They may be a "reject" if: - 03/28/10 11:43 PM
Kenneth sums it all up when it comes to the word "REJECT" real estate!
Via Kenneth Nelson (Residential Home Funding):
Every day I get calls from my Real Estate "partners" asking me to pre-qualify their customers and send out
a pre-approval letter.  I am always happy to do this, it's my job !
Lately however, I seem to be getting more and more pre-qual requests on customers who simply don't qualify for any type of mortgage financing in todays market. (Ahh, the 1990's, what a decade for mortgage guys)
All conventional mortgages in this country are underwritten using four (4) basic guidlelines that … (4 comments)

Learning to Market Your Business - 03/28/10 11:40 PM
Barbara is in inspiration in this post and REMINDING us all to Give MORE ! Thanks!
Via Barbara Jennings | Academy of Staging and Redesign (Decorate-Redecorate.Com | Academy of Staging and Redesign):
I'm always teaching my students to give more than what you promise. Show people that you genuinely care about them and there's no telling what positive effect it will have on them, on you and on your business. A Downs Syndrome Man who bags groceries every day has a lesson for all of us. Click on the link and see what he did that brought in hundreds of new shoppers, how … (0 comments)

4 Myths about Open Houses...they're not just for Nosy Neighbors! - 03/28/10 11:36 PM
I thoroughly enjoyed Marcie in this post about Open House Myths... Yes You Are So Correct My Friend!
Via Marcie Sandalow - Evers & Co. Real Estate, Inc. DC/MD ( Evers & Company Real Estate, Inc. ):
4 Myths about Open Houses...they're not just for Nosy Neighbors!
There are a lot of agents out there who don't like open houses.  Some sellers aren't too crazy about them either.  I'm a big fan, and here's why:
They're just for nosy neighbors, and I really don't want them looking at my house...  Hey, even nosy neighbors have friends.  And nosy neighbors like their friends to live … (4 comments)

Earth Hour – Let’s All Turn Everything Off(including AR!) - 03/28/10 11:35 PM
A great cause like this requires NO MONEY on your part and thought it was worthy of a Repost!
Via Chris Smith (Tech Savvy Agent):
This is a cool cause I found and thought you guys would appreciate called Earth Hour.  There is basically a turn everything off hour coming up in 8 days and as someone who loves technology and social media more than most I think it makes a ton of sense for us to participate as a community. Think how many others we can help reach using Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and share tools, informing them about this really amazing cause! … (0 comments)

Agents: How dependent are you on 1st Time Buyer Tax Credits? - 03/28/10 11:33 PM
Mike had one of the best posts for a topic and had us all thinking about how we run our business... if you missed it... this one made me think twice about that tax credit stuff! Thanks Mike!
Via Mike Jaquish Cary, NC, Real Estate (KELLER WILLIAMS® Realty):
Are you completely focused 1st Time Buyers?
Are you using $8000 in Tax Credits as the foundation of your business?
Do you breathlessly tell everyone you meet to get on the bus before April 30, 2010?  That the good times roll until May Day?  Do you pump $8000 as the end-all, be-all in real estate in 2010?
… (0 comments)

Emotions during a short sale - 03/28/10 11:31 PM
Michelle had a great discussion going on short sales and I'd love to see more feedback on this topic...
Via Michelle Bailey (Prudential Idaho Realty):
Well it would appear the year will end on a good note? I'm not entirely sure (hence the question mark). Having helped numerous clients short sale their home, I decided it was time to do the same. After-all, shouldn't I listen to my own advice? Why would I hold on to a home where I owe more than $100K over fair market value? Of course if I had any intention on staying in the home for a … (0 comments)

Your Credit Report-The Basics - 03/28/10 11:30 PM
Stephanie had the best post on your credit report and I thought It was VERY WORTHY of reposting!
Via Stephanie Reynolds (AgentsOfPossibility.com, REALTOR, GRI, ePro at CMI, Inc. ):
Your Credit Report-The Basics
Every time you apply for credit, you're giving lenders permission to see your credit report. Don't you think it is important for you to see what they are seeing? Be proactive and check your credit report on a regular basis. By reviewing your credit report and understanding what is on it, you will be prepared for negotiations with lenders and will be able to detect the early warning signs of … (0 comments)

The ActiveRain Open House Was Awesome - 03/28/10 11:28 PM
Although I was not able to attend the First Active Rain Open House opportunity , I thought it was a great idea and a real treat to read up on it.  Wish I was there!
Via C Tann-Starr (TannStarr.com TannStarr.net REMAX People Realty):
The ActiveRain Open House Was Awesome
I was thrilled to be there not only because spending time with the people living in my computer is always a sweet treat but because Lenn Harley went out of her way to attend the first ever ActiveRain Open House. I am star struck and in awe of this woman. I love the … (0 comments)

Is it a Numbers or Relationship Game Or Both? - 03/28/10 11:24 PM
I find Tom an inspiring blogger and trainer so if you need a good "Pick me up" video... watch this!
Via Tom Ferry (Tom Ferry-yourcoach):
In this short training video, I want to talk to you about the numbers of the business, the relationships you need to cultivate and the results you can expect from your business! Remember, your strategy matters and your passion rules! -Tom 888.866.3377 www.yourcoach.com P.S. Take a moment to check out my new book website www.TomFerryBook.com. As you know, my life's mission is helping people to lead their lives By Design! I thank you for your support! If you … (0 comments)

New Listing at 9478 Harrowhill Lane, Burke VA from Lise Howe - 03/28/10 11:20 PM
Congrats Lise on a great listing at $915,000.00 !
Via Lise Howe, Assoc. Broker and Attorney Licensed in DC, MD, VA,Coldwell Banker (Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Chevy Chase):
Please come to my open house (1 to 4) this Sunday at 9478 Harrowhill Lane, Burke Virginia. 
Listed for $915,000.
 
With over 5000 square feet of interior living space on three finished levels, this beautiful colonial offers a gracious living room with bay window, a large family room with built in cabinets on either side of the gas fireplace, a chef's kitchen with granite and upgraded appliances. The separate dining room is made … (1 comments)

Time to Get Hyper Local Again - 7000 points for everyone - 03/28/10 11:18 PM
I am hoping I will get a chance to participate in this contest, in case you missed it be sure to tune in to this contest... thanks.
Via Bob Stewart - ActiveRain (ActiveRain):
Last summer I did a contest where our members could write 7 blog posts in 7 days and get 1000 points for every post they wrote. I'm sure many of you reading were able to take advantage of that contest then. Well guess what......
It's back! (although this time I'm going to give you 14 days to write 7 posts)
Hyper Local blog posts are a great way to create … (1 comments)

tax credit deadline is approaching - 03/28/10 11:16 PM
The tax credit deadline is approaching!  To qualify, first-time home buyers must have a binding written contract by April 30, 2010 and must close by July 1.
 
This tax credit is available as part of the U.S. plan to stimulate the housing market.  Last fall Congress approved the extended home buyer tax credit.  This extended tax credit started in November 30, 2009 and is about to run out on April 30, 2010.
 
How much money is available to first-time home buyers?  10% of the purchase price up to a maximum of $8,000.00.  The maximum for repeat buyers, also referred … (6 comments)

How to handle a Screaming Tantrum Kid During A Showing - 03/28/10 11:06 PM
I'm sure all agents and have this situation and quite frankly, I have never asked this question so I would love to hear your feedback.  So here you are your touring a property with your clients and the kid is just having a royal fit right at the property while the buyer is trying to figure out if they want the house.  Certainly not a good recipe and I was wondering if any of you agents have any good ideas to eliminate the screaming tantrum kid during a showing?  Perhaps you may bring some candy with you?  I need some ideas … (6 comments)

Do you preview homes for your Pre-Approved Clients - 03/28/10 11:00 PM
I have been finding more and more that my clients are requesting that I preview the homes for them.  I usually preview homes at the client requests as long as they've got their Pre-Approved letter.  This particular week I spent about a good 15 hours touring property (exhausting full time week) and although I learned quite a bit about the homes on the market and satisfied my clients, I realize that I need to trim my amount of time doing this.  I talked to some agents in the office and some of them, do not do any previews at all for their … (2 comments)

how do I earn an extra 5,000 bonus points a week as this is what I see happening with some members - 03/28/10 10:54 PM
Okay here's the scoop.  Every week I do my 10 blogs.  I do my 10 daily comments.  I do my 10 re-blogs.  I log in every day.  Basically I earn my full points for the week.  I'm happy that I'm about to hit the 300,000 point mark but what I'm not happy about is a recent trend among members who somehow are earning way more than 4,950 weekly points.  I'm not sure how some members are rapidly amassing 100,000 points in no time so perhaps I am not aware of something.
Was their recent point change that I'm not aware about?  … (16 comments)

After April 30th Tax Credit Runs Out Do you feel the market is going Up or Down? - 03/28/10 10:34 PM
It's hard for me to not feel affected by this real estate climate and recently my office has condensed itself and the company intends to rent out half of the building.  All the agents have been squashed into the front of the building and things are getting tight.  Although I don't mind running into more agents at the office, I find it difficult to see my company struggling.  So many negative thoughts running around I just don't know what to do but that keep positive and keep negative tuned out!  I remain hopeful for a bright future but for some reason, … (2 comments)

Looking for a fast scanner - 03/28/10 10:25 PM
I'm looking for a fast scanner.  I did find one great scanner but at a $500 price tag and wondering if any of you have found a cheaper alternative that can do 20 pages a minute or something similar.  If you have any ideas please let me now as I'm currently considering a scanner that is a bit faster than the one I have now.  With all the paperwork that we handle, I think it is essential to have a very fast scanner.  I found the scan snap scanner to be one that I was looking for but at a $500 … (0 comments)

How Long Does It Take You To Do A CMA? - 03/28/10 10:20 PM
I use a tool called toolkit CMA to do my CMA and usually runs about ½ hour to do the full CMA.  Sometimes it could take up to an hour but I try to be mindful of my time.  So my question to you is how long does it take you to do a full CMA?  What software or tools do you use to make your job easier?  Have you found a certain tool that helps speed the time up and helps you get the job done fast, efficient, and easy.  I would love to hear your feedback.  My goal is … (0 comments)

Proxy error after Proxy error and Did I MENTION Proxy error - 03/28/10 10:09 PM
I hate to dedicate a blog post about this but it seems as though all I'm getting today is a proxy error with the proxy server receiving an invalid response from an upstream server.  I'm getting all kinds of errors including the proxy server could not handle the request.  I read a week ago that active rain is working to resolve this issue with the addition of a few more servers.  I was wondering if anyone knows if this has been completed yet and if not do they know when this proxy error thing should go away?  I usually do not … (3 comments)

Does your Equipment Fail when you need it? - 03/28/10 10:01 PM
My teacher back in high school used to always tell me that I was the guy that seem to have all the problems and I think ever since she said that I think it's been true.  Have you ever had a day where everything you needed to work just didn't work?  Yesterday my printer was working beautifully and might PDF creator was working fine.  Today as I'd try to print my CMA the printer seemed to be very fussy with me and I'm still at a confusion as to what is wrong with the printer.  I've only had it for a … (6 comments)

How to play Ping Pong with a seller in todays market - 03/28/10 09:41 PM
Have you ever felt like you are playing ping-pong in a transaction?  Well for me, today was that day!  I felt good about being an expert negotiator but at the end the day it sure did train my energy.  Yesterday I wrote this offer and today I was putting the finishing touches on it.  Me and the other age and the transaction basically felt like we're playing ping-pong.  Luckily for me I had a very reasonable buyer or otherwise it wouldn't have lasted this far.  I'm not sure what tomorrow holds but all I can do is my best.  As real … (0 comments)

Did Real Estate Call Your Name, YES I think It did since you are here! - 03/28/10 09:24 PM
 
Many of us a real estate agents come into real estate as a second, third and maybe even a fifth profession.  A recent survey shows that only 7% of real estate agents out there chose real estate as their first career.  So basically what this means is 93% of us real estate agents have other professions prior to real estate....  So my question is simple, what was your profession before you joined real estate?  For me it was banking and I did quite well at it and as the bank was closing in 2006, I decided real estate was the … (0 comments)

Weekday Open House Feedback - 03/22/10 12:00 AM
If you missed it, I thought this was a great post to reblog for this past week! 
Via Eric Lanspa (Town & Country Realtors):
Weekday Open House Feedback
As I am wrapping up another weekend of open houses and showing a few properties, I have a question for my real estate professional counterparts as well as prospective clients:  What is your opinion of weekday open houses?  Last I looked, Moses did not command that open houses be held only on the weekend.
As spring and summer approach, I plan to once again do a few of these each month.  When I held my first … (1 comments)

Whither the consumer? Are we listening or are we too busy pushing our message? - 03/21/10 11:58 PM
If you missed it, I thought this was a great post to reblog for this past week! 
Via Ruthmarie Hicks (Keller Williams Realty):
One of the things that always gets to me is when agents talk about cold-calling as if it is some sort of test of "character."  Really?  When did being what the vast majority of the public considers an irritant become a test of character?   Seriously, the public has made itself abundantly clear on this issue.  They don't want phone solicitation.  They don't like phone solicitation.  In fact, the issue reaches beyond phone solicitation.  For a long, long time, the public … (1 comments)

Recipe for Grilled Lobster Tails - 03/21/10 11:57 PM
If you missed it, I thought this was a great post to reblog for this past week! 
Via Orange County SEO and Web Marketing Search Engine Optimization SEO Expert (Search Engine Marketing SEM OC Expert Web Design):
Cooked to perfection, using the perfect gas (see the full recipe - BBQ accessories) – BBQ Grilling Stones. Succulent lobster tails that practically fall onto your fork. Find out now about this BBQ grilling method using Grill stones at the Grillstonz website.

Garlic Lobster Tails “Grill Stonz Style”(Serves 4)
INGREDIENTS
4  medium lobster tails, thawed at room temperature 8 tablespoons unsalted butter 6 garlic cloves, diced 3 tablespoons … (2 comments)

AGENTS: TAKE THE BLINDERS OFF and listen to what the caller is saying. It might save you a lot of time. - 03/21/10 11:56 PM
If you missed it, I thought this was a great post to reblog for this past week! 
Via Lenn Harley, Homefinders.com, MD & VA Homes and Real Estate:
AGENTS:  TAKE THE BLINDERS OFF and listen to what the caller is saying.  It might save you a lot of time.
Caller:  "I'm a first time home buyer."  
Translation:  "I'M LOOKING FOR SOME FREE MONEY." 
"Agent:   Where are you interested in buying a home?  Do you know what price range you're qualified to buy?
Translation:  "DO YOU REALIZE THAT YOU WILL HAVE TO BUY A HOME TO GET FREE MONEY?"
I have found … (1 comments)

Communication should be Number 1 in any Real Estate Transaction - 03/21/10 11:55 PM
If you missed it, I thought this was a great post to reblog for this past week! 
Via Monika Wilson (Century 21 Sunbelt Realty):
today I would just like to tell you about my experience in the last few years. Even so I don't wantt to start this posting with a 100 year old history lesson - however, I think we as Agents are missing a major part when we work Real Estate. When I started my Real Estate Carrier (not quiet 100 years ago) we would see the listing agent in person, we would go to their office and present the offer face to face. … (1 comments)

Is Your Short Sale or Loan Modification Being Turned Down? - 03/21/10 11:54 PM
If you missed it, I thought this was a great post to reblog for this past week! 
Via Nestor & Katerina Gasset Realtors® Wellington Florida Luxury Homes (International Properties and Investments, Inc.):
Has your short sale or loan modification been turned down and you have no idea why? Let's examine some of the reasons. These reasons may not make you feel any better or maybe they are just excuses by your lender, however there are a few things you may not even know about your loan.
Let's say that you make your mortgage payment to Wells Fargo. You can no longer handle … (0 comments)

The Census Is Not Santa Claus - 03/21/10 11:54 PM
If you missed it, I thought this was a great post to reblog for this past week! 
Via Steve Hoffacker - Real Estate Sales & Marketing Consulting and Strategies (Hoffacker Associates LLC):
Just one more thing that's been allowed to get way out of hand in Washington - the decennial Census. I have no problem with the headcount. It's provided for in the Constitution - Article I, Section 2 - strictly as a way of deciding representation in the House of Representatives. It doesn't establish who is to do it or that it be the largest statistical survey in the country.
The Constitution … (1 comments)

What are we going to do?? the economy is getting worse? - 03/21/10 11:52 PM
If you missed it, I thought this was a great post to reblog for this past week! 
Via Sandy Bliven, e-PRO, Westerly RI Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Cahoone Westerly, RI):
Buyers and sellers call me, "how is the market?"  should I reduce ? or wait until the market gets better?  buyers, "is that as low as they will go? - should I low ball?
When is everything "going to catch up" and the buyers and sellers realieze this is it "It ain't getting any better than this?  how do we convince them, "it is what it is"
Frustrated too?
 
… (0 comments)

Pursue a Distressed Property? Are you sure it's really Worth Your Time? - 03/21/10 11:51 PM
If you missed it, I thought this was a great post to reblog for this past week! 
Via Mortgage 1st Realty - Randy.Schulenburg@gmail.com:
As a buyer you may be wondering if it is really worth your time to pursue a distressed property.  Foreclosures and Short Sale Homes continue to be the hot topics these days.  Purchasing one of these proerties can present multiple challenges that is not found when closing on a typical home.
Is it really worth your time?
I have had quite a few clients approach me about buying one of these homes.  There is some information I put together below that … (0 comments)

What are points - 03/21/10 11:50 PM
What are points
 
No we're not talking about speeding tickets!  We're talking about your mortgage!  So you may have read the lender talk about paying points.  So what is a point?  Each point represents 1% of the mortgage amount that the mortgage lender charges you for processing a loan.  It is a form of prepaid interest and usually do at the closing.  For more information about points and loan options, I will be happy to provide you more information.
… (1 comments)

Lead based paint - 03/21/10 11:49 PM
Lead based paint.
 
Any home built prior to 1978 is known to have lead based paint.   Your real estate agent will provide you with a booklet from the United States environmental protection agency, called protect your family from lead in your home.  This booklet will give you the facts and hazards of what based paint.  Lead exposure can harm young children and babies even before they are born.  Even children who seem healthy can have high levels of lead in their bodies.  You will read many facts about lead based paint and if you think your home might have led … (0 comments)

Cracks in the house. - 03/21/10 11:48 PM
Cracks in the house.
 
If you notice big cracks in a newer home, it may indicate a big problem especially if the home is less than 10 years old.  When touring homes with your real estate agent, pay close attention to any large cracks.  If a large cracks are discovered, it will require the attention of professional home inspector to ask if we have a cause for a concern.  Horizontal cracking in the basement wall is something the inspector will notice and explain.  In any bad cases, a problem like this could require substantial rebuilding of the whole foundation so … (0 comments)

Ventilating the roof - 03/21/10 11:47 PM
Ventilating the roof
 
One way to help protect your home from roof damage is to ensure that it is properly ventilated.  You'll want to make sure that the attics and crawl spaces are ventilated properly.  Ease his way to check the ventilation is to simply put a thermometer in the attic on a warm day when there isn't much wind.  If you find that the reading on the thermometer is 10 or 15° higher than the outside temperature, then you'll know that the airflow is not where it should be.  When there is improper ventilation, the excess heat in the … (0 comments)

The problems with the roof! - 03/21/10 11:46 PM
The problems with the roof!
 
Problem with the roof are likely to be among the most disturbing thing that you will encounter when you're searching for a house.  So as a buyer how do you know what is up there!  A home inspector!  Many homes do need a new roof or sometime in the near future.  Since you are not going to crawl on the roof yourself, it is understandable that you'll be concerned about the roof condition.  Whenever I write the agreement of sale, I Point out the structural agreement with you and show you that if there is … (0 comments)

You rely on detailed information when buying a home - 03/21/10 11:46 PM
You rely on detailed information when buying a home.  Your search for the right home will go a lot more smoothly if you establish your preference and priorities.  Be clear with your real estate agent and let them know the small details not only the big and this will help narrow down the home that you will call home.  For example, you desire a fenced in backyard as well as a deck for barbecuing during the summer.  Simple details like that can make the difference in helping you find the right home so be sure leave out no details!  Another thing … (0 comments)

Buying a house is a big deal! - 03/21/10 11:45 PM
Buying a house is a big deal!
Your goal is not to see every single house out there in your target area but to refine the list and look at those that closely match your needs.  Being careful and thorough may seem like an obvious thing to do but this is where I see many buyers make a mistake.  Your dream house is something that you should work toward and if it is your first house, it most likely won't be the first house you buy.  If I could offer one piece of advice, that would be to be open minded!  … (0 comments)

Is your wish list way too big? - 03/21/10 11:44 PM
Is your wish list way too big?
 
As a buyer it is important to consider some other things on your wish list but it's also important to realize when the list is just not practical.  For example, you may want a four bedroom home, with the three car garage, and a full finished basement for $100,000!  As a real estate agent, what am I thinking...  Yikes!  When I started hear lists like this, I tell the buyer their will need to be some changes.  You are limited to the inventory of homes that are available.  Your expectations could be out … (0 comments)

Most of us can't just live anywhere - 03/21/10 11:43 PM
Most of us can't just live anywhere!  As a buyer you have many things that you worry about like getting to work and back!  School situations might be important to you as well.  I always recommend to buyers to tour the areas that they are most interested in before venturing out with the real estate agent.  Before you decide where you're going to buy, you will have to make some pretty basic decisions about the kind of house you'd prefer, as well as the right kind of neighborhood for you.  You choose the environment that you want to live in, so … (0 comments)

All the joys of touring bank property, bring your boots - 03/21/10 11:42 PM
All the joys of touring bank property, bring your boots
 
Well today was a joyful day!  Every property on my buyers list today was nothing but bank owned & short sale property!  Everything was going well all my first showing today but then, just as I thought everything was going all right, you betcha something went wrong and my buyer goes down into the basement and discovers about 3 feet of water.  I was about a couple seconds late in processing the information you just told me it and take a big old dip right into it...  My mistake!  So … (1 comments)

Why buyers actually prefer agents - 03/14/10 11:50 PM
Why buyers actually prefer agents
 
Most buyers feel uncomfortable dealing directly with the seller of the home because of the different confrontations involved, not to mention the buyer feeling anxiety from the seller hovering over them while they shop for a home.  Another reason why buyers prefer real estate agents vs.  Dealing directly with the seller is because they're afraid that they will offend you...  They might not like the way a certain thing looks in your house but will not tell you because they don't want to offend you.  Buyers don't mind telling their real estate agent things that … (11 comments)

Number one reason why for sale by owners don't sell - 03/14/10 11:49 PM
What is the number one reason why for sale by owners don't sell?  Yes it is a good lesson near to go to the corner of the room and repeat yourself....  Price, price, price, and yes say it again to yourself...  Price!  If you want to sell, vertically in today's market you have to have a realistic price.
 
So let's explore why most for sale by owners set their price too high to track perspective buyers.  The reason often is because the seller is focusing on the wrong goal.  The number one goal should be to sell your property.  What … (6 comments)

Cleaning the bathroom - 03/14/10 11:47 PM
Cleaning the bathroom.
 
You would be surprised at how many homes I've toured in which the bathroom could have had a much better positive impression on the buyer.  One of the number one things I see buyers looking at is that caulking around the bathroom tub, toilet, and sink.  Most of my buyers have come to expect clean, clean, and did I say clean bathroom?!  Spending extra time in the bathroom could be the best thing a seller could do to make their home or sellable.  Have you looked at the tiles in your bathroom lately?  Many homes I've seen, … (3 comments)

Your best return on investment is paint - 03/14/10 11:44 PM
Your best return on investment is paint!
Paint paint and paint!  I tour so many homes on the market and notice so many Sellers make this mistake, they do not paint their home!  Paint neutral colors like white would be my recommendation.  You could try to talk a dog off a meat wagon, but until it's painted, the buyers simply won't be as motivated and excited about your home.
 
Sometimes, I feel like I could be a painter, and offer my services to all the Sellers out there but that's not my job.  I really wish I was a professional … (5 comments)

Selling your home quickly - 03/14/10 11:43 PM
Selling your home quickly!
Selling your home quickly involves many different things and one of those are making sure you have a better looking house then the rest!  One way to do this is staging but usually before your home is staged, it is a good idea to have your agent walked through the home and give you great suggestions.  You'll be surprised that some of the responses your real estate agent will give you, for example: neutral colors all throughout the house....  I often get a surprised look on the Sellers face when I discussed this with them.
 
Remember … (1 comments)

Do not hide defects in your property or it could come back at you - 03/14/10 11:41 PM
Do not hide defects in your property or it could come back at you.
 
When you meet with your real estate agent at the time you list your home for sale, it is extremely important to be very truthful and honest with your agent.  The home inspection that will be done on your home is an important step of the home buying process.  I always recommend to Sellers to get a home inspection done before listing their home for sale, this way, you may discover everything that is wrong with your home in advance, so you may fix it before … (2 comments)

simple checklist that I found that could be very helpful for those that might be considering selling their home on their own. - 03/14/10 11:39 PM
Here is a simple checklist that I found that could be very helpful for those that might be considering selling their home on their own.
 
Are you willing to give up your weekends and any evenings for the next three months, just to show buyers around your home?
 
Will you be willing to let strangers into your home as you try to sell your home on your own?
 
Can you be ready to show your home day and night, on a moment's notice?
 
Are you a risk taker?
 
Are you willing to learn how to do … (4 comments)

Many people lead busy, hectic lives - 03/14/10 11:37 PM
Many people lead busy, hectic lives and simply do not have the time or the energy to bother with selling a home themselves.  The vast majority of people simply bypass selling a home on their own because of various reasons just like the one I just mentioned.  There is certainly a lot of twists and turns when trying to sell a home.  Just getting a buyer to sign a bunch of paperwork can be a process all in itself and that's why there are professionals who specialize in this and they are buyer's agents.  Listing agents are another type of agent … (0 comments)

One big misconception that Sellers have - 03/14/10 11:35 PM
One big misconception that Sellers have when they try to sell their home on their own, is that they lower the price of their home by a certain amount, they feel they can get away with that lower price because they do not have a real estate agent.  The problem is because that seller does not have a real estate agent, most buyers who come looking at a for sale by owner, know this and will automatically expect a lower price than what the market usually commands for the home.  Buyers who are looking at for sale by owners usually are … (2 comments)

Are you a frustrated seller? - 03/14/10 11:34 PM
Are you a frustrated seller?
In Delaware some Sellers decide to sell their home on their own.  There could be a variety of reasons for selling your home on your own.  For many of these for sale by owners, it is their first time trying to attempt to sell their home on their own.  With all the factors and mind, selling a home on your own will take a lot of work and require a full-time effort on your part.  If you do not have the time needed to sell your home, you may find that you'll go through a lot … (4 comments)

Struggling economy has pushed some agents out of business and into a job - 03/07/10 11:50 PM
Struggling economy has pushed some agents out of business and into a job.
 
I can usually gauge how an agents day is going if I have to reach them on the phone for something like showing a house or an offer but one day this week was different, it was an agent that was so stressed that she said she is getting a job.  She had so much pressure inside from her husband and I could even hear him in the background when I scheduled my showing. 
 
I think agents need all the support they can get from their … (34 comments)

Showing Off Your House - 03/07/10 11:38 PM
Okay once your done with all the repairs in your home, now it is time for the fun part... Showing Off Your House!  You are ready to sell and ready to shine to all the potential buyers out there!
Here is a good place to start , the living room!  Walk into your living room and take a real good look around as if you are a buyer that's actually buying a house!  Does anything catch your eye?  It should!  Have a focal point in each room that will draw the buyer into the room more. 
For example:  Perhaps you have … (15 comments)

REALTOR ® magazine suggest five good habits for REALTORS ® - 03/07/10 11:19 PM
Have you been following your new year's resolutions?  If you if not then it is a great time to go back to the basics and get yourself a fresh start!  It's time to let go of those bad habits!  Five great pointers for real estate agents!
 
Number one, exercise, exercise, exercise!  Did you know that if you're feeling stressed, exercise is one of the best ways to relieve your stress.  Real estate practitioners all over the country get stressed out from all kinds of transactions of the real estate business.  Just by going up for a walk, run, bike ride, … (30 comments)

Trading down to a smaller home - 03/07/10 11:02 PM
This is not always the fun thing to do for some people but a neccessary part of life... The Trading Down Of A Home!
Trading down to a smaller home.  You may be at a point in your life when you have a large house but no one in it.  Perhaps the children are all grown up now and it is just you and your partner.  A variety of factors may influence trading down your home for a smaller home.  Some of the reasons could include high property taxes, retiring, or perhaps you're tired of heating and cleaning the empty rooms.  … (2 comments)

Mistakes a seller makes when selling a home - 03/07/10 11:01 PM
As a seller in today's a real estate market you need to do everything you can to sell your home faster and at the highest amount of money.  To make sure that you have a happy experience be sure to avoid the top 10 mistakes a home seller makes.
 
When selling your home you could easily fall into one of these 10 traps so be sure to avoid these mistakes when selling your home. 
 
Mistake number one is not knowing why you're selling.  Are you selling because you want and at the most amount of money and just testing … (2 comments)

Want To Increase Your Sale Price Then Do What It Takes To Sell It - 03/07/10 11:01 PM
Sellers must pay close attention to this advice in order to maximize the benefit to them!
In a down sellers market, you have to rise to meet buyer expectations and that means you must do a little more this time to sell your home!
For example, perhaps you put off putting in a new tile floor in the kitchen... you say to yourself darn that is going to cost me at least $300.00 that I don't have... well think about the consequences of not doing it... would you rather lose up to $1,000 off the list price?  It's really up to … (2 comments)

Buyers Want Bigger Rooms - 03/07/10 11:01 PM
Does a buyer really want a bigger ROOM?  ABSOLUTELY!  As a seller can you really make the rooms bigger?  Not unless you invest in that if your able to!  So the question really is... How can I rearrange the FURNITURE that is in this room to make it so the room FEELS BIGGER! 
For Example: Moving the sofa from one wall to another or in the middle of the room can often help or covering it with a different color. 
It depends on the size, shape, and color of the room itself.  If the room is small then and in most … (0 comments)

Big Mistake Sellers Make - 03/07/10 11:01 PM
Don't turn your house into a greenhouse when selling it!  It is fine to have a bunch of plants or trees when your living in your home but when your selling your home... they become distractions! 
Buyers will focus on your plants and not your house!  We don't want that to happen to you when your selling your home!
So the question is... Do you have too many plants in your rooms?  If you are unsure and need some help with this then check with me!
It really is a Big Mistake Sellers Make!  I can help you with getting your … (3 comments)

Unemployment Is Really Tough Right Now - 03/07/10 11:01 PM
Many states across america, including my state of Delaware has suffered just like the rest of the country but if you are a consumer and have a job right now then do your best.
If something happens to your job for one reason or another then keep in mind the reasons you might not collect that unemployment check.
If for example you walked out or quit voluntarily without a good cause would put a flag on you.
You were fired for misconduct...(Hopefully not)
You are not able and ready to accept a suitable job could be a reason for no more … (4 comments)

Fixing Up Your Home To Sell It In Todays Market - 03/07/10 11:01 PM
When your preparing your Delaware house for sale, it is a whole different ballpark!  You must transform your living conditions into "Selling" conditions and with that comes repairs!
Their could be many things on your home-improvement list so make sure you get an opinion from your real estate agent.  If you don't have a Delaware REALTOR ® to help you sell your home then call me, Tom Davis at: (302) 398-3757 as I will walk through your home and give you my Tips to help you sell your home.
Write down at least 10-15 things you can do to improve your … (2 comments)

Luck comes to those who work hard to make it happen - 03/07/10 10:20 PM
Are you making it happen? Russel had a great post tonight if you missed it...
Via Russel Ray, San Diego Marketing & Business Consultant (Russel Ray):
I just came from Mary Yonkers' blog.
Mary is up in Erie, Pennsylvania, which still has some of that white stuff on the ground.
Mary was looking for signs of spring, which to her, is the equivalent of flowers.
With all the snow on the ground there in Erie, flowers were not to be found, so she got creative and made her own Spring using her arts and crafts.
You need to pop by Mary's blog … (0 comments)

FHA alters borrowers' guidelines - 03/07/10 08:25 PM
Yikes about FHA Guideline changes!  Peter had a great post explaining the new rollout... Yikes!
Via Arlington Capital Mortgage:
Posted on Sun, Mar. 7, 2010
On the House: FHA alters borrowers' guidelines
By Al Heavens
Inquirer Real Estate Columnist
Just when you thought it might be safe to put your house on the market comes this little bombshell from the federal government:
The Federal Housing Administration has revised its guidelines for borrowers.
Responding to concerns about its capital-reserve ratio, which fell below the 2 percent threshold Congress requires, the FHA is raising mortgage-insurance fees and down payments for borrowers with lower credit scores.
… (0 comments)

Dear Seller, About that number in your head.... - 03/07/10 08:06 PM
Is your seller in love with the Zillow Zestimate they calculated while surfing the internet? If so then this post is for you... chime into Ruthmarie! Great post!
Via Ruthmarie Hicks (Keller Williams Realty):
Whenever I go on a listing appointment, I generally find that the seller already has a “number in their head” about what their home should sell for.  This number can come from various sources.  It is – unfortunately – almost always higher than the current market can command.
In truth, I can’t blame sellers for this…their minds have been levered to continued price increases to such an extent … (1 comments)

five good habits for realtors - 03/06/10 08:41 PM
Realtor magazine suggest five good habits for realtors!  Have you been following your new year's resolutions?  If you if not then it is a great time to go back to the basics and get yourself a fresh start!  It's time to let go of those bad habits!  Five great pointers for real estate agents!
 
Number one, exercise, exercise, exercise!  Did you know that if you're feeling stressed, exercise is one of the best ways to relieve your stress.  Real estate practitioners all over the country get stressed out from all kinds of transactions of the real estate business.  Just by … (7 comments)

Standing Out From the Crowd! 3 Secrets of the Irreplaceable Real Estate Agent! - 03/06/10 08:04 PM
Lola did a great post!  Are you differentiating yourself? Thanks!
Via Lola Audu~Audu Real Estate~Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate:

If you're just stepping into the real estate business today, you may be wondering how you will make it through the challenge of the current real estate crisis.  If you've been in the business awhile..you many be wondering the same thing! One of the keys to surviving the challenge of a crisis is to understand what's important and then figure out how to give what is actually needed.
In the age of Abundance Differentiation becomes the King!  in some ways, the rise of … (0 comments)

I Need a Website System! - 03/06/10 07:11 PM
Earlier today Kathy was looking for a system for organizing websites... I didn't see many comments so perhaps you could give her some more ideas... I'll be watching as well, thanks! 
Via KATHY OPATKA Ocean City, MD Re/Max Premier Properties (Re/Max Premier Properties):
I need a Website system! 
I'm a very organized person, who has many systems in place!  Although I tend to pile "stuff", I know where everything is stored.  However, little post-it notes are multiplying at a very rapid rate on any surface that accepts a sticky!  On these notes are all the WEBSITES that I want to preview/use/sign on!  If … (0 comments)

How to stop Twitter Spam with one click! - 03/06/10 04:00 PM
Mike had a great post on dealing with Spam from Twitter account... If you are getting spam then check out this post..
Via Mike Mueller (Tech and Social Media Consultant):
Image of Spam Watch If you are anything like me, you despise Twitter Spam and unwanted solicitations. Hey, Twitter is FREE so what can you do about it? Report them! Here’s how using two of the most popular twitter clients Seesmic Desktop and TweetDeck.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UoH3yisoHr8 The next step is to block and un-follow the Dweebs (I’ll do both AFTER I first report them). You can also report them manually by sending … (4 comments)

Don't let "serious inspection issues" derail your deal. - 03/06/10 01:19 PM
Bryant had a great post earlier today about the inspection issues that could derail your deal.. don't let that happen!  Let Bryant tell you more... great post!
Via Bryant Tutas-Tutas Towne Realty, Inc:
Hi Folks. As we all know, nothing can derail a real estate transaction faster than a home inspection that uncovers "serious inspection issues".
Recently I had a home inspection done on one of my pending listings. It was an older property and I was a little bit nervous and hoping there wasn't going to be any major issues to deal with.
Anyway, shortly after the inspection was completed I … (0 comments)

The Global Ticking Time Bomb: Government Debt - 03/06/10 12:47 PM
Spencer did a great job on this post today about the realities of goverment debt piling up.  You'll need a good hour to read this one when you get a chance... it's a goodie.
Via Spencer Rascoff (Zillow):
This paper scared me very badly, so as a form of therapy I figured I’d share it with you. Misery loves company, after all.
Governments around the world are already drowning in debt, and many countries face a high certainty of debt levels that will exceed their GDP (100 in the graphs below means that GDP = the debt amount). Think about that for a … (0 comments)

Agency Disclosure - 03/06/10 11:41 AM
You did a Great post on agency!  Also I love the little houses at the end of your post!  Great work Dagny!
Thanks,
Tom Davis
Via Dagny Eason, (203) 858-4853 Wilton CT Real Estate (William Raveis):
AGENCY DISCLOSURE
 
There are three different kinds of basic agency disclosure.  All very important information to know before you begin the buying or selling homes process.
 
There are three types of agency....
Buyer's agency
Listing agency
Dual agency - single agency
 
Each agency relationship carries with it legal duties and responsibilities on the part of the broker, the agent, as well as the buyer, … (2 comments)

SOLD - 761 Bayberry Court in Ocean Sands at Corolla NC on the Outer Banks - 03/06/10 11:38 AM
Linda! Congratulations on you sale today!  I love to see when Sales are happening around!  It is so motivating!
Via Linda Powers (Resort Realty - Duck):
This fully furnished Outer Banks 6 bedroom, 5 bath home offers so much for the perfect vacation or second home. Heated pool, hot tub, reverse plan with top floor living, family/game room, Stair Tamer lift, ground floor bedroom, 4 bedrooms on 1st level and another bedroom on the top level. Geo-thermal heat.
761 Bayberry CourtOcean Sands subdivisionCorolla, NC

This 761 Bayberry Court home in Ocean Sands at Corolla on the Outer Banks had so much to offer … (0 comments)

Picking The Right Agent Is Essential! - 03/01/10 12:01 AM
Picking The Right Agent Is Essential! Let me say that again.... Picking The Right Agent Is Essential!  Yes It means the difference to you the seller when selling your home!
Call me today for a FREE VIDEO called how to Select Your Real Estate Agent
Tom Davis (302) 398-3757
I look forward to helping you get your home SOLD FAST and FOR HIGHEST AMOUNT!
… (4 comments)

 

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