Raleigh Cary's Blog

Balance in everything!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 21:49:54 -0500

Balance is so hard to keep isn't it. Here for the past few months, I just couldn't seem to balance everything no matter how hard I tried.

I truly believe too much of anything is a bad thing that one has to keep focused on spending time concentrating on all of the things that matter in life and that includes family, work, physical and mental well being in your life (spiritual side).

My family and real estate have definitely taken over my life the last few years and I knew in the long run they were all that mattered because I had to be successful in real estate to take care of my family and there is nothing I enjoy more than spending time with them. However, I have finally taken the time to work on my physical health which has been so neglected for the past few years.

I would love to blame my family and real estate but truth is I just enjoy those a lot more and they were easier, especially when you are out of shape like I have been. I will not even get into all of that junk food people were forcing me to eat:)

I kept reading about all my friend on Face Book who were actually doing physical activities and had kids and demanding jobs so what was my excuse? It just kept getting me down until I finally decided to do something about it.

A friend suggested joining Team in Training to raise money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. I thought they were crazy to suggest a marathon but the idea started to grow on me. It would not be just for me and it would motivate me at the same time. The City of Oaks Marathon here in Raleigh, NC is coming up this November 1st and I found that drive that I have needed and have been training for the past 4 weeks. I had to make it bigger than me, a job for a good cause, that I would announce to the world (Mainly so I couldn't get out of it)!

Here is the thing!

So far this has been the best thing for my family and real estate because not only am I getting in shape I am feeling good about myself again and the walks and jogs have been so good for my mental well being that things just aren't bothering me the same. I am pretty laid back anyway but this is awesome!

I am doing good for me and it is good for my family and work. How cool is that! I also am actually watching what I eat because it is very important if I am going to move my body 26.2 miles and the good thing is I want to do it. I am not use to actually being motivated to watch what I eat, it use to not matter and then it didn't matter. Times have changed though I have to change my lifestyle now because it wont get easier as I turn 40 here soon.

Some times we have to take time for ourselves if we want to be the best for other things!

Whatever is missing in your life to create balance work on it! I promise you, not only will you be thankful but those around you will too!

Click the box below if you wish to donate to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society!

George Wilson

The City of Oaks Marathon in Raleigh, NC is November 1st beginning at 7:00AM.

Event Info:

http://www.cityofoaksmarathon.com/

Parking Info:

http://www.cityofoaksmarathon.com/race_info/parking.html

To the Women in my Life!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Sat, 09 May 2009 10:23:40 -0500

Mothers Day is coming up and I am sitting here looking at my beautiful wife Amy asleep on the couch. I think she is snoring Hi to everyone! :)

Poor thing is working her tail off lately and somehow she feels guilty doing it. She doesn't want to work this much but feels guilty doing it? Amy gives everything of herself to whatever she is doing and that includes her family and she feels guilty because there is never enough time for her to take care of everything. Somehow, the majority of you women are just wired that way:)

Anyway, I just look at her and think of our life full of sharing with each other and how she puts up with this family of boys (yes that includes me) and realize what a lucky man I am. There is no other person I could have this life with and I am so thankful for her.

(Amy and son Austin)

Now, if most men were working as much as Amy and did not want to... they would just be mad at the world because they had to work so much. It is a good thing men do not think on so many levels, most of us men just couldn't live with ourselves if we blamed ourselves for everything we did wrong let alone added stuff it to it. We have a short memory thank goodness. Look at our history:)

Then there is my mom. She cannot help but look at me and blame herself. Poor thing.

That is supposed to be a joke just in case you do not know that so insert laugh here:

I digress again; I am Definitely Thankful for her! Mom gives everything she has and that is why she does not have much when it comes to material things but has a life full of friends and family. Somehow she never runs out of opinions though, another attempt at humor if you see this mom.

I just wanted to write this to say I love both my wife and mom and I am truly thankful for them!

I also want to thank so many women who have helped shape my life and been there when I needed them from teachers, family and friends!!

A true Happy Mother's Day wish to all of you!!

Note: I wrote this note last night in Facebook and just thought I would share it on Active Rain since I have not been on here sharing as much as I would like to lately!

The New Business Model in Real Estate - Good Bye Old Brokerages and Brokerage Models.

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 13:42:59 -0500

I could not have said it better myself!! We hire agents who know what they are doing and give them the tools and ability to get the job done and do what is best for their clients!

Via Utah Dave and Utah Homes for Sale (Robison & Company Real Estate):

A Look at History

Years ago the Red Shirt Warriors of the Lakota Indian Tribe were highly respected. They were fierce, they were elite, they were the best of the best. There are stories about how the Red Shirt Warriors were fearless and could do anything. The Lakota tribe didn't give a bow and arrow to every member of their tribe and call them a Red Shirt Warrior. There were only 2 invitations extended every 4 years for new members. Yes the members of the tribe were hand picked and invited to become members. To be picked you had to be elite and have the skills and heart required to be part of the group.

The Red Shirt Warriors had guidelines and requirements in order to be part of them. What if the Red Shirt Warriors let anyone who wanted to join their group? People wouldn't strive to be their best to get into the group. They would have become a mediocre group. But because only the best were in the group, other people strived to become their best so that they could one day be a Red Shirt Warrior.

Today's business model is full of mediocrity. You can tell mediocrity is rampant when the market becomes saturated and consumers base their choices on price alone. Is the market saturated? There were over 9000 agents in my area last December trying to snag 430 home sells in January. That is definitely saturated. What about price? Consumers in a saturated market assume that every person in it provides equivalent service. When all service providers as perceived as being equivalent, consumers make their decisions based on price alone. You see this equivalent service as real estate agents advertise "Full Service" at a discount so that you save. Consumers are confused by these messages. Agent X with Coldwell Banker or Prudential or RE/MAX has been an agent for 20 years and sells 50 homes a year. Agent X has refined negotiating skills and a brilliant marketing budget and plan. Agent Y with the same company is new to the business and has business cards hot off the press, but no marketing plan or negotiating skills or experience. The brokerage mandates that they charge the exact same fee. What is wrong with Agent X and Agent Y charge the same fee? Two totally different agents with differing marketing skills, experience, etc. and they get the same reward for selling the home? (Okay, so their split is different but the consumer pays the same amount for either agent.)

Who is at fault?

If you have read Good to Great you might say the Leader is at fault. If you have read the Tipping Point or the E-myth, you might say that the system is broken. Well let's look at the industry and see what the focus is on. What do brokerages focus on to make money? They focus on recruiting. Its a numbers game right? 'The brokerage with the most agents wins.' The traditional brokerage models focus on recruiting as many people as they can into their brokerage. As they do this, they do not focus on the actual agent they are hiring. You may say that brokerage A does training and offers marketing to help agents, etc, etc. But when their primary focus is on recruiting more agents, their training becomes a lower priority. How do we know this is true? Subconsciously and consciously people know they don't have to work hard to be part of brokerage A. Every traditional brokerage in town allows any agent to hang their license with them if they have a pulse and a real estate license. You could say, every one gets a bow and arrow.

How is the industry going to change? Should we pass new laws?

No, there is not going to be a law passed that forces brokerages to employ better quality agents or salaried employees instead of independent agents. What is going to happen is economic pressure will purge the industry. During a commoditization of an industry someone is going to do something different and stand out and be the Starbucks or the Cirque de Soleil of the industry. Economic pressure is coming that will force brokerages to change or die. The Industry will change when someone does not hand out a bow and arrow to everyone. The industry will change because there is a team so elite and good that it hits other companies hard in their pockets.

What is the change going to be?

It will be exactly what the book Blue Ocean talks about. The change will be the opposite of what is happening in the industry. If every brokerage is focusing on recruiting agents, the new brokerage will focus on quality of agents. The new brokerage will be as the Red Shirt Warriors. Elite agents will be chosen to be part of the brokerage because of their abilities. Not simply because they have a pulse. There will be a subconscious pressure for people to perform the best they can in order to be a part of the elite group. The change will be 3 fold. 1rst: the brokerage will only focus on quality of agents. 2nd: the structure of how an agent works will change. 3rd: the service given to the consumer will be instant results, knowledge, and services. The consumer will also see the value of this New Brokerage because there won't be inexperienced agents charging the same commission as the experienced agents. Regarding the change in structure, I'm talking about how agents' work will change. If you read the E-myth you will read why businesses fail. The New Brokerage which focused on quality agents will have a new structure. Today's model of an agent's business fails 90% of the time. The structure will meet the other 10%. What about the service given to clients? 80% of clients browse the internet to look for a home. 70% of those, don't call their brother or cousin to go look, they drive by the house on their own. The new brokerage model will give these people what they want. The new business model will get these people in the homes that instant, when they want to see it. How do I know? Because I know why people are calling me to help them buy a home instead of calling their brother. I know why other real estate agents are calling me to sell their own homes or to help their clients. I am seeing the change firsthand. People want a higher level of service.

Why are other brokerages forced to change?

Well lets look at some statistics. There is an office across the street from me that had over 40 agents. In December those 40 agents sold 16 homes. That is an average of 1/3 of a home sale per person. In the same month I sold 15 homes myself with 7 agents helping me. We averaged almost 2 sales per person. Our average was 5-6x better than the brokerage across the street. These numbers came from when our market hit bottom. When the market picks up the statistics will start to grow exponentially better than the traditional brokerage across the street. As this grows, people will take notice. (They already are.) I didn't have to advertise to recruit and one of the best agents in town just joined my team. Agents want to be part of the New Brokerage model because it means more success. The other brokerages won't be able to keep the quality agents. Their overhead will be too high and they won't be able to compete. They will be forced to change.

What should I do?

If you want to be successful, you will have to start doing the opposite of what everyone else is doing. You already know what everyone else is doing, the question is do you have the courage to do the opposite?

Survey Says...Realtors Suck

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 08:06:01 -0500

A great blog by Jeff Corbet that just shows how many people feel about real estate agents. Many just see them as a necessary evil who really only care about themselves.

I know there are some great real estate agents out there who really care about their cients. Unfortuntately not enough!

I also know that the reality is that if agents are not willing to adapt they will soon fade away!

Via Jeff Corbett (ActiveRain):

The following post is simply one non-conformists opinion, albeit a relatively educated one...Its my hope that my words, cutting as they may come across, cause an epiphany for more than a few...

This entire post is based on The California Association of Realtors 2008 Home Seller Survey (released in July 2008, I just happened upon the PowerPoint presentation a few days ago) but the statistics are just as relevant today, if not more so...Granted this survey is but a snapshot of an industry, yet pictures are worth thousands of words...You can read the entire survey here. (All statistical references in this post are derived from the aforementioned survey).

Public perception of the real estate professional and the greater industry is amongst the lowest of any on record. Consumers are looking for an alternative to the 'traditional' Agent and they're defining what this alternative is, yet relatively very few professional are heeding this demand and actually providing a tangible solution. This Survey demonstrates to me that 90% of Agents are not providing what the consumer wants...and it is ALL ABOUT THE CONSUMER.

Personally I know alot of fantastic real estate professionals. Genuinely great people, passionate, always striving to better themselves, their clients, the industry they serve and represent...they're worth every penny they command...they dont suck...I'm just a sucker for a good title (no pun intended). I could fill this page dropping names like Jay Thompson, Kris Berg, Missy Caulk, Bill Gasset and 30 others nobody has heard of as examples of who I consider to be the vanguard of where this industry should look to as ministers of positive change. Unfortunately, they're in the minority and a few good apples don't ripen the bunch.

Agent Perception: I can Has Consumer!

Talk to most any real estate professional and they will tout their expertise, knowledge and marketing prowess as the main reason you should retain their services. Most will maintain that commission rates (should) mean very little to the consumer and they're worth every penny.

Consumer Reality: You Suck!

According to the respondents:

Number One factor considered when choosing an Agent? Lowest Commission.

Last reason? Most knowledgeable. <-- If this doesn't snap you into reality, nothing will.

You'd best start putting your knowledge out there if you hope to attract a client...get a blogsite that rocks, start dropping neighborhood knowledge, get a killer IDX solution...substantiate your value!! The days of being a prude with your listings and expertise until you had an executed contract are over.

I can find out more than you know.

~70% of respondents polled on 'Information from The Internet vs Information from Agent' indicated that the Net provided information that was as useful, 'different' or more useful than an Agent. I can only surmise that 'different' means information an agent couldn't or simply didn't provide. In the Age of Information, lack thereof is akin to being useless.

The ~31% that said The Net provided less useful information than an Agent are part of a 50% declining trend over the past 5 years.

You're still (a) very necessary (evil?).

~95% of respondent sellers still used an agent, which makes perfect sense. I often state that: While technology won't replace a good real estate Agent, the Agent that properly utilizes technology will replace Agent that doesn't.

Consider- 74% of 1st time respondent sellers considered not using an Agent, up 46% from 2007.

You can't market your way out of a brown paper bag.

Of the reasons given for using an Agent only 7% said it was for 'Better Marketing Exposure'. Ummm, isn't this what an Agent's core value proposition is supposed to be, to market property? Consumers clearly do not believe Agents can effectively market their property...yet online and offline marketing is the 1st and 3rd highest reason for choosing an Agent. This is a huge disconnect and opportunity at the same time.

84% of respondent sellers are searching online and 96% Agents polled use print advertising. Helllllooo!?! Can you say poor ROI, waste of money? Newspapers and other print media are going out of business because less and less people read them. Advertising in these dinosaurs is of almost no value going forward.

Only 57% of agents use multiple photos or a virtual tour as part of an online home listing. This just blows my mind. I'd guess that 50% of the 57% that actually use multiple photos look (kinda) like these:

Proper Feng Shui can do wonders for a small space.

Extra long chain for convenient access to light.

Sweet shower curtain stays with home!

Thanks to MLS Trash Can for the pictures. Descriptions by me.

Seriously, an agent who can't manage to market a property with quality photographs should have their license suspended on principle alone.

You're being perpetually judged.

97% of respondents interviewed 3 or more Agents. 50% interviewed 6 or more Agents. Consumers are getting more and more finicky about who they hire. Agents better step up how they present themselves. Better have an impressive resume and a killer suit = a slick engaging blogsite & robust IDX solution.

Here's a scary thought (depending on who you are):

Consumers are lurking on your blog, stalking your FaceBook page, following your Twitter stream, viewing your Flickr account, reading your answers on Trulia, Zillow & ActiveRain, evaluating your IDX, the quality of your multi-media marketing, processing how you engage comment threads and otherwise perpetually judging you under the cloak of anonymity.

How are you representing yourself in public and when you don't think anyone is looking?

The silver lining in this post could be that 'The Bar' is so low in a consumers eyes, those Agents willing to set aside their perceptions and confront reality are in a great position to capture some huge marketshare. Take this information and use it to your advantage rather than deny its validity.

Many Agents are out there cleaning up despite this 'depressing' market...Find them, reach out to them, study their successes...I find the most successful people in life are more than willing to share their successes and help others get there too. Reciprocity is still live and well...

To hear more, check out this interview with Tim Harris…

Great home & location in Cary!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 14:45:50 -0500

George Wilson Team | Raleigh Cary Realty | 919-772-5614

109 Halpen Drive, Cary, NC

Gorgeous Home with Great Neighborhood, Schools & Landscaped Yard!

4BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $320,000

Year Built	1993
Sq Footage	2,412
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	13,068 sqft
HOA/Maint	$28 per month

DESCRIPTION

Beautiful Home in desired Preston Subd w/Great Schools! 2 story Living Room! Hardwood floor throughout 1st flr w/9ft smooth ceilings w/Crown Molding! Great Floorplan w/large rooms w/lots of natural light! Many extras like recessed & under counter lighting, tile backsplash in kitchen, custom island & drapery! Master Bath w/WIC & Sep shower & Whirlpool Tub! Wonderful Landscaping!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Tile floor	Family room	Living room
Breakfast nook	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Attic
Washer	Dryer	Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Beautiful Home & Landscaped Flat Yard!

Snuggled in Subdivision right off Davis & High House!

Great Schools! Custom Painted Walls & Drapery!

Hardwoods throughout 1st Floor!

Many Custom Upgrades! Must See!

MLS #1655916

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Wonderful Home!	Living Room
Family Room	Kitchen
Master Bedroom	Master Bath

Contact info:

George Wilson Team

Raleigh Cary Realty

919-772-5614

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 29, 2009, 6:53pm PDT

Picture Tag MeMe & I am it!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 22:30:22 -0500

I have been tagged (thanks Linda!) to do a picture MeMe and although I have been bad doing many of the others I have gotten lately I thought it might be different. I was curious if I could find pictures that would work for me as well.

Thank goodness it is only 10!

1. Age my next Bday?

Yes it really is 39 and it will only be for a year!

2. Favorite Movie or TV Character?

The Office & Dwight Schrute is awesome baby!!

3. Place I want to Travel?

Venice & Rome, Italy

4. Favorite Food?

I love everything from steak to italian but pizza came to mind first and there is nothing I love more than some quality pizza from some of the best pizzerias!

5. Favorite Place?

Being with my family!

6. Nickname?

I have had a few. Some of them good. Smiley or something along there has been more prevalent.

7. Favorite Color? & 8. Favorite Team?

UK Blue!

9. Favorite Hobby?

Seeing the world!

10. Bad Habit?

Can you see the resemblance? I couldn't find a fat guy eating on a couch late at night!!

Now I will go be be productive!! But I know some people who need a time out so I tag anyone who wants to take the time to think about who they are!

What Value?

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 15:53:40 -0500

If you are a really great agent your client had the smoothest closing ever and never had to think much about the whole process of buying or selling their home (I better preface that by saying in a typical closing, and unfortunately these days not many are). They also have no idea of all of the things you did behind the scene to make sure it happened that way.

In fact, they do not even know what you did to earn the money you made.

I use to set up a web page for my clients that kept track of everything I did to get them to a closing but call attorney, perform a CMA, and make inspection appointments really does not seem like that big of a deal in black and white even if it is a really long list. There are a lot more things involved than that of course so many intangible things that do not really work well written down on a list.

This morning I was sent a closing statement for a buyer I represented in a short sale and it had obvious seller's cost on the buyer's side (including a judgment) to get to the selling bank's approved amount.

I could not believe that it was just sent to me by the attorney saying I hope this works for the buyer that is the only way we can get it approved. I was suppose to tell my buyer who was driving down from New Jersey you should not have to do this but if you really want the home today we may have to. The buyer's have been the greatest to work with and very pleasant but if someone told me that I was paying $1,500 more at 8AM in the middle of a long drive Jeckel may have appeared as well.

My buyer's agent and I decided to call the attorney and listing agent to get to the bottom of this new arrangement and found the right solution but it was down to the wire before closing.

It looked liked we found the solution so do we call them an hour and a half before closing time for them to stress out the last bit of their driving? They were coming anyway after all. We elected to get to the office before them and wait to explain what they needed to know.

It all worked out just in enough time as they usually do some how and it was a happy closing. We did tell them after the fact and they were very glad we just took care of it and left them out.

Tough decisions do not always work out and boy were we stressed for our clients but ultimately they were the happiest with our decision.

It is just one example of the many things real estate agents do that is not on a list but it always leaves me wondering how much does the buyer and seller know a good agent really does? What value do they think we add.? They did realize I was important enough to have me represent them in one of their biggest purchases ever but what should they really know about all of the details in a real estate transactions.

My value to a first time home buyer is definitely more than to a seasoned veteran. Heck agents who know everything involved cannot agree on the value of a great agent how in the world is a client suppose to know?

And I am not even going to get into what an agent should charge? I guess that is up to that agent and their clients.

Obama Plan ............... New Loan Modification Program

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 21:56:05 -0500

Here is some great information from a fellow George on the loan modification program. As you can tell he is being very adamant that he is not endorsing it.

I think it is a good start but apparently it is not a whole lot different from some previous attempts.

Via George Souto (McCue Mortgage Co.) FHA, CHFA, VA Mortgages:

The Homeowner Affordability & Stability plan was released by the Obama administration on Wed March 4th. There were two major parts of this plan that affect the Mortgage Industry. The first part of the plan is a modification program that Servicers will offer to borrowers with high debt-to-income ratios or who are at risk of foreclosure. The second part of the plan is a refinance program for existing Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loans.

While our Executive Vice President at McCue Mortgage, Kim Neilson and others are still assessing the details of the Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac plan to determine our next steps, they have summarized it to a point that would make it more understandable to rest of us, and I will sharing this in two blogs.

The first part of the plan that as I stated above is the modification program that Servicers will offer to borrowers with high debt-to-income ratios or who are at risk of foreclosure, which states that:

Existing mortgage must currently be a Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loan.

The mortgage loan is delinquent, or is expected to go into default soon.

Borrowers must occupy property as primary residence

Borrowers must provide hardship documentation.

Borrowers must provide income documentation and evidence the monthly mortgage payment (housing ratio) is greater than 31%

If the housing ratio is more than 31%, the Servicer will modify the terms of the loan, to reduce the housing ratio to 31% by:

Lowering the interest rate, but the minimum rate (floor) is 2%. The adjusted rate will be in effect for the first 5 years following modification, and then will increase by a 1% annually until it reaches the original rate.

Extending the term up to 40 years.

Provide principal forbearance which will later be paid back in the form of a balloon payment that will be due upon the earliest of the following:

Sale of property

Payoff of the loan

Maturity of the loan.

Servicers will receive compensation of $1000 or $500 for each completed modification.

A borrower whose monthly payment is reduced by six percent or more and make on time payments will receive $1000 principal reduction for up to five years.

I will end this post by stating that while I am sharing this information about the provisions that are contained in the Homeowner Affordability & Stability plan that became effective March 4th., that it does not mean that I am in favor of this, or believe that it will help us get out of this mess that we are in, because I don't believe that. I think that this plan just like all the others before it will help very few if any, and is more smoke and mirrors then anything else. But I have provided this information so that those of you reading this can have a better understanding of it, and help you come to your own conclusion.

I will cover the second part of the plan that I stated above "refinance program for existing Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loans" in my next post.

******************************************************************************************************

Info about the author:

George Souto is a Loan Officer who can assist you with all your FHA, CHFA, and Conventional mortgage needs in Connecticut. George resides in Middlesex County which includes Middletown, Middlefield, Durham, Cromwell, Portland, Higganum, Haddam, East Haddam, Chester, Deep River, and Essex. George can be contacted at (860) 573-1308 or gsouto@mccuemortgage.com

Commercial Break - If you have not owned a home in 3 years buy a Raleigh home now!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 21:04:30 -0600

I know this is definitely a self promoting blog post but I have to say that if you live in the Raleigh area (depends on where you live of course), you should buy a home over renting this year.

With an $8,000 tax credit (all of it back in taxes not off of taxable income), great rates, and it being a buyer's market you should definitely consider it if you are paying the average rent in this area.

In case you did not know all of the reasons to buy in the Triangle NC area check out our rankings in 2008:

2008 Rankings

Named Best Large City for Business (Raleigh-Cary)
NewGeography.com, December 2008

Named #2 Metro Entering Slow Period With Most Positive Momentum (Raleigh, NC)
Bizjournals, November 2008

Named #1 Most Political City (Raleigh, NC)
Men's Health, October 2008

Named #2 Best City to Live, Work and Play (Raleigh, NC)
Kiplinger's, July 2008

Named #2 State with the Best Business Climate (North Carolina)
Development Counsellors International, July 2008

Named #4 Best State for Business (North Carolina)
Forbes.com, July 2008

Named #10 U.S. City with the Largest Numerical Increase (Raleigh, NC)
U.S. Census Bureau, July 2008

Named #1 Best Place to Live in the U.S. (Raleigh, NC)
msnbc.com, June 2008

Named #8 Best City for Recent College Grads (Raleigh-Durham, NC)
Forbes.com, June 2008

Named #1 Best Place for Young Adults (Raleigh, NC)
Bizjournals, May 2008

Named Top 15 Place for Cultured Retirement (Raleigh, NC)
Smithsonian.com, April 2008

Named #5 Recession-Proof City (Raleigh, NC)
Forbes.com, April 2008

Named #1 Best Place for Business and Careers (Raleigh, NC)
Forbes.com, March 2008

Named #3 Most Romantic City for Baby Boomers (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill, NC)
Sperling's BestPlaces, March 2008

Named #2 Best City for Bargain House-Hunters (Raleigh, NC)
Forbes.com, February 2008

Named The Best American City for Singles (Raleigh, NC)
Every Day with Rachael Ray, January 2008

Named #9 Best City for Jobs (Raleigh, NC)
Forbes.com, January 2008

Named Top Five Strongest Real Estate Market (Raleigh-Cary, NC)
Veros.com, January 2008

Named #1 Healthiest City for Men (Raleigh, NC)
Men's Health, January 2008

I am happy to help if you have any questions! If you do not live in the area I can still help!

Just another public announcement, happy to serve! :)

George

But you got to have a place to live!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 10:35:46 -0600

I am sounding like a broken record, but that is what I keep telling myself and anybody who will pay attention as I keep listening to all of the bad news after bad news.

I want to be responsible and know what is going on in the world but I really would be better off just burying my head in the sand sometimes.

I am just going to know my area and help people who have to have a place to live make the best decision. From buying, selling, to renting homes I got it covered. I would say where you are going to live is one of the most important decision these days even more than usual. I keep helping people make the right home decisions and that is all I can do no matter what I read and hear. I will keep doing just that.

My team has helped six buyers and sellers find homes through March of this year and we are still actively showing and selling homes but you would never know it if I only listened to the news. Sometimes I think they just want everyone to give up.

Like I keep saying just do the best you can in life and the rest will come! That is all you and your family can ask for!

Crazy Times! - A little rant

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 23:34:14 -0600

It has been a long time since writing in Active Rain. It is good to get on here sometimes and just write down your thoughts even if you do not post what you write.

I have been very busy lately between putting a few homes under contract (woo hoo), running a brokerage and making an effort to be with my kids a lot more (that is also a better way of saying it saves me a little money too;) Wow! That is all I have to say, but I am loving it.

I have a great team and the agents at the office know what they are doing so I am able to spend my time doing the right things. The team and the firm have put ourselves in a position that is flexible and can work with the market.

Hopefully an economic shift is around the corner but at this point we cannot count on anything. For all we know it may have just turned? We probably will not know until we have consistent economic progress. But then again, it could be a few years away. Who knows?

I quit worrying about it and have decided to concentrate on working hard to help people and more people and most importantly my family. Nothing else matters really.

When it comes to work our customers come first and the rest will follow.

Otherwise just do what it takes to put your family in the best position and enjoy your time with them.

When asked is a good time to sell? I always tell everyone that people have to have a place to live and in the Triangle market, people are still buying compared to renting. People may decide to sell their house for less profit (if any at all) than previous years but they are also able to buy a nicer home for less as well. Great values and rates do not hurt either. There are always those moving in and out of the area (although not quite as many lately) and then there are those with lifestyle changes (and that can be anything from marriage, divorce, babies, layoffs to new jobs) and those people have to live somewhere. Sellers just need to have their house ready to move in and priced right. Pretty simple if they sign with the right agent.

That would officially be my going off on a tangent moment.

Anyway, that is how we are doing and where my attitude is at. I hope everyone is thriving, doing well, or doing their best to survive.

Enjoy Everyday!

George

Raleigh Cary Realty

(919)772-5614

Homes@GeorgeWilson.com

Wonderful home & neighborhood in Fuquay Varina for $180,000

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 20:28:59 -0600

George Wilson Team | Raleigh Cary Realty | homes@georgewilson.com | 919-772-5614

4913 Allanbrooke Ln, Raleigh, NC

Huge Sunroom & Deck! New Wood Floors, S/S Appliances & Carpet! Huge Fenced Backyard!

3BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $180,000

Year Built	1993
Sq Footage	1,487
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	.74 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Wonderful home & neighborhood! Huge new deck & sunroom to enjoy coffee & your very large fenced in back yard. New hardwood floor in living room & carpet upstairs. New stainless appliances. Many rooms just painted beautiful neutral colors. Great front porch to enjoy the quiet neighborhood! Great location near 2 golf courses. Hardwood flooring in foyer & dining rm. No city taxes!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor	Living room
Dining room	Dishwasher	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Stainless steel appliances	Balcony, Deck, or Patio
Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Many Updated Features like Stainless Steel Appliances, Wood Floors & More!

Just Painted in Beautiful Neutral Colors!

Huge New Deck in Fenced Backyard!

Sunroom with Wood Floor! New Carpet Upstairs!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

George Wilson Team

Raleigh Cary Realty

homes@georgewilson.com

919-772-5614

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jan 24, 2009, 9:28am PST

37 Acre horse farm & beautiful home for $300,000!!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Sat, 24 Jan 2009 20:25:25 -0600

George Wilson Team | Raleigh Cary Realty | homes@georgewilson.com | 919-772-5614

3074 Contentnea Road, Wilson, NC

Over 37 Acres with Horse Barn!!! Unfinished 2nd floor! Pond View!
Great Price!!!

3BR/2BA Manufactured

offered at $300,000

Year Built	2002
Sq Footage	2,128
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	1,624,788 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

37 Acre Horse Farm for $300,000! Over 20 acres cleared for horses with 4 stall horse barn and fenced. Bright & open floor plan looking over pond. Huge master bedroom with over 1000 SF upstairs ready to be finished. Detached 2 car garage with office space & bathroom. Home has new HVAC and appliances installed in 2007.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Walk-in closet
Living room	Dishwasher	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

37 ACRES OF LAND!!! BRING YOUR HORSES!!!

Horse Barn with 6 Stalls!!!

Unfinished 2nd Floor plumbed for Bathroom!!!

Detached Garage & Workshop with Bathroom!!!

MLS #1643007

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

George Wilson Team

Raleigh Cary Realty

homes@georgewilson.com

919-772-5614

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jan 19, 2009, 6:17pm PST

Rates are low & so are home sales!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 21:44:25 -0600

If you are thinking about buying a home then depending on where you live you may want to start keeping a look out for the right home!

Home rates are crazy low right now. The mortgage brokers I usually work with are busy refinancing home owner's as I write this because rates are just that good.

Meanwhile, our local newspaper had an article today stating home sales are down 42% compared to November 07 for an eight year low in the Triangle! Why couldn't this have been in the paper two days ago when my listing client called to tell me her home has not sold quick enough so she wanted to withdraw it?;) Unfortunately many homeowners are not selling their homes quick enough between the economy and our seasonal lows but they will sell and the question is how serious is the seller? It will either take updates, money, or time, their choice no matter how many times they switch their real estate agent or try selling it on their own. The buyers know what they want and how much they can get for their money and we all know there is a lot more competition.

Look I am a realist we are averaging 8 months on the market but we are still selling homes and there are things you can do to your home to sell it quicker but they include either updating or price cutting or waiting for the right buyer to come along. People have to have a place to live, the question is how much do they want to pay for it and is yours the best value out there in their eyes or the right home for them?

So remember a buyer will come sooner or later if you are doing the right things and if you are buying this may be a good time to start the process. I should preface that by saying in the Triangle, NC market that is. I know there are some markets where people are not moving in the area and not many people can get out of their mortgages.

So make sure you do your home work or hire someone who will do it for you!

North Raleigh home on a pond for $220,000!!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 21:14:26 -0600

George Wilson Team | Raleigh Cary Realty | homes@georgewilson.com | 919-772-5614

2208 Dahlgreen Rd, Raleigh, NC

N. Raleigh Home with Beautiful Large Pond in back! Great Views from
Home & Porch!

3BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $220,000

Year Built	1996
Sq Footage	1,710
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	4+ Uncovered spaces
Lot Size	.23 acres
HOA/Maint	$4 per month

DESCRIPTION

Gorgeous yard & home backs up to beautiful pond! Relax on your large deck & screen porch as you enjoy the wonderful view. Very large master bedroom & bath with vaulted ceilings & great view of pond. Entire interior of home painted & ready to move in! Exterior just maintained with trim painted & deck refinished. Great location & desirable neighborhood in North Raleigh! Crown Molding & Hardwood floors as well! Wonderful white kitchen! Home has great floorplan with separate dining room! Feels like a vacation everyday with great views of beautiful pond in back. You must view this home!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Hardwood floor	Living room
Dining room	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Balcony, Deck, or Patio

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Great North Raleigh Location! Cul de Sac!

Stellar Views of Gorgeous Pond right off back yard! One of a kind!

Interior of Home just completely Painted!!!

Screened Porch and Large Deck with Pond View!!!

Great Floorplan! Living Room, Master Bedroom & More have Pond Views!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

George Wilson Team

Raleigh Cary Realty

homes@georgewilson.com

919-772-5614

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 13, 2008, 9:13am PST

Wonderful neighborhood & open home in Apex, NC!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 21:11:32 -0600

George Wilson Team | Raleigh Cary Realty | homes@georgewilson.com | 919-772-5614

128 Bally Shannon Way, Raleigh, NC

Great Neighborhood & Location! Walking Trail, Swimming Pool, Hardwoods, S/S Appliances & So Much More!

3BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $265,000

Year Built	2006
Sq Footage	2,310
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	3
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	.15 acres
HOA/Maint	$42 per month

DESCRIPTION

Great neighborhood in awesome location! Relax & enjoy time your friends & family in this wonderful & open home! Rich Hardwoods flow throughout downstairs, crown molding and 9Ft ceilings! Huge Bonus Room on 3rd floor. Beautiful community pool & walking trail right off of subdivision. Owner has put up fence & blinds throughout plus this lovely modern home includes stainless steel fridge & appliances! Low maintenance and impressive brick front & vinyl siding! 2 Car Garage, Walk-in Closet, Corian Countertops, 42 inch Solid Wood Cabinets in Kitchen, Wainscoating in Dining Room and so many more modern features thoughout this great home. Be sure to view this lovely home with so much to offer!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Family room	Living room	Bonus/Rec room
Dining room	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Stainless steel appliances
Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Guest parking

Swimming pool(s)

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Great Location & Neighborhood w/Swimming Pool, Walking Trails & Low HOAs!

Hardwoods, Stainless Steel Appliances, 9 foot Ceilings & Corian Countertops!

Huge Bonus Room on Third Floor! Plus Patio w/Fenced Backyard!

Great Floorplan plus all the modern features you are looking for!

Must see to Appreciate!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

George Wilson Team

Raleigh Cary Realty

homes@georgewilson.com

919-772-5614

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Dec 13, 2008, 10:54am PST

Going to get cheesy

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 22:53:40 -0600

I just wanted to let all of you know that Active Rain & Facebook over the last few months has become like visiting a family that I can check up on enjoy time with.

I get to see what is going on through people's blogs, comments, and thoughts. Laugh, disagree with and grow fond of (most of you I promise ;). I have re-acquainted with old friends, made new friends and even made friends of people I knew but for some reason never really got to know.

It really gives people a chance to get to know someone without all of the social pretense (once again, most people;). In fact, when my wife and I first met she was ending a relationship and we really got to know the real person through emails as they ended it and that was over 10 years ago. Pretty crazy!

Now we have great social sites and media that allows you get to know people passively and keep up with them on your own time.

I really do love it! Not all technology is bad;)

George Mike Wilson

Just a 2 Minute Reminder of what Christmas is all About!!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 13:39:01 -0600

I admit that I lose sight of what Christmas is all about every year and it takes things like this to remind me of what this Holiday season really means.

This is a great video that I just had to pass on as it reminds all of us of the waste involved with Christmas.

So remember this when you are stressing out about finding the right gift for someone when spending time with your friends and family is what the Holidays are all about.

If you want to give something give it to those who are in real need and give time to those who your really love!

Comfort Zone - Times are forcing many of us out of it.

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 10:01:59 -0600

Right now many of us have had to get out of our comfort zone and do things we didn't have to before.

I am trying to call agents to join our firm and let them know we can save them a lot of money which is not something I ever wanted to do in the past. I pretty much avoid calling people and stick to email but that does not always work. After that, I call past, present and inactive clients and say hello to them and I have not forgotten my friends who I have no problem planting a seed in their ear that I am here and will be here if they know anyone who needs a good real estate agent.

In calling agents to join Raleigh Cary Realty, I am trying to convince them to get out of their comfort zone by showing them the numbers. Most of us hate change and resist it. Even if it is there in black and white we think of some excuse to hold on to our old ways.

I showed one agent that with the money they made last year in GCI (Gross Commission Income) they would have saved $15,000 by joining our company. They already said that all of their business was from them, they never go to the office and do not even use their office info in their branding but when it came to making the change they just could not do it. Ordering signs, business cards was just too much and too expensive. In other words they were comfortable where they were at even if it meant losing money. They did say they really like me and what my company offered but just not ready to make a change.

So my question to any of you, is what is it going to take this year to get us out of our comfort zone?

What are we going to do differently to get more business?

No matter what your profession, it is going to take working smarter or harder to maintain your standard of living. Some of us may have already been doing that but I must admit my business was coming a little too easy these last few years and I am learning to get out of my COMFORT ZONE!!

Walking the line - now & 2009!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 10:33:19 -0600

Yes there is still real estate business going on and yes this is the month many agents go on vacation anyway so I have to be the one who works it like there is no tomorrow. But... how much work is too much and how much of these slower times should I also use to enjoy my family & life.

That was a question on my mind as we took off for Orlando the week of Thanksgiving.

I could put in an extra 10 to 20 hours a week and may get another deal or I could use that time to realize why I work in the first place.

I have done the right things to weather through these trying times and I know I will never leave real estate but now the question is how much do I put into my work and how much time do I put in my family and still be fair to my business?

I am easily taking care of my clients and agents but what about those things I could be doing to get more business?

We will have to figure out what is appropriate for our business, location and family.

Now is the time to think about the new year and your business plan!!

Thanksgiving weekend in Orlando! These little guys are what is important to me!!

Raleigh Cary Realty is growing!!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 10:30:06 -0600

More and more agents are contacting Raleigh Cary Realty about what we have to offer and apparently we must have the right answers!

If you are looking to keep 90% or your commission and have very low monthly fees ($50) check us out if you are an agent in the Triangle area!!

Below are agents who have joined in the last two weeks who I would like to welcome!!

Tina Medlin

1-(919)-395-6073

www.tinamedlin.com

tmedlin@mindspring.com

Jeanne-Marie Wittig

1-(919)-810-4150

www.JeanneWittig.com

Homes@JeanneWittig.com

Paulina Bohorquez

1-(919)-255-8586

www.PaulinaRealEstateTeam.com

paulina@pretinc.com

Rama Polefka

1-(919)-924.4040

http://allcary.com/

Info@allcary.com

For more information on what we have to offer visit:

RaleighCaryRealty.com

Okay the election is over... Now what?

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 10:20:17 -0600

I have heard numerous people say it and have found myself saying it as well, "People are just waiting for the election to be over and then we can move on and things will turn around."

Okay, I am a little more hopeful but my phone has not started ringing yet:)

Here is hoping that we are ready to move on and gain more confidence in our economy!

People still have to buy and sell homes so what are you waiting on?

I really feel that here in the Triangle it is one of the best times to buy and look for a great value!

Feel free to call or email today!

Raleigh Cary Realty

George Wilson

919-772-5614

Homes@GeorgeWilson.com

GeorgeWilson.com

United We Stand! Making History!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 08:51:08 -0600

As a history major who graduated from the first public black college in the United States I have to say I am so proud of how much our country has grown in many ways! Is the country really ready to set aside differences of culture and race and unite for the good of all? I really hope and feel we have just witnessed a huge step in the healing process of the past.

After all, I got minority grant to go to a black public college because I was white that says something:)

One of these days we wont have to worry about quotas and everyone having a fair chance but no one ever said this world was perfect and no matter who you are today you should have hope that if you are willing to work hard and smart enough you can make it in the United States of America!!

We are still not perfect of course and there will always be people who do not like others who are different because of religion, race, sexual and political beliefs but hopefully we will learn to agree that is okay to be different. Lets just work together and make this a better WORLD!

Our country has a lot of work ahead and I hope we are all ready to put aside our differences and make the sacrifices to make our country better and a place we are once again proud to be a part of!

Great Raleigh Home! Short Sale!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 08:43:01 -0600

George Wilson Team | Raleigh Cary Realty | 919-772-5614

1504 Ricochet Drive, Raleigh, NC

Beautiful "Like New" Home with Cathedral Ceilings in ALL
Bedrooms!

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $125,000

Year Built	2007
Sq Footage	1,340
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	4
Lot Size	5,227 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Beautiful Clean 1 yr "Like-New" Ranch with Cathedral Ceilings in Big Living room & ALL 3 Bedrooms!!! Nice Eat-in Kitchen w/ Long Breakfast Bar, Pantry and Wooded View w/sliding door to back patio! Big Covered Front Porch w/Landscaped Yard! Huge Walk-in Closet & Master Bath in Master Bedroom! Master Bath has Garden Tub & Separate Shower w/Dual Vanity! Washer/Dryer incl! Huge Closets in 2nd/3rd Bedrooms! Lovely Layout with many extras like Plantation Blinds, Pull Down Attic, Black Appliances and much more! Call Today to See!!!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	High/Vaulted ceiling
Walk-in closet	Living room	Dining room
Dishwasher	Microwave	Attic
Washer	Dryer	Yard

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Cathedral Ceilings in ALL 3 Bedrooms!!!

Huge Closets in 2nd and 3rd Bedrooms!!!

Huge Walk-in Closet & Master Bath in Master Bedroom!!!

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

George Wilson Team

Raleigh Cary Realty

919-772-5614

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 30, 2008, 1:39pm PDT

Halloween is in the air: The news is trying to scare people in our market!!

Raleigh Cary Realty - George Wilson (Raleigh Cary Realty) — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 00:00:04 -0500

I watched the local ABC news channel tonight when they stated that statistics were out this week showing homes in the Triangle, NC area are depreciating slightly and there is an 11 month supply because of all of the competition.

Nothing more nothing less. Not where they got these numbers. Not how much they are depreciating. Not what price range. Not the time frame they were using. Type of home, new or resale? That was their story. Not even a clear definition of the Triangle because I guarantee there are some differences of opinon on that. Just your homes are losing value and sitting on the market for 11 months.

That certainly is not what I have read and knew to be the case just a few weeks ago. Where are they getting their information?

Where do we find some of the facts & figures the news industry quotes? Isn't it their job to report better information and their sources. I guess it is just about a story people will listen to.

Why do they feel the need to make such a broad statement without any preface? Do they want to scare the public? How does that help the Triangle area? I am not saying not to report negative information but report all the facts not just scare tactics.

I just wanted to know if any of you have the answers?

Before I end this I want to share with you some quick info I pulled from the Triangle MLS just now:

Here are all of the homes sold in the Triangle MLS the last 30 days back, 90 days back, & six months ago in Wake, Durham, & Orange County not taking any of the 2064 Pending and 319 Contingent homes into the mix.

30 Days Back: 12,147 Active - 1294 Closed Making it 9.34 Months on the Market
90 Days Back: 12,147 Active - 1523 Avg. Closed a Month Making it 7.97 Months on the Market
6 Months Ago: 12,147 Active - 1763 Avg. Closed a Month Making it 6.88 Months on the Market

Once again only the homes in the Triangle MLS and I still have to figure the appreciation later but everything I have read and seen has us at a slight appreciation with fewer homes selling.

Those are my facts on the time on market and I if I go to my usual price range below 300K it gets even better for the Triangle.

Lesson learned?

Know the facts and be able to tell them because there is a good chance you local news is not and it is up to real estate professionals to educate our clients on the local market! The good and bad as it pertains to them.