Oregon Real Estate >> Bend Oregon Real Estate Blog

Central Oregon Fall Calendar of Events

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 21:18:01 -0500

Central Oregon Fall 2008 Calendar

Business Events

October 1

1:00-4:00pm Powerful Practices for the Small Business with Peter Marsh, Central Oregon Association of Realtors, 388-3236

October 2

5:30-7:00pm Young Professionals Network, Java Crew, 306-7611

October 7

5:30-7:30pm Opportunity Knocks Annual Meeting Celebration honoring Lindsay Stevens, The Point at Shevlin Corporate Park, 318-4650

October 8

8:00-10:00am Opportunity Knocks: Shared Ownership, Central Oregon Association of Realtors, 318-4650

October 13

4:00-6:30pm Opportunity Knocks: Now's the Time: Making the Most of Today's Economy, Phoenix Inn, 318-4650

October 15

5:30-7:30pm Young Professional Network, Clear Choice Health Plans

October 16

12-4pm Super Charge Your Sales Performance, Riverhouse Resort & Convention Center, 306-4908

5:00-8:00pm Bend Venture Conference Networking Event, Broken Top Club, tickets at http://bendvc.eventbrite.com

October 17

8:30- All Day Event 5^th Annual Bend Venture Conference, Tower Theatre, tickets at http://bendvc.eventbrite.com

October 18

Saving Grace "Groovy 70's 2008", 7^th Mountain Resort, Kelly, 382-9227 ext. 102

October 30

6:00-8:30pm EDCO Annual Awards: Serious Business. Serious Fun! Inn at 7^th Mountain Resort, 388-3236

November 12

5:30-7:30pm Young Professional Network, Central Oregon Builders Association

Workshops

September 17-October 22

5:00-7:30pm Living Well With Chronic Conditions, Deschutes County Services Center, 322-7430

October 1

6:00-8:00pm How to start a Business, COCC, Bend Campus, 383-7290

October 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29

6:00-8:00pm "Green Building & Remodeling Class", COCC, 383-7270

October 1 and 2

8:00-4:00pm and 8:00-4:30pm, "COBA College", COAR, pre-register @ 389-1058

October 2

9:00am-2:00pm Work Zone Flagger Class, COCC, 383-7270

7:30-12:00pm Creating an Organization with Staying Power, Riverhouse, 617-7179

6:00-9:00pm Live Contractor Education Course, COCC, 383-7290

October 3

8:15-3:15pm "Grow Your Business with Blogging", COCC campus, 383-7270

8:30-5:00pm Live Contractor Education Course, COCC, 383-7290

October 4

8:30-5:00pm Live Contractor Education Course, COCC, 383-7290

October 7

8:00-12:00pm OSHA Safety Committee Basic Training, COCC, Redmond Campus, Room 306, 503-947-7443

1:00-5:00pm OSHA Lockout/Tagout and Machine Safeguarding, COCC, Redmond Campus, Room 306, 503-947-7443

2:00-3:30pm Exploring the Deschutes Public Library Catalog, Bend Public Library, 617-7080

6:00-7:30pm Creating a Budget Sheet with Excel, Bend Public Library, 617-7080

6:00-8:30pm Basics of Business Plans, Midstate Electric in La Pine, 383-7270

October 7, 14, and 21

6:30-9:00pm Search Engine Strategies, COCC, pre-register @ 383-7270

October 8

8:00-12:00pm What to Expect from an OR-OSHA Inspection, COCC, Redmond Campus, Room 305, 503-947-7443

1:00-5:00pm OSHA Fall Protection, COCC, Redmond Campus, Room 305, 503-947-7443

3:00pm Oregon Building Codes Regional Forum, Redmond Senior Center, 503-378-4133

October 9

8:30-11:30am "Leading from Possibility" presented by Guy Smith, Cascade Healthcare Community, preregister at 383-7270

8:00-12:00 pm Leadership Series presented on the 2^nd Thursday of each month, COCC-Bend Campus, 383-7290

October 9- November 20

6:00-8:30pm Human Resources 101, COCC, pre-register @ 383-7270

October 10

10:00-4:30pm Nonprofit Grant Writing, Sisters Public Library, pre-register @ 383-7270

October 11

9:00-4:00pm Intermediate Quickbooks Pro, COCC-Bend Campus, 383-7270

October 13

4:15-6:30pm Now's the Time: Making the Most of Today's Economy, Phoenix Inn, 318-4650

October 13 and 20

6:00-9:00pm Website Marketing & Moneymaking, COCC-Bend Campus, 383-7270

October 14

2:00-3:30pm Searching the Internet, Bend Public Library, 617-7080

4:00-6:30pm Design for Change: Goals and a Willingness to Adopt a New System of Care, register at 633-7163 8:00-12:00pm

October 14, 16 and 21

8:00-12:00pm MS Project 2007, COCC Senior Center, pre-register at @ 383-7270

October 15

3:00-5:00pm High Performance Workplace: The Modern Office Environment, Bend Public Library, Brooks Room, 388-3236

October 16

8:00-4:00pm The Toyota Way Leadership: A Comprehensive Management System for the Enterprise, McMenamin's, Father Luke's Room, 388-3236

11:00-1:00pm Business Start Up, Redmond COCC Campus, 383-7290

2:00-3:30pm When the Web Won't Work, Bend Public Library, 617-7080

October 21

8:30-10:00am A Culture of Empowerment: The Nature of Participation in Tomorrow's Consumer Economy, Tower Theatre, 383-7270

October 22

10:00-11:30am The Other Kicker Check: How to Take Advantage of Overlooked Tax Credits, Bend Public Library, Brooks Room, 388-3236

6:00-8:00pm Business Start Up, La Pine Midstate Electric, 383-7290

October 23

3:00-4:30pm Building a Culture of Safety, Community First Bank, Redmond, 388-3236

6:30-8:30pm "Progress in Urban Environmental Design: Revolutionary Stormwater Systems", St. Charles Medical Center, 815-3951

October 28

9:30-11:00am Tips on Acquiring or Selling a Business in this Economy, Central Oregon Association of Realtors, 388-3236

2:00-3:30 pm Advanced Topics in Internet Searching, Bend Public Library, 617-7080

6:00-8:00pm Business Start Up, Sisters Maida Bailey Old Library, 383-7290

November 15

9:00-4:00pm Intermediate Quickbooks Pro, COCC-Bend Campus, 383-7270

Community Interests

September 15-November 14

Varied Hours, The Artful Beauty of Science, COCC Library, Rotunda Gallery, 383-7515

September 30-November 4

4:00-6:30pm Living Well With Chronic Conditions, St. Charles Medical Center, 322-7430

September 30- November 4

6:00-8:00pm Professional Bookkeeping Class, COCC, 383-7270

October 1

8:30-10:00am Managing your G-Mail Account, Sisters Public Library, 312-1072

October 2

6:00pm Americana Students Showcase, Sisters Public Library, 312-1032

October 3

9:00-2:00pm Aging Well, Living Well Flu Shot Fest & Health Fair, Bend Senior Center, Brenda, 388-1133

12:00-1:30pm Bend City Council Candidates Forum, County/State Building, 1300 NW Wall Street

Keep A Breast Event, Oxygen Tattoo, 1002 NW Bond Street, 647-0888

October 4

9:00-4:00pm "Beginning Excel 2003", Prineville COIC building, 383-7270

2:00pm The Making of the President: 19^th Century Style, Redmond Public Library, 312-1032

3:00pm Soccer and Globalization in Latin America, Bend Public Library, Brooks Room, 312-1034

October 5

2:00pm Running as a Woman: Female Political Ambition and American Politics, Bend Public Library, Brooks Room, 312-1032

October 6

8:30-10:00am When the Web Won't Work, Sisters Public Library, 312-1072

12:00pm Good Chair, Great Reads: Water for Elephants, Bend Public Library, Brooks Room, 617-1039

7:30pm OPB's Think Out Loud, Cascades Theatrical Company

October 7

8:30-10:00am Advanced Topics in Internet searching, Sisters Public Library, 312-1072

2:00-3:00pm Exploring the Deschutes Public Library Catalog, Bend Library Computer Classroom, 617-7080

6:00-7:30pm Creating a Budget Spreadsheet with Excel, Bend Library Computer Classroom, 617-7080

October 7-November 11

10:00am-12:30pm Living Well With Chronic Conditions, Episcopal Church of the Transfiguration-Sisters, 322-7430

October 8

6:00pm Café' Libri with Dennis Alan, Redmond Public Library, 312-1032

6:30pm State Ballot Measure Forum, La Pine Public Library, 312-1034

6:30pm Open Adult Computer Lab, La pine Public Library, 312-1090

6:30-7:45pm How to Prosper During a Bear Market, Bend Public Library, Brooks Room, 617-7080

October 8- November 12

1:30 pm - 4:00 Living Well With Chronic Conditions, Bend Senior Center, 322-7430

October 9-12

2008 Bend Film Festival

October 9- November 13

2:30-5:00pm Living Well With Chronic Conditions, St. Charles Medical Center, 322-7430

12:00-1:30pm Deschutes County Commissioner Candidates Forum, County/State Building, 1300 NW Wall Street

6:30-7:30pm Making your Home More Energy Efficient, Bend Public Library, Brooks Room, 617-7085

October 10-12

9:00-5:00pm Commissary & Health Fair, Deschutes County Fair & Expo Center, High Desert Activity Center, 383-0954

October 11

9:00am Project Homeless Connect, Hooker Creek Event Center, Dina Barker, 408-7991

October 11-12

Central Oregon Green and Solar Homes Tour, 617-9013

October 12

3:00pm Second Sunday with Brad Tisdel and Americana Project Students, Bend Public Library, Brooks Room, 312-1034

October 13

5:30-7:30pm State Senate 27^th District, State Rep. 53^rd District, State Rep. 54^th District Candidates Forum, Deschutes Public Library, Brooks Room

October 14^th

12:00-1:30pm State Treasurer Candidates Forum, County/State Building, 1300 NW Wall Street

2:00-3:30pm Searching the Internet, Bend Library Computer Classroom, 617-7080

6:00pm Wag the Dog, McMenamins Old St. Francis School, 312-1032

October 15 & 22

1:00-4:00pm Beginning Excel 2003, Bend Senior Center, 383-7270

October 16

10:00am Open Adult Computer Lab, La Pine Public Library, 312-1090

5:00pm All the Presidents Men, Sisters Movie House, 312-1032

5:30pm Read! Watch! Discuss! "House of sand and Fog", Bend Public Library, Brooks Room, 617-1039

7:00-9:00pm Bend 2030 Town Meeting, Bend Senior Center, 617-9701

October 17-19

12:00pm Friday, 10:00am Sat. & Sun 2008 COBA Fall Home Show, Deschutes County Fairgrounds & Expo Center, Sonia Burns, soniab@coba.org

October 18

8:00am Skyliners Winter Sports Swap, Mt. Bachelor Bus Barn, 388-0002

10:00-3:00pm 1^st Annual Informed Family Fair, Kiddoz, 280-2356

5:30pm The Center Foundation "Toast to Rock n Roll" fundraiser, Riverhouse, 322-2399

6:30pm Saving Grace "Groovy 70's 2008", 7^th Mountain Resort, Kelly, 382-9227 ext. 102

October 21

11:30am PEO Chapter GC 2^nd Annual Fashion Gala & Luncheon, Bend Golf & Country Club, 617-1013

2:00-3:30pm "When the Web Won't Work", Bend Library Computer Classroom. 617-7080

6:00pm Art Envy with Paula Bullwinkel; Frida Kahlo, Bend Public Library, 312-1034

October 22

6:30pm Good Chair, Great Books: Memory Keeper's Daughter, 312-1074

7:00pm Resilience 08 Mentor Research Fundraiser, Tower Theater

October 23

10:00am Open Adult Computer Lab, La Pine Public Library, 312-1090

5:30pm Read!Watch!Discuss! "House of Sand and Fog", Bend Public Library, Brooks Room, 617-1039

6:30-8:30pm Progress in Urban Environmental Design: Revolutionary Stormwater Systems with Bruce Ferguson, St. Charles Center for Health and Learning, 815-3951

October 25

9:00-4:00pm Beginning Excel 2003, Madras COIC Building, 383-7270

11:30am "Digital Politics: How New Media Have Changed Presidential Campaigns", Bend Public Library, Brooks Room, 312-1032

3:00pm Covering Campaign 2008: A Report Card for the Press, Sisters Public Library, 312-1032

October 25-26

11:00-6:00pm Central Oregon Tour of Remodeled Homes, ticket brochures available thru COBA and the Fall Home Show, 389-1058

October 28

2:00-3:30pm Advanced Topics in Internet Searching, Bend Library Computer Classroom, 617-7080

October 30

4:30pm Open Adult Computer Lab, La Pine Public Library, 312-1090

6:30pm Spooky Stories for Grown Ups, Bend Public Library, Brooks Room, 312-1032

October 31

7:30pm Human Dignity Coalition's Annual Drag Show and Halloween Party, Midtown Ballroom

November 1

6:30pm 11^th Annual Comedy Benefit for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon, Tower Theatre, 312-6047

November 15

6:15pm Camp Fire Flames vs. Harlem Globetrotter Ambassadors, Summit High School, 382-4682

November 21

6:00pm First Annual Gala Fundraiser to benefit High Desert Chamber Music, 306-3988

February 13-15

LibertyBank Bend WinterFest, Old Mill District

Honoring Karen George.....what you can do right now!

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 20:28:35 -0500

Good Evening Everyone,

A short time ago, Active Rain lost one of its most significant contributors to breast cancer. I am not going to go into what an incredible person Karen was or how many lives she touched here. Suffice it to say those of us who knew her will never forget her.

You should know that the Breast Cancer site is having trouble getting enough people to click on their site daily to meet their quota of donating at least one free mammogram a day. This mammogram goes to an underprivileged woman. Making the donation takes less than a minute and is absolutely free. Just go to their site and click on 'donating a mammogram'.

Again, this doesn't cost you a thing. The site's corporate sponsors and advertisers use the number of daily visits to donate mammogram in exchange for advertising.

Here's the web site! http://www.thebreastcancersite.com/ Click on the pink window in the middle. That's it.

Go now! Save a life.

Thank you for honoring Karen and the millions of women fighting breast cancer everywhere!

If you GIVE a THIEF A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER........

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 08:33:27 -0500

Based on the successful children's novel "If you Give a Mouse a Cookie".....

I have a friend who does daycare. One of her clients is a grandmother who is the sole custodian of her granddaughter.

At the end of the year, my friend (a sole proprietor) sent a 1099 form to her client who inadvertently left it on her table..... when the mother of the child came for a visit and .....took the Social Security number and name listed on the 1099 back home with her to the valley..... where she opened a Fred Meyer credit card in the amount of $8,000 and with an APR of 22.99%. She of course put in a false address and ....goes what else ?........ shopping.

My friend goes to refinance her home... when the loan officer tells her......"there's a problem. You have a seriously delinquent account on your credit report". My friend's impeccable credit history has been marred and is now preventing her from refinancing her home. She begins the long, somewhat difficult process of getting this unauthorized account removed from her credit. She calls the police..... they start the investigation, they stall.... she calls, she writes, one agency and then the next..... when finally, one year later, she gets Fred Meyer and all three reporting agencies to remove the account from her report. In the meantime.........

It gets better....... my friend's credit card "B" had a universal default rate clause. Ever hear of one of those? A universal default rate says that company B can raise your interest rate if you default on any other credit card obligation, including company A (in this case, Fred Meyer). For my friend, this became the worst of all scenarios as her credit report became a consumer and loan officers worst nightmare.

Now, she not only had to prove that she was unjustly the victim, she also had to prove to her creditors that she did not "DO" anything to warrant the "universal default rate" charges being imposed to her account. Credit card company B then had to "try" and remove the interest upon interest charges now added to her account balance. YIKES! All in all, it took 2 years to undo the damage done and bring the responsible party to justice. She is now finally able to proceed with refinancing her home, although at a higher rate than she could have secured two years ago.

WOW........ as I have said before, protect your identity and your social security number at all costs. People are desperate and there are those that will not blink an eye when manipulating someone elses identity. A mistake, even one you are not aware of (or responsible for) .... can be costly. Be careful out there and check your credit report annually.

Note: For those of you unaware, you are entitled to ONE free credit report from each of the three reporting agencies each year. To get yours, click on https://www.annualcreditreport.com and sign up today.

Active Rain Newsletter....... Myth, Mystery or Imagined?

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 11:38:26 -0500

I am beginning to wonder......is it just another urban legend? Where is the AR newsletter I keep reading about? There are plenty of vague references to it, how great it is and even co-conspirators vowing that it REALLY does exist. I can't find it though, not one link to it, not one shred of hard evidence proving that it's real.

I even tried to email Brad Andersohn and guess what happened? My browser shut down. Coincidence? I think not. There's definitely a conspiracy going on here but the fact remains......

I need to know. Is such a wonderful thing as an AR newsletter possible or is it just a figment (albeit a wonderful one) of my imagination? A daily newsletter complete with featured blogs and members and articles of interest? It can't be. It's not possible.

But if it is (I secretly really do believe), can someone send me the link or better yet, evidence? I think there's a few others here that would like to see it for themselves.

Money TIGHT? DO THIS !

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 00:51:43 -0500

Cutting through the crap, straight to the chase. Times are tough, the economy sucks and everyone is struggling to keep things together. There are two things you can do. ONE, increase your revenue and TWO, cut your expenses.

My short list here should save you at least $200 per month, hopefully more:

RENEGOTIATE your office fee or split. 100% of nothing is still NOTHING. Now is the time to negotiate everywhere you can, your goal is 0 out of pocket expense.

CANCEL subscriptions to all magazines, periodicals, business journals, and around the office reading material that does not bring $ $ $ $ to you. (This is just about everything).

CELL PHONES....time to evaluate. Check to see if you are under contract and if so, when it renews. As soon as you are able, shop for a better deal. Companies are hurting, and inclined to offer huge incentives for new business.

PARK the Lexus. Start driving the Honda that gets a billion miles per gallon. Looking cool is overrated anyways. On that note, make EVERY trip count for something.

ROLL HIGH INTEREST CREDIT CARD BALANCES to a lower, fixed rate card. There's plenty of companies in on that action. Juniper Card and Capital One both have some great deals going right now.

RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS should be off limits but desperate times call for desperate measures. You may be able to borrow against it or withdraw it altogether. There will undoubtedly be a penalty .... check with your accountant first.

LIFE INSURANCE policies usually allow for low interest loans against accrued value. Make sure this is something you can afford to pay back if you do borrow against it.

LIQUIDATE your unwanted & unused items. Post your unwanteds on Ebay, Craigslist, Amazon or Shopzilla. Even some private companies will post your items for sale for a portion of the profits when they sell.

RENT out that extra bedroom. This is not for everyone but in certain situations, can provide that much needed extra income.

DINE OUT LESS, eat at home more. Home cooked is always better anyways, right?

PUT SHOPPING on the back burner for now. Chances are you already have enough purses, shoes and God knows, clothes, to last a lifetime.

WANT vs. NEED Honestly choose only what you need. Now is not the time to buy just because you want it.

JOB .... Find one, real estate related or not.

"WATCH THE PENNIES AND THE DOLLARS WILL TAKE CARE OF THEMSELVES"

Who's TEAM are you on?

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 21:21:24 -0500

Everyone's nervous these days and with good reason. Big businesses are closing daily, the real estate market is in the toilet, stock values are plummeting and we are now facing the highest nationwide unemployment rate in years. Couple that with a "difficult" mortgage market, a historic election year and the soaring cost of living and it becomes painfully clear. This is not a prosperous time in America, it's a flat out scary time in America.

Desperate times call for desperate measures. Now more than ever, we all need to evaluate our team participation. The team I'm referring to might be you and your in-office partner or the team might be your entire office. On a larger scale, the "team" is your community, your city, your state and yes....thinking of the big political picture, your country. The point is, that consumers have more choices than ever. While we are all distracted by the current market conditions, we still need to be team players, giving the best to those dependent on our services, including each other.

SMALL actions, BIG difference. Poor financial conditions often predicate the ME syndrome and keep people from being TEAM players (It's all about me, I need to get more for ME, I'm in it for ME, What's in it for ME?). However, there is no I in TEAM. Embrace the team attitude and work together. Network, in your office, in your city, here in the Rain. Come together to support your communities, the struggling businesses in your area, the builders, bankers, the buyers and sellers. WORK to bring people together for the good of the masses, rather than to benefit yourself.

You'd be amazed at what a little TEAMWORK can do. Buy LOCALLY whenever you can, and if not locally.... definitely from this COUNTRY. Remember that we enjoy freedoms here that few other countries have. It's important that we stand behind each other now, through the difficult times we are ALL having. It's not about you or me or anyone else. It's about us coming together and working together to overcome the obstacles ahead. Small steps together will take us out of this recession much more quickly than anything else we can do.

I'm on TEAM USA. Who's team are you on?

Who's reposting your blog and how Google Alerts can help~

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 11:33:35 -0500

What are Googel Alerts? Google Alerts are a tool provided by Google to allow users to find out when a particular subject matter has been "picked up" by Google.

Why do I need them? You can use Google Alerts to keep you privy to news in your area, your interests, your blog, your website, your articles, your name, your competition, anything you deem worthy. This is exceptionally useful in finding new content for your blog. I have several Google Alerts set up with topics including Bend, Oregon, Bend Oregon real estate, NAR, Real Estate News, kellisellsquick.com and Kelli Fronabarger.

How will Google Alerts help to show who's reposting my blog? When someone reposts your blog, Google picks it up through your selected search terms and show you where it is being published and by whom. With all the concern over plagiarism, I would suggest everyone sets up at least a couple of alerts.

Where do I get them? Go here: http://www.google.com/alerts and sign up for 1 alert or 100...it's up to you! Check your email, click on the links and verify the Google Alert. You will begin to receive alerts within a few hours, depending on your settings.

There you have it folks. It's not really rocket science but it can be incredibly valuable to your business and your blog. I can't say for sure but I think the Google Alerts can be used as evidence of copyright infringement in court. Be aware that you too are being watched. If someone does not grant you exclusive permission to repost their blog, DON'T USE IT! If they do, make sure they are fully credited for the writing and or photos and art. Copyright infringement is serious.

In the meantime, this amazing service is FREE ! Check it out !

This is the NAR alert I received last night. Scroll down and look at the three Active Rain bloggers and blogs that showed up.

Google News Alert for: National Association of Realtors

Home sales outlook continues to be bleak
Boston Globe - United States
The National Association of Realtors posts existing home sales for July. They're expected to have teetered near a 10-year low -gaining 1 percent to a 4.9 ...
See all stories on this topic

Halter named to national Coldwell Banker board
Anderson Independent Mail - Anderson,SC,USA
Halter is a member of the South Carolina Association of Realtors board of directors, Greenville Hospital System Advisory Board, Bank Greenville and the ...
See all stories on this topic

VanMeter named lifetime member of OAR
Durant Daily Democrat - Durant,OK,USA
Also, he is eligible to receive the title of realtor emeritus in the National Association of Realtors®. VanMeter said the term "Realtor" has become a ...
See all stories on this topic

Clayton schools accreditation vote this week
Atlanta Journal Constitution - GA, USA
18-21: Georgia NAACP, Georgia Association of Realtors, Clayton Student Coalition and the county's largest teachers' union ask for board resignations.

· Feb. ...

See all stories on this topic

Evans Report: Palm Beach condo sale prices fall, but homes rise
Palm Beach Daily News - Palm Beach,FL,USA
And on the national level, June sales of existing single-family homes were down 15 percent year over year, according to the National Association of Realtors ...
See all stories on this topic

National real estate slump hasn't hit NS
TheChronicleHerald.ca - Halifax,Nova Scotia,Canada
Robert Wambolt, president of Nova Scotia Association of Realtors, said Friday that while national prices have slipped, provincial prices have held steady ...
See all stories on this topic

Foreign buyers like US home prices
Chicago Sun-Times - United States
The National Association of Realtors estimates that between 150000 and 190000 homes were sold to foreign nationals from May 2007 to May 2008. ...
See all stories on this topic

Realtors group promotes home buyers' tax credit
Chicago Sun-Times - United States
BY FRANCINE KNOWLES The Illinois Association of Realtors is working to get the word out about a new tax credit for first-time home buyers worth up to $7500. ...
See all stories on this topic

Google Blogs Alert for: National Association of Realtors

TRIANGLE VA Real Estate - POTOMAC HIGHLANDS: Real Estate Market ...
By Keith Elliott Jr -"Prince William County...(Keith Elliott Jr -"Prince William County...)
I am a Candidate Member of the CCIM Institute, Member of the National Association of Realtors®, Virginia Association of Realtors®, and the Greater Piedmont Area Association of Realtors®. I hold several real estate credentials; ...
Prince William County Virginia... - http://activerain.com/blogs/kelliott5264

GA REALTOR® Earns ABR® What is ABR®? | Home Buyer's Benefit!
By Michelle Miller, REALTOR®, ABR®
This coveted designation is awarded to real estate practitioners by the Real Estate BUYER'S AGENT Council (REBAC) of the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR)who meet the specified educational and practical experience criteria. ...
Woodstock, GA Real Estate | Michelle... - http://youragentga.wordpress.com

7 Reasons to Own Your Home
By John Elwell (CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc)(John Elwell (CENTURY 21 Bill Nye Realty, Inc))
Online resources: To calculate whether buying is the best financial option for you, use the "Buy vs. Rent" calculator at www.ginniemae.gov. Source: National Association of REALTORS Reprinted with permission.
John's Florida Real Estate Blog - http://activerain.com/blogs/jte777

Always something to do when you live at The Reserve At Woodside ...
By Gene Mock (The Carolina Real Estate Company)(Gene Mock (The Carolina Real Estate Company))
Search the entire Aiken MLS right here! Find your Aiken realty today. Gene Mock, Realtor. Gene is a proud member of The National Association of Realtors, South Carolina Association of Realtors, and Aiken Board of Realtors. ...
Gene's Blog - http://activerain.com/blogs/genemock

Condos Keep Selling : Many Opt for Condos Due to Price and ...
By joseph1031
The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® Code of Ethics provides that "REALTORS® shall not deny equal professional services to any person for reasons of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin. ...
Austin Texas Realtor Blog - http://jasonljoseph.com/blog

So, you can see how it works and what you might expect from your Google Alerts. Google is not partial to any subject in any way so if you're blogging to get noticed.... this is a great way to track your progress.

SECRETS TO STAYING VISIBLE in this market

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:25:22 -0500

I know times are tough and many brokers are having a difficult time staying afloat. I think the key in any market is to stay VISIBLE. With so many agents to select from, buyers are often overwhelmed with their choices. 9 out of 10 are going to choose someone they recognize. Since so many of us have extra time on our hands, here's some ideas to help you stay in front of your customer and busy wtih real estate.

Here are ten tips and tricks to keep your phone ringing, in no particular order:

1. Blog EVERYDAY ! We've all heard it, fresh content is key. Use your local newspaper, news, MLS stats, ribbon cuttings, chamber reports and local calendars to find subject matter. Always, always make sure your content is your own. My last 4 clients found me through the Web.....don't underestimate what it can do for your business, for free.

2. Utilize every opportunity for free advertising that you can. This would include Active Rain, local papers, Craig's List, your local association of Realtors, etc. Don't be shy. If you complete a certification or educational accomplishment, announce it. If you are offering a new service, announce it. If you change offices, announce it.

3. Attend public events in your local area and.....ALWAYS carry your business cards! Find at least one function to attend EVERY week. Visiting out of the area events can also be a great way to secure new clients.

4. Real Estate.....chat it up. Seize opportunity, at the dr., the dentist, the grocery store, the Saturday trip to Costco. Use every opportunity to chat up real estate, what the market's doing, where prices are, what's moving and what's not. You'd be surprised at who's listening.

5. Network, Network, Network. Join your area Chambers, Rotary, visitors associations, Realtor groups including PACS and focus groups. Involve yourself with your church, children's schools, sports events, local fairs, workshops and education opportunities.

6. Continue to Advertise. Cut the frills, reduce the size, opt for black and white rather than color but DON'T stop your advertising. Look at the distribution numbers and spend where you are getting the most value for your dollar.

7. Volunteer in your community. United Way, Family Access Network, Food Banks, Humane Society, Ronald McDonald House... I could go on and on. Find something that interests you and GIVE BACK to your community. Outside of the obvious benefit to others, this is a unique and rewarding way to meet new people and open opportunities for business.

8. Call on your clients, past present and future. Time to review those client files...make a list of folks you haven't talked to in awhile and just check in with them. Make sure they know you're still ACTIVE in real estate and that you are AVAILABLE to help them.

9. Evaluate your marketing strategies. Lots of things work. Don't be afraid to try something new or different. Cold-calling, prospecting, farming, blogging, radio ads, tv ads, for sale signs, new business cards and/or branding. Get creative. You may be able to do an insertion with a local publication advertising your services or co-op with another business that offers services a homeowner/buyer might utilize. Think outside of the box. A local Realtor uses a picture of her and her dog on all of her signs. Guess what? Every time I see it, I think of her and know it's her listing.

10. Utilize the LAWS OF ATTRACTION. Ask, Believe, Receive. Those of you who know what I'm talking about know that this works. For those of you who don't, get the book, The Secret by Rhonda Byrne.

Are you doing everything you can to stay in front of your customers?

Feel free to contribute more ideas for this list in the comment section below. Good Luck !

A reminder about SLANDER and LIBEL

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 23:58:20 -0500

In this type of market, there's plenty to speculate about. Unfortunately, some of that speculation tends to lead to unfounded rumors. Recently, I've heard everything from which bank/restaurant/mortgage lender is folding to which builder isn't paying their bills to which suicide was over money troubles. Sadly, some of what I've heard has come from the local media. While reporting mistakes can be made, a retraction after the fact does little to remove the damage done or to squelch the rumor mill.

I don't profess to know everything, far from it actually. What I do know is that rumors can be incredibly damaging and hurtful. I know that they are usually started from misinformation, or from spite or vindicative motives. I want to remind all of us that outside of the fact that we should all know better, there are some legal ramifications as well. Be acutely aware of the definitions or both SLANDER and LIBEL and how they may affect your business.

SLANDER as defined by Merriam Webster is:

Main Entry:: ²slander
Function:: noun
Etymology:: Middle English sclaundre, slaundre, from Anglo-French esclandre, alteration of escandle, from Late Latin scandalum stumbling block, offense - more at scandal
Date:: 14th century

1 : the utterance of false charges or misrepresentations which defame and damage another's reputation 2 : a false and defamatory oral statement about a person - compare libel - slan·der·ous \-d(ə-)rəs\ adjective - slan·der·ous·ly adverb - slan·der·ous·ness noun

LIBEL as defined by Merriam Webster is:

Main Entry:: ¹li·bel
Pronunciation:: \ˈlī-bəl\
Function:: noun
Etymology:: Middle English, written declaration, from Anglo-French, from Latin libellus, diminutive of liber book
Date:: 14th century

1 a: a written statement in which a plaintiff in certain courts sets forth the cause of action or the relief sought barchaic : a handbill especially attacking or defaming someone2 a: a written or oral defamatory statement or representation that conveys an unjustly unfavorable impression b (1): a statement or representation published without just cause and tending to expose another to public contempt (2): defamation of a person by written or representational means (3): the publication of blasphemous, treasonable, seditious, or obscene writings or pictures (4): the act, tort, or crime of publishing such a libel

Be a professional. Do not engage in conversations that in any way could be construed as gossip, rumor mongering, slander or libel. Do not participate in the circulation of slanderous EMAIL correspondence either. Most people are not aware that "email" is considered public property, not private. Once you hit send, you have put "whatever" content out for anyone in the world to see.

Complaints for SLANDER or LIBEL can be easily proven and extremely difficult to defend. If you are found guilty, the repercussions can be financially devastating. You may also become the "victim" of SLANDER or LIBEL of sorts when it appears in the local paper. Obviously, this is not the kind of press anyone would want for their business. Do yourself a favor: Pretend there's a little judge hanging out on your shoulder. If he wouldn't approve of what you're about to say (or write).... don't do it. And as the old addage goes......if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all !

Are you open for business? Are you sure?

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 18:55:29 -0500

I'm sure this blog is going to get lots of folks up in arms but I am tired of reading over and over again of how agents are refusing to WORK without:

1. an agency agreement

2. a buyer prequalification letter

This seems absolutely CRAZY. In this economy, I don't know how anyone can honestly make such demands when buyers are seemingly scarce and there are so many HOMES for sale. What are you thinking? I recently met with buyers from So. Cal. and they turned out to be wonderful people, well-qualified and ready, willing and able to purchase. I did not ask them for a letter of prequalification or to sign an exclusive agency agreement with me. There is absolutely no way that I would have made these types of demands on our first meeting and if I had, they likely would have walked out. Consequently, we spent 9 1/2 hours together, looking, talking, and establishing a relationship in which they feel comfortable and confident that I am the right broker for them.

Ironically, my brother was looking at condos in Portland at the same time. He found a neighborhood he was interested in and went to the sales office to inquire. The first words out of the listing broker's mouth were "Let me introduce to you to our mortgage dept. As soon as we get you qualified, I'll start showing you the listings we have available". My brother promptly told him he just wanted to see if this property was a good fit for what he was looking for and that he wasn't ready to sit down with a mortgage broker. The agent REFUSED to show him anything. Again, my brother (ready, willing and able) would have likely bought from a broker who did not push, did not demand but showed him that his business was valued and that he was thought of as more than a paycheck.

Don't get me wrong, I understand about protecting our business, our sellers and not letting buyer's waste our time. A skilled broker should be able to ascertain loyalty and qualifications to purchase from simple conversation rather than dictating a protocol for the industry that is frankly, giving the impression that we are only interested in serving our needs rather than the needs of our clients. Not all clients are ready to make the leap on day one. Does that mean that they don't deserve our time?

I remember when I first became licensed, deals could take months and the entertaining of clients through multiple weekends of showings. It involved an investment of time and energy from the agent/broker and an established relationship of trust. Buyers didn't just show up, decide you were the one and start signing away on the most important investment of their lives. Occasionally, you would get one that did waste your time and you learned from it. You learned what questions to ask and when to ask them. You had to WORK to get deals and clients, they weren't handed to you. And you know what, the buyers that were serious remembered you and how you treated them and they came back, over and over again.

I personally think that making these types of demands on new clients is like putting a "Closed for Business" sign in your window. It's kinda like refusing to show someone a menu until they have agreed to use you for their order and also opened the contents of their wallet, to prove to you they can pay. Doesn't seem like very good customer service to me. Do what you need to do, but know that all those "unwilling, unqualified clients" are coming to brokers like me and getting the service they deserve. I'll take my chances that most of them have better things to do with their time than waste mine.

QUALITY WRITING + ACTIVE IN THE RAIN = FEATURED POST

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 12:31:00 -0500

When I joined in February of 2007, Active Rain had about 20, 000 members. In hindsight, the rain was in its infancy. During the time I was very active here in the rain, I was fortunate to enjoy having several featured posts. I would choose topics that were interesting, sometimes controversial, but always entertaining. I didn't have to compete with thousands of qualified posts for a spot on the board. It's amazing to me that things have changed so much here and in other ways, not at all. We have some 92,000 + members here now and in spite of that incredible number, the quality of featured posts is still extremely high.

I believe there is a secret to becoming featured. It's about visibility and transparency. When you are active in the rain, you earn credibility here, visibility here. Friendships and even relationships are forged here in the rain, on common ground, with people who share your ideals and values. The concept isn't new. We all count on our friends and family to support our endeavors and the rain is no different. Your friends and family will support you here. The key to finding your time in the spotlight is to make your relationships here count and to be real. People here will accept your quirks, outlandish behavior and questionable posts and even your absences as part of who you are, and they will love you for it. If you think I'm wrong, go check out some of Rich Kruse's posts or Bryant and The Lovely Wife's posts. Crazy stuff, I tell you. But the reason they are both well respected and well read is not because their content is always about real estate. While this is a forum for real estate professionals, we are all so much more than that. We are mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters, and like all families...we share the triumphs and disappointments of life together. The tie that binds is not real estate, it's our humanity.

Though it is virtually impossible to sort through the thousands of articles and information posted here each week and still work, I have some advice for those of you new to the rain. Find your following here. Cater to those people who care about what you write and stay active as much as you can. Join groups that interest you and connect with a smaller amount of friends rather than to try and convince the masses of your worthiness to be featured. Trust me, if the content is great....a feature will come your way. In the meantime, don't make that your priority.

The 2008 Presidential Election....Who are YOU voting for?

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 10:30:39 -0500

My mom always told me never to bring up religion or politics, as you were sure to offend someone. With 92,000+ Active Rain members, I have no doubt that she was right. However, this year we are facing the single most controversial and interesting election of my lifetime. As such, I am curious to hear the thoughts of others on who they are voting for, hoping for, believing in and why. What compels you to vote the way you do?

Will we have a black man elected to the highest office in the land? Will a woman accompany him as Vice-President? If McCain wins, what direction might that take our country? Do you think anyone can really make a significant difference? Is there any power in the office of "Presidency" left or is the control really in the hands of Congress? I hate to say that I have lost faith in the system or the ability of one person to really affect the outcome of years of bad decisions, but it's true. It's going to take more than fast- talking politicians to get me on board at this stage of the game. Even if I were to buy in to the rhetoric, there's the issue of the voting? Does anyone really trust the system we currently have in place? After Florida, I sure don't. Regardless of, there is a part of me that wants to believe in change, in the power of the people, in righting what is wrong.

If that's possible, how do we accomplish it? Do we have candidates who are qualified, ready or able to lead this country through the next 4-8 years? Do you believe in them? What are your concerns for this election? How will the changes in Washington inevitably affect the real estate industry? As we face some of the most serious issues of our time, I personally want to see progress made on issues like the current energy crisis, universal health care, homeland security, the Iraqi war, immigration and gun control, issues I care deeply about. I don't want to hear what your campaign manager drummed up to sound good at a press conference, I want to personally BELIEVE you.

I guess that's what's missing for me. The BELIEVABILITY factor. The part where you just know in your knower that you have the right person for the job. I think all of the candidates have some really great attributes BUT I haven't seen any one yet that has the whole package.... smarts, sensibility, experience, guts, loyalty, leadership, charisma, character and strength. Until I do... I guess I'll be writing in Jesse Ventura. Is it too late to get him on the ticket?

What it really comes down to is that I want to vote for someone I know is real. I want my vote to go to someone who shares the same concerns and fears that I have. I want my vote to count. Controversial or not, I want to know what you think. What can a candidate do or say to get your vote? In the year 2008, who's getting it done and who's not?

Happy 2008 to all ye in the rain ! ! !

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 16:12:01 -0600

Well now...it's been awhile. My working full-time and raising three girls has not afforded me much time to dance in the rain this year. However, as I take a moment to reflect on my aspirations and commitment to new goals, I couldn't help but take some time to acknowledge my friends here in the rain. For all of you, I offer words of encouragement for 2008 !

We are all seeing so many changes in the real estate market, it has become far too easy to contemplate the longevity of this down turn in our marketplace. My encouragement in this is to realize that it is a great time to buy and that for the diligent and dedicated broker, deals can be abundant. Start looking in new places. This is a chance to stretch beyond your comfort zone and become familiar with foreclosures, short sales, owner terms and creative financing. 2008 is a year for opportunity, for making things happen.Get out there and check out new lender programs, the newest bank or credit union in town, the developer sitting on 12 vacants, maybe even a new office. It is a time to embrace change and to pull out all the stops. While everyone else is whining about how bad it is, do something positive to give yourself the advantage.

Get involved in your community and give back! While Active Rain is a great venue for networking, there are many organizations within each of your communities. Outside of the obvious Realtor Associations, try volunteering or becoming a member with your local Rotary, United Way, film festival, high school alumni, libraries, museums, parks, sports programs, and city or county volunteer positions. Ronald McDonald House, Boys and Girls Club and Big Brother/Big Sisters are just some of the many programs that will appreciate your efforts. Having something to share that's personal and positive about where you live is unbelievably appealing to buyers and sellers and is a great way to stir up some new business.

Speak positively, you reap what you sow. When talking with buyers and sellers, be honest about the challenges you see and your plan to capitalize on this changing market. Present everything on a positive and use your creativity to make deals come together. The glass is half full or half empty. Decide now what it is for you and sell it.

Experience gratitude daily. Be grateful for all that you have and stop worrying about that which you don't. Your family, health, friends, your home, car and clients.....simple things like a roof over your head and food to eat. Whatever it is, choose love in your heart and a grateful spirit. Anything less is a waste of energy and only holds you back from all that you are destined to experience.

May 2008 be a year of prosperity, healing and many blessings. For whatever is in store for you, I wish all of you the very best.

Much Love to all my friends in the "Rain"-

Kelli

Great advice for 2008

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Sun, 06 Jan 2008 15:36:32 -0600

I received the following in an email. Lots of good tips to keep you focused on a fabulous 2008 ! !

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.

2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day. Buy a lock if you have to.

3. Buy a TIVO, tape your late night shows and get more sleep.

4. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement: "My purpose is to___________ today."

5. Live with the 3 E's: Energy, Enthusiasm, Empathy.

6. Watch more movies, play more games and read more books than you did in 2007.

7. Make time to practice meditation, yoga, tai chi, qigong and prayer. They provide us with daily fuel for our busy lives.

8. Spend more time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.

9. Dream more while you are awake.

10. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less foods that are manufactured in plants.

11. Drink green tea & plenty of water and eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds & walnuts.

12. Try to make at least 3 people smile each day.

13. Clear your clutter from your house, your car, your desk and let new and flowing energy into your life.

14. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, energy vampires, issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead, invest your energy in the positive present moment.

15. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class, but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.

16. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a college kid with a maxed out charge card.

17. Smile and laugh more. It will keep the energy vampires away.

18. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.

19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.

20. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.

21. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.

22. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.

23. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.

24. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, and wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.

25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.

26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"

27. Forgive everyone everything.

28. What other people think of you is none of your business.

29. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.

30. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.

31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

32. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.

33. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.

34. The best is yet to come.

35. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.

36. Do the right thing.

37. Call your mother and father often.

38. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements: "I am thankful for __________." "Today I accomplished____________."

39. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.

40. Enjoy the ride. Remember that this is not Disney World and you certainly don't want a fast pass. You only have one ride through life so make the most of it and enjoy the ride

Received via the internet-author unknown

WOULD YOU DO THIS ?

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 09:16:39 -0500

While writing a comment back in one of my other posts, I was struck by this question. Would you provide link information to a SEXUAL OFFENDER REGISTRY for your clients?

I have provided this link on my webpage in the past, to be used by my clients who are looking for homes. I see nothing wrong with it but am curious to hear the thoughts of other real estate professionals.

Let me begin by saying that I do this for the protection of my client and often their children. It is in no way intended to single individuals out for persecution or attack. I personally feel that when you are convicted of such a crime, you lose your right to anonymity and even privacy on some levels. The information is public, as are foreclosures, property histories and lawsuit filings.

My question is, however ethical it may be.......are Realtors putting liability on the line if they do this?

The REAL VALUE of NEIGHBORS

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 21:35:00 -0500

Most of us have a story about a neighbor. It might be the story that is warming to the heart, making you wish he/she/they were your neighbor or it might be just the opposite.....a story about the neighbor from hell.

Either way, it is clear that neighbors do present at the very least, a minor consideration when buying a home. I'd like to share with you all some of my more interesting "neighbor" stories. These experiences have definitely affected my decision to buy, sell and or stay in a home.

As "Realtors", we need to be aware of the very real relationships, both good and bad, that exist between homeowners and their neighbors. It is just one more tool that we can utilize to better understand the needs of our clients.

STORY #1 (DREAMY NEIGHBOR)- I had surgery back in September, nothing major but I still needed to take it easy. After just two days in the hospital, I came home to a wonderful home-made lasagna provided by my neighbors, the Hubler's. This is not unusual as they are truly great neighbors. They have taken care of our animals while we were out of town, watched over our property and had our children over and out with them on many occassions. These are the kind of neighbors who host an annual pig roast every summer, complete with band, beer and tons of food. These are also the neighbors who have helped us capture our escaped boxer, contributed to our children's school fund raising efforts and participated in the block long garage sales. Neighbors like this are hard to find.

STORY #2 (CARELESS NEIGHBOR)- Years ago, Steve and I had a 1 acre parcel with a nice manufactured home on it. For three years, we had one neighbor whom we would hardly see. No problems whatsoever. Quiet street, friendly people but everyone minded their own business and got along fine. Then came a young husband and wife who had acquired the lot next to us as a gift. Soon after, the building began. Although we were less than thrilled to have the lot next to us being built out, we welcomed them into the neighborhood. Shortly after, the dog came, a cute lab mix puppy. I love dogs, all kinds, and am not partial. However, the puppy soon grew into an adult dog who the young couple had never bothered to train. He would get loose, and get into everyone's trash. To top it off, the owners would leave him in a covered dog pen for hours on end with very little food or water, then leave for the night. The dog would begin howling around 9pm and continue until they returned the next morning. Many neighbors (us included) called animal control. They cited the owners several times but never did take the dog. The owners responded by......getting another puppy. Now the problem was twice as big, with another dog on the loose and barking all hours of the night. Both dogs got loose and charged our girls in the backyard, teeth barred and growling. I flipped out and confronted both husband and wife. They did keep their dogs contained after that but never did anything to stop the barking. Fortunately, we sold not long after. The last thing I heard, the wifey was pregnant. I hope the dogs barked every night after the baby was born.

STORY #3 (SCARY NEIGHBOR)- I never had this guy as my neighbor but I do know the story and thought it would be worth sharing. Bob is a guy who owns 120 acres of fairly prime property in a desirable area of Bend. Bob has had the property for years so the issues surrounding it are "seasoned" so to speak. The house is in tear down condition and is surrounded by 50-60 cars, most of which are not running. Add the 3 or 4 travel trailers, boat, doghouse and delapidated barn and fences and you'll pretty much have the visual. Add a couple of vicious rottweilers (the female has eaten her puppies), a cow with no tail (thanks to the rottweiler) and one 39 year old horse with no teeth. Then add Bob, a Vietnam War veteran driving a mercedes with sidepipes. Scary. Did I mention he is an avid gun collector with over 300 guns in his possession? Wouldn't you like to be my neighbor?

My point in all of this is that neighbors can and will come in every size, shape, type and color possible. They may share your sense of style or they may paint their house purple with pink polka dots. They may mow their yard at 6:00 am every Saturday without fail. Some are great and some are unsavory folks with bad hygiene. Unlike your parents however, you CAN choose your neighbors.

As great as any property or investment may seem, don't kid yourself into thinking the unsightly place next door will magically be transformed when you move in. Big mistake! Rather take the time to find out about the neighborhood, neighbors, potential problems and what people living there like and or dislike. You may just find out why the house is for sale.

Get my drift, neighbor?

Bend to enforce sign violations

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 21:03:13 -0500

This was something I think all brokers and agents should be aware of. Many of us do not give it a second thought until faced with paying a hefty fine. It's worth checking into your local city and county ordinances.

Bend to crack down on roadside signs

For sale signs on home properties don't break Bend sign code, but ones off-premise do

Pricey $613 ticket awaits illegal sign installers

From KTVZ.COM news sources

The Bend Community Development Department is reminding the public that unauthorized signs are prohibited within public street rights of way. And in a week, "strict enforcement" of the rules means those who don't heed the reminder could face a hefty ticket.

"Violations of the code may lead to a costly citation," the city warned in a news release issued Wednesday.

The sign code will be strictly enforced beginning August 1st and citations will be issued for signs, including real estate signs, that are illegally placed in the public right of ways. The city will remove the signs and issue a citation to the responsible individual, officials said.

In accordance with the City of Bend Sign Code Ordinance (Chapter 9-17.4-7), signs should comply with the standards of the Bend Sign Code which "prohibits unauthorized signs placed in the public right of way."

Installation of illegal signs is a Class A Infraction enforced through the City of Bend Municipal Court. The cost of the citation is $500 with an additional $113 court fee.

The city will hold a public meeting regarding the enforcement of real estate signs in the public right of way on Tuesday, July 31st, from 9 to 11 A.M. in the City Council Chambers, located at 710 NW Wall Street.

The "right of way" is the public area located between the property lines on each side of a street or an alley. Improvements typically located within a right of way include the street, curb, gutter, sidewalk, mailboxes, utility poles, fire hydrants, power boxes, and, a landscape area usually situated between the curb and sidewalk.

The Bend Code identifies which signs are allowed and those that are prohibited within the public right of way. Signs that are intended to protect or inform the general public using the streets or sidewalks such as warning signs, school zone signs, parking signs, and traffic control signs are the only signs allowed in the public right of way.

All other signs, including real estate signs, are required to be placed on private property. Signs on private property advertising businesses are allowed with permits. Some signs are exempt from the requirement of obtaining a permit, such as real estate and construction signs. These signs are exempt provided the regulations are followed in regards to size, placement and duration.

The Sign Code allows on-premise Real Estate signs as follows:
One sign per tax lot.
The sign shall only be located on the tax lot offered for rent, sale or lease. Off-premise directional signs including "open house" type signs are not permitted.
In Residential Zones the sign shall not exceed 4 square feet in area and on posts no more than 4 feet in height.
In Non Residential Zones the sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in area and on posts no more than 8 feet in height.
Signs shall be removed within 7 days after sale, rent or lease.

A complete copy of the City of Bend Sign Code regulation is available on the City web site at http://www.ci.bend.or.us/ or can be purchased at City Hall. The public may contact the Community Development Department, Building Division at (541) 388-5528 for more information.

Bend Sign Code: http://www.ci.bend.or.us/docs/Chapter_09_17_Sign_Code.pdf (Adobe Acrobat Reader required)

Provided courtesy of KTVZ.com

Latest update on Rum Cake Prediction Contest

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 19:52:40 -0500

Hello Again Everyone-

Well...it's just about time for rum cake and points! YEA! As of right now, there are 35,939 members on Active Rain. It's almost time for the final tally. Just wanted to narrow this down to the contestants who actually look like they are in the running. Covering a 7,000 member window (I'm being optimistic), here are the predictions that may just take it all home. Rum cake, that is.

Just a reminder of what we are playing for......

The FIRST PLACE WINNER will receive A RUM CAKE AND 400 POINTS -Thanks Caleb ! !

THE SECOND PLACE WINNER WILL RECEIVE 150 POINTS !

THE THIRD PLACE WINNER WILL RECEIVE 100 POINTS !

Winner(s) will be chosen by prediction closest to ACTUAL number at Midnight, July 1, 2007 PST.

Good Luck to all of you!

35,777 John McKenna

37,316 Jason Smith *

37,549 Larry Morris

37,555 Guy Lofts

37,689 Bruno Roldan

37,772 Ron Withers

37,897 Luke Constantino

37,977 Alecia Barnes

38,021 Adam Dalton

38,722 Matt Pendleton

38,788 Tom Giasante

39,056 Patricia Casey

39,428 Diane Bell

39, 737 Jack Haydon

39,850 Mariana Wagner

39,999 Roxanne & Shannon Moore

40,002 Dena Stevens

40,722 Rob Robinson

40,820 Herb Hamilton

41,076 Kelli Fronabarger

41,534 Bryan Tutas

41,777 Cyndee Haydon

42,071 Brande Bradford

42,500 Matt Heaton

More stuff you didn't know.....

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 09:31:51 -0500

Many years ago in Scotland, a new game was invented. It was ruled
"Gentlemen Only...Ladies Forbidden"...and thus the word GOLF entered
into the English language.

The first couple to be shown in bed together on prime time TV was Fred
and Wilma Flintstone

Every day more money is printed for Monopoly than the US Treasury .

Men can read smaller print than women can; women can hear better.

Coca-Cola was originally green.

It is impossible to lick your elbow.

The average number of people airborne over the US any given hour: 61,000

In the 1400's a law was set forth that a man was not allowed to beat his
wife with a stick thicker than his thumb. Hence we have "the rule of
thumb".

Intelligent people have more zinc and copper in their hair.

The first novel ever written on a typewriter: Tom Sawyer

Each king in a deck of playing cards represents a great king in history:
Spades - King David
Hearts - Charlemagne
Clubs -Alexander, the Great
Diamonds - Julius Caesar

111,111,111 x 111,111,111 = 12,345,678,987,654,321

If a statue in the park of a person on a horse has both front legs in
the air, the person died in battle. If the horse has one front leg in
the air the person died as a result of wounds received in battle. If
the horse has all four legs on the ground, the person died of natural
causes.

Q. If you were to spell out numbers, how far would you have to go until
you would find the letter "A"?
A. One thousand

Q. What do bullet-proof vests, fire escapes, windshield wipers, and
laser printers all have in common?
A. All invented by women.

Q. What is the only food that doesn't spoil?
A. Honey

In Shakespeare's time, mattresses were secured on bed frames by
ropes.When you pulled on the ropes the mattress tightened, making the
bed firmer to sleep on. Hence the phrase......... "goodnight, sleep
tight."

It was the accepted practice in Babylon 4,000 years ago that for a month
after the wedding, the bride's father would supply his son-in-law with
all the mead he could drink. Mead is a honey beer and because their
calendar was lunar based, this period was called the honey month,
which we know today as the honeymoon.

In English pubs, ale is ordered by pints and quarts... So in old
England , when customers got unruly, the bartender would yell at them
"Mind your pints and quarts, and settle down." It's where we get the
phrase "mind your P's and Q's"

Many years ago in England, pub frequenters had a whistle baked into the
rim, or handle, of their ceramic cups. When they needed a refill, they
used the whistle to get some service. "Wet your whistle" is the phrase
inspired by this practice.

Don't delete this just because it looks weird. Believe it or not, you
can read it..........

I cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdgnieg.
The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid aoccdrnig to rscheearch at
Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a
wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be
in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed
it wouthit a porbelm Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey
lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.

~~~~~~~~~~~AND FINALLY~~~~~~~~~~~~

At least 75% of people who read this will try to lick their elbow!!!!!!

Received via the internet- Author Unknown

Pike County Pennsylvania Pro

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 22:24:10 -0500

Karen Rice is the agent of choice for the Pike County/Lackawaxen and Lake Ariel areas of Pennsylvania. Karen is a member in good standing with the National Association of Realtors, the Pennsylvania Association of Realtors and the Pike/Wayne County Association of Realtors.

Buying or selling in Pike or Wayne County Pennsylvania, Karen will take care of your every real estate need. Currently, Karen focuses on on residential real estate in the Hawley - Lake Wallenpaupack area of Pike County and Wayne County, Pennsylvania. Some of the more popular communities in Wayne County include: The Hideout (Lake Ariel, PA), and Wallenpaupack Lake Estates (Lake Ariel, PA & Lake Wallenpaupack). In Pike County, try looking at Tanglwood Lakes (Greentown; Lake Wallenpaupack), Woodledge Village (Hawley), Tink Wig Mountain Lake Estates (Hawley / Lackawaxen), Fawn Lake Forest (Lackawaxen), Masthope (Lackawaxen) and Hemlock Farms (Hawley / Lords Valley). Karen is thoroughly versed and familiar with each of these beautiful areas.

If you are looking for information on NE Pennsylvania including Poconos mountain property, Karen can find the perfect home or land for you. You can also search the Pike/Wayne County MLS for property on Karen's website. This Pennsylvania paradise is perfect for retiring, vacationing, investing or as your primary residence. Give Karen a call today and let her get to work for you.

Karen Rice- REALTOR

Pike/Wayne Realty, Inc.

Specializing in Lake Wallenpaupack, Lake Ariel, Hawley & Lackawaxen property.

Office Phone:	(570) 226-7653
Cell Phone:	(570) 647-5170
Address:	Pike/Wayne Realty, Inc. HC 6 Box 6041, Hawley, PA, 18428

Additional Information About Wallenpaupack:
Hawley/Lake Wallenpaupack Chamber of Commerce
Wayne County Chamber of Commerce
Pike County Chamber
Wallenpaupack Lake Estates (WLE)

Thank You Mapquest ! !

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:54:02 -0500

Some time ago, I contacted Mapquest to obtain permission to use an Oregon Map on my ActiveRain profile page. This turned out to be a much bigger task than I anticipated. The process has taken several months but yesterday, I received my golden ticket....Yea! Mapquest has finally approved me : )

I wanted to share this with all of you because I often run on to blogs or websites that are using maps and photos. I wonder how many of the authors have taken the time to obtain necessary permission or are aware of the fines involved for copyright infringement. This is a serious matter and one that everyone in the blogsphere needs to be aware of.

To give you a better idea, I have included the email I received from Mapquest. Please, please, please....... DO NOT VIOLATE COPYRIGHT LAWS. Not only can you be prosecuted by the owner of said images, copyright infringement can get you kicked off of Active Rain.

May 30, 2007

Dear Ms. Fronabarger,

Thank you for your request for permission to include the MapQuest, Inc.map of Oregon on your Active Rain Real Estate Network website for Kelly Fronabarger - Bend River Realty. We are pleased to approve your request, provided you agree to the conditions listed below.

Please reply to this email with such agreement to the terms by stating "We agree" or other similar wording. This permission will be valid once we receive your reply.

MapQuest Permission:

MapQuest, Inc. on behalf of itself and its content partners (collectively, "MapQuest") grants Kelli Fronabarger (collectively, "Publisher") a non-exclusive, limited, royalty-free permission to include the MapQuest logo, marks and maps of the Oregon, more specifically, the map and statistical information located at: http://www.mapquest.com/atlas/main.adp?region=oregon and attached to this email for reference (the "Images") on the Active Rain Real Estate Network website for Kelly Fronabarger - Bend River Realty, located at: http://activerain.com/kelli123 (the"Work"), provided Publisher agrees to the following conditions:

1. This qualified permission extends only to (i) use of the Images and (ii) use of the Images in the Work. The Images may not be used for any purpose other than as described herein, without MapQuest's prior written consent.

2. MapQuest has not authorized, sponsored, endorsed, or approved the Work and is not responsible for its content. Publisher agrees that the Images shall not be used in any manner that would falsely convey sponsorship, endorsement or approval of the Work by MapQuest.

3. MapQuest represents that it has the right and authority to enter into this agreement and to grant the rights herein granted, solely with regards to the map submitted for approval. Publisher is solely responsible for any liability arising from its use of the content in contradiction of or beyond the terms of this agreement, and Publisher agrees to defend and indemnify MapQuest from any third party claims arising from any such use by Publisher.

4. Publisher shall not modify or alter the Images in any manner unless approved in advance by MapQuest. The MapQuest logo and all copyright attribution provided in the map art must be retained by Publisher.

5. Publisher shall not use or display the Images or any MapQuest trademark, logo, or trade name in conjunction with any offensive material, in a derogatory manner, or in any manner not suitable for the intended audience.

6. The following attribution, or similar, shall be included in an appropriate location in the Work: MapQuest and the MapQuest logo are registered trademarks of MapQuest, Inc. Map content (c) 2007 by MapQuest, Inc. Used with permission."

Please let me know by return email if Publisher agrees to the above.

We appreciate your interest in MapQuest.

Regards,

Amanda Smith

MapQuest Permission Team

As you can see, permission and use are taken very seriously by MapQuest and many others. It is better to ask and be told "no" than to take a chance and be caught. Anyone who thinks it's not a big deal should talk to Lenn Harley. Taking the time to do this right benefits everyone. I am extremely proud of my profile page and feel that this addition of information makes it even better for my clients.

Another milestone......50,000 points

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Sat, 26 May 2007 12:53:09 -0500

Just a short time ago, I celebrated my 100th blog post. Last night, I passed another milestone ....... 50,000 points. I'd like to celebrate by recognizing some of the many people who have changed my life here in the rain. Your friendship, support, encouragement, advice, comments, contests, groups, and blogs have made me a better Realtor and a better person. I am honored to call you my friends. In no particular order, I'd like to thank the following:

Incredible Women in the Rain- Laurie Manny, Lola Audu, janeAnn, Teri Eckholm, Ann Guy, Ann Cummings, Chris Elizabeth Griffith, TLW, Karen George, Karen Hurst, Nikki Ceballos, Kaye Thomas, Maggie Dokic, Colleen Kulikowski, Elaine Reese, Sarah Cooper, Kristal Kraft, Allison Stewart, Mariana Wagner, Renee Burrows, Monika McGillicudy, Sally Cheeseman, Betsy Talbot, Paula Henry, Missy Caulk, Alecia Barnes, Tina Howell, Marchel Peterson, Rita Taylor, Ashley Drake Gephart, Desiree Daniels, Lysa Napolitano, Valerie Harvey, Luisa Orellano, Thesa Chambers, Joddie Roberts, Allison Werner, Diane Bell, and Dena Stevens.

Thank You for being the strong, independent, witty and charming women you are.

Team Efforts- Cyndee & Jack Haydon, Broker Bryant & TLW, Rick & Ines, Jay & Monika McGillicudy, Lisa& Robert Hammerstein, Roger& Ginger Sala, Chris & Rhonda Ruthman, Jim & Maria Hart and Tony & Libby Kelly.

Two of you is twice as nice.

The Men in My Active Rain Life- Bob Sloop, Rich Kruse, Jim Crawford, Dan Cummings, Rich Jacobson, Luke Constantino, Mike Jaquish, Benjamin Jenks, Caleb Mardini, George Tallabas, Danny Smith, Larry Morris, Herb Hamilton, Ben Pederson, Mike Stankewich, David Podgursky, Nick M., Robert McCartor, Alexander Harb, Ray Saenz, Jeff Belonger, Rich Schiffer, Matthew Blum, Craig Schiller, Brad Andersohn, Frank Rubi, Ron Withers, Adam Dalton and Jeff Turner.

Thank you for being who you are and for letting me be who I am.

Great Blog Link Experimenters- Karen George, Larry Morris, Herb Hamilton, Jennifer Fivesldal, Ashley Drake Gephart, Missy Caulk, Paula Henry, Tina Stewart Howell, Mike Stankewich, Rita Taylor, Valerie Harvey, Thesa Chambers, Fran Gatti, Ben Kakimoto, Wayne McMullan, Bill Vernay, Steve Dalton, Karen Rice, Geordie Romer, Cyndee Haydon and George Tallabas.

What a cool ride it's been. I've enjoyed getting to know all of you.

Oregon Real Estate Professionals- Herb Hamilton, Alecia Barnes, Thesa Chambers, Valerie Harvey, Larry Morris, Ben Pederson, Timothy Butterworth, Todd Clark, Sara Goodwin and Wayne Pruner.

You set high standards for our state and I am proud to be associated with all of you.

All of you make this such a special place. Thank you for supporting my efforts here. To say I appreciate you is an understatement ! ! Thanks again ! !

A fan of Fran in Crescent City, California

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Fri, 25 May 2007 17:56:36 -0500

Looking for real estate in the Del Norte County or Crescent City, California areas? Fran Gatti is the perfect choice. Visit Fran's website for information on buying or selling real estate in this beautiful area. Fran's site allows you to take a virtual tour of Beachfront Park or find out local area information.

You can learn more about Fran and how she does business through her Active Rain Real Estate Blog. Fran is a true professional who truly cares about her clients as evidenced by these testimonials.

Check out Fran's listings or sign up to receive local MLS listings. Fran has so much information available for her clients, it's easy to see why she is the local Crescent City choice. Her area knowledge and professionalism speaks volumes to her ability in handling your next real estate transaction.

Buying or selling in Crescent City, California- give Fran a call!

Office Phone:	(707) 464-9741
Cell Phone:	(707) 218-8162
Fax Number:	(707) 464-7663
Address:	1000 Northcrest Drive , Crescent City, CA, 95531

Celina Professional Tina Howell

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Fri, 25 May 2007 00:26:25 -0500

Looking to buy or sell in Celina, Texas? Tina Howell has you covered. This area pro knows Texas and offers uncompromised service for her clients. Tina is commited to providing you unparalleled service in every real estate transaction.

Tina works with properties in Frisco, Celina, and Little Elm as well as the greater Dallas-Fort Worth areas. First time buyer? No problem. Tina's website is full of information for both buyers and sellers. She offers specific information to help you understand this process from start to finish.

Tina also makes searching for your next home easy with simple access to the local MLS. This Celina expert can find just the right property for you. Tina is also a well respected member of the Active Rain Real Estate Network. You can email Tina or just give her a call at 972-762-0658.

Buying or selling in Celina, TX., Tina Howell works hard to exceed her client expectations every time. Why not give Tina a call today?

More about buying in Celina, Texas

Tools for Sellers

Tools for Buyers

Celina, Texas Real Estate Resources

Learn a little something new today....

Bend Oregon REALTOR ® Kelli Fronabarger (Bend River Realty Inc.) — Thu, 24 May 2007 08:56:24 -0500

LIFE IN THE 1500'S

The next time you are washing your hands and complain
because the water temperature isn't just how you like it,
think about how things used to be. Here are some facts
about the 1500s:

Most people got married in June because they took
their yearly bath in May, and still smelled pretty good
by June. However, they were starting to smell, so brides
carried a bouquet of flowers to hide the body odor. Hence
the custom today of carrying a bouquet when getting
married.

Baths consisted of a big tub filled with hot water.
The man of the house had the privilege of the nice clean
water, then all the other sons and men, then the women
and finally the children. Last of all the babies. By then
the water was so dirty you could actually lose someone in
it. Hence the saying, Don't throw the baby out with the
Bath water..

Houses had thatched roofs-thick straw-piled high,
with no wood underneath. It was the only place for
animals to get warm, so all the cats and other small
animals (mice, bugs) lived in the roof. When it rained it
became slippery and sometimes the animals would slip and
fall off the roof. Hence the saying... It's raining cats
and dogs.

There was nothing to stop things from falling into
the house. This posed a real problem in the bedroom
where bugs and other droppings could mess up your nice
clean bed. Hence, a bed with big posts and a sheet hung
over the top afforded some protection. That's how canopy
beds came into existence.

The floor was dirt. Only the wealthy had something
other than dirt. Hence the saying, Dirt poor.

The wealthy had slate floors that would get slippery in the winter
when wet, so they spread thresh (straw) on floor to help
keep their footing. As the winter wore on, they added
more thresh until, when you opened the door, it would all
start slipping outside. A piece of wood was placed in the
entranceway. Hence the saying a thresh hold.

(Getting quite an education, aren't you?)

In those old days, they cooked in the kitchen with a
big kettle that always hung over the fire. Every day they
lit the fire and added things to the pot. They ate mostly
vegetables and did not get much meat. They would eat the
stew for dinner, leaving leftovers in the pot to get cold
overnight and then start over the next day. Sometimes
stew had food in it that had been there for quite a
while. Hence the rhyme, Peas porridge hot, peas porridge
cold, peas porridge in the pot nine days old..

Sometimes they could obtain pork, which made them
feel quite special. When visitors came over, they would
hang up their bacon to show off. It was a sign of wealth
that a man could, bring home the bacon. They would cut
off a little to share with guests and would all sit
around and chew the fat.

Those with money had plates made of pewter. Food
with high acid content caused some of the lead to leach
onto the food, causing lead poisoning death. This
happened most often with tomatoes, so for the next 400
years or so, tomatoes were considered poisonous.

Bread was divided according to status. Workers got
the burnt bottom of the loaf, the family got the middle,
and guests got the top, or the upper crust.

Lead cups were used to drink ale or whisky. The
combination would sometimes knock the imbibers out for a
couple of days. Someone walking along the road would take
them for dead and prepare them for burial. They were laid
out on the kitchen table for a couple of days and the
family would gather around and eat and drink and wait and
see if they would wake up. Hence the custom of holding a
wake.

England is old and small and the local folks
started running out of places to bury people. So they
would dig up coffins and would take the bones to a
bone-house, and reuse the grave. When reopening these
coffins, 1 out of 25 coffins were found to have scratch
marks on the inside and they realized they had been
burying people alive. So they would tie a string on the
wrist of the corpse, lead it through the coffin and up
through the ground and tie it to a bell. Someone would
have to sit out in the graveyard all night (the graveyard
shift.) to listen for the bell; thus, someone could be,
saved by the bell or was considered a ...dead ringer.

And that's the truth...Now, whoever said History was
boring ! ! !

Educate someone. Share these facts with a friend.

Received via the internet-author unknown