Vancouver Wa Real Estate - Elite Realty NW

Eliminate Drafts, Save Money, Be Green! Vancouver Washington

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 21:54:13 -0600

Eliminate Drafts, Save Money, Be Green! Vancouver Washington Green Tips & Ideas

You can always count on a recession to send folks looking for ways to save money. Energy conservation is just one of the many ways to save money on a daily basis and since we had our first frost on Friday, I thought that I would share a simple energy saving tip with you.

Did you know that the U.S. Department of Energy estimates that drafts can waste 5 to 30% of the energy that you are using to heat your home? Here is a simple device that was a household fixture during The Great Depression. A Draft Blocker.

A draft blocker (also known as a Draft Dodger or Draft Snake) is simply anything that can be rolled up and laid against the bottom of a leaky door or window. A rolled up bath towel will work or there are countless websites with instructions on how to make something a little more custom.

Get the kids involved and decorate with googly eyes, felt tongues, and the like. Any scraps of fabric will do - even socks (preferably clean and without holes!) Fill with sand or kitty litter for heft.

If you want a more polished solution, draft reducing rolls can be purchased at most home improvement centers.

The draft snake above was make by April Farnum and is available for purchase at Etsy

Photo credits - April Farnum - When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. This post written by Mark Hall all rights reserved. Eliminate Drafts, Save Money Be Green! Vancouver Washington Green Tips & Ideas

We Can Help You Find Your Castle! Vancouver WA Real Estate

Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:24:47 -0600

We Can Help You Find Your Castle! Vancouver WA Real Estate

"I really wish I had used Mark and Janice Hall to buy my last castle. I am sure that things
would have gone much smoother!"
- Cinderella

Whether you are upgrading to a larger castle or downsizing to a smaller "château", We can help you find the right place. Although we didn't have the chance to assist Cinderella in buying her pad (pictured above), we have been helping people just like you find their dream homes in the Vancouver Washington area at great prices.

The market is ideal for buying a home in Vancouver Washington right now. Inventories have never been higher and we haven't seen prices this low in almost 10 years. Are you ready to start your very own fairy tale?

Get started now by using our Free Vancouver WA Home Search Tool.

PS - Wicked stepmothers are welcome too!

Photo credits - Mark Hall all rights reserved - When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. This post written by Mark Hall all rights reserved. Vancouver WA Real Estate - Free Search Tool Homes for sale in Vancouver Washington

Lots For Sale in Battle Ground Washington - The Time Is Now!

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 23:48:03 -0600

Lots For Sale in Battle Ground Washington - The Time Is Now!

As the market trend continues along its downward path here in SW Washington, the time has never been better to look for lots for sale in Battle Ground Washington. Inventory is high and developers are looking to move old inventory to free up equity for new projects.

As a buyer, that means that you can buy lots for sale in Battle Ground Washington at a discounted price. The time has never been better to choose that perfect lot, find an excellent builder, and build your custom dream house!

Currently, lots for sale in Battle Ground Washington make up a large part of our listing portfolio. We have everything listed from lots in the prestigious Parade of Homes Neighborhood - Camellia, to 4.5 acre wooded estate lots, to complete platted and approved subdivisions, to 150sh acre mega estate lots!

If you are a builder or a buyer looking to build a special project, you need to call us to help you with your search for lots for sale in Battle Ground Washington. We've got them and we can get you into the best deals available.

PhoTabulous Friday Fotos - Fixer?

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 23:05:36 -0600

PhoTabulous Friday Fotos - Fixer?

The Huge Social Experiment - Are We Just A Bunch Of Lab Rats? (Conspiracy Theory Within)

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 19:34:22 -0600

The Huge Social Experiment - Are We Just A Bunch Of Lab Rats?

About a month ago, FaceBook.com made another round of format changes to their system. They claim that it was an attempt to make the site better and easier to use.

A huge number of Facebook users immediately began to complain and protest. They started Facebook fan sites with names like "Bring Back The Old Facebook."

A smaller number of Facebook users actually liked the changes and sat passively on the sidelines wondering what all the commotion was about.

A much smaller group (probably just me) stumbled along trying to figure out how to use the new system. I didn't complain. I didn't protest. I just stumbled along.

I couldn't help but wonder if the Facebook Gods were experimenting with us lowly humans. Were they testing us to see how well we react to change? Were we timed? Where's the cheese?

Is the Complainer/Protester group smarter than the others? Will the Stumbler/Adaptor group inherit the earth? (Boy, I hope so!)

How well did we do compared to the test group of lab rats?

Gotta go! I have to update my status!

PS - Don't even get me started on the Facebook games! Tell me that Farkle isn't a test! Mafia Wars?

Photo credits - Jurvetson - Photoshopped by Mark Hall - When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. This post written by Mark Hall all rights reserved. The Huge Social Experiment - Are We Just A Bunch Of Lab Rats?

Homes For Sale in Clark County WA - Looking for something Unique?

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 11:20:32 -0600

Homes For Sale in Clark County WA - Looking for something Unique?

The inventory of homes for sale in Clark County WA is at an all time high. Just 2 short years ago it was impossible to buy anything in Clark County WA without getting into a bidding war. Today the buyer holds all the cards, making it a great time to buy a home in Clark County Washington.

An often overlooked advantage to buying a home when the inventory is this high is the fact that buyers have a huge selection. If you are looking for something unique in a Clark County home, then you are looking at just the right time. Often times the unique homes are the last ones to sell and there are some bargains out there.

This powerful search tool will allow you to see all of the homes for sale in Clark County Washington with minimal delay.

Homes For Sale In Clark County Washington

Please let us know if we can assist with any of your real estate needs by calling us at 360 816 9697.

It is a buyers market so what are you waiting for? A seller's market?

Photo credits - Mark Hall all rights reserved - When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. This post written by Mark Hall all rights reserved. Free Search Homes For Sale in Clark County WA

Taking Advantage of Sellers! - The Easy Way

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 11:56:36 -0600

Taking Advantage of Sellers! - The Easy Way

How many of you are coaching your sellers on how to handle appointments for agents and their buyers? I had two interesting experiences this week that really made me wonder what the heck the seller was thinking.

I was setting up appointments for Janice to show homes with her clients on the following day when I had this phone conversation with a seller,

Seller - Hello?
Me - Hi, this is Mark Hall with Keller Williams yadda yadda, Could we visit your home at 11:00 tomorrow?
Seller - That would be great but don't mind the boxes because we are planning on being moved out by the end of the month.
Me - Uh... (Confused) Do you already have an offer?
Seller - No. We are moving into our new house at the end of the month. Bring us an offer. We are very flexible on the price because we have to be in Arizona by the end of the month!

Without visiting the home I already knew that there were deep discounts to be had. Unfortunately, our clients weren't interested in that particular home. Needless to say, the seller put herself and her agent in a very bad negotiating position!

The next situation happened when I showed up at a listing with my clients and was met at the door by the seller. This is a pet peeve of mine and I usually hate it (as can be seen in my post The Crazy Lady Who Wouldn't Leave. Vancouver WA Real Estate) but this turned into something entirely different!

She invited my clients in and pulled me aside,

Seller - I am so glad you are here. We really need to sell our house. This house is way to small for us and we already bought a bigger one. I don't think we can afford both of the payments. I will let you get to work. Lock up when you are finished!

In less than 5 seconds, she blew any chance at negotiations that she may have had. It would be like playing poker when your opponent gives you 4 aces as a starting hand. I already knew how to get the best price before we even viewed the home. I was picturing the negotiations in my mind, "The house is really too small but my clients would be interested for the right price." or "My client could close quickly if there were an additional discount involved. Could you drop the price $10,000 if they close in 21 days?"

Obviously, I didn't write this to teach agents how to take advantage of sellers. I wrote to educate listing agents and their sellers on the dangers of giving too much information to the other side.

Don't do it! Set up a time and date and hang up. On the day of the showing, LEAVE! Let the buyer's agent do their job and be happy knowing the you have maintained the integrity of your negotiating position.

Photo credits - Annais Ferreira - When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. This post written by Mark Hall all rights reserved. Taking Advantage of Sellers! - The Easy Way Vancouver WA Real Estate

Selling Your Home During The Holidays - Is It O.K. To Decorate? Vancouver WA Real Estate

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 22:21:18 -0600

Selling Your Home During The Holidays - Is It O.K. To Decorate? Vancouver WA Real Estate

Contrary to popular belief, the holiday season is an excellent time to sell your home. There aren't as many homes on the market so that means less competition. Most buyers don't like to move during the holidays, so the sellers who are out viewing homes are serious. Many buyers set deadlines for their move. Holiday buyers often set a January 1st deadline.

Keeping that in mind, you have to be prepared to take advantage of every buyer's visit. A question that I get asked frequently during the holidays is about holiday decorations. Here are 3 simple tips to keep in mind when setting up your holiday decorations:

1. Keep it simple - Remember that less is more when staging a home during the holidays (or anytime!) Christmas decorations have a special way of becoming clutter. Use a few special pieces instead of your entire collection. Use key pieces to accent special places in your home. Draw attention to a fireplace by simple garland on the mantle. Don't hide it with your collector set of Disney stockings. (One for Snow White and each of the seven dwarfs!) De-clutter and simplify!

2. Keep it small - Big Christmas trees, inflatable Santa's, and giant presents have a way of making big rooms look very very small. Save them for next years when you are living in your new home.

3. Keep it tasteful - Christmas lights spelling out "HO HO HO!" across the roof in 6 foot letters may be a family tradition started in your childhood, but you should probably leave that sort of thing in storage this year. Over the top decorations distract buyers from the task at hand, buying your home. A few small arrangements strategically placed in your home will add a tasteful elegance and add to the desirability instead of detracting from it.

Still wondering if you've over done it? Ask your agent! We sell alot of homes during every season. We can easily guide you through the process while allowing you to enjoy the season. Wouldn't the best present be a nice offer?

Photo credits - Mark Hall all rights reserved - When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. This post written by Mark Hall all rights reserved. Selling Your Home During The Holidays - Is It O.K. To Decorate? Vancouver WA Real Estate

PhotAbulous Friday Fotos

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 17:58:58 -0600

PhotAbulous Friday Fotos

AMAZING TURKEY RECIPE! (Not for Children!)

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 22:06:47 -0600

For all you chefs or wannabes out there, this is THE way to cook a turkey. Don't poopoo this recipe and delete, be sure to read to the very end.
Happy Thanksgiving!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING..........Here is a recipe I thought you would like for the holidays
Ingredients:
1 whole turkey
1 large lemon, cut into halves
salt and pepper to taste
butter or olive oil, whichever you prefer

Heat oven to 350 degrees

Rub butter or oil over the skin of the turkey until it is completely coated.
Sprinkle with salt and pepper and any other seasonings you prefer.

Take a knife and gently separate the skin from the breast meat;
Slide lemon halves under the skin with the peel side up, one on
each side. This way the juice from the lemon will release into the breasts.

Cover and bake for 30-45 minutes. Remove cover and continue
to roast until juices run clear, basting every 15-20 minutes.

If you've followed these steps correctly, your turkey should
look like the one in the picture.
Bon Appetit!

When you choose us to handle your Vancouver Washington real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver Washington dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information.

Emily Just Bought Her First Home - Video Testimonial

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 22:50:38 -0600

Emily just bought her first new home in Vancouver Washington and talks about her experience using Mark & Janice Hall. Tough negotiations allowed Emily to get her new home at $20,000 below market value. She closed in time to claim her $8000 first time home buyers credit.

Who do you know who is looking to buy a new home? We can help!

If you enjoyed this post, you can find more like it in the following links:

Erin Talks About Buying Her First Home - Video Testimonial

Happy First Time Home Buyers - Jon and Shawna - Video Testimonial

Video Testimonial - Ryan - First Time Home Buyer

Special November Market Report - Vancouver Wa Real Estate

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 22:41:52 -0600

Special November Market Report - Vancouver Wa Real Estate

Here is a November special report. Would you like the local report for your neighborhood? Please call us any time.

When you choose us to handle your Vancouver Washington real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and BattleGround. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver Washington dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. Special November Market Report - Vancouver Wa Real Estate

This Month In Real Estate - November 2009 National Report

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 22:30:26 -0600

This Month In Real Estate - November 2009 National Report

Here is November's national real estate report. Would you like the local report for your neighborhood? Please call us any time.

When you choose us to handle your Vancouver Washington real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and BattleGround. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver Washington dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. This Month In Real Estate - November 2009 National Report

Networking Can Be Fun. Networking With Guns is FUNNER! Vancouver WA Real Estate

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:52:47 -0600

Networking Can Be Fun. Networking With Guns is FUNNER!

The Clark County Building Industry Association held their annual turkey shoot this past Saturday. For those of you who are wondering, No, they don't actually shoot turkeys! It is a trap shoot and the winners usually get turkeys as prizes.

This year, Janice and I sponsored the event by donating a few turkeys and I supported the event by scraping the rust off of my shotgun and signing up to shoot. It was a great event and I had to opportunity to meet a few more local builders in the area and to network with the competitors while waiting for the next round of shooting.

Photo credits - Mark Hall all rights reserved - When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. This post written by Mark Hall all rights reserved. Networking Can Be Fun. Networking With Guns is FUNNER!

Thanksgiving Humor - Surprise Your Guests!

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 17:35:52 -0600

Your dinner will be the talk of the TOWN!!

You should try this!
Sure to bring smiles from your guests!
Here is a new way to prepare your Thanksgiving Turkey.

1. Cut out aluminum foil in desired shapes.
2. Arrange the turkey in the roasting pan, position the foil carefully. (see attached picture for details)
3. Roast according to your own recipe and serve.
4. Watch your guests' faces...

May your stuffing be tasty
May your turkey plump,
May your potatoes and gravy
Have never a lump.
May your yams be delicious
And your pies take the prize! ,
And may your Thanksgiving dinner
Stay off your thighs!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Dear Home Seller, Is Your Agent Taking You For a Ride? Vancouver WA Real Estate

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:41:45 -0600

Dear Home Seller, Is Your Agent Taking You For a Ride?

When choosing an agent to list your home, what factors are the most important to you?

Did you know that most people, when asked this question, will say that the listing price is one of the most important issues? Those people could be making a huge mistake. Here is the reason why-

Realtors® know that money is a huge issue for the seller. Some agents will try to "buy" a listing by telling the seller that they can get a price that is higher than the market is supporting. Their scam is to get a seller to list their home with them for an inflated listing price and then to ask them for a price reduction at a later date.

This tactic can be dangerous and costly to the seller for several reasons. The most obvious reason is that if the seller begins to make plans based on the inflated listing price, then they may make obligations that they will be unable to fulfill. This is very frustrating for sellers.

The most costly problem that this creates is the fact that the home is overpriced and sits on the declining market for longer than necessary. If a home is worth $400,000 and spends an extra month or two listed in a market that is declining 3% per month, the seller is losing about $12,000 per month!

Don't be fooled by the agent who comes to the listing appointment with a CMA that shows your home's value to be $20,000 or $30,000 higher than what the market suggests. We always shoot straight with our clients even when the truth means a lower price than they expect. We don't believe in misleading a seller just to get the listing and then asking for reductions later.

If you list with an honest agent at a reasonable price then the only ride that you should be expecting is a ride to the escrow office to sign the closing papers.

Photo credits - Mark Hall all rights reserved - When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. This post written by Mark Hall all rights reserved. Dear Home Seller, Is Your Agent Taking You For a Ride? Vancouver WA Real Estate

PhoTabulous Friday Fotos - The Pier at Hermosa Beach CA

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:30:13 -0600

A snapshot of the Pier at Hermosa Beach CA. I was down visiting family last week and had a chance to surf here for a few days. The weather was nice and the waves were great!

Photo credits - Mark Hall all rights reserved - When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. This post written by Mark Hall all rights reserved. PhoTabulous Friday Fotos - The Pier at Hermosa Beach CA

Buying Your First Home Should Be Fun - Not an adventure!

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:16:01 -0600

Buying Your First Home Should Be Fun - Not an adventure!

Our friends at Wikipedia define Adventure as follows:

An adventure is an activity that comprises (perceived) risky, dangerous or uncertain experiences. The term is often used in reference to physical activities that have some potential for physical danger, such as skydiving, mountain climbing, and extreme sports. However, the term also broadly refers to any enterprise that is potentially fraught with physical or psychological risk, such as a business venture, a love affair, or other major life undertakings.

As real estate agents, Janice and I don't think that words like dangerous or uncertain should be associated with a real estate transaction and the risks involved with activities like skydiving and mountain climbing should left to extreme sports enthusiasts.

To protect our clients, we write all of our contracts with the highest levels of protection available. All contingencies are included and the dates are tracked. We are proud to say that we have steered our clients clear of pitfalls and have never had a client fall into harms way during a transaction. We believe in words like safe and troublefree!

Are you looking fro a new home or do you know someone who is looking to buy a new home? Don't leave your financial well being in the hands of someone who you met at an open house. Their primary responsibility is generally to the seller. You need an agent who is dedicated to getting you into your new home in the safest manner possible.

Whether you are working to get your first time home buyer's $8000 tax credit or you just think it is time for a new house, we are here to help you.

Call us today for a free no obligation consultation.

Photo credits - Mark Hall all rights reserved - When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. This post written by Mark Hall all rights reserved. Buying Your First Home Should Be Fun - Not an adventure!

The Crazy Lady Who Wouldn't Leave. Vancouver WA Real Estate

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:58:46 -0600

The Crazy Lady Who Wouldn't Leave. Vancouver WA Real Estate

At the doorstep I gave my customary door knock and courtesy ring. It is a habit that I picked up during my first weeks as a realtor®. I always knock and ring the doorbell before I unlock the door. Unfortunately, I didn't have a chance to use the key because the seller opened the door and invited us in!

"Have you shown this house before?" she asked.

"Uh... No." I answered.

"Then you won't mind if I show you around." she said as she ushered us through the door and started her tour. She proceeded to take us through the cluttered house at a pace that would make snails looks like track stars. "This is the bedroom...this is another bedroom... this is the kitchen...this is..."

My clients peeked into a bathroom during her explanation of the second bedroom and were swiftly reprimanded for moving too quickly and asked to "pay attention."

My clients were annoyed and they completely checked out. There wasn't anything that anybody could have said that would have convinced them to consider buying that house. During the remaining home tours, they kept referring to it as the "Crazy Lady's House."

The sad part is that the home would have been perfect for them. The right size and layout. The right neighborhood and school district. The yard that they dreamed of. The problem is that they just can't get past the fact that it was the "Crazy Lady's House."

With that said, let me share a few thoughts with the sellers out there:

1. Most good realtors have toured thousands of homes in their careers.

2. You don't need to show them where the kitchen is, or point out the great room, or let them know that the bonus room could be used as an office, or a bedroom, or a den, or a... well you get the picture.

3. You make the buyer VERY uncomfortable and your presence will probably cause them to cross your home off of their list.

4. Listen to your agent when they talk to you about pricing, when they make suggestions about staging and de-cluttering your home, when they tell you how to successfully sell your home, and when they tell you to leave during buyer visits. You hired them for a reason. Take advantage of their expertise.

5. You don't want to be known as the owner of the "Crazy Person's House!" That would mean that the crazy person is you!

When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. The Crazy Lady Who Wouldn't Leave. Vancouver WA Real Estate

REO Urban Legends

Sat, 14 Nov 2009 09:31:29 -0600

I found the post written by fellow Active Rainer, Israel Barden, and thought that I would share it with you all.

Via Israel Barden (Coldwell Banker Mountain Gallery):

It seems like everybody has a story about a cousin or brother in law or long lost Uncle who offered half of the asking price on a foreclosure and got it. It has almost reached urban legend status in this market. I have bad news for people that believe this story. There are no giant alligators in the sewer. If you say Bloody Mary three times in front of a mirror, she will not appear. Even more terrifying, there are no bank owned properties in Big Bear that you can buy for half of the list price.

As a matter of fact, writing lowball offers is a sure way of losing out on a property you might really like. When an asset manager sees an offer that is over 10-15% low, they automatically put that offer into the crank file. Usually, they don't even bother countering an offer that low. When they do counter, it is usually for $100.00 off of the listing price. The only thing that happens when you write a really low offer is you lose all your credibility. Instead of coming off as a serious, viable buyer who is looking for a good deal, you come off as a shyster trying pick the bones of an unfortunate soul.

When a bank prices an REO property, they don't just pick a random number. They don't price it off of what the remaining loan is. They actually have Realtors give them price opinions on current market value. Then, they price the home at a fair market price. Usually, this a very good deal. Just because there is only $50,000 owed on $200,000 property, does not mean the bank will take $100,000 for it. They will sell you the property for a good, fair price. If you come in at $125,000, they will not even acknowledge you. If you come in at $150,000, they will counter at $199,000. If you come in at $175,000, they will probably give you a real counter to work with.

I am not saying that it is impossible to get a great deal. It is highly possible. You just have to reevaluate what a great deal is. If a home last sold for $350,000, and you buy it for $250,000, you are getting a great deal. You just need to be realistic. Plus, while you are dickering around with lowball offers, the odds are very good that someone who understands what is going on will come in with a respectable offer, and you will lose out. If you think it is a good deal, it is certain that somebody else will too. I feel the best strategy is too give the bank the opportunity to say " Yes."

PhoTabulous Friday Foto - Vintage Communications!

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 13:34:24 -0600

Found this while showing houses this week. Yes, it is hooked up with a dial tone!

First Time Homebuyer's Tax Credit Extended and Enhanced! Vancouver Washington

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:25:30 -0600

First Time Homebuyer's Tax Credit Extended and Enhanced! Vancouver Washington

The first time home buyer's tax credit has finally been extended and it has even benn enhanced to include current home owners. I have had a number of calls from my Vancouver Washington Real Estate Clients asking what that exactly means to them. This clip should clear it up for everyone.

When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. This post written by Mark Hall all rights reserved. First Time Homebuyer's Tax Credit Extended and Enhanced! Vancouver Washington

The Great Identity Crisis! Vancouver Washington

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:07:54 -0600

Vancouver, NOT BC. Washington, NOT DC!

It seems that some of us Vancouver residents (Vancouverites? uh, Vancouveronians?) are suffering from an identity crisis. We don't know who we are and we aren't sure what to do about it.

The Columbian reports that "Clark County needs a new brand. Led by an economic developer at the city of Vancouver, they're launching a seven-month, zero-budget effort to agree on a new logo, phrase and "story" that somehow tie together this half-rural, half-suburban swatch of Southwest Washington."

Personally, I like Vancouver Washington just the way it is. I like to think of it as our little secret. Beautiful scenery, no state income tax, awesome schools, great fishing and hunting, and just 10 minutes from everything that Portland has to offer...

Don't tell anyone. It will be our little secret!

Photo Credit - Mark Hall all rights reserved - When you choose us to handle your Vancouver WA real estate needs, you choose a team of realtors® who care about you and your family. Buying or selling a home is always more enjoyable when you work with professionals who will listen to your needs and who will work together with you to achieve your objective. We are very familiar with all types a real estate in Clark County and we specialize in Vancouver, Ridgefield and Battle Ground. We are also very experienced with new home and custom home construction having assisted several local builders in selling new neighborhoods in the Vancouver Washington area. Additionally, we have helped numerous families build their own Vancouver WA dream homes. We are dedicated to helping you make intelligent, informed decisions and to providing you with exceptional service. Go to www.ernw.org for more information. See our video here. The Great Identity Crisis! Vancouver Washington

PhoTabulous Friday Fotos - Self Portrait

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 18:25:09 -0600

I was looking for pics for another post when I ran across this one. It has always been one of my favorites.

The Value Of A Good Belt

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 17:28:15 -0600

The Value Of A Good Belt

I have had this belt for almost 25 years. It wasn't expensive. As a matter of fact it was free. Well, not really free. You see, I found it.

I was rock climbing in 1983 when I found this belt wrapped around a tree in Malibu Canyon. It looked as though someone had used it to secure a climbing rope and rappel down the face of a boulder. I have had it ever since.

For the past 25+ years, this old belt has served me well. It has been with me in France, England, Germany, Switzerland, and Mexico. Holding up my pants has been the least of the services that it has provided.

I have used it to lash surfboards to the top of a van during a surf trip in Mexico. On the same trip I used it to strap my surf bag shut when the airlines broke the zipper.

I have used it strap the door shut on an old truck of mine when the latch broke.

I have used it to strap a sleeping bag and other miscellaneous items to my backpack .

I have used it as a shoulder strap to carry my snow skis.

I have used it as a sling for my djembe drum.

I have even used it to lash dive equipment to the deck of my sailboat on a few trips across to Catalina.

So, what does an old belt have to do with real estate?

As Realtors®, we are that old leather belt! So many people that think that our profession is one dimensional. Buyers think we just find the house. Sellers think we just plant a sign and enter it onto the MLS. Those are the least of the services that we provide.

We determine the value of the home and council the client accordingly. (Buyers and Sellers)

We negotiate the deal with our client's best interest at the forefront of our actions.

We schedule and coordinate every aspect of the transaction from the first showing through closing, and beyond!

We protect our clients throughout the transaction. We write the contracts with contingencies in place to protect them at every stage.

We renegotiate the deal at every opportunity to make it better for our clients.

I could go on and on, but I think that you get the point. Our job is to make the transaction as trouble free for our clients as possible. When we do it right, our clients just might keep us around for 25+ years!