Life In Southeast Oklahoma

Are You A Professional OR Do You Just Hold A Professional Position?

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Thu, 17 Dec 2009 23:57:24 -0600

Are You A Professional OR Do You Just Hold A Professional Position?

What is a professional?

If it's an athlete, he/she is being paid to perform their sport.

Holding that professional position as a professional athlete who is getting paid to play their sport, they are expected to know the rules of play and to execute them in a winning way.

They are expected to increase their knowledge and skill, and conduct themselves on the field of play in a manner that is representative of someone qualified in that sport. That is acting in a professional manner.

The same definition can apply to real estate licenses.

We are paid to perform real estate services.

Being paid to perform real estate servcices means that we are expected to know the rules and to execute them in a winning way. We are expected to increase our knowledge and skill, and conduct ourselves in a manner that is representative of someone qualified in that field. That is acting in a professional manner.

The athlete is expected to treat his/her opponents with good sportmanship. We teach our youth that when the game is over, you shake the hand of your opponent and tell them, "Good game, better luck next time" (if you won) and "Good game, look forward to playing you again" if you lost. Their behavior should make it evident to everyone that they are a person of character.

Again, the same rules apply.

I believe that as long as we, as professional real estate licensees know the rules, execute them in a winning way, increase our knowledge and skill, and conduct ourselves in a manner that is representative of someone well qualified in our field, treating others with respect and showing "good sportsmanship", there will always be clients for that real estate agent.

So regardless of what the economy is doing, let's be professional and the best outcome that can happen, will.

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Integrity Realty
Integrity Real Estate
Lake Raymond Gary Homes
Fort Towson Homes
Valliant Homes
McCurtain County
Choctaw County
Broken Bow Lake
Lake Raymond Gary
Raymond Gary Lake
Commercial Property List
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Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Pre-Approval Letters, Are They Helping or Hurting You?

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 07:09:34 -0600

Does a Pre-Qual letter mean anything?

It depends.

I've seen some that did.

I've seen some that did not.

Ken discusses how to have your pre-qual letter mean more to you as a buyer trying to buy a home, to your real estate licensee who is out there working to help you find a home, and ultimately to the seller that you want to accept your offer.

A good pre-qual letter that has solid grounding and is based upon your true qualification to purchase should help your offer be considered by the seller.

Via Ken Crotts (Windermere Real Estate):

When you present your preapproval letter to the listing agent does it help, or hinder your chances of getting an accepted offer? Financing preapproval letters are widely dismissed by the real estate industry as not being worth the paper they are written on. The reason is there are no consequences for the loan officer who issues a preapproval letter and is unable to follow it up with a full approval. It's especially true in this market when underwriters (the people who actually approve your loan) are under strict scrutiny and are nitpicking every detail of every potential loan looking for potential problems.

This is also the result of earlier years when loan officers were disinclined to spend allot of time getting initial approvals and would produce letters like flyer's knowing some would stick. I'm not throwing good loan officers under the bus here. This was a market reality born from too many poor loan officers and fickle buyers who would drop you for a $20 difference in closing costs.

Here is the verbiage from a B of A Approval letter;

Not too inspiring. My first reaction as a listing agent was B of A? I have the unfortunate task of dealing with them daily on short sales. I recovered from the initial reaction and had a few questions.

Did the buyer actually make a loan application?

Has the credit been pulled and reviewed?

Have they provided bank statements and other required documentation?

Has the buyer provided income verification yet?

Do they actually have a loan program picked out yet?

Do they actually meet the underwriting guidelines for that loan program now?

Has an underwriter actually looked at the file or has the loan officer talked to an underwriter regarding this file.

This example instills no confidence that anything has been done beyond a phone interview from a too big to care banks call center. It's not really worth the paper it was written on.

In order for your pre-approval to have some weight have your loan officer include the following elements;

A statement that loan application has actually been made.

Income documentation has been provided and reviewed.

Asset documentation has been provided and reviewed.

Credit has been pulled and reviewed.

Based upon the provided documentation the borrower meets the underwriting guidelines for the FHA/VA/Conventional loan program selected.

There are no outstanding issues that would prevent the borrower from obtaining a loan (like a bankruptcy).

The typical disclaimers are going to follow but at least the listing agent reviewing the letter knows the buyer has actually met with the loan officer and brought bank statements, pay stubs and other basic documentation in for review. It is more of a hassle for the borrower to provide this information but it demonstrates they are more serious, committed and thoughtful about what they are doing. In the current real estate and lending market this carries allot of weight with regards to how your offer is viewed.

If you really want to have your letter seriously considered have a well known, veteran loan officer take your application and put their name to the letter. Bringing in a computer generated pre-approval letter from some online lender is not going to help your offer get accepted and suggests to the listing agent that you are not serious, possibly flighty, and probably have qualification issues. You may not, but history suggests there is a probability that you do.

If you really want to get a great deal in this buyers market take the time to sit down with a great loan officer and thoroughly review your financing options BEFORE you go out and tie up a property. Take the time to provide them every thing they need to really preapprove you. Your time and energy will be well spent. You will be more confident and capable and the seller who's house you are buying will have more confidence in you as well. That alone should help you get a better deal. Even in this market....especially in this market, well qualified buyers have a distinct advantage over their competition. In my market the best properties are still getting multiple offers and preference goes to the best qualified buyers.

Are you thinking of buying? Call me and I will set you up with a great loan officer that will be an asset to your offer and go the extra mile thoughout the transaction.
Ken Crotts

Broker, Certified Short Sale Specialist

www.KenCrotts.com

Ken@KenCrotts.com

425-432-8600

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

When YOUR Voice Is The Best Voice - When You Write Your Blog Posts!

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 06:49:43 -0600

There have been so many people say this... and say this... and say this... broken record but bears saying again.

When YOUR Voice Is The Best Voice is when You Write what's on your mind and and in your heart. When you want to talk about it to someone AND it's something that can be talked about in a public forum.

Do you need to copy someone else's style? Please don't.

Do you need to write about the same topics? Only if you have something that you want or need to say about it... but do it in your style.

Sometimes you like the way someone said something and you want to share what they said without writing another post? RE-BLOG it. :)

Via Gary Woltal - Associate Broker REALTOR® Dallas Ft. Worth (Keller Williams Realty):

I sometimes think bloggers writing their posts are their harshest critics. ESPECIALLY those new to writing posts that go up out there on the Web. A reminder should be to think

When YOUR Voice Is The Best Voice.

If you've written ten blog posts or 1,000 it is good to always keep this in mind. There really is NOT a right or wrong with what you write. You uniqueness needs to shine through. Your VOICE will inevitably emerge, and it will surprise you with what style comes out of you. Some people are funny all the time. Others are all about business or even photography.

Some here within Active Rain are the masters of their local neighborhood or region. Many Localism posts written. Some are all about Marketing or Listings presentation or technology tips. Some pick maybe three or four from ten categories and focus on that. Religion, politics, or local history. Maybe social goings on like new health clubs or restaurants they have frequented. Maybe you are a believer in just hard core real estate knowledge information or market data. It really comes down to who you are, what you want to write about, and perhaps even indirectly who you are targeting for your readership, your audience.

Your voice needs to come out informally. Just like you are talking to just ONE other person sitting across the table at lunch with you. THAT is the real you. But in the format of a blog post, since it is indeed blasted out into cyberspace think of it also as

AN EMAIL TO EVERYONE.

The surprising thing is like casting out a net into a bunch of fish, you will attract and bring into your readership those that find interesting what you have to say and other fishes will fall through the net's openings with you not being their cup of tea. It is all good. Do not put a judgment on your words, your style, or the fishes you did not catch. They will be caught up in another's net.

Be comfortable with your "voice." Do not apologize for the emotions, insights, thoughts, information, and creativity you put into what you write. Why would you want to apologize for being you? If anything, be MORE of you. Encourage reader feedback and as everyone who asks me what the true purpose of a blog post is, I would challenge them that it is not initally to get business or boost Google juice, but what?

ENGAGE READERS IN CONVERSATION.

It is ultimately about "connection" on many levels and believe it or not within the context of life, it is all about the give and take of "learning." So whether today you are playing the role of student or teacher and the roles reverse back and forth as you both write and comment, remain steadfast in just shining through in

BEING YOU!!!!

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Waterfront Lots Available At Lake Raymond Gary - Fort Towson, Oklahoma - Choctaw County in Southeast Oklahoma

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:20:05 -0600

Waterfront Lots Available At Lake Raymond Gary - Fort Towson, Oklahoma - Choctaw County in Southeast Oklahoma

Currently as of today, I have available 3 waterfront lots on the main channel of Lake Raymond Gary. All three are in The Point Addition which Lake Raymond Gary's newest addition. That addtion requires new construction of at least 1000 sq foot with no sub dividing individual lots.

Available at this time:

.69 acre priced at $29,900

.68 acre at $29,000

.52 acre at $29,000

City Utilities are available at the front of the lots, including water, sewer, and telelphone, garbage pickup.

DSL is available from ATT - or broadband from Dish Network or Direct TV via satellite.

There is no area wide wireless neworrks that I know of.

You would be in the city limits of Fort Towson, OK, approx 15 minutes to Hugo, Oklahoma, and about 40 minutes to Paris, Texas with Paris being the larger of the three.

Raymond Gary covers approx 390 acres and is managed by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife. It is an excellent fishing no wake lake.. For wake activities such as skiing Hugo Lake is only 15 miles away, Pine Creek lake can be reached in approx 30 minutes and a little over an hour to Broken Bow Lake.

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

What Sold It? Day 5 of 30 - Water on The Property - Idabel, Oklahoma

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 18:43:47 -0600

What Sold It? Day 5 of 30 - Water on The Property - Idabel, Oklahoma

I continually get inquiries from buyers that are wanting a place with water on it... not drinking water... water to look at.

They will ask if it has a creek or a pond.

If you have acreage (land) for sale and are thinking about doing something that should add value and help the property be desirable on the market when and if you decide to sell...you may want to consider adding a pond. You can't "create" a creek, but a pond is a different story. In the meantime, you can enjoy it yourself.

There are conservation cost share programs available when funding is available through the Oklahoma Conservation Commission.

Cost share money for pond construction seems to be less available now than it has been in past times but it is my understanding that the state does acquire some each year. The Conservation office will also advise you on where and how to construct your pond to avoid problems with it and to allow it to do the most for your conservation efforts.

No pictures of actual listings or sales were used to protect my clients' privacy.

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

New Rent To Own Coming To Idabel

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 18:15:29 -0600

New Rent To Own Coming To Idabel

You can watch it go up.

Immediately across from Pizza Hut on OakBrook Avenue.

It's exciting to watch the change on SE Washington. This will change the business district somewhat and fill in the gaps on Southeast Washington Street in idabel Oklahoma.

We had 23 acres listed immediately next to Wal-Mart and Pizza Hut.

We now have 22 available... There are still approx 6 acres that have road frontage on the busy Southeast Washington Street.

You can be in good company...

Pizza Hut,

Wal- mart.

First Bank and Trust,

Kentucky Fried Chicken.

Lin Cruisine,

and now the new - Aaron's Rent To Own.

They have been advertising in the McCurtain Gazette to hire for the new location.

1 Acre commercial parcels available at $95,000.

Call me, Judi Barrett 580-212-5946

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

D V Fennell Bareback Rider - Final Night at Wrangler National Finals Rodeo - Oklahoma / Missouri Cowboy Wins a Third Place.

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 17:04:28 -0600

D V Fennell Bareback Rider - Final Night at Wrangler National Finals Rodeo - Oklahoma / Missouri Cowboy Wins a Third Place.

It wound down last night... but it was a big wind down.

D V came out on a horse named "Dirty Jacket".

That horse came out of that chute in a wild high jump but she didn't lose D V. In fact that would have been a common spot for many cowboys to fail to mark their horse out because Dirty Jacket was high and had a twist in the middle of the jump. It also looked D V's shoulder took a hit from the chute at the end of that jump that Dirty Jacket made. D V marked him perfectly.

This mom was tense watching it. I already knew his score because T V schedules were off last night and the broadcast always runs a little behind the actual rodeo... broadcast is a more condensed verson. Scores had already been posted on the Rodeo site.

For those that have been following D V during the rodeo... during this 10 day performance, he rode all 10 of his horses. Last night's ride was a third for that evening's performance and He finished at 4th place for the Total Finals Performance, competing with some more of the world's best riders and at the age of 36, he was competing with much younger riders.

He's headed home this morning... time to rest.

The video below is from Perf7, just click on D V Fennell to watch performance number 7.

Other recent information about D V:

D V and Justin McDaniel, another Oklahoma cowboy held their bareback riding school in McAlester in November. It was a huge success with several young cowboys showing up to participate.

The Las Vegas Joural news article about D V published December 7, 2009.

If your company could benefit from naitonal exposure, contact me through this blog and I'll put you in touch with D V to visit about company and corporate sponsorships for the year 2010.

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Home Owners: Here’s 10 Ways to Keep Up With New Builds at ‘For Sale’ Time.

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 17:02:01 -0600

Via Donna Ross - Home Staging, Sydney, Australia (Great Impressions Real Estate Staging & Consulting - Sydney):

Unless you've been living under a rock you would be well aware that today's property market is ultra competitive. Thanks in no small part to there being fewer buyers for more real estate stock. Many sellers have to compete not just with nearby established homes and units, but they're also up against it in an area full of new home estates (aka ‘new builds'). Whilst the idea of buying a new build isn't for everybody, they have an appeal, and very often a price tag that a great many house hunters find hard to overlook.

But what if you now want to sell your (still relatively new), new build? Ahh, never fear. There is hope. As a professional home stager/property stylist and a property investor with a few new builds of my own under my belt, I can tell you that with a bit of forward planning, elbow grease, and a few inexpensive fixes, you can still give the new build competition a run for their money, and attract your fair share of buyers. Here are my top 10 tips to help you do just that.

1. Clean. Nobody truly fancies the idea of a used bathroom. Think along the lines of ‘hotel' room clean and you won't go wrong.

2. Declutter. Why do model/display homes seem so big and spacious? Because they aren't full of your stuff, that's why! Do yourself a favour and start packing up now.

3. Keep your home maintenance up to date. Things like damaged or stained flooring, dodgy door hinges, peeling paint, stained concrete, unkempt lawns and gardens will send house hunters running towards new builds quicker than you can say "care to make an offer?" Show buyers that your place is pristine and cared for.

4. KERB appeal is KING. Ever seen a display/model home with anything less than outstanding kerb appeal? No, neither have I. Get on it. Clean, tidy, with a little colour is the way to go. It's now time to lose any garden gnomes, naked statues, or vintage farm equipment.

5. Keep your wall colours understated and neutral. You may have painted to put your own stamp on your home (who doesn't?), but this won't help you sell. The deliberate use of inoffensive, subtle wall colour is just one reason a brand new home has such buyer appeal, from retirees to first home buyers.

6. Stick with more modern furnishings that are in good condition. You will not see scruffy, 10 year old sofas or anything else for that matter in display/model homes. If it's looking a bit worse for wear, it's time to renew, replace or maybe even borrow if you need to.

7. Add some new 'bling'. By this I mean look at your home's tap ware, door handles, light switches and light fittings. Check out a display/model home in your area to see what the latest trends are. Then head down to a local hardware store and get an inexpensive version for those key rooms in your house this will help buyers feel as though they're getting a little bit more bang for their buck than they would with a brand new 'off the rack' kind of home or unit.

8. Give ‘em a reason to go outdoors. This is where a more established home like yours has a serious advantage. Most new builds have very little by way of landscaping. So, if you can add something that they haven't got, you're gonna jump way up the ‘for sale' property ladder. Consider adding a simple paved area for an outdoor table and chairs with an umbrella (borrow these if you need to) for shade and a few potted plants to soften the edges. Don't go overboard. Quite frankly this is not the time to put in that swimming pool. Keep it low cost and keep it simple.

9. Play up your location. Does your place have a nice view or are you on a quiet street? What school zone do you fall into, can you walk there, and are you near a park or a local store? Look around you. Why did you buy there to begin with, what will you miss about when you're gone?

10. Don't discount inclusions. The big developers offer bonuses pretty regularly and you can too. They don't have to be big. I got $5000 more for my house because the husband fell in love with the TV and the wife wanted the mirror in the hallway. On a larger scale I once had a buyer ask our selling agent if we'd be willing to negotiate our boat as part of the deal.

So you see when you stop and think about it, you can keep up with the new builds popping up all over the place. There's no denying it takes a little effort and perhaps it means investing a little up front. Still, it can pay off handsomely. What do you think?

P.S. By the way, I'll be doing a separate post this week with tips on adding value to your garden for less money to help with #8 on our list, so keep an eye out for that.
Donna Ross Great Impressions Home Staging & Property Styling Sydney and Newcastle Add Style Add Space Sell Better

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

BEST TOOL TO DEAL WITH PET SHEDDING

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 17:00:14 -0600

I looked for this product online:

http://www.furminator.com/

If you have a "hairy" pet....

Via melody salazar (Salazar Staging & Custom Interiors):

As a dog owner myself, I know how hard it is to keep a house fur-free. Of course this is necessary when a house is on the market. I came across a tool (Target) that is amazing! The FURMINATOR removes so much fur from cats and dogs that it leaves you wondering how they are still covered with enough hair to stay warm - and it goes to show you why so much fur is a flyin on a daily basis. But boy oh boy, does it help in the ongoing fight against hairy floors and furniture.

Two words of warning-

Use this outdoors as it makes a hairy mess, literally.

Do not wear black unless you're into the mohair look!

This is an excellent tool to recommend to your pet owning clients who need to keep their homes immaculate while on the market.

Mel

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Re-purpose Furniture Don't Throw It Away

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 16:56:19 -0600

Via B Lucas-Thrower (Staging - Interior Redesign & Home Staging):

Going green re-purposing, using what you have...alll great ideas and when put into practice a great way to make something new, beautiful, and useful. Take a good look at your furnishings and see if you can come up with a way to utilize them by changing fabric, color, knobs, or the use. This is a coffee table I picked up off of the street. It is now a bench, a coffee table, an entry piece with a fab piece of art above. Other pictures are of a dining room that was old, out of date, but really great furniture. Think before you discard....it can be a wonderful way to help our environment, and our pocket books. The dining room is beautiful now, the dresser shabby chic and all have been given new life....I also picked up a lamp on the side of the road...painted it and now it is in my home.

"B" Lucas-Thrower, President

Interior Redesign & Home Staging

Nashville, Tennessee

"Creating Beautiful Rooms...One at a Time by Design"

615-481-1399

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Holiday Decorating

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 16:54:03 -0600

Via Gina Dougherty, Home Staging Redondo Beach, CA- FusionDesignConsulting.com (Fusion Design Consulting):

Choose a theme – Having a theme organizes the look and feel of your decorating. It helps you keep the decorating under control and prevents it from looking cluttered. You can choose a theme based on colors- red and green, turquoise and silver, or pink and gold, purple and green are a few examples. The colors don’t have to be traditional Holiday colors. Or you can decorate based on a style such as traditional, modern, Victorian, country, etc. These images are from Country Living Magazine, you can see many more at their site.

Carry through to wrapping paper- Choose wrapping paper that matches your theme. You could use plain brown paper with a colorful ribbon for a country theme or all silver paper with any color of ribbon to match your decorations. Quality ribbon makes a big difference in the look of your wrapped gifts. You can find ribbon by the yard at craft stores or online. Lastly, handmade tags are a nice finish that personalize the gift.

Tip: instead of using tags for your children, wrap each child’s presents in their own gift    wrap- green for Jack, red for Lauren.

Use clear lights- Plain, simple, festive.

Use what you have in different ways- You don’t have to buy all new decorations to make a change, create a new look by using what you have in different ways:

·         Ornaments in a bowl for a centerpiece

·         Garland around windows

·        Table runners on coffee and side tables

·         Gather fresh greenery from the garden

·         Decorate with fruit, flowers and food- ok, not such a good idea if you have pets or small children...

For Help with Holiday Decorting or more tips call or email Fusion Design Consulting.

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Introducing the 2nd Edition of Virtual Real Estate BarCamp.

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 15:01:19 -0600

Via Real Estate Tomato (Real Estate Tomato):

We're Back!
Introducing the 2nd Edition of Virtual Real Estate BarCamp.

Our first event was such a success, we decided to parlay the momentum into the launch of another.

January 4th - 9am until 4pm PST
9 Hours, 28 Incredible Speakers, 1000s of Attendees!

It's Free!

What Is Virtual BarCamp?
How Do I Register?
Who Is Speaking (To be determined)
How Can I Sponsor?

In an effort to always improve, we have made some changes to the event format:

There will be 4 Webinar Rooms (previously there were just 3 rooms).
Presentations will be 45 minutes in length (previously they were 30 mins).
Total number of Speakers: 28 (we had 27 last event).
Each Webinar Room will have its own accompanying Live Chat Room (previously there was just one).
Session Topics will be chosen by our Registered Attendees (last time it was first come first serve).
Session Presenters will be selected by us (last time it was first come first serve).
Sessions will be recorded (we were unable to record last time).

We have boosted our goals for the event as well:

Registered Attendees: 3000 (previous: 1000, actual 1928)
In-Office Events: 100 (previous: 40, actual: 71)
In-Real-Life MeetUps: 50 (previous: 20, actual: n/a)
Number of Sponsors: 15 (previous: 10, actual: 13)

We have a new website: www.VirtualBarCamp.com

Just because we hold virtual, online events doesn’t mean that we can’t create an incredibly social community. One of the best aspects of the BarCamp atmosphere is the ability to connect, network, meet and mingle. We took this into great consideration as we planned out the architecture and user experience of our new website.

The tighter the community, the greater opportunity we all have to learn, network and teach. Get involved by involving others!

If you have any other suggestions on how we can improve on our first effort, please let us know!

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Five Reasons to Stage Occupied Homes

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 21:29:30 -0600

Via Laurie Calhoun Seminole County FL Home Stager (Gloria Home Staging, Inc.):

Picture an occupied home -- comfortably furnished, nicely decorated. How would having it staged help it sell? Is it worth the expense? Here are five reasons for sellers of occupied homes to consider a professional home staging consultation:

#1 –Getting a home ready to sell can be overwhelming to sellers, and they may not know how to begin or what to do. Home stagers can tell sellers where to start, and then guide them through the process, from paint color selection to furniture placement.

#2 – Occupied homes are lived in. The sellers have gotten comfortable with the things they have and how they are placed. Their homes are set for the way they live. The next owners will have an entirely different set of things and their own routine. To market their home, the sellers must consider how the house would work for someone else, and be willing to make changes to the way they live while they sell the home. It’s all about the buyers now, and stagers can help sellers make that mind shift and the necessary changes.

The owner of this office was willing to pack up about 20 boxes of books and largely clear the room out. He was rewarded with a sale in 30 days.

#3 – Sellers need help to see the home as a buyer would. Stagers provide “outsiders’ eyes” to see the home differently. Not only can we view the home’s features impartially, we can spot “red flags” – signals of potential problems – that the seller either knows are no longer a problem (like water stains resulting from leaks now repaired), or is unaware of.

For example, the china hutch in this kitchen was a clear indication to us that the home did not provide enough storage for the sellers’ things. The buyers were likely to assume that there would not be enough room for their things, either, so we advised the sellers to put it into storage.

#4 – Decorated does not equal staged. Although they are often beautiful and warmly welcoming places, decorated homes are not meant to be sold. They are meant to be lived in. They are often highly personal, and the décor can distract from or cover up some of the home’s features. Décor can also go out of style. The point of home staging is to show off the home (not the furnishings or the owners’ taste) and make it appeal to a wide segment of its target market. The more highly decorated a home is, the harder it is for buyers to picture themselves making it their own.

Being unbiased outsiders, stagers can point out decorative elements that are too particularly individual, such as paint colors, wallpaper, or collections. The owners of this home had many lovely things, including a curio cabinet containing a large collection of angels. We advised them to pack the angels up, and the result was this welcoming reading nook, instead of a museum likely to distract buyers.

#5 – Home stagers specialize in presenting homes to their best advantage. That’s our full-time job, and something we love to do. We are students of home merchandising: We know what colors work well for marketing homes. We know low-cost solutions for outdated furniture and décor. We know whether furniture needs to be removed or added, and how to arrange that furniture so that it shows off the home. We know how to help home sellers, who are experts in other areas, not this one.

In this example, the seller resisted removing the draperies and much of the furniture from this master bedroom. He thought it would look bare, and that the room would not look as large because it would not be showing how much furniture it could hold. We insisted that the room would look bigger, brighter and more up-to-date, and he chose to trust us. You decide whether or not it worked!

If you are selling your Orlando area home, give us a call at Gloria Home Staging. We will be glad to help make your home feel like home to buyers.

www.GloriaHomeStaging.com

407-695-0023

Setting your home apart

Serving the Orlando, Florida area

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Tell Me Something Good That Happened To You This Week or Tell Me About Something That Makes You Smile.

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 20:31:08 -0600

Tell Me Something Good That Happened To You This Week or Tell Me About Something That Makes You Smile.

This is one of my precious grandchildren that makes me smile.

When we, ourselves were growing up, it seemed to take forever.

After we've become "grown" and the time reference that we have stored in our brains in more scrunched up,

it really didn't take so long and young people do grow up soooo quickly.

Meet my Granddaughter, Jade, D V's daughter. We had some time with her while we were in Las Vegas for the National Finals. She is so proud of her dad. Tonight is the final performance. She will be in the stands saying a prayer for D V and texting back and forth to her Gram (me).

So Tell Me Something Good That Happened to You This Week or Tell Me about something that makes you smile.

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Home Feels Good When You've Been Gone

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 22:57:36 -0600

We had a wonderful trip to Vegas. It was so nice to get "out of Dodge". BUT you know what, it was even more wonderful to get back home again safe and sound.

Don and I flew into Dallas, by way of a stop over in Albuquerque, Monday afternoon and then had to drive about 3 1/2 hours to get home. We were so tired and so sleepy even at that early hour. Part of the reason may have been that 4 AM rising to leave Las Vegas.

There is no place like home. We've heard it, we've said it. BUT it truly rings true when we've been gone and we get back and walk through OUR doors.

The first night back, I slept 12 hours. Now this is a lady that very seldom sleeps over 6 hours. The next night, the same thing. I still got a full 8 hours last night. Traveling will do that.

There's no bed like the bed at home. There's no tap water that tastes like the water at my house. Soaking in my own tub... having my car... hate taxis. No one saying , "Housekeeping" just outside their doors at 8:30 in the morning.

Isn't that what home buyers want? The home that welcomes them back when they've been gone. The home that houses all of their "comfort stuff". The familiar walls that allow them to relax and put their feet up. Photographs on the wall that make them feel happy whether it's of family or just their taste in decor.

Yes, I've been home since Monday night.. still haven't totally unpacked...almost. Still haven't looked at all of the photos that I took, but I took thousands. And they are all on my laptop but I'm usually posting from the desktop..

In fact, had to immediately deal with a transaction that was supposed to have closed while I was gone... it still hasn't.

Today's another round of phone calls trying to make the final part of that transaction happen so that an elderly client can have that special place to come home to when she's been gone too, whether it's just to the grocery store or maybe a trip to Las Vegas.

That's what home is also... helping others get their home. It's great to be back.

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Home Fire Safety For First Time Home Buyers Part 1 of 12 Fire Extinguishers

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 08:26:50 -0600

Each and everyone of us should have some basic understanding of fire extinguishers.

Dale has written a very informative post on them.

Please read if you haven't already or if you, like me, do not have a grasp on fire extinguishers.

Judi Barrett

Integrity Real Estate Services

Idabel and Fort Towson

Oklahoma

Via Dale Baker,The #1 Home and Commercial Properties Inspector-in NH&VT-on AR (Baker Home,Commercial Properties Inspections and Consulting ):

Home Fire Safety For First Time Home Buyers Part 1 of 12 Fire Extinguishers, seen that a home, just might be the biges purchase you and your family dose. So you should know about Home Fire Safety. This blog 12 part series will help you. Theres a link to each post, on the post before the next one.

The first things to remember. Is to be sure everyone in the home has left, or is leaving your home. And be sure the Fire Department has been called, before you ever begin to fight a small fire. I repeat fight a small fire!

Don't ever fight a fire yourself if: The fire is spreading fast or if its already has became a large fire.

The fire could end up blocking your escape route, your family needs you to be around.

Your not trained in the proper operation of your home fire extinguisher.

If you don't know for sure the extinguisher is designed for the type of fire at hand, or if its large enough to fight the fire.

Home Fire Safety For First Time Home Buyers Part 1 of 12 Fire Extinguishers, for a fire even to exist it requies the following items.

Oxygen, heat, a source of ignition, fuel, and the chemical reaction of fire.

In order to put out a fire in your home, you'll need to remove at least one of those items from the equation.

How do you what fire extinguisher you should use? Will that really depends on the classification of the type of fuel that is burning.

Your home fire extinguishers will display on their casing just what class of fire you can safely use them on.

Water extinguishers, can be used on a class A fire only. Those are trash, wood, and paper fires. Do not ever use this kind of extinguisher on a flammable liquid that is already on fire, or near any kind of spilt or open containers of flammable liquid. Water will spread a flammable liquid and cause the fire to become larger. You also never want to use it on electrical equipment thats still connected to the home's power.

Carbon Dioxide extinguishers, these are filled with highly pressurized carbon dioxide, known as CO2. its a non-flammable gas and does not conduct electricity. Because of ice may form at, and fly from the horn. This extinguisher is going to displace the oxygen and will cool the fuel as well. This kind of extinguisher is suitable for class B and class C fires only. Not recommended for use on someone that might be on fire. It can cause frost bite, chemical burns, and also death if inhaled.

A Dry Chemical extinguisher, is usual recommended for class A,B, and C fires. But also be aware some are only rated for class B and C fires. This extinguisher puts out a fine dust/powder that coats the fuel, so the fire can't get oxygen. The powder also works to interrupt the chemical reaction of the fire. This is why you should be sure to aim at the base of the fire, where the fuel is, if you don't do so will mean it will be totally ineffective. Theres also an optimal diswtance from the nozzle to the fuel for best coverage. If you stand too close to the fire and you could, very well waste the powder and run out before your able to cover all the burning fuel. If you stand too far away and the powder will be way too thin to be effective.

Home Fire Saftey For First Time Home Buyers Part 1 of 12 Fire Extinguishers, before you rush out to invest in any fire extinguishers for your home. There are somethings to consider, like where you need them. Where in your home are fires most likely to start? What kind of fire would be most likely? As we talked about above, not all extinguishers work on all kinds of fires.

You can discuss your needs with your local Fire Department. They are always willing to help folks choose the best kind of extinguisher for your home. Be sure to select an extinguisher which can be easily handled by all members of your family.

Keep your extinguishers in a handy location. The best location in most situations is just inside a door or entrance area, but keep them out of the reach of small kids. Do your best to avoid locating your extinguishers right next to where a fire might start. Smoke, heat, or flames from a fire just might keep you from being able to reaching the extinguisher. Be sure all member of your family, knows where all the fire extinguishers are located and how to use them.

Be sure to purchase extinguishers that are listed by a nationally accepted testing laboratory, such as Underwriter's Laboratories UL or Factory Mutual FM. Extinguishers that are rated ABC are effective on most kind of fires.

Link to Home Fire Safety For Fire Time Home Buyers Part 2 of 12 Spirit of Fire Got Mad

Post 639 - 10 Dec. 2009

By the time we complete the Inspection, you will know the Home or Commercial Property better than the owner does!

God Bless America, The Land We Love

A home inspection from Baker Home Commercial Properties Inspections and Consulting, will give you peace of mind, so you and your family can enjoy the things you like to do!

Knowledge is Your Power For The Freedom of a Worry- Free Home!

When buying, renting a Home or Commercial Properties when Relocating in or to Sullivan County, New Hampshire, Windsor County, Vermont, or nearby Counties. When "Good Enough" Isn't, call Baker Home Commercial Properties Inspections and Consulting to schedule, Your New Hampshire and Vermont Home or Commercial Property Inspections!

Phone: 603-826-4207

Mobile: 603-477-8072

Posted at: Localism.com/neighbor/bakerhome all links open in a new window!

Links Home Buyers, Home Owners, and Real Esate Agents will want to visit:

Life Expectancy of Home Componts New Hampshire and Vermont

A Home's Oil Furnace The Series Windsor County Vermont Home Buyers Part 1

A Home's Oil Furnace The Series Windsor County Vermont Home Buyers Part 2

A Home's Oil Furnace The Series Windsor County Vermont Home Buyers Part 3

A Home's Oil Furnace The Series Windsor County Vermont Home Buyers Accompany Series Post 1

A Home's Oil Furnace The Series Windsor County Vermont Home Buyers Accompany Series Post 2

A Home's Oil Furnace The Series Windsor County Vermont Home Buyers Accompany Series Post 3

Safety Tip Posts:

When You and Your Family are Going on a Trip, Safety Tips

Home Fire Safety For First Time Home Buyers Part 12 of 12 A Checklist

The following blog post link, is a four part series - there are links to each part on the posts:

Coal Firing Furnaces-New Hampshire and Vermont Series Part one

Acheivement Posts:

First New Hampshire Real Estate Professional to Reach 400,000 on ActiveRain

Helpful Blog Posts for other Members:

If your not a ActiveRain RainMaker You need to Sign Up Today

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Referral Tesimony for Judi Barrett of Integrity Real Estate Services, Southeast Oklahoma from Tim Hartwig, Broker in South Texas

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 14:39:04 -0600

I would like to tell the story of a GREAT referral experience I had with Judi Barrett with Integrity Real Estate.

I had been working with a close friend of mine and his wife. I actually drove literally hundreds and hundreds of miles with these folks.

They were searching for that "Perfect" piece of land with acreage, and water.

Well after spending months with them, we found Nothing.

Finally my client contacted me about a particular property in Oklahoma ... Well having only a Texas license, I did NOT want to lose them to an Oklahoma property, but they eventually were adamant about this property.

SO, I had to make the decision to turn these clients over to someone in OK.

That's when I contacted Ms Barrett at Integrity Real Estate Services in Idabel, Oklahoma.

I must say , from the beginning she understood my frustration, and realized how much time and energy I had invested, She ultimately said " DON'T WORRY ".

Needless to say Judi met with my clients less than 2 weeks from that point, showed them the property of interest, and within 2 weeks had the deal under contract, and sold within a month.

I HIGHLY recommend ANYONE with the same dilemma to contact Judi Barrett with Integrity Real Estate Services, as without her experience, knowledge and Trustworthiness, I would have lost ALL of my time and effort.

She did a Great job for me, and for my clients.

So from this Broker's standpoint, I would recommend Judi for ANY property you may have in Oklahoma, she is truly a GREAT and WONDERFUL person and agent.

Sincerely,

Timothy Hartwig
Independence Realty

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Thanks Tim for sending this to me!
It was a pleasure working with your clients. They were a joy as you were also.

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Referrals are taken care at Integrity Real Estate Services
Referral fees are paid the same day that I get paid.

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

How to send flat rate packages to our troops!!

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 14:23:55 -0600

Via Marchel Peterson Spring TX Real Estate E-Pro ABR (Results Realty):

It is hard for out troops being away from friends and family during the holiday season. This makes it an ideal time to send them a flat rate package. Last year at this time our son was in the middle of his second tour of Iraq and he loved getting goodies from home. With him doing two tours I learned the ins and outs of sending him flat rate packages. On our son's first tour he was based at a town called Hit just northwest of Ramadi; the base was so small they really didn't even have a PX to speak of. For 6 months of his tour he was on the graveyard shift so if we didn't send food he was pretty much stuck eating MRE's. Needless to say I became an expert at sending care packages so I am going to pass my knowledge forward as I know there are many other soldiers like him who would love some extra care packages.

If you don't know a soldier but would like to help a soldier you can adopt a soldier through Soldiers Angels. You adopt them for the duration of their tour though, it is not just a one time thing. Our son told me there are a lot of soldiers that are alienated from families for one reason or another and don't receive much. Soldier's Angels sounds like the remedy for that problem.

You must mail your package to a particular soldier. You cannot send a package without a soldier's name or it will be just discarded. Another way to find a soldier is to ask friends and family if they know anyone. You will be amazed at how many people know of someone that has been deployed.

Figuring out how to send these packages was a learning experience. The first time I sent one I arrived at the post office with this big heavy box and spent something like $30 in shipping. I happened upon a really nice postal worker. He saw I was shipping to an APO in Iraq and turned me on to Flat rate shipping provided by our USPS. He told me that I could send several of the flat rate boxes for less than it would cost me to send the one big box.

When I sent him boxes on his first tour there were only two sizes available but there are now four different sizes of flat rate boxes.  The two smaller boxes hold about the same amount but are made totally different. One is long and narrow and the other is short and squatty. The new larger box holds about 50% more and since I found out about it I have used it exclusively. It cost me $10.95 to ship using this box and I can make it as heavy as I want to. Normally this flat rate box cost $12.95 but the postal service gives a $2.00 discount when you ship to an APO. To be quite honest I'm not even sure what the current charge is on the smaller box as I now only use the large one. Any amount of material may be enclosed as long as the box is not modified and the contents fit inside. .

These boxes are provided to us free from our USPS and you can pick them up at most post offices prior to shipping. The only time I had trouble finding them was the Christmas season as the post office was having problems keeping them in stock. At the same time you pick the flat rate boxes up you will also want to pick up some "Customs Declaration and Dispatch Notices" and some priority mail address labels. You will need to fill out the Customs Declaration and you are going to need to put in a description of what you are sending. It says detailed but you can just write things like 6 cans of soup, 2 packages of crackers, candy, 3 cans of tuna etc. That will suffice for detailed. You will need to put in a value and I always marked treat as abandoned. You will then need to date and sign the form. You have to press hard as there are 6 copies to go through. I always filled out an address label also and put it on the box. I had a postal worker tell me to fill both out just in case the customs declaration came off.

I am sorry but there are no short cuts to standing in line. YOU CAN NOT USE THE SPEEDY CHECK OUT MACHINE. My neighbor did that the first time she sent a package to her son and it came back to her because she had not added the customs declaration page.

The soldiers love getting useful stuff. Our daughter is a flight attendant for a charter company that moves our troops and she told me that someone sent some marines off with lei's which they proceeded to give to the flight attendants. The thought was nice but I think they would have preferred something that was useful to them. I sent things like soup, tuna, crackers, summer sausage, non-perishable cheese, candy. You get the idea anything that is non-perishable. At Christmas I always sent homemade cookies and candy to our son.  He isn't that crazy about sweets but he always shared them. You can be assured that if the soldier you are sending to doesn't like what you sent they will pass it on to someone that does.

So should you hear about someone that is stationed over in Iraq or Afghanistan you now know how to mail them a box of goodies using these wonderful flat rate boxes provided to us by our postal service.

Amazingly I found these packages typically got to their destination in less than a week. Whether I was sending them to Germany (as that was where our son was first stationed) or Iraq they always arrived. One time I sent the package to his old Germany APO address and the package went back to Fort Hood and then on to Iraq (it took about a month but it arrived safe and sound). About the only time I did not us the flat rate boxes was when I sent Ramon noodles or the time I sent an air mattress bed as it didn't fit.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

If you are buying or relocating to Spring Texas and need help from a professional REALTOR®, Marchel can be reached at Marchel@AgentwithResults.com or by phone at 832-721-8332.

If you would like information about Spring TX please visit my websites at www.AgentwithResults.com and at www.ResultsRealtytx.com. The AgentwithResults site is rich in Content about Spring and the surrounding areas of Tomball, The Woodlands and Magnolia. If you prefer pictures with your content then visit my ResultsRealtyTX site.

Want to find out about new Spring TX properties immediately as they come on the market, then click here to sign up for a free automatic notification of new listings.

Click the button to the left to search our local MLS.

Subcribe in a reader

Copyright © 2009 Marchel Peterson, All Rights Reserved. *How to send flat rate packages to our troops!!*

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Common mistakes made by sellers when listing their home.

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 14:18:41 -0600

Via Murray Knoll Partners (Keller Williams Clients Choice, Colorado Springs, CO):

Common mistakes made by sellers when listing their home.

Over the past several years Ann and I have taken notes on common seller mistakes in the Colorado Springs housing market, specifically, Academy District 20. Here are just a couple. For the complete list visit Seller Resources.

Incorrect Pricing. Every seller naturally wants to get the most money for his or her home. The most common mistake that causes sellers to get less than they hope for, is listing too high from the start. Listings reach the greatest proportion of potential buyers within the first three weeks they are on the market. If a property is dismissed as being overpriced early on, it will most likely be overlooked as price reductions occur. Overpriced properties tend to take an unusually long time to sell, and they end up being sold at a price lower than the original market value for the home. When priced right from the start, the home will be the competition for similar homes, often selling quicker and closer to the list price. Of course, condition of the home is critical.

When I have a seller that disagrees with me on my recommended price, I often refer to my gasoline analogy. It usually works. Here's how it goes: "Mr. Seller, in this market would you pay $4.00 a gallon for gas."

Mr. Seller's response, "of course not."
"Would you even pull up into the gas station?"
"No, because the gas is over priced."
"Exactly, and if your home is over priced, they won't even pull into the driveway to look at it." A long pause always follows...

Mistaking Re-finance Appraisals for Market Value. Re-finance appraisals can be very encouraging for homeowners, leading them to assume that the appraisal is the amount that they should expect to receive for their property. Lenders often estimate the value of your property higher than it actually is, however, in order to encourage re-financing. The market value of your home could actually be (and often is) lower. Your best bet is to ask your Realtor® for the most recent information regarding property sales in your community. Murray Knoll Partners track the sales in Colorado Springs and specifically, Academy District 20, very closely.

Believing the original list price of comparables is the sold price. This seems to happen to everyone. When a property first goes on the market, the neighbors are impressed that their neighborhood has appreciated so much. And then when the property finally sells, they don't realize that it took 3 or 4 price reductions with a drop of about 20% to find a buyer. This happens frequently during our listing presentations. The potential seller is under the false impression that the home down the street sold for the original list price. So, when they are ready to list their home, they are under the impression that they can sell for the inflated price.

It is so critical to talk with an agent that can show you the recent solds in your neighborhood. An experienced agent will provide you with the data on what you can expect for time on market, competition, distressed properties, recommended list price supported by recent solds, anticipated price adjustments, and buyer and/or buyers agent incentives. If they can't provide you with this basic information, your response should be "NEXT."

Nancy

Nancy Murray
Ann Knoll

Murray Knoll Partners

With Keller Williams Clients’ Choice

Colorado Springs, CO

Direct: 719-964-4810

http://www.OurDistrict20Homes.com/

info@ourdistrict20homes.com

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

What Steps Go Into Designing a Luxurious Master Bedroom?

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 14:11:39 -0600

Kate has taken the time to define a luxurious, comfortable, and eye appealing bedroom.

These particulars bear paying attention to.

Via Kate Case ~ Kate's Home Staging ~ RESA ~ ASHSR ~ NJ NAR Affiliate (Kates Home Staging and Redesign):

Your master bedroom is supposed to be a sanctuary, a place to retreat after a stressful day of work. A master bedroom's design cannot be all flair, we also need to consider the room's function. This is a room that can be more personal than most, when it comes to design. Before you start any design process it is important to measure the space carefully and to document the doorways, windows, closets, baseboard heaters, and any other items that could impact your design. The budget is also important, as it will influence all the steps below...

Here are the basis steps to design a master bedroom (or any bedroom):

When starting to design your master bedroom, the easiest place to start is the bed. The bed, after all, will be the focal point of the room. There are many options of headboards and beds that you can choose from ~ a four post bed, a sleigh bed, upholstery headboards, to a simple iron headboard. Here again, your unique tastes and style will come into play.

Next, the selection of luxurious linens occurs. This is a logical step after you select which bed to place in your bedroom. The linen you select can be a design inspiration for the remainder of your bedroom. Decorative pillows are the logical next step after the linens are decided upon. A master bedroom will have a minimum of four pillows and several layers of decorative pillows in similar colors.

Decide on a quality bedroom set that has a classic look. Please remember that you will probably use this set for the next ten years, so verify that the dresser drawers are made of real wood and will stand the test of time. The color of the furniture should be a neutral wood, nothing outlandish that will be out of style by next season.

To keep a consistant color scheme in your master bedroom, your windows need to either have a blind that matches the bedroom furniture or a soft drapery that matches the lines and decorative pillows. (Remember to order your drapes or roman shades with blackout liners, so you can sleep past 5:00 AM.) If you go with a wooden blind, you may want to add the two inch fabric swatch on the blinds in a coordinating color to the linens.

The actual design setup:

The master bedroom setup that looks fantastic is when there is a nightstand on each side of the bed with a matching light on each side. There also needs to be some greenery brought in.

To create a warm feelingin your master bedroom, please decorate with beiges, warm browns, and terracottas.

To create a cool feelingin your master bedroom, please decorate with pale colors such as light blue and lavender.

If you want to create a focal wall, choose the wall behind the bed. The focal wall can be painted a different paint color, fabric, or wallpaper can be used for an even more dramatic look.

Remember to keep your accessories to a minimum as the master bedroom is a place of rest and relaxation. Once the furniture has been setup with the appropriate linens, you should have no trouble selecting the finishing touches such as artwork, candle sticks for romance, and perhaps a rug to keep your feet warm.

Remember if you get stuck with your master bedroom design, you can always call your local home stager and interior redesigner! We are always here to help with all your design needs, from paint color selection to furniture arrangement.

Kate

Kate's Home Staging and Redesign serves the Rockland County and Orange County area of New York, Bergen County and Passaic County of New Jersey. Kate is an affiliate member of the Passaic County of Realtors. Kate's Home Staging and Redesign is now offering Full Digital Services to sell your home quickly. In other words, we will bring in the accessories, we will stage your home, we will re-take all the digital pictures, and then we will load these pictures into a virtual show to help sell your home. The virtual show is being offered to all our clients FREE of CHARGE to help SELL your home. Contact Kate today to see how a home staging consultation can help sell your home, for more information please visit http://www.kateshomestaging.com or call 845-538-3623.

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Trash Your Competition: Bad Idea

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 17:30:35 -0600

Via The Likeability Guy |Bob Sommers (Sommers Communication):

I tend to follow marketing people on Facebook as well as ActiveRain, and for the most part they do a great job promoting themselves as experts in their field. Every once in a while however, someone uploads a post that does more harm to their reputation than good. Let me give you an example.

Talk Trash

Recently, one of the marketing people I follow uploaded a post trashing a competitor. She didn’t name the competitor, but she made a big deal as to how unqualified this individual was with respect to teaching a certain subject. It was clear that her intent was to promote her credibility as the expert while trashing the expertise of her competition. Bad idea. In doing so, she lowered herself in the eyes of many of her followers.

This Was My Intent … Really

I’m certain that if you asked her what her intent was with the post, she would tell you that she wanted to warn people not to fall pray to unqualified service providers. Problem was, that’s not how the post came across to me or to most of her readers. It read as though she had an axe to grind with this individual and this was her way of trashing them while promoting herself as the guru.

Now, if you were to read the comments her followers made concerning her post, you would think that she is a goddess who can do no wrong. Unfortunately, the only people who commented on her post where her acolytes who gave here a false sense that what she did was OK. It wasn’t, and here’s why.

Reason 1:

When you’re the recognized expert in your field, people hold you to a higher standard. They don’t expect you to verbally hammer the little guy, even if you don’t call them by name. They will see you as a bully with a big stick. It’s the equivalent of the President of the United States getting on national television and telling the American people that the union or the management of a specific company is evil and greedy. Name calling at that level is just not done.

And they believe that if you’re capable of bullying someone else, you’re certainly capable of bullying them. There’s a reason people cheer for the underdog when the person in power is abusing it.

Reason 2:

When you talk about or write about how bad someone is, you’re associating yourself with that story. I, for example, will always associate this marketing person with this specific Facebook post. If her intent was to tear apart her competitor and built her reputation at the same time, she could have asked one of her acolytes to post the message for her. Had she done that, she would have successfully stabbed her competition in the back while looking totally innocent. P.S. I don’t suggest you do this.

Reason 3:

No one likes a complainer. Complaining about someone else is a sign of weakness and vulnerability. It is not what you expect from someone who is at the top of their game. It does not instill confidence in your capabilities. People will always wonder why you are more concerned about your competition than you are with your own capabilities.

What’s The Solution?

If my marketing friend was really concerned about her customers getting screwed, she could have conveyed that message while building her reputation as a likable problem solver at the same time. Rather than slam her competitor, she could have posted a warning in the form of a tip. For example.

To my Active Rain friends.

Here are a few tips to help insure that you’re getting the very best value for your money when you hire someone to (fill in the blank.)

Check their credentials

Check their references

Check their reputation

Check bla bla bla

In doing these four things, you will not only protect yourself against fraud, but you will find a service provider that you can trust. If a service provider is reluctant to provide this information, run!

Conclusion

Now, that’s a much better way to provide a warning without complaining and without bullying the underdog. Just as importantly, you shouldn’t be talking trash about your competition even if you are the new guy on the block. It doesn’t wear well on anyone.

We like people who we associate with good feelings and we don’t like people who we associate with bad feelings. Make sure that every conversation you have and every post you upload to the Internet encourages people to associate you with good feelings. It will not only improve your likeability, but it will build your reputation as the expert in your field.

If you would like to read more about how to be immediatley more likeable, please join the Likeability Guy at http://www.BobSommers.com

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Fifth Day in Las Vegas, Nevada

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 10:33:09 -0600

Fifth Day in Las Vegas, Nevada

I'm a Southeast Oklahoma gal, to be more specific, Choctaw County and McCurtain County.

This blog Life In southeast Oklahoma normally is written about living in that area.

All of us though get away from time to time, hopefully...

so this week's posts have been about our current get away to Las Vegas, Nevada.

We're here To watch our son, D V Fennell compete in The Wrangler National Finals Rodeo.

We've watched this event every year on TV, as have millions of people around the world.

Joe Pryor mentioned in a comment on a previous post that the National Finals Rodeo used to be in Oklahoma City. Yes, it did but is celebrating its 25th year in Las Vegas.

It is currently hosted by the Thomas and Mack Center which was built for the University of Nevada Las Vegas basketball. The design of the Thomas and Mack Center well for various events though and really well for the NFR.

"The entertainment capital of the world" has been used to describe various cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Las Vegas. It truly fits Las Vegas. This is our third trip to Vegas and the longest one. Our time has mostly been spent focused on the NFR and things associated with it, but there is always a lot going on here for visitors and tourists. The NFR has had a "sold out" attendance for over 200 performances. 2008 attendance over the 10 day event was 172,747 people.

Yesterday, after we had a late breakfast with D V at the Monte Carlo Cafe, we attended the Cowboy Christimas Vendor Show in the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Approx 400 vendors selling all sorts of gifts... handmade items, leather goods, jewelry, clothing, tack, decor, just about anything you could possibly think of that would fit into a country style Christmas.

We also attended the Rodeo Stock Auction at South Point. South Point has a marvelous indoor arena that can be used for various "rodeo style" events, it's own 16 screen theatre movie complex and a 64 lane bowling center.

Last night's performance at the rodeo was awesome! There is no other rodeo like The National Finals Rodeo. If you like rodeos and have never attended The National Finals, I encourage you to do so if you get the chance.

D V had an excellent ride last night. This cowboy puts his heart into what he does and I'm not saying that just because he's our son... ask anyone about D V. His score was 81.5 on a horse called Moulin Rouge.

Last night's ride was an outstanding ride on the "bucking horse of the night".

Friday nigt's performance that placed him in a second spot for that perf was on R D Mercer, The first night, Thursday ride was on Goldlilocks.

D V currently has a point total of 242.5 for three rides. There are seven more performances to go. Continue to cheer him on with me.

It has been a wonderful experience here. Everyone associated with the rodeo has done a superb job of "getting it done". We had nothing but courteous, friendly, and helpful folks. Even transportation back and forth to the rodeo has been provided at no charge.

Tonight's rodeo promises to just as exciting! So look for me back here tomorrow!

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

UPDATE - Brightening Up a Dark Space - SOLD in 2 Weeks

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 23:21:09 -0600

I want my clients and customers in Southeast Oklahoma to look at the difference that good preparation of a home makes!

Via David Peterson ~ Home Stager Portland OR ~ Synergy Staging ~ Portland Oregon (Synergy Staging ~ creating inspired spaces):

*** UPDATE ***

Heard from the Realtor yesterday that a full price offer was accepted after only two weeks. More details later...

One of our Realtors contacted us recently about staging her new listing - a classic home in Northeast Portland. This was a project with a small budget (don't be shocked!) and it definitely needed some help.

The walls were painted a deep burgundy giving the whole space a very dark and uninviting feel. The camera flash actually lightened up the room quite a bit, but in person it was very dark. We staged the Living Room, Dining Room, and Kitchen, all of which are visible from the moment you enter the home. First impressions are vital, especially in todays real estate market. Buyers will make an opinion within the first six seconds of viewing a home.

The original inlayed woodwork and details are gorgeous. It was important to brighten up the space to make it feel welcoming so potential buyers didn't turn around as soon as they walked in. We used light furnishings, decor, and 3 lamps in the Living Room.

Here are a few before and after photos:



Living Room taken from the fireplace. You'll notice a massive mirror at the entry which couldn't overcome the dark space on its own.



Living Room taken from the Dining Room. The light furniture and decor made the space feel more cozy and bright.


The Dining Room wall was repaired and anchored with open backed light chairs.

The nook next to the stairway and one of four lamps used to brighten up the space.

For more information about this home please visit our Staged Listings page

or contact Ruth Canutt of RE/MAX Equity Group at 503-495-5204

=========================================================================================

Join the Realtors, Investors, and Homeowners who call Synergy Staging to make their properties irresistible and sell fast! For more tips or to see our latest home staging projects, visit us on Facebook and read our Portland Home Staging Blog. Please call us at (503) 557-2244 for a free no obligation quote so we can help your home sell faster.

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Tell Me Something Good That Happened To You This Week or Tell Me Something That Makes You Smile

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 09:49:18 -0600

You know what's made me smile this week!

It has been an awesome few days here in Vegas at the National Finals Rodeo. Those of you that have been cheering and "rooting" (strange word) for D V, Thank You!

I want you to know that he made a truly fantastic ride last night.

I shot some photographs and videoed him back behind the chutes getting ready and getting ready at the chute... video looked great so decided to video instead of photographing this performance.

His horse was acting up in the chute and wouldn't settle down... so they went to another performer while they moved the horse down to a different chute.

Then when they came back to D V, he was in the chute on the end on our side of the arena and they didn't have a lot to say because they had already talked about him when they were going to open the chute before, so the chute was opened pretty quick and I missed getting the first few seconds of the ride while I focused on him....

Horse and Rider came out of that chute in a biiiiig way. Fast, hard, jumping, bucking... and D V was spurring him on. It was an truly a winners classic.

At that point, D V was in the lead.... he ended up splitting second place for the night.. I was extremely proud of him and want you to know that I was praying from the time that we got there that the Lord would keep him focused on his ride, that he would place, and that he would stay safe. We have an AWESOME GOD!

The video is processing right now, when it gets finished, I'll embed.

Please tell me something good that happened to you this week or something that makes you smile.

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

Top 8 Reasons to Stage your Portland Oregon Home (or Listing) or Your Southeast Oklahoma Home!

Judi Barrett Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946 — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 08:20:43 -0600

Via Maureen Bray ~ Home Stager Portland OR ~ Room Solutions Staging (Staging that Sells Portland Homes):

TOP 8 REASONS TO STAGE YOUR PORTLAND OREGON HOME

Staging your home usually results in a quicker sale because it’s clean, free of distractions, and it’s best features are properly highlighted

Staging increases the appeal of your home to buyers looking online as well as those who view your home in person

Staging ensures that your home will stand out favorably when compared to other competing homes for sale (including new construction)

Staging helps you decide which easy cosmetic fixes should be taken care of before listing your home

Staging your home costs much less than a price reduction

Staging helps buyers imagine what it would be like to live in your home and how they might configure their furnishings there

Staging your home can result in more showings by Realtors, who recognize that a staged home shows better and is more likely to attract the right buyer

Staging shows buyers that your home is “move in ready” and not a project they’ll have to spend more money on

*** *** ***

Need to sell your home or listing quickly? Maureen Bray and the team at Room Solutions Staging in Portland OR offers homeowners, investors, builders, banks, & Realtors a varied menu of professional home staging services. Our consultation service is only $150 for two hours of our time and provides you with expert tips and suggestions to make your home ready for the market. Give us a call for more info @ 503-246-1800. We'd love to help you sell your home!

Staging That Sells Portland Homes!

Copyright © Room Solutions Staging LLC

~ content may not be reproduced without permission ~

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Life in Southeast Oklahoma is GREAT! If you're looking for a home or land in my part of the country, please give me a call, and give me a chance to earn your business!

Judi Barrett, broker, Integrity Real Estate Services, 580-212-5946

Judi Barrett
Broker - Integrity Real Estate Services
Our Name Says It All.
Real Estate Services You Can Trust.
580-212-5946

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Introducing the 2nd Edition of Virtual Real Estate BarCamp.

We're Back!Introducing the 2nd Edition of Virtual Real Estate BarCamp.

January 4th - 9am until 4pm PST9 Hours, 28 Incredible Speakers, 1000s of Attendees!

It's Free!

In an effort to always improve, we have made some changes to the event format:

We have boosted our goals for the event as well:

We have a new website: www.VirtualBarCamp.com

Five Reasons to Stage Occupied Homes

Tell Me Something Good That Happened To You This Week or Tell Me About Something That Makes You Smile.

Home Feels Good When You've Been Gone

Home Fire Safety For First Time Home Buyers Part 1 of 12 Fire Extinguishers

Referral Tesimony for Judi Barrett of Integrity Real Estate Services, Southeast Oklahoma from Tim Hartwig, Broker in South Texas

How to send flat rate packages to our troops!!

Common mistakes made by sellers when listing their home.

What Steps Go Into Designing a Luxurious Master Bedroom?

Trash Your Competition: Bad Idea

Talk Trash

This Was My Intent … Really

Reason 1:

Reason 2:

Reason 3:

What’s The Solution?

Conclusion

Fifth Day in Las Vegas, Nevada

UPDATE - Brightening Up a Dark Space - SOLD in 2 Weeks

Tell Me Something Good That Happened To You This Week or Tell Me Something That Makes You Smile

Top 8 Reasons to Stage your Portland Oregon Home (or Listing) or Your Southeast Oklahoma Home!

We're Back!
Introducing the 2nd Edition of Virtual Real Estate BarCamp.

January 4th - 9am until 4pm PST
9 Hours, 28 Incredible Speakers, 1000s of Attendees!