for buyers. That differs from a county upset sale, when houses that have been delinquent on taxes for at least two years are put up for sale with liens and other payments attached.

For more information, contact the Schuylkill County tax claim bureau at 570-628-1405

Here is the link to the county website: http://www.co.schuylkill.pa.us/

Schuylkill County Judicial Sale: November 12, 2009

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

How Not to Sell a Haunted House

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:45:44 -0500

This is an amusing post about a "haunted house" and whether or not you need to disclose it to a buyer. Enjoy!

Erica

Via Claudette Millette - Metrowest Mass Exclusive Buyer Broker (The Buyers' Counsel):

Whether chains are rattling, the floor is shaking or there is simply the knowledge that an evil deed was committed on the premises, you could possibly be dealing with a haunted house, or a "stigmatized property" sale.

Since liability issues on these types of transactions vary from state to state - what is the guiding principal for selling a haunted house?

In 1991, a case in New York provided some legal precedent on the matter.

Stambovsky v. Ackley

The owner of a house, Helen Ackley had reported the existence of numerous poltergeists in her home and had, in fact, publicized these occurrences in Reader's Digest and a local newspaper on three occasions. As a result, the home was placed in a five-home walking tour in the city and received an enormous amount of publicity. She even referred to the home in a article as a "Riverfront Victorian with ghosts."

Some of the interactions Ms. Ackley described to reporters included ghosts waking her each morning by shaking her bed. When spring break arrived she loudly proclaimed to the spirits that she did not have to wake up early anymore. On this, she insisted that they listened to her requests and the bed immediately ceased all shaking.

Despite the local notoriety, an unknowing buyer, Jeffrey Stambovsky signed a contract to purchase the home. On an agreed upon price of $650,000 he made a $32,500 down payment. Since Mr. Stambovsky was not from the area he claimed to have ignorance of the widely known haunting tales.

When the buyer subsequently learned of the haunting stories, he filed for a request of the rescission of his contract for the sale and also sued for damages citing fraudulent misrepresentation on the part of Ackley as well as the Realtor®.

In ruling on this case, the court stated that since the existence of ghosts in the home had been widely reported, as a matter of law, the house was haunted.

However, the court dismissed the fraudulent misrepresentation action and stated that the Realtor® had been under no obligation to disclose the haunting to any potential buyers. The court affirmed that the law of caveat emptor (let the buyer beware) applied in this case so the buyer did not prevail.

Mr. Stambovsky subsequently appealed the case and won a reversal.

On appeal, the court stated that a "haunting" was not a condition that a buyer could fairly be able to ascertain  through even the most thorough of home inspections. In this case, "the most meticulous inspection would not reveal the presence of poltergeists at the premises or unearth the property's ghoulish reputation in the community."

It further stated that the seller had taken unfair advantage of the buyer's ignorance. Since she had taken it upon herself to inform the community at large of numerous spirits roaming rampantly throughout the home, she owed no less to her perspective buyer.

The judge then rendered a somewhat entertaining opinion using the following phrases:

"In his pursuit of a legal remedy for fraudulent misrepresentation against the seller, plaintiff hasn't a ghost of a chance," I am moved by the spirit of equity," "In this instance - who you gonna call?" and "The notion that a haunting is a condition which can and should be ascertained upon inspection of the premises is a hobgoblin which should be exorcised from the body of legal precedent and quietly laid to rest."

I have no knowledge of whether or not the parties in question had any appreciation of the judge's sense of humor.

However, Mr. Stambovsky was finally let out of the deal and had his deposit fully refunded.

Subscribe to my blog

Copyright 2009 - Claudette Millette, President, TheBuyersCounsel - 800-392-1446  - E-mail

Learn More about Massachusetts Home Buyer Representation - Greater Boston and MetroWest Massachusetts - Serving Massachusetts Home Buyers Since 1992

Ashland, Holliston, Hopkinton, Natick, Newton, Northborough, Framingham, Shrewsbury, Sherborn, Southborough, Sudbury, Wayland, Westborough

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Short Sale Experts Needed for Book

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 12:36:37 -0500

I picked this notice up, from a service I subscribe to for publicity requests. Anyone out there who has successfully completed a SHORT SALE, they are looking for your feedback for a new book.

I know we have several high profile short sale experts here on ActiveRain, so perhaps this is a chance for you to get some publicity out of your knowledge.

Here is the info:

Brokers, agents and attorneys who have successfully completed a residential or commercial real estate short sale

Name: Craig Grella

Email: cgrella@gmail.com

Deadline: 01:10pm PACIFIC - 30 October

Query: I am looking to speak with brokers, agents, attorney s and real estate consultants who have successfully negotiated or consulted on a residential or commercial real estate short sale. I will conduct a short interview with you for inclusion of your case study in my book. Along with the case study we'll publish your name, credentials, company, contact info, and logo. You will receive one free book in appreciation for your participation.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Shhh ... Don't Tell My Competitors ... How to Have a GREAT January! PART 3

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 09:05:15 -0500

Week 3: What do you want in 2010?

Now write 2010 goals:

# of transactions a month?

How many listings do you want to carry at one time?

What is the total you want to TAKE HOME in the 12 months of 2010? Divide that in 12... that's your monthly income needed.

Backtrack, and if you're on a split, how much do you need to BRING IN to the company each month to make this amount?

What was your average sale in 2009 (use last week's data)? Use this number to calculate HOW MANY deals you'll need to close each month to bring in the desired income.

Look at your 2009 monthly numbers. If you want to hit your 2010 numbers, how will you do this? - more buyer appointments lead to contracts lead to sales - more listings taken (at appropriate pricing) lead to contracts lead to sales

If you need to increase your income, you can increase the average price of the homes you work with, or increase the number of properties you list, or increase the number of buyers you work with.

What is your PLAN on how to do this? Ideas?

Also in week 3, start your 10-10-10 calls: Every single day, call or email 10 past clients, 10 current clients/prospective clients, 10 people in your SOI. Every day you need to "touch" 30 people this week. That will be 150 by the end of the week!

Go to the office supply store and buy Thanksgiving or harvest themed paper.

If you missed Part 1 and Part 2 click here.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

The Road to 300,000 Points: 5 Benefits to Playing in the Rain

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 16:30:20 -0500

This week I hit a milestone: 300,000+ points on ActiveRain. Woo hoo!

I've been blogging here since July 2007, but I had kind of a slow start. I did what many new ActiveRainers do: logged in, filled out my profile, read a few posts, then forgot about ActiveRain for a while. I had just started my own brokerage firm in June 2007. so that was a busy summer for me. When I re-discovered this site, it was because I was looking for answers to a question and I remembered the folks at AR and thought someone could help me.

I blogged off and on that fall, posting about my part of Pennsylvania, and writing information pieces about Schuylkill County, PA.

I posted an occasional question or answer to someone else's post. It wasn't until spring of 2008 that I found my voice, and started blogging regularly.

A year after that original introduction to AR I hit my stride, and was starting every morning reading the newest featurerd posts, replying and commenting on others' posts, and blogging almost every day.

Along the way, I've discovered many benefits to this daily ritual / habit / addiction.

1. EDUCATION. I have learned so much here from reading the posts of other agents. If you want to learn something new, log on here every day and spend 30 minutes daily reading posts. Really, it's as good as any classroom experience. If you are new and don't know where to start, here's a list of some of my favorite bloggers who write EDUCATIONAL posts:

- Lenn Harley - the grand dame of copyright, web marketing, successful internet promotion of yourself, and so much more. (Love the new photo Lenn.)

- Katerina Gasset - Coach, trainer, and web guru. Want to know how to make your posts better, read Katerina's blog.

- Active Brad - Everything you could possibly want to know about ActiveRain is on Active Brad's blog.

2. CAMERADERIE. The AR gang is like the Cheers bar--where everyone knows your name! True you don't become "Norm!" in week one. It takes some time to get to know the others in the room. But if you sign on and hang out here regularly, you'll soon get the feel for the place. Read posts and learn who the "players" are, start commenting on other people's blog posts. Subscribe to a few bloggers and get to know them as people. In the beginning it may be daunting, but if you hang in there and start communicating back and forth, you'll soon become "one of the gang."

3. TRUE FRIENDSHIP. Building on 2, friendship comes naturally. I have made some truly great friends on this site... and it's not just online! When you do pick up the phone to call another Rainer, you have an instant rapport with them. When you meet in person, it's even better! I swear I know a few people on here better than my own neighbors. Anyone else feel that way? Write some posts here, and don't be surprised if someone reaches out to you someday and picks up the phone to ask for your advice, or just to chat. We help each other here, and are there for each other in good times and bad. I've had Rainers call me with tears of frustration, or anger .... and good calls to celebrate a victory. A BIG THANKS to many of the Rainers I consider true friends: Loreena, Fran, Jennifer, Wendy, and so many more.

4. A SYMPATHETIC EAR. When you are having a bad day, or need to vent ... it's okay to vent here (just please make your post MEMBERS ONLY--we don't need members of the public reading our dirty laundry). Is your husband tired of hearing your complaints about that co-broke agent or your broker? Best friend unsympathetic because she doesn't understand our business? Post it here. Rant and rave to us, and then sit back and read the replies. Maybe we'll have you laughing at the situation in the end.

5. FUN! What would a place to hang out be without FUN? We have C Tann to thank for that, and her Club Chaos. If you are really new and have never been rainjacked, watch out. Between C Tann and TLW, you're toast. And you'll be ROTFL pretty quickly. Or TLW will pull out her shotgun and make you laugh. TLW even has her own CHANNEL for god's sake. That's big time here on AR.

If you're new here, welcome to ActiveRain. Hang out here and hang on tight! You might learn something, make some friends, and have fun in the process.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

10 Commandments Home Buyers Must Follow

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 18:13:31 -0500

This list is great! Follow Chantal's 10 commandments and you won't screw up your home purchase.

Via Dr. Chantal Saucier (Keller Williams Realty Acadiana):

These 10 Commandments home buyers must follow may seem like common sense to many. Buyers, however, can sometimes forget with all the excitement surrounding the buying of their new home. In the past couple of weeks, I have heard of two separate buyers who saw their home loan turned down, and their dream shattered, a few days before closing because they had bought furniture for their new home before it actually became their home. Both of them now have beautiful furniture with no home to put them in.

These two buyers were not my clients but it always hurts when I hear of transactions falling apart for reasons that could have been avoided. These 10 commandments are part of the buyer packet I give all my clients when we first meet and I always stress that once they get pre-approved and the process is started, they can't do anything that might affect their credit.

1. Thou shalt not change jobs, become self-employed or quit your job.

2. Thou shalt not buy a car, truck or van (or you may be living in it)!

3. Thou shalt not use credit cards excessively or let your accounts fall behind.

4. Thou shalt not spend money you have set aside for closing.

5. Thou shalt not omit debts or liabilities from your loan application.

6. Thou shalt not buy furniture.

7. Thou shalt not originate any inquiries into your credit.

8. Thou shalt not make large deposits without first checking with your loan officer.

9. Thou shalt not change bank accounts.

10. Thou shalt not co-sign a loan for anyone.

If you are in the process of buying a home, remember that your credit must not change or be affected in any way until you actually sign the paperwork and get possession of your new home. Lenders will not only look into your credit when you first get pre-approved, they will check it again (and sometimes again and again) before they let you sign the mortgage. If you want to buy new furniture for your home or change jobs, just be patient. There will always be time to do it after the closing.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Shhh ... Don't Tell My Competitors ... How to Have a GREAT January! PART 2

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 07:44:50 -0500

If you missed Week 1, click here

Week 2: Gather/Analyze 2009 Data

Numbers geeks, you're going to love this week's task.

Pull out your goals sheet from 2008 (I hope you set goals!). What were you planning on doing in 2009? How did you do?

Write down each closing you had on a yellow pad or a notebook:

Address, Sale Price, Your Commission, Buyer/Seller names and -- most importantly --where did they come from? Last column is critical.

Identify: sign calls, newspaper ads, farming, internet lead, SOI or referral, repeat client

Where is your business coming from?Hopefully it's SOI, referral & repeat clients

Now break down your SOI into deeper categories: friends, neighborhood, church, Rotary Club, lenders, etc. Who is helping you by sending you referrals?

Where are you "wasting" money on your marketing?

Where should you INCREASE money spent? Hint--if you are getting good business from one channel, such as your website/internet leads, try putting more money into it and less into some other medium.

Did you hit your goals for 2009 (you know what closings should happen in Oct/Nov by now, so you can estimate this)? If not, why not? Where did you fall short?

On your yellow pad start a fresh page and pull out your 2009 date planner/appointment calendar.

For each month, add up:

- number of listing appointments you went on

- number of listings you TOOK

- number of buyer appointments you went on

- number of offers you wrote for your buyers

- number of these buyer offers accepted

- number of your listings that went pending

- number of your listings that closed (plus the dollar volume you closed, commission income, and how much you TOOK HOME)

HINT! If you do this every month as the year goes on, or every week, this task is easier. Start doing it this year.

Next Week: Using 2009 data to set 2010 goals.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Shhh ... Don't Tell My Competitors ... How to Have a GREAT January!

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 12:40:32 -0500

I am torn -- to write this post or NOT write this post.

I want to write it to help other Rainers.

I am scared to death my competitors will read it.

But I'm posting it anyway ... besides, unless your name is Jonathan, if you're one of the 300+ agents in "my turf", you're not reading this post because you are NOT on Active Rain. Your loss. Jonathan and I are doing just fine here in the Rain, right Coles?

When I first started in real estate, in 2000, I started my career in January 2000. I started off with a BANG. I was new, fresh, and didn't know I was supposed to slack in January. I kicked butt.

My next year, I noticed agents around me slowing down in October, preparing for the big HOLIDAY freeze. All around me they whined and moaned how nobody buys houses in November. They took time off in November, and most barely worked in December. Nobody buys houses around Christmas, right?

Instead for working LESS hours, I worked more. Agents blew off floor time, and I stayed put at my desk. I got the calls they SHOULD have had. I worked Christmas eve showing houses, Christmas week, and yes throughout January. Year 1 in real estate, I sold over 1 million (in a county where average sale was -- back then -- about $60,000). Not bad.

My boss then commented that I was one of the only agents closing in January, and what a great KICK that was! To start the new year with CLOSINGS! Woo-hoo.

I developed a yearly routine, that I have done every year in October-November, and every January I have had closings. Instead of slowing down, then complaining the pipeline is EMPTY in 2010, speed up! Spend the next 4-8 weeks getting ready to TAKE OFF in 2010, and you'll be ready to kick butt too.

So here is part 1 of my October routine. I will post this series weekly, through November. I will post every Sunday from now till November 30, to tell you my secrets. Just don't tell anyone else.

WEEK 1 -- CLEAN HOUSE

Not my own house (although it really needs it). I clean up my database. I make sure I add anyone who should be in there (all my contacts, new and past clients, anyone at all who I met at a mixer or business function...). I clean up the emails, the addresses, add any info I have gathered since last clean up.

I go through my day planner and make sure everyone I have "touched" is now in this database.

Your database is worth GOLD. Add to it every week if you can. It'll make the annual cleanup so much easier!

If you don't have a good system, now is the time to CHANGE or FIND ONE. This year I have agonized over which one to use. I have tried trials and not found anything that is 100% perfect for me. But I must get off the fence now. I need something and I need to do it now. SO I'm jumping on board Top Producer. I tried it once and didn't like it. But the alternative is not cutting it right now. I am not pleased with outlook's limitations. So I'm trying TP again, and this time determined to learn it well.

This should take me all week to complete. It's crucial to the success of the rest of my program, to have the database up and running by the end of this week.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Skype Users? Watch Out! I've been HIJACKED

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 18:43:09 -0500

Well not me, but my husband. We both use SKYPE and have personal accounts on our computers, and I have a SKYPE phone at the house.

We have many international friends / ex-exchange students who have lived with us who keep in contact with us. If you don't know about SKYPE it's great! We call a student who used to live with us, and we call her 2x a month at least. Skype allows us to talk for PENNIES. And if you are talking computer-to-computer, it is FREE. So if we call her cell phone, we can talk for cheap, and if she's on a computer, it's FREE.

It was great--until this morning. My husband went downstairs in the morning to find his laptop ON and SKYPE open. It was not on last night.

He logged onto skype and was hit with INCORRECT PASSWORD over & over. He was locked out of his account, so he got annoyed and opened a new one.

Meanwhile, Bank of America sent me a Fraud Alert via email. They thought they detected fraudulent activity on his credit card and froze it. They were right. I don't know how they figured this out, but they cut off his card.

I went online and saw a $10 skype charge--accepted.

Then one for $25, and 5 more for $10---all declined. That must have triggered the alert.

Thank god for Bank of Am. They caught this.

If my husband had paid/linked to a debit card or used Paypal--it might NOT have been caught. And paypal would NOT have refunded it.

He's been hacked. I don't know how, but investigating online doing a google search, this happens a lot.

We will contact skype and try to figure out how to get his old ID back and running. But even if we do, I don't know how to stop this in the future.

If you have skype, make sure you're billing a credit card (not debit or PAYPAL please). And if you get a message that your password has been changed and you didn't change it -- you have been hacked!

I love skype and will still use it. But be careful.

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

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.