Robert's Blog

Lansing MI Real Estate update November 2009

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 14:39:49 -0600

Your Lansing, MI real estate update. Well I hope everyone has enjoyed this slow beginning to winter because I think we may be just looking at the calm before the storm. I have attached the statistics for the Greater Lansing, MI /Tri County area below.

As you can see we have experienced considerable increases in sales prices for both Ingham and Eaton counties as compared to October 09 as well as November 08. Our total units sold were down as compared to October across the board but dramatically up when compared to 2008.

PRICE REDUCED! Former Parade home in desirable Shoals neighborhood in Okemos! Must check out!

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 13:21:23 -0600

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

4159 Cornell Road, Okemos, MI

4BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $219,900

Year Built	1987
Sq Footage	2,078
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	13,775 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Nestled in the Shoals subdivision in Okemos this home is convenient to schools and shopping. A former parade home with many updates features an open foyer with hardwood floors and large closet, open to the spacious living room great for entertaining and located just off the formal dining room. The updated kitchen features hardwood floors, cabinets, and counter tops all new in 2004 and includes attached breakfast nook with sliders to back yard and tiered deck. The first floor also features a large family room on the back of the home with a gas fire place. The upstairs is home for all 4 bedrooms including the master suite with a full bath as well as the updated 2nd full bath including a ceramic tiled shower surround. A large finished basement completes this home with a great rec-room, additional office space, framed and stubbed for additional full bath and tons of storage space. Contact us for your private showing.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Fireplace	- Walk-in closet
- Hardwood floor	- Living room	- Bonus/Rec room
- Office/Den	- Dining room	- Breakfast nook
- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Basement	- Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Garage parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Living Room
Family Room	Dining Room
Kitchen	Yard/Deck

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 20, 2009, 9:12am PST

Existing Home Owner Tax Credit

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:15:13 -0600

New Listing!! 1323 Daylily, Holt

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:52:06 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

1323 Daylily, Holt, MI

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $150,000

Year Built	1996
Sq Footage	1,304
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Beautifuly maintained 3 bedroom ranch in Centennial Farms, Holt, MI. Mason School district. Open floor plan with nice master suite including dual closets and private bath. The home also features a private fenced yard with large deck, full basement, 2 car attached garage and vaulted ceilings. This great neighborhood is minutes from Holt, has a Township park and much more. Call for your private showing today.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

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

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Deck
Living Room	Dining Room
Kitchen	Master Bedroom

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 23, 2009, 12:40pm PDT

NEW LISTING!! 803 Degroff, Grand Ledge

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:35:22 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

803 Degroff, Grand Ledge, MI

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $125,000

Year Built	1956
Sq Footage	1,144
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

VERY NICE 3 BEDROOM BRICK RANCH IN GRAND LEDGE, HARDWOOD FLOORS, 3 SEASONS ROOM, LARGE YARD, DETACHED GARAGE, FULL BASEMENT WITH FIREPLACE EASY ACCESS TO TOWN AS WELL AS SHOPPING AND HIGHWAYS.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Fireplace	- Hardwood floor	- Living room
- Dining room	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Basement	- Washer	- Dryer
- Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Yard
Living Room	Dining Room
Kitchen	Basement

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 23, 2009, 12:14pm PDT

NEWLY PRICE REDUCED! Great home in Holt Public Schools, close to shopping!

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 14:29:58 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

1929 Auburn, Holt, MI

DON'T LET THE MODEST EXTERIOR FOOL YOU, THIS HOME IS NEARLY 2000 SQFT! 3BR, 2BA, MASTER SUITE WITH WHIRLPOOL TUB, SPLIT FLOOR PLAN, BEAUTIFUL POOL DEC

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $135,000

Year Built	1974
Sq Footage	1,928
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	12,555 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

BEAUTIFUL LANDSCAPING GRACES THE EXTERIOR OF THIS SPRAWLING RANCH IN THE HEART OF HOLT. ENTER THROUGH THE FRONT DOOR AND ENJOY THE EASE OF A SPACIOUS FOYER. JUST OFF THE FOYER IS THE FORMAL LIVING ROOM WITH BEAUTIFUL HARDWOOD FLOORS AND LARGE BAY WINDOW. THE OPEN KITCHEN HAS UPDATED WHITE CABINETS AND NEWER COUNTER TOPS. RELAX IN THE FAMILY ROOM WITH ACCESS TO THE SPACIOUS MASTER SUITE COMPLETE WITH VAULTED CEILING, SKYLIGHT, WALK-IN CLOSET AND WHIRLPOOL TUB WITH CERAMIC TILE SURROUND. THE BACK YARD FEATURES A 24' POOL WITH WRAP AROUND DECK AND ADDITIONAL DECK OFF THE FAMILY ROOM. CALL TODAY FOR YOUR PRIVATE SHOWING! ALL OFFERS SUBJECT TO BANK APPROVAL OF SHORT SALE.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Fireplace	- Hardwood floor
- Family room	- Living room	- Dishwasher
- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven	- Basement
- Washer	- Dryer	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Yard	- Swimming pool

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Pool
Dining Room	Whirpool tub
Yard

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 9, 2009, 11:17am PDT

Is CUSTOMER SERVICE lost in your business or life??

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 08:17:54 -0500

If customer service, loyalty and retention our some of your goals in business, what are you doing to insure the satisfaction of your clients and past clients.

In a recent visit to a major sporting goods store I had an issue being able to purchase a hunting license the day before the season started because their machine was down(found out later it was out of license paper). Approximately one month earlier I had a similar issue with the same store. As I walked out disgusted I picked up my BlackBerry and promptly Tweeted my disgust and commitment to not shop their for my hunting needs any more.

About 3 hours later while preparing for my morning hunt I received an @reply on Twitter and guess who? The chief marketing officer & evp e-commerce from the store searched and read my tweet. He asked about the problem, we had a short conversation (140 characters or less) and then informed me I would be contacted by someone at corporate. The next day I was contacted via email by the Director of Customer Relations who informed me that the problem had been corrected as well the store manager and regional manager had been informed of my unhappiness. She then did something unexpected. She asked for my address so she could send me a gift certificate in an effort to rebuild a relationship with me. Three days later I received a $50 gift card in the mail.

No matter what business your in I'm sure you've heard that bad news travels way faster then good news. I'm not suggesting you can BUY your customers happiness but the efforts made by this company as well as apologies and follow through certainly impressed me as a business owner. I know there are customers and issues that I've avoided and hoped they would just go away. If I had immediately confronted and defused the issue would I have retained a customer or a person friendship?

My managing broker has always told me to swallow my big frogs first and the rest of the day would go so much easier. It couldn't be more true. So next time you have a difficult or uncomfortable issue to address just comfront it, be HONEST and do your best to get to the heart of the problem.

I will be spending my gift certificate today towards some new hunting boots and due to the store's follow through (not the $50) I will continue to shop there.

Did you forget something?

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 08:03:03 -0500

As I sit hear in Holt, MI just South of Lansing on a 45 deg fall morning I got to thinking. Is there anything I forgot to do this summer? We all work very hard no matter what time of year it is but summer in the Great Lakes State has so much to offer and its now turning to fall and the temperature is dropping. So what are you going to do to take advantage of these last few semi warm days we have left?

One last trip up north camping and a very cold dip in Lake Michigan
How about a trip to Cedar Point or Michigan's Adventure (bet the lines are a lot shorter now)
Golf at the course you swore you would get to this year (fall rates are in affect most places)
Start running or biking (temperatures are perfect for running in the fall)
Go on a color tour in the UP unless its already to late.

Whatever it is for you remember it's not to late so make a plan and get to it or just pack up the family and go TODAY! OK maybe tomorrow, but get out and make one more memory before the snow flies, I know I will because my tulips are a long way from popping up.

Ingham, Eaton & Clinton County, MI August 2009 stats

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:50:50 -0500

Your local market update for Ingham Eaton and Clinton couties in Michigan for the month of August 2009. Contact the Robert Dowding Team at Keller Williams Realty for all of your real estate needs in Greater Lansing Michigan.

Great home close to Holt school district and Delhi Township. 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, basement, 2 tier deck, fenced in yard!

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:45:27 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

1804 Pageant Way, Holt, MI

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $162,900

Year Built	1987
Sq Footage	1,393
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	.41 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This EXTREMELY clean three bedroom home is located on a dead end street, close to Holt School district and Delhi Township. Home has 2 car attached garage with turn around driveway, 2 tiered deck, fenced backyard and full basement. Newer carpet in the living room, stairway, and upstairs. The eat-in kitchen features newer flooring and countertops. Living room has a bay window, cathedral ceilings and a brick, wood burning fireplace. First floor bath features ceramic tile and a private stool and shower. Two bedrooms located on the first floor, both with two closets each. Walk upstairs to find a landing perfect for a bookshelf or a place to display pictures. Then step into the large Master bedroom complete with a walk-in closet, ceiling fan, and master bathroom with a double sink. Home has Andersen windows, newer roof, newer air conditioning, and newer water heater. Call today to set up your private showing!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

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

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Living Room
Brick fireplace	Kitchen
Master bedroom	2 tier deck

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Sep 11, 2009, 9:19am PDT

New Website! Please take a tour of it and let us know what you think!

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:09:41 -0500

Well the new website is up and I am very pleased with it. Please feel free to roam around on it and if you have any comments or questions I would love to hear them. We have some great new features on there including a free home search specified to your criteria. As new homes come on the market that match your criteria, they will automatically be emailed to you. This is a FREE service! Check out our new website at www.robertdowding.com and let us know what you think! Happy Friday all!

Beautiful home with Master Suite with walk in closet and private bath!

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:56:54 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

2133 Wayland, Lansing, MI

THIS NEARLY 1800 SQ FT HOME IS SITUATED ON A .40 ACRE LOT IN THE BEAUTIFUL RIVER RIDGE NEIGHBORHOOD. A LARGE FOYER GREETS YOU WHEN ENTERING THROUGH TH

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $160,000

Year Built	1963
Sq Footage	1,768
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	17,363 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

THIS NEARLY 1800 SQ FT HOME IS SITUATED ON A .40 ACRE LOT IN THE BEAUTIFUL RIVER RIDGE NEIGHBORHOOD. A LARGE FOYER GREETS YOU WHEN ENTERING THROUGH THE FRONT DOOR, THE KITCHEN AND DINING ROOM WERE RECENTLY REMODELED INCLUDING OAK CABINETS, NEW COUNTER TOPS AND FLOORING. THE DINING ROOM IS OPEN TO BOTH THE 4 SEASONS ROOM WITH WOOD BURNING STOVE AND LARGE WINDOWS OVERLOOKING THE BACK YARD AND THE FRONT LIVING ROOM. THE FIRST FLOOR ALSO FEATURES 3 BEDROOMS AND 2 FULL BATHS INCLUDING THE MASTER SUITE WITH WALK IN CLOSET AND PRIVATE BATH. THE PARTIALLY FINISHED BASEMENT HAS A LARGE REC-ROOM AS WELL AS AN ADDITIONAL FINISHED ROOM TO THE BACK OF THE HOME. THERE IS AMPLE STORAGE IN THE 2.5 CAR ATTACHED GARAGE BUT ALSO INCLUDING IS AN ATTACHED SHED. THE RIDING LAWN MOWER WILL STAY WITH THE HOME BUT THE SELLER RESPECTFULLY RESERVES THE 6 OAK SHELVES LOCATED IN THE DINING AND FAMILY ROOMS.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

• Central A/C	• Fireplace	• Living room
• Bonus/Rec room	• Office/Den	• Dining room
• Dishwasher	• Refrigerator	• Stove/Oven
• Microwave	• Basement	• Balcony, Deck, or Patio
• Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Living Room
Dining Room	Family Room
Kitchen	Master Bedroom

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 16, 2009, 10:20am PDT

SHORT SALE home in Holt! Large lot with fenced yard!

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:47:13 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

1872 Elm Street, Holt, MI

4BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $124,900

Year Built	1947
Sq Footage	1,760
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	21,780 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This large 4 bedroom home is located in the heart of Delhi township, right across the street from Holt Middle School and Wilcox Elementary. Outside this brick home are mature trees, a large fenced lot and attached 2 car garage. Inside find 4 spacious bedrooms with tons of built in storage, a large kitchen and dining area with additional sink. The lower level is partially finished with a large rec-room as well as an additional kitchen. All offers are subject to bank approval of short sale.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

• Living room	• Bonus/Rec room	• Dishwasher
• Refrigerator	• Stove/Oven	• Basement
• Washer	• Dryer	• Balcony, Deck, or Patio

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front of home	Side of home
Garage

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 2, 2009, 8:10am PDT

Great Cape Cod home with over 1000 sq. ft.! Remodeled kitchen and refinished hardwood floors add to this great home!

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:45:03 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

3025 Greenoak, Lansing, MI

CALL TODAY FOR PRIVATE SHOWING ON THIS GREAT CAPE COD IN N. LANSING. HOME FEATURES 3 BRS & 1 BA WITH JUST OVER 1000 SQFT. NEWLY REMODLED KITCHEN W

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $109,900

Year Built	1961
Sq Footage	1,086
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	6,150 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

CALL TODAY FOR YOUR PRIVATE SHOWING ON THIS GREAT CAPE COD IN N. LANSING. THIS HOME FEATURES 3 BEDROOMS AND 1 BATH WITH JUST OVER 1000 SQ FT. A NEWLY REMODLED KITCHEN WITH PLENTY OF ROOM FOR THE COOK IN THE FAMILY, REFINISHED HARDWOOD FLOORS AND A SPACIOUS 2ND FLOOR MASTER BEDROOM WITH NEW CARPET. RESTING ON A FULL BASEMENT WITH PLENTY OF STORAGE, NEWER WASHER AND DRYER AS WELL AS A/C INSTALLED IN 2006. INCLUDED WITH THE PROPERTY IS A ONE CAR GARAGE WITH ATTACHED COVERED PATIO IN THE FENCED BACK YARD AND SEPERATLY FENCED GARDEN AREA.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

• Central A/C	• Hardwood floor	• Refrigerator
• Stove/Oven	• Basement	• Washer
• Dryer	• Laundry area - inside	• Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Garage
Living Room	Kitchen
Master Bedroom	Other Bedroom

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 2, 2009, 6:48am PDT

PRICE REDUCED! SHORT SALE Home! In Holt School district!

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:37:45 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

2011 Delhi NE, Holt, MI

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $90,000

Year Built	1880
Sq Footage	1,738
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	.30 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Great location, close to Valhalla Park, Holt School district, Delhi Township. Huge detached garage, large lot, all offers are subject to bank approval of short sale!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

• Central A/C	• Living room	• Dining room
• Dishwasher

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Side
Garage

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 28, 2009, 6:14am PDT

APPROVED SHORT SALE home! Great starter home!

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 11:35:26 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

901 Brad, Lansing, MI

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $60,000

Year Built	1955
Sq Footage	960
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	None
Lot Size	8,910 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

All offers subject to bank approval. Nice 3 bedroom ranch home with full basement. Large lot with fenced backyard, mature trees, plenty of space for summer gatherings. Updated vinyl siding and windows. Home is located on a dead end street close to shopping, public transit and easy access to highways. Call today for your private showing!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

• Living room	• Dishwasher	• Refrigerator
• Stove/Oven	• Basement	• Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Yard
Yard	Living Room
Living Room	Dining Room

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 28, 2009, 10:22am PDT

GREAT NEWS for First Time Homebuyers! The new tax credit can work even more to your advantage!!

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:18:23 -0500

WASHINGTON - Thousands of first-time home buyers will be able to get short-term loans so they can quickly make use of a new $8,000 tax credit to pay for some of the costs of buying a home.

The Federal Housing Administration on Friday released details of a plan in which borrowers who use FHA loans can get advances from lenders that let them effectively receive the credit in advance, so they don't have to wait to get the money from the Internal Revenue Service.

Most borrowers will still have to come up with the FHA's required 3.5 percent down payment, unless they work through a state or local housing agency or an approved nonprofit.

Ten states have such programs in place, according to the National Council of State Housing Agencies.

But there are many other potential uses, such as for closing costs and fees, or to beef up the down payment beyond the minimum level.

The FHA, which insures about a quarter of new home loans, is projected to guarantee about 2.2 million loans in the next budget year.

Any buyer who has not owned a home in the past three years is considered a first-time buyer and eligible for the program. Borrowers can claim the credit by filing an amended 2008 tax return or can wait for their 2009 return.

The change "will present an enormous benefit for communities struggling to deal with an oversupply of housing," Housing Secretary Shaun Donovan said in a statement.

The tax credit was included in the economic stimulus package signed by President Barack Obama in February. It is not available to individuals with incomes above $95,000 or couples with incomes above $170,000 and it expires Nov. 30.

Real estate agents and home builders generally welcomed the change.

Jerry Howard, CEO of the National Association of Home Builders, called it a "great step in the right direction." On Wall Street, shares of such builders as Toll Brothers and D.R. Horton rose on the news.

Still, some real estate agents were concerned that many buyers won't benefit at all if they can't use it for a down payment - a big hurdle for many first-time buyers.

How do you have time for social networks?

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 29 May 2009 08:44:10 -0500

I hear this question around my Lansing MI office at Keller Williams Realty all the time. I guess I've become "that guy" at our office. The one that's Tweeting on Twitter, created a Robert Dowding Team page on Facebook, search for new contacts on Linkedinand sit through webinars weekly on how to do it all better and more efficiently.

I first joined LinkedIn because I randomly got a request from someone I was friends or did business with, I'm not really sure. Since that time I have used it a little but not been real dedicated to it. I'll be honest I haven't made many contacts through it but I'm sure its a great way to connect with other business and like minded people.

Then there's Facebook. First it was myspace for me and after a short stint on there and getting real sick of slow loading pages, responding to friends requests from lonely foreign women looking for friendship and whatever else it may become I reluctantly joined FB. I saw it as an opportunity to reconnect with friends, classmates and kill some time playing scrabulous or owned. After all the games and other BS got old I realized that I had begun to build on online data base that I could market to and still just hang out and be friends with. After a while I found that by sharing my experiences in life and Real Estate as well as usefull content from time to time people begin to remember "Hey Rob's a Realtor and on FB just ask him." What do you know, I started getting leads from FB and building my data base as well as meeting and hanging out with some cool new and old friends.

That paragraph got long so I'm starting a new one for some reason. I don't write many blog posts this just keeps coming up.

OK so now comes Twitter and boy I'm a rookie at it but enjoying it. I'm @RobRealtor I have watched a few webinars and read some blog posts as to best ways to market business on micro blogs and be a user worth following. Here's is what I think I know. NO ONE wants to see you just continuously market, market, market yourself on there just like FB. If you aren't willing to be a "real" person fill out a profile and load a picture, chances are no one will want to follow you. Ashton Kutcher @aplusk has some 2 million followers or something because well he's Ashton Kutcher and he's famous but also because he just shares crap he likes and what he's doing and people like that. So by following me @RobRealtor you're going to get a little of everything.

So to answer the question, How do you have time for social networks? I guess the answer is..... I enjoy meeting new people, chatting with friends and marketing my business (virtually). I have time because I have chosen to use social networks as part of my daily business. My advice, choose you're battles, it's extremely unlikely you'll ever receive a COLD call from me but hey you may find something I posted and meet me online. If you're a friend on FB I'm likely not going to take your quiz or join your mafia. If you follow me on Twitter and you are following 10, 218 people, only 345 are following you and you post a new link every 5 minutes, I'm not following you back. So have fun and I'll see you online. Maybe.

I just walked outside and my Iris's look awesome maybe I should write about my flowers and gardens next but not sure if anyone wants to hear about that. Now I have to add pics because I guess people like to see pictures while they read, personally I just look at the pictures usually.

-Rob

Price Reduced!! 901 Brad, Lansing 48910

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 15 May 2009 15:11:22 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

901 Brad, Lansing, MI

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $50,000

Year Built	1955
Sq Footage	960
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	None
Lot Size	8,910 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Living room	Dishwasher	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Basement	Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Photo 2
Dining Room	Living Room
Yard

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 15, 2009, 10:58am PDT

Lansing, MI April 2009 Real Estate Market Update

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 13 May 2009 23:42:11 -0500

April 2009 Market Update for Ingham, Eaton and Clinton counties in Michigan. The Robert Dowding team at Keller Williams Realty is dedicated to providing you with the most up to date statistice and trends available.

We are now officially in the full swing of the spring real estate market in the Tri-County area of Mid Michigan. With the addition of buyer incentives and continued affordability of housing we are seeing another month of promising numbers.

Average sales prices were fairly stable as compared to March 2009 numbers with exception of Eaton County that experienced a difficult March but rebounded well in April. We are still down from 2008 which is to be expected. The promising numbers are the number of units sold. All three counties reported increases in units sold with Ingham and Eaton counties over 40%! May has been very busy as well and I would expect to see this trend continue.

Average Sales Price
	*March 09* *Average Sales* *Price*	*April 09* *Average Sales Price*	*April 09 /* *March 09*	*April 08* *Average Sales Price*	*April 09/* *April 08*
*County*	*% Chg*	*% Chg*
*Ingham*	$ 81,519.00	$ 81,601.00	0.10%	$ 98,045.00	-16.77%
*Eaton*	$ 73,046.00	$ 103,869.00	42.20%	$ 136,926.00	-24.14%
*Clinton*	$ 112,223.00	$ 106,641.00	-4.97%	$ 146,076.00	-27.00%

Total Units
	*March 09* *Total Units Sold*	*April 09* *TTL Units Sold*	*April 09/* *March 09*	*Aril 08* *Total Units* *Sold*	*April 09/* *April 08*
*County*	*% Chg*	*% Chg*
*Ingham*	181	266	46.96%	232	14.66%
*Eaton*	48	69	43.75%	75	-8.00%
*Clinton*	43	49	13.95%	41	19.51%

As always keep us in mind for all of your real estate needs and contact us with any questions you may have. We look forward to helping you and yours.

Professionally, Robert Dowding

Each office is independently owned and operated

All statistics compiled from the Greater Lansing Association of Realtors MLS

Robert Dowding

Lansing, MI Real Estate - Robert Dowding Team

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 13 May 2009 23:36:36 -0500

Fabulous home in Shoals neighborhood of Okemos!

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 13 May 2009 14:49:34 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

4159 Cornell Road, Okemos, MI

4BR/2.5BA Single Family House

offered at $250,000

Year Built	1987
Sq Footage	2,178
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	13,775 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Fireplace	Walk-in closet
Hardwood floor	Living room	Bonus/Rec room
Office/Den	Dining room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Basement	Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Living Room
Family Room	Dining Room
Kitchen	Yard/Deck

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 13, 2009, 11:21am PDT

Great home in desirable Colonial Village!! 2908 Boston Blvd - Lansing

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Thu, 07 May 2009 15:08:52 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

2908 Boston Blvd, Lansing, MI

This beautifully updated ranch located in the heart of Colonial Village features an updated kitchen and bathroom, professionally refinished hardwood f

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $110,000

Year Built	1957
Sq Footage	912
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	6,600 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This beautifully updated ranch located in the heart of Colonial Village features an updated kitchen and bathroom, professionally refinished hardwood floors, modern paint colors throughout, full finished, drywalled basement, detached 2 car garage, vinyl siding and windows as well as a roof that is only 6 years old. All of the appliances are also included in this beautiful home. Call today for your private showing.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Hardwood floor	Living room
Bonus/Rec room	Dining room	Dishwasher
Refrigerator	Stove/Oven	Microwave
Basement	Washer	Dryer
Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Yard
Living Room	Kitchen
Breakfast Nook	Finished Basement

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 7, 2009, 10:58am PDT

3337 Camino Del Sol $374,900 - Gorgeous Schroeder built home in Williamston!

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:27:52 -0500

Robert Dowding | Keller Williams Realty | 517.853.6390

3337 Camino Del Sol, Williamston, MI

7BR/4BA Single Family House

offered at $374,900

Year Built	1993
Sq Footage	2,930
Bedrooms	7
Bathrooms	4 full, 0 partial
Floors	2
Parking	3 Car garage
Lot Size	43,560 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

This beautiful Schroeder built family home features a possible 7 bedrooms, 6 on the second floor including the master suite with crown molding walk-in closet and private bath. The 7th is located on the 1st floor and would also make a great home office or in-law suite with one of the 4 full baths located nearby. The foyer, kitchen, breakfast nook and 1st floor laundry are graced with ceramic tiled floors. The kitchen also features raised panel cabinets a large island, walk-in pantry as well as stainless steel refrigerator and stove/oven. The family room glows with natural light from the large windows overlooking the back yard and includes a gas fire place. An open walk out basement is perfect for entertaining with a wet bar large rec-room for your toys or just an addition place to gather with friends and family. The grounds of this home are fully landscaped, include a stunning stone patio with included hot tub, large deck and irrigation system. Contact us today for a private showing.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Fireplace	Walk-in closet
Family room	Living room	Bonus/Rec room
Office/Den	Dining room	Breakfast nook
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Basement	Laundry area - inside
Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Family Room
Dining Room	Kitchen
Rec Room	Landscaped yard

Contact info:

Robert Dowding

Keller Williams Realty

517.853.6390

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Mar 31, 2009, 10:35am PDT

Lansing Short Sale Expert

Robert Dowding ~ Realtor ~ Greater Lansing, MI (Keller Williams Realty) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:32:56 -0500