Joslyn's Central Minnesota Real Estate Blog

Big Update - Want to Endorse Active Rain in the Shine A Light Contest?

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 20:18:43 -0500

PLEASE support AR - they deserve our nominations!

Via Judy Jennings - Realtor® Serving Plymouth & Barnstable Counties (Cedrone and MacDonald Real Estate):

BIG UPDATE

to

"Want to Turn Your 1000 Active Rain Points into $3,000?"

I had an email conversation with Bob Stewart and as a result, I have nominated Active Rain for the Shine A Light Contest! At first I did not believe that they would qualify, but Bob has assured me that they do! For all that Active Rain has done for us, perhaps we can help them earn some marketing dollars and a little extra exposure as a token of our appreciation.

If you do not know what I am talking about, click on the link Want to Turn Your 1,000 Active Rain Points into $3,000? We should at least qualify providing we have at least 50 members endorse the nomination. With over 158,000 members, we should be able to scrape up a minimum of 50 members. So, please click on the widget below at "endorse this story now."

Check out the prizes:

The businesses featured in the three (3) Finalists will each receive a $10,000 grant.

The business featured in one (1) Winner, chosen from among the three (3) Finalists, will receive $50,000 grant and $50,000 worth of marketing support.

The submitters of the three (3) Finalists will each receive an American Express Gift Card valued at $3,000.

I hope you will endorse
Active Rain

It would be great if Active Rain wins!

Meanwhile, I hope you are all still nominating your favorite business.

Let's show Amex & NBC Universal what a talented group of professionals belong to this community.

Good Luck Active Rain!

This is an ideal time to start your search and realize your dream of purchasing a home in Bourne, Duxbury, Kingston, Lakeville, Middleboro, Pembroke, Plymouth, Pinehills, Wareham or Cape Cod - call me 508-947-2295, ext 210. I can help you find the property that best suits your individual needs.

For a list of properties for sale in Plymouth or Barnstable counties, please visit my website FocusedonRealEstate.com or contact me directly Judy Jennings - Realtor® Serving Plymouth & Barnstable Counties for a free consultation.

You can also click on the link below and sign up to receive property listings in Massachusetts immediately.

Moose Lake Property, Hobby Farm 5-30 Acres.

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 22:47:08 -0500

Joslyn Panka | Northern Lights Realty | 612-850-3153

5584 Ranch Road, Moose Lake, MN

Move right in. 3 bedroom home on 5 acres in great condition. Seller has moved, very motivated. Come see today!

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $149,900

Year Built	2006
Sq Footage	1,176
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	5 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

5 acres with a house that is less than 4 years old! Stick built home was built with love and care in 2006. One level, spacious living area, and large garage for your stuff. Play in your yard and enjoy life in a beautiful quality home.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

• Central heat	• Walk-in closet	• Hardwood floor
• Tile floor	• Living room	• Dining room
• Dishwasher	• Refrigerator	• Stove/Oven
• Microwave	• Washer	• Dryer
• Laundry area - inside	• Balcony, Deck, or Patio	• Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

• Garage parking	• Covered parking	• Guest parking
• Laundry on-site

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

• Additional land available - up to 35 acres total.

• Land currently used for crops - great farming

• Located between Moose Lake and Sturgeon Lake

• In floor heat is set up, all that is needed is the boiler

• One level living

• Dead end road

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front view	Living Room
Kitchen	Double sinks
Living room	House and yard

Contact info:

Joslyn Panka

Northern Lights Realty

612-850-3153

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 27, 2009, 1:43pm PDT

$54,900 - 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on 6.06 acres north of Ogilvie

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:29:46 -0500

Joslyn Panka | Northern Lights Realty | 612-850-3153

1282 320th Avenue, Mora, MN

3 bedroom home with large pole barn on 6 acres practically made for hunting. Some low land and some high land, tons of deer, and state land down the

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $54,900

Year Built	2003
Sq Footage	1,154
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	4+ Car garage
Lot Size	6.06 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Great property about 13 miles north of Ogilvie just off Highway 47. 6.06 acres, some wooded and some open, close to state land. Great hunting opportunities right in your own yard! 3 bedroom home, walk through master bath, large open layout, spacious living room.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

• Central A/C	• Central heat	• High/Vaulted ceiling
• Walk-in closet	• Living room	• Dining room
• Dishwasher	• Refrigerator	• Stove/Oven
• Microwave	• Washer	• Dryer
• Laundry area - inside	• Balcony, Deck, or Patio	• Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

• Garage parking

• Covered parking

• Laundry on-site

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

• Great hunting

• Make your own syrup - great sap collection

• Trails for 4-wheeling

• Near state land

• Close to lakes, including Mille Lacs

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front view	Pole barn
Kitchen	Bedroom
Living room	Master bedroom

Contact info:

Joslyn Panka

Northern Lights Realty

612-850-3153

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 27, 2009, 12:08pm PDT

$44,900 - 2.02 acres, 4 bedroom 3 bath home just south of Mora

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 15:02:39 -0500

Joslyn Panka | Northern Lights Realty | joslyn@joslynsells.com | 612-850-3153

1302 Highway 65, Mora, MN

Affordable living! This home located on Highway 65 between Mora and Cambridge just needs a little love. Use as an investment property, or call it ho

4BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $44,900

Year Built	1996
Sq Footage	2,052
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	2.02 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Large home located on just over 2 acres will make your life as a commuter easy and quick! Home has a master bath, full bath, and a half bath by the back entry/laundry area. Large open kitchen, a dining room and a breakfast nook which could be used as an office or just extra space. Large living room to relax in. Bedrooms are large and spacious as well. 2 car garage, yard to play in, and mature trees. Call it home!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

• Central A/C	• Central heat	• High/Vaulted ceiling
• Walk-in closet	• Hardwood floor	• Living room
• Dining room	• Breakfast nook	• Dishwasher
• Stove/Oven	• Laundry area - inside	• Balcony, Deck, or Patio
• Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

• Garage parking

• Covered parking

• Laundry on-site

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

• Manufactured home

• Private well and septic

• Master bathroom

• Fire pit

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Home from the front	Garage
Living room/nook	Master bedroom
Kitchen	Dining/living room

Contact info:

Joslyn Panka

Northern Lights Realty

joslyn@joslynsells.com

612-850-3153

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 27, 2009, 11:32am PDT

Affordable Homes in Mora and Surrounding Areas!

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 03:30:34 -0500

Did you know that there are 259 homes priced at $100,000 or less in the area I work in right now? That's incredible!

If you visit www.servingkanabeccounty.com today, you can do a search for just what you are looking for! There are so many options - big homes, small homes, acreage, in town... find that perfect house and have affordable payments!

Plus, now is a great time to buy. Take advantage of the first time homebuyer $8,000 tax credit. You can move in and buy new appliances, flooring, or do the updates you really want to make your new house yours!

So log on today and search Mille Lacs, Kanabec, Isanti, and Pine counties for your perfect home. You can quickly and easily sign up for automatic listing alerts, so you know right away when a new listing comes on the market, and have that competitive edge you need for some of the best priced properties on the market.

If you have any questions about purchasing a home, feel free to call me at 612-850-3153, or e-mail me anytime at Joslyn@JoslynSells.com.

Start your search now on my website, and I hope to hear from you soon!

Investors! We Need YOU In Mora, Minnesota!

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 02:51:59 -0500

I have a cute little house in Mora. It's just under 1,600 square feet, has a 2 car garage, and it's on a corner lot in town. It needs updated electric, and a little work, but mostly love.

No lie, I have at least one person a day call me and tell me that they want to love this house. They want to live in it, and they'll take such good care of it.

Can it please be sold on a contract for deed or rent to own?

Every time I say no, I feel like crying. People are losing houses left and right, and it's not always their fault. Financing is becoming harder to obtain, and banks are choosier than Jif moms.

So I'm looking for a knight on a noble steed to come barging into my real estate office and say "I will make everything better!"

Okay, I know it's not possible to purchase enough houses to place everyone in a home, nor is everyone prepared to buy a home, even on a C/D. But I can dream, right?

I don't envy those desperately looking for somewhere to live. Hoping and praying that one of the houses on the market - any affordable one, really - is willing to sell on a contract for deed. Rental prices are climbing, and the competition is fierce. We have a ton of homes on the market, a ton of people that are homeless, and no way to put them together!

So if you're an investor, or thinking about investing, I encourage you to take a look at the Mora area. We've got tons of great properties cheap, and I'm more than happy to spend time with you showing you values, sold comparables, and help you determine what needs to be done to make some of these houses into a home for someone and an income for you!

photo courtesy of Evans.M on flickr.com

Growth Leader Leads Are A Bit Of A Tease...

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 12:54:59 -0500

I find myself, a week ago, sitting in the office. I've secured an afternoon with grandma and grandpa for the most adorable little dude in the world (you can debate with me, but I will still insist he's the cutest). I've managed to clean off my desk and organize the conference room. I've got a clipped stack of forms, including agency, representation, and a purchase agreement waiting to be filled out. I'm sitting in my office chair, advertising my new listing all over the internet, and I regularly glance at the clock.

12:54...

12:56...

12:57...

12:57... still

12:58... two minutes...

1:00.

Okay, so the buyers that signed up on my Growth Leader website, www.servingkanabeccounty.com, aren't here yet. They're just running a little late.

1:05.

1:10.

1:15.

Okay, I think this is the point where all of you real estate professionals will agree with me, 15 minutes is the point where you begin to get a little frustrated. I began working on other things.

Pretty soon it was 2:00, and I can no longer attempt to convince myself that they are on their way and just running a little late.

This is the second time I've set up showings for buyers from Growth Leader, and it's the second time I've been blown off. So what gives?

Are they just browsing, and not really serious?

Is it financing related? Do I or Growth Leader need to better screen leads? If we were to do that, how would we implement it without chasing buyers off?

I do know that I'm glad this is a free trial, because honestly, if I were paying for these leads, I wouldn't be very happy at this point.

Tuesday brings a new couple of buyers for me. We're meeting at my office at 1:00, and I will be explaining anything and everything about real estate to them. They are first time homebuyers, and are very excited and nervous and scared. I really hope it works out, because first time homebuyers are my absolute FAVORITE buyers. They are so much fun, and it's a great opportunity to show them the value of Realtors. By shaping this first experience, they will develop opinions and place value, and that is something every Realtor should be focusing on right now, for the future of real estate.

Some Topics Covered In Vision 301 - (Growth Leader Training)

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 18:34:23 -0600

Look what I can do!

I can post a great Craigslist ad, leading right to my Market Leader site:

Amazing opportunity! 17 acre hobby farm located close to I-35 for easy commuting. Bring your horses and live the country life! Riding arena within riding distance. Fantastic, peaceful area. You'll love your new life here!

Full Details
http://servingkanabeccounty.com/listing/mlsid/152/propertyid/3624208/

I can post buttons everywhere!

I'm told I can import and export all my contacts, but I haven't tried that yet.

There is also a super awesome widget where you select the bedrooms/bathrooms/price range and click go, and it opens you up to search results directly on my website. Unfortunately, this will not work on ActiveRain, Blogger, or my free websites. Especially since I'm doing a free trial and blogging on ActiveRain about this program, this feature should be fixed. I was so excited about it, and then to find out it doesn't work on ActiveRain? It nearly makes it pointless to me. I'm trying to find something - ANYTHING - I can add it to.

We discussed marketing our website anywhere and everywhere possible. I'm afraid to put it "everywhere" yet, because I'm not 100% sold. (I have to admit, I was more sold on it before I found out that they had a widget that doesn't work on AR.)

So what has my Growth Leader site done for me lately?

Well, we're up to 25 prospects. I'm not entirely sure where they have come from, though. The "referrer" statistics section only gives me 4 referrals, from Google and Craigslist. So where on Earth did the other 21 come from?

So, I'll keep plugging away, testing this out for all of you to see, and there is more training to come!

Welcome To Growth Leader, Joslyn Panka! (And Joslyn's Readers!)

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 21:32:19 -0600

I was totally pumped to get home today and whiz through bottle washing, a listing appointment, an episode of Law and Order SVU and some serious Sociology homework because I got the e-mail today saying "Welcome to Growth Leader"!

For those of you who haven't heard, Growth Leader by Market Leader is a new product, currently being tested on agents throughout the country. I am one of those agents. (In my own famous words, "because I'm cool like that.")

So as I'm exploring after midnight on a Tuesday night (which is going to require the use of a morning Amp Energy Drink, because I'm due to supervise a propane tank set up on one of my pending listings in approximately 7.5 hours...), I wanted to share with you what I see as I begin to play with my new Growth Leader website.

First of all, I had to head to my new website. I was kind of disappointed by the fact that my welcome e-mail did not include a direct link. I scrolled down my page, but stopped to admire the featured listing (which is one of mine, of course!) and the IDX setup. I'm anxious to try that out. I will admit, I currently do not have IDX on my website. I am SO picky about the search functions and layout, and cannot find what I want. I know what I loved when I was looking at houses, and I haven't found anything that quite fits yet. I'm hoping I'm not let down!

I login, and immediately am greeted by a Vision Administration screen. For those of you who haven't heard, Vision is the contact management software built in to my Growth Leader website. It is quite elaborate, and I'm dying to get a lead that I can do something with!

From there I went to Admin Tools, and began to play with my profile settings. The first thing I did was add areas of service. At sign up, I was posted in Mora, but I continued to add other towns. It is recommended that you add no more than 10. As of right now, I added a fair amount more than that. I will see how things work, and possibly narrow it down. Right now my fear is that being in the rural area that I am, limiting myself that much may turn out to harm me rather than help me.

There's an awesome chart for tracking prospects. I can't wait to see how that fills in once I get a lead or two!

My favorite part, though, is the Craigslist posting. However, mine didn't work. When I click the "open" button to post, I get a blank page. I'm hoping this is a bug that is fixed, soon. I'm anxious to see what the CL ads look like. They are automatically optimized for searches, which is amazing. Those little things that make my life just a bit easier are a huge help, and greatly appreciated. I love the counter for each property, which you reset by clicking the "posted" button. It then starts at zero and tracks how long your posting has been up for you until you click the button again. What a great way to help keep me organized. I'm constantly digging around in my CL account, looking at when I posted and if I should repost or not yet.

There are more awesome features that I'm excited to explore, like the marketing report for a home seller and even the Instant Messaging feature, which uses the top messenger programs. I will keep you posted on what happens, and the things I learn!

My 2009 Business Plan ROCKS. Well, It Will.

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 21:19:10 -0600

Where on Earth did 2008 go? All of a sudden it was December 23rd, and I realized Christmas was in two days and I didn't have a single decoration up. I even managed to celebrate Christmas without a tree. Trust me, it was missing something.

Then I blinked, my kid was crawling and insisting on feeding himself the baby food, and New Year's is over.

2009 is here, and I haven't done my business plan.

2008 my business plan wasn't too intense. I anticipated changes in brokerage. I anticipated shifting from nearly exclusively buyers to listing REO properties. The biggest change? I antipated doing everything with a baby attached to my hip from July on.

Boy, was I ever right.

Now tonight I'm posting a FANTASTIC REO listing, baby is in bed, and I've decided I need to write up my business plan. What to include?

Get one "hogger" this year.
More FSBO marketing.
Completing a few short sales to help people in foreclosure.
Clean my home desk, and mess up my office desk a little more.
IDX on my website... PRONTO!
More focus on marketing ME!

So here's to 2009. If you don't have your business plan done yet, you should. And if you do, congratulations. I'm guessing you don't have a five month old at your house! ;-)

Little Dude, talking on his Motorola Bluetooth Headset at Northern Lights Realty. Little Dude and I are more than happy to help you buy and sell real estate in the Mora, Minnesota area!

Just Sold! 40 Acres, 3,000 Square Feet, 5 Bedrooms - $186,500!

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Fri, 02 Jan 2009 20:59:28 -0600

3132 310th Avenue
Brook Park, MN 55007
Great buy! 40 acres, 2000 rambler, 5 br 3 baths!

Joslyn Panka

Office:	320-225-2600
Mobile:	612-850-3153
Website:	Visit Website

Price	:	$180,500
Bedrooms	:	5
Bathrooms	:	3
Square Foot	:	3,000
Lot Size	:	40
County	:	Kanabec
Property Type	:	Detached
Year Built	:	2000
MLS Number	:	3631759

click for more pictures

Property Description

This gorgeous home could be yours! Venture between Hinckley and Mora for this great listing. Rambler built with care in 2000 with a full basement and a total of 3,000 square feet. 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms including a large master. Storage and utility, main floor washer area. Large open living room/kitchen, and a great deck to watch the deer. Deer sightings are quite regular on this property. 3 car detached garage with workbench. Great views, quiet area.

Features List

5 bedrooms	3 bathrooms	Large master bath
40 acres	3 car garage	Detached garage
Gravel road	Near farms	Hinckley Schools
Close to I-35	Dishwasher	Microwave
Deck	Hardwood floors	Carpet
Large windows	Large family room	3 BR on main level
Whirlpool tub	Main floor laundry	Deer in your yard!

Equal Housing Opportunity.

Northern Lights Realty : Mora MN 55008 : 320-225-2600

Gorgeous In Town Home, Contract For Deed Possible!

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 12:17:15 -0600

425 Morrison Street
Mora, MN 55051
Move right in, quiet neighborhood in-town!

Joslyn Panka

Office:	320-225-2600
Mobile:	612-850-3153
Website:	Visit Website

Price	:	$114,900
Bedrooms	:	3
Bathrooms	:	2
Square Foot	:	1,124
Lot Size	:	40
County	:	Kanabec
Property Type	:	Detached
Year Built	:	1947

click for more pictures

Property Description

Perfect opportunity for a home purchase! Located in town Mora, walking distance to schools, hospital, and shopping. Newer windows, shingles, furnace, and upgraded elec. Maple and pine flooring, APPLIANCES! Ceiling fans in every room. Added insulation. Lots of updates, including upgraded electric in 2004, new shingles on house and garage in 2005, new furnace in 2005, and new windows in 2006. Maple and pine flooring, movable cabinet in kitchen. Come see!

Equal Housing Opportunity.

Northern Lights Realty : Mora MN 55008 : 320-225-2600

New Listing - Acreage, Home - Hunt, Fish, Camp

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 11:50:09 -0600

1282 320th Street
Mora, MN 55051
Affordable home and acreage, fish, camp, hunt!

Joslyn Panka

Office:	320-225-2600
Mobile:	612-850-3153
Website:	Visit Website

Price	:	$74,900
Bedrooms	:	3
Bathrooms	:	2
Square Foot	:	1,154
Lot Size	:	263,973
County	:	Mille Lacs
Property Type	:	Detached
Year Built	:	2003
MLS Number	:	3629656

click for more pictures

Property Description

This manufactured home located on just over 6 acres is a great place to be outside! Hunt right on your land or on the state land just a couple miles up the road. Fishing nearby, including Mille Lacs lake about 10 miles away! Near State Parks and other recreation.

Features List

6.06 acres	Pole Barn	Sheds
Low land	Hunting	Wooded
Private	Manufactured	Water softener
2 bathrooms	Master W/T bath	His and her closets
Fridge	Washer	Dryer
Dishwasher	Stove	Bank owned
As-is

Equal Housing Opportunity.

Northern Lights Realty : Mora MN 55008 : 320-225-2600

Profile of a Foreclosure Scammer

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 13:27:43 -0600

What a great thing to remember in Kanabec County, too! Any questions about the foreclosure process, where to seek help, or selling your home in Minnesota? Call me (612-850-3153) or e-mail me (Joslyn@JoslynSells.com) today!

Via Irena Popilevsky (Appleseed Realty-GMAC Real Estate):

The people and companies that prey upon homeowners in foreclosure use many tactics to gain the homeowner's trust. Here are some examples:

The scammer contacts you by telephone, mail, or even knocks on your door (legitimate foreclosure consultants don't seek you out, you must go to them).

The scammer is smooth-talking and preys upon your desperation.

He provides little or no information about the foreclosure process.

Many scammers claim government affiliation.

They often use "affinity marketing" -- Spanish-speakers marketing to Spanish-speakers, Christians to Christians, senior citizens to senior citizens, and so on.

Some offer "testimonials" from other customers.

They claim the process will be quick and easy (dealing with foreclosure is never quick and easy) and use messages such as: "Stop foreclosure with just one phone call" or "I'd like to $ buy $ your house" or "Do you need instant debt relief and CASH?"

They tell the homeowner to stop all contact with the mortgage lender.

Today's Minor Dilemma

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 23:59:50 -0600

Any of you in Minnesota know how loverly the weather has been. We got dumped on. The next day the plows came through, and I don't know about other parts of the state, but Kanabec and Isanti counties still have messy, icy roads.

I got a BPO order Friday afternoon. I didn't go immediately. Saturday we went Christmas shopping, and it began to snow and drizzle. Home we went, where I've been since. Until today.

This lovely interior BPO was due today. In Cambridge, roughly 40 miles from my house. Now, that's not a distance to those of us who live in the middle of nowhere, but when crummy roads, it's a different story.

Photo courtesy of *clairity*

So once nap time for the teething baby came around (who spent the whole morning screaming his head off. Remember those days, parents?), I packed him up, super blanketed and covered him, let my car warm up for fifteen minutes, and loaded up, ready to go.

Since baby only takes one nap a day, and that is generally around 1:30-ish, and he's teething, I left home around 2. I begin the slow, treacherous trek towards Mora.

The roads in my "neighborhood" were plowed once, and the gravel has become, seemingly overnight, a packed snow strip. If not for the washboards underneath, I would have gone back home and had more success maneuvering them with my cross country skis.

The paved roads leading to town are "better", but not better for driving. Instead of snow, they are now packed down to the extent that they are glassy, but still white. Gives false confidence. Until you go in the ditch.

Luckily, I didn't.

Once on the main highway, life was a little better, and I was a little calmer. (Plus baby fell asleep! Woo hoo! Mission #1 accomplished!) Downtown Cambridge was a little more stressful, with random slush and ice spots, but I made it through, and began to head towards my newest BPO "victim".

Of course, the BPO is off a main road, and it's home road was deserving of the worst of the day award. The snow was packed so tight it didn't even squeak, and had become what appeared to be at least an inch and a half of solid ice. I creep slowly up the road, and watch mailbox numbers. I reach a stretch where there is only one house for quite a distance.

And it's the one.

I pull up, and am just about to turn, when I notice that tell tale ridge, that beautiful pile that is created when a plow goes by.

Oh yeah, and no plow has gone IN.

The driveway is a good 6 inches deep in snow, and the trees are still covered in icicles that formed when the rain froze before the precipitation turned into snow. I know very well that the driveway is solid ice underneath.

Even better, it's a downhill slope to the tuck-under garage. Can't stop? Gonna need a new garage door. Get stuck? Not digging yourself out of that mess.

I think "okay, no problem. I'll park on the road."

I look again. I'm on a hill, and if someone were to come over that hill, my car would definitely get hit. There's no shoulder, and it's not very wide at all. There are no nearby driveways, no nearby flat roads to park on. I could park 3/4 a mile away, but quickly nix that idea with the negative temperatures and a 4 month old in my backseat.

I sat there, staring at the house, waiting for the obvious idea to hit me. The idea that would allow me to run in with a car seat and 20 pound baby, snap pictures of all damage and every room, while the sun is quickly fading. I debate the odds that electricity is on, considering this agent didn't even set up plowing for the property. If no electric, there is no heat. It's COLD, and I have a very crabby, very young child in my backseat. If I could pull right up to the house, I would feel so much better about the whole situation, but walking an extensive length on slippery roads and through knee-deep snow in some places with a car seat full of a 20 pounder... yeah, right.

I slowly drove away. Too many risks, I told myself. If it were just me, I'd hike through and get the pictures, turn my heat all the way up in my car and try to reheat myself on the way home.

So for now, the BPO has been delayed. I will attack it again later this week. I feel bad, but really, sometimes the little pay we get for these BPO's just isn't enough to cover the risks. What would you have done?

Image courtesy of Per Ola Wiberg (Powi)..busy busy busy..

Unemployed in Minnesota? Here's Your Chance For Affordable Education!

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 22:55:55 -0600

No, I'm not going to convince you to go to real estate school. (Although if you do want to go, but don't want to go alone, call me. I can go for free, and I'd be willing to go back, if for no other reason just to marvel at how much they cram in your head that you never use.)

Anoka Ramsey Community College, with campuses in Coon Rapids and Cambridge (Not Anoka OR Ramsey, surprisingly!) is now offering 50% tuition for the unemployed.

Being unemployed in this market can be terrifying. Perhaps your line of work is something that is being phased out. You've worked the same job for years and aren't confident you can "do anything else". Or maybe you just have the time that you have always wanted to spend on furthering your educational goals.

Now is that time. Tuition costs go from $119.87 a credit to $59.94 a credit! Currently it is just being tested for spring of 2009, but may be expanded into a longer term. You can still qualify for financial aid, or set up payment plans for the tuition.

There are many certificate and degree options, and both classes on campus and online are eligible.

To find out more, visit either campus, or call to register for a Workforce Retraining Express session by calling 763.433.1410.

Photo courtesy of scui3asteveo on flickr.

You're Never Fully Dressed Without A Smile!

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 11:08:58 -0600

I learn a lesson every day from my 4 month old. If at first he can't grab that toy, he tries, tries again. Just because daddy makes you mad one minute does not mean that you should still be mad five minutes from now. My favorite? You can get anywhere and everywhere with a little smile.

I was in the service profession from the beginning, one of the first people to work at the "new" Burger King in Rogers, Minnesota at 14 years old. Yes, that Burger King that is now surrounded by so much other stuff it boggles the mind. That Burger King where two years after they opened (no dates, I'm not dating myself here!) a deer dove through the glass windows in the children's play area. (What a fun insurance claim that had to be!) I worked restraunts, retail, hotel management, receptionist positions, and then finally landed in real estate. I know that you smile and are happy and always joked that I had to "stretch my face back out of that smile" when I got home from work.

Image courtesy of ninjapoodles

While I'm pretty sure that my smile is hardly as captivating as a four month old's, I'm 99% sure that I can work on showing it off a little more. Smiles do magic.

It's easy to not feel like smiling in this market, and I can completely understand that. While my business has changed from motivating home buyers to pick that perfect house and announce to home sellers that we're in a multiple offer situation to mold disclosures, as-is where-is, and trashouts, I've seen some of the "magic" of our positions as Realtors lost. We're bogged down with the cost of operation, the inflated costs of advertising and groceries, and the sudden "depersonalization" of what was once a friendly, all-parties-at-the-closing-table transaction. Where are the days where two agents chatted about the weather and how each other's children were doing before closing?

Whatever 2009 may bring, (and for me it's more and more REO's, I know that already.) I am determined to take it all on with a smile bigger and brighter than the years before. There are many things that can bring us down right now, but there are also many things to be quite pleased about. Those of us who are here and here to stay have each other, and we are far from a Titantic situation. I know some people are jumping on the life boat and paddling away as fast as they can, but 2008 was a good year, and 2009 can be better!

So what I'll remember in this next year, the number one line on my 2009 business plan; When you get up in the morning, remember - you're never fully dressed without a smile.

Photo courtesy of christinejwarner

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Addition - I was going through my flickr today, and I thought this picture fit this post very well. Wish I would have added it originally.

This is my cat Henry, who quite honestly believes his life could not be any better than it is. :-)

How the Kanabec County Real Estate Market Has Changed in 2008.

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 14:10:59 -0600

Everyone knows the market has changed, but how about some actual numbers to give you an idea of what's going on in Mora, MN and surrounding areas?

From January 1st to March 31st, 34 homes were sold in Kanabec County. The average list price was $113,506, and the average number of days on market was 193.8. The average sale price was $106,230. 17 of the 34 sold were $100,000 and less.

From April 1st to June 30th, 35 homes sold in Kanabec County. The average list price was $116,714, and the average number of days on market was 160.5. The average sale price was $109,414. Once again, 17 of the 35 sold were $100,000 and less.

From July 1st to September 30th, 43 homes sold in Kanabec County. The average list price was $146,542 and the average number of days on market was 195.8. The average sale price was $139,473. 20 of the 43 homes sold were $100,000 and less.

From September 30th to December 15th, 16 homes have sold in Kanabec County. The average list price was $96,331 and the average number of days on market was 197.3. The average sale price was $92,850. 10 of the 16 homes sold so far in this quarter were $100,000 and less.

As you can see, the late summer/early fall season was the best season this year, with an average sale price of $139,473. As winter closes in, sales go down. Who wants to move in the snow?

I am anxious to see what 2009 brings to home sales in Mora, Minnesota and the surrounding area!

Putting A MeMe Under The TreeTree....

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Sat, 06 Dec 2008 01:06:07 -0600

I've been hit with a Christmas MeMe, thanks to good ol' Charles Buell. This took a few days of deliberation, because, seriously, when you read what it entails, it can cause some deep consideration and thought.

Simply put, you are to share the one thing you would like for Christmas, (but not something generic like "world peace" or "your two front teeth"...) provided money/time/location was not an issue.

My request is definitely the thing I would most like for Christmas. However, it's in true Joslyn spirit, because although this would change my life, it's not really FOR me.

If I could have anything for Christmas, it would be a farm for the love of my life, Nick.

He's a good guy. Has a good job restoring lakeshore in Minnesota. (Important!) He's been in the newspaper. He works 8-4. And he misses the little dude and I TERRIBLY during the day.

He is happiest puzting around on his tractor, spreading manure in the pasture, and doing anything mechanical. At his previous job, for Prairie Restorations, he used to harvest seed for a week in the fall, and he loved everything about it except being away from home for a week.

I want the whole shebang. Tractors, land, a farmhouse, a barn, cows, horses, chickens... whatever his dream farm is, I want us to just magically own it.

Although I know it isn't going to happen this Christmas, I keep my hopes up for the future. We have a goal. He even has a time frame. He's kicking around ideas.

I guess if I had to settle for a second present, it would be that the market would improve greatly, so that I was making enough money that I could support us on my income.

I guess that is what I would ask for this Christmas.

Who to tag?

Shawn Gerhardson Minnesota's Home Mortgage Loan Expert

Lindsey Hasford

Wayzata Lakes Realty: Eric Kodner Sells Luxury Homes

Tyghre Collentine

Another Great Business Review - The Little Bread Factory, Mora MN

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 01:22:02 -0600

Looking for a sweet treat? Or maybe you'd just like some really good bread for that sandwich you're making for lunch tomorrow. The Little Bread Factory on Union Street in Mora is THE PLACE to go!

Walk in the door and be greeted by Dawn, your lovely host on this taste bud tour! You will be pleasantly surprised at the choices you are given. Different breads constantly, including whole grains, cherry chocolate, garlic cheddar... many combinations that you will LOVE to try!

There are cookies, too, every day. Basic staples, like chocolate chip and sugar cookies line the counter, along with other local hits, depending on the day. I'm loving the "leftover" cookie, which was full of lots of delicious tidbits, including toffee, butterscotch, and more.

Scruffins are the next best thing since sliced bread. (Pun intended!) These hybrids between muffins and scones are always delicious. I picked up a couple blueberry white chocolate pecan ones today, with Dawn's glaze lightly covering them. They are simply to DIE for.

Bread, rolls, sweet treats... you will fall in love with the smells and tastes at The Little Bread Factory, right in downtown Mora. Stop by - they are open Tuesday-Friday 9-6 and Saturdays until 4. You won't regret it!

Holiday Acceptance... And Beyond

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 01:02:45 -0600

When Sally Cheeseman posted the current contest for the Positive Attitude for the Weary Soul group, an idea instantly popped into my head. I just had to share this gift and joy with all of you dear readers out there.

Recently I welcomed my first born child to the world. Definitely the most amazing gift I've ever recieved. Along with this gift, however, came another gift that I never even knew existed. It's not a gift you would ask Santa for. Not a gift that you can get if you don't meet the criteria. And daddies, sorry, but I don't think you qualify, either.

It IS the gift of acceptance.

All of a sudden, in those blurry moments where the baby cries, you cry, and you are nearly killing yourself trying to see the kid through the weighing and everything else, you become a member of this elite group of women. This group of women that you knew of, but didn't know shared such a strong bond. This group who knows every emotion that you are going through.

The group of moms.

It started with strangers coming up to me, commenting on baby, starting conversation, and then us bonding over pacifiers vs. thumbs and the type of formula we use. Where did you get that cart seat cover? Oh I love that little hat!

Then all of a sudden, I became closer to all my friends who had already crossed over into the motherhood group. At the same time, I became distanced - not because I wanted to be - from some of my friends who had not.

The real shocker to me, however, was when I opened up my facebook a couple weeks ago and had a friend request from someone I knew. Someone I knew very well. Someone who didn't seem to like me in high school; someone who I just wanted to accept me.

She became a mom just months after me. Immediately we were swapping labor stories, discussing diaper habits, and chuckling over sleepless nights. Strangely, she wasn't the first, but perhaps the most shocking.

All of a sudden it's "we should get together for lunch" and "we'll have to have play dates in the upcoming years".

Just a little over a year ago, I felt so out of touch. Most of my friends were one extreme or the other - responsible parents, who mingled with other mommies, and crazy partiers who I just didn't seem to click with. (Don't get me wrong. Some mommies are crazy partiers and vice versa, too. I make a generalized reference.) Now I'm comfortable. I'm settled. I have a support system, and people to call and laugh with, or cry with - whatever a day full of being a mom calls for.

So this Christmas, I am thankful for my bundle (gift!) of joy, and the bliss of acceptance into the coolest group in the world - the group of moms.

Woot Woot! Nothing Like A Feature To Get Me Blogging

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 11:07:30 -0600

Features are funny. They are a science that I think I am an expert on, but then quickly discover otherwise.

Last night I wrote a post, Top Ten Reasons I Wish I Was @NAR 2008.... I do top ten lists on this blog fairly often. I find them funny. I'm quirky like that. Okay, I'm weird like that. I'll admit it.

I didn't anticipate much.

A couple comments maybe? Someone who could relate.

I wake up this morning, reach for my Blackberry, and spent some significant time deleting the AR comment notifications from my inbox.

I totally never expected it. Thank you AR Gods for remaining so mysterious. An unexpected feature always motivates me to blog more to figure out just what it takes to get that coveted gold star.

More blogs are coming, that's for sure now!

Fantastic Opportunity to Purchase Bank Owned Properties in Minnesota

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 23:34:45 -0600

Good news for buyers looking for a good deal! A two day auction is taking place November 15th and 16th at the Minneapolis Convention Center on over 400 properties throughout the state!

I am in charge of three of these properties in our immediate area.

Check out this home on 5 acres approximately 9 miles north of Mora. It has two bedrooms, a bathroom with a large garden tub, and a beautiful yard. Weekend getaway or year round home potential. Close to lakes (including Mille Lacs!), hunting, state parks and land. Needs some TLC from someone who loves it. Only 2 miles from Knife Lake, which has great fishing, a convenience store, and a public landing. About one mile from Highway 65, which makes it very easy to get to from anywhere in the state! For more information, check out www.ushomeauction.com, and look for 2921 Ivory Street, Mora.

This home in Isle, Minnesota, puts you oh-so-close to Mille Lacs lake. Literally less than a mile from Father Hennepin State Park, this house is located in a nice development in town. Hardwood floors, cabin trim, full deck off the sunny dining room. 4 bedrooms possible, two full baths. Nice family room in the basement. Lots of upgrades - not your standard split entry! Enjoy the recreation, community, and Mille Lacs Lake! For more information on this property, visit www.ushomeauction.com and check out 725 Linden Street in Isle.

I also just got a request for another property in Moose Lake. Live right in town! More information to come soon.

Many more properties are available throughout the state - just visit www.ushomeauction.com for more information.

If you would like to see these properties, please feel free to give me a call at 612-850-3153 or send me an email - Joslyn@JoslynSells.com.

Lakehomes in Mora, Lakeshore on Mille Lacs, and Fishing in Pine County

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 01:57:47 -0500

Joslyn Panka, your East Central Lakeshore Specialist, wanted to help you find the perfect cabin on a lake, or your new lake home. So I decided to post this blog with some helpful links to get you started.

If you are interested in the Mille Lacs area, including Milaca lakehomes, Garrison lakeshore, Isle cabins, and that general area, this is the place to start. With many great homes in a wide variety of price ranges, you are sure to find your perfect fit when looking for a lakefront property in Minnesota. Simply click the following link, and take a look at all the lakefront homes Mille Lacs County has to offer!

To see Mille Lacs County lakehomes, click here.

There are some wonderful lakes in Kanabec County. Maybe you've been dreaming of a home on Knife Lake, a cabin on Ann Lake, or some great weekends fishing on Fish Lake. Ogilvie, Mora, Brook Park, and the surrounding areas offer some beautiful lakes and some great opportunities for your perfect lake home! For more information on the lakes in Kanabec County, I recommend taking a look at my blog, Kanabec County Lakeshore - Let Me Help You!

To see Kanabec County lakehomes for sale, click here.

You're busy, but still want to escape on the weekends to your perfect Minnesota fishing haven. I-35 calls your name on Friday afternoons. Why not jet right up to your new lake property in Pine County? Pine City, Hinckley, Standstone, Finlayson, and Moose Lake offer some fantastic weekend getaways, with incredible fishing and an easy drive back home again. Or make all your dreams a reality and easily commute from your lakehome to your job in the metro area!

To see Pine County lakehomes for sale, click here.

My cell phone for direct access - 612-850-3153

Enjoy your home hunting!

**Joslyn can sign you up for automatic e-mail alerts! Find out IMMEDIATELY when a home that meets your specifications in Minnesota comes on the market. It's free, and you can cancel it at anytime! Email what your ideal home would be like to joslyn@joslynsells.com with the subject "Sign me up", and I will enroll you right away!**

17 Acre Hobby Farm - Price Just Reduced!

Joslyn Panka Solomon - Mora Minnesota - Minnesota's One Way Ticket to SOLD! — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 01:11:36 -0500

9863 Rice Road
Brook Park, MN 55007
Awesome 17 Acre Hobby Farm!

Joslyn Panka

Office:	320-225-2600
Mobile:	612-850-3153
Website:	Visit Website

Price	:	$145,000
Bedrooms	:	5
Bathrooms	:	2
Square Foot	:	3,855
Lot Size	:	17
County	:	Pine
Property Type	:	Detached
Year Built	:	1917

click for more pictures

Property Description

Farmhouse located on 17 acres near I-35 and Pine City ready for you to move in! Barn, pole barn, and pasture all fenced and ready for horses if you want, or make room for whatever your heart desires. Home has 5 bedrooms total, large basement, and gorgeous kitchen. You'll never want to leave home again!

Features List

Horse Shelter

Equal Housing Opportunity.

Northern Lights Realty : Mora MN 55008 : 320-225-2600