Ok, let's rock n' roll with this one.  You want the truth about blogging, I'll give you my take, I'll give you my truth.  You see, I've read the greats on Search Engine Optimization, Key Words, Posting To Localism, and reaching out to where the consumer may be able to find you.  A lot of them (the greats) are right here, on Active-Rain.

At first, my whole goal was to garner more business.  Sorry, that's why I came here.  I have gotten more business but feel like I may have lost the edge that made me produce what I could when I should.  I got accustomed to write again, about anything, at any time at any place. 

Somebody commented recently that if I wrote about mortgages, they'd unsubscribe to what I posted.  Don't get me wrong, I love the comments, I feel that false sense of pride at the recognition, but Active-Rain doesn't pay my tab on life, I do.  My tab is current and I want to keep it that way.

Then, something happened along the way, I fell in love with something I fell in love with a long time ago.  I love writing.  For awhile, I did it for coin, earned money on the side.  Then, I came to this forum and now I'm totally freaking lost.  That's right, I'm lost.  I want so bad to start over, I was given that chance because I helped create it, yet all of the sudden I'm fancied a writer, not a Mortgage Guy.  I guess that is my fault, in fact, I know that it is.

I love writing, I should do it for a living but don't know how.  Active-Rain is a blessing and a curse for me.  The blessing is I found me.  The curse is I found the reality of which we live. 

For those who may be wondering what I'm striving at, I'll tell it to you real simple.  I need to blog/post for business, not because I want to write.  I just need money to be one less worry.

Very few buy the sale, they buy the sizzle!

For the absolute record, the title of this post defines what I am about to do.

No more me, I have to get back to business as usual....

Writing rarely pays the bills...

 

79 Comments on I Will Do This One More Time, Then I'm Done....

Jason,
I have a feeling that even when you write about mortgages, we will be intrigued enough to read.

09/11/2007 08:55 PM by David and Kristin Small, REALTORS®- Myrtle Beach Real Estate (Eagle Realty- Myrtle Beach)

So what are you saying?   You'll blog about mortgages and lose a subscriber or quit writing an lose them all. 

09/11/2007 08:57 PM by Dan Cummings - Connecticut's Running Realtor (Raveis Real Estate)

Jason,

The only way I think I blog for money is if I get a deal from here which I did so I guess I made some money blogging.

09/11/2007 08:57 PM by Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (RE/MAX Premier Associates)

Jason, whatever you write about is great, don't change for 'somebody'

09/11/2007 08:58 PM by Mary Warren, Las Vegas Real Estate (Keller Williams Southern Nevada)

Jason, I don't understand why you can't do  both....like say 2/3rds mortgage stuff and 1/3rd you stuff. Opening up your creative powers and letting them be are what will bring you more passion to your business too. It's hard to find that balance, I know. Some days I write ghost stories (real ones), other days I write about neighbourhoods I represent in my business.  Perhaps it's harder to do this when dealing in mortgages.

I just can't picture you starving your soul by sticking strictly with mortgages....when you have a gift you're supposed to share it with the world. It wasn't given to you to hide away....

Jo 

09/11/2007 08:59 PM by Jo-Anne Smith-Belleville, Quinte and Prince Edward Region Real Estate, Ont. (Royal Lepage Proalliance Realty, Brokerage)

LIL BRO (do you see the sternness in salutation?)  Why go from one extreme to another? Have some balance and have it all. I do.

09/11/2007 09:00 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), e-PRO HAWAII Real Estate & HAWAII Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)

Well I was just going to quote your sister.....  Its all about balance.............   get some

09/11/2007 09:01 PM by Desiree Daniels New Jersey Real Estate (609) 448-2222 (RE/MAX Tri County)

To All....especially Dan Cummings... I'll quit, I've got no problem with making sure I'm losing, and yeah, I'd rather lose them all:-)

Welcome to destruction Mr. Cummings!

 

09/11/2007 09:02 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

Thank you to the appropriate parties, yet you want to speak about balance...I'm Bruce "Freaking" Lee.  Moderation is key....I'm eyeing the prize as I type.

I have balance, for the record, and that's all I have to say about that.

 

09/11/2007 09:07 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

Just look at Active Rain as another tool to help you get educated and get business. Just a couple of leads that close a year will be worth the effort. Don't forget that the buyers you help also know people. Don't spend your life on AR. Just an hour a day will do it. Focus on lead generating blogs more

09/11/2007 09:13 PM by Lori Lincoln~Taunton, MA Real Estate Assonet MA, Rehoboth, Dighton, Swansea (Keller Williams Realty)

Just look at Active Rain as another tool to help you get educated and get business. Just a couple of leads that close a year will be worth the effort. Don't forget that the buyers you help also know people. Don't spend your life on AR. Just an hour a day will do it. Focus on lead generating blogs more

09/11/2007 09:14 PM by Lori Lincoln~Taunton, MA Real Estate Assonet MA, Rehoboth, Dighton, Swansea (Keller Williams Realty)

I think you just gotta be you, and find a way to incorporate your love of writing to what you do for a living.  That has worked for me on here so far!

09/11/2007 09:14 PM by Main Line Real Estate - Christopher Benedict (RE/MAX Main Line)

Okay...so just what are you trying to get at here? Never mind...do what you feel is good for you. No other comments.

09/11/2007 09:15 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), e-PRO HAWAII Real Estate & HAWAII Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)

lol...  you go Rocky....   I believe ya

09/11/2007 09:19 PM by Desiree Daniels New Jersey Real Estate (609) 448-2222 (RE/MAX Tri County)

Mr. Freaking Lee...... You're rambling....  Many people carry the self destructive chip of the angry young man but I can't really determine your problem from the clues contained here.  Makes no sense!

09/11/2007 09:22 PM by Dan Cummings - Connecticut's Running Realtor (Raveis Real Estate)

well, all day i was thinking of how writers are difficult and how no one really understands them because they don't even understand themselves.....yep, it's often a lonely life and a lot of them were dirt poor most of their lives too.....or became famous after they were already dead.  Look at Philip K Dick...

thanks for upholding my theory. Jason

now back to Emmeline part 14...half way done...if I keep writing i might get it done before midnight. And I;m doing it because people want to read it...just like people want to read the you stuff , and the mortage stuff, you put out.

Jo 

09/11/2007 09:33 PM by Jo-Anne Smith-Belleville, Quinte and Prince Edward Region Real Estate, Ont. (Royal Lepage Proalliance Realty, Brokerage)

Jason, I know what your saying, you love to write but need to write more about mortgages. Ok, that's fine, your posts will be YOU. Lots of people post more on localism, that's fine. I've entered 3 contests lately,and  that is like writing a research paper for me. But, it makes me think and yes research. I hear you, I don't know how many times, I'm here commenting and in the back of my mind, I think, get in your car and go take pictures !! Write more about your community.

Bottom line, just be you 24/7, when you get to be my age, you don't really care what people think so much as you come to accept yourself for who you are.

09/11/2007 09:37 PM by Missy Caulk Ann Arbor Real Estate (Keller Williams Ann Arbor)

So....where's my lil bro? Where'd he go?

09/11/2007 09:37 PM by Celeste "SALLY" Cheeseman (RA), e-PRO HAWAII Real Estate & HAWAII Relocation (Century 21 Liberty Homes -Mililani, Hawaii)

So here you go my friend...create a second blog...

Use one for Member Only posts and the other for Public or Localism only posts.  You can thatn ration yourself if you need to - one for one.  If yo want to write for the pleasure of your exsisting audience, you must first write a post for your mortgage public.

Think about that...

And Have a Blessed Day doing it,

John Occhi, Hemet CA REALTOR®
Mission Grove Realty

09/11/2007 09:40 PM by John Occhi Hemet CA Real Estate (Century 21 Crest - Crest REO)

Jason,

No comments for YOU!!! Okay...you know I'm kidding, right...? C'mon show us some sizzling mortgage stuff....I dare YOU!

09/11/2007 09:42 PM by Suzanne Sands-Somerset, MA Real Estate (Century 21 Associates Realty)

Hmmph!!!  No Music again.  Web 3.0 multi-stimulating

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dwnqqj5Q1BU

09/11/2007 10:18 PM by Bob Carney Licensed MD/PA Real Estate Agent (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.)

You're genuinely breaking my heart Jason. But then I get you. If this (AR) is a virtual rodeo,... then I've got you roped and tied. I understand this completely.

 

09/11/2007 10:20 PM by Portland Oregon Real Estate Broker * Jennifer Bukaty * (RE/MAX equity group, inc.)

sometimes when you follow your heart and your dreams, it can pay the bills too......

09/11/2007 10:41 PM by Chrissy Harrison (ERA Tradewind Real Estate)

Jason, if anyone gets what you are saying, it's me.  I blogged here for 8 months without getting a single lead - it was fun, I got a lot from it, but no ROB (return on blogging).  With Project Blogger, I made a concious change to have a little fun, but to think about business.

Now I'm making money off my blog and several people have noticed the change and even tell me they miss the old "ines".  Someone I really admire here even told me that although he misses my old blogging style, he totally understands it's for business.

Now I'm trying to balance a little fun, AR and Miamism and hopefully I'll get it right soon.  GOOD LUCK!

09/11/2007 11:06 PM by Rick & Ines - Miami Shores Real Estate (Majestic Properties)

{hug} keep doing what you do.... we love ya just like you are

09/11/2007 11:52 PM by Central Oregon Real Estate | Thesa Chambers, Broker (RE/MAX Sunset Realty La Pine)

I am new and sometimes I feel blogging is a form of relaxation.  I supply info for the consumer, but blog in this group for all the AR members, I enjoy reading most everything...even the silly stuff. Do what you do!

09/11/2007 11:58 PM by JANNA HELMICK (ALLEGIANCE REALTY)

Do what you love, and the money will follow.

I think you are discounting the value that your blog has as a timeless marketing tool.

Prospective borrowers can get their morgage data anywhere.  They will turn to someone they trust when it comes time to apply for a loan.  Write about mortgages.  Write about life.  Write about Jason.  Let the world see how you look at business, and how you apply your values to the advice you give to your clients.

Jeff Belonger's blog is a great example of blend of personal insight, consumer information, travelogue, and mortgage advice.

Use your blog as an intergrated part of your internet marketing plan.  Use it to drive traffic to your website.  The business will find you, soon enough.

09/12/2007 01:19 AM by Rich Schiffer, REALTOR, e-PRO (Weichert, Realtors)

Just MWA.

09/12/2007 03:23 AM by Sarah Cooper (Real Estate Shows)

Ok, in all seriousness, I'll address everyone who has taken the time to comment.  I would also like to point out that sure I need to blog for business, but there ain't a chance in heck that I'm going to stop being me.  While, at times, I can be wishy-washy...I wrote this knowing that I'd have a heck of a hard time not being me.  Even if I felt I had too.  I'm all about Business as Unusual and business continues to be pretty good.  So here say me....

David & Kristin - Thank you, no matter what I write, I'll do it the way I do and we'll see what happens.

Dan - I'm not much of a quitter and I'll write about mortgages and local stuff and me and anything else that pops into my skull.  By the way, separate from this post, I love your sense of humor!

Neal - A wise man told me once that if I got paid to write, it may never be the same.  I've got business from AR and my posts, but that isn't the sole reason why I continue to do it.  I only blog at night, I source business by day and it sources me, I do this cause I'm certain I was meant to.

Mary - Thank you!  I would never think of it.  Ok, I lie, it would cross my mind, but I couldn't do it.  My niche in life and business is me....

Jo-Anne - Agreed, you said it well. 

Sis - I saw the sternness in your salutation.  I like that.  I'm balanced, AR is more than just about business for me. Active-Rain may not pay my tab on life, but I certainly have a better one because of people like you.

Desiree - You are a tough cookie.  Be nice Desire with an extra E.....Lol.

Mr. Sardi - You're ridiculous and a comment hog:-)

Jason - "using no way as a way, using no limitations as a limitation."  Now that's Bruce Lee!

Lori - That is good advice for all, this can be a powerful compliment to one's business.

Lori - That is good advice for all, this can be a powerful compliment to one's business.

Christopher - Oh, I think I've done it....or will continue to try.  I could never stray from me, it wouldn't be nearly as much fun:-)

Sis - Awwww, I was getting at a point I didn't make as sarcastically as I should of made to bring it home.  I really don't want to write anymore why I write or how I write or defend what I write about....I am just going to write.  Whether about me, my area, mortgages, etc.  It's that 'True to thyself' thing.

Yo, Desiree, I'm gonna fly now.

But I like to ramble Dan!  Besides, that chip isn't nearly as existent as one may think, on me at least.

Jo-Anne - Interesting and relevant commentary on writers.  Hmmmm, yeah, I would hope to eclipse that train of thought myself.  We'll see what happens.  I really like reading you though!

Missy - You have a way with words and commentary like very few others.  I think you should stay you and I'll do the same (well, I'll stay me, not you, lol). 

Sis - He's always just around the corner:-)

That's not a bad idea at all John and I may eventually do that.  You are a wise soul.  Thanks!

Suzanne - Stick around kid:-)

Bob - Don't HMPF me!  That's it, I'm putting you in charge to come up with the soundtrack of my life.  It should be a freaking riot:-))

Jennifer - No worries hun, no worries.

Chrissy - I would do it even if it didn't.

Rick & Ines - I dig whatever you write.  Personally, while I have a ton to learn on all aspects of life and business and AR, I follow no rigid guidelines per se.  I don't throw it against the wall....I just lift it from my soul and put it into words.  The rest, I'm sure, will follow.

Hugs right back at ya Thesa.  I love Thesa, there, I said it!

Janna - Sounds like you have a good take on what it is all about.

I miss Rich Schiffer's posts.  There, I said it.  You are probably one of the better writer's on this forum and I agree with what you laid out here.  Believe me, I am going to continue continuing on.

What did I say about giving out MWA's in public Cooper?  So, MWA!

 

09/12/2007 05:11 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

MWA!!!

09/12/2007 05:15 AM by Sarah Cooper (Real Estate Shows)

What's a MWA ??

09/12/2007 06:04 AM by Missy Caulk Ann Arbor Real Estate (Keller Williams Ann Arbor)

That's a cyber kiss Missy.  Cooper MWA's everybody:-)

09/12/2007 06:09 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

Quitter.

09/12/2007 06:13 AM by Chris Elizabeth Griffith ~ Bonita Springs Fl Real Estate (Keller Williams Elite Realty, Bonita Springs, FL)

Lol @ Chris.  Poor Al.

09/12/2007 06:17 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

LOL boo hoo.  Poor Al.  He's lucky that I let him fix everything that I break.   There, I said it.  He needs an assistant to count his lucky stars.

09/12/2007 06:21 AM by Chris Elizabeth Griffith ~ Bonita Springs Fl Real Estate (Keller Williams Elite Realty, Bonita Springs, FL)

LOL boo hoo.  Poor Al.  He's lucky that I let him fix everything that I break.   There, I said it.  He needs an assistant to count his lucky stars.

09/12/2007 06:21 AM by Chris Elizabeth Griffith ~ Bonita Springs Fl Real Estate (Keller Williams Elite Realty, Bonita Springs, FL)

Jason,

Honestly..when I joined I had no idea what I was here for. I enjoy writing..always have...I would have to say I might enjoy it more for the pleasure than the business. Hey ...if the business comes then great and if it doesn't ...it is ok too...my 12 yrs in RE was never based on internet business anyway..AR only kicked me in the butt to expose my business to the net...but I never really had time to do it until now so it is just an added bonus.

09/12/2007 06:32 AM by Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL (RE/MAX Premier Associates)

Jason,
I so enjoy your writing! AND some one has to write about mortgages for me anyway - I haven't got a clue and rely on active rain to learn about the mortgage industry!

09/12/2007 06:46 AM by Debbie Cook (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc)

Personal foul, Chris Elizabeth Griffith, double commenting.  15 yard penalty and loss of down, still first down!

I hear you there Neal!

Thank you Debbie.  Tell you what, what would be the first question you have about mortgages?  Perhaps I'll write a blog on your very question.

09/12/2007 07:05 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

It doesn't have to be "either/or" - why not a balance of both?  Yes, knowing you are a mortgage expert is what it's all about, but posts on other topics help people get to know/like/trust you - the FIRST step to a borrower choosing you.

09/12/2007 08:20 AM by Margaret Woda, Maryland REALTOR (RE/MAX VISION)

Hey Jason, I read this somewhere and thought is was fitting:

Pennsylvania Mortgage Guy with Rants, Info, & Insight into various aspects of the Real Estate Industry. Writing is a grand old art form and since I'm by no means an artist, I'll settle for part-time blogger. What you can expect is relatively simple. I hope to make these little posts informative, entertaining, timely and have a flare that allows you the reader to be able to look at the financing side of the real estate biz. And maybe, just maybe, it gives you a little peek into my soul... Jason

09/12/2007 08:35 AM by Bryant Tutas-Tutas Towne Realty, Inc

Jason - I ditto BB...

Jason you said it best!

09/12/2007 08:54 AM by Linda Scanlan (A Fan of AR)

Jason - You could write about underwater basket weaving and many would still read what you have to say.  I'll be one of the first in line.  I know that no matter what the topic, you will include one single, secret ingredient that no one else has---Jason's passion.

Hugs from Cali,

Marlene

09/12/2007 08:57 AM by Laguna Homes|Laguna Condos| Laguna Real Estate|Marlene Bridges (Sherman Smith & Associates)

Margaret - Very well said and I believe you to be right.

Bryant - That does sound familiar.  Hmmmm.......

Lol, thanks Linda!

Marlene - Underwater Basket Weaving, now that's a challenge!

09/12/2007 09:12 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

Jason,

As you already know I'm one of the guys, who thinks you are an exellent writer, and that is a big reason why I always read your posts.. :0)

Tom Weiss

09/12/2007 10:46 AM by Thomas Weiss (Thomas R. Weiss)

Jason,  i found this quote today and it reminded me of what you are struggling with right now.

'Imagination is more important than knowledge. For knowledge is limited while imagination embraces the whole world.' Albert Einstein

When I said creative/writer's are difficult, I meant the way their minds work is difficult to understand, because it is totally unique for each writer. 

Do you think you could write a blog about honesty as it relates to the mortgage industry and to your business in particular? I would love to read what you have to say on this subject and you could enter it into the Inspiration honesty contest....thanks a bunch.

Jo 

 

09/12/2007 10:53 AM by Jo-Anne Smith-Belleville, Quinte and Prince Edward Region Real Estate, Ont. (Royal Lepage Proalliance Realty, Brokerage)

Thank you Thomas, I appreciate that.

Jo-Anne -  I love Einstein.  I will certainly do that, good idea for a blog.  I didn't even know there was an Inspiration honest contest.

09/12/2007 11:05 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

Jason, I've read a few of your posts and I think they're pretty good. I bet your customers love the information you're providing them. Keep doing what you do!!

09/12/2007 11:13 AM by Vincent Martinez (Prudential Network of Homes)

Why thank you Vincent, thank you so much.

09/12/2007 11:34 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

Dahling...I read this post yesterday and didn't really understand your cryptic message (its that blond thing).  After reading all these comments again today, I guess I can make a semi-intelligent comment.  

We all struggle.   Sometimes we struggle with what to blog or how to blog.  And sometimes we just struggle with life in general.  Sometimes we struggle with ourselves.  But...no matter what, we just keep looking for balance and harmony within.  Sometimes we get it for a day, and sometimes we don't get it for months at a time.

09/12/2007 12:29 PM by Tracey Thomas Calabasas, CA Real Estate (Keller Williams Realty)

You are a wise soul Tracey Thomas, a wise soul indeed.  I hear the Active-Rain Hall of Fame calling....

09/12/2007 12:37 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

No, no, no, you are simply not allowed to stop writing! Okay, I get the part about needing to focus on business but I think, in my humble opinon, that you can find a way to do both.  At least that's what I'm hoping to do.  What keeps me going is knowing that I am getting closer to finding out what I want to be when I grow up.  If you have time, read the post I wrote today. I don't know if I explained it very well but I think you will understand.

09/12/2007 04:00 PM by Lake Norman Real Estate ~ Diane Aurit (RE/MAX at the Lake)

Sardi- I don't think I said I would unsubscribe if you wrote about mortgages.  Just if you ONLY wrote about mortgages.  Or at least that is what I meant.  You are such a great writer, I know you can write about mortgages or anything and engage your audience.   THAT is powerful.  So many people who try to blog are BORING.  I am probably one of them.  :o )  You are gifted.  You better not be going anywhere or I will KYA.

09/12/2007 05:32 PM by Ginger Wilcox, Marin County Realtor (Pacific Union, Marin Real Estate)

Your blogs are indeed good; that is why you get so many comments!

09/12/2007 06:41 PM by Barbara-Jo & Bill - - Florida Realty Professional - AHWD (Charles Rutenberg Realty)

Oh... so Ginger was the culprit.. and so appropriate since you have a little of the "Gilligan " essence that everyone seems so fond of.....

09/12/2007 06:44 PM by Dan Cummings - Connecticut's Running Realtor (Raveis Real Estate)

Hi Jason, I didn't read through all of the comments...but I agree with your post.  I think we all came here for business and to write about what the consumers want to know.  Then we meet some great people, find out that we can learn new things, post about rants to people of the community that care more than our spouses... LOL.  :) 

I have thought the same thing about writing more local stuff.  I got uninspired I guess.  Every time I get an email from a consumer it makes me remember why I came here in the first place and gives me a kick in the pants to get moving.

09/12/2007 07:00 PM by Stephanie Edwards-Musa, Realtor ® The Woodlands, TX Real Estate (Prudential Gary Greene, Realtors ®)

I did read Diane, actually before you commented.  I loved it!  The fact is, I'm not sure what I want to be when I grow up...but I do know I'm well on my way.

Ginger - You are calling me Sardi, I like that!  By the way, your blogs are far from boring.

Barbara-Jo & Bill - And all without that stupid 'Subscribe To Me' button.  I hate that.  Tsk!  There, I said it again.

Dan - LMAO!  I think I love you, in that manly sort of way.  Aye-Aye Captain!

Stephanie - First off, you are an amazing contributor.  If I had to narrow down my subscribed too list to 20 individuals, you'd still be there....EASILY.  That said, throughout my blogging life on AR, I think I've done an adequate job of writing for and from both ends.  I will always be here for the consumers, yet I learned to write for me and I dare say that the Professionals didn't mind it so much.

09/12/2007 08:07 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

Jason,

I have so many words for you, but this isn't the forum. You have a talent, there's no doubt about that. AR is a great forum to gain business through the use of that talent. People like to do business with real people, so just be real. I've seen your writing evolve somewhat lately, or should I say that I've seen you evolve through your writing. You've always said that you write for you, not for your audience. Maybe you need another outlet for that creativity, but don't lose the contact you have established here. Learn how to capitalize on it, if that's what you want to do. I'd love to see your insight into the mortgage business through your posts here.

See what I mean...this isn't the forum. My comments may turn out to be longer than your posts, my friend. Anyway, thanks for doing what you do so well.

09/12/2007 09:11 PM by Andrew Trevino Wilkes-Barre Homes For Sale (TradeMark Realtors Group)

Dan- Are you the professor?  That Ginger on the island was always causing trouble, wasn't she?

Sardi- there are too many jasons,  I like sardi.  you can call me the movie star.  :o ) 

09/13/2007 01:56 AM by Ginger Wilcox, Marin County Realtor (Pacific Union, Marin Real Estate)

Jason, I read every single comment, and there is nothing new for me to add. Follow your heart, and use your God given talents, even the ones that don't pay....

09/13/2007 06:56 AM by Diane Velikis Luzerne County Real Estate (Coldwell & Banker Busch Real Estate)

Andrew - You may see more of that to come.  Thank you for being you Andrew, you've fast become one of the better contributors I've seen on here.

Ginger - I think Dan is the professor and I could see you as the trouble maker:-)  Not to worry, your bantering with the 'Bad Boy of Active-Rain'.

Diane - I absolutely loved your last line, because that amiga, is what it's all about.

09/13/2007 08:18 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

Jason.... my head is spinning because I have so much going on...hence why you haven't seen me around. Or was it because I moved to the islands with 3 lovely ladies... lol  Anyhoo....  not that I was trying to tell you what to do, but I really did think that you needed to start writing more about mortgages. It's great to write those blogs about yourself, your feelings, business, people, etc etc.... but from what I think that you are saying is that you do need to write more about mortgages.  right? 

Hey....  I haven't written as much as I should have been writing, but if you go back to my last 20 blogs or so, I would say that 13 of them are directly about mortgages. And you know what, between blogging here and adding blogs to my other two blog sites, I am closed one loan 2 days ago from blogging and I am closing 2 more this month because of blogging. And I already have 1 on the board for next month from blogging.... and... I am closing one tomorrow because I met someone on AR that couldn't do a loan in a certain state.

In regards to the person that said that they would unsubscribe if you wrote about mortgages....  wow.... come on. Sorry, ... you do write some good stuff that can be out there....that would keep us thinking and such. And as yourself, I love comments. I have found that I don't get as many if I write something about mortgages. Yes, it can be boring.... but you know what, it's putting money in my pocket. For the first 8 months on AR, I wanted comments... and yes, I would write some blogs to capture the AR audience.... but as you stated, does that pay the bills?  GL....

jeff belonger

09/13/2007 09:06 AM by Jeff Belonger -- The FHA Expert.com -- FHA Loans -- FHA mortgages -- Mortgages (Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc)

Somebody pass the popcorn.

09/13/2007 09:11 AM by

it amazes me at the rude people here on AR...  why not show yourself?  It's obvious that the previous comment was left by an AR member... things like this just keep confirming my opinion that so many are still in high school. My opinion.... SAD.

Sorry Jason.... but this was part of what took place in my previous blog. Actually being threaten by an AR member that calls themselves a realtor. What are we showing to the general public, if they read those comments?   Just venting... part of the reason why I have been away from here also.... just my humble .02

09/13/2007 09:57 AM by Jeff Belonger -- The FHA Expert.com -- FHA Loans -- FHA mortgages -- Mortgages (Infinity Home Mortgage Company, Inc)

Jason, I found something similar in myself - there's a writer in me that wants to come out!  I could and probably should spend more time on real estate topics, but I'm pretty sure that many of my best blogs were not particularly real estate related.

09/13/2007 11:48 AM by Brian Schulman - Your Lancaster County, PA Real Estate Professional (Coldwell Banker Select Professionals)

Marlene - Underwater Basket Weaving, now that's a challenge!

Easier that Underwater Bee Keeping...those little snorkels are a pain.

09/13/2007 12:00 PM by Bob Carney Licensed MD/PA Real Estate Agent (Long & Foster Real Estate, Inc.)

:oD @ Bob!!!!

09/13/2007 12:26 PM by Sarah Cooper (Real Estate Shows)

Gilligan........Skipper here little buddy!

I am always amazed at the number of comments your ranting can garner. You certainly do have a flair for writing and on/over the edge dramatics. Just remember, excessive blogging can lead to impaired vision. Or so I'm told. Now pass the popcorn and keep on writing what ever your little heart desires.

09/13/2007 05:30 PM by Scott Geary Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc)

Jeff - If you moved to an island with three lovely ladies, you should of at least called me:-)  It's good you have stuff going on and just as good that you got that biz from AR....I'll never, and I do mean NEVER, stop writing whatever is on my mind.  Perhaps it will garner me biz or comments or kudos, or maybe none of that.  In the end, I will die.  When I do, I want no regrets....so now I write what my heart & soul desires to speak.

Mr. or Mrs. Unknown - There is no show here, not yet.  Stay tuned though, I can and will participate if need be.  Identify yourself my friend, it adds legitimacy to your comment.

Mr. Belonger - Chill man, diplomacy 101.  You could and can teach me about the Mortgage Biz.  I could and can teach you about dealing with people.  If I were your manager, I would hope you would fire them.  I'm not, so hire me.  I'll make your life in social settings much easier amigo.  Your opinions stay, the way they are made changes....that is my two pennies.

Brian - Seems like me and you are a lot alike.  If you give me the go ahead, I would love to call you manana.

Carney - Believe it or not, I'm going to go there.....stay freaking tuned!

Sarah - MWA for you!

Geary - I'm blind, I can't see.  I type out of habit for what it is worth.  You can DAMN sure bet the farm that I'll write from my heart.  By the way, I love you Scott Geary!  There, I said it! 

 

09/14/2007 01:17 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

LOL... Professor does fit in nicely with my designer background and since I started running I've lost that Skipper physique.

09/14/2007 07:18 AM by Dan Cummings - Connecticut's Running Realtor (Raveis Real Estate)

I fear the 'Skipper' physiqure.

09/14/2007 04:53 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

Ah Jason, I'm subscribed, and I ain't leavin'...so there!

I do sorta like a nice bowl of hot popcorn.  Is that popping up yet?  Ah, an ice cold beer with that would be good, too, or if it's too early, an ice cold Coke.  Yep, that'll do for now.

And now, back to station identification and our very own Jason, the MWA Man.....doing his thing!

Ann, yep, I still do.....   ;-)

09/15/2007 10:53 AM by Portsmouth NH Real Estate ~ Ann Cummings (RE/MAX Coast to Coast - Portsmouth New Hampshire)

Awww, I do as well Ann;-)  MWA for you!!!

09/15/2007 11:22 AM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

JASON:  All the fun that we've been having and now you want to go back to just writing about mortgages?  I'd still read, because I'm very interested in keeping tabs on the mortgage market and I always welcome information, but I would miss the ranting and banter.  In fact, Sarah seems to be stirring us up for another round.  I don't know about what, but I'm guessing that you might since she said that there is something else that we disagree on.  I guess time will tell.  For what it's worth, I wouldn't stop it all together.  Maybe you could do a weekly rant so that we get to keep seeing the writer side.  What do you think?

09/15/2007 04:27 PM by Adam Waldman - Long Island REALTOR® (RE/MAX Best)

Adam - There is no feasible way I could stop writing whatever is on my mind, it goes against a lot I believe in.  LOL, that said, ignore Cooper, she's a trouble maker:-)  She waxes like she's sweet and such, but she is just plain trouble. ;-) @ Sarah.  No more addressing people one comment at a time, it inflates your comment rating.  Do them all at once, if possible.  I don't want to see 84 comments on your posts and 42 of them being yours, smile now....I'm always watching.

09/15/2007 09:46 PM by Jason Sardi, Pennsylvania Mortgage Broker (First Choice Equity Group Inc.)

JASON:  I hadn't checked back here in a while, so I wasn't avoiding this discussion.  I was trying to figure out what else could possibly bother you, so this doesn't surprise me.  Like the button, I'm not going to change on this one. I'm not into a big debate on this one because it doesn't have the poential for the fun of the last one.  Here's my thought.  Since no one knows how this is scored, it's quite possible that commenting on my own blog does absolutely nothing to increase my point totals.  I will check with Caleb, but I can tell you that I've responded both ways and seen no discernable difference in points.  In fact, I'm not sure how much comments weigh in their calculations because I've had posts with a lot of comments that received the same amount of points or less then ones with less than half of the amount of comments.  So if this is another gaming the system accusation, it doesn't hold any water when it comes to points.  I have chosen this as my style to response for a couple of reasons.

First of all, sometimes I write very long responses, so I don't need to bury my response to someone else under an avalanche of words.  This is what got me started doing individual responses.  The other reason that I do it is that I'm taking a page from the the things that I've learned from Buffini.  While I certainly cannot possibly do a hand-written personal not to each person, I can address them in their own dedicated response, so I do.  I also choose to put their name in all caps and to bold it.  My blogs have a certain style to them, as do my comments.

There is a lot of BS that goes on here to game the system, but I can tell you from experience that this isn't generating any more points for me, so I'm going to continue to do it.  I have a post coming out about the true gaming of the system.  There are people putting out classified ads and geting credit for it.  There are people copying and pasting and getting credit for it.  There are people begging for comments and getting credit for it, or using a trick title to get people reading and commenting.  Take Ralph Nudi's ridiculous post that currently has 611 comments.  You were right in there helping to game the system as this post had nothing of substance. 

You are getting there buddy, chime me in at 198....keep on going!

07/14/2007 by Jason Sardi

I defy anyone to go back and find a cheap post that I put up for points.  That is gaming the system, not taking the time to comment to people on an individual basis.  I put out nothing but posts that took time and effort to produce, where I can easily write 50 words of bs and collect my 200 points. 

In closing, I deserve every point that I get and then some when I consider what is getting points around here.  I won't be making this change, nor will I be debating it.  I've made my case for why I do what I do.  I imagine that there are some others like you that have an issue with it, but that's something that they will have to deal with.  I want people to read my blog because they enjoy it and learn from it.  I want people to comment on my blog because they want to.  I have never asked for a comment from anyone, and I NEVER will.  I don't pat myself on the back for every 10,000 points, which is also something that I see a lot here.  Those people are earning actual points for these milestone celebrations.

I know that you're always watching, and I suspect that you will continue to do so.  I appreciate it when you comment on my blogs, but if you don't want to because of the things that I do that you don't like, please feel free to avoid commenting.  I can't imagine that there are any other issues, since my blogs don't seem to have anything else out of the ordinary in them, but I guess anything is possible.

09/19/2007 05:41 AM by Adam Waldman - Long Island REALTOR® (RE/MAX Best)

Lol, wowsers!  Looks like I struck a cord here Adam.  I guess sometimes my 'tone' doesn't come off as my intention does.  My tone was more of a tongue in cheek as far as comments go, I completely understand your style on this and have no REAL problem with it at all.  And I believe you to be right, it doesn't nothing for your point rankings at all. 

As far as Nudi's post, a bunch of us had quite a bit a fun with it.  This was an earlier piece and my guess is that if he wrote something of that nature now, it would probably garner the ever popular .  My guess is it would have gotten just as much of a response.  I'm not sure how many points the chap received from it or not, this was more of an example of a post hijacking rather than gaming the system.  Though, it can be construed as the latter.

Another good example of a hijacking is my friend Rob Robinson's Ridiculous Post.  He did get that little x and no points at all, though he was simply making fun of posts on "How to get points" and posted it to the appropriate groups.

I was busting your chops amigo, sorry if I offended you.  It's your blog, do with what you may.  I don't think for a second you were/are/will ever try to game the system and you obviously put a lot of time and effort into what you write, it shows through.  The lay-out of your posts is excellent, better than most, certainly better than mine. 

I'll leave it at that...

09/19/2007 06:16 AM by