Ed's Blog

What does basketball have to do with Haunted Houses??. . .

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:23:10 -0500

The Ed Kaminsky Real Estate Team

presents

Our 1st Annual Haunted House Contest!

Tell your friends, neighbors & family. . .

We're looking for the most frightfully scary home in town!!

GRAND PRIZE

2 VIP Tickets to the Friday, Nov. 20^th game

LA Clippers vs. The Denver Nuggets

Sec. PR 13, ROW 7 plus a Lot C Parking Pass

Plus BRAGGING RIGHTS for an entire year!

Contest Rules and How to Enter:

1) Become a Fan of our Facebook page

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Manhattan-Beach-CA/The-Ed-Kaminsky-Real-Estate-Team/42043754976

2) Upload a photo of your home decorated for Halloween to our Facebook page

3) Give your home a creative name. . . for example "The Smith's Spooky Sarcophagus"

4) Send an email to: Deanna@ItzSold.com with your contact information and the title of your house, so we can reach you if you WIN!

Contest is open to any who can make the game if they win! Entries need to be submitted by 10/30/2009. The winner will be selected by our expert panel of children. The winning home will be announced on 10/31/2009. One entry per family. The house entered must be your residence to qualify.

ENTER IF YOU DARE . . .

Breaking Real Estate News. . . NO MORE New Homes??

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 16:33:32 -0500

Breaking Real Estate News. . . NO MORE New Homes??

HERMOSA BEACH, CA (Sept. 14, 2009) - Recent market analysis points to the face that this may be your last chance in a long while to buy a brand new townhome in Hermosa Beach. Construction starts are down and the tell-tale bulldozers sitting in front of old beach "tear downs" are nowhere to be seen. Why? Developers can no longer buy land locally, build a new property and make a profit. Until that changes, new home inventory is going to disappear. Builders with nothing to build have become remodelers, custom home builders for homeowners, or have been forced into an extra long vacation or early retirement.

Those buyers who waited for the market to decline, sacrificed and saved their money, maintained their credit rating, and kept their job and/or their business will find it difficult to satisfy their urge for that "New Home Smell". Hermosa Pointe Homes offers those buyers possibly the last chance to own a brand new home at today's discounted prices. The developer's early projections on prices for these townhomes were close to $1,500,000. Starting at just $1,099,000, Hermosa Pointe offers today's buyers an incredible opportunity that will truly disappear before you know it. It is possible that if you call our offices in 3 or 6 months and say: "Ed, I would like to look at new homes this weekend, could you show me some?", the answer may be: " I am sorry, there are currently no brand new homes on the market. I can gladly show you homes that are 5 or 10 years old. Would that be OK?".

Urban Pointe Development, the builder of these beautiful, 3 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom townhomes stated, "Although we are financially strong, unlike some of the other local developers, we are going to remain cautious on land acquisitions for the time being." One thing for sure is that buyers can buy with confidence knowing that the developer of their home is standing strong and will be around tomorrow for any warranty work required. Not something you can count on with some projects that have been either taken over by bankers, or have put some developers out of business.

What makes these homes special besides being one of the only brand new homes left? The low density site plan is one reason. Most lots in Hermosa Beach allow developers to cover 65% of the land with "building coverage". This site only allows 35% lot coverage, creating a tremendous sense of space and distance from neighbors. View ... probably one of the best views off of the Hermosa Beach strand. You can see from Malibu to Catalina with little to no chance of view blockage from future construction. Location ... located in prime North Hermosa, near the border of Manhattan Beach and West of P.C.H. Quality ... unsurpassed quality of construction in every detail of these outstanding homes, no expense was spared and traditional "upgrades" come standard. Green ... the first certified, Green Rated multi-home project built in the south bay offers today's buyers two of the greatest components of Green Construction: Saving Money and Saving the Earth.

2 homes are freestanding with no common walls. 2 homes feature yard areas. Each 2,000+ sq.ft. home features a panoramic ocean view roofdeck and interior ocean views, as well as on site guest parking. High end stainless appliances, including the refrigerator, come standard with each home.

If you haven't seen these homes, come visit them this weekend, they will be open from 1 to 4 pm on Friday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

Call 800-352-6250 x 211 for 24 hr. Recorded information

www.HermosaPointeHomes.com

Inspired by working with a GREEN project. . .

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:05:04 -0500

When I listed Hermosa Pointe Homes, the beach cities' 1st certified Green townhomes, I admit I was aware of the buzz about Green building and my interest was peaked, but I never expected to take away from this project a new committment to being green personally.

I have literally learned so much about green living and green building these past weeks. I often ask myself why we never adopted these practices decades ago. It would have been so easy. Regardless, I am really taken with what the builder has accomplished at Hermosa Pointe. They have really incorporated traditional design elements with hundreds of green building items. These are the 1st I have seen that have such a warm, welcoming feel to them. Admittedly, when I thought "green" before, a picture would form in my mind of a concrete, glass and steel structure with giant rain barrels in the yard. What Urban Pointe has brought to the table is a product that has the look and feel of a more mainstream, custom home, yet everything you touch or see has some kind of green element to it. It's amazing.

We get so many comments from visitors to our open houses when they walk in about how shocked they are that Hermosa Pointe doesn't "look" green. When we take them through the homes and start deconstructing every green element, room to room, they are truly amazed. We hear that they love the light and air in the homes, the natural flooring, and the fact that the homes don't "smell" new.

Click link below for a peek at Hermosa Pointe

http://www.zingding.com/listing/view/37967534/

Top it all off with the jaw-dropping ocean views from every home, the low density site plan, the bonues parking on site and the great North Hermosa, West of PCH location, and these homes are sure winners starting at $1,099,000.

Ok, so after being inside these homes, feeling them, talking about them, selling them--I found myself feeling a little guilty for not examining my personal "green" practices more closely and seeing what I coudl do to improve them.

My office is green. I rent in a building that has been recognized as a "Green" corporate building. I have adopted their practices and suggestions for operating inside my own office space. I decided to really get aggressive with it all.

We have installed motion sensors on all of our office lights; we recycle not only at our desks, but also in our kitchen. We use plates, napkins & paper towels made of recycled materials. We all started bringing in our own coffee mugs and silverware to wash and reuse, rather than use disposable ones. Our printer/copier & computers are set to "sleep" when not in use. We don't use the A/C on weekends (which can really get warm sometimes!) We recycle our toner cartridges & shipping materials. We have implemented a new e-fax system so that we can "wean" off of our traditional, paper fax machine. We use recycled paper for our printer & re-use our file folders regularly. And recently, we converted to the new, Department of Real Estate endorsed, "RELAY" system, which is set up to eventually take our entire transaction process paperless.

To continue our efforts and to take it one step further, we are converting our entire flyer system over to a new "waste not" flyer format. We found that every year, our office was using over 260,000 pieces of paper to print flyers for outside flyer boxes. Most curious passersby will take a flyer, get the basic information they want from it, then toss it in the back seat of their car, which eventually makes its way to the trash.

Our "Waste not" flyers not only help us reduce consumption of paper, energy, toxic inks & fuel used in the printing, production & stocking of flyers; they also make our sales team that much more effective in securing interested parties and converting them to buyers for your property! Plus, our flyers never run out!

Our new format, a "permanent" flyer affixed to the sign post, will feature multiple photos, and appropriate bullet points of information about the home. People will be instructed to call our 800# which offers 24 hr, pre-recorded information about the property, and allows them to leave a request for a flyer to be emailed to them if desired. What is great about call capture is that my entire team is simultaneously & instantly notified that an inquiry just came in, and the sales staff to call back within moments of a buyer being in front of a property to have a LIVE conversation with them and go for the appointment/conversion; much more effective than tossing a flyer in the back seat! The "waste not" flyer also gives directions on where to go online to view a virtual tour and additional photos of our properties.

We are the first in the area to take this monumentental step away from the tradtional & very wasteful method of marketing with flyers. We are very excited to br bringing this change to our local marketplace.

I learn something new everyday in this business. Marketing a "green" project has personally touched me and I hope to move forward as an example to my Real Estate community with ideas and innovations to continue to reduce waste in our industry.

ED SAID e-raffles on-going. . .

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 12:40:42 -0500

"ED SAID"

e-Raffle and Pick of the Week

Congratulations to KAREN DUNBAR who won our 1st e-Raffle!!

She received a FREE home cleaning service from Maid Brigade, the South Bay's ONLY Green Clean Certified home cleaning service!

As part of our ongoing commitment to providing excellent rescources, information & services to our friends and clients, Ed will continue to introduce you to a great new service provider in the area, and share his special "Ed Said" discount, exclusive to those who know Ed and mention his name at time of service!

It Pays to Know Ed!

The "Ed Said" service spotlight is:

Participate in our special "e-Raffle" for your chance to WIN a FREE

"Ice Cream Dream" Manicure/Pedicure service from Color Me Green

(a $53.00 value!)

TO ENTER: e-mail your name, address and phone number by August 21st, 2009 to Deanna@ItzSold.com*. You will be entered into a drawing to receive a FREE "Ice Cream Dream" manicure/pedicure service (worth $53.00) from

Color Me Green Eco-Friendly & Organic Nail Boutique in Manhattan Beach!

Forward this email to friends & family so they can have a chance to win

or just to learn about a great new GREEN service in the area!

ED SAID: "My staff discovered Color Me Green when organizing our Green EXPO at Hermosa Pointe Homes in July. After a first visit, they were raving about the comfort of the salon and the outstanding hand and foot massages! Color Me Green takes pride in using only organic oils, fruit extracts, herbs and botanicals for stress relief. They also offer Vegan, DBP, Toluene and Formaldehyde free polishes as well as a soy based and Vegan Acetone Free nail polish remover. Enjoy a warm and cozy home environment while a special air filtration removes many harmful fumes. They even treat you with home baked cookies! A special " BE BOLD" package is offered for men, so everyone can indulge!"

Visit Color Me Green Eco-Friendly & Organic Nail Boutique today!

Tell them " ED SAID" to get 10% off your first service!

310-545-7474

www.ColorMeGreenNails.com

Located at: 2001 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Unit C, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Brought to you Exclusively by The Ed Kaminsky Real Estate Team of Shorewood Realtors

310-798-1277 www.ItzSold.com

* restricted to South Bay Residents only, sorry.

GREEN is the word, have you heard?

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 12:55:46 -0500

I truly believe the homes at Hermosa Pointe stand above the rest because of their excellent North Hermosa location paired with ocean views that cannot be duplicated unless you are willing to pay $6-10 million to be right on The Strand. It's an exciting project to be involved in as we see the evolution of future green building unfold right before us and suddenly become very available and accessible to new homebuyers in the area.

Join us for the Grand Opening Event & Green Home EXPO at Hermosa Pointe, Saturday, July 18th, 11-5. Visit vendors and businesses such as Whole Foods, GrassFree, Midwest Solar, Reeds Natural Sodas, Color Me Green, Maid Brigade, Westco Smart Homes & more at our Green EXPO. Find out how to get a FREE GEM car!

http://www.zingding.com/5222055552

Here's a little more info on this exciting Build it Green project:

Hermosa Pointe Homes, the first luxury townhome project in the Beach Cities to go Green, will be having it's official Grand Opening event on Saturday, July 18^th, from 11 am to 5 pm. The homes are located at 731 21^st Street in Hermosa Beach. The public is encouraged to come tour these unique homes and also stop by the Green Home Expo which will be taking place on site at the event, featuring local businesses that have committed to Eco-Friendly services and products for the home.

Urban Pointe Development is a local development firm specializing in building multi-family townhomes and condominiums with the same quality, style and comfort that you would find in a custom single family home. While most of their developments have centered in the beach communities of Los Angeles County, Urban Pointe has also developed properties in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties of Southern California and within the states of Arizona, Illinois and South Carolina.

Urban Pointe understands that every residential or commercial property they build is part of a greater community. That's why they support neighborhood schools and embrace local charities that contribute considerably to the growth and vitality of the communities we share. The spirit of selfless generosity, combined with Urban Pointes' culture of community commitment, has allowed the company to be part of something truly great, which is why they are pleased to present to the community, the area's first certified green multi-family project of its kind to be brought to the beach cities.

Hermosa Pointe Homes is the newest project by Urban Pointe Development. What makes this project unique is that the builders have followed rigorous standards set forth by the Build It Green program to bring the quality and luxury Urban Pointe is recognized for, together with healthy living standards, to offer a product that exceeds expectation.

The Build It Green program is a non-profit membership organization whose mission is to promote healthy, energy-and-resource-efficient building practices in California. Urban Pointe Development is a member of Build It Green and is working within the program to achieve its "Green Point Rated" number. To achieve a Green Point Rating, an independent third party evaluates the homes based on five specific categories: Resource Conservation, Indoor Air Quality, Water Conservation, Community, and Energy Efficiency. Points are awarded for the number of items achieved in each category and a Green Point Rating number, similar to a report card grade, is assigned to the project. Brad Scott, President of Urban Pointe Development, reports "What we realized when we decided to follow the Build It Green program was that we already implemented most of these standards in our company in past projects."

There are eight luxury townhomes at Hermosa Pointe offering superior ocean views from the upper living areas and the large rooftop decks. Two of the homes are completely detached, stand-alone structures that feel very much like a traditional single family home at the beach. In addition, two of the homes offer exclusive use "yard" areas. All of the homes are end units built on an elevated lot that will preserve the upper living area ocean views. In accordance with the Build It Green program, low density of the lot provides for open space not readily found throughout the South Bay beach areas. The homes were built on only 35% of the lot as opposed to 65% as traditionally found throughout Hermosa Beach.

Hermosa Pointe is located in the sought after North Hermosa Beach area, West of Pacific Coast Highway. The project receives a WalkScore (www.WalkScore.com) of 88 points, meaning its location is a prime pedestrian and bicycle friendly site. Hermosa Pointe is located within ½ mile of award winning elementary, Jr. High and High Schools, as well as the library, police and fire stations, public parks, grocery stores and pharmacies, community centers, theater and entertainment venues, convenience stores, banks, and restaurants. Additionally it is located near the beach and pier, public transportation, the community skate park, community jogging path, the marina, cafes, coffee houses, dry cleaners, pet care, yoga centers, gyms & private trainers.

Henry Ruggeri, Vice President of Project Management, personally, is very proud of the project saying, "We have always believed in the future of green building and are pleased to be working with the City of Hermosa Beach, which is at the forefront of the green movement in the South Bay." Ruggeri also says, "We thought it necessary to build a home for the individual or family seeking the benefits of an environmentally friendly residence, but who also wanted a more traditional feel to their home. Our aim is to show people that ‘green' doesn't have to be a contemporary or urban styled design. These homes were built with a concern for the global environment while providing a comfortable private environment to enjoy the outstanding ocean views."

Urban Pointe Development has incorporated into Hermosa Pointe, the elements of design and luxury typical of their award winning projects. Besides the health and efficiency benefits incorporated through the green design, the homes boast high quality and designer finishes as standard items, unlike others where these features are only offered as "upgrades". Bonus items featured in the model comes standard in the remaining homes; from the low flow Kohler bath fixtures to the Energy Star rated, Kitchen Aid Architect Series II stainless appliances, the superior grade recycled carpets, and the Milgard Energy Star SunCoat MAX Low-E windows and doors. Each home is complete with fully customized closets in every room and unique hickory/pecan hardwood floors that have been wire brushed, finished with a Low VOC stain and tongue oil rubbed for a durable and sustainable product. A professional design consultant helped select stone and tile choices as well as finishes, and a designer color palate to elevate these homes to luxury home status. Each roofdeck offers jaw dropping panoramic views from Catalina Island to Malibu. The roofdecks are finished with gas, water, electric, cable and Cat5, and have 200 sq.ft. of space ready to receive solar panels.

Don't blow your chance at a great tax credit!

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 18:51:29 -0500

DON'T BLOW YOUR CHANCE AT A GREAT TAX CREDIT!

CNNMoney.com reports that the opportunity to obtain the $10,000 tax credit being offered to Californians for purchasing a new home is quickly closing. The state set $100 million aside to stimulate new home sales and aid failing home builders. The credit was designed to help home buyers purchasing a newly built home. The program started in March 2009 and only about 20% of the initial credit money is left.

What does this mean to buyers in the market right now? Don't wait! To apply, an application for new home credit must be completed by the buyer and seller within one week after the close of escrow and faxed by the escrow person to the FTB at (916) 845-9754. The FTB will continue to report the certificates issued on a weekly basis until the full $100 million has been used up. FTB expects to complete processing all certificates in August. Each applicant will receive a notification indicating the amount of credit allocated or denied.

Hermosa Pointe Homes, the brand new GREEN townhome project in Hermosa Beach is a local South Bay project that qualifies for the tax credit. Don't miss your opportunity to apply for the credit!

South Bay schools once again report excellent API scores for 2008

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Tue, 26 May 2009 13:10:17 -0500

Congratulations to all the hard working South Bay teachers, students & parents! The 2008 school API results have been reported and once again, South Bay schools rocked the score!

The Daily Breeze reported on Friday, May 22, 2009 that nearly 40 South Bay schools performed in the top 10th of campuses across California! The top score in all the South Bay, 968, went to Cornerstone at Pedregal Elementary in Rancho Palos Verdes.

As South Bay residents, we must continue to support fundraising efforts and programs in place to protect area students from ill effects of drastic and unprecedented cuts to education funding by the State of California. I applaud all parents who are out there everyday drumming up financial support for our local schools. One of my best vendors for real estate marketing, Peter Yollin(TheListingWidget) and his wife, Mary, teamed up with other local parents and organized a massive rummage sale, which ultimately raised an astounding $35,000 to the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation. Through the many efforts of local parents & teachers, the community of Manhattan Beach has raised enough money to offset the district's $7.8 million budget by a whopping 60%!

Mary Yollin, front, and Eve Towns and Peter Yollin, right, organized a rummage sale at the American Martyr's Church in Manhattan Beach to help raise money in hopes of keeping teachers from being laid off in the Manhattan Beach School District (photo by Steve McCrank/Staff Photographer/The Daily Breeze)

CLICK TO VIEW LARGER IMAGE

What a great time to buy! Rebates! Credits! Tax Breaks!--oh my. . .

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Mon, 18 May 2009 11:24:57 -0500

CA Assembly Bill 811 gets owners low interest loans on renewable energy projects & improvements. . .

CA Assembly Bill 811 allows property owners in designated parts of cities or counties to finance renewable energy generation and energy-efficiency improvements through low-interest loans. South Bay Cities Green Task Force meets May 28 @ 1:30 & tour of sustainable luxury townhomes avail.

http://www.HermosaPointeHomes.com

Tax Credit Provides Outstanding Opportunity for Home Buyers

A tax credit of up to $8,000 is available for qualified first-time home buyers purchasing a principal residence on or after January 1, 2009 and before December 1, 2009. Any home that will be used as a principal residence will qualify for the credit. This includes single-family detached homes, attached homes like townhouses and condominiums, manufactured homes (also known as mobile homes) and houseboats. The definition of principal residence is identical to the one used to determine whether you may qualify for the $250,000 / $500,000 capital gain tax exclusion for principal residences.

http://www.federalhousingtaxcredit.com/2009/index.html

Energy Rebates for Homeowners!

Southern California Gas (‘SoCal Gas) offers rebates for qualifying energy efficient upgrades or improvements made to commercial business properties, single family residential homes and multi-family housing. Tankless water heaters may qualify for a $200.00 rebate from The Gas Company.

Edison offers rebates on energy efficient lighting, appliances, heating and cooling, pool equipment and solar installations for single family dwellings and multi-family housing.

http://www.socalgas.com/index/ www.sce.com

LA's sought after beach community, The South Bay, nearing completion on 1st luxury GREEN townhomes!

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Fri, 15 May 2009 15:44:40 -0500

Hermosa Pointe Homes is a brand new townhome project being built by Urban Pointe Development, an acclaimed local development firm recognized for its reputation built on the quality and value of the homes they bring to the community. Urban Pointe Development is a member of Build It Green and through this program the project is working to become the first Green Point Rated multi-family project of its kind in the Beach Cities.

Urban Pointe designed the homes to meet rigorous, environmentally-sound standards while also providing a "green" home that has the look and feel of a more traditional home. Henry Ruggeri, Vice President of Project Management says, "We thought it necessary to build a home for the individual or family seeking the benefits of an environmentally friendly residence, but who also wanted a more traditional feel to their home. Our aim is to show people that ‘green' doesn't have to be a contemporary or urban styled design. These homes were built with a concern for the global environment while providing a comfortable private environment to enjoy the outstanding ocean views."

There are eight homes at Hermosa Pointe to choose from. Two homes are stand alone structures, while the others only share one common wall. Two homes also offer a bonus yard area. Each home offers a large roof deck to enjoy the panoramic vistas, while also offering interior views. The homes are detailed with the highest quality craftsmanship with designer fixtures and finishes. They also boast a long list of earth-friendly building elements.

Learn more at http://www.HermosaPointeHomes.com

Search the MLS just like a Real Estate Agent! www.ItzSold.ListingBook.com

Don't Miss Broker's tomorrow on Sand Section Income Opportunity!

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Thu, 14 May 2009 16:43:18 -0500

View from 120 15th roofdeck

Broker's Open, Friday, May 15, 12-2 pm

Snacks served!

Great income property opportunity in the desired Sand section of Manhattan Beach. Steps from the beach & water! 3 very nice, large units. Rent weekly as vacation rentals, monthly, yearly or any combination! One unit has been a very active vacation rental unit. Both 2 bedroom units will be sold turnkey/furnished. 3 bed unit will not be furnished. 2 units have been updated. Building has GIANT common roofdeck with outstanding views & a common BBQ. Separate laundry room on site brings in additional income & features a large bonus area currently set up as a game room. The two, 2bedroom furnished units are somtimes set up as weekly rentals and rent from 2200-2400/wk. 6 garage parking spaces in the rear (3 wide, 2 deep) and 2 additional garage parking spaces on the front. This is a desired location with an easy walk to everything great about Manhattan Beach which is why it makes for such an attractive vacation rental, or vacation home + income!

Listing Book is the 3rd arm I have been needing since 1987

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Mon, 11 May 2009 16:23:38 -0500

I have spent the last week digesting the latest & greatest Real Estate tool to hit me in all the years I have been doing business. I am so excited about ListingBook. Not only because it is FREE for my clients, but because it has such a comprehensive platform for client and data management. ListingBook is similar to Facebook, but it's all about Real Estate. My clients can now long in any time, day or night, and search the very same information I use as a leading agent to do my job everyday.

What's so great about it, and why it's different than a simple IDX fed based information program, is that it pulls directly from the MLS and updates itself every 30 mins. I can set up a CMA and email it to a client and if that client goes back into that email link of the CMA I sent, the data is all current and up to date because it refreshes every half hour, saving me loads of double work and time. I can watch my buyers and sellers as they broaden and narrow their searches, save favorite properties, and reject properties they do not like. But what's so cool about this is that they can jot me a quick note about a property they are interested in, I can jot one right back and we can literally virtually source a home or work on comparables together in real time. Even better, we can set up showing appointments right through the system and ListingBook will prepare a showing itinerary for the client, complete with photos, detailed descriptions, appointment times & more, which will also remain updated if status were to change right before we head out for a showing.

I am so excited about being able to let my clients take better control of their buying or selling experience. The power of the internet has truly allowed buyers and sellers to quickly become very educated in the Real Estate process and this tool will only help me serve them better. I am such a fan of this system that I already tied it into my website so that buyers and sellers can access it, set up their accounts and get busy right away! I already loaded over 3,500 contacts into the system and within 2 days I had hundreds using it. It also sets up marketing campaigns, prints flyers & emails traffic reports right to my sellers. My sellers can see how many buyers looked at their listing as well as how many agents looked at it, flagged it &/or emailed it to a client. As a team leader, I can work on a buyer or seller lead, help bring along the relationship, then easily assign that lead within ListingBook to the client manager of one of my buyers' agents--tranferring with it contact notes, property search history and more. I am aggressively integrating ListingBook into EVERY marketing system I subscribe to, own, and/or operate. My clients will no longer aimlessly wander around the internet looking for Real Estate info when from now on, it's coming direct from me and we can be eye to eye.

I have been told that Southern California is the ONLY market West of Chicago that has this service for agents. A new agent to my team, Helen Archer, has joined us from Atlanta, Georgia recently and she tells me she had this service (by a different name) in her area and she truly believed it helped set her apart from other agents. I think this is going to change the name of the game as we know it.

What better service can I offer than FREE and accurate information that will keep my clients informed, in touch and in tune with current market conditions. This is that "third arm" I have been needing for 22 years. I'm gearing up for a great summer!

Green Homes at the Beach; Representing a "Green" seller in 2009

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Mon, 04 May 2009 13:02:36 -0500

I recently listed the first certified green, multi-unit development in the Beach Cities just outside of LAX. The builder chose to work aggressively within the Build It Green program and is nearing it's Green Point Rated certification. This has been an interesting project to market because it goes beyond being the gorgeous, custom, ocean view home you would expect in this area. Also because of the public's heightened awareness of all things "green", our team has dug in deep to learn just what it is that makes these homes such a smart buy.

Our marketing department literally had to digest over 100 pages from the Build It Green manual so that we were educated and ready to bring these homes to market with as much information available as possible. Prior to even obtaining the listing, our marketing team took a sampling of public knowledge, expectations and understanding of Green home ownership and turned up some very interesting results, such as establishing that over 73.7% of those polled believe that making a concerted effort to "go green" is important to buyers today. We also found that 72.3% polled believe that their decision to purchase a new home would be strongly influenced by the availability of "green" homes listed in current inventory--buyers would strongly consider the cost benefits and value built into a "green" home over that of a traditional home.

Hermosa Pointe Homes is a brand new townhome project being built by Urban Pointe Development, an acclaimed local development firm recognized for its reputation built on the quality and value of the homes they bring to the community. Urban Pointe Development is a member of Build It Green and through this program the project is working to become the first Green Point Rated multi-family project of its kind in the Beach Cities.

Urban Pointe designed the homes to meet rigorous, environmentally-sound standards while also providing a "green" home that has the look and feel of a more traditional home. Henry Ruggeri, Vice President of Project Management says, "We thought it necessary to build a home for the individual or family seeking the benefits of an environmentally friendly residence, but who also wanted a more traditional feel to their home. Our aim is to show people that ‘green' doesn't have to be a contemporary or urban styled design. These homes were built with a concern for the global environment while providing a comfortable private environment to enjoy the outstanding ocean views."

The project has met and exceeded CA Title 24 minimum of 15% by 21% to as much as 25% above the CA required minimum, and at least 50% of construction and demolition waste has been recycled.

Each custom home features the following features that either meet or exceed current green building practices for lifestyle enhancement or conservation practices in the categories of:

	Resource Conservation
	Indoor Air Quality
	Water Conservation
	Community
	Energy Efficiency

Hermosa Pointe Homes proudly boast:

Water conserving fixtures
Sensory lighting for energy conservation
Low-volatile/organic adhesives and interior paint
Carpets made of recycled materials
"Cool Roof" coating on rooftops
Energy Star rated appliances
Domestic, farmed hardwood flooring
Floor plans designed to maximize natural light and cross ventilation
SunCoat MAX enhanced low-E windows
AquaTherm/Hydronic coil heating system
Merv6 air filters
Concrete fibercement board exterior
Formaldehyde Free insulation
Dual peepholes in door
All main entrances are visible from the street
Landscaped with drought tolerant plants
Low flow sprinklers
Hydrozoned planting
Cool site walkways
30% or more recycled materials in concrete
Value engineered framing
Prewired for ceiling fans in all rooms
Individual water meters
Built in interior recycling collection
Environmentally preferable materials for interior finishes
Durable cabinets
Rain & waste water diversion system
Conduit has been provided & space planned for onsite electricity generation

You can learn more about the project at http://HermosaPointeHomes.com. Expected completion is Summer 2009, but the 1st model will be released by month's end. We are currently booking private tours while still under construction and the interest list is rapidly filling.

Lovin the Zing Ding Thing

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 17:48:12 -0500

Great new marketing tool I discovered on Facebook this past week. It creates a quick eCard of your listing, takes like 10 minutes to do it. Adds so much character to the listing though--with music, animated fire in the fireplace, animated clouds in the sky, animated flowers and birds. Really cute and the sellers love them. Once you build one, it gives you just about every link and code you would want so you can integrate them in all your other marketing. I found it's really simple to attach a link to a Facebook update and it prompts a viewer to want to play the video card, rather than just sitting there as a boring old link. Pretty cool. Sellers like them because they can email them out to their sphere--and they do! Been getting great traffic with these things. Got over 387 views in less than 5 days on a new listing! Really inexpensive if you get the annual unlimited program.

http://www.ZingDing.com

Can't get more budget friendly than FREE!

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 19:04:22 -0600

Hi there! I just wanted to make sure that you had the opportunity to successfully set up your agent account with the SportStar Relocation National Listing Service (NLS). I wanted to make sure that you were able to take advantage of the offer we have going where you can post unlimited listings for FREE for 60 days! After your 60 day trial, your NLS membership will be extended for a full year of unlimited listings for a one time charge of $99.00. Please click on the link below for a brief introduction to setting up your account on the NLS.

Please make sure your computer speakers are ON.

http://www.screencast.com/users/EdKaminsky/folders/Jing/media/f3d5dc59-9c68-4f3a-b1e0-1b411913bb1c

Realtors can advertise luxury properties for FREE on the new SSR National Listing Service!

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 23:40:06 -0600

SportStar Relocation has developed the first and only listing service for realtors that target markets "athlete appropriate" or athlete-owned homes for sale direct to the most qualified buyers in today's marketplace. The site features an easy to follow, uploading tool, very similar to the MLS uploading systems you are familiar with and once loaded, your property will be incorporated into the SSR National Listing System (NLS) and will be singled out amongst the competition when it comes to athletes moving into your marketplace.

The NLS was developed with the relocating athlete as the end-user, keeping in mind that athletes are many times forced into a sudden and harrowing relocation process due to a draft or trade. Many times the athlete is unfamiliar with preferred suburbs/communities and are at a loss as to where to begin their home search. The SSR NLS allows an athlete to enter something as simple as the name of the airport they will most likely wish to reside closest to, or the name of the stadium/training facility where they will practice/play -- the search results will bring forward homes within the direct vicinity of where the athlete is most likely to be spending his/her time. This eliminates the athlete searching through thousands of homes on a standard IDX feed-type search--homes that come no where near to meeting their ideal criteria.

As an agent, this tool offers you to bring to your sellers a dynamic service. By additionally advertising their home on the SSR NLS, you are exposing their home to buyers from the NBA,MLB,NFL,NHL and more. Buyers who are qualified and who need a home--now. The SSR NLS removes your listing from the "haystack" and puts that needle on a pedestal for all to see. The system will plot your listing on a Google based map, and will also plot the stadiums, airports and training centers closest to your listing, with distances to these points of interest clearly defined, making it easy for an athlete to see why your listing is a must see and a strong consideration as their next home purchase.

Turn the sound on your computer on and click on the link below to quickly see the SSR NLS in action!

http://screencast.com/t/IGcBc3yDJn

THEN POST YOUR LISTINGS ON THE SSR NLS FOR 60 DAYS FREE!

http://www.SportStarNLS.com

Provide your sellers with something your competition cannot--Your sellers will appreciate your outside-the-box thinking and aggressive marketing plan.

It's a no brainer for any agent with high end luxury homes located in markets with major sports teams. This was built by Realtors FOR Realtors and they want to help support home sales and keep them moving along by advertising athlete appropriate properties to some of the best buyers in the marketplace.

UNLIMITED listings FREE for 60 days!!

After 60 days it's only $99.00 to continue your unlimited membership for the year!

Our dedication to the confidentiality of our past clients prohibits SSR from openly publishing a Past Client list. If you would like to privately discuss SSR's past client list or obtain an SSR Client Referral document in order to verify the quality of our services and client satisfaction - please contact our corporate offices to obtain further information. Please be advised that a Confidentiality Agreement may need to be signed in advance of releasing requested information.

** Oh, and the JING thing--totally the COOLEST tool we learned to use this year. Intro version of it is free also.

We are currently using it to develop video tutorials that help guide sellers through filling out disclosure documents.

http://www.jingproject.com/

SportStar Relocation Announces Ground Breaking Listing Service for Real Estate Agents

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 19:29:27 -0600

Real Estate Professionals--I invite you to visit the launch of the ONLY National Listing System (NLS) designed to reach professional athletes as they relocate across the country due to sudden draft or trade. Advertise your listings to some of THE most qualified buyers in today's marketplace.

Advertise your property DIRECTLY to relocating athletes!

Target a specialized audience
Reach relocating athletes in your market
Advertise your listing on a national level
Put your listing in the spotlight
Provide a service to your sellers that your competitors cannot

SportStar Relocation has developed a REVOLUTIONARY way for you to target your luxury property listing directly to professional athletes and their families. We have engineered a strategic and specific "SportStar Relocation NLS" system, very much like the MLS systems you as an agent are familiar with today. You can list your home with SportStar Relocation and it will be incorporated into our EXCLUSIVE, nationwide database until you sell the home or cancel the listing. By incorporating your listing into our database, athletes and their families can search for properties that suit their specific needs, and your listing will be singled out.

Our "NLS" has added features that other sites don't offer to relocating athletes; by providing search parameters such as "infinity edge pool", "home theatre room", "sport court", "sound studio", "guarded community" and more, athletes are able to not only quickly select appropriate neighborhoods to relocate to, but also narrow their home search to exactly what they are looking for. Important key elements such as locations of stadiums and airports are prominently featured with each listing so that athletes can readily identify if a location is ideal for them. Our database is an invaluable tool for a family in needing to find a new home in an unfamiliar market quickly and efficiently; the same family with very little time to filter through various traditional IDX feed sources on the internet--homes in non-preferred areas and without the amenities they are seeking.

We also offer a "Showcase Properties" section which serves as a "featured listing" ad. "Showcase Properties" can be homes currently for sale by an athlete, or a home suitable for a relocating athlete. "Showcase Properties" are featured prominently throughout the site and offer a premium advantage for exposure.

Another advertising option is the "Athlete Owned Homes For Sale" map page, specifically designed to isolate and prominently feature homes currently owned by athletes that are for sale on the active market. Names and addresses of the athletes are kept confidential. It is common practice for athletes leaving a market to purchase a home of listed by an athlete in their new market. Professional athlete families trust that the previous athlete sought out the same elements that are important to them, such as proximity to the airport and practice facility, proximity to excellent schools, guarded & gated communities, etc.

The "Homes for Athletes" page, features an interactive map of the United States, with major markets identified by the distinctive SportStar Relocation logo. Visitors can easily locate their new market and instantly view homes listed for sale by fellow athletes. Should visitors wish to customize their home search, they are re-directed to the SSR MLS and are then able to select specific search criteria in order to browse other listings which may not be owned by athletes, but that do have significant athlete appeal. Visitors are able to quickly identify the top homes of their choice. Once identified, the SSR Local Area Representative will be contacted to arrange for previews of these homes and will work to bring you an offer on your listing.

We are offering introductory pricing this month only!
Get 30 days FREE advertising with a 60 day committment--that's 60 days for the price of 30 days!

The SportStar NLS goes LIVE on Friday, Feb. 6, 2009. http://www.SportStarRelocation.com

BE THERE.

Our team is growing! Great opportunities for seasoned agents!!

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 15:51:13 -0600

IMMEDIATE RELEASE! Seeking seasoned agents (30-50 deals experience) for multiple positions available in both the regular real estate & auction divisions within our company.

Looking for mutliple Real Estate agents, currently licensed & with experience (at least 30-50 transactions closed), for different positions within my regular real estate division operating under Shorewood Realtors ( http://www.ItzSold.com ) and/or my auction division (http://Premiere Estates Auction Company), both based in Manhattan Beach, CA. Interested parties should contact me via email and should provide a current resume, including transaction history. EK@ itzsold.com or fax to 310-798-8883.

Green Houses

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 14:26:51 -0600

I have been presented with a wonderful opportunity to market a multi-family "green" project--the first of it's kind in our area. Of course there have been a few single family spec homes and individual custom homes that have gone up recently, but this is the first luxury townhouse development to be constructed from the ground up in our particular market. The builders have partnered with Build It Green and have applied for the GreenPoint Rated process. It's going to be a fabulous project!

I was wondering if those of you out there as agents, buyers, and homeowners would help out by participating in an important survey I am conducting so that I can better serve not just the builder as a client, but future sellers and buyers as well. I really believe green building is the wave of the future and to serve all the interests of my clients successfully, your input would be greatly appreciated. Agents, any input you have outside of the survey with regards to how YOU may have been successfull with your marketing campaign of a similar project in yuor market--I would love to hear it!

I am offering the chance to win a $30 iTunes gift card to those who participate in the survey,s o be sure to at least include your email address so I can get ahold of you if yours is the name I draw when all the responses are in. The survey results will remain private and will not be shared with any outside sources.

Take the Green House survey now

Too good of an opportunity to ignore it

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 13:37:40 -0600

I am extending an invitation to you. . .

I wanted to invite my local realtor and buyer community to visit the first public open house of this incredible new listing at 1184 2nd Street, Manhattan Beach, CA, today, Sunday, Jan. 11, 1-4 p.m. This home was built in 2005 but has been cared for LIKE NEW by it's original owners. It has a fabulous floorplan and many custom features throughout. I hope that you will visit this property and then compare it against the competition--you will easily see that at $1,669,000 this home offers an amazing value to whomever it lucky enough to become it's new owner. I don't often reserve a single posting for a listing, but when a great deal comes along, I want to make sure the world knows about it!

White Elephants in Real Estate

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 15:49:53 -0600

So, this was a fun interview with The Today Show, where they explored "White Elephants" in today's Real Estate market. Given the amount of work I do with pro athletes and luxury estate homes, I definately see this on a daily basis--as I just built one myself--some of the images in this segment are of the house I just built in Manhattan Beach. Though it would be considered a white elephant by most standards, I truly love it and have set my 2009 goals to ensure that I can properly "feed" it!

click to watch Today Show "White Elephant" segment

Koreatown Auction

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 16:54:24 -0600

We just started marketing a beautiful condo project in Koreatown, Los Angeles, California. Stay tuned for the exciting details and opportunity.

As the President of Premiere Estates Auction Company (PEAC), I'm excited to announce another opportunity to purchase brand new construction at the Oxford Plaza Builder Closeout Auction! For those of you who missed out at the Maplewood Villa Auction back in October, here's your second chance to own or invest in a Koreatown (Los Angeles) condo for a fraction of its original listing price.

Located at 332 Oxford Avenue (Western and 3rd) in the heart of Koreatown; the Oxford Plaza is walking distance to Korean markets, restaurants and businesses. Sixteen (16) units will be auctioned in the on February 7th at the Oxford Palace Hotel at 12:00pm. Co-listed with agent, Sun Choi of A-Ju Realty, the suggested opening bids on the remaining units (a 22 unit development) average a reduction above 30% the original listing price. Visit www.PremiereEstates.com for individual unit information, bidder & broker registration forms, terms & conditions, disclosures and more.

For those of you who plan to attend, here's a rundown of what you'll need to do before auction day:

1. Participating brokers/agents: Register your buyers for full compensation.
2. Buyers: Do your due diligence. Remember there are NO CONTINGENCIES when buying at auction.
    a. Submit a Bidder Registration Form to PEAC.
    b. Complete all inspections.
    c. Review all documents: terms & conditions, disclosures, etc.
    d. Be sure you're qualified to bid up to your maximum price. Prequalification isn't required, but highly recommended.
    e. Calculate the Buyer's Premium into your maximum bid amount.
    f. Bring all required documents to the auction (Cashier's check, personal check, prequalification documents and ID).
3. Remember - At PEAC auctions you get a new title policy, all debts on the property are paid and all taxes are prorated. It is no different than buying in a normal transaction.

Stay tuned for information on additional auction opportunities!

Beach Cities Real Estate Symposium Comes to Manhattan Beach in Jan. 09

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 18:53:23 -0600

I was recently invited as a guest speaker at the first Beach Cities Real Estate Symposium which will launch on January 21st at 6:30 p.m. at the Manhattan Beach public library. I'm very excited to be a part of this event. The purpose of the symposium is to bring industry leaders to a public forum to discuss how to make the most of a troubled market in 2009. I will be joining Audrey Stansbury of Edward Jones, Scott Cohen of Senior Advisory Services, Ron Goodlin of Platinum Capital, and Gary Poltasah of Property Tax Advisors as we come together to provide an opportunity for community members to interact with local industry professionals, touching on topics of concern and interest in subjects relating to the 2009 real estate and financial markets. In this ever-changing economy, we hope to provide invaluable resources that will give you the advantages you need to make the most of your money in the years ahead.

Topics of discussion will include:

Real Esate in '09--How to maximize sales value in a declining market

Lender Forecast for '09--Which way are rates really going?

Property Tax--5 tips on how to lower your property tax

Investment Perspective--Why long term investing still works

Senior Living--How to tap into your equity without paying Uncle Sam

Please visit the website to learn more about this event as well as future dates. I hope to be invited back after this first seminar in January as I am honored to have been called upon to offer my expertise in managing Real Estate holdings throughout 2009. I believe it is one of the best ways I can give back to my community. The website is http://www.BeachCitiesRES.com.

By going to the site now, you can pre-register for the symposium and receive a FREE entry code--a $25 value! You can also call 310-525-7438 or email: BeachCitiesRES@gmail.com for more information.

Hope to see you there!

Websites--Step outside the template.

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:16:42 -0600

Another post from our in-house Marketing Director, Deanna Whipp. . .

I'm in the middle of a web design project that is huge. It's costly. It's time consuming, but for what we are going to accomplish it's worth everything we're putting into it. Will post on it when it goes live, but that's another matter. Just read a great article on the beauty of the most basic of websites.

http://www.37signals.com/svn/posts/1407-why-the-drudge-report-is-one-of-the-best-designed-sites-on-the-web

I've read, discussed,followed blogs and attended classes that all seek to reveal the secret to the perfect real estate website. I've seen real beauties. I've drooled over costly designs I've run across in our peer group. I'm still yet to be convinced there is a perfect formula for a site that does it all. If there was such a thing, wouldn't we all have one? Then wouldn't most Real Estate agent's sites pretty much be the same? Then, what would the point be for a consumer to look around much?

What I'm getting at is that I adore that Real Estate agents' sites are so different. Like each agent, the personality of the site really gives insight to who the agent might be. Each site is a tool to define the individual, thus allowing the consumer to shop around and match their own personalities to that of an agent who may work for them. It's like a pre-interview. That's what I have taken away from all that I have been reading and following.

That's why it is so important when building your site to make sure that you are giving the consumer what they expect to find, as well as what you believe it is important for an agent to provide a client. Yes, school info should be there, but what about the other stuff that a brand new member of the community would rely on you to provide? What about simple links to local happenings? A cool local blog? Where to find the lowest gas prices in town, where to conveniently track local news and entertainment? This kind of content, no matter if flashy or a simple link, is stuff that will prompt buyers and sellers alike to bookmark your site. Being connected to you means much more than finding a home. Relationships have changed. You stay in contact with friends and family via the internet now, don't you? Facebook? Twitter? Why shouldyour website be any different?

So, be creative, introduce your internet consumers not only to who you are, but what you are about and what you know about the community; not just why you are a great agent (which you are and they will find that out once they start working with you), but why you are a great person to know.

A Real Estate site as simple, yet complex as the Drudge site? Sure, why not? As long as the consumer is relying on your site to provide new information, reliable sources, and content richer than a template, you are certain to gain repeat visitors.

In the face of devastation I am proud of my Realtor community

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 23:19:59 -0600

You know, truthfully, we've all shouldered the varying, somtimes harsh and at others supportive, public opinions of Real Estate agents. Our ethics get questioned. Our motives. Our basis for making a living. I read many public blogs and sometimes it does get hard to turn the other cheek to the occasional very angry and targeted comments about the "worthlessness of agents" and "what do they ever do except help you through an easy transaction then collect their check and you never hear from them again?" etc.etc.etc.

I'm inspired this week by what's left in the wake of these awful fires. I see my fellow agents, who themselves may be struggling in the adversity of this market, giving of themselves freely and without a second thought to help, in any way they can, the victims of these fires. Emails went out almost immediately from other agents and brokers asking for donations, for volunteer work, & for relocation support. Many colleagues, without question, opened their hearts, their schedules, their wallets, their homes, even, to victims without a thought. Realtors are right there to help re-build lives, re-build communities and re-build hope. Everyday, I am proud to be a Realtor, but today I am even moreso.

though, thankfully, my community was one not directly impacted by the fires, I want to thank every agent out there, whether I know you or not, for stepping up and being there, once again, when your community needs you most. Not only is the show of humanity an eloquent gesture in this tough world, but to show what it is we do, that our job never is done, THAT is what we are made of and I am proud to be a part of such a great network of outstanding people.

If you haven't already and you wish to help out, please contact your local Red Cross to find out how you can support the fire victims in California.

I love the simple things. . .

Ed Kaminsky (Shorewood Realtors) — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 21:25:39 -0600

My marketing manager pointed out to me today that we can log on to Homes.com, click on a listing, then at the top of the listing there is a link icon. Click on that, and you can create instant links to your listings that take you right to the logon page of your favorite social marketing site, such as Twitter, FaceBook, LinkedIn and many,many more. Because it is so easy to do, I am encouraged to make quick tweets announcing my open houses, a new listing, a listing that has gone into escrow and more. Every day I learn something new, and sites like Homes.com that simplify my job while increasing exposure for my sellers properties is ingenious! What also is so cool about this quick, easy feature is that it is not specific to agents, the public also has access to the same link feature and now I want to focus on how to encourage the public to share links to their social sites right from Homes.com. Great way for people to share with friends and family what they are looking for or just give kudos to a great house, a great value, etc. Always thinking. . .