Estate Homes of Ocala Florida

Masterpiece Luxury at Masters II Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Thu, 28 Jan 2016 04:08:03 -0800

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 1/31/2016 FROM 1-4PUBLIC INVITED8725 NW 31ST LANE ROAD, OCALA FL 34482 OFFERED BY LUETGERT DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION$1,700,000.00 Exquisite details make The Naples at Masters Village in Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club a true masterpiece.Every aspect of this work of art has been considered and appointed to produce a home of exceptional quality and beauty. From marble flooring to the crown molding this home is a comfortable elegance that you can dress up or down according to your decorating style. Large windows bring in the light and soaring ceilings gives the feeling of expansiveness making the 4150 s.f. of living space feel even larger. The "L" shaped Lanai is plenty under cover for year-round out door living, safe from sun and rain. Your chef will love this kitchen work center with only the best in stainless steel appliances. 4 Bedrooms 3.5 Baths 3 Car Garage Attached Pool & Spa Firepit with view of the Augusta Bridge Tribute Hole Tile Planking and Marble Flooring Media/Play room Summer Kitchen Master Suite and Bath fit for royalty. This home may also be toured by appointment, just email me at: janet@royalshellsales or call me today.Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

The Dark Side of Email

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Mon, 04 Jan 2016 05:33:00 -0800

Like most people of this planet, I use email for daily personal and business correspondence. It is a great tool to track conversation and to stay on task in a timely manner. But email has its own dark side, admit it, you know what I'm talking about. See if you are guilty of any of these examples...even if only once.1. You email someone because they are a talker and you fear that you will get involved in a lengthy non-productive conversation.2. You use email because face-to-face confrontations are uncomfortable.3. You use email because you want to quickly move on to something on your own agenda, you don't want to take the time to communicate clearly and thoroughly regarding someone else's agenda and you rush off a "response" because after all, you don't want to appear as to be "not engaged".4. You fear rejection, so rather than call that prospect, you email them. This list could go on and on, however for the sake of time, perhaps on this first worday of 2016 we need to take just a moment to reflect and to get real about how we use email in our life. I witness lengthy "threads" of correspondence with multiple parties involved hack through complex ideas and plans when perhaps a 20 minute, preplanned meeting could bring all the issues to the floor for discussion and immediate resolution. Collectively these parties can spend 20 minutes each on reading, rereading and writing their email threads rather than one 20 minute meeting for all. Do you see how this is eating up your workday? Do you see how a group of 8 times 20 minute is 160 minutes total, amounts to over 2.5 hours of corporate involvement over the expanse of the group vs. 20 or even 30 minutes total on a prepped meeting or conference call?I see threads become long, convoluted volleys back and forth between 2 (or more) parties when a phone conversation could have gotten all the questions asked and answered in one conversation and a decision could be made on the spot. In sales, this volley eats up the sales time cycle and avoids "closing the deal."Only 7% of communication takes place with words, the other 93% takes place through body language and tonality. Considering how easy for miscommunication to take place in an email where no tonality is heard, no smiles are seen and no twinkling eyes are witnessed, I would imagine the effectiveness of an email's communication is even less than 7% in many cases. Who hasn't had that email correspondence that went sideways?Remember the adage..."Time is money..."? You can always make more money but you can't make more time, so use your time efficiently and effectively. Deal direct whenever possible. Use the phone, conference calls and online meetings preferably with the video feature ON. Prep your meetings in advance notifying all parties so that they can attend it prepared having their homework done and they are ready for effective contribution. Utilize 100% of your communication tools in a sales situation, this involves all of you, preferably in person, to get the job done today. Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Historic Micanopy Florida Modern Victorian Estate Home

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Tue, 13 Jan 2015 22:30:57 -0800

All the ambiance and grandeur of yesteryear is encompassed in this 1997 built Victorian Styled Estate Home. The beaucolic location of historic Micanopy Florida with easy access to Gainesville, FL and Ocala, FL allows this home the serenity of country living with close proximity both to the cultural mecca of a major university town and the epic-center of horse country. Perched high on a hill, this beauty over looks her 22 improved acres of white fencing, paved roads and gas lighting. Utilities are underground and upon arrival you step back in time to a simpler era. This grand dame is maintained meticulously and decorated authentically. Bright and cheery colors are throughout this home. Natural light from many lace draped windows and volume ceilings make this home both warm and inviting. Replica appliances give modern day convenience and maintain the styling in the kitchen. Chandeliers drip and sparkle light in every room... Two master suites for convenience and lots of company... Volume ceilings add to the grandeur... Elegance and fine appointments abound... Separate guest cottage of 1300 s.f. with pool and spa assure comfort and privacy... 5769 s.f. of Living Space 5 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths, 2 Car Over-Sized Garage Wrap Around Porch Pond and Stream 4 Stall Barn and Paddocks Inground Gunnite Pool With Whirlpool Spa This home would make a great Bed and Breakfast or Corporate Retreat. Offered at: $1,499,000.00 This estate could not be duplicated for this price tag. CALL JANET FETTERMAN: 386-299-6393 OR EMAIL: JANET@ROYALSHELLSALES.COM Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Ladies of the Links...LPGA to Kick Off 2015 Season at Golden Ocala!

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Wed, 06 Aug 2014 00:11:35 -0700

For the first time in more than a decade, the LPGA Tournament 2015 Season will begin in Florida, in Ocala Florida at Golden Ocala Golf and Equestrian Club. The Coates Golf Championship, sponsored by R& L Carriers will be held January 28th through 31st of 2015 on the lush and lovely Ron Garl designed course. The ladies of the links will start their season on one of the very best golf courses in the country that feature replica holes. The 8 replica holes at Golden Ocala are: The Postage Stamp of Royal Troon #8; Murifield #9; Agusta #16 & #13; the Road Hole of St. Andrews #17 and the First Hole in Golf at St. Andrews #1; Baltusrol #4. Golf at Golden Ocala is best know as a fun place to play. The beauty of the course and the community as well as the serene and tranquil setting among Ocala Florida's lush-green rolling hills, will come as a surprise to a nation of viewers who think all of Florida is flat and sand. 2015 Coates Golf Championship will host a 120-player field, playing over 4 days of competition, 72 total holes of golf for a $1.5 million purse. We invite everyone to tune in for the tournament or make arrangements now to attend. Ocala will see between 50,000 to 70,000 visitors for this event. Reservations are going fast so call today! (800-656-9111 Royal Shell Vacations) Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Is it just me???

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Sat, 26 Jul 2014 03:13:56 -0700

Somewhere, someone must have "written the book" on how to engage and convert on line marketing leads to sales. Apparently, this is one book I've missed. You know the situation, something- you see on social media peaks your curiosity so you click on it to read more or click to watch the video. The video or the page comes up and the author drones on and on saying the same thing 30 different ways...meanwhile you are probably forgetting why you clicked on the page to begin with. In journalism college, we called it "burying the lead" and when you were trying to fulfill the number of words requirement for an assignment and you wrote paragraphs of nonsense it was called, "padding." I'm sure it is a generational thing, but I find scrolling through pages of copy on a computer screen IRRITATING (yes....I meant to capitalize it!) If for what ever reason the page jumps to another page or is a slow load...that is it, I'm done reading. Videos...I can't stand them for the most part...unless it is a cute dog, kitten or baby it doesn't keep my attention. I find staring at a screen watching someone speak to me and not saying anything new...as in repeating the 30 different ways to say the same thing script- only on video...well....boring. Then there is the testimonial part where all these humans are giving their testimony as to how they made their cajillion dollars following this plan. Really....really? I'm truly not jaded, but I'd like to actually talk to one of them and see proof of their cajillion dollars in earnings. When someone publishes the front and back of a real check, I'll be impressed. Don't forget about the downloads of free e-books. Sadly, the same guy/gal who wrote the website wrote it and it is...as they say in Texas..."All hat...no cattle." In my most prolific day, I don't think I could write so much and say so little. Of course I signed up so I could get the information, or more information and now I am on the perpetual email list and again, day after day I'll see new letters, saying the same thing in 30 different ways. If I didn't buy it when I sat through the video (or part of it), or read the copy, I don't think becoming my forever penpal until I hit unsubscribe, is going to convince me to purchase. I actually want to be sold, I actually want to believe...but please people....engage me in a meaningful and believable way and please...get to the point! Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

PICKING YOUR RETIREMENT COMMUNITY- SOME FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Thu, 17 Jul 2014 01:05:40 -0700

After nearly two decades of selling real estate, I've reached some conclusions on the components of a retirement community that are best decided prior to the home search. As a Baby Boomer myself, the issue of value for your money and quality of lifestyle is foremost in my mind as well when I tour neighboring communities. The Baby Boomers aren't like the generations that came before them. They are more likely to have a second career or go back to college. Technology and globalization has impacted this generation and redefined the word retirement mostly by taking the "tire" out of this stage of life. This generation has always had a wander lust and has been a proponent of change and in their golden years it would be fool hardy to think that this generation would all of a sudden change. In the United States alone, the Boomers are represented by 76 million people! We currently are mid-way through the transitioning phase from the Baby Boomers' major earning years to this next stage of life. Community Resident Age Profile The status of your health and your age when you start this next stage is very important in determining the kind of community that will best serve your needs. My Dad retired after 35 years as a GM Financial employee when he was only 58. He moved into a family home in Florida that was not located in an association but a regular neighborhood. It turned out that he and Mom were the only retirees in the neighborhood. During the day they were the neighborhood watch team for the street because everyone else was at work. In order to develop a social life, they had to work earnestly at meeting people for golf and social activities because there was no "ready-made" environment for them to become a part. 55+ Communities On the surface this seems ideal to many. These communities are designed with built-in activities and networks and the new resident only needs to plug into their activity of interest and participate as much or as little as they desire. The tricky part of some of these communities is discovering the "culture" of the community. Sometimes there is a general negative attitude about visiting humans of the "under 20 years old kind." If you notice in the Covenants, Rules and Regulations or even on signage posted, that children are only welcome during certain hours or at certain amenity's areas, it might be a red flag that extended stays by the grandchildren will be frowned upon and very close supervision and vigilance will be expected. If your grandchildren are full of noise and very busy activity ( and what child isn't?), their visits might present some real problems and as your guest they may feel unwelcome and your neighbors will be annoyed with you and them. We are not a 55+ Community here at Golden Ocala, but weekly I speak with people looking to escape what they perceive as a very restrictive and negative lifestyle because they want their families to visit and enjoy the facilities that they support each month through their association fees and in some cases private club memberships. When Being Popular is a Curse It is interesting to be in real estate and to read of the next population explosion community. I sold homes in the Palm Coast area during the years when it was the fastest growing community in the country. Homes were sprouting out of the ground at record speed and the city and county infrastructure worked feverishly to attract and build shopping, restaurants and medical facilities. Now I am seeing the same phenomena with the Villages where by some accounts 4500 homes per year are being built and sold. Again, I speak with people looking to sell and buy elsewhere because the neighborhood and community that they bought into a few short years ago has changed so much they barely recognize the place. When waiting over an hour for a seat at dinner is the norm in the middle of the week in "off season" then during the season the dinner wait is 2+ hours and is just not acceptable no matter what price is charged for the Early Bird Special. Be sure you speak with people in the restaurants and the stores and get their take on the community. Pay attention to the traffic patterns and congestion during different times of the day. If you are a golfer and you are joining a community/club where you can only get a tee time, booked 2 weeks in advance and at the crack of dawn, your happiness quotient will dissipate in the Florida sun quite quickly. At Golden Ocala, by our very covenants, the club membership is guaranteed to be maxed out at certain levels. We also have different kinds of memberships so that you are only paying for that portion of the community that you will really use. This insures that the course is never crowded and that the club is adequately staffed to meet the needs of the members first and foremost. In your golden years, finding the right community fit can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be. Trained as a SRES- Senior Real Estate Specialist, I have the education and experience to assist you in finding the right place to call home. Whether it is inside the gates of Golden Ocala or in the Ocala area at large, my first order of business is discovering what you want and need and then to go to work delivering it. Give me a call at 386-299-6393 and I'll show you how to Discover the Golden Life, Discover Golden Ocala. Life here is Golden!Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Luxurious Opulance at Lakeside Estates in Golden Ocala, Ocala Florida

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Fri, 11 Jul 2014 00:26:06 -0700

This home was designed, built and appointed with only the best in mind. The location in Lakeside Estates at Golden Ocala is situated with breathtaking views of the lake and its water birds. From the private balcony, if you listen closely you'll hear the nature's serene symphony accompany each sunset. Soaring ceilings throughout, walls of windows showing casing the landscaping, pool and the natural views that welcome the outside world into a setting of elegance and comfort. This home has two master suites, 5 1/2 baths and a total of 5 bedrooms. At 6,708 s.f. of living space and 9,028 s.f. under roof it is spacious and offers comfort and privacy to all who enter. This home site is situated on 1.09 acres within the Golden Ocala 1400 acre community. The Lakeside Community is a short walk or bike ride to Golden Ocala's 77,000 s.f. clubhouse that is home to Raspberries Fine Dining, Knickers the 19th hole and casual fare restaurant along with the Golf Pro Shop, locker rooms and private card rooms. Golden Ocala's private award winning golf course has 8 replica holes and is never crowded. With an active membership there is always someone to meet and play the course or join in for tennis on the private courts. Resort living at its finest is found at Golden Ocala and this home offered at $2,900,000 is a true find. If you or someone you know is interested in touring this property, please call our sales center at: 352-369-6969. This home is toured by appointment only so give us a call today. Come see why we say "You've found your forever home....for the time of your life." Agents, email your referral forms to us at: janet@RoyShellSales.com and we'll treat your clients Golden...it's our only way! Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Resort Home Beauty In Golden Ocala, Ocala Florida

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Wed, 09 Jul 2014 23:27:21 -0700

This Clubside beauty is 2455 square feet of luxury and fine appointments. A well loved and expertly crafted home, you'll be impressed with the quality and finishes. 2785 NW 80TH AVE, OCALA FL GOLDEN OCALA As you approach this lovely home you'll note the manicured yard which is just a continuation of the lush landscaping of all the homes, common areas, fairways and greens that is Golden Ocala. In pristine condition and ready for you to call it home, just bring your golf clubs, your tennis rackets, riding gear, suit and sunscreen, because the lifestyle at Golden Ocala is all about enjoying yourself. A private club and young membership population means that there is always something fun to do and plenty of active folks to meet. This home is closest to the 17000 s.f. Spa and Fitness Center where 5 Star Spa services is everyday treatment. You can bike over and do your morning work out in the well equipped Fitness Center that is staffed with the very best in personal trainers. At Golden Ocala you will enjoy 3 restaurants from serving casual fare at pool side to fine dining at Rasberries. In this home in particular though, you'll find a true chef's kitchen with all the equipment, convenience and elegance that makes home entertaining a delight. Luxury abounds at Golden Ocala and in this amazing home you have your own personal spa amenities in a master suite and bath that will become your own oasis of relaxation. This home is offered at $750,000 and may be toured by appointment only. Please call the sales office at: 352-369-6969 to arrange your appointment. If you are an agent and you wish to send your client to Golden Ocala to see this home or any other, please email your referral form to: Janet@RoyalShellSales.com and we'll take care of your client like family. Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Golden Ocala BARGAIN HOME- UNDER MARKET VALUE!!!

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Tue, 01 Jul 2014 06:28:40 -0700

Resort Communities are a wonderful place to live. The entire premise is that you live like you are on vacation 365/24/7. Pretty awesome when you consider that Golden Ocala has Tennis; Equestrian Trails and Center; Pool-Spa-Fitness Center; one of the best replica Golf Courses in North America. Not to mention the three in-community restaurants from Raspberries fine dining to pool side at the Cafe for fresh salads and smoothies. One of the sub-communities inside the gates is Clubside which is conveniently located within walking distance to the Spa/Fitness Center and Tennis Courts. Home prices range starting in the mid-$700k's. 8036 NW 28TH STREET OCALA FL This home is a BARGAIN at $549,000! Here's the run down on the specs: Built in 2006 of Concrete block with stucco construction, cement tile roof this home is looking for a new owner. Two Bedrooms and 2.5 Baths the home boasts of an eat in kitchen, Formal Dining Room and a covered patio. The large kitchen has plenty of counter top space that works as hard as you do to put on a feast or for easy family dining at the island space. Plenty of luxury appointments are evident throughout. If you have a Buyer relocating to our area, please register them with me and forward your referral agreement to janet@royalshellsales.com. We pay 25% referral fees and you can rest assured that we'll treat them like they are Golden!Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Resale vs. New Construction- What's the better value?

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Mon, 30 Jun 2014 00:36:49 -0700

This past week in working with a couple who are looking for their retirement home, I was asked this question. Of course this is my opinion from my perspective but this was my answer. When you build a new home you are purchasing just that: a new home. All the extras that are needed to make life comfortable and live-able are "a la carte". A new home is a wonderful experience, but you are no longer in charge of the timetable for example as to when you will install curtains or blinds on your windows; most HOA/COA's will only put up with sheet covered windows for a minimal amount of time. You'll need to drag around a sprinkler to water in your new sod or it can quickly become damaged in the summer sun. How long do you want to live with boxes in your garage and attic because you have no proper storage areas? In a resale home, what ever extras come with it may not be your taste but you have more leisure time to live in the home and get a sense of how you want to decorate, or landscape. I have found that living in a home and what I initially thought may be what I wanted, evolves and more often than not changes with time. Items like extra shelving, lighting, in-ground sprinkler systems as well as curtains/drapes/blinds or even their hardware to hang them are expenses that add up quickly. A well or a water treatment system is an expensive upgrade to a home. Don't forget that extra blanket of insulation the last owner installed or even the external generator, are all the bells and whistles that make your life more comfortable and enjoyable. That lanai that was converted to a 3 season sun room provides extra living space that wasn't in the home's original plans, and of course the hidden costs such as permitting of these extras need to also be considered in the tally of benefits. Unless money is no object (which is rarely anyone's case) you get more bang for your buck in a resale home.Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Viral Alert...Excitement is Contagious!

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Wed, 18 Jun 2014 23:51:05 -0700

Summer is the slow season here at Golden Ocala, Ocala Florida. Schools out, people are on vacation and home purchasing seems to take a lower priority. When you are busy, busy, busy the whole energy of the potentiality makes it easy to stay juiced and excited about your work. When it is quiet, there is no on going momentum of positive energy to pull from. Yesterday, a walk in customer, who has been to the Golden Ocala gated community before (and who didn't purchase at the time) returned. This Buyer actually went to another community and placed an offer on a shortsale this past March, her offer still has had no response from the bank. She has already sold her primary residence and she and her husband are living at their farm. She is frustrated and anxious about wanting to get her roots planted. I was on floor duty and records showed no real followup from the previous agent so this prospect was up for grabs. Not wanting to step on any toes and create a problem in my work place I also gave the Buyer, on three separate occasions, the chance to work with the previous agent. She was getting her questions answered by me. She was receiving some advice from my experience with short sales and REO's and I shared with her the questions she needed answered about the community association and its budget and financial stability where she was attempting to buy in. I was providing service and information to someone who was potentially not going to be my buyer. On my third attempt to pass her back to the other agent in my office, she said that I was being most helpful and she preferred to work with me. Once I had this green light I took her to look at some vacant resales inside our gates, her time was limited since she was in town attending the thoroughbred auction at Ocala Breeder Sales. Showing this gorgeous community is always a treat for me. What is not to absolutely love about a stately 77,000 s.f. Clubhouse, championship golf course, a 17,000 s.f. Five Star Spa and Fitness Center, Tennis Program with three Pros and Equestrian facilities and 1400 acres of riding trails? Remember though, this buyer was here previously and she knows the community. So what could I give her that would create desire to purchase here? I shared my excitement and my belief that she and her golfer husband would love it here. I spoke of the warmth and friendliness of our members. She and her husband would be with their peers since our club membership is youthful with an average age of 54. She would be in her element each winter rubbing elbows and talking horses with other equestrians since we fill up with visitors for HITS. When I mentioned our Ron Garl designed 18 hole course, considered to be among the finest in the country "Replica Courses" her eyes lit up you see her husband is an excellent golfer and has won Club Championships where ever they have lived. Our eight replica holes are from some of the best and famous courses in the world. *The No. 4 hole is a replica of No. 8 at Royal Troon; *No. 5 is a replica of Muirfield's No. 9; *No. 6 is No. 16 from Augusta; No. 11 is Augusta National's No. 12 hole *No. 12 is Augusta's No. 13 hole; *No. 13 is the famous No. 17 Road Hole at St. Andrews (dubbed by many golfers as the "hardest golf hole in the world''), including its famous fieldstone wall; *No. 14 is St. Andrews' first hole; and *No. 15 at Golden Ocala is the No. 4 hole at Baltusrol. The remainder of the holes at the Golden Ocala course are original designs. I gave her a Yardage Guide booklet which in itself is a treat to read along with other literature of her real estate options for inside the community. She didn't have a lot of time yesterday, but in the time that we had, her excitement and enthusiasm to move here was evident. Hanging in for the shortsale house was becoming less and less a "deal" in her mind. She left to return to the auction with a folder full of choices and a weekend appointment to meet her husband and discuss their options. Excitement, enthusiasm and painting the picture of her family living a lifestyle that is "Golden", where their passions can not only co-exist but flourish, is a place where they want to put down their roots. Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Did you go MIA from Blogging?

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Wed, 18 Jun 2014 00:17:02 -0700

Guilty here! When the whole world melted down my personal world was along for the ride and though I fought it fiercely, it all too easily integrated and became part of the market crash sludge. Attempting to trudge the sludge was exhausting and having no map of the terrain I thought it was time to take a break, gather my bearings and regroup. I took a hiatus from listing and selling real estate and I became a CAM but that story is another post. For two years I worked in the field while I licked my wounds and healed from the global economic crisis. When I was hired as the Sales Director at Golden Ocala, Ocala Florida I knew I had to do what I know works and that was get back on Active Rain and start blogging. It did generate business for me in the past and it would kick start my re-entry to listing and selling once more. Upon my return I was absolutely floored when I clicked on the Stats Link. While I was away....MIA...my past bloggs were read by Rainers and the posts were still generating traffic! Talk about a YOOHOO thrill of exhilaration and encouragement.... Those past blogg/seeds that I had planted/published were still being read, my social precence was still generating traffic and the numbers were into the thousands! I'm back now, listing and selling real estate, and it is a great feeling knowing that the foundation that I built here remains solid and in place and I only need to continue to patiently and faithfully blogg, grow my social media networking skill set and I am well on the road to real estate recovery! Check out your old stats and you'll marvel at the numbers- it is a real personal boost to your spirit. THANK YOU ACTIVE RAIN AND RAINERS!!! TOGETHER...WE'RE ALL GOING UP FROM HERE:) Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Real Estate Investing and Partnerships...from "Hard Knocks U"

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Tue, 17 Jun 2014 01:25:05 -0700

Today I had a conversation with another agent who is considering purchasing two condominium units with another partner. Her concern was getting an offer submitted and negotiated before their LLC. is formed. Her potential partner happens to be an attorney who will be filing the LLC. She was using me as a sounding board to bounce off some ideas. This conversation led me to look back on my past partnerships and to analyze what was right and what was wrong and how I'd do things differently today. Here is what I uncovered: TIMING - There's a cliche that "Timing is Everything" and I have come to be a big believer in the "right season" principle. You can't harvest a crop unless you plant one first. You can't plant a crop until you have properly prepared the soil. You can't properly prepare the soil unless you know what you want to plant and what that seed/crop needs for nutrients. You can't decide what crop to plant until you determine if it is worth your money and time investment to make a good yield for all your efforts...in other words is there a market for your crop? The lesson I have learned about partnerships works very well with this example. It is all about doing your homework and performing due diligence. Let's start with: You can't harvest a crop unless you plant one first. So you think you want to become partners in a real estate transaction? What crop/product do you hope to produce? (1) Is the ultimate goal to flip or buy and hold? (2) What happens if you can't flip the product, if the market won't support a worthwhile net gain? What plan B is acceptable to all partners? You can't plant a crop until you have properly prepared the soil. (1) Is the partnership clearly defined as to who does what and how will the net proceeds be divided? (2) Is the financial report card of all parties equal going in to the project? If you are the low man on the totem pole with available financial resources to cover all the "what ifs" there may be decisions through out the project made that you don't agree with because you aren't in an equitable power position. (3) Is the partnership in writing? We are in the real estate business, and we all know that good business is done "in writing." But how many times do you hear of brainstorming over dinner and drinks and a handshake with no formal business plan established as follow up? Sorry folks, if it was good enough for Moses and God to reduce it to writing, on stone tablets no less, then you need to put your ideas, expectations and remuneration agreements to paper. You need a plan! You can't properly prepare the soil unless you know what you want to plant and what that seed/crop needs for nutrients. (1) What are your expectations of what you need out of the deal? How about your partners' expectations? Are these expectations in alignment with each other? Everyone places a dollar value on their time and contributions and this needs to be stated up front and in writing before the first offer is written. If you expect a commission from the sale, it needs to be in writing. If a partner has talents and skills that they will contribute whether it is physical labor; supervision of work or even the forming of the corporate entity, the fees must be negotiated and agreed to up front and in writing. You can't decide what crop to plant until you determine if it is worth your money and time investment to make a good yield for all your efforts...in other words is there a market for your crop? (1) Have you run the numbers and truly hashed out all the costs, evident and possibly hidden so that you have a realistic net bottom line number? (2) Do you have a time line with identified benchmarks established? Time is money and if you are off schedule on renovations you must account for carrying costs and market fluctuations which can and will affect your profits. Outside, out of your control forces must be considered such as acquisition of building permits; governmental inspections and competition for the final product. Careful consideration of these points will have you better prepared to be in a partnership with clearly defined goals and expectations. No one wants a bad partnership, so taking the time to hash out all the details in advance will have you better prepared to use your time and resources wisely. Real Estate investing is the road to riches, but guaranteed success is helped along by properly preparing in advance for the trip. Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Networking- It's an Inside Job Too

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Thu, 12 Jun 2014 03:15:13 -0700

Today I happened into our clubhouse on a search for mailing labels. I happened upon our Membership Director who was showing literature and maps to someone. It just so happened that this person is one of my company's Agents from Royal Shell Real Estate at the Captiva Island Florida Branch. He was visiting his son in Gainesville and he and his wife decided to stop in and check out another Royal Shell Community- here at Golden Ocala on their drive back home. I gave him and his wife the tour and we talked shop about our two luxury markets. As we were finishing up the tour I invited him to come stay for a weekend and explained our reasonable-seasonable rates. It turned out that he had no idea of how grand our community is and he was glad he stopped in. We exchanged cards and vowed that we would each do better to let our own agents know about our product/communities. Networking Starts at Home So here are some questions to help you take stock of your networking efforts within your own company: (1) Do you promote yourself and your listings to other offices within your own company? (2) Do you keep these agents informed of services and or specials that you may be offering? (3) If you have rentals, are you promoting them to your internal agents for their friends and families to vacation at? Word of Mouth is still a powerful marketing tool and testimonies of happy guests go real far in generating interest and future business. (4) Have you included these agents on your mailing list and have you a plan that you work to keep in touch on a regular basis so that they actually come to know you? (5) Do you visit their websites and bloggs and do you make an effort to share information and give feedback? (6) Have you visited your company's other offices and actually introduced yourself? Don't forget, the Real Estate Business is The People Business...it is all about who you know and how you make them feel that determines your success.Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Starting Over- Rebooting Your Career

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Wed, 11 Jun 2014 00:46:05 -0700

You may think that I'm writing this for you, I am, but I am also writing this for me. In 19 years of my real estate career I look back and I see that it has been a series of career "do overs". Don't get me wrong, I've had my share of wild successes but I've also experienced the "agony of defeat" on more than one occasion I can assure you. At this point in time, I find myself in a new market with a new company and a new niche. This real estate business has been quite a ride! I used to beat myself up over the mis-steps and the mistakes. My internal dialogue used to be full of shoulda's, coulda's and woulda's and a lot of my energy was expended in regret. These days I have learned to replace my mind dialogue with: "Well that didn't work....NEXT... time's a wasting...let's figure out why that didn't work and move on." Along the way I've learned some important lessons that I'd like to share with you. Everything happens for a reason. The recent global economic meltdown affected me as well as the rest of the planet. For years I had the work-work-work ethic of a crazy woman so focused on the end game that I didn't take time for a life. When I found that circumstances, well beyond my control, changed the world as I knew it, I went through the usual period of grief and adjustment. For many, many years I had delayed living a life and I had just focused totally on work. I knew I was out of balance, but I never prioritized me and didn't take my time to fix it. Forced to re-evaluate everything, when the housing market collapsed, I suddenly had a lot of time on my hands. After I tired of licking my wounds...I took up raising bees and chickens...I brewed beer and I made wine. I studied hypnotherapy and I reconnected with learning and growing and improving me again. I discovered the simple pleasures of being with "critters" and not always living "in my head." I've come to see this new world and my change of circumstances as a gift. This too shall pass. Just as the successes build momentum there are likely to be rocks and potholes in the road of life and this is to be expected. Everything is temporary and change is just part of life. How we handle the rock in the road that stops us or the pothole that we drop into is part of this process. All the energy of your negative mind chatter is better channeled to finding solutions to going around your rock or climbing out of the pothole at hand. You never start over from ground zero. A very wise person pointed this out to me and it was truly an "AH-HAAA" epiphany for me. All the experience of what has worked in the past and what hasn't worked is part of me. I know more now than I knew then. No one and no circumstance can take that from me. This is my personal wisdom. You never really "arrive"...it isn't a destination...life is a journey. Changing my mindset from an end goal/destination to a "journey philosophy" has been harder...but not impossible. Somewhere along this life, I got some mind programming errors. Taking the time to re-program these errors and to work on me first has made this life more enjoyable. The chatter inside my head is friendlier and this life journey has become a new adventure. Go with the flow...resistance = more pain. The first part of this is a flashback to the 60's...the second part of this statement is realized wisdom. Opening your mind and accepting "what is" doesn't mean you have to like your circumstances, but resisting "what is" is just a waste of your time and energy and you feel horrible in the process. Re-framing the situation and looking for the silver lining with open eyes and an open mind will move you along in the journey and you'll be positioned to actually see the next opportunity when it shows up. The thing about the above lessons is that you've heard them before. Perhaps you've read about them in a self help book, or you have even seen them on Facebook or a bumper sticker. The tricky part is internalizing them and making their message a part of your inner compass that points to truth....but you can do it....with some work...because you are worth it. Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

California Chrome....Runs for the Crown...

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Sat, 07 Jun 2014 02:11:50 -0700

Last week I toured a historic Horse Racing Farm here in Ocala Florida. 314 acres of rolling hills, outlined by board fencing with 8 barns able to accommodate 200 horses, riding rings, shady paddocks and a training 1 mile racetrack. The energy of this farm was so amazing, I was transported in time to when this facility was filled with Thoroughbreds and the people who care for and train them. As we drove along the fence line roads I imagined the horses in the pastures and their young frolicking close by their sides. A gentle breeze was blowing and the majestic oaks were swaying in the scene. Nature in all its glory is so good for one's soul. While inspecting the barns I swear I could hear the occasional snort and the thud of a hoof pawing at the packed earth. When we reached the 1 Mile Racetrack I walked on the sandy soil. Lying on the ground was a discarded horse shoe. The Buyer's Representative/Trainer picked it up and joked that it came from Seattle Slew. He and Slew O' Gold ran this very same track in practice. They trained at this track, along with the Slew Crew and many other Champions to date. Standing on this track I could imagine the horses leaving the gate, I could almost feel the pounding of their hooves vibrating under my feet. In my mind's eye I saw these magnificent animals jockey for position and establish their pace. It was magical, to stand on the same soil where Horse Racing History began and to actually feel and hear the thunder of the track beneath me while imagining the horses and their riders make the final turn to race to the finish line....I could see all that muscle and hooves racing towards me as I stood on the finish line...this farm has that much MOJO. The farm may be empty now, but it waits for the next would be Champions to arrive. When they do, they'll be met with ever green fields and always blue skies, gentle winters and long summers and plenty of open land to run. Today California Chrome runs for the Triple Crown. This Ocala fan wishes you God Speed, bring home your Crown! Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Ocala- Green Pastures and Thoroughbreds

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Sat, 07 Jun 2014 02:10:46 -0700

Florida....The Sunshine State is such a beautiful place. When you are mindful and you pay attention you can appreciate and bask in all its beauty on a daily basis. Did you immediately think of a beach or perhaps a lake when you heard Florida? Was your mental image of the topography flat with palm trees and sand? Don't get me wrong, I love our beaches, I decorate my home with palm tree art and having sand in my shoes I consider a blessing. There is another part of Florida that exists and it is a beauty all of its own and that is the north central interior of Ocala, Florida. The countryside of Ocala is a landscape of gently rolling hills. 50 shades of green are evident from the lush Bahai grass pastures to the magnificant and ancient Heritage Oaks that adorn the pastures and fields. These huge oaks with their sprawling canopy remind me of the antebellem skirts of days past, full and gently dancing with the winds. In these fields of Ocala are Thoroughbred Horses. The morning sun kisses their meticulously groomed coats and the light reflects hues of honey browns and midnight blacks. Seeing these gorgeous animals grazing or nursing their young always brings a smile to my face....seeing them race the fields- takes my breath away. Sometimes your heart is so full in awe and gratitude that you simply must let it spill out and share it with those around you. This land, this Ocala- Horse Country....is good for your soul. Wishing you sunshine, Janet Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

If You Don't Ask, the Answer is Already No...Lifting the Veil on the Hidden Market

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Wed, 21 May 2014 01:30:55 -0700

It is no secret that real estate holdings are an integral part of a well balanced investment portfolio. Buying and holding is a popular strategy to build wealth, taught everywhere from late night infomercials to continuing education classes. So why don't agents bring offers on properties that are not listed in the MLS and that are not readily considered, "on the market"? Most likely this is due to the assumption that the agent may be wasting their time. Perhaps agents consider it a lot of work to hunt down the owner, especially if the property is held in a corporation or trust. Perhaps finding the decision making committee might prove to be a challenge. THE LESSON OF THE HIDDEN MARKET Growing up in a car dealership family I learned early on that everything is for sale at the right price. My heart was broken for the first time when the restored 1952 MG TD that had been "promised" to be my car as soon as I was licensed to drive, was sold because a buyer offered the right price at the right time. I loved that car, the interior leather was soft like a marshmallow, the chrome was so shiny you could use it as a mirror. I washed and waxed that car, lovingly buffing the hornet's green hood to a deep luster all the while imagining myself behind the wheel. I could see myself racing with the wind and flat out smoking all comers, leaving them in the dust. Most 14-year-old girls don't have that kind of attachment to a car, but I sure did. When my Mother told me that the car had been sold, she simply offered that a buyer wanted the car and he was willing to pay what she was willing to sell it for. There you have it, the car wasn't parked in the car lot, it wasn't advertised and no price tag was glued on its windshield. It was simply setting in front of the dealership in Mom's parking space. Someone saw it, fell in love with it and offered a price that she was willing to take. After all, she was in the car business. This didn't make much sense to me then, but I realize how appropriate it is to me today. Perhaps if the buyer had asked on a different day, she might have said no, but what ever the factors were in her decision that day, his good offer aligned those factors to result in her saying yes. We are in the real estate business...all property is for sale... I manage the sales office in, Golden Ocala, a gated community. The community's covenants do not allow For Sale signs in the yards. For many of the residents, these homes are often their second or even third home. So the only way to know if a house is for sale is through the MLS....or is it? Keep in mind that investors who have real estate in their portfolios acquire real estate because it made good financial sense at the time. Given the right conditions and the right offer, that asset could become your Buyer's asset and you could earn a handsome commission, with no competition. But, you have to find the Seller, prepare the offer and present it, negotiate it, close the deal and take it to closing to get paid. Remember this, it needs to be a reasonable offer to show your Buyer's good faith. It needs to be market value to start and to even get the Seller to consider selling, otherwise, you have just insulted the Seller's intelligence and shut down any hope of successful negotiations. Do your homework, pull your comps, prepare your cost list for repairs if any, review not just recent sales but what is on the market and what replacement costs would be for such a property. Armed with this information, assist your Buyer is writing a respectable offer. This same information can be supplied to the Seller to justify the offer submission and to aid in the negotiations process. Remember this, the answer is already no if you don't ask....no sale....no commission. The only thing you have to lose, is your paycheck. Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Selling the HOA/Condo Association- Fundamentals Part 1

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Wed, 14 May 2014 01:14:43 -0700

What comprises a strong association and its management? How do you evaluate a community's budget? What are the components of the budget and how are they determined? Is the community developer controlled and when is the anticipated turnover to the homeowners? What is the best advice you can offer your Buyer regarding one community over another if the decision comes down to evaluating the association? Has the Buyer ever lived in an association and how was that experience? These are questions that need answered and considered carefully when purchasing a home in any association. The expectation level of the buyer of what they are purchasing with their monthly assessments needs to be clear, up front, in order for that homeowner to best appreciate their new home. My recent experience managing a portfolio of 9 communities of varying home value price points, community age and amenities gave me insight into the world of association living that in my previous years of real estate experience I had never fully explored. Buyer's Expectation Level Perhaps one of the most important factors is the expectation level of what it means to live in an HOA/COA. If a Buyer has never lived in an association before, they may be mis-informed regarding the Covenants and Rules of any association and their importance. Many post sale calls and complaints to the CAM can be avoided by having a frank discussion pre-contract, with the owner about what the responsibilities of the association are and what they are not. If I had a nickel for ever person who said they never received their association Covenants prior to purchase and actually moving in, I'd be writing this post from Tahiti. Be sure that you get a current set of documents and any and all amendments from the seller along with the recent budget for review. Many associations are filing them online these days and some municipalities have them available at the courthouse. Take the time to educate the Buyer that Covenants and Rules are just about carved in stone. The Covenants will explain what percentage of member/owners are required to make a change to them. This figure is generally a high percentage and unlikely to get full participation for a vote, so if there is something that just doesn't "sit right" with the Buyer, it is best that they look at a home that is not in an association and not proceed with a purchase. Take the time to call the Community Association Manager, CAM, for the community and schedule a meeting (pre-contract) to review the operating budget and discuss the reserves with the owner. Attend the meeting with your Buyer. This is due diligence and you will have good questions to bring forth that the Buyer may not. Provide the covenants and rules within the deadlines as mandated by your state's statutes! Ask the Buyer to review them carefully and have them create a question list. The buyer needs to understand that he/she is going to live and abide by certain community standards as specified in the Covenants and Rules. If getting their garbage can out to the curb and back again on trash collection day is going to be a problem, they will need to make arrangements for their home when they are out of town or else they may face a violation letter and receiving such a letter, no matter how kindly worded, is never received as a good thing. If basketball hoops must be stored in the back yard when not in use, the owners will resent being told to do this when their children are too little to move them on their own and the parents are inconvenienced to do so after a long day at work. When repeated violations result in a hearing and possible fine their lifestyle inside an association comes in to question in their minds any and all the parties associated with their purchase are painted with the same jaded brush. You really don't know what Rule or Covenant is going to "set off" an owner because Covenants and Rules can be as detailed in length and yet as ambiguous as federal tax law and open to a cajillion interpretations. Some associations are lax at enforcing their covenants which often leads to a devaluation of the property values of the homes. When a new Board comes in to power and the Board wishes to tighten up and return to the high standard's bar of the original intent of their covenants through enforcement, all out war can break out in a neighborhood. Managing the expectation level for a new homeowner in an association community is vital in preparing them for their new life in their new home. In this day of Community Facebook pages and social networking sites, the quickest way to ruin your hard earned reputation is to be remiss in educating your buyers, in advance, because in one click of a keyboard key, your act of omission can be posted forever....and ever and ever....on the internet. Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Seeing Someplace for the First Time-Every Time

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Tue, 13 May 2014 04:04:08 -0700

Showing homes has always been my favorite part of practicing real estate. I enjoy seeing the ways people decorate; how they landscape and how they live. I always marvel at how many ways the concept of a box can be altered and changed to become a home. Last week I was showing a prospective Buyer our community here at Golden Ocala and I got to feel that "juiced up" feeling of excitement again, reminding me of how much I love this work. My Buyer had previously lived in Ocala and she had left ten years ago moving to Arizona. She was now ready to come back home to horse country, back to Ocala Florida. She said she missed all the "green" of Florida. I have to admit, our community is lush with thick carpeted turf of emerald greens, dotted with evergreen hollies and shrubs and majestic heritage oaks that grace pastures and fairways alike. Where ever you look, there is one more shade of rich green but of another hue. The grounds and golf course here at Golden Ocala are incredibly beautiful and whether you are someone who has been living in a desert for the past ten years, or not, Golden Ocala is certainly an oasis to replenish one's soul. As we drove through the streets and I pointed out the different neighborhoods, she commented on the tranquility and serene nature of the community. Our community is quiet and a great place to walk or bike and to and enjoy nature, day or night. We have an active population of owner/members who are enjoying the clean air and Florida sun, whether playing golf or tennis, trail riding or lounging by the pool. Her enthusiasm and awe was infectious. The more we toured, the more excited I found myself becoming. Often times we take for granted the beauty all around us and we forget that the rest of the world doesn't necessarily enjoy all of our bounty. We talked about the change of seasons here in Ocala and how the green just changes shades as does the sunlight and when you pay attention you will see the changes from summer to fall, to winter and back to spring. In Ocala, we have the change of seasons without the ice and snow of the north. We also have rolling hills and interesting terrain, a patchwork of horse pastures and cattle ranches. The Ocala location is central and convenient for day trips to Tampa, Orlando or Jacksonville or University of Florida sports and activities. Life here is truly Golden, as we say in our advertising. Seeing this lovely community and lifestyle, through the eyes of a first time visitor reminds me to be grateful and ever present in the moment. This is the way I wish to live each day fully, present and fully present. Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Is REO Bankrupting You?

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 08:28:37 -0800

In this economy agents are envious of REO agents because the perception is that we have all the listings so we are dominating the market. Today I'm going to bring to light the reality of REO in this economy so perhaps you won't be so green with envy. Would you consider it good business to outlay $1500 for a lien, $600 to Progress Energy for a deposit on a property that will pay you a reduced commission that will net you perhaps $700? Throw in the fact that you will be paying the electric bill for a couple of months at least and waiting 90-120+ days for the lien and electric payments reimbursement and no compensation for the use of your money charge. If you had three closings and deposited less than $3000 in the bank account, would you consider that time well spent? Of course not, especially if you had provided free property management services for weeks on end for these properties in addition to your reduced commission. There has been so much clamoring by agents wanting to get into the business that the banks have opened up and given a few here and there to new agents who want more more more. If they are successful to get into the REO Rat race they will find that as the property values decline and the outsourcers continue to increase their percentages, tack on fees and charge for classes so that they qualify to manage their properties pretty soon they will have to do more and more volume. The catch 22 is that the more volume you do, the more overhead you must sustain. The more overhead you are required to service with weekly inspections requiring new photos, monthly reports which are broker price opinions disguised as monthly reports requiring new photos, task after task and new requirement after new requirement that has been dreamed up by someone sitting behind a desk deciding that they needed more information eats away at your profitability. Given that REO agents are graded and live and die by time schedules and keeping them, they get more listings by keeping their grades high. This is all well and good, the thought process being that the higher the score the better the agent. Of course....I'm an agent who has produced over $50M volume in REO transactions in the past 2 years and I might have a score with a client in the 70's because of their rating system. Do you really think that a newbie agent who has managed to maintain a score in the 90's because they have had a handful of listings is a better agent than me because of their scorecard? I hardly think so....but that is another blog. It is another example of the flawed thinking of the system. My point being, that meanwhile, the reo veteran agent who has invested thousands of dollars in software, staff, systems, overhead is being constantly challenged to stay profitable in an environment that eats away at their bottom line. If you are an REO agent today, take a long look at your P&L sheet, pay close attention to your numbers because with the declining commissions and rising cost of gas and increasing tasks and liability that continues to be placed on our shoulders, you may find that this business is putting you in the poor house. If you are so busy running from daybreak to sundown filing reports and meeting deadlines, you might not be looking at your numbers. You might be going broke and not realizing it...you need to look at your numbers every month religiously and make a decision....if you aren't making a profit, you need to bail.Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

"College Cheating- Everybody Does It"

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 04:00:57 -0800

University of Central Florida Business Professor in yesterday's news was rescheduling a graduating seniors business class in which 200 out of 600 students cheated on a midterm exam. One of the students interviewed on national tv was indignant and he said: "College cheating on exams, everybody does it, why is he (the Professor) trying to make this a moral issue?" If I had dentures, they would have dropped out of my mouth. This guy is a graduating senior and quite obviously a cheater and he considers himself to be the norm. I'm sure his parents are just so proud! To know that they funded an education resulting in a degree that is all a fraud must make them feel all warm and fuzzy. We currently are in an economic collapse of global proportions because of this type of insanity. The banking industry created loans for segment of the population whose likelihood of repayment was high risk but they did it knowing that they were going to make a windfall up front, then those creative geniuses repackaged and sold off these new bundles to unsuspecting investors- nothing immoral here.... The latest is pencil whipping foreclosure documents which is holding up closings left and right and once again delaying recovery that hurts not only our nation but nations globally. When did we lose our moral compasses? It is obvious that this student doesn't see the ramifications of his actions, he is only looking out for himself. He has only his government- politicians and institutions to look to as role models. Isn't this what they have shown him all along? Self serving interests justify the means. We MUST get back to honesty as the only policy. We MUST get back to what is the good for all and not just selected parties. It must be a commitment that each of us make every day and renew every day in each and every dealing whether it is personal or business. This is the only way we will save our society and get back on track and stop the insanity. Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

My Listings Widget Now Here From Zillow!

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Wed, 27 Oct 2010 07:24:17 -0700

Isn't technology a wonderful thing? ....when it works!!! LOL I am working my way through my IMSD course materials and I just added my Zillow Widget to my Blog page here so that folks can now see my inventory. How cool is that? It usually takes me some time...I read way too quickly and process my understanding way too slowly but on the 3rd ok...5th time through, after my walk around the block and deep breathing exercises, I usually figure it out. When it works though, the victory is SOOOOOOO sweet. I feel like SUCH A TECHIE.....LOL, yeah right. But, here it is, working, on the right, my Zillow inventory...it is coming together...YAY...thank you, everyone who helps and gives their tips and encouragement along the way. I just had to share my victory with you today, on this beautiful sunny Floriday day. Wishing you sunshine...... JanetJanet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

Florida Foreclosures May Halt...

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Sat, 25 Sep 2010 03:49:26 -0700

Orlando Sentine Reports...The Florida Supreme Court is asked to halt foreclosures in Florida amid a probe into the three largest Attorney Title Mills that handled the majority of the closings these past three years. Wow....what a surprise. Really.... http://www.orlandosentinel.com/fl-gmac-fallout-0925-20100924,0,1516092.story See for the last three years the Florida Agents at all the default conferences were screaming bloody loud to the Asset Managers and anyone who would listen... IF YOU WANT TO EXPEDITE THE PROCESS AND REDUCE THE TIME IN ESCROW...BRING THE TITLE WORK BACK TO THE HOME TOWN.... But, some how, these three Attorney-Title Mill Mega-houses got their feet in the door and made a killing and apparently it is now coming to light that their work was less than adequate. Anyone who had a closing with them could have told you that all along. It wasn't unusual for there to be delays in closings because they waited till the 11th hour to do the search. What was amazing was that there were liens and problems that had to be worked out that I would have thought would have been found out in the foreclosure process...but I am not an attorney. Since they were in 3-5-7 hours away physically, it was often up to the agent to physically run down paperwork, hand carry documents, get signatures, etc, in essence do their work to get the job done while they charged inflated closing costs. I know, because we have done this for the last 3 years. All with the blessings of the banks. The REO Agents did this extra work while the Co-Broke Agents and Buyers were screaming at us about how we couldn't get OUR act together, all the while they got paid a full commission and we "earned" our discounted commission. If we advised Buyers to pay for their own title work, these same title companies just increased their junk closing fees so that it cost the Buyers more money to close and the Seller Banks were fine with that. In the end it was cheaper on the Buyer to let the seller pay for title because the junk closing fees that they would pay these title companies would remain the same regardless of who did the title work. Now these same Seller/Clients are getting hammered because if the Supreme Court halts the foreclosures and ties them up in court, Florida, these banks and our Florida economy will be in the death throes. This is a bitter pill to swallow when we agents have all along been saying there was a problem but no one wanted to hear about it. Now the entire state's economy will be impacted because of the greed and the inefficiency of a few.Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393

IMSD Class Update

Janet Fetterman, Selling Luxury Lifestyles... (Royal Shell Real Estate Inc) — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 03:13:33 -0700

Throughout my real estate career of 15 and counting years I have invested more money in education taking classes and seminars in real estate than my entire 4 year Bachelor of Science degree from the U of F cost me way back in the 70's. Sometimes they were worth it, and sometimes they weren't but I have to tell you that this IMSD course is definitely falling into the worth it category. This is a hands on class and I find myself shutting the door, turning off the phone and becoming very perturbed at any interruptions because it is that good. This Friday I had technical difficulties and couldn't access the webinar and thought I might have a hissy fit as I was going into IMSD withdrawal. The content is meaty and the homework assignments are challenging. I am doing them and excited about seeing results in my business and isn't that what we want? We want to see results? I have placed my first 2 Facebook ads and I am thinking of a couple of more that might just be good ideas. I have a Fan page germinating in my mind and I'm ready to revamp those websites that have been back burnered long enough. So, if you've been on the fence....in the field....lost in cyberspace and just don't know where to start, I'd say this is a good place. Take this class and get some foundation under your feet.Janet Fetterman, Broker Associate, CAM Sales Manager, Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club Janet@RoyalShellSales.com www.GoldenOcala.com 386-299-6393