https://activerain.com/blogs/homelinkrealestate Homelink, real estate, loan, California, mortgage, Red Bluff, Tehama, en-us https://activerain.com/blogsview/1470231/real-estate-and-lending-related-stories-wanted I have posted this as a blog at another agent-broker site and figured I would put it up on Active Rain also just to get the most diverse response possible.  Below is the post as it appears there. I am looking for some Real Estate related stories to augment a book I am writing.  They can be humorous, bizarre, strange or anything that has really stuck in your mind.  Even if it a one line thing someone said that has always stuck (like when someone asks how are you and you respond "never snivel, never complain it does no good.").  In my experiences in real estate, I have had some real weird things happen, but to only put my own stories in the book may hurt feelings or make some agents "Cranky".  By doing this I can leave any and all names out of the book and not hurt feelings.  Stories like the time I went to show a property out of town and although lock box vacant on the listing walked in to find an agent and a friend in a compromising situation (not the agents spouse), or when an agent has "show any time" on a listing and forgets to mention a BIG dog (I made it over the fence only costing a pair of pants.) or an adventure such as getting lost in the country while looking for a non-existent address.  My book is not about stories or humor, but needs some to lighten it up.  I will credit the sender for any used material in the book.  As a mortgage broker, stories are pretty good and would be looked at.  Something like getting into a loan file to have the verifications coming back that you are doing a loan for a dead person (that was all because of a typo in the credit application). Thanks in advance. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Tue, 02 Feb 2010 10:12:47 -0800 https://activerain.com/blogsview/1470231/real-estate-and-lending-related-stories-wanted https://activerain.com/blogsview/242035/statewide-mls-gets-go-ahead-in-california Hello All,I did a post not so long ago about the proposed statewide MLS and asked for feedback.  I also saw another post from soneone else asking about it.  Now, today I got an e-mail from CAR about the statewide MLS.  It has got the go ahead by vote.  There has been a report issued by the committee that was studying the different ways it could be done.  These reports and the information about how it is going to be implemented is available at car.org.  You will need to be a member to access this article, but it is great information.  If you are unable to access this, let me know and I can send you the public reports.  There has been a lot of discussion and debate about this issue, but it is going forward.  The report tells what the plan is and a timetable for its implementation.  As well as discussion about a generalized set of rules.  I think it is a step in the right direction as the public already has access to this information on the web and all we are doing is hurting ourselves by being locked into just one area.  In the long run for brokers who have offices in more than one area, this is a great savings on a yearly basis.  For your client's it is better to be able to get the information they want and now they do not need to go to several different Realtors to get it.  We all know that people will go where they are being helped, not be loyal to one agent.  Feel free to comment.  As always it is input of information from all that makes for a better system. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Thu, 18 Oct 2007 08:27:58 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/242035/statewide-mls-gets-go-ahead-in-california https://activerain.com/blogsview/137652/a-question-of-ethics- Hello All,Here is a question for everyone.  I saw a listed property with the door open and even though it was not my listing I stopped to lock it up.  There were no cars in the driveway.  When I got out, a person was there and said that they were buying the home and their real estate agent had let them in.  The lock-box was open and I assume they had the  key.   I asked if their agent let them in, just to clarify.  So I left and came back to my home office and looked up the listed property.  The property was pending.  So going on the assumption that they were telling me the truth, here is the ethical question, "Should the buyers agent have left the buyer there by themselves and the listed property open?".  This was on a weekend so she was probably not meeting an inspector there.  #2 "Should I have called the listing agent?".  3. "Does the property being empty and a lender owned make a difference?". 4. "Should I have asked for the key and locked up the property?"This is an exercise in ethics, but I would appreciate feedback.  Different views are helpful in teaching from mistakes and helping other s to avoid them.Shawn Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Mon, 02 Jul 2007 20:50:57 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/137652/a-question-of-ethics- https://activerain.com/blogsview/137651/what-makes-a-you-a-professional- Hello All,A professional is the person who can look beyond the commission earned and always put the client first.  Even in a down market we must remember we are here for the long haul.  If you are a person who is motivated by the "ME-MINE-NOW" you will not be in the business in a few years.  This attitude and thought process is most likely to not only cause you to lose any respect in the field, but also end you up in jail.  Every day I see things that make me think.  There are lenders offering a 4+ point rebate for getting our clients to take a loan that is not in their best interests, people who want the deal to go through even though it should not, agents showing properties way beyond what the clients should be looking at.  These are just a few things that happen every day.You are what makes you a professional.  No matter if you are a stager, salesperson, or loan officer.  In the current market the last thing any of us need is bad press.  The stories I hear from people who are losing their homes due to no one teaching them about the loan they were getting, people who have loan payments that are more than they can afford (sometimes as much as 75% or more of their income) are just some of what we are seeing.  If you are working with a loan officer who tells you they are approved for $250,000 then show them a house at that price or under, not a home for $325,000 just because they can do a  Stated or No Doc loan.  A loan officer who knowingly takes the loan Stated or No Doc when they already Pre-Qual the client at $250,000 is also in need of rethinking their thought process.I have had the pleasure of dealing with some true professionals over the years and they make the business a better place.  Some of these professionals are in Title, appraisal, real estate and the mortgage business, so they are there.  They tend to live by a set of rules above and beyond the minimum set by state or lending laws.  I have read many posts on this site that make me happy to know that there are a lot of true professionals out there.What do you think about the people you have dealt with lately?  Do you feel they were true professionals?  Do you think I am rambling and am wrong?  Please, feel free to comment.  Feedback, even negative makes us all better.Shawn Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Mon, 02 Jul 2007 20:32:09 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/137651/what-makes-a-you-a-professional- https://activerain.com/blogsview/137636/what-is-that-on-the-corner-of-main-and-walnut- As I am posting this to what is happening in Red Bluff, California, I figured I would post about something that I think is a good thing.  On a historical note, on the corner of Main Street and Walnut at one time stood a building that was a grand beauty.  It was the Cone-Kimball building which burned down several years ago.  I will try to upload pictures later.  This building can never be replaced, but we can try to salvage something from the memories.  On the corner right now is a steel tower being built that will be a replica of the tower that was part of the building.  It will stand 75 feet tall and is already a sight to see.  This project was started several years ago by the Red Bluff Rotary Club.  They purchased the lot and started raising funds and now instead of a lot filled with weeds stands a parklike setting with a gazebo and the tower itself.  This project is slated to be done this year.  There are those who like it and those who do not, but most seem in favor of this project.   I have heard several comments such as it will never be the same.  This is not supposed to be the same, but a tribute to the original and something that reaches out to everyone and gives back some of the lost beauty that is no more.   This project although spearheaded by the Rotary club has been made possible by private donations and fund raising efforts over the years.  From buying bricks to the upcoming concert and dinner at the Corning casino the people have helped make this a reality.  The time and effort is amazing to behold.  Some of the actual construction was also done by volunteers of the Red Bluff Rotary Club.  I will also upload these pictures.  Projects such as this are one of the reasons I chose Red Bluff as a plave to live.  The community still is served by many people who truly do great things.  As a citizen of Red Bluff I am happy to see anything that improves the visual aspect of Main Street.For more information about this project, please do not hesitate to e-mail me. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Mon, 02 Jul 2007 19:08:21 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/137636/what-is-that-on-the-corner-of-main-and-walnut- https://activerain.com/blogsview/125443/how-are-repo---lender-sales-going-to-affect-the-market- Hello All,I have been noticing a definite increase of listed properties by lenders and although some are a good deal (especially as we are a buyers specialty office) we as real estate professionals had better realize what is next.  Out of the last six homes I have showed, four have been lender owned or short sales.  One of the properties was about $100,000 below what it appraised for last year.  Now consider and think about this house being in your neighborhood.  It appraised for $465K a year ago and now the sale goes at $310K, your neighborhood has just lost value to lenders because the closest and newest comps are way lower than what you expect.  Someone needing to Re-Fi in this area is not going to get the value they think.  The property you did a CMA a few months ago for is not gong to sell for what you told the prospective clients.  When they come to you and want to list it at what you told them they are going to be in for a shock.  I have already started to see this as we do loans and sales.   Even if they give consideration to the short sale or foreclosure, the fact that it sold for $310K is what is going to be on the appraisal.  Now add in the slowing market on the down cycle and we had better tighten our belts and get ready to tough it out.On the bright side, as we are slow right now, we will probably see a decrease in real estate and mortgage offices.  The agents who have  never been through a down cycle or were only in for "quick money" are going to go away as it turns into work.  The good news is that your buyers are going to get a better deal than they would have last year.I still love my work and will tough it out.  Shawn Nichols Sr. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sat, 16 Jun 2007 21:04:08 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/125443/how-are-repo---lender-sales-going-to-affect-the-market- https://activerain.com/blogsview/120510/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 16:10:44 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120510/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120509/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 16:09:23 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120509/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120506/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 16:03:49 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120506/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120504/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 16:02:20 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120504/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120502/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 16:00:30 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120502/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120501/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:59:16 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120501/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120498/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:58:15 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120498/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120495/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:53:07 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120495/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120494/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:52:07 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120494/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120493/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:51:11 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120493/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120491/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:50:20 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120491/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120489/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:49:11 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120489/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120488/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:48:11 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120488/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120485/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:46:49 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120485/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120482/tehama-county-market-report Tehama County is a region of Northern California along the I-5 corridor that has had a lot of growth, but not lost the feel of home and hearth.  We have everything that is offered anywhere else without the overcrowding and hostility that are prevalent in other places.  When you have a problem, people still offer to help.  There is a central location that gives access to the bigger towns like Chico and Redding or cities such as Sacramento only a few hours away.  The county seat is Red Bluff and also my home.  The choice to live here came from extensive research into crime rate, schools, and cost of living.  All in all a great place to raise a family or even retire with multitudes of choices for recreational facilities close by.  Everything from hunting, skiing, fishing on the Sacramento river, to nature study in any of the close by national park properties or forests.  The history and natural beauty also enhance the area.Now on the the Market Report.  As with most Real Estate markets in the region, it is a little slow.  This is after a three to five year boom.  In perspective we are not slow, just not as much happening as in the last few years.  This is an area where you can still buy a quality family home in town for anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000.  There are many areas that have special attributes such as the Bend where there are some nice riverfront homes.  The Wilcox area is near a great golf course.  Central Red Bluff with all its attractions and the Antelope area.  With an unexpected mixture of property types, acreage, homes in town, recreational land, and such, we have something for anyone.  Rents are still affordable, the police protection is great, county offices are easy to work with when building, and the value of your home here is going to stay a great investment for the future.Tehama County is stretched from Corning in the south on I-5 to Cottonwood in the North on I-5.There are also many other communities such as Red Bluff in-between or off to the east or west.  The towns of Los Molinos, Tehama, Gerber, Rancho Tehama, Vina, and a few others in the foothills such as Manton, Paynes Creek, or Mineral, which offer the ideal place for just about anyone.We have many events that are tourist attractions or even events on a national level, such as the bull and gelding show or the round up rodeo, which bring competitors from all over.  This year there was also a first ever in Red Bluff canoe drag race-on the river.  We also have the yearly nitro national drag boat races. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:40:13 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120482/tehama-county-market-report https://activerain.com/blogsview/120369/june-is-looking-better-and-better-- Hello All, Is there any time when someone is not complaining?  If there is, I have never been there.  Years ago, while on disability, I sold oranges on the side of the road and no matter what the weather, someone would stop and complain.   The point is that your own outlook can affect those around you.  I have showed more homes lately and have got a few more loans going and that makes me feel that it is getting better out there.  There is more to life than just what we are making financially.On that note, June is the month that my second oldest will join Homelink as a licensed Real Estate Agent and Loan Officer.  Go Ben!.  This expands on the best year of my life.   June is also the month when on my B-day I will turn 40.Remember to concentrate on the good and you will see more of it around you, even when sales are down.   As for Ben's personal qualifications, besides being raised around the business, he is honest, and truly is a great person.  His loan knowledge is way beyond his age and he has a feel for it that will help you get the best loan product and the best deal on your new home, all in one easy transaction.    Also this month we will be adding another Homelink agent, Carlene.   She will make our office that much better.  Carlene is a great person with a solid knowledge of the business and a greater understanding of construction than most.  She is dedicated to her family and knows the area like only a native to these parts can.  If you want to know about the area around Red Bluff, she is here for you. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 12:45:57 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120369/june-is-looking-better-and-better-- https://activerain.com/blogsview/120358/who-do-the-public-believe- Hello All, This is a question that afects all of the California professionals.  With the newspapers giving doom and gloom reports, and the bad news about foreclosures, about mortgage brokers who are blamed for the current market problems, the public needs a little re-assuring that we are on our toes and doing our jobs.  I recently went through my closed files and touched base with EVERY client that I ever helped (whether a Re-Fi or Purchase Loan or both loan and sale transaction) and it is with great relief that all were still there.  None were in foreclosure, none hated me, and all were happy that I had taken the time to check on them.  I am a broker for a company that does both real estate and mortages, so I really felt that this was necessary for my own information.  I know I make sure that all loan files that clear our office are done on full loan rates so that the borrowers are not going to be hit with a shock later, but better safe than sorry.  You are all profefssionals in your chosen fields and can help improve the image that is generating, just by doing what you do best, helping your clients and explaining to anyone that has questions what the market conditions really are.  California is not the leader in foreclosures, in fact we are way below most.   Although lenders are tightening the guidlines and some people are going to have to repair their credit before getting the home they want, there is still people who want a home and need our help.  Statistics are never accurate because they only show the numbers from the data that we put in.  I can make a statistical report that shows anything I want by just asking the right questions to the right people.  So you are what is going to make a difference in these proples lives not the newspaper or anything else, just keep up the good work and things will get better. Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Sun, 10 Jun 2007 12:16:30 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/120358/who-do-the-public-believe- https://activerain.com/blogsview/105776/statewide-mls-versus-bigger-local-assosciations Hello Alll, Time for some more rambling from yours truly.  I recently attended a meeting for a possible merger with another bigger MLS system that borders ours.  It was very informative and some interesting thoughts were raised from other brokers on the issue and another big topic of choice was the release from CAR about a possible statewide MLS system in the works.  My view is that either option is good to have.  Then we can better serve our clients.  My office is primarily a "Buyers Office" which means we do not actively try to obtain listings.  This alone is something that takes getting used to.  I work with buyers all over California doing the loans and contracts for these clients.  We are members of quite a few different MLS systems.  My first question to the people doing the presentation was "Do we need to be members of each MLS that joins the bigger system?"  I was told that the membership would only be needed in our local association and we would gain the MLS data from all the other member boards.  OK, so far I am sold!!!  About this time a few concerns about agents coming and "stealing" listings was raised.  As a Buyers Office, this was not and is not a concern to me, but I can see the point.  I personally do not feel that this is that great of a problem. As long as an agent is willing to do the job, I have no problem with them getting paid for it.  I have had this problem with a few offices in the past, usually with some bigger franchise type of offices.  A franchise office will usually have as office policy a paragraph that basically states that Realtors or real estate agents who are not members of the local board will only get a referral fee instead of the office part of the commision.   This policy is not set in stone and you can get around it by simply joining the local board as a MLS only member or if you want a full member.  I have done this a few times when someone is trying to not pay me.If you expect to be paid for the job, then DO the job.  If I have an offer out, I set up the appointments, I do the inspections, I do my job just like a local Realtor would.  If driving 100 miles or more is going to be a problem, then the local offices have a point.  These agents do not have time to do your job and see you get paid for doing nothing but writing a friends offer from out of the area.As always, your comments are appreciated.  I in no way think my opinion is the only valid one.  Please feel free to respond in either the positive or negative, I have thick skin. Thanks for your time, Shawn Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Wed, 23 May 2007 07:07:24 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/105776/statewide-mls-versus-bigger-local-assosciations https://activerain.com/blogsview/101955/personal-thoughts-on-the-market-situation-and-this-months-homelink-update When you hear nothing but negative things about the Real Estate market, think positive.  Even when things have slowed and there is more foreclosures happening, that just means that you have an opportunity to make a good deal for your clients.  Better price and terms maybe.  For the buyer it means more selection, better prices, and if the agent is working on it a great package deal all around.  Even in the times of tightening loan guidelines, there is quite a few great programs for almost any buyer.  Credit does not need to be perfect to get a good loan.   Remember that our profession is based on a business that moves in cycles.  It will get better.  You as a person have to just hold on and believe that it will work out.  Focus on your positive things happening in your life and try not to dwell on the slow in business.  Our new agents have an advantage over the agents that have started in the last three years in that they will never take for granted the market being good.  They will have survived a slow cycle and make sure to plan for the next one.  So in an attempt to look at the positive I submit the following. This month we currently have five offices in Claifornia to better serve our clients.  We have two new agents in the Red Bluff office.  A big welcome to Kacy and Kristina.  We also have three more agents soon to be full members and licensed as agents.  On a personal note April and May have ROCKED.  Our oldest  son (and soon to be Homelink agent) and his lady presented us with our first gradchild, a boy.  Our next eldest son turned 18 will graduate in June and has already passed his state exam and is awaiting his license to start work.  My youngest son made the rank of Life in Boyscouts and is now working on his Eagle (he is only just turned 14), and our youngest child, our daughter is also doing great in school and is making great advancements in her riding ability on her horse.  So even when the market is down you can have some great things happen in your life.   Keep the faith, it will work out.  Any comment is welcome.  Post you "Happy Thought" to help others realize the world has not ended it is just another swing in the cycle.Shawn Nichols Shawn Nichols (Homelink Real Estate - Red Bluff) Fri, 18 May 2007 06:57:25 -0700 https://activerain.com/blogsview/101955/personal-thoughts-on-the-market-situation-and-this-months-homelink-update