The Personal Side of Real Estate

San Ramon California 2/2 Condo is NOT a Short Sale or REO

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 11:21:15 -0600

End Unit Condo in San Ramon CA

Not a Short Sale or REO

San Ramon CA 2/2 Condo - No Short Sale
112-D Compton Circle, San Ramon, CA 94583
	Quick Close – Move Right In Spacious 2 bedroom 2 bath condo in excellent move-in condition. Large living room with fireplace, separate dining area, kitchen with pass through counter, refrigerator included, in-unit laundry room, newer furnace, dual pane windows. Within easy walking distance to shopping, restaurants, movie theaters and transportation. More Info - (800) 816-4974 Ext. 3002
Click to View Show
Details		Contact Info
Asking Price: MLS: Sq. Feet: Bedrooms: Bathrooms:	259,000 40440141 995 2 2		Craig Harper Dir (925) 855-6410 Email \| Website Other Shows
Property Amenities
- Range/Oven - Sink Disposal	- Microwave	- Dishwasher
Community Amenities
- Covered parking	- Swimming Pool(s)

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Email Craig if you would like to know more about buying or selling a home or condo (925) 984-4910.

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San Ramon California Homes for Sale - Windemere

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:39:05 -0600

October Update on Homes For Sale in Windemere San Ramon

Lots of activity in the popular community of Windemere in San Ramon. In October there were a total of 93 homes on the market; 14 of the homes could put a ‘SOLD’-sign in their front yard; 64 homes went ‘Sale Pending’; 49 of these homes were ‘short sales’.

San Ramon Real Estate Info

There are currently 15 homes for sale; 3 of them are brand new listings. Out of the 93 homes there are only 14 townhomes with different floor plans you can choose from; from $425,000 for a 1600 square feet home, up to $580,000 for almost 2500 square feet, plus they are all brand new or just a few years old. If you are thinking of ‘moving up’ or if you are for instance planning to move from the South Bay, San Jose or Fremont, now is the time to buy; there are some great opportunities to buy a newer, large home in a superb community with top awarded schools. Here are some examples:

6637 Aberdale Circle in Windemere is an REO (bank-owned) property; 2062 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 2 baths and a 2 car garage, priced at $624,900.
2556 McLaren Lane is another REO, 1775 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 2,5 baths plus a 2 car garage, listed at $579,900.
2914 Langhorne, a short sale, 2403 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, listed at $739,000.
2293 Keats Lane, 2194 square feet with 4 bedrooms and 2,5 baths, listed at $749,950.
575 Karina Court, a short sale in Windemere, 3542 square feet, with 4 bedrooms and 3,5 baths, a 3 car garage and listed at only $800,000.
1236 Halifax Way, a short sale, 3256 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 4 baths and a 3 car garage listed at $800,000.
658 Karina Court, a short sale, 3757 square feet with 5 bedrooms, 4 baths and a 2 car garage listed at $800,000.
6268 Murdock Way, 3544 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 3,5 baths and a 3 car garage listed at $920,000.
2380 Baker Way, 2597 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 3,5 baths and a 2 car garage listed at $939,688.
219 Tewksbury Court, 4610 square feet with 5 bedrooms, 4,5 baths and a 3 car garage, listed at $1,039,950.
2726 Piccadilly Circle, 3752 square feet with 5 bedrooms, 3,5 baths and a 3 car garage listed at $1,050,900.
7888 Kennard Lane, 4202 square feet with 5 bedrooms, 4,5 baths and a 3 car garage listed at $1,127,840.

Windemere in San Ramon is one of the largest new residential communities in the Bay Area tucked away in the scenic San Ramon Valley with views of Mount Diablo. Windemere has easy connections to wherever you need to be throughout the Bay Area; the community enjoys convenient access to I-680 via Bollinger Canyon Road and to I-580 via Dougherty Road. Bishop Ranch Business Park, Hacienda Business Park and the Dublin/Pleasanton BART station are all close by. Windemere has been designed to allow people to have opportunities to play, socialize, learn and explore.

Amenities like neighborhoods, schools, libraries, parks, trails and open space are being completed in concert with the new home neighborhoods. All brand new schools are part of the San Ramon Unified School. Close by in The Bridges there is a 73-par Bridges Golf Course designed by Johnny Miller with beautiful views of Mount Diablo. Recently the latest addition was opened; The Plaza at Gale Ranch with numerous stores, restaurants, banks, Peets Coffee and the Safeway supermarket and gas station. For people interested in culture the Dougherty Library and Theater offers a wide variety of cultural events.

Search the MLS for Homes for Sale in Windemere

Search for Foreclosures I-680 Corridor

Our FREE In-Depth Real Estate Market Reports updated weekly, break San Ramon California real estate data down by zip code and price point. These are the best "real time" sources of data you can get for your local market.

Email Craig if you would like to know more about buying or selling a home or condo in San Ramon, CA (925) 984-4910.

San Ramon California Homes for Sale - Dublin Ranch

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:34:23 -0600

Dublin Ranch Market Update - Homes for Sale

Incredible opportunities for buyers right now in Dublin Ranch; this new development on the east side of Dublin offers many REO (bank-owned) or short sale properties for sale.

San Ramon Real Estate Info

This last month there were a total of 65 homes on the market. Lots of activity on the real estate market which shows with 27 Sale Pending properties and 14 homes that closed escrow. Currently there are 24 homes for sale: 19 condo’s or townhomes starting at $345,000 for a 1428 square feet, 2 bedroom, 2 baths condo all the way up to $749,995 for a condo with 3012 square feet, 4 bedrooms, 3,5 baths and a 3 car garage. There are only 5 detached homes for sale:

5779 Shadow Hill Drive; a short sale, 2013 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 2,5 baths and a 2 car garage listed at $601,000
6174 Shadow Hill Drive; 1862 square feet with 3 bedrooms, 2,5 baths and a 2 car garage listed at $615,000.
5135 Hinsdale Court; 2192 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 2,5 baths listed at $629,000.
3198 Madden Way: a short sale, 3370 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 3,5 baths and a 2 car garage listed at $830,000.
5916 Kingsmill Terrace: an REO (bank-owned), 5038 square feet, 5 bedrooms, 5,5 baths and a 3 car garage listed at $1,099,900. This home sits on a 9375 square feet lot and has great views of the valley. A great price for this amazing home!

Dublin Ranch is a relatively new community that has been developed in the last ten years. Well renowned builders like Toll Brothers, Shea Homes, Standard Pacific, Centex Homes and Brookfield Homes have built this master-plan on the east side of Dublin. Dublin Ranch with close to 20,000 residents offers the community a great infra structure, several (sports) parks, shopping, restaurants, and a movie theatre. As a resident you have easy access to I580 and I680, BART and several business parks within 15 minutes. Silicon Valley and San Francisco are less than 45 minutes away.

Fallon Middle School has been open for two years and Green Elementary opened last fall. Both schools are thriving with excellent staff, teachers, test scores and parent participation. Dublin Ranch Golf course is a public course designed by Robert Trent Jones and is a par 63. The course features rolling hills and valleys with views of Mt Diablo and Livermore Valley. There is a bar, restaurant and banquet room. The Promenade at Dublin Ranch is planned right in the heart of the community.

The current master-plan for Dublin Ranch consists of over 6,300 homes. Higher density residences clustered around The Promenade provide a significant core of dedicated customers within a short and comfortable walking distance.

A great growing community that has a lot to offer; whether you are in the market for a condo/townhome or a single family home, new or resale, our team at Harper Mees and Associates will find the right property for you.

Search the MLS for Homes for Sale in Dublin Ranch

Search for Foreclosures I-680 Corridor

Our FREE In-Depth Real Estate Market Reports updated weekly, break Dublin California real estate data down by zip code and price point. These are the best "real time" sources of data you can get for your local market.

Email Craig if you would like to know more about buying or selling a home or condo in Dublin, CA (925) 984-4910.

Homebuyer Tax Credit Update

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 11:09:44 -0600

Tax Credit Updated and Extended

On November 6, 2009, President Obama signed a bill to extend the tax credit for first-time homebuyers (FTHBs) through June 30, 2010. The bill also opens up opportunities for others who are not buying a home for the first time. To learn what the new tax credit means to you and your clients, take a look at the concise overview below. In addition, we’ve put together a script featuring wording you can cut and paste as needed to beat out your competition by connecting with clients who may be able to benefit from the new plan details.

Danville / San Ramon Real Estate

TAX CREDIT OVERVIEW Who Gets What? First-Time Homebuyers (FTHBs): First-time homebuyers (that is, people who have not owned a home within the last three years) may be eligible for the tax credit. The credit for FTHBs is 10% of the purchase price of the home, with a maximum available credit of $8,000 Single taxpayers and married couples filing a joint return may qualify for the full tax credit amount. Current Owners: The tax credit program now gives those who already own a residence some additional reasons to move to a new home. This incentive comes in the form of a tax credit of up to $6,500 for qualified purchasers who have owned and occupied a primary residence for a period of five consecutive years during the last eight years. Single taxpayers and married couples filing a joint return may qualify for the full tax credit amount.

What are the New Deadlines? In order to qualify for the credit, all contracts need to be in effect no later than April 30, 2010 and close no later than June 30, 2010.

What are the Income Caps? The amount of income someone can earn and qualify for the full amount of the credit has been increased. Single tax filers who earn up to $125,000 are eligible for the total credit amount. Those who earn more than this cap can receive a partial credit. However, single filers who earn $145,000 and above are ineligible. Joint filers who earn up to $225,000 are eligible for the total credit amount. Those who earn more than this cap can receive a partial credit. However, joint filers who earn $245,000 and above are ineligible.

What is the Maximum Purchase Price? Qualifying buyers may purchase a property with a maximum sale price of $800,000.

What is a Tax Credit? A tax credit is a direct reduction in tax liability owed by an individual to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). In the event no taxes are owed, the IRS will issue a check for the amount of the tax credit an individual is owed. Unlike the tax credit that existed in 2008, this credit does not require repayment unless the home, at any time in the first 36 months of ownership, is no longer an individual’s primary residence.

How Much are First-Time Homebuyers (FTHB) Eligible to Receive? An eligible homebuyer may request from the IRS a tax credit of up to $8,000 or 10% of the purchase price for a home. If the amount of the home purchased is $75,000, the maximum amount the credit can be is $7,500. If the amount of the home purchased is $100,000, the amount of the credit may not exceed $8,000.

Who is Eligible fort FTHB Tax Credit? Anyone who has not owned a primary residence in the previous 36 months, prior to closing and the transfer of title, is eligible. This applies both to single taxpayers and married couples. In the case where there is a married couple, if either spouse has owned a primary residence in the last 36 months, neither would qualify. In the case where an individual has owned property that has not been a primary residence, such as a second home or investment property, that individual would be eligible. As mentioned above, the tax credit has been expanded so that existing homeowners who have owned and occupied a primary residence for a period of five consecutive years during the last eight years are now eligible for a tax credit of up to $6,500.

How Much are Current Home Owners Eligible to Receive? The tax credit program includes a tax credit of up to $6,500 for qualified purchasers who have owned and occupied a primary residence for a period of five consecutive years during the last eight years.

Can Homebuyers Claim the Tax Credit in Advance of Purchasing a Property? No, the IRS has recently begun prosecuting people who have claimed credits where a purchase had not taken place.

Can a Taxpayer Claim a Credit if the Property is Purchased from a Seller with Seller Financing and the Seller Retains Title to the Property? Yes, in situations where the buyer purchases the property, even though the seller retains legal title, the taxpayer may file for the credit. Some examples of this would include a land contract or a contract for deed. According to the IRS, factors that would demonstrate the ownership of the property would include:

Right of possession
Right to obtain legal title upon full payment of the purchase price
Right to construct improvements
Obligation to pay property taxes
Risk of loss,
Responsibility to insure the property
Duty to maintain the property

Are There Other Restrictions to Taking the FTHB Credit? Yes. According to the IRS, if any of the following describe a homebuyer’s situation, a credit would not be due:

They buy the home from a close relative. This includes a spouse, parent, grandparent, child or grandchild.
They do not use the home as your principal residence.
They sell their home before the end of the year.
They are a nonresident alien.
They are, or were, eligible to claim the District of Columbia first-time homebuyer credit for any taxable year. (This does not apply for a home purchased in 2009.)
Their home financing comes from tax-exempt mortgage revenue bonds. (This does not apply for a home purchased in 2009.)
They owned a principal residence at any time during the three years prior to the date of purchase of your new home. For example, if you bought a home on July 1, 2008, you cannot take the credit for that home if you owned, or had an ownership interest in, another principal residence at any time from July 2, 2005, through July 1, 2008.

Search the MLS for Homes for Sale Search for Foreclosures in Contra Costa County East Search for

Foreclosures I-680 Corridor Our FREE In-Depth Real Estate Market Reports updated weekly, break real estate data down by zip code and price point. These are the best “real time” sources of data you can get for your local market.

Email Craig if you would like to know more about buying or selling a home or condo (925) 984-4910.

Shadow Hills Homes for Sale

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 01:30:57 -0600

Home Sales Update for Shadow Hills for October

Danville California Real Estate

In the last month there were four homes for sale in the popular neighborhood of Shadow Hills in Danville

Shadow Hills Real Estate

505 Zita Court is a brand new home for sale; this property is located higher up on the hills. It is 2660 square feet with 4 bedrooms, 2,5 baths with a 3 car garage on a 18,000 square feet lot. Listed at $899,000. You will love this secluded, large, flat, entertainer's back yard. Suite off master could be 5th bedroom. Boat parking, sports court, spa. Large second story deck with great views and access from master. Great court location near green belts. Home & pest inspections are available.

1049 Alicante Drive, 2660 square feet, a 5 bedroom, 2,5 bath, 3 car garage home listed at $899,900. A great corner home with lots of potential. Call us and let’s make an offer; I guarantee we can negotiate on this one; it has been on the market for months and unfortunately the seller started out too high and is now chasing the market.

200 Lowel Court, 1984 square feet, a 4 bedroom, 2,5 bath, 2 car garage home went ‘Sale Pending’ and was listed at $839,500. This listing is a charming, updated home with fresh interior paint, new carpeting, white kitchen cabinets, dual pane windows, cozy family room with amazing views of the huge back yard and the Westside Hills. This home is situated on a quiet court and great neighborhood.

One home closed escrow; this REO was a great deal for the condition and location of this home: 305 Borica Drive, 2660 square feet, 4 bedroom, 2,5 bath, 3 car garage, home listed at $724,200 and sold for $710,000.

Search for Foreclosures I-680 Corridor

Click here for a map of current Homes for Sale in Shadow Hills - Danville, CA

Our FREE In-Depth Real Estate Market Reports updated weekly, break real estate data down by zip code and price point. These are the best “real time” sources of data you can get for your local market.

Niche Marketing Provides Significant Return on Investment

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:50:57 -0500

North Ameican Women-to-Women Network

My partner, Ginny Mees, is keeping me very busy these days. As the "tech guy" for Harper Mees & Associates (residential real estate team in Danville, California) part of my job is Internet marketing, web design and maintenance, and keeping up with the evolution of technology.

In February of this year, Ginny launched www.WomenHomeowners.com, a site and network focusing on independent women homeowners. It wasn't 6 weeks before we realized that the Wordpress platform wouldn't meet her needs, so we stopped all promotional activities and rebuilt the site.

We managed to get it relaunched just before the July issue of Realtor magazine hit with their feature article on niche marketing. Since that article hit, things have been pretty wild! Women from all over North America are flooding Ginny's email inbox with requests for more information.

In 4 short months, Ginny's efforts, at the local level, have produced over 20 warm leads for her and the potential for 8 to 10 transaction sides. In addition, she was featured in a full page article in her local newspaper that was mailed to over 50,000 homes.

The women that have attended these meetings are spreading the word to their friends about this community resource that supports women with homeownership.

Here in the East Bay of California, short sales and foreclosures are still hot and heavy, but the market seems to be stabilizing and I, for one, find it interesting that so many real estate agents are spending time and money to try and brand themselves as Short Sale or Foreclosure Experts when that market segment is already dominated by the early adopters.

In case you haven't noticed, women dominate real estate (53% of brokers and 72% of full time agents). Demographic trends show that the financial power of women is on the rise while that of men is flat-lining. Women are earning more college degrees than men, too.

Every real estate success book I have read promotes finding a niche market. All-in-all, I think that partner of mine has come up with a brilliant idea that will position her and our team for solid business despite the market cycle.

Women Homeowners' Niche Gets National Attention

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 10:08:25 -0500

Realtor Magazine Features Women Homeowner Niche

The July issue of Realtor magazine focuses on niche marketing. Ginny Mees and her North America Women Homeowners Network is featured in that article.

Independent women represent the second largest demographic of homebuyers in North America. Women also account for over 52% of real estate brokers in the U.S as well as 72% of all full time real estate agents.

Women also control over 90% of all home purchasing decisions and will soon control over 50% of all wealth in the U.S.
\
In her 10 years as a Realtor, Ginny noted that women were the driving force behind her success as a Realtor. She decided that becoming the woman homeowner expert in her community would be a smart business move on her part.

Looking for like-minded Realtors to work with, she discovered that there was no national or online resource dedicated to the needs of independent women homeowners. To address this, she founded www.WomenHomeowners.com and is building a North Amercian Women-to-Women network of teams nterested in being the women homeowner experts in their area.

In the 4 months since she launched the site, her efforts have produced 20 warm leads that represent 8 potential transaction sides, 2 listing appointments and 2 sell/buy clients.

Go here for more information on joining the Women-to-Women network.

If you would like a copy of the article email Ginny.

You can also request an overview of the potential of this market segment by asking her for a copy of Feel the Power.

241 Aptos Place - Shadow Hills - Danville California

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Fri, 22 May 2009 11:44:08 -0500

Homes for Sale in Danville CA

Incredible Beauty in Shadow Hills on double-ended court. Quiet neighborhood near Greenbrook Elementary school. This is an exceptional locattion in a sought after neighborhood. Close to everything.

241 Aptos Place Danville California Offered at $979,000

Contact Craig for more info on local Danville real estate markets and homes for sale in Greenbrook & Shadow Hils - 925-984-4910

Our FREE In-Depth Real Estate Market Reports updated weekly, break data down by zip code and price point.

3170 Gulfstream Street Pleasanton California

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Thu, 07 May 2009 19:38:22 -0500

Great Home in Pleasanton California Priced to Sell

4 Bedrooms - 2.5 Baths - 2226 Square Feet

This wonderful family home on a 6200 square foot lot is within walking distance of Fairlands Elementary School in Pleasanton, CA.

Located in Pleasant Meadows, close to shopping and access to I-580. HOA's are only $258/year!

New paint and carpet. The home is well maintained. The neighborhood is quiet, friendly and family oriented.

Great Neighborhood Great Price

3170 Gulfstream Street, Pleasanton, CA 94588 View Map

This wonderful Pleasant Meadows Family Home has it all!

4 bedroom, 2 ½ bath with 2226 sq ft on a private 6201 sq ft lot. Located walking distance to the Pleasant Meadows neighborhood club (HOA) which includes a swimming pool, Clubhouse, Tennis courts & playground for only $258 a year.

The Sunny, light & bright home was built in 1973 and has many upgrades, including a family room addition with a wet bar & pellet stove for family gathering. Kitchen has been updated with oak cabinets, Corian counters, new flooring & the refrigerator is included in the sale. The oversized step down living room has vaulted ceilings.

The home has new paint, and new carpet throughout. Indoor laundry room includes the washer & dryer. The private backyard has lawns for play and a stamped concrete patio for outdoor entertaining. All located in the Award-winning Pleasanton School District.

Details

Asking Price:

629,000

MLS:

4048595

Sq. Feet:

2226

Lot Size:

6201

Bedrooms:

Bathrooms:

2.5

# of Floors:

Garage Size:

Subdivision:

Pleasant Meadows

Contact Info

Ginny Mees

Dir (925) 855-6410
Email | Website

20 Twelve Oaks, Pleasanton California - Custom Built

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:36:47 -0500

20 Twelve Oaks Pleasanton California

20 Twelve Oaks, Pleasanton, CA 94588 View Map

Located inside the gated community of Twelve Oaks, this custom built home with 7158 square feet on almost 10 acres, offers views of the valley below and uncompromising privacy.

With six bedrooms (four up & two down), six bathrooms, an Office, Exercise Room, Bonus Room, Tiled Loggia and Sauna, all located in the top notch, award-winning Pleasanton School District, this is the perfect home for a large family who enjoys entertaining, elegance, comfort and the convenient west side location close to 680/580, Stoneridge Mall and BART.

The many extras in this home include, but are not limited to: central vacuum system, upstairs & downstairs Laundry Rooms, two staircases, Intercom System, Alarm System with security camera, four car garage plus double carport and additional parking, new heavy duty water heater.

Shown by Appointment Only

800-816-4974 Ext. 9003

Details

Asking Price:

$2,995,000

MLS:

40396219

Sq. Feet:

7158

Lot Size:

9.5 Acres

Bedrooms:

Bathrooms:

Garage Size:

Subdivision:

Twelve Oaks

Year Built:

1997

Property Amenities

Contact Info

Ginny Mees

Dir (925) 855-6410
Email | Website

246 Greenbrook Drive, Danville California - 5/3 Remodel

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:32:20 -0500

Hansen Hill Dublin California

10750 Inspiration Circle, Dublin, CA 94568 View Map

Gorgeous views can be seen from the spacious back yard, patio kitchen, family room, master bedroom and even the master bath.

Features:Large light /bright Great Room that combines gourmet kitchen and family room, formal dining room and breakfast area, two master suites, recessed lighting, gas log fireplace, custom light fixtures, high windows for lots of natural light.

Easy access to I-580 and I-680 yet located in peaceful & quiet hills overlooking Dublin and Pleasanton.

(800) 816-4974 X9002

Details

Asking Price:

899,900

MLS:

40403054

Sq. Feet:

3000

Lot Size:

8667

Bedrooms:

Bathrooms:

3.5

# of Floors:

Garage Size:

Subdivision:

Hansen Hill

Property Amenities

Contact Info

Ginny Mees

Dir (925) 855-6410
Email | Website

10750 Inspiration Circle, Dublin California Home for Sale

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 09:25:41 -0500

Request a FREE Dublin CA Real Estate Market Details Report This report gives buyers very detailed local real estate information.

Get the Dublin CA Best Buy HOT List Be the first to know when new properties that match your criteria come on the market.

Hansen Hill Dublin California
10750 Inspiration Circle, Dublin, CA 94568
	Gorgeous views can be seen from the spacious back yard, patio kitchen, family room, master bedroom and even the master bath. Features:Large light /bright Great Room that combines gourmet kitchen and family room, formal dining room and breakfast area, two master suites, recessed lighting, gas log fireplace, custom light fixtures, high windows for lots of natural light. Easy access to I-580 and I-680 yet located in peaceful & quiet hills overlooking Dublin and Pleasanton. (800) 816-4974 X9002
Click to View Show
Details		Contact Info
Asking Price: MLS: Sq. Feet: Lot Size: Bedrooms: Bathrooms: # of Floors: Garage Size: Subdivision:	899,900 40403054 3000 8667 4 3.5 2 3 Hansen Hill		Ginny Mees Dir (925) 855-6410 Email \| Website Other Shows
Property Amenities
- Range/Oven - Sink Disposal - Trash Compactor - Microwave - Dishwasher - Fireplace	- Kitchen Island - Patio - Grass Lawn - Jacuzzi/Whirlpool - Central A/C	- Walk-in closet - Family room - Living room - Bonus/rec room - Dining Room

Request information on Foreclosures & Bank Owned Properties

Visit: Harper Mees & Associates

800-816-4974

Female Realtors Flocking to Single Woman Homeowner

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 14:24:36 -0500

Positive Response to SingleWomanHomeowner Continues to Grow

Ginny Mees, my partner at Harper Mees & Associates, continues to scramble to keep up with response to her new niche marketing vehicle - SingleWomanHomeowner.com. Since she is an agent with Keller Williams Realty in Danville CA, she decided to introduce the site and the networking opportunity to the KW family first.

Emails were sent to all Keller Williams' team leaders in the U.S. and Canada. Within 48 hours, Dianna Kokoszka, President of Keller Williams' MAPS Insititue, contacted her about contributing articles to the site. On Monday, Ginny did a special presentation for Kristin White, team leader in the Danville Market Center. Kristin's jaw hit the conference table as she caught the vision.

Below is the first page and a half of Ginny's marketing plan for her women to women network:

Women To Women Marketing Plan

Feel The Power...It's Your Dream

(Excerpt from the Introduction)

SingleWomanHomeowner.com (SWH) has been in development for almost two years and while our initial business activities will focus on women residing in North America (United States & Canada), our marketing activities will reach out to all women around the globe. And, although we address the needs of single women as a primary focus of our marketing message, you will soon discover that our message, resources and services will appeal to all women irrespective of their relationship status.

This marketing plan is provided as a guide to help you understand the power of the networking model which is based on years of experience of SWH's founders, its vast network of contributors and input from those who have already established networking groups in their area. In addition, it will serve as a road map for how to set up a group in your area, how to recruit new members, how to organize your local group for building an effective referral network, how to promote your group locally...nationally and even internationally to solicit relocation referrals, and how to use the SWH website and other marketing tools and technologies.

However, keep in mind that the purpose of SWH is to provide you with the tools you need to help YOU build the type of group that makes sense for you and your area. Please keep in mind that it's up to you and your group to create the business structure that makes sense for you, you're not alone and you will have literally thousands of women's experience to draw from.

Premise / Background

Today, many Realtors, mortgage brokers and other real estate industry professionals are struggling to survive. Significant changes in the real estate and mortgage industries have challenged existing business models. The impact of the Internet and technology has contributed an additional burden to many.

Survive or Thrive

The National Association of Realtors predicted a 15% to 20% reduction in the number of licensed real estate agents as a result of the declining housing market. This was before the overall economy started falling. And yet, while some struggle to survive, many Realtors are actually thriving. Where others find difficulty, many are finding opportunity. Not surprisingly, many of these opportunities are found in returning to simple basic business practices: working the sphere, farming, cold calling and niche marketing.

Niche Markets

Niche marketing is a proven business strategy that works in good times and challenging times. Niche marketing allows us to effectively focus our time, attention and dollars on a select group of consumers resulting in greater returns on our investment than spreading our resources across a broader audience.

One of the largest, most significant niche markets in real estate has, for the most part, been totally overlooked – Single Women Homeowners. Single Women Homeowners represent the second largest demographic of homebuyers in the North America.

We have developed a comprehensive marketing plan with detailed strategies and tactics to help you actively engage this demographic to thrive in the current real estate market. Our plan is not complicated. You do not have to be a tech guru, cold call, or work 14-hour days. In fact, our plan is a return to simple, proven business basics that bring leads to you.

Women interested in joining the Women-to-Women Network should go here

Single Woman Homeowner

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 08:32:20 -0500

Ginny Mees Launches SingleWomanHomeowner.com

My partner, Ginny Mees, has launched a new site to address the second largest demographic of home buyers in North America - single women homeonwers. The response she is receiving is awesome. Realtors and mortgage brokers across North America are flocking to join her - Women-to-Women Network.

Here is a letter from Ginny:

I’d like to share with you the story of how the SingleWomanHomeowner.com idea developed. It’s a story of several different pieces coming together to form a powerful niche marketing concept.

As I state on the website - "As a divorced single parent raising children, I relocated and purchased homes three times before I ever dreamed of becoming a Realtor." When I became a Realtor, I focused my energies on talking to anyone and everyone to build my business.

1. Over the years, I noticed that 15% to 25% of my business involved single women homeowners – women that had never been married, divorcees, and widows.

One month I worked with three different women that had no idea a month earlier they would be going through a divorce – each was surprised to find themselves in the position of becoming a single woman homeowner.
Another month, I helped a single woman purchase her first home and another single woman move up from a condo to a detached home.
I have helped widows down size and children deal with the sale of the family home when mom needed to move into assisted living.

Each of these women had many questions and concerns regarding homeownership. Each of these unique situations involved a great deal of woman-to-woman time which each client needed and appreciated.

2. I also began to notice that, quite naturally, my single women clients began interacting with my network of affiliates and vendors – my loan officer, title rep, insurance agent, handyman, carpet cleaner and the like. What stood out for me was how the women in my network seemed to naturally form a subgroup of the larger group and that often my single women clients became actively engaged with this subgroup as a kind of support group around their homeownership needs.

3. I am a big fan of BNI – Business Networking International. I have belonged to a local chapter for years and usually have tens of thousands of dollars come my way in referrals each year. I once got a $7 million dollar listing from a woman in my group.

4. I’m also a champion of getting involved in the community – Business books and coaches champion community involvement as a business building support. Professional business people get involved – in Rotary, the PTA, charities, the list is as long as the local community groups. Here is a chance to build a new community group to serve the needs of Single Women Homeowners.

5. Call me biased, but when a client is moving out of the area and is asking me for a referral in another state – I tend to look first for professional women with experience to interview. Call me crazy, but I think a woman better understands and appreciates the issues and needs associated with relocating a family, the importance of neighborhoods and schools, proximity to good retail, and she tends to have a better read on the community’s social pulse.

One day it all came together in the vision of SingleWomanHomeowner.com –

a national women-to-women network
a local support group
a business networking group

…all focused on this specific niche market, single women homeowners, and their specific needs and issues.

And that is the basic idea. I have expanded the power and potential of it by addressing and including assets like: Craigslist, MeetUp, LinkedIn, Xing, and a host of other Internet resources. I am creating dazzling brochures and flyers that you can use locally to attract interest.

When you join SingleWomanHomeowner.com you aren’t just getting a web page – you are getting a very detailed plan and system to help you become recognized as “the” Single Woman Homeowner specialist in your community.

I hope this helps you understand the vision more clearly. The one piece that is missing is the power of what can be created when each member in this magnificent network each begins adding her unique contribution.

I look forward to sharing and networking with you.

Ginny Mees

Disney World Honors Teresa Boardman

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Thu, 01 Jan 2009 17:47:29 -0600

Teresa Boardman, uber blogger, likes to begin her new year quietly celebrating her birthday. But this year celebration is anything but quiet.

The folks at Disney have show repeated interest in Teresa's awesome blog. Perhaps her coverage of the Minneosta winter has helped to incures traffic to Disney World. In any event, when they found out Teresa was a New Year's baby, they decided to do something a little special for her.

Happy Birthday Teresa - You Deserve it Baby!

Concord California Realtors Support Local Charities

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 14:31:31 -0600

CCRIM - Contra Costa Realtors in Motion

The CCRIM held their annual Holiday Party yesterday. The Contra Costa Foodbank was one of the local charities being supported by the raffles and silent auctions.

Here's a shot of Santa and his helpers which includes that darling elf - Cathy Lee of ClDesign Services.

Later on, one of Santa's helpers confided in me that he had been a bad boy all year and was hoping that I would leave something under his tree as Santa had already informed him he was only getting a piece of coal for his deeds.

My Tech Opinion Shares Web 2.0 Insights with Local Realtors - Part 4

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 18:48:53 -0600

Part 4 with Nicole & Reggie Nicolay - My Tech Opinion - addressing the Valley Marketing Association in Pleasanton, CA.

My Tech Opinion Shares Web 2.0 Insights with Local Realtors - Part 3

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 18:36:31 -0600

Part 3 with Nicole & Reggie Nicolay - My Tech Opinion

Addressing the Valley Marketing Association in Pleasanton, CA.

My Tech Opinion Shares Web 2.0 Insights with Local Realtors - Part 2

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 15:35:41 -0600

Part 2 with Nicole & Reggie Nicolay - My Tech Opinion

Addressing the Valley Marketing Association in Pleasanton, CA.

My Tech Opinion Shares Web 2.0 Insights with Local Realtors - Part 1

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 15:28:29 -0600

Nicole & Reggie Nicolay - My Tech Opinion - addressed the weekly meeting of the Valley Marketing Association in Pleasanton, California.

Dropio - Great File Sharing

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 13:00:54 -0600

Drop.io is a wonderful, simple and slick interface for file sharing. Drop.io has done a facelift on their site.

Another great feature is the Firefox plugin for Drop.io. With the plugin, you can drag large files and drop them on the icon and slick as a whistle, you can have your contact receive them.

YouSendIt was one service we used in the past, but Drop.io seems much easier to use - check it out.

Teresa Boardman Turns 3

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 21:04:54 -0500

Teresa Boardman - three years of blogging.

In reading her article on the Tomato,I wonder how many other bloggers have benefited from Teresa's generosity. I know I have. I still refer people to advice she gave a year ago or two years ago. Her wisdom is Timeless!

Happy Birthday to Teresa good fortune to us all!

The State of East Bay Real Estate in 3 Pictures

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 19:46:53 -0500

California East Bay Real Estate

For those tired of the endless stream of words about the state of real estate in California's East Bay, I offer this for the vidually oriented.

Danville California Homes for Sale

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 09:49:55 -0500

Homes for Sale in Danville California

We have another home for sale in Danville, CA. This is another listing in Greenbrook, a highly desirable neighborhood with community pool, tennis courts and clubhouse. Greenbrook Elementary School is highly rated and only a few blocks away from this Danville home for sale.

266 Barrett Circle, Danville, CA 94526

Offered at $779,000

3 Bedrooms - 2 Baths - Tastefully updated on a wide lot with a great backyard for kids.

266 Barrett Circle was on broker's tour on Thursday in Danville. The response from local Realtors and real estate agents was very favorable. To a person, the local Realtors felt that this home is priced right and won't last long.

San Ramon CA Condo - Siena Hills

HarperMees & Associates (Keller Williams) — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 09:46:54 -0500

Studio Condo in Siena Hills San Ramon California

We have a short sale studio condo in Siena Hills priced at $159,000. Siena Hills is a wonderful condo complex at the top of Bollinger Canyon Road convenient to Bishop Ranch. Siena Hills has community pools and exercise rooms. This unit (183) is in the section of Siena Hills located behind Club Sport.

At $159,000 this unit will not last long.