I want to turn your house into a Talking House - 02/28/10 11:59 PM
Here is one tool I've been using for a while now to help promote your homes and make them stand out from the crowd... it is called "Talking House" and the benefit is awesome... it promotes your home on the radio!
If your selling your home, I will give you a free demonstration!
I even have shelfing to place the transmitter as high as possible!  I've gotten a 2 mile range before!
The AM Transmitters are FCC Legal so call me today and we can talk about getting your home SOLD!
Thanks,
Tom Davis (302) 398-3757
… (2 comments)

Selling A Home Is Not An Easy Task - 02/28/10 11:56 PM
If selling a home was so easy you would be a REALTOR (R) but that's why we are here to your rescue!
I have 5 great videos I would love to show you that talks about Selling Your Home and selecting your real estate agent!
If Your interested in viewing them please call me today at: (302) 398-3757 and just ask for me REALTOR (R) Tom Davis!
I look forward to helping you get this Tough Job Done In Today's Market!
… (0 comments)

Study the market - 02/28/10 11:53 PM
Study the market
 
The REALTOR ® you work with makes all the difference in the world!  Are they Full-Time or Part-Time?  I am a Full-Time Agent and spend my time researching and analyzing the market conditions to best help my buyers buy a home at the right price. 
 
If your interested in receiving a list of recent sold homes in the Delaware area please contact me and I'll be happy to help you! 
 
I can even give you some other market data that would be sure to delight you!
 
Feel free to contact me at: www.FreeHomeSearch.DreamStation.com Ask … (2 comments)

What will my monthly payments be if I borrow $100,000 for my first home here in Delaware. - 02/28/10 11:52 PM
What will my monthly payments be if I borrow $100,000 for my first home here in Delaware.
 
That is a great question!  If you borrow $100,000 to buy your first home here in Delaware we use a chart called a Amortization Table that can help you calculate your monthly payments. 
 
You simply divide your loan amount by $1,000 and in this case it is 100.
 
You then take the interest rate and look up the corresponding "Factor" for it in the chart.
 
In this case the factor is: 6.0 for a 30 year mortgage. Since the interest … (0 comments)

Monthly Mortgage Payment - 02/28/10 11:51 PM
Monthly Mortgage Payment
 
Ever heard the Term PITI... That stands for Principal, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance.
 
Principal is the amount of money you borrow.
 
Interest is the lender charges for the use of the money you borrow.
 
Taxes is the property taxes you pay.
 
Insurance is required by the lender to protect your property.
 
If you would like more home buying tips please email me by visiting my contact form at: www.FreeHomeSearch.DreamStation.com
… (0 comments)

How much house can you afford? - 02/28/10 11:51 PM
How much house can you afford?
 
Your buying power and your borrowing power determine your ability to buy a house.  Buying power is the money you can afford to pay for a house.  Borrowing power is the money you can expect the mortgage lender to advance to you. 
 
You will have to decide the amount that is best for you since the amount the lender can lend you may not agree with what you can actually afford. 
 
Start writing down all your expenses and thinking about what you spend money on each month.  A great lender can help … (0 comments)

Rent vs Buy Decision - 02/28/10 11:50 PM
Rent vs Buy Decision
It is a hard leap to make for many but many make the leap for various reasons.  When is it a good time to buy a home and stop renting?  It is a question many buyers wonder and fear about.  It all starts with some various basic things like your income, the house price, the down payment, what your monthly mortgage payment will be versus renting. 
 
Here is what I recommend. A.) Stop the worring! B.) Get answers from a lender who can give you a good idea of what kind of expenses to prepare for.  … (4 comments)

So what were median home prices like back in 1987? - 02/28/10 11:49 PM
So what were median home prices like back in 1987?
 
New York City $180,000.00
Boston $178,000
San Francisco $176,000
Orange County, CA $174,000
Hartford $163,000
Los Angeles $145,000
San Diego $131,000
Providence $127,000
 
So REALTOR ® Tom Davis... what are home prices like today?
Well That Is A Great Question you ask... Today in 2010 the average
Price in Kent County, Delaware is right around $191,000.00
 
If you compare the prices, I think we are low, low, low!  This could be
A great opportunity for the right buyer!
 
Free Home Searches www.FreeHomeSearch.DreamStation.com
 
PS - Did I … (6 comments)

Home ownership is the American Dream and right now offers a wonderful opportunity for First-Time Home buyers! - 02/28/10 11:48 PM
Home ownership is the American Dream and right now offers a wonderful opportunity for First-Time Home buyers!
The $8,000 Tax Credit Runs Until April 30th, 2010.  It may seem like the Great Depression of the 1930s but if you have a good job and some cash saved up, the real estate market may be just the bargain your looking for!  Did you know that in 1935 during the Old Great Depression...  home ownership was confined to less than just 30% of the population?  Then by 1980 it was hard to believe that nearly two thirds of the American people lived in … (0 comments)

REAL ESTATE 101: QUALIFY THE CALLER - 02/28/10 11:04 PM
Kelly did a great post on Qualifying!  Can I say it again... QUALIFY the Caller!  You will want to chime into this one if you missed out... thanks again Kelly!
Via Coco Plum Realtors, Kelly Willey, FLORIDA KEYS:
REAL ESTATE 101: QUALIFY THE BUYER CALLER

 
Is it because sales are slow or agents have forgotten the basics? Either way it needs repeating and/or re-learning that you ALWAYS qualify the buyer Caller.
 When a call comes into your office from the sign, internet or less frequently an ad,  it is the real estate professionals duty and obligation to QUALIFY the caller. At … (2 comments)

Interest or Offers? - 02/28/10 11:03 PM
Is your listing Looking Good and Shining Bright?  Don had a great post to help you with that one!
Thanks for the post this week!
Via Don Wixom (RE/MAX Advantage Nampa, ID):
Interest or Offers?
Typically you must have interest in your property in order to obtain an offer, but interest alone is not enough!
You gotta have offers (well at least one offer)!
The PRICE of the property will most likely ATTRACT the interest (prospective buyers) but what does it take to get the OFFER(S)?
I showed one house on Friday afternoon that sounded too good to be true!  It seemed to … (0 comments)

Gary Keller of Keller Wiliams on Good Morning America: you HAVE to watch this!!! - 02/28/10 11:00 PM
Connie was the first I saw to post the video of this weeks show on Good Morning America featuring Gary Keller... now I did watch the show and was disapointed that he was not on TV that long... Gee I think the whale story got more publicity than the real estate did.  It proves that the TV stations like to focus on what is doom and gloom!  I think their was some good tips for sellers on this small 3-5 minute segment but was VERY DISAPOINTED that ABC didn't have a longer discussion on the matter since it affects everyone these … (1 comments)

"You're the Experts.." Said the young First time Seller - 02/28/10 10:56 PM
Sally and David stress the reality of selling in todays market...  The Market Can't Have changed ??!  Really??!  Yes Really!
Via Sally & David Hanson WI Realtors Res.\Comm\Short Sale\CDPE\ABR\e-Pro (Keller Williams 414-525-0563):
  We were recently referred to a young couple. Both had good jobs....and had just started a family and wanted to move to a larger home and continue growing their family. We went through each room of the home discussing staging, removing furniture, reducing clutter.  Yes, they knew the housing market wasn't what it was and this was the perfect time to move a little further west and replace their cute … (1 comments)

As a first time homebuyer, not knowing anything about buying a home, where do I start? Realtor or Loan Officer?? - 02/28/10 10:53 PM
First Time Home Buyers read the internet for answers to buying a home and sometimes they get the information in different ways and answers... no wonder they are confused!  Thanks Jeff for a great post this week... it really is important to get PRE-APPROVED!
Via Jeff Belonger -- The FHA Expert.com -- FHA Loans -- FHA mortgages - USDA loans (Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc):
Real Estate Question : As a first time home buyer not knowing anything about buying a home, where do I start?

 

 
The question above was something I just read on Trulia's questions and … (0 comments)

Distraught Homeowner Bulldozes House - 02/28/10 10:51 PM
Diana was the first person to inform me this week of a homeowner who BULLDOZES HIS HOUSE IN OHIO!?  Are you kidding me?!  GULP!  You have got to see this video to believe it... Sellers are desperate for attention... Chime into this post... this one surely got my attention this week.  Thanks Again, Diana!
Via Diana Manzato (Coldwell Banker):
Distraught Homeowner Bulldozes House in Ohio
This may be old news to many of you, but it was the first time I've seen it.
I suspect that this is not happening regularly by distraught homeowners, but it was a bit shocking that a person … (0 comments)

If You Don't Take Some Risks...It's Hard to Get the Rewards - 02/28/10 10:49 PM
JL Had my favorite post this week!  It's all about Taking Risks!  Failing Really Is Okay because you have not really failed if you get back up!  So get yourself up and chime into this Excellent Post... once again... I rated it my FAVORITE post of the week!
Thanks JL!
Via JL Boney, III Columbia, SC Real Estate (Russell and Jeffcoat):
 
 I don't know a single person that has started any business with failing as a large part of their plan. In fact, everyone who has ever started any business has planned the exact opposite. They have planned to succeed and … (0 comments)

FREE Money -- First time home buyers don't miss out on the $8,000 Tax Credit!! - 02/28/10 10:45 PM
Liz did a great post on the first time home buyer tax credit... great work!  Time is quickly running out for those buyers! 
Via Liz Flint (Century 21 Hardee-Team Realty):
First time home buyers don't miss out on the $8,000 Tax Credit!!
First-time home buyers -- 10% of the purchase price up to $8,000.  This money does not need to be repaid.
         Requirements to be eligible:
Must not have owned a principal residence in the last three years. Make less than $125,000 yearly for a single tax payer or $225,000 for married filing jointly. Home must be less than $800,000. Enter into a … (0 comments)

TEMECULA SHORT SALE AGENT/951-588-7050 Short sale before Foreclosure!! - 02/28/10 10:44 PM
Laura had a great post on short sales this week... simple and basic rundown of the process... great work!
Via Laura Emery (Realty Works):
NO COST TO YOU SHORT SALE! CALL ME I CAN HELP YOU THROUGH THE SHORT SALE PROCESS.
Laura@realtywrks.com
951-588-7050
What is a real estate short sale?
A Short Sale, also called “Short Pay” is a process through which your lender agrees to settle for less than what is owed to them. They do this as an alternative to the expensive and time consuming process of foreclosure. Each lender has their own  process through which they decide whether … (0 comments)

Did you know you can reference individual comments in a blog post? - 02/28/10 10:43 PM
Jim had a great post this week... it was something I never even realized...gee and I've been here at Active Rain for 2+ Years...Gulp!  Reference individual comments..... a little trick to referencing comments... it will save time!  Thanks Jim!
Via Jim Frimmer, San Diego Mission Valley Realtor (Century 21 Award):
Something I learned only recently is that you can reference individual comments in a blog post.
Look at any comment in your blog post and you can see that they are numbered.
But did you notice that the number is in blue text and underlined?
That means it's a link.
So if you … (0 comments)

An Expired Listing ~ What would you do if you were me? - 02/21/10 06:36 PM
Donald needs some help getting an expired listing to sell... feel free to chime in to his post... Remember that thought...Price is King... I feel problems like this are solved by a price reduction since they say every home has it's price but anyway...free free to offer your own opinions.
Via Donald Bradbury, 610-952-3578 REALTOR Bucks County PA (The Bradbury Team at Coldwell Banker Heritage):
I have a listing that expires at the end of January.  The property did not sell.  I have done everything possible in terms of on line real estate marketing.  This home was for sale three years ago with … (7 comments)

FOUNTAIN HILLS HOMES FOR SALE: SHORT SALE HOMES - 02/21/10 06:25 PM
I think Judi did a great job showing off Arizona!  Boy did I love those stunning pictures! Thanks for sharing those with us all!
Via Judi Boad (Accurate Realty Group - Keller Williams ):
FOUNTAIN HILLS HOMES FOR SALE: SHORT SALE HOMES
When you are doing the research to buy a home in Fountain Hills or Scottsdale, you deserve the most up to date information available. Diverse communities with all the amenities you could want are right here at your fingertips. Homes available in beautiful Fountain Hills offer Gated communities, luxury custom homes, mountain, and city light views, world famous golf courses … (2 comments)

Hot water heater and homes in Delaware - 02/21/10 06:01 PM
I recently read an important post about the hot water heater.  It should have an 18 inch platform to avoid fire hazards.  Every home needs one of these and you want to be sure that yours is large enough to supply your needs.  The system should be able to handle running let's say your dishwasher and take a shower at the same time. 
 
Oil-fired and gas-fired water heaters are quite efficient and will reheat more quickly.  An electric water heater takes longer to reheat so that is why you usually find them with a 60 gallon tank. 
 
If you … (5 comments)

Repairs a home needs in Delaware - 02/21/10 05:59 PM
The Repairs a home needs can often throw a buyer though a loop so that's why I always address the repair thing right up front before we begin any tour. 
 
It should be expected that all homes have something wrong.  Really , none of them are perfect and even the brand new homes have been known to have inspection problems.
 
Don't worry too much as I will ensure you get a home inspection that will tell us exactly what issues the home has. 
 
If the home has any structural issues the seller will be required to fix those … (0 comments)

Roof Problems on the home you buy here in Delaware - 02/21/10 05:57 PM
Roof problems are a common thing when buying a home.  It is one thing I study for my buyers as they tour the home.  I want to address any problems I notice.  It can me among one of the most disturbing things you will encounter when you search for a house to buy.  Roofs can be a little more than pocket change, they can add up as a big expense.  It is important to know that the rood repair is not necessarily a deal breaker as some sellers are willing to negotiate.
 
In a matter like this it is important … (0 comments)

Growing Vegetables on your Delaware property - 02/21/10 05:55 PM
Growing Vegetables on your property can be a great way to save money. With the Spring and Summer Approaching us soon this is something to think about when you purchase a home.  I know many folks like to have their own personal gardens.
 
Take a look at the quality of the soil and see if it is rocky, sandy, or does it seem to be just right...rich and fertile?  Also take note at the sunlight direction. 
 
If you have kids, is the yard large enough for you and a garden? 
 
Speak to your REALTOR ® if you have … (0 comments)

Handling Email - 02/21/10 05:53 PM
Handling Email can get overwhelming but I always feel good when I take a day to clean it out.  I always open the most important emails first and create rules for everything else.
 
Only problem is I occasionally overlook emails that are in the folders I created!  Oops!
 
So just like your desk.... your email must be cleaned out too!  I find that having an organized email keeps you on top of things!
 
An organized desk can make the difference in your productivity as well!
 
So I like to spend my Sundays Organizing those 2 things so … (8 comments)

First Time Buyers and Mistakes That First Time Buyers Make as it is some good advice for Delaware - 02/21/10 05:52 PM
First-time buyer reality is that there is "No Perfect Home" as if their was it would have been built just for you.  Every customer is different with their own set of expectations. Almost every time we sit down to discuss the home criteria the truth in the matter is that the absolute dream house you would want to own and live in for your whole life long usually is a fantasy. 
Remember that this is your first-house and their will be some things that you will need to understand about buying a home.  Some homes you see will be much older … (0 comments)

Price Range Mistakes - 02/21/10 05:50 PM
Buyers who want to look at homes above their price range are making a huge mistake!  What happens is you will fall in love with a home that you cannot afford!  Then guess what happens: You Break Your Heart and The Other homes never live up to your expectations! 
 
For many buyers they peak at homes just a hare above their price range and then go back.  It is a good idea to set the price of the home range you are looking for before you go hunting for the perfect dream home.
 
More often than not you will … (0 comments)

Best home or worst home first - 02/21/10 05:49 PM
Do you show the best homes first or the worst homes first? We have all heard this discussion and each time it is a back and forth exercise among agents. 
 
I don't really have a set path to follow on the homes personally.  I find that I just map them out based on the geography locations and usually if the customer likes home # 3 but we still have #4 and #5 to see they still go back to #3 anyway so it doesn't matter!
 
The customer will pick the home they like! 
 
I always say to them … (10 comments)

Read More Daily - 02/21/10 05:48 PM
I've made a goal to read 10-15 pages everyday.  I think right now is a good time to focus on building our skills to the best of our abilities.  We are all super busy professionals but it doesn't take much time to read a small amount each day and after all we do spend time reading blogs plus networking.  Just food for thought, If you read 15 pages every day for 365 days a year that would be 5,475 extra pages and in my opinion an extra $5,475.00 in your pocket just for taking a half hour each day to better … (0 comments)

Free Information Center - 02/21/10 05:48 PM
Do you sometimes feel like you are a free information center?  Real estate customers do not always realize the value of our time or appreciate everything we do for them.  I am finding today's consumers are getting more savvy and more sophisticated as time evolves.  The internet has empowered these consumers to believe they are experts in gathering as much FREE information as they can.  Not all information is correct either! 
 
The internet is here to stay and so is consumers so we are all adapting to this constant change in consumer activity. 
 
The message is clear: Value your … (3 comments)

Even professionals sometimes ignore safety - 02/21/10 12:07 AM
Did you know? 18" platform is needed for the Water Heater?  Russel had a real good post with lots of fire hazards... I learned quite a bit just by reading and seeing the picture in this post... thanks again Russel... feel free to chime in!
Via Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant):
Several years ago, I did an inspection on a house being sold by a certain professional race car driver whose name virtually everyone would recognize.
He was at the home inspections, out in the garage working on, uh, cars, of course ☺☻☻☺.
Inspecting the garage is … (3 comments)

You Live In A Winter Climate Like Maine..And You Should Wonder About Lake Safety Ice Thickness. - 02/21/10 12:00 AM
Andrew had some great advice tips when it comes to these winter conditions... I particularly liked: if your feet are cold..put on your hat. Yes so true!  Thanks Andrew! Feel free to chime in to this post...  I really liked the snow view BTW!
Via Andrew Mooers | Northern Maine Real Estate / Aroostook County Broker (MOOERS REALTY):
How much ice is needed to support the weight of one person? The answer according to the American Pulpwood Association is  2 inches for one person on foot.  You may wonder why someone would want to be on a Maine lake, brook, pond or river?  … (3 comments)

Dryer Exhaust Duct Cleaning and Dryer Vent Safety Tips - 02/20/10 11:56 PM
Dayn had a great post about Dryer Exhaust and Fire Hazards.... Good food for thought and it was something that isn't discussed often on here... thanks!
Via Dayn Benson (Dryer Vent Wizard):
Dryer duct cleaning is often neglected by homeowners; failure to clean dryer ducts is the number one cause of over 15,000 clothes dryer fires reported annually.
 
Other Causes of Dryer Fires
 
Improper dryer exhaust ducts are also a fire hazard.  Vinyl dryer exhaust ducts tend to sag, allowing flammable lint to build up.  Flexible foil dryer exhaust ducts can be crushed behind the clothes dryer, trapping lint and restricting … (0 comments)

How to Get the Most From a Real Estate Agent - 02/20/10 11:53 PM
How to get the most from a Real Estate Agent... I Rated this my favorite post all week!
J. Phillip... did is a great post!  I loved it!  If you missed it... you should read it!
It really makes sense and I hope consumers understand!
Via J. Philip Faranda (J. Philip LLC) Westchester County NY:
I received an email yesterday from someone I showed some houses to this past summer. I didn't remember him at first, but he had some questions about a property. I reached out to the listing agent for answers, and before she responded, I got another email from the guy today. " … (4 comments)

Something You Didn't Know About Monopoly - 02/20/10 11:51 PM
Lise had a fun post that made me feel good...especially during a rough week... I think I want to play a game of Monopoly now after reading this post!  Feel free to chime in... It was some great history I didn't know... now you can read up ... Thanks Lise!
Via Lise Howe, Assoc. Broker and Attorney Licensed in DC, MD, VA,Coldwell Banker (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Chevy Chase):
(You'll  never look at the game  the same way again!)Starting  in 1941, an increasing number of British Airmen found themselves as the involuntary guests of the Third Reich, and  the Crown was casting about for ways … (1 comments)

Competition Amongst Buyers - 02/20/10 11:48 PM
Jesse had a great post... Imagine the feelings of the buyers who lost on the home only from $2,500! ... Now imagine if that happened to them multiple times!  Feel free to chime in to this fun food for thought post... thanks again Jesse...
Via Jesse Garcia (Keller Williams Realty):
In the green corner, a buyer approved at $250,000 w/ a 3.5% down payment and needs a 3% seller credit for closing costs. In the red corner, a buyer approved at $245,000 w/ a 5% down payment and cash for closing costs. Which offer is higher? Assuming a basic offer, the red corner … (0 comments)

Always take business cards and contact information with you.... - 02/20/10 11:47 PM
Russel Ray had a great post explaining in a amusing way exactly why you need to bring business cards with you everywhere you go... chime on in...
Via Russel Ray, San Diego home inspector (Russel Ray, Property Consultant):
I'm pretty flexible when it comes to doing home inspections.
The earliest one I ever did started at 4:00 a.m. I had no problem doing that because I start inside, so by the time I finished with the inside, it was light outside.
The latest I ever started was just a little after the sun went down, at 10:00 p.m. ☺☻☻☺ It was a … (0 comments)

Interest Rates To Remain Low, But For How Long? - 02/20/10 11:45 PM
Ray had a great post about getting buyers off the fence before they have regrets... feel free to chime in... I enjoyed the topic...
Via Ray Wright (Keller Williams Realty):
The CEO or Freddie Mac, Ed Haldeman, recently gave a speech to the Detroit Economic Club regarding a number of issues including the state of the current Real Estate market.  According to Mr. Haldeman we are in a "transition to a recovery".  He went on to state that the two main factors were the stimulus package and the fact that the Fed was keeping interest rates at record lows.
One statement he made … (0 comments)

Mortgage Payment - 02/14/10 03:36 PM
Many customers ask me what will my mortgage payment be?
First I always say... It's up to you want your mortgage payment will be!  You decide a payment that is best suited for you!  If you know you can only spend $800 a month than stick to that!  Etc!
You will be working out a comfortable payment with your lender and determining how much house you can afford based on your budget!
You always want to start with your budget first!  Not a good idea to be looking at $300,000 homes if you can only afford $800 a month!  You will … (7 comments)

Credit Repair - 02/14/10 03:14 PM
I run into all kinds of customers and some of them need assistance with Credit Repair.  It doesn't have to cost you a lot of money to work on your credit!  I am not a credit repair expert and so I can only guide you into the right places for you to do your own thorough research.
A Good Place to start is to ask your lender ... I asked one lender where would be a good place for customers to go and he suggested www.LexingtonLaw.com  as one idea as he has had clients be successful with them.   Their is a fee for … (4 comments)

Real Estate Agent Going Paperless As Possible - 02/14/10 02:59 PM
In a world of lots of papers (especially when you are a Real Estate Agent)... it is good to go as paperless as possible!  I am currently on a quest to find the best PDF. Scanner out there!  2 Scanners have come to my attention: ScanSnap S510 Instant PDF Sheet-Fed Scanner and the Fujitsu ScanSnap S1500 Instand PDF Sheet-Fed Scanner.
Basically I am looking for blazing fast speed and the best possible price.  It sounds like around $450-$500.00 will be my cost on this item but I want to hear from other agents before I actually finish moving forward with a … (6 comments)

Taking The High Road - 02/13/10 11:10 PM
When is the last time you made time to correct problems that could have been draining you... Tom has made me think about some of those things in his post...
Via Tom Ferry (Tom Ferry-yourcoach):
Happy Friday! Is there an area of your life that you feel incomplete? I want to tell you that today is the day to take care of it, reach out, make the phone call and resolve the issue! By doing so, this will remove the chip on your shoulder and allow you to move forward into the new year. Remember, your strategy matters and your passion rules! -Tom … (1 comments)

The Energy Sucking Vampire Returns - 02/13/10 11:08 PM
Make sure your not an Energy Sucking Vampire... the other "Tom" ...Tom Ferry explains...
Via Tom Ferry (Tom Ferry-yourcoach):
Happy Monday! In this short video, I want to challenge you to ask yourself what type of professional/person are you? One who brings life to the room or someone who is an energy sucking vampire? In order to be successful at whatever you do, you have to always be working on your likeability factor with people! How do you do that? Two things, among others: 1. Work on being more interested. 2. Become passionate and give back as you connect with people. … (0 comments)

Do you need to make a sale in the next 30 days? Here is some help. - 02/13/10 11:07 PM
Tom Ferry has a great post on Making A Sale in 30 days... great video... always enjoy his posts...
Via Tom Ferry (Tom Ferry-yourcoach):
Happy Wednesday! Are you a brand new agent or are you someone who is looking to make a sale in the next 30 days or less? In this video, I want to give you some very specific points to have a successful open house, where you can connect with one or more buyers! Remember, your strategy matters and your passion rules! -Tom 888.866.3377 www.yourcoach.com and don't forget...www.tomferrybook.com too! … (2 comments)

This is My 1000th Post on ActiveRain (One Thousand!) - 02/13/10 10:57 PM
Anyone who has read Jason Crouch knows he is a great blogger and I just wanted to recognize him for his 1,000th Post on Active Rain!  Congratulations Man!!
Via Jason Crouch, Broker - Austin Texas Real Estate (512-796-7653) (Austin Texas Homes, LLC):
 
I've been watching my post number climb inexorably toward four-figure range lately, although it seems like I got bogged down a bit through the holiday season.  This post is #1000 for me on this network. 
 
 
When I started on AR back in August 2007, I never could have imagined how this journey would proceed.  Over the past … (2 comments)

Buyers Give a "Thumbs Down" to Open Houses - 02/13/10 10:50 PM
Claudette had an informative post about a recent survey sent out to 100,000 consumers... if your a stat person like me then you'll want to read these statistics. Thanks Claudette for the post!
Via Claudette Millette - Metrowest Mass Buyer Broker (The Buyers' Counsel):
A recent survey by the National Association Realtors showed some surprising results in the ever-changing habits of home buyers.  
An eight-page questionnaire was sent out to over 100,000 consumers who had purchased a home between July 2008 and Jun 2009.  They were asked to rank the usefulness of certain information sources typically used by Realtors® to market homes. 
The … (4 comments)

Pre-Qualify Everyone!!! - 02/13/10 10:07 PM
Christos had a great post on Pre-Approving!  It is important to follow basic skills like this everyday... thanks for the post !
Via Christos Papanastasatos (Crown Heights Realty):
 As busy agents, we need to remember to stick to basics.  I think sometimes we make things harder on ourselves.  Also, as I said before our time is the most important thing.  We need to make sure we pre-qualify everyone, not just sellers but buyers as well.  Many of us have buyers who say, that they have a friend, relative, or someone else they know that is an agent.  Yet, they want you to find … (2 comments)

Here We Go Again! 26 Inches Of Snow! - 02/13/10 10:05 PM
Rob and Jeannie showed us what we got here on the East coast this week... if your not from the Eastern Shore area and didn't get hit with Snow this week... take a peek at what we had to go through this week...and for Rob and Jeannie...it sure did cost them some money to get that driveway cleared out! :)  Thanks!
Via Rob & Jeannie Steward (Weichert, Realtors):
Getting ready for the big dig out. We were lucky that we didn't lose any power. Still, we wont be heading out anywhere to see the Superbowl. And definitely not grilling up some steaks and … (5 comments)

Q&A: Earnest Money Deposit - 02/13/10 10:00 PM
Yvette starred in an awesome post about Earnest Money Deposits... are you doing your job when counseling buyers on this topic?  This was a great post and feel free to chime on in on this one...
Via Yvette Chisholm (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.):
Q: What is an Earnest Money Deposit?
A: An Earnest Money Deposit, often referred to in the industry as an EMD is also know as a Good Faith Deposit.   It is used as a security interest in most contracts.  Often held by the selling broker or the settlement attorney in specific account awaiting the close of escrow or other disposition … (1 comments)

Can you break into your own listing? - 02/13/10 09:57 PM
Donna gives us some great food for thought when it comes to "Breaking In To Your Own Listing"... this one sure did open my Eye a little wider!  Thanks Donna!
Via Donna Lynch (Welcome Home Furniture Rental & Staging):
Can you break in to your own listing?  You locked every door, checked them twice, locked and closed the front door and put the key back in the lock box.  Is your listing really secure?  Did you remember to check the doggy door?
 I’m a stager with Welcome Home Furniture Rental & Staging and recently staged a property in Danville and had to return … (0 comments)

Using the REALTOR® Membership Mark - Guidelines and Information - 02/13/10 09:55 PM
Did you catch Brads post on using the REALTOR ® Membership mark correctly...if not then please feel free to chime in as it is important...
Via Brad Andersohn ~ Community Manager (ActiveRain):
Guidelines and Information Regarding Use and Misuse of REALTOR®
How are you using the registered membership mark REALTOR®?  A few folks have contacted me recently asking how they can change their ActiveRain Profile user name, their Blog name, and their Outside Blog domain names?  The reason?  Because they had used the registered membership mark REALTOR® within their URL.  It is very important that you understand and know how, when, and where … (0 comments)

Biggest Worries That Sellers Have - 02/13/10 08:39 PM
According to an older NAR article I was reading, here are the biggest worries that all sellers have.
17% of Sellers - Getting enough money to recover what I put into the house (I'm sure this # is a little higher today!)
14% - Worry about the hassle of keeping their home in constant showcase condition
11% - Worry about closing on time to meet their relocation deadline date
11% - Worry about selling in time to buy the house they want before it sells to someone else.
8% - Worry about temporary housing and a second move
7% - Worry … (0 comments)

I hardly ever use post its anymore - 02/13/10 08:06 PM
In an effort of going green... agents can save the mother earth trees by reducing paper!  Print out the least amount as possible! 
What i've been doing for the past year is saving all the paper I print and don't use anymore and use a board cutter to cut the paper into halfs and use it as note paper!
I have a constant stack to use for just general notes and scratches of writing... it works and it saves paper!
Just thought I'd share it with you in an effort to save some trees out there!
It makes me feel good … (4 comments)

Renting still Beats buying - 02/13/10 07:58 PM
Gulp! Renting still beats buying?  Wasn't it the other way around YAHOO?
http://realestate.yahoo.com/promo/5-reasons-renting-still-beats-buying.html is a link I stumbled into!
They claim these are the 5 reasons why:
Reason 1: Houses produce lousy returns, while stocks produce good ones
Reason 2: House prices have further to fall
Reason 3: Many houses for sale today seem designed to waste money
Reason 4: Big houses are targets for future taxes
Reason 5: Neighborhoods are changing in unpredictable ways
Gulp, Gulp, Gulp... if I hear any more negative stories in the media I want to scream but guess what... I'm not going to and … (4 comments)

Task Management System - 02/13/10 07:46 PM
I found a good little system for helping me with Tasks management and thought I'd share the top 5 questions you need to ask yourself with every task you do in your business:
What Task Am I Going To Do? (Basic Question there)
When Am I Going To Do This Task?
How Will I Get It Done?
How Much Time Will It Take?
WHY IS THIS TASK IMPORTANT TO ME?   ( IF IT IS NOT IMPORTANT THAN TOSS IT!! )

It is important to stay laser focused on your tasks but it is also important to eliminate the ones that … (2 comments)

Star Power Club - 02/13/10 07:42 PM
Has any of you ever tried the Star Power Club? I think it might be a nice way to pump up the sales this year and keep me upbeat.  I noticed they are offering a 30 day free membership so I thought I'd put this blog out their and see if any of you have tried it and if it helped your business.
The link is:  http://www.joinstarpowerclub.com/  
Feel free to chime in your thoughts and I hope to read some good feedback but be honest and let me know how you really felt if you attended!  It sounds action packed! 
Thanks … (0 comments)

Cut the time down when touring with buyers - 02/13/10 07:37 PM
Looking For A Way To Cut The Time In The Car With Buyers? Try
http://www.drivingrouteplanner.com/ 
I think it is a cool little tool where you can put in all the addresses and it minimizes the travel time to each spot you stop and let's you print out a a handy map too! 
Nice little tool and thought I'd share it with anyone who wants to cut the travel time with their buyers!
Also a nice little way to save some money too....and I know you'll appreciate that idea!
Thanks,
Tom Davis
… (0 comments)

40 Year Mark As A Realtor and No Fees To Pay ... Ever Hear About this - 02/13/10 07:32 PM
I wasn't sure if this was a rumor or what but had to find out about it... Did you know when you hit the 40 year mark as REALTOR® then it sounds like no fees to pay anymore....
A REALTOR Emeritus® is any person who has held membership in the National Association as a REALTOR®, REALTOR-ASSOCIATE®, or a combination of both, for a cumulative period of 40 years in one or more Associations of REALTORS®, is eligible for REALTOR Emeritus® status.  Upon approval by the Board of Directors of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®, no further payment of dues is necessary … (9 comments)

Best contact manager software - 02/13/10 07:22 PM
It's been a year since I wrote a post about contact management but thought since it is a new year now I would bring it back up!  Many agents are using subscription based online management for leads but I want to ask those of you that do not use online management.  What software do you use other than Act or Outlook ...anyone using a particular software that lets you send "Drip Emails" to all of your customers?  A software that lets you own your own management of your own leads vs. paying monthly fees to an online company to do drip … (4 comments)

Carpul Tunnel from Blogging so Protect Your Hands - 02/13/10 07:15 PM
Well I am thinking that daily blogging has led to the possible Carpul Tunnel tingly feeling in my left hand... I am hoping that I get this problem fixed soon but could use some tips from you all.  It has persisted for 4 days... I am realizing by now that I should have given myself extra care when doing all this typing! 
Has anyone else had problems in their hands?  I realize that blogging is important to our business but I believe it has taken it's toll.  I recently talked to an older agent and she has been having carpul tunnel … (4 comments)

Speech Recognition software - 02/13/10 06:59 PM
I am wondering if any of you use a speech to text software for your blogs?  If so please comment as I am curious about how this helps you get your blogs done faster and what software might work best.  I am basically trying to save some time each day and I believe this might be one way to do that.
Please share any ideas.  Basically right now I spend about an hour to hour and a half each day blogging.  I am hoping to cut this time down to 30-45 minutes each day if possible. 
I know in todays business … (2 comments)

What in the World Does Weight-Loss Advice Have to Do With Selling a House? - 02/06/10 07:58 PM
Do you have an "Exercise" Plan for you and your homes that your selling?  I loved the way Michelle discusses this ... feel free to chime in
Via Michele Rose, Burlington County Realtor, RESA (Weichert Realtors, Rose-Colored Staging):
A while back I saw on television show with doctors giving advice on weight loss.  They said that yes, some people are genetically predisposed to being overweight and a large part of it is heredity.  But, they said, that is not an excuse to be overweight, it just means you have to work harder.
Hmmm...
Kind of like selling a house in a tough market-- … (4 comments)

Home Staging Portland Style: Home Staging Tips For Pet Owners, Part 2 - Making It Easier - 02/06/10 07:53 PM
Do you have a home that your selling with lots of pets?  Pangaea Interior Design Home Stager wrote a great post for people like me who don't own a lot of animals...feel free to chime in and comment...  This is certainly a topic that would get conversations flowing among agents at a sales meeting... that's for sure!  Thanks!
Via Pangaea Interior Design Home Stager - Redesign - Model Homes (Portland Oregon):
In part 1 of this article, I focused on your pet’s safety and well being during the marketing of your home. If you want to be sure that your furry family members … (0 comments)

Home Fire Safety For First Time Home Buyers Part 6 of 12 Safe Candles - 02/06/10 07:28 PM
Dale had an awesome post about Candles... I never realized their was battery operated candles out there... hymm if you want to find out more about Safety then chime in here...
Via Baker Home Energy Audit and Commercial Properties Inspections-Owner Dale Baker (Baker Home Energy Audit & Commercial Properties Inspections ):
Home Fire Safety For First Time Home Buyers Part 6 of 12 Safe Candles, folks using candles in their homes has increased over the last few years and with this, the number of home fires from the misuse of using real wax candles has increased.
 

 
 
There are … (2 comments)

Fire-Rescue department's Snow safety tips**Please shovel a fire hyrant near your home** - 02/06/10 07:07 PM
If your in the Snow Storm these are some great tips for you and if you have a fire hydrant nearby be sure to clear the snow around it!  Here is some Safety tips from Ritu!  Thanks and feel free to chime on in and be safe and warm this weekend!
Via Ritu Desai (Samson Properties):
 Since we all are snow  bounded by this snow storm the local county fire and rescue department has put out a reminder to all resident on basic safety. .    With the large snowfall that occurred, hydrants throughout state are covered with snow.  Local County Fire-Rescue asks … (2 comments)

Specific Loan Closing Instructions - Never seen these things required at Settlement Before - 02/06/10 06:57 PM
David had a great post about "Extra" items required at settlement... did you miss it?  If so then feel free to chime in... we are seeing so much these days aren't we?  Love to hear some more comments on this...
Via David Monsour (Prudential Bob Yost - Sites):
1.) Buyer must have minimum of 3.5% into the property at closing
2.) Final HUD to reflect an earnest money deposit of $1000.00
3.) Cash from borrower at closing not to exceed $12,617
4.) Borrower to Sign 2007 and 2008 tax returns
5.) Borrowing to provide most recent pay stubs at settlment.
6.) Borrower to … (0 comments)

Share Your Best House Showing Tips - 02/06/10 06:44 PM
Realtor Magazine had a great article on Showing Tips... if you ever want some fresh ideas then be sure to bookmark this post for 48 comments on the topic!  I love the Active Rain feedback here!
Via REALTOR® Magazine (National Association of REALTORS®):
We know that buyers love walking into clean, move-in ready homes. But getting your listings in tip-top shape is a challenge when the sellers don't understand what needs to be done.
So what's your best advice to clients who need to get their home ready for a showing? REALTOR® Magazine is compiling responses for its "crowdsourced" April List Issue. Some … (1 comments)

Tell Me Your Secret.... Please!!! - 02/06/10 06:17 PM
Kathy has a great post on organizing all your passwords... feel free to chime in your thoughts.
I used Roboform for a while when it was free but now you have to pay for it.  I would love to see some tips on this!  Thanks!
Via KATHY OPATKA Ocean City, MD Re/Max Premier Properties (Re/Max Premier Properties):
Please share your secret with me!  I'm desparately trying to figure out how to keep track of ALL the usernames and passwords that I'm collecting on a daily basis!
I know that someone out there in Blog-land has come up with a way to keep track … (0 comments)

Yellowstone National Park -- September 2008 - 02/06/10 06:11 PM
Liz has some great photos of the Yellowstone National Park... I enjoyed this post very much and hope to someday take a tour... I love it when members of active rain post stuff like this... very nice and I'm really looking forward to one day checking this place out!
Via Liz Flint (Century 21 Hardee-Team Realty):
My 2008 vacation in September was a visit to Yellowstone National Park.  Its the one with the Old Faithful geyser.

 I took this picture when I was on a hike around Ice Lake and saw this grey wolf on a trail.  It was thrilling and a little scary to be … (3 comments)

10 Must-Have Free Software Tools - 02/06/10 05:30 PM
RJ Baxter suggested some great "FREE" Software tips... if you missed the post hours ago then you might want to take a look and see if their might be something you like... after all it is FREE!
Via RJ Baxter (First Mortgage Corp):
10 Must-Have Free Software Tools
Over the years, I have seen a lot of free software downloads.  With most of them, after 2 minutes I find out they weren't worth downloading or the free version is so devoid of features that I can't even check it out on a trial version. 
However, the 10 free gems below are programs I use every … (0 comments)

So You Want to Make More Sales....It's Not a Secret Recipe - 02/06/10 05:24 PM
JL Boney discussed some great things in his post about Success!  130+ Comments and I am glad I stumbled onto it... if you missed out on these Success tips then you will definitely want to chime into this one... very well written!
Via JL Boney, III Columbia, SC Real Estate (Russell and Jeffcoat):
 I talk to a lot of agents and salespeople in general who are a little more than depressed about the current market. It's understandable as frankly, times are hard for a lot of folks. But there are some tried a true methods that will bring you success in virtually any … (2 comments)

Realtor®, Dover offers advice for Dover - 02/06/10 04:06 PM
Realtor®, Dover at Harrington ERA Realty.  Tom Davis is a Realtor® in Dover and today's weather in Dover is a real blizzard.  I just measured the snow outside and we are at 23 inches and still have 5 more hours to go until 10pm tonight!  I care about your safety. 
Please read some tips about cold blizzard snow safety.
I recently posted 3 posts that cover the topics I think you should look at this weekend. 
Trench Foot: http://activerain.com/blogsview/1478120/what-is-trench-foot-and-prevention-tips-for-delaware
Frostbite: http://activerain.com/blogsview/1478069/what-is-frostbite-and-important-tips-for-delaware
Hypothermia: http://activerain.com/blogsview/1478048/what-is-hypothermia
You may also wish to read my post about cold weather conditions: http://activerain.com/blogsview/1478030/cold-conditions-means-you-need-to-prepare-for-the-cold-weather-delaware 
Also information on … (0 comments)

How much money have you spent on staging homes in the past year - 02/06/10 03:46 PM
I was flipping through the REALTOR ® Magazine today while sitting and watching this Eastern Snow storm we are having and was looking at the statistics for home staging.
Here was the results on the average money spent on staging last year.
15% of Agents Spent More than $1,000.00 On Staging.
10% Spent $500-$1,000
12% Spent $250-$500
But the whopping 63% Spent Less Than $250 on home staging... this could be because many homes are not staged or the seller doesn't pay for the cost of staging.
Most agents clearly are not footing the bill to stage homes but we all … (6 comments)

What is Trench Foot and prevention tips for Delaware - 02/06/10 02:39 PM
The east coast has been slammed with snow and Delaware is just one of those States!  With all this snow I've already discussed Hypothermia, Frostbite and now my part 3 of 3 on "Trench Foot". 
Trench foot is a medical conition caused by prolonged exposure of the feet to a damp, unsanitary as well as cold condition.  Today's snow storm of up to 23 inches is just the right recipe for developing this condition of Trench Foot!
Affected feet may become numb and turn red or blue as a result of poor vascular supply.  Feet may also begin to decay if … (4 comments)

What is Frostbite and important tips for Delaware - 02/06/10 02:08 PM
Snow, Snow, Snow is coming on down and with that means kids that are excited to play in all that snow!  Let me remind you of Frostbite!
What is Frostbite?  It is a medical condition where damage is caused to the skin and other tissues in the body due to extreme cold.  The initial stages of frostbite are often called "Frostnip". 
Hands, Feet, Nose, Leg, and Ears are the most likely parts of your body to be affected by frostbite.
Other Factors that will contribute to frostbite will be the extreme coldness outside like it is today, any inadequate clothing, wet … (1 comments)

What is hypothermia - 02/06/10 01:53 PM
With all the up to 23 inches of snow today here in Delaware it is important to remind you of a condition called "Hypothermia".  What is it?   Hypo means "under" or "below" and therm means temperature.  It is a condition in which the core temperature drops below that required for a normal metabolism as well as body functions.  In all warm-blooded animals the core body temperature is maintained near a constant level through what is called "Homeostasis" & "Thermoregulation" but when the body is exposed to cold, it's internal mechanisms may not be able to replenish all the heat that is being … (0 comments)

Cold Conditions means you need to prepare for the cold weather Delaware - 02/06/10 01:40 PM
How does the body react to cold conditions?When in a cold environment, most of your body's energy is used to keep your bodys internal temperature warm. Over time, your body will begin to shift blood flow from your extremities (your hands, feet, arms, and legs) as well as the outer skin to the core (your chest and abdomen areas). This process will allow the exposed skin and the extreme coolness to rapidly increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. If you combine this with cold water, and trench foot may also be a problem.What are the most common cold induced problems?Hypothermia, Frostbite, and Trench … (0 comments)

Delaware State of Emergency & Delaware Weather Conditions & Blizzard Warning Continues In Delaware - 02/06/10 01:28 PM
Conditions are expected to intensify with heavy snowfall and strong winds that will make driving exceptionally dangerous. Given the anticipated strength of this storm, DelDOT crews are expected to concentrate on major arteries for plowing, initially leaving many secondary roads unattended.
The National Weather Service is predicting snowfall will total between 15 and 23 inches in New Castle County, from 19 to 29 inches in Kent County and from 17 to 27 inches in Sussex County. 
A blizzard warning is in effect for Kent and Sussex counties, where winds are expected to gust from 40 to 50 mph.
Snow may be … (2 comments)

Delaware Blizzard Warning & Hazardous Weather Outlook - 02/05/10 07:01 PM

 
Well That Open House this weekend has been cancelled due to 29 Inches Of Snow Possible Here In Delaware!  Whew What a Blizzard Warning this will be!        THAT'S RIGHT !   29 INCHES POSSIBLE.... State Of Emergency Will Be Declared At 8 PM . . . All Vehicles are to be OFF THE ROAD so the crews can do their job!
Tonight: Snow and widespread blowing snow. The snow could be heavy at times. Low around 28. Windy, with a east wind 13 to 16 mph increasing to between 25 and 28 mph. Winds could gust as high as 40 … (4 comments)

14 inch receipts at the store and no wonder they run out of paper frequently - 02/05/10 06:13 PM
Ever go to the store and get a 14 inch receipt for just 7 items? Well that's what happens everyday and paper is really being wasted out there!  The worst part is the cost of this paper is passed down in higher prices!  I think it is time that stores "Go Green" and reduce the length of these receipts to a smaller receipt!  I think consumers would appreciate getting smaller receipts if the stores agreed to put the savings into lower prices at the store!  A win for the environment... Less Paper being used!  Just think about all that paper and … (2 comments)

It kills me when I get an email like this - 02/05/10 12:10 PM
Comments: Hi, I am famiiar with this house. My sister is one of the neighbors. I am very interested and in the market for immediate move in. I have preapproval and a realtor already though...please email me or call...Im curious...does USDA rural work for financing 
If you were a different Realtor and just recieved this email... How would you feel?
.... well as a Realtor we must tread carefully since you mentioned you have a Realtor.
If you are working with another Realtor we can't help you... you must go back to the agent who is helping you currently.  If that agent … (9 comments)

 

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