Sally & David Hanson's Real Estate Blog

You Always Have a Choice.....

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:17:06 -0600

"Err" on the side of aggression

....Wow that sounds powerful doesn't it .....? Powerful it is...and in a positive way...Holidays are a difficult time for people for lots of reasons. The first year without a loved one....parent, spouse, sibling....close friend. Unemployment or under employment that means a compromise traditional celebrations.

Illness...newly discovered, chronic, terminal....you know someone who is experiencing a health challenge.

Relationships Finances Health

It doesn't matter what he nature of the situation is....if you proclaim a relationship with these people...don't shy away from contacting them...it could be an e-mail to let them know you are thinking about them...how about a few of the extra cookies you just made...a small pointsettia....an ornament you made...a few minutes for a hospital visit, a stop at the viewing at the funeral home...a few minutes of your time will be part of a lasting memory for the person who needs it most. Don't just SAY you are a friend...just be one.

It's hard to know what to say...what to do or not do....words don't come easily....it's OK to let tears fall,...you are human after all...and compassion is a gift you feel...you let be known....the very worst thing to do is nothing. There is the "obligatory"...."I'll be thinking of you....let me know if you need anything," likely the comment just after an injury, illness, death, divorce. People don't call you and say...I just wanted a touch, a knowing that you cared....it's a gift you can give, that costs you nothing and the reward to the recipient and yourself is immeasurable....just do it.

Sooo...You Don't WANT to Show a Short Sale....

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 06:45:17 -0600

Once upon a time in the ever fascinating...always changing...world of real estate....there was an agent with a buyer agency contract who had a buyer looking for condos. The buyer was most interested in a particular complex which suited his needs for amenities and location. His instruction to his agent was to show him ALL the units that fit his criteria.

The buyer believed that the agent had done that....and bought a condominium....closed and one always hopes, lives happily ever after...oh not. The buyer learned after closing that a unit that was more updated and in the complex of his choice was a short sale that he was not shown...no listing sent...no heads up for the many open houses held.

Whoops ! The buyer is now suing both the brokerage and the agent ....so you "don't want to show a short sale".....? You want higher commission NOW.....maybe what you want and what the buyer wants are not quite the same....and the consequences can be drastic, dramatic and devastating....stay tuned we will have this on our legal radar screen and updates furnished as they become available.

Merry Merry Cat-Mas !

Sun, 13 Dec 2009 10:55:04 -0600

Cosmo (Blonds DO have more fun) and Magic....(likely to disappear any minute....) have their own holiday to celebrate and insisted on having individual portraits done for the occasion....To all our AR pet owners...virtual, real....to all their four footed feline friends everywhere...MERRY MERRY CAT-MAS !!!!

Staging A Short Sale....NOT like Lipstick......

Sun, 13 Dec 2009 06:43:08 -0600

There are different schools of thought on "dressing up a short sale"....different isn't right or wrong...it is different. We believe, regardless of the "status of a listing"...short sale, bank owned, "traditional"....being the best you can be has merit.

There are realtors who profess that staging a short sale is like putting Lipstick....well you know....and we are not from that school of thought. Every listing, regardless of status....gets an analysis....and in some cases some staging assistance.

- Sometimes divorce can mean that the spouse left in the house has been left without the things that make a house warm and inviting...the window treatments, wall hangings, accessories that help provide buyer "eye candy".

- Short sales are not "let's make a deal" transactions...priced right, they are a great value for the buyer and why not LOOK like a great value and not a fixer upper in bad need of "lipstick"...Blush...Eyeliner...

By the time you list a short sale, the sellers have likely come to grips with their situation....or very nearly...they understand that the equity they thought they had is gone and it is time to move on with their lives and do the best they can do under the circumstances.

Dressing a short sale....can give the sellers a shot in a very wounded ego and make the place they have called home a little brighter for the time they live there as sellers...and that is part of what we do....a little peak at what we know will be a brighter future. We provide our short sale sellers with FREE staging services.

If you are a homeowner with a hardship...divorce, unemployment...upside down finances and mortgage payments too heavy to pay....let us help you explore your alternatives. No matter where you are in the country, we will help find a qualified professional to make a good decision...for now...and the future,

What will YOU Resolve in 2010 ?

Sun, 13 Dec 2009 06:20:15 -0600

We have all "Been There/Done That" with resolutions...join the gym, lose weight....eat less, chew more. Do you look back at what you resolved for 2009 ? Have you accomplished your goals ?

There is no "right way/one way" to be resolved for the new year....You may consider categories for areas you would like to change/improve and be as objective as you can....maybe a spouse, significant other, gal pal...one of the guys....will help you look at you...and you them for a refreshing start to the new year.

Some areas you may wish to consider:

- Health

-Start with a checkup from a trusted health professional - list their recommendations for diet, exercise, vitamins, specialists, etc. and you action plan for follow up/ thru

- Business

- Examine yourself - is your current career giving you the satisfaction and income you desire ? If not, why not ? Are you willing to make changes - in the way you do business...the place you work...the career choice you have made ? Don't look for scape goats...the market, the broker, the corporation...look for positive changes that will bring you desired results.

-Relationships - This is huge...it can be as simple as setting aside "date night" with your spouse or significant

other; ending associations/relationships...as dramatic as divorce or becoming more active in your church, homeowners association, joining a networking group, volunteering for a cause...business and personal relationships are a large part of our lives...foster the ones that compliment your life and disgard the ones that don't work on whatever level with new ones to replace them

How will you make 2010 your best year Ever ? Sharing your thoughts may spark an idea that will change someone else's life entirely...WOW....what a concept ! Happy, Healthy, Prosperous 2010 !

Listing Your Home In The Winter. It's A GOOD Thing!

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 06:42:27 -0600

Agreed....waiting till spring...when there is toooo much will get you not as much....be there...stay there....shine in your market and reap the benefits !

Via Jackie Connelly-Fornuff (Coldwell Banker Residential - Babylon Long Island):

Listing Your Home In The Winter. It's A GOOD Thing!

Did I confuse you?

Every homeowner thinks the Spring is the best time to put your house up for sale. Yes, the weather is nicer, the grass is greener, but is it really?

The spring brings out the buyers but there are a lot more "just lookers" in the springtime.

A serious buyer will be out in the wintertime looking for a new home. A "just looker" will not bother to look in the winter. They have better things to do like stay home in front of a nice, roaring fire.

For you, the seller, the winter is perfect because you will have a lot less homes competing with yours. That is key. In the Lindenhurst and Babylon area I am hearing chatter about multiple offers. This is partly due to the first-time home buyers tax credit that a lot of qualified buyers are taking advantage of. All buyers have to be in contract by April 30th, 2010.

The government said this will be the last extension for the tax credit.

So, you should take advantage of it as well. If you are ready to sell, list your home come January because the qualified buyers are out there.

List your home with me, and I will pay for a Home Warranty Protection Plan for your home. This also helps to sell your home faster. You will be protected while you have your home on the market and it protects the buyer for one year while in their new home. It's a great negotiating tool as well.

Jackie Connelly-Fornuff
Coldwell Banker Residential
Babylon, NY 11702
Direct: (631) 274-1937
Cell: (631) 703-0201
Email: Jackie.Connelly-Fornuff@cbmoves.com
Website: www.longislandrealestatelady.com
Blog: http://jackieconnellyfornuff.com

Lindenhurst New York Neighborhood News on Facebook

Financial Paralysis....Short Sale Sellers

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 06:01:27 -0600

We toured a short sale listing the other day. Our tour guide was Mr. Seller....eyes downcast, walked with a shuffle, posture slumping....he felt "beat up" financially. He had tried every way he knew how....he had borrowed money from his children....skimped on groceries....put off winterizing his car...done all he thought he could to save money...and make ends meet...it would never be enough to replace the two incomes required to keep the household running. The marriage was irretrievably broken....and he was having great difficulty coming to the reality that also meant breaking up the household...downsizing and moving on to a place that was affordable.ay

Winter days in Wisconsin can be quite overcast....not sooo much sunshine and many showings are after 5 when it is already dark. We entered the den and turned on the lights and the light became only slightly brighter. I looked up at the row of track lighting to see that all of the bulbs except one had been removed...."to save electricity " he confessed.

We had to tell him...they had to be replaced....we would buy them if he didn't have enough...buyers have to be able to see what they are buying...the light must go....and so must the short sale.

Being frugile can be a good thing....living within your means...a great thing...postponing luxuries until you can afford them...a wonderfully rewarding thing....Going without necessities...borrowing from relatives....and truly living "in the dark" is not the way to a brighter future...and there is one...Call us...no matter where in the country you are, we will find you qualified professional assistance to determine your options. Don't stay in the dark...let the bright light of the future shine through the professionals who are ready, willing, and able to assist you.

Unbelievable.....Cough...Hack....

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 05:29:27 -0600

Today we are closing on a lovely newer home with a young couple....the walk thru was scheduled for last night but Wisconsin's first real winter storm took the power for the area with it and it has been postponed until today just before closing.

The isting agent sent an e-mail saying she would not be present at closing...she was diagnosed with HI NI flu..however..she WOULD meet us and the buyers at the house to pick up her literature stand and lock box.

HUH ????

What ? A literature stand and a lock box worth putting buyers, movers and other agents at risks...I don't think so...if we don't hear back...youcan bet her manager WILL hear....One of my Aunt's used to use the expression: "I hope to kiss a Pig".....we hope not !

Four Bedroom - 2 bath WOW Ranch..Pewaukee Short Sale...HURRY !

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 08:34:25 -0600

This home has room to roam....for your whole family...an eat in kitchen...large living room, family room with built in bookcases...four bedrooms, 2 full baths....a great wooded backyard ....just steps from the Pewaukee Library at

This short sale will have a short time on the market...large back yard....well maintained and super price at just $199,777....you won't find a better home in the area ! Call the Hansons....arrange a private tour and bring your checkbook !

Wisconsin is Closed Today...

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:58:18 -0600

We have gotten e-mails....the radio says....the crawl on the TV is all projecting the doom of the first heavy winter storm in Wisconsin...ahhhhh the glory of a home office ! As I peak out the window...the blanket of snow gets heavier....and higher and deeper....the plows come more frequenty...glad we have gas for the blower and friends with plows....and the remedy for sidewalk ice.....

What a great day to accomplish a bunch....while the homade soup is on the stove....the business plan is being ironed out...phone calls to Recruiting candidates for Keller Williams....the closet that is almost organized...new staging items catalogued....

Wisconsin may be closed...but it's industriously busy here !

New Standardized Good Faith Estimate Effective January 1 2010

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:34:26 -0600

At long last....a way to really see who is charging what for what...now ALL lenders will use the same form so that every potential borrower can accurately compare the numbers...keep this as a reference...we are for every buyer we have !

Via Loreena Yeo - Broker|Realtor(R) of www.Frisco-TX-Homes.com (214) 783-2210 (3:16 team REALTY):

For the longest time, there was no standardization in good faith estimates presented by Lenders when a loan application is made by a borrower. In efforts to facilitate a better shopping experience for the consumers, HUD requires all lenders use the new standardized format for Good Faith Estimates effective January 1 2010.

At first glance, the standardized format of the Good Faith Estimate is easy to read, understand and digest by the average borrower.

The summary of the loan is displayed on the 1st page with answers about the loan such as:

(1) Can your interest rate rise? (Indicates if it is an adjustable rate mortgage)
(2) Even if you make payments on time, can the loan balance rise? (Indicates if it is a negative amortization loan)
(3) Even if you make payments on time, can your monthly amount rise? (Indicates if the account is escrowed or not)
(4) Does the loan have a pre-payment penalty?
(5) Does the loan have a balloon payment?

Lenders are held to a higher standard of accountability with the use of the standardized Good Faith Estimate. "Good faith" in the past will now be more of certainty, especially when it comes to the Lender charges. HUD requires that Lenders be sure to know how much they intend to charge their borrowers based on the information the borrowers provided.

The new Good Faith Estimate also utilize the Lump & Dump concept whereby HUD feels that the borrowers have been provided too much information in the previous good faith estimates. Items "A" on Page 2 of the GFE includes all origination charges. They are no longer broken down into Loan Origination Fee, Processing Fees, Tax Service Fee, Funding, Lender Feeds, Doc Prep Fees, Broker Yield Spread Premium, etc. Only information that could affect the loan is broken down into 2nd part of "A". According to HUD, the "bottom line" numbers is what the consumers care about.

This section of the Good Faith Estimate must be the same (ie. Zero Tolerance for differences) and borrowers can expect them to be the same on the HUD-1 settlement statement - if the terms and conditions of the loan are the same. Should there be a difference, HUD considers this Breached Tolerance and this breach will be cured with a credit at the closing table or writing a check to the borrower within 30 days of closing.

This brings Lenders to more accountability towards the accuracy of their good faith estimates to their clients. It is a good thing.

Other considerations could be expected should there be changed circumstances on these No Tolerance items above (ie. Lender charges). A changed circumstance may include acts of God, war, disaster, new information not known by the Lender, other information found not to be inaccurate.

There are other charges associated in purchasing the property. These items are found as part of "B" on page 2 of the GFE.

The similar lump & dump concept for Title charges in Section 3, 4, 5 and 6. These charges can deviate up to 10% on the HUD-1 statement - assuming that the borrowers services identified by the Lender. The total of these charges of page 2 on the GFE constitutes the "B" total.

Along with the "A" total and "B" total, these costs add up to make the Total Estimated Settlement/ Closing Costs. However, this is NOT to be confused with Cash Needed for Settlement. Items A and B DOES NOT account for Seller's concessions, property tax and HOA prorations, etc.

Page 3 of the Good Faith Estimate is also known as the "finishing touches" for the loan. It gives borrowers instructions on what cannot be increased at settlement, what may increase up to 10% and what could potentially subject to change.

There is also a tradeoff table for borrowers to see the various choices as provided by the same lender. Same loan with lower settlement charges or same loan with lower interest rates.

Last but not least, the GFE also provides a section to allow borrowers to compare various loan offers in the Shopping Chart section.

The use of the form is MANDATORY. In the past, lenders have created their own formats and some not providing one at all. The new rules as directed by RESPA must be furnished to borrowers:

Within 3 days of loan application.
A loan application is deemed taken by a lender with the borrowers' names, social security numbers, incomes, estimate purchase value, loan amount, other information deemed necessary by lender and property address.
This form must only be utilized if there is a specific property address.
While home buyers have used the GFE to shop for lenders, they could no longer do that. Without a property address, the industry believes that lenders will come up with "preliminary" GFEs without the actual property address.

Without 10 days of GFE issuance.
The GFE will be good for 10 days after the borrower receives it. The borrower MUST express an intent to proceed with the terms and conditions of the loan based on the GFE provided within 10 days business. After 10 business days, the lender is no longer bound by the issued GFE.

This is HUD's effort in facilitating consumer comparison shopping of Lenders. It is not the most perfect version out there but it is a much simpler method for an average consumer to understand. What this new GFE does not address is it does not specify the loan product (FHA, Conventional, VA, etc.) and it also does not inform the borrower the actual monthly payments in Principal, Interest, Property Taxes and Home Insurance (PITI). It only addresses the Principal, Interest and Mortgage Insurance (if applicable). The lender may furnish these information on other documents.

Download the new GFE here.

Related Articles:

How to Compare Lenders and Good Faith Estimates

Mortgage Interest Rates Spiked Higher Than Normal

100% Home Loans

Time Value of Money in Closing Costs

Myths about Tax Assessments vs. Property Values

*********************************************************************************************

All contents are original. Consider subscribing to my blog for more real estate commentaries.

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Contact:

Loreena Yeo
Realtor®/ Broker of 3:16 team REALTY
(214) 783-2210
loreena@loreenayeo.com

Check out my Frisco TX Homes website.
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Copyright © 2009 by Loreena Yeo (3:16 team REALTY)
Originally posted on New Standardized Good Faith Estimate Effective January 1 2010.

Secrets Too Heavy To Hold....

Sun, 06 Dec 2009 22:21:50 -0600

This is the season....when families and friends come together from near and far....and this is the season for secrets....not the kind under the bows and behind the wrapping....there are family secrets.

The brother who won't tell his sister he lost his job.....the parents that don't want their children to know that they can't pay the mortgage. The health challenge that won't change no matter who knows.

The secrets belong to the one who holds them...like a hostage wanting to be free... it knocks around each mind...to tell or not to tell...who...how much....what will they think...how will they feel....

Know that burden may be made lighter when it is shared. People who love and care want to help...to send good thoughts, offer prayers...

Know too that it is the person who holds the secret makes the decision who and when to tell....Breaking a confidence under the guise of knowing what's best is not acceptable...the person guarding the secret is the only one with the very respected right to tell whomever...honor that....trust that....respect that.

"I Just Wasn't Ready to Move." Lamented the Short Sale Seller

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 06:55:43 -0600

Last evening we went to take a listing for a lovely little well kept home being sold by a divorcing couple. They knew that neither of them could afford to keep the house and after some discussion with attorneys...accountants. ...internet "research" ...called us to list the home as a short sale.

After our explanation....from the "Learn what you don't know" school...information we give both parties, necessary forms to complete...we always ask of course, if there are any questions. Yes...there are almost always questions...they heard this, imagined that...aren't sure about...and it is a part of our job to educate the sellers and either answer their questions or refer them to the credit repair, the lawyer, the accountant ...the person best suited to give the "highest and best answer."

Mr. Seller had done some "internet research" and he knew that if we listed the house as a short sale he would have to vacate the property immediately...Oh not....

It was beyond his comprehension to live in the house he could not afford to keep and not pay the mortgage. We understand that..he "was raised to be responsible"....to pay the bills he was obligated to pay. Now he had tapped out every loan from every relative....and just couldn't borrow any more money from friends, relatives, etc. His loan from his son was preventing his son from buying a home...he had lent his father his down payment to make ends meet.

Short sale stories pull at our heart strings.

Moving of course,will be a part of a short sale....not immediately...not the minute the house is listed....Yet another myth....Mr. Seller said he "read on the internet" that a short sale required that the seller vacate the house in order to sell it...oh not...no...not yet. We encourage our sellers to stay IN their homes until we get an offer and the transaction is under way....continue to cut the lawn, shovel the snow....make decisions about what you move and what you will keep in your new location....take a positive step forward in moving on with the rest of your life if you are unable to pay your mortgage. Know what you don't know..If you have questions about your options...you aren't sure where to turn...if you can do a loan modification...Call us...and no matter where you are in the country...we will refer you to a qualified professional in your area. Start your life over...take the first step..a positive one to a new beginning.

It's 'Tini Time ! ENJOY !

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 06:30:55 -0600

I know this story sounds like a product of my imagination...I assure you ...it is not. A while ago....it had been a long day....and it was only 4 pm....so we stopped at what the more country-ish part of Wisconsin might call a Supper Club..it was early and almost no one was there for the dinner hour....so the waitress came over to take our drink order.

I perused the table tent of tantalizing special drinks they had and told her "I will have an intravenous martini." She dutifully wrote down the rest of the orders and disappeared into the bar in the next room....for almost 20 minutes with no new additional customers.

Finally she reappeared at the table..."The bartender says to tell you that we don't have any Intravenous."

'Guess she thought it was a call brand not on the top shelf of the bar....oh well...Enjoy !

Annual Ugly Holiday Sweater Contest @ Matty's Bar - New Berlin, WI

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:40:15 -0600

It is the night to bring out those ugly holiday sweaters that you swore you would never wear. Well now you can. Wear them to Matty's and fit right in. The judging will begin at 9:30pm, so come on in looking festively ugly and have some fun !

14460 West College Avenue
New Berlin, WI 53151

Tel: 414.427.3838

Fax: 414.427.3839

Email: matty@mattysbar.com

Friday, December 18th- Judging begins at 9:30 pm - Prizes and Surprises ! Come on...GET UGLY !

December Green Action Tip

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 09:43:36 -0600

Here are some very helpful green stuff...to keep the environment greener ! Enjoy !

Via Jean-Paul Peron (Sun Realty):

Think green this holiday season

It has been said that between Thanksgiving and New Years, Americans throw away an extra million tons of garbage each week. This trash includes wrapping, packaging, cards, food, paper plates and napkins, party decorations, bottles and cans, and more. That is a lot of garbage! Have you thought about ways you can reduce, reuse, and recycle this holiday season?

When decorating:

Buy a potted or “balled” Christmas tree and replant it after the holidays. You can create a year-round habitat for local wildlife.

If you purchase a cut tree, recycle or mulch the tree for use in gardens and playgrounds. Avoid discarding it in a landfill.

Trim your tree with edible ornaments like popcorn, cranberries or gingerbread cookies! Later, move your tree into the yard to give the birds a holiday treat.

Conserve electricity by installing a time on holiday lights. Even better, invest in LED holiday lights which use 90% less electricity.

Choose candles made from beeswax or soy. Because paraffin wax candles are made from petroleum and release the equivalent of diesel exhaust when burned, you can save fossil fuel resources, improve your indoor air quality, and reduce your exposure to carcinogens by beeswax or soy candles.

When gift giving:

Replace plastic bows with reusable cloth ribbons, and save gift wrap and ribbons to decorate next year’s gifts.

Wrap gifts from colorful pages of torn magazine, the Sunday comics, or last year’s calendar or old maps and posters.

Instead of buying wrapping paper, use decorative tins, baskets, or fabric bags. Their reuses will double the gift!

Send internet greeting cards or send traditional cards made from recycled paper.

Trim your tree with edible ornaments like popcorn, cranberries or gingerbread cookies! Later, move your tree into the yard to give the birds a holiday treat.

Give holiday gifts of “time” to your family and friends. Nothing is more valuable!

Check out consignment stores for gently used (recycled) gift items

Use rechargeable batteries for toys/games

When eating:

Be healthy and enjoy a delicious sup of organic hot cocoa this holiday season. Cocoa contains twice as many antioxidants as red wine!

Keep it local. Try to incorporate locally raised food into holiday menus.

When entertaining be sure to recycle afterwards and cut down on the use paper products.

Living & Working in 4-Wheel Drive

Who do you REALLY Represent ?

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:04:21 -0600

Sometimes we think of representation only as it involves the contract we have as a buyer's or seller's agent...what we are required to do...what marketing plan we promised...what things we negotiate for the buyer...that is such a tip of the iceberg sort of view in many ways....at least to my way of thinking. Beyond that...we represent lots of other "classifications" organizations....parts of society...ethnic groups...races, ...religions...sexes...whether we like it, admit it, want it or acknowledge it....our representation is very complex.

Most obvious is sex....after my first listing appointment, the elderly woman told me that really "only men should sell real estate." Well...golly gee whiz...that's a different perspective...one I had not considered. Whether you are a man, woman, heterosexual or homosexual...you can't change that...wellll...I guess there is surgery...but for the most part...let's say, you can't change it easily...you got the parts you came with...Like it or not, that defines you in some ways to some people....Whether or not it is fair, equal, just...doesn't matter...it just is what someone people do...it isn't a neuter world after all.

You are...someone's child, sibling, spouse, roommate...neice, nephew, cousin, adoptee...foster..step...and there is some association...it may be "guilt" by association...were you the younger sibling who the teacher's "already knew" because your brother this and your sister that...you know the drill...

In real estate...you may be the agent that was recommended....the lender the family used...or the one that Suzy didn't like...that "made her buy the house" or the lender that "over charged" (forget the credit rating and down payment details) Never quite understood how agents or lenders forcced anyone to act against their will...

You may belong to organizations, churches, political parties, participate in charitable activities...be involved in sports...the parents group...with or without partners....based upon common interests and beliefs. Who you choose to tell what and how much...on a social network about what you believe...philosophies you endorse, how you voted...are up to you...to choose to reveal and know that like or not...people will assign personality traits, likes and dislikes without having met you because you "showed them" this part of your own profile.

As a agent for this company, a title representative for that one...an attorney who practices with....A loan officer ...whether you are independent, a franchise, a local...a full service...a broker...what you say and do reflects on that entity....Have you made a decision without all the facts that will forever the way that person views the profession...views your company ?Know that the image is not true only from the outside with clients and customers...but from the inside as well. Years ago...an agent literally did "steal" a buyer from a pager message which she was "watching" my business...it forever colored how I felt about her and the manager of that office who wanted to reward her generously for stealing.

In the end....people will judge...right or wrong...with all the facts or without them...in a blink or ponder for a while.....and the impressions it leaves...may well rule how you are viewed....or how you view that person, organization....etc., etc.....This blog may not change your life...probably not...if it gets you to think about what influenced a choice....an opinion...a relationship....then it has done it's job...and I mine.

Decisions ....to be or not to Remain Being....

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 19:44:22 -0600

Did you ever notice that there are people in your life...that when THEY want something...they know your number..your cell, your home, your fax,....text...e-mail....front door....carrier pigeon...after all, it IS what is going on in their life...what they need, want, have to have...and NOW !

Now ....YOU need....an answer, a recipe, a contact for....the name or number of.....an explanation about...and they quickly disappear into the blogosphere....the shadows, sea of abyss...never only to be heard from again when THEY need, want, have to have.....(I am soooo not talking about the needs of buyers and sellers.)

Be it resolved in this new year....lots of things are changing....and just like the "Peace on Earth" song....and "Let it begin with me..."

When you find you are always the giver in the relationship and the "getting" is at will....or not at all...time to re-evaluate your relationships and how much you are willing to continue to give to those who value getting above giving...their needs, business and priorties of whatever nature above whatever you have requested. I don't like to "meter out" caring..is there a better way...the decision for me, for now, is to change my response....to match the response I didn't get...but did need...did want...did care about...

Being on the short end more of the time than the long one...not a good thing. Value yourself....and choose how you want to be treated.....the end.

Be Our Guest....Build/Re-Build Your Real Estate Career..Dec. 3rd Brookfield WI

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 08:58:25 -0600

Your attendance at this Career Building Seminar is Confidential..Come on and see what you are missing and soak in the information...Give a gift to yourself this holiday season !

The Difference Maker:

How Top Agents Outperform the Market

Presented by

Mr. Todd Butzer

Former CRS Instructor and Wisconsin State Convention Speaker…90 minutes of a fast paced look at why/how some agents prosper while others struggle.what you can do right now to make a difference !

No Fluff….the reality of what will make success YOUR reality…committing to the changes that will do that so you are, the best you can possibly be in your real estate career.

9:30 – 11 am

Thursday, December 3rd

Brookfield Suites Hotel

1200 South Moorland Road

Brookfield, WI

Jump Start 2010 and hang on for the Prosperous Ride….

Admission Is FREE, No Registration Required

Information is Priceless…

I Want a Deal

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 06:36:41 -0600

Great information....Real Estate IS local....not every transaction is "Let's Make a Deal"...the proof is in the acceptance !

Via JL Boney, III Columbia, SC Real Estate (Russell and Jeffcoat):

Well of course you do, in this day and age who doesn't? But the fact of the matter that all "deals" are relative to the situation. Your perception of what good deal is can be very different than than what the market says is a good deal.

These days with all the fuss over foreclosures, every buyer that makes their way off of the proverbial fence is looking for that turnkey home that's is pristine condition. They also have their minds made up that they are going to get that beautiful home for next to nothing due to the desperation of the economy.

Well, the fact of matter is that you may not see a good deal for what it is if you are paying attention to the market. Your money may not buy a mansion on a hill just because the market is not a hot as it once was in the past. You still pay market value regardless. Take those wonderful foreclosures for example. If a decent one hits the market in my area, they have multiple offers within a few days and they don't have to accept your low ball.

While no one likes to feel that they are being robbed in the process of making a purchase, you still have to accept the fact that not every market is desperate. Some are doing well, and here in Columbia a good home at a good price is still going to get a good offer. You have to be realistic about what you can accomplish. While you can get a great deal on a home compared to the price of that same home a couple years ago, you still have to pay market value for it today.

Columbia, SC Homes for Sale
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JL Boney, III - Columbia, SC Realtor - Russell and Jeffcoat Realtors

I specialize in Columbia, SC real estate and the surrounding areas, including Blythewood, SC, Kershaw County, Fairfield County, and Lexington, SC. If you are in the market to buy or sell a home in Columbia, SC or any of the surrounding areas, I would love the opportunity to speak with to see how I can help. Thanks for reading and feel free to contact me if I can be of service to you.

Office- 803-788-1450 Cell- 803-730-9601 Email- jlboney@russellandjeffcoat.com

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Decisions...Be a "Know it All..."

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 06:01:06 -0600

->Part 2 - Decisions Decisions Decisions

One of the most important factors in major decisions is gathering facts….and this is one of the most difficult for many ….agents, managers, buyers, sellers, investors…our own perceptions, experiences, prejudices, desires, often Color the decision making process…..here are some examples.

Buyers

Develop an emotional attachment to a house that has mega structural problems

Are victims of “undue influence” rather than listen to the realtor…the parent, neighbor, friend, etc. becomes the expert based on their limited or perhaps out dated experience

Belief in media trends may not apply to the area in which they choose live

Not getting a GFE (Good Faith Estimate) and looking at only a part of the loan offered to them…i.e. just the interest rate…not closing costs, pre-payment penalties

Wanting to believe lenders who promise the world but look only at income or supposed down payment or _____and don’t have all the information but promise low rates and quick closing.

Sellers

The tax bill gives a fair market value or an assessed value…that must be the least amount of the list price when the home goes on the market

Don’t update…even if it means a splash of fresh paint…removing old carpet to reveal hardwood floors…the new buyers will decorate as they choose; eye candy is a waste of money and time.

Let the inspector find the repairs…or sell “as is”…

Putting more furniture in a house will show the prospective buyers how much it can hold

The neighbor, the home equity lender, the repair cost, the appreciation, the money needed for the next house means the house HAS to sell for $X

Agents

The buyer, prospective seller told you they would call you if they_______ and then wrote an offer at an open house, took the neighbor’s recommendation for a listing agent…

The buyer/seller says one thing in e-mail, another in voice mail – agent is supposed to decipher which is the “truth” or truth today

Procuring Cause..sometimes subject to determination by boards who made up their minds without listening to the facts

Management who knows the customer is always right…the agent should buy the ____ regardless of what the seller/buyer said, promised, wrote

The list could probably stretch out into the blogosphere for miles…the very great point is no matter who you are in the transaction…personal or business decision…making a choice based upon PART of the information….not knowing the history…what may have been said or done or promised or hidden can be detrimental to your…..budget, wallet, sale, purchase…Taking the time…keeping an open mind..not what you want to have happen…what you wish the outcome to be…but what ALL the facts really reveal is the best time you can spend…and may save time, money and stress in expecting something or making a choice that can be detrimental to your future in a variety of aspects. The choice you made will color a relationship…a purchase…a listing…be as much of a “Know It All” as you can…the rewards are priceless.

Decisions Decisions…What Kind of Decision Maker Are You ?

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 03:28:49 -0600

Whether you are a lender, realtor, manager, buyer, seller, appraiser, lawyer….or in an unrelated field, you make decisions every day ….of various sizes, natures…that have consequences and rewards and we are closely involved with people who make big decisions as well. Sometimes our buyers, sellers, lenders, professional networkers, etc., want our input into their decision making process. Our experience may be different, more educated, from a different perspective, etc. than theirs and they value the expertise as a vital ingredient in the decision making mix. This short series will help you identify methods and means for making good decisions and/or being in the capacity to advise others.

Anyone can learn to make better decisions….and you can recognize the kind of decision maker that you are working with in a transaction, your office, your family, friends, management, etc.

First of all…the Cardinal rule of all decision

making…The Best Decisions are Made

From A Position of Strength.

- Unfortunately, sometimes when we have to make a big decision is at a time when we feel least able to make the decision. We see this in short sale sellers, realtors who are unsure at this juncture, this is their best career path. People with health, relationship and other conflicts and challenges that impede the decision making process.

- The best thing to do when you recognize for yourself…or to the level that you are able to advise others…advise them to get advice from the highest and best sources. That may mean not parents, boyfriend, co-worker, landlord, neighbor, sibling. It may mean..an experienced : doctor, lawyer, realtor, remodeler, home inspector, etc. Is the advice given based upon what the advisor will receive…more business, commission, fee…and ONLY that criteria ? Run ….Run….! A successful professional in any field…does not need that surgery, tooth extraction, lawsuit, listing or closing to meet their overhead…they are giving advice from their highest and best position which may mean it isn’t just “all about them” but is in what they believe is in the best interest of the person being advised.

If the only thing you learn of value from reading this series is the first cardinal rule, you have learned a lesson that can prove to be valuable in many aspects of your life…for a lifetime. Long blogs are hard reading…tasty nuggets of knowledge are more easily absorbed…this is the nugget for today…enjoy and absorb.

TRUST is the HUGEST Factor there is….

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 06:33:36 -0600

A number of situations in different aspects of business and life recently gave us the “AHAA Moment” of how very large a role trust pays in everything we do…how we live, choices we make…consequences and rewards for exercising trust. It can be as simple as the brand of toothpaste, laundry detergent or shampoo you know has always worked well…you trust the manufacturer and the formulation of the product. The stores you patronize, the services you use…. you know the quality will be what you have received in the past…and if for some reason it is not…you know they want to know rather than lose you as a customer. The predictability of the phone call returned or e-mail answered…unanswered from someone’s past experience you trust may mean the message was not received….you trust that they would answer your communication.

In business….you come to trust the lender, the buyer, seller, associate and know that based upon your past experience…you can trust that they will be everything/everyone you have come to expect from your past experience with them. When you hear things that seem out of character... you are probably seeing just part of what is most probably a much larger picture. Making decisions with part of the information…whether it is the price you choose to give a seller…the way you respond to communication from someone it is all based on trust. Be very careful that if things do change…you examine the reasons and know the whole picture before you lose the trust of someone you value….or discontinue the patronage of a once valued service or product. It can change your life…and the people involved forever…getting it back is a difficult task…evaluating thoroughly first… gains more trust…and you can never have too much of well founded, well earned and continually deserved, Trust.

Cooooooler On the Lake.....Friess Lake Cape ...WOW !

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:41:59 -0600

If you always wanted lake frontage...full time OR a getaway from all things city on the weekends...we have the perfect place....it's clean, updated...manicured landscaping..2 car garage AND huge shed...2 baths and a lower level mini kitchen sure to meet your entertainment needs. Enjoy the lake views in every season from the family room...snuggle up to the fieldstone fireplace....retreat to the second floor loft....no detail overlooked. Outistanding location....Richfield, WI....an easy commute to anywhere...a private respite from everywhere.....Short sale patience at a rewarding price $360,0000...Call us for a private showing...quickly or it will be gone !

4771 Riverview Drive, Richield, WI

Going Mute...Or Being Responsible...

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 07:01:22 -0600

Communication is important in any/every relationship....your friends, relatives...neighbors...you get to choose..is it an every day thing...a need to know...just to stay in touch. The level and frequency levels are jointly determined.

In business...it is vitally important so that every agent, buyer, seller, lender, title company...every person who is party to a transaction...know as much is as necessary as promptly as possible.

Time IS of the essence....it is not for any one member of the transaction to determine how important their timely response may be to someone else...it's the adult, responsible person who responds quickly...courtesey....you can expect it and you should...but don't always get it. No one can properly do their job without it...

A real estate transaction is never just about YOU....the buyer, the seller, the lender, the agent....it is about working together for the common good....

Being Mute....not good...not adult...not fair...not ethical..morally upright...make it about everyone...and everyone will benefit.