Kay's Blog

REMINDER - PATIENCE IS A VIRTUE...IN A MOBILE WORLD!!!

2008-04-27T16:16:59Z

Gee, and I thought EVERYONE knew how to print an attachment!!!! Not true! As much as we'd like to believe that everybody is internet and computer savvy....there are still those out there who are trying their hardest to get/stay current but just aren't there yet!

We need to slow down, assume (I know, ASSUME will make an Ass out of You and ME)......that your client KNOWS NOTHING about computers.

(1) When you send a doc, call to confirm receipt of the document!!! WOW - you mean communicate verbally???...not on email or text? YES I MEAN VERBALLY!!!

(2) Ask how many attachments were received and if all documents printed AND ALL pages printed as well!!!! (WOW, how much time do we have to spend waiting on that cell phone adding up the minutes while our clients slowly counts out the page numbers????)

(3) Go through the documents one by one, page by page to ensure nothing is missed. There might even be questions along the way!

We all want to get the paperwork done in record time. Who likes paperwork anyway? It is a necessary evil of our business though and being thorough in explaining everything will bring rewards later. Being on the road and trying to send, then talk through, an addendum or other attachment, can be frustrating at the least. Below are some tips on helping to make the road office an easier one!

Ideas to make your mobile office a success:

(1) Efax, or other names with the same capability, comes into your email inbox as a document with an attachment. You can usually forward this initial document with its attachment, or save the attachment, create a new email message, and attach the saved document to send to your client with instructions (uh, written in the email BUT....verbally explained on the phone!)

(2) Mobile Desk: GREAT tool for the vehicle if you drive alone the majority of the time. This allows you greater comfort in working in your vehicle with a laptop (and writing, etc). WARNING: DO NOT use your computer while driving, no matter how tempted you may be!!!

(3) Cheap 3-in-1 printer. I paid $300 for my true blue-tooth/mobile printer. It is expensive, uses LOTS of ink in really tiny cartridges....for under $100 at WW, a good 3-1 printer can be bought that will also copy and fax for you!!!! If it breaks, it is a fairly cheap replacement item but a necessary one for the mobile office! I've had clients collating listing pages while we are driving to the next home!!!

(4) Stackable bins in the back of the vehicle allow you to carry the necessary office items 24x7. The "short list"

paper, pens, stapler, scissors, lockbox, measuring tape, electric tape, duct tape, screwdrivers (both), socket set, small set of tie-downs

(5) Patience - with a mobile office, clients can become VERY demanding and forget to send you the tour list....a mobile office isn't cheap to maintain and with the ever-rising price of gas, we have to conserve and do the majortiy of work possible at our normal home/office desk. A gentle reminder to our clients is always a good thing!

HAPPY TOURING!

HOW DID WE ALLOW THIS TO HAPPEN?

2008-04-23T11:39:46Z

An educational opportunity is what we called it. A chance to learn about short sales, the process, the problems, etc. What I didn't expect was an education on greedy financiers and builders willing to sell their souls for a sale.

Get this: SCENARIO: a foreigner - here for 20 years, building his cash reserve to eventually bring his entire family to live in the wonderful US of A. Became a US citizen dreaming the American dream...driving a taxi in DC. His son, a plumber, living here as well. A cousin, willing to rent from him. A "friend" who told him two years ago to invest in a new house.....and so he did.

$60,000 of his hard earned money as a down payment bought he and his son a $707,000 new home. Interest rate of 7% with a second that they were unaware of until they failed to make payments one time and learned the builder (the builder's lender) had sold his loan quickly. (DUH). Now with a house payment of $7000 +/- each month and only one income...guess what? They can't afford the house!!!! Gee.

The house will sell for around $485,000....eventually. And guess what? The son got married recently and bought his wife another house (last fall)....on a plumber's pay.....and a huge outstanding mortgage along with his father. What lender overlooked that little fact?

In our educational counselling, we found out that the two owners did not know there was a second trust on the house. They were never given a "class" in home ownership which included looking at income vs outlay as well as insurance, groceries, utilities, gas, and all the other little things that can bite you in the arse if you don't plan for it.

How can we, as an educated, compassionate group of human beings, allow scenarios like the above to happen? Who got greedy here and helped propulgate the market we are in today? Sell a house no matter what? I'd hate to believe that this is the builder's motto....and the lender's who support them.

I'm going to take this one on as my personal mission - to continue to educate buyers in WHY IT IS IMPORTANT TO USE YOUR OWN REALTOR whether a resale or a new build!!!!! It is our duty to ensure our buyers are INFORMED and if necessary, help educate them on the truths of owning a home!

These two people are good people. They send money back to their country to care for their kin who have no mothers or fathers until there is enough money to bring them to the USA. They are compassionate, well-meaning and hard working. Now 70 years young, one owner has no money left (his $60,000 was spent on the down payment)...they'll lose this house and probably the other one as well. I don't blame them....I look to those who should know better, who should have looked further into income and asked the questions they didn't want to ask. Shame on them for the turmoil we are now in, whoever THEY are!!!!

FAUQUIER COUNTY HORSE FARMS - IMPORTANT QUESTIONS TO ASK (PART IV)

2008-04-14T11:21:31Z

The final "gig" on farms in Fauquier County!!! More and more realtors are out showing properties - with clients who may not understand much about farms. Questions to ask may be:

(1) Can the land be subdivided? (County zoning will be of great assistance here...with a phone call, or some $$$..either is a HUGE investment in understanding before buying!!!)

(2) Can anybody build a home around me?

(3) Are there easements? (Gee, do I have to share with somebody else? If so, who does what to keep it useable?)

(4) Is the well and septic on my property or elsewhere with a deeded maintenance agreement? (Many homesteads have been subdivided and in some cases, septic fields and/or wells, had to go with a subdivided portion but with the maintenance and access, the responsibility of the original homestead house)

(5) If there is a shared driveway, is a written agreement in place and on file at the courthouse?

(6) How deep is the well and how many gallons of water per minute does it produce?

(7) Is there other property available to buy in adjoining parcels?

(8) Is there water available in all fields? (Do you have to buy water tanks, run water lines, etc?

(9) How much hay will the loft hold? (Wow, have they ever used it for hay??? How secure is it structurally?)

(10) Is there ride-out or do others ride through this property? (Why should you ask this question? - many new farm owners are "privatizing" their land and refusing to allow the hunt, or other riders, through their land. There are legal issues, liabilities that may come into play by freely allowing riders to pass through on your land. Seek a lawyers advise always, but at a minimum, post no trespassing signs to protect yourselves and let those who want to ride through, contact you personally for permission to ride on your land).

FAUQUIER COUNTY HORSE FARMS - IMPORTANT QUESTIONS TO ASK (PART IV)

2008-04-14T11:21:29Z

The final "gig" on farms in Fauquier County!!! More and more realtors are out showing properties - with clients who may not understand much about farms. Questions to ask may be:

(1) Can the land be subdivided? (County zoning will be of great assistance here...with a phone call, or some $$$..either is a HUGE investment in understanding before buying!!!)

(2) Can anybody build a home around me?

(3) Are there easements? (Gee, do I have to share with somebody else? If so, who does what to keep it useable?)

(5) If there is a shared driveway, is a written agreement in place and on file at the courthouse?

(6) How deep is the well and how many gallons of water per minute does it produce?

(7) Is there other property available to buy in adjoining parcels?

(8) Is there water available in all fields? (Do you have to buy water tanks, run water lines, etc?

(9) How much hay will the loft hold? (Wow, have they ever used it for hay??? How secure is it structurally?)

FAUQUIER COUNTY HORSE FARMS (PART III)

2008-04-09T15:27:55Z

Wow, it's springtime and babies are here!!!! What a joyful time...unless you have "normal" babies who like to frolic and play....and sleep! Here's where the right fencing and the right HEIGHT of fencing can be critical!!!! ALWAYS be sure the bottom board is located either high enough that a baby can't get it's delicate leg stuck under it...or it is low enough that it can't get it's leg through it at all!!! Rearing and playing are a given. Babies (horses too for that matter!) LOOK for ways to get hurt. I guess that is the key in deciding what kind of fencing you want. Money is another huge factor. 4 boards or 3? It's a matter of "what the jones's are doing".....american wire and posts? Half rounds or full? Again, a matter of taste, deep pockets and hopefully, most importantly, one of safety for the animals. Be safe, be amazed at the wonder of new life and enjoy the beautiful hills of Virginia!

FAUQUIER COUNTY HORSE FARMS (PART II)

2008-04-02T13:42:12Z

Gee, the listing says "horse potential".....and just what might that mean? To an experienced realtor, it means the listing agent is trying their darndest to get somebody in the door to look at the property with an eye to the future!

As a reminder, my last post talked about pastures - if you look at a wooded property with an "eye to the future"...the future in terms of useable pasture will be at least 2 years. That doesn't include the cost of clearing the wooded property....of fencing the wooded property.....putting up a barn, arenas, or anything else horsey in nature!

True equine enthusiasts will demand the very best for their horses. Finding out about in-ground watering systems is important as they are advertised as healthier because water doesn't stand in a waterer and grow mold, critters don't die in there, etc.!

Another important aspect of equine properties is the fencing. Oak board fencing, although a classic option, is also one of the more dangerous fencing choices. Horses seem to look for ways to get hurt....and busting through an oak board fence could result in a pierced chest, leg or belly...and accompanying vet bills to attest to it! There are numerous fencing options other than oak boards. Poly wire is an alternative - electric wire surrounded by a thick coating of vinyl that is attached to pasture corners with springs....it provides "give" when a horse falls into it! It is also extremely easy to see, even in the dark. 3 and 4-strands are popular. Price seems to be a bit cheaper than board fence and is probably a bit easier to deal with as well! No painting boards which requires either (a) a young intimidated family member with a bucket and a brush...or (b) paid painters with generators, power sprayers and the such. The poly wire is tightened with a ratchet at each end and either t-posts or wood posts provide the conductor surfaces.

What else might a horse need or want? Oh yes.....this year, having good hay might be like a lobster-fest to a horse!!!! With the drought last year, hay prices are at an all-time premium in northern Virginia and those who would stick their noses in the air when "round bale" was even mentioned, are now standing in line at the farms who even sell them! Good hay is important....alfalfa is difficult to find locally - those who grow it usually have the crops(s) sold before they even bale. Alfalfa mixes are easier to find but then it is difficult to truly identify the ratio of alfalfa and other hay grasses. Good luck on that end and pray the rain keeps coming!!!!

See you next blog!!!

HORSE FARM....OR IS IT?

2008-03-26T07:52:57Z

It has been an interesting market with a true opportunity for those ready to make a dream come true! I can buy a horse farm!!!! Agents, shame on you, take advantage of this enthusiasm by labeling anything and everything that has a patch of grass, a "horse farm" or "farm" or "potential for horse farm".

If you are thinking of buying or are looking to buy, a property that will sustain horses, or any other animals for that matter, here are some of my thoughts:

1. Timbered land, once cleared, takes up to two years to become pasture. Clearing, dragging, fertiziling, seeding, fertiziling, seeding and mowing is a lengthy process. If the pasture isn't given time to mature, your grass will simply disappear.

2. Each County Extension Office will assist you in determining how many animals your potential land, will sustain if you are considering using the pasture as a food source. Each county and different areas of each county, will also have different ratios (called animal units per acre). Granted, in a year such as 2007, even the largest pastures weren't producing new grass because of the drought...

3. Soil tests are very economical and sometimes free also! This will help you determine what has been done in the past to encourage plant growth..and what has not! Lime is a needed mineral in most Fauquier County soils. This and other land supplements, can be ordered and even delivered and spread, through your local Coop at a decent cost.

4. Know your limits on not only the number of animals, but what you are willing to pay to take care of them! Many families spend more on their animal health care than their own health/dental care! This can drive a family out of house and home if not planned for in advance. Having that pony for Susan's 9th birthday may be a dream come true...initially...but when the pony founders on the lush grassy field, the vet bills go up astonomically! Consider the farrier every 4-6 weeks at $100 per animal (if we're talking horses), spring shots for each animal, Coggins test annually if you'll haul your horse elsewhere, plus the numerous new dangers that seem to spring up annually that are infectious to equine breeds.

5. Perhaps the cost of owning a horse looks okay for now.....is your horse "person" a young child? I've found that children, especially girls, seem to do better in an environment where there are other young riders as well. There they learn to clean stalls, groom, clean feet, tack up, wash and cool down horses, in a group setting. Gosh, mom and dad might learn something too! Owners of large riding facilities are used to having these "barn babies" around...usually for several seasons until the young lady becomes focused elsewhere. This may be a cheaper solution to buying a farm...with opportunities to show and compete under experienced hands.

6. Still want that farm? Now, when that young girl wants to show her horse....you'll have to have the animal taken to the show...(you'll pay for this service!)....or you can buy your own trailer, trailer tags, and the annual maintenance that goes along with it! Gosh, but if you buy a trailer, guess what? You'll need the right sized truck to pull it! Another large investment. A friend bought my horse prior to my orders overseas. His daughter was 9, just loved horses and had ridden at a riding facility for a year. She was ready for her own horse...or so he thought! Two years later I returned to the pointing finger! Kay!!!! Do you know how much that horse cost me????? The horse, vet, farrier, and transportation costs were nothing.....he said. It was when they found this great horse trailer for $2000 they couldn't resist! Suddenly they owned a trailer and guess what? They didn't have a truck! $52,000 later they owned a truck, became the haulers for his daughter and her friend and had every weekend booked for shows. My question back to him was "and does she have a boyfriend?" His answer was "well.....no". Point made, point taken. Horses and little girls are a match made in heaven!!!! His daughter actually went on to continue her equine education in college, taking her horse with her! And she's still not married (nor with child!).

Back to the reason for this article - open your eyes when looking at all these listings that say "farm"...."pond" or any other potentially open-for-interpretation remarks!

Feel free to call me if you are looking for that special horse property - as a vet's daughter, an equestrian and farm girls, I'll be glad to help!

Take time to drive around and see all our new babies in the fields! I love springtime!

Kay Young

LtCol USMCR, Associate Broker, Brio Realty

(703) 929-4523

AGENT PERSONAL SECURITY...AGAIN!

2008-03-22T09:00:56Z

Once again, my background may be my salvation! Touring multiple $400,000+ homes in the Woodbridge area, many foreclosure and short sales and the majority vacant, staying alert BEFORE entering a home is a MUST for ALL AGENTS!

Even though listing agents put a lock box..(more and more likely a combination lockbox)...on the front doors of their foreclosure and short sale listings...that lock box isn't doing the job! 15 homes on the tour list, 10 of them listed as "vacant"..."go show,

3 of the "vacant" homes we entered had somebody living there. Wet towels in bathroom, bedroll/pillow on the floor. Gee, any guesses how they entered? The listing agent put the combination to the front door IN THE PUBLIC REMARKS!!!!

Do you guys NOT GET IT! This is an inherantly DANGEROUS situation...not only for agents but for our clients as well! Brokers, you NEED TO GET IT THROUGH YOUR AGENTS' HEADS!!!! Combinations to lockboxes DON"T GO INTO PUBLIC REMARKS!

My concealed carry license allows me to have a bit more security than some of you but I advise AT A MINIMUM, take a personal security class at your local Tae Kwon Do studio, or call your local shooting range and see if there isn't a local cop who provides personal security classes after hours. It might save your life.....they will teach you things to look for, an awareness of your surroundings that you may have never thought of. It's worth it, don't you think?

I am appalled at the lack of integrity and honesty used in the remarks sections as well. "Shows well"...now only means you want to get agents and clients in the door.....what you find once inside????? The overwhelming smell of cat urine, broken cabinets, removed light fixtures and more. Agents, why don't you tell us the truth?

BRIO REALTY VIRGINIA

2008-03-15T07:46:47Z

Leads are no longer coming in - no communication with west coast Brio parent company for some reason. Phone calls from Virginia broker and Virginia manager remain unreturned. Those thinking of using Brio Realty as their brokerage, think twice. Lots of promises, lack of competent leadership and mangement has caused the entire organization to falter. After 4 years of working with this brokerage, I am disappointed in the lack of support given the Virginia brokerage after all their promises!

AGENTS AND VACANT HOMES: DRUGS, NAKED WOMEN, GUNS AND DEAD BUGS!

2007-03-13T10:25:12Z

Having shown over 300 homes and townhomes in the past 3 months, I have noticed several disturbing problems with vacant homes.

(1) Snow storms: even in my Jeep Liberty, I was unable to negotiate several driveways due to layers of snow and ice build-up. If you want your house to be shown, it MUST be accessible!!! Driveways and even worse, steps leading to townhomes and detached homes were absolutely treacherous!!!! Agents, please call your long-distance sellers and help to arrange for snow removal and shoveling of driveways and steps!!!

(2) Home maintenance: before your sellers depart, ensure you have arrangements for cleaning of interiors, light bulb replacement and a bi-weekly walk-through! Dead bugs and dark homes do nothing for a potential buyer!!!

(3) On a recent townhome tour we encountered the following:

a. Tenants smoking pot in basement, one a naked female who was too "stoned" to care we were there! (It was even an appointment only showing and I made the appointment!!!)

b. Gun belts on dining room table sans guns but with billy club, mace and ammunition still attached! The officer's uniforms were also laying out on the table....in the bathroom in front of the toilet, his boxer shorts!!!

c. 7 illegals in a vacant townhome - a pistol on the counter, empty beer cans everywhere and a busted in range against the wall. Filth everywhere, bedrolls in every bedroom as well the recreation room. The master bedroom door locked with deadbolt.

Not only were the above incidents shocking to my client (and myself!!!)...but were also potentially dangerous to us as well.

LISTING AGENTS TAKE NOTE!!!!! Your clients have faith in your abilities.....do not get complacant about your vacant homes - be responsible, anticipate trouble and be PROACTIVE in helping your sellers with their vacant homes!!!

NEW BUILDS

2006-09-01T12:34:29Z

Beware of new builds - sales reps will undermine agents to get a signature..whether on a contract, an addendum, or an inspection. Regardless of what they SAY, their actions prove they are NOT working in your clients' best interest. My client asked "Why should I have a real estate agent represent me?" Now he's saying, "I can't believe how bad it would have been if I hadn't had someone independent of the builder taking care of ME!".

Agents, whether its an inspection issue, walk-through, or simple discussion with the sales rep, you need to be there with your client.