Are we the Pulse of Real Estate ?

Whether we like what the media is saying or not (and in this market it is likely we don't) we need to keep in mind that what appears in print is what the consumer is reading.  Our focal point, therefore, ought to be in addressing each of the major issues and keeping our clients informed about how the market is affecting them and the decisions we need to make to counter the negative aspects reported in the media.

Example:  Home values have been reported to have decreased in recent times; do analysis for your clients related to values in their immediate neighborhood.  Help them price right to sell their home in this market.

Hey, you guys!  Happy Anniversary!  And I must say that Active Rain has certainly helped me to stay focused and pretty positive most of the time!  And thanks for the great links!

Hi Stephanie and Chris,

Yes Citizen Journalism is prevalent across the web.  Citizens are on the front lines and are reporting.  There is an uprising, ppl. want access to instantaneous information.

BUT above all, people want the real stories and information that informs and educates, not reports doom and gloom or overly ambitious.

This is where real estate professionals can make a HUGE IMPACT.  In giving information that empowers consumers.

While it is true we need to be a positive voice and things have gotten a little bit better, most markets are not out of the woods by any stretch. What I really don't understand is why so many Realtors get so uptight about the media reporting facts? It does no one any good to paint a more rosier picture than what exists. We need to be truthful with our clients and not get so caught up with presenting halos over our head that we portray an inaccurate picture of the market.

Many of my busiest months in my career have been December.  And I drive an expedition, so the gas going down is like an automatic raise for me!

Happy Anniversary!  And yes those are a few things that should spur on some buyers.  And YAY to gas that is half the price it was a few months ago!

Chris, So many consumers are finding and reading Activerain--AND the success stories.  I believe it is a force in Real Estate and can provide local market information which will make them want to work with you.

Chris - I  have never been a fan of how the media has been portraying the overall picture of the real estate market.  While there are certainly many areas feeling the pain of the current economic and financial crisis, it is so important that we as Realtors are the pulse of the real estate market in our local areas.  Thank goodness for the wonderful stories that I've been reading too on Active Rain that keep me energized and for one of the busiest months I've had so far this year.  Thanks so much for the mention of my post.  Hope you and Stephanie had a wonderful time in Baltimore this weekend.  Happy Anniversary!!

   Chris and Steph:  What a joy to have a positive attitude. When you see the cup half full, you hear others complain and you don't get it.  The media is certainly not optimistic.  Believe it or not, I make it a point to NEVER watch the news.  I don't recall EVER getting good news (if it sounded like good news it came wrapped on "possible, probable, maybe".   I'd rather listen to Chris and Steph and all these wonderful professionals who take pride and joy in celebrating small successes and get the big picture.

Thank you!

Elayna Fernandez - Real Estate Marketing Naples FL

Great post. Happy Holidays. 2009 will be a great year in our area.

Christopher and Stephanie:

I not only agree but it is the way it should be. Case in point on the bailout, as you know they gave money to the banks direct, and not the borrows. Our voice was heard and it is changing.

I had 7 appointments this week end. All with buyers for luxury new homes, either under construction or to build. The last time I was that busy was years ago. I was out till 9PM Sunday night.

Rates! Rates! Rates!

Richard

First off Happy Anniversary! I really like your phrase: being the "Pulse of Real Estate". Thank you for the links you provided. I don't mind the facts being reported but it's the tone in which the current reporters report the news. We all know if we play negative "Tapes" over and over in our minds we soon live the negativism. There is always good that comes from adversity - change for one. A better way to do things. Why are we not hearing more constructive ways to solve the problems instead of "We are all doomed?" There are bright spots happening all over but we never hear about those exciting wins to give people hope and foster positive thinking and ingenuity!