Josephine's Blog

Certified Distressed Property Expert

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 10:59:45 -0500

Hello Friends!

After years of doing short sales (even when they weren't popular), I realized that I wanted something more for my customers. I just recently acquired the designation of CDPE. This designation didn't necessarily teach me anything ABOUT short sales, but it sure shed some light on some of the processing errors that may hold the banks up.

The best bit of learning was about BPOs and REOs. I have moved my focus to Distressed properties, because now that I am more familiar with the process in general; I have already seen my contracts closing faster; more efficiently; and without the added stress of "holding things together".

Now that I hold this designation I am eager to meet others who have done this training. I would like to mind map; brain storm; mastermind; whatever you want to call it; with other Realtor professionals and those in the lending industry as new issues are popping up to make these contracts as bullet proof as we can make them.

As always, I am interested in your referrals and your comments! I hope you all have a wonderful week, and a successful month!

Josephine Carpenter, Realtor®, CDPE

www.abrevardagent.com

321-243-4519

Job Loss Protection Program for Homebuyers!

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 10:49:11 -0500

Home Buyers get job-loss protection

Printed in the Sun-Sentinal (South Florida Newspaper) by Paul Owers and modified by Josephine Carpenter for release.

Dated: Mar 27, 2009

Keller Williams Realty of Brevard (KW international) is joining a growing list of companies starting job-loss protection programs for customers

People who lose their jobs within two years of buying homes through Keller Williams may receive up to six months of mortgage payments. The program has been approved for borrowers with FHA, VA and USDA loans, and the real estate firm hopes to make it available for people who have conventional loans.

To be eligible, borrowers must qualify for unemployment benefits. This protection plan is offered only to home buyers that work with Keller Williams Agents. The Keller Williams Realty of Brevard office holds quarterly homebuyer seminars that lay out the full details of the plan; including involving lender professionals, title professionals, Real Estate Attorney, Inspection Company, surveyors, Appraisal Company, and a moving and storage consultant.

The Homebuyer seminars are intended for any homebuyer, even those who may think they are not eligible to purchase a home. The Education that a buyer can receive at one of these seminars is priceless; and it's Free!

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Keller Williams Realty of Brevard is the only Keller Williams Office independently owned in Brevard County FL; with over 65 agents and currently the 4th largest producing office in the county. KW international just released (February 2009) that it is the 3rd largest Real Estate Agency in the US; with over 72,000 agents, and over 600 offices nationwide. The agents, who are affiliated with Keller Williams Realty of Brevard, live throughout Brevard county, and spread as far North as Mims, and as far south as Malabar.

Tuesday Message

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 16:06:20 -0600

Hello Everyone! Happy Sunday!

I hope everyone has set their TIVOs and DVRs to Tuesday at noon. I am interested to see what the new President will have to say, and may have to stay home to catch it live. I was watching the Realty times videos, and for all intents and purposes; the message continues "We have to revel in the small changes". I'm sure many of you have done the same-it's what got us through 2008. I'm sure the blogging waves will be cresting on Tuesday, and I can't wait to hear everyone's thoughts.

Have a great week!

Josephine Carpenter

321-243-4519

www.abrevardagent.com

Melbourne Real Estate is Great

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Fri, 16 Jan 2009 20:19:24 -0600

Its great to have a little time to start blogging again! Happy New Year!

I had a great 2008 in Real Estate, but boy did I have to work for it; like I know many of you did too. I am amazed this year, particularly with the affiliates too! The end of this year, so many of my affiliates went out of business, or got laid off. It hasn't been easy. So, i'm trying to reimplement another referral network for myself.

I thought it was going to be difficult to find new folks to do business with. I am looking for great follow up and resources; its tough to find. I am so glad to have joined active rain; because I get a referral network right at my fingertips!

I have cracked into the REO business; sort of a normal progression after the year of a million short sales that I did! I had a great year with over 25 transactions! I averaged 2 closings per month; it was great for me. (with no assistant) And you have to figure my percentage of fall out, because of the whole "bank not getting back to you-buyer backs out" deal. Didn't that stink. REOs seem much less 'stressful', let's say.

Anyway, now that I've caught up; I'd love to hear from all of you out there; and how your business is changing in 2009! I'm loving my listings this year; you should check them out! www.abrevardagent.com or if you have a referral, want to meet to get on my referral network, or just want to network; Call me, 321-243-4519

Have a great January!

Josephine Carpenter, Realtor®

Melbourne Florida Real Estate Picking up!

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 08:10:03 -0500

Hi again everyone. Whew, its been a while since my last post. It seems that things have made a definite turn for the better. Families are still needing help, advice, and more; but it seems like with all the mortgage programs and new information out there: its getting a little easier. The investors have arrived!and they are taking full advantage of the great deals that are going on in Brevard County Florida! In fact, I wish I had some more money to invest, that is how great the deals are! There are several hundred homes under the 90K mark, and they are in decent condition. Personally, I have 3 or 4 at any given time right now. You should check out all the deals I have on my website: www.abrevardagent.com or if you just want to call me, I'd love to talk to you about what is available! 321-243-4519. Ok, so I am back in circulation! Talk to you soon!

Mortgage Crisis Relief Announcement

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 22:38:42 -0600

I thought all day about the announcement today from the President about the relief for the Mortgage Crisis. Then I started looking for the loyal bloggers; those folks who I can always count on for mental hopscotch and great opposing sides. Sadly, no-weigh ins...can't find them except in the newspapers and the AOL world. I can say that I was a little surprised.

Whatever your feelings are about the solution proposed today; and whatever your political affiliation, you've got to be scratching your head a little bit don't you? The temporary freeze takes us right up to the vote on January 29th.. for the next person to deal with.

The only opposing sides that I read were : "well, atleast its something" or "why postpone the inevitable"... nothing real meaty though. From a business perspective, it seems like for us as Realtors that it puts a definite freeze on our business as well. Just from a visual perspective it's like Mortgage Limbo, or pergatory as it may be for most. Seems like a tough place to be stuck, even if it is only for a couple of months.

I also wonder what it will do to the mortgage brokers; is this the nail in the coffin for most? Well, whatever happens, and whatever the consequences; buckle your seatbelts..its going to be a long year. As always, I love to hear your comments.

A shameless plug, pass the word on...lets try and get the same amount of people who vote each week for reality shows to get out and vote on January 29th, 2008. Tell all your friends...Bring a friend to the polls. YOU do make a difference. Again, I don't care how you vote for, just vote.

I may have a surplus of short sales that may have a sigh of relief for a minute, so if you have anyone that wants a great deal on property in Brevard County, FL please visit my website; www.abrevardagent.com or call me, Josephine Carpenter, 321-243-4519

Short Sales Available

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 20:02:31 -0600

My business has really been taking off with Short Sales; being able to help families in need has become somewhat of a focus for me now. The banks, although overloaded with many files, have really been responsive to me because of my thouroughness and completeness of my files. This has been a lot of trial and error, and listening to what the loss mitigators have been telling me.

If you want some really great deals in Brevard County Florida, please call me, Josephine Carpenter, 321-243-4519. I have homes that are at incredible prices for the investor and the first time homebuyer; or the person who wants to downsize. The banks have been working with me to get these homes closed quickly.

I have access to many of the short sales in Brevard County, in some really desirable neighborhoods with incredible ammenities, like waterfront and golf course communities. The deals I have now wont last long, so if you are looking to move to Brevard County, you need to call me! I can save you thousands!

If you have any questions about my listings or you want to get a better look, visit my website: www.abrevardagent.com. Or if you are an agent that does not want the burden of dealing with the bank, call me! I am willing to give you a referral fee and a fast close!

Josephine Carpenter, 321-243-4519

Open Houses a Waste?

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 19:54:39 -0600

I wanted to see if anyone felt the same way that I do about the articles that I have read about the ineffectiveness of Open Houses. Personally, I don't sit them regularly, but I have read in two articles in the last month that they have been called "the dying diamond" or basically a "waste of time".

My thoughts about this are similar to many of my collegues, that if you do all the right things: ie tour the neighborhood before hand, pass out flyers, make sure that you have some refreshments, and advertise (either through your neighboring real estate agencies, or otherwise); that your potential is greater for having visitors.

My thoughts are if you are going to do anything; do it big! Have an event, and make it beneficial for people to come to the open house. Many times co-marketing is the trick, to get into your vendor's databases as well. Lets face it, nothing happens easy; atleast nothing good.

Of the two articles I read: one was from a FAR (Florida Association of Realtors) email, and the other was from the October edition of Broker/Agent News; I don't know if I agree with either of them.

My listings, these days, consist of a lot of pre-foreclosures/short sales, in Brevard County FL. So, unfortunately, Open Houses are not the right thing for those types of sales (the houses, characteristically are not in the best shape for that type of situation) If you want to see any of my listings you can go to www.abrevardagent.com, and see them all. I've got some really great deals, but like I said, the investors; and the folks that would be interested in these types of properties are not looking in the open house sections.

Have you had more success at Open Houses? Or do you agree with the articles that they are becoming a lost leader? I wonder if it is geographically changing: I'm sure that the winter months are not the best for open houses. In California, where I am from, and in Florida where I now live, it is conducive for Open Houses all year long.

I'd love to hear your thoughts.

Call me or comment: Josephine Carpenter, 321-243-4519

Mindset over Real Estate

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 00:31:51 -0600

Real estate is challenging now, in every city and in every state. Some areas are harder hit than others. In Melbourne Florida, we are experiencing the aftershocks of a very lucrative, over priced market. A few things have kept my business going. I have become an expert with Short Sales, and have been very successful in my negotiations with the bank, and with buyers who have purchased some great deals from my clients. I have been a business owner most of my life, in one capacity or another. The most important part has been my mindset, and I thought I would share some of my thoughts.

There is nothing more important than customer service. If you are in the business of real estate, you are in the business of people. Regardless of the market, this never stops. You have to check your customer service level, and make sure you are delivering on your promises and achieving your milestones. The challenging market syndrome has a tendency to harbor complacency. Wake up every day with your list of to-do's and plan every week for your intended accomplishments. As a buyer or seller of a home, set your expectations of what you want your service professionals to do for you, understanding that they do not "make" the market, they can only inform you of that. Decide together how to deliver and react to negotiations.

When slow times appear this is the perfect time to educate yourself. If you are a Buyer or a Seller of a home; find out who is moving into and out of your neighborhood and why. Go and preview the competition that you have to your home, comparable size and age is most important; then check condition and composition. Agents slow times they should turn to education. This is the time that I took to learn about Short sales. I invested a lot of time and energy in learning about this trade, and how to make each transaction successful for all clients involved.

Lastly, check your attitude and energy. You are on your game when you are delivering what you can deliver, at 100%. If I had a dime for every nay-sayer, poor attitude, and negative Ned, that I have been dealing with-over the last month-I would be rich. This a difficult business; and right now it is difficult to sell a home. Short Sales are difficult. If you dont like to do them, give them to me! I love a challenge. I love people. And I want people to be successful. Be successful at something that you love to do.

My formula for success is easy: Customer Service (World Class, Red Carpet style!); Education; and Energy! Call me, or comment, I'd love to hear from you! Josephine Carpenter, 321-243-4519, or you can visit my website, www.abrevardagent.com to check out my services.

Brevard County Homes for Sale: Read All About It!!

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 18:32:15 -0500

Brevard County Homes for Sale have hit an all time high. Every street, it seems has one home for sale or rent. The newspaper articles blame it on the economy, taxes, and insurances. Of course we all know about all the negative aspects of the declining real estate market, we're living it too. Let the truth be known,(you can check it out yourself) that there is more inventory that there has ever been. I'm sure that is true in more areas than not. The world is full of enough drama, is ther a ray of sunshine?

Lets talk about all the advantages this poses for families that were unable to purchase homes 3 or 4 years ago. There is more housing downpayment money available than ever before; the prices of the homes are adjusting in a more reasonable range. You can get a 60 year mortgage now! Check out my properties search or visit: http://public.brevardmls.com/cgi-brv/ACT_ainv?3168091. You can also visit my website: www.abrevardagent.com

I spoke to our local newspaper, who is the main source of advertising in the community. They agreed that the newspapers, although getting most of their revenue from real estate professionals; have not been treating the real estate profession very well. As agents we need to contact the journalist who wrote these stories, and give them the positive side of the real estate news. The housing department is giving more grant money than I have ever seen. The opportunity for investors to get some great deals is better than ever.

The real estate professionals need to speak out and talk about some of the positive things that are happening in the marketplace. The news will be sure to cover all the bad stuff. Some of us are still doing enough business to be happy! Right?

Speaking to the Bank

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 12:44:18 -0500

Hi Everyone! I hope everyone had a great week.

I have been working with a huge number of banks and lenders this week. Some of the news I got was not so great for the families that I was working with. The lucky thing is that the lenders do not want to foreclose or start foreclosure proceedings. (especially with the current market) I've been told that the forclosure process costs the lenders 25% of the amount of the loan!

The banks and the lenders that I have been speaking to, have really come up with some options for families in need. We have a few more months of this cycle, I think, so I think everyone is realizing that they need to do something. I have had a great success in getting buyers and these really needy sellers together, and the families are able to move on with their lives.

When I lived in California and was investing there, this would have been a great opportunity for me. Now that I am not doing as much investing in property (I am at my quota!!), I see the opportunity for many people to join together to help each other out.

If you dont have the patience for short sales, or have consumers in need of my services, please call me. I will work out a referral for you. This is getting to be my specialty, and everyone is in a win-win situation.

If you know someone who is wanting to invest in residential, land, or commercial real estate, give them my name. I would love to have the opportunity of making someone great deals! Visit my website www.abrevardagent.com or call me, Josephine Carpenter at 321-243-4519. I have plenty of inventory and advice to go around! I look forward to talking with you!

The Next Age

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 18:26:12 -0500

I had a revelation that I wanted to share! I hope you all are doing well, and in fantastic spirits! In case you haven't checked your watch, the first wave of the Baby Boomers have arrived at 62! Yes, this December we will embark upon a new age of prospective "change makers". These are the years that we have been warned that the social security will be the hardest hit ( in 2008 ) since its inception.

What is that going to mean for the Real Estate Industry in your area? Without a crystal ball and a time machine, we'll all just have to sit and wait. However, if I had my druthers- I think we are going to have a little more of what we had in 2007, so my business plan is to stay true to my current path.

I choose to focus on the benefits of the current market. It has enabled me to meet people that I would not have ordinarily met. My business has really taken off. Its because I am looking ahead as to what the future might bring. I am educating myself to be ahead of the curve, and be able to help my clients achieve what their goals are. My greatest accomplishment this year, have been the experience that I have had in helping so many families out of difficult situations.

If you are, or know someone, who is currently in a difficult situation; or if they want to buy or sell property in Brevard County; or maybe just want to talk about their real estate goals- have them call me or visit my website. Even if you are a fellow Realtor®, I'd be happy to discuss how I can help you and your clients.

Its a pleasure to work for you and to be associated with you!
Josephine. (321) 243-4519

www.abrevardagent.com

Family Home Palm Bay:

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 09:45:31 -0500

Please bring your offers. Lease Option to buy or for just rent annual lease available. Lovely home with many upgrades! French doors, upgraded cabinets, corrian countertops, southwestern tile and screened back porch that looks at Linnbrook Park. Split floor plan with nice entry and great room. Many upgrades! if you are looking to buy this is your home and if you can afford $1400 a month in mortgage payment call me or your agent and say, I want this house. It shows and looks so much bigger on the inside! Lots of Room for a family to grow! 3/2, 1615 Sq ft.! Call Josephine Carpenter, 321-243-4519, or for more details about this home, visit my website, www.abrevardrealtor.com. This is a perfect starter, or relocation home! Close to everything!

Palm Bay 3/2 for only $220K!

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 09:36:49 -0500

The pictures don't do this property the justice it deserves! Reduced! Over 1700 sq ft! City Water! New Granite Kitchen, Stainless Steel Frigidaire Appliances side by side Refrigerator, Brand new Cherry Cabinets, Remodeled bathrooms with Corian Countertops with new cabinets, new matching tile, fresh new paint, new lighting fixtures, security system, wood burning fireplace, plant shelves and beautiful carpet hardly used. Many upgrades! BRING ALL OFFERS. VERY MOTIVATED MUST SELL! Check this property out! Visit my website www.abrevardrealtor.com or call me Josephine Carpenter, 321-243-4519 for more details!

Equestrian Estate under $499K!

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 20:03:59 -0500

PRICE REDUCED! Equestrian Country. Remodeled. Still needs TLC. New Roof. New kitchen. New appliances. Brick fireplace, large screened porch with hotub. Buy this house! If you need more land MLS 453585 & MLS 453581. Bring all offers. Seller wants out. VERY MOTIVATED.

Directions: Palm Bay Florida, South on Babcock Street to Grant Road; About 1 mile on West side of the street look for Josephine Carpenter sign: Call me for a showing! 321-243-4519, or if you want more details visit www.abrevardrealtor.com

Purchase Assistance Program

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 19:45:48 -0500

I hope everyone had a great Wednesday!

I am working with a lot of clients that are in need of buying assistance. I always knew about local programs and what was available for sales and rentals, but I didn't realize that the threshold had changed so much in the last year. I expect that it may change again in March 2008.

The Melbourne Housing Department has many programs funded by federal and state funds to improve the quality of life for Melbourne's low-income residents and low-income neighborhoods.

The programs range from housing assistance to code enforcement activities, demolitions, neighborhood public facility improvements, and funding assistance to a variety of social support agencies.

Low Income qualifications for a 1 person family is 32K: Family of 8 is 60K
Very-Low Income qualifications for a 1 person family is 20K: Family of 8 is 38K.

Purchase Assistance Program (PAP)
Funds are available to eligible very low- and low- income homebuyers for down payment and closing costs, and repair assistance in the purchase of existing homes located in the City of Melbourne. Funding is also available for down payment and closing costs in the construction of a new home. Maximum assistance for very low-income persons is $45,000; for low-income persons is $35,000. An additional $5,000 is available for code-related repairs, regardless of income level, when purchasing an existing home.

As the market is shifting, I hope we are all taking the time to "sharpen the saw" -Stephen Covey.. and learn about the avenues that your clients can recover from some bad times.

I'm sure some areas are worse than others, most of my clients just found themselves in the 'bad lending', 'bad advice' curve. I really feel good when I help someone and they can recover from bad situations. Call me if you have any questions, or leave a comment if you know of any that you have been using. Josephine Carpenter 321-243-4519, www.abrevardrealtor.com

Follow up to Buyers Market

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 09:59:22 -0500

When I got into the office today, I received this email from Keller Williams International about the market, and some of the comments that were on cNBC. I just found it really funny, it seems like I've been saying this all week; and low and behold, Gary Keller released an announcement!

Last week on the Today Show, during a segment on the national real estate market, CNBC's Jim Kramer uncompromisingly stated, "now is the absolute worst time to buy!"

Concerned that remarks such as these from so-called experts might be pushing potential buyers to the sidelines?

Here's what Gary Keller, co-founder and chairman of Keller Williams Realty has to say about waiting out the current market:

First, residential real estate is not a national market product - it is a local one. To say from a national position that this is either a good time or a bad time to buy real estate is like saying the national forecast for the U.S. today is 92 degrees - it is a useless and irrelevant perspective. What is happening in your local market is all that matters.

Second, trying to predict when it is a good time to buy, or not, means you're trying to time the market. Staying on the sidelines is the surest way for most people to never time anything correctly.

Last, and maybe most important - there are always two markets in every market. There is the market of properties that are good buys and there is the market of properties that are not a good buys. Interestingly enough, this is true in either buyer or seller markets. To categorically say that this is the time to buy or not is absolutely ignoring the fact that every market really has two markets inside it.

It goes right back to the format: the market is what the market is, and as professionals we need to be educating oursleves and doing the revenue producing, effective actions that make us successful. Don't quit! Don't get discouraged! and Stay focused on what you want to achieve. Regardless of the market, you make your success. Home Depot had a phrase a few years back within their managment team "If you're not making dust, You're eating dust!" Make some dust my friends, there is a lot out there for all of us. If you have any questions about the market in Brevard County, give me a call-Josephine Carpenter 321-243-4519, or visit www.abrevardrealtor.com and check out my services!

Buyers Market, or Buyers Marketplace?

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 20:46:39 -0500

In Brevard County, Florida there is a plethora of inventory that is available for all types of Buyers.

I come from California, where you can get a postage stamp size property for one of your limbs!

In Brevard County, I specailize in investment property for landowners and businesses. If you are searching for waterfront property or some great investments, grab your checkbook and take the next flight into Melbourne International Airport (What? we fly to Canada!).

There is more property available than ever before. Do you want your business on busy A1A? Have you always dreamed of owning a piece of beachfront property? The homes that people are dreaming of are available! Oh, and they wont cost you a limb.

I have noticed that the investor market is coming back for the great pricing and available inventory; in 2005, none of these properties ever made it to MLS!

Brevard County has so much to offer. The beautiful beaches; the proximity to Orlando and all the tourist attractions; the aerospace industry moguls are here; and its a great place to raise a family; sporting some of the best schools in the US! Why not take advantage of the "seller slump" and get some great deals! The condominium market is unlike no other. There are more condo' s for sale, than I've ever seen (I have my own on the market as well! visit www.ABrevardRealtor.com to view it!) Its making the collective bargaining chip in the buyers favor.

Don't you just love this business? All this change and new information to stay up on. If you have any questions about Brevard County, Florida Real Estate, please call me- Josephine Carpenter, 321-243-4519. I love to talk about the market and find new ways to get my clients what they want. Don't think this market is 'slumpy" its just "plumpy", with lots of opportunity and availabilty for everyone!

Technology Time Savings

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Sun, 30 Sep 2007 20:27:51 -0500

I find it really hard to fathom how most agents are getting their work done these days. I'm not a huge technology expert, but I am finding that some successful agents are not utilizing their technology wisely. I recently found out about 'blogging" and putting my listings free on multiple sites! The old ways of prospecting are still a great source of getting clients to share your vision is good, but realistically a more supported system of staying in touch is in order. I've been watching my expenses, and although Top Producer and Agent office are great products, they are relatively costly in this market. Some money savings things that I found, that I thoght I might share:

Use Outlook to stage your messages for the month.
Find free newsletter options on the web through co-marketing ideas (our warranty company provides one for us- First American Home Warranty
Use Mail Merge (in Word) to do letters, make templates, and mass emails or messages to save money
investigate bulk mailing options in your area and for your brokerage.

I do so much business in Short Sales and Investment properties, I would be lost without the tools that I have. I am investigating more ways to be more efficient in my business, with checklists and reminder systems. I'm positive that has what has made me successful. Please comment if you would like to share any of your time savings, and efficiency techniques. Another time savings technique has been leverage- and referrals. I am never to busy for any of your referrals that would like to do business in Brevard County, FL. I am working with clients all over the United States and Canada. If you would like to check out my services, please visit: www.Abrevardrealtor.com I would be happy to consult with you or your clients to get their jobs done! If you would like to call me directly, 321-243-4519, Josephine Carpenter.

Short Sale referrals..

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 12:39:07 -0500

If short sales are a bother to you.. do your self and your clients a favor.. send them to me. I will do all of the work and pay you 12% referral fee. I network with other realtors all over the USA they will be happy to work them for you and also pay you a 12% fee. Your referral will be treated with respect dignity and care. We know it is a very stressful time for your clients. My team and I are professionally trained. We can take care of this for you. Call me! email always works.. or drop the referral at my market center. See why we are the 3rd largest realestate company in Brevard County. If you like join our team. Tell Laura Hazlett I referred you.

Ethics for us Realtors.

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 01:30:13 -0500

As Professional Realtors we must recognize that we cannot interfere when a listing is already on the market. If we do, this violates the Code of Ethics. Realtors who are poorly trained, who lack the proper skills in general are now making calls and visitng short sale listed property owners and offering advise. Realtors, understand your job clearly. You are not an accountant or a tax adviser nor are you an attorney. If you resort to giving advise and interfere with the listing, and persuade the seller to change Realtors, you are in violation of the code of ethics. You can be called to task before a grievances committee and they determine what the penalty will be. Take note; Article 16-2 Code of Ethics Article 16-4 Realtors shall not solicit a listing which is currently listed exclusively with another broker. However, if the listing broker refuses when asked to disclose the expiration date and nature of such listing i.e. an exclusive right to sell or exclusive agency, the other Realtor may contact the owner to secure such information and may discuss the terms upon which the Realtor might take a future listing or alternatively, may take a listing to become effective upon expiration of exclusive listing. Play fair, there is so much out there don't risk it - Your reputation depends on it!

Closing Gifts and Co Marketing Ideas

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 22:21:41 -0500

As I review my business budget I am remembering the training that I received at Keller Williams Realty, in Brevard County Florida. I am starting to brainstorm on the ways that I can get some marketing dollars and closing gifts to help my clients.

Some ideas for those of you looking for the same types of things to put in a closing packet.

My local cable company gave our office $100 off coupons for new service hook ups when they present the coupon at the time of purchase.
POD (you know, portable on demand storage) offered to put a "display pod" at an open house, and they raffled off a free POD (like $100 value) move to anyone who wrote a contract that day.
A local Blind (verticals and window coverings) company gave our office a $100 coupon (off of a $1000 order).
A local landscaper offered discounts or a "free mow" for a yearly contract.

There are alot of other professionals out there, that I forget about, that are just as eager as I am to gain clients. Its nice when we can get business together by offering these gifts. These are just some thoughts that I wanted to share with, if you have any more ideas that you'd like to share~I'd love to hear them. Thanks!

Short Sales

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 21:23:22 -0500

Short sales are the latest oxy-moron! There is nothing short about them. As Real Estate professionals it is important that we stay informed on how to help our clients succeed in this difficult time. I have been studying the most efficient ways to perform short sales, and the trick is to keep asking questions and not take no for an answer. The most difficult transaction has got to be a short sale, in a balancing market like Brevard County Florida. I have been doing many short sales in every type of neighborhood, for families in every income bracket. The investors have even fallen short of their financial planning mark, and are not buying as quickly as in years past, so they are also involved in bank negotiations. If you have any questions or would like to tell your friends about my service, I will reward you! My name is Josephine Carpenter, I am with Keller Williams Realty of Brevard, the 3 largest brokerage in Brevard County Florida. You can reach me by calling 321-243-4519, or visiting my website at http://jocrealestate.com/

Comments on the Home Interest Rates

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:50:05 -0500

Today's Announcement (9.18.07) about the decrease in the interest rates is huge to the real estate industry. This is helpful to most buyers that are in the debt ratio too high/moderate income level, who were getting turned down for loans. With the adjustment of the housing prices in the latter part of 2006, and most of 2007; and this announcement today; Homeownership is possible again for the "middle" income Americans. It could also mean relief for those who fell victim to predatory lending, or high refinancing rates- and those that are in danger of Foreclosure. Many options are available for each of these situations- As a Realtor® in Brevard County, I am available to consult with you to help you with your questions.

This interest rate adjustment is helpful; but, as Floridians, we need to also lobby for the correction in the Home Insurance rates. Call me for more information on this, I have found some very easy ways to reduce your home insurance-and it works everytime. (no catches, no sign up fees, no nothing: just some good advice) Call me today to set up a consultation. (321-243-4519)

Watch for the messages in-between the lines in this announcement. This puts America in a "recession". A little history lesson, "recession" means other prices may go up on other things. (ie; Gas, Milk, fruit: things that affect the farming and transportation industries) Keep writing your State and Local Representatives, and make a difference! Your voice does make a difference!

If you have any questions about what this means to you and your real estate plans in Brevard County, Florida, please call me. I would be happy to consult with you to help you achieve your goals. I am a short sale specialist. I have helped homeowners, investors, and commercial business owners achieve their goals through my successful marketing and diligence to achieve success. Call me today, Josephine Carpenter, 321-243-4519, or visit my website http://www.abrevardrealtor.com to find out more about my services.

Wealth Building Strategies

Josephine Carpenter, P.A. (Keller Williams Realty of Brevard) — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 20:44:47 -0500

Want a fun, interactive way to get a hold and plan for your financial future? The federal government has this great resource to help you teach your families about building wealth, and staying financially healthy. This is a free website! Nothing to sign up for, just great information.

This site is a personal finance education resource for schools, nonprofit community organizations, financial services providers and consumers to help young people, adult consumers, families and others develop a plan for building personal wealth. Presents an overview of personal wealth-building strategies that includes setting financial goals, budgeting, saving and investing, managing debt, and understanding credit reports and credit scores.

visit http://www.dallasfed.org/ca/wealth/index.cfm

Once you are done learning about your financial picture, call me to set up a no-obligation consultation to discuss your real estate investment opportunities. You can call me directly, 321-243-4519, or you can visit my website at www.abrevardrealtor.com Your consultation will be strictly confidential. I am a short sale specialist, I have a team of affiliates to help homeowner or potential homewoners in any situation. Call Josephine Carpenter for your connection to Brevard County Florida.