http://activerain.com/blogs/shannonaldrich Writings on the special places and towns of the New Hampshire Seacoast and Southern Maine. Tips and marketing ideas for fellow agents everywhere. Living the life of a real etsate professional and offering training to others who want to join en-us http://activerain.com/blogsview/1362896/knowledge-is-power <p>The pre-license class in New Hampshire lasts for forty hours. Everyone must take this class to take the test. <strong>New agents can be surprised</strong> to find out that the <strong>learning doesn't end there</strong>. You may have passed the test but the learning never stops. We all have to take classes to maintain our license. You can <strong>approach continuing ed in one of two ways</strong> - You can grab hold of it for the opportunity it is or you can whine and moan on how it can be so boring. As with most things in life, <strong>you</strong> are the key factor in how you react in any situation. <strong>You have a choice in how you view the experience of taking class.</strong></p> <p>Classes allow you to stay ahead of the rest of the pack and up to date on latest changes in the field. When you know what is going on, you build your reputation as a leader in real estate. More education helps you solidify your career as an expert in real estate. <strong>"Knowledge is Power"</strong> without a doubt in this field. Without continuing education <strong>you and your way of doing business slowly but definitely becomes obsolete.</strong> You may even be breaking the current laws when you don't take advantage of all the continuing education available. Don't judge a class on just if you need credits or not. <strong>Take the class because you want to know more and thus do a better job for your customers and clients.</strong></p> <p>Personally, I prefer classes in a live setting over online. Online is fine, but I have found that in person is better for me. I like the interaction of a classroom and the <strong>chance to meet up with my fellow age</strong>nts that I do not get to see very often. The great part about online is that you can do it whenever. <strong>And you can do it wearing your favorite fuzzy slippers</strong> in the comfort of your own home. The downside for me is all the testing that goes along with online classes. It <strong>can take more than 3 hours to complete if you keep missing questions on the quizzes.</strong> And you don't get the chance to ask the instructor for clarification on a nuance you are not catching.</p> <p>According to the NAR 2009 Member survey <strong>the typical Realtor has 10 years of experience</strong>. So in New Hampshire that would equal a minimum of only 60 hours of education and for Maine 105 hours. That's not really a lot of time when you average it out over ten years. <strong>So I why not let go of the "I need the credits" mentality and embrace education for the increased knowledge of your chosen career.</strong> And if you don't have 10 years of field experience, <strong>education will help you bridge the gap</strong>. There are tons of ways to self educate. Read blogs, read books, go to the see what your company has to offer for free, go to seminars, simply investigate real estate every day. Spend only 15 minutes a day educating yourself and in a few years you will be an expert. <strong>Learning takes time, you won't become an expert overnight. But you can position yourself to be up to date in what is going on.</strong></p> <p>We have a large continuing education program here at my office. We hosted our first class in December of 2004 with an Ethics course presented by Kathy Roosa.&nbsp;Now we host between 16-20 credit classes and 12-14 non-credit lunch&nbsp;&amp; learns every year. All classes are open to all agents in the area. <strong>Over 600&nbsp;agents attended classes here over the past year.</strong> We have a large following of local agents and principal brokers who drop in for a class on a regular basis. <strong>My philosophy is that we are all working together so we might as well learn together.</strong> That plus it makes it so easy for me to keep my credits in line. By putting together the events I am blessed with free class, free lunch, and a very short travel distance! <strong>If you would like to be put on the email list to find out what classes are coming up here in Portsmouth, just email me at </strong><a href="mailto:saldrich@kw.com"><strong>saldrich@kw.com</strong></a><strong> and I will be happy to add your name to the list. </strong></p> <p>So go out there and take advantage of all the education you can. Guaranteed to increase your skills and increase your business.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:22:41 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1362896/knowledge-is-power http://activerain.com/blogsview/1354831/practicing-pie-practicing-scripts <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img title="Tofu Pumpkin Pie by Shannon Aldrich" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/0/3/0/4/ar125916112240301.jpg" height="157" alt="Tofu Pumpkin Pie by Shannon Aldrich" width="259" style="float: left;" />On Friday I was told that I was being put in charge of <strong>pumpkin pie</strong> for the Thanksgiving feast at my cousin's house. Sounds simple enough for the average pie eater. I, however, am <strong>up against the legend of my Gram</strong>, Helen Sten. <strong>Gram made pies.</strong> Dozens of them as <strong>gifts</strong> for everyone from the mechanic who serviced her car to&nbsp;her hair dressers (students always at the local beauty school). She <strong>made real crusts</strong> that cannot be reproduced. Often I would see her with a small stack of white boxes with a clear plastic window each one with a fresh pie nestled into it. Pumpkin, squash, apple and <strong>her perfect lemon meringue's, flowed out her kitchen</strong>. Each with a handmade crust, <strong>each a work of pie art and Gram's love</strong>.</p> <p>So when I learned that I was off green bean casserole duty and now on pie detail, my heart skipped a beat. <strong>My specialty is cookies not pie</strong>. Gram was the pie diva, I am the cookie queen. Cookies cook quick. Pie is an exercise in patience. <strong>So I set off this weekend to practice pie. </strong>Recipes from the internet yielded mostly the traditional pumpkin/sweet condensed milk pie with a couple of interesting exceptions. Notably the Paula Dean pie and a tofu pie. <strong>The Paula Dean recipe is of course, a heart stopper of a concoction.</strong> The tofu pie would be the first attempt to bake with soy products.&nbsp;<strong>This pie&nbsp;would have no eggs or milk to make custard part of the pie but would rely on silken vanilla tofu.</strong></p> <p><img title="Two pies by Shannon Aldrich" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/4/2/5/1/ar125916155315247.jpg" height="151" alt="Two pies by Shannon Aldrich" width="203" style="float: left;" />My office has been eating pie all week. <strong>But why practice pie instead of just make a pie?</strong> Because you get better at what you do when you do it over and over again. <strong>Practice makes perfect is the simple truth</strong>. The same goes for real estate scripts.&nbsp;<strong>Practice your scripts until you become one with them.</strong> Then you will <strong>have the right words flow</strong> when you are in the field talking to your sphere of influence. At the beginning you are going to feel foolish standing in front of the mirror with a piece of paper in your hand just reading out loud. But time goes on and sure enough you will have success. <strong>Scripts can set you above the rest because you are prepared for the conversation.</strong> The same goes for pie - I have test baked four pies now and have a handle on what happens in the life of pie. The agents in my office have tried all the pies and given great feedback on my technique. <strong>Like a script, I now know what to expect, how to conquer obstacles and deliver the perfect pie. <img title="Pie overflow by Shannon Aldrich" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/1/8/9/8/ar125916146189815.jpg" height="154" alt="Pie overflow by Shannon Aldrich" width="189" style="float: right;" /></strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>For all of you who have followed the pie saga on Facebook the overall winner in the pumpkin pie tasting was the <strong>TOFU PUMPKIN PIE~!</strong> Traditional pie came in second place. The Paula Dean pie was most often picked by people who started with "Well, I don't like pumpkin pie but..." <strong>So it just goes to show that we need several different types of scripts (and pie) in order to please all of our customers.</strong> So go spend some quality time in front of the mirror and practice what you are going to say. <strong>Let's get a handle on how to overcome objections and move forward to the closing table.</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;<img title="Traditional Pie by Shannon Aldrich" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/9/7/2/7/ar12591616172796.jpg" height="149" alt="Traditional Pie by Shannon Aldrich" width="205" style="float: left;" /></p> <p><strong>Happy Thanksgiving Everyone! Let's eat pie!</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Friend me on Facebook</p> <p>Follow me on Twitter</p> <p>Connect with me on Linked In</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Wed, 25 Nov 2009 09:09:30 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1354831/practicing-pie-practicing-scripts http://activerain.com/blogsview/1345498/now-is-the-time-to-market-you- <p>We have often heard it said that real estate is a contact sport. A toes to toes; belly to belly; nose to nose business. If people don't know you are in the business of real estate, then guess what, you are not in the business of real estate. Your sphere of influence is all the people who know you. You are the key factor in this equation to success. <strong>So what is needed here is a marketing plan to promote you</strong>. And now is always the best time to start.</p> <p>Think of it like this - <strong>if you put together a twelve month plan of what marketing you could do in any month you never have to really change that plan again. </strong>The year rolls around and the same types of information are relevant depending on the season. Yes, you will add that latest news like the expanded tax credit but the other fill information that goes with it is more scripted and planned. Make your life simple and plan your work ahead. You can find all kinds of great ideas on line for what makes each month special. Just search on key words like holidays.</p> <p><strong>So here are some ideas to get you started:</strong></p> <p><strong>January</strong>- End of the year report is a no brainer. What happened in the market last year and what is your forecast for the year ahead. This month also gives us Martin Luther King Day as a topic. And because it is winter you can always talk about indoor projects to get your house ready to sell in the Spring. And if you want to sponsor an event, it is Blood Donor month.</p> <p><strong>February</strong> - Now Spring is officially around the corner with Ground Hog Day marking the half way point of Winter. Don't want to focus on Valentine's Day? Well, it is also Bird Feeding month, American Heart month, African American History month and Boy Scouts Day.</p> <p><strong>March</strong> - Time to list those homes for the spring market folks because Spring officially arrives in March. With daylight savings time beginning, Earth Day, and Girl Scout's day you have plenty to talk about. You could send a card for St. Patrick's Day but why not consider Pi Day (3/14) for a little fun.</p> <p><strong>April </strong>- This is a no brainer month. You are going to report on what happened in the 1st quarter of sales. Show your sphere of influence you are the expert in your area and their go to person for real estate.</p> <p><strong>May</strong>- National Safe Drinking Water week is in this month. That is seriously real estate related. But you also have Mother's Day, Safe Boating week and Memorial Day to work with.</p> <p><strong>June</strong>- Ahhh, the start of summer. Days are long and nights are mild. Lots of people move in June. Help them out with moving checklists. Or relate to all the gardener's out there with a focus on Rose Month.</p> <p><strong>July </strong>- Another no brainer month as the second quarter ended in June.</p> <p><strong>August </strong>- Deep into summer with school just around the corner. Bringing National Night Out to communities all across this country. Join in the neighborhood activities and start one in your area. Water Quality month, Watermelon Day and National Bowling week can be added in.</p> <p><strong>September</strong>- School's in and seasons are changing. Time to get into that new home by the holidays. The autumn equinox is upon us and apple picking has begun. What projects need to get finished up before winter rolls around again. Let's talk about energy saving and winterization.</p> <p><strong>October</strong>- You last no brainer of the year. Reports on the third quarter in sales are in order. This is also Fire Prevention Month and Lead Poisoning Prevention week.</p> <p><strong>November</strong>- Simplify and send a Thanksgiving card or recipe. Talk about security tips for your home when traveling for the holidays.</p> <p><strong>December</strong>- Keep it light and keep it simple. Everybody is crazy busy anyways. Including you because you have kept in touch and marketed the heck out of yourself over the previous 12 months! Everyone knows who you are and what you do for a living! Congratulations, now is time to spin the wheel of the year and start all over again from the top!</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:27:13 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1345498/now-is-the-time-to-market-you- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1345452/hydrangea-s-in-boston-common <p><img title="Hydrangeas in Boston Massachusetts" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/3/2/0/6/ar12586420060233.JPG" height="386" alt="Shannon Aldrich" width="561" /></p> <p>Hydrangea's found in the Boston Commons this summer. The Boston Pops were practicing for the Fourth of&nbsp; July extravaganza with Neil Diamond. There was a light drizzle walking through Boston Common from the underground parking over to the Hatch Shell. Boston always has lots of activities going on. Coming from New Hampshire I am always blown away by all the people in one place!</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Thu, 19 Nov 2009 08:53:19 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1345452/hydrangea-s-in-boston-common http://activerain.com/blogsview/1329936/active-lead-generation-open-houses <p><strong>Do you want to put yourself in the path of both buyers and sellers?</strong> Do you want to talk to more people who are interested in the real estate market? <strong>Do you want to go to more closings?</strong> Do you want to earn a living in your chosen career? Do you want to know what is one of the <strong>easiest, fastest and cheapest</strong> techniques for generating real leads?</p> <p><strong>YES, YES, YES!</strong> The answer is the tried and true <strong>Open House</strong>! You heard it here fellow agents. A magic pill for increased business. Work for only a half day over the weekend and be rewarded with <strong>more commission checks</strong>. What was that? <strong>Did I hear an collective groan?</strong> Wait, I also hear a lot of very successful agents saying<strong> "She's right"</strong></p> <p>Buyers visit because they <strong>have it in their mind to buy something</strong>. Maybe not the house you are sitting in but a house somewhere. And <strong>in the near future.</strong> Sellers visit becuase they want to see <strong>what houses are worth in their neighborhood and also to size up the agent.</strong> Is this agent worthy of selling my house? is crossing their minds. So you need a system to <strong>create the buzz</strong> that you are the agent of choice.</p> <p>How do you create a Gold Star, Diamond Jubilee, Platinum Open House? <strong>Treat it as the marketing opportunity</strong> it is and market the heck out of it. Start by preparing your sellers to get the house ready for the event. Ask them to bake something so the house smells great. Open the window treatments and turn on all the lights. And most importantly take Fido with them when they leave. <strong>Let them know your plans so they can be on board to help you reach the goal.</strong> Create an attractive flyer to send out to all the agents in the area. Include how you will handle existing agency relationships. My flyers let the other brokers know that I honor all agancy relationships and that they can send their buyers to my Open House with no worries.</p> <p>Walk the neighborhood and invite all the neighbors to come view the house. <strong>I call it "Pick Your Own Neighbor Day" and simply ask the neighbors do they know of anyone they would like to be neighbors with.</strong> This can lead to some pretty funny conversations. Make sure you have plenty of signs directing people to the Open House. I am a big one for balloons on all signs because they attract attention. Make sure there is a good amount of signs in front of the house itself. <strong>I always put a sign in front of the house a few days before to announce the Open House date and time.</strong> You want to stand out. A lot of your Open House traffic will come from people who just happen to be in the area.</p> <p>And finally, make sure you&nbsp;<strong>utilize the internet</strong>. In my area I can post the Open House on the local MLS, realtor.com, and our Keller Williams Listing Service. I used to post on craigs list but I am shying away these days for safety concerns. <strong>You can get really creative in publicizing your Open House</strong>. I have posted flyers on local bulletin boards, written blogs about them and sent invitations to my entire email data base.</p> <p>This may not have been the answer you wanted to hear today but it is probably the one you needed to hear. <strong>Today is Tuesday - Start planning your Open House for this Saturday and get started generating more business</strong>.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:47:52 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1329936/active-lead-generation-open-houses http://activerain.com/blogsview/1329854/looking-for-the-great-pumpkin- <p><img title="Pumpkin Pile" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/9/4/3/2/ar12578650423492.JPG" height="427" alt="Pile of Pumpkins by Shannon Aldrich" width="552" /></p> <p>Barker Farm in Stratham NH has what I consider the best produce on the Seacoast. I love visiting their booth at the local Farmer's Market on Saturdays at City Hall here in Portsmouth. The corn this year was top notch even with all the rain. And I can't say enough about the squash! This picture was taken out at their Farm Stand on Rte 33 in Stratham. Eat and buy local!</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Tue, 10 Nov 2009 09:01:41 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1329854/looking-for-the-great-pumpkin- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1317434/you-have-to-farm-it- <p><img title="You Have to Farm It!" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/4/4/0/4/ar125726273740442.jpg" height="95" alt="Corn" width="126" style="float: left;" /><strong>What good is setting up a farm if you don't actually FARM it?!?</strong> All that effort and time wasted. Well I guess you can comfort yourself by saying "It kept me busy for awhile" But did that do anything to increase your net worth? Did that put milk on the table and meat on the grill?</p> <p><strong>Farms take time to cultivate.</strong> The roots need a chance to grow. Real farmers know that they can't rush the process. It does no good to tug on the tomato plants and yell "GROW" <strong>You need to be prepared to not see anything come from your farm for 7-12 months in the beginning.</strong> Most agents give up after 3 or 4 months saying "I tried it but it doesn't work for me" Well, of course, <strong>it is not going to grow because you stopped watering it</strong>. This is also true if you stop farming your farm. You stopped watering, you killed it, and it is going to take time to bring it back to life.</p> <p><strong>How big does a farm have to be to be productive?</strong> I guess that depends on what you can afford to spend in money and time on marketing. I think your basic farm should be at least 200 people that you know and are in your sphere of influence. <strong>Why 200 you ask?</strong> Well, that's the basic number for being able to send out bulk mail. Figure the cost at approximately 50 cents per person. That means you need to commit to spending<strong> $100 a month on your farm or $1,200 a year. </strong></p> <p>So make a commitment to sending something to your farm <strong>every month</strong>. Commit to putting in that much effort to cultivate your farm or please, just&nbsp;stop wasting your money.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:50:00 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1317434/you-have-to-farm-it- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1317336/jellyfish-dance-at-sea-world <p><img title="Sea World Jelly Fish" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/5/0/9/1/ar125726093319055.JPG" height="356" alt="Sea World Jelly Fish" width="518" /></p> <p>This surreal jelly fish picture was taken at Sea World in Orlando, Florida. They have these aquariums that light up on timers and cause the jelly fish to glow. Actually taken through glass and plexiglass with small Nikon point and shoot digital camera. One of the wonderful ways to enjoy real estate is to take a couple of days before of after the conference to look around and be a tourist. But I really posted this because I just love the colors.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:13:39 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1317336/jellyfish-dance-at-sea-world http://activerain.com/blogsview/1308250/sunrise-at-great-island-common-new-castle-nh <p><img title="Sunrise at Great Island Common, New Castle NH" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/3/9/9/8/ar125676142189934.JPG" height="479" alt="Sunrise at Great Island Common, New Castle NH" width="582" /></p> <p>Sunrise at Great Island Common in New Castle, New Hampshire. This is an amazing park at the mouth of the Piscataqua River. Pavillions, picnic tables, grills,&nbsp;bath house, and large children's playground.&nbsp;Across the river is Fort Foster. Close to Portsmouth Harbor Light. Walter Liff is the artist who created this sculpture. Taken with a phone, hence the blurred edges.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:26:06 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1308250/sunrise-at-great-island-common-new-castle-nh http://activerain.com/blogsview/1307267/introducing-just-photos- <p style="text-align: center;">Introducing a new group on ActiveRain - <strong>Just Photos</strong></p> <p style="text-align: left;">A place to post all those <strong>marvelous photos</strong> we take of homes, the area and special events. A picture says a thousand words so this will be a place for Just Photos. <strong>Please post only your own photos</strong>. We frown on copyright infringement. Copied (aka stolen) photos will be deleted. <strong>Captions are encouraged</strong> to let the viewer in on the story behind the picture and its location. The caption will always qualify it as a blog. You will not see a listing for a 'picture only' posting in your status updates without some words. Just an FYI. However, it is not necessary so its up to you!</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><img title="Yellow Spider, Berwick ME" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/8/1/3/2/ar125673557223187.JPG" height="482" alt="Yellow Spider" width="598" /></p> <p style="text-align: left;">Yellow Spider, Berwick Maine</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:16:21 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1307267/introducing-just-photos- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1307256/north-church-steeple-portsmouth-nh <p><img title="North Church Steeple, Portsmouth NH" src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/5/3/0/2/ar125673510320359.JPG" height="800" alt="North Church Steeple, Portsmouth NH" width="600" /></p> <p>The North Church steeple in Market Square as seen from State Street. The townhouses to the front left are Porter Street and the building to the right is home to Stonewall Kitchens store and Ollie's Bakery. The steeple has recently been completely restored. My home town - Portsmouth, New Hampshire</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:07:44 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1307256/north-church-steeple-portsmouth-nh http://activerain.com/blogsview/1305801/your-toolkit-checklist <p><strong>Question is - What's in your car?</strong> What tools do you carry with you in real estate. Whether it is nicely packed into a LL Bean canvas tote, in an actual toolkit, or just rolling around in the trunk of your car, we all have things we need in the day to day business of real estate.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Cable ties</strong> - They are handy in so many situations. From anchoring an open house sign to a pole so it won't fly away to making sure the brochure box is solidly attached. Use just one or chain them together to be as long as you need them to be.</li> <li><strong>Scissors or Pocket knife</strong> - That which has be tied together eventually must be cut apart.</li> <li><strong>Multi Tool</strong> - Some kind of combination tool that has both stright blades and phillips head screw driver.</li> <li><strong>Dead Head Mallet</strong> - Far more effective than an ordinary hammer for getting signs in the ground.</li> <li><strong>Duct Tape</strong> - Use it on anything but ducts. I like the white duct tape for adding temporary information to open house signs. (Don't forget the sharpie!)</li> <li><strong>Markers</strong> - Here is the Sharpie. I have a regular pen or two in my bag as well</li> <li><strong>WD40 </strong>- You know the old line "If it is supposed to stick and doesn't, use the duct tape. If it supposed to move and doesn't use the WD40"! And now a days you can get the can with the tube built right in. No more losing the little straw part and losing control over where the WD40 goes.</li> <li><strong>Febreeze</strong> - Sometimes you just need a little spritz! I use the anti-allergen pet odor eliminator one.</li> <li><strong>Binoculars</strong> - Great for checking out the roof and chimney. Added service for that Buyers often appreciate.</li> <li><strong>Measuring tape</strong>- Both electronic and tape measures. Always useful to have a manual tape with you. There are lots of place the electronic one just won't work. I hear iPhone has a app for this. (FYI There is even an app that works as a level.)</li> <li><strong>Extra Batteries</strong> - For your camera, electronic measuring tape</li> <li><strong>Flashlight</strong> - A thousand and one nooks need a flashlight to see into.</li> <li><strong>Pliers </strong>- Twist, crimp, leverage. Love my pliers!</li> <li><strong>Wire</strong> - When cable ties won't secure it.</li> <li><strong>Candles/Incense</strong> - Emergency smell management.</li> <li><strong>Matches</strong> - To light the candles and incense not to set the house on fire!</li> <li><strong>Folding Chair</strong> - Just one of those bag chairs you use for picnics. Invaluable.</li> <li><strong>Roll of toilet paper</strong> - Go ahead and laugh but we have all been without at some point!</li> </ul> <p><strong>What do you carry in your car that you could just not live without? Let's make this list complete!</strong></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:22:40 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1305801/your-toolkit-checklist http://activerain.com/blogsview/1199003/broker-class-starts-august-31-2009 <p>Ever thought about getting your <a href="http://www.trelg.com/110.html" title="The Real Estate Learning Group" target="_blank">Broker's license</a>? You have been a salesperson for how many years? Why not take the next step and insure your future in the business. What would happen to your license if your broker went out of business? Where would you go - what deal would you have to accept? Who do you really want to work for in the future? Or maybe you want to go into management in the future. Having your broker's license makes you a more desirable commodity. You can't get a job as a Managing Broker without a broker's license.</p> <p>Or maybe you know of someone interested in getting into the business. There is a lot of opportunity in the industry right now for the right people. This is the licensing class for them. So what are the details?</p> <p><a href="http://www.trelg.com/110.html" title="The Real Estate Learning Group" target="_blank">Classes</a> are starting in Portsmouth on August 31. Monday &amp; Thursday nights from 5:30-9:30pm for 10 sessions. (No class on Labor Day) Cost is $299 with all books and materials included. The least expensive option out there currently. The 40 hour class counts towards the sixty hours you need to take the test in New Hampshire. This is a pre-licensing for salesperson class that will get you up to date on all the concepts you need to pass the simulation portion of the exam.</p> <p>Need more information call me at 603-502-7660 or email me at <a href="mailto:saldrich@kw.com">saldrich@kw.com</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.trelg.com/110.html" title="The Real Estate Learning Group" target="_blank">&nbsp;Sign up at The Real Estate Learning Group's web site</a></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Mon, 17 Aug 2009 12:39:57 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1199003/broker-class-starts-august-31-2009 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1106621/chocolate-crucial-for-training <p>Training is what brings me pure joy. It does not matter if I am teaching pre-licensing class or the Keller Williams Camp 443. (Camp 443 is like a boot camp for new agents and new beginning for seasoned agents). But what I have found is chocolate helps - A LOT! The candy basket is always out in my classes. Sometimes it is a needed distraction during a&nbsp;long involved&nbsp;topic; sometimes it is just an excuse for the student to get up and move around a bit. Either way it is a big plus with my groups.</p> <p>The basket contains not just chocolate but lifesavers, skittles, mints, gum etc. as choices. The funny thing is that I do not eat out of the basket very often! Keeping the basket full costs about $5-8 dollars a week. Always buy in bulk and on sale to make it a cost effective tool. Check the flyers in the Sunday newspaper.</p> <p>My motto "Better Learning through Chocolate"!</p> <p>I would be interested in what other trainer's use to motivate their students.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Mon, 08 Jun 2009 11:54:08 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1106621/chocolate-crucial-for-training http://activerain.com/blogsview/1067462/what-to-send-a-solider-in-iraq <p>My nephew just recently deplyed to Iraq. We are looking to put together a care package for him. I thought I would find an easy list - boy was I wrong. So here is my list that I put together after visiting many sites and reading lots of blogs.</p> <p>If I can give some ideas even for one soldier's family - I am happy....</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Personal Care: (Think travel size)</span></p> <ul> <li>Toothbrush</li> <li>Toothpaste Travel Size</li> <li>Floss</li> <li>Multi Vitamins</li> <li>Unscented Baby Wipes Travel Size</li> <li>Hand Sanitizer</li> <li>Lip Balm</li> <li>Disposable Razors</li> <li>Bug repellant (like Deep Woods Off) to keep the sand fleas off.</li> <li>Waterproof sunscreen</li> <li>Aloe Vera lotion</li> <li>Deodorant</li> <li>Lotion</li> <li>Small packages of Kleenex.</li> <li>Throat lozenges</li> <li>Eye drops</li> <li>Pain relievers, like Tylenol, Aspirin, Motrin, etc.</li> <li>Jock itch powder</li> <li>Feminine Itch Powder</li> <li>Tampons</li> <li>Feminine Hygiene Pads</li> <li>Hair Bands</li> <li>Small Mirrors</li> <li>Foot powder, packed in a Ziploc bag.</li> <li>Moleskin</li> <li>Shaving gel in tubes (no shaving cream)</li> <li>Toilet Paper</li> <li>Boot insoles</li> <li>Unscented Baby Powder</li> <li>Nail Clippers</li> <li>Nail Files</li> <li>Ivory Soap</li> <li>Medicated Face Wipes</li> <li>Eye Drops</li> <li>Cotton Balls</li> <li>Mouth Wash&nbsp;</li> </ul> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Snacks &amp; Treats:</span></p> <ul> <li>Hard Candy</li> <li>Mints</li> <li>Starburst</li> <li>Skittles</li> <li>Gum</li> <li>Dried Fruit</li> <li>Fruit Roll Ups</li> <li>Cigars</li> <li>Lifesavers</li> <li>Pringles</li> <li>Doritos</li> <li>Cheetos</li> <li>Beef Jerky</li> <li>Crystal Lite Drink Mix</li> <li>Peanut Brittle</li> <li>Bubble Gum</li> <li>Sardines.</li> <li>Small packages of ground coffee</li> <li>Instant hot chocolate.</li> <li>Nuts</li> <li>Sunflower seeds</li> <li>Trail mix (no chocolate - it melts)</li> <li>Crackers</li> <li>Mrs. Dash</li> <li>Hot Sauce</li> <li>Tabasco Sauce</li> <li>Mustard Packets</li> <li>Relish Packets</li> <li>Quaker instant oatmeal</li> <li>Instant espresso powder</li> <li>Instant Flavored Coffee</li> <li>Tea Bags</li> <li>Single Serving Dry Cereal</li> <li>Spices (onion powder, red pepper flakes, garlic powder)</li> <li>Lollipops</li> <li>Ragu Express</li> <li>Granola Bars</li> <li>MILK Parmalat packs 2% milk</li> <li>Powdered Creamer</li> <li>Sugar Packets</li> <li>Single Serving Mac &amp; Cheese</li> <li>Single Serving Hamburger Helper</li> <li>Soup packets</li> <li>Tuna lunch-to-go packs</li> <li>Meal replacement drinks, such as Ensure in lightweight bottles</li> <li>Powdered Gatorade</li> <li>Ramen Noodles</li> <li>Chewing Tobacco</li> <li>Salad Dressing</li> <li>Canned Chicken</li> <li>Salsa</li> <li>Snack Cakes</li> </ul> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Other Desirables:</span></p> <ul> <li>White Athletic Socks</li> <li>Dark Green Boot Socks</li> <li>Underwear</li> <li>Beanie Babies (They are giving them to the kids)</li> <li>Brown or Tan T-Shirts L &amp; XL</li> <li>Ziploc Bags Gallon Size</li> <li>Stationary</li> <li>Envelopes (no stamps needed)</li> <li>Pens</li> <li>Disposable cameras</li> <li>Prepaid phone cards. (AT&amp;T is good in Kuwait)</li> <li>Cigarettes</li> <li>Q Tips</li> <li>Pipe Cleaners</li> <li>Deck of Cards</li> <li>Uno</li> <li>Neck Coolers</li> <li>Flashlights (ones that clip on and small hand held)</li> <li>Battery Powered fans</li> <li>Small colorful calendars</li> <li>Portable Shower</li> <li>Blow Kiddie Pool</li> <li>iTunes Gift Cards</li> <li>Disposable Hand Warmers</li> <li>Stress Ball</li> <li>Yo Yo's</li> <li>Squirt Guns</li> <li>Frisbees</li> <li>Hackie Sacks</li> <li>Balloons</li> <li>Sidewalk Chalk</li> <li>Miniature Nerf Footballs</li> <li>Miniature Nerf Basketballs</li> <li>Slinky</li> <li>Bandannas</li> <li>Small Board Games on Keychains</li> </ul> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Magazines:</span></p> <ul> <li>Fitness</li> <li>Fishing</li> <li>Hunting</li> <li>Boating</li> <li>Cars/Hot Rods</li> <li>Guns/Ammo</li> <li>Crosswords</li> <li>Word search games</li> <li>Anagrams</li> <li>Pocket Bible</li> <li>Paperback Books</li> <li>Soduku</li> <li>Rubik's Cube</li> <li>Madlibs</li> <li>Mail order catalogs, so military personnel can shop for friends/family back home.</li> </ul> <p>Notes from us to the soldiers to let them know we are supporting them. They can hold a letter and read it again and again. They can't hold an email. You can include a self addressed envelope - you might get a pen pal.</p> <p>&nbsp;Send small boxes - and check with the post office for the right way to mail them. Lots of mail calls makes a happy soldier.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Thu, 07 May 2009 19:57:56 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1067462/what-to-send-a-solider-in-iraq http://activerain.com/blogsview/1038191/21-reasons-to-buy-title-insurance <p>Hidden risks of defects in the title can cost thousands in legal fees not to mention the stress and frustration. <strong>The best way to protect yourself is to purchase owner's title insurance.</strong> Notice I am saying owner's title insurance not lender's title insurance. If you have a mortgage on the property the bank will require you to buy the lender's policy. <strong>The owner's policy is optional and many buyer's think they can save some money by passing it by</strong>. This is not a good plan.<strong> Even the most meticulous search of the public records by a title attorney can miss hidden defects. </strong>The owner's title insurance policy pays the legal fees to defend your title in case of something missed. It is a one time charge that you see on the HUD at closing. <strong>Don't pass it up because it can protect you from the following errors -</strong></p> <ol> <li>Forgery</li> <li>Fraud in connection with the execution of documents</li> <li>Undue influence (pressure) on the grantor (seller)&nbsp;or executor of a will</li> <li>False impersonation by those puporting to be the owners of the property (This is why we bring licenses to the closing - are you really who you say you are when signing that deed? Or are you pretending to be the wife/husband and are really the girlfriend/boyfirend)</li> <li>Incorrect representation of marital status of a grantor (Saying you are single when you are married)</li> <li>Undisclosed or missing heirs</li> <li>The will was not properly probated</li> <li>Mistaken interpretaion of wills and/or trusts</li> <li>Mental incompetance of grantors (Not all there in a legal sense)</li> <li>Conveyance by a minor (Under 18)</li> <li>Birth of heirs subsequent to the date of the will (The parent died before the baby was born and the will wasn't updated)</li> <li>Inadequate surveys</li> <li>Incorrect legal description</li> <li>Non-delivery of deeds</li> <li>Unsatisfied claim not shown on the record (A lien that was not discharged)</li> <li>Deeds executed under false poer of attorney</li> <li>Confusion due to similar or identical names (Very common with juniors)</li> <li>Dower or curtesy rights (homestead) of ex-spouse or former owner</li> <li>Incorrect indexing of public records</li> <li>Clerical errors in the recording of legal documents</li> <li>Delivery of deed after the death of a grantor (Death stops everything)</li> </ol> <p>Don't pass up owner's title insurance. <strong>Being penny wise and pound foolish could be a costly error when buying a house. </strong></p> <p>(c) <a href="http://www.realestateseacoast.com" title="Real Estate Seacoast" target="_blank">Shannon Aldrich</a>, Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Fri, 17 Apr 2009 07:43:56 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1038191/21-reasons-to-buy-title-insurance http://activerain.com/blogsview/1021371/omg-did-you-see-this-nneren-nugget- <p>"After consideration of consumer demand, member sentiment and industry trends including a growing number of popular third party websites <strong>which feature sold listings</strong>, the <span><span>NNEREN</span></span> BOD has approved display of sold listings from the <span><span>NNEREN</span></span> compilation on <span><span>NNEREN</span></span> member <span><span>IDX</span></span> sites and on <span><span>NNEREN</span></span>.com.<br /><br /><span><span>NNEREN</span></span> sold listing displays will include a <strong>limited set of fields</strong>- closed date, closed price, listing firm, selling firm, property type, property address, primary photo, and bedrooms within Residential, Condo, Mobile, <span><span>Multi</span></span>-Family and Land property types. For the Land property type, acreage will be displayed.<br /><br /><span>If you currently display the <span>NNEREN</span> database on your website via framed <span>IDX</span> display, sold listings will be included upon implementation date, </span><strong>which is currently planned for May 1st</strong>. If you have an agreement in place to receive a distributed <span><span>IDX</span></span> feed (non-framed), and opt to display sold listing content on your website, modifications to accommodate this new listing status will be necessary. Information will be provided shortly to <span><span>IDX</span></span> consultants via email, and additional communications to <span><span>NNEREN</span></span> <span><span>IDX</span></span> Participants and all users will be forthcoming."</p> <p><strong>So they have completely given away the keys to our business.</strong> I think I might just go start a travel agency now.&nbsp; Notice how there are no more travel agents out there. Well, that's because we made it all doable on the internet. What do they need us for if they can find out all the info on line. What was are our so called leadership thinking when they are now making SOLD data an approved display.</p> <p><strong><span>And guess what I will bet you that this "new" information will just lead to more third party groups trying to sell leads back to you and exorbitant rates for the FREE <span>CMA's</span> they will now offer on line.</span></strong></p> <p><span><strong>And the limited set of fields - Not telling you who sold it - just the firm. So </strong>you don't even get credit for your hard work. <strong>And I will bet you that it will have to be posted in itty bitty type face somewhere obscure at the bottom of the page where no one will see it.</strong> Just like it is with the listing feed.</span></p> <p><strong>One agency in particular I will bet will stream this data and make it look like they have sold all the listings out there - just as they currently use the data stream to make it look like every house on the market is listed with them.</strong></p> <p><strong>The only way for us to save ourselves is to stop being willing sheep to the IDX feed. You can opt out and now it is apparent that we should opt out.</strong></p> <p>Member sentiment - was any member even asked before they decided to do this. I encourage everyone to contact <span><span>NNEREN</span></span> and express their sentiment that this is not good for business.</p> <p><span><span>Email&nbsp;</span></span><span><span>NNEREN</span></span> today at <a href="mailto:suggestions@nneren.com">suggestions@<span><span>nneren</span></span>.com</a></p> <p>Maybe together we can stop this madness and save our businesses.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Mon, 06 Apr 2009 16:20:44 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1021371/omg-did-you-see-this-nneren-nugget- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1013662/get-your-nh-broker-s-license-now <p>Ever thought about getting your <a href="http://www.trelg.com/110.html" title="The Real Estate Learning Group" target="_blank">Broker's license</a>? You have been a salesperson for how many years? Why not take the next step and insure your future in the business. What would happen to your license if your broker went out of business? Where would you go - what deal would you have to accept? Who do you really want to work for in the future? Or maybe you want to go into management in the future. Having your broker's license makes you a more desirable commodity. You can't get a job as a Managing Broker without a broker's license.</p> <p>Or maybe you know of someone interested in getting into the business. There is a lot of opportunity in the industry right now for the right people. This is the licensing class for them. So what are the details?</p> <p><a href="http://www.trelg.com/110.html" title="The Real Estate Learning Group" target="_blank">Classes</a> are starting in Portsmouth on April 6 and May 18. Monday &amp; Thursday nights from 5:30-9:30pm for 10 sessions. Cost is $299 with all books and materials included. The least expensive option out there currently. The 40 hour class counts towards the sixty hours you need to take the test in New Hampshire. This is a pre-licensing for salesperson class that will get you up to date on all the concepts you need to pass the simulation portion of the exam.</p> <p><a href="http://www.trelg.com/110.html" title="The Real Estate Learning Group" target="_blank">&nbsp;Sign up at The Real Estate Learning Group's web site</a></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Wed, 01 Apr 2009 14:43:17 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1013662/get-your-nh-broker-s-license-now http://activerain.com/blogsview/999539/5-lead-generation-ideas-outside-the-box <p>We are all in the <strong>lead generation business</strong> more than we are in the<strong> real estate business</strong>. Without leads you are, quite frankly, out of business. Or soon will be. So we call past clients for referrals, set up expired listing campaigns and chase down FSBOs. Granted these are all <strong>excellent sources of business</strong> and you should never leave them out. <strong>But how about looking ahead to anticipate people moving</strong>. The following is a batch of ideas that may stimulate your lead generation activities.</p> <ol> <li><strong>Attend moving, garage and estate sales</strong>. Not only might you find a good buy or three, but take the time to strike up a conversation with the person running the sale to find out about their real estate needs. Check your local papers and be prepared to be out early on Saturday morning.</li> <li><strong>Marriage announcements</strong> in the paper and<strong> Bridal Shows</strong>. They may not be buying right away but it is part of their dream. Offer a seminar to Bridal Shows on "First Time Home Buyers and Tax Credits". <strong>Focus on the Grooms</strong> because the Brides and their Mothers have other things to think about.</li> <li><strong>Birth Announcements</strong>. This is how I got my first listing. By sending "Congratulations on the New Addition to Your Family" cards. More feet in the house equals a need for more square footage.</li> <li>Read the <strong>business section</strong> of the newspaper (either in print or online) and <strong>see who is getting promoted</strong>. Your local Chamber of Commerce newsletter is also a good source for this information. Send a <strong>quick handwritten congrats</strong> along with the clip of the article. You will be amazed how thoughtful this easy action is. It makes you memorable to the recipient.</li> <li>Check your public records <strong>to see who owns homes in your area but live somewhere else</strong>. This can be an excellent double whammy. Market to the out of area owners and <strong>market to the renters in the home.</strong> Show them how if they can afford to rent a house they could possibly be ready to buy their own.</li> </ol> <p>Well there you go - I am sure this is just the tip of the iceberg. I am interested to see what lead generation activities have worked for you. And thank&nbsp;you in advance for sharing!</p> <p>(c) Shannon Aldrich, Keller Williams Coastal Realty Portsmouth NH 2009</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Tue, 24 Mar 2009 10:53:55 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/999539/5-lead-generation-ideas-outside-the-box http://activerain.com/blogsview/905024/direct-mail-marketing-the-personal-touch <p>Direct mail has to be one of your lead generation tools. A consistent drip campaign reminds your database that you are in the real estate business. <strong>That being said I would rather have you contact 50 people regularly than 500 people once a year.</strong> A nice personal letter can go a long way in building rapport with old and future clients.</p> <p><strong>Keys to a personal touch in direct mail are simple</strong></p> <ol> <li>Always mail merge their name directly into your letter. <strong>No "Dear Resident" or "Dear Homeowner"</strong></li> <li>Hand address the envelope. Mailing labels are cold and impersonal. If your handwriting is not the best - hire someone in the family or at the local high school to address the letters (average cost 5-7 cents each). <strong>Services like Send Out cards can address the envelope and sign your name for you.</strong></li> <li>If hand addressing is out of the question - print the envelope on a good printer.</li> <li>Sign every letter in <strong>blue ink</strong>. It sets you apart to hand sign vs. have the printer create a script font.</li> <li><strong>Use a real stamp</strong> - no postage meter or bulk mail.</li> </ol> <p>You can leverage other people at a reasonable cost to help you put together worthy mailings. There are companies that will do the job from start to finish. If you are going to do it yourself you need&nbsp;a good printer and clean database. <strong>With these tools you can "personalize" thousands of letters and prepare them with little time spent.</strong> Develop systems to get your direct marketing campaigns done with as little time spent as possible.</p> <p><strong>A personal touch will go a long way in building along term personal relationship.</strong></p> <p><strong>(c) </strong><a href="http://www.shannonaldrich.com" title="Shannon Aldrich" target="_blank"><strong>Shannon Aldrich</strong></a></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Wed, 28 Jan 2009 15:26:10 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/905024/direct-mail-marketing-the-personal-touch http://activerain.com/blogsview/904473/commit-to-your-seller-real-estate-client-in-writing <p>Commit to your client - in writing. Customize this powerful tool to fit your Unique Value Proposition. Stop short of anything you know you won't be able to accomplish. Best rule is to "Under Promise and Over Deliver"</p> <p>My commitment to you:</p> <ul> <li>Full time effort on your behalf</li> <li>Weekly updates on the status of your home</li> <li>Complete research data and Comparative Market Analysis</li> <li>Regular updates on the current market</li> <li>Preview properties your are in competition with</li> <li>Provide you with marketing information to improve salability of your home</li> <li>Home staging and showing tips</li> <li>Clear and attractive photos</li> <li>Complete room measurements</li> <li>Write advertising copy</li> <li>Obtain&nbsp;copies of the deed, tax card, tax bill </li> <li>Put your home into the Multiple Listing Service</li> <li>"Just Listed" notices to neighbors</li> <li>Market your home for maximum internet exposure</li> <li>Print advertising</li> <li>Place a yard sign on your property</li> <li>Arrange a Broker Open House Luncheon</li> <li>Send e-flyers to Top Selling Agents in the area</li> <li>Provide lockbox access for maximum availability</li> <li>Qualify potential Buyers</li> <li>Show property to Buyers</li> <li>Present all offers to you</li> <li>Act as intermediary during negotiations for highest price</li> <li>Verify bank commitment</li> <li>Arrange/coordinate/attend home inspection, water analysis, septic inspection, pest inspection, and bank appraisal as needed</li> <li>Assure all documents are available for closing</li> <li>Make arrangments for and attend closing</li> <li>Refer you to a professiona real estate agent at your new distination</li> </ul> <p>Feel free to edit for your own use.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>(c) Shannon Aldrich</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Wed, 28 Jan 2009 11:08:51 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/904473/commit-to-your-seller-real-estate-client-in-writing http://activerain.com/blogsview/904405/you-think-you-have-nothing-to-blog-about- <p>Do you&nbsp;ask&nbsp;yourself some version of&nbsp;this question on a fairly regular basis. I<strong> suppose when in doubt you can always fall back to blogging about your listings</strong> but I have never really felt this was a good blog. Always seems like more of a Postlet activity. Blogs I have found that work for me <strong>when I&nbsp;know I have nothing to write about is what has sold in my local market</strong>. People are very interested in what has sold and for how much. Simple and informative. But lacking in some way.</p> <p>But keeping in mind that <strong>content is king on the internet</strong> you can't just blog about your listings and other peoples sales. The consumer is looking for more information than that about real estate. Position yourself as the expert they are looking for. <strong>Be the real estate professional that sets yourself above the rest with valuable information.</strong></p> <p>Instead of venting about all the negatives you see in the market how about <strong>getting creative with your blog</strong>. Create some simple checklists for Buyers and Sellers. My "Getting Ready to Sell" blogs garnered me an interview with Dow Jones Marketplace.com Those blogs have been picked up by AOL real estate and Yahoo Finance. It all about information the consumer is interested in. Helpful checklists are easy reads.</p> <p><strong>Blog about the amenities and history of your area.</strong> I have popular bogs that focus on the farmers market schedules, local factory outlets (Stonewall Kitchens), and town histories. It helps your search engine optimization to be cross linked with several subjects. Blog about moving tips, local wifi connections, the library, radon, arsenic, the most cost effective home improvements, local specialty recipes, landscaping, fire safety tips and local non-profit fundraising events.</p> <p>Real estate is more than just houses. <strong>It is the entire area that people want to know about.</strong> Do you have amusement parks, historic homes, fishing, beaches, church suppers, music, sporting events in your area? Well then you have something to write about. A blog isn't very long - a blog is not a book! The best read logs average 300-500 words.</p> <p>Always remember to link your blogs to you web site to increase its content. <strong>There is always something to write about -</strong> think about what your audience wants to hear about.&nbsp;For me&nbsp;Active Rain is about learning from other agents, your personal blog on Blogger might be more of a private diary, blogs on your website should always be written with the consumer in mind.</p> <p>Happy Blogging! May you always be in the flow of ideas!</p> <p>(c) <a href="http://www.shannonaldrich.com" title="Shannon Aldrich" target="_blank">Shannon Aldrich</a>, <a href="http://www.trelg.com/110.html" title="The Real Estate Learning Group" target="_blank">The Real Estate Learning Group</a></p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Wed, 28 Jan 2009 10:30:45 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/904405/you-think-you-have-nothing-to-blog-about- http://activerain.com/blogsview/894875/lockbox-safety-tips-for-real-estate <p><strong>Lockboxes</strong> - most real estate agents use them. Some are electronic, some combo (think school locker). There are various reasons to use them from ease of access for other agents showing the property to the agent always knowing where the key is. They are attached with a heavy shank to the door, side wall or fence. This small metal box becomes home to a key or two. <strong>The electronic ones can track the name of the agent who used it and what time they entered the property.</strong>The electronic lockboxes can also be programmed so that they only open at specified times. Or they can be programmed to open 24hours.</p> <p><strong>Why use a lockbox?</strong> Well, motivated Buyers do not want to wait to see a house or maybe your agent&nbsp;can't make it to all the showings on&nbsp;the new listing. They help by keeping a prospect motivated to see your house without the extra effort of picking up keys. <strong>If Buyers can't inspect a home at their convenience they just might move on to another house. </strong>Especially true for the out of town relocators on a tight schedule.</p> <p><strong>Even with an electronic lockbox, simple precautions should still be made to the home.</strong> Thefts are not commonplace, but even still, it is wise to eliminate temptation.</p> <ol> <li><strong>Lock up or remove firearms.</strong></li> <li>Never leave money in plain sight - this includes piggy banks and bottles of pennies.</li> <li><strong>Remove extra keys from hooks in the kitchen, garage, mudroom or any other room they can be seen and picked up.</strong></li> <li>Turn down the volume on any answering machines. You do not want someone to overhear personal information.</li> <li><strong>Consider storing furs and jewelry somewhere else. Put the fur in storage and the jewelry in your safe deposit box.</strong></li> <li>Remove all prescription medications from the cabinets. People do open the cabinets. You want that asthma inhaler to be there when you need it!</li> <li><strong>Don't leave any items around that can tip off a person that you will be away. This includes calendars, theater tickets, itineraries for your next plane flight, etc.</strong></li> </ol> <p>All real estate agents should go through a check list with their Sellers to make sure the process goes smoothly and the house gets sold!</p> <p>(c) 2009 <a href="http://www.shannonaldrich.com" title="Shannon Aldrich" target="_blank">Shannon Aldrich</a>, Keller Williams Coastal Realty Portsmouth NH</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Thu, 22 Jan 2009 14:12:26 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/894875/lockbox-safety-tips-for-real-estate http://activerain.com/blogsview/857653/gutter-talk-tips-for-keeping-gutters-up <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/7/3/9/1/ar123064861519372.jpg" height="159" alt="" width="171" style="float: left;" />There is "gutter talk" and then there is <strong>"gutter talk"!</strong> Let's talk about the gutters on your home - the how and whys of keeping them clean. After a heavy rainstorm or long winter some homeowners may discover that their gutters are not doing their job due to being <strong>filled to the brink with dead leaves,&nbsp; dead bugs&nbsp;and pine needles</strong>. Maybe you looked up to find they were barely attached to the house anymore or <strong>dangerous icicles</strong> were growing from the seams! Or in the worse cases you look up to find <strong>trees growing out of the gutters</strong>! You as the homeowner have to help your gutters do their job by keeping them clean out of debris.</p> <p>Could be it is time to get up on the ladder to clean them out or maybe it is time to <strong>replace them </strong>all together. When looking for new gutters there is some<strong> science involved</strong> - <strong>the thinner the gutter material the more likely it is to bend or buckle </strong>under the weight of leaves and ice. The leaders that drain the water off the gutters doesn't need to be as thick because it isn't bearing the weight of the water just directing it. Make sure you are directing it <em><strong>away </strong></em>from the house <strong>not straight down into the basement! <img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/3/0/0/9/ar123064898990036.jpg" height="128" alt="" width="176" style="float: right;" /></strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/4/4/5/0/ar123064867505443.jpg" height="161" alt="" width="205" style="float: left;" />Another consideration is <strong>seams or seamless gutters</strong>. In the old days you went to the hardware store and purchased all the materials, brought it home and put it together like a <strong>jig saw puzzle</strong>. Nowadays there is a<strong> seamless option</strong>. Seamless is preferable because there are <strong>no seams to leak</strong>. Leaking seams can lead to nasty icicles and sometimes even <strong>killer icicles</strong>. Seamless gutters are created on the job site by a professional using a machine that bends the aluminum into the desired length and shape.</p> <p><strong>What else should we look for in a gutter? </strong>Well how about open top gutters vs. gutters with any type of&nbsp;leaf guard system? Leaf guards give you <strong>free flowing gutters forever</strong>! There are several styles of gutter guards on the market. Too many to mention here. No more getting up so high on the ladder to clear them out. Or trying to angle some long tool attached to the garden hose to wash out the debris. <strong>Definitely a gutter bonus!</strong></p> <p><strong>Why gutter at all?</strong> Well, to direct the water off the roof and away from the house, deck or stairs. Not only is there safety involved - <strong>reducing icy steps in the winter.</strong> There is also long term destruction of wood. - dripping roofs onto the deck eventually wears out the wood. Now we have to replace the deck and/or stairs. Basic rule of thumb is that wood and water do not go together. <strong>Think about what water can do to rock after years - just look at the Grand Canyon!</strong> And wood isn't as hard as rock!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/8/2/6/0/ar123064874106286.jpg" height="194" alt="" width="300" style="vertical-align: middle;" /></p> <p>When buying a home be sure to look up not only to check out the roof but also the gutters. Are there any gutters at all? Are they in good shape or barely attached? This is something you need to keep in mind when purchasing and budget for gutter installation or repair. <strong>My advice is to look at the whole house - inside and out. And when you are outside, please don't forget to look up!</strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.shannonaldrich.com" title="Shannon Aldrich" target="_blank">(c) 2008 Shannon Aldrich, Keller Williams Coastal Realty</a></p> <p><a href="http://realestateseacoast.com" title="Real Estate Seacoast" target="_blank">Visit the Real Estate Seacoast Team on the web and check out listings 24/7.</a></p> <p>Join our enewsletter for more home and area updates by emailing <a href="mailto:saldrich@kw.com">saldrich@kw.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Tue, 30 Dec 2008 08:59:42 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/857653/gutter-talk-tips-for-keeping-gutters-up http://activerain.com/blogsview/856144/when-you-move-should-you-move-your-parents-too- <p><strong>No doubt about it - America's graying.</strong> By 2010, one in every five Americans will be over 65. A staggering thought and only a year away! How are we planning to care for them in the near future. Will you relocate your parents to be closer to you, mover back closer to them or try to provide for them long distance? Tough questions to think about.</p> <p>More than half of homeowners age 65 and over have lived in their homes for 20 plus years. <strong>These seniors have deep roots in their respective communities and generally prefer to stay put.</strong> They have long friendships developed, known health care providers and entrenched connections to their communities. Uprooting seniors from a known, stabile environment to a new locale that is unfamiliear may not be the best route to take.</p> <p>So what are you to do? <strong>Here are some suggestions to help guide you through the process.</strong></p> <p>1. <strong>Start with an open and honest discussion with your spouse</strong> and immediate family members. What are the ramifications of your parents moving with you? Would everyone get along? Is there enough space to ensure privacy for everyone? How will the household be effected? What will the impact be on the family budget? If the health of one of your parents' begins to fail - how will you handle it?</p> <p>2. <strong>Move on to an open and honest discussion with your relatives and parents.</strong> Prepare by making a list of all the possible scenarios. Include downsizing the current home with support; staying in the same locale but moving into assisted living apartment or nursing home; moving to the new area and living with you; or moving with you but living somewhere close by. <strong>Explore the possibilities of your parents staying where they are</strong>. Do you have extended family and close friends who are willing and able to provide support? If not, are there support services in the community where they currently live? Contact local agencies and senior centers.</p> <p>3. Can your parents afford to move? <strong>Explore both of your financial situations completely</strong>. If your company is moving you, talk with your relocation director. You might be eligible for elder care assistance.</p> <p>4. Consider your parents' health. <strong>Would the new area be better or worse for them?</strong> What kind of medical resources are available?</p> <p>5. Do your research on your new town. <strong>The aid of a local real estate agent is invaluable here.</strong> Use them as a resource. Request area maps, information on cultural and recreational resources for retirees. Ask about public transportation for seniors. Would there be shops, restaurants, churches, and social activities within walking distance?&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>You must keep in mind that if your parents do move with you and do not like the new area, it might be very difficult to move them back again.</strong> If possible visit the new location with your parents to see how they feel about the area before making&nbsp;a decision. A professional real estate agent could provide them with a sightseeing tour that will give them a better sense of what living in the new area might be like.</p> <p>Moving can be a stressful time for everyone. <strong>You will want to discuss all these issues with sensitivity</strong>. Seek input from your parents and listen to their concerns. Encourage them to make the decision with you, not just go along with whatever you want. <strong>Create a win-win situation for everyone and everyone will win.</strong></p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/4/2/0/5/ar123056631950248.gif" height="172" alt="Shannon Aldrich" width="165" />(c) 2008 <a href="http://www.shannonaldrich.com" title="Shannon Aldrich" target="_blank">Shannon Aldrich</a>, Keller Williams Coastal Realty Portsmouth NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.realestateseacoast.com" title="Real Estate Seacoast" target="_blank">Visit the Real Estate Seacoast Team online for more helpful tips and blogs.</a></p> <p>Join our e-newsletter but sending an email to <a href="mailto:saldrich@kw.com">saldrich@kw.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p><div class='agent_signature'><p>Shannon Aldrich</p> <p>Keller Williams Coastal Realty</p> <p>Portsmouth, NH</p> <p><a href="http://www.RealEstateSeacoast.com">www.RealEstateSeacoast.com</a></p> <p>&nbsp;</p></div> Shannon Aldrich ~ NH & Maine Real Estate Seacoast (Keller Williams Coastal Realty) Mon, 29 Dec 2008 10:04:24 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/856144/when-you-move-should-you-move-your-parents-too-