My 1st full month (minus three days) and I'm Already SINGING IN THE RAIN! Won't you join me? **Success Story** - 09/30/10 11:01 PM

As I look back at my first full month of being a Rainmaker, and I think about where I was with my career vs. where I am today. For a moment; lets forget about the points, forget about the happiness one feels from getting their blog post "featured", forget about the subscriptions, which in my opinion are the biggest compliment one can receive, and I want to just focus on  September 3rd, which is the day I wrote my 1st blog post, and a rather lame post at that. I barely could figure out how to insert a photo, and … (37 comments)

RainCamp is Marching Into New Orleans! - 09/30/10 07:06 PM
I highly recommend that you attend Raincamp if you have the oppurtunity to do so! I went to the one in San Jose, and the knowledge I took away from it in the first ten minutes alone, was worth every penny! You will not regret it!
Via ActiveRain Corp.:
It is with great pleasure that we announce RainCamp New Orleans! 
On Friday, November 5th the RainCamp train will be in town.   NAR starts this weekend so I know many of you are already planning on attending.  This is your shot to meet many of your AR family; it has the chance to … (2 comments)

Roripaugh Hills in Temecula - 09/30/10 06:58 PM
 
Roripaugh Hills in Temecula

Roripaugh Hills is located in North Temecula, off of Winchester Road, the main street is Mimulus, which turns into Roripaugh Road as you drive up the hill and into the tract of 439 homes. This community features 2 community pool's & spa's, tennis courts, and 2 parks within the development. This community is very well maintained, and it is managed by the Avalon Management Group, a local property management company. To contact Avalon Management Group you may call (951) 699-2918 and dial extension 102, to speak to Sheryl Whitaker. You may also email her … (2 comments)

America's 10 most expensive zip codes, 6 of which are in California! - 09/29/10 12:08 PM
America's 10 most expensive zip codes
Forbes released its annual list today of the nations most expensive zip codes, and is anyone really surprised to see California have 6 of the 10? Enjoy!
91008 - DUARTE, CALIFORNIA - Median Home Price: $4,276,462 94027 - ATHERTON, CALIFORNIA - Median Home Price: $4,010,200 90274 - ROLLING HILLS, CALIFORNIA - Median Home Price: $3,892,456 07620 - ALPINE, NEW JERSEY - Median Home Price: $3,814,885 10014 - NEW YORK, NEW YORK - Median Home Price: $3,785,445 90210 - BEVERLY HILLS, CALIFORNIA - Median Home Price: $3,684,150 10065 - NEW YORK, NEW YORK - Median Home … (9 comments)

Crowne Hill Pool Homes Temecula - 09/29/10 02:16 AM
Crowne Hill Pool Homes Temecula
There are currently 8 Pool Homes in Crowne Hill that are listed in either Active or Backup Offer status on the MLS right now. Of which, 6 are Short Sales, 1 is an REO (Bank Owned Home), and 1 is a standard corporate owned resale. They range in price from $275,000, and go upwards of $465,000, depending on size, age, upgrades, lot size, location within the community, among other key elements.
Crowne Hill is a beautiful community in Temecula, located off Butterfield Stage Road and Crowne Hill Drive. The community was built within the past decade, … (2 comments)

I Love a Prepared Buyer, Don't You? | Are YOU a Prepared Buyer? - 09/29/10 12:36 AM
Yes Jeff, I do love a prepared buyer. One that has already been approved, one that is realistic in their budget, their wants, and their needs, and a buyer that is PREPARED! Great post!
Via Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate ~ 760-840-1360 (RE/MAX Moonlight Beach (CA DRE Lic. # 01490977)):
I Love a Prepared Buyer, Don't You? Are YOU a Prepared Buyer?  
I love working with a prepared buyer. One who has gotten their act together, and is ready to make a decision, and move through the transaction. 
Sadly, it can be kinda rare these days. There are many hopefuls who … (2 comments)

Before a Foreclosure Sale, Should I take the Kitchen Cabinets, Fixtures, Doorknobs, etc.? - 09/27/10 11:54 AM
I wanted to reblog this one because it is something I have touched on several times as of late. I think if you strip a home, you should be held accountable and liable! It is never OK to resort to this!
Via Troy Funk CDPE, Sarasota Short Sale - Sarasota Short Sale Specialist (Keller Williams Realty on the Water, 941-445-9999):

Countless homeowners facing foreclosure are under tremendous stress and need money.  When deciding to "Walk Away" from their homes, we see many of them realize that their dream of homeownership is about to end.  As a result, many homeowners see an … (4 comments)

Why RainCamp San Jose is just the beginning for me! (Yes, I made it!!) - 09/27/10 11:47 AM
The title of this blog post says it all! After 24 days of blogging 2-5 times per day, I finally have made it to Raincamp San Jose!
I am very excited to be here today (1st row, last seat on right). Activerain has lit a fire inside of me, and it has instilled a passion back into my Real Estate career. I not only want to utilize Activerain to be #1 on Google anytime someone searches ANYTHING to do with Temecula (Yes, a lofty goal), but I want to network, and really befriend the community so that it can become … (31 comments)

Temecula Bank Owned Homes - 09/26/10 01:04 PM
Temecula Bank Owned Homes
I have been following the inventory of Temecula REO's very closely, and it has slowly been creeping up at an alarming pace. Earlier in the year, we had gotten down to about 50 active Bank Owned Temecula Homes, and now, we are most certainly headed to break the 100 active REO listings mark within the next month or so.The prices on these homes range from $99,900 (Condo) to over $4,000,000 (76+ acre potential winery). The majority of the listings are Single Family Residences, and I am seeing that a significant amount are Fannie Mae Owned Assets, which … (0 comments)

All Aboard!!! Next stop, Raincamp San Jose! Will I see you there? - 09/25/10 11:23 AM
Last call for San Jose Raincamp 2010! Will I see you there?
As I finish packing my luggage, I find myself itching to write one last blog post, before I begin the 2 hour drive to LAX, to then sit in the airport for another hour, to hop on a tiny plane for another hour, to finally arrive in San Jose, 2 days early :)
Is anyone else headed up early? If so, give me a call! I will be out in Santana Row tonight, dining with Ryan Case at Maggianos, and you are welcome to join us! Tomorrow we are … (22 comments)

What do you do when a non-licensed person talks shop to one of your clients... - 09/25/10 10:53 AM
I have personally had this happen with clients of mine on more than one occasion. Luckily, I know the level of service I provide my clients, therefore I am not too worried about them being solicited, none the less, it shouldn't be allowed to happen!
Via Ralph Gorgoglione (Relocation Certified -HAFA Certified -John Aaroe Group, Inc.):
What do you do when a non-licensed person talks shop to one of your clients...
I had an incident recently where a certain type of inspection company representative, without my knowledge, after me referring my client to them for an inspection, entered into a dialogue about contract, … (5 comments)

Hey Lady: Why Were You Taking Pictures of My House? - 09/25/10 01:26 AM
I have had some memorable experiences taking photos for BPO's. I always pray no one is home, as the occupants know why you are there more times than not, and it is tough, especially in "Rough" neighborhoods, culdesacs, etc. But This is a great blog post, I recommended it to be featured :)
Via Renee Burrows - Las Vegas NV Valley - Homes For Sale - Real Estate Market News (The Force Realty -Realtor>Estate>Probate>REO>Short Sale):
Have you ever seen anyone drive by your home slowly and take a picture of your home?  Wouldn’t that be creepy?
It happens quite a bit and … (6 comments)

Paloma Del Sol Short Sale Listings - 09/25/10 01:16 AM
Paloma Del Sol Short Sale Listings
Welcome to Paloma Del Sol! This community resides in South Temecula, right off Margarita Road, and is located smack dab in the heart of Temecula. The community features mature landscaping, walking trails, 5 community pool's and spa's, 4 tennis court's, several basketball courts, community parks, and several different communities within. The homes range in age from the early 1990's to the late 1990's, with the last tract being completed in 1997. The home sizes range from a tiny 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 920 square foot home, to a modest 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2918 square … (2 comments)

Temecula Bank Owned Listings - 09/24/10 02:24 PM
Temecula Bank Owned Listings

The inventory of Active, Available REO Listings in Temecula is growing. It has slowly creeped up to 87 Temecula Bank Owned Listings as of today, September 24th, 2010. This is growing at a slightly alarming rate. Earlier in the year, we were down to 49 Active REO listings, and to see almost double that number in the same year, makes me wonder what in the heck the banks are thinking.
Why did they wait to release them until AFTER the 1st time homebuyer tax credit expired? Why did they not release them when there was a … (2 comments)

Its funny what we choose to deem "newsworthy" these days! - 09/24/10 11:09 AM
I will make this blog post short and sweet, and to the point. I turn on CNN this morning to catch up on the news before I head off to my office, and the only "news" they are reporting on is the fact that Lindsay Lohan is in court again for violating her probation, testing positive for cocaine in a random drug test. I think to myself, is this really the ONLY news CNN has to report on, as I switch the channel to a local news station
To my surprise, guess what they are also covering? The SAME STORY! How … (4 comments)

Why using a Discount Listing Brokerage to list your home may cost you MORE than it SAVES you! - 09/23/10 05:27 PM
The Title speaks for itself, so I will dive right in to the topic.
Let's first go over why in my opinion you should NOT list with a firm specializing in "discount" listings:
Often times, the main goal of a discount listing brokerage can be to house as many listing as possible. They offer out their services typically at 3.5-4%, with 1% going to the listing firm, and 2.5-3% going to the selling firm. They work in volume, which is why they can afford to do every single listing for 1%. I have even seen adds flooding craigslist offering their MLS … (2 comments)

Yes Charita, I can GUARANTEE A SALE within 90 days, OR I WILL SELL IT FREE OF CHARGE! - 09/23/10 02:08 PM
I wrote this blog post in response to Charita Cadenhead's blog post titled, "Do you guarantee sellers that you can sell their home?"
I absolutely can and will guarantee a sale to my sellers provided they can do the following:
Price your home at at a price I deem to be TMV (True Market Value). The true market value is determined by analyzing active, pending, and sold comparables in their neighborhood, and in certain cases surrounding neighborhoods over the past 30-60 days. I do not go out 3-4 months like many agents do, because right now the market is ever changing. … (8 comments)

Crafting a strategy prior to writing an offer is essential in today’s market. - 09/23/10 11:06 AM
Love it! This blog post is so true on so many levels, and my favorite is “Is it more important to you that you get this house or that you get a great deal?” This is a well written blog post so I chose to re-share with the community!
Via Richard Weisser Coweta Fayette Real Estate:
Every buyer is different. And every buyer has different needs, wants, and expectations when it comes to purchasing real estate.
So when it’s time to write an offer, it is very important to craft a strategy that addresses each client’s individual preferences.
The first question I … (0 comments)

I want PROOF you submitted MY offer to YOUR seller! - 09/22/10 05:25 PM
The title says it all in this post. Sorry Leslie, I know I told you no more rants, but there really wasn't any other way to bring this topic to light.

I submitted an offer for my client on a home last month. The home was listed for just under 200,000, and was priced below market purposely by the seller in hopes of having a "bidding war". I quickly assessed the situation, and after showing the home to my buyers, I showed them EVERY active, pending, and sold home in the area, and I then proceeded to educate them … (97 comments)

Paloma Del Sol Real Estate - 09/22/10 02:24 PM
Paloma Del Sol Real Estate

Welcome to Paloma Del Sol! This community resides in South Temecula, right off Margarita Road, and is located smack dab in the heart of Temecula. The community features mature landscaping, walking trails, 5 community pool's and spa's, 4 tennis court's, several basketball courts, community parks, and several different communities within. The homes range in age from the early 1990's to the late 1990's, with the last tract being completed in 1997. The home sizes range from a tiny 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 920 square foot home, to a modest 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom, 2918 … (2 comments)

Copyright: Pictures that I have taken for use on my sites--Need help - 09/21/10 09:44 PM
Great Topic! In my community features, I take photos of homes all the time, from the public street, and it has always been my knowledge that I own the rights to this photo, love the topic though, what are your thoughts on this? Am i correct in my view on this?
Via Faye Taylor, CDPE (Keller Williams--Floresville, La Vernia, and San Antonio ):
Cindy and I have been working on doing some videos for UTUBE for our area.  We want to give clients a "flavor" of the area.  Our thoughts are to do each subdivision and the areas we live in and around.   … (6 comments)

Country Ridge Estates in Temecula California features a beautiful collection of Luxury Homes! - 09/21/10 08:54 PM
Country Ridge Estates in Temecula California features a beautiful collection of Luxury Homes!

I was driving through Temecula the other day, photoing various communities as I always do on the weekend, when I stumbled upon Country Ridge Estates in Temecula. I had never before known that this community, which consists of 1 street of luxury homes, existed in Temecula! You have to drive through Country Manor Estates to get to this community, which is located on Via Brisa in Central Temecula, off of Pauba & Ynez.

Country Ridge Estates in Temecula California features many different styles of homes, from … (1 comments)

Harveston Bank Owned Homes in Temecula California - 09/21/10 05:05 PM
Harveston Bank Owned Homes in Temecula California

Welcome to Harveston, a master planned community consisting of 1587 single family homes and condominiums, along with over 300 apartments.This community is built around a beautiful public 17 acre lake and park. Community ammenities consist of bike trails, pedestrian walkways, paddle boats, community pool & spa, clubhouse, fitness center, and an outdoor amphitheatre!

There is an elementary school within the community, known as Ysabel Barnett Elementary. Children can easily walk and ride their bikes to school. The middle school would be James L Day, and the high school would be Chaparral High … (0 comments)

Welcome to Country Manor Estates, a well established community in Temecula - 09/20/10 05:25 PM
 
Here is the latest community I have chosen to feature, Country Manor Estates, In Central Temecula, off of Ynez & Pauba Road, rests this small community of older homes built in the late 1980's, ranging in size from 1711 square feet, to 2504 square feet. Very few sales happen in here, as there only 8 streets of homes in this community.
The landscaping in the community is impeccably maintained! It has the feel of a forest, and reminds me a lot of Prescott, Arizona due to the giant pine trees, elevated view lots, and wide streets. There is only 1 … (1 comments)

Ally's GMAC Mortgage Halts Home Foreclosures in 23 States, including Florida, Connecticut, & New York! - 09/20/10 02:14 PM
I opened the newspaper today to see that Ally Financial Inc's GMAC Mortgage unit told listing brokers and agents alike to half foreclosures on homeowners in 23 states, including: Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Vermont, and Wisconsin.
GMAC Mortgage may "need to take corrective action in connection with some foreclosures" in the above mentioned states, according to a memo dated September 17th and reviewed by Bloomgerg News. Brokers were told to halt all evictions, cash for keys, lockouts, … (2 comments)

When did it become OK for Selling Agents to give out Combo code's to buyers? - 09/20/10 12:46 PM
This is a topic I have been meaning to write about since I first got started with ActiveRain at the beginning of this month, and this morning I finally reached my boiling point with this topic, so I am taking to my blog to "Vent", for lack of a better term.
I was on my way to work today, when I decided to do my bi-weekly check on one of my vacant listings. I check all my vacant listings twice a week, to ensure all doors and windows are locked properly, that no vandalism has occurred, and to collect business cards … (12 comments)

Stop the negative press!! 10 reasons why the Southern California Market is NOT headed for the infamous "Double Dip" - 09/19/10 04:21 PM
I turned on CNN this morning, and saw an hour long segment that absolutely trashed the real estate market. The doom gloomers were out in full force on this featured newscast. They were talking about the large drop in closed sales over the past two months, and how the market was going to drop 10-30% over the next 2 years due to the heightened number of foreclosures.
I have been seeing this "doom gloom" coverage in the media over the past several weeks, from CNN, to MSNBC, to the Press Enterprise, to The New York Times. It seems as if all … (7 comments)

Is the Las Vegas Valley Headed for the Infamous Double Dip? - 09/19/10 12:27 PM
I wanted to reblog this topic, as it led me to my next great blog post, which will come later in the day today :) The market is slowing, but it is NOT headed for a douple dip in my opinion. The media is quick to hop on the doom gloom theory whenever a misleading negative stat comes out, such as the decline in sales the month after the 8k credit expired.. Hello? Anyone think that we had 2-3 months of sales in that 1 month prior due to it being the last month buyers get 8k? Of course not, they … (2 comments)

Its sad to see "The Crab Mentality" exist on Activerain!! - 09/19/10 12:48 AM
I have been blogging full time for a little over 2 weeks. Between blogs & reblogs I have 50 posts, most of which are original blogs. Every so often, I see a great blog and MUST reblog, to share it with my blog subscribers, and the consumers who read my blog daily.
For the most part, 95% of my comments are great in nature. The Activerain community as a whole is an awesome group, one that I find myself learning and growing with each day! There is however, a few people who choose to consistently post negative comments on other member's … (17 comments)

Why are you a Listing Agent if you can't even answer your phone? Not EVERY question is answered via your lame 1 minute recording! - 09/18/10 01:32 PM
Hear me out here, guys, and I am sure 99% of you will agree with my stance on this! The "new" thing to do for Large REO Brokerages, & Large Short Sale Brokerages in my area is to have their "Office Number" as the only point of contact on their MLS Listings.
Conveniently, their "Office Number" is simply an automated voice, saying to press 1 if I am a buyer, or to press 2 if I am an agent. These are the only two options available, so obviously when I call, I press 2. This leads to the following automated recording: … (142 comments)

SLOW MARKET??? DON'T BELIEVE THE MEDIA HYPE - 09/18/10 12:28 AM
I saw this post and wanted to reblog it for several reasons. One is because I have been talking about this for weeks! A well priced home sells in days, so I don't know where the doom gloom media approach comes from. The other reason I wanted to reblog was so that others that read and subscribe to my blog can see that others feel the same way I do and can back it up. The proof is in the pudding. All 4 homes I listed in September all went pending within 2 weeks, and 3 within a week! Pricing correctly … (4 comments)

Dad Boards School Bus to accuse bullies, what would you do in this situation? - 09/17/10 08:04 PM
I was leaving for the weekend, when I came across a news post on msnbc. Officials in Seminole County, Florida are considering filing charges against a man who boarded his daughter's school bus in order to confront the bullies who were constantly picking on his daughter.
James Jones, 42, may face 2 misdemeanor charges for disorderly conduct and disturbing a school function. He told investigators he was sticking up for his daughter, after students at Greenwood Lakes Middle School were picking on her. According to his daughter, they were putting open condoms on her head and smacking her upside the head.
… (11 comments)

Activerain is my drug :) And I'm LOVING every BIT of it! - 09/17/10 11:42 AM
I fought with myself over the title of this blog post. I wanted to say Activerain is as addicting as drugs, but that just didn't sound right. My title says it all. Activerain is my drug, and I am now fully addicted to blogging. I literally find myself logged on 12-14 hours a day, hopping back and forth between my daily tasks at my brokerage, to blogging, to reading and digesting comments, to commenting on other blog posts, I love every moment of it!
The Activerain community is comprised of wonderful people, willing to help others, answer questions us "new kids" … (9 comments)

I am YOUR Temecula HUD Agent! Only a HUD approved Broker can sell you a HUD home! - 09/17/10 11:16 AM
Whether I agree with HUD's controversial policy on only allowing "HUD APPROVED" brokers to sell their homes or not, I am one of the lucky few approved to sell HUD homes. There are only 50 of us in Temecula, which means if you see a HUD home you like in Southwest Riverside County, chances are you will be calling one of us to purchase that home, and hopefully that "someone" is me!
I have sold 3 HUD homes this year, with 2 more currently in escrow. I am very familiar with their rules, guidelines, and policies, which can be the difference … (1 comments)

Navigating Through Multiple Offer Negotiations - 09/17/10 02:13 AM
Love this part of the post, as I wish I could send this to every agent & buyer in a multiple offer situation! It's not always about the sales price. A Seller looks at offers that have the best chance of actually closing, so just because you had the highest offer, doesn't mean its the best or strongest offer!
Enjoy, thanks for allowing me to reblog!
Via Loreena Yeo, Realtor® Frisco TX Homes www.316teamREALTY.com (214) 783-2210 (3:16 team REALTY):
Yes, it would be good if your listings receive at least 1 offer to negotiate in this real estate market. But I could tell … (2 comments)

A Great New Safety Tool Realtors Can Use - 09/17/10 02:11 AM
Love it! They never run out of great useful gadgets to invent these days! This is definitely a great tool to use if you are a Realtor out showing homes by yourself, or an elderly person who is alone most of the time. Great blog post! Thanks for allowing the reblog!
Via Jane Peters Los Angeles Living, Los Angeles Homes (Penn Properties):
I just caught the announcement of this great new safety app on AgentGenius. Mymoby.com on your cellphone allows you to alert your chosen contacts and emergency services of an emergency with the push of a button.You can even schedule moby to … (3 comments)

To Allow a Reblog or Not to Allow a Reblog? Why are some so against it, while others are for it? - 09/16/10 10:42 PM
Why do a lot of the top blog posts deactivate the re-blog feature? Is there something negative that happens from someone re-blogging something they found relevant? I really have been trying to get to the bottom of this, as it seems most allow re-blogs, but it seems once a blog post goes to "Featured Status" the re-blog tool mysteriously disappears, is this because once featured, you want all the comments & credit directed only at your blog post?
I really would like to know everyone's thoughts, and points of view on why they do, or do not allow their blog posts … (14 comments)

Welcome to Santiago Estates, the premier LUXURY home community in Temecula! - 09/16/10 04:19 PM
Welcome to Santiago Estates in Temecula! Buyers seeking their dream home should definitely look in Santiago Estates, a private community located off of Ynez and Jedediah Smith Road in Central/South Temecula. This community is situated in the most desirable area of the city, where the typical home size can be over 5000 square feet, and the typical lot is a minimum of 2.5 acres in size!
Santiago Estates in Temecula attracts a lot of buyers looking for the higher end homes you would see listed for $5,000,000 + in San Diego & Orange County, these buyers are looking to pay 1/2 … (3 comments)

Are YOU ready for the 2010 Temecula Fall Rod Run? Coming October 8th & 9th, Featuring pre 1974 Vehicles - 09/16/10 01:21 PM
I think the title speaks for itself. The 2010 Temecula Fall Rod Run is right around the corner! It is being held on October 8th and 9th. This year Mr George Barris is returning as the Grand Marshall. Please come out Friday night and visit with everyone, then come back Saturday to see the "Muster Coach" from the popular 1960's TV series "The Munsters". George Barris built famous custom TV cars such as the Batmobile, Kitt From Night Rider, the Beverly Hillbillies Car, and many more!
The Temecula Fall Rod Run is holding a canned food drive. Please bring cans down … (4 comments)

Ethics will become the defining quality of 21st Century Business - 09/16/10 12:50 PM
This was meant to be a wordless Tuesday blog. I saw this great photo, and decided it applied to our line of work in so many ways that is is worth Sharing. Ethics are a major part of Real Estate, and Realtor's are faced with ethical decisions and situations that will mold and shape their careers! I saw this photo and thought it applied 110% to our line of work! Enjoy and hopefully it will touch you in a way where you will want to share a story or event where ethics applied to a situation you found yourself in.
Happy … (2 comments)

Ethics - 09/16/10 12:11 PM
 
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… (42 comments)

I'm sorry; but I don't have sympathy for EVERY SINGLE PERSON losing their home! - 09/16/10 11:36 AM
I am reblogging this as I absolutely agree 110% with everything Ryan highlighted in this blog post. And if you don't like it, well then tell me why? All he is saying is people need to be held accountable, and he does a great job in seperating the "Not for" with the "Is for"
Enjoy :)
Via Ryan Case (Pacific Servicing):
*Disclaimer* This is a topic I have been wanting to write about for quite some time, and whether you agree with my opinions or not, please take the time to read the reasons why, and digest the information, before commenting.
First off, … (1 comments)

Alan's top 10 things to do to keep busy during this merely temporary "lull". - 09/16/10 11:33 AM
Love the post! Had to reblog. Great ideas on things to do to pass the time, and although I am very busy right now, thanks highly in part due to active rain, it still has some great ideas, such as #4! I have always wanted a classic car :)
Via Alan May, Coldwell Banker Evanston Realtor, Evanston Real Estate (Evanston Condos, Evanston Homes, North Shore Homes):
I keep reading in the media, and in blogs that some Realtors are experiencing a modest downturn in business. (Not me, heavens no... I'm busier than a one-armed wallpaper hanger)... and these people are finding themselves with … (1 comments)

The Pros and Cons of Real Estate Signage on Your Car - 09/15/10 11:07 AM
I read this blog with my morning coffee, and had to reblog! Thank you for allowing me to do so Jeff! I think license plate advertising is great, but the cheesy magnets and car wraps are a little much, they look obnoxious, and I have never heard of anyone getting business off of one of them.
Via Jeff Dowler ~ Carlsbad Real Estate ~ 760-840-1360 (RE/MAX Moonlight Beach (CA DRE Lic. # 01490977)):
Pros and Cons of Real Estate Signage on Your Car  Real estate marketing has undergone significant growth in the last few years, not just counting the on-line stuff you can … (1 comments)

Temecula Homes for sale - Arroyo At Paseo Del Sol - New Lennar Community Coming Soon!! - 09/14/10 10:43 PM
Arroyo at Paseo Del Sol - Coming Fall 2010
I was on Meadows Parkway today, as I like to drive by at least once a week, as I have seen grading start for the community across the street from both Paloma Del Sol and TMS (Temecula Middle School). They have stalled construction for 5+ years, waiting for the market to recover, and apparently Lenner is ready to bet that the market is stabalizing, by building a community named Arroyo at Paseo Del Sol
I went to Lennar's website, and found very limited information on the community. The home sizes will range … (0 comments)

Welcome to Rancho Highlands, a beautiful community in Temecula, California - 09/14/10 03:29 PM
Welcome to Rancho Highlands! This community is located off Ynez Road in Central Temecula close to the 15 freeway, Pat & Oscars, Rancho California Road, and local top rated award winning schools.
Rancho Highlands consists of 406 homes. The community features include: Swimming Pools, Spa, Tennis Courts, Basketball Courts, and two parks with tot-lots and picnic tables. The community was developed by three different bulders, and consists of various home styles from Mediterranean to Cape Cod. There are 3 seperate entrances to the community. The primary roles of the Association are to maintain aesthetic control, enforce the governing documents, and care … (3 comments)

The unoffical guide to the Activerain Point System - 09/14/10 02:06 PM
I am constantly finding myself confused on how exactly the point system works. I have stumbled upon probably 100 different posts and articles, and I think i finally have it down pat!
Activerain awards members points based on their participation within the network and community. The points are accumulated over the duration of each calendar week, which starts Monday morning, and ends Sunday night. 
The following are ways you can earn points & climb up the rankings in your area!
200 Points for each blog post, max 10 scored per week, 50 work minimum. 25 Additional Points when you add the … (24 comments)

Temecula/Murrieta School Districts Achieve Top 2009-2010 API Scores - 09/14/10 12:21 PM
Once again, Southwest Riverside County unveiled one of its grand pearls, one of the great attractions to its region...its academic strength.  The Press Enterprise today revealed the 2009-2010 API scores of 25 School Districts in the Inland Empire in Both Riverside and San Bernardino Counties (See Pages A8/A9 of Front Section).  Toping the list where Temecula Valley Unified with a District Score of 856 and Murrieta Valley Unified with a District Score of 837...Menifee Union followed closely with a District Score of 828.  Only 3 other Districts in the article scored over 800 - Lake Elsinore Unified at 812, Corona-Norco Unifed at 801 and Redlands Unified at 800.  Southwest Riverside County has … (2 comments)

The many problems with HUD's listing process for their REO homes, and why they lose millions! - 09/14/10 11:56 AM
I have been meaning to shed light on this topic for awhile. Hud sells homes via their website, http://www.hudpemco.com. They also utilize the help of a few "select" local brokers to list their properties, most of which do a horrible job, posting 1 photo, the desrcription consisting of "HUD HOME SOLD AS-IS". Now what buyer is going to see that, and then want to go see the actual home?
OK, lets look past their marketing flaws, and get to the real issues. Did you know you have to be a HUD "Approved Broker" to sell HUD homes, a process that takes … (5 comments)

Wordless Tuesday - Enjoy :) - 09/14/10 11:06 AM
The photo says it all. Enjoy, and please try to keep the comments positive :) I am not looking to start a political debate, just wanted to give others a quick laugh :) Often times we choose to ignore crucial issues, such as the weakening dollar, the increasing budget defecit, and the fact that our country is trillions of dollars in debt! We need to properly come up with long term solutions or pretty soon I may have to follow in my neighbors footsteps. He turns his paychecks into gold.. Yes crazy, and extreme, but who knows!

… (4 comments)

Where Do Buyers Come From? - 09/14/10 01:00 AM
I saw this blog and felt like reblogging to keep sharing with the Activerain community. However, I do feel more than 19% come from the internet! But who knows, maybe the statistics are changing :)
Via Myrl Jeffcoat (Real Living Great West Real Estate):
It is usual for home sellers to wonder and question real estate professionals about where homebuyers come from.  They wonder about the effectiveness of For Sale signs, Open Houses, various marketing and other tools used to sell homes successfully.It is estimated that 51% of homebuyers will find a home through their Realtor. Although 90% of homebuyers will initially look … (4 comments)

Low Balling Offers- Why Do Buyers Do it? - 09/14/10 12:57 AM
This blog post stood out to me! As one who writes low offers for both clients and investors from time to time, it is nice to see a blog post as the one below :)
Via Stephen Munson (Munson Realty):
Low Balling Offers-Why Do Buyers Do it?- It's really important for Buyers to understand how and why they make their offers. Often I find buyers make offers based upon what they've always been told buy their parents or others. For example: "Always go in with your offer at least 10%(or what ever formula they were given) under what the seller is asking".
The … (3 comments)

I just pended a listing in 3 days in the Four Seasons community in Hemet, a 55+ Community. Where are the doom gloomers now? - 09/13/10 01:53 PM
I love being able to blog about this topic. I recently listed a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom home in the guard gated community of Four Seasons in West Hemet. I took the listing, recommended a list price, the seller agreed to my list price, as they always do, and I proceeded with inputting the listing onto the MLS
This part never changes. I always fill in 100% of MLS data regardless if it is required to input the listing or not! I always use the full 500 character description, and input the maximum amount of photos (25 on the IMRMLS). My … (1 comments)

Come see this impressive French Valley Estates VIEW Home with a 42 ft pool, spa, 6 beds, 5 baths, Sold new for $850,000 - 09/13/10 11:58 AM
… (1 comments)

LAUGH AT MY NAME TAG IF YOU WISH ! ... BUT THAT SHINY LITTLE THING JUST GOT ME A CLIENT !!! - 09/13/10 12:18 AM
This post caught my eye, because I do often crack a smile when I see a Realtor walking around with a name tag, I never realized they could actually be used to get new clients! Great blog, and I am happy to re-blog :)
Via Sheldon Neal ~ That British Agent ~ Bergen County NJ (Bergen County, NJ - RE/MAX Real Estate Limited):
.
Ha !
... I hear so many of you right now !

"I wouldnt be caught DEAD wearing my REALTOR NAME TAG !!!!!"
 
OK ! No problem from me ! If it's not your thing, then I'd … (9 comments)

Promenade in Temecula, Circa 1999, A Beautiful Community close to The Promenade Mall - 09/12/10 02:59 PM
Welcome to Promenade, a beautiful small community close to the Promenade Mall in Temecula, off of Margarita Road, just south of Winchester Road. The community consists of only 4 streets of homes, including Georgetown Lane, Brandeis Court, Carleton Way, and last but not least Windward Circle.
There are 3 models in this community. The smallest is a single story, 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 2417 square foot home. The midsized model is a 6 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 3363 square foot home. You can make this model as small as a 4 bedroom, and as large as a 7 bedroom, depending on your … (0 comments)

I checked my Google Juice and was SHOCKED! Thanks ActiveRain - 09/12/10 10:55 AM
This is what I hope Raincamp does for my company and myself personally! I want to learn how to be on the first page of google just by doing what I love best, which is blogging and networking online!
Via Daniel J. Hunter, If I Can, I Will, Just Ask (REALTOR® with Prudential Tropical Realty New Port Richey, FL):
Hyper Local gives Great Google juice
So I decided to see if the market report indexed already on google.  I cleared my browsing history and opened an incognito window of Chrome.  Am I paranoid?  No I just want the real results.  Well I was … (4 comments)

Zillow charges $40 to enter a listing manually now? You're kidding me, right? - 09/12/10 10:45 AM
I am just getting back into the online marketing, branding, and networking arena, as all of you know. I just started blogging and becoming a full time Activerain member a little less than 2 weeks ago. I revamped my profile, heck, I even paid the $349 yearly fee to become a "rainmaker" as I ABSOLUTELY see its benefits which help reach the general public, aka the consumer by allowing my blog posts to be "public". This is one of the few sits I don't mind paying a membership fee, as what I get in return far surpasses what it costs!
Now, … (6 comments)

Wow! Great end unit REHABBED TURNKEY Townhome located in a quiet gated community! - 09/11/10 03:55 PM
… (1 comments)

Is Raincamp worth it? - 09/11/10 01:06 PM
I have been meaning to ask the community this question for awhile now. I am new to the blogging arena, only been doing it about 2 weeks, love blogging, and love the potential when you group it with google potential, referral business, and ultimately branding your name.
I saw a RainCamp tab at the top of the page the other day, clicked it, and realized there is one coming up in San Jose (1 hour flight) on September 27th. Let me just say I have been to the inman news conferences in New York as well as San Francisco, and I … (64 comments)

I've Gotta Give Props to These Newbies 'Cause They're Kicking up Dust in the Rain - 09/11/10 12:13 PM
I wanted to reblog this one, because we are a "newbie" and we definitely have been kicking up our own dust cloud! We have been blogging full time for less than 2 weeks, and have almost 8000 points. This community is amazing and its a great way to channel who I am and what I feel about all different topics.
Via Charita Cadenhead, Bham Broker/Property Manager (Bham WIiRE Realty, LLC (Sales & Property Management)):
I've Gotta Give Props to These Newbies 'Cause They're Kicking up Dust in the Rain (30CD19)
I just browsed back through July and August to see who had joined … (4 comments)

Today is September 11th, 2010. Please take a moment to pray for the families that lost loved ones! - 09/11/10 12:50 AM
 



Thousands of lives were lost when the worst attack on US soil occured on September 11th, 2001. This was a tragedy that ultimately brought our nation closer together, as it seemed as if everyone either was directly affected by the loss of a loved one or indirectly affected by knowing someone who lost a loved one. I have a close friend who lost a family member on the terrible day. He remains a great friend, and I was there for him on that day and am still there for him 9 years later. I like to think … (4 comments)

The ActiveRain Ambassador Program - 09/10/10 11:24 PM
I wanted to know what an ActiveRain Ambassador Was. So I utilized google, and the first thing that came up was this great blog. I am only 2 weeks into blogging, and absolutely love it, once I hit 100,000 points, and learn how to utilize my blog to make it to the top of google, I will attempt to become an Ambassador! I am attending the blog camp on September 27th in San Jose, so see you there!
Via Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager (ActiveRain):
The ActiveRain Ambassador Program
Today we are launching the new 'ActiveRain Ambassador' program for members of the … (2 comments)

"Realtors need to stay out of the mortgage arena" or don't they? - 09/10/10 05:29 PM
I think Realtor's need to stay out of lending, stick to one line of business and stay with that! I can't stand when the Realtor is the lender, its almost a conflict of interest to the buyers, as they are almost forced to use the Realtor vs. a direct reputable lender.
Via Jeff Belonger-The FHA Expert - FHA Loans - FHA mortgages - USDA loans - VA Loans ( - FHA Home Loans - Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc):
 
What does the word Realtor mean to you?  What would you consider your duties as a Realtor? I always find some sort … (1 comments)

To All Banks that utilize Ocwen's asset management services, WAKE UP, and realize what a horrible job they do! - 09/10/10 02:31 PM
For those of you who have sold an Ocwen property, you are already laughing to yourself as you know what I am about to say! To this day, I do not understand how major companies such as this continue to land major banks as clients. Their entire operation is a complete joke, yet the banks continue to feed them thousands of listings across the country!
For our area, David Judd is the "Local Listing Broker". Well, actually, for about 6 counties in Southern California, David Judd is the main listing broker for Ocwen properties. Every single MLS has 1 blurry photo … (1 comments)

Its all in your MLS Presentation! Are you willing to go above and beyond the competition? - 09/10/10 12:27 PM
I recently listed a "2 on a lot" in San Diego, near SDSU. The typical market time for this area is 45 days for multi unit properties. I explained this in detail to my seller, and made them fully aware not to be emailing or calling me daily asking why we had no offers after a week on the market. This is a corporate seller, and to be quite honest, with our MLS presentation, our listings sell in days, vs months. But, being this was a multi-unit, and my 1st multi-unit listing with this particular seller, I wanted to stick to … (8 comments)

The ActiveRain Featured Blog Post - 09/09/10 06:34 PM
Finally someone who can explain how the Active Rain Featured blog post works. I always wonder why the same members keep getting featured and how exactly they decide who to feature! Well the light has been shed (sort of :))
Via Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager (ActiveRain):
The ActiveRain Featured Blog Post -
I get asked everyday about the ActiveRain Featured Blog post.  The wide variety of questions range from "Who Is Featuring The Posts" to "Why Are The Same Members Featured over and over again?"  Well, it's taken me 2 1/2 years working here to finally write a post about the … (5 comments)

Did the U.S. overreact to 9/11? - 09/09/10 03:01 PM
I was scanning the front page of CNN as I do every day as I try to jump start my morning, and my eyes and mouse went right to the headline "Did the U.S. overreact to 9/11?"
My first instinct was to blast someone who has the audacity to question whether we overreacted to the deadliest attack ever on American soil. These terrorists changed our entire way of life! They killed thousands of innocent people, the hurt millions of families, they affected our economy in a negative way, and they managed to insight a fear in America that still exists to … (7 comments)

Before You Buy A BRAND NEW HOME! - 09/09/10 01:13 PM
Great blog! New homes are not the way to go out here in Southern California! Buyers will get a much better deal if they purchase a short sale, or bank owned home, as they are easier to negotiate with, and often will pay incentives regardless which lender you choose
Via Greg Nino Houston Texas (RE/MAX West Houston Professionals):
In one of my filing cabinets I have a "wannabe drawer." These are folks that want to sell, but can't. They are also home owners who purchased a brand new home. The are grossly upside down, distraught, surprised and even in disbelief when I tell … (1 comments)

Higher Payment on Loan Modification - 09/09/10 01:37 AM
Pretty interesting blog regarding loan modifications! I have always been curious to see if they actually work, and someone's personal story regarding a personal experience with receiving one, so read below and enjoy!
Via J. Philip Faranda (J. Philip LLC) Westchester County NY:
We got word last week that a past client's loan modification was approved. As happy and relieved as they were, my beleaguered clients had to swallow a rough pill: on the terms of the approved loan modification, their mortgage payment would be several hundred dollars higher than their original payment. 
It had been a long process. First, they had a … (1 comments)

You Never Have a Second Chance to Make a "First Impression".. - 09/09/10 01:32 AM
Where I am located agents rarely answer their phone and "follow through" once their buyer or seller enters escrow. So this topic caught my eye! So true and a very good topic!
Via Todd Picconi Inland Empire Living, Inland Empire Southern California (Stapp Home Realty):
It starts from the first phone call and carries into escrow if you can make it that far.  Right? 

If you're a Buyer's Agent, you probably are thinking along the same lines....?  You want to create SOLID RELATIONSHIPS right now to carry you SMOOTHLY AND SUCCESSFULLY into as Many Escrows as you can get into and CLOSE. 
… (0 comments)

Quran Burning backlash is growing! What's your opinion? - 09/08/10 03:37 PM
Have you been following this in the news? Even the pastor's old church is condeming the Quran-burning! Flordia Pastor Terry Jones plans to burn copies of the Quran on September 11th. The main issue with this is that it could endanger our troops and our overall war effort, according to top commander Gen. David Tetraeus. It is precisely the kind of action the Taliban uses and could cause signifigant problems, he told the media.
As "an act of patriotism", the media should not cover the burning, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said. She also said, "It's regrettable that a pastor in … (6 comments)

Negotiating Advice for Buyers and Agents Alike - Some Perspective from my 13-Year Career - 09/08/10 03:00 PM
I really liked this blog post, it has very good information, from a seasoned veteran! I especially like the part about offers and negotiation. Great Stuff!
Via Jason Crouch, Broker - Austin Texas Real Estate (512-796-7653) (Austin Texas Homes, LLC):
One of my favorite things about being a real estate broker/agent is helping my buyer clients to negotiate the best deal on the home they have chosen.  Having represented hundreds of buyers over my 13-year career, I've found that each situation is unique, and that's part of what I enjoy.  The mental challenge makes it....fun?  That may be too strong a word to … (1 comments)

Bank of America 'Secret' Short Sale Program | BoA HPO Short Sale Program Details - 09/08/10 11:28 AM
I hope this program actually does see the light of day. I for one have not had success with Bank Of America as they tend to stick to high asking prices, very little negotiation is allowed, and its almost as if they prefer to foreclose. But if this program makes it out of the dark and into the light, it will be great for business!
Via Tim and Julie Harris (Harris Real Estate University):
Breaking News….
Bank of America is testing and will soon have a national roll-out of a new  program that will revolutionize the short sale process.
This new program is … (1 comments)

Welcome to Harveston; A Master planned lake community in Temecula! - 09/07/10 06:04 PM
I was driving home yesterday, and decided to stop and photo Harveston. Harveston is a beautiful Master-Planned Community nestled in North Temecula just off the 15 freeway. The community consists of 1,587 single family homes and condominiums, along with over 300 apartments.
The community is build around a beautiful public 17 acre lake & park. Community ammenities consist of bike trails, pedestrian walkways, paddle boats, community pool, spa, clubhouse, fitness center, and an outdoor amphitheatre!
Ysabel Barnett Elementary school is located within the community where children can easily walk or ride their bikes to school. The middle school is James L … (3 comments)

I saw Machete this weekend, and was appalled not at the movie, but at the parents who brought their children! - 09/07/10 04:49 PM
If I didn't have a cliffhanger you wouldn't be reading this blog, as a blog about "Machete" is not typically a blog you would see on Active Rain, but I was so disgusted at what I saw I made a huge mental note to blog about it early in the week.
This movie actually interested me, believe it or not, as it did highlight on some of the immigration issues going on in our country. I typically would have zero interest in a bloody movie featuring a half naked Lyndsey Lohan, but the previews, along with the surprisingly decent reviews coupled … (2 comments)

Craigslist is losing control of its website, and it's egotistical founder could care less! - 09/04/10 02:15 PM
I was at an Inman news conference about 3-4 years back in San Francisco, and I had the, hmm, I guess you could say "pleasure" of running into Craig Newmark, the founder of Craigslist. He was nothing as I had expected. He walked in with a young woman half his age on one arm, and an ego the size of California on the other arm. He was a speaker on a panel, and for the whole 5 minutes he sat up there, all he managed to do was duck every question asked to him about privacy, spam, erotic ads, etc. He … (8 comments)

Valdemosa - A Newer KB Homes community in Northeast Temecula - 09/03/10 04:35 PM
Welcome to Valdemosa! A KB community located in North Temecula. From the I-15 south exit Winchester Road, go east to Murrieta Hot Springs, turn right, and go up the hill until you hit Chandler Drive. The community features 3 flexible floorplans, ranging in size from 2,492 square feet to 3,586 square feet and include 3 to 4 bedrooms, 2 to 4 bathrooms and have a unique crafstmen look to them!
The community is situated high atop the hills of Temecula with Breathtaking views of the entire valley below, And it is the first community in Southern California to provide water-wise landscaping … (0 comments)

 
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