Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale - Georgia Weaver's RE Blog

Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale - Georgia Weaver's RE Blog http://activerain.com/blogs/stormlakebroker Storm Lake Iowa homes for sale, rentals in Storm Lake and Alta Iowa and surrounding area. Broker Owner Georgia Weaver, CRS, GRI, AHS, BS Ed, Weaver LLC Realtors, SLRealtyCheck.com, Accredited Home Staging Specialist. en-us http://activerain.com/blogsview/1386862/fha-and-tighter-lending-standards-could-negatively-impact-the-storm-lake-iowa-real-estate-market FHA and Tighter Lending Standards Could Negatively Impact the Storm Lake, Iowa Real Estate Market <p><strong>FHA and Tighter Lending Standards Could Negatively Impact the Storm Lake, Iowa Real Estate Market </strong></p> <p><strong>12/11/2009</strong></p> <p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Qd1v6_KHNiY/SyJpLyzjEaI/AAAAAAAAC4w/B7iEcKwKaJg/s1600-h/802+Main+Kitchen+after1.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Qd1v6_KHNiY/SyJpLyzjEaI/AAAAAAAAC4w/B7iEcKwKaJg/s320/802+Main+Kitchen+after1.JPG" border="0" height="240" alt="" width="320" /></a>The FHA is looking into changing some of its lending standards for FHA backed loans in an effort to reduce the number of defaults and limit the risk to the FHA portfolia.  Some of these changes will include the amount of down payment required (currently set at 3.5%) and credit score a buyer will need, what percent of the closing costs the Sellers is allowed to pay and an increase in the annual mortgage insurance premium.  This is bad news for a lot of first time homebuyers. The FHA has become an important option for home buyers, insuring almost 30% of home purchases-more than 75% of which are to first-time home buyers-20% of mortgage refinancings. Just three years ago, the FHA's share of the mortgage market was 3%. <a href="http://rismedia.com/2009-12-10/fha-to-tighten-lending-standards-as-defaults-rise/" title="FHA Changes For Could Impact Storm Lake Iowa Home Buyers">Read the full story here.<br /></a></p> <h3> <h3> <p> </p> <br /></h3> </h3><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Tue, 15 Dec 2009 17:39:38 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1386862/fha-and-tighter-lending-standards-could-negatively-impact-the-storm-lake-iowa-real-estate-market http://activerain.com/blogsview/1379972/fha-changing-lending-standards-could-negatively-impact-the-storm-lake-iowa-housing-market FHA Changing Lending Standards - Could Negatively Impact the Storm Lake, Iowa Housing Market <p><strong>12/11/2009</strong></p> <p><a href="http://rismedia.com/2009-12-10/fha-to-tighten-lending-standards-as-defaults-rise/" title="FHA Changes" target="_blank"><strong>FHA and Tighter Lending Standards Could Negatively Impact The Storm Lake Iowa Real Estate Market</strong></a><strong> </strong></p> <h3> <p> </p> <a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Qd1v6_KHNiY/SyJpLyzjEaI/AAAAAAAAC4w/B7iEcKwKaJg/s1600-h/802+Main+Kitchen+after1.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_Qd1v6_KHNiY/SyJpLyzjEaI/AAAAAAAAC4w/B7iEcKwKaJg/s320/802+Main+Kitchen+after1.JPG" border="0" alt="" /></a>The FHA is looking into changing some of its lending standards for FHA backed loans in an effort to reduce the number of defaults and limit the risk to the FHA portfolia.  Some of these changes will include the amount of down payment required (currently set at 3.5%) and credit score a buyer will need, what percent of the closing costs the Sellers is allowed to pay and an increase in the annual mortgage insurance premium.  This is bad news for a lot of first time homebuyers. The FHA has become an important option for home buyers, insuring almost 30% of home purchases-more than 75% of which are to first-time home buyers-20% of mortgage refinancings. Just three years ago, the FHA's share of the mortgage market was 3%. Read the full story by clicking on the link above.<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.feedburner.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/powered_by_fb.gif" height="36" alt="Powered by FeedBurner" width="200" /></a><br /></h3><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Fri, 11 Dec 2009 11:05:04 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1379972/fha-changing-lending-standards-could-negatively-impact-the-storm-lake-iowa-housing-market http://activerain.com/blogsview/1374334/joan-ballantyne-congratulations-on-receiving-the-l-martin-lee-political-involvement-award Joan Ballantyne Congratulations on Receiving the L. Martin Lee Political Involvement Award <h3 id="_ctl0__ctl0_TaskRegion_Editor1_PreviewTitle">Joan Ballantyne Congratulations on Receiving the L. Martin Lee Political Involvement Award <p>According to the <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>IOWA REALTOR BENCHMARK,</em></span> Joan Ballantyne was awarded the L. Martin Political Involvement Award at the Convention by L. Martin Lee himself.  The article mentions Joan's extensive service to the Association in the local, state and national levels.  I would  personally like to thank Joan for all her work and advice as a member of the United Counties Board of Realtors. Joan is a resource for issues and provides ideas and answers to relatively new Broker Owners like myself and to seasoned ones alike.</p> <p>Joan, discovering your wisdom, your way with people and your understandings of how things work was a well spring and encouragement for me personally as a Broker Owner and Realtor. I can't speak for the entire board but I am in debt to you and admire your ability and wisdom in dealing with people, helping organizations function to the benefit of all members and to your willingness to step up and step in and to stay the course in the storms.</p> <p>Thank you Joan</p> <p>Sincerely</p> <p>Georgia A. Weaver<br />Broker Owner<br />Weaver LLC Realtors<br />113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002</p> <p> </p> </h3><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Tue, 08 Dec 2009 09:54:01 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1374334/joan-ballantyne-congratulations-on-receiving-the-l-martin-lee-political-involvement-award http://activerain.com/blogsview/1373291/storm-lake-iowa-year-to-date-market-report Storm Lake Iowa Year To Date Market Report <p><strong>12/7/09 Storm Lake and Alta Homes For Sale!</strong></p> <p>  <strong>Market Snapshot - Year To Date<br />  Single Family Residential in Storm Lake and Alta Iowa - 50588 and 51002</strong></p> <p>  Total Available - 266</p> <p>  Sold - 159</p> <p>  Active - 107</p> <p>  Days on Market (DOM) - time from first listed until closed<br />  and %L/SP (Percentage of Listing Price Received)<br />  <br />  0 -31 days     31-60 days    61-90 days    91-120 days    120+ days<br />    40                 32                 22                    17                 48<br />  25.16%         20.13%         13.84%             10.69%          30.19%<br />  96.63%LP     95.92%LP    96.29%LP            93.9%LP       94.42%LP<br /> <br />  A big take away is that there are a number of properties available for sale, 107 today with Alta and Storm Lake addresses.  Just over 25% sell within the first 31 days and at only 3.37% less than listed price. However if the  property goes over 120 days (and over 30% stay on the market more than 4 months) it will bring nearly 6% less than listed price PLUS have an additional 3  months in mortgage payment, taxes, utilities and maintenance costs added to the cost.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:53:23 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1373291/storm-lake-iowa-year-to-date-market-report http://activerain.com/blogsview/1363021/home-buyers-by-the-numbers-nar-home-buyers-profile- Home Buyers By the Numbers - NAR Home Buyers Profile <p>I just saw the NAR Home Buyers Profile - WOW I am amazed how much the country is alike.</p> <p>Average income across the nation for home buyers is between $67,700 and $79,500</p> <p>Average miles between new and old home - all under 15, between 10 and 13 miles. That makes a lot of sense in how we should market.</p> <p>The medial home price was $185,000 here in the Midwest we are below that at $158,000</p> <p>I am going back and drill down and see what Storm Lake IA Homes For Sale and Buyers numbers are   <a href="http://point2agentblog.com/2009/11/26/visualizing-the-nar-home-buyers-profile/" title="NAR Home Buyers Statistics Info Graphics Chart" target="_blank">Check out the infographics Point 2 came up with.</a></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Tue, 01 Dec 2009 13:24:08 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1363021/home-buyers-by-the-numbers-nar-home-buyers-profile- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1352341/new-brokerage-blog-11-23-09-afternoon-closing-question New Brokerage Blog - 11/23/09 - afternoon- Closing Question <p>Closing complete, I went to the closing (my Buyers), we usually hold closings in the bank or an attorney's office and here only the Realtor who has the listing attends. I don't get that? I didn't stop representing my clients when the appraisal was complete, I don't see my duties finished until we are closed, moved in, and I have answered questions for, Oh say 5 years.</p> <p>I am doing things differently. I remember how I felt buying properties, the most anxious time for me was the closing, it was uncharted waters, I wasn't sure what to expect. It was very comforting to have the Realtor I knew at the table.</p> <p><strong><em>How do you do clsoings where you practice? I would like to do them in my office in the conference room (I will have one in February), if the listing realtor wants to get all their documents signed ahead of time and the Seller doesn't want to attend that's fine or they are welcome to be at the closing along with the parties I represent and me. </em></strong></p> <p><br />Final Walk through revealed 1 item sellers are going to repair<br />Homestead Exemption applied for at Assessor's office<br />Buyers are very happy - that's what makes my day Great!</p> <p>Prospects contacted, new Buyer called from previous acquaintance, showed 2 properties, understand better what they need, will make additional calls on several properties that may fit that aren't listed for sale.<br /><br />Contacted Banker - need to gather some info this week <br /><br />Checked out new copy place - it's ok, I may use then in addition to the service I use now<br /><br />Developed Process Checklist for closing to go in the office manual - emailed to Dusty for developemnt<br /><br />Paperwork complete for Listing scheduled for Wednesday, pictures, mls info.</p> <p>Schedule complete for Tuesday - showings scheduled, calls planned, new neighbor cards sent to printer</p> <p> </p> <p><br /><br /><br /></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:22:48 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1352341/new-brokerage-blog-11-23-09-afternoon-closing-question http://activerain.com/blogsview/1351261/11-23-monday-new-brokerage-blog 11/23 Monday New Brokerage BLog <p>Busy week scheduled -</p> <p>This morning by 10:00</p> <p>Return weekend calls, follow-up on listings scheduled for this week, check on additional signage delivery, contact our banker, review new printing site (recommendation from a good freind from church), begin addressing Christmas cards to A and B client list.</p> <p>Any good ideas for Christmas gifts other than poinsettia plants?</p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:19:00 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1351261/11-23-monday-new-brokerage-blog http://activerain.com/blogsview/1348961/new-brokerage-blog-saturday-highlights New Brokerage Blog - Saturday Highlights <p>The new office is located in a small town just west of Storm Lake Iowa, the town of Alta. I am in the office today, good traffic so far, new store opened in the building next to mine and it is drawing a lot of people. Many are stopping in or at least reading the sign.</p> <p><strong>My tasks today:<br /></strong>Follow-up with 3 prospective sellers and 2 buyers, <br />Complete and print the business newsletter<br />Review a transaction closing on Monday<br />Move sign frames to office and storage<br />Set-up showings for Monday and Tuesday<br />Review next weeks schedule (taking Thanksgiving off - family in)<br />Prepare listing forms for 2 new properties<br />Work on 7a loan application<br />Approve proofs for advertising next week<br />Develop ads for new listings</p> <p>Yesterday we added some of the new signage to our building front, it should help people see our signage better.</p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Sat, 21 Nov 2009 11:38:55 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1348961/new-brokerage-blog-saturday-highlights http://activerain.com/blogsview/1348947/new-brokerage-blog-11-21-09 New Brokerage Blog - 11/21/09 <p>Below are the beginning business statistics:</p> <p>1) Started my own Brokerage October 27, 2009<br />2) Experience - real estate (licensed 5 years), Associate Broker 3 years, CRS, GRI, AHS, BS Ed, investor 8 years, previous experience building and running my own company 5 years, corporate management 9 years<br />3) Location - good for foot traffic, abundant parking, good signage visibility, office space remodeled to fit new needs, remodel completed by us and we own the building<br />4) Equipment - Utilized some existing and purchased some - signs, office furniture, computers, printers, cameras*<br />5) People - Myself and an Administrative person who plans to get licensed6) Marketing experience - 10 years, Internet, web development,print, photography<br />7) Financing - Start-up, Self financed(approximately $12,000), next phase -  expansion with a loan (looking into a SBA 7a Loan)<br />8) Time Committed to generating business and running business - approximately 60 hrs a week<br />9) Time required to be able to open office and do business - approximately 6 months, financial planning, office layout, remodeling, marketing plan, business plan, signage, accounting, legal, state, federal, supplies, other.*</p> <p>*Used many local persons for work and supplies (signage, beautiful, unique and reasonable) but also found many great deals online.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Sat, 21 Nov 2009 11:25:30 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1348947/new-brokerage-blog-11-21-09 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1348922/new-brokerage-blog-startup-to-finish-line- New Brokerage Blog - Startup to Finish Line <p>Hey Everyone,</p> <p> This blog is a record of the day-to-day workings and issues inside a new brokerage. I am writing it to help others make the leap successfully or decide to stay where they are after seeing what it takes to be successful and through your advice and input help me grow a new company </p> <p>I see this as a journey, and every journey needs preparation, resources and a destination. Sharing this with you will help me, I do hope to help you too. If you have questions about things as I blog please put them in the comments, any advice is humbly and gratefully received.</p> <p>Next blog will be my beginning business statistics - Thank you</p> <p>My hat is on and I have taken to the open road - high mountains in view but level path and sunshine straight ahead.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Sat, 21 Nov 2009 11:09:02 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1348922/new-brokerage-blog-startup-to-finish-line- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1334818/great-home-buyer-tax-credit-reference-chart Great Home Buyer Tax Credit Reference Chart <p>Check out the new Home Buyer Tax Credit Reference Chart if you haven't already gotten one. <a href="http://www.slrealtycheck.com/index.html" title="Home Buyer Tax Credit Reference Chart" target="_blank">Click on the link and go -  Home Buyer Tax Credit Reference Chart.</a> Once there click on the red box with that info. on the page. I haven't been on in a while because I have been sooooo busy opening my own brokerage :)</p> <p>We are Weaver LLC Realtors, great office, working with some really good Buyers and Sellers. A little nervous but staying the course and pushing on. One thing I am so thankful for is all the people who have supported me in this decision, helped me get the office, books, forms, files, advertising, marketing, and so many other things organized and on track. And a very special thank you to my husband, Ronnie.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:19:43 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1334818/great-home-buyer-tax-credit-reference-chart http://activerain.com/blogsview/1331844/storm-lake-iowa-homes-for-sale-new-brokerage-opens-in-the-storm-lake-mls-area Storm Lake Iowa Homes for Sale - New Brokerage Opens in the Storm Lake MLS area Brand new real estate brokerage now open in the Storm Lake MLS area. Want more information - call Georgia Weaver the owner of Weaver LLC Realtors. <a href="http://www.stormlakepilottribune.com/story/1584806.html">Pilot Tribune newspaper covering our new brokerage</a>, the services we offer, our philosophy on doing business and the <a href="http://www.stormlakeiarealestate.com/10_Reasons_to_Sell_with_US/page_2284871.html">Top 10 Reasons You Need to List Your Properties With US</a>. If you need real estate services please consider us, we are experienced, ethical, and posess great marketing and negotiaion skills. Our business is not like any other in the Storm Lake MLS area, call us to experience a very refreshing difference.<div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Wed, 11 Nov 2009 09:07:53 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1331844/storm-lake-iowa-homes-for-sale-new-brokerage-opens-in-the-storm-lake-mls-area http://activerain.com/blogsview/1324567/pilot-tribune-article-link-for-the-weaver-llc-realtors-new-business-opening Pilot Tribune Article Link for the Weaver LLC Realtors new business Opening <p>Pilot Tribune newspaper article and picture showing our new brokerage sign, Dusty Rydstrom (Office assistant and me  posing. No I'm not a poser I AM THE REAL THING! Just ask me :)</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.stormlakepilottribune.com/story/1584806/photo/1287165.html">http://www.stormlakepilottribune.com/story/1584806/photo/1287165.html</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.stormlakepilottribune.com/story/1584806.html">http://www.stormlakepilottribune.com/story/1584806.html</a></p> <p>We are very busy getting the office up and going, all the property books made, forms developed, printed and filed, accounts complete, license, insurance, accounting software and of course training, and the office looks great - same colors we used on our house on Peterson St.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:29:55 -0600 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1324567/pilot-tribune-article-link-for-the-weaver-llc-realtors-new-business-opening http://activerain.com/blogsview/1313678/new-brokerage-in-alta-iowa- New Brokerage in Alta, IOWA! <p>This week I finally opened my own brokerage, Monday I went to Des Moines for my license and have been working in my own space since then.  This weekend we put some of the finishing touches on, setup the computer for the assistant and hang our big sign. We officially open to the public this Monday, November 2, 2009.</p> <p>Weaver LLC Realtors -</p> <p>Only one Focus -YOU<br />We do only one thing - REAL ESTATE</p> <p>YOU are our top priority, NOT Number of Sales, Number of Listings, Number of Agents, or Number of Dollars - YOU!</p> <p>Our new location is 113 Main St., Suite 3, in Alta, Iowa <br />Call our office at 712-200-4663<br />Call or text me direct at 712-574-5426</p> <p>Call me or come by to see how I can help YOU.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Sat, 31 Oct 2009 20:09:16 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1313678/new-brokerage-in-alta-iowa- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1252145/storm-lake-and-alta-iowa-weekly-market-report-9-16-23-09 Storm Lake and Alta Iowa Weekly Market Report 9/16-23/09 <p><strong>Weekly </strong><br /><strong>Storm Lake MLS </strong><br /><strong>Market Statistics - 9/16/09 to 9/23/09</strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>  </strong><strong>Storm Lake</strong><br /><strong>  Available Residential Properties - 71 homes</strong><br /><strong>  Sold in last 30 days - 14 homes</strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>  Alta</strong><br /><strong>  Available Residential Properties - 16 homes</strong><br /><strong>  Sold in last 30 days - 5</strong><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>Properties are listing and selling, waiting till "the market improves" </strong><strong>DOES NOT APPLY</strong><strong> to our market. </strong><strong>Personally as a real estate investor, I am buying and selling.  4 Closings this month so far!</strong></p> <p><a href="http://www.slrealtycheck.com/">http://www.slrealtycheck.com/</a> for more information on the Storm Lake and Alta Iowa real estate market or call me 9Georgia A. Weaver) direct at 712-574-5426</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Wed, 23 Sep 2009 11:49:21 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1252145/storm-lake-and-alta-iowa-weekly-market-report-9-16-23-09 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1252130/storm-lake-and-alta-iowa-june-july-august-2009-real-estate-market-report-comparision-with-2008 Storm Lake and Alta, Iowa - June, July , August 2009 Real Estate Market Report Comparision with 2008 <p> </p> <p><strong>2008</strong></p> <p><strong>40 total</strong> properties with the above criteria sold in this period</p> <p><strong>Days on Market</strong> in this period - 27.5% marketed 0 to 30 days, 35% marketed 31-60 days, 2.5% marketed 61-90 days, 7.5% marketed 91-120 days, 27.5% marketed120+ days</p> <p><strong>Average Days on Market</strong> (DOM) was approximately 80</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p><strong>2009</strong></p> <p><strong>36 total</strong> properties sold within the above criteria in this period</p> <p><strong>Days on Market</strong> in this period - 22.2% marketed 0 to 30 days, 33.3% marketed 31-60 days, 8.3% marketed 61-90 days, 13.9% marketed 91-120 days, 22.2% marketed 120+days</p> <p><strong>Average Days on Market</strong> was approximately 87</p> <p> </p> <p><strong>Summation:</strong></p> <p>The striking thing about this 3-month block of sales is what little difference there is from last year to this year. None of the numbers are greatly significant, it shows our local market (Storm Lake and Alta) are very stable and have not been negatively impacted by the national downturn.   Real estate is a good investment in general, a number of people are purchasing, and selling, we (Realtors) have seen a good year to date. The Storm Lake and Alta housing market is gaining ground overall.</p> <p>As of August 31, 2009 we had 2.59 months of housing supply for sale in the above markets, this is referred to as the Listing/Absorption rate.  2.59 months is an excellent inventory compared to many markets that have over 12 months housing supply for sale.  The supply and demand scenario in our area is excellent at 2.59 months of inventory, this gives buyers a number of properties to choose from but there aren't so many available that it drives the prices down like it has in Minneapolis, Kansas City, Des Moines and most cities in Arizona in general.  However, these markets also offer many opportunities, if you are an investor, looking for a second or retirement home or want to move up now is the time to do it in these markets.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Wed, 23 Sep 2009 11:38:22 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1252130/storm-lake-and-alta-iowa-june-july-august-2009-real-estate-market-report-comparision-with-2008 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1249109/town-allowing-property-owners-to-remove-sidewalks-in-city-limits-any-input-on-other-towns-allowing-this- Town Allowing Property Owners To Remove Sidewalks in City Limits - Any input on other towns allowing this? <p>Help,</p> <p>A small town I serve is allowing property owners to remove sidewalks. This is a big problem, the area is northwest Iowa, we get a lot of snow and many children still walk to school. No sidewalks is also a problem if you are handicapped, I think it could lead to some accessibility problems for the city when it comes to their streets and the ADA. Anyone have any input as how to proceed, I hope to be talking to the City Council October 5th and I would like to go in with some input from other Realtors. Thanks for the Help!</p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:43:34 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1249109/town-allowing-property-owners-to-remove-sidewalks-in-city-limits-any-input-on-other-towns-allowing-this- http://activerain.com/blogsview/1248942/open-houses Open Houses <p> <p>Denise - Totally agree, one thing I've found is that sellers looking for a Realtor will go to open houses in their neighborhoods, so it can be really beneficial to the Realtor.  I like tour of homes better than open houses, it gives lookers a chance to see many homes and puts a sense of urgency (due to the shorter time allowed for each property) in the prospective buyers. Good to see you online. :)</p> </p> <div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1218425/open-houses">Denise Kilbride (Real Estate Professionals)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p>I'm not sure why it seems that real estate agents don't like to do open houses. Sure, there may be times when you don't have anyone at the house, but when you do, it gives you time to speak one on one with a potential home buyer. Maybe they won't make an offer on that house, but you have had a chance to talk with them and get some insight on another house that may be better suited to their wants and needs. You will occasionally get a neighbor or two who are "just curious" about what the house looks like. That's okay too. They may know someone in the near future that needs to buy or sell a house. They may pass on your name! As for the down time, when no one is at the house, use it to catch up on reading, correspondence, or reorganizing the contact list in your blackberry!</p></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:30:16 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1248942/open-houses http://activerain.com/blogsview/1245266/new-credit-reporting-guidelines-dates-and-impact New Credit Reporting Guidelines - Dates and Impact <p>FICO 08 are the new guidelines that refer to the new credit scoring. Already, 2 of the reporting agencies, Equifax and Trans Union have started using the new reporting. <br /><br />The impact of the changes for someone with good credit could be a slight increase in score, if you have some problems your score could drop. Small collections under $100do not count on your score, and some late payments will not hurt you as much if you have other accounts that are current. Like the old system a lot of late payments will drop your score. <br />As a Realtor I see a lot of credit scores that need work, the way to keep your score in good shape, check your reports at least once a year and twice is best. Pay all bills at least on time and at best early. Do not carry a lot of debt, if you can't pay off a credit card DON'T use credit until you can. Inability to pay off credit cards monthly is a big red flag that you are living over your means and when you do that you are headed for trouble. <br />Watch for a change in your credit card billing the end of February 2010, and already in effect banks can not give you less than 45 days notice if your interest rates are to change and all credit card statements must be mailed to you at least 21 days before your payment is due.</p> <p><a href="http://www.feedburner.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/powered_by_fb.gif" alt="Powered by FeedBurner" /></a></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:05:21 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1245266/new-credit-reporting-guidelines-dates-and-impact http://activerain.com/blogsview/1244740/tax-credit-raised-to-15-000-proposed Tax credit raised to $15,000 - Proposed <table cellspacing="0" border="0" cellpadding="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td><a href="http://www.brokeragentsocial.com/CBassignani/blog/3036/">Tax Credit Raised to $15,000 with out limits!! Proposed</a> Posted: Thursday, September 17, 2009 - <a href="http://www.brokeragentsocial.com/CBassignani/blog/3036/">64 comment(s)</a> [ <a href="http://www.brokeragentsocial.com/CBassignani/blog/3036/">Comment</a> ] - <a href="http://www.brokeragentsocial.com/CBassignani/blog/3036/">0 trackback(s)</a> [ <a href="http://www.brokeragentsocial.com/CBassignani/trackback/3036/">Trackback</a> ] Category: <a href="http://www.brokeragentsocial.com/CBassignani/blog/3036/browse_blogs.php?c=45">BrokerAgentSocial.com </a> <p>There is legislation in both the Senate and the House that would expand the tax credit. A proposal by Sen. Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., would raise the credit amount to a maximum of $15,000 for any buyer of any home over the next year. I<strong>t would remove the income caps that currently apply (those limits are now $75,000 for an individual and $150,000 on couples).</strong></p> <p>"I think we've got a realistic chance of doing this," Isakson says. "Our problem is not with the first-time home buyer, it's the move-up buyer."</p> <p>Lawrence Yun, chief economist at NAR, says extending or raising the tax credit would spur the housing recovery, which in turn would help bolster the economy.</p> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p> </p> <p>The IAR and the NAR are working hard to get the current tax credit for first time home buyers extended and expanded. Realtors, contact your local representatives and senators, tell them how this has helped your clients.  I know it has really helped mine and I would like to see it extended at least a year and expanded to all home purchases.</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:36:05 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1244740/tax-credit-raised-to-15-000-proposed http://activerain.com/blogsview/1243375/your-blog-is-it-art-or-is-it-science-10-steps-to-a-seach-engine-friendly-blog Your Blog - Is it Art or is it Science? 10 Steps to a Seach Engine Friendly Blog <p><p>#This is a great article, plain English, easy to execute and something I plan to print off for future reference!</p> <p>Thank you Ross</p></p><div id="reblogging_tag">Via <b><a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/1198692/your-blog-is-it-art-or-is-it-science-10-steps-to-a-seach-engine-friendly-blog">Ross Hair (Real Estate Advocate)</a></b>:<br/><blockquote><p>Publishing a blog is a mixture of art and science.</p> <p>The art is your content, how you phrase your sentences and pen your words.</p> <p>The science is the systematic checklist you use to make sure your blog is fully optimized for the search engines so it can be seen by your real estate customers. </p> <p>I going to leave the wordsmithing (I think I just inventicated this word) and poetic language about your recently rehabbed 3 bed 2 bath to you. </p> <p>I'm only going to help you with the technical stuff so here's the <strong>"10 Step Scientific Outline and Checklist for Publishing your First Blog Post"</strong>: </p> <ol type="1"> <li>Select a topic for your post. Make sure the topic is relevant, interesting and valuable to your target audience. </li> <li>Select the keywords and category for your post. Your keywords are critical as the search engines will index your post based on keywords and keyword relevance. It's very important that you use your keywords in the page name, post name, post header and first few sentences of your post. </li> <li>Write each page name to include your keywords and include the same words that will be in the heading of the post. You have the ability to name each page that you publish so make sure you include the keyword and title in the page name.</li> <li>Write your heading to include the name of the page and include your keywords.</li> <li>Write your sub-heading or tag line to reinforce the heading.</li> <li>Write a description of the post. This is a hidden back end feature that you can use to basically stuff keywords into the post. Your reader won't see the description but it will be indexed by the search engines.</li> <li>Write meta tags that include your keywords. Meta tags are a way to strongly identify the keywords associated with a post. You're basically tagging certain words and asking the search engines to pay attention to those words.</li> <li>Write a category for the post. The search engines like  nice clearly defined structures. By categorizing the post under a niche group, you're highlighting what you want the search engines to notice and index.</li> <li>Write your first line to include your heading and create links to your site. An example of this would be a post with the header "Three Ways to use Creative Finance to Purchase Real Estate". Your primary key word is creative finance because this is a post about using creative finance. The first sentence of your post should read something like " I'm a big fan of using <strong>creative finance</strong> to purchase real estate". You've basically regurgitated the post's header in the first line. You also bolded the words "creative finance" and included a link from the words to the creative finance section of your blog. The search engines will notice the keywords, bold letters and hyperlink.</li> <li>Include a footer with your details as the author and a link to your website. This way, if someone re-publishes your post you'll have a back link to your site. I also like to publish my name as the author right under the heading as I've noticed a trend whereby a number of blog sites use an auto RSS feature to lift hundreds of blogs and aggregate them on a single site. They often cut off the author acknowledgement at the end of the article. </li> </ol></blockquote></div><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Thu, 17 Sep 2009 12:24:28 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1243375/your-blog-is-it-art-or-is-it-science-10-steps-to-a-seach-engine-friendly-blog http://activerain.com/blogsview/1239592/another-storm-lake-iowa-acreage-for-sale Another Storm Lake, Iowa Acreage for Sale <p>6275 170th Avenue, Storm Lake, Iowa is a nice rural property with a 3 bedroom older home, lots of mature trees, fruit trees, perennial flowers, large outdoor entertaining space, a number of out buildings including a large barn with 3 separate areas (2 have concrete flooring and one has pea gravel). Check out the <a href="http://www.stormlakeiarealestate.com/Storm_Lake/Iowa/Homes/StormLakeMLScom/Rural/Agent/Listing_4431137.html">video</a> of the home. <br />It is not too late to qualify for the first time home buyers tax credit, call me to take a look at this rural home.<br /><br />This property is located in the Storm Lake Iowa area, just off Highway 7. Storm Lake Iowa is a great area that has a destination part, <a href="http://www.kingspointeresort.com/">King's Pointe</a>, a recreational lake, shopping, http://www.bvu.edu/, <a href="http://www.bvrmc.org/">Buena Vista Regional Hospital</a>, <a href="http://www.stormlakepilottribune.com/">The Pilot Tribune newspaper </a>and the <a href="http://www.stormlake.com/">Storm Lake Times Newspaper</a>, a <a href="http://www.stormlake.org/index.php?dept=ccalendar&LinkID=547&AddLink1=546&AddLink2=288&AddLink3=0">community calendar</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.feedburner.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/images/pub/powered_by_fb.gif" alt="Powered by FeedBurner" /></a></p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Tue, 15 Sep 2009 10:46:18 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1239592/another-storm-lake-iowa-acreage-for-sale http://activerain.com/blogsview/1170844/new-alta-iowa-acreage-video-tour New Alta, Iowa Acreage Video Tour Dream of living in the country; then this is for you. 2.9 A and a 3 bedroom home, kitchen through living room are open, huge family room has a stone hearth wood burning fireplace. Fruit trees, black walnut, maple, ash and evergreens cover the landscape. A 50 by 50 barn could be used for a business, storage or other, it has heat, water and electricity and 3 bays- 2 are concrete and one is pea gravel. Lots of potential entertainment space inside and out, large deck, 2 patios, one has pavers and the other is octagon shaped made of brick and stones. Many birds have been viewed including: owls, finches and woodpeckers. Call Georgia Weaver 712-574-5426 to see this gem. <iframe src="http://www.stormlakeiarealestate.com/Listing/VirtualTour.ashx?ListingID=3759174" height="730" width="780" /><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Tue, 28 Jul 2009 10:44:58 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1170844/new-alta-iowa-acreage-video-tour http://activerain.com/blogsview/1128230/member-of-a-mls-if-so-i-need-some-input Member of a MLS? If so, I need some input <p>How is your organization managed:</p> <p>1) Do you have a board fo directors</p> <p>2) if so, who's on the board - anyone (agents, associate brokers, broker owners) or only broker owners and designated brokers</p> <p>3) how are decisions made, all members vote or board of directors decide</p> <p>I am on a board committee that is responsible for seeing that the MLS is in compliance with the National and State guidelines. A number of members of one specific MLS have concerns with how the group is functioning and I am trying to address these concerns to the everyone to help the group work better together.</p> <p>Thank you ahead of time for taking the time to respond to this request.</p> <p> </p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:19:54 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1128230/member-of-a-mls-if-so-i-need-some-input http://activerain.com/blogsview/1116300/helping-a-spender-spouse-become-a-saver-yes-virginia-there-is-a-santa-clause- Helping a Spender Spouse Become A Saver - Yes Virginia there is a Santa Clause! <p>Most marriages are made up of a saver and a spender.  I am a spender, Ronnie -  my husband is a saver.  Together we usually make an awesome team, I find properties, see the potential, scribble up a plan and budget and then run it by Mr. Number Cruncher.  He brings me back to reality sometimes and then sometimes I get his head in the clouds with mine.  Below is a link to a 2 part article to help out with those who are married to their opposite. I have also included a link to a great website I have been checking out on money.</p> <p><a href="http://www.StretchyDollar.com">www.StretchyDollar.com</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.stretchydollar.com/financial-independence/converting-a-super-spender-to-a-frugal-saver-part-i/">http://www.stretchydollar.com/financial-independence/converting-a-super-spender-to-a-frugal-saver-part-i/</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.stretchydollar.com/financial-independence/converting-a-super-spender-to-a-frugal-saver-part-ii/">http://www.stretchydollar.com/financial-independence/converting-a-super-spender-to-a-frugal-saver-part-ii/</a></p> <p>Remember now is the time to invest in real estate, sound the call!</p><div class='agent_signature'><p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">Georgia A. Weaver, BS Ed., CRS, GRI, AHS<br />Broker Owner</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;"><strong>Weaver LLC Realtors<br />"A Promise Made is a Promise Kept"</strong></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">113 Main St., Suite 3<br />Alta, Iowa 51002<br />Office 712-200-4663<br />Direct 712-574-5426</span></p> <p><span style="font-size: x-small; font-family: Comic Sans MS;"><a title="Storm Lake Iowa Homes For Sale" href="http://www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com" target="_blank">www.WeaverLLCRealtors.com</a></span></p> <p><span style="font-size: small; font-family: comic sans ms,sans-serif;">A Broker of CHANGE</span></p> <p> </p></div> Georgia Weaver (Weaver LLC Realtors) Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:57:46 -0500 http://activerain.com/blogsview/1116300/helping-a-spender-spouse-become-a-saver-yes-virginia-there-is-a-santa-clause-