Feds get banks more money for short sales,deed in lieu,foreclosures? - 08/31/12 09:05 AM
Did you see the news yesterday that the federal government granted the banks more money to process short sales, deed in lieu, loan modifications, and foreclosures and get credit back for part of the difference of what is owed and what the properties are worth.
I have been having many challenges recently on processing short sales. The banks seem to find any reason not to approve the short sales.  Maybe now we will see a change and less resistance from the banks to perform on getting these homes through the process and get them sold.
Whatever it takes to wade through … (0 comments)

Let's all get 5 listings in September - 08/29/12 08:17 AM
I hear real estate agents everyday say the inventory of homes to sell is low. Here is an easy solution - Let's all list 5 homes in September. If every real estate agent listed at least 5 homes in September there would not be a shortage of  good homes for sale. We could all make more money and prices may increase too.
Ideas to get 5 new listings in September:
Door knock
Call, email, text, mail past clients
Farm your neighborhood with postcards
Open houses - 6 per weekend
Call and visit expired listings
Do this 2 hours per day and … (4 comments)

Why invest in real estate? - 08/27/12 08:17 AM
Have you checked all the options out there for investing your money?
Here are a few:
Certificates of deposit at mos 2per cent
Municipal bonds about 3 per cent and you may end up with less principal when you sell
Stocks as we all know this is risky for most people
Annuities- for long term investment is ok, but confusing and also not great returns right now
Now - real estate
Prices are low allowing a good return on investment whether renting or flipping.
Good tax write offs still exist for real estate investments.
You can have control and decent liquidity … (2 comments)

Blogging on my iPad - 08/27/12 07:36 AM
Over the past few weeks, I have been making extra effort to use my iPad rather than laptop. I am 59 years old and not too good with technology. I admire the younger agents who whiz through technology. I have hired experts to do a lot of marketing for me and learned what was crucial for me to learn. For the next 3 months I am committed to using my iPad more often and more efficiently.
… (5 comments)

Now is the time to invest in real estate in La Quinta and Indio,Ca. - 08/25/12 04:56 PM
Now is the time to invest in real estate:
Here is an example of cash flow for rental homes in Indio and La Quinta, California
Numbers are approximations
Home price: $200,000
Rent: $2000 a month x 12 months = $24,000 annual income
Property taxes $3000 annual
Gardener $1000 annual
Insurance $1000 annual
Net income $18000 = 9% return on investment if you pay cash. Plus you get tax writeoffs and have the opportunity to gain equity.
If you put $60,000 down and get a loan for $140,000, you payment is approximately $700 a month or $8400 a year.
You have a … (0 comments)

7 homes sold yesterday! - 08/25/12 04:45 PM
Yesterday was one of my best days in real estate in several years. My smal boutique real estate company in La Quinta, California, sold 7 homes -
$2,650,000 Cash
$930,000 Cash
$500,000 short sale
$290,000 short sale
$225,000 Cash
$200,000 Short sale approved
$130,000 Short sale approved
Nearly $5,000,000 in sales in one day and I am submitting an offer today on $627,000 and new listing for $130,000 too!
These buyers understand that now is the time to buy real estate in La Quinta,California - low prices, beautiful homes, and low interest rates too.
Call me now- I get results!
Lori Bowers #01293735
… (3 comments)

The Lori Bowers Group - We are just that good! - 08/25/12 04:35 PM
* Over 2100 homes sold
* We net sellers over 95% of asking price
* We sell our listings for a higher price and in a shorter number of days
* Year after year after year, the proof is in the numbers
*Full time - We are available 24/7 to serve all of your real estate needs
* Online presence
Whether you are buying, selling, investing, or leasing, The Lori Bowers Group will get results!
… (0 comments)

Why my listings sell - by Lori Bowers - 08/25/12 04:30 PM
Selling a home in today's market can be challenging. While the market can be difficult, hundreds of home sell in our area each week.
 What's the difference between selling your home and failing to do so? THE DETAILSWhether it's our proven sales approach, effective marketing campaigns, or using our existing network, we pay attention to details.
I develop a specific marketing strategy for each and every strategy. These marketing strategies are tailored specifically for each home owner. These strategies are designed to maximize exposure, marketability, and most of all RESULTS!
My drive and innovation are combined with communication and professionalism. I welcome … (1 comments)

Why didn't your home sell? - 08/25/12 09:05 AM
1. Was it lack of exposure?
2. Did your agent discuss buyer demographics for your neighborhood with you?
3. How did your home compare to others you were competing against?
4. Did your previous agent offer to show you the competition?
5. How did the price of your home compare with others in your marketplace?
6. Did your agent discuss staging techniques with you?
7. What type of exposure and internet presence did your home have?
8. Did you last agent call and communicate regularly on the status and marketing  of your home
9. Did you have an extensive marketing plan … (2 comments)

Are you aware the real estate market has changed? - 08/25/12 08:59 AM
It's in your favor to sell your home today.
Buyers are waiting.
Inventory of homes for sale is low.
Interest rates for buyers are still low.
Prices are higher than 1 year ago.
Call now for a FREE market analysis to get your home SOLD NOW!
… (3 comments)

Quality features of homes at Trilogy La Quinta ( part 1) - 08/23/12 10:21 AM
The homes at Trilogy La Quinta have many special appointments and quality features including:
Energy efficient package
12 SEER air conditioning and heating split system
50 gallon insulated hot water heater
Dual pane low E windows
R -17 exterior wall insulation
R-38 ceiling loose fill cellulose insulation
Foam Sealant at base plates
Efficient gas heating and ground mounted electric air conditioning
8' energy efficient raised-panel fiberglass front entry door
 
 
… (0 comments)

Do you provide a homestead exemption form to buyers? - 08/23/12 09:28 AM
Here is a great gift for your clients that will cost you nothing. Before the close of escrow give your clients Homestead Exemption form to save them about $120 per year on their property taxes in California. Many people do not know how to do this and do not take the time. It is one little service that we can do for our clients to save them money each year.
It is little extras like this that build loyalty by clients.
… (2 comments)

The Lori Bowers Group is the best company around! - 08/21/12 02:02 PM
The Lori Bowers Group is the best company around. The difference is the 'teamwork' mentality this is here. Broker Lori Bowers has not only a vast amount of real estate knowledge and experience, has empowered excited and very experienced agents as members of the team.
Clients get the same tools that come from a large company, but with a small, locally owned, family feel.
Buyers, sellers, and investors love the energy, enthusiasm, and dedication of Lori Bowers and the agents. They know there is not a better company or team for real estate transactions.
The professionalism of this company is one of … (0 comments)

Showing homes in 110+ degrees in La Quinta, California - 08/18/12 01:24 PM
I have lived in La Quinta, California for over 11 years and have sold over 2000 homes here. This summer has been some of the hottest weather I have felt here and it is going on now for nearly 2 weeks with exhorbitant heat and lots of humidity.
The good news is that many agents have left town for cooler areas. Those of us that are here working have very serious buyers.
For sure it is uncomfortable to show homes in 110+ plus heat, but it is sure easier than in snow, ice, sleet. It also only lasts about 100 days … (2 comments)

New Freddie Mac Underwriting Guidelines - 08/18/12 12:42 PM
Freddie Mac just announced seom new underwriting guidelines to make loans alittle easier.
1. Electronic signatures will now be allowed for certain loan application documents.
2. Certain social security number validation requirements have been eliminated. If a social security number has been validated during loan, prequalifacation, it will not be revalidated.
3. The list of 3rd party employment/income verification service providers has been broadened. Any provider may be used as long as they meet the Guide's requirements.
 
… (0 comments)

New energy standards for California - 08/18/12 12:34 PM
The California Energy Commission recently approved new energy efficiency standards for new homes and commercial buildings. The Energy Commissions' 2013 standards are 25 per cent more efficient than previous standards for residential construction and 30 per cent better for non residential construction. The standards which take effect January 2014 offer buildings better windows, insulation, lighting, ventilation, and other features to reduce energy consumption in homes and businesses.
… (0 comments)

Why people want to own a home - 08/16/12 11:10 AM
People who own a home are happier and feel more secure.
Even if values do not increase. Homeowners can build equity.
The tax deductions for mortgages and property taxes are beneficial.
Owning a home is more stable than renting.
Homeowners can personalize their home and yard too,
Homeowners feel more a part of the community and are more active in their communities.
Homeowners live longer than renters.
 
… (0 comments)

A green move - where to dispose of your stuff when you move - 08/15/12 11:13 AM
Check Earth911.com for information on how to ecologically dispose of items like fire extinguishers, fungicides, household cleaners, compact fluorescent light bulbs.
Usually local home furniture stores and mattress outlets will take old mattresses and discarded bed parts because the cotton, springs, foam can be recycled and given new life.
For old clothes Good will and Salvation Army are good options. According to organics.com you can use your cotton, wool, and old leather as compost.
For miscellaneous junk and items you never use consider craigslist and ebay. We recently had a 2 hour yard sale for a client who had died and … (2 comments)

At 115 degrees, buyers are serious in La Quinta, Ca. - 08/15/12 09:23 AM
We know when buyers are looking at 115 degrees, they really want a house. I love this time of year as even though the temperatures are high, there are buyers. I know they are serious and want to buy a house or they surely would not be here in this heat.
Each year at this time over half the agents leave for a few months for vacation. This is good for them and good for us. We get more buyers since there are less agents here.
115 degrees is a winner for us who stay here in La Quinta, California, and … (1 comments)

Testing 123 - 08/14/12 03:56 PM
I have been having trouble the past few days with posting blogs. I get a message that says to ' place topic.' As you can tell, I have the topic. Is anyone else having this issue? Does anyone have any suggestions on how to make this go away?
Thanks to all of you for your support and help on Active Rain.
… (3 comments)

New Real Estate Signs for me - 08/12/12 08:24 AM
I have had the same basic real estate signs for several years. I decided that even though well-used signs show character and time in the business, new signs show professionalism. An updated and new fresh look in branding excites me, my agents, and clients too. It is interesting to hear comments on the new branding. I am so happy when people notice that I have updated the branding.
How often has it been since you changed the look of your signs and cards?
… (2 comments)

Home sales statistics in California for May 2012 - 08/12/12 08:20 AM
Existing home sales for 2012   572,260 - an increase of 21.5% from 2011
Median home price   $312,110 - an increase of 6% from 2011
Median time on the market 46.6 days - 38.6% less than 2011
Traditional home affordabillity index  56% - a 3% increase from 2011
30 year fixed mortgage rate as of May 12, 2012     3.8% compared to 4.64% in 2011 a .84% decease
Now is truly the time to buy homes!
… (4 comments)

Reasons to have a real estate coach - 08/12/12 08:18 AM
Real estate agents have real estate coaches for many reasons. Here are some reasons:
1. Accountibility
2. Consistency
3. Systems
4. New ideas
5. New technology
6. Emotional support
7. Referrals
8. Knowledge
9. Organizational skills
10. Increases busines
11. Stay on top of marketing ideas and methods that really work
12. Seminars to network with other agents
… (2 comments)

Tips to get short sale bank approval - 08/11/12 01:52 PM
Here are some tips to get short sale bank approval
1. Present a complete file and lots of information supporting the price
2. Call the bank daily
3. If the negotiator does not respond at least once each few weeks, call customer service and speak to a supervisor
4. Keep bank statements and pay stubs updated.
5. Verify the file is complete and up to date
6. Meet the appraiser at the house to verify value compared to offer
7. Study online for tips and feedback on short sales from other agents
… (2 comments)

Insights from the Tom X Summit - 08/11/12 01:16 PM
There are over 2500 real estate agents who love real estate as much as I do.
Listings are the way to go now.
Farming works now more than ever.
Past clients and sphere of influence are still prime ways to get business.
Positive enthusiastic energy brings happiness, health, and a whole lot more business.
These 2500+ real estate agents are a good source of referral business.
Sharing with others really improves my attitude and knowledge too.
… (2 comments)

How I celebrate my birthday! - 08/09/12 07:42 AM
Today is the 39th anniversary of my 20th birthday! I have been a the Tom ferry Summit for 2 days and also today. I am leaving at  noon to go home and have dinner with my wonderful husband.
What a wonderful place to celebrate my birthday surrounded by like-minded real estate agents and brokers with lots of energy, peace, joy and love. I feel alive, excited and full of energy. I feel rejuventated and refreshed.
I truly do love real estate and am so grateful for all of my family, friends, business associates, and clients. I truly have a good and … (4 comments)

Why do you like the office where you work? - 08/08/12 08:56 AM
Many people have different reasons of why they like their office.
1. Location
2. Fabulous broker
3. Fun agents
4. Great commission split
5. Free lunch
6. Free internet
7. Great copier and scanner
8. Great parties
9. Good agent services and transaction coordinator
10. Lots of free parking
11. Well known and well respected company
 
… (2 comments)

Reasons to not change brokers - 08/07/12 08:21 AM
Changing brokers is time consuming and expensive.
Usually, the grass seems greener and is  not.
It is hard for your clients to find you when you change brokers.
You lose money in the process through the expense of changing signs, cards, website, etc.
Stability is staying where you are.
 
… (4 comments)

What do you like about your real estate broker? - 08/06/12 03:00 PM
There are many great qualities that real estate brokers have that benefit their real estate agents. Here are a few:
1. Knowledge
2. Generous and giving
3. High commission split
4. Accessibile
5. Open minded
6. Caring
7. Energetic
8. High skill level
9. Hardworking
10. Connected
11. Good negotiator
12. Experienced
13. Adpatable and flexible
14. Fair
15. Calm
16. Honest
17. Consistent
18. Accountable
19. Good say/do ratio
20. Good sense of humor
21. No drama
22. Good business person
23. Well respected
24. Positive attitude
25. Kind
26. Understanding
… (2 comments)

Sales Mindset? - 08/06/12 02:03 PM
Here are a few key traits to consider being to get homes sold!
Excited
Passionate
Confident
Full of energy
A leader
A teacher
A professional
Completely sure of the process
Provide direction
Positive
Enthusiastic
Honest
Compassionate
Driven
Knowledgeable
Consistent
Persistent
Empathetic
 
… (0 comments)

Why do you like being a real estate agent? - 08/06/12 01:43 PM
There are many reasons people like being a real estate agent. Here are a few:
I like looking at homes
I like to help people
I like making money
I like the freedom to schedule my time
I like making the deal
I like coaching and training people
I like helping others make money
Why do you like being a real estate agent?
… (1 comments)

What do you look for in a house? - 08/05/12 02:10 PM
Everyone has certain issues when it comes to houses. Here are a few things I look for to help insure my clients do not lose money on the home they purchase and also enjoy their home.
1. away from noisy roads and traffic
2. no mold
3. home has not been in a fire or flood
4. at least 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car garage
5. needs dishwasher and hook ups for washer and dryer in the house
6. plenty of closets and storage
7. nice backyard or private area
8. doors and closet doors in good condition
9. windows … (2 comments)

Are you going to the Tom Ferry Summit? - 08/05/12 02:02 PM
The Tome Ferry Summit is in Anaheim, California, this week at the convention center. The seminar runs from Tuesday afternoon through Friday. Tuesday afternoon starts with several key and top agents and brokers sharing their secrets to success in the real estate business. To gain knowledge, skills, and connect with the top real estate agents and brokers in America,be sure to attend this seminar.
There will be over 2000+ agents and brokers in attendance. It will motivate you and educate you to make more money and better serve your real estate clients.
You can register at www.yourcoach.com
… (1 comments)

Is it time to downsize your home? - 08/05/12 07:57 AM
Each day as a real estate broker I have older people ( over 50 years old) wanting to move to smaller homes. Many of these people have several homes over 3000 feet each. They want to have only 1-2 homes and no more than 3000 square foot each.
Less is more now to many people. As a rel estate broker I watch these people come and go to their various homes. They do have a wonderful life, but seem to be always in action anot able to settle and stay with calmness and simplicity.
Many years ago I spent about 2 … (2 comments)

Check out Villa Portofino - Palm Desert, Califoria - 08/04/12 01:11 PM
Villa Portofino - a 55+ gated luxury home community in Palm Desert, California is offer homes from $149,900 - $234,900. These homes start with 2 bedroom 2 bath homes with lots of amenities in a prime central Palm Desert location at the corner of Portola and Country Club across from Bristol Farms Grocery Store and near to Eisenhower Medical Center.
The $1202 monthly payment covers principal, interest, property tax, property insurance, HOA dues, clubhouse fees, water, cable, pest control, and more.
This active adult living in the heart of Palm Desert, California is luxurious and affordable too.
Visit Villa Portofino today … (1 comments)

Enhance your home with color - 08/04/12 12:48 PM
Color can make or break a home's interior design.
The right color can -
Enhance feelings of health and well-being
Modify perceived temperature - make your home feel warmer or cooler
Make your space feel larger or more cozy and intimate
Illuminate dark areas
Create mystery and romance in dull areas
Energize static areas
Use these questions to create a new color scheme for your home
1. Where is the room?
2. How many windows are there?
3. Is there landscaping outside that will affect the colors in the room?
4. Who will use the room? Is it private or community space?
… (0 comments)

Trilogy La Quinta - A Country Club in the Country - 08/03/12 07:34 AM
Trilogy La Quinta is a 55+ community in La Quinta, California. It is only 5 miles from the center of town and a beautiful drive with little traffic and gorgeous views. For people who are looking for the amenities of a country club with golf, tennis, fitness, pools, and activities too, at an affordable price and low HOA dues, this is a fabulous place to live.
Trilogy La Quinta is located close to the mountains which makes for amazing mountain views and peace, quiet, and serenity. The manned gated community is safe and secure while still maintaining a country atmosphere.
How … (0 comments)

Serious buyers grab homes in La Quinta - 08/03/12 07:29 AM
it is over 100 degrees in La Quinta. It is humid and rainy. Many homes do not have the air conditioner running and those that do have it elevated to around 85 degrees.
Guess what? Buyers are grabbing homes in La Quinta, California. They know that now is the time to buy a house in La Quinta California. The prices are low. The interest rates are low. There are fewer buyers when the temperatures go above 100 degrees.
If you are looking to buy or sell a home in La Quinta, now is the time to act! There are great deals … (1 comments)