Real Estate

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  • Sh*t Real Estate Agent Say

    The Real Estate Bloggers
    Tom Royce
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:30 pm
    The meme has hit the real estate world, courtesy of Brian Copeland and Maura Neill the folks at RETSO.   See home many real estate memes you can find… Thanks for reading this post. If you would like to see more articles like this, please come visit The Real Estate Bloggers. where it was originally published.Sh*t Real Estate Agent Say Related posts: Officially Real Estate Has Double Dipped Economic Turmoil Not Helping Real Estate Sales

  • 5 key points for healthcare real estate planning

    Corporate Real Estate
    CRE Editors
    7 Feb 2012 | 6:46 pm
    Five opportunity areas that, when viewed together and from the perspective of executive system leadership, form a comprehensive picture of the organization’s current performance and a roadmap to... Please click on the link to read complete commentary. Thank you!

  • Co-Working Has Experienced Explosive Growth – But Can There Be Downsides?

    TheSquareFoot
    Aron Susman
    5 Feb 2012 | 2:52 pm
    After reading a recent article on the dark side of co-working, we thought we would chime in. It comes as no surprise that co-working is starting to see some backlash among small businesses and contractors. As a relatively new solution to traditional office space in the U.S., co-working has taken off like a wildfire. If you are on either the west coast or east coast and involved in commercial real estate or you are looking for real estate – you certainly have seen all the cool, open, innovative co-working solutions. It is starting to pick up everywhere else, but it seems the coasts have…

  • Home repairs: Which jobs come first?

    Home mortgage rates and real estate news - CNNMoney.com
    3 Feb 2012 | 4:27 am
    Lean times call for budgetary triage. But while you should clearly opt for orthodontics before Disneyland, the choice is tougher when it comes to home maintenance.

  • Joe Montana, Empty Nester, Makes Rare Drop: “Villa Montana” Price Cut of $14 Million

    AppraisalNewscast - Appraisal News, Mortgage News of the Valuation World
    Coester
    8 Feb 2012 | 5:00 am
    Even football immortals experience the normal ebb and flow of the human condition. Which leads us to the sprawling estate owned by former football great Joe [...]
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    WSJ.com: Real Estate

  • Cambodia's Developers Aim at Stars

    8 Feb 2012 | 1:14 am
    A high-rise building boom in Cambodia's capital city, Phnom Penh, derailed by the 2008-2009 financial crisis, is starting up again.

  • It's Hardly a Ball for 11 Times Square

    8 Feb 2012 | 12:22 am
    The risks of speculative office building are obvious at the 11 Times Square skyscraper. More than a year after it opened, the 1.1 million square-foot building is about 60% empty and unleased.

  • GSA Picks Trump Plan for Project

    7 Feb 2012 | 10:36 pm
    A proposal from Trump Hotel Collection and private-equity investor Colony Capital was selected by the General Services Administration to redevelop Washington's Old Post Office Building into a luxury hotel.

  • A Steel Site Is Recycled

    7 Feb 2012 | 10:33 pm
    More than 10 years after the last steelmaking operations were closed down at the Bethlehem Steel Corp. plant in Pennsylvania, its 1,800-acre site is slowly attracting new businesses.

  • Pyramid Cos.' Carousel Plan Rides Again

    7 Feb 2012 | 9:20 pm
    Developer Robert Congel's drive to create one of the largest malls in the country, in Syracuse, N.Y., is back in gear after almost being upended by the economic downturn and a nasty court battle with Citigroup.
 
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    Commercial Real Estate Industry News Headlines | Bizjournals.com

  • Frederick in annexation talks over 250 acres

    8 Feb 2012 | 8:25 am
    Crum Farm Land LLC has asked that the City of Frederick annex an additional 250 acres. The move would permit the developer to use 535 acres instead of 285 acres for 1,200 homes and 1.3 million square nfeet of commercial and office space. The land is next to 285 acres of Crum Farm Land that were annexed in 2009. Read more in the Frederick News-Post.

  • Columbia Association to seek headquarters

    8 Feb 2012 | 8:06 am
    The Columbia Association has agreed to add $1.9 million to its 2014 fiscal year budget to allow it to pursue a new headquarters. The association has hired a broker to help it find the right property. The CA board is expected to vote on the budget later this month. Read more in the Baltimore Sun.

  • Dogfish Head Brewery expansion shows Delaware loosening alcohol laws

    8 Feb 2012 | 8:01 am
    Maryland has strong competition when it comes to the growing craft brew industry. The recent approval of Dogfish Head Brewery's expansion in Rehoboth shows how the neighboring state is getting more accommodating toward the alcohol industry. Read more in Delmarvanow.com.

  • Annapolis Loews getting $5M facelift

    8 Feb 2012 | 7:54 am
    Loews Annapolis hopes to add to West Street's burgeoning business scene with a renovation that will bring a new restaurant and retail space to the downtown hotel. The hotel remains open as the work continues — the first massive overhaul of the property in seven years. Read more in the Annapolis Capital.

  • Piqua has $100M in developments on way

    8 Feb 2012 | 7:47 am
    Piqua experienced more construction last year than it had in a decade, and this year the city is on track for more growth, according to WDTN-TV Channel 2. Piqua City Manager Gary Huff told WDTN that the construction projects on tap for the Miami County community could exceed $100 million dollars. Among the new projects planned for the next few years are private business expansions and three new buildings for Piqua schools. The city is also working on its new Power Public Service Center, water treatment improvements and the reconstruction of East Ash Street, according to the report by our news…
 
 
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    Bubble Meter

  • S&P/Case-Shiller HPI down in November

    James
    31 Jan 2012 | 8:32 am
    The November numbers for the S&P/Case-Shiller Home Price Index are out. The 20-city index is down 3.7% year-over-year and down 1.3% month-over-month:Home prices posted a steep, month-over-month drop in November, falling 1.3%, according to the latest S&P/Case-Shiller 20-city report. Prices fell in 19 of the 20 cities the index covers.Prices are down 3.7% from a year ago, and off 32.8% since they peaked in the summer of 2006. The index is currently only 0.6% above its March, 2011 low."Despite continued low interest rates and better real GDP growth in the fourth quarter, home prices…

  • December housing starts down 4.1% month-over-month; up 8% year-over-year

    James
    19 Jan 2012 | 11:12 am
    Housing starts fell in December compared with November. (FYI, housing starts numbers are usually seasonally adjusted.) However, they are up about 8% year-over-year. Keep in mind that we've had abnormally good weather this winter, which is great for home building.It wasn’t exactly a banner December for the home-building industry.The nation’s builders started construction on 4.1% fewer homes compared with a month earlier. Construction decreased to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 657,000 in December, the Commerce Department said Thursday.But the news wasn’t all gloomy. The main reason…

  • The clueless Fed

    James
    16 Jan 2012 | 5:06 am
    The release of Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting transcripts from 2006 show how little America's top economic minds understand how leveraged asset bubbles harm the economy:As the housing bubble entered its waning hours in 2006, top Federal Reserve officials marveled at the desperate antics of home builders seeking to lure buyers.The officials laughed about the cars that builders were offering as signing bonuses, and about efforts to make empty homes look occupied. They joked about one builder who said that inventory was “rising through the roof.”But the officials, meeting every…

  • DC-area homes of the 2012 presidential candidates

    James
    13 Jan 2012 | 6:54 am
    A bunch of websites are posting photos of the 2012 presidential candidates' homes, probably sparked by this Zillow Blog post. Here are the homes the candidates have in the DC area:Newt Gingrich7410 Windy Hill Ct, McLean, VA 22102Value: $1,284,400Rick Santorum10607 Creamcup Ln, Great Falls, VA 22066Value: $1,305,100Jon Huntsman2121 Leroy Pl NW, Washington, DC 20008Value: $3,303,100Immediately prior to his purchase of the home, it was used as the residence for contenders on the Bravo reality TV show "Top Chef: Season 7".Barack Obama1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20500Value:…

  • Zillow CEO on housing market

    James
    5 Jan 2012 | 3:01 am
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    Paper Economy - A US Real Estate Bubble Blog

  • Economic Jolt: Job Openings and Labor Turnover December 2011

    SoldAtTheTop
    7 Feb 2012 | 9:50 am
    Today, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released their latest monthly read of job availability and labor turnover (JOLT) showing that private non-farm job “openings” increased 8.79% since November climbing 20.36% above the level seen in December 2010 while private non-farm job “hires” declined 2.28% from November but rose 3.69% above the level seen in December 2010Job “layoffs and discharges” declined 4.74% from November falling 1.36% below the level seen last year while quitting activity declined 2.45% from November remaining 3.41% above the level seen in December 2010.It’s…

  • On The Stamp: Food Stamp Participation November 2011

    SoldAtTheTop
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:23 am
    As a logical consequence of the prolonged economic downturn it appears that participation in the federal food stamp program is continuing to rise.In fact, household participation has been climbing so steadily that it has far surpassed the last peak (which looks like a minor blip by comparison) set as a result of the immediate fallout following hurricane Katrina.The latest data released by the Department of Agriculture shows that in November, 94,086 recipients were removed from the food stamps program with the current total still increasing 5.82% on a year-over-year basis while household…

  • Envisioning Employment: Employment Situation January 2012

    SoldAtTheTop
    3 Feb 2012 | 8:56 am
    Today’s Employment Situation Report indicated that in January, net nonfarm payrolls increased with private nonfarm payrolls adding 257,000 jobs and the unemployment rate declining to 8.3% over the same period.Net private sector jobs increased 0.23% since last month climbing 2.06% above the level seen a year ago but but remained a whopping 4.47% below the peak level of employment seen in December 2007.

  • Full Time Workers Fully Under Pressure: January 2012

    SoldAtTheTop
    3 Feb 2012 | 8:49 am
    Today’s employment situation report showed that in January the full time unemployment rate declined to 8.8% of the civilian workforce but remains near the highest rate seen in 41 years.The Bureau of Labor Statistics considers full time workers to be those “who have expressed a desire to work full time (35 hours or more per week) or are on layoff from full-time jobs”.Full time jobless workers currently account for roughly 88.5% of all unemployed workers.

  • Recovery-less Recovery: Unemployment Duration January 2012

    SoldAtTheTop
    3 Feb 2012 | 8:43 am
    Be sure to bookmark the "Scary Unemployment Dashboard"... it's live.Today's employment situation report showed that conditions for the long term unemployed were mixed in January and remained epically distressed by historic standards.Workers unemployed 27 weeks or more declined to 5.518 million or 42.9% of all unemployed workers while the median number of weeks unemployed increased to 21.1 weeks and the average stay on unemployment declined to 40.1 weeks, the highest level ever recorded.Looking at the charts below (click for super interactive versions) you can see that today’s sorry…
 
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    Residential Real Estate Industry News Headlines | Bizjournals.com

  • Fannie Mae expands online sales

    8 Feb 2012 | 7:37 am
    Fannie Mae, which began a pilot program in Orlando, San Diego and Detroit in 2010 to take offers for Fannie Mae-owned houses online, is expanding the online program nationwide. Through its HomePath program, real estate agents can now submit offers on behalf of potential buyers online, get online confirmation and track the status of their offers through the HomePath.com website. "Collecting offers online through HomePath.com will provide greater transparency for homebuyers and their agents," said Vice President for REO at Fannie Mae Jay Ryan...

  • Foreclosed homes squatters becoming a problem

    8 Feb 2012 | 7:23 am
    KTAR.com reports on the problem of squatters and others occupying foreclosed and vacant homes and some legal wranglings that can occur if those squatters actually pay property taxes on the parcels.

  • Packers seek Ashwaubenon's OK to raze two houses for parking lot

    8 Feb 2012 | 7:12 am
    The Green Bay Packers want to level two homes adjacent to Lambeau Field and rezone the properties to allow for a parking lot for media vehicles. The Ashwaubenon Plan Commission recommended approval of the plan Tuesday, sending the proposal to the full council for a vote and public comment Feb. 28.

  • Banks embracing short sales

    8 Feb 2012 | 7:12 am
    Banks are offering as much as $35,000 or more in cash to delinquent homeowners to sell their properties for less than they owe, Bloomberg reports. Lenders have routinely blocked such transactions, known as short sales, in which they accept less from a buyer than the seller’s outstanding loan. But now banks have decided the deals are faster and less costly than foreclosures.

  • DocX charged with forgery in Mo. foreclosures

    8 Feb 2012 | 6:50 am
    A Missouri grand jury has indicted Jacksonville, Fla.-based DocX on charges accusing the company of 136 counts of forgery in the preparation of documents used to evict financially strained borrowers from their homes, The New York Times reports. DocX is one of the largest companies that provided home foreclosure services to lenders across the United States. Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster plans to prosecute the case, and the investigation is still under way.
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    RISMedia » Consumer News and Advice

  • Obama Moves Forward with Foreclosure Prevention

    susanne
    6 Feb 2012 | 4:01 pm
    Last Wednesday, February 1, President Obama announced the details of a plan to help homeowners refinance their mortgages in hopes of bolstering the housing market. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, this proposal will allow buyers …

  • Rand on Real Estate: Disaster on the Horizon

    susanne
    6 Feb 2012 | 3:58 pm
    The federal government is planning a major new initiative to convert foreclosures into rentals. But as Greg Rand (@gsrand), CEO of OwnAmerica and host of Rand on Real Estate on WABC Radio in N.Y. explains, we need to …

  • Don’t Forget a Home Inspection with a New Construction Home

    susanne
    5 Feb 2012 | 12:03 pm
    Every home—whether it’s a resale or new—has some kind of an issue, and the reality is that there is no “perfect” house. Many homebuyers embark on their search for a home with the belief that new homes should be flawless, …

  • Information Is Power…Again

    susanne
    3 Feb 2012 | 11:03 pm
    Setting yourself apart from your competition is becoming increasingly difficult. The emergence of social media into the business world has created platforms where constant, ongoing contact is possible. As a result of this desire to be in constant contact, many …

  • Facebook Files for Initial Public Stock Offering

    susanne
    2 Feb 2012 | 3:51 pm
    (MCT)—Facebook has filed papers for what’s expected to be the largest initial public offering ever to come out of Silicon Valley and one of the largest in U.S. history. Ending months of breathless speculation, the 8-year-old social networking company has …
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    WSJ.com: Commercial Real Estate

  • Cambodia's Developers Aim at Stars

    8 Feb 2012 | 1:14 am
    A high-rise building boom in Cambodia's capital city, Phnom Penh, derailed by the 2008-2009 financial crisis, is starting up again.

  • It's Hardly a Ball for 11 Times Square

    8 Feb 2012 | 12:22 am
    The risks of speculative office building are obvious at the 11 Times Square skyscraper. More than a year after it opened, the 1.1 million square-foot building is about 60% empty and unleased.

  • GSA Picks Trump Plan for Project

    7 Feb 2012 | 10:36 pm
    A proposal from Trump Hotel Collection and private-equity investor Colony Capital was selected by the General Services Administration to redevelop Washington's Old Post Office Building into a luxury hotel.

  • Price-Rise Plateau

    7 Feb 2012 | 9:25 pm
    The Green Street Advisors Commercial Property Price Index remained unchanged in January as investors stayed cautious about the direction of the U.S. economy.

  • Pyramid Cos.' Carousel Plan Rides Again

    7 Feb 2012 | 9:20 pm
    Developer Robert Congel's drive to create one of the largest malls in the country, in Syracuse, N.Y., is back in gear after almost being upended by the economic downturn and a nasty court battle with Citigroup.
 
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    Yahoo! News: Business - Real Estate

  • Mortgage applications jump on refi demand: MBA (Reuters)

    8 Feb 2012 | 8:37 am
    Reuters - Applications for home mortgages jumped last week, fueled by increased demand for refinancing as interest rates fell, an industry group said on Wednesday.

  • Eyes on dissident states as mortgage deal nears (Reuters)

    7 Feb 2012 | 6:44 pm
    Reuters - A broad settlement with major banks over mortgage servicing abuses that would bring relief to distressed U.S. homeowners could be announced as early Thursday, two people familiar with the matter said.

  • AP Enterprise: Brown bank regulator an insider (AP)

    7 Feb 2012 | 6:41 pm
    AP - Gov. Jerry Brown's appointee to head the department that oversees banking, financial and consumer regulations in California led a trade association that fought against tighter lending restrictions before the subprime mortgage crisis exploded and was an executive with Washington Mutual when the now-failed bank was among the most aggressive marketers of loans to high-risk borrowers.

  • More US states to join foreclosure-abuse deal (AP)

    7 Feb 2012 | 4:38 pm
    AP - Arizona, Michigan and Florida, three of the states hit hardest by the housing crisis, will join a nationwide settlement over foreclosure abuses, officials with direct knowledge say. They will join more than 40 other states in approving a deal that would benefit many Americans who lost their homes or can't afford their mortgages.

  • Analysis: Banks largely reserved for U.S. mortgage pact cost (Reuters)

    7 Feb 2012 | 1:32 pm
    Reuters - As the nation's five largest mortgage lenders edge close to a $25 billion settlement over foreclosure abuses, it's becoming clear that the deal will have little or no impact on their future bottom lines.
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    Commercial Property Executive

  • Mesa West Provides $130M to Refi Hyatt Regency San Francisco

    Nicholas Ziegler
    8 Feb 2012 | 8:42 am
    February 8, 2012 By Barbra Murray, Contributing Editor Mesa West Capital looked at the Hyatt Regency San Francisco’s impressive performance, its increasingly strong market and its solid ownership and decided to put its money where its mouth is. The portfolio lender has provided a partnership involving affiliates of Dune Real Estate Partners L.P. and DiNapoli Capital Partners L.L.C. with a $130 million first-mortgage loan for the refinancing of the 802-room hotel in downtown San Francisco. “In the context of the hotel world, definitely lenders are warming up to the San Francisco…

  • Israeli Investors Purchase Houston’s 344 KSF The Plaza at Enclave Office Building

    Nicholas Ziegler
    8 Feb 2012 | 8:37 am
    February 8, 2012 By Nicholas Ziegler, News Editor Continuing the trend of a high transaction volume in the Texas markets, Core Real Estate and BayNorth Capital Inc. have sold The Plaza at Enclave to an affiliate of Azrieli Group, a real estate development and investment company located in Tel Aviv. Holliday Fenoglio Fowler L.P. marketed the property on behalf of the sellers and arranged financing for the buyer through Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers, an investment subsidiary of MassMutual. Dan Miller, a senior managing director with HFF, called The Plaza “one of the finest office…

  • TMG, Rockwood Sign San Francisco Technology Tenant to 168 KSF Office Lease

    Nicholas Ziegler
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:34 am
    February 8, 2012 By Nicholas Ziegler, News Editor A rendering of the renovations at 680 Folsom St. Riverbed Technology, an IT firm in San Francisco, has just found itself a new home. Courtesy a transaction handled by TMG Partners and financial partner Rockwood Capital L.L.C., the firm just signed a 167,788-square-foot lease at 680 Folsom St. in the city’s SoMa district. Riverbed, which currently sits at 199 Fremont St., will move into the second through sixth floors of the soon-to-be 522,000-square-foot, Class A space with a 10-year lease term. Jones Lang LaSalle Inc. represented the tenant…

  • Economy Watch: Americans Go on Borrowing Spree

    Nicholas Ziegler
    8 Feb 2012 | 6:54 am
    February 8, 2012 By Dees Stribling, Contributing Editor Image courtesy Flickr user orphanjones All species of consumer credit increased during the fourth quarter of 2011, according to the Federal Reserve on Tuesday, lending credence to the notion that not only are consumers feeling more confident about the economy these days, they’re backing up that confidence with their wallets — or rather, their plastic. Consumer credit as a whole increased at an annualized rate of 7.5 percent during the fourth quarter. During recent quarters, most increases in consumer credit tended to be…

  • Richard Green: Investing in India and China

    Nicholas Ziegler
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:51 pm
 
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    Housing Doom

  • Crack of Doom: Reinventing Scarcity?

    John M.
    6 Feb 2012 | 1:01 am
    CBC TV’s Sunday 10PM news package The National featured problems with libraries transitioning to e-readers, a dark contrast to the breathless promotion of this technology in today’s local fibre-based paper: Halifax Chronicle-Herald (2/5 ’12): “Of books and e-readers” The compelling question right now is which e-reader to buy — the Kindle or the Kobo? It’s not whether to make the leap, but choosing which to make the leap with … Well, there are lots of other... Read this item at Housing Doom...

  • I had some financial problems. When Can I Buy A House?

    twist
    3 Feb 2012 | 2:07 pm
    Poor L gets all kinds of real estate related spam, but he graciously sorts through it and sends the more interesting stuff.  I did think that the following chart on “When Can I Buy A House”, sent out by an Arizona mortgage broker, might be interesting to some of our readers:   If you go to the webpage, there’s info on how long after Chapter 13 as well.  Of course, if you aren’t buying a house because you are still waiting for that job to come through (and... Read this item at Housing Doom...

  • Foreign Cenbank Holdings to February 1, 2012

    John M.
    3 Feb 2012 | 1:11 pm
    Oh dear, somebody tell Oda’s people to break out the crank-o-sign machine. Looks like we’re going to need a few more back-dated permissions, and it’s not just Kenney running amok this time. Wowsers, hadn’t been following the antics of the Thirteenth District / FRBO (you can say that again ) for a while, but yesterday the amero gap closed to just -4 bips. And you thought Keystone was dead, Igor: bwahaha! Fed’s own MBS holdings grew a meaningless $0.388 billion while... Read this item at Housing Doom...

  • Crack of Doom: Last Tuesday?

    John M.
    30 Jan 2012 | 1:01 am
    Anonymous blogger Lexington wants tomorrow to be the last shot.  Somewhere, Parker is starting to wonder why he even bothered. Related posts:Twist is off until Tuesday Chelsey B. Sullenberger III should sit really near Obama next Tuesday Crack of Doom: It's Dead, Jim Related posts:Twist is off until Tuesday Chelsey B. Sullenberger III should sit really near Obama next Tuesday Crack of Doom: It's Dead, Jim Read this item at Housing Doom...

  • DEPART MEN ICE WASH

    John M.
    28 Jan 2012 | 7:58 am
    Sometimes the camera doesn’t lie (Onion-ready pic from the article, I’m so tempted to make it my desktop background): NYT (1/27 ’12): “New Fraud Investigation Group Issues Subpoenas to Financial Companies” Mr. Donovan said that a separate settlement being worked out between state attorneys general and mortgage servicing companies would not thwart the new group’s investigations, even if the settlement released companies from further law enforcement efforts related... Read this item at Housing Doom...
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    Information Central

  • Biking and Walking

    Dave
    3 Feb 2012 | 2:32 pm
    America remains predominately a country of automobiles. Only an average of 3.5 percent of commuters get to work by bicycle or foot. It shouldn’t come as a surprise, but a new report from the Alliance for Biking and Walking extolls the virtues of the two modes of transportation as being within the public interest: Where bicycling and walking levels are higher, obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes levels are lower. Higher levels of bicycling and walking also coincide with increased bicycle and pedestrian safety and higher levels of physical activity. Increasing bicycling and walking…

  • What We’re Reading: Jan. 28 – Feb. 3

    Dave
    3 Feb 2012 | 9:47 am
    Declining segregation, green remodeling, where to post what, and the rise of the singletons Using US Census data, researchers at the Manhattan Institute for Policy Research have published a report on the continued decline in segregation in American cities. Once interesting point for REALTORS: the authors suggest that the extension of mortgage credit was a prime factor in encouraging suburban integration; the list of cities with the largest declines in segregation since 2000 includes several caught up in the subprime housing bubble during the same period. What’s old is new again, or…

  • The Average REALTOR® (Cont’d)

    Dave
    1 Feb 2012 | 10:26 am
    click on the image to visit its flickr page Our archivist saw my earlier post on the average REALTOR® and wanted to point out that NAR’s first member profile was conducted in 1949. While much has changed, several demographics – such as age – remain remarkably similar. Click on the image to the left to see a larger image on Flickr.

  • The Average REALTOR®

    Dave
    1 Feb 2012 | 9:18 am
    A member asked us this week how the ‘average’ REALTOR® has changed over the last few decades. The short answer is surprisingly not very much. Member Profiles in published form go back at least until the mid-1970s, but it’s a bit tough to make an apples to apples comparison. Back then only agents with a broker or broker associate license could call themselves REALTORS® and the surveys reflected this. And even after sales agents were added as REALTORS®, up until the early 1990s, member profile reports divide data between broker and agent. So it is hard to get an overall…

  • What We’re Reading: Jan. 21 – Jan. 27

    Dave
    27 Jan 2012 | 9:42 am
    A new model for online education, FB Timeline, using music in video, and YouTube What if you offered your course online for free, announced in just one email, and 160,000 people enrolled? That happened last year for Professor Sebastian Thrun of Stanford. And the online class was such a success that students in the physical class slowly began switching to the online version as the semester progressed. So is Stanford doing more? Well, Professor Thrun decided to leave and launch his own online university instead. It’s an interesting look at what might be in store for online education.
 
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    Real Estate Investing For Real | A BiggerPockets Investment Property Blog

  • Purposefully Planning Your Retirement – What Is Time To You?

    Jeff Brown
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:05 am
    Over the last 35+ years I’ve spoken with literally hundreds of people convinced they were seriously preparing for retirement. The problem for many is one of scale. For a couple in their 40s who make $80,000 yearly between them, $250,000 is one heckuva lotta money. Yet, if they’re 45, retiring at 65, turning that  amount into $1 million would require 20 consecutive years of just under 7.2% annual yield. No losing years allowed. ‘Course, they’re gonna have a down year or two, right? That means a few months to a few years on the ol’ treadmill catchin’ up to…

  • Are Housing Solutions Really Part of the Real Estate Problem?

    Chris Clothier
    7 Feb 2012 | 12:00 pm
    Cash is KingIf you’ve been paying attention recently to the drivers of the real estate market, you may have noticed that there is a decided uptick in the number of ‘Cash Purchases’ taking place throughout the country.  Some estimates put the actual number of cash transactions at over 100,000 monthly across the U.S.  This development though has raised some interesting questions among industry experts as to whether or not this is a good thing.  Some actually want to place blame on cash buyers, who are overwhelmingly investors, for driving the values of real estate down.  Others see…

  • Response Rates for Direct Mail at Different Times of Year

    Sharon Vornholt
    7 Feb 2012 | 10:35 am
    Do you track the response you get from your direct mail campaigns each time you send one out? I hope that everyone said yes, because you should be. Tracking your response from each mailing is the only way you can figure out if it’s working like it should. It’s imperative that we spend those precious marketing dollars wisely in our business.The two main groups of people I mail to regularly are probates and absentee owners.  I have never sent a direct mail campaign out to probates in the month of December for obvious reasons. Previous mailings have also taught me that absentee owners are…

  • The Evolution of Short Sales

    Melissa Zavala
    7 Feb 2012 | 10:00 am
    When I was first invited to write for BiggerPockets, I was told that I had editorial freedom—but I should keep to my all-time favorite subject, short sales. Between the BiggerPockets Blog and my other gigs, I think that I have probably written about 2000 articles about short sales. I also calculate that sometime in 2012, I will reach 1000 short sale closings in five years. That’s right, my team and I will have processed and negotiated 1000 short sales before this year ends—maybe even before we hit summer.What I am pondering today and what people always ask me is this: How have short…

  • Property Management: Offense, Defense and Special Teams

    John Wilhoit
    7 Feb 2012 | 7:07 am
    America’s great spectator sport is front and center with the Super Bowl taking place this past Sunday.  In professional football, serious resources go into the process of putting a good team on the field.  Each team has three smaller teams; offense, defense and special teams. Every good property manager needs the same structure.   Is your property management pro-active?  Are responsibility centers clear?  Who is responsible for marketing,  for emergency maintenance, for answering the phone?  Are you fielding a good team?An arrow is a precision weapon built to pierce its…
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    GeekEstate Blog

  • Two MLS’, Metrolist and Santa Barbara, Boot Diverse Solutions/Zillow

    Drew Meyers
    8 Feb 2012 | 12:09 am
    It happened — Metrolist and Santa Barbara booted Diverse Solutions (now owned by Zillow) from their list of approved IDX vendors. The Metrolist decision was reported by Geek Wire, while Inman picked up on the fact (premium content) that Santa Barbara had also pulled the plug. Eric Stegemann has a good read as well. Personally, I don’t buy any of the reasons given by Metrolist. As marketing Director Melissa Olson says, ”At some point, we have to start taking a look at our current offering and how many vendors really make sense in our marketplace.” Politically…

  • Announcing the Steering Committee for Geek Build 2012

    Drew Meyers
    7 Feb 2012 | 8:15 am
    I wanted to take this opportunity to introduce the steering committee members for Geek Build 2012. The steering committee will review all feedback from the Geek Estate community, and make final decisions for the participants sites in Geek Build 2012. The committee will consist of the following individuals: Daniel Beer, Team Leader, Real Living Lifestyles, San Diego Home Finder Ben Fisher, Agent, Sotheby’s International, Park City Luxury Real Estate Jay Thompson, Managing Broker, Thompson’s Realty, Phoenix Real Estate Guy Dominic Morrocco, Co-Founder & Partner, M Squared…

  • Q&A With Displet.com Founder, Eric Bramlett – Custom RETS/IDX Solution

    Daniel Beer
    6 Feb 2012 | 9:12 pm
    A positive byproduct of my quest to revamp my personal website is that I came in contact with some great companies that will be the innovators of tomorrow’s real estate tech industry.  One website designer and custom IDX provider that caught my eye in a big way was the Dislpet RETS/IDX  and their highly customizable solution that I came to study as a result of the comment thread in my brutally honest case study here on GEB. They are a relatively new company but it’s founder, Eric Bramlett, has given the company an impressive vision.  I thought it was pretty clear that they…

  • #retechchat Topic of Conversation – Adwords or SEO? Where to spend first…

    Jeff Riber
    6 Feb 2012 | 4:19 pm
    Tonight’s topic of conversation will be Adwords or SEO?  Where to spend first… (coincides nicely with the Geek Build 2012 Project). If you have questions, want to learn, or just lurk – join the conversation Monday (2/6/12) at 6 PM PST / 9 PM EST. For those who want to participate in #retechchat Monday evening, there are a few options: Follow the #retechchat hashtag Add a search column to Tweetdeck for the hashtag #retechchat Join Tweetchat under #retechchat (recommended approach) See you there!

  • iPhone, iPad, and a Real Estate CRM – Making Them All Work Together

    Matthew Collis
    4 Feb 2012 | 6:37 am
    Are you a Mac user? If so, this article is for you. You have a Mac computer, probably an iPhone, and there’s a good chance that you have an iPad or plan on getting one in the near future. Now, as a REALTOR®, you’re wondering how to integrate your Apple products with a real estate CRM (Disclosure: I work for a company that sells a real estate CRM, IXACTContact). In this blog post, I’m not going to discuss the merits of a CRM or why you should use one, but in case you’re interested, you can read an article I wrote on this topic here. In this post, you’ll learn what to look out for…
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    Immobilier a vendre

  • Appartement à vendre

    admin
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:29 am
    Vous avez trouvé un appartement à vendre qui correspond à vos attentes et vos exigences… en théorique. Voici quelques conseils qui vous permettront de mieux connaitre cet appartement. S’informer sur la qualité de l’appartement Visitez l’appartement à vendre à plusieurs reprises et à différentes heures. Ainsi, vous découvrirez des informations pas toujours évidentes à cerner au cours de la première visite : accessibilité du lieu et les possibilités de stationnement, nuisances sonores et tranquillité ou non du quartier, exposition à la pollution, intensité de la…

  • Ruine à vendre

    admin
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:27 am
    Votre amour pour le patrimoine historique vous incite à acheter une ruine à vendre. Sachez toutefois que l’achat d’une ruine engendre plusieurs difficultés à prendre en considération avant la conclusion de toute transaction. Les difficultés administratives et financières Sur le plan administratif, assurez-vous que les ruines à vendre sont cadastrées comme habitation et qu’elle est située en zone non agricole. Ses informations vous seront communiquées à la Mairie. Par ailleurs, n’hésitez pas à mettre une clause suspensive dans le contrat d’achat. Cette condition sera…

  • Chalet à vendre

    admin
    1 Feb 2012 | 10:17 am
    Tous les ans, le rendez-vous que vous attendez avec impatience est celui de vos vacances à la neige. Vous aimez tellement cette période de l’année que vous avez décidé d’acheter un chalet, et pas n’importe où dans une station réputée ! Bon à savoir sur l’achat d’un chalet Le chalet est la résidence secondaire part excellente. Généralement, elle est n’habitée que de façon occasionnelle. Cependant, si vous souhaitez y résider en permanence optez pour une région où vous pourriez profiter des activités de haute montagne toute l’année comme en Haute-Savoie. Si…

  • Maison à vendre à restaurer

    admin
    1 Feb 2012 | 10:01 am
    Où et comment trouver une maison à vendre à restaurer. Vous êtes à la recherche d’une maison à vendre. Vous êtes un féru de bricolage et vous maîtrisez tout particulièrement les corps de métier du bâtiment. D’ailleurs, vous êtes capable de retaper toute une maison. Notez que vous avez entre les mains un atout inestimable ! Vous pouvez faire des économies substantielles en décidant d’acheter non dans le neuf mai dans l’ancien : une maison qui nécessite quelques travaux que vous pourrez réaliser vous-même ! Visiter et choisir la maison à restaurer L’achat…

  • Maison à vendre en centre-ville

    admin
    1 Feb 2012 | 7:46 am
    Pourquoi rechercher une maison à vendre en centre-ville ? Le centre-ville attire Vous partagez le rêve de devenir propriétaire tout en affectionnant la vie trépidante de centre-ville ! Alors, vous commencez à battre le pavé à la recherche de votre futur nid, discrètement niché au milieu d’une forêt de gratte-ciel… l’idéal pour un mode de vie urbain ! Qu’est-ce qui peut bien séduire en centre-ville ? Beaucoup vous répondront la proximité des quartiers commerciaux, des centres culturels (théâtres, musées, galeries d’art, conservatoires, cinéma…), du…
 
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    Construction Industry News - Construction Industry News Headlines | Bizjournals.com

  • Frederick in annexation talks over 250 acres

    8 Feb 2012 | 8:25 am
    Crum Farm Land LLC has asked that the City of Frederick annex an additional 250 acres. The move would permit the developer to use 535 acres instead of 285 acres for 1,200 homes and 1.3 million square nfeet of commercial and office space. The land is next to 285 acres of Crum Farm Land that were annexed in 2009. Read more in the Frederick News-Post.

  • Columbia Association to seek headquarters

    8 Feb 2012 | 8:06 am
    The Columbia Association has agreed to add $1.9 million to its 2014 fiscal year budget to allow it to pursue a new headquarters. The association has hired a broker to help it find the right property. The CA board is expected to vote on the budget later this month. Read more in the Baltimore Sun.

  • Dogfish Head Brewery expansion shows Delaware loosening alcohol laws

    8 Feb 2012 | 8:01 am
    Maryland has strong competition when it comes to the growing craft brew industry. The recent approval of Dogfish Head Brewery's expansion in Rehoboth shows how the neighboring state is getting more accommodating toward the alcohol industry. Read more in Delmarvanow.com.

  • Annapolis Loews getting $5M facelift

    8 Feb 2012 | 7:54 am
    Loews Annapolis hopes to add to West Street's burgeoning business scene with a renovation that will bring a new restaurant and retail space to the downtown hotel. The hotel remains open as the work continues — the first massive overhaul of the property in seven years. Read more in the Annapolis Capital.

  • Piqua has $100M in developments on way

    8 Feb 2012 | 7:47 am
    Piqua experienced more construction last year than it had in a decade, and this year the city is on track for more growth, according to WDTN-TV Channel 2. Piqua City Manager Gary Huff told WDTN that the construction projects on tap for the Miami County community could exceed $100 million dollars. Among the new projects planned for the next few years are private business expansions and three new buildings for Piqua schools. The city is also working on its new Power Public Service Center, water treatment improvements and the reconstruction of East Ash Street, according to the report by our news…
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    Mortgage News Daily

  • Refinancing Apps Rise on Record Low Rates

    Jann Swanson
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:58 am
    Posted To: MND NewsWireMortgage rates broke another set of records during the week ended February 3, establishing several new historic lows. In response, the seasonally adjusted Mortgage Bankers Association's (MBA) Market Composite Index, a measure of mortgage application volume , rose 7.5 percent and 8.7 percent on an unadjusted basis. The increases were driven solely by refinancing which represented 80.5 percent of total applications for the week, up from 80.0 percent the previous week. The Index measuring applications for refinancing increased 9.4 percent over that of the week ended…

  • Day Ahead: 10yr Auction And Another Probable Greek Deadline Miss

    Matthew Graham
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:06 am
    Posted To: MBS CommentaryThe theme of light economic data continues on Wednesday with MBA Mortgage Apps being the only item of note. Even then, it's only notable due to it's pertinence to our industry and is not a market mover. Both the refi and purchase indexes snapped 3 week losing streaks with the Purchase Index just barely improving. The Refi Index on the other hand, rose a hefty 9.4% from 4113 to 4500 as the MBA reported average rates dropped from 4.09 to 4.05. The other part of the weekly theme is that the light economic data is punctuated by scheduled and unscheduled market movers. On…

  • MBS RECAP: 2/7/2012

    Matthew Graham
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:17 pm
    Posted To: MBS CommentaryMBS Live : MBS RECAP Open MBS Live Dashboard FNMA 3.5 103-23 : -0-04 FNMA 4.0 105-18 : -0-04 FNMA 4.5 106-23 : -0-04 FNMA 5.0 107-32 : -0-05 GNMA 3.5 105-05 : -0-02 GNMA 4.0 107-28 : -0-01 GNMA 4.5 109-04 : -0-03 GNMA 5.0 110-29 : -0-04 FHLMC 3.5 103-13 : -0-05 FHLMC 4.0 105-06 : -0-05 FHLMC 4.5 106-05 : -0-05 FHLMC 5.0 107-20 : -0-05 Pricing as of 4:03 PM EST Afternoon Market Updates A recap of MBS Market Updates provided by MND Analysts and streamed live to the MBS Live Dashboard . 3:19PM : ECON: Consumer Credit Expands More Than Expected Novembers expansion of…

  • House Committee Acts on Bill to Protect FHA Fund

    Jann Swanson
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:11 pm
    Posted To: MND NewsWireA sub-committee of the House Financial Services committee today approved the FHA Emergency Solvency Act which is intended to shore up the finances of the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). The legislation strengthens FHA's Mortgage Insurance Fund by establishing minimum annual premiums for mortgage insurance; barring unscrupulous lenders from participating in the program, improving the FHA's internal financial controls, transparency, and disclosure requirements, and requires lenders who commit fraud to repay any losses suffered by FHA as a consequence. FHA's cash…

  • Mortgage Rates Slightly Higher as Greece, Auctions Weigh on Markets

    Matthew Graham
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:47 pm
    Posted To: Mortgage Rate WatchAlthough the recently confirmed 3.875% Best-Execution level remains intact for 30yr fixed, conventional loans, Mortgages Rates moved slightly higher today in terms of the costs required to obtain those rates. Weakness in Treasuries today was more pronounced than MBS, the "mortgage-backed-securities most directly responsible for determining mortgage rates. (learn more about how we calculate Best-Execution in THIS POST ). Initially driving today's market movements was news that political leaders would meet in Greece to vote on a soon-to-be-drafted bailout package.
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    National Commercial Real Estate News From CoStar Group

  • Riverbed Technology Leases 170,000 SF in San Francisco

    6 Feb 2012 | 10:45 pm
    Building renovations have started at 680 Folsom St. in San Francisco's south financial district and so has leasing activity. Riverbed Technology leased floors two through six totaling approximately 170,000 square feet for 10 years. It will occupy the space in mid-2014. TMG Partners purchased the 14-story, 476,000-square-foot office structure from RREEF in late 2010, and will renovate the building to compete with neighboring Class A office properties...

  • In The Pipeline: CoStar Development & Construction News for Feb. 5-11

    6 Feb 2012 | 9:57 pm
    In The Pipeline is a column on significant acquisitions of commercial land for sale, and other transactions and trends affecting office, industrial, flex, multifamily, mixed-use, hotel and public works developers. Send us news leads about your new commercial real estate project -- and sign up to be added to our distribution list to receive future In the Pipeline columns by e-mail. ACC Begins Student Housing Project at Drexel University American...

  • $92M Cruise Terminal For America's Cup Events Gets Off the Line In San Francisco

    6 Feb 2012 | 8:10 pm
    Construction has begun on the Port of San Francisco's long-awaited 88,000-square-foot cruise terminal at Pier 27, quickly following the Board of Supervisors approval of an environmental report on the terminal and events related to the 34th America’s Cup events to be held in the city this year and in 2013. San Francisco Mayor Edwin M. Lee said the James R. Herman Cruise Terminal is a key port infrastructure project to host the prestigious 160...

  • CoStar's People of Note (Jan. 29-Feb. 4)

    2 Feb 2012 | 10:47 pm
    This week's People of Note includes the following markets: Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Milwaukee/Madison, New York City, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, South Florida, Washington, DC. LOS ANGELES Cockrum Joins Lowe Enterprises Investors as SVP By Laurie Forbes Lowe Enterprises Investors hired William M. Cockrum IV as senior vice president to head the company’s marketing and capital raising efforts. He will be based in th

  • GREEN LEAD | Green Building News from CoStar

    2 Feb 2012 | 8:05 pm
    GREEN LEAD is a column on environmental and sustainable design and construction, best practices for green building maintenance and operations, economic impact on developers and owners, new LEED and Energy Star building certifications, and trends in the Green Building movement. Send in your Green News Leads to news@costar.com Latest Research on Green Real Estate Now Available
 
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    1000Watt Consulting

  • Dive into immersive environments

    Joel Burslem
    6 Feb 2012 | 12:37 pm
    One of the exercises we do at the beginning of every year at 1000watt is sit down, peer out across the landscape and start to brainstorm about how the latest trends and developments in technology are going to impact real estate. We do this to better advise our clients on what’s out there and to prepare ourselves to respond to those innovative clouds building on the horizon This was the result of this year’s effort: There’s a lot of meaty stuff on that whiteboard. Much of which we hope to feature on our blog or in our 1000watt Spotlight email newsletter (have you signed up yet?). One of…

  • Friday Flash: Privacy, the IDX headlock and a VOW that wows

    Brian Boero
    20 Jan 2012 | 11:09 am
    First, a couple things that went down while I was at Inman last week, lost in a blur of meetings, cab rides and pastrami… Trulia launched Trulia Insight, a product that delivers behavioral data on leads to agents. It’s an add-on to their main Trulia Pro subscription ad product. This sort of lead scoring is not new (Point2 released a similar product years ago, and many IDX solutions offer a window into user actions), but the execution is excellent here and the product is national from day one. Anyway, a few observations: If I were a broker, I’d be on the phone now asking my tech vendor…

  • Respect your user, feel the love

    Joel Burslem
    18 Jan 2012 | 6:26 pm
    Just before Christmas, comedian Louis CK released his latest comedy special, Live at the Beacon Theater, on a website of his own creation. For $5, you can buy a couple of downloads and some video streams of the show. You can watch it on your computer or iPad, or burn it to a blank DVD. In short, you hand over your fiver, get the video, and do as you please. By all accounts the experiment has been a success. Louis grossed over $1 million dollars in little more than ten days. These were dollars that went directly into his pocket. No network or cable channel in the way. No middleman. And better…

  • The eve of destruction, the dawn of the future

    Marc Davison
    10 Jan 2012 | 10:31 am
    Kaboom! Everything around you just blew up. Will you survive? Shrapnel According to William Gibson, the future is already here. It’s just unevenly distributed. Gibson believes the future is ever present. It’s spread about in particle form waiting for someone to piece it together. Given the persistent inter-connectivity of people through the giant digital network called the Internet, this piecing together – the work of innovation – now occurs very, very fast. The shrapnel of progress has obliterated things we believed to be fixed objects. Music. News. Commerce. Services. A…

  • Friday Flash: Whispers, cynicism and the Amazon of real estate

    Brian Boero
    6 Jan 2012 | 5:51 pm
    My reentry into the world of work this week was harsh. Two night flights, back-to-back meetings and enough Diet Coke to kill a lab rat. So this is going to be on the short and kinda fuzzy side. Amazon has purchased the domain casa.com. Remember, this time, when they come for the listings, hide them under the bed! Speaking of listings, the whispers about various plans to “build an industry-controlled Zillow/Trulia killer” are building. When I hear these, I think: Isn’t that Realtor.com? Wouldn’t it just be easier and cheaper to stop giving them your listings or require rules for their…
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    Zillow Blog - Real Estate Market Stats, Celebrity Real Estate, and Zillow News

  • Find Homes, and Love, in These Romantically-Named Towns

    Erika Riggs
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:48 pm
    While you may leave your heart in San Francisco, or declare your love for New York, there are a few places across the U.S. that are more aptly and romantically named. We went in search of real estate offerings in these Valentine’s Day-perfect cities, where lovers hope heartfelt bliss can be found.   Source: Virginia.gov Valentines, VA Is it any surprise that the town of Valentines is located in a state with the slogan “Virginia is for lovers?” This small hamlet is more community than town, located within Brunswick County about 100 miles southwest of Norfolk. Named for…

  • 30-Year Fixed Mortgage Rate Drops to New Record Low

    Camille Salama
    7 Feb 2012 | 1:03 pm
    Mortgage rates for 30-year fixed mortgages fell this week, with the current rate borrowers were quoted on Zillow Mortgage Marketplace at 3.66 percent, down from 3.72 percent at this same time last week. This represents the lowest rate reported since Zillow Mortgage Marketplace launched in April 2008. The previous low was 3.69 percent, first reported on Jan. 17. The 30-year fixed mortgage rate peaked at 3.7 percent on Friday, steadily declined through the weekend and dropped to the current rate this morning. “Despite strong employment figures released on Friday, which often give a sustained…

  • Pitcher Tim Lincecum Living High & Mighty After Signing Record Deal

    Laura Vecsey
    7 Feb 2012 | 11:22 am
    Pitcher Tim Lincecum has two Cy Youngs, a World Series ring and a record annual salary with the San Francisco Giants. SOURCE: AP The Freak is getting paid. Big time. But the big question in San Francisco is whether some of the franchise-record salary that pitcher Tim Lincecum is now being paid by the San Francisco Giants will be collected for damages that were being sought by Lincecum’s former landlord. Last month, the former Cy Young award winner inked an interesting two-year, $40.5 million deal, making him the highest-paid player ever for the Giants. Unlike most Major League Baseball…

  • High-End Homes Appointed With High-End Tubs

    Erika Riggs
    6 Feb 2012 | 4:28 pm
    It used to be that taking a bath was a weekly duty that involved rolling a metal wash-bin or wooden barrel inside the house, which was then laboriously filled with kettle-heated water. Depending on the wealth and hygienic attitude of the family, the entire family took turns bathing in the same water — one after another, right down to the baby. Today, the idea of bathing takes on a whole different attitude. Bathtubs are so much easier to find, fill, and luxuriate in — especially since in some real estate circles, tubs are nothing short of a status symbol. Whether you take a dip…

  • Scarlett Johannson and Ryan Reynolds’ Former Love Nest for Sale

    Erika Riggs
    6 Feb 2012 | 3:45 pm
    Next Previous Picture 1 of 9 | Toggle Loading Source: US Weekly When Scarlett Johannson and Ryan Reynolds announced their engagement in 2008, it seemed like an A-Lister match made in Hollywood heaven, akin to the beautiful pairing of Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston. Unfortunately, like Brad and Jen, the celebrity union didn’t last and after three years of marriage, Scarlett and Ryan filed for divorce. A little over six months after finalizing their divorce, the couple has cut another tie to their marriage and placed their Los Angeles home on the Los Feliz real estate market for $3.65 million…
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    Trulia Blog - Real Estate Blog

  • How do you love Trulia? Tell us, and you could win $500

    Andrew
    3 Feb 2012 | 7:33 pm
    Valentine’s Day is coming up, and we’ve been looking for just the right way to show you how much you mean to us. Rather than buying you candy or flowers, we figured that you would know what you’d want, especially if we gave you $500 to play with. We’re giving away $500 for you to spend however you want at Best Buy, Crate & Barrel, Macy’s, Target or Whole Foods. (We figured there wasn’t much you couldn’t get between all those stores.) But we’re not going to just give it away. It’ll take 5 seconds of you whispering sweet nothings in our…

  • Trulia Insight Helps Agents Identify Quality Leads

    Stephen R, Head of Industry Marketing
    12 Jan 2012 | 7:00 am
    One theme that we commonly hear from real estate professionals is a request to improve the varying quality of leads they receive from online sources.   As a response to this agent need, today Trulia is proud to announce Trulia Insight, our newest product that helps agents get access to the highest quality leads on Trulia. Trulia Insight gives real estate professionals access to valuable lead prequalification information as well as consumer home search preference data, helping them identify and convert the best leads from Trulia into transaction-ready clients.  Enhanced features in the…

  • Trulia Data Pledge for Listing Syndication and Display

    Ginger Wilcox
    10 Jan 2012 | 11:51 pm
    At Trulia, we work hard to balance the needs of both the consumers who visit our site and the agents, brokers and MLS organizations we partner with.   Ensuring data accuracy and integrity is paramount to delivering an exceptional search experience for our users. Trulia’s top priorities are to provide highly accurate listing information to consumers, to connect consumers with real estate professionals in a timely manner, and to be the #1 source of clients for real estate professionals. To demonstrate our commitment to our industry partners, Trulia has created a data pledge for listing…

  • The Trulia PR Team’s Favorite Homes on Trulia

    Cristin
    31 Dec 2011 | 8:00 am
    At Trulia, we spend a lot of time looking at houses. When you see so many amazing homes on a daily basis, it’s hard to pick a favorite. We challenged our mighty PR team of Ken, Daisy, Cristin and Vanessa to pick their favorite home currently for sale on Trulia and explain why. While each of their chosen homes are stunning, it’s the reason WHY they picked that home that really says it all. Ken Shuman - Head of Communications I moved to California almost 13 years ago but I will always be a sucker for cape cod style shingle houses.  This home on the Marblehead Neck is the perfect…

  • 5 Events that Rocked Housing in 2011

    Jed Kolko, Trulia's Chief Economist
    30 Dec 2011 | 11:00 am
    Before we welcome in the New Year, Trulia’s Chief Economist looks back at 5 events that really mattered for housing in 2011 - and beyond. Government, the mortgage industry and forces of nature all shook the housing market in 2011. They had both an immediate impact and slow-burning effects, setting the stage for a bumpy 2012 with more foreclosures, political battles and local market risks. 1) Robo-Signing Reverberations The “robo-signing” scandal - where banks were accused of approving foreclosures with incomplete or incorrect documentation - exploded in October 2010, but…
 
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    Real Estate Investing For Real | A BiggerPockets Investment Property Blog

  • Purposefully Planning Your Retirement – What Is Time To You?

    Jeff Brown
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:05 am
    Over the last 35+ years I’ve spoken with literally hundreds of people convinced they were seriously preparing for retirement. The problem for many is one of scale. For a couple in their 40s who make $80,000 yearly between them, $250,000 is one heckuva lotta money. Yet, if they’re 45, retiring at 65, turning that  amount into $1 million would require 20 consecutive years of just under 7.2% annual yield. No losing years allowed. ‘Course, they’re gonna have a down year or two, right? That means a few months to a few years on the ol’ treadmill catchin’ up to…

  • Are Housing Solutions Really Part of the Real Estate Problem?

    Chris Clothier
    7 Feb 2012 | 12:00 pm
    Cash is KingIf you’ve been paying attention recently to the drivers of the real estate market, you may have noticed that there is a decided uptick in the number of ‘Cash Purchases’ taking place throughout the country.  Some estimates put the actual number of cash transactions at over 100,000 monthly across the U.S.  This development though has raised some interesting questions among industry experts as to whether or not this is a good thing.  Some actually want to place blame on cash buyers, who are overwhelmingly investors, for driving the values of real estate down.  Others see…

  • Response Rates for Direct Mail at Different Times of Year

    Sharon Vornholt
    7 Feb 2012 | 10:35 am
    Do you track the response you get from your direct mail campaigns each time you send one out? I hope that everyone said yes, because you should be. Tracking your response from each mailing is the only way you can figure out if it’s working like it should. It’s imperative that we spend those precious marketing dollars wisely in our business.The two main groups of people I mail to regularly are probates and absentee owners.  I have never sent a direct mail campaign out to probates in the month of December for obvious reasons. Previous mailings have also taught me that absentee owners are…

  • The Evolution of Short Sales

    Melissa Zavala
    7 Feb 2012 | 10:00 am
    When I was first invited to write for BiggerPockets, I was told that I had editorial freedom—but I should keep to my all-time favorite subject, short sales. Between the BiggerPockets Blog and my other gigs, I think that I have probably written about 2000 articles about short sales. I also calculate that sometime in 2012, I will reach 1000 short sale closings in five years. That’s right, my team and I will have processed and negotiated 1000 short sales before this year ends—maybe even before we hit summer.What I am pondering today and what people always ask me is this: How have short…

  • Property Management: Offense, Defense and Special Teams

    John Wilhoit
    7 Feb 2012 | 7:07 am
    America’s great spectator sport is front and center with the Super Bowl taking place this past Sunday.  In professional football, serious resources go into the process of putting a good team on the field.  Each team has three smaller teams; offense, defense and special teams. Every good property manager needs the same structure.   Is your property management pro-active?  Are responsibility centers clear?  Who is responsible for marketing,  for emergency maintenance, for answering the phone?  Are you fielding a good team?An arrow is a precision weapon built to pierce its…
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    The Real Estate Bloggers

  • Sh*t Real Estate Agent Say

    Tom Royce
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:30 pm
    The meme has hit the real estate world, courtesy of Brian Copeland and Maura Neill the folks at RETSO.   See home many real estate memes you can find… Thanks for reading this post. If you would like to see more articles like this, please come visit The Real Estate Bloggers. where it was originally published.Sh*t Real Estate Agent Say Related posts: Officially Real Estate Has Double Dipped Economic Turmoil Not Helping Real Estate Sales

  • Real Estate Investor Conference – BiggerPockets Style

    Tom Royce
    2 Feb 2012 | 12:45 pm
    Are you ready for a real estate investment conference that is not on big sell and spam fest? Are you tired of every speaker from the stage pitching their product instead of teaching you? Well, your conference has arrived. Josh Dorkin and the crew over at BiggerPockets is putting on a truly amazing conference on real estate investing with the focus on giving you the tools and techniques to create a firm foundation for your business. It really is that simple… What you will not get is the hype of 20  products that will create miracles in your business and cure cancer at the same…

  • New Home Sales Remain Anemic in 2011

    Tom Royce
    30 Jan 2012 | 8:28 pm
    The new home sales data was released and the results are less than stellar. For 2011, there were only 302,000 new home sold nationwide. For perspective, in the South the numbers were the lowest since 1966, and that is the good news. In both the Northeast and the West, sales were the worst in recorded history. So when you are talking with builders, be kind. They have had a very rough few years. Purchases of single-family properties decreased 2.2 percent to a 307,000 annual pace, figures from the Commerce Department showed today in Washington. The median forecast in a Bloomberg News survey of…

  • House Windows Melting A Toyota Prius

    Tom Royce
    25 Jan 2012 | 12:42 pm
    Typically when you think of a battle between a house and a Prius, you add a dose of a drunk driver and a garage and you are done… But not today. It looks like that super efficient windows are reflecting so much energy onto a car parked in Southern California that it is melting the plastic exterior parts of a lady’s Prius parked outside of the building. A SoCal woman says the energy efficient window installed in a neighbor’s condominium is melting the plastic components on cars parked in her carport. Heather Patron of Studio City was dealing with a mystery regarding her…

  • Top 10 States With Highest Down Payment

    Tom Royce
    8 Jan 2012 | 10:25 am
    When buying a home, one of the key components is the down payment. Back a few years ago when the housing bubble was hitting it’s peak, there were no money down loans floated out there, but those are ancient history. Now you need hard money to make the loan. Lending Tree commissioned a study and measured the states on what the average down payment for a home was in each state. From the low 3.5% down FHA and VA loans to the private loans that are looking for 15% to 20% or higher, the range for all the states in the country range from the high in New Jersey of 13.71% down to the low…
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    Rain City Guide

  • Mortgage Tech Summit is Next Week!

    Rhonda Porter
    2 Feb 2012 | 11:26 pm
    Last year, I had the privilege to attend and participate in the first Mortgage Tech Summit in Denver.  Next week, on February 9th and 10th, the next MTS will be taking place in Scottsdale. If you’re a real estate professional, come on out and join us…especially if you are a fellow mortgage originator.  The ticket prices are progressive, meaning that they become more expensive with every ticket purchased – right now, you can attend this two day event for just over $40! And with every ticket purchased, the price for admission increases. Even if I was not a speaker at…

  • Lenders Jacking the Cost to Extend Locks

    Rhonda Porter
    31 Jan 2012 | 7:12 pm
    A lock extension is what is required when a loan does not close in the time frame as arranged with the original lock. Locks are available for 30, 45 or 60 days with the longer the period of time available for the lock, the higher the cost. So if you have a 30 day lock and for what ever reason, your transaction has not closed by day 30, you’re in a situation where the lock may need to be extended.  It used to not be a huge expense if you were 1 day late past the extension, most lenders charged around 0.125% for an additional 7 days (extensions are typically offered in blocks of time,…

  • Undisclosed SOC Bonus? There oughta be a law…

    Craig
    31 Jan 2012 | 6:58 pm
    With the new year, I resolved to talk less and do more about the “stacked deck” faced by buyers in the traditional real estate broker system. And since it’s still January… One of the great benefits of getting my broker’s license has been getting to see how the broker system operates “behind the curtain.” While I’ve seen and learned alot, there is one “sales” tactic that is particularly odious, at least to the exten that it takes place without the buyer’s knowledge. And what is this tactic? This is a clear-cut and unequivocal…

  • Seattle 4/3 Cape Cod with a View

    ARDELL
    28 Jan 2012 | 12:14 pm
    Some time ago I wrote about Seattle Starter Home Styles and we talked about the value of having bedrooms up above the main floor vs down in the basement. While that would describe most any 2-Story home, before we get to 2-Story we have the one and a half story “Starter Home” Style. This one happens to be a Cape Cod… with a view. I am reminded while listing this property of The Tim’s comment of another home featured over on Seattle Bubble: “The listing agent claims that the home’s architectural style is “Cape Cod,” but it doesn’t look like any Cape Cod…

  • Happy Chinese New Year of the Water Dragon 2012!

    ARDELL
    23 Jan 2012 | 12:12 pm
    2012 is the Year of the Water Dragon, quite a visual! While Chinese Dragons don’t necessarily breathe fire like European Dragons do, I still like the idea that the Dragon is in a Water Year. My youngest daughter, Andrea, was born in the Year of the Dragon. The center is a painting she did that I thought was appropriate to the occasion. Lots of ENERGY in The Year of the Dragon…just grab on to it’s tail and FLY! Happy 2012!
 
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    Real Estate Tomato.com

  • How Does Real Estate Blogging Put You In A Position To Score The Best Leads?

    Top Tomato
    3 Feb 2012 | 2:33 pm
    “The Goal, as captured by Ray Lussier in 1970   This is the 5th in a series of brief blog articles inspired by Good Earth Tea® quotes. “A pound of pluck is worth a ton of luck.” -James A Garfield 1831-1881 I played hockey as a boy and I believe the most important take away... Continue reading the full post on http://realestatetomato.com/blog

  • Blogging Builds A Bank Of Brilliance Before It’s Buried

    Top Tomato
    2 Feb 2012 | 2:39 pm
    This is the 4th in a series of brief blog articles inspired by Good Earth Tea® quotes. “The palest ink is better than the best memory.” -Wise saying from the Orient We all appreciate that our clients recognize us as the go-to-resource for answers to their questions. Being seen as the... Continue reading the full post on http://realestatetomato.com/blog

  • How To Make That Personal Connection Through Real Estate Blogging

    Top Tomato
    1 Feb 2012 | 2:19 pm
    Photo by Ingrid Taylar.   This is the 3rd in a series of brief blog articles inspired by Good Earth Tea® quotes. “From the rose proceeds a thorn, from the thorn a rose.” -Wise saying from the Orient Personal experiences generally pave the way for a more compelling, and natural... Continue reading the full post on http://realestatetomato.com/blog

  • Hear Your Real Estate Blog Articles As They Happen

    Top Tomato
    21 Jan 2012 | 12:53 pm
      This is the 2nd in a series of brief blog articles inspired by Good Earth Tea® quotes. “The first duty of love is to listen.” -Paul Tillich 1886-1965 One of the best, first lessons I learned in my growth as a salesperson was to sell with your ears. Listening to your client is not... Continue reading the full post on http://realestatetomato.com/blog

  • How To Find Blogging Inspiration In The Smallest Of Things: Good Earth Tea Quotes

    Top Tomato
    12 Jan 2012 | 6:10 pm
    When I need a mid-day mental boost I prefer tea over coffee. Yerba maté is my favorite for its energy kick without the jitters. The focus improvement may just be placebo, but don’t tell my brain that. Recently I have been drinking the yerba maté rich Good Earth® Energizing Tea. It’s... Continue reading the full post on http://realestatetomato.com/blog
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    HomeGain Blog

  • Refinance Rates

    HG Blog Admin
    7 Feb 2012 | 9:07 am
    As of now, the housing market offers some of the lowest refinance rates ever. These exist due to a combination of the state of the world financial markets and due to the policies of the United States government. In this season of political change, though, there are a number of proposals and political realities that [...]

  • HomeGain Releases 2012 New York Home Ownership Satisfaction Survey Results

    Louis Cammarosano
    6 Feb 2012 | 9:00 am
    Last week, HomeGain, the first company to provide free instant home valuations online, announced the results of its 2012 National Home Ownership Satisfaction Survey. Homeowners were asked whether they were satisfied with owning a home and whether price appreciation or depreciation was a factor. Over 1,400 home owners from across the nation were surveyed. The [...]

  • HomeGain Releases 2012 Texas Home Ownership Satisfaction Survey Results

    Louis Cammarosano
    3 Feb 2012 | 12:53 pm
    Earlier this week, HomeGain, the first company to provide free instant home valuations online, announced the results of its 2012 National Home Ownership Satisfaction Survey. Homeowners were asked whether they were satisfied with owning a home and whether price appreciation or depreciation was a factor. Over 1,400 home owners from across the nation were surveyed. [...]

  • HomeGain Releases 2012 Illinois Home Ownership Satisfaction Survey Results

    Louis Cammarosano
    2 Feb 2012 | 9:47 am
    Earlier this week, HomeGain, the first company to provide free instant home valuations online, announced the results of its 2012 National Home Ownership Satisfaction Survey. Homeowners were asked whether they were satisfied with owning a home and whether price appreciation or depreciation was a factor. Over 1,400 home owners from across the nation were surveyed. [...]

  • HomeGain Releases 2012 Florida Home Ownership Satisfaction Survey Results

    Louis Cammarosano
    31 Jan 2012 | 4:38 pm
    Earlier this week, HomeGain, the first company to provide free instant home valuations online, announced the results of its 2012 National Home Ownership Satisfaction Survey. Homeowners were asked whether they were satisfied with owning a home and whether price appreciation or depreciation was a factor. Over 1,400 home owners from across the nation were surveyed. [...]
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    REITS & Finance Industry News - REITS & Finance Industry News Headlines | Bizjournals.com

  • Frederick in annexation talks over 250 acres

    8 Feb 2012 | 8:25 am
    Crum Farm Land LLC has asked that the City of Frederick annex an additional 250 acres. The move would permit the developer to use 535 acres instead of 285 acres for 1,200 homes and 1.3 million square nfeet of commercial and office space. The land is next to 285 acres of Crum Farm Land that were annexed in 2009. Read more in the Frederick News-Post.

  • Columbia Association to seek headquarters

    8 Feb 2012 | 8:06 am
    The Columbia Association has agreed to add $1.9 million to its 2014 fiscal year budget to allow it to pursue a new headquarters. The association has hired a broker to help it find the right property. The CA board is expected to vote on the budget later this month. Read more in the Baltimore Sun.

  • Dogfish Head Brewery expansion shows Delaware loosening alcohol laws

    8 Feb 2012 | 8:01 am
    Maryland has strong competition when it comes to the growing craft brew industry. The recent approval of Dogfish Head Brewery's expansion in Rehoboth shows how the neighboring state is getting more accommodating toward the alcohol industry. Read more in Delmarvanow.com.

  • Annapolis Loews getting $5M facelift

    8 Feb 2012 | 7:54 am
    Loews Annapolis hopes to add to West Street's burgeoning business scene with a renovation that will bring a new restaurant and retail space to the downtown hotel. The hotel remains open as the work continues — the first massive overhaul of the property in seven years. Read more in the Annapolis Capital.

  • Piqua has $100M in developments on way

    8 Feb 2012 | 7:47 am
    Piqua experienced more construction last year than it had in a decade, and this year the city is on track for more growth, according to WDTN-TV Channel 2. Piqua City Manager Gary Huff told WDTN that the construction projects on tap for the Miami County community could exceed $100 million dollars. Among the new projects planned for the next few years are private business expansions and three new buildings for Piqua schools. The city is also working on its new Power Public Service Center, water treatment improvements and the reconstruction of East Ash Street, according to the report by our news…
 
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    MyTechOpinion.com

  • Taking Action for Your Business Means You Have to Get Uncomfortable

    MyTechOpinion
    23 Jan 2012 | 6:34 pm
    If I were comfortable with technology I wouldn’t really be on my game! Technology, you know…the tools, apps, platforms, devices…and even the strategies involved to make them proficient change so rapidly you can’t possibly know all there is to know. So why do we make ourselves crazy and get overwhelmed before even trying…it’s just our nature, or perhaps it’s just an excuse. I recently met an amazing speaker named Craig Zablocki who was extremely spontaneous onstage. He read the crowd well and rolled with their responses naturally. And being a lifelong learner you know I had…

  • 5 Resolutions I Wish Facebook Users Would Make in the New Year

    MyTechOpinion
    19 Dec 2011 | 5:25 pm
    You’re clearly here because you care about your Facebook friends. You want to listen, learn from, help and contribute! I like you already! So brush up on your Facebook “best practices” and make these 5 resolutions to improve your Facebook engagement (if you haven’t already). (1)   No more whining about the timeline…just accept it already. We all know Facebook makes changes, so get used to them.  HOW we share will always evolve…but WHAT we share is specific to who we are. It’s time to take responsibility for the communication tool we find so…

  • Spreadsheets on an iPhone?

    MyTechOpinion
    9 Dec 2011 | 5:09 pm
    Was recently presented with a technology question from one of our WordPress website clients that sparked my interest. So much so that it warranted a blog post on the topic. This real estate agent is in a situation that is very common. In her average day, she uses a Windows PC, an Apple laptop, an iPhone and an iPad. Working with so many different platforms is creating a real challenge. She has tried several cloud based solutions, like Google Docs, but they all have fallen short. Mainly because she needs to edit Excel spreadsheets from any of her devices. The Solution We have run into similar…

  • [VIDEO] Developing Your Content Marketing Plan: Step 3 – Bookmark

    MyTechOpinion
    20 Nov 2011 | 9:57 pm
    One of the best ways to support your content planning is by bookmarking resources you can turn to for (1) curating quality or relevant articles and other media, (2) creating content of your own, and of course (3) consuming content to stay current within your area of expertise. I’m sure you already have favorite websites you visit on a regular basis, so be sure to bookmark them in your browser, homepage, rss reader, twitter list, Google+ Sparks, etc. (Whatever format works best for you and can keep you organized.) Alright, ready to learn more about resources that can help you easily…

  • [VIDEO] Developing Your Content Marketing Plan: Step 2 – Brainstorm

    MyTechOpinion
    26 Oct 2011 | 9:18 am
    In step 1 toward “Developing Your Content Marketing Plan” I asked you to strategize, which involved answering 2 important questions: (1) what do you have to offer and (2) what do your potential clients need from you? By answering these 2 questions you can begin to pinpoint your expertise and focus on your messaging…or what you plan to share, post, and tweet online. And since I know you’re ready for more, let’s expand upon your expertise into other areas you’re passionate about. It’s time for step 2…it’s time to “brainstorm”. Be…
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    Matrix

  • [Meme] Sh*t Real Estate Agents Say

    Jonathan J. Miller
    7 Feb 2012 | 10:30 am
    What would an internet meme be without Realtor introspection provided by Realtors themselves? HT to The Real Estate Bloggers and it’s creators at RETSO.

  • [Appraisal Stories] Aversion to Turtle Soup Prompted Mold Lawsuit

    Jonathan J. Miller
    7 Feb 2012 | 9:00 am
    A number of years ago, my appraisal firm provided an appraisal for the purchase of a few thousand square foot loft in a new gut rehab conversion in downtown Manhattan. This Inman article on “Homes were reptiles roam” triggered my memory of this story, of which the details are a little fuzzy due to the time that has passed. Still, it’s worth sharing since it’s so bizarre. Our firm was served a subpoena indicating we complicit in the newly discovered “mold” problem in the condo unit. I should point out that the developer, bank, mortgage broker, real estate…

  • Calculated Risk Goes All In – Housing Market Will Bottom In March 2012

    Jonathan J. Miller
    7 Feb 2012 | 5:30 am
    Barry Ritholtz of Big Picture does a nice narrative on why housing isn’t done falling. I agree with him and I’ll point additional few other things that aren’t mentioned. But first, in a super macro perspective, Bill McBride of Calculated Risk predicts a housing bottom for March 2012. Like The Big Picture, Calculated Risk is required econ reading, and Bill takes exception to Barry’s view that the market has further to fall – the idea that the housing market needs to overcorrect (it always does). To be clear, Bill’s forecast is based on prices of the key…

  • Social Media Explained (In Donuts)

    Jonathan J. Miller
    6 Feb 2012 | 4:00 pm
    This was shared with me today via twitter @gabrielfreedom and it just clicked – the best explanation ever made for the various social media tools out there – using a sweeeeeeet analogy – donuts.

  • [Public Speaking] The Future of Residential Real Estate in NYC: NYLS/Center for Real Estate Studies 2-28-12

    Jonathan J. Miller
    6 Feb 2012 | 12:43 pm
    Looking forward to my third consecutive annual appearance as a keynote speaker for the Center for Real Estate at New York Law School. Professor of Law and Director of the Center Andrew Berman hosts a great event. [click on the graphic for more info and registration]
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    The Real Estate Bloggers

  • Sh*t Real Estate Agent Say

    Tom Royce
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:30 pm
    The meme has hit the real estate world, courtesy of Brian Copeland and Maura Neill the folks at RETSO.   See home many real estate memes you can find… Thanks for reading this post. If you would like to see more articles like this, please come visit The Real Estate Bloggers. where it was originally published.Sh*t Real Estate Agent Say Related posts: Officially Real Estate Has Double Dipped Economic Turmoil Not Helping Real Estate Sales

  • Real Estate Investor Conference – BiggerPockets Style

    Tom Royce
    2 Feb 2012 | 12:45 pm
    Are you ready for a real estate investment conference that is not on big sell and spam fest? Are you tired of every speaker from the stage pitching their product instead of teaching you? Well, your conference has arrived. Josh Dorkin and the crew over at BiggerPockets is putting on a truly amazing conference on real estate investing with the focus on giving you the tools and techniques to create a firm foundation for your business. It really is that simple… What you will not get is the hype of 20  products that will create miracles in your business and cure cancer at the same…

  • New Home Sales Remain Anemic in 2011

    Tom Royce
    30 Jan 2012 | 8:28 pm
    The new home sales data was released and the results are less than stellar. For 2011, there were only 302,000 new home sold nationwide. For perspective, in the South the numbers were the lowest since 1966, and that is the good news. In both the Northeast and the West, sales were the worst in recorded history. So when you are talking with builders, be kind. They have had a very rough few years. Purchases of single-family properties decreased 2.2 percent to a 307,000 annual pace, figures from the Commerce Department showed today in Washington. The median forecast in a Bloomberg News survey of…

  • House Windows Melting A Toyota Prius

    Tom Royce
    25 Jan 2012 | 12:42 pm
    Typically when you think of a battle between a house and a Prius, you add a dose of a drunk driver and a garage and you are done… But not today. It looks like that super efficient windows are reflecting so much energy onto a car parked in Southern California that it is melting the plastic exterior parts of a lady’s Prius parked outside of the building. A SoCal woman says the energy efficient window installed in a neighbor’s condominium is melting the plastic components on cars parked in her carport. Heather Patron of Studio City was dealing with a mystery regarding her…

  • Top 10 States With Highest Down Payment

    Tom Royce
    8 Jan 2012 | 10:25 am
    When buying a home, one of the key components is the down payment. Back a few years ago when the housing bubble was hitting it’s peak, there were no money down loans floated out there, but those are ancient history. Now you need hard money to make the loan. Lending Tree commissioned a study and measured the states on what the average down payment for a home was in each state. From the low 3.5% down FHA and VA loans to the private loans that are looking for 15% to 20% or higher, the range for all the states in the country range from the high in New Jersey of 13.71% down to the low…
 
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    Roost Blog

  • Just Like Steve Austin, Roost by VerticalResponse Gets Better, Stronger & Faster!

    roostblog
    16 Jan 2012 | 6:47 pm
    We are excited to announce some great new features to the Roost by VerticalResponse social marketing platform. They include the following: * LinkedIn Integration * Top Blogs & Breaking News Content * Quotes Library * Conversations To read more about these exciting new features, hop over to the VerticalResponse Product Blog to get the details.  

  • Big news for Roost users – Roost is now part of VerticalResponse!

    roostblog
    15 Dec 2011 | 8:00 am
    We’re excited to share a big announcement today. VerticalResponse, a leading email, survey and event marketing provider, who shares our passion for helping Small and Medium businesses, has acquired Roost. This is terrific news for all our customers because it means that we’ll soon be able to provide an even easier and smarter way to do all your relationship marketing from one place.  After all, Email & Social Media marketing, while different  are clearly siblings of the same marketing strategy.  Why should you have to maintain relationships with your customers on email with no…

  • 7 Billion People Sharing the Same Planet (Infographic)

    roostblog
    2 Dec 2011 | 5:17 pm
    Well it’s Friday and we thought we would drop a little information that impacts pretty much everyone…The World’s Population. Thanks to the good folks at Masters Degree Online who provided the awesome infographic below, we can think about some very interesting data points that will impact the world now and into the future. We would love to hear your thoughts as we cross the 7 billion mark and have our sights set on 8 billion in a little over a decade. Created by: Masters Degree Online

  • New Roost Data Report Finds SMB’s In Music, Entertainment & Luxury Goods Have Highest Social Marketing Reach

    roostblog
    14 Nov 2011 | 9:00 am
    Social Marketing for small- and medium-sized businesses (SMB’s) is still in its infancy. Because of this, there’s not a lot of information regarding trends or even data on industries that seems to be winning the social marketing battle. But due to Roost’s unique position in the marketplace, we have access to data that can can start to paint a picture of the social marketing landscape of SMB’s. For this particular data report we set out to answer the following questions: Which small businesses are doing the best job of building their Social audience? Which small…

  • Roost Launches “Less Than 5″ Social Tip Video Series

    roostblog
    2 Nov 2011 | 9:02 pm
    Here at Roost we get a ton of questions. From Facebook to Twitter to our own products we’ve probably heard them all. So we wanted to be a little proactive in helping people find answers to all these great questions. That’s why we started the “Less That 5″ Social Tip Video Series. Each week we will put out at least one video (sometimes we will do more) dealing with some social topic. You will be able to find the here on on blog, on our Vimeo Channel or on our Facebook Page. We hope you will find these fun an informative. For your viewing pleasure, we have dropped our…
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    AGBeat

  • Several states hold out, one leaves $25B mortgage settlement talks

    Tara Steele
    8 Feb 2012 | 12:42 am
    Settlement talks in limbo AGBeat has had a close eye on multi-state talks with the largest banks as over a year ago, all 50 states’ Attorneys Generals committed to negotiate terms on behalf of homeowners abused by banks leading up to and during the housing crash. Monday was the final deadline for all 50 states to declare whether they were [...]Your missed calls are missed opportunities. Don't miss another with Better Voicemail AG PartnerGet more News at AGBeat

  • Pinterest covertly swaps out your links for affiliate links

    AGBeat
    7 Feb 2012 | 11:35 pm
    Big money, big money! In order to obtain funding, every tech startup has to show investors what their financial strategy is – some begin as free communities that turn premium, others are ad supported, but in an interesting twist, Pinterest has opted for a different alternative wherein they use a service called Skimlinks, according to VentureBeat, which swaps out links [...]Your missed calls are missed opportunities. Don't miss another with Better Voicemail AG PartnerGet more News at AGBeat

  • 10 tips to simplify your work day to avoid burnout

    Charlene Jimenez
    7 Feb 2012 | 11:00 pm
    Avoiding burnout As business pros, it’s our nature to overload our schedules with tasks, goals, and responsibilities. We want to make the most of our time, which is understandable as we are nearly always busy and our time is valuable. However, because of this, we can easily become overwhelmed, burned out, and over-stressed. When we feel this way, we are [...]Your missed calls are missed opportunities. Don't miss another with Better Voicemail AG PartnerGet more News at AGBeat

  • Banks’ brilliant idea to give cash incentives to short sale

    Tara Steele
    7 Feb 2012 | 9:26 pm
    The housing crash Now that some of the causes and effects of the housing crash are becoming universally agreed upon and banks are ordered to pay billions in civil lawsuits and settlements for illegal foreclosures, the big banks are struggling to regain their composure after overlooking simple fixes like not continuing robo-signing documents illegally without human review before kicking people [...]Your missed calls are missed opportunities. Don't miss another with Better Voicemail AG PartnerGet more News at AGBeat

  • HotPads releases Kindle Fire app with native mapping

    Tara Steele
    7 Feb 2012 | 8:53 pm
    The challenge of the Kindle Fire Although more and more Amazon Kindle Fire tablet apps are hitting the market, there are some serious limitations that developers must work around, specifically no GPS and no access to mobile networks which is a very serious issue for any company developing an app for real estate search. HotPads has announced today the launch [...]Your missed calls are missed opportunities. Don't miss another with Better Voicemail AG PartnerGet more News at AGBeat
 
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    Cremunity.TV RSS Feed

  • Time Lapse Solar Installation on House

    8 Feb 2012 | 6:48 am
    This residental solar installation video was made for us by a great customer. We were able to design and install the system in about 3 days. We obtained all the state and federal rebates and returned an amazing ROI thanks to the Taunton's Municipal Lighting Plants solar rebate program.

  • Columbia Construction completes Martha's Vineyard Hospital

    8 Feb 2012 | 6:48 am

  • Wessling Architects

    8 Feb 2012 | 6:48 am

  • Is small business out of the recession?

    8 Feb 2012 | 6:48 am
    Client First Strategy

  • What’s Cooking in Real Estate

    8 Feb 2012 | 6:48 am
    It is the show that pairs up Real Estate Celebrities with elite culinary artists in order to cook up an a ‘Meal and a Deal’. The show is always taped at a different location for every shoot. The live studio audience consist of handpicked industry insiders to discuss specific market trends while preparing delectable dishes. The goal is to stimulate the Real Estate Industry by delivering up to date information on an unparalleled platform.
 
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    About.com Real Estate Business

  • Loan mods on decline as banks opt for short sales | Breaking News | PE.com - Press-Enterprise

    8 Feb 2012 | 1:57 am
    Loan mods on decline as banks opt for short sales | Breaking News | PE.com - Press-Enterprise. This article reports some major re-default percentages for loan modifications and that short sales ...Read Full Post

  • Florida grants real estate licenses to felons

    2 Feb 2012 | 2:31 am
    Florida grants real estate licenses to felons - Letters - BradentonHerald.com. The link is to a letter to the editor.  In NM we have to be fingerprinted and have a background check.

  • Are You Alienating Friends & Social Contacts?

    22 Jan 2012 | 5:41 am
    Social media use by business, and definitely by real estate professionals, is growing by leaps and bounds.  And, if you read here much, you know that I'm a big fan of Google+, the new social spot on the Web.  However, there's a lot of disagreement about how much to engage our prospective customers on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and now Google+.  Some would say, and they practice it, that if a little works then a lot must work better.  I do know that when I connect with a real estate professional in Google+, if I start getting multiple posts/day, especially if they're…

  • Don't Call an Inspector an "Idiot" in Email!

    19 Jan 2012 | 8:54 am
    What have you called an inspector lately?  Or, how about an appraiser?  It's probably best that we do this in a room alone, not in a mass email. 'Idiot' comment spurs lawsuit.

  • Google+ Shakes Up the Search World

    19 Jan 2012 | 6:14 am
    Just this week, Google+ became an integral part of Google Search results with "Personal Results."   It's creating quite a stir, some negative.  Twitter is in a snit because they think Google has an unfair advantage, and others just think it's not going to be useful....Read Full Post
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    The Phoenix Real Estate Guy

  • Sandicor Fires Another Round in the Listing Syndication War

    Jay Thompson
    7 Feb 2012 | 5:27 pm
    OK, maybe “Listing Syndication War” is a little too sensationalistic. Maybe. There’s no question though that news about real estate listing syndication is now coming at a fast and furious pace. Back in November, Edina Realty lobbed the first round when they announced they were pulling their listings from Trulia and Realtor.com Then a couple of weeks ago it was Jim Abbott and ARG Abbott Realty Group in San Diego doing the same, and adding Zillow into the mix. Yesterday Metrolist, the Denver, Colorado area MLS announced they were not renewing their contact with leading IDX…

  • Mortgage Tech Summit Comes to Scottsdale Feb 9 & 10!

    Jay Thompson
    6 Feb 2012 | 1:21 pm
    If you are in the mortgage business and near Scottsdale, AZ then you should already be registered and have this on your calendar. Why? Because where else are you going to get two days jam-packed with info to help your business? If you are a real estate agent or broker, you should strongly consider attending the Mortgage Tech Summit. Why? Because as a real estate agent, it is crucial for you to understand how those crazy mortgage people do business. After all, like them or not, mortgage people are fundamental to getting your real estate transactions closed. Besides, just take a look at the…

  • On the “Value Add” of a Real Estate Agent

    Jay Thompson
    3 Feb 2012 | 3:20 pm
    As the kerfuffle over a San Diego real estate broker pulling their listings from syndication sites is about to enter its second week, I keep seeing something reiterated over and over. I’ve seen it stated in many different ways, but it all boils down to “listing data”. How important, many say critical, that data is. Well, not the data itself necessarily, rather it is the control of that data (or lack thereof) that seems to get so many riled up. Here’s a paraphrase of the argument: Our listing data is our lifeblood. Listings are the most valuable thing we have to offer…

  • LiveFyre Comments Added to TPREG

    Jay Thompson
    31 Jan 2012 | 6:15 pm
    Longtime readers know I like to play around with different things on this little corner of the Interwebs. About a year ago, I tried out LiveFyre – a commenting system that has more bells and whistles than the built-in native WordPress comment system. That little blogsperiment lasted about 20 minutes before I realized that it required a commenter to establish an account with LiveFyre. Jay doesn’t like forcing people to create accounts just to leave a comment. Well, LiveFyre is back again — this time without the requirement to create an account (though really, you should…

  • On Compensation for Listing Data

    Jay Thompson
    29 Jan 2012 | 12:11 pm
    I’ve read (and participated in) many discussions about ARG Abbott Realty Group pulling their listings from national syndication sites over the past 24 hours. A recurring theme keeps coming up. It is another point the “anti-syndication” crowd tends to rally around, and another point I don’t understand. “Agents and brokers deserve compensation for their listing data.” “In the information age, Agent’s listings data are Valuable, and they need compensation for it.” “That listing data is valuable. They should pay us for it!”…
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    BloodhoundBlog

  • Debunking Artificial Intelligence — while programming your computer to be almost as smart as your dog.

    Greg Swann
    6 Feb 2012 | 12:20 pm
    Everything you’ve been taught about Artificial Intelligence for your whole life is false. AI researchers are not frauds, I don’t think, but they’re exuberant when they talk to reporters, and the reporters are ignorant, thoughtless and brash. In real life, AI is Siri, which can reliably lead you to the nearest closed-down super-market. In your imagination, AI is C-3PO, who can lecture you on Chinese lithography while clobbering you at backgammon. This is the truth — and telling the truth about AI is as rash as telling the truth about Anthropogenic Global Warming or…

  • Building the perfect beast: A round-up of my recent technology posts.

    Greg Swann
    5 Feb 2012 | 12:40 pm
    Caveat lector! The words you are about to read are unvetted, unhomogenized and unlicensed. One of my longer-term projects is to write essays on reasons why you should dismiss the things I have to say. I’ve only done two so far: You should dismiss me because I don’t care if you do and because I can see right through you. There are zillions more reasons, whether I get to them or not, but the one that matters most, in this context, is this one: I am completely without credentials. That’s a statement I could quibble with, but I don’t want to. There is no limit to the…

  • Q: Your smartphone has just been stolen. What should happen next? A: Your phone should get the cops on the horn and lead them to the thief.

    Greg Swann
    1 Feb 2012 | 4:24 pm
    Here’s the truth of your life: Your so-called smartphone is pretty damned dumb. For one thing, it’s always interrupting your work with phone calls, wiping out whatever screen you happen to be working on. It does this because Steve Jobs, genius though he was, never quite wrapped his head around the idea of the cell-phone function as just another arrow in the quiver of your smartphone’s capabilities. What you actually want, when your phone rings while you are working at something else, is notice that you can drop everything to take the call — or not — without the…

  • Holy cow! They made a movie about your life…

    Greg Swann
    1 Feb 2012 | 2:13 pm
    Digitals from Chris Crutchfield on Vimeo.

  • How to solve the video multiplexing problem you didn’t know you had.

    Greg Swann
    29 Jan 2012 | 4:31 pm
    I love this news story, an exposition of the Supreme Court exposing its irrelevance: In an entertaining hour-long episode, Supreme Court justices on Tuesday considered the government’s power to regulate expletives and nudity on the airwaves. Why is this amusing to me? Because along with many other twentieth-century electromagnetic phenomena, broadcast television is dead. Every word in that claim is important. “Television” — meaning audio/visual content primarily intended to entertain — is still with us, although it is likely to merge with other forms of on-line…
 
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    LA Digs

  • Another beautiful morning in Paradise

    Tracy
    8 Feb 2012 | 8:36 am
    Taken at Eagle Rock, CA Posted via email from Tracy’s LA Real Estate

  • New Listing! 2035 Ridgeview Avenue, Eagle Rock

    Keely
    6 Feb 2012 | 11:38 am
    Tracy King | Teles Properties | (626) 827-9795 2035 Ridgeview Ave, Eagle Rock, CA New Listing! Open Tuesday, 2/7 10-2pm; Thursday, 2/9 10-2; Thursday, 2/9 5-7pm; and Sunday, 2/12 1-4pm. 3BR/2BA Single Family House offered at $649,000 Year Built 1940 Sq Footage 1,353 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 full, 0 partial Floors 2 Parking 2 Car garage Lot Size 7,210 sqft HOA/Maint $0 per month DESCRIPTION Nestled up from the street, this enchanting 1940s traditional takes advantage of the treetop views to create a private oasis in the city. It feels much bigger than the assessor’s square footage with the…

  • Another beautiful day in Paradise.

    Tracy
    4 Feb 2012 | 8:45 am
    Taken at Eagle Rock, CA Posted via email from Tracy’s LA Real Estate

  • Another beautiful day in Paradise.

    Tracy
    4 Feb 2012 | 8:45 am
    Taken at Eagle Rock, CA Posted via email from Tracy’s LA Real Estate

  • Why you Should Short Sell Your House Now

    Tracy
    3 Feb 2012 | 1:10 pm
    If you’ve been sitting on the fence about whether to proceed with selling your house as a short sale, you should read the column by Lew Sichelman printed in the Los Angeles Times last week. A short sale is a transaction in which the homeowner owes more on the home than they can sell it for on the open market. What is owed includes the mortgage debt owed to the lender as well as the closing costs they will incur when they sell, such as commissions, title and escrow fees, taxes, etc. The property can’t be transferred unless the lender agrees to take less than they are owed. As the article…
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    RealCentralVA.com

  • What are the Negatives of Living in Charlottesville?

    Jim
    6 Feb 2012 | 1:04 pm
    I don’t “sell” Charlottesville – I educate and inform my clients so that they can make the best decisions possible. Charlottesville is truly a great place to live; while I’ve been here for only 24 years, I wouldn’t choose to live anywhere else. With that preface, there are negatives about Charlottesville and while they’re all relative (traffic) I’d like to think there are solutions. I’ve been having this conversation on Google+ and on Facebook in advance of posting here. My answer to the question: Perhaps the single greatest negative with…

  • Calculated Risk calls the Bottom of the Real Estate Market

    Jim
    6 Feb 2012 | 12:13 pm
    First there are two bottoms for housing. The first is for new home sales, housing starts and residential investment. The second bottom is for prices. Sometimes these bottoms can happen years apart. … For new home sales and housing starts, it appears the bottom is in, and I expect an increase in both starts and sales in 2012. I place a great deal of credibility in Calculated Risk; I’ve learned a tremendous amount there over the years. I’m not certain the bottom is quite here in the Charlottesville area, but I’m inclined to think we’re close. Search the Charlottesville…

  • How Much Does this House Cost? (To Run)

    Jim
    6 Feb 2012 | 9:18 am
    How much does this home cost to run? It’s become one of the most important question my buyer clients ask … and an answer that Sellers need to be prepared to answer. In today’s market, much more so than the previous one(s), buyers are much more cognizant of the costs to operate a home. Everyone can calculate the PITI payment – Principal + Interest + Taxes + Insurance What’s not easily calculable by buyers is - - How drafty is the house? - What’s the natural gas bill? - What’s the electric bill? - What’s the water bill? - Trash/recycling is a fairly…

  • Case Shiller Doesn’t Track Charlottesville’s MSA – or – Nest Realty’s 4th Quarter Report

    Jim
    31 Jan 2012 | 10:30 am
    I’ve said it before. Case Shiller’s Perspective on the Charlottesville real estate market summed up in one phrase: it doesn’t exist. As I said this morning on Google+ - So we’re getting ready to widely release Nest Realty’s 4th Quarter 2012 Nest Report … there’s some interesting data and analysis in there. Combined with the reports I’m hearing from agents about the massive traffic at open houses, I’m thinking that *pockets* of the Charlottesville – Albemarle real estate markets are likely to see some stability & even price increases this…

  • Thanks for the Biking Directions, Google!

    Jim
    31 Jan 2012 | 9:30 am
    Thanks, Google. I’m looking forward to using these to show houses to clients … on bikes! If you’re looking for new ways to get around for fun or to work, or might be trying to live a greener lifestyle in 2012, why not try biking? In March 2010 we introduced biking directions and since then Google Maps has been sharing biking directions with cyclists across the U.S and Canada. Search the Charlottesville MLS Copyright RealCentralVA.com, LLC. If you like this post, please, visit RealCentralVA.comwhere this was originally posted. Thanks for the Biking Directions, Google!
 
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    Horses, Horse Business, Western Style

  • Western Ephemera on Pinterest – Valentines’ Day

    susie blackmon
    8 Feb 2012 | 6:04 am
    See more here.Via pinterest.com

  • Heroes With Hooves

    susie blackmon
    31 Jan 2012 | 1:47 am
    “Heroes With Hooves” is filled with breathtaking images of free roaming wild mustangs from Wyoming, Colorado and Nevada.Via www.blurb.com

  • Want to See the 2012 Kentucky Derby Festival Posters?

    Susie
    26 Jan 2012 | 6:09 am
    The 32nd annual Poster Premier party Wednesday (January 25th) in Louisville featured the unveiling of the three versions of the 2012 Kentucky Derby Festival posters created by self-taught visual artist and sculptor, Andre Foreman. Read more about the Poster Premier party here. 2012 Limited Pegasus Edition The 2012 Poster Art Series Collection (partial view below) has something for everyone. View the complete 2012 Poster Art Series Collection here.   View the complete 2012 Poster Art Series Collection   Related articles Getting the Boot – Cowboys & Indians – March…

  • Congrats to War Horse! > Oscar Nominations! Complete List of Nominees for 84th Annual Academy Awards

    susie blackmon
    24 Jan 2012 | 1:30 pm
    “Martin Scorsese’s Hugo leads all Oscar contenders with 11 nods, including Best Picture and Best Director. The Artist was close behind with 10 nominations, followed by Moneyball and War Horse, with six apiece.” Read more. Via it.eonline.com Related articles Ocala’s Thoroughbred Horse Farms Continue to Produce Winners (horsealicious.com) Horses Beautify Ocala and Christmas! (horsealicious.com) Want to See First Dude at Ocala’s Double Diamond Thoroughbred Farm? (ocalalicious.com)

  • Marketing Mondays: Strategies for Breeders | Western Horse Review

    susie blackmon
    24 Jan 2012 | 12:18 pm
    “It’s sales closing week for the March issue of Western Horse Review, and because this issue is smack-dab in the middle of breeding season, many of us are either contemplating breeding strategies, or engrossed in the promotion of a stallion.” Via www.westernhorsereview.com
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    Lansner on Real Estate

  • Really? Former U.S. consulate in $33 million flip

    Jeff Collins
    8 Feb 2012 | 3:00 am
    Real estate news and views from around the globe that make you go, “Really?” A stately, 10,000-square-foot ocean-front mansion that the U.S. government sold in 1999 for $12 million is back on the market — for $45 million. The State Department: Better at diplomacy than real estate?  — Washington Post Luxury Bermuda home can be yours for a cool $45m — Royal Gazette Historic Bermuda Estate on Grape Bay Beach Listed at $45 Million — JustLuxe.com Also … A Mortgage Tornado Warning, Unheeded‎ — New York Times At least 8 more years in prison for NY…

  • Homebuilder reports ‘return to profitability’

    Jeff Collins
    7 Feb 2012 | 6:41 pm
    Standard Pacific officials reported that they sold the last two homes in the luxury Tides project in Crystal Cove. Click to see pictures Irvine-based homebuilding company Standard Pacific Homes reported this week its first profitable quarter in more than a year at the end of 2011, spurred by improved sales and higher home prices. Coupled with positive results for January, company President and CEO Scott Stowell told stock analysts in an earning conference call on Tuesday that it’s starting to look like an economic recovery may be under way. But for 2011 as a whole, Standard Pacific earnings…

  • Housing: Ladera is hot, CdM is not!

    Jon Lansner
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:00 pm
    Ladera Ranch is hot. Corona Del Mar is not. That is one conclusion you can draw from the neighborhood slice of the latest O.C. home inventory report from Steve Thomas and his ReportsOnHousing.com. His math shows: February 2 February 2 … The Orange County town with the fastest-selling homes in terms of Thomas’ “market time” (supply of homes for sale vs. new purchase deals inked in past month) is Ladera Ranch at 1.2 months to theoretically sell all for-sale homes at the current buying pace. A year ago, this town was at 3.1 months. Next fastest was Portola Hills at 1.5 months…

  • O.C. foreclosures for sale at 20-month low

    Jon Lansner
    7 Feb 2012 | 1:00 pm
    Distressed properties were 34% of Orage County homes listed for sale and 48% of the residences recently put into escrow. Steve Thomas of ReportsOnHousing.compublishes every two weeks a report on the supply of local homes for sale and the share of that inventory that’s distressed properties — foreclosures and short sales. His latest report — as of February 2 — says … In the past two weeks, the foreclosure inventory dropped by 24 homes and now totals 546. You have to go all the way back to June 2010 to find fewer foreclosures on the market. Foreclosures will be a very…

  • Demand for O.C. homes surges 24% in 2 weeks

    Jon Lansner
    7 Feb 2012 | 10:59 am
    Orange County’s housing market speed — by one measure — quickened 21.9% in the past two weeks and sped up 34.7% in a year. The latest Orange County home inventory report from Steve Thomas and ReportsOnHousing.com — data as of February 2 — includes these thoughts … Typically Super Bowl Sunday marks the beginning of the Spring Market. I would argue that the housing market is experiencing an early spring that started in mid-January. Could it be the warm weather that is stimulating demand? Record low interest rates? Experts declaring that a bottom has been reached?
 
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    Ubertor Real Estate Blog

  • Agent Short Hand Description

    Stephen Jagger
    4 Feb 2012 | 6:13 pm
    I was reading about a new listing on the market today that I found on the public Realtor.ca MLS iPhone app and I couldn’t help but notice all of the agent short hand included in the description. Do you do that on your listings? I’m able to understand it but I wonder how many people can’t. What do you think?

  • Century 21 Steps Back Into TV Ads @ Superbowl (Videos)

    Stephen Jagger
    3 Feb 2012 | 11:06 am
    A couple years ago Century 21 stated that it would no longer do television ads – well, it seems that has changed and Century 21 is back with a few 2012 Superbowl TV commercials including an all star line up. Check out the ads below: Here is what they are up against at this years Superbowl:

  • Learn to Maximize Your Ubertor Website: Live Ubertor Tour, February 9th 2012

    Uber Carl
    2 Feb 2012 | 12:59 pm
    Get expert advice from an Ubertor specialist on how to use the basics of the system. This is a great start for all new Ubertor users eager to learn how to begin maximizing their website for the most return. This is a live guided tour of Ubertor’s control panel – so if you’re on the fence about Ubertor’s software, click in and join the tour. See how easy it is to get a website up and running. Join in 2 easy steps (Live Tour is FREE): 1. Register for the Live Tour on February 9th @ 10:00 AM PST. Simply click on this LINK and join the tour! 2. Use your microphone and speakers (VoIP) –…

  • Update: Reachd Internet Marketing & Social Media Classes in Vancouver, BC

    Stephen Jagger
    1 Feb 2012 | 11:22 am
    Reachd.com has made some changes to their training schedule. Hundreds of Ubertor agents have attended Reachd.com courses as they provide a solid base to grow your online real estate marketing. From the Reachd.com blog: 1. We’ve reorganized the 2-day course into a different order of topics so we can add more information and slow the pace down! Here’s what future students will encounter: Day One: Google Adwords + Blogging + Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Day Two: Social Media (LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter) + Plan Implementation 2. We are now offering a complimentary one-on-one 60-minute…

  • Fred Glick’s Rebuttal To Listing Syndication Video

    Stephen Jagger
    1 Feb 2012 | 10:33 am
    The other day I posted a video from a California real estate broker who had pulled his companies listings from Trulia.com, Zillow.com and Realtor.com. Here is Fred Glick’s opinion that rebuts the recent pulling out of real estate brokers from Realtor.com, Trulia and Zillow: What do you think?
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    Reverse Mortgage Daily

  • Social Media Marketing for Reverse Mortgages: Worth The Risks?

    Elizabeth Ecker
    7 Feb 2012 | 5:41 pm
    While the measurable results of social media marketing efforts are largely to-be-determined for reverse mortgage lenders, several lenders are beginning to enter Twitter, Facebook and other social media channels. While they say it is too soon to measure success, not being present online is a risk they say they are not willing to take—even knowing there are some compliance aspects to consider. There are an estimated 15.5 million Facebook users in the United States over the age of 55 according to data from iStrategy Labs, which tracks Internet use among different age demographics. The online…

  • Bank Supervisors Set Sights on Uniform Loan Officer State Test

    Elizabeth Ecker
    7 Feb 2012 | 5:39 pm
    State bank supervisors are looking for a way to develop a uniform state test for mortgage loan originators, the Conference of State Bank Supervisors and State Regulatory Registry announced Tuesday. The organizations have begun work toward uniform content, including research on the feasibility of such an effort. Initial feasibility studies have been done and test development is now under way, CSBS reported. “This is only the first of many necessary steps in the process of determining content for a uniform MLO test,” said Doug Foster, commissioner of the Texas Department of Savings and…

  • New Rule Requires all Non-Bank Mortgage Lenders File Fraud Reports

    Elizabeth Ecker
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:31 pm
    All nonbank residential mortgage lenders will be required to submit suspicious activity reports (SARs) to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) as specified under a new final rule announced Tuesday by the Treasury. Additionally, lenders and originators must establish anti-money laundering programs under the rule. “Today FinCEN is closing a regulatory gap by requiring non-bank mortgage lenders and originators to develop anti-money laundering programs and file suspicious activity reports with FinCEN,” said FinCEN Director James Freis, Jr. “Suspicious activity reports are a…

  • Wendover Hires Former B of A, Financial Freedom Reverse Mortgage Execs

    Elizabeth Ecker
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:22 pm
    A rising reverse mortgage consultancy is growing its management team to ramp up its servicing, business development and learning and development services. Targeting growth, Greensboro, North Carolina-based Wendover Consulting announced this week that it has hired two industry veterans to its management team. Karen Stegall has been hired as director of audit and compliance, and Nancy Armour as director of underwriting and client services. Stegall, formerly was a vice president of Bank of America where she oversaw due diligence and credit policy for reverse mortgages. Armour, who has 19 years…

  • The “Brave New World” of Reverse Mortgage Lenders—What’s in Store

    Elizabeth Ecker
    7 Feb 2012 | 11:11 am
    How will monthly reverse mortgage rankings fare in the “brave new world” that remains without Bank of America and Wells Fargo? Reverse Market Insight reported Tuesday on the final wholesale and retail/TPO/broker loan counts and aimed to answer that question. With overall endorsements down 1.8% from November, the entire decline can be attributed to the TPO/wholesale originators. In order to get a sense of what the future will hold, however, it’s important to examine application data, RMI says. “Case numbers issued (we use this interchangeably with applications) dipped…
 
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    Wallingford Wired

  • Just Listed: 58 Leonard St #101, Meriden CT 06450

    Harriman Real Estate
    6 Feb 2012 | 6:29 pm
    For information on the condos at Spring Valley, please call listing agent Andrea Atkins at (203) 671-2223 today!Unbelievable Value in Meriden CT!HomePhotosLocalSchoolsCourtesy:Harriman Real Estate LLC203-672-4499pharriman@harrimanre.comLicensed In: CT58 LEONARD STREETMeriden, CT 06451Bedrooms: 3Bathrooms : 3 (2 full, 1 half)List Price: $220,000Living Area Approx : 1726Unbelievable value! You can own this brand new 3 bedroom, 2.1 bath townhouse with garage for only $220,000. It has a spacious living room – if you want a warm and cozy feel, you can add a fireplace and surround as an…

  • Lot For Sale: 204 Cynrose Place, Meriden CT 06451

    Harriman Real Estate
    6 Feb 2012 | 2:45 pm
    Transform this beautiful lot by building your dream home. The property is located in a neighborhood setting, minutes from Hubbard Park, the mall and the highway. Other lots are available in this sought-after subdivision (see virtual tour below for locations of other lots):178 Cynrose Place — .26 acres $125,000 189 Cynrose Place — .42 acres $125,000 193 Cynrose Place — .42 acres $125,000 164 Cynrose Place — .26 acres $125,000 205 Cynrose Place — .51 acres $125,000 216 Cynrose Place — .26 acres $125,000 186 Cynrose Place — .26 acres $125,000 201 Cynrose…

  • New Listing: 380 Swain Ave, Meriden CT 06450

    Harriman Real Estate
    4 Feb 2012 | 2:33 pm
    Attention Buyers: This is an AS-IS sale, subject to probate court approval! For more information, please call listing agent Pat Harriman at (203) 605-3873 today!Needs Work, But Worth the Effort! Probate saleHomePhotosLocalSchoolsCourtesy:Harriman Real Estate LLC203-672-4499pharriman@harrimanre.comLicensed In: CT380 Swain AveMeriden, CT 06450Bedrooms: 3Bathrooms : 1 (1 full)List Price: $119,900Living Area Approx : 1158This home is being sold as is and subject to Probate Court approval. Town says its a 3 bedroom but there are no closets in the second floor bedrooms. Fireplace, first floor…

  • New Listing: 9 Jones Rd, Wallingford CT 06492

    Harriman Real Estate
    2 Feb 2012 | 1:43 pm
    This home is a pleasure to show! Fabulous home with updated kitchen, spacious dining room, master bedroom with half bath, lower level family room and office area, new central air and furnace, new patio, over-sized 2 car garage, above ground pool with deck, storage shed and a nice .73 acre fenced lot. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call listing agent Pat Harriman at (203) 605-3873 today! Great Value in Wallingford OverviewMapsPhotosFeaturesDescription$279,900Single Family HomeMain Features 3 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom 1 Partial Bathroom Interior: 1,483 sqft Lot: 0.73…

  • New Listing: 54 Copper Beech Lane, Portland CT 06480

    Harriman Real Estate
    1 Feb 2012 | 5:26 pm
    This near new condo feels like a home! Unique duplex with beautiful hardwood flooring throughout the first floor, spacious rooms, first floor laundry room, deck off of living room offers plenty of privacy, second floor loft, walk-in closets in both bedrooms and more! For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call listing agent Pat Harriman at (203) 605-3873 today! Pretty in Portland CT OverviewMapsPhotosFeaturesDescription$234,900Single Family HomeMain Features 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 1 Partial Bathroom Interior: 1,800 sqft Location 54 Copper Beech Lane Portland, CT 06480…
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    Atlanta Real Estate Blog

  • 992,925 Visitors to tinafountain.com in 2011

    25 Jan 2012 | 8:59 am
    If you’ve been a regular visitor to tinafountain.com then you’ve noticed the design and functionality upgrades that we recently launched. Thank you for the many compliments as we continue to tweak and make adjustments. Customers First As a boutique Atlanta real estate company our primary focus has always been and will always be our customers, we’re honored to represent a wonderful group of remarkable people in the purchase and sell of some of Atlanta’s finest properties. We also pride ourselves on being early adopters of the latest technology in real estate and in many cases we have…

  • Five Home Flaws You Can’t Ignore When Buying Atlanta Real Estate

    20 Jan 2012 | 6:27 am
    Certainly, there are things about any home you can look past: the stain on the carpet, the peeling wallpaper in the kitchen, or the outdated bathroom sink. But there are five areas of a home that simply can’t be overlooked in terms of damage or flaws. They are: • Foundation problems – A home’s foundation, and the integrity of it, is of extreme importance because if the foundation is compromised, you can be sure that the rest of home is too. From bowing walls to large cracks or a shifting foundation, there are a number of things that can go wrong with the foundation. Although many…

  • What Does a Buyer’s Market Really Mean?

    7 Dec 2011 | 4:40 pm
      You may have heard about today’s market being a buyer’s market. But what exactly does this mean? In general, a buyer’s market refers to a real estate market that is beneficial to buyers. A buyer’s market means that a number of factors are in the buyer’s favor creating buying opportunities. This usually means the following: • There is a larger inventory of homes – In a buyer’s market, you can be sure that there are a lot of homes on the market from which to choose. In other words, the supply is greater than the demand. As a result of more sellers and less buyers, the price…

  • Staging Your Atlanta Home to Sell

    2 Nov 2011 | 9:17 am
    Home staging is an important step in the successful sale of your home. Sprucing up your house inside and out can pay off big dividends in your final sale price. The art of home staging is often best left to Atlanta real estate professionals, but there are a number of steps you can take to get your house market-ready as well. We have four steps to home staging to help you attract buyers and a higher price tag. • First Impressions Count Potential buyers form an opinion of your home within 30 seconds, which means curb appeal counts. Lawns should be freshly mowed, flowers tended and walkways…

  • Loan Approval Factors Considered by Lenders

    19 Oct 2011 | 10:56 am
    If you are nervous about the home loan process of today, youre not alone. Most consumers understand that banks are decidedly more particular when it comes to lending money to home buyers, but not many people thoroughly understand all of the factors that go into the process of determining whether an individual is qualified to borrow money from the lender. Here is a list of the main factors considered by lenders when determining home loan approval: Your Debt Load Many consumers of today carry a high burden of debt when compared to their income. Although you may have religiously made payments to…
 
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    Office Search Toronto

  • Videos as Recommendations – What do you think?

    Chris Fyvie - 416-992-9869
    3 Feb 2012 | 7:00 pm
    http://pixelcarve.com “My purpose in life is to change the face of the Internet. Make it easier to use, more interactive and dramatically more beautiful.” Ryan Priest – CCO, Pixelcarve Inc. Our passion is to create engaging and complete interactive experiences that intimately connect people with brands in unique and memorable ways. Our commitment is to grow your business through innovation, relevance and beauty, because we believe these are the cornerstones of unforgettable experiences that attract and retain clients.

  • Midtown Toronto – Office Space for Lease – January 2012

    Chris Fyvie - 416-992-9869
    29 Jan 2012 | 9:41 am
    Midtown office space View more documents from Chris Fyvie. For commercial real estate advice or a custom survey of available office space call 416-643-3713 or E-mail Us Here! Address Available Space (sf) Asking Gross Rental Rate (psf) Asking Monthly Rate 1 Eglinton Ave E 1,839 $33.60 $5,149.20 1 St. Clair Ave W 3,100 $32.62 $8,426.83 1 St. Clair Ave W 1,514 $32.62 $4,115.56 110 Eglinton Ave E 1,576 $31.16 $4,092.35 111 Eglinton Ave E 2,646 $29.15 $6,427.58 112 Eglinton Ave E 2,465 $29.00 $5,957.08 113 Eglinton Ave E 1,859 $31.04 $4,808.61 1650 Yonge Street 1,550 $29.00 $3,745.83 1881 Yonge…

  • Increased Workstation Control Brings Higher Job Satisfaction, Less Stress

    Chris Fyvie - 416-992-9869
    24 Jan 2012 | 8:26 am
    Original Post – By: Stephen Searer Most people that have worked in an office would probably agree with a recent study (pdf) that was undertaken “to examine the relationship between workstation features … and the comfort and performance [of employees]“. They found: The greater control employees have over the adjustment of interior workstation features, the lower the stress they experience. The more effectively the interior workstation layout supports the work process, the greater the job satisfaction. Workspace Control It comes as little surprise that employees would experience…

  • Why You Need a Commercial Realtor

    Chris Fyvie - 416-992-9869
    23 Jan 2012 | 11:44 am
    Original Article – Hans Steege We thought we’d save money by acting as our own leasing agent. That’s how we learned–the hard way–what realtors really do. A good commercial realtor is worth his or her weight in gold. To many of you, I may just be stating the obvious. But we learned this the hard way. Last year my small company needed to relocate to a bigger, better space.  We knew that we would continue to lease, where we needed to be located (generally), how much space we needed, and roughly how much we could spend. Armed with that information, we figured it…

  • News – The Reality of Toronto’s Office Market – January 2012

    Chris Fyvie - 416-992-9869
    23 Jan 2012 | 8:19 am
    In reality, the opportunity to buy a AAA asset in Toronto can come up only once a decade and there are REITS out that will stretch for the deal. Article – Scotia Plaza is up for sale.  They are hoping to achieve $1 billion and now that the teachers have the cash to spend after selling the Leafs it may happen? Article – Dundee REIT just closed on Whiterock for $580 million Article – This was right on the heals of their purchase for Slate Properties at $832 million Landmark Office Building purchase: 1) Commerce Court, Toronto (2000), $618-million Sold by CIBC to British…
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    OfficeFinder Blog

  • 2011 Lease vs. Buy Commercial Real Estate

    5 Feb 2012 | 4:02 pm
    Loopnet put together a very good info-graphic (below) on leasing vs. buying trends in commercial real estate. It is very interesting from the prospective tenant’s viewpoint as they lease new or renew space for their business or decide to buy a building to house their business. While it does us a lot of averages, it is a good overview of what has been happening recently in the commercial real estate markets in the US. In particular, over the past two years rental rates have only dropped 3% while sales prices have dropped 15%. It is my opinion that now is a good time to hit the bottom of the…

  • Office Space Tweets from OfficeFinder

    30 Jan 2012 | 10:51 am
    Follow OfficeFinder James Osgood  Improve Job Satisfaction with the Right Office Cubicles » OfficeFinder Blog ow.ly/8Ga4C Workplace Trends 2012 Report is Out! ow.ly/8Deux OfficeFinder News Post is out! bit.ly/pJQytc ? Top stories today via @conciergelevel @vicuspartners @davidshipley @loosecubes Process: Office Space Leasing or Renting; How to ow.ly/8Ga8v 30 Leasing Tips in 30 days - Advice to help you level the playing fieldow.ly/84bE7 Startup Rates Surge in the U.S. and Abroad - Businessweek ow.ly/8BGO1 Good news for the economy World Trade Center project won't be finished…

  • Improve Job Satisfaction with the Right Office Cubicles

    24 Jan 2012 | 9:39 am
    Office atmosphere is more important to the success of your business than you may think. Over 90% of employees believe that the quality of their working environment affects their mood and attitude about work, and 89% believe it is essential to their sense of job satisfaction. Office cubicles can be a large part of your office’s atmosphere, so choosing the best cubicles for your office space is important. Whether you are looking to give your office a facelift, add new furniture to an unfurnished space or downsizing the amount of office space you have, comparing quotes on office cubicles will…

  • GSA embracing the Flexible Workspace; Reducing office space needs by up to 50%

    21 Jan 2012 | 3:55 pm
    It looks like the Federal government is embracing flexible workspace and changes in the workforce by changing how they let their employees work. No desk, no nameplate, and sometimes even half of the workspace. Federal agencies are adjusting to "Hot Desking" and "Hoteling."  In doing so, the General Services Administration, is helping to lead a growing effort to reshape how traditional office space is utilized. The cost savings are considerable; Up to 50% of the cost the Feds were spending on office space is now being saved for agencies participating in the program. More Find Office Space

  • TradeAddresses and RealUp Sign Distribution Agreement

    28 Dec 2011 | 12:25 pm
    RealUp, a national commercial real estate listing website, has announced a new partnership agreement with TradeAddresses.com, a referral property listing network. This partnership will allow thousands of RealUp.com commercial listings to automatically appear in TradeAddresses’ property catalog via the RealUp API web service. "RealUp is very pleased to announce this new agreement with TradeAddresses.com," said Brian Randy Funk, President of RealUp. "This is an additional way RealUp will help get commercial property sold and increase exposure for real estate listings." The RealUp commercial…
 
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    Oh My Apartment

  • Notice Requirements for Landlords Entering Rented Property - By State

    Oh My Apartment
    6 Feb 2012 | 12:32 pm
    Below are the notice requirements for the amount of notice landlords must give tenants before they enter a rented property (in non-emergency situations). For more details, see your state’s landlord-tenant statutes. Source: Nolo.com Related Posts:Security Deposit Return Laws: Landlord Deadlines By StateRental Security Deposit Limits by StateCalifornia “Notice to Quit” Requirements ChangeTenant Security Deposit Cleaning Fees: What Can Your Landlord Legally Deduct?Apartment in Construction: Your Rights as a Tenant

  • Security Deposit Return Laws: Landlord Deadlines By State

    Oh My Apartment
    30 Jan 2012 | 12:52 pm
    There are laws on security deposit return, particularly on the amount of time a landlord has to return a tenant’s security deposit after vacating a property. For details on your state’s specific procedures for returning security deposits, see your state’s landlord-tenant statutes. Source: Nolo.com Related Posts:Rental Security Deposit Limits by StateTenant Security Deposit Cleaning Fees: What Can Your Landlord Legally Deduct?What is the Statute of Limitations for Security Deposits?What Cleaning and Repair Charges Can a Landlord Deduct from Your Security Deposit?Security…

  • Moving Tips: How to Pack for a Move

    Oh My Apartment
    23 Jan 2012 | 5:41 pm
    Packing typically isn’t a chore people enjoy, but it is something most of us have or will have to do at some point. While packing before a move isn’t necessarily enjoyable (or easy), it is a necessity. Learning how to properly pack and transport your furniture, appliances, household goods, and electronics it critical to ensuring that the contents of your home be protected while in transit. Read our tips below to reduce of the chance of damage during your upcoming move. Kitchen Appliances — Small You’ll need: - Blank newsprint or your own towels and linens -…

  • Best Houston Apartments - Great Uptown Area

    Oh My Apartment
    16 Jan 2012 | 1:25 pm
    The Great Uptown neighborhood of Houston, Texas is one of the most highly sought after locations on ApartmentRatings.com and now we’ve made finding your dream apartment even easier. Check out the top five apartment complexes in the area, each of which has glowing recommendations by over 75% of ApartmentRatings.com users. Listed in descending order, each complex has been reviewed by at least 10 ApartmentRatings.com users; key amenities and resident comments are highlighted. 1. Three Fountains III Recommended by 94% of users; 4.5 overall rating This 2-story complex has 200 units ranging from…

  • A Guide to Living in Austin, Texas

    Oh My Apartment
    9 Jan 2012 | 12:08 pm
    Living in Austin, a city where having character counts and being “weird” is welcomed, is an experience enjoyed by 1.2 million Texas residents. Austin’s culture and lifestyle vacillates between New Urban and classic ways. A place where laid back, old fashioned neighborhoods collide with bustling modern areas, Austin, the capital and fourth largest city in the state of Texas, is a blend of pedestrian-friendly communities where residents have easy access to cafes, shops, clubs, galleries and more. Awards According to Small Planet Guide*1, Austin, Texas sports a few Top 10 awards…
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    Missouri Living At It's BEST!

  • Home, Office, or Both! Plenty of room.

    Steve Mattison ABR e-Pro Branson Buyer's Specialist (Carol Jones, Realtors)
    25 Jan 2012 | 11:33 am
    Home, Office, or Both! Plenty of room. Overview Maps Photos $89,900 Single Family Home Main Features 4 Bedrooms2 BathroomsInterior: 1,900 sqftLot: 0.50 acre(s) Location 736 Spokane RoadSpokane, MO 65754USA To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below: Steve Mattison ABR e-Pro Carol Jones, Realtors(417) 338-2022steve@caroljones.comhttp://www.stevemattison.caroljones.com       Listed by: Steve Mattison ABR e-Pro, Carol Jones, Realtors Our recent listings Home, Office, or Both! Plenty of room.New construction begins 2012.Brand new…

  • My Role as Your Buyer's Agent is to Help You Win

    Steve Mattison ABR e-Pro Branson Buyer's Specialist (Carol Jones, Realtors)
    11 Jan 2012 | 9:21 am
    Loorena Yeo is the kind of buyer's agent I would hire if I were looking to buy property, picking your buyer's agent is the first step in several that are required to make a wise investment!Via Loreena Yeo, Realtor®| Frisco TX Community Ambassador (214)783-2210 (3:16 team REALTY ~ Locally-owned Frisco TX Real Estate Co.): My role as your buyer's agent is to help you win: Win in a real estate transaction; Win in helping you and your family find a home. Home buyers in Frisco TX (or anywhere in America, USA) have probably been influenced by too much negativity in the news media of how bad the…

  • Branson Missouri Real Estate Market Report for December 2011

    Steve Mattison ABR e-Pro Branson Buyer's Specialist (Carol Jones, Realtors)
    6 Jan 2012 | 12:04 pm
    According to our local statistics, Branson single family homes sales last month total was again only 19 single family, built-on-site homes with the highest priced one selling for $650,000 and the lowest priced one selling for $60,000.  The medium price is down to $140,000.  Not good news for Branson home owners or sellers.  10 homes were short-sale and foreclosure sales and that is more news we really did not need.  That is an increasing influence by the distress sales market in our Branson Market and not the good sign we have been looking for!  There were 9 condos reported to have…

  • Stone County Missouri around Table Rock Lake Market Report for December 2011.

    Steve Mattison ABR e-Pro Branson Buyer's Specialist (Carol Jones, Realtors)
    6 Jan 2012 | 11:49 am
    According to local information, Stone County MO single family homes sales last month total was down again to just 15 single family, built on site, homes with the highest priced one selling for $665,000 and the lowest priced one selling for $31,500. That is not good news for home sellers in the Table Rock Lake area.  The medium price of those homes sold was down to $140,000.  The only good news is  only 3 were sold as short-sales and foreclousres.   Major areas covered by this report are Branson, Branson West, Cape Fair, Crane, Hurley, Kimberling City, Lampe, Galena, Shell Knob & Reeds…

  • Ranch home on 5 acre horse property with pond and barn

    Steve Mattison ABR e-Pro Branson Buyer's Specialist (Carol Jones, Realtors)
    17 Dec 2011 | 3:05 pm
    Home with 5 acres and a pond. Overview Maps Photos Description $139,900 Single Family Home Main Features 3 Bedrooms2 Bathrooms1 Partial BathroomInterior: 2,898 sqftLot: 5.00 acre(s) Location 287 Emerald RdSpokane, MO 65754USA To get updates on open home dates and other property events, please click the "Like" button below: Steve Mattison ABR e-Pro Carol Jones, Realtors(417) 338-2022steve@caroljones.comhttp://www.stevemattison.caroljones.com       Listed by: Steve Mattison ABR e-Pro, Carol Jones, Realtors Our recent listings Home with 5 acres and a pond.Single Family Residential for…
 
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    Realty Times Real Estate News Channel

  • Ask the HOA Expert

    8 Feb 2012 | 12:00 am
    Our HOA board has some funds that we want to put into a CD to earn more. The funds are not going to be needed for about 3-5 years. We are currently getting a very low rate of return in a Money Market account but can improve our position by 2-3% by long term CD investing. What are the downsides?

  • Top 10 Flowers for Curb Appeal

    8 Feb 2012 | 12:00 am
    Are you fighting a bad case of cabin fever this Winter? If so you're not alone! Dormant flower beds all across the nation are begging for some splashes of color. Here's a list of the top 10 inexpensive, easy-to-maintain flowers that will please those beds, your budget, and your neighbors.

  • Homeownership Possible Within Three Years After Foreclosure

    8 Feb 2012 | 12:00 am
    Losing your home can be devastating to your credit, not to mention your psyche, but you can buy again within as few as three years after a foreclosure or short sale. If you lost your home to foreclosure or a short sale, don't lose hope. Don't hesitate. Begin today putting yourself in a good position to buy.

  • Mortgage Rates Continue Low Despite Upbeat Economic Data

    8 Feb 2012 | 12:00 am
    Since most of the news coming out of Europe has been helping to keep mortgage rates low, upbeat economic data in the U.S. did not have as much of an impact as was expected on Friday. The stock market remained down until Friday, when several key reports were released and investors returned to risky assets.
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    New at craigmische.com

  • Three Havens from a Chris-Craft

    Craig Mische, Sotheby's International Realty
    6 Feb 2012 | 11:24 am
    What you are looking at are the homes and cottages of Lake Carlos' Three Havens Drive. I recorded the video in July of 2010 aboard a classic Chris-Craft captained by my friend, Bruce Olson (the Executive Director of the Minnesota Lakes Maritime Museum).Check out all current Lake Carlos properties for sale

  • Housing Inventory Down

    Craig Mische, Sotheby's International Realty
    20 Jan 2012 | 7:37 am
    Yesterday The Wall Street Journal reported a positive sign for the housing sector. There were fewer homes listed for sale at the end of 2011 than in any of the previous four years. This was also the case in Alexandria's MLS for homes with or without lakeshore. Lower inventories are good as fewer properties for sale means less to choose from for buyers and this is good for sellers. As Martha Stewart would say, "this is a good thing".

  • Progress at the Maritime Gardens

    Craig Mische, Sotheby's International Realty
    10 Jan 2012 | 7:12 am
    Balmy weather allowed landscapers to work later into 2011 than anticipated at the site of the Maritime Gardens in Alexandria and with yesterday's spring-like conditions, I stopped by to walk around a bit and shot a quick video with my phone to show the progress.

  • Good News for Fishing on The Chain of Lakes

    Craig Mische, Sotheby's International Realty
    9 Jan 2012 | 6:54 am
    Stocking Lake Le Homme Dieu over the last five years has been project of the Viking Sportsment stocking committee and on December 26th they installed 765 pounds of walleye fingerlings [source: Echo Press]. They put the fingerlings, and 12-13 inch walleyes, in three locations: Le Homme Dieu Beach, Rotary Beach and the public access at the northeast end of the lake by Krueger's Creek. The original plan was for five years total but the committee stock for an additional sixth year because of public support.

  • Historical Mortgage Rate Trend Chart

    Craig Mische, Sotheby's International Realty
    20 Dec 2011 | 7:32 am
    Thank you to the Phoenix Real Estate Guy for the chart.
 
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    WSJ.com Video - Real Estate

  • Hong Kong Apartment for $3.9 Million

    7 Feb 2012 | 9:46 pm
    This 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath apartment in Hong Kong's Mid-Levels neighborhood is selling for $3.9 million. WSJ's Andrew LaVallee and Deborah Kan discuss.

  • Luxury Loft in TriBeCa

    6 Feb 2012 | 5:19 pm
    This sleek loft in an old apothecary building in TriBeCa boasts maple floors, nearly 360-degree views of New York City and the Hudson River, and countertops made with the same marble found in the garden at Museum of Modern Art.

  • Slower Office Construction Could Mean Higher Rents

    6 Feb 2012 | 9:23 am
    WSJ's Eliot Brown reports unsettled lenders are facing higher costs while investors are shying away from starting new office buildings. REUTERS/Gary Hershorn

  • January's Most Popular Houses

    3 Feb 2012 | 6:08 pm
    Each week, readers vote on their favorite of the homes featured as the House of the Day. Tour January's winners, from a French chateau style mansion north of Fort Worth, Texas, to a 18th century estate with a swimming pool and beach access on Martha's Vineyard.

  • Investing in Foreclosures: How One Company Does It

    3 Feb 2012 | 1:39 pm
    Buying foreclosures to turn them into rental properties is tricky business. Mack Companies, a Chicago real-estate firm, invests in about one out of every 40 homes it inspects. MarketWatch's Amy Hoak looks at why some make the cut and others don't.
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    Developments

  • Big Suppliers Absent From Builders’ Show

    WSJ Staff
    7 Feb 2012 | 11:44 am
    By Amy Hoak Some big home-appliance manufacturers will be conspicuous by their absence from the International Builders’ Show this week, a sign that the new-home market is still weak, despite some recent improvement in employment and other economic indicators. For suppliers to the building industry, the trade show used to be a can’t-miss event. To dazzle potential builder customers, companies would invite celebrity chefs to cook on their ranges. The enticing smell of baking cookies would draw attendees to take a look at one oven or another. But big brands such as Whirlpool, GE, Kenmore and…

  • Fannie Mae: Outlook for Home Prices Rises Again

    WSJ Staff
    7 Feb 2012 | 10:21 am
    Fannie Mae By Mia Lamar The consumer outlook for U.S. home prices improved again in January, extending a recent upward trend in housing market sentiment, according to mortgage market firm Fannie Mae. For its monthly reading, Fannie Mae said respondents in its January survey predicted home prices will rise by 1% over the next year, up from the 0.8% gain forecast in December. Views on the direction of the U.S. economy also continued to improve. According to the respondents, 30% said they believe the U.S. economy is on the right track, up from 22% with that view in December. The percentage who…

  • Home-Price Scorecard Shows a Falling Market

    Matthew Strozier
    7 Feb 2012 | 9:31 am
    The housing bust continues, at least according to the latest batch of home-price reports. The monthly scorecard on November’s data showed that, on a year-over-year basis, home prices continued to slip across the country. Seasonal price drops are not uncommon late in the year, but the declines are more pronounced in today’s market, according to Raj Dosaj, vice president of LPS Applied Analytics’s home-price index. LPS said that the national average home price for transactions during November was $199,000, a level not seen since October 2002. In addition, mortgage-technology company FNC…

  • Competition Heats Up for Deutsche Bank’s Giant Property Portfolio

    WSJ Staff
    6 Feb 2012 | 2:25 pm
    By Craig Karmin and Laura Stevens The field of a dozen suitors vying for Deutsche Bank’s asset management business, which includes a giant real estate investment program, could be whittled in half with binding bids due on Wednesday, according to people familiar with the matter. Those left are expected to include State Street, Ameriprise Financial, Macquarie Group, Aquiline Holdings LLC and Guggenheim Partners, these people said. Deutsche Bank is hoping to raise as much as $2 billion from the sale. Deutsche Bank spokeswoman Mayura Hooper in New York declined to comment on the bidders. More…

  • Slower Office Construction Could Mean Higher Rents (Video)

    WSJ Staff
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:44 am
    A sector prone to booms and busts, office construction is at its lowest level in a half century, down more than 80% since peaks in the mid-1980s and in 2000. That could mean higher rents are a few years out, as the Journal reports today in the Outlook column and on the News Hub. Photo: Reuters
 
 
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    NYT > Mortgages and the Markets

  • Mortgage Relief Plan Is Closer to Winning Support of California

    4 Feb 2012 | 11:00 pm
    Potential support from California and New York would come in exchange for tightening provisions in order to preserve the right to investigate past misdeeds by the banks, and stepping up oversight.

  • Mortgage Tornado Warning, Unheeded

    3 Feb 2012 | 11:00 pm
    Inspired by a personal experience, a businessman began delving into the practices of the mortgage industry, including Fannie Mae. His findings have been prescient.

  • An Easier Path to Refinancing

    3 Feb 2012 | 11:00 pm
    President Obama’s new mortgage refinancing plan could provide considerable relief for millions of homeowners shackled to high interest rates, if Congress approves it.

  • New York Sues 3 Banks Over MERS Mortgage Database

    2 Feb 2012 | 11:00 pm
    The state attorney general asserted that fraudulent use of the tracking system allowed Bank of America, Wells Fargo and JPMorgan Chase to avoid the need for recording mortgage transfers.

  • Mortgage Relief Plan Aims at Refinancing

    31 Jan 2012 | 11:00 pm
    President Obama said a new package of legislation would make it easier for millions of homeowners to refinance at today’s historically low interest rates.
 
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    HUD Press Releases

  • OBAMA ADMINISTRATION RELEASES JANUARY HOUSING SCORECARD

    6 Feb 2012 | 6:07 am
    WASHINGTON--The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of the Treasury today released the January edition of the Obama Administration's Housing Scorecard - a comprehensive report on the nation's housing market. Data in the January Housing Scorecard underscore fragility as the overall outlook remains mixed. Inventories of existing homes for sale and the overhang of homes held off market improved over the last two quarters and foreclosure starts continued to fall in December. However, data on new home sales and home prices offered mixed signals, while…

  • HUD ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL $31.5 MILLION TO FUND HOUSING FOR VERY LOW-INCOME SENIORS

    3 Feb 2012 | 6:07 am
    WASHINGTON - Hundreds of very low-income senior citizens will have access to affordable supportive housing thanks to $31.5 million in housing assistance announced today by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The funding announced today (see attached list) will help non-profit organizations in five states produce additional accessible housing, offer rental assistance, and facilitate supportive services for the elderly.

  • HUD SECRETARY ANNOUNCES DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR UTAH STORM VICTIMS

    2 Feb 2012 | 6:07 am
    WASHINGTON-U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan today announced HUD will speed federal disaster assistance to the State of Utah and provide support to homeowners and low-income renters forced from their homes following severe storms in November and December.

  • HUD SECRETARY ANNOUNCES DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR ALABAMA STORM VICTIMS

    2 Feb 2012 | 6:07 am
    WASHINGTON-U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan today announced HUD will speed federal disaster assistance to the State of Alabama and provide support to homeowners and low-income renters forced from their homes following severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding last month.

  • TEMPORARY DISASTER PROGRAM FOR VICTIMS OF HURRICANES IKE AND GUSTAV TODAY - REMAINING FAMILIES GIVEN MORE TIME TO TRANSITION

    31 Jan 2012 | 6:07 am
    WASHINGTON - A rental assistance program that temporarily housed nearly 20,000 families who were displaced by Hurricanes Ike and Gustav in 2008 officially ends today with only 3,500 households still enrolled in the program. To help these families find permanent housing solutions, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will provide $28 million to convert eligible families to its Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program.
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    What's New on HUDclips

  • Federal Registers

    2 Feb 2012 | 7:45 am
    FR-5511-N-07 Credit Watch Termination Initiative Termination of Direct Endorsement (DE) Approval FR-5511-N-06 Credit Watch Termination Initiative Termination of Origination Approval Agreements

  • PIH Notices

    1 Feb 2012 | 12:54 pm
    2012-06 Recapture Provisions for the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 (NAHASDA) Funds Authorized under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 2012-05 Implementation of Statutory Change to the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 (NAHASDA) related to Income

  • Federal Registers

    1 Feb 2012 | 7:30 am
    FR-5300-FA-08 Announcement of Funding Awards for the Brownfields Economic Development Initiative (BEDI) Program for Fiscal Year 2009 FR-5419-FA-01 Announcement of Funding Awards for the Brownfields Economic Development Initiative (BEDI) Program for Fiscal Year 2009 Second Competition FR-5415-FA-40 Announcement of Funding Awards for the Brownfields Economic Development Initiative (BEDI) Program for Fiscal Year 2010

  • Form HUD-2060

    31 Jan 2012 | 9:49 am
    Voluntary Leave Transfer Form

  • CPD Notice 2012-03

    31 Jan 2012 | 9:45 am
    Guidance on Resale and Recapture Provision Requirements under the HOME Program
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    Real Estate Broker Market News- IQ Real Estate

  • Free Real Estate Marketing

    8 Feb 2012 | 11:42 am
    Get quality referrals and leads. Post Flash Property Listings (up to 10 photos per listing, no limits). Upgrade to Photo / Premium Broker / Agent Listing for free. If you are a 4-Star Agent or Broker, you should check IQRealEstate.com out. Over 900,000 agents listed. We are by far the Fastest Growing Directory online. Over 300,000 pages indexed in search engines. Be IQ Smart.

  • Scam Suspect Arrested, Alert Issued

    7 Feb 2012 | 11:42 am
    40-year old William Richard Slattery III is charged with multiple counts of racketeering and posing as an unlicensed real estate broker.

  • Trial underway for real estate broker

    7 Feb 2012 | 11:42 am
    The trial is underway for a former Lafayette real estate broker charged with 13 felonies.

  • Unpaid Interns Enter the World of Real Estate

    6 Feb 2012 | 11:42 am
    Meet the real estate broker's interns: an ambitious group willing to do anything, earn nothing and wake up early on a Sunday to fluff the couch cushions at open houses.

  • Unpaid Interns Enter the World of Real Estate

    6 Feb 2012 | 11:42 am
    Meet the real estate broker's interns: an ambitious group willing to do anything, earn nothing and wake up early on a Sunday to fluff the couch cushions at open houses.
 
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    Real Estate Agent Market News- IQ Real Estate

  • Free Real Estate Marketing

    8 Feb 2012 | 11:42 am
    Get quality referrals and leads. Post Flash Property Listings (up to 10 photos per listing, no limits). Upgrade to Photo / Premium Agent Listing for free. If you are a 4-Star Agent or Broker, you should check IQRealEstate.com out. Over 900,000 agents listed. We are by far the Fastest Growing Directory online. Over 300,000 pages indexed in search engines. Be IQ Smart.

  • Court ruled agent must be paid $9,446 commission even though property wasn?t sold.

    6 Feb 2012 | 11:42 am
    When you put your house up for sale, expecting a real estate agent to spend time marketing your property, you have to take his effort seriously.

  • Real estate title agent to add 200

    6 Feb 2012 | 11:42 am
    The parent of United Lender Services, a national real estate title and settlement agent in Findlay, has acquired two large office buildings along the Parkway West, where ULS will relocate and triple its employment to more than 250.

  • Charlie Sheen's Realtor Vs Brooke Mueller's Mom

    6 Feb 2012 | 11:42 am
    Charlie Sheen's real estate agent is being sued by Brooke Mueller's mom

  • Real estate title agent to add 200

    6 Feb 2012 | 11:42 am
    The parent of United Lender Services, a national real estate title and settlement agent in Findlay, has acquired two large office buildings along the Parkway West, where ULS will relocate and triple its employment to more than 250.
 
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    Business Insider

  • EU Slapping Syria With Harsher Sanctions As Violence Gets Worse

    Tim Fitzsimons
    8 Feb 2012 | 8:36 am
    This post originally appeared in Global Post. A European Union official has said the member states plan to enact harsher sanctions on Syria in response to the violent conflict that is sweeping the country, the Associated Press reported. The proposals include a ban on flights to and from Syria, and a ban on the importation of precious minerals and phosphates. 40 percent of Syria's phosphate output is sold to Europe. The official said the sanctions will be proposed for adoption at the February 27 meeting of EU foreign ministers. More from GlobalPost: Why Russia stands by Syria…

  • All Regulators Need To Do To Keep Brokers In Check Is Enforce Fraud Laws

    David Crisanti
    8 Feb 2012 | 8:35 am
    The CFPB would do well to enforce usury and fraud laws in the broker margin arena. This realm, a major consumer borrowing area that is largely ignored by regulators, involves the credit extended to clients of retail brokerage firms. The Securities and Exchange Commission’s Regulation T provides that when a client buys a stock the broker is allowed to loan the buyer up to 50% of the purchase price. The NYSE stipulates that if a client’s equity value sinks (i.e. the stock drops after the client bought it or rises after he shorted it) the broker must reduce the…

  • WATCH: A High School Basketball Player Channels Blake Griffin In This Monster Dunk

    Lorenzo Arguello
    8 Feb 2012 | 8:32 am
    The NBA and college basketball provide us with their fair share of facials, but it's not everyday that we see a high school kid posterizing an opposing player. Here's North Kansas City High School's Roy Clayter dropping a huge dunk (via The Big Lead). Please follow Sports Page on Twitter and Facebook.Join the conversation about this story »See Also:Kevin Durant: Blake Griffin's Monster Dunk That Blew Up The Internet Was 'A Layup'DOUG KASS: SELL EVERYTHING! EVEN ROUBINI IS BULLISH!The Catholic Church Has Launched A Fight Against Obama That's Unprecedented In American History

  • Watch Ellen DeGeneres Fire Back At Her JC Penney Haters—Here's Today's Buzz

    Aly Weisman
    8 Feb 2012 | 8:31 am
    41-year-old mother of three Kelly Ripa is seriously ripped. Ashton Kutcher's "Two and a Half Men" co-stars surprised him with cake Tuesday for the actor's 34th birthday.  Instead of gifts, Ashton asked for birthday donations to fight child sex slavery. Eva Mendes talks to her dog—in french. Joseph Gordon-Levitt will make his directorial debut with Scarlett Johansson as his leading lady. Snooki admits she's bisexual while questioning The Situation's sexualtiy. "Mob Wives" stars fight and strip down in new "Funny or Die" parody video. Because they don't actually do that on the show?

  • Here's The Teaser Trailer For 'Atlas Shrugged Part 2'

    Jim Edwards
    8 Feb 2012 | 8:30 am
    Conservatives everywhere salivated over Atlas Shrugged Part 1, the movie version of Ayn Rand's lengthy novel about the value of selfishness (and how difficult it is to run a railroad). But few of them actually saw it: Taylor Schilling's portrayal of Dagny Taggart booked only $4.6 million at the box office. Despite the free market's decisive rejection of the film, Atlas Productions has somehow gotten a green light for the second part of the trilogy that will complete Rand's greatest work. The first installment of the movie gathered huge advance press because many of America's most prominent…
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    Credit.com News + Advice

  • Debt Paydown: Time for an Attitude Adjustment

    Chris Geoffrey
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:30 am
    I have been lazy and sliding backwards on more than one front. I did not track my spending or food intake for a couple of weeks.  I spent more than I should have and I gained a couple of pounds instead of losing weight. Blame it on the rain, the snow, the cold—how do I blame it on the warm sunshine and 65 degree temperatures in Iowa in the middle of winter? Today is a new day.  I caught up with my backlog over the weekend and I am back on track with my spending and my food tracking.  If I write it down, I don’t spend it or eat it.  It holds me accountable. To…

  • Big Hospital Bill? Negotiate!

    Gerri Detweiler
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:09 am
    Brett Goldstein is used to dealing with big numbers. After all, he runs a pension service company. But nothing quite prepared him for the shock of the medical bills he received after his daughter broke her leg and spent less than 24 hours in the ER. The total tab? Around $30,000. Although Goldstein had health insurance, his daughter had broken her leg in a fall on someone else’s property, and their insurance would pay the bills. All he had to do was forward them to the property owner’s insurance company. That twist, though, led Goldstein deep into the complicated world of medical…

  • Foreclosure Mediation Can Help Homeowners

    Credit.com
    7 Feb 2012 | 4:30 pm
    While critics have said that foreclosure mediation mandates will only serve to slow down the process and create considerable issues for borrowers and financial institutions, a recent study found this is not the case. Currently, there are 19 states that mandate homeowners go through a mediation program before their property can be foreclosed upon, and data collected from those programs suggest that not only do they not prolong the process, but they also save money, according to a report from the National Consumer Law Center. In particular, the fees associated with these mediation programs…

  • The New Breed of Phishing Scams: It’s Complicated

    Christopher Maag
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:58 pm
    Maybe you think you can spot scam emails by the broken English, the pleas to wire money via Western Union and the references to Nigerian princes. Think again. The latest phishing attacks are so well-crafted, they look exactly like emails you might receive from major banks like Wells Fargo and Bank of America, says Ondrej Krehel, information security officer at Identity Theft 911, Credit.com’s sister company. “It’s very sophisticated,” Krehel says. “Hackers are creating these pages to look exactly like professionally crafted bank pages. So it does have the look…

  • Find the Best Balance Transfer Credit Card for You

    Credit.com
    7 Feb 2012 | 12:00 pm
    If you have a large amount of credit card debt and you’re looking to pay it down, you’re probably in the market for a card with a great introductory offer that will let you transfer your existing balance. That makes sense. These days, lots of credit cards come with introductory offers that extend a zero percent rate for anywhere from six to as long as 18 months, and that usually will give you plenty of time to significantly reduce the amount you owe to a more manageable level. [Credit Card Review: The Best Balance Transfer Credit Card in America] But of course, there are many…
 
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    HousingWire

  • Refinancing activity surges 7.5% on low interest rates

    8 Feb 2012 | 6:24 am
    Mortgage applications grew 7.5% this past week as record low interest rates lifted refinancing activity, an industry trade group said Wednesday. read more

  • Annaly Capital 4Q income falls 63%

    7 Feb 2012 | 5:32 pm
    Earnings at Annaly Capital dropped nearly 63% to $445.6 million, or 46 cents a share, in the fourth quarter from $1.2 billion, or $1.94 a share, in the year-earlier period. read more

  • Two Harbors far from MBS issuance, explores REO rentals

    7 Feb 2012 | 4:13 pm
    Two Harbors, the Maryland real estate investment trust, is slowly building its privately issued mortgage-backed securities operations and will explore ways to invest in an REO-to-rental program. read more

  • House panel set to move on more CFPB reform bills

    7 Feb 2012 | 3:31 pm
    A House subcommittee will hold a hearing to fine tune three more bills introduced last year attempting to reform the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. read more

  • S&P outlook for homebuilders is cautiously optimistic

    7 Feb 2012 | 2:24 pm
    The outlook for U.S. homebuilders is cautiously optimistic as the firms slug through an economy with weak employment levels, competition from foreclosures, tighter loan underwriting guidelines. read more
 
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    Developments

  • Big Suppliers Absent From Builders’ Show

    WSJ Staff
    7 Feb 2012 | 11:44 am
    By Amy Hoak Some big home-appliance manufacturers will be conspicuous by their absence from the International Builders’ Show this week, a sign that the new-home market is still weak, despite some recent improvement in employment and other economic indicators. For suppliers to the building industry, the trade show used to be a can’t-miss event. To dazzle potential builder customers, companies would invite celebrity chefs to cook on their ranges. The enticing smell of baking cookies would draw attendees to take a look at one oven or another. But big brands such as Whirlpool, GE, Kenmore and…

  • Fannie Mae: Outlook for Home Prices Rises Again

    WSJ Staff
    7 Feb 2012 | 10:21 am
    Fannie Mae By Mia Lamar The consumer outlook for U.S. home prices improved again in January, extending a recent upward trend in housing market sentiment, according to mortgage market firm Fannie Mae. For its monthly reading, Fannie Mae said respondents in its January survey predicted home prices will rise by 1% over the next year, up from the 0.8% gain forecast in December. Views on the direction of the U.S. economy also continued to improve. According to the respondents, 30% said they believe the U.S. economy is on the right track, up from 22% with that view in December. The percentage who…

  • Home-Price Scorecard Shows a Falling Market

    Matthew Strozier
    7 Feb 2012 | 9:31 am
    The housing bust continues, at least according to the latest batch of home-price reports. The monthly scorecard on November’s data showed that, on a year-over-year basis, home prices continued to slip across the country. Seasonal price drops are not uncommon late in the year, but the declines are more pronounced in today’s market, according to Raj Dosaj, vice president of LPS Applied Analytics’s home-price index. LPS said that the national average home price for transactions during November was $199,000, a level not seen since October 2002. In addition, mortgage-technology company FNC…

  • Competition Heats Up for Deutsche Bank’s Giant Property Portfolio

    WSJ Staff
    6 Feb 2012 | 2:25 pm
    By Craig Karmin and Laura Stevens The field of a dozen suitors vying for Deutsche Bank’s asset management business, which includes a giant real estate investment program, could be whittled in half with binding bids due on Wednesday, according to people familiar with the matter. Those left are expected to include State Street, Ameriprise Financial, Macquarie Group, Aquiline Holdings LLC and Guggenheim Partners, these people said. Deutsche Bank is hoping to raise as much as $2 billion from the sale. Deutsche Bank spokeswoman Mayura Hooper in New York declined to comment on the bidders. More…

  • Slower Office Construction Could Mean Higher Rents (Video)

    WSJ Staff
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:44 am
    A sector prone to booms and busts, office construction is at its lowest level in a half century, down more than 80% since peaks in the mid-1980s and in 2000. That could mean higher rents are a few years out, as the Journal reports today in the Outlook column and on the News Hub. Photo: Reuters
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    InvestorCentric

  • US Housing Market Bottom Not Panacea

    Eric Ames
    2 Feb 2012 | 10:48 am
    Many real estate forecasters tend to speak about the arrival of a bottom in the U.S. housing market as an answer to everyone’s woes, but a look to the past shows that may not be the case. Analyst Tim Iacono references economists Robert Shiller and Barry Ritholtz in a discussion about the dip in Los Angeles home prices in 1996. He notes that prices stayed low for four years following the dive, suggesting that any bottom that may come in 2012 will likely not be the answer everyone hopes it will be – at least in the near term. For more on this continue reading the following article from Tim…

  • It's Time To Drop Those Money Funds

    Eric Ames
    30 Jan 2012 | 1:33 pm
    If you are still invested in money funds, Bernanke's announcement that the Fed plans on keeping interest rates the same for the foreseeable future should help spur you into action. With returns near 0%, if you keep money in a money fund, you are simply losing buying power everyday to inflation. Tim Iacono from The Mess That Greenspan Made, takes a closer look at money fund investments in his blog post below.More fallout from last week’s Fed announcement of a one-and-a-half year extension to their freakishly low interest rate forecast comes via this MarketWatch story about the dim prospects…

  • Fed Economists Laugh It Off

    Eric Ames
    23 Jan 2012 | 11:29 am
    A new graph is making its way around the Internet that charts the amount of laughter recorded by Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) stenographers during meetings between 2001 and 2006 – during the ramp-up to the recession. The graph shows that committee members had increasingly more fun as the years passed, and suggests they could have been doing more to keep an eye on the growing housing bubble that would soon burst. The FOMC is expected to announce a new initiative regarding interest-rate projections and future impact, and many are wondering how many will be laughing. For more on this…

  • Stiglitz Forecasts Financial Doom, Gloom

    Eric Ames
    13 Jan 2012 | 12:20 pm
    Columbia University professor and Nobel laureate Joseph Stiglitz is not optimistic about the prospect of the American Dream as the country moves into 2012. Stiglitz waxes philosophical about the country’s growing wage gap, terminal unemployment and financial crises that have erupted in multiple areas of the world. He opines that working on long-term problems like fiscal debt could actually solve short-term problems like unemployment if the world’s power players were not rooted in politics as usual. The fear, Stiglitz says, is that the system will cataclysmically right itself before cooler…

  • Fed Backs Conversion of Foreclosures into Rentals

    Eric Ames
    6 Jan 2012 | 11:31 am
    The Federal Reserve’s latest report on the U.S. housing market indicates its advocacy for the bundling and selling of government-owned foreclosed homes to investors who can then convert the homes into rental properties. The report notes that the market is not expected to improve and that interest in rentals will continue to increase, thereby opening the door to a government investment opportunity. Some critics believe, however, that the ulterior motive here is to neutralize an area (rental costs) that accounts the for the Fed’s “core” inflation rate by placing more rentals on the…
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    The Housing Chronicles Blog

  • BuilderBytes' MetroIntelligence Economic Update for 2/06/12

    6 Feb 2012 | 12:00 pm
    Please click here to see the edition of BuilderBytes for 2/06/12 on the Web.In this issue of the MetroIntelligence Economic Update, I covered the following indicators:U.S. gains 243,000 jobs in January, almost all in the private sector at unemployment rate falls to 8.3%Both factory orders and inventories continued to rise in DecemberNon-manufacturing sector activity rose at faster rate in JanuaryWant to advertise in the newsletter and reach over 100,000 readers? Contact National Sales Manager Nick Cosan at nkosan@penpubinc.com.Want to make sure your company or event is included in the events…

  • BuilderBytes' MetroIntelligence Economic Update for 2/03/12

    3 Feb 2012 | 3:23 pm
    Please click here to see the edition of BuilderBytes for 2/03/12 on the Web.In this issue of the MetroIntelligence Economic Update, I covered the following indicators:Construction spending rose in December but still down by 2.0% for 2011Private sector employment rose by 170,000 jobs in JanuaryPlanned job cuts rose by 28% in January, generally the heaviest job-cut month of the yearInitial unemployment claims fall by 12,000 in latest surveyWorker productivity decreased in fourth quarter of 2011 as labor costs rose by 1.2%Manufacturing sector activity expands for 30th straight monthMortgage…

  • President Obama outlines "Project Rebuild" to help housing market

    2 Feb 2012 | 6:11 pm
    From HousingZone.com:Following up his original proposals during the State of the Union address, President Obama outlined the specifics of his plans to help the housing market recovery on Wednesday. The president outlined a seven-part effort that would address the housing crisis from multiple angles. The entirety of the president’s plan would be funded through an additional fee on large banks, a measure sure to face congressional opposition.The plan was outlined as follows:1. New and improved processes to help more borrowers refinance their mortgagesThe goal is to create a new refinancing…

  • February column for Builder & Developer magazine now online

    1 Feb 2012 | 5:18 pm
    My column for the February issue of Builder & Developer magazine is now posted online.For this issue, entitled "The Green Building Revolution Expands," I discussed the merging of green building and smart building techniques for all types of new building projects. As part of this column, I also interviewed CityView CEO Henry Cisneros (former HUD Secretary under President Clinton) and AMCAL President Arjun Nagarkatti.An excerpt:For the last two decades, we’ve continued to hear about the advantages of “smart growth,” and in most cases that means new developments which promote efficient…

  • BuilderBytes' MetroIntelligence Economic Update for 2/01/12

    1 Feb 2012 | 12:00 pm
    Please click here to see the edition of BuilderBytesfor 2/01/12 on the Web.In this issue of theMetroIntelligence Economic Update, I covered the following indicators:Case-Shiller Indices show continued decline in home pricesConsumer Confidence Index decreases slightly in JanuaryChicago Business Barometer falls slightly in January but still marks 28th month of expansionPersonal income up, consumer spending flat in DecemberEmployment cost index rises by 0.4% in December in line with expectationsWant to advertise in the newsletter and reach over 100,000 readers? Contact National Sales Manager…
 
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    House Keys | Sun Sentinel Blogs

  • Paying homeowners to complete short sales

    8 Feb 2012 | 8:23 am
    Bloomberg is out with a piece on banks offering cash to homeowners to complete short sales. We wrote a similar story last summer. The lenders are trying to get bad loans off their books and hoping the money ensures cooperation from the homeowners. Obviously, it’s a fantastic deal if you can get it, but the banks don’t say how they select homeowners for the incentive. Have you gotten one? Tell us about it. To follow Paul Owers on Twitter, click here.

  • House takes step to shrink Citizens insurer

    7 Feb 2012 | 6:30 am
    The Florida House last week passed a measure that would allow less regulated “surplus lines” insurance carriers to take over policies from Citizens Property Insurance Corp. The bill, which still must be approved by the Senate, is part of an effort to shrink Citizens, the state-backed insurer of last resort. It has 1.5 million policies, including 650,000 in Southeast Florida. Sean Shaw, founder of Policyholders of Florida, an advocacy group, blasted the House for approving the legislation. “This bill welcomes vultures into our insurance market, leaving Citizens with only the most risky…

  • Is housing still making you miserable? Vote in our poll

    6 Feb 2012 | 5:30 am
    For the second year in a row, the housing crisis helped West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Miami land on Forbes magazine’s list of the nation’s most miserable cities. Last year was the first time Forbes used housing as a factor in the rankings. And with prices still declining, the region remains a prime target for naysayers. But is it right to still use housing against us? Sales have been strong, prices have stabilized in many areas and the market appears to be searching for a bottom. Analysts say South Florida is in the middle of a slow recovery. What’s so miserable about that? Tell…

  • Ask a real estate pro: Will Obama's new mortgage plan make a difference?

    3 Feb 2012 | 6:45 am
    Board-certified real estate attorney Gary M. Singer answers housing questions in this space each Friday. To ask him a question about short sales, mortgages, refinancing, homeowner's associations or any other residential real estate topic, click here. Q: I heard in the State of the Union address that President Obama has a new plan to fix the mortgage situation and help struggling Americans. I’m also having some problems with my mortgage, and my property is underwater. Is this plan going to finally save me? -- Anonymous A: I’ve been asked a lot in the past few days whether President…

  • Trulia.com: House hunters still flock to Florida

    2 Feb 2012 | 9:00 am
    Where online house hunters are looking 1. Palm Bay 2. Winter Haven 3. Bradenton 4. Fort Myers 5. Tulsa, OK 6. Palm Beach County 7. Broward County 8. Riverside, Calif. 9. Charleston, SC 10. Orlando Source: Trulia.com Despite the threat of hurricanes and a tsunami of “underwater” mortgages, potential home buyers still view the Sunshine State as paradise. Among the top 10 metro areas nationwide where demand among online house hunters is strongest, seven are in Florida, according to real estate website Trulia.com. Palm Beach and Broward counties are sixth and seventh on the list,…
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    Alter NOW

  • Are Gas-Sipping Cars Leaving Hybrids in the Dust?

    John Coletta
    7 Feb 2012 | 10:13 am
    When Cadillac is staking its comeback on a compact car that boasts fuel economy approaching 40 mpg, what does it mean for hybrid and electric vehicles?  Cadillac’s ATS sedan is one example of how carmakers at the Detroit Auto Show are re-emphasizing small, powerful models with more fuel-efficient engines such as sport-utility vehicles; even, please note that we are talking gas here, hybrids are taking a back seat. Additionally, General Motors’ luxury brand says that the ATS will have a turbo-charged four-cylinder 270-horsepower engine that offers impressive fuel economy. Meanwhile, Ford…

  • 2012 Stock Market Off to a Promising Start

    Tom Silva
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:21 am
    As the stock market moved between negative and positive territory on the last day of January, 2012, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was nevertheless poised to close with their biggest January gain in 15 years – despite closing down a few points for the day.  In fact, it could be the best January for Standard & Poor’s (S&P) and Dow since 1997 and since 2001 for the Nasdaq. “Everyone is cautiously waiting for the close today to see if we can put this on the board,” said Frank Davis, director of trading at LEK Securities.  “It would be a pretty darn good foothold…

  • CFTC Gives Tentative Green Light to Volcker Rule

    James I. Clark III
    1 Feb 2012 | 11:34 am
    The federal Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) proposed limiting banks’  proprietary trading and hedge fund investments under the Dodd-Frank Act’s Volcker rule. The CFTC  3-2 vote makes it the last of five regulators to seek public comment on the proposal. This vote opens the measure to 60 days of public comment.  The rule, named for former Federal Reserve Chairman Paul Volcker, was included in Dodd-Frank to rein in risky trading at banks that benefit from federal deposit insurance and Fed discount window borrowing privileges. The CFTC stayed mum when the Fed, Federal Deposit…

  • Congress Bids Gabby Giffords a Fond Farewell

    Tom Silva
    31 Jan 2012 | 10:23 am
    A rare glimpse of bi-partisanship was seen today in the House of Representatives as Representative Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) officially resigned, slightly one year after being shot in the head at a “Congress on Your Corner” session in her native Tucson.  Giffords, who resigned to devote her time to undergoing intensive rehabilitation, walked with a limp.  With the guidance of her friend, Democratic Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Giffords slowly made her way to the well at the front of the House chamber.  Another friend, Representative Jeff Flake (R-AZ), held her hand.  Wasserman…

  • Experts Agree (Sort of): 2011 Was One of the Warmest Years on Record

    Mark McDowell
    30 Jan 2012 | 10:34 am
    Depending on who you listen to, 2011 was either the 11th warmest on record — that’s according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) – or the 9th — according to the National Aeronautic and Space Administration — NASA. According to scientists at NOAA, 2011 broke records for climate extremes, as much of the United States faced historic levels of heat, precipitation, flooding and severe weather.  This was driven in part by La Niña events at both ends of the year that impacted weather patterns in the United States and around the world.  NOAA’s…
 
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    NHC Open House Blog

  • Ethan Handelman enters the digital boxing ring

    7 Feb 2012 | 12:58 pm
    by Blake Warenik, National Housing Conference and Center for Housing Policy Our own Ethan Handelman is fighting for help for homeowners struggling in the wake of the burst housing bubble. His is one of several perspectives in the U.S. News and World Report's Debate Club, Should the government help homeowners with underwater mortgages? Debate Club allows readers to choose the winning side. Ethan, Asst. Sec. Raphael Bostic at HUD and Peter Tatian at Urban Institute argue yes, while the Cato Institute's Mark Calabria and George Mason University's Anthony Sanders argue against the government…

  • House votes to abolish guaranteed funding for transit, could threaten housing funds

    4 Feb 2012 | 12:25 am
    The U.S. House of Representatives Ways & Means Committee today terminated the guaranteed trust fund revenue for transit and gave it to the highway program. This dedicated funding stream established during the Reagan Administration comes from an excise tax on gasoline. Under this new provision, the burden for funding mass transit would fall entirely on the annual appropriations process, meaning lower funding and much more uncertainty for public transit.This directly threatens housing. HUD and the Department of Transportation fall under the same appropriations subcommittee, which means…

  • Obama’s housing plan, piece by piece

    2 Feb 2012 | 2:24 pm
    by Ethan Handelman, National Housing Conference President Obama’s announcement of his housing plan was welcome, but it includes more pieces than brief news coverage necessarily notices. Secretary Donovan provided much helpful detail in his remarks, and the fact sheet is a good reference. If you’re looking for a place to start, here’s a quick guide to the parts of the plan and what they might mean for communities and households across the country. The Obama Administration's Housing Proposals – Topics Refinancing plan Homeowner Bill of Rights Pilot REO property sale Forbearance Lending…

  • National Housing Conference responds to housing announcements

    1 Feb 2012 | 2:39 pm
    by the National Housing Conference Statement from Ethan Handelman, Vice President for Policy and Advocacy “President Obama’s announcement today reinforces what we all know—we need coordinated action at many levels to restore housing markets, help struggling households, and support a broader economic recovery. That action must, by necessity, be bipartisan and cooperative. We urge Congress to take up these proposals in a spirit of bipartisanship and the Administration to move swiftly to implement the elements that it can do on its own.” “More, however, is needed. Secretary Donovan, in…

  • White House proposes new refinancing plan

    1 Feb 2012 | 8:33 am
    by Ethan Handelman, National Housing Conference This morning, President Obama announces a new refinancing plan to help homeowners lower their monthly payments. Early reports in the Wall Street Journal and AP say the program is aimed at privately held mortgages that could be refinanced with new loans from the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). In effect, this would broaden the Home Affordable Refinance Program (HARP) changes made last year to cover more than just Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac loans. The new plan would require Congressional action—a tall order in an election year, especially…
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    Lakeland Real Estate Expert

  • Just Listed! 1/25/2012 Edition

    gatearty
    25 Jan 2012 | 11:00 am
    1636 Settlers Creek Dr, Lakeland FL 33810 4 Beds, 2 Baths, 2,266 Sq. Ft for $110,000 Contact Darren Moreno – 863-409-7766 or call our office at 863-680-9988 Short sale! This home was built in 2006 and with a little TLC you can own ALOT of home for very little. Settled on a corner lot of the Settlers Creek Community this home features 4 bedrooms and 2 and a half bathrooms. With Plenty of space to spread out the family, features separate family room, dining room and living room. Archways through the doorways, tile throughout the entire first floor and the Lanai as well. There is plenty of…

  • Just Listed! 1/20/2012 Edition

    gatearty
    20 Jan 2012 | 11:00 am
    1041 Trace Pl, Lakeland FL 33813 3 Beds, 2 Baths, 1,395 Sq. Ft for $119,900 Contact Gate Arty – 863-680-9988 or call our office at 863-680-9988 Cozy residence nestled on a quiet secluded street. Only minutes away from local shopping & Eaglebrooke Golf Course. Screened patio overlooks sprawling fenced backyard. Located in the G. Jenkins school district.Great kitchen features brand new stainless steel appliances. Residence has been completely updated & has been meticulously cared for. Move-in condition. Other features include: security system, inside utility, two car garage,…

  • Just Listed! 1/19/2012 Edition

    gatearty
    19 Jan 2012 | 11:00 am
    639 Kensington St, Lakeland FL 33803 3 Beds, 2 Baths, 1,440 Sq. Ft for $80,000 Contact Gate Arty – 863-680-9988 or call our office at 863-680-9988 Short Sale – listing price may not be sufficient to cover all encumbrances, closing costs, or other seller charges. Sale of property at full listing price may be conditioned upon approval of third parties. Cozy home located in the middle of Lakeland! Within walking distance of Cleveland Heights Golf Course, Lake Hollingsworth parks, tennis courts, and so much more! For more photos and complete details visit: Home for sale in Lakeland…

  • Just Listed! 1/12/2012 Edition

    gatearty
    12 Jan 2012 | 11:00 am
    615 Elizabeth Ln, Lakeland FL 33809 2 Beds, 2 Baths, 1,152 Sq. Ft for $46,000 Contact Jeanna Jackson – 863-559-8123 or call our office at 863-680-9988 Very nice, clean home located in a 55+ community on Lake Gibson. Community pool, beautiful clubhouse,shuffleboard,lake access and view. New roofover in 07, new A/C in 2009, irrigation system,newer appliances. Some furnishings included in sale. Large living room:15×13. Own your own land, no lot rent. Not a short sale so you can close quickly. For more photos and complete details visit: Home for sale in Lakeland – - – -…

  • Just Listed! 1/11/2012 Edition

    gatearty
    11 Jan 2012 | 11:00 am
    5225 Imperial Lakes Blvd # 22, Mulberry FL 33860 2 Beds, 1 Baths, 1,087 Sq. Ft for $89,000 Contact Becky Lane – 863-602-8605 or call our office at 863-680-9988 Short Sale. This adorable 2/1 condo is move in ready! It has wood laminate flooring, a wet bar in the living area, spacious bedrooms and a relaxing lanai which overlooks the golf course. The Double Eagle condos in Imperial Lakes are well established and maintained and have very low turnover. For more photos and complete details visit: Home for sale in Mulberry – - – - – - 627 Pine Ridge Dr, Lakeland FL 33809 2…
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    Start With the House

  • 12 Things to Do in 2012 to Help Yourself

    Tom Tousignant
    19 Jan 2012 | 6:30 am
    With the start of a New Year, it’s a great time to look at what you want to accomplish financially over the next twelve months.  Who has time for that?  You do! Sometime over the next few months, you are going to have to collect all that paperwork for preparing your taxes.  This is a perfect time to add an extra hour to the process and consider this list – do it for yourself and your financial safety & Success: Build an Emergency Fund – make sure you have some cash that can tide you over if something goes wrong. Pay off any debts that aren’t increasing your wealth…

  • Why Start with the House?

    Tom Tousignant
    10 Dec 2011 | 5:56 am
    I came up with the idea for “Start with the House” a few years ago after looking at financial profiles of several hundred home buyers and home owners.  I realized that people have a much greater chance of getting ahead financially when they ‘Start with the House”. What does it mean to Start with the House?  It means that financial success becomes a lot easier when decisions about home ownership and home financing are made first, then other choices close to home are made next, and lastly financial choices unrelated to where you live are made. Financial Priorities: The…

  • Real Estate Update for November 2011

    Tom Tousignant
    8 Nov 2011 | 2:49 pm
    November KCM 2011 View more webinars from Steve Harney

  • Asset Location

    Tom Tousignant
    19 May 2011 | 9:43 am
    Typical Asset Allocation Picture Many Financial Planners will talk about “Asset Allocation Strategies” as a way to safely grow your net worth.  Asset Allocation strategies sound pretty complicated to me, so I like to look at “Asset Location” first. What is Asset Location? Asset Location is having a plan for where you are going to locate your Assets – more simply, where are you going to store your money.  In terms of Start with the House, Asset Location is one of the final steps.  After you have: Established an Emergency Fund Paid of Credit Card Debt gotten the…

  • The Importance of Saving Money

    Tom Tousignant
    16 May 2011 | 7:45 am
    the most important factor about saving money is to start today.  Saving a little today will almost always give you more money than saving more money, but starting later. Consider this example, and ask yourself, who will end up with the most money at retirement? “Sarah the Saver” is a hard worker who understands the value of time and the importance of saving.  She starts saving money when she is 16. Each year, she saves $2,000 – roughly 250 hours of work at minimum wage. when she is 16, it is about half of her summer earnings – six weeks of full-time work in the summer.
 
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    REALTOR.com® Blogs

  • Which Has Better Resale Value: Carpet Or Hardwood Floors In The Bedrooms?

    Ask a Realtor
    7 Feb 2012 | 7:06 pm
    Q: Hi, I am looking to have hardwood floors done in my house. I was wondering if it is better to have carpet or hardwood in the bedrooms? Would it add more resale value if hardwood was though out the house?Thanks.–Anonymous, San Jose, CA A: Hardwood floors enhance the chances of your house selling faster. Generally speaking, most buyers prefer the hard wood floors over the carpet. It may not get you a high return, in fact, it may sell for about the same price as with carpet but it may sell faster because it will compete better with the inventory of “like” properties.Maria…

  • How Can I Prepare To Buy A Home In Another State?

    Ask a Realtor
    7 Feb 2012 | 6:33 pm
    Q: I am looking into buying my first house but really don’t know where to start. I currently live in Des Moines, IA while I am in school but by May of next year I will be locating to Arizona and am hoping to be able to buy a home that costs no more than $100,000. I need at least four bedrooms but would rather have five or six bedrooms but I don’t know where I will stand as far as loans and owning a house in general. What should I be doing to make sure I’m ready and able to make the move?–Cresha, Des Moines, IA A: First, congratulations on taking the first step into…

  • My Listing Agreement Doesn’t Include Charges, What Will I Owe?

    Ask a Realtor
    7 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    Q: My Realtor make us sign a agreement that we can only work with her. But I did not see any charges on it. I was talking to a friend and she told me she was getting charge for this services. I started to wonder how Realtors get paid and if we have to come with some money at the end for our Realtor.–Alma, Springfield, VA A: Dear Springfield, VAI am assuming you are referring to residential properties and are asking about your signing of a buyer broker agreement. Typically, in residential sales, the selling broker (your agent) is paid through what is known as an offer of cooperation in…

  • Veteran MLB Pitcher Jamie Moyer Lists Seattle, Washington Tudor (PHOTOS)

    Neal J. Leitereg
    7 Feb 2012 | 5:41 pm
    Major League Baseball’s bionic man, Jamie Moyer, has high hopes for a comeback in 2012, but in the meantime the veteran pitcher will be playing the real estate market following the listing of his Seattle, Washington home. Moyer, who spent ten of his 24 big league seasons with the Seattle Mariners, is asking $5.35 million for the regal Tudor estate found roughly seven miles south of the M’s ballpark, Safeco Field. Much like Moyer’s pitching career, which now spans four decades, his elegant Seattle residence has also stood the test of time. Built in 1933, the colorfully brick-lined…

  • What Can I Do If A Commercial Realtor Is Not Presenting My Lease Offer To The Owner?

    Ask a Realtor
    7 Feb 2012 | 5:16 pm
    Q: The broker of a commerical property I am interested in has told me he will not present any offers to the current landlord until I have an offical purchase agreement that I have bought the existing business. The problem is, the current lease ends soon and we are working with the lawyers and franchise to speed up the process but all the equipment may have to be moved out if I can not make an offer to the current landlord. I thought it was illegal for a broker to withhold an offer to the owner/landlord under any circumstance. What are the legal requirements?–Liz, Middleton, NJ A: You…
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    LoopNet Commercial Real Estate Blog

  • Webinar: LoopNet’s Pro Tools – Just Launched

    Mea Chavez
    2 Feb 2012 | 7:20 pm
    Learn how to become a marketing pro! In this 30 minute power session, you’ll get an overview of Pro Tools – new to LoopNet. Create instant flyers, property websites and email campaigns for your listings with just a few clicks.  Attend and you’ll be entered to win a $50 AmEx gift card! Sign up for a webinar power session today. Tue, Feb 7, 2012 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM PST Tue, Feb 7, 2012 1:00 PM - 1:30 PM PST Wed, Feb 8, 2012 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM PST Please note: Webinar times are published in PST.  Please check your local time zone.

  • LoopNet’s Pro Tools: Point. Click. Market.

    Mea Chavez
    25 Jan 2012 | 6:40 pm
    Pro Tools makes instant marketing easy. Turn your listing details into professional flyers, websites, and email blasts. All with your brand. All with a just a few clicks. Some commercial real estate professionals have already given it a try and gotten hooked. “My clients think I spent hours making their flyers, when it really only took a few minutes.” Sabina Holtzman President, Stephen Frank Associates, LLC Flyers & Brochures   Select from multiple templates to create professional marketing materials on-the-fly.  Customize your flyers using color options, adding content or…

  • A look back at 2011... and a peek forward

    Thomas Byrne
    3 Jan 2012 | 12:38 pm
    It’s hard to believe another year has come and gone but 2012 is already here. As the team works to plan for the year, I always like to take some time to reflect back on the past year and the commercial real estate sector. Looking back on 2011, three things really stand out.Mobile Technology is the real dealCommercial Real Estate is socialLoopNet had an incredible yearMobile Technology The rise of mobile technology is hard to ignore. And it is impossible to argue we have come a long way since the first cell phone in 1984 commonly referred to as “the brick”. I vividly remember using it…

  • 2012: The Year of Mobile for CRE

    justin hu
    2 Jan 2012 | 12:02 pm
    Looks like CRE Pros wanted iPads and iPhones for Christmas this year. We hit an all time high of LoopNet app downloads last week! Each month we're seeing record growth in visits to LoopNet via mobile devices each month. Soon 1 out of every 4 visits to LoopNet will be mobile (vs desktop). And we're not standing still, we're hard at work on an update to our mobile apps that'll allow you to do even more with LoopNet.This year will be the year of mobile for commercial real estate. More and more professionals are taking advantage of the benefits of having all the information they need on the road.

  • Do you know how big Santa's House is?

    Michele - Marketing Team
    22 Dec 2011 | 4:07 pm
    With just a few days until Christmas we thought it might be fun to take a closer look at Santa’s House up in the North Pole. (Yep – we even have a property record for that)Turns out Santa’s House is over 11,361 SF.View more photos and learn more about Santa’s House on the LoopNet property record.Happy Holidays!
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    Web Real Estate Marketing

  • Forgive me please Facebook, for I have egg on my face :-(

    Peter Toner
    4 Feb 2012 | 5:34 pm
    … and it was well and truly smushed on there by hackers and spammers. Last Wednesday I reported banner advertising on my  personal Facebook profile, along with what looked like sponsored posts inside my timeline … I was fooled. Unfortunately the real truth, the ugly reality is that my browser was hijacked by malware and some (probably complicit) opportunists tagged me in those shoe photos. I kind of suspected that something was wrong with my computer when someone else complained about being tagged – and she was pretty explicit in her language about wanting it out of her…

  • The Facebook fun begins

    Peter Toner
    2 Feb 2012 | 4:42 pm
    So Facebook announced it’s IPO yesterday … You would have to be on a desert island not to notice everyone talking about it. There are some staggering facts coming out of the disclosures. Did you know that Bono (of U2 fame) owns $750,000 worth of shares? I was staggered too. 1 billion in profits last year, private jets, chief operating officer Sheryl Sandberg making a total of $30,873,579 in 2011. But as I said the fun is about to begin, the “MySpacing” of Facebook if we are not very careful Facebook is notorious for trying out new features or rolling them out in small…

  • One vision of the future for real estate agentshttp://www.webrealestatetools.com/wp-admin/post.php?post=17192&action=edit&message=1

    Peter Toner
    26 Jan 2012 | 5:30 am
    Will real estate as we know it, be dead different by 2010? Back in 1999 my office manager and I concluded that someday soon, a system to automate the sales paperwork process from start to finish, would be a viable business opportunity. We were in agreement that a system like this would radically change real estate as we then knew it. Because if it were an open system available to consumers, it would be one less reason to use a real estate professional. But here we are 13 years later and whilst we have seen some remarkable changes to market conditions, is access to applications like…

  • Onswipe’s WordPress plugin – review.

    Peter Toner
    19 Jan 2012 | 6:05 pm
    “This magazine doesn’t work”  is a video shared by Jason Baptiste … …. of OnSwipe in his Keynote address at Inman Connect. Apple products have changed our concepts and mindsets and their technology codes our minds!  The video (further down) shows how magazines are now useless and impossible to understand, for digital natives. A 1-year old already realizes that print is irrelevant to her world, an obvious conclusion for a baby given the choice. Adults too are glamming onto the easy of media consumption – just look at the rising numbers of tablet sales with…

  • Two takes on how social media works

    Peter Toner
    6 Jan 2012 | 9:05 am
    Gary Vaynerchuk is the master, with insanely great analogies … I have watched a number of Gary V’s speeches and this one is probably his most comprehensive and complete explanation of how social media works and how it can be leveraged – provided you are willing to “listen” .. ** warning – Gary uses strong language ** … and here is Gary again, this time with Piers Morgan (and no F bombs):
 
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    DanoSongs.com Free Music Downloads

  • Ambient Classical Guitar | Meditation Relaxation | Unde Altus

    dano@danosongs.com (Dan-O (DanoSongs.com))
    22 Jan 2012 | 8:47 am
    Carl Sagan - Image via Wikipedia My classical guitar song “En La Brisa” seems to be useful to allot of people. So I decided to create another, but with a more ethereal dramatic sound that could be used under dialog in a soundtrack. This works out since I am working on the score for my short sci fi film. It turns out that this track, which uses some vast ambient sounds, its really relaxing and meditative. So folks could also just download the mp3, sit back and listen : ) You can of course use this as royalty free music for YouTube videos, subliminal affirmation CDs, films, or as…

  • New Hard Dubstep Music: City of Innocence

    dano@danosongs.com (Dan-O (DanoSongs.com))
    11 Jan 2012 | 8:36 am
    Image via Wikipedia Hi, here is a new dubstep style track. I’m very into heavy electronic music in soundtracks lately. For instance, the movie Hannah has some amazing action scenes with fast, heavy retro electronica – great movie. You can use this royalty free to remix, use in a YouTube video, film, etc.  Just check out the licence for complete details. All things truly wicked start from innocence. – Ernest Hemingway New Dubstep Music: City of Innocence.mp3 Related articles Year in Review 2011; Dubstep. (chaos878.wordpress.com) No such thing as too much dub (bombbeats.org)…

  • Ambient Dub: Joy in Land Formation + Parallel Universes – Are They Real?

    dano@danosongs.com (Dan-O (DanoSongs.com))
    27 Dec 2011 | 5:00 am
    Image via Wikipedia Im exploring a new style this week called ambient dub. This track is called “Joy in Land Formation”. I also discovered a new cable tv channel called “Sci” which was hidden all the way up in the hundreds. There are tons of amazing shows and is now my second tv spot after SyFy! Plus, I watched this totally mind blowing show (video trailer above) “Morgan Freeman hosts this journey through quantum physics as Curiosity answers the question, Parallel Universes – Are They Real?” Joy in looking and comprehending is nature’s most…

  • Crunk Dance Music: Rehab Sunglasses

    dano@danosongs.com (Dan-O (DanoSongs.com))
    19 Dec 2011 | 5:00 am
    Image via Wikipedia This is a new track called “Rehab Sunglasses” in the crunk style made popular by Lil Jon. Crunk is mainly known for super heavy base lines over electronic beats. This track also has a rave techo and dubstep flavor that is a bit different than traditional Crunk. Its a full length instrumental piece you could use for a complete song. “After The Matrix, I cannot wear sunglasses. As soon as I put them on, people recognize me.” - Carrie-Anne Moss To download just right click and select “save as”. Read How to Download a File if you have…

  • Instrumental Electronica: Permafrost

    dano@danosongs.com (Dan-O (DanoSongs.com))
    9 Dec 2011 | 11:27 am
    Image via Wikipedia Hi, here is a new complete instrumental electronica song called “Permafrost”. This is the 4th track in a series I am producing for a new vocal album which I am excited about. The other tracks for the CD so far are “Junk Ship Gold”, “Inkarnation” and “Heart Quake”. It will be an electronica pop album with songs similar to my vocal track “Silk”. After I record all 10 instrumentals I will write lyrics and record singing. You can check them all out here. “Dramatic discoveries … about recent gullies,…
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    Panama City Real Estate Blog | Panama City Real Estate | Panama City Homes

  • Panama City Real Estate blog update

    Jennifer Mackay
    30 Jan 2012 | 9:01 am
    To my valued customers, readers and blog followers… I’m slowly moving and migrating this blog to a more permanent setting - Latest blog posts can be found at: Panama City Panama City Real Estate Blog This blog easily accessible from the main menu at the top of my website and is where the newest and most recent posts will be found. Feel free to comment as you have always done. I look forward to hearing from you all. Panama City Beach homes for sale Owners, put my technology to work for you. If you are interested in selling your home or condo, contact me today (850) 774-6582 for a…

  • Panama City Mortgage Update

    Jennifer Mackay
    29 Aug 2011 | 11:34 am
    Here’s a local Panama City Mortgage Update from one of our principle lenders Jackie, at Regions Mortgage Market Update Week Ending August 26, 2011 It was another volatile week for mortgage rates. The primary factors influencing rates roughly offset each other, though, and mortgage rates ended the week just a little higher. A wide range of economic news caused investors to either add or reduce risk at a rapid pace this week. News which generally encouraged increased exposure to risky assets helped stocks and hurt mortgage rates early in the week, while the opposite took place later in…

  • Landscaping & Curb Appeal

    Eric Bramlett
    26 Aug 2011 | 12:39 pm
    Exploring the Importance of Landscaping in Curb Appeal As anyone who has tried to sell a home can tell you, creating curb appeal is an essential part of getting a home sold quickly and at a reasonable price – regardless of whether you’re selling a home in Austin TX or Panama City FL. After all, when a potential buyer drives past a house for sale, he is far more likely to give that home a second look if the home appears attractive and well-maintained. While there are several steps a homeowner can do to create curb appeal, proper landscaping is one of the most important components.

  • Possible tropical storm entering Gulf | Insurance updated

    Jennifer Mackay
    28 Jul 2011 | 10:21 am
    It’s the time of the year when the Panama City area watches the weather very closely for tropical storms and hurricanes heading our way. As a reminder to my buys and sellers, pay your insurance premiums and add coverage BEFORE an announcement of a tropical storm or hurricane. Thanks to Kathy Holman for providing the following… Once a storm gets into the Gulf of Mexico & within a certain distance of land, Insurance companies will no longer bind insurance. Once that happens, lending requires evidence of bound insurance & proof of payment (cannot collect at close). Please…

  • SOLD! – Less than 5 days… Again | Panama City Homes for sale

    Jennifer Mackay
    17 May 2011 | 6:54 am
    How? It was easy. I priced the home properly, promoted it and marketed it where it would be seen by not only local agents but by millions of potential home buyers world wide. That’s how you sell a home in less than 5 days – and not only get multiple offers but also a higher than asking price! Best of all… It wasn’t a foreclosure or a short sale. Now that’s how you sell real estate in Panama City, Florida! If you are trying to sell your home in the Panama City/Panama City Beach, Florida area, ask yourself these questions: Has your home been sitting on the market…
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    Miami Beach Real Estate Blog ~ Giving You The Low Down On The High End of Sunny Isles, Bal Harbour & Miami Beach Real Estate

  • A History of ‘Top 10′ Miami Beach Condo Trophy Sales

    AshtonColeman
    30 Jan 2012 | 9:38 am
    Hi friends, Let’s locate and analyze the top ten Miami Beach luxury condo sales from 2007 to 2011 including the average selling price per square foot in the luxury tier for the year. 2007 (Average Price Per Square Foot = $1,243) - 1500 Ocean Drive #T8 Sold at $12M ($1005 psf) Fisher Island #7263 Sold [...]

  • Sunny Isles Beach Luxury Oceanfront Condo Market Index 1Q 2012

    AshtonColeman
    2 Jan 2012 | 2:13 pm
    Edition #8 of the January 2012 Sunny Isles Condo Index We’ll be reviewing the latest  trends and comparing the luxury oceanfront market from the 1Q 2011 Condo Index to today’s updated 1Q 2012 Sunny Isles Condo Index including premier oceanfront towers such as Turnberry Ocean Colony,Acqualina, JADE Ocean, JADE Beach, Trump Palace, Trump Royale, Ocean Four, Sayan, Trump Towers, Pinnacle & Millennium. I’ve excluded condo [...]

  • Miami Beach Condo Sales & Trends – 2011 Year In Review

    AshtonColeman
    28 Dec 2011 | 8:18 am
    Hello friends and only 5 days until 2012! As KT would say, I am a ‘Realtor first and a blogger second’ so please forgive the delay in posting new local information. What we’re reviewing below is the Miami Beach condo sales & trends for 2011 compared to prior years. I plan on doing an updated [...]

  • The Miami Beach Real Estate RE-Views for July 2011

    AshtonColeman
    26 Jul 2011 | 1:41 pm
    In the midst of Miami summertime fun and things are somewhat quiet yet both foreign & domestic buyers are still in weekly scouting the good buys from lingering inventory. Speaking of condo inventory, we see it decreasing consistently showing us a 34% (YTD) drop from July of 2010 and another 4% over the prior month. [...]

  • Sunny Isles Beach Luxury Oceanfront Condo Market Index 2Q 2011

    AshtonColeman
    19 May 2011 | 2:43 pm
    Edition #7 of the 2011 Sunny Isles Condo Index We’ll be reviewing the latest  trends and comparing the luxury oceanfront market from the 3Q 2010 Sunny Isles Condo Index to today’s updated 2Q 2011 Sunny Isles Condo Index including premier oceanfront towers such as Turnberry Ocean Colony, Acqualina, JADE Ocean, JADE Beach, Trump Palace, Trump [...]
 
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    Real Estate Investing Blog

  • How to Handle Bad Tenants

    Brian Davis
    6 Feb 2012 | 11:31 pm
    Bad tenants are a landlord’s worst nightmare. Between not paying their rent, trashing your rental property, allowing pest infestations, committing criminal acts in the property and a hundred other miserable acts, bad tenants can make a landlord’s life miserable. Fortunately, there are tactics you can employ to minimize the damage caused by bad tenants. First Line of Defense: An Airtight Lease Agreement Before you allow a tenant to move into your property, you can lay the groundwork for addressing future problems by using an airtight lease agreement. Every state has different…

  • How to Value Investment Property

    Marco Santarelli
    30 Jan 2012 | 10:26 pm
    Identifying your property’s value is crucial. As a real estate investor, you need to be aware of the three ways to determine the value of your real estate investments to guide you with your purchase, justify your selling price, or simply learn the basic market valuation techniques. Sales Comparables The most popular method is sales comparables or more formally known as comparative market analysis. In this method, sales information about properties that were sold within the last three to six months as well as those that comprise the list of pending sales in the neighborhood are compared.

  • Benefits of US Property for International Investors

    Marco Santarelli
    19 Jan 2012 | 12:52 pm
    For many individuals, the single largest “investment” of their lives will usually be their home, as opposed to investing stock, bonds, mutual funds or certificates of deposits (CD’s). This is because purchasing real estate is less risky than investing in the stock market and can be more rewarding than changing CD interest rates. US investment property has been enticing foreign investors since the 1970s, and has become extremely attractive since 2008 based on the weakening of the US dollar.  Many financial institutions in this country are reluctant, if not somewhat skeptical, of…

  • The Housing Bust is Over

    Steve Sjuggerud
    16 Jan 2012 | 2:26 pm
    “The bursting of the global housing bubble is only halfway through,” The Economist magazine wrote recently. I disagree… Here in the U.S. at least, the housing bubble is completely over. It drives me nuts when I hear commentators say, “We’re halfway through,” and, “We have more pain to come.” The fact is, right now, houses in America are the best value they’ve been in many generations. It’s not hard to understand… Read the rest of The Housing Bust is Over » For more articles like this, please visit our Real Estate…

  • The Asset Class of Single-Family Real Estate

    Marco Santarelli
    28 Dec 2011 | 10:02 pm
    If there’s one thing that Morgan Stanley would like to advise to you, it’s to take a look at single-family homes and consider it as part of your real estate investing strategy. That’s right, these properties have become hot among real estate investors recently considering the shift in the US property market from home ownership to rentals (or as Morgan Stanley puts it, a “renter-heavy society”). It’s exactly the new real estate paradigm!  Even Bank of America and the Federal Housing Finance Agency have sought measures to reduce the impact of mortgage delinquency by working on an…
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    TalkCharlotte.com | Charlotte NC Real Estate and MLS Search

  • Valentine’s Day in Charlotte NC

    Megan
    7 Feb 2012 | 8:00 am
    Valentine’s Day is coming up soon!  This year February 14th falls on a Tuesday.  This is always a busy holiday in Charlotte, with lots of special restaurant menus, weekend hotel deals, romantic packages with spa and massage services, and more.  It’s a wonderful time to showcase your creativity, to show your partner how much they [...]

  • Charlotte NC Real Estate Deals, Feb. 6, 2012

    Megan
    6 Feb 2012 | 2:00 pm
    Searching for a great deal on a Charlotte NC home for sale??   The Talk Charlotte Real Estate team will help you find it!  Each Mon., Wed., and Fri. we compile the most recent reduced price properties from the Charlotte MLS, organized by neighborhood and asking price.  With links to the complete MLS listings for each [...]

  • North Carolina Has Some of the Lowest Average Closing Costs in the US

    Megan
    6 Feb 2012 | 8:00 am
    It might not have felt like it as you reviewed all the fees at your last real estate closing, but it’s likely that you got a bargain in terms of closing costs. According to a report on MSN Real Estate in 2011 the average closings costs for North Carolina real estate transactions were the second [...]

  • Charlotte NC Real Estate Deals, Feb 3, 2012

    Megan
    3 Feb 2012 | 9:18 am
    If you’re in the market to buy real estate in Charlotte, then you’ve come to the right place! The Talk Charlotte Real Estate Team has made it our mission to deliver the best property deals for neighborhoods in and around Charlotte, including Uptown, Downtown, Matthews and Mint Hill, Gastonia, Union County, Lake Norman, South [...]

  • 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Remain Under 4.000%

    Megan
    31 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am
    Average mortgage rates for 30 year fixed rate loans have not moved above 4.000% for several weeks. This consistently low pricing is great news for those on the hunt for a new home in Charlotte. Existing homeowners can benefit as well, as a refinance of a Charlotte NC mortgage could bring down the monthly payment, [...]
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    Lake Ridge Virginia Real Estate Help For Sellers and Buyers

  • Find Immediate Delivery Homes For Sale Right Now...

    Peggy James-Full Time Realtor I Serve The Lake Ridge Virginia Area (Exit 1st Choice Realty)
    7 Feb 2012 | 5:21 am
    So you are relocating to the Fort Belvior or Quantico Virginia area and you want a home that you can move into right away. A door to door move. Well, that is possible, however your choices are limted. Currently in the Northern Virginia, Prince William County Virginia and Stafford Virginia area, most new home builder are quoating deliveries of June, July and August. So if you have plans to come in for a house hunt this spring to buy a new home, and move in by the time school is getting out, that ship has sailed! No...I'm not kidding. Homes are selling like hotcakes and builders are having to…

  • Lake Ridge Virginia Market Update - "Learn What's Happening In The Local Real Estate Market"

    Peggy James-Full Time Realtor I Serve The Lake Ridge Virginia Area (Exit 1st Choice Realty)
    4 Feb 2012 | 6:11 am
    Lake Ridge Virginia Market Update - "Learn What's Happening In The Local Real Estate Market." I don't know about you, however when I go shopping at the local TJ Maxx or Marshalls, I know when the new stock comes in, that I have the best selection. I am thrilled when I get to look at the newest products  first, and I am not looking at left overs or things that have been past up by others over and over. Well, if you are thinking of buying or selling a home. Did you know that you can position yourself to know what homes just came on the market? Well you can. Take a look at what is happening.

  • Just Listed - 4317 Flodden Ct, Woodbridge Virginia 22192

    Peggy James-Full Time Realtor I Serve The Lake Ridge Virginia Area (Exit 1st Choice Realty)
    29 Jan 2012 | 9:17 am
    If  you have been dreaming of owning a single family home on a cul-de-sac lot backing to tree's in the Lake Ridge Virginia area, then you may want to look at this beautiful home in Westridge Subdivision. You decide....if you want to come take a look. As you can see this is a goregous home that has been well cared for by the current owners. This home is avaialble for immediate delivery. Homeowners are moving up to a larger home within Westridge. They absolutely love the neighborhood. ( That should speak volumes to anyone thinking of buying a home in Westridge) The house has three finished…

  • Frustrated Homeowner Learned The HAFA Short Sale Option Was The Answer To His Problems..

    Peggy James-Full Time Realtor I Serve The Lake Ridge Virginia Area (Exit 1st Choice Realty)
    27 Jan 2012 | 5:29 am
    It was back in November when I received the phone call from the homeowner at 15000 Alaska Rd in Woodbridge Virginia. The homeowner was frustrated. He explained that he had previously entered into a loan modification with his Chase Bank only to fall behind once again. His bank suggested he do a short sale. Below you can begin to see the problem. His home value dropped from $399,900 to less than $135,000. This time he did his research online and decided...that just maybe he'd been going at this wrong. When he called he had a lot of questions. He looked for a local real estate agent that he…

  • Currently there are 16 Foreclosure Homes Active For Sale in the Lake Ridge Virginia Area.

    Peggy James-Full Time Realtor I Serve The Lake Ridge Virginia Area (Exit 1st Choice Realty)
    25 Jan 2012 | 5:32 am
    Just yesterday, a Lake Ridge Virginia homeowner asked me when the real estate market was going to improve enough that he could sell. Turns out his perception of the real estate market was skewed a bit. He just assumed the local real estate market conditions were bad since he keeps seeing those yellow signs in the median strip on weekends advertising Lake Ridge Foreclosures. Imagine his surprise when I said, currently there are only 16 Foreclosures For Sale in all of the 22192 zip code area. Turns out, I uncovered that not only could he sell, he could sell for a profit. I think is one person…
 
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    Taunya Fagan Bozeman Real Estate Blog: SW Montana Homes: MLS Listings

  • Montana Mountain Luxury Homes Auction March 2012 Spanish Peaks and Yellowstone Club Real Estate

    Taunya Fagan - Today's Montana Listings: Bozeman Real Estate: Luxury Homes: Land (Prudential Montana Real Estate Bozeman)
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:17 pm
    One of the Yellowstone Club Homes, Three Spanish Peaks Resort Luxury Properties to Be Auctioned March 2, 2012 One of the four Big Sky MT luxury properties going to auction March 2, 2012 is set in the exclusive, gated Yellowstone Club, which offers both private downhill skiing, snowboarding, and golfing, This YC property is a ~4,806 sq ft, 4 bedroom, 6 bathroom luxury house with private ski bridge and had been listed with the Yellowstone Mountain Club for a little under $5 million. Yellowstone Club luxury homes' sites and fabulous amenities are built around 2,200 skiable acres, offering the…

  • Just Listed Bozeman Montana Properties Week 2 February 2012 Taunya Fagan

    Taunya Fagan - Today's Montana Listings: Bozeman Real Estate: Luxury Homes: Land (Prudential Montana Real Estate Bozeman)
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:19 pm
    Today's Newest Property in Southwest Montana - Bozeman Real Estate regional listing updates, includes every city and town in the area. Find just-listed Montana homes, land, lots, ranches, and farms from Taunya's southwest Montana MLS proprietary access. Week 2, February 5 - 7, 2012 - The latest Montana real estate listings from Taunya Fagan, offering you real estate updates every day from throughout SW Montana, from Livingston MT to Dillon Montana and in-between. MLS#       Type            Address            Price                  Beds-Baths…

  • Prudential Real Estate Sold to Brookfield Residential Property Services

    Taunya Fagan - Today's Montana Listings: Bozeman Real Estate: Luxury Homes: Land (Prudential Montana Real Estate Bozeman)
    6 Dec 2011 | 10:18 pm
    Prudential Real Estate and Relocation Services (PRERS), a recognized leader in employee relocation and real estate franchising was purchased on December 6, 2011 by Brookfield Real Estate, a Brookfield Asset Management Inc. affiliate, for $110 Million. Prudential Financial, Inc. previously owned the Prudential Realty division, now part of Brookfield. Prudential Montana Real Estate, previously an affiliate of the Prudential Financial Network, will now be affiliated with Brookfield Real Estate Services, Inc. and Brookfield Residential Property Services. All Prudential Real Estate brokerage…

  • Newest Bozeman Realty Week 2 December 2011 Taunya Fagan

    Taunya Fagan - Today's Montana Listings: Bozeman Real Estate: Luxury Homes: Land (Prudential Montana Real Estate Bozeman)
    5 Dec 2011 | 11:11 am
    Just Listed in southwest Montana: Taunya Fagan does the work, offering you today's newly listed SW Montana Real Estate. Montana MLS Listings: Homes, Condos, Townhouses, Ranches, Land, giving you the advantage... Week 2, December 4 - 10, 2011 - Easily discover all Bozeman realty listed every day from Prudential Bozeman Realtor, Taunya Fagan through the top Bozeman MT Real Estate Blog, giving you the most recent real estate listings from southwest Montana. MLS#       Type            Address            Price                  Beds-Baths Sq-Ft Acreage…

  • Just Listed Montana Realty November - December 2011 Taunya Fagan

    Taunya Fagan - Today's Montana Listings: Bozeman Real Estate: Luxury Homes: Land (Prudential Montana Real Estate Bozeman)
    28 Nov 2011 | 10:55 am
    Newest Listings From The Montana Real Estate MLS: Taunya Fagan gives you today's new SW Montana Realty from montana's Multiple Listing Service: Luxury Homes, Ski Condos, Townhomes, Horse Properties. November 27 - December 3, 2011 - Find Bozeman MT real estate every day from Prudential Montana real estate agent, Taunya Fagan. Montana's Bozeman Real Estate Blog delivers the most up-to-date real estate listings, giving you the advantage... MLS#       Type            Address            Price                  Beds-Baths Sq-Ft Acreage…
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    blog.kw.com

  • What does a listing presentation with a distressed homeowner sound like?

    Keller Williams Realty
    26 Jan 2012 | 8:30 am
    WE ASKED Ryan Overmyer! What does a listing presentation with a distressed homeowner sound like? The listing presentation is a two step process.  First we do an initial over-the-phone qualification. If the projected terms are acceptable to the borrower(s) we then schedule an in-office appointment with borrower(s) for a final review and to sign documents. I have them sign anything and everything we could ever need. We also schedule a convenient time for the photographer to visit their home. By the end of the initial call sellers feel so comfortable even after such a short conversation because…

  • KW In the News Week of Jan. 23 – 27

    Keller Williams Realty
    26 Jan 2012 | 8:08 am
    Keller Williams Augusta welcomes Mark Jacobs & Associates, expands into luxury real estate. http://bit.ly/AAPqBk Welcome to the Family! Keller Williams Realty’s Englewood, Florida, Office Awarded Keller Williams Franchise. http://bit.ly/w4hS1u Baylor University’s Hankamer School of Business has published its quarterly Keller Center Research Report, an online compendium of academic articles focused on residential real estate research and summaries of scholarly journal articles and books relevant to real estate sales agents. http://www.baylor.edu/business/kellercenter/ What’s…

  • Why Smart Trust = Smart Business

    Jay Papasan, VP of Publishing and Executive Editor
    6 Jan 2012 | 4:16 pm
    Imagine pitching this start-up company to a potential investor: “It’s like a giant yard sale where people purchase used clothes, electronics, even cars from total strangers based solely on the seller’s description and pictures. It’s open 24/7/365, and will attract visitors from around the world.” Sounds ludicrous, right? Actually, it’s spot on. Today, eBay is a $35 billion company with over 235 million registered users, engaged in over one million transactions a day. And, according to Stephen M.R. Covey and Greg Link, authors of the new book Smart Trust: Creating Prosperity,…

  • Keller Williams Headlines – Week of January 2, 2012

    Keller Williams Realty
    6 Jan 2012 | 11:40 am
    Welcome to 2012! As we kick off a New Year, all of our contributing writers are excited to bring you brand new content. You’ll find smart strategies to keep your day-to-day business firing away, inspirational messages to get you in the right mindset to reach your biggest goals, weekly updates on news-worthy happenings coming from your markets, and the latest breaking news from Keller Williams Realty International. We hope you’ll join us in ringing in 2012 in a big way, visit often and share with everyone you know! Here’s a look at the news-worthy items this week: Diane…
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    The Real Deal New York

  • Construction begins at former St. Vincent’s Midtown Hospital site

    Guelda Voien/TRD
    8 Feb 2012 | 8:30 am
    Controversial developer the Chetrit Group has begun work on a Midtown development site at St. Vincent’s Midtown Hospital set to become luxury apartments that it had long neglected, DNAinfo reported. Scaffolding went up and construction workers arrived on Tuesday, according to residents near the 415 West 51st Street site. For years residents have complained about broken windows, a rat infestation and standing water at the site. Chetrit originally said work would begin last September, but it was apparently stalled. The hospital closed in 2007. The developer has met with community groups…

  • U.S. mortgage applications rise, rates drop

    news
    8 Feb 2012 | 8:00 am
    U.S. mortgage applications rose 7.5 percent for the week ending February 3, according to weekly data released today by the Mortgage Bankers Association. The rise followed two weeks where applications numbers fell. Refinances increased 9.4 percent week-over-week and while mortgage applications for purchases increased only 0.1 percent. Refinances comprised exactly four-fifths of all applications, down from 81.3 percent the previous week. In January, the share of applications for home purchase by investors was 6.4 percent, down from 6.9 percent in December. The adjustable-rate share of mortgage…

  • Business owners start local market in Inwood in wake of fire

    news
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:30 am
    The Inwood neighborhood After a massive fire destroyed a number of businesses in Inwood last month, one couple is taking matters into their own hands, and starting a local green market to fill the void, DNAinfo reports. The three-alarm blaze destroyed much of the commercial block at 4945 Broadway, near West 207th Street, on January 3. Now locals Daniel Strong and Danielle Ricciardi plan to reinvigorate their neighborhood. They hope the market will resemble the Brooklyn Flea or Dekalb Market, DNAinfo said. The couple owns a local vegan restaurant Chickpea and Olive, DNAinfo said, and will…

  • Office tower 11 Times Square still 60 percent empty, Mark Hotel gets recapitalization … and more

    news
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:00 am
    11 Times Square 1. Building that epitomizes speculative office building, 11 Times Square, is 60 percent empty a year after opening [WSJ] 2. The Mark hotel’s redevelopment as co-ops gets an influx of cash, is ready to proceed with sales [Post, 2nd item] 3. Community Board 5 rejects Steak n’ Shake’s request for variance which would allow outdoor seating at new Midtown location [DNAinfo] 4. Red Lobster heading to Harlem [Post, 1st item] 5. Consumer outlook for U.S. home prices improved in January: Fannie Mae [WSJ] 6. Longchamp to take over Movado space at Rockefeller…

  • Top Web stories

    Guelda Voien/TRD
    8 Feb 2012 | 6:30 am
    The top Web stories from yesterday’s The Real Deal blog: 1. Kushner in talk to buy LA Dodgers 2. Inventory tightens for Manhattan renters and buyers 3. Thomas Elghanayan bullish on LIC, in talks for large Manhattan development site
 
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    The Belt Team's Northern Virginia Real Estate Blog

  • Savvy Sellers Sitting Pretty! (It’s What’s Happening In Vienna Oakton Real Estate!)

    thebeltteam
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:14 pm
    The calendar has flipped to February and this is often the time people start thinking about putting their homes on the market in the Spring. We’re busy doing lots of “pre-list” consultations - helping our Sellers figure out what they do and DO NOT need to do to prepare their homes to sell in April or May. After all, you don’t want to spend money you don’t have to - right?! But Savvy Sellers are taking advantage of market conditions and they are not waiting til Spring! But why? Let’s take a look at what’s happening in our local market by looking at…

  • Just Listed on Woodford Road in Vienna!

    thebeltteam
    6 Feb 2012 | 2:15 pm
    2016 Woodford Road in Vienna - $1,199,950 Custom designed home by master builder Dominion Associates Inc! Better than new with additional quality improvements done by the owner after settlement. Terrific floor plan with spacious kitchen/great room combination ~ first floor study ~ three fireplaces ~ 3 finished levels that include a well done bar area and media room/home theatre. Ideal location between Tysons Corner & the heart of Vienna.  More Info about 2016 Woodford Road in Vienna Read about “Life In Vienna” Contact The Belt Team - We have LOTS of listings coming on the…

  • Special Opportunity - Just Listed in the Heart of Vienna!

    thebeltteam
    6 Feb 2012 | 8:17 am
    Beautiful almost 1/2 acre lot in the Heart of Vienna. The purchase of this property is subject to executing a design/build contract with Dominion Associates, LLC (crafting custom homes in Vienna since 1979!). Build from our plan or your own.  **Contact The Belt Team for more information!**

  • Friday Funday Video & Open Houses Feb 4th & 5th

    thebeltteam
    3 Feb 2012 | 8:10 am
    TGIF!  That means it’s time for our Friday Funday Video & Open House Announcements. First, our video. One of the great things about living in Vienna is that you don’t have to leave home to find something fabulous to do. We have wonderful restaurants, charming shops and top notch music venues. And one of our favorite groups, The Kennedys, will be at Jammin Java in Vienna on Saturday night (Feb 4th). So, listen to our video and IMAGINE. Imagine a great dinner at Maple Avenue Restaurant, a music filled evening at Jammin Java and a stop by the Amphora for dessert & coffee…

  • WHAT SHOULD A SELLER LOOK FOR IN A REALTOR?

    thebeltteam
    30 Jan 2012 | 10:28 am
    (Personality Is Always A Plus, But It Isn’t Everything! Statistics May Be Boring, But They Could Save You Time & Money!) You’re thinking of selling. So how do you know which Realtor to work with? Your boss gave you the name of a Realtor. You met a Realtor you liked at an open house. Your sister-in law just got her license and says she’d love to help you. And what about the one who sold you your house 5 years ago (what’s his name again?). Selling a home can be a very emotional decision. After all, this is your LIFE we’re talking about. The place where you…
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    Bank Foreclosures Sale Articles

  • Surprise, Surprise: Mortgage Rates Fall Even Lower to a New Record

    Jason Westmann
    7 Feb 2012 | 12:17 pm
    Those who have been following mortgage loan rates in this country over the past few months, watching them go from above 4.5% to new record lows seemingly every week, have another record to celebrate as rates fall to just 3.87%. Mortgage rates have never been this low in recorded history (since mortgage rates have been tracked), a testament to the impact the Federal Reserve is having on borrowing and lending in this country. The last few months have been a far cry from the days of 6-8% interest rates in the hey-day of American real estate from 2001 to 2006, before the housing bubble popped so…

  • HAMP 2.0 May Have Limited Impact on Home Foreclosures

    Jason Westmann
    31 Jan 2012 | 12:18 pm
    The recent changes to the much-criticized Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) proposed by the Obama administration may have a limited impact on home foreclosures and homeowners seeking to stop foreclosure, according to some experts in the field. According to one analyst – Anish Lohokare from BNP Paribas – “This HAMP change should have a muted impact at best”, primarily due to a failure to really address one key player left out of the change: the mortgage loan servicer. Right now, modifications to HAMP (now called HAMP 2.0 by many) call for a 200% increase in…

  • Banks Agree to Much-Awaited Foreclosure Settlement

    Jason Westmann
    26 Jan 2012 | 10:26 am
    Today, a consortium of the nation’s largest lenders, besieged by criticism of deceptive foreclosure practices like rubberstamping and “robo-signing” foreclosures, announced it had agreed to the terms proposed in a settlement. The settlement, in the works since the scandals first broke in the fall of 2010, will call for $25 billion from lenders – including Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Wells Fargo, Ally Financial, and Citibank – to go toward reducing the principal for nearly 1 million mortgages, paying 750,000 homeowners $1,800 a piece, and helping homeowners…

  • Why to Avoid Foreclosure Prevention Companies

    Jason Westmann
    20 Jan 2012 | 9:00 am
    With a lot of people facing foreclosure, many people are desperate to stop foreclosure in an effort to keep their home. More often than not, those trying to avoid foreclosure will look to foreclosure prevention companies that claim to be able to help the family stay in their home. Although these companies may seem ethical from the outside looking in, more often than not you will pay incredibly high fees and face the possibility of being scammed. There are numerous reasons to avoid foreclosure prevention companies with scams and fees coming in at the top of the list. Steep Fees for Sketchy…

  • West Coast Begins to See Foreclosure Trends Decline in 2012

    Jason Westmann
    17 Jan 2012 | 2:24 pm
    Those watching the domestic real estate markets for signs of any relief in the foreclosure market may have the beginnings of good news from the West Coast. According to recent reports, foreclosure starts – initial filings from lenders to jumpstart the foreclosure process against delinquent homeowners – declined in four out of five states being tracked. These four included Arizona, California, Nevada, and Washington. Oregon was the only state that reported an increase in foreclosure starts. Additionally, foreclosure sales increased in California and Washington while dropping in the…
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    Real Estate Investing Blog For Real Estate Investors

  • Buy & Hold Investor Graduates To Rehabbing For Profits

    Maria Rekrut
    7 Feb 2012 | 11:14 am
    As a woman investor with no experience, in Fixing and Flipping real estate, I knew that I needed good solid advice when I decided to Fix and Flip as an alternative real estate strategy. Experienced Investor First Hires a Mentor The experience I had with real estate for the past 12 years was buying and holding properties. [...]Buy & Hold Investor Graduates To Rehabbing For Profits is a post from: Real Estate Investing Blog For Real Estate Investors

  • Apartment Investing – How To Raise Rents

    Darin Garman
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:54 am
    One question that every apartment investor will ask themselves at one time or another is, “How to raise rents,” or “How can I raise rents fast?” This is especially true when taking over a new property, or for an investor that has owned a building for a number of years. I am going to put [...]Apartment Investing – How To Raise Rents is a post from: Real Estate Investing Blog For Real Estate Investors

  • Should You Get Your Real Estate License?

    Russ Whitney
    3 Feb 2012 | 10:52 am
    One of the most common questions I get is: “Should I get my real estate license?” It seems like a simple question, but the truth is it’s not a yes or no answer. It’s actually a yes and no answer. The Inside Scoop on How it Can Help  and Hurt Let’s start with the No’s first. Do NOT [...]Should You Get Your Real Estate License? is a post from: Real Estate Investing Blog For Real Estate Investors

  • Real Estate Values – How To Pull Accurate Real Estate Comparables

    Frank Chen
    2 Feb 2012 | 1:04 pm
    Having Accurate Real Estate Comparables Will Save You Money. Here Are A Few Tips on How To Pull Accurate Real Estate Comps… Real Estate Values – How To Pull Accurate Real Estate Comparables is a post from: Real Estate Investing Blog For Real Estate Investors Real Estate Values – How To Pull Accurate Real Estate Comparables is a post from: Real Estate Investing Blog For Real Estate Investors

  • Applying For A Mortgage Soon? Don’t Open New Credit Cards For Valentine’s Day..

    Jack Sternberg
    1 Feb 2012 | 11:12 am
    Valentine’s Day is just two short weeks away. Sales are expected to top $$17.6 billion this year and, already, businesses are vying for shoppers and their dollars. Newspaper circulars are getting larger, and in-store discounting is more prevalent. But one discount that shoppers should think twice about is the popular “Open A Charge Card, [...]Applying For A Mortgage Soon? Don’t Open New Credit Cards For Valentine’s Day.. is a post from: Real Estate Investing Blog For Real Estate Investors
 
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    Real Estate Investing Blog

  • Spacious End Townhome, Society…

    Mike Lautensack
    4 Feb 2012 | 4:45 pm
    Spacious End Townhome, Society Hill at Saucon Valley Community!!! http://t.co/kXdzZCzj No related posts. Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

  • 267 old forge crossing – one b…

    Mike Lautensack
    30 Jan 2012 | 9:04 pm
    267 old forge crossing – one bedroom condo for rent in wanye devon area http://t.co/ZluECo2R Related posts: Just listed: 267 Old Forge Cro… Just listed: 267 Old Forge Crossing, Devon, PA 19333 for... Lovely Condo at Old Forge Cros… Lovely Condo at Old Forge Crossing “KOP”-MUST SEE! http://t.co/w9kKJ3lR... Home Owners – Want to try to… Home Owners Want to try to sell your property and... Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

  • http://t.co/w71uRP31

    Mike Lautensack
    30 Jan 2012 | 8:55 pm
    http://t.co/w71uRP31 Related posts: The Bloomberg REIT Apartment I… The Bloomberg REIT Apartment Index rose 45 percent in the... Research Firm Says U.S. Housin… Research Firm Says U.S. Housing Has Never Been This Undervalued... Check out my latest articles: … Check out my latest articles: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Mike_Lautensack... Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

  • 513 Winton St, South Philadelp…

    Mike Lautensack
    28 Jan 2012 | 6:50 pm
    513 Winton St, South Philadelphia, PA 19148, USA http://t.co/VI95mL8H Related posts: Our listing at 513 Winton St (… Our listing at 513 Winton St ( http://t.co/MaiVLPFe ) reached... 248 Tall Pine Dr, West Chester… 248 Tall Pine Dr, West Chester, PA 19380, USA http://t.co/rFFQRxWb... 324 Rices Mill Rd, Wyncote, PA… 324 Rices Mill Rd, Wyncote, PA 19095, USA http://t.co/s53uNjhe... Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.

  • Our listing at 513 Winton St (…

    Mike Lautensack
    28 Jan 2012 | 6:49 pm
    Our listing at 513 Winton St ( http://t.co/MaiVLPFe ) reached the “25-Views Upcoming” milestone via @realbird Related posts: The Bloomberg REIT Apartment I… The Bloomberg REIT Apartment Index rose 45 percent in the... Research Firm Says U.S. Housin… Research Firm Says U.S. Housing Has Never Been This Undervalued... Check out my latest articles: … Check out my latest articles: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/Mike_Lautensack... Related posts brought to you by Yet Another Related Posts Plugin.
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    Corporate Real Estate

  • 5 key points for healthcare real estate planning

    CRE Editors
    7 Feb 2012 | 6:46 pm
    Five opportunity areas that, when viewed together and from the perspective of executive system leadership, form a comprehensive picture of the organization’s current performance and a roadmap to... Please click on the link to read complete commentary. Thank you!

  • The New Redlining: Digital Online Aggregators

    CRE Editors
    7 Feb 2012 | 7:40 am
    New York Times: In the 1970s, a professor of communication studies at Northwestern University named John McKnight popularized the term “redlining” to describe the failure of banks, insurers and other... Please click on the link to read complete commentary. Thank you!

  • Tony Dungy: How Many Days Does it Take to Prepare for Any Football Game?

    CRE Editors
    4 Feb 2012 | 10:23 am
    Super Bowl coach Tony Dungy on how many days are required to prepare for any football game...and why. Please click on the link to read complete commentary. Thank you!

  • The Green Imperative: Not Your Father’s Recycling Program

    CRE Editors
    3 Feb 2012 | 7:57 am
    Increasingly aware corporate customers and individual consumers alike want to see a demonstrated commitment to what's known as "the triple bottom line" of people, planet and profit in the brands they... Please click on the link to read complete commentary. Thank you!

  • CBRE 2012 Global View

    CRE Editors
    1 Feb 2012 | 8:15 pm
    CBRE 2012 Global Report Please click on the link to read complete commentary. Thank you!
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    Team Ensor

  • New Listing at 2500 Burleson Rd # 221, Austin TX 78741

    Kathryn Bender
    31 Jan 2012 | 12:02 pm
    Kathryn Bender has just listed 2500 Burleson Rd #221, and it will be listed in the MLS soon. Located within minutes to Downtown Austin, Zilker Park, Barton Springs, University of Texas, St. Edwards, Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail and with easy access to I-35, the Woodlands Condominiums at 2500 Burleson Rd #221 is a super-convenient place to live!  Drop yourself right into ownership of Austin in a great location within a growing community. Invite your friends over to enjoy the community’s large swimming pool, or choose to soak up the sun in solitude. The well-kept and manicured…

  • Open House Today at 1918 Marysol Trl from 1-4pm!

    Mary Fields
    22 Jan 2012 | 1:13 pm
    Mary Fields is hosting an open house today, January 22, 2012, at 1918 Marysol Trl in Trails at Carriage Hills. Mary wrote the following information about here open house today:   I was speechless and amazed when I walked in to this beautiful “New” home at 1918 Marysol trail in Carriage Hills!!  There is not another home in the area like it!!!  The price/value is exceptional!!!   Location..Location…Location!!  Great community/ schools… shopping and restaurants close by…   I loved the stunning Italian tile flooring, the rounded corners, the brightness and…

  • New Listing at 7009 Mackinaw Crossing, Jonestown TX 78645

    Joe Ensor
    21 Jan 2012 | 12:48 am
    We just listed a spectacular show-stopping home at 7009 Mackinaw Xing in the award-winning master planned community of The Hollows on Lake Travis in Jonestown, TX.  If you haven’t been to The Hollows, you absolutely must come visit.  This community is excellent for a vacation home, a retirement home, or as a luxury residence to enjoy all year-round.  I can talk about the community all day, but it’s this particular home within The Hollows that truly stands out. 7009 Mackinaw Crossing is gorgeous in every way, and is located in the exclusive gated community of Northshore at The…

  • HBA Annual Meeting Signals Positive Housing Trend for 2012

    Shannon Ensor
    12 Jan 2012 | 8:45 pm
    This morning Joe and I attended the 2012 Housing Forecast. This is a special event where industry analysts discuss the trends of 2011 and forecast where the housing market is headed in this coming year. Speakers of the event included Eldon Rude Director of the Austin Market for Metrostudy, Dr. Greg Hallman The University of Texas’ McCombs School of Business and Austin’s favorite weatherman, Jim Spencer KXAN. From these leading analysts we learned about local and national conditions and how everything from the National GDP (gross domestic product) to the weather affects our local real…

  • 12 Simple Tips When Preparing Your Home for MLS Pictures

    Shannon Ensor
    11 Jan 2012 | 6:02 pm
    Most times, when I meet with a seller for the first time we discuss staging for their home so that they can get the most money for their home in the least amount of time. Every now and then a seller calls and is ready to get the home on the market “yesterday”.  So while having a stager come to their home is still an important conversation, there are tips I give the seller so that when I arrive to the home we can get started with some great pics right away. If you are about to put your home on the market, here are 12 simple tips for getting it camera ready for the MLS (Multiple…
 
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    THE TENANT ADVISOR

  • The Road Ahead Remains Bright for Houston

    CoyDavidson
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:10 pm
    Houston Economic Update – February 2012 According to the business-cycle index produced by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, economic activity in the Houston metropolitan area grew at an annualized rate of 1.9 percent in December. While Europe continues to be of concern, emerging economies are expected to continue to drive global growth, albeit at [...]The Road Ahead Remains Bright for Houston is a post from: The Tenant Advisor

  • 6 Articles Worth a Weekend Read

    CoyDavidson
    4 Feb 2012 | 12:46 am
    Does It Matter Where Your Top Team Sits? Everywhere I go, executive suites are being reconfigured so that the entire top team can have their offices together. To fit everyone on a single floor, companies are ripping out large private offices and dedicated conference rooms and building smaller, glass-walled offices, flexible conference rooms, self-service kitchens, [...]6 Articles Worth a Weekend Read is a post from: The Tenant Advisor

  • The CIO, CRE’s New Best Friend

    CoyDavidson
    4 Feb 2012 | 12:37 am
    The rapid advancement of new technology being introduced into the workplace is affording new opportunities to the enterprise in terms of service delivery, operational efficiency and collaboration driven by enhanced levels of connectivity. As a result, when it comes to corporate real estate decisions the Chief Information Officer (CIO) now plays a vital role in [...]The CIO, CRE’s New Best Friend is a post from: The Tenant Advisor

  • This Week in the Economy

    CoyDavidson
    3 Feb 2012 | 5:55 pm
    The significantly better than expected jobs report for January of 243,000 jobs fueled a strong rally on Friday.The Dow is up more than 5% in 2012, to its highest level since May 2008. The S&P 500 has gained almost 7% this year and The Nasdaq, is up 11% for the year. On the commercial real [...]This Week in the Economy is a post from: The Tenant Advisor

  • The Texas Job Story Starts in Houston

    CoyDavidson
    2 Feb 2012 | 11:51 pm
    The Texas economy continues to expand at a moderate pace. Texas employment grew at a 1.5 percent annual rate in December and expanded 2 percent in 2011. Housing indicators suggest that the sector continues to heal, and energy activity remains strong. Growth in Texas exports resumed and Texas manufacturing activity increased in January, according to [...]The Texas Job Story Starts in Houston is a post from: The Tenant Advisor
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    Son Of A Broker

  • Canada Looks To Tighten Mortgage & Credit Lending Rules In 2012

    chris
    4 Feb 2012 | 8:02 pm
    This week there are two headlines grabbing the attention of mortgage brokers, bankers and borrowers in Canada. Both have far reaching implications in the mortgage industry and it may not be a fluke that both are making headlines in Canada at the same time. On the one side we have the government of Canada expressing concerns about debt levels and the ease for borrowers to attain credit. The other news maker this week is an announcement by mortgage insurer CMHC, a Canadian crown corporation, that they are reaching their insurance limit of $600 Billion as set by the Canadian government. The…

  • Toronto Real Estate Housing Bubble

    chris
    1 Feb 2012 | 9:45 pm
    Playing soccer and talking about the Toronto real estate market and possible housing market bubble usually don’t mix. But anything is possible. Last month while I was in Punta Cana attending the 2012 Mortgage Centre’s Annual conference, Avery Shenfeld, Chief Economist of the CIBC, and I were deadlocked in a seriously competitive game of beach soccer. Our opponents were a team of chest height 14 year olds from Brazil. Despite our best efforts Avery and I couldn’t avoid an inevitable defeat at the hands of the boys from Brazil. Dejected and out of breathe,  Avery and I…

  • Piggy Banks, GoMax & Mortgages

    chris
    24 Jan 2012 | 7:31 pm
    Any of Tridac – The Mortgage Centre’s clients know exactly what my connection to piggy banks is. If you’ve done business with us then you no doubt have received one of our cute little piggy banks as a ‘thank you’ gift after closing your mortgage.  The significance of the piggy bank runs deep in our family business as a metaphor for savings and the building of equity in your home. My Dad has been using piggy banks for years and the apple hasn’t fallen far from the tree as evidenced in our most recent company portrait below. Piggy banks and cute closing…

  • Mortgage Interest Rate Review January 19th 2012

    chris
    21 Jan 2012 | 10:21 am
    Late last week while I was away in Punta Cana for the Mortgage Centre Annual conference lenders announced their newest fixed rate mortgages. Lenders are now offering 3.15% for a fixed 5 year rate mortgage which has again set a new low for fixed rate mortgages. Some borrowers might be surprised that the new rates announced by lenders aren’t quite as close to BMO’s 2.99% as they might have hoped. The truth is that at 2.99% the bank is not making any profit from the mortgage after considering their borrowing costs and administration costs. So the question begs to be asked, why would…

  • Reaction to BMO’s 2.99% Fixed 5 Year Mortgage

    chris
    14 Jan 2012 | 10:47 am
    Yesterday Bank of Montreal announced a new fixed 5 year rate mortgage that has set a new all time low for mortgage rates in Canada. Is it the lowest rate? Yes. Is it the best mortgage? Maybe not. Watch the video below to learn why. Click here to view the embedded video.
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    Learn Real Estate Investing | LifestylesUnlimited.com

  • Steve Davis: Don’t Quit Your Job, It May Not Be the Problem

    webmaster@luinc.com (Professional Real Estate Investors)
    7 Feb 2012 | 5:13 pm
    http://embed.wistia.com/deliveries/627a99d8b3dacd2d9c28ac8ae0de2ac0c65846a0/show.mp3 Tweet This! Share this on Facebook Share this on LinkedIn Stumble upon something good? Share it on StumbleUpon Digg this! Subscribe to the comments for this post?

  • Steve Davis: Real Estate Investing

    webmaster@luinc.com (Professional Real Estate Investors)
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:13 am
    Right Click to Download Tweet This! Share this on Facebook Share this on LinkedIn Stumble upon something good? Share it on StumbleUpon Digg this! Subscribe to the comments for this post?

  • Steve Davis: Members Fears

    webmaster@luinc.com (Professional Real Estate Investors)
    6 Feb 2012 | 6:24 pm
    Right Click to Download Tweet This! Share this on Facebook Share this on LinkedIn Stumble upon something good? Share it on StumbleUpon Digg this! Subscribe to the comments for this post?

  • Steve Davis: Investing in Real Estate

    webmaster@luinc.com (Professional Real Estate Investors)
    6 Feb 2012 | 3:24 am
    Right Click to Download Tweet This! Share this on Facebook Share this on LinkedIn Stumble upon something good? Share it on StumbleUpon Digg this! Subscribe to the comments for this post?

  • Chris Robinson & Jerry Davidson: “Chunking” your way to Financial Freedom

    webmaster@luinc.com (Professional Real Estate Investors)
    3 Feb 2012 | 5:24 pm
    Right Click to Download Tweet This! Share this on Facebook Share this on LinkedIn Stumble upon something good? Share it on StumbleUpon Digg this! Subscribe to the comments for this post?
 
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    Kitchener Waterloo Real Estate Investment Blog | Apartment Buildings | Condos | Development Land | Student Housing

  • Works Burger opening on King in Uptown Waterloo

    Benjamin Bach, KW Commercial Director
    1 Feb 2012 | 8:09 am
    The Works Burger has signed a deal to move into the former Janet Lynn’s space at 92 King Street South in Uptown Waterloo. View Larger Map New Kitchener Waterloo Restaurants This is the latest restaurant chain to come to Kitchener Waterloo; the Honest Lawyer recently announced plans to move into the main floor of 305 King Street in Kitchener, CARA has opened three new restaurants at the Boardwalk (Montana’s, Milestone’s and a Swiss Chalet), Prime Pubs just opened Fionn MacCools in Deer Ridge, Moxie’s is coming to Kitchener,  Charcoal Group is opening two Beertowns…

  • Sage Condos | Pre-Construction Condos in Waterloo

    Benjamin Bach, KW Commercial Director
    22 Jan 2012 | 9:14 am
    Sage Condos Sales Update Sales launched today in Waterloo, and the building already has a majority of the units sold.  There is an extremely limited supply of 3 bedroom condos,  and a decent selection of 5 bedroom condos.  Contact us immediately to reserve the condo of your choice. Sage Condos is sold out, save for 3 penthouses which have not been released yet.  We have similar product available, contact us for details. — Sage Condos, Waterloo Ontario This week we have had a lot of interest from real estate investors in Waterloo’s newest condo development, Sage Condos. If…

  • Kitchener Waterloo Commercial Real Estate is HOT

    Benjamin Bach, KW Commercial Director
    28 Nov 2011 | 9:05 pm
    It’s getting cold out, but the commercial real estate market in Kitchener Waterloo is still HOT. The last couple of years have seen some huge brands set up shop in Waterloo Region, with others announcing plans to open in 2012 and 2013. Brands such  as Google, Apple, Coach and Marshall’s have come into Kitchener Waterloo – Google expanded from a small Waterloo office to a large presence at The Tannery in Kitchener – and soon enough we will see a few Target stores  in the Region.  Plus the rumours (so far not confirmed) that Facebook is coming to Kitchener, and that…

  • Is Facebook *actually* coming to Kitchener? Update on the rumours

    Benjamin Bach, KW Commercial Director
    27 Nov 2011 | 5:57 am
    Ever since DCN ran a story about Facebook potentially setting up offices in Kitchener’s Breithaupt Block development (link) people all over Waterloo Region have been talking about it. 570 News is running a story (below) in which they say they’ve confirmed that Facebook is coming to town.  At the moment, the only source for this is ” the company doing the work on the building.” The Record is reporting “Tony D’Angelo, of AIM Environmental Group, led the cleanup of the site that included the removal of 18 underground storage tanks. D’Angelo said Facebook’s…

  • [Rumour] Whole Foods moving into Kitchener ?

    Benjamin Bach, KW Commercial Director
    25 Nov 2011 | 7:59 am
    Rumour on the street is that Whole Foods has purchased a site in Kitchener – not Waterloo -  and will be coming to the region shortly. Harp Arora on Facebook asked about a location in Kitchener vs Waterloo.  From what I’ve heard, Whole Foods wants a site that has at least 40,000 square feet of retail, and sites that size are easier located in Kitchener versus Waterloo. Further info as it becomes available …   Related posts: Kitchener Waterloo Commercial Real Estate is HOT It’s getting cold out, but the commercial real estate market... Lululemon opens temporary…
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    Your Home in Calgary - the Calgary Real Estate Market

  • Are you self employed and considering a home purchase?

    Monika Furtado
    3 Feb 2012 | 8:23 pm
    If you are self employed and reviewing a future home purchase, you need to speak to your mortgage broker to get the ball rolling before you fall in love with a property.   The previous methods for qualifying look to be changing and 'stated income' may no longer be possible. You may be required to provide much more information about your income especially if your T4's do not reflect it.   What does this mean to you? Paperwork and a potentially longer qualification time if you have to get the assistance of your accountant.   Financial Post Article regarding the trend - Feb 2,…

  • January Calgary Real Estate Market Update - Stability is the word of the day

    Monika Furtado
    1 Feb 2012 | 9:46 pm
    The January numbers were released from CREB this morning with some minor fluctuations in single family as well as condo stats. Although the number of sales has dropped a bit since last January, the reduction in inventory and new listings is pushing us towards a balanced market. As previously seen, condos are lagging a bit in the move, but are also moving toward balance. Some new condo developments have adjusted to the market by presenting product in lower price points (and sizes).   There are pockets of areas where inventory is quite low and well priced and presented homes are…

  • CREB Forecast and the MLS HPI

    Monika Furtado
    23 Jan 2012 | 9:35 pm
    This past Wednesday the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB)  hosted their annual forecast breakfast.  Expert presentations were offered. A big takeaway was the 2012 outlook.  If you are interested in reviewing the statistics behind the press releases and headlines, then have a read.   The last week has been very busy in the marketplace so this is a great indication for the momentum building for the year.   Another statistic you will soon see in the media is the MLS House Pricing Index (HPI). Coming to Calgary in February, this index is intended to clear up the…

  • It is freezing out there!

    Monika Furtado
    16 Jan 2012 | 4:43 pm
    Even on a day like today, with -30 windchills, I am showing properties to prospective buyers. You have to think they are serious buyers. I mean, who else is out in this weather?As a seller, please take the time to treat us well and welcome us into your home. Leave the front lights on so I can find the lockbox on your front door. If your lockbox is buried and frozen in snow or require me to find it in the snowdrift at the side of your house, I have to tell you that you are not my favourite house today.  Please leave out a mat at the front door. We are trying to keep your entrance clean,…

  • Calgary Real Estate Market Update - Jan 4, 2012

    Monika Furtado
    4 Jan 2012 | 10:11 pm
    I hope you enjoyed a wonderful holiday, a very Merry Christmas and are looking forward to a great year in 2012.   The year has started out quickly with the recent upturn in activity resulting in various predictions about the future of the market. The number of listings has reduced significantly over the holidays but is stabilizing in a general sense as well.  The number of sales has increased last year especially towards the latter half of the year. Prices remain relatively consistent with last year but it also depends where you are in the city. I personally feel that sales and…
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    Property Management

  • 2012 best places to live in the world

    Property Management Software
    15 Jan 2012 | 7:02 pm
    2012 Best places to live You might have thought the continuing recession, with its endless stories of doom and gloom, would put the skids on dreams of living abroad. But far from it.   It seems that the deeper the credit crunch bites, more and more of us want to carve out a slice of paradise overseas. According to a recent Mintel Research report, one in three Brits is now contemplating emigration. And for those who are considering the move, what better source of advice than those expats who are already out there? Last year, as part of our World’s Best Places To Live initiative, we…

  • Tips for locating energy leaks in home

    Property Management Software
    15 Jan 2012 | 6:49 pm
    First, make a list of obvious air leaks (drafts). The potential energy savings from reducing drafts in a home may range from 5% to 30% per year, and the home is generally much more comfortable afterward. Check for indoor air leaks, such as gaps along the baseboard or edge of the flooring and at junctures of the walls and ceiling. Check to see if air can flow through these places: • Electrical outlets • Switch plates • Window frames • Baseboards • Weather stripping around doors • Fireplace dampers • Attic hatches • Wall- or window-mounted air conditioners. Also look for gaps…

  • Live the life of rich and famous in Monaco

    Property Management Software
    15 Jan 2012 | 6:18 pm
    Monaco Real Estate   Until the real estate bubble burst in 2008 there was a steep increase in real estate values in Monaco; some homes doubled in price, Mr. Koning said. The global financial crisis cut the number of transactions by more than half, and prices fell 15 to 35 percent. Values appear to have stabilized, but homes are taking time to sell. “Business is slow at the moment,” said Julie Alejo, the owner of EIP Agency. “Potential clients are showing interest only in high- or low-end products.” Yet the market did get a lift as of last June, when a new law reduced closing…

  • 2011 Shocking Real Estate Deals

    Property Management Software
    15 Jan 2012 | 5:42 pm
    2011 Shocking Real Estate Deals The U.S. housing market is still in the pits, closing another year marked by falling prices, lackluster sales volumes and a steady stream of foreclosures. For the rich and famous, though, it’s been a year of record-breaking purchases. Forbes sorted through the biggest, splashiest home sales of the year to bring you a recap of the 15 they deemed the most outrageous.   One of the biggest purchases of the year just closed: an $88 million penthouse condo in New York City’s billionaire-coveted 15 Central Park West.  The 6,744-square-foot apartment, which…

  • 6 Ways to Retire Without a Mortgage

    Property Management Software
    15 Jan 2012 | 4:53 pm
    Retire without mortgage Admit it: Whether you’re 35 or 65, the prospect of retiring without a mortgage is an attractive one. No more monthly checks to your lender means extra money to spend on having fun once you exit the workforce. After years of punctual principal-and-interest payments, it’s the least you deserve, right? There are several smart ways to retire without a mortgage. We’ve come up with six that fit a variety of retirement scenarios. Some approaches benefit from an early start — so if you are able, try to plan ahead. Other mortgage-free-retirement options…
 
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    PALM SPRINGS CALIFORNIA REAL ESTATE

  • Why You Can’t Wait To Buy Palm Springs Area Real Estate

    admin
    1 Feb 2012 | 5:28 pm
    View the story “Why You Can’t Wait To Buy Palm Springs Area Real Estate” on Storify Storified by Stephen (Steve) Love Thu, Feb 02 2012 12:47:59 · 96 views 5 Why You Can’t Wait To Buy Palm Springs Area Real Estate like 0 Share Email Embed Here’s the data you’ve been waiting for to analyze this local real estate market! It definitely is frustrating to hear some people still spouting off that values of Palm Springs area homes are still falling. These people couldn’t be more wrong!  National real estate reports and…

  • Palm Springs Area Interactive Digest: Vol. #2

    admin
    17 Jan 2012 | 11:36 pm
    View the story “Palm Springs Desert Area Interactive Digest” on Storify Storified by Stephen (Steve) Love Tue, Jan 17 2012 17:14:02 · 240 views 3 1 Palm Springs Desert Area Interactive Digest like 0 Share Email Embed The Palm Springs area may be somewhat affected by the economy like elsewhere, but it is bustling with diverse special events as well as regular local activities and entertainment. We hope you enjoy our curated articles and commentary. Don’t forget to also check our Pinboard on (Pinterest below). Share Palm Springs revival has deals for a song (or close to it)…

  • A Secret Tip For Selling Your Home

    admin
    18 Dec 2011 | 10:11 pm
    Thinking of selling your home ? Is your home reflecting your “inner wealth” pattern?  The energy of your home has an impact on the ability to sell your home quickly.  I read this article from Kathryn Weber, Feng Shui Consultant and thought I’d share it with you.  It is quite interesting and I think you’ll agree with her.  Your home says a lot about you. Want more information about this and many other related real estate topics? Sign up for our newsletter (see form in right margin of this blog), or on our Facebook Page. Creating Wealthy Habits to Manifest Prosperity…

  • New Non-Stop Flights to Palm Springs

    admin
    5 Sep 2011 | 1:49 pm
    Great news for the Palm Springs desert area! Several airlines have added new non-stop flights from major cities, making travel to this desert resort area even easier. This local real estate market continues to offer extraordinary value, made even more attractive by historically low interest rates. Please contact us @: love@palmspringsgreathomes.com www.facebook.com/loveofthedesert www.palmspringsgreathomes.com Click the following link to see Flight List: Love of the Desert’s Posterous

  • Canadians Lured To Palm Springs Area (But Best To Know The Tax Implications)!

    admin
    21 May 2011 | 2:21 pm
    There’s been a lot said about the value of Palm Springs desert area real estate…and the droves of Canadian buyers who are currenly taking advantage of prices and the strength of their Loonie (Canadian dollar) vs. the US dollar. Other reasons Canadian Snowbirds are buying real estate in the desert area include: Harsh winter has snowbirds seeking warmth  More direct flights from WestJet  Strong Canadian housing market  Valley home prices often offer extraordinary value  Insurance fees, other costs lower than East Coast  First-time buyers purchasing before Bank of Canada raises…
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    Robert S. "Bob" Lowery

  • Why Our Clients Are Saying “No” To Hospital Systems

    MREA
    7 Feb 2012 | 4:22 pm
    Several years ago, a partner and I undertook a major leap of faith to become exclusively intertwined with the medical industry.  With over 40 years of combined commercial real estate experience, looking back, we took some bold steps to immerse ourselves into this growing healthcare provider network. In the beginning, we were witnessing tremendous demand from every medical network to expand ancillary service types and locales, and imaginations were certainly running wild.  We became instant beneficiaries of this growth spurt and soaked up transactional experience and a command of the tenant…

  • Bifurcating Commercial Real Estate…

    MREA
    31 Jan 2012 | 8:42 pm
    …could get worse (or better). This truly depends on which camp you associate with regarding the economic divide that is now a larger topic of debate in our country.  As for policy that is directed towards a remedy, both political parties could not be wider opposed to proposed solutions from the other, which is certainly indicative of our political and economic divorce. The dichotomy is evident throughout the consumer world. For an example, high end retailers such as Nordstrom are recording excellent profit, and the low end, Dollar Stores, is doing great…

  • Hospitals Employing Physicians: Is It Different This Time?

    MREA
    24 Jan 2012 | 2:16 pm
    Around 15 years ago, physician practices were purchased by hospitals at compellingly high prices. Unfortunately for these hospital systems, within a matter of just a few years, the physicians were re-injected back into the community, largely because the hospital systems had not realized a return on investment. Fast forward to 2012, we hear similar stories about physicians becoming incorporated into a hospital’s network. ‘ The reasons for hospital systems obtaining physician groups may be many. But, most conversations boil down to either a specialty or geographic play, whereby…

  • Why We Perform Our Own Market Research

    MREA
    17 Jan 2012 | 3:05 pm
    In light of recent articles regarding the largest commercial real estate brokerage firm in the world NOT providing data to the largest online commercial real estate data provider, we thought we would make our viewers aware of the positive and negative of seeking commercial real estate information online. Having spent considerable time with a few of the largest commercial real estate platforms in the country, I can attest that commercial real estate dealings are kept sacred, some having bound agreements as to non-disclosure among all parties involved, and rightfully so.  These are business…

  • Stop, Go, Stop, Go, Stop…Go!

    MREA
    11 Jan 2012 | 1:08 am
    2012 is shaping up to be a good year for commercial real estate practitioners with a recession now becoming less of a reality.  By simply observing search queries that funnel to this blog (by no means an economic indicator), it would appear that we will see steeper interest in the consummation of land purchases for proposed developments, as well as the disconnection of locked down building construction plans. It is our responsibility to observe and record trends on how the money migrates within commercial real estate sectors to properly advise our clients within health care.  And, over the…
 
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    Distressed Properties Sale Articles

  • U.S. Housing Market Learned a Thing or Two from the Surge of Distressed Properties

    Cassiano Travareli
    6 Feb 2012 | 11:00 am
    The housing crisis, which resulted in the market getting overwhelmed by low-priced distressed houses, has taught members of the industry several important lessons. The consequence of ignoring warning signs that everything is not as perfect as believed is one of them. As the market starts to get better, industry members and sector experts should not let themselves get carried away by improved housing figures. Vigilance is still important if the recovery of the housing industry is to be sustained. Residential Prices Set to Stabilize With home buying surging in most areas of the U.S., most…

  • Uneven Recovery Across U.S – Some Areas Facing Oversupply of Distressed Properties

    Cassiano Travareli
    1 Feb 2012 | 1:29 pm
    Nothing surprising in the fact that some areas of the U.S. are improving much faster than others when it comes to the housing sector. This has been expected all along, given that the impact of the housing crisis has also varied from one area to another. What is good about recent housing statistics is that they even show signs of stability, given that distressed properties are still oversupplied in most areas. What most analysts recommend is to give more focus on encouraging home-buying, particularly in markets that still have a lot of cheap distressed homes available. Not Taking a Shortcut…

  • Distressed Properties Remain an Attractive Option for Most Buyers

    Cassiano Travareli
    26 Jan 2012 | 5:39 am
    Existing homes sales continue to do well as the sector slowly regains some sort of balance leading into 2012. One of the key factors that economists expect will make a lot of difference to the general economy is the housing sector. Most economists believe that an improving housing industry will greatly help in propelling the economy into better times. With employment levels and consumer confidence continuing to rise, housing may not take as long as expected to hit bottom and start its full recovery. Sales of Residential Units on the Rise December 2011 figures showed that sales of distressed…

  • More Positive Predictions for Housing Even with Huge Supplies of Distressed Properties

    Cassiano Travareli
    19 Jan 2012 | 5:43 am
    Despite the oversupply of distressed homes in most U.S. markets, majority of housing analysts are predicting a better year for the sector in 2012. There are various reasons behind this prediction and it is not just the housing industry that is at play. With modest improvements in employment and consumer confidence rising, most analysts expect more home buying activities, particularly when it comes to distressed houses which are still being offered at very low prices. These improvements, for the most part, are expected to continue throughout 2012. What Analysts Expect for the Year Fannie Mae…

  • Distressed Properties Becoming the Go-To Option for First Time Buyers

    Cassiano Travareli
    11 Jan 2012 | 12:06 pm
    Those who have always wanted to own a home are now being given a chance to fulfill their dream as distressed properties continue to be sold at very affordable rates. It is not just the residential type preference that has changed, but also the manner by which homebuyers are financing their purchases. Although a modest improvement in the housing market is being predicted by most analysts, they reveal that it is to be expected that distressed homes will remain the go-to option for first-time buyers and even with these affordable residences, most buyers require a lot of help. The Family That…
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    Apartment Ninjas

  • How-to Select Your Addison Apartment and Find Special Deals

    Ninja Blogga
    1 Feb 2012 | 10:34 am
    Best Way to Find Great Deals on Addison TX Apartments Are you tired of searching for an apartment to rent or lease in Addison, Texas? Are you sick and tired of hunting for an apartment in Greater Houston, Austin, Dallas or San Antonio area? Are you unable to find the best deals on Addison Apartments? Don’t worry; we are here to assist you in finding the best apartments. You will never again have to surf the internet for hours looking for the best Apartments in Addison, Dallas or Houston. You do not have to make several calls to your friends, agents and acquaintances inquiring about…

  • Say Goodbye to Relocation Difficulties

    Ninja Blogga
    18 Jan 2012 | 8:14 pm
    No More Apartment Relocation Problems A recent study in the United States found that one of the top stress-causing events in a person’s life, and a top organizational hassle, is moving. Yet, this does not have to be the case. It is possible to say goodbye to your relocating difficulties by using portable storage containers. What Goes Into Portable Storage Containers? This depends on who’s seeking to relocate. Are you a business or a residential home? A business tends to store industrial products, while a residence usually needs storage for larger items, such as furniture and the…

  • Resident Review of West Houston Apartments

    Ninja Blogga
    26 Oct 2011 | 4:52 pm
    Resident Review of Apartments in West Houston Review by Photographer and Current Resident of Lakeside Place Apartments in Houston, TX I’ve always had my eye on Lakeside Place Apartments, since it’s in such a great neighborhood, and so close to Beltway 8 and I-10. Plus, the space you get for the price you pay is fantastic. Ramin, in the leasing office is awesome; he gave me a great discount when I first moved-in. The leasing staff at Lakeside Place is very personable and has helped me since the day I got there. The management and leasing office in general are known throughout the…

  • Apartment Locating Uncloaked: How it Really Works

    Ninja Blogga
    2 Oct 2011 | 3:28 pm
    Shedding Light on the Role Apartment Finders Play in the Multi-Family Housing Industry Why should you use an Apartment Locator? Simple, for the same reason you would use a Real Estate Agent to sell your home and/or find you one. Since your Apartment Finder is a licensed Real Estate Salesperson in Texas, serving all Houston, DFW, Austin, and San Antonio, TX metro markets, you are using a knowledgeable professional to do your footwork. Why re-invent the wheel when your licensed, professional Apartment Locator already knows the answers? She or he has already or will spend countless hours…

  • University Park TX Neighborhood

    Ninja Blogga
    30 Sep 2011 | 4:39 pm
    University Park Neighborhood in Dallas, TX University Park Texas Apartments: 75225, 75205, 75206, 75209 One of the most sought after neighborhoods in all of Dallas, University Park (UP) is home to Southern Methodist University. Similar to its neighbor, Highland Park, it is a city partially surrounded by the municipality of Dallas. Combined, Highland Park and University Park create the Park Cities, an enclave of Dallas. Address in University Park use “Dallas, TX” as the city designation, not “University Park, TX” designations. This area is known for having some of the most beautiful…
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    30A to Destin FL Real Estate

  • 2011 Year in Review – 30A to Destin FL Real Estate

    DebbieJ
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:32 pm
    Are you still wondering if it’s a good time to buy real estate in Destin FL or along Scenic Hwy 30A? Has your dream been to own a vacation property? Did you get priced out of the market during the crazy boom time? Want to buy at the bottom of the market? Yes, yes and yes?! Sales in Destin FL and along 30A, in 2011, were up over 31% vs. 2010 and pending sales are up just over 50%! Everyday I am asked “what’s the market like?” or “are we at the bottom?” and “when will the market start to appreciate?”. While my crystal ball is in the shop, and I…

  • Florida Homestead Exemption Information

    DebbieJ
    6 Feb 2012 | 9:44 am
    Quick Facts on Florida Homestead Exemptions: Every person who owns and resides on real property in Florida on January 1 and makes the property his or her permanent residence is eligible to receive a Florida homestead exemption, up to $50,000. Dates to Remember: JANUARY 1 and MARCH 1 You must own and reside at the real property in Florida on JANUARY 1 MARCH 1 -Homestead Exemption forms must be filed with your local county property appraiser’s office You must establish primary residence in Florida to receive the homestead exemption tax benefits. Go to Florida Department of Revenue –…

  • Leap Year 2012

    DebbieJ
    2 Feb 2012 | 4:59 pm
    For many of us, when we think of Leap Year we associate Sadie Hawkins Day as part of Leap Year. Actually, Sadie Hawkins, a fictional character created in the Lil’ Abner comics by Capp, was needing a mate and had nothing to do with the extra day in February we are granted due to the solar/seasonal calendar complexity. However, many of the lands have declared February 29th (Leap Year) as a day for women to have the right to ask a man out on a date or even propose marriage! I find this whole Leap Year / Sadie Hawkins Day quite interesting. Although we live in a progressive land where women are…

  • Video – Watercolor Florida Gulf Front Home

    DebbieJ
    31 Jan 2012 | 4:39 pm
    Recently I listed this gorgeous Watercolor Florida Gulf front home located at 105 Park Row Lane. While pictures are worth a thousand words, (especially when my wonderful husband, Michael James, takes them) this video walk-thru will give you a great feel as to the layout and flow of the home. Stop by 105 Watercolor Lane, Watercolor Florida on Saturday, February 11th. I’ll be hosting an open house from 1PM – 4PM. Tapas and drinks will be served! If you would like to see the pictures of the home, click this link: Watercolor Florida Gulf Front Home for Sale Click here to view the…

  • Shades Bar and Grill Restaurant Review

    DebbieJ
    30 Jan 2012 | 5:37 pm
    A quick review of Shades Bar and Grill, Inlet Beach, FL. (This is written by a person who was a restaurant critic in New Jersey and New York, whom remains anonymous at this writing.) The other day my friend and I were shopping 30A, as we refer to it. It was actually past lunchtime when we decided to grab a bite to eat. And we were famished! As we were pretty far east on 30A, we opted for a place we had not been to, Shades Bar and Grill. We saw there were quite a few cars in the lot so, to us, that meant it must be pretty good. We entered and saw a very large bar and were greeted by a hostess…
 
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    Unconditional

  • Property sales on the rise, whilst listing still in decline

    Alistair Helm
    6 Feb 2012 | 7:13 pm
    Through the last 2 quarters of 2011 the rate of property sales in NZ continued to grow; reaching a 22% year-on-year increase in the final quarter, whilst at the same time total new listings were down 1%. This is the summary of the Quarterly Property Pulse complied from Realestate.co.nz listings data and REINZ sales data. The chart below details the year-on-year growth or decline for each 3 month period through the whole of 2010 and 2011. Around the country the 19 regions show some degree of variations as summarised in the specific chart for each region.

  • The answer to your prayers – buy a church

    Alistair Helm
    1 Feb 2012 | 6:59 pm
    It seems a very suitable headline for the advertising of a church for sale just outside Oamaru. This historic church at Awamoko is up for sale and could well be the answer to your prayers or maybe not! There are currently 9 churches for sale around NZ. View Churches for sale in NZ in a full screen map Some grander than others, they are spread around the country and range from the private chapel as part of this homestead in Lawrence in Otago to what must be the most striking church on offer – this Presbyterian church in Roslyn, Dunedin. Buying a church though can have its risks and…

  • NZ Property Report for January 2012 – video interview

    Alistair Helm
    31 Jan 2012 | 2:41 pm
    To complement the full NZ Property Report for January we have from this month started a regular interview with Bernard Hickey of Interest.co.nz covering all the key salient points of the report. This video format provides what we hope will be an easily consumed summary of the report with a professional and authoritative commentator of the market in Bernard. The video is provided for viewing here and is also featured in a detailed summary of the NZ Property Report on Interest.co.nz.

  • NZ Property Report – January 2012

    Alistair Helm
    31 Jan 2012 | 12:49 pm
    The January 2012 NZ Property Report published by Realestate.co.nz provides an insight into the state of the New Zealand property market as measured by the supply side of the property market over the month of January. The key measures of the market analysed in the report are the number of new listings, the asking price expectation for those new listings and the level of inventory of unsold houses on the market at this time. The report is compiled from data captured by the website and represents close to 95% of all property movements in the NZ market as managed by licensed real estate agents. A…

  • Property sales have clearly turned a corner

    Alistair Helm
    25 Jan 2012 | 4:17 pm
    The property market in NZ starts 2012 in better shape than it has for the past 5 years. It would not be too optimistic to say that the industry, certainly in terms of volume sales has turned a corner. Some parts turned that corner 6 months ago (notably Auckland) whilst some will take a few more months before witnessing this change. In the 12 months of 2011 a total of 61, 269 properties were sold across the country as reported by the Real Estate Institute. This represented a modest 9% growth as compared to 2010. The word modest is most appropriate when the volume of sales is viewed against the…
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    The BuzzBuzzHome Blog

  • BuzzBuzzHome is giving away a Valentine’s dinner for two at Paese Ristorante! Find out how to win here…

    buzzhomeblog
    7 Feb 2012 | 11:05 pm
    Today (February 8) beginning at 12:05am, BuzzBuzzHome is giving away a Valentine’s Day (February 14) dinner for two at Paese Ristorante on King Street West. A big shout out to Paese Ristorante for hooking us up with this great prize. Paese recently opened its second location, at 333 King Street West, to complement its flagship restaurant at Bathurst and Wilson. The restaurant’s chefs are known for their use of traditional Italian techniques to create unique dishes with modern appeal. Their motto: Inspired in Italy, Made in Canada. Sounds scrumptious! The contest will be held over…

  • Every season is patio season at KitsWest

    buzzhomeblog
    7 Feb 2012 | 4:48 pm
    There are a lot of things Kitsilano does best: shopping and boutique stores, patios, awesome award-winning restaurants, coffee shops, fabulous beaches (full of fabulous people), and those delicious cupcakes from the original Cupcakes store. KitsWest, the new condo project by Redekop Group of Companies, is one of the next awesome things to come out of Kits. The development, situated at 4th and MacDonald, is in the preconstruction phase. With so much to do just steps from your door, you’ll barely need a home. But for when you do, KitsWest offers intelligent living. No, that’s not some weird…

  • The dig is on at the Post House construction site… Action shots? You bet!

    buzzhomeblog
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:17 pm
    No they’re not drilling for a great untapped oil well under Toronto, that giant drill is part of the Post House construction team! Construction is well under way at the Alterra condo’s future home on George Street, near Queen and Jarvis. Post House, named for its proximity to Toronto’s first post office, will soon soar 21 storeys into the sky. The 278 unit project is set for completion in 2013. Its aesthetic has been characterized as chic and ultra-modern while still seamlessly fitting in with its heritage surroundings. It also happens to be only steps away from the St.

  • Do you have my card? A Starbucks is opening down the block! It’s all here in “Stuff” Realtors Say

    buzzhomeblog
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:24 pm
    By now you’re probably familiar with all the popular YouTube videos that poke fun at the often stereotypical and canned phrases we all say from time to time. It was only a matter of time until real estate agents had their turn in the spotlight. Check out this video for a take on what you’re likely to hear coming out of your, or your agent’s, mouth when purchasing a new home.

  • BuzzBuzz Exclusive: A sneak peek at the Abacus Lofts sales centre [PICS]

    buzzhomeblog
    7 Feb 2012 | 1:55 pm
    If there’s one thing we like more than sales centre tours, it’s getting a sales centre tour before anyone else does. We guess it’s just one of the perks of being a BuzzBuzzHomie. We had the opportunity to tour and photograph the Abacus Lofts sales centre at 1245 Dundas Street West, situated on the site of the future 8 storey condo. The DAZ project sports a unique aesthetic designed by those unstoppable architects over at RAW Design. The visually stunning architecture will fit in perfectly with the already-exciting community. Those who know what’s what in…
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    BornLiving Barcelona

  • The Trafalgar Apartment

    admin
    3 Feb 2012 | 11:34 pm
    A perfect base for your stay in Barcelona.The apartment is modern, comfortable and centrally located. It has been decorated tastefully and simply with a clean, modern look which creates a pleasant, relaxing atmosphere for you to sit back after a long day of exploring the surrounding medieval area in the heart of Barcelona.The area surrounding the apartment:The Trafalgar apartment is situated right in the centre of Barcelona, literally 5-7 minutes walk from the main Square or Placa called Placa Catalunya, the famous Las Ramblas, the old town or Gothic Quarter and Borne. The closest point of…

  • Cute one bedroom fully furnished apartment close to Ciutadella Park

    admin
    4 Jan 2012 | 7:53 pm
    Located beside Calle Comerc where it meets Arc de Triomf and just a minute from Parc Ciutadella, this is a fully furnished one bedroom third floor apartment with elevator. With wood floors throughout and at 50sqm, its tastefully decorated and has plenty of natural daylight. There is an elevator in the building, central heating, a modern kitchen and a cosy double bedroom with ample wardrobe space. Ideal for a couple looking for a good value apartment for medium or long term rental in a good location. Drop us a line to make a viewing appointment.   Copyright © 2007Dieser…

  • Stunning four bedroom home in Gracia with private terrace

    editor
    2 Jan 2012 | 9:31 am
    Located on Calle Balcells in the village of Gracia, this is a stunning property which has been furnished to a high standard and is in great condition. With tons of light throughout the property this is an ideal home for a family or professionals seeking an apartment in a great area that’s literally ready to move in. There are four bedroom, two double and two singles (which are quite spacious and bright). There are three bathrooms, a wonderful seperate kitchen with modern appliances and breakfast bar, a huge living and dining space and a 22sqm private terrace to enjoy the sunshine or for…

  • Elegant fully furnised one bedroom in great location – great value

    editor
    31 Dec 2011 | 8:44 pm
    Located just a couple of minutes walk from the Picasso Museum in el Born, this is a very elegant and bright studio apartment ideal for one person looking for a great value furnished pad that’s fully furnished, comfortable and ready to move in. Although only 36sqm, the apartment makes very good use of space, has wood floors throughout and elegant furniture. There is a compact kitchen with full cooker, a great living room with lots of light, a double bed with curtain surround as well as central heating. Drop us a line now to arrange a viewing appointment.Copyright © 2007Dieser Feed…

  • Elegant two double bedroom midtown Eixample apartment

    admin
    16 Dec 2011 | 1:42 pm
    Located in the heart of Eixample in the very center of Barcelona and within easy walking of most of the city, this is a classic Eixample apartment with many unique features such as the original turn of the center plastered ceilings and tiled floors. There are two spacious double bedrooms, a wonderfully bright living room and two bathrooms. Ideal for a couple or family looking for an authentic apartment thats well situated. Drop us a line if you would like to arrange a viewing appointment. Copyright © 2007Dieser Feed ist nur für den persönlichen, nicht gewerblichen Gebrauch…
 
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    Get Real Estate Blog|Salem Oregon Homes|Relocation Guide » Salem Oregon real estate home trends|Relocation Guide|Get Real Estate Blog

  • Consumers don’t give a rat’s ass about it.

    melina@tomsonburnham.com
    28 Jan 2012 | 2:53 pm
    All industries have an internal culture and politics that define systems and ways to conduct business.  Most of us don’t care about the internal politics unless it affects us directly.  When I go to the doctor, I want the doctor paying attention to me and  providing service to me.  I’m selfish that way if I’m paying you for something.  I don’t care if they hate Blue Cross’ payment system.   I don’t care if they don’t like how the state handles their licensing.  I don’t care because I have other things to do with my time like dream about…

  • The home truth about Salem Foreclosures

    melina@tomsonburnham.com
    27 Jan 2012 | 11:40 pm
    Useless data.  I live for it.  What can I say?  When running the normal foreclosure numbers for you all, I decided since I have all these numbers just sitting there, I needed to do something with it.  So here you go, Melina’s fun facts about foreclosures in Salem Oregon.  Okay, I know what you are saying.  If I think this is fun, I really  need to consider poking a sharp stick in my eye for a rip roaring time, but I’ll pass on that.  Thanks for the offer though. ;-D The average mortgage on a home served with a foreclosure notice in Salem Oregon in 2011 was $182,593. The…

  • The home truth in Keizer in 2011

    melina@tomsonburnham.com
    15 Jan 2012 | 8:26 pm
    Home prices have continued to decline in Keizer, just like Salem.  The question is whether or not I was accurate in my predictions from last year.  I have an ego to maintain, you know.  Last year I predicted a 5% decline in home prices and a flat line in home sales.  So how did I fare?   Well like Salem I underestimated the decline a bit.  The median shifted downward by 7.7, so I missed it by 2.7%.    The average home price declined by 9.2% which isn’t surprising as fewer high end homes are selling to keep the average up.  With smaller data figures like this, the median is…

  • The home truth for Salem in 2011

    melina@tomsonburnham.com
    11 Jan 2012 | 2:59 pm
    Last year my crystal ball was off by 1.6%.  You’ll recall, I failed to eat my Wheaties and ended up erring on how much the market was going to correct for 2010.  For 2011, I guessed 5-7% with a possible 10% correction at most.   Well, Salem Oregon maxed out in 2011.  The average home price dropped 9.7% and the median shifted downward 10.7%.  It was a more volatile year than anticipated for home prices as they took a header during the first quarter, but remained at that value for the remainder of the year.   The average home price in Salem ended at $166,976 and the median was…

  • I lead the glamorous life…

    melina@tomsonburnham.com
    5 Jan 2012 | 9:41 pm
    You all think real estate is Beemers and golf outings during the day.  I know you do, but really real estate is more glamorous than that.  Seriously…so much more glam.  In fact, I am wearing my Vera Wang and Jimmy Choos as I type this.   I will share an only slightly embellished true story with you to demonstrate the sheer sophistication of being a real estate agent…   It was a cold, clear day in Salem, Oregon.  I sashayed down the stairs in my typical taffeta real estate attire ready to sell houses that day.  I popped down the top of my dark red convertible because as…
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    Lansner on Real Estate

  • Really? Former U.S. consulate in $33 million flip

    Jeff Collins
    8 Feb 2012 | 3:00 am
    Real estate news and views from around the globe that make you go, “Really?” A stately, 10,000-square-foot ocean-front mansion that the U.S. government sold in 1999 for $12 million is back on the market — for $45 million. The State Department: Better at diplomacy than real estate?  — Washington Post Luxury Bermuda home can be yours for a cool $45m — Royal Gazette Historic Bermuda Estate on Grape Bay Beach Listed at $45 Million — JustLuxe.com Also … A Mortgage Tornado Warning, Unheeded‎ — New York Times At least 8 more years in prison for NY…

  • Homebuilder reports ‘return to profitability’

    Jeff Collins
    7 Feb 2012 | 6:41 pm
    Standard Pacific officials reported that they sold the last two homes in the luxury Tides project in Crystal Cove. Click to see pictures Irvine-based homebuilding company Standard Pacific Homes reported this week its first profitable quarter in more than a year at the end of 2011, spurred by improved sales and higher home prices. Coupled with positive results for January, company President and CEO Scott Stowell told stock analysts in an earning conference call on Tuesday that it’s starting to look like an economic recovery may be under way. But for 2011 as a whole, Standard Pacific earnings…

  • Housing: Ladera is hot, CdM is not!

    Jon Lansner
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:00 pm
    Ladera Ranch is hot. Corona Del Mar is not. That is one conclusion you can draw from the neighborhood slice of the latest O.C. home inventory report from Steve Thomas and his ReportsOnHousing.com. His math shows: February 2 February 2 … The Orange County town with the fastest-selling homes in terms of Thomas’ “market time” (supply of homes for sale vs. new purchase deals inked in past month) is Ladera Ranch at 1.2 months to theoretically sell all for-sale homes at the current buying pace. A year ago, this town was at 3.1 months. Next fastest was Portola Hills at 1.5 months…

  • O.C. foreclosures for sale at 20-month low

    Jon Lansner
    7 Feb 2012 | 1:00 pm
    Distressed properties were 34% of Orage County homes listed for sale and 48% of the residences recently put into escrow. Steve Thomas of ReportsOnHousing.compublishes every two weeks a report on the supply of local homes for sale and the share of that inventory that’s distressed properties — foreclosures and short sales. His latest report — as of February 2 — says … In the past two weeks, the foreclosure inventory dropped by 24 homes and now totals 546. You have to go all the way back to June 2010 to find fewer foreclosures on the market. Foreclosures will be a very…

  • Demand for O.C. homes surges 24% in 2 weeks

    Jon Lansner
    7 Feb 2012 | 10:59 am
    Orange County’s housing market speed — by one measure — quickened 21.9% in the past two weeks and sped up 34.7% in a year. The latest Orange County home inventory report from Steve Thomas and ReportsOnHousing.com — data as of February 2 — includes these thoughts … Typically Super Bowl Sunday marks the beginning of the Spring Market. I would argue that the housing market is experiencing an early spring that started in mid-January. Could it be the warm weather that is stimulating demand? Record low interest rates? Experts declaring that a bottom has been reached?
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    REJournals.com

  • Inland Construction completes two projects at Milwaukee’s Blatz Wash House

    Staff Writer
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:43 am
    Milwaukee’s Inland Construction recently completed two projects for SSG Properties at the Blatz Wash House in Milwaukee. Inland completed a 14,000-square-foot renovation/remodel of the building’s parking garage in January of this year. It also completed a 7,500-square-foot tenant improvement project for the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra officies, also located in the Blatz Wash House. This second project was also completed in January of this year.

  • Summit video details inside story of company’s new Indianapolis home

    Dan Rafter
    8 Feb 2012 | 7:34 am
    Summit Realty Group in Indianapolis is celebrating the opening of its new headquarters. And in this digital age, the company has made this video available for those interested in learning the real story behind Summit’s new home. Check out the video. It’s inspiring to see a company remain committed to a city, as Summit has with Indianapolis. As Summit officials say in the video, you can expect this company to remain in Indianapolis — at 241 N. Pennsylvania St. — for a long time.

  • Grandbridge’s Roberts earns distinguished service award from bankers association

    Staff Writer
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:30 pm
    The Mortgage Bankers Association on Feb. 7 honored David Roberts, president and chief operating officer of Grandbridge Real Estate Capital, with the CREF Distinguished Service Award. The association passed out this honor during its 22nd annual commercial real estate finance/multi-family housing convention and expo held in Atlanta. “Dave has spent his entire career, more than 36 years, working to ensure the real estate finance industry is strong and vibrant,” said MBA chairman Michael Young. “His commitment to MBA over the years has been invaluable to our organization and,…

  • AIRE lunch meeting focuses on industrial buildings

    Staff Writer
    7 Feb 2012 | 12:33 pm
    The Association of Industrial Real Estate Brokers will focus on the key physical and operational components of industrial buildings at its monthly membership luncheon on Feb. 14 at the Rosewood Restaurant. AIRE will host a program “Building Specs 101,” a program designed to help the audience competently assist users and owners in assessing the value and functionality of property.  Expert panelists will share the most salient facts about sprinkler systems, environmental conditions, electric/lighting and flooring/paving. The panel may discuss issues and topics such as new products and…

  • Solo Cup Co. directs sale of former headquarters and manufacturing facility

    Staff Writer
    7 Feb 2012 | 12:29 pm
    CBRE Auction Services has announced that it will auction the former Solo Cup Co. headquarters and manufacturing facility located in Highland Park. The ±28 acre site will be sold at auction on March 6. The facilities are located in the heart of Chicago’s North Shore at 1660 and 1700 Old Deerfield Road in Highland Park. The property served as the company’s headquarters and as a manufacturing facility before it relocated its headquarters to Lake Forest. The ±28 acre parcel is improved with: a ±245,000-square-foot manufacturing building that includes ±26,900 square feet of office; and a…
 
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    macduff consulting

  • Thoughts from "The Show" Part 1

    Nick Green
    30 Jan 2012 | 2:57 pm
    I have just returned from Orlando, where the weather was predictable, the food at International Drive restaurants better than ever (no, really) and the food inside the cavernous hall impossibly bad and expensive. And quite why Reed Exhibitions and the Convention Center still seem incapable of providing more than 16 chairs for the 42,000 visitors to sit down is still a mystery. Okay, enough of the rant - It was a great show! There was a real buzz around the hall this year and that augers well for the forthcoming golf season. There were really 2 shows this year. Nine hundred and ninety…

  • The PGA Merchandise Show - 3 Trends for 2012

    Nick Green
    12 Jan 2012 | 2:46 pm
    Here we go again, another PGA Merchandise Show or simply "The Show" as it is called in the business. As product launch cycles have been completely turned on their heads by TaylorMade, we already know what to expect to see at the show, which is a shame. However, that's the commercial reality we live in and with the advent of social media and sites like GolfWRX and Golfspy posting pro range pictures (all supported and even paid for by the major manufacturers) there is very little at the show that we haven't seen. Hopefully some of the lesser known manufacturers with smaller budgets will give us…

  • What NOT to ask at The PGA Merchandise Show - Redux!

    Nick Green
    10 Jan 2012 | 3:07 pm
    The PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando is just around the corner and we are in final planning for clients and meeting schedules. Last year I wrote about "What not to ask at the show" and it's worth revisiting with a couple of updates. Some have remained the same - No's 1-4 - please, please avoid asking these!,  No. 5 is still in play, No. 6 - there have been some improvements, notably the "moving ball at address" rule, No. 7, the answer was millions and this year people will be buying a white 3 wood and No. 8  - substitute the name Titleist with Adams. 1. Are you having a good show?

  • TaylorMade - Marketing 101

    Nick Green
    14 Dec 2011 | 12:19 pm
    You have to hand it to the west coast dudes at TaylorMade Golf, because once again they have come up with something that has the golf world buzzing. Over the last few days it's been hard to avoid the name of their new club in the chat rooms and online golf sites. ROCKETBALLZ! Yes, you read that right, Rocketballz! That's the crazy name that allegedly came through their R & D department and some how stuck as the club went into production. Personally, I think the name is awful and the "RBZ" on the bottom of the club would have been better, but the name generated the PR they were looking…

  • Cleveland knows Marketing! A Titanium Retro Driver!

    Nick Green
    14 Nov 2011 | 10:28 am
    The folks at Cleveland Golf have come up with a cool idea! A retro titanium driver! What's that you say? Take a look at this 50's style all titanium driver with a paint job reminiscent of a Hogan driver. I have yet to see it in person and as it doesn't launch until 2012, we'll have to wait for the Orlando Golf Show in January. The epitome of cool and a great idea from CEO Greg Hopkins and his team!
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    Reia of Macomb | Michigan Real Estate Investor Club

  • Split Focused Real Estate Investing Starategies Ususally Ensure Failure

    REIA of Macomb
    2 Feb 2012 | 10:50 am
    Unless you utter the words “I’m a full-time real estate investor, and I’ll I do is buy, fix, flip, wholesale, rent, and sell houses all day every day”, plus have a team of about 6 strong employees, it’s very difficult to implement 3 different investing strategies at one time with success.  I wrote this article more »

  • How A Two Dollar Investment Can Make You Five Thousand On Your Next Michigan Real Estate Investment

    REIA of Macomb
    26 Jan 2012 | 9:49 am
    If you haven’t noticed rehabbing is back…in a BIG way.  What’s rehabbing?  My definition is buying a house, repairing/updating/& finishing it to the maximum allowable by neighborhood standards in hopes to sell it for the highest realistic price.  That’s a mouthful. If you don’t already know, selling houses retail is a delicate balance between budget more »

  • 2012 Michigan Market Turnaround

    REIA of Macomb
    16 Jan 2012 | 10:49 am
    As we kick off the 2012 real estate investing season only one word comes to mind…TURNAROUND! In the first week of the year RealtyTrac came out with numbers proving that foreclosures are at their lowest point in 7 years in Michigan. What does that mean for us Michigan real estate investors? Well if you’re not more »

  • Help Fellow REIA of Macomb Member-Wayne Turner

    REIA of Macomb
    7 Jul 2011 | 1:11 pm
    It’s not often that you’ll see something like this from me. Typically I’m all business. As it turns out a good friend of mine and fellow real estate investor-professional-educator-REIA of Macomb member has hit a hard time in his life. Wayne Turner who I met at a networking event 5 or 6 years ago has more »

  • 9 Out of 10 Buyers Find Their House Online

    REIA of Macomb
    22 Jun 2011 | 7:08 am
    I got my chops busted everyday when I first stepped into the professional world by my sales manager.  He used to have to beat it into my head that you have to give the customer what they want-not what’s necessarily best for them.  He had a saying, “Don’t fight it, write it”. What he meant more »
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    PropertyManager.com

  • Trends for Managed Property and Rental Housing

    Marc Courtenay
    7 Feb 2012 | 8:03 pm
    2012 has started with relatively good news for both investors and property managers of rental residential real estate. The most relevant breaking story came on Thursday, January 12th when we learned that foreclosure filings and repossessions have fallen to their lowest level since 2007 last year. Total filings, including default notices and bank repossessions were down 33% for 2011 to 2.7 million, according to RealtyTrac, the online marketer of foreclosed real estate. They informed us that 1 out of every 69 homes had at least one foreclosure filing during the year, while 804,000 homes were…

  • Public Universities Turn To Private Sector To Develop Dormitories

    Bryan Ives
    2 Feb 2012 | 7:52 pm
    Public universities around the country are handing over the process of building and financing on-campus dormitories to the private sector. The increase in demand for state college education, strict states budgets and the ability specialized student housing companies possess to build residence halls faster and cheaper are some of the reasons behind the change. In addition, these particular partnerships transfer some of the responsibilities of being a landlord and more importantly free capital that universities can apply to projects seen as more valuable. Some of the universities that are…

  • Landscaping Resources for Property Managers

    Rob Maday
    2 Feb 2012 | 7:19 pm
    Out of the countless ways a conventional landscape can become more “green” and sustainable, we’ve compiled a list of 3 suggestions with the best ROI for property managers. 1. Install a Smart Irrigation Controller (Rebates available in most municipalities) At a time when cutting edge technology is so prevalent in our daily lives, it makes no sense that your irrigation controller is from the Stone Age. At a minimum, your irrigation controller should be connected to a rain sensor that will shut down any programming if a set amount of precipitation collects in a small basin. Also, your…

  • Federal Laws Property Managers Must Be Aware Of – Part I

    Mary Girsch-Bock
    31 Jan 2012 | 6:29 pm
    Sometimes it seems as if all property managers spend a majority of their time memorizing various rules and regulations. New employees in particular are always trying to learn basic rules such as “when do we return security deposits, or what account does this deposit go into?” But one of the most important set of rules that property managers must be aware of, and have some working knowledge of are federal laws. While memorization is not needed, property managers MUST be aware of the general regulations that these Acts encompass, and must know when further research is necessary in order to…

  • Two California Companies Develop Their Own “REO-to-Rental” Platform

    Bryan Ives
    27 Jan 2012 | 7:14 pm
    Following the announcement that the federal government will be implementing a pilot program in the first quarter to sell Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Federal Housing Administration REO homes in bulk to potential investors, two California companies are in the works to develop their own rental platform. Private equity fund GI Partners will be investing $250 million in Waypoint Real Estate Group based out of Oakland, Calif. Waypoint developed a process of acquiring foreclosed homes, renovating them before leasing the properties to residents. Waypoint has been in business for three years and since…
 
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    GreenPropertyManagement.com

  • Backyard Chickens

    Jennifer Marcus Newton
    27 Jan 2012 | 11:04 am
    One of the perks of my last apartment in California was access to seven hens. Really, the perk had more to do with the eggs the chickens produced, but the thought of interacting with hens was strangely thrilling. I’d never been around them before and I was extremely curious. I imagined making my way to the coop with an egg basket tucked under my arm. Gathering eggs was a nostalgic task I attached to the wholesome life on the prairie I’d read about in the Little House on the Prairie series. Truth be told, I was thoroughly intimidated by the chickens. Not completely alektorophobic, but when…

  • Save Paper in Your Property Management Office

    Mary Girsch-Bock
    11 Jan 2012 | 10:00 am
    As more property management companies become more environmentally conscious, property managers continue to search for more ways to go ‘green.’ This process can include everything from reducing office thermometers to using more environmentally friendly cleaning products. One of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to reduce paper usage in your office. While this may sound simple at first, we all know that the property management industry is very paper-driven (think application, credit report, lease agreement, lease renewal, etc.). But with some newly formed, environmentally…

  • An Environmentally Responsible Move-Out List

    Jennifer Marcus Newton
    29 Dec 2011 | 6:52 pm
    You’re not the only one making wish lists this time of year. Here’s one for your residents to check twice to make sure their next move-out is environmentally responsible. Or, should a tenant leave you with a move-out mess, this handy list will help you navigate the detritus responsibly. Thank goodness for security deposits. Televisions—Just a few weeks ago, Best Buy announced that it’s dropping the $10 fee for recycling old TVs. Televisions and other electronic waste can’t be tossed in landfills, but not all e-waste recycling is actually environmentally safe. Some e-waste is…

  • Increase Your Energy-Saving Awareness and Green Profits Will Follow

    Marc Courtenay
    14 Dec 2011 | 5:52 pm
    In the many decades that I’ve counseled and consulted with my clients, I’ve been impressed how many want to do the right things-especially when it comes to human relationships and the environment. As Property Managers, we are often measured by how we get along with our clients and residents. More and more we are also judged by the example we set as the “stewards” of the buildings and grounds that compose the properties we manage. You wouldn’t be reading this article if you didn’t have a “green conscience” of some sort. That’s why I’d like to share some simple ideas for…

  • Getting Personal about Public Transportation

    Jennifer Marcus Newton
    2 Dec 2011 | 12:34 pm
    Public transportation is really an unsung eco hero. Some people complain that trains are dirty or buses run late. And sure, there are some strange folks who take the train once in a while. But there are also strange folks who get behind the wheel and drive behind you (or in front of you). But no matter where you are in the world, local public transportation reduces carbon emissions for every person on board. It also reduces the number of personal vehicles on the road, thereby reducing traffic congestion. Over the course of a year, you can cut your own carbon emissions by nearly 5,000 pounds…
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    Select Property

  • Dubai property prices up 5% on last year

    Max Bielby
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:44 am
    According to the latest data from the Dubai Land Department, the total number of residential sales during Q4, 2011 reached 2,605 compared to 1,589 transactions in Q3. This represented a significant 64 percent increase quarter on quarter while prices increased to AED9,500/sqm which is 5 percent more than the average residential price per sqm this time last year. As a result, investor interest in Dubai’s residential property sector continues to increase. This has been most apparent in areas where tenants seek out lifestyle developments aligned with their aspirations. This has created high…

  • Dubai highlighted as top property investment city

    Max Bielby
    3 Feb 2012 | 11:53 am
    Recent research has highlighted Dubai real estate as one of the world’s most attractive investments. A global property index placed the emirate above major competitors such as Geneva, Kuala Lumpur, Paris, Shanghai and Singapore as global investors have been quicker to invest into Dubai Property. Average global prices rose three percent in 2011, according to the latest Prime Global Cities Index by London-based real estate consultancy firm Knight Frank. The index ranked Dubai as the 15th most attractive investment location in the world, much higher than some of its regional Asian competitors…

  • Liverpool’s student numbers increase by over 11%

    Max Bielby
    3 Feb 2012 | 3:20 am
    The latest figures from UCAS show Liverpool has been a first choice amongst students applying for university this year. While some universities have experienced a decline in applications in light of recent tuition fee changes, Liverpool has seen an increase of 11.4% compared with last year. Despite the introduction of new top up fees, Liverpool has seen a boost in applications highlighting the city’s appeal with students. This reputation has been maintained by Liverpool’s universities work to have improve higher quality vocational courses, introduce a new range of bursaries and…

  • Istanbul tops property investor list

    Max Bielby
    1 Feb 2012 | 10:00 am
    Istanbul is top of the list for property investors and developers for a second year running according to the latest figures. Reporting on the findings, The Guardian explained, Europe is in a vicious cycle of low or no growth with most of the previous hotspots like London for example mounting debt up and moving down from their previous place of second to the bottom of the top 10. Istanbul was able to hold number one spot due to its high amount of youthful population and its booming economy according to the survey of over 600 real estate professionals. Istanbul’s property market is thriving…

  • Student Property continues to outperform UK property market

    Max Bielby
    26 Jan 2012 | 3:56 am
    Knight Frank’s 2012 student property report has highlighted the continued popularity of the asset class as an investment. Student accommodation in the UK has achieved extremely high returns for the second year running, vastly outpacing the returns generated by the rest of the UK’s residential and commercial property markets. James Pullan, the head of student property at Knight Frank stated “Student property has outperformed every other commercial property class” explaining “A key reason for this outperformance is that there is still a structural undersupply of purpose-built student…
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    ERA Wilder Realty

  • From listing to closing day, explaining the sales and marketing process

    7 Feb 2012 | 1:00 pm
    Step 14 of the listing presentation Explain to the seller what happens next, all the way through to closing. Pretty simple in theory, but a time that you must use to make them aware of everything that goes on during the marketing and sale process; and everything you could think of that might not go right! First, let’s focus on the initial steps of marketing the house.  You will want to create a checklist to use that provides these steps.  Here are some examples: When does the sign go up? When is the first ad submitted and where? When will photography be completed? When will the…

  • Waterford Senior Living - Real Estate in South Carolina

    2 Feb 2012 | 2:30 pm
    Retiring, relocating or ready to sell your home? Let ERA Wilder Realty agent, Cindy Luoma, help you.    Waterford Senior Living - Real Estate in SC by erawilderrealty  

  • Successfully Selling HUD Homes in SC Training - February 21, 2012

    31 Jan 2012 | 10:30 am
    Registration is required to attend this training class. Please register by Friday, February 17, 2012 by visiting http://www.HUDPEMCOevents.eventbrite.com or by emailing lucindab@erawilderrealty.com  

  • You're Invited to the State of the Lake Address

    25 Jan 2012 | 2:35 pm
    Todd Beckstrom with ERA Wilder Realty invites you to attend the State of the Lake Address on January 31 at 6:00pm at the Timberlake Golf Club in Chapin, SC. RSVP by visiting our event on Facebook or by emailing Todd@era.com.    

  • Successfully Selling HUD Homes in SC Training - January 24, 2012

    19 Jan 2012 | 2:00 pm
    Registration is required to attend this training class. Please register by Monday, January 23, 2012 by visiting http://www.HUDPEMCOevents.eventbrite.com or by emailing lucindab@erawilderrealty.com  
 
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    Repo Homes Blog

  • Economic Indicators Improving – Repo Homes Still Available

    admin
    6 Feb 2012 | 9:47 am
    Things are looking up in the U.S. economically, although repo homes are still oversupplied. The problem with housing is what the government is currently focusing on in an effort to get rid of the so-called drag in the nation\'s economy.Economic Indicators Improving – Repo Homes Still Available is a post from Repo-Homes.com - Your online source for house repossessions for sale.

  • Repo Homes Still High, But Predicted Improvements Starting to Materialize

    admin
    1 Feb 2012 | 12:58 pm
    The first few weeks of 2012 show that predictions of improvements in the housing sector made during the last quarter of 2011 are being proven true. Despite the fact that repo houses are still oversupplied, analysts are confident that positive trends in housing will hold for the rest of the year.Repo Homes Still High, But Predicted Improvements Starting to Materialize is a post from Repo-Homes.com - Your online source for house repossessions for sale.

  • Repo Homes Sales Rise As Market Improves

    admin
    25 Jan 2012 | 11:26 am
    Sales of existing residential properties have risen, offering some sign of an improving housing sector. Analysts believe that the trend is set to continue in 2012 as the economy slowly gets back on its feet.Repo Homes Sales Rise As Market Improves is a post from Repo-Homes.com - Your online source for house repossessions for sale.

  • Areas Race Toward Housing Recovery – Repo Homes Still in Demand

    admin
    18 Jan 2012 | 1:11 pm
    Housing analysts expect recovery in the housing market to be slow in 2012, although certain areas may gain more traction than others, especially those that are selling more repossessed homes. And it is not just home buying that will help these areas, but also the industries.Areas Race Toward Housing Recovery – Repo Homes Still in Demand is a post from Repo-Homes.com - Your online source for house repossessions for sale.

  • What Repo Homes Really Mean for the Economy

    admin
    11 Jan 2012 | 11:25 am
    The number of repo houses continues to weigh down the housing market. However, positive signs are being seen in some areas of the U.S. where sales of existing residential properties, particularly repossessed homes, have been rising for the past fewWhat Repo Homes Really Mean for the Economy is a post from Repo-Homes.com - Your online source for house repossessions for sale.
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    Salt Spring Island Real Estate | Gulf Islands Properties

  • February 2012, Salt Spring Island Market Analyses

    saltspringislandrealestate@gmail.com ( Li Read)
    2 Feb 2012 | 1:53 am
    February, 2012. January & February are the “winter holiday” months…skiers love the mountain escapes (Whistler , Telluride, Vail, Aspen) & sunseekers are finding delights on beaches (in Hawaii, Southern California, Florida, Caribbean islands, and Mexico). It’s a time when the Pacific Northwest Coast enjoys its “lull” time….we are a seasonal marketplace. Property inquiries right now [...]

  • January 2012, Salt Spring Island Market Analyses

    saltspringislandrealestate@gmail.com ( Li Read)
    2 Jan 2012 | 7:42 pm
    January 2012, Salt Spring Island Market Analyses Happy New Year! I think many people will be glad to see the back of 2011…we may look back a few years from now and decide that 2011 was the key year in the societal shift that has been underway since 2000. Key in the sense that change [...]

  • December, 2011, Salt Spring Island, BC

    saltspringislandrealestate@gmail.com ( Li Read)
    9 Dec 2011 | 1:58 pm
    December, 2011. The end of the year is a time to both look back, as a kind of summing up, with the benefit of hind-sight, and also a time to look forward, to dare a little, to make some projections. The hind-sight part: On looking back, it’s clear that entry level residential was the flavour [...]

  • November 2011, Salt Spring Island, BC

    saltspringislandrealestate@gmail.com ( Li Read)
    1 Nov 2011 | 8:34 pm
    November, 2011. At this time of year, it’s a mix of settling into a softer season, with an emphasis on holiday celebrations, with family & friends, and also a time for business planning for the following year. I often think of November, December, January as the “fallow field” moment…we drop inward, to the root level [...]

  • October 2011 | Salt Spring Island Market Analysis

    saltspringislandrealestate@gmail.com ( Li Read)
    1 Oct 2011 | 3:40 pm
    October, 2011. It’s Harvest Time…also, in the business cycle, it’s now the fourth quarter. The general dishevelment of this “real” 21st Century remains with us all. Yes, in a way real estate remains localized. It’s the item we know, if we’re local. In another, it’s not…global issues afflict all regions, no area is exempt from [...]
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    rentBits Blog

  • Top 10 Secrets to Saving on Rent

    rentBits Team
    6 Feb 2012 | 6:12 pm
    By the rentbits Education Team As you look through apartment complexes, rental homes and condos, you may be unaware of one important aspect of the search: negotiability. Unlike restaurant bills or retail sales, rent is negotiable. Although a rental company or property owner lists a price they want per month for the unit, this isn’t usually set in [...]

  • Impressive Facebook Numbers

    rentBits Team
    1 Feb 2012 | 6:31 pm
    The Facebook revenue speculation is over. Today, in preparation for their much anticipated IPO, Facebook released some very impressive financial and operational numbers. The Summary: Users Over 850 Million Monthly Active Users as of Dec 31st 2011 Over 483 Million Active Daily Users  as of Dec 31st 2011 Over 100 Billion friend connections as of Dec 31st 2011 Over 2.7 Billion comments [...]

  • WalkScore Raises $2 Million

    rentBits Team
    29 Jan 2012 | 1:57 pm
    Walkscore, the service that calculates the walk-ability from your home, has raised $2 million. Walk Score’s mission is to promote walkable neighborhoods. There are over 10,000 sites that are currently using the walkscore ratings. The series A round includes investors: Rudy Gadre (previously at Facebook), Shel Kaphan, Edward Yim (Investor in Cheezburger Network), Geoff Entress, (Partner with Seattle-based venture capital firm [...]

  • 7 Ways to Increase sales in a Volatile Economy

    rentBits Team
    12 Jan 2012 | 11:14 am
    Author of SNAP Selling & Selling to Big Companies, Jill Konrath, has released a white paper entitled, “Selling in a Volatile Economy.” I highly recommend it for any sales person or company looking to grow their business. The 7 Tips are: Deepen Your Expertise Strengthen your Value Propositions What is a value proposition? It’s a clear statement about the [...]

  • Data Visualization of New Homes Sold

    Dan Daugherty
    11 Jan 2012 | 8:10 pm
    Data from the Census Bureau shows the obvious. New home sales have been on a decline ever since Sept 2006. In Oct 2010 however, this trend has flattened out. Construction of new homes have declined as well but is this a sign of stabilization in the real estate market?
 
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    San Fernando Valley Real Estate

  • My video is up on Yelp

    6 Feb 2012 | 5:00 pm
    My video is up on Yelp.  Just type in "real estate agents" near either Sherman Oaks, Burbank, Valley Village, Studio City, etc. and my name will come up.  Click on the link and you can view the video.  I'm trying to get a copy for this blog.

  • Wild parrots in Burbank

    4 Feb 2012 | 12:35 pm
    As if Burbank wasn't already distinguished enough: I just learned that the town is also the residence of a big flock of wild parrots.  I saw them myself yesterday.  I'm told that these pretty birds squawk their way across Magnolia Park early in the am and about 5-ish in the evening.  Going where? Who knows.  Being chased by a huge wild airborne kitty, perhaps? Dunno. Going to work/coming home from the studios? Unlikely -- they wouldn't get off until 6.  Roosting after feasting on crumbs at Porto's? Maybe.  If you know anything about these…

  • Beware of the evil clowns of Los Angeles short sales

    3 Feb 2012 | 4:41 pm
    Of course I couldn't go a month without saying something about short sales, right? Lately, I've been made aware of new and different scams perpetrated on short sale sellers in Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley.  If you or anybody you know is thinking about selling short, there are a few things you should know to protect yourself.  First and foremost, you shouldn't pay any money to anybody upfront to handle a short sale for you.  They get paid through the commission when the sale closes.  This is California law. Second, you need to sign all legally binding…

  • 2007 N. 6th in Burbank is sold, we think.*

    29 Jan 2012 | 11:19 am
    The serious fixer property that I listed in the Burbank hills sold in a last-minute bidding war on Wednesday.  I never thought it would happen.  It has been listed since November.  Although we had many all-cash offers from qualified buyers, we didn't get close to the price the sellers would accept until last week.  Then, the activity got heated and there was a lot of drama. Potential buyers began to bid against each other in small increments.  Seventy emails were sent and received about the offers on Wednesday a.m. alone.  Old offers rose from the dead. …

  • I predict the short-term future of the local real estate market

    24 Jan 2012 | 7:13 pm
    Although I don't have a crystal ball, I think we're in for a strong first and second yearly quarters, as far as San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles real estate goes. Why do I say that? It appears that buyers are coming out of the woodwork.  There's a nexus right now between low interest rates and lower-than-in-recent-memory home prices and short inventory.  Everything is going into multiple offers.  There are lots of cash buyers out there.  Plus, I think that potential buyers may just be tired of sitting on their hands and may be feeling a little more confident than…
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    Foreclosure News

  • Federal Foreclosure-into-Rental Program Picks Up Steam

    admin
    2 Feb 2012 | 2:18 pm
    The initiative announced last year to convert approximately 180,000 government foreclosures into rental properties through partnerships with private equity firms and other investors is picking up steam this week as both Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac announced pre-qualified bidding for interested parties. The proposal – which would sell foreclosure homes, often in bulk, to private investors from government inventory – is set to go live in the “near term”, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency. According to reports, the two government-sponsored enterprises will…

  • Want Terrific Deals on Foreclosure Properties? Check Out These States

    admin
    26 Jan 2012 | 9:58 am
    The foreclosure market in the U.S. is absolutely saturated with great deals and steals – namely in the form of hundreds of thousands of home foreclosures priced well below fair market value. Couple that with dirt-cheap interest rates and you can easily see why 2012 is shaping up to be one of the hottest years on record for buying foreclosures. Where should you look, though? Some states are hotter than others, and the success of your venture will depend on finding the right markets. Here are ten states that hold the most promise to budding homeowners, entrepreneurs, and investors looking…

  • Tons of Opportunities and Potential Pratfalls for Foreign Real Estate Investors in the U.S.

    admin
    19 Jan 2012 | 1:16 pm
    The real estate market today is a veritable garden ripe for picking for foreign investors flush with cash and capital. Last year saw a record number of real estate transactions closed by foreign investors who flocked to hot spots in Florida, New York, and other hot locales, all seeking incredible deals with distressed properties and foreclosures galore. This year is no exception, but while there are still plenty of great deals to be had, there are some potential pitfalls to avoid, too. Real estate agents and foreign entrepreneurs alike should be cautious and well-prepared when digging into…

  • How to Use Google Maps When Looking for a New Home

    admin
    17 Jan 2012 | 1:45 pm
    If you are considering purchasing a new home or investment property outside of your area, Google Maps should be your new best friend. Never before has it been easier to take the address of your desired property and obtain information in regards to surrounding businesses as well as potentially seeing a satellite view of the home from the street. The Map View The number one reason to utilize Google Maps when looking for a new home outside of your area is that it is free. All you have to do is log onto Google Maps and type in the address for the property you are considering purchasing. Instantly…

  • Fannie Mae CEO Michael J. Williams Resigns

    admin
    12 Jan 2012 | 12:32 pm
    Barely three and a half years after the federal government bailed out mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the CEO of Fannie Mae, Michael J. Williams, has called it quits. Williams, 53, was announced as the director of the beleaguered agency in 2008 after the federal government stepped in and placed both firms into government conservatorship. The move has cost taxpayers roughly $150 billion, and that price tag could climb to well above $250 billion – a quarter of a trillion dollars – before it is all said and done. Since his appointment, Williams has faced intense fire from…
 
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    ReTechulous»

  • Foreclosure List Capture Page

    Ryan Hartman
    7 Feb 2012 | 1:54 pm
    Setting Up Your Page Step 1 – Get Realbird ID Step 2 – Vid: How To Generate Your Links | Click Here to Open Your Link Generator In A New Window Getting Visitors To Your PageCraigslist Traffic Generation The first way to get quick traffic to you page is Craigslist. If You’ll notice when you Please login / become a member.

  • Niche Focused Page (How To Build A Quick Mini Real Estate Lead Gen System)

    Ryan Hartman
    2 Feb 2012 | 1:13 pm
    This week we’ve set up a page on our Awesome Real Estate Website that designed to “rank organically” for a keyword search term “York Pa Townhomes.” And we’ve also set up a Google Adwords campaign specific for this micro niche. Here below are some vids detailing the project, starting with an intro/overview from one of Please login / become a member.

  • 2000 Percent Greater Response

    Ryan Hartman
    31 Jan 2012 | 12:13 pm
    Recommended Resources: (mentioned at end of the video) Click Here For Information on the Facebook Ads CTR Crusher Service (Link Opens In New Window) OR Click Here to become a ReTechulous Marketing “Fastermind” Member (Link Opens In New Window)

  • Distressed Seller Capture Page

    Ryan Hartman
    30 Jan 2012 | 7:38 am
    Members, Click Here To Get Your Link Now Click Here To See Demo Page of This Capture Page (page will open in new window)

  • Configuring Your “PURL” Page

    Ryan Hartman
    23 Jan 2012 | 9:49 am
    The Awesome Real Estate Website has a “Purl” feature built into it… which means you can create “Personalized URL’s” for individual people, or Property Listings. This screencast explains the functionality and shows you how to configure your own PURL page…
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    NeilSchwartz.net

  • Don’t Accept Less

    Bill Gross
    6 Feb 2012 | 11:53 pm
    Anything can become a habit of you do it often enough. You must raise your standards so that you don’t make a habit of underachievement. Don’t let “less” become the norm for you! Related Posts:Comfortable? You’re NOT growing!4 Steps to Pursuing Excellence in Real... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

  • Giving It Your All

    Bill Gross
    6 Feb 2012 | 11:49 pm
    Imagine how much you could achieve if you made an effort to push past your “normal” limits. You would have an incredible breakthrough that would create incredible results. Related Posts:Could You Have Done More?Answer This QuestionHow to Create a ScheduleLess Is MoreDon’t Be... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

  • Mike Ferry One on One Retreat 2012 Notes

    Neil Schwartz
    26 Jan 2012 | 8:45 am
    Here are out notes, hope you find them helpful. What was the main point you got out of the event? Email me and let me know, or comment below. Day 1 Part 1  Customer Service / Past Client System Overview Until you understand the value of your past clients you wont list in high volume [...] [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

  • The Mike Ferry Organization Blog

    Neil Schwartz
    23 Jan 2012 | 7:30 am
    Mike Ferry – How to Choose the Right Real Estate Sales Coaching and Training Company I received a copy of a message from our client Bill Gross to his boss, Neil Schwartz at Century 21 Masters. It was interesting because Bill is a fanatical prospector and recruiter for Neil’s company, and on... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

  • Building Your Business

    Neil Schwartz
    20 Jan 2012 | 9:11 pm
    - Get your Ego out of the way. - Learn to change your behavior. - Work on your level of commitment. Related Posts:4 Steps to Pursuing Excellence in Real EstateComfortable? You’re NOT growing!The Next LevelFocus, Consistency and Commitment is what it Takes!Could You Have Done More?Do What... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]
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    Home Auctions Blog

  • Competition Getting Tight Among Investors Prowling Foreclosure Auctions

    cassy82
    6 Feb 2012 | 11:25 am
    It cannot be denied that deals offered at home auctions are some of the best ever seen in decades. Real estate investors are very much aware of how good the opportunities are in these channels and most have taken advantage of them. As the year progresses, it is quite obvious that a lot more investors have gone into the bargain-hunting mode, as competition among those who frequent foreclosure auctions continues to tighten. No one is complaining though, as this can only mean more housing sales and better outlook for the home sector in general. More Interest in Distressed Real Estate Analysts…

  • Foreclosure Auctions Set to Welcome More Buyers

    cassy82
    1 Feb 2012 | 1:44 pm
    The housing market is slowly climbing up, giving hope that prices of residential properties will soon rise or, at least, stop their decline. With this in mind, most analysts are projecting higher buying activities at foreclosure auctions as buyers try to grab bargain properties before prices start to rise. Some are still unsure of where the housing market will go for the rest of 2012, but majority of industry observers believe that stability is already within reach. The recovery is expected to be slow, but the best part is that not a lot of people will bet their top dollar that the crisis…

  • Positive Numbers for Foreclosure Auctions at the End of 2011

    cassy82
    26 Jan 2012 | 5:56 am
    Sales of residential properties, particularly existing homes, ended 2011 on a strong note. During the last few months of last year, a big number of investors and independent homebuyers left the sidelines to take advantage of the bargain properties that were on offer. This trend is expected to continue on to 2012 as buyers gain more confidence. Buyers' improving outlook for the housing sector has a lot to do with the declining unemployment rate and the fact that the general economy is getting better as we move deeper into the current year. Buyers Contributing to Housing Stability Sales of…

  • Varied Choices at Foreclosure Auctions Attracting Investors and Buyers

    cassy82
    19 Jan 2012 | 6:05 am
    A lot of home buyers and real estate investors are getting into the trend of attending foreclosure home auctions to find bargain properties. The low prices of homes offered at these auctions have given a lot of people the opportunity to own a house or invest in real estate. As the housing market shows signs of recovery, pent up demand drives sales of homes, particularly those sold at a foreclosure auction. Analysts expect sales to rise rapidly in 2012 and for these sales to contribute to the housing sector's recovery. Recovery Signs Seen in Various Segments It is not just residential…

  • Home Buying at Foreclosure Auctions Expected to Escalate in 2012

    cassy82
    11 Jan 2012 | 12:39 pm
    As the housing market starts to shown signs of revival, most analysts expect homebuyers and real estate investors to trek to foreclosure auctions in 2012 to try and take advantage of bargain deals before prices start to rise again. It has long been asserted that there are still buyers waiting on the sidelines to see how the housing industry will perform and whether prices will drop even lower. Most analysts believe though, that the waiting time is over and most property buyers will be heading to a foreclosure auction in the coming few months. Bargain Homes Still Aplenty Home prices are still…
 
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    Windsong Properties - Ranch Home Builder in Atlanta

  • Offspring, parents, and you – the Sandwich Generation

    windsong
    2 Feb 2012 | 7:23 am
    There’s nothing quite like a good sandwich – two fresh pieces of bread, layers of your favorite ingredients artfully stacked to create a delightful experience. That is, unless the sandwich is compressed and misshapen by the stress of the items surrounding it in a crowded lunchbox. That is sometimes how the members of the “Sandwich [...]

  • Active Learning – Active Adults

    windsong
    24 Jan 2012 | 12:46 pm
    Some of the happiest moments in our lives are those in which we accomplish something new. Think about the wide grin of a baby who is just learning to walk, or the delight on the face of a child who hits the ball in Little League, or the smile of accomplishment worn by a college [...]

  • Active Adult Community = Friendships!

    windsong
    18 Jan 2012 | 1:34 pm
    “Friendship… is one of those things that give value to survival.” – C.S. Lewis Friendships are important not only to our own sense of fulfillment, but also to health and longevity. Studies show that people who have a close circle of friends and are socially active tend to live longer, healthier, more productive lives. When [...]

  • Virtual European Vacation

    windsong
    16 Jan 2012 | 8:31 am
    Experience the Grand Cathedrals of Europe with instructor  Howard Cohen at OLLI, Kennesaw State University’s 55+ education institute.  An experienced traveler of Europe, Howard developed an interest the the origin of the grand cathedrals he visited.  Combining his historical research with a stunning dvd series, Howard with take you on an historical journey through these [...]

  • Achieving New Year’s Resolution Goals Is A Breeze!

    windsong
    11 Jan 2012 | 6:31 pm
    Getting healthy, exercising and achieving fitness goals is at the forefront of everyone’s mind at the first of each year. But by the end of the first week of January, millions of New Year’s resolutions have already been broken, and by February, the vast majority of those things we made a commitment to change have [...]
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    Bank Owned Homes Blog

  • What to Do with Bank Owned Homes? Rental Proposal Still Up for Debate

    admin
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:34 am
    Several proposals have been put forward to address the issue of the huge supply of bank owned houses that are still in the market. Getting these properties occupied, according to some housing experts, should be the priority of the government and the industry. One of the most prominent suggestions is for the U.S. government to sell its foreclosures to investors by the bulk and have them convert the properties into rental housing. Some market observers support this suggestion, while others argue that the responsibility of maintaining a huge amount of foreclosed rentals may be too much for some…

  • Inventory of Bank Owned Properties Declining Slowly

    admin
    1 Feb 2012 | 1:13 pm
    The year 2012 has already started, but the debate on whether the housing industry is going the right way or not is still ongoing. One cannot blame those who question claims that the housing industry is improving, given that signs are not as obvious as we all wish them to be. However, housing numbers prove that there is a definite decline in inventory, particularly among low-priced bank owned properties. These cheap homes are being plucked out of the market by home buyers and real estate investors as their confidence over the sector improves. Main Markets Strengthening Some of the areas…

  • Housing Sector Stabilizing As Bank Owned Properties Attract Buyers

    admin
    25 Jan 2012 | 11:42 am
    The economy, as a whole, is showing signs of strengthening, with the housing sector leading the charge as it demonstrates signs of stability. Multiple factors are at play when it comes to the general economy, but there is no denying that housing will play a major role. The Commerce Department has issued a report showing that new home sales have climbed, while homebuilder shares have also shown some improvements. This demonstrates how consumer confidence is picking up, which is a good thing given that 70% of the nation's gross domestic product is tied up with consumer buying. More Buyers,…

  • Selling Pace for Bank Owned Properties Picking Up in Most Areas

    admin
    18 Jan 2012 | 1:40 pm
    More homebuyers and real estate investors are favoring bank owned homes. This trend is bringing down the median selling price of residential properties as shown by sector data gathered during the first few weeks of 2012. On the other hand, it has also increased the sales pace in the residential market during those first few weeks as buyers take advantage of the bargain prices of bank owned houses. Most analysts have declared that the low prices are hindering the housing market's recovery, but it may not be as bad as some analysts see it. The Need to Lower the Inventory It is true that…

  • New Use Found for Bank Owned Properties

    admin
    9 Jan 2012 | 11:09 am
    Most Americans currently have a very low opinion about homeownership, but this has not stopped them from taking advantage of the cheap bank owned properties that are available in the market. The strengthening rental housing market has given them a new option when it comes to real estate investing. With so many investors entering the rental market, does this mean that the real estate industry will see a massive recovery in 2012? Most industry observers believe that this is too much to hope for, but most also agree that things will be better this year. Rental Market Thriving Although…
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    Real Estate Technology Blog

  • New Feature: Auto-Import Your Listing in Seconds!

    Michael LaPeter
    1 Feb 2012 | 11:39 am
    If you’ve already entered your listing into your local MLS, we can auto-import it and create your property site using just the MLS number! You can now create a demo site for an agent in seconds. We will import your listing into our site, including high resolution images, and auto-create a property site for you. Plus, if you’re already using a similar service, you can now transfer your listings in a matter of minutes.   All you need is the MLS number, and we’ll do the rest. You’ll have a chance to review and edit your listing’s info before publishing it. Now…

  • New Feature: My Move Sites For Your Buyer Clients

    Michael LaPeter
    15 Nov 2011 | 2:22 pm
    Generate More Referrals By Giving Buyers Their Own Site! If you’re a buyer’s agent, then you know that the best time to get referrals is DURING the transaction. But how do you do it?  We’ve created the perfect solution: a customizable website for each of your buyers where they can share information about their new home!  Here’s an example: http://thesmiths.mymovesites.com Buyers share move details with friends Agents can create a “My Move Site” for their buyer clients. With photos, details, map and more, it’s an easy way for buyers to share the…

  • Attn Loan Officers: You Can Now Transfer Listings To Your Agents

    Michael LaPeter
    25 Aug 2011 | 1:17 pm
    We know that many loan officers have different workflows for partnering with real estate agents. Now, you can create property sites for your agents, setup an account for them, and transfer the completed property site right into their account. They can then edit the property site and do all the marketing such as posting to craigslist, facebook, and much more.  If you still need to make changes to the property site or would like to help with marketing, you can still edit and market the property site: just go to your sponsor area to find the property. How it works: Login to your account, then…

  • Sample Realtor Blog Post – Just Copy and Paste!

    Michael LaPeter
    9 Feb 2011 | 10:42 am
    We’ve tried to make using My Single Property Websites to market your real estate listings as easy as possible. Now, we’re focused on creating a suite of resources to make your personal marketing as easy as possible. The first resource was our free customizable real estate listing presentation. Now, we’re excited to add our second resource: a complete blog post detailing all your marketing efforts that you can just cut and paste right into your wordpress blog. Nearly everything in the blog post is handled by My Single Property Websites, but your clients don’t need to…

  • Loan Officer & Realtor Joint Marketing Program Presentation

    Michael LaPeter
    31 Jan 2011 | 12:37 pm
    Lately we’ve been hard at work developing our Joint Marketing Program for Loan Officers and Real Estate Agents. Loan Officers can sign up for a Sponsor Account, which lets them work with an unlimited number of real estate agents, and they can create an unlimited number of property sites. The plan is $79 per month, and they can split the costs with all the agents they are working with. This saves everyone money, and helps loan officers develop relationships with agents by helping them with their marketing.  If you’re a loan officer, you can find out more about it here: Loan…
 
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    Susan Singer

  • Inventory tightens for Manhattan renters and buyers

    Susan Singer
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:05 pm
      Inventory is dwindling for both Manhattan renters and buyers, according to two recent market analyses, and that’s pushing apartment rents and prices higher. Citi Habitats figures cited by the Wall Street Journal show just 2,230 new rental units will arrive in Manhattan this year, as the construction slowdown during the recession starts to rear its head just as apartment demand is at its highest. Many people have turned to renting in the uncertain economy and the vacancy rate during the typically lax winter months currently sits at just 1.27 percent. The rental construction that began…

  • UES Residents Push Back On MTA Plan To Build New Subway Entrance

    Susan Singer
    27 Jan 2012 | 12:37 pm
    The Metropolitan Transportation Authority wants to build new entrances so the disabled can access the subway at 68th Street, but some Upper East Side residents say the plan will diminish the quality of their block. NY1’s Tina Redwine filed the following report. People who live on East 69th Street between Lexington and Park say it’s a special place. “It is a beautiful block. Quiet. It has been here for a long time and I don’t think it will enhance our street at all,” said one resident. “It” is the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s plan to build new…

  • Rejection From A Co-Op Board Can Sometimes Be Reversed

    Susan Singer
    23 Jan 2012 | 6:11 pm
    New Yorkers who are rejected by a co-op board should not lose hope, as they may be able to get the board to reconsider their applications.   Let’s say you find the perfect apartment in a co-op, submit a board package, go on the interview and are promptly turned down. Most people lick their wounds and move on, but many do not realize they still may have a chance. Real estate attorney Sandor Krauss says in rare cases, an applicant can get a board to reconsider. “No is usually no. However, there are times where certain circumstances that are unique to your application can be…

  • Trump Soho’s Developers to Auction Hotel and Unsold Condos

    Susan Singer
    19 Jan 2012 | 4:04 pm
    The developers of Manhattan’s Trump Soho will put the hotel and its unsold condominium units up for sale, said Alex Sapir, one of the property’s builders. The Sapir Organization, which developed the property with Bayrock Group LLC, has hired brokers Eastdil Secured LLC and Jones Lang LaSalle Inc. to hold an auction for the unspecified number of unsold condominium units and the hotel’s common areas, said Alex Sapir, president of the Sapir Organization. Sales of the Trump luxury units come as the city’s supply of for-sale condos shrinks. There were 3,382 units listed for sale in the…

  • Some City Co-Ops Become More Accepting Of Dogs

    Susan Singer
    17 Jan 2012 | 9:58 am
    Dogs are members of the family to some and unwanted neighbors to others, so several buildings have a ban on four-legged pets. But these days, there are so many legal loopholes around no-dog polices that many co-ops are eliminating them.   “As a trend, it’s becoming much more common. The forces of change are pushing for allowing dogs because it has become impossible to prohibit them,” says real estate attorney Dean Roberts of Norris McLaughlin & Marcus. Roberts, who works with buildings to resolve doggie dilemmas, says changes to local and federal laws have left loopholes…
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    Findwell Blog

  • GeekWire Radio: Microsoft vs. Google, Facebook IPO, and a geek’s guide to real estate

    Kevin Lisota
    4 Feb 2012 | 11:08 am
    I had a blast yesterday joining our friends John Cook & Todd Bishop on the GeekWire podcast. We talked online real estate and home technology. You can either catch it on KIRO 97.3 or 770AM this weekend, or listen to their show below or directly via this MP3 file.  You can get every episode of the GeekWire podcast using this RSS feed, by subscribing in iTunes or Zune. More audio at MyNorthwest.com

  • Nest Learning Thermostat – futuristic home heating

    Kevin Lisota
    1 Feb 2012 | 8:00 pm
    I’m a bit of a technology geek and had to be one of the first to get my hands on the Nest Learning Thermostat. The folks over at GeekWire asked me write up a review of the first few days with Nest, which was published today. It is a neat device that will help you save energy while making your home look cool in the process.

  • Evaluating a home before a foreclosure auction

    Kevin Lisota
    23 Jan 2012 | 2:17 pm
    With many homes currently in foreclosure, buyers may turn to a foreclosure auction as a potential place to find a deal on a house. In Washington state, foreclosed homes are sold through a trustee auction, which is a process that happens outside of the court system. If you plan to buy a home at a trustee auction, you need to understand the process and bidding requirements. More importantly, you need to understand as much as you can about the home you are bidding on, particularly since you are purchasing in as-is condition. Evaluating a home that is being sold at a foreclosure auction can be…

  • A condo video intercom system from the future!

    Kevin Lisota
    23 Jan 2012 | 10:55 am
    Most large condo complexes have some sort of secure entry system. Modern ones tend to have a voice intercom where you can buzz in your visitors via a code on your phone. Sometimes there is also a video camera at the entry gate, but almost none are as groovy as the one I stumbled upon yesterday in a 1985 condo. When a visitor buzzes from the entry, you pick up this handset to speak to them. But what if you want to see who’s at the door? Well, just pop open the Jetson’s-style monitor! (That is a mini-CRT that pops out!)  

  • A Middle Earth neighborhood for Lord of the Rings fans

    Kevin Lisota
    6 Jan 2012 | 1:31 pm
    When developers create a new subdivision, the name of the neighborhood and streets are usually pretty boring. When I was back in Wisconsin over the holidays, I came across a creative one that appeals to Lord of the Rings fans like myself called The Shire in Brookfield. Not only do they have a Hobbit door at the entrance, but you can also live on streets like Rivendell Drive or Brandywine Lane. However, you’ll notice that the homes are a little larger than typical Hobbit size!
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    NuWire Investor: RealEstateInvestment

  • Best Real Estate Investment Markets For 2012

    7 Feb 2012 | 1:23 pm
    HousingPredictor.com has released its Best Investor Markets for 2012 study, which identifies the best investment markets for residential real estate in the U.S., and it appears much of the action will take place in America’s heartland this year. Three of the five best cities for investment in...

  • New York Top Investment Pick for Multifamily Investors

    7 Feb 2012 | 1:19 pm
    A forecast of low vacancy and higher rents is expected to keep investors flocking to New York City in 2012, according to experts. Records indicate that a whopping 80% of households in the city are priced out of homeownership, with areas like Tribeca, Manhattan and SoHo attracting strong attention from...

  • Investing In China's Real Estate Market: A Look At Funding Options

    7 Feb 2012 | 12:57 pm
    Prior to the global financial crisis and subsequent restructuring and monitoring of banks, most real estate investors in the U.S. and abroad relied on banks for loans to fund development projects. Now, tougher regulations are forcing banks to be choosier and investors have sought to fill the gap with...

  • D.C. Property Tax Code Key to School Improvement

    7 Feb 2012 | 12:47 pm
    Washington D.C. is one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the country, having seen its population increase 16% in the last decade. While this is good news for the economy in a general sense, the strain it is putting on public schools in the District is starting to show. Many families with...

  • Dominican Republic Peninsula Great for Beach Living

    7 Feb 2012 | 12:41 pm
    The Samana peninsula in the Dominican Republic is a beautiful region with winding beaches, wonderful weather and quiet little beachside restaurants that serve cold drinks and delicious food. Las Terrenas is particularly attractive for anyone looking for the perfect place to buy a beach home. Located...
 
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    Chicago Agent Magazine

  • Huge 31 Percent Jump for Multifamily Originations in 2011 Q4

    Chicago Agent
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:31 pm
    Multifamily originations posted huge totals for the fourth quarter, yet further confirmation of the housing sector's ascent. The fourth quarter of 2011 was a productive period for multifamily originations, which increased by 31 percent year-over-year according to the latest research by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA). Pooled with other loan offerings, including industrial property loans, retail loans and health care loans, the entire commercial/multifamily lending sector was also up by 13 percent year-over-year, due in no small part to the huge uptick in multifamily activity. Jamie…

  • Chicago Realtors YPN 2012 Kick-Off Party

    Chicago Agent
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:14 pm
    The Chicago Association of Realtors YPN is hosting their 2012 Kick-Off Party. Gather with your peers for a night of networking and fun at Studio Paris. Learn what YPN has to offer while mingling with agents over cocktails and hor d’oeuvres; ticket price includes hors d’oeuvres, one drink ticket and complimentary Real Russian Vodka cocktails. Early registration will be discounted. Members’ pre-registration on or before February 13th is $20,and $30 after. Non-member pre-registration on or before February 13th: $30, $40 after. At the door, members will pay $30, non-members,…

  • Obama Scorecard Provides Sweeping View of Housing, Finance

    Chicago Agent
    7 Feb 2012 | 12:04 pm
    How does housing score in the White House's latest release of data? The Obama White House released its latest Housing Scorecard yesterday, and the report provides a sweeping view of many of the various components of the housing market, from sales, to refinancing to inventories. Developed and released by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the scorecard is intended to track the progresses of the President’s various housing initiatives. On the sales spectrum, existing-home sales were up in December, though new home sales were down.  Inventories, however, continued to…

  • NAHB’s IMI Continues its Spectacular Growth

    Chicago Agent
    7 Feb 2012 | 9:15 am
    The NAHB debuted the IMI in September, and in each subsequent month, the index has improved. The National Association of Home Builders/First American Improving Markets Index added 29 more metropolitan areas to its ever-expanding Improving Markets Index (IMI), a specially-crafted survey of the nation’s best-performing urban areas. Now representing 36 states, the IMI has grown exponentially since its launch in September, with each release spotlighting more and more signs of an economic – and housing – recovery. New entrants to the IMI included Boston, Detroit, Kansas City, Portland,…

  • Fannie Mae Has Got the Short Sale Power

    Chicago Agent
    6 Feb 2012 | 4:28 pm
    Short sales, which have been criticized for being too difficult, may become more frequent with recent decisions by PMI Group. The PMI Group, the embattled mortgage insurer, granted Fannie Mae mortgage servicers with short sale rights late last week, a measure that allows further access to the pre-foreclosure sales strategy. Typically, a mortgage insurance company must approve short sales that occur with a guaranteed loan, but a HousingWire story reports that under PMI’s new rules, servicers can now complete short sales and deeds in lieu of foreclosure without its own, separate approval.
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    The Edmonton Real Estate Blog

  • Which do you prefer?

    Sara MacLennan
    6 Feb 2012 | 5:16 pm
    Stained Or White? Take our poll on Facebook - white cabinets never go out of style, but most new homes in Edmonton seem to have stained cabinets. Which do you prefer?

  • 1 Million Page Views

    Sara MacLennan
    3 Feb 2012 | 3:12 pm
    I was happily surprised when I checked our analytics yesterday. Our Edmonton MLS® Search web site - edmontonrealestate.pro - reached a new milestone and got over 1 million page views in the month of January! Thanks to everyone who uses the site to find real estate in Edmonton! We will continue to improve the site and add new features as long as people keep using it. With the average time on site over ten minutes, people clearly like it. Our clients enjoy extra traffic to their listings, since our listings are featured at the top of the results whenever they are included in a user's search.

  • Edmonton Real Estate Market Weekly Update – Feb. 3/12

    Sara MacLennan
    3 Feb 2012 | 12:27 pm
    EdmontonRealEstateMarketUpdate Here is our update on the Edmonton real estate market. (Previous week’s numbers are in brackets). For the past 7 days: New listings: 403 (358, 383, 438) # Sales: 189 (177, 139, 109) Ratio: 47% (49%, 36%, 25%) # Price changes: 138 (119, 111, 125) # Expired/Off Market Listings: 237 (122, 160, 143) Net loss/gain in listings this week: -23 (59, 84, 186) Active single family home listings: 2008 (2020, 2013, 1972) Active condo listings: 1236 (1237, 1182, 1139) Homes 4-week running average: $359k ($358k, $353k, $357k) Condos 4-week running average: $210k ($208k,…

  • Greater Edmonton real estate prices buoyed by satellite communities

    Sara MacLennan
    1 Feb 2012 | 5:56 pm
    There were 934 residential sales in the Greater Edmonton area in January compared to 820 last year and 881 last month.* We are seeing significant increases in the number of showings on our listings, and some of our buyer clients are running into multiple offers. The spring market may come a little early this  year due to historically low mortgage rates.    The average residential sale price was $318,034 up from $311k last year and $316k last month. The median sale price was $312k up from $307k last year and $303k last month. Sales outside of Edmonton must have held prices up…

  • Single Family Homes Sales Still Strong in Edmonton

    Sara MacLennan
    1 Feb 2012 | 3:48 pm
    In January there were 450 single family home sales in Edmonton - up significantly from 382 last year and 358 last month. It looks like this may be the one bright spot in the real estate market as prices and sales are down in most other categories.    Condo sales improved slightly from last year, but were down from last month - there were 184 condo sales in January in Edmonton compared to 225 last month and 169 last year. Single family homes sold for $361,644 on average in Edmonton in January which was unchanged from last year and down from $367k last month. The median sale price for…
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    Ozarks Law & Economy

  • Elected representatives trump democracy, as Missouri legislature overrides initiatives

    Harry Styron
    23 Jan 2012 | 12:04 pm
    When a million Missourians adopt an initiative petition, why should our elected representatives be allowed to override the voice of the people? According to Howard Wright’s blog post, it’s because they can. Wright describes how our elected representatives have acted to undermine legislation adopted through the initiative petition process provided for in the Missouri Constitution. In particular, Missouri’s puppy mill initiative adopted in 2008 was overturned by the General Assembly in 2009. After Missouri voters approved a minimum wage law in 2006 with a 76% majority, the…

  • HOA needs to get the owner’s name right to collect assessments

    Harry Styron
    20 Jan 2012 | 11:25 am
    Whenever a homeowner association (HOA) gives me an account for collection, the first thing I do is verify the name in which the lot or unit is held. Frequently, the books of the HOA show owner as an individual or couple, often with a nickname. Failure to keep track of the name in which property is held can defeat a claim for assessments, as shown in River Oaks Homes Association v. Lounce, a case that originated in Jackson County, Missouri. The HOA obtained a judgment against Zeria Lounce, individually and as trustee of her living trust, for several years’ worth of delinquent…

  • Non-compete can be enforceable without geographic limit

    Harry Styron
    30 Nov 2011 | 5:17 pm
    The basic rule is that a non-compete covenant with an employee will not be enforced unless it is reasonable in duration and with respect to the geographic area it applies to. Otherwise, employees would be trapped in jobs, because they wouldn’t be able to work if they left the employer. But a St. Louis judge’s order was reversed by the Missouri Court of Appeals for the Eastern District in Whelan Security Co. v. Kennebrew, even though the non-compete covenant did not define the geographic area where the former employee was prohibited from competing with his former employer. The…

  • Addressing water supply issues in the Western Ozarks

    Harry Styron
    9 Nov 2011 | 7:06 am
    Imagine this headline: Taneycomo trout die as officials refuse to release water from Table Rock Lake It’s not far-fetched. Something similar happened in the fall of 2011 below Lake Tenkiller, in the Ozarks of eastern Oklahoma, where low water levels resulting from the prolonged drought left that reservoir with no unallocated water. You can get an idea of the reactions from this article in the Sequoyah County Times.  All the water in Tenkiller was spoken for, and the trout fishery suffered. What’s this about allocation of water? In reservoirs managed by the Corps of Engineers and…

  • Elements of Ozarks civil litigation: a woman, an oral agreement, cattle, a pig, a shotgun, a deputy

    Harry Styron
    30 Sep 2011 | 7:52 am
    Real estate law practice in the rural parts of the Ozarks, at least at the level of taking phone calls from prospective clients, often involves unwritten agreements, a woman’s role, cattle, guns, vehicles, accusations of trespass and calling the sheriff. Once in a while, a case makes it to the appellate court, as in Manley v Meyer, which has these common ingredients. Manley had an unwritten agreement with William and Linda Meyer that allowed Manley to put cattle on 57 acres owned by the Meyers. Under the agreement, Manley could also hunt, cut hay, and ride ATVs on the property for a…
 
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    aBetterOffice

  • Office Suites PLUS Unveils New Executive Office Suites Logo

    Jennifer LeClaire
    7 Feb 2012 | 1:10 pm
    LEXINGTON, KY—Rebranding can be a powerful exercise in the serviced office industry, especially when you are a fast growing serviced office space provider. That’s the story with Office Suites PLUS. Headquartered in Lexington, Office Suites PLUS is officially the ninth largest executive office suites provider in the world. Office Suites PLUS is also a member of the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies. With so much success—and so much potential in the executive office suites industry—the Lexington-based brand decided it was time to roll out a new logo and tagline. The logo…

  • Integrated Office Suites Brings Serviced Office Space Brand to Chicago

    Jennifer LeClaire
    3 Feb 2012 | 12:35 pm
    CHICAGO—In light of the recent financial turmoil—including the European debt crisis—companies of all sizes are reevaluating how they do business. The name of the game is efficiency, from time to resources to finances. Integrated Office Suites is looking to bring a new alternative to traditional office space in Chicago; one that helps small business owners minimize overhead costs in a time when entrepreneurs are watching every dollar. Located at 115 S. LaSalle Street, Integrated Office Suites lands its first Chicago executive office suites project smack dab in the middle of Chicago’s…

  • Carr Workplaces to Open Landmark Washington D.C. Executive Office Suites

    Jennifer LeClaire
    2 Feb 2012 | 9:57 am
    WASHINGTON, D.C.—With so much focus on Washington D.C. in an election year, Carr Workplaces has decided to open new executive office suites right smack dab in the middle of the action. Carr Workplaces just announced a new business center in Downtown Washington, D.C.  The new fully furnished and equipped office space will open in May 2012 at 1000 Connecticut Avenue—one of Washington, D.C.’s landmark addresses. “We’re very pleased to announce the addition of 1000 Connecticut Avenue to our portfolio,” said Joe Wallace, CEO of Carr Workplaces. “Not only is this…

  • Coworking Plus Opens Office Space in Torrance

    Jennifer LeClaire
    31 Jan 2012 | 9:42 am
    TORRANCE, CA—You’ve heard of Office Suites Plus. Now, there’s a new coworking facility called Coworking Plus in Torrance. Coworking Plus aims to help South Bay entrepreneurs, start-ups, home-based businesses and small business and corporations—that about covers the gamut—work in a professional environment where they can meet with clients, colleagues and investors. Coworking Plus has a “plus” at the end of its name for a reason. The alternative workplace also offers private office space, virtual offices, open space sand conference rooms. Coworking Plus will officially open March…

  • Executive Office Suites Industry Weekly Roundup

    Jennifer LeClaire
    27 Jan 2012 | 3:08 pm
    MIAMI-Trying to keep up with what’s going on in the world of executive office suites, shared office space, coworking facilities and virtual offices? Here’s your weekly round up of news for the week of Jan. 23, 2011 from across the industry from aBetterOffice.com: News from aBetterVirtual: Genbook Nixes Virtual Receptionists With Online Scheduling, Analytics Davinci Virtual Office Solutions Rolls Out iPhone App Junk South Turns to Virtual PBX to Handle High Call Volumes Follow aBetterVirtual on Twitter. News from Officing Today: Floating Meeting Rooms Gain International Attention Regus…
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    New Homes Section

  • Voters Still Pro-Homeownership

    JaysonNHS
    7 Feb 2012 | 4:05 pm
    Homeownership still ranks high on the priority lists of most voters, leaving politicians open to voter criticisms when their policies weaken incentives and aid for homeownership, a recent survey has found. Of the 1,500 voters polled in key “swing areas” of the United States for this recent inquiry, three out of four voters believed that [...]

  • SOPA/PIPA and the Real Estate Community

    JaysonNHS
    7 Feb 2012 | 4:01 pm
    If you went online this past Wednesday and found some of your favorite sites blacked out (like Wikipedia, for instance), then you ran headlong into the one-day online protest against SOPA/PIPA. But if you think that this legislation involves arcane details about high-level technological operations of which you neither care nor understand, think again: SOPA [...]

  • Home Prices Continue Downward Trajectory, But Optimism Shines

    JaysonNHS
    6 Feb 2012 | 2:46 pm
    Data released this week by the Case-Shiller Home Price Indices show that home prices fell in November of 2011, dropping just over 1 percent from the prior month. Home prices also saw a substantial drop year-over-year, posting a 3.7 percent drop from those seen in November of 2010—a pullback worse than the 3.2 percent drop [...]

  • Obama’s 2012 Mortgage Refinancing Plan

    JaysonNHS
    2 Feb 2012 | 2:20 pm
    Aimed at helping underwater homeowners who are current with their mortgage payments, the plan seeks to allow those owners with negative equity to...

  • New Home Construction Eases in December

    JaysonNHS
    31 Jan 2012 | 11:52 am
    The home building industry slowed construction of new homes in December, capping 2011 as one of the most sluggish on record for new home starts and completions. However, most industry analysts and experts remain optimistic for the burgeoning of a recovery in the embattled sector. The data, released Thursday by the U. S. Census Bureau [...]
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    Notorious R.O.B. » The Notorious R.O.B. –

  • Deceased Equine Shall Be Assaulted: Start Thinking Beyond IDX

    Rob Hahn
    8 Feb 2012 | 2:01 am
      Oh jeez, not another post on syndication and IDX... It’s late, and I’m fairly certain that this horse I’m about to pound on some more is long since departed for greener pastures in the hereafter… but hey, what the hell, right? So by now all readers of Notorious ROB have seen the latest developments in the Syndication Serenade: Metrolist pulls IDX from Diverse Solutions, a unit of Zillow Sandicor Puts In New Rules for Syndication Northeast Florida MLS Stops All Syndication, Throws It Back to Brokers This carousel is making me dizzy! The responses from the peanut…

  • In Which I Clarify My Worries Over Syndication and IDX, And Connect The Dots

    Rob Hahn
    31 Jan 2012 | 10:20 am
    The average denizen of the RE.net cybercafe — that includes you, since you’re reading this on a blog — knows that the hot topic du jour is syndication. I wrote about it here and here already, but frankly, have been talking about this issue for quite some time. And influential bloggers like Jay Thompson and Kris Berg have weighed in, and Facebook groups are all over this issue. And I’ve gotten a couple of phone calls, a number of emails, and Facebook messages and such debating my one critical issue with me. I wrote that the issue here isn’t syndication, which is…

  • The Fly in the Syndication Ointment…

    Rob Hahn
    29 Jan 2012 | 8:53 am
    Another brief update, before my day of continuous meetings begin…. Regarding my post yesterday on the syndication brouhaha brought on by Abbott Realty Group… first, you need to read Jay Thompson’s take on the subject. He takes longer to articulate the issue than I did, and I think more clearly than I have: If you feel syndicators are harming consumers by making it difficult to contact listing agents, they you must, MUST, also keep  your listings out of IDX distribution. The exact same issue of not reaching the listing agent that seems to bother so many in syndication also…

  • Syndication: Here We Go

    Rob Hahn
    28 Jan 2012 | 9:34 pm
    I’ve been traveling — planes, taxis, automobiles — and blogging has been difficult. And I’m typing this out in a hotel lobby before my next meeting, so it can’t be my typical overlong post. But I had to comment and ask questions about the latest salvo in the 2012 Syndication Wars. I predicted in my 2012 Predictions post that listing syndication would be the big issue this year. Sure enough, events do not disappoint. You have probably seen this announcement by Jim Abbot of Abbot Realty Group by now: Click here to view the embedded video. And by now, you’ve…

  • Imagine All The People…

    Rob Hahn
    18 Jan 2012 | 3:55 pm
    Click here to view the embedded video. Lawrence Yun, the Chief Economist of NAR and my doppelganger, has a new post up in which he discusses the growth in global population: In regards to the United States, some have claimed that the large number of people retiring and an eventual dying off of the baby boomers will mean less housing demand in the future. This ignores one simple fact about the broader population and not just the baby boomers. Every year about 3 million additional people live in the U.S. The projection by the Census further calls for more people for the foreseeable future with…
 
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    Massachusetts Real Estate

  • Northbridge MA Real Estate Report January 2012

    Bill Gassett Metrowest Massachusetts Real Estate (RE/MAX Executive Realty)
    7 Feb 2012 | 6:21 am
                                         Northbridge MA Real Estate Market Report for January 2012 In January of 2012 there was 3 homes that closed within the month for Northbridge Massachusetts. This is the same amount of units as there were 3 homes that closed in January of 2011. The Average list price for the homes that closed in Northbridge for January of 2011 was $251,767 The Average list price for the homes that closed in Northbridge for January of 2012 was $195,357 The Average sale price for the homes that closed in Northbridge for January of 2011 was…

  • Holliston MA Real Estate Report January 2012

    Bill Gassett Metrowest Massachusetts Real Estate (RE/MAX Executive Realty)
    6 Feb 2012 | 7:07 am
                                       Holliston Massachusetts Real Estate Market Report January 2012 In January of 2012 there were 6 homes that closed within the month for Holliston Massachusetts. This is a increase of 1 unit as there were 5 homes that closed in January of 2011. The Average list price for the homes that closed in Holliston for January of 2011 was $556,560 The Average list price for the homes that closed in Holliston for January of 2012 was $500,017 The Average sale price for the homes that closed in Holliston for January of 2011 was $530,900 The…

  • Milford MA Real Estate Report January 2012

    Bill Gassett Metrowest Massachusetts Real Estate (RE/MAX Executive Realty)
    5 Feb 2012 | 6:55 am
                                 Milford Massachusetts Real Estate Market Report January 2012 In January of 2012 there were 13 homes that closed within the month for Milford MA. This is a increase of 3 units, as there were 10 homes that closed in January of 2011. The Average list price for the homes that closed in Milford for January of 2011 was $236,043 The Average list price for the homes that closed in Milford for January of 2012 was $270,389 The Average sale price for the homes that closed in Milford for January of 2011 was $228,120 The Average sale price for the…

  • Ashland Real Estate Report January 2012

    Bill Gassett Metrowest Massachusetts Real Estate (RE/MAX Executive Realty)
    4 Feb 2012 | 11:03 am
    Ashland MA Real Estate Market Report January 2012 In January of 2012 there were 8 homes that closed within the month for Ashland MA. This is an increase of 2 units as there were 6 homes that closed in January of 2011. The Average list price for the homes that closed in January of 2011 was $375,617 The Average list price for the homes that closed in January of 2012 was $282,299 The Average sale price for the homes that closed in January of 2011 was $369,233 The Average sale price for the homes that closed in January of 2012 was $274,275 The Average Market time for the homes that closed in…

  • Hopkinton Real Estate Report January 2012

    Bill Gassett Metrowest Massachusetts Real Estate (RE/MAX Executive Realty)
    2 Feb 2012 | 4:07 pm
                                         Hopkinton MA Real Estate Market Report January 2012 In January of 2012 there were 11 homes that closed within the month for Hopkinton Massachusetts. This is an increase of 4 units, as there were 7 homes that closed in January of 2011. The Average list price for the homes that closed in Hopkinton for January of 2011 was $506,086 The Average list price for the homes that closed in Hopkinton for January of 2012 was $574,755 The Average sale price for the homes that closed in Hopkinton for January of 2011 was $484,057 The…
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    Real Estate Investing Blog

  • How to Handle Bad Tenants

    Brian Davis
    6 Feb 2012 | 11:31 pm
    Bad tenants are a landlord’s worst nightmare. Between not paying their rent, trashing your rental property, allowing pest infestations, committing criminal acts in the property and a hundred other miserable acts, bad tenants can make a landlord’s life miserable. Fortunately, there are tactics you can employ to minimize the damage caused by bad tenants. First Line of Defense: An Airtight Lease Agreement Before you allow a tenant to move into your property, you can lay the groundwork for addressing future problems by using an airtight lease agreement. Every state has different…

  • How to Value Investment Property

    Marco Santarelli
    30 Jan 2012 | 10:26 pm
    Identifying your property’s value is crucial. As a real estate investor, you need to be aware of the three ways to determine the value of your real estate investments to guide you with your purchase, justify your selling price, or simply learn the basic market valuation techniques. Sales Comparables The most popular method is sales comparables or more formally known as comparative market analysis. In this method, sales information about properties that were sold within the last three to six months as well as those that comprise the list of pending sales in the neighborhood are compared.

  • Benefits of US Property for International Investors

    Marco Santarelli
    19 Jan 2012 | 12:52 pm
    For many individuals, the single largest “investment” of their lives will usually be their home, as opposed to investing stock, bonds, mutual funds or certificates of deposits (CD’s). This is because purchasing real estate is less risky than investing in the stock market and can be more rewarding than changing CD interest rates. US investment property has been enticing foreign investors since the 1970s, and has become extremely attractive since 2008 based on the weakening of the US dollar.  Many financial institutions in this country are reluctant, if not somewhat skeptical, of…

  • The Housing Bust is Over

    Steve Sjuggerud
    16 Jan 2012 | 2:26 pm
    “The bursting of the global housing bubble is only halfway through,” The Economist magazine wrote recently. I disagree… Here in the U.S. at least, the housing bubble is completely over. It drives me nuts when I hear commentators say, “We’re halfway through,” and, “We have more pain to come.” The fact is, right now, houses in America are the best value they’ve been in many generations. It’s not hard to understand… Read the rest of The Housing Bust is Over » For more articles like this, please visit our Real Estate…

  • The Asset Class of Single-Family Real Estate

    Marco Santarelli
    28 Dec 2011 | 10:02 pm
    If there’s one thing that Morgan Stanley would like to advise to you, it’s to take a look at single-family homes and consider it as part of your real estate investing strategy. That’s right, these properties have become hot among real estate investors recently considering the shift in the US property market from home ownership to rentals (or as Morgan Stanley puts it, a “renter-heavy society”). It’s exactly the new real estate paradigm!  Even Bank of America and the Federal Housing Finance Agency have sought measures to reduce the impact of mortgage delinquency by working on an…
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    Energized Seller

  • To paint or not to paint brick?

    KathrynW
    2 Feb 2012 | 8:45 pm
    My husband and I are looking to repaint the outside of our home.  It is a two story home that was build 1963.  The exterior is a combination of red brick and siding.   My husband wants to paint the brick and the siding all one color to make the house look more uniform and finished.  Though I agree, I am concerned with painting the brick because of the maintenance that may be required to keep it looking "fresh." I am also concerned that if/when we go to sell the home, buyers might be turned off by painted brick.  What is the best solution to our dilemma?

  • Is it true?

    BakerJ
    30 Jan 2012 | 5:32 pm
    We were told by one stager that our very small master bedroom would seem bigger once we moved our furniture out.  Now, after 244 days on the market and a second opinion, we were told furniture in the bedroom shows people that it's not so small the furniture fits.  Additionally, one stager said to remove a chandelier in a large dining room/family room to highlight the family room better.  Now the second stager said to put the chandelier back up to make the dining area look better.  I'm so confused!  What should we do?

  • What is an alternative solution to planting grass?

    BakerJ
    24 Jan 2012 | 10:39 pm
    I am about to put my home on the market and my agent has recommended that I do a few fixes to my home before I list it.  One of the suggestions was to put grass in the backyard.  Right now I have a few trees and a little grass and the rest of the lawn is dirt.  Unfortunately, there are a few factors stopping me from putting in a full lawn.  First, I am no longer living in the home and therefor won't be able to water it on a regular basis.  Secondly, I live in a city were we are frequently on water restrictions and I may not be able to water the grass enough to…

  • Wall Bed in Master Bedroom

    June
    14 Dec 2011 | 1:39 pm
    Do I need to remove the wall bed  to stage my master bedroom?  I could move the murphy bed into the second bedroom.  Or...should I remove it altogether?

  • Leaking Windows

    eseller1
    15 Nov 2011 | 4:31 pm
    My friends' windows are leaking. No, not in the usual sense of the word leaking as there is no air or water coming through.  They are double paned windows and whenever it's humid, she can see condensation in between the glass.  In addition, the condensation causes them to look dirty because residue is left behind even after they dry out.  What can be done to alleviate the problem without having to replace the windows entirely?  She is looking for a low cost alternative before putting her home on the market. Thanks for your help!
 
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    Home Staging with Alice T. Chan

  • 3 Important Home Maintenance Projects That Get Overlooked

    Alice T. Chan
    7 Feb 2012 | 10:40 am
    Home Maintenance Projects That Tend to Get Overlooked As home dwellers, we all know that there is ongoing home maintenance projects that need to be done, but it is human nature to not address many of them until it becomes a problem.  Since my recent move, I noticed a couple of issues that came up Continue reading →

  • Chinese New Year Asian Style Decorating Ideas

    Alice T. Chan
    2 Feb 2012 | 9:00 am
    Asian Style Decorating Ideas for Chinese New Year  In lieu of the current Year of the Dragon Chinese New Year celebration, I wanted to share some photos of a condo conversion model home staging we designed several years ago in an Asian theme.  Enjoy…           According to my friend and Feng Continue reading →

  • MLS Photo Mistakes to Avoid

    Alice T. Chan
    31 Jan 2012 | 9:00 am
    I was about to post to my Trulia blog when I noticed that 63 homes in my area reduced their list price.  This caught my attention so I had to see what these homes looked like.  Without knowing whether the homes were overpriced to begin with or any other background information, based on photos and Continue reading →

  • Quick Guide to the Most Common Hanging Curtains and Drapery

    Alice T. Chan
    30 Jan 2012 | 11:45 am
    As a follow-up to my recent post regarding hanging window treatments, I thought it would be fitting to provide you with a quick guide to the most common styles of hanging curtains and draperies. Before I show you examples of the different styles, here are a few of the different TYPES of hanging window treatments: Sheers Continue reading →

  • Window Treatment Tricks for Unbalanced Window Walls

    Alice T. Chan
    27 Jan 2012 | 6:33 pm
    When I first moved into this house a few weeks ago, one of the most challenging rooms to decorate was the living room for 3 specific reasons: 1) there is a HUGE intake on the TV wall (I’m talking about a 2.5′ x 2.5′ vent. It’s an absolute eyesore! I’ll address that in another blog Continue reading →
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    Energized Seller

  • To paint or not to paint brick?

    KathrynW
    2 Feb 2012 | 8:45 pm
    My husband and I are looking to repaint the outside of our home.  It is a two story home that was build 1963.  The exterior is a combination of red brick and siding.   My husband wants to paint the brick and the siding all one color to make the house look more uniform and finished.  Though I agree, I am concerned with painting the brick because of the maintenance that may be required to keep it looking "fresh." I am also concerned that if/when we go to sell the home, buyers might be turned off by painted brick.  What is the best solution to our dilemma?

  • Is it true?

    BakerJ
    30 Jan 2012 | 5:32 pm
    We were told by one stager that our very small master bedroom would seem bigger once we moved our furniture out.  Now, after 244 days on the market and a second opinion, we were told furniture in the bedroom shows people that it's not so small the furniture fits.  Additionally, one stager said to remove a chandelier in a large dining room/family room to highlight the family room better.  Now the second stager said to put the chandelier back up to make the dining area look better.  I'm so confused!  What should we do?

  • What is an alternative solution to planting grass?

    BakerJ
    24 Jan 2012 | 10:39 pm
    I am about to put my home on the market and my agent has recommended that I do a few fixes to my home before I list it.  One of the suggestions was to put grass in the backyard.  Right now I have a few trees and a little grass and the rest of the lawn is dirt.  Unfortunately, there are a few factors stopping me from putting in a full lawn.  First, I am no longer living in the home and therefor won't be able to water it on a regular basis.  Secondly, I live in a city were we are frequently on water restrictions and I may not be able to water the grass enough to…

  • Wall Bed in Master Bedroom

    June
    14 Dec 2011 | 1:39 pm
    Do I need to remove the wall bed  to stage my master bedroom?  I could move the murphy bed into the second bedroom.  Or...should I remove it altogether?

  • Leaking Windows

    eseller1
    15 Nov 2011 | 4:31 pm
    My friends' windows are leaking. No, not in the usual sense of the word leaking as there is no air or water coming through.  They are double paned windows and whenever it's humid, she can see condensation in between the glass.  In addition, the condensation causes them to look dirty because residue is left behind even after they dry out.  What can be done to alleviate the problem without having to replace the windows entirely?  She is looking for a low cost alternative before putting her home on the market. Thanks for your help!
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    Expert Real Estate Advice

  • Kettering Weekend Event

    Christina Asad Edwards @ www.DaytonOhioHouse.com (Home Experts Realty)
    30 Jan 2012 | 8:44 pm
    K of C Fish Fry and Monte Carlo Saturday, Feb 4 7:00p at The Christopher Club, Kettering, OH Fish Fry at the Christopher Club 3150 S Dixie Dr. Kettering/Moraine. All you can eat fish, saugage and sides. Beer and pop included. Monte Carlo games begin at 8:00pm. Doors open at 7:00pm Carryouts from 5:30pm-6:30pm for $10.00. Help support the Knights of Columbus Maria Joseph council 4022. About the Author...Blogarticlewas provided by Christina Asad Edwards, a Nationally recognized Realtor and Residential Relocation Specialist. Christina can be reached via email at DaytonOhioHouse@gmail.com or…

  • Enjoy the Superbowl at Home with Crowd Pleasing Recipe!

    Christina Asad Edwards @ www.DaytonOhioHouse.com (Home Experts Realty)
    19 Jan 2012 | 11:44 am
    Enjoy the Superbowl at Home with Crowd Pleasing Recipe! Crowd Pleasing Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe INGREDIENTS: 8 oz. pkg. cream cheese (or neufchatel to save calories), softened 1/2 cup blue cheese or ranch salad dressing 1/2 cup hot sauce 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cans (12.5 oz. each) White Chunk Chicken Breast in Water, drained DIRECTIONS: Mix all ingredients together. Microwave 5 minutes, stiring halfway through. Serve with celery and tortilla chips. Enjoy the Superbowl at home with the buffalo chicken dip recipe! About the Author...Blogarticlewas…

  • Ohio Miami Valley Restaurant Association Sneak Peek to Restaurant Week

    Christina Asad Edwards @ www.DaytonOhioHouse.com (Home Experts Realty)
    18 Jan 2012 | 10:23 am
    Ohio Miami Valley Restaurant Association Sneak Peek to Restaurant Week The Ohio Miami Valley Restaurant Association Sneak Peek to Restaurant Week will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 18, at Watson’s, 2590 E. Whipp Rd. Centerville, OH. The event will feature food samples from 13 local restaurants that will be among Dayton area eateries participating in Winter Restaurant Week January 22 - 29, in which restaurants offer special three-course meals for either $20.12, $25.12, or $30.12, and donate $1 toward a local charities. The Sneak Peek, presented by Buckeye Vodka, will also…

  • 7 Home Improvement Projects for $1,000 (or Less)

    Christina Asad Edwards @ www.DaytonOhioHouse.com (Home Experts Realty)
    5 Jan 2012 | 3:12 pm
    Show Your Home Pride: 7 Home Improvement Projects for $1,000 (or Less) By: Lisa Kaplan Gordon Published: November 1, 2011 www.HouseLogic.com  Americans still think buying a home is one of the best decisions they’ve ever made. Here are some ways to increase your home’s value and comfort for less than $1,000. We knew reports of the death of American home ownership were greatly exaggerated (nod to Mark Twain), and now we’ve got the numbers to prove it.A just-released survey by the Meredith Corp., which publishes Better Homes and Gardens magazine, says the vast majority of people polled…

  • Ice Skate in Downtown Dayton

    Christina Asad Edwards @ www.DaytonOhioHouse.com (Home Experts Realty)
    14 Dec 2011 | 10:25 am
    Ice Skate in Downtown Dayton Friday, Dec 16 7:00p at RiverScape MetroPark, Dayton, OH Price: $5   What better way to spend a Friday or Saturday night than by skating near the river, under a beautifully lit canopy. Enjoy the evening drinking hot chocolate, warming up by the outdoor fireplaces and taking in the sights and sounds of downtown! Bring family, friends or go solo to skate MetroParks Ice Rink. Admission is $5 and includes the use of ice skates. Call (937) 278-2607 for more information. Fees: $5 About the Author...Blogarticlewas provided by Christina Asad Edwards, a Nationally…
 
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    The BuzzBuzzHome Blog

  • BuzzBuzzHome is giving away a Valentine’s dinner for two at Paese Ristorante! Find out how to win here…

    buzzhomeblog
    7 Feb 2012 | 11:05 pm
    Today (February 8) beginning at 12:05am, BuzzBuzzHome is giving away a Valentine’s Day (February 14) dinner for two at Paese Ristorante on King Street West. A big shout out to Paese Ristorante for hooking us up with this great prize. Paese recently opened its second location, at 333 King Street West, to complement its flagship restaurant at Bathurst and Wilson. The restaurant’s chefs are known for their use of traditional Italian techniques to create unique dishes with modern appeal. Their motto: Inspired in Italy, Made in Canada. Sounds scrumptious! The contest will be held over…

  • Every season is patio season at KitsWest

    buzzhomeblog
    7 Feb 2012 | 4:48 pm
    There are a lot of things Kitsilano does best: shopping and boutique stores, patios, awesome award-winning restaurants, coffee shops, fabulous beaches (full of fabulous people), and those delicious cupcakes from the original Cupcakes store. KitsWest, the new condo project by Redekop Group of Companies, is one of the next awesome things to come out of Kits. The development, situated at 4th and MacDonald, is in the preconstruction phase. With so much to do just steps from your door, you’ll barely need a home. But for when you do, KitsWest offers intelligent living. No, that’s not some weird…

  • The dig is on at the Post House construction site… Action shots? You bet!

    buzzhomeblog
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:17 pm
    No they’re not drilling for a great untapped oil well under Toronto, that giant drill is part of the Post House construction team! Construction is well under way at the Alterra condo’s future home on George Street, near Queen and Jarvis. Post House, named for its proximity to Toronto’s first post office, will soon soar 21 storeys into the sky. The 278 unit project is set for completion in 2013. Its aesthetic has been characterized as chic and ultra-modern while still seamlessly fitting in with its heritage surroundings. It also happens to be only steps away from the St.

  • Do you have my card? A Starbucks is opening down the block! It’s all here in “Stuff” Realtors Say

    buzzhomeblog
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:24 pm
    By now you’re probably familiar with all the popular YouTube videos that poke fun at the often stereotypical and canned phrases we all say from time to time. It was only a matter of time until real estate agents had their turn in the spotlight. Check out this video for a take on what you’re likely to hear coming out of your, or your agent’s, mouth when purchasing a new home.

  • BuzzBuzz Exclusive: A sneak peek at the Abacus Lofts sales centre [PICS]

    buzzhomeblog
    7 Feb 2012 | 1:55 pm
    If there’s one thing we like more than sales centre tours, it’s getting a sales centre tour before anyone else does. We guess it’s just one of the perks of being a BuzzBuzzHomie. We had the opportunity to tour and photograph the Abacus Lofts sales centre at 1245 Dundas Street West, situated on the site of the future 8 storey condo. The DAZ project sports a unique aesthetic designed by those unstoppable architects over at RAW Design. The visually stunning architecture will fit in perfectly with the already-exciting community. Those who know what’s what in…
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    Debra Sinick

  • My 2009 Predictions for 2012 Seattle Area Real Estate

    debrasinick
    31 Jan 2012 | 4:15 pm
    Predictions for 2012 Seattle-Eastside Real Estate?   I’d just written a post with predictions for this year’s real estate market, when I happened to come across this post from 2 1/2 years ago with positive predictions about the  2012 Bellevue/Eastside real estate market.  Looking at the reprinted post below, how much looks like it could be true for 2012?   Rebound in Seattle/Eastside real estate? Wait until 2012 A rebound in Seattle real estate?  Yes, but not just yet, and it will probably be a small rebound, IMHO. Both Yahoo, via the Plugged in Finance blog and…

  • Predictions for 2012 Real Estate on the Eastside-Bellevue, Redmond, Kirkland, Etc.

    debrasinick
    23 Jan 2012 | 11:08 pm
    With the start of the new year, we’re seeing a more positive attitude out in the marketplace.  It’s amazing what a new year can bring in attitude and outlook for people.  Many are making choices to move because they want or need to do so.  For some, the price issue is taking a back seat to the need to move.  We have several clients who plan to move because they just got married and want a new home or would like to live in the city, downsize or relocate.  These moves are lifestyle choices.  Some will lose money, while others will make a profit on their home sale.  Lifestyle…

  • How Was The Seattle Eastside Condo Market in December 2011?

    debrasinick
    22 Jan 2012 | 11:41 pm
    Seattle Eastside Condo Sales Through December, 2011 Seattle Eastside condo inventory dipped to 2011′s lowest point in December, 2011.   The year began and ended with under 1000 condos for sale. The number of available eastside condos peaked in June with well over 1100 condos for sale.    The peak was never really much of a peak when we look at the peak numbers in previous years.  In the past, the number of condos could easily top out at 1500 for sale.  In  October 2010, there were 1375 condos for sale, and that was not even the peak month for 2010. As most people know, condos…

  • 2011 Ends With The Fewest Homes for Sale in 4 Years on Seattle’s Eastside

    debrasinick
    19 Jan 2012 | 1:52 pm
    How Many Homes Sold on Seattle’s Eastside in December, 2011? We have to go back before the bubble burst to February 2007 to find so few homes for sale on Seattle’s eastside!  There’s a healthy number of homes for sale on the eastside, 1897 at the close of December, so there are good choices for buyers.  With fewer homes on the market, it spurs the competition among buyers for the best homes and should help stabilize prices. In some neighborhoods, there aren’t any homes for sale right now. Pricing is becoming more affordable for a new set of buyers who are coming to…

  • How Was The Real Estate Market In Your Seattle-Eastside City in December 2011?

    debrasinick
    11 Jan 2012 | 5:07 pm
    The December Real Estate Map Showing a Balanced Market Between Buyers and Sellers The Seattle-Eastside real estate market ends 2011 in better shape than we’ve seen in the last four years.  There’s a more evenly balanced market between buyers and sellers, which the market is a fairly “normal” one in which some homes sit on the market and the good ones that show well and are priced well sell quickly.  In a balanced market, there is no  “one size fits all.” We see all kinds of things happening with homes, depending on the price, condition, sellers and buyer…
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    IPIN Live

  • German Residential Investment Soaring High

    7 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    Transactions involving the purchase of 50 or more residential units increased by 44% year on year in Germany last year, with 6.12 billion Euros transacted over the course of the year according to new data from CB Richard Ellis. Further, the number of units transacted also increased, with 92,000 units transacted across 194 transactions representing a 27% increase over 2010. This indicates an increase in appetite for portfolios of over 1000 units according to CBRE. According to the data Berlin saw particularly strong residential demand. Apparently some 32,300 residential units were traded to a…

  • Global Prime Offices 'Performing Well'

    7 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    Over the course of 2011, prime office markets around the world put in a strong performance, recording six per cent rental growth in the final quarter of the year, compared to the same three-month period in 2010. This is the finding of the latest Jones Lang LaSalle Global Office Index, which noted this was the eighth consecutive quarter of rental increases in the sector. Meanwhile, vacancy rates dropped to the lowest level in two years, standing at 13.6 per cent at the end of 2011.Director of the company's global research team Jeremy Kelly commented: "The majority of global leasing markets are…

  • London Residential Market 'Dominated by Overseas Buyers'

    6 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    The volume of investment flooding into London's residential new-build property market from overseas investors has far outpaced that from domestic buyers. Research conducted by Savills found almost two-thirds of those entering the new-build sector in the UK's capital were international purchasers, with investors from China and the Asia-Pacific region comprising the most-active group. Buyers from these nations accounted for 26 per cent of transactions in the new-build industry, showing a particular interest in apartments and properties in the lower price brackets.Savills also highlighted the…

  • Will the UK Property Market be able to Cope with a Double-Dip Recession?

    6 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    Can the UK property market cope with a double-dip recession? There are just so many variables. So many things affecting the answer to a massively different degree between their best and worst case scenarios, and all of them intertwined and affecting each other's outcomes as much as the property market as a whole - he writes picturing a great row of dominoes ready to knock each other over in spectacular fashion. However, the answer will always be yes. The property market will always "cope" it is just the poor buggers caught up in it that suffer. For example, during the first dip recession…

  • PWC Names Hottest Cities in Europe for Commercial Property Investment

    5 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    Pricewaterhousecoopers has just released its Emerging Trends in European Real Estate report for 2012 with some very interesting data. Istanbul is ranked number one for investment for the third year running, and was also ranked number one across the three categories: the performance of existing properties, acquisition opportunities and development opportunities. This is one up on last year when Istanbul won just two of the categories, coming second to Munich in the performance of existing investment properties. This year it was Munich's turn to come second in existing property performance…
 
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    Global Real Estate & Investment News from Propertyshowrooms.com

  • 'Opportunities for investors' in Spanish retail property

    6 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    There are expected to be "attractive opportunities" for investors in the Spanish retail real estate sector over the course of 2012. Danny Kinnoch, international investment director at Savills, commented that buyers who are not relying on finance from banks will be able to take advantage of some of the best deals on offer. He stated: "There is scope for strong returns assuming market recovery over the medium term, which will keep international players acquisitive." Meanwhile, debt sales of such Spanish real estate assets will provide chances for "opportunistic…

  • US house price decrease in 2011

    6 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    Figures for the full year to December 2011 have revealed the value of residential property in the US fell by 4.7 per cent, compared to 2010. However, CoreLogic noted in its December House Price Index that, excluding distressed sales, the cost of buying a home in the nation only fell by 0.9 per cent. Mark Fleming, chief economist at the firm, commented: "While overall prices declined by almost five per cent in 2011, non-distressed prices showed only a small decrease. Until distressed sales in the market recede, we will see continued downward pressure on prices." There are some states…

  • Cape Verde 'proving popular among property buyers'

    6 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    There was a rise in the number of enquiries about property in Cape Verde during January. According to TheMoveChannel, searches for real estate in the island nation jumped by 2.8 per cent at the start of 2012, compared to the final month of 2011. Director of the firm Dan Johnson explained some investors are looking for alternatives to the more popular markets of Spain and the US. "With its building tourist numbers and relatively un-crowded real estate market, Cape Verde's imbalance between supply and demand is seeing these buyers turn to somewhere smaller in the hope of bigger…

  • 'Positive outlook' for South Africa commercial property

    5 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    There is reason to be optimistic about the future performance of commercial real estate assets in South Africa. This is according to Malcolm Horne, chief executive officer of Broll Property Group, who is confident demand for properties to rent in the nation will pick up, thereby reducing the amount of vacant space on the market. A yearly report published by the company predicted income from commercial properties in South Africa will rise, while capitalisation rates will become steadier. Speaking to SA Commercial Prop News, he commented: "The South African property fundamentals remain…

  • Property investment activity dips in Romania

    5 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    There has been a decline in the level of investment flowing into the Romanian commercial property sector in 2011. Head of valuations and consulting at DTZ Echinox Bogdan Sergentu explained the amount of money invested in Romanian real estate dropped by 13 per cent in 2011, compared to the previous year. Bucharest was the main target for those seeking such assets in the country, with developments in the city accounting for six out of the 13 transactions completed last year. Mr Sergentu added 69 per cent of the total investment volume for 2011 was spent on mixed-use developments, despite a…
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    Naples Real Estate Blog

  • Naples Real Estate Update

    21 Jan 2012 | 2:25 pm
    What is happening today in the Naples Real Estate market? Just released, The NABOR Market Report has some exciting and interesting statistics about the current state of the real estate market in Naples Florida. Several factors are coming into play regarding value, primarily supply and demand. The 2011 housing inventory ended at a 5 year low. Specifically, the number of properties listed below $300,000., which has been the driving force behind our recovery, are way down. There has been a 21% drop in inventory in this price range. This is the lowest level of housing available in the under…

  • Good Intentions

    20 Jan 2012 | 4:57 pm
    Who is it that said the road to heaven is paved with good intentions? I'm not sure, but if that's the case, I'm well on my way. I had a lofty goal this year: I wanted to post to my real estate blog at least 3 times each week. I had, what I thought, was a fairly easy schedule to implement, and I had a list of wonderful suggestions from some of my faithful blog followers as to the type of content they hoped for...I had every good intention...I was committed...and now I'm beginning to feel like I should be 'committed'.....along comes 'season' and BAM! I had forgotten what it was like to be this…

  • Naples featured Business of the Week

    9 Jan 2012 | 2:18 pm
    Hi there! It has already been a crazy first 9 days of 2012. Wow! The feedback I've gotten from the last question posed online regarding content was overwhelming! Thank you all for your emails! I have already decided to change one thing because of the result of asking for your suggestions. Our "Select Vendor of the Week" will now be called "Naples featured Business of the Week". This will also allow me to feature restaurants and galleries and other such businesses that don't really 'qualify' as vendors per se. That being said, The Harris Peppe Team is pleased to feature The Mangrove Cafe…

  • The Unveiling of a New Year of Blogging!

    6 Jan 2012 | 10:39 am
    Greetings Naples Real Estate Blog Fans! We are nearly one week into the new year and I am trying to come up with some fresh ideas to increase activity on our blog! One thing which I am going to try to do this year is keep a "patterned pace" when posting. I've learned several tips from fellow bloggers, and more regular posting seems to be one of the keys to successful blogging. Keep in mind, when I began to blog 4 years ago, only 3% of the real estate population blogged. That percentage has increased substantially, but as of this writing, I only know of two other agents in my office, of over…

  • 2012 : The Year We Have All Been Waiting For...

    31 Dec 2011 | 9:15 am
    "An optimist stays up until midnight to see the new year in...A pessimist stays up till midnight to make sure the old year leaves." ~Bill Vaughn So, has there ever been another year written about as often as 2012? Of course, 1984 comes to mind...as does the new millennium. Ah yes, waiting for the clock to strike on December 31st, 1999 at 11:59 PM--I'm sure you remember where you were at that moment....ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one...Wasn't the world supposed to end then, too? But, the Twenty-12 phenomenon has crept beyond ones own imagination into the mainstream…
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    Secure Real Estate Phoenix

  • Meet Patrick Nahass

    Charlie Allred
    31 Jan 2012 | 3:34 pm
    I am really excited to have interviewed a friend of mine, Patrick Nahass, President of All American Finance.  Patrick works everyday to help relieve his clients of their credit card debt. In this interview, he reveals Options for credit card debt The secret to why credit card settlement is a great solution Why bankruptcy is much worse than credit settlement And why many consumers don’t qualify for bankruptcy The effect of credit settlement on your CREDIT His knowledge allows him to settle many clients credit card debt for pennies on the dollar. Meet Patrick Nahass- See if Credit…

  • FAQ- Arizona Short Sales

    Charlie Allred
    4 Jan 2012 | 11:46 am
    Short Sale FAQ Discover all the answers to the Short Sale frequently asked questions!  Charlie Allred, Designated broker for Secure Real Estate explains in detail the most commonly asked Short Sale Questions. Including: What is a short sale The Short Sale Process Short Sale Tax consequences Short Sale Legal consequences Benefits of a Short Sale Discover how you can live for free during the short sale process

  • How do I start a short sale?

    Charlie Allred
    29 Dec 2011 | 9:25 am
    Most of my articles come directly from clients.  I know short sales, so sometimes I forget what a potential client doesn’t know yet. A client asked me “How do I start my Short Sale”? My Answer: You make an appointment with Secure Real Estate. However, the answer is a little longer. First- Make sure a short sale is your best option.  We offer a free phone consultation.  The phone consult takes 5-10 minutes.  We have an assessment to determine if you are a good candidate for a short sale.  If you are not- we refer to a non-profit HUD approved counseling group for other…

  • Short Sale Process

    Charlie Allred
    15 Dec 2011 | 8:51 am
    A short sale is when you sell your house for less than you owe, your lender is asked to forgive the deficiency between what you owe and the sales price. Example: Purchased house for $150,000 House is worth $100,000 Sell your house for $100,000 Can you imagine selling your house for the $100,000 and still owing $50,000 to your lender, once you move out of the house?  This could happen if your Short Sale is not negotiated to “waive the deficiency amount”. There is a $50,000 difference between what you owe to your Lender and the sales price.  We, at Secure Real Estate, negotiate…

  • Save Our Home AZ

    Charlie Allred
    7 Dec 2011 | 7:11 am
    In a new program sponsored by the Arizona Department of Housing, a Short Sale Seller in Arizona can receive up to $4,500 upon the completion of a successful Arizona Short Sale.  Watch this video with Tim & Kim Hensley of Genesis Housing Services- a HUD approved housing agency.  They offer free counseling to homeowners as a non-profit organization located in Gilbert, AZ. Save Our Home AZ- Receive $4500 for Short Selling your Home   Arizona Department of Housing
 
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    The Rodeo Realty Journal

  • Syd Leibovitch's 2012 Housing Predictions

    30 Jan 2012 | 5:55 pm
     Housing Price Forecast for 2012      from Rodeo Realty President, Syd Leibovitch I feel that 2012 represents the best year ever to buy a home. Prices are down and interest rates are at historic lows!I predict that 2012 will be the year we begin to see year over year increases in the median price on both a local and a National level. I'd forecast a modest 5 percent increase in median home prices. Interest rate forecast:The reason that this year will present a unique opportunity is more interest rate related than price. Rates at 4 percent won't be available…

  • Local Real Estate Market Reports Are Now Posted!

    27 Jan 2012 | 10:49 am
    Check out the most recent real estate market reports for your area!At Rodeo Realty, we believe education is the key to helping clients make the best possible decisions about buying and selling homes. Our comprehensive reports provide in depth analyses of real estate trends in specific communities. These analyses demonstrate the changes in market conditions varying from city to city in San Fernando Valley and Los Angeles.

  • Now you can catch Rodeo Realty President,Syd Leibovitch on Facebook!

    24 Jan 2012 | 2:05 pm
    Stay up to date with all Rodeo Realty news through our Facebook page and  Syd Leibovitch 's new page!

  • Congrats Rodeo Agents! You're #1 in Everything!

    23 Jan 2012 | 12:38 pm

  • Rodeo Realty: The Los Angeles Real Estate Powerhouse

    20 Jan 2012 | 7:16 pm
    Rodeo Realty: The Los Angeles Real Estate Powerhouse Beverly Hills, CA – January 17, 2012Rodeo Realty Inc., the Beverly Hills based luxury real estate firm, has had record expansion in 2011. Syd Leibovitch, owner and president, announced the firm had the best year in its 26 year history. Despite the current economic outlook of the housing market, Rodeo Realty has overcome the rough reality of the housing down fall, and thrived using it as a platform to flourish, expand and build a solid team of agents. In 2011, closed sales for the firm were up an astonishing 20% from the previous year.
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    GreenwichStreets.com

  • Super Bowl Hurts Greenwich Real Estate Open Houses - 7 Open Houses from $395K to $6.9M

    4 Feb 2012 | 10:09 am
    We have a great weekend for open houses. Lots of new listings, good weather, strong buyer interest and yet we only have 7 open houses this weekend. Even though kick-off is isn't until 6:25 Greenwich open houses are down around 80% for this weekend due to the Super Bowl. Interactive Map and List Now for those folks that are interested in the open houses that are being held he list of open houses is below with the market report. A color coded static map is above. You can see the interactive map here and find detailed instructions for its use here. If you mouse over a pin on the map a box will…

  • U.S. Jobless Rate Falls to 8.3 Percent, a 3-Year Low

    3 Feb 2012 | 3:09 pm
    Unemployment dropped to 8.3 percent and 243,000 new jobs were created says the New York Times in this article.   Permalink | Leave a comment  »

  • 38 Open House in Greenwich, CT for Sunday, 1/29 Priced from $399K to $6.5MM

    28 Jan 2012 | 12:41 pm
    Open_House9M.January29.2012.pdf Download this file This Sunday's open houses we have 38 open houses most from just north of Post Road with four in the back country and six in mid-country. Twenty of the 38 houses are under $1 million along with two rentals.  Interactive Map and List   The list of open houses is above with the market report and a color coded static map. You can see the interactive map here and find detailed instructions for its use here. If you mouse over a pin on the map a box will pop-up with the address, time and price of the open house. If click on the pin or if…

  • 45 Open Houses in Greenwich, CT for Sunday, Jan. 22nd from $325K to 6MM

    21 Jan 2012 | 10:00 pm
    This week there are 45 open house in Greenwich. We have 3 rentals ranging from $3,300 to $4,800. Two of the rentals are in downtown Greenwich and one is in Riverside. Single family homes for sale range from a downtown condo for $325,000 to a house for $5.95MM off of Glenville Road. We have 20 houses under $1MM and 21 house over $1MM. The complete list of open houses is below. You can see the interactive map here and find detailed instructions for its use here. If you mouse over a pin on the map a box will pop-up with the address, time and price of the open house. If click on the pin or if you…

  • 2012 the Year of the Homebuilder

    15 Jan 2012 | 3:03 pm
    Wall Street Journal video on homebuilders, new home market and their stocks. In Greenwich we could really need some new houses, we have only two homes under $3MM that were built in the last two years. Permalink | Leave a comment  »
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    managementtrust.com

  • How would your board handle the case of Sherman McCray?

    2 Feb 2012 | 9:25 am
    Living in a community association means that occasional assessment will occur. These assessments are required to be paid by residents on top of the monthly association fees. Typically, assessments are used to make repairs in the common areas that cannot be paid for through the amount in the homeowner’s reserve fund. This could mean fixing storm damage or complying with new regulations about guard railings. Every HOA has a very specific list of so-called “remedies” with regard to a resident that has failed to pay an assessment or HOA fee. Which brings us to the case of…

  • Oregon Realtors: Get credit and learn about community associations

    30 Jan 2012 | 2:00 pm
    In 1970, only two million people lived in communities governed by homeowners associations. In 2010, the number had increased to 62 million. Because of this growing trend among homeowners seeking to protect their investment and maintain a standard of living, Realtors are becoming forced to acquire a better understanding of the buying and selling process for properties that are part of a community association. The state of Oregon is home to hundreds of such communities and The Management Trust – Northwest wants to help Realtors in the Beaver state develop a better understanding of the…

  • The Importance of Bell Tower Condominium Association v. Haffert

    25 Jan 2012 | 10:54 am
    A recent court case of Bell Tower Condominium Association v. Haffert in New Jersey has put condominium Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) in the spotlight, raising questions about the appropriate way to handle disagreements between condo associations and owners. It started over the payment of special assessments in the condo association, and became a full blown trial as a result of the association refusing ADR.   At trial level, the court dismissed the owners’ claim for ADR.  However, on January 12, 2012, the appellate court reversed the judgment, explaining that the state…

  • Should being on an HOA board feel like work or volunteering?

    19 Jan 2012 | 8:46 am
    Being an HOA or condo association board member is a very peculiar occupation. Technically, you are a volunteer, but the idea of what a volunteer really is in this situation may feel distorted from how it’s normally interpreted. Take the case of Reed Sandridge, who runs the blog YearofGiving.org. Sandridge participated in 52 volunteer opportunities last year, documenting the entire experience. Many of his opportunities were with soup kitchens, animal rescue centers, and an MS Society; traditional volunteer experiences. But, interestingly enough, one of Sandrige’s chronicled…

  • The Management Trust - Las Vegas named CAI Company of the Year

    17 Jan 2012 | 8:20 am
    Each year the local Community Association Institute (CAI) of Las Vegas, Nevada holds an Awards Gala to recognize its participants.  Held this past Saturday evening at the Treasure Island Hotel Grand Ballroom, The Management Trust – Las Vegas was nominated by one of our industry partners in the Category of Outstanding “Medium” Management company of the Year.  And - if you have not yet figured it out based on the photo to the right - we won! The award category is to recognize a management company with 4,999-19,999 units within the state of Nevada that…
 
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    The Inside Edge

  • January Reveals Slight Fall in Property Prices

    Alison Feemantle
    3 Feb 2012 | 4:05 am
    After the predictions for 2012’s property market begin to disappear, they are replaced by tangible figures and the Nationwide have indicated a minor drop in housing prices for January, in comparison with the previous month. The figures reveal that the value of an average home in the UK was £162,228 for January and this represented a fall of just 0.2%. The Nationwide also claim that the rate of property price growth also slowed to 0.6% as opposed to 1% in December 2011. Nationwide are the first organisation to declare figures of this kind and they are in keeping with the forecasts of many…

  • To Rent or To Buy? The Debate Rages On!

    Alison Feemantle
    2 Feb 2012 | 7:11 am
    It’s a question that will probably never be met with a definitive answer as many would be homeowners face up to the question of whether buying or renting is their best option. Naturally, as individuals, those in this position will have a differing set of circumstances and the difficulties in securing a mortgage may well be enough to push many down the rental channel. As for the costs involved, the Halifax has declared that home owning is considerably cheaper and on average, anyone renting their property could be paying in excess of £100 a month more for the privilege. As part of the…

  • Seesaw Mortgage Rates Predicted for 2012

    Alison Feemantle
    31 Jan 2012 | 4:33 am
    So far, the first month of the New Year has seen many property experts predicting a sustained and consistent rise in mortgage rates with the general feeling being that they had reached the lowest point that they could possibly attain. Those reports have been tempered today by suggestions that rates will increase shortly but this will precede a period of rise and fall as the year progresses. Once again, uncertainty over the economy has been blamed by those who have hinted at the forthcoming rate changes while concerns over the Eurozone crisis are believed to have led to a recent spate of…

  • Spotlight Shines on 2012 Rental Costs

    Alison Feemantle
    25 Jan 2012 | 6:05 am
    Property lettings are put under the microscope this week as a survey released by one prominent agent suggests that the costs of renting your home may be dropping. Meanwhile, the survey goes on to suggest that Christmas spending is one of the factors currently having an impact on a rise in late rental payments. LSL Property Services claim that the average monthly rental payment across the UK in December fell by 0.8% from the previous month. However, LSL go on to state that this still represents an increase of 4% on comparative prices from December 2010. The fall comes after ten straight months…

  • First Positive Signs for 2012 Property

    Alison Feemantle
    20 Jan 2012 | 7:23 am
    Now that the wave of predictions for the 2012 property market has died down, the first batch of actual figures are being released with some positive signs for the year ahead. Reports released this week indicate that the asking price for new properties released on to the market actually grew by 1.4% Perhaps more significantly, there was an increase in potential buyer activity too with 27 per cent more internet searches performed than at the same time in 2011. While a figure of 1.4% in prices may not be enough to get too many experts excited, the 27% search increase is an impressive rise and…
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    Foreclosure Blog | Latest Foreclosure News | ForeclosureDeals.com

  • Homeowners Participating in Short Sales Beware: The Tax Man Cometh

    John Evan Miller
    6 Feb 2012 | 9:28 am
    Did you know that debt forgiven during a short sale or debt-forgiveness program is subject to tax (since the IRS considers the amount of the forgiven debt as income)? Most people don’t – and that could result in significant financial stress come tax time. Under normal circumstances, the amount of debt forgiven by a lender on the behalf of a homeowner is taxed under standard income tax rates by the IRS. For example, if the owner of a $250,000 home still owes $125,000, is facing foreclosure, and wants to work with the lender to forgive the remainder of the $125,000 loan amount, he…

  • Cash-Out Refinancing Still Not Popular with Homeowners Today, Says Freddie Mac

    John Evan Miller
    3 Feb 2012 | 10:00 am
    Today, Freddie Mac, one of the two largest owners of mortgages in the United States (along with sister company Fannie Mae), reported that homeowners who opted to take cash out when refinancing their homes during the fourth quarter of 2011 was at the lowest point in the 26 years the company has been keeping up with those numbers. According to the report, less than 15% bumped up the amount of their loan by 5% or more. This constitutes a “cash-out” option in which the loan amount increases while the homeowners take cash from the home’s equity through liquidation. To compare…

  • Investing in Foreclosure Soars as Government-Led Rental Program Nears

    John Evan Miller
    1 Feb 2012 | 1:18 pm
    Investors have been heavily interested in buying foreclosure properties in stricken real estate markets across the country since the foreclosure crisis began in 2007, but lately investing in foreclosures has picked up considerably due to the eminent implementation of a federal foreclosure-into-rental program. The program – originally announced in 2011 – seeks to connect private equity investors with government foreclosures to convert them into rental properties. Instead of the federal government serving as a virtual landlord to thousands of government homes – such as VA…

  • Home Affordable Modification Program to be Continued Through 2013, Expanded

    John Evan Miller
    30 Jan 2012 | 9:32 am
    Victims of the foreclosure crisis and underwater homeowners alike will be pleased to know that the federal government is extending the mandate for the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) through 2013, and will also expand its role as the government continues to combat the housing crisis. HAMP, originally created in 2009, was designed to help American homeowners avoid foreclosure by working with lenders to modify their mortgages. The theory behind the program was that homeowners could keep their properties – and stop foreclosure from creating more destructive home foreclosures in…

  • Hard-Hit Foreclosure Victims Look to Republican Candidates for Answers

    John Evan Miller
    27 Jan 2012 | 10:56 am
    As the 2012 Republican primary season rolls on, with the next primary in Florida on Tuesday, January 31, foreclosure victims, underwater homeowners, and owners of distressed properties in the Sunshine State look to the slate of candidates for proposed solutions as they tour the state in advance of the election. Florida has long since been near the top of the list when it comes to home foreclosures. The state’s current foreclosure rate remains sky high, with one out of every 360 housing units in the state in some part of the foreclosure process. South Florida has been particularly hit…
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    TheRedPin Pulse: Where the Canadian New Homes Have a Heartbeat

  • VIP Opportunity to Sixty Colborne Condominiums

    TheRedPin Team
    7 Feb 2012 | 4:32 pm
    Sixty Colborne Condos Register for Sixty Colborne Condos VIP Opportunity. Get Access Prior to The Rest of the Public View Project Page! VIP Registration! Location: Sixty Colborne Condos is located at 60 Colborne Street and is being built by Freed Development Corporation. Local amenities include: Grocery and Pharmacy: Metro Supermarkets, Rabba Fine Foods TTC: King Station Banks: All major banks including TD, Scotia Bank, and RBC Gas: Esso, Shell PharmaciesShoppers Drug Mart, Metro Pharamcy Daycares: There are 130 daycares in the area around Sixty Colborne Condos. Based on our official stats…

  • Yahoo Finance: “There has never been a better time to get into Canadian real estate”

    TheRedPin Team
    7 Feb 2012 | 10:19 am
    In an article on Yahoo Finance, Mark Weisleder, a real estate investor of 28 years and a lawyer, states several reasons why this is a great time to buy real estate in Canada. Here are some of the reasons he points out: Mortgage rates at historic lows: Rates are at an all time lower. 4 to 5-year fixed mortgages are at 3%. Mark’s advice? if you have a variable rate mortgage, lock it in now as rates have no where to go but up. Canada’s appeal: The world is quite volatile these days. Canada is a bright spot with stable banking and political environment; real estate has been quite…

  • 2011 Condo Market in Toronto Officially the Hottest Ever

    TheRedPin Team
    6 Feb 2012 | 3:07 pm
    2011 was a record breaking year for Toronto’s condominium market. According to Urbanation, there were a total of 45,166 condominium apartments sold in Toronto CMA in year. The figure included 28,190 new condos and 16,976 resales. For the new condo industry, Q4 broke the record for sales with 7,226 new sales helping shatter the previous year high of 22,654 total by 24%.   Top 15 Developers – Toronto CMA – Sold Index Price   Top 10 Developers – Total Sales: The following Developers had the most total sales in Toronto CMA: Plaza, Tridel, Onni Group, Lifetime…

  • Toronto Real Estate – Weekly MLS® Update

    TheRedPin Team
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:38 am
    This week, the Annex is back on top of the list of most expensive neighbourhoods in the GTA. As for cities, some would be surprised to see Whitchurch-Stouffville as the most expensive city in the GTA based on average prices.   Number of New Listings in the GTA – Two Week Comparisons Average Prices of New Listings in the GTA – Two Week Comparisons Most Expensive Cities Based on Average Prices of All Active Listings for Cities With Minium 50 Listings Jan 30 – Feb 6 Based on Average Prices of All Active Listings for Neighbourhoods With Minium 25 Listings Jan 30 – Feb 6…

  • 2nd Day of Real Estate Developers Expo About to Start

    TheRedPin Team
    5 Feb 2012 | 9:47 am
    Today is the second day of Real Estate Developers Expo (REDEX) at Sheraton Toronto Airport Conference Centre . We are here live bringing you the very best of the event.    TheRedPin is an official Media Sponsor of the event   How to Connect With Us:   Booth: If you are in the building, make sure you come visit us at our booth. We would absolutely LOVE to see you     Facebook: If you aren’t in the building, be sure to keep an eye on our Facebook page. We’ll post up photos, commentary etc. throughout the day.   Twitter: You should also follow us…
 
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    Charlotte NC Video Production | Photography | WordPress Web Design | Social Media | Branding

  • How To Speed Up or Fix a Slow Computer – Part 3 Disk Backup and Maintenance

    admin
    23 Jan 2012 | 9:08 am
    This is the 3rd in a 3 part series of step by step how to videos on speeding up a slow computer. The whole video series was done by my 9 year old, Jessi, who got tired of me being late for dinner because I was with clients fixing their computers. After hearing me say that I was going to make this video “how to” series for months, she offered to do it herself. She had seen me perform this procedure on her computer before, and with a little editing help, she did it. A step by step procedure on how to speed up your own computer without having to call, “the guy”. Like…

  • How To Speed Up or Fix a Slow Computer or Laptop – Part 2, Get Rid of Spyware & Viruses

    admin
    20 Jan 2012 | 2:36 pm
    This is the 2nd in a 3 part series of step by step how to videos on speeding up a slow computer. The whole video series was done by my 9 year old, Jessi, who got tired of me being late for dinner because I was with clients fixing their computers. After hearing me say that I was going to make this video “how to” series for months, she offered to do it herself. She had seen me perform this procedure on her computer before, and with a little editing help, she did it. A step by step procedure on how to speed up your own computer without having to call, “the guy”. Like…

  • How To Speed Up or Fix a Slow PC – Part 1 Get rid of junk files

    admin
    19 Jan 2012 | 9:53 am
    It happens all the time.  I’m with a client working on their website or doing social media consulting, and invariably they say, “While you’re here, can you take a look at my computer it’s… ……”.   A while ago, I was working with a client who (after we finished the demo on her new website) said her laptop used to be fast, but was lagging like it was stuck in the mud.  I took her through the exact procedure contained in these 3 How To Videos.  Her computer was much faster.  She was forever grateful, however, my family – not so much.  I…

  • Bonterra Builders Presents Skybrook in Huntersville – New Homes Construction

    admin
    13 Jan 2012 | 8:23 am
    Bonterra Builders and Amazing Video Tours are proud to bring you this video presentation (not one of those virtual 360 tours) of a new Bonterra Builder’s new home community, Skybrook in Huntersville, NC There is a reason that more than 1300 families have made the choice to call Skybrook home. Situated on 1100 acres in Huntersville, about 15 miles north of Uptown Charlotte, Skybrook offers sweeping vistas, rolling hills and tree-lined streets along with resort style amenities and 200 acres of open space. Skybrook is convenient to the NC Research Center, University of North Carolina…

  • New Homes in Indian Land, SC – Bonterra Builders – Barber Rock

    admin
    5 Jan 2012 | 6:35 pm
    Bonterra Builders  and Amazing Video Tours are proud to bring you this video presentation (not one of those virtual 360 tours) of their newest community in Indian Land, SC,  Barber Rock. Barber Rock, located just across the SC border in Indian Land, is Bonterra Builders newest community.   Barber Rock was originally part of the historic Barberville Plantation which dates back to the Revolutionary War and was named for a unique rocky outcropping on a stream known as Clem’s Branch which was used for decades by local residents as a swimming and recreation area. The historic context of…
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    Saint Louis Real Estate Agents, Realtor Blog

  • Copper: The Valued Commodity

    STLRealtor
    7 Feb 2012 | 1:40 pm
    Copper is a valuable commodity these days and with this warm weather led to two separate break ins in two different homes in ONE night, both of which were my properties. The first home, they got ALL of the copper and even the kitchen faucet. They even took the time to make sure the drapes covered the window that they broke. These thieves obviously needed some plumbing because they attempted to pull the shower off the wall to reach the plumbing. It seemed to me they wanted to take the plumbing and put the shower back to hide their theft. In the second home, these thieves had a little more…

  • St. Louis County Home for Rent!

    STLRealtor
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:33 am
    Great Home, Great Location! 4208 Delmar, St Louis 63108-3020 This home is like new with over 1,400 sqft of living space, a 2 car garage, full basement and deck off the kitchen. Rent: $1295 per month Search All Area Properties Search Foreclosures Check out St. Louis County! The county is conveniently located just outside the city. You can experience all the joys of the city, but be able to drive home to a quiet suburban lifestyle when you’re finished. In St. Louis County, you’re sure to find your white-picket-fence dream come true! Learn More about St. Louis County For questions or…

  • St. Charles Ranch Style Home for Rent

    STLRealtor
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:15 am
    Hurry! This House Won’t Last Long! 9 Ashland, Saint Charles 63301-4605 Lovely 3 bed, 1 bath home in a quiet neighborhood of St. Charles. Recently remodeled kitchen with granite countertops, hardwood floors throughout main level, new bathroom with tiled shower and floor. Newer windows, HVAC, water heater, and garage door. Large unfinished basement for storage. Refrigerator can stay for $800, all other appliances will stay. This home is beautiful, move-in ready, and won’t last long! $1,100 per month rent. Search All Area Properties Search Foreclosures Check out St. Charles County!

  • Top 10 Reasons To Use Property Management

    STLRealtor
    6 Feb 2012 | 8:40 am
    First thing is first, what is property management? Well it not only saves you time but can save you money in the long run. Let me do the work and deal with the hassle of “emergency” phone calls while you only get the true emergency calls. Top 10 Reasons to Use Property Management – You get more for your money! Who doesn’t love that? – Save money on contractors. I have a team of contractors that I trust fully and can send you in the right direction. No more researching contractors. I have them on call 24/7 – Higher Occupancy Rates – only through…

  • Saint Louis Foreclosure Search

    STLRealtor
    5 Feb 2012 | 11:01 pm
    All Saint Louis Foreclosures currently for sale
 
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    UrbanTurf Chicago

  • What $325,000 Buys You in Chicago

    Erin Calandriello
    8 Feb 2012 | 8:30 am
    This week in What X Buys You, UrbanTurf takes a look at properties that recently came on the market for around $325,000 to give readers an idea of what type of home is available in this price point in Chicago. Keep reading »

  • 24 Hours Left: Last Chance to Win the Valentine’s Dinner at BOKA

    UrbanTurf Staff
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:30 pm
    We're drawing the winner tomorrow! There is just one more day to enter the UrbanTurf's Valentine's Day giveaway for a perfect Valentine's night on us: dinner for two at BOKA followed by a night in a suite at The Elysian. Keep reading »

  • Walkable Neighborhoods Trump Home Size

    Erin Calandriello
    7 Feb 2012 | 12:00 pm
    Americans are choosing neighborhoods with sidewalks where they can walk to everything over 5,500 square-foot pads in cul-de-sac suburbia. Keep reading »

  • Deal of the Week:  Selling For Less in Lake View

    Erin Calandriello
    7 Feb 2012 | 8:00 am
    For this installment of Deal of the Week, we head over to Lake View where we find a two-bedroom penthouse that, like many homes on the market in Chicago, is selling at a notable discount compared to what it sold for during the housing boom. Keep reading »

  • Black History Month: Celebrating Chicago’s African American Communities

    Erin Calandriello
    6 Feb 2012 | 5:00 pm
    In honor of Black History Month, UrbanTurf takes a look at some homes in some of Chicago's most well-known African American communities. Keep reading »
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    Eurobrix Blog

  • Looking for thrifty travel? Try a home swap

    Yuri Brixenmortar
    23 Jan 2012 | 11:15 am
    If money is tight and you would still like to go abroad this summer, you could consider a holiday that will give you free accommodation worldwide: a house swap. Do you fancy an Italian villa? A flat in bustling Cannes in the South of France? A room with a view over Central Park? No, you can’t have all of them at once but you can take your pick. All you need is to be willing to exchange your own home (or second home if you have one), to be trusting and trustworthy, willing to research and communicate with another family, and take the time to do it properly – maintain a home,…

  • Buyers looking for cheap real estate in Europe are still picking Spain

    Yuri Brixenmortar
    22 Dec 2011 | 6:51 am
    Photo credit: R Duran Buyers looking for cheap real estate in Europe are still picking, according to the latest sales figures. The Ministry of Public Transactions revealed that sales of Spanish property have jumped by 24.7 per cent in the third quarter of 2011 compared to the same period in 2010. This year-on-year rise is only matched by the repeated annual reductions in prices that have plagued the country’s market for the past year. Indeed, figures from the National Statistics Institute have found that property prices in Spain have dropped consistently for the last 14 quarters in a…

  • Mansions in Europe don’t spend this much on Christmas, do they?

    Yuri Brixenmortar
    21 Dec 2011 | 10:42 am
      Photo credit: Christoph W David Beckham and Victoria Beckham have returned to the UK with a splash. Celebrating the festive season, they returned to their house (known as Beckingham Palace) in Hertfordshire to spend a total of £35,000 on Christmas decorations. Mansions in Europe don’t spend that much on Christmas, do they? The former Man United midfield and his family wanted to have “the best of everything”, according to the Mirror, choosing to buy all their trees and extravagant extras from Fortnum and Mason. Six 10-foot Christmas trees and excessive…

  • Don’t look at European hotels for sale – just go straight to London.

    Yuri Brixenmortar
    20 Dec 2011 | 6:28 am
    Photo credit: J Donohoe Don’t look at European hotels for sale – just go straight to London. That’s the advice you can see commercial property investors being given, in light of a new study from STR Global and Whitebridge Hospitality. The research found that London hotels are outperforming the rest of the UK property market for profitability – and have been for the past 11 years. The profit gap between hotels in the capital and other regions of Britain has been getting bigger since 2000, keeping up with inflation while the rest of the UK’s hotels have seen profit…

  • Blair castle sale – Europe’s most exciting auction?

    Yuri Brixenmortar
    19 Dec 2011 | 11:22 am
    Photo credit: HillcroftDave The contents of Blair Castle are going up for auction next year – and people are getting rather excited about it. The castle, located in Edinburgh, was sold in November to a member of the Tory party (an energy minister, no less) for somewhere around £2.5 million. The castle dates back 900 years and was purchased by the Westminster-based politician Charles Hendry and his wife Sallie – but the couple aren’t interested in the castle’s contents. The transaction in the first place raised enough controversy, with Mr Hendry being accused of…
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    TheSquareFoot

  • Co-Working Has Experienced Explosive Growth – But Can There Be Downsides?

    Aron Susman
    5 Feb 2012 | 2:52 pm
    After reading a recent article on the dark side of co-working, we thought we would chime in. It comes as no surprise that co-working is starting to see some backlash among small businesses and contractors. As a relatively new solution to traditional office space in the U.S., co-working has taken off like a wildfire. If you are on either the west coast or east coast and involved in commercial real estate or you are looking for real estate – you certainly have seen all the cool, open, innovative co-working solutions. It is starting to pick up everywhere else, but it seems the coasts have…

  • 5 Mistakes Businesses Make When Leasing Space

    Justin Lee
    1 Feb 2012 | 10:27 pm
    When visiting with small business owners about how their company’s office space plays a role in the business growth and culture, there’s typically a common theme that rears it’s ugly head: too many mistakes are made in the leasing process.  Owners and decision makers often make several key mistakes that can end up costing companies significantly down the line and can even cripple their growth rate.  Because office rent is the second highest expense the vast majority of companies incur, doing things the wrong way leading up to signing on the dotted line can be devastating and can…

  • Planning An Office Move – Practical Tips For A Successful Office Relocation

    Justin Lee
    26 Jan 2012 | 10:50 pm
    Guest Post Provided by HelpMovingOffice.com As 2012 gets under way, and businesses prepare for the future, an office relocation is proving to be a highly effective strategy for companies to get into cheaper and more appropriate office space. With the correct amount of planning, budgeting and management, relocating can enable companies to raise their corporate profile, grow their customer base, improve operational efficiency and attract & retain talented employees. Value for money should be a key part of all business decisions – and most certainly true when it comes to an office…

  • Starbucks Is Getting Saucy, What Liquor License Issues Do Retail Tenants Run Into?

    Justin Lee
    25 Jan 2012 | 12:38 pm
    There have been a few stories that have come out recently saying that Starbucks will begin selling beer and wine at locations in several major US markets by the end of 2012.  Starbucks began testing the concept in some of it’s Seattle home based locations back in late 2011, and is planning on implementing the sale of beer and wine in cities like Atlanta, Chicago, and a few cities in Southern California soon.  Word has it that they will start testing the concept in 4-6 locations in each of those markets and go from there.  Seems as if Starbucks is attempting to become more of a true…

  • Noble Energy Signs a 497,000 Deal in Northwest Houston – How does this breakdown for the Layman?

    Aron Susman
    24 Jan 2012 | 11:25 am
    Noble Energy just signed a 497,000 square foot lease in the former Hewlett Packard building in northwest Houston. That is almost 11.5 acres and they will occupy all 10 floors with plans to expand in the future. As everyone who lives and breathes commercial real estate in Houston knows, this is a massive deal (and the second recent big win for North Houston after the Exxon deal). However, for small business owners who are learning about the basics for their search and/or lease, we thought we would break it down into some digestible numbers. Based on an average annual rental rate of $25 a…
 
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    South Florida Law Blog

  • Homeowner’s Super Bowl — Clock Winding Down on Robo-Signing Settlement

    OppenheimLaw
    6 Feb 2012 | 4:39 pm
    Courtesy: New York Giants The clock may have run out on this year’s Super Bowl (Way to go Giants!!) but there’s still a few minutes left in this year’s REAL grudge match, the Banks vs. the Attorney Generals. It’s 4th and Inches, the score is tied, and it would be nice to avoid overtime. Today we could learn whether the much-discussed robo-signing settlement with Wells Fargo, Bank of America, JP Morgan Chase, Ally Financial and CitiGroup will come to pass, and in what form. With California AG Kamala Harris returning to the negotiating table, the deal looks closer than ever to…

  • Week In Review: DeMarco Doesn’t Get It; Scheiderman Sues Banks over MERS; Swiss Bank Charged with Tax Evasion

    OppenheimLaw
    3 Feb 2012 | 4:54 pm
    Thanks to RJ Matson and the St. Louis Post Dispatch for this wonderful cartoon! It sums up our feelings quite nicely. Freddie Mac’s Regulator ‘Completely Puzzled’ by Allegations of Conflict If Edward DeMarco is puzzled by the outrage over the revelation that Freddie Mac was investing in securities that paid off if homeowners couldn’t refinance, then call us puzzled by his puzzlement. Either he’s a bold-faced liar or he is just plain dense.  Does he really not get it? DeMarco, the acting director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, had the gall to tell National Public…

  • Give Orman Credit For Trying to Change Credit Score

    OppenheimLaw
    2 Feb 2012 | 1:33 pm
    I have to give Suze Orman credit. One thing that’s taken a huge hit in the housing crisis is people’s credit scores. I’ve seen it with plenty of good responsible homeowners. The reality is that most people who overextended themselves during this financial crisis did so because they had good credit scores. In fact when I used to ask people in a seminar who had bad credit prior to the financial meltdown no one would raise their hand. In fact it was only people who had good credit that got themselves in trouble. The way you build your credit seems antiquated and doesn’t always reward you…

  • Freddie Mac — Playing Two-Face to the American Homeowner?

    OppenheimLaw
    31 Jan 2012 | 4:56 pm
      Aaron Eckart as "Two-Face" Aaron Eckhart might have played Two-Face in the last Batman movie, but Freddie Mac seems to have settled into the role these days. Non-profit ProPublica and National Public Radio allege that Freddie Mac, which was set up to make home loans more accessible, was in fact betting against homeowners. It’s a highly disturbing, and completely shocking report. ProPublica’s Jessie Eisinger and Chris Arnold of NPR claim that the government-owned mortgage company was investing in securities that paid substantially more if people continued to pay off…

  • Eric Schneiderman: This Millennium’s Elliot Ness?

    OppenheimLaw
    29 Jan 2012 | 1:38 pm
    New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman We here at the South Florida Law Blog decided to clock in a few hours this weekend, because if we didn’t we’d probably fall behind President Obama’s new man-in-the trenches Eric Schneiderman. The New York Attorney General, only days into his appointment as the head of the newly-formed Residential Mortgage-Backed Securities Working Group has already issued subpoenas to 11 financial companies. President Obama only announced this new investigative unit during Tuesday’s State of the Union, yet the “check”, or in this case the subpoena, is…
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    First Home, First Loan » Stephen Katz

  • U.S. Home Sales Rise For 3rd Straight Month

    Stephen Katz
    23 Jan 2012 | 12:18 am
    Real Estate Inventory Down 9.2% Once again we see continuing improvement in the national real estate market, home sales in the U.S. are up again in December for the third straight month. For 2011 as a whole, sales of existing homes also rose significantly, with a 1.7% increase over 2010. Inventories are shrinking as well as the total inventories in the U.S. dropped more than 9%.  Affordability of financing and lower prices continue looks to be the dominant driving force in the US real estate market starting to turn the corner.  From Realtor Magazine: “The latest monthly data shows…

  • Breaking Down Closing Costs

    Stephen Katz
    4 Nov 2011 | 12:23 pm
    · Lender Fees are collected by, and retained by, the mortgage company. These include: underwriting fee, processing fee, closing fee, funding fee, doc prep fee and so forth. These fees should be shopped by the consumer as they can vary greatly among lenders. · Origination Fees – When this term is properly used it includes all discount points and lender fees. Be cautious in using this term to compare mortgage companies, as its use is inconsistent. · Third party fees – Are paid to outside vendors used in the course of the loan process for credit reports, appraisals, surveys, courier,…

  • VA Loans: Pros & Cons

    Stephen Katz
    13 Oct 2011 | 12:36 am
    If you’re a qualifying veteran or service member, a VA mortgage can be a great deal. VA mortgages offer a lot of benefits, including being one of the few 100% financing options available. There are however, certain situations where you may be better off going with a FHA mortgage or a conventional loan backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Pros of a VA home loan The government guarantees at least one-quarter of the loan  amount on a VA mortgage, which is why you don’t need to put up a down payment.  It’s also why you don’t have to buy mortgage insurance, which is…

  • Dysfunctional Congress leads to even Lower Interest Rates

    Stephen Katz
    2 Aug 2011 | 4:56 pm
    Current low mortgage rates have fallen again as the U.S. continues to shows signs of a sluggish economy with a drop in consumer spending. Dropping by .125%, today’s 30 year fixed mortgage interest rates are at 4.125%. 15 year fixed mortgage interest rates are at 3.500% and 5/1 ARM loan rates are at 2.750%, both remaining the same. Conforming 30 year fixed mortgage loans are the most desired long term mortgage product amongst borrowers because they offer the security of a monthly mortgage payment that remains the same for the entire length of the loan. With 0.7 to 1% origination fee, these…

  • Tips to Help Your Kids have a Smooth Move

    Stephen Katz
    28 Jul 2011 | 11:43 am
    This is a great list to start with when you move with children.  You have to really see it through their eyes and work to understand their concerns.  Many times, it is just about asking them questions and soliciting their feelings to help them through the process.  This is a good list of checkpoints. Moving with children can be a stressful and traumatic experience, especially for younger children.  However, it doesn’t have to be.  Read through these simple tips on making relocating with children easy and exciting for them, and less stressful for you!   Be Positive! It is not…
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    Zoliath Blog

  • Tech Centers Driving Growth and Greater Commercial Real Estate Occupancy in Multiple Cities

    Administrator
    30 Jan 2012 | 5:05 pm
    January 31, 2012 A mid-January commentary in The Kiplinger Letter stated that the technology industry is driving growth, jobs and economic vigor with California leading the way (the state accounted for one in seven jobs created in the U.S. during 2011). In addition to the San Jose (Silicon Valley) to San Francisco submarkets, metro areas reaping the tech benefit are Seattle, Boise, Phoenix, Austin, San Diego and in the east, Raleigh N.C. During the recent two years, the San Francisco Bay Area’s tech-strong economy, along with market drivers in social media, gaming and life sciences, have…

  • Small Businesses Spur Job Growth

    Administrator
    8 Dec 2011 | 12:27 pm
    December 5, 2011 Like holiday cheer, good news emerged last week when the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that U.S. employers had added 140,000 new jobs in November, causing the unemployment rate to plummet to 8.6% — from 9%, in a single month. This, despite 20,000 government jobs lost during the month at the federal, state and local levels. Moody’s Analytics Chief Economist Mark Zandi attributed much of the job growth to small businesses, and broadly across many industries, from retail and hospitality to manufacturing. The ADP National Employment Report backed Zandi’s statement…

  • What Recession?

    Administrator
    11 Nov 2011 | 2:56 pm
    November 11, 2011 Commentary by Gary Marsh   While the media blazes away with heaps of negative news, from my view I see an economy that keeps working. If you read the daily stream of real estate news from reputable mainstream business media and trade publications, you are reading dozens of completed lease or sale transactions daily. Businesses need physical space from which to operate, whether they are running an office with 20 employees, a manufacturing plant in the Midwest or are shopkeepers at a retail location in Anywhere USA. A lease or sale of real property represents serious…

  • Commercial Real Estate Media Changes

    Administrator
    9 Nov 2011 | 1:15 pm
    November 9, 2011 By Gary Marsh These days, there are fewer changes in the commercial real estate media business than during the tumultuous ‘print converts to digital’ period from 2003 to 2007, which was followed by the relative ‘bloodletting of the scribes’ time zone in the 2008 to 2010 recession. Even so, there are newsroom changes of late that are noteworthy. Jonathan Schein, son of Real Estate Forum founder and later, the original publisher of www.GlobeSt.com, recently came out of semi-retirement to lead Penton Media’s real estate media group. Penton’s primary CRE asset is…

  • The Emergence of Online Search in Commercial Real Estate Marketing

    Administrator
    23 Sep 2011 | 3:07 pm
    Learn how to effectively market yourself online. Tim Thornton Having begun my career in commercial real estate in 1988, I have seen what I consider to be the beginning of the application of consumer technology within the commercial real estate industry.  I remember going to the One-Hour Photo and picking up hundreds of copies of building photos, and systematically gluing them to property marketing flyers that were created on IBM Selectric typewriters.  The strange thing is this doesn’t feel like it was that long ago.  It must be though, because as I was drafting this, Microsoft Word’s…
 
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    San Francisco Real Estate Blog, Listings, & Buyer/Seller Resources

  • Open Letter to SF DBI Regarding 3R Reports

    Matt Fuller, GRI
    6 Feb 2012 | 11:11 am
    San Francisco requires sellers of property to provide buyers with a “Report of Residential Record” commonly known as the 3R report. It’s an overview of the building permit history and authorized use. Although the building department doesn’t stand behind any of the information provided in the report, seller’s are required to fork over $160 for the report. Below is a copy of an email I sent to Vivian Day, Director of the Building Inspection Department. Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2012 08:57:46 -0800 Subject: 3R order processing, turn-around time, and customer service From:…

  • Condo Conversions Create Jobs

    Matt Fuller, GRI
    1 Feb 2012 | 4:45 pm
    Blogging over at Beyond Chron, Randy Shaw recently wrote an article about how allowing tenancies-in-common (TICs) to pay a large fee to the city and bypass the condo conversion lottery will kill jobs in San Francisco. I don’t make a habit of refuting every ridiculous article written about TICs, but this one was so over the top that I feel compelled to bring some facts to the discussion. In his article, Mr. Shaw posits that: “… it [condo conversion] would be a huge job killer, eliminating desperately needed construction jobs and making financing for new condo projects even…

  • Going Up? San Francisco Inventory Is!

    Matt Fuller, GRI
    31 Jan 2012 | 11:28 am
    It’s Tuesday, which means that as soon as I finish writing this post, I’ll be out the door and touring homes for the rest of the day. From the north end to the south side I’ll be hoofing it all over the city in the hybrid, all so you don’t have to see the ugly ones on Sunday! I’ve been using TheoTour as a beta-tester for the past several months, and one of my favorite features is the at-a-glance snapshot of market inventory. As you can see, while we are far from the October 2011 fall peak of 300 new listings, new listings have taken a substantial tick upward from…

  • 2011 Most Expensive homes in SF

    Matt Fuller, GRI
    30 Jan 2012 | 2:08 pm
    What were the most expensive homes sold in San Francisco during the 2011 calendar year? I always have to wait for the tax records to catch up with December recordings, but now that they have, the results are in. It was a blockbuster year for luxury real estate in 2011! 2950 Broadway, Sales Price: $29,500,000 2920 Broadway, Sales Price: $23,473,000 3701 Washington, Sales Price: $12,100,000 3362 Jackson St., Sales Price: $9,250,000 60 Normandie Terrace, Sales Price: $8,800,000 To refresh your memory, here is our 2010 list of the most expensive homes in San Francisco. As you can see from the…

  • Mobile Homes of San Francisco

    Matt Fuller, GRI
    27 Jan 2012 | 11:56 am
    Tell someone you live in a mobile home in San Francisco and they’ll look at you like you’re crazy. Which you might be, but I digress. While San Francisco real estate might be known for six-figure sale prices in small packages, we aren’t known as the land of trailer parks. Perhaps it’s because we’re prone to earthquakes instead of tornadoes? There are a few homes in San Francisco, though, that are more mobile than their appearance suggests. 200 Woodside Ave., now found in the Forest Hill extension neighborhood but once part of St. Francis Wood, is one such house.
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    Virtual Tour Software ~ Virtual Tour Company

  • Why Does My Virtual Tour Company Need SEO?

    Team BlueLaVaMedia
    7 Feb 2012 | 4:22 pm
    Why Do I Need SEO for my Local Virtual Tour Business? The reality is, if you have a virtual tour company website, you need to consider implementing a SEO Strategy. As an owner of a virtual tour business you have to decide what role the Internet will play in your business market and whether you'll be implementing a strategic campaign. Regardless of your marketing decision, if you have a website or are planning on starting the development of one, SEO needs to plays an important role in the overall strategy of your company website. Ask yourself: • Do I want my virtual tour business to have…

  • A Shout From Scranton

    Team BlueLaVaMedia
    3 Feb 2012 | 2:35 pm
    RTV is an amazing company. I've only been with them for about 5 months now. The service they offer is top notch. I've been doing virtual tours for over 3 years and have tried every virtual tour software on the market. The system that RTV offers is the easiest and best. The virtual tour window is amazingly smooth and full of great information. We are experienced in capturing the right image for your real estate needs. We can shoot images for building, interiors, exteriors and panorama building and street scenes. Whether you're a listing agent or an owner of a local business, large or small,…

  • Video Productions or Virtual Tours

    Team BlueLaVaMedia
    2 Feb 2012 | 4:59 pm
    Travel suppliers are constantly looking for better ways to effectively market themselves on the internet and inevitably I get asked the question: “Video or virtual tours?” It is just not that black and white, just varying shade of gray. Imagine you’re the new marketing manager of a resort hotel and the boss asks if you think they should create a promotional video or create virtual tours. The first question you would ask yourself: “How’s the photography!?”Great, still images should be your foundation – that’s the starting point for prospects that may be motivated to see and…

  • RealTour Fusion Update

    Team BlueLaVaMedia
    31 Jan 2012 | 11:43 pm
    Hello RTV virtual tour providers! We wanted to keep everyone updated with how things are progressing with the testing of our new RealTour Fusion virtual tour system. RTV was able to begin our internal beta process on Monday the16th of Jan. This was the first time we were able to create FSD accounts, Photographer (your photographers) accounts, agent accounts, broker, and owner accounts, and of course create Tour Track jobs in the new virtual tour system. We've also been able to successfully create panoramic virtual tours, as well as HD still and video tours.  We've been very busy…

  • Building a Sales Pipeline Takes Time

    Team BlueLaVaMedia
    31 Jan 2012 | 10:42 am
    We accomplish most of our virtual tour sales with "cold-calling". It has been said that things move slowly (like at a snail's pace) in the South. Being "Yankees" (not to be confused with Damn Yankees), we were accustomed to moving at high speed in every aspect of our lives. What have we learned after living 3 years in the South? Sales take time! Our longest time from start to finish was over a year. Sometimes, however, you need to just "start" the virtual tour and build upon it later. That's what we can do for you at www.seeitsellstudios.com, your North East Mississippi Virtual Tour Provider…
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    Ann Arbor Homes and Real Estate Update

  • 1776 Savannah Lane Superior Twp Brookside home for sale

    1 Feb 2012 | 2:15 pm
    Virtual Tour: 1776 Savannah Ypsilanti MIBrookside subdivision, Superior Township - Large 2-story home for LEASE with 3 Bedrooms, Loft, 2-1/2 baths and more. Built in 2003 and in excellent, move-in condition. Over 1700 square feet of living space. Hardwood Floors throughout Foyer - Great Room - Dining - Kitchen - Powder Room.    Huge open Great Room features Vaulted ceilings and a gas fireplace. Adjacent formal dining area with a wall of windows.       Large Island kitchen with beautiful 42" cabinetry and breakfast bar. 1st floor laundry and plenty of closets…

  • 17 Jan 2012 | 9:11 pm

    17 Jan 2012 | 9:11 pm
    Vernon Downs neighborhood is located on the west side of Ann Arbor north off of Scio Church Rd and west of 7th street.  Vernon Downs and adjacent Sunnyside and Wuerth subdivisions consist mostly of solid will built 1950's and 1960's brick three bedroom ranches along with a some two story homes.  The subdivision was plated and mostly built by George V.  Airey, George V. Airey Building Company  in the late 1950'sVernon Downs appeals to home buyers looking to be close to downtown but can not find affordable maintained housing in the old westside…

  • Some of our Preferred Contractors

    13 Jan 2012 | 4:24 pm
    Looking to paint a few rooms in your new home? C & Q Painting LLC has worked with PiperPartners and our buyers/sellers in the past and never left a single customer disappointed. Karolynn Schofield of the PiperPartners real estate team says of C & Q that, “they have provided outstanding painting services to my buyers and [John Crawford, owner] is one of the most professional and skilled tradesmen I have ever worked with.”

  • PiperPartners announces Partnership with Cole Taylor Mortgage.

    13 Jan 2012 | 4:13 pm
    Money Source Center and Cole Taylor Mortgage is pleased to be a new working partner with PiperPartners. We believe that his focus on Kerrytown and Downtown Ann Arbor readily fits with our focus on Ann Arbor.Money Source is a local company which serves as a retail location for Cole Taylor Mortgage a subsidiary of Taylor Capital Group a publicly traded company with more than $4.3 billion in assets.This affiliation allows Money Source to partner with people like Andy Piper and offer his clients 24/7 services and the best refinancing opportunities, provided by local lenders with national backing.

  • Preparing for your 2011 taxes

    13 Jan 2012 | 4:12 pm
    Tax season is rapidly approaching and if you’ve purchased through PiperPartners in 2011 we have HUD statements available. Simply call your PiperPartners buyer or listing agnet or contact them through our website and request a copy of your HUD or call direct at 734-604-8242.
 
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    Welcome To International Realty Group Ltd

  • Cayman Real Estate - DISCOVERY POINT CLUB

    27 Jan 2012 | 5:49 am
    Price :  US$599,000 Cayman PropertyCayman Islands PropertyProperty In Cayman IslandsGrand Cayman Property Cayman Real Estate Main Features: MLS : 102105 Address :2043 West Bay Road, Seven Mile Beach, State : Grand Cayman Square Feet: From 1,301 Sector:W Bay Bch SouthZoning:Beach Resort/ResidentialClass:ExistingConstruction:BlockFoundation:SlabFloors:3Furnished:Partially FurnishedHome Features :Balcony, Waterfront, Dishwasher, Microwave, Air Conditioning, Cable/Satellite TVLocal Amenities:Close to Shops, Close to Grocery Store, Close to Beach, Close to Restaurants, Close to…

  • Cayman Commercial Real Estate - Artillery Court One

    20 Jan 2012 | 2:15 am
    Price :  US$35 / per Sft Cayman Property Cayman Real Estate Main Features: MLS : 00000 State : Grand Cayman Square Feet: From 350 Commercial Use : Industrial/Warehouse Sector:Georgetown Center Cayman Property Description :Call for details. From 350sq.ft. Active Commercial Contact Cayman Real Estate Broker :Contact AgentOllie CollinsEmail: ollieirg@candw.kyPhone:  345-623-1111 Cell:     345-548-411  

  • Cayman Commercial Property - Strathvale House Office Space FOR LEASE

    16 Jan 2012 | 6:36 am
    Price :  US$45 / per Sft Cayman Real EstateCayman Islands Real Estate Cayman Real Estate Main Features:MLS : 000000State : Grand CaymanSquare Feet: From 3,300Commercial Use : Industrial/WarehouseSector:Georgetown CenterClass:ExistingFoundation:Pier and BeamFurnished:UnfurnishedHome Features :Balcony, Waterfront, Air Conditioning, Broad BandLocal Amenities:Close to TownCommunity Features:Property Manager, ParkingCayman Property Description :Fully fitted out office space in a class A building. Backup power. Assigned Parking. Ocean Views. ActiveCommercial2002Contact Cayman Real…

  • Cayman Islands Real Estate - Suncloud Estate

    31 Dec 2011 | 4:02 am
    Price :  US$3,300,000 Cayman PropertyCayman Real Estate         Cayman Real Estate Main Features:MLS : 114635Address :Rum Point Drive,State : Grand CaymanSquare Feet: 7,016Stories:3Sector:Rum PointZoning:Beach Resort/ResidentialClass:ExistingConstruction:BlockFoundation:SlabFloors:3Furnished:Partially FurnishedHome Features :Balcony, Waterfront, Dishwasher, Disposal, Microwave, Washer/Dryer, Air Conditioning, Cable/Satellite TV, Broad BandLocal Amenities:Close to Shops, Close to Grocery Store, Close to Beach, Close to Restaurants, Close…

  • Cayman Real Estate - HSBC House

    30 Dec 2011 | 6:31 am
    Price :  US$47 per PSQFT Cayman Commercial Real EstateCayman Islands Real EstateCayman Real Estate Main Features:State : Grand Cayman Commercial Use : Industrial/Warehouse Sector:Georgetown CommCayman Property Description :Sub lease office space available in this Class A building on the outskirts of George Town. Newly rebuilt to hurricane rated specs. Full back up generator and water with 24 hour security on site. Call for details.Contact Cayman Real Estate Broker : Contact AgentOllie CollinsEmail :ollieirg@candw.kyPhone:  345-623-1111 Cell:     345-548-4116
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    M Brewer Group

  • After Hours Lock Outs

    Mike Brewer
    3 Feb 2012 | 5:01 am
    We have all taken the 3am call for lock out service. “Hi, I locked myself out of my apartment; can you have someone from your team come and let me in?” And we all have some form of the following: Apartment Lock Out Policy If residents lose their key or become locked out of their apartment, the following options are available: [loosely adapted from a quick search result on Google]:   1. During posted normal business hours (excluding holidays) residents may come to the main office for assistance… 2. After normal business hours, but prior to 9:00 p.m., residents may…

  • My Boss is Killing Me

    Mike Brewer
    30 Jan 2012 | 9:16 am
    Make note of everything you hate about the ledership style of your current boss and commit to never doing any of it when you have the chance to seize your opportunity to lead. – Tom Peters Paraphrase It doesn’t necessarily mean that they are bad people but every property management professional has come home professing; “My bosss is killling me!” We have all been on the downside of that kind of environment/culture. And, there is more truth in that statment than you might realize. Their is a literal mountain of research on the subject of negativity and it’s effect…

  • Act like a Apartment Owner

    Mike Brewer
    27 Jan 2012 | 10:33 am
    You have heard it a million times if you have heard it once. “Act like an owner.” But, how do you get employees to act like owners? As it relates to the statement; I have two questions I like to ask people. First one relates to leadership and specifically employee issues; If you owned this apartment management company; would this person be working for you? The second pertains to more general items that comes up on a daily basis. If the sign out in front of this apartment community read [your name] apartments; what would you do? Nine point nine times out of ten the answer comes…

  • Fill Your Marketing Balloons With More Than Air

    JHerzog
    23 Jan 2012 | 9:18 am
    I was recently given the privelege to co-moderate a brainstorming session on the topic of marketing. The session was held for members of the apartment management industry at various stages in their careers, from leasing agents who have been in the industry for 2 months to  property managers with 10 years of experience. My topic was old school marketing. Old school referring to anything not social media. More specifically, tools such as resident retention, outreach marketing, Craigslist, etc. The idea was to get creative juices flowing, discuss what’s working, what’s not…

  • How do I Build Habits?

    Mike Brewer
    20 Jan 2012 | 3:52 am
    I am often asked questions that lead with the word, how. How do you do this, how do you do that, how can I be or do better in my career, life or otherwise. Or, how do you go about creating good professional habits? Which follows the lines of  my favorite question, also the premise of this post; how do you get out of bed so early in the morning? My answer: I made it a habit. Those that know me, know that I work crazy hours often times hitting the pillow right prior to the rooster’s announcement of the day to come. And, I rise at roughly 6:00am everyday without the aid of an alarm clock.
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    THE TENANT ADVISOR

  • The Road Ahead Remains Bright for Houston

    CoyDavidson
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:10 pm
    Houston Economic Update – February 2012 According to the business-cycle index produced by the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, economic activity in the Houston metropolitan area grew at an annualized rate of 1.9 percent in December. While Europe continues to be of concern, emerging economies are expected to continue to drive global growth, albeit at [...]The Road Ahead Remains Bright for Houston is a post from: The Tenant Advisor

  • 6 Articles Worth a Weekend Read

    CoyDavidson
    4 Feb 2012 | 12:46 am
    Does It Matter Where Your Top Team Sits? Everywhere I go, executive suites are being reconfigured so that the entire top team can have their offices together. To fit everyone on a single floor, companies are ripping out large private offices and dedicated conference rooms and building smaller, glass-walled offices, flexible conference rooms, self-service kitchens, [...]6 Articles Worth a Weekend Read is a post from: The Tenant Advisor

  • The CIO, CRE’s New Best Friend

    CoyDavidson
    4 Feb 2012 | 12:37 am
    The rapid advancement of new technology being introduced into the workplace is affording new opportunities to the enterprise in terms of service delivery, operational efficiency and collaboration driven by enhanced levels of connectivity. As a result, when it comes to corporate real estate decisions the Chief Information Officer (CIO) now plays a vital role in [...]The CIO, CRE’s New Best Friend is a post from: The Tenant Advisor

  • This Week in the Economy

    CoyDavidson
    3 Feb 2012 | 5:55 pm
    The significantly better than expected jobs report for January of 243,000 jobs fueled a strong rally on Friday.The Dow is up more than 5% in 2012, to its highest level since May 2008. The S&P 500 has gained almost 7% this year and The Nasdaq, is up 11% for the year. On the commercial real [...]This Week in the Economy is a post from: The Tenant Advisor

  • The Texas Job Story Starts in Houston

    CoyDavidson
    2 Feb 2012 | 11:51 pm
    The Texas economy continues to expand at a moderate pace. Texas employment grew at a 1.5 percent annual rate in December and expanded 2 percent in 2011. Housing indicators suggest that the sector continues to heal, and energy activity remains strong. Growth in Texas exports resumed and Texas manufacturing activity increased in January, according to [...]The Texas Job Story Starts in Houston is a post from: The Tenant Advisor
 
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    Modern Estate Agent blog

  • Building relationships with new landlords

    31 Jan 2012 | 6:00 pm
    Regular readers of the Modern Estate Agent will know what big fans we are of agents who take the time to put together good, informative content for their customer base.  Whether that's in the form of blogs, local area information or downloadable 'how-to' guides, not only does it give your company more visibility on Google, it also helps you soft-sell your experience (and as a result, your services) to your audience.  Some 18 months ago, Neil Young of Young London wrote a guest blog for us - Why how-to guides are good for business - and the topic is just as relevant today as it…

  • How to find landlords? Use a landlord database of course

    19 Jan 2012 | 6:00 pm
    One of the most common challenges we heard from letting agents last year was winning new rental business - finding more landlords. If you're in the business you won't need telling that, as a result of being the growth part of the industry, lettings has become much more competitive in recent years. Plenty of start-up agents (often with with cut-price management services) have popped up, previously sales-only estate agents have added lettings departments, and established agents are often finding their fees being pressurised as a result. A good letting agent will maintain a database of…

  • 8 ways you can control the impact of estate agency review websites

    11 Jan 2012 | 6:00 pm
    Review websites are a big part of the internet these days - and the property industry is no different to any other. In the past few years, the trend has accelerated and the list of estate agent specific review websites is getting longer: www.whichpropertyagent.co.uk www.allagents.co.uk (the ones who force their logo onto your website header, yuk!) www.referenceline.com (one of the more credible sites) www.estateagentreview.co.uk www.theadvisory.co.uk www.meetmyagent.co.uk www.agentright.com www.agent-tracker.co.uk www.estatepropertyagents.co.uk and sister site…

  • Christmas marketing done well

    15 Dec 2011 | 6:00 pm
    I've often found that Christmas is a time of year when marketing people get inventive. Kudos to Kimberley Lane at Berry Recruitment then, for scoring points by arriving unannounced at reception this morning bearing gifts and smiling like a Cheshire cat. I don't mind confessing that anyone who gives me chocolate immediately breaks down a barrier or two! The diary may or may not come in handy, but it scores points for being good quality. Are you planning anything similar? Have you been won over by someone making a similar festive effort?

  • The ASA rule against personal estate agent franchises again

    11 Dec 2011 | 6:00 pm
    Eighteen months on from the ASA ruling against Spicerhaart and they are still struggling to come to terms with the personal Estate Agent model. A new ruling against Century 21 concluded that the public are still likely to make the assumption that an 'office' must be a physical one. It's clear that 'office' is not a good word, but the ASA statement is a concern: "We told Century 21 United Kingdom that they should only list locations in which they had physical offices." iSold say they are 'available in .. locations'. Does that help? We have asked the question of the ASA and will post an…
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    Taunya Fagan Bozeman Real Estate Blog: SW Montana Homes: MLS Listings

  • Montana Mountain Luxury Homes Auction March 2012 Spanish Peaks and Yellowstone Club Real Estate

    Taunya Fagan - Today's Montana Listings: Bozeman Real Estate: Luxury Homes: Land (Prudential Montana Real Estate Bozeman)
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:17 pm
    One of the Yellowstone Club Homes, Three Spanish Peaks Resort Luxury Properties to Be Auctioned March 2, 2012 One of the four Big Sky MT luxury properties going to auction March 2, 2012 is set in the exclusive, gated Yellowstone Club, which offers both private downhill skiing, snowboarding, and golfing, This YC property is a ~4,806 sq ft, 4 bedroom, 6 bathroom luxury house with private ski bridge and had been listed with the Yellowstone Mountain Club for a little under $5 million. Yellowstone Club luxury homes' sites and fabulous amenities are built around 2,200 skiable acres, offering the…

  • Just Listed Bozeman Montana Properties Week 2 February 2012 Taunya Fagan

    Taunya Fagan - Today's Montana Listings: Bozeman Real Estate: Luxury Homes: Land (Prudential Montana Real Estate Bozeman)
    7 Feb 2012 | 2:19 pm
    Today's Newest Property in Southwest Montana - Bozeman Real Estate regional listing updates, includes every city and town in the area. Find just-listed Montana homes, land, lots, ranches, and farms from Taunya's southwest Montana MLS proprietary access. Week 2, February 5 - 7, 2012 - The latest Montana real estate listings from Taunya Fagan, offering you real estate updates every day from throughout SW Montana, from Livingston MT to Dillon Montana and in-between. MLS#       Type            Address            Price                  Beds-Baths…

  • Prudential Real Estate Sold to Brookfield Residential Property Services

    Taunya Fagan - Today's Montana Listings: Bozeman Real Estate: Luxury Homes: Land (Prudential Montana Real Estate Bozeman)
    6 Dec 2011 | 10:18 pm
    Prudential Real Estate and Relocation Services (PRERS), a recognized leader in employee relocation and real estate franchising was purchased on December 6, 2011 by Brookfield Real Estate, a Brookfield Asset Management Inc. affiliate, for $110 Million. Prudential Financial, Inc. previously owned the Prudential Realty division, now part of Brookfield. Prudential Montana Real Estate, previously an affiliate of the Prudential Financial Network, will now be affiliated with Brookfield Real Estate Services, Inc. and Brookfield Residential Property Services. All Prudential Real Estate brokerage…

  • Newest Bozeman Realty Week 2 December 2011 Taunya Fagan

    Taunya Fagan - Today's Montana Listings: Bozeman Real Estate: Luxury Homes: Land (Prudential Montana Real Estate Bozeman)
    5 Dec 2011 | 11:11 am
    Just Listed in southwest Montana: Taunya Fagan does the work, offering you today's newly listed SW Montana Real Estate. Montana MLS Listings: Homes, Condos, Townhouses, Ranches, Land, giving you the advantage... Week 2, December 4 - 10, 2011 - Easily discover all Bozeman realty listed every day from Prudential Bozeman Realtor, Taunya Fagan through the top Bozeman MT Real Estate Blog, giving you the most recent real estate listings from southwest Montana. MLS#       Type            Address            Price                  Beds-Baths Sq-Ft Acreage…

  • Just Listed Montana Realty November - December 2011 Taunya Fagan

    Taunya Fagan - Today's Montana Listings: Bozeman Real Estate: Luxury Homes: Land (Prudential Montana Real Estate Bozeman)
    28 Nov 2011 | 10:55 am
    Newest Listings From The Montana Real Estate MLS: Taunya Fagan gives you today's new SW Montana Realty from montana's Multiple Listing Service: Luxury Homes, Ski Condos, Townhomes, Horse Properties. November 27 - December 3, 2011 - Find Bozeman MT real estate every day from Prudential Montana real estate agent, Taunya Fagan. Montana's Bozeman Real Estate Blog delivers the most up-to-date real estate listings, giving you the advantage... MLS#       Type            Address            Price                  Beds-Baths Sq-Ft Acreage…
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    Maine Real Estate Blog

  • January 2012 E-Newsletter: Time & Money – A Maine Real Estate Update

    LegacySIR
    1 Feb 2012 | 3:18 pm
    Dear Friends, We have experienced a very healthy surge of buyer confidence in recent weeks.  It is more notable in that it comes during a traditionally quiet seasonal  time for the Maine real estate market.  Our showing activity and “Under Contract” activity is running well ahead of pace for last year and 2-years ago.  Although the rally is broad based, the improvement is not being enjoyed by all market sellers.  Not surprisingly, the two key issues holding back sales are “money” and “time”.  I am hopeful a discussion of market conditions can help…

  • Welcome Southwest Airlines to Portland International Jetport!

    LegacySIR
    23 Jan 2012 | 10:44 am
    Southwest flying to Portland with load of potential The airline’s confirmation that it will serve the city means more routes and cheaper fares may follow. By Beth Quimby bquimby@mainetoday.com Staff Writer (Portland Press Herald) PORTLAND – Mainers won’t need to drive to Manchester, N.H., or Boston much longer to catch a ride on Southwest Airlines. Portland is on the list of AirTran cities Southwest Airlines will continue to serve as the two airlines combine operations. The Associated Press On Friday, the nation’s largest domestic airline announced that Portland…

  • Alexa Oestreicher joins Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty As Vice President in Real Estate Sales

    LegacySIR
    19 Jan 2012 | 9:47 am
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                  CONTACT:   Christopher Lynch 207-780-8900 clynch@legacysir.com   Alexa Oestreicher joins Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty as a Vice President in Real Estate Sales Greater Portland, ME (Jan. 16, 2012) –Maine Real Estate News:  We are pleased to announce thatAlexa Oestreicher,Maine native and longtimeYarmouth resident, has joined Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty as a Vice President.  Alexa, a licensed Associate Broker, will be based in the Greater…

  • Maine Real Estate – Supply of Inventory of Homes Down 21% From 2010

    LegacySIR
    16 Jan 2012 | 4:46 pm
    Maine Real Estate Maine Real Estate Statistics Presented by Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty Maine Real Estate ”Supply of Inventory” for the past Year Inventory of Single Family Homes Drops 21% over 2010   The Maine Real Estate market has seen a significant improvement compared to the same period in 2010.  A decrease in inventory reflects increasing demand for single family homes and is an excellent leading indicator of the condition of the overall market. Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty has several Maine Real Estate Agents based in it…

  • Maine Real Estate – Homes Under Contract In December Are Up 25% over 2010

    LegacySIR
    16 Jan 2012 | 4:41 pm
    Maine Real Estate Maine Real Estate Statistics Presented by Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty Maine Real Estate ”Under Contract” for the past Year A 25% Increase in Single Family Homes Under Contract The Maine Real Estate market has seen a significant improvement compared to the same period in 2010.  Under Contract properties is an excellent leading indicator of the condition of the overall market and a very strong sign for further growth. Legacy Properties Sotheby’s International Realty has several Maine Real Estate Agents based in it Portland…
 
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    expertVIEW Blog

  • Stamp duty hurting our nation’s productivity

    Pamela Bennett
    2 Feb 2012 | 11:35 pm
    With the treasury expected to collect about $3.8 billion from stamp duty this year, nation-wide home buyers are in agreement on the call to streamline the greatly disputed tax. State based stamp... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

  • Welcome news for Victorian vendors with median prices on the rise

    Enzo Raimondo
    27 Jan 2012 | 12:55 am
    REIV December quarter median prices reveal that house and unit values have remained relatively stable over the quarter. The median house price in metropolitan Melbourne was $550,000, representing a... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

  • QLD: Trying times in 2011, positive hopes for 2012

    Pamela Bennett
    19 Jan 2012 | 6:31 pm
    The past year has been an upward battle for Queenslanders, getting off to a tragic start with devastating flood and cyclone damage wreaking havoc across the state. The impact of the Queensland floods... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

  • WA: The year that was, the year that will be

    David Airey
    13 Jan 2012 | 12:36 am
    2011 was a year characterised by fence sitting across Western Australia, with buyer’s exercising caution due to widespread uncertainty around the global economy.  In particular, upgrade buyers sat on... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]

  • Survey reveals first home buyers are going into hiding

    realestateVIEW.com.au
    11 Jan 2012 | 1:09 am
    With recent studies showing 60,000 fewer first home buyers entered the market in 2011, getting onto the property ladder is evidently now harder than ever. Along with property prices skyrocketing in... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit my website for full links, other content, and more! ]]
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    Las Vegas Remax Real Estate Agent

  • 4 New Homes in Mountain’s Edge Las Vegas – Bulk Price!

    Bob Ratliff - RE/MAX LAS VEGAS & Henderson, NV.
    24 Jan 2012 | 3:59 pm
    4 New Homes in Mountain’s Edge Las Vegas Las Vegas RE/MAX featured listings Bulk Price $479,900 – $81 per square foot Each home is 3 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths One home is 1470 square feet Three homes are 1483 square feet 2-car garage Kitchens feature beech wood cabinets and granite counter tops Master bath with dual sinks Separate tub & [...]

  • Inspirada Homes Las Vegas

    Bob Ratliff - RE/MAX LAS VEGAS & Henderson, NV.
    16 Nov 2011 | 5:41 pm
    Inspirada Homes Las Vegas for Sale Located in the southern foothills of the Las Vegas Valley, Inspirada Homes Las Vegas offers a blend of architectural styles including Spanish, Tuscan, Italiante, Monterrey and Craftsman elevations, some with wrap around porches. This is a charming city without walls separating neighborhoods. Inspirada Homes Las Vegas villages feature choices [...]

  • Giverny at Summerlin Las Vegas in Gardens Village

    Bob Ratliff - RE/MAX LAS VEGAS & Henderson, NV.
    3 Nov 2011 | 1:11 am
    Giverny at Summerlin Las Vegas in Gardens Village Giverny at Summerlin Las Vegas in Gardens Village single family homes are located in The Gardens Village. Just like the other Summerlin villages in the community, The Gardens Village has terrific amenities for its residents. For example, there are trails for walking, jogging, and biking. Parks and recreation are abundant [...]

  • The District at Green Valley Ranch Condos for Sale

    Bob Ratliff - RE/MAX LAS VEGAS & Henderson, NV.
    1 Nov 2011 | 1:28 pm
    The District at Green Valley Ranch Condos for Sale The District at Green Valley Ranch Condos for Sale offer upbeat contemporary living along with convenient amenities like no other in the entire Las Vegas Valley.   The District at Green Valley Ranch Condos for Sale is located off the 215 hwy and Green Valley park way in [...]

  • Green Valley Ranch Henderson NV Homes

    Bob Ratliff - RE/MAX LAS VEGAS & Henderson, NV.
    1 Nov 2011 | 2:20 am
    Green Valley Ranch Henderson NV Homes Master-Planned Community Green Valley Ranch Henderson NV Homes is conveniently located just southeast of the Las Vegas Valley. Green Valley Ranch Henderson NV Homes master-planned community of Green Valley Ranch is one of the state’s finest. Green Valley Ranch Henderson NV Homes is located about 10 miles off the [...]
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    Century 21 Alliance Realty - THE Gail Spada TEAM

  • Housing sales activity and trends show brighter future

    Gail Spada
    27 Jan 2012 | 2:05 pm
    I don’t mean to sound like a broken record, but everywhere I turn lately I seem to find more good news about better things to come in the real estate market. The evidence is both anecdotal and statistical. Anecdotally, I can tell you that for the first month of 2012, it is as if someone has opened a floodgate. After being in a wait-and-see mode for several years, sellers are racing to list their homes. Meanwhile, buyers who have been straddling the fence about making firm offers are leaping to take advantage of reasonably priced homes and low mortgage interest rates. Our TEAM, in our new…

  • Tampa Bay housing market has a sunny disposition

    Gail Spada
    12 Jan 2012 | 5:04 pm
    Maintaining a positive attitude is a way of life for me. Admittedly, I sometimes must strain my neck and eyes to find the silver lining hiding behind some of the darker clouds, but I usually succeed. But I didn’t have to look very far last week to find the bright side of some news about the sometimes gloomy Florida housing market. Two reports gave us a double dose of encouragement.  For the first time in 5 years, more people moved into Florida than moved out, according to the 2011 Atlas Van Lines Migration Patterns study. The increase was slight — 5,636 inbound moves vs 5,269…

  • New Year’s resolutions for home sellers and buyers

    Gail Spada
    6 Jan 2012 | 8:26 am
    The beginning of a new calendar year is the time many of us designate to make changes in our lives. Whether you want to lose weight, quit smoking or read a few more books, this is an opportunity to reflect and rethink how we will conduct ourselves in the coming year. Even though most new year’s resolutions tend to be of a personal nature, it’s also an opportunity to assess improvements we can make to our professional lives and finances. As a REALTOR®, my professional resolution, year in and year out, is to list and sell more homes. Fortunately, The TEAM and I do quite well in that…

  • Congratulations to our photo contest winner!

    Gail Spada
    31 Dec 2011 | 6:02 pm
    Melissa Rodgers was already a fan of THE Gail Spada TEAM on Facebook. The 37-year-old Palm Harbor resident says she has two reasons for regularly reading The TEAM Works blog. First, Melissa and her husband own a home inspection and pest control business, and she finds the consumer-driven real estate information published here useful. Second, Melissa is an animal lover and “anytime I see someone who is donating their time and money to help the local humane society,” I try to support them, said Melissa, a native Floridian who is the human companion of Snowflake, a 5-year-old, 6-pound…

  • 5 ideas for year-round housewarming gifts

    Gail Spada
    23 Dec 2011 | 9:08 am
    Most of us know someone whose birthday is on Christmas Day, or just before or after. And most of us also know that can be both a blessing a curse, depending on how your family and friends balance these special days. The seasonal hustle and bustle can make it easy for others to shortchange — or even forget – a Christmas birthday. But birthdays are not the only special occasions that occur during the Christmas season; care must be taken not to overlook weddings and anniversaries, either. Another special day that sometimes gets lost on the holiday schedule — and it only occurs…
 
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    Building the Places You Call Home

  • Surprising Things You CAN’T Recycle!

    Emmer Group
    1 Feb 2012 | 2:10 pm
    For it being January, Mother Nature’s been treating Gainesville pretty kindly with this mild weather in the 70’s. And while we’re not complaining, it’s pretty obvious that we could take a little more time to be appreciative of the mild hurricane season, the bright sunshine and the amount of great sports weather we’ve had during our “winter” months thus far.   We at Emmer love to give back in thanks, and one way to do this is to recycle. While there’s a huge effort here in our lovely city to follow the green road, you’d be surprised how many people throw away things that…

  • The 13th Annual Air Potato Round-Up!

    Emmer Group
    13 Jan 2012 | 10:18 am
    Alachua County is known for the University of Florida, cultural diversity, a great local music scene… and air potatoes? Unfortunately, it’s true: we’re just one of the counties in Florida affected by this heavily invasive species of plant that can really get in the way of our beautiful, native breeds. So, like any good citizens of nature’s habitat, we have sought for ways to correct this intruding wrong, and one of those ways is coming up very soon. This year's Air Potato Roundup poster courtesy of Merald Clark!   That’s right! It’s time again for the Annual Air Potato…

  • Your 2012 Resolution Should Be… To Get Talking!

    Emmer Group
    3 Jan 2012 | 2:41 pm
    It’s not hard to argue that 2011 was a difficult year for the housing market: between the robo-signing drama, the foreclosure stats and the depressing rollercoaster ride regularly documented by the media, it’s nice to know the year is over and we get a fresh start. Like many other real estate web-experts, such as InmanNews or, closer to home, SunSentinel, we at Emmer thought it would be a good idea to provide you with some real estate resolutions to start this year off on the right foot. Sometimes all you really need to do is talk! Before you make any big decisions, try to get another…

  • Walking in a Winter… Real Estate Market?

    Emmer Group
    19 Dec 2011 | 11:14 am
    When you think of the winter holidays, there’s a variety of things that come to mind: reindeer, presents, candles… home listings? Selling a home during the most festive time of year can be frustrating, when there are so many other things going on, and sometimes it’s a difficult necessity. But what if you could hold off a few more months- should you? Not according to a recent survey done by Realtor.com. According to them, 60 percent of real estate professionals polled said it was a good idea to try to sell during this time of year, as there’s less competition and the buyers are often…

  • A Beautiful Holiday Home… for You!

    Emmer Group
    8 Dec 2011 | 1:34 pm
    We hope you're having a happy holiday season and that you enjoy the post we've got for you below! ‘Tis the season for giving! And we decided we certainly wanted to give to you, so we pulled out a very special trump card and are featuring an excellent article written by Erik Braunitzer of Douglas Elliman Real Estate Company, Agents for New York City Rentals. We hope you enjoy the piece, and thank you, Erik, for your great contribution! Making Your Home Beautiful for the Holidays If you’ve become bored with the same old routine of dragging out old decorations every winter and…
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    Foreclosure News - Foreclosure Warehouse.com

  • Mortgage Writedowns for Nearly One Million Homeowners in US

    Courtney Allen
    27 Jan 2012 | 5:02 am
    Photo by TheTruthAbout Recently, the Secretary of US Housing and Urban Development, Shaun Donovan has announced that nearly one million homeowners in America would soon receive mortgage writedowns under a contract with banks to fix the problem of improper foreclosure practices. This deal would make a significant change in the foreclosure market by reducing the huge existing mortgage load. Since the beginning of the foreclosure crisis, this is the biggest initiative so far. In a conference in Washington, he said, “We’re very close to a settlement that would both fix the servicing…

  • Legal Funds for Foreclosure Prevention Programs

    Courtney Allen
    26 Jan 2012 | 5:47 am
    Photo by Kenteegardin Recently, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has proposed a new budget for his state which will be effective from the first day of April 2012. After the declaration of this new budget, advocates for homeowners said that this new budget will highly affect the current legal assistance schemes and counseling programs which are conducted all across the state to help struggling homeowners avoid foreclosure. In 2008, when lenders started to default on their lending loans and the number of foreclosure gradually started to increase, it was stated in that year’s budget that every year…

  • Family to Get Back the Ownership of their Foreclosed Home

    Courtney Allen
    25 Jan 2012 | 5:16 am
    Photo by Digitalart A company in Oakland, Waypoint Homes buys and sells foreclosed homes in Solano and Contra Costa counties. It has recently sold a property to an Antioch buyer who had lost this very same property nearly two years back due to foreclosure. The Antioch family members are very happy to get their home back at an amount much less than what this home actually worth. The buyer, Darren Gates is a contractor who is very happy to get back his property. He said, “We’re so lucky. I mean it’s the kind of thing, you tell it to the guy on the next bar stool, he thinks you did…

  • Avondale Activists Protest Against Foreclosure and Racial Discrimination

    Courtney Allen
    24 Jan 2012 | 5:06 am
    Photo by JacobRuff Nearly 100 residents including children, white and black people gathered in front of 3638 Reading Road to protest against foreclosure processing. A German based bank, Deutsche Bank seized an apartment building which houses four families in the month of October three years ago. Then, the bank sold this property within a month to a company in North California for a low price of $4,000. In the same year, another similar building next door was also foreclosed by this German bank and was sold in 2010 for much lower price than earlier for only $1,000. Even after selling these…

  • Advocates Request Lawmakers in Massachusetts

    Courtney Allen
    23 Jan 2012 | 5:11 am
    Photo by Watcharakun Advocates in Massachusetts argued for the sake of homeowners and requested lawmakers to modify the legal system of the state so that distressed homeowners in the state can at least get one day to move their foreclosure cases in the courthouse before banks force these helpless people out of their properties to foreclose them. They also requested them to make this state the last state in New England which needs the assistance of the judicial system for foreclosure cases. However, housing attorneys are dead against this modification because according to them the courthouses…
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    The MD Suburbs of DC

  • The University of Maryland’s Kevin Bacon DoGood Challenge

    Ken Montville
    4 Feb 2012 | 5:38 pm
    A lender friend who is also an avid alum booster and die hard Terps fan posted this video on his Google+ page and I thought it was so cool that I wanted to post it here, too. After all, I help people buy and sell homes in College Park, MD (and the towns nearby) and I even went to the University for awhile (and my wife got both her undergraduate degree and Master’s from the University of MD). So….if you know a current student at the University of MD you may want to pass this along.  They could be one degree from Kevin Bacon if their DoGood project wins. Here is the link referred…

  • A Tale of Three Houses, Part 3 | College Park, MD

    Ken Montville
    2 Feb 2012 | 1:06 pm
    In a previous blog post, I wrote about a house that was in good shape, in a good location and priced competitively and received an offer quickly and went to settlement quickly.  I also wrote about another house that went on the market and received an offer in four days and went to settlement in under a month. Both in the College Park Woods community of College Park, MD very near the University of MD. This third house also sold pretty quickly.  Technically, it’s in a section of College Park Woods called The Village.  It’s about a block long with a beautiful tree canopy lining…

  • The Cough Drop Philosopher

    Ken Montville
    25 Jan 2012 | 10:09 am
    If you’re anywhere on Facebook (and who isn’t), you’ve probably seen the gazillion quotes that get posted to people’s walls. They’re all very positive and uplifting. They’ve even taken on new life in the form of graphics with different typefaces, sizes, backgrounds.  In fact, the way the quote is presented sometimes overshadows the message of the quote itself. Enter Hall’s Cough Drops. My wife an I have been trading cold symptoms back and forth for the last few days and while she prefers the Luden’s Honey Licorice cough drop, my loyalty…

  • Real Estate Market Trends for the MD Suburbs of Washington, DC

    Ken Montville
    24 Jan 2012 | 9:47 am
    (Please note: you may have to click here to see the video for the real estate market trends) In this video provided by Real Estate Business Intelligence (a MRIS company) there is some room for optimism that home prices are finally starting to bottom out.  This will be a good thing for home sellers that have been waiting to see if now is the time to put their home on the market. If experience is any guide, though, a lot of buyers will continue to sit on the fence waiting for lower prices and/or lower mortgage interest rates.  Unfortunately, just like the home seller who was waiting for the…

  • Foreclosure Sales by County in the MD Suburbs of DC

    Ken Montville
    19 Jan 2012 | 7:41 am
    We’ve been dealing with the “foreclosure crisis” for awhile now. The sad part is that it is far from over. Many parts of the MD Suburbs of Washington, DC are still have large numbers of homes that are in foreclosure that still haven’t been sold. Worse still are the large number of short sales that are not fully foreclosed upon but are in the process.  If the banks do not allow the short sales to sell in time, they all eventually become foreclosures and end up in the statistics. Prince George’s County which includes a lot of the towns I work in – College…
 
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    AOL Real Estate - Blog

  • House of the Day: Live on a Magical Island

    Krisanne Alcantara
    8 Feb 2012 | 12:00 am
    Filed under: News I don't know about you, but I've always wanted to live on a magical island. (Maybe I just read too much Enid Blyton as a kid.) If you're anything like me, then you'll be thrilled to discover that there really are "secret" islands on which ridiculously beautiful homes exist. Exhibit A: This truly exceptional, $21.9 million mansion on Bay Island in Newport Beach, Calif. The highly exclusive Bay Island has been described by some as a "magical island," which sits out in the middle of the turning basin in Newport Harbor. Apparently, the island is "not well known," as it is…

  • 'Robo-Camera' Goes 'RoboCop' on Some London Residents

    Teke Wiggin
    7 Feb 2012 | 11:46 am
    Filed under: News "Stop! This is a restricted area!' The statement is the sort of warning you might expect to hear from a robot guarding a top-secret facility in your average B-grade sci-fi flick. But some residents of a housing development in England are reportedly getting it from a robot camera that -- in the process of surveilling their communal garden -- photographs them and threatens prosecution, and they aren't pleasedThe Guardian reports. As a result, the district council in London's borough of Camden recently apologized for the surly "robo-camera," the newspaper says. "This is a…

  • Blueseed: 'Startup Incubator' Could Sail Past Immigration Law

    Teke Wiggin
    7 Feb 2012 | 7:04 am
    Filed under: News A group of Silicon Valley entrepreneurs is trying to make it easier for its foreign counterparts to make and maintain business connections through an innovative end-run around U.S. immigration law: Putting them up for months at a time in a floating "Googleplex" that anchors in international waters -- but is close enough for them to make frequent visits to Silicon Valley. Co-founder of the Blueseed project, Max Marty, and his partners want to build a floating "startup incubator" strategically positioned in the Pacific Ocean about 12 miles off San Francisco's coast. Offering…

  • Foreclosure Settlement Missing Some Key States

    CNNMoney
    7 Feb 2012 | 5:15 am
    Filed under: NewsBy Jennifer Liberto WASHINGTON -- More than 40 states have signed on to a draft settlement with the nation's largest banks that's aimed at helping homeowners struggling with loans bigger than the value of their homes. But several key states -- including California, New York, Nevada, Florida and Delaware -- remain undecided, sources familiar with the negotiations tell CNN. "The sign-on deadline for the proposed joint state-federal mortgage servicing settlement passed Monday with more than 40 states," said Iowa Attorney General Thomas Miller, who has been leading negotiations…

  • David Schwimmer Turns Historic Home Into Teardown

    Krisanne Alcantara
    7 Feb 2012 | 4:15 am
    Filed under: News, Celebrity Homes Seems like Ross Geller's come a long way from sharing a tiny two-bedder in the West Village with his ex-girlfriend and their baby. Almost a decade after the last episode of "Friends" aired, David Schwimmer has shown that his requirements are a little more refined than those of the TV character he played. So much so, apparently, that he's bought and torn down a landmark-worthy East Village townhouse built in 1852 -- to replace it with a luxurious, six-story mansion. Schwimmer snagged the $4.1 million property (pictured above) in 2010, which at the time was…
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    AOL Real Estate - Blog

  • House of the Day: Live on a Magical Island

    Krisanne Alcantara
    8 Feb 2012 | 12:00 am
    Filed under: News I don't know about you, but I've always wanted to live on a magical island. (Maybe I just read too much Enid Blyton as a kid.) If you're anything like me, then you'll be thrilled to discover that there really are "secret" islands on which ridiculously beautiful homes exist. Exhibit A: This truly exceptional, $21.9 million mansion on Bay Island in Newport Beach, Calif. The highly exclusive Bay Island has been described by some as a "magical island," which sits out in the middle of the turning basin in Newport Harbor. Apparently, the island is "not well known," as it is…

  • 'Robo-Camera' Goes 'RoboCop' on Some London Residents

    Teke Wiggin
    7 Feb 2012 | 11:46 am
    Filed under: News "Stop! This is a restricted area!' The statement is the sort of warning you might expect to hear from a robot guarding a top-secret facility in your average B-grade sci-fi flick. But some residents of a housing development in England are reportedly getting it from a robot camera that -- in the process of surveilling their communal garden -- photographs them and threatens prosecution, and they aren't pleasedThe Guardian reports. As a result, the district council in London's borough of Camden recently apologized for the surly "robo-camera," the newspaper says. "This is a…

  • Blueseed: 'Startup Incubator' Could Sail Past Immigration Law

    Teke Wiggin
    7 Feb 2012 | 7:04 am
    Filed under: News A group of Silicon Valley entrepreneurs is trying to make it easier for its foreign counterparts to make and maintain business connections through an innovative end-run around U.S. immigration law: Putting them up for months at a time in a floating "Googleplex" that anchors in international waters -- but is close enough for them to make frequent visits to Silicon Valley. Co-founder of the Blueseed project, Max Marty, and his partners want to build a floating "startup incubator" strategically positioned in the Pacific Ocean about 12 miles off San Francisco's coast. Offering…

  • Foreclosure Settlement Missing Some Key States

    CNNMoney
    7 Feb 2012 | 5:15 am
    Filed under: NewsBy Jennifer Liberto WASHINGTON -- More than 40 states have signed on to a draft settlement with the nation's largest banks that's aimed at helping homeowners struggling with loans bigger than the value of their homes. But several key states -- including California, New York, Nevada, Florida and Delaware -- remain undecided, sources familiar with the negotiations tell CNN. "The sign-on deadline for the proposed joint state-federal mortgage servicing settlement passed Monday with more than 40 states," said Iowa Attorney General Thomas Miller, who has been leading negotiations…

  • David Schwimmer Turns Historic Home Into Teardown

    Krisanne Alcantara
    7 Feb 2012 | 4:15 am
    Filed under: News, Celebrity Homes Seems like Ross Geller's come a long way from sharing a tiny two-bedder in the West Village with his ex-girlfriend and their baby. Almost a decade after the last episode of "Friends" aired, David Schwimmer has shown that his requirements are a little more refined than those of the TV character he played. So much so, apparently, that he's bought and torn down a landmark-worthy East Village townhouse built in 1852 -- to replace it with a luxurious, six-story mansion. Schwimmer snagged the $4.1 million property (pictured above) in 2010, which at the time was…
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    Tampa Florida Real Estate New Homes For Sale

  • Mobley Homes Tampa Florida

    Danny
    18 Jan 2012 | 12:59 pm
    Mobley Homes Tampa Florida. Are you looking to buy a new Mobley Home? Call us today we are new home specialists who will work on your behalf and negotiate a great deal on your new home. We have sold hundreds of new homes and know all the new home builders and new home communities. Call us 813-365-3574 Bassett Creek at K-bar Ranch The Woodlands at K-Bar Ranch Easton Park at K-Bar Ranch Stone Creek Townhomes K-Bar Ranch Townes on the Green Zephyrhills The Moorings at Lake Padgett  Land O Lakes South Tampa Homes Mobley Floor Plans Tampa Sedonia Bandelier I Carlton IV Nantucket I Contessa…

  • Cardel Homes Tampa Florida

    Danny
    17 Jan 2012 | 8:01 pm
    Cardel Homes Tampa Florida. Are you looking to buy a new Cardel Home? Call us today we are new home specialists who will work on your behalf and negotiate a great deal on your new home. We have sold hundreds of new homes and know all the new home builders and new home communities. Call us 813-365-3574 Hawk Creek Reserve Lithia Egret Landing Fishhawk Ranch Starling at Fishhawk Ranch Mirabay  Apollo Beach Bassett Creek New Tampa Country Walk Verandah Cardel Homes Floor Plans The Gulfstream The Kingfisher II The Sandhill The Sawgrass Coral Harbor II The Tanager The Oak Park The Dolcetto The…

  • Homes For Sale 33647

    Danny
    19 Nov 2011 | 11:45 am
    Search Homes For Sale 33647 zip code of Tampa Florida. 33602 Downtown/Channelside 33603 Seminole Heights 33604 Sulpher Springs 33605 Ybor City 33606 Davis Island 33607 West Tampa 33609 33629 Palma Ceila 33610 East Lake 33611 Macdill AFB 33612 Forest Hills 33613 Avila- Lake Magdalene 33614 Egypt Lake 33615 33634 Town & Country 33616 Port Tampa 33617 USF Area 33618 33625 Carrollwood 33619 Palm River 33624 Northdale 33626 Westchase 33629 Bay to Bay 33635 Countryway 33617 33637 Temple Terrace 33647 New Tampa 1 – 30 of 380 « Prev Next » Sort By Price Low to High Price High…

  • Homes For Sale 33637

    Danny
    19 Nov 2011 | 11:42 am
    Search Homes For Sale 33637 zip code of Tampa Florida. 33602 Downtown/Channelside 33603 Seminole Heights 33604 Sulpher Springs 33605 Ybor City 33606 Davis Island 33607 West Tampa 33609 33629 Palma Ceila 33610 East Lake 33611 Macdill AFB 33612 Forest Hills 33613 Avila- Lake Magdalene 33614 Egypt Lake 33615 33634 Town & Country 33616 Port Tampa 33617 USF Area 33618 33625 Carrollwood 33619 Palm River 33624 Northdale 33626 Westchase 33629 Bay to Bay 33635 Countryway 33617 33637 Temple Terrace 33647 New Tampa 1 – 30 of 42 « Prev Next » Sort By Price Low to High Price High to…

  • Homes For Sale 33634

    Danny
    19 Nov 2011 | 11:38 am
    Search Homes For Sale 33634 zip code of Tampa Florida. 33602 Downtown/Channelside 33603 Seminole Heights 33604 Sulpher Springs 33605 Ybor City 33606 Davis Island 33607 West Tampa 33609 33629 Palma Ceila 33610 East Lake 33611 Macdill AFB 33612 Forest Hills 33613 Avila- Lake Magdalene 33614 Egypt Lake 33615 33634 Town & Country 33616 Port Tampa 33617 USF Area 33618 33625 Carrollwood 33619 Palm River 33624 Northdale 33626 Westchase 33629 Bay to Bay 33635 Countryway 33617 33637 Temple Terrace 33647 New Tampa 1 – 30 of 62 « Prev Next » Sort By Price Low to High Price High to…
 
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    The Rentables Apartment Rental Blog

  • Resident Retention Strategies: Three Tips to Kick Off a Strong 2012

    Andrew M
    30 Jan 2012 | 6:14 am
    By Ashley Halligan, an analyst for a software comparison website The average cost of a residential rental turnover is nearly four thousand dollars. By the time marketing, repairs and days lost to vacancy are calculated, the cost is a heavy one. Maintaining resident retention is a valuable effort that property managers can influence with both old-fashioned customer service and creative strategies. That said, more than 50 percent of turnovers are directly linked to reasons that are, in fact, avoidable. Conquering this avoidable turnover is the first step. Read more here.

  • Top 5 Ways College Students Can Save On Furniture

    Andrew M
    5 Sep 2011 | 12:28 pm
    Why is it very important for a college student to save on furniture in the first place? The reason is pretty simple; some college students spend lots of money on buying their dorm room furniture and the cost in many cases is more than the tuition fee of their school. As a college student, you should consider saving money on your furniture and what you save should be put away for a rainy day. With lots of cheap alternatives to costly wooden or modern furniture these days, buying an overpriced item to decorate your dorm room is definitely not a good idea. Below are 5 simple ways for which you…

  • 8 Ways to Save Money in an Apartment

    Andrew M
    5 Apr 2011 | 8:42 am
    Saving money on the energy bill isn’t just about making expensive long-term changes like installing solar panels and storm doors.  Apartment leases don’t allow such changes and most of us just aren’t ready for that kind of commitment.  These simple behavioral changes are painless and cheap—just the reason we choose to live in apartments in the first place. Climate Tips Cold weather: Make a draft snake.  Fill an old necktie or long sock with kitty litter or sand, fold the opening closed twice, and sew it shut.  Press it up against drafty doors and windows to save between 5% and 30%…

  • Introducing Help Me Rent Magazine

    Andrew M
    1 Apr 2011 | 8:26 am
    Most users start their search online these days, but print is still a popular form of advertising for rental housing. Recently we had the opportunity to connect with a new publication called Help Me Rent Magazine. Their new publication will be launching within the next few weeks in 32 different regions throughout the United States. New Print Technology Print advertising is traditionally a slow process but Help Me Rent’s technology allows management companies and individual property owners to go straight to print with their advertisements. Their system is way ahead of industry…

  • Getting Fresh: Square Foot Gardening Tips for Apartment Dwellers

    Andrew M
    23 Mar 2011 | 11:40 am
    The following is a guest post by Lisa Shoreland. I’ve been renting various spaces for almost five years now, so I know what it’s like to have the local grocery store’s produce section as your go-to source for “fresh” fruits and veggies. Sometimes, you have to wonder what exactly goes into those unnaturally pink tomatoes. More than once, I’ve left a grocery store without any produce, only to find that the next vendor is no better – and while the farmers’ market is great, it’s not always available. So what’s the solution? Square foot gardening is my answer to the challenge…
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    Colorado Springs Vintage Homes Blog

  • Visit Colorado Springs

    Kathy Torline
    7 Feb 2012 | 5:01 pm
    55 ways to enjoy visiting Colorado Springs For a Free Colorado Springs Relocation Guide, Email Kathy Torline at KTorline@msn.com Related Articles: 21 Hidden Gems of Colorado Springs, #1 The Gardens at Monument Valley Park 21 Hidden Gems in Colorado Springs, #2 Monument Valley Park Hidden Gems in Colorado Springs Parks, #3 North Cheyenne Canon Park Garden of the Gods Park, the crown jewel of Colorado Springs Check out some Colorado Springs Hiking Trails Since I used to be in tourism and hospitality before I got into real estate, I always keep a pulse on what’s going on with different…

  • 97% high school graduation rates are possible

    Kathy Torline
    30 Jan 2012 | 5:38 am
    Search for Colorado Springs Homes Related Articles: Relocating, it’s all about the schools Military relocation? 6 tips to read before you buy a home It’s against the law Research who you are working with 10 things to know about Colorado real estate Don’t forget about the Better Business Bureau I can’t be there to see it, now what? Private schools in Colorado Springs provide options District 11 continues to be the biggest There are many different ways to evaluate Colorado Springs schools, but one measurement is the graduation rate.    The percentages are based on a federal formula…

  • Neighborhood Profile — Historic Homes in the Old North End

    Kathy Torline
    27 Jan 2012 | 11:18 am
    Homes in North End are in the Central Area in Colorado Springs Searchfor Homes in Central Colorado Springs Zip Code 80903 & 80907 Related Articles: Neighborhood Profile, Historic homes in the East End Addition in Central Colorado Springs Average prices have increased for Homes in Central Colorado Springs 9 neighborhoods with Historic Colorado Springs Homes 11 areas to find Colorado Springs Historic properties Single Family Homes in Old North End were primarily built from 1901 to 1981, with an average age built in the 1920’s.  The majority of the houses are 2-stories and ranches,…

  • Cash continues to drive the REO Market

    Kathy Torline
    25 Jan 2012 | 7:10 am
    Cash is still King Search for Colorado Springs Homes Related Articles: Is Investing in Colorado Springs Real Estate for you? Analyzing real estate investments 6 tips for purchasing Colorado Springs Investment Property FHA loans and fourplexes in Colorado Springs Location, Location, Location for Real Estate Investment Property The Perfect Storm, it’s time to buy Investment Property Rents keep rising There was an interesting article in DS News about how cash investors are pushing down prices.  According to a quote in this article “In December 2011, data collected for the HousingPulse…

  • Limited Service Listing

    Kathy Torline
    24 Jan 2012 | 8:36 am
    Can a Colorado Springs For Sale By Owner put their property in the MLS if they don’t have a Realtor? Search for Colorado Springs Homes Related Articles 9 reasons to use a buyer’s agent to help you find a house 6 things to add to your budget when buying a house 10 questions to ask the Neighbors How accurate are real estate listings on the Internet? Embracing Technology Home owners who have decided not to use a Realtor to sell their Colorado Springs Home used to be able to pay a small fee to some Limited Service real estate companies and list their home on the Pikes Peak MLS.    Due…
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    McGuire Neighbors

  • This Week's 10 Most Viewed Properties on McGuire.com

    7 Feb 2012 | 4:16 pm
    The hunt for a new home varies in shape, size, price range, amenities, as well as neighborhoods; it’s really up the individual buyer to figure out what they’re looking for and explore the properties which catch their eye. That being said, some listings tend to have more luck than others—for a number of reasons—and so to shed some light, here are the top 10 properties viewed on mcguire.com for this week. 1.) 357 Tehama Street #4, SOMA Please contact: Adam Gavzer 2.) 2701 Broadway St., Pacific Heights Please contact: Neal Ward and Gael Bruno 3.) Union St., Cow Hollow…

  • How to Prepare Your Home for Showings

    6 Feb 2012 | 5:42 pm
    Here are some tips I came across to make your home more appealing to potential buyers, and encourage them to choose your home. I thought it was information worth sharing. Always be ready to show your home. The majority of showings are by appointment only, however there are also many last-minute requests from buyers. If you are a seller with a 24-hour notice to show stipulation, you could be cutting yourself off from a lot of buyers. Be welcoming, but don’t be there. Buyers don’t want to feel like intruders; you want them to imagine owning your home. Don’t make them take off…

  • Gobbledygook—Seven Ways Buyers Sabotage Themselves

    1 Feb 2012 | 7:34 pm
    I generally shy away from blogging about practical tips or market prognostications, but having this week heard several first-time buyers’ plans to shoot themselves in the proverbial feet, I thought I’d offer just a smidgen of advice. Here are seven wrong ways of thinking that make it hard for a so-called buyer to actually buy. “All my agent cares about is making a sale"It’s possible that you are indeed working with an agent who only wants to make a sale (see #3 and #4). However, the smart agent knows that ensuring a client’s happiness is the key to continued…

  • This Week's 10 Most Viewed Properties on McGuire.com

    31 Jan 2012 | 1:41 pm
    The hunt for a new home varies in shape, size, price range, amenities, as well as neighborhoods; it’s really up the individual buyer to figure out what they’re looking for and explore the properties which catch their eye. That being said, some listings tend to have more luck than others—for a number of reasons—and so to shed some light, here are the top 10 properties viewed on mcguire.com for this week. 1.) 2701 Broadway St., Pacific Heights Please contact: Neal Ward & Gael Bruno 2.) 175 Bluxome St. #223, SOMA Please contact: Jeanne Zimmermann…

  • Get the Scoop on San Francisco MLS Changes

    27 Jan 2012 | 5:14 pm
    Beginning January 2012 the San Francisco Multiple Listing Service (MLS) added additional status categories in response to the changes in the current real estate market.  In the past once an offer was received and until contingencies were removed, a property was listed in the MLS online simply asActive-Continued Weeks to months may pass while an offer on a property wades through the approval process of a trust sale, short sale, or foreclosure. The new status categories provide buyers, sellers and agents with more accurate complete information about listing status. The new categories and…
 
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    Access Philly Real Estate Blog

  • January Office Meeting at One Shot Coffee!

    blogeditor
    18 Jan 2012 | 12:56 pm
    Mark Taubman, Dalin Financial Today, RE/MAX Access had our monthly Office Meeting. This month it was held upstairs at One Shot Coffee which is conveniently located about one block away from our office at The Piazza. We discussed goals for 2012 as well as new events and classes being held at our office in the upcoming months. We showed the agents the brand new RE/MAX logo and also gave out pins of the new logo.  We want to thank Mark Taubman with Dalin Financial, Larry Freedman who explained the zoning process for NLNA, and Brands Imaging for guest speaking! Larry Freedman, NLNA Zoning…

  • Week 2 of Office Training Sessions: Buyer Agency with Steve Osiecki

    blogeditor
    17 Jan 2012 | 10:27 am
    Week 2 of Office Training Sessions at RE/MAX ACCESS: Buyer Agency with Steve Osiecki Share and Enjoy:

  • Just Reduced in Port Richmond! 3 Story 4 Bedroom Home

    blogeditor
    12 Jan 2012 | 12:29 pm
    2742 E Clearfield Street, Philadelphia, PA 19134 $119,700 View Photo Gallery 3 Story 4 Bedroom Home (One Bedroom is Being Used as a Walk-In Closet / Dressing Rm on 2nd Fl Behind Main Bedroom & next to Bathroom) w/ BREEZEWAY is Ready for you to Move Right into With-Out Doing Anything Except Un-Pack!! 1st Fl Features Newer Carpet, Fresh Paint, & a Beautiful Wood Staircase; The Eat-in-Kitchen has Ample Cabinets & Counter Space, New Stove & Stainless Steel Refrigerator. The 2nd Fl Features a Lg Front Bedroom (All Bedrooms Have Fresh Paint & Newer Carpets) & Nice Ceiling…

  • Radio 104.5 Winter Jam 2012 is coming Saturday, January 28th to The Piazza!

    blogeditor
    12 Jan 2012 | 9:19 am
    If you enjoy winter sports, cold weather, snow and live music this is the place to be! At the Piazza at Schmidts -  the Ski Bum Urban Terrain Park launching from a 13 foot high lift, complete with trucked in snow. It’s all open to the public-no ticket required-plus Games on the jumbotron, the Miller Lite Beer Garden, and live music from New Found Glory and Phillys own Rivers Monroe. WHAT: Radio 104.5 Winter Jam 2012 WHEN: Saturday January 28th 12noon -5pm WHERE: The Piazza At Schmidts’s, North Second Street and Germantown Avenue, Below Girard in Philadelphia FREE!!! [Image Via]…

  • Does your dog have spokesdog star potential?

    blogeditor
    10 Jan 2012 | 10:57 am
    The Philadelphia Water Department is searching for “spokesdogs” worthy of the title Philly Water’s Best Friend. Dog owners in Northern Liberties and Queen Village have until Feb. 15 to make their pooches eligible for the competition’s grand prize, a $200 gift from a local pet store. Spokesdogs will be chosen to teach bark-park buddies and their caretakers about the importance of picking up pet waste. Each spokesdog will be chosen at a community event and will win $200 worth of prizes from a pet shop in their neighborhood. As a part of the campaign, the winning…
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    The Philadelphia Real Estate Blog

  • Fresh Address: 837 N 2nd Street, Unit 310

    Christopher and Stephanie Somers - Realtors - Philadelphia Real Estate (Realtor / Owner - RE/MAX Access)
    6 Feb 2012 | 4:23 pm
    Check out our latest rental at today's Fresh Address! This is Where It's At:  In one of Northern Liberties most desired condo buildings, 837 N 2nd Street, Unit 310 is within walking distance to restaurants, coffee shops, local entertainment, and minutes from Center City. This is hands down, one of the best spots to live in Northern Liberties. Come On In: Garage parking for 2 cars, 2 large bedrooms, 2 .5 large bathrooms, and a private deck. Hardwood floors throughout on both the first floor and the second floor of this spacious condo. Contemporary kitchen with granite and stainless steel,…

  • Inside a Philadelphia Trinity Home

    Christopher and Stephanie Somers - Realtors - Philadelphia Real Estate (Realtor / Owner - RE/MAX Access)
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:10 am
    Philadelphia is home to many Trinity-style houses. We spoke with a client to find out his thoughts on these three-room, three-story homes with those funky spiral staircases. What's your take? Have you ever lived in a trinity? Love it or hate it? Feel free to subscribe to our blog or our monthly newsletter to stay up to date with our latest posts and information on the Philadelphia Real Estate Market.  You can also sign up to receive the Philadelphia Real Estate Blog via email.

  • Relisted! 1312 E. Oxford Street is Ready for Love Again

    Christopher and Stephanie Somers - Realtors - Philadelphia Real Estate (Realtor / Owner - RE/MAX Access)
    6 Feb 2012 | 8:04 am
    Remember this stunning 3 Bedroom Home in Fishtown? Well, here's your chance to seal the deal again! 1312 E. Oxford Street is back in action. What you'll love about this hot catch...Open layout on the first floor with solid hardwood floors, recessed lighting and beveled glass doors. Large kitchen with solid wood cabinets, granite counters, and stainless appliances, with a large rear yard and full unfinished basement with laundry area and plenty of room for storage. 3 spacious bedrooms, french doors, Juliet balcony, and shared hall bath with beautiful slate tile. Systems are all updated. Walk…

  • Get Your Vitamin V.12! InLiquid Art + Design Benefit

    Christopher and Stephanie Somers - Realtors - Philadelphia Real Estate (Realtor / Owner - RE/MAX Access)
    5 Feb 2012 | 12:13 pm
    V.12 is vitally important. That's InLiquid's annual Silent Auction Benefit Party v. 12, and not only is this event a great party, it also helps support Philadelphia's visual artist community.  Check out the details below and snag your tickets here! Related: Meet Your Neighbors: Rachel Zimmerman of Inliquid Feel free to subscribe to our blog or our monthly newsletter to stay up to date with our latest posts and information on the Philadelphia Real Estate Market.  You can also sign up to receive the Philadelphia Real Estate Blog via email.

  • Sneak Peek of Poplar Point!

    Christopher and Stephanie Somers - Realtors - Philadelphia Real Estate (Realtor / Owner - RE/MAX Access)
    3 Feb 2012 | 12:15 pm
    One of the most unique properties in Northern liberties is projected to be listed on the market mid February. Take a sneak peek. List price is...well if you contact me I'll give you the inside scoop! The 2 properties are beautifully appointed with thoughtfully chosen finishes so that they are not like every other new construction property out there. 902 and 904 New Market are the epitome of coolness with every angle, window and soffet intentionally spaced. This address incorporates the location and urban landscape right into the home. Daring and full of energy, but also warm and…
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    AgencyLogic PowerSites

  • Sh*t Real Estate Agents Say

    Stephen M. Fells
    7 Feb 2012 | 7:00 am

  • The Truth About Facebook

    Stephen M. Fells
    3 Feb 2012 | 7:00 am

  • This Month in Real Estate (US) February 2012

    Amber Pineda
    3 Feb 2012 | 6:00 am

  • REALTORS Bernanke Underscores Need for Housing Recovery

    Amber Pineda
    3 Feb 2012 | 5:00 am
    Washington, February 02, 2012 (Realtor.org) The following is a statement by National Association of Realtors® President Moe Veissi: Moe Veissi “NAR appreciates remarks made by Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke in support of homeowners and the struggling housing market in testimony today before the House Budget Committee. “We fully support Chairman Bernanke’s comments that the lack of available and affordable mortgage financing, low home values and high foreclosure inventories are inhibiting a meaningful housing market recovery. His remarks coupled with President Obama’s new…

  • Ever Dropped Your Phone Down The Loo? The End is Not Nigh!

    Stephen M. Fells
    2 Feb 2012 | 7:00 am
    There are few things more frustrating than losing your cellphone to water damage. The electronics are not designed for contact with water, so if your hand-held device slips from your grasp and lands in the toilet, the chances are it’s gone forever. At least that used to be the case. A California company has come up with a nano-coating it says will protect your phone from water damage. Rob Muir reports.
 
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    Bonita Springs Fl Real Estate

  • Selling Real Estate of the Dearly Departed | Probate

    chrisgriffith
    8 Feb 2012 | 6:11 am
    Selling Real Estate With Care After Probate The only thing certain in life is death and taxes … and probably how emotionally taxing death is when liquidating real estate. Selling real estate is stressful enough for some folks without compounding it with the emotional burden of liquidating the remaining assets of someone dear or even your own assets after losing a spouse and choosing to move on. Real estate agents are in a unique position when they’re called for basic advice and to find out where to start, what to do. In the last few months I’ve had a few close friends, family members…

  • Real Estate Disclosures and Paper Cuts

    chrisgriffith
    1 Feb 2012 | 8:21 am
    Why Are There So Many Real Estate Addendums About a decade ago I faxed (fax machines were once bleeding edge) a contract to a prospective real estate purchaser. She worked in the Pennsylvania school system and gave me a number at work to fax it to. A few hours later she called and said, I had no idea it would be that many pages. Why are there so many pages? At the time it was a mere twelve or thirteen pages, total. Since then, contracts have gradually expanded from four pages to ten pages. On top of that, there is a disclosure for just about everything except for disclosing the hair color of…

  • Snail Mail in Brendan Cove | Bonita Springs, Florida

    chrisgriffith
    27 Jan 2012 | 7:20 pm
    Bonita Springs Real Estate is Escargoing Fast! That was funny to me!  Anywho, my friend Lisa, a New Orleans Real Estate agent mentioned my mailbox posts in a Facebook comment.  I realized that it has been a while since I posted one.  Oddly, just days ago I ran into this little critter the other day and thought, snail mail … perfect for the real estate blog, snapped his picture and forgot about it. This is this snail’s 15 minutes of fame so leave a comment in place of applause.  If you’re wondering, his little rascal was in Brendan Cove in Bonita Springs,…

  • Real Estate Financing Questions | Mortgage Mailbag

    chrisgriffith
    25 Jan 2012 | 6:46 am
    Mortgages, Divorce, Refinance and Quit Claim Deeds A couple of great mortgage questions have come in over the last few weeks … Question: We’re considering selling our place and purchasing another and we would like to do back to back closings. Is this something that can be done? Not everyone can pay cash for real estate and there are consumers taking advantage of the great prices to move around or upsize. Much like stacking rows of dominos, counting on one closing to fund the next closing is a tricky position to get into. Besides a home owner having to sell one to get into the next home,…

  • Twinkle Lights and Hurricane Tape

    chrisgriffith
    18 Jan 2012 | 7:37 am
      Selling Your Bonita Springs Home – Remove Dated Decor There isn’t a more magical time of the year than Christmas, uh, “the holidays”. A good portion of the masses deck their halls and don their lights with gay apparel as early as, well, before Thanksgiving now. I think it was a little about two weeks before Thanksgiving that I forever deprogrammed a radio station in my car which made the mistake of trying to make me choke down “rum pum pum pum” before I had even guilted my children into buying the turkey and pulling out the pilgrim salt and pepper shakers. With the…
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    Business 2

  • Ray White Offices Delivered a Sucker Punch by ex-Agent? **updated**

    Glenn Batten
    1 Feb 2012 | 5:00 pm
    **This article has been updated at the bottom with a response from Brian White of the Ray White Group.** An ex Gold Coast real estate agent and current property developer, Rod Lambert has been broadcasting an interesting email to agents throughout the country today. If you have not got it in your inbox yet, chances are it will arrive soon. I have a real problem with what Rod has done but first read the email yourself :- Dear agents, the website hereunder will become one of the greatest listing devices you have ever come across against Ray White. I am a property developer who was defrauded by…

  • Real Estate Group Blocks Syndication to National Property Portals

    Glenn Batten
    30 Jan 2012 | 5:45 am
    Could you cancel your realestate.com.au and domain.com.au subscriptions in 2012? You would be forgiven for thinking real estate is all online these days  it dominates the landscape that much and online the search engines are the first port of call for property related traffic.  Just after leaving Simon Baker confirmed that even realestate.com.au received massive traffic, somewhere over 30% from Google which is just one search engine. Portals and particularly the top two paid portals absolutely saturate the search engine results by investing heavilly in SEO teams. They take the listings…

  • Rent.com.au grows 300%

    Ryan O'Grady
    29 Jan 2012 | 10:26 pm
    Rent.com.au is consolidating its position as Australia’s #1 rental property website, indicating in a December press release they have achieved 300% growth in the number of agency listings on their website since February 2011. They also indicate their portal has over 40,000 residential and holiday rentals now being listed by agencies across the country. In the press release Mark Woschnak (CEO Rent.com.au) goes on to say some of their growth can be attributed to principals paying more attention to their rent rolls in these trying times, but other key factors include: The unique traffic…

  • Why SOPA / PIPA matters to us all

    Peter Ricci
    22 Jan 2012 | 4:35 pm
    Ever since the age of the cassette tape the media industries across the globe have been “lobbying” and “contributing” to our politics in a way many of us do not even understand. We pretty much live in a world now where where just about all levels of government are enabled not by the people, but by corporations and PIPA and SOPA are just another two examples of how industries will stop at nothing to have control over what we can consume, when we can consume it and in what manner it is consumed! Citizen politics these days are divided by extremes, almost entirely divided…

  • The True Impact of the Internet on Holiday Rental Property Management

    Guest Author
    15 Jan 2012 | 5:28 pm
    “Every act of creation is the first act of destruction “ – Pablo Picasso As the balance of control and profits in the short-term holiday rental market continues to change for the players in this market: the owners, property managers, internet marketing channels and the clients, the response we make as property managers to the changing approaches will determine our longevity in this industry. The question is who really benefits in the end or are we just in a race to the bottom? The internet has reshaped the holiday property management industry as it has done to nearly every other…
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    TalkCharlotte.com | Charlotte NC Real Estate and MLS Search

  • Valentine’s Day in Charlotte NC

    Megan
    7 Feb 2012 | 8:00 am
    Valentine’s Day is coming up soon!  This year February 14th falls on a Tuesday.  This is always a busy holiday in Charlotte, with lots of special restaurant menus, weekend hotel deals, romantic packages with spa and massage services, and more.  It’s a wonderful time to showcase your creativity, to show your partner how much they [...]

  • Charlotte NC Real Estate Deals, Feb. 6, 2012

    Megan
    6 Feb 2012 | 2:00 pm
    Searching for a great deal on a Charlotte NC home for sale??   The Talk Charlotte Real Estate team will help you find it!  Each Mon., Wed., and Fri. we compile the most recent reduced price properties from the Charlotte MLS, organized by neighborhood and asking price.  With links to the complete MLS listings for each [...]

  • North Carolina Has Some of the Lowest Average Closing Costs in the US

    Megan
    6 Feb 2012 | 8:00 am
    It might not have felt like it as you reviewed all the fees at your last real estate closing, but it’s likely that you got a bargain in terms of closing costs. According to a report on MSN Real Estate in 2011 the average closings costs for North Carolina real estate transactions were the second [...]

  • Charlotte NC Real Estate Deals, Feb 3, 2012

    Megan
    3 Feb 2012 | 9:18 am
    If you’re in the market to buy real estate in Charlotte, then you’ve come to the right place! The Talk Charlotte Real Estate Team has made it our mission to deliver the best property deals for neighborhoods in and around Charlotte, including Uptown, Downtown, Matthews and Mint Hill, Gastonia, Union County, Lake Norman, South [...]

  • 30 Year Fixed Mortgage Rates Remain Under 4.000%

    Megan
    31 Jan 2012 | 8:00 am
    Average mortgage rates for 30 year fixed rate loans have not moved above 4.000% for several weeks. This consistently low pricing is great news for those on the hunt for a new home in Charlotte. Existing homeowners can benefit as well, as a refinance of a Charlotte NC mortgage could bring down the monthly payment, [...]
 
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    Inspected Thoughts

  • Which Property is Best?

    frankschulteladbeck
    1 Feb 2012 | 2:00 pm
    A question which has plagued property investors across the world is whether it is better to buy a new property or an old property. New properties offer tax incentives but older properties can often be greatly improved with renovations, increasing their value rapidly. There is no definite right or wrong answer as it depends on each investor’s aims and goals with the property but there are distinct advantages to both. The following 6 point guide will help you decide which property investment is best for you. 3 Reasons Why New Property Provides the Best Returns When you own an investment…

  • How to Know When to Buy a House

    frankschulteladbeck
    31 Jan 2012 | 2:00 pm
    It is a dream that most of us are brought up on: that success means owning your own home with the white picket fence in the suburbs. As we get older however, typically our first experience living out of home isn’t in a new house we’ve purchased, but in a rental property – either by ourselves, with a partner, or with other individual flatmates. There will come a time however, where you are either presented with an opportunity or you are in a financially stable situation, and you ask yourself: is it the right time to buy a house? Here are some questions you need to consider that will help…

  • Houston Home Inspection Cost

    frankschulteladbeck
    31 Jan 2012 | 12:41 pm
    Each business does competitor research, but this is usually for internal use to revise business plans, revenue options, and budgets. Would customers benefit from a knowledge of Houston home inspection cost? The obvious answer is yes, so I thought that I would share my research. Over the years, I have been involved with competitor analysis. Sometimes you think this would be fairly obvious, so why would companies need to do competitor analysis. For example, why would one movie theater need to know the ticket price of another when most prices are so similar, and other factors, like location, may…

  • 30 Year Mortgage Rates Matched All-Time Record Lows Last Week

    frankschulteladbeck
    12 Jan 2012 | 2:30 pm
    2012 started out with a “Bang” for those interested in refinancing their mortgages and for home buyers looking to capitalize on historically low interest rates. Last week, Freddie Mac reported that the 30 year fixed rate mortgage average tied an all-time low coming in at 3.91% with 0.8 points. The 15 year fixed average also fell slightly moving 0.01% lower to 3.23% (.8 pts). Five year adjustable rate mortgages also remain viable options for those looking for short term financing solutions. The 5 year treasury-indexed ARM rate average was 2.86% (.7 points) last week. Below is a…

  • A Look Back at Home Inspection in 2011

    frankschulteladbeck
    19 Dec 2011 | 2:30 pm
    As the end of the year approaches, I am thinking of the trends that I noticed in Houston real estate. Maybe the tales of a Houston home inspector are not the standard for examining real estate trends, yet I feel that the year has shown positive signs. A few neighbors have asked me about my business outlook. Perhaps this is a way to judge if they should go into the market with their own home. That could be the first trend which I noticed: the hesitant seller. There are people who want to move, but they are waiting until the market appears better for sellers. The interesting aspect of this…
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    New Hope Homes For Sale| New Hope Homes

  • Renter Resources For Emergency Services That Might Help With Rent

    financemyhome1
    30 Jan 2012 | 9:31 am
    In today’s economic environment, tenants are feeling the pain of a recession as well-or even more-than the rest of the population. This might mean their job loss or lesser wages. It is hard to pay the rent without an income. Therefore, as a landlord, your consider learning about and sharing resources with your tenants that provide emergency services in the Twin Cities. I have put together a few ideas on services/programs that might be able to help with food, utilities and even the rent. Besides the greater possibility and likelihood of getting your rent, you are being a friend and…

  • 2012 is going to be a year of change in the residential market

    financemyhome1
    24 Jan 2012 | 9:24 am
    My phone has been ringing off the hook with buyers and sellers getting ready to “get ready”. I hope it continues! Let me tell you that the sentiment may have turned. If I can help you, and you’ve been on the fence, the time is now. One of my resources that I follow is Alex Charfen from the CDPE Institute. Watch what he has to say about some MAJOR money entering into the residential marketplace:  

  • Kung Hei Fat Choy

    financemyhome1
    23 Jan 2012 | 8:14 am
    Happy Chinese New Year-Officially on January 23rd. Some of my family members are from China. We often will celebrate Chinese New Year with a tremendous meal and good company. This is the year of the Dragon. 2012 is going to be an exciting year-count on it! I hope it is your best.  

  • In the middle of the Winter we all need some “Summer Madness”

    financemyhome1
    6 Jan 2012 | 8:26 am
    I could listen to this song over and over. It has nothing to do with real estate or mortgage-but what the heck-it’s a great tune. Sit back and enjoy!  

  • Something to think about starting the New Year

    financemyhome1
    5 Jan 2012 | 4:55 am
    This video was sent to me today. I wanted to share it because I believe it is powerful. The meaning is up for your interpretation, as is(are) the message(s). Best wishes for a wonderful 2012.  
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    Houston Apartment Insiders' Blog

  • Amazing Free Stuff From the Houston Public Library

    melanieblevy@gmail.com
    2 Feb 2012 | 4:50 pm
    There’s a lot of great free stuff in Houston, but for free Houston events, services, movies, and more, look no further than your nearest Houston library. The Houston Public Library is not just for homework anymore. There’s a lot of great free stuff in Houston, but for free Houston events, services, movies, and more, look no further than your nearest Houston library. The Houston Public Library is not just for homework anymore. Of course it’s still an amazing place to research schoolwork, genealogy, or anything else you want to know about. You’ll have access to research databases on 36…

  • Apartment-Friendly Renovations: 6 Big, But Temporary Changes

    melanieblevy@gmail.com
    26 Jan 2012 | 3:51 pm
    Here are six ways you can make big changes to the look and feel of your Houston apartment, while keeping your landlord happy. Big changes - completely temporary! Your Houston apartment is your home, and you’ll want to make it your own. Of course, in order to get your security deposit back, you’ll need to make sure any changes you make can be completely undone when you move out. This limits your options for apartment renovation, but not as much as you may think. Here are six ways you can make big changes to the look and feel of your Houston apartment, while keeping your landlord happy:…

  • 12 Apartment Fire Safety Tips

    melanieblevy@gmail.com
    19 Jan 2012 | 3:11 pm
    What fire safety precautions do you need to be aware of as an apartment dweller? We have the tips you need to stay safe and avoid danger. At Houston Apartment Insiders, we want to help you move into an apartment that’s comfortable, great for your unique lifestyle, and above all, safe. We’ve already given you advice on how to prepare for natural disasters. We’ve also given you tips on choosing and setting up a Houston apartment to help prevent crime. Today, we’d like to talk about fire safety. Be especially sure to read over the apartment fire safety tips below if you’re a student…

  • Resources for Houston Vegetarians

    melanieblevy@gmail.com
    13 Jan 2012 | 4:19 pm
    If you’re vegetarian or vegan and new to Houston, you may wonder whether you can find good eats and like-minded people in a state so famous for steak. We’ve got the scoop! If you’re vegetarian or vegan and new to Houston, you may wonder whether you can find good eats and like-minded people in a state so famous for steak. Wonder no more! Houston is a vibrant and varied city, with plenty of company for people with any tastes or dietary needs. We’ve already blogged about how to live gluten-free in Houston. For Houston vegans and vegetarians, there are so many restaurants, stores, and…

  • Top 10 Apartment Security Tips

    melanieblevy@gmail.com
    5 Jan 2012 | 3:36 pm
    To help you sort through the security measure you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones, we’ve compiled the 10 best apartment security tips to keep in mind, both while you’re apartment hunting and after you’ve moved in.Houston is a beautiful city, and Houston Apartment Insiders can help you find a great apartment in in the Houston neighborhood that’s right for you. Still, crime can happen in even the best neighborhoods and apartment complexes. Renter’s insurance can replace your belongings if they are stolen or damaged, but you, your family, and your pets are…
 
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    Blog Feed

  • The Peninsula in Hawaii Kai - Honolulu Real Estate

    27 Jan 2012 | 8:59 pm
    Hawaii Kai Peninsula is a gated community with a combination of 630 single and family homes, townhouses, and condominiums.  This community is located on the eastern side of Hawaii Kai near Koko Crater.  It was the last waterfront community to be built (built in 2006 by Stanford Carr Development, Inc) in the area. There is nearly one mile of homes that have views of the water and the marina is at every turn.  The Peninsula is divided into two sections.  The first section is located at 520 Lunalilo Home Road and is located within the marina.  The other section is 580…

  • Ko’olani Hawaii Luxury Condos

    4 Jan 2012 | 7:26 pm
    Ko’olani is a residential condominium apartment building. It was built in 2005 and is located in Honolulu between the ocean and Ko’olau Mountain and adjacent to Ala Moana Center and the Ward Centers.  It describes itself as having features that are second to none. The area is a secluded retreat in the urban heart of Honolulu. This is a top of the line building with high-end construction materials and finishes which include granite, limestone, and marble.  There are European cabinets and fixtures throughout and insulated glass.  Each unit also has central air…

  • Hawaii Relocation

    12 Dec 2011 | 11:09 pm
    Hawaii is the youngest state in the United States.  It joined the union in 1959.  It is the only state to be made up primarily of islands.  The Hawaiian Islands because of their location are a vibrant mix of North American, Asian, and native cultures.  It comprises most of the Hawaiian volcanic chain that consists of hundreds of islands that are spread out thousands of miles.  The main eight islands, however, are Hawaii or The Big Island, Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kohoolawe, and Maui. Each island has its own majestic history that has turned them into what…

  • Makakilo Real Estate - beautiful scenery of the mountainside and beaches

    10 Dec 2011 | 12:56 pm
    Makakilo is a residential area in the Ewa District on the island of Oahu. In the Hawaiian language, maka kilo means “observing eyes”. It is located at the south end of the Wai’anae mountain range above the city Kapolei.  The area sits at a higher elevation than other parts of the island so it gets to experience a cooler and breezier environment than areas that sit lower down.  Many people that live here have homes that sit farther off from the ocean but still have spectacular views of the Pacific.  There are 13,158 people who live in Makakilo, making it the…

  • Ko Olina is a great place to call home

    10 Dec 2011 | 12:48 pm
    Ko Olina real estate is a great place to call home and has six neighborhoods located in the resort environment. Five of the communities offer access to Ko Olina sports club which provides tennis courts, gyms, and discounts to use within the area.  The area is home to four lagoons and many miles of trails. The resort is also only three miles from the area of Kapolei, which is an easy access to go shopping.  The first housing district, Kai Lani, is on the right when first entering the resort. It is home to 30 different homes each with a distinct view of the ocean and many only being…
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    IPIN Live

  • German Residential Investment Soaring High

    7 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    Transactions involving the purchase of 50 or more residential units increased by 44% year on year in Germany last year, with 6.12 billion Euros transacted over the course of the year according to new data from CB Richard Ellis. Further, the number of units transacted also increased, with 92,000 units transacted across 194 transactions representing a 27% increase over 2010. This indicates an increase in appetite for portfolios of over 1000 units according to CBRE. According to the data Berlin saw particularly strong residential demand. Apparently some 32,300 residential units were traded to a…

  • Global Prime Offices 'Performing Well'

    7 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    Over the course of 2011, prime office markets around the world put in a strong performance, recording six per cent rental growth in the final quarter of the year, compared to the same three-month period in 2010. This is the finding of the latest Jones Lang LaSalle Global Office Index, which noted this was the eighth consecutive quarter of rental increases in the sector. Meanwhile, vacancy rates dropped to the lowest level in two years, standing at 13.6 per cent at the end of 2011.Director of the company's global research team Jeremy Kelly commented: "The majority of global leasing markets are…

  • London Residential Market 'Dominated by Overseas Buyers'

    6 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    The volume of investment flooding into London's residential new-build property market from overseas investors has far outpaced that from domestic buyers. Research conducted by Savills found almost two-thirds of those entering the new-build sector in the UK's capital were international purchasers, with investors from China and the Asia-Pacific region comprising the most-active group. Buyers from these nations accounted for 26 per cent of transactions in the new-build industry, showing a particular interest in apartments and properties in the lower price brackets.Savills also highlighted the…

  • Will the UK Property Market be able to Cope with a Double-Dip Recession?

    6 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    Can the UK property market cope with a double-dip recession? There are just so many variables. So many things affecting the answer to a massively different degree between their best and worst case scenarios, and all of them intertwined and affecting each other's outcomes as much as the property market as a whole - he writes picturing a great row of dominoes ready to knock each other over in spectacular fashion. However, the answer will always be yes. The property market will always "cope" it is just the poor buggers caught up in it that suffer. For example, during the first dip recession…

  • PWC Names Hottest Cities in Europe for Commercial Property Investment

    5 Feb 2012 | 6:00 pm
    Pricewaterhousecoopers has just released its Emerging Trends in European Real Estate report for 2012 with some very interesting data. Istanbul is ranked number one for investment for the third year running, and was also ranked number one across the three categories: the performance of existing properties, acquisition opportunities and development opportunities. This is one up on last year when Istanbul won just two of the categories, coming second to Munich in the performance of existing investment properties. This year it was Munich's turn to come second in existing property performance…
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    Foreclosures Blog - Foreclosure Listings Nationwide

  • Foreclosure Listings Narrowing in Some Areas While Others Face Potential Increases

    Elizabeth Rush
    6 Feb 2012 | 12:14 pm
    While some areas of the country continue to cut down their inventory of distressed dwellings, others are coming from a very deep bottom, causing their housing markets to move more slowly toward recovery. Some of the latter are also facing potential supply increases due to shadow inventories. Areas Gaining Ground Regions that are quicker at cutting down their foreclosure numbers are those that have more renters on hand as most investors who purchase from foreclosure home listings are focused on building rental dwellings. Demand for apartments has risen in various markets and most investors are…

  • Program Aimed at Lowering Number of Homes Under Foreclosure Listings to Be Expanded

    Elizabeth Rush
    2 Feb 2012 | 6:13 am
    The U.S. government is reportedly considering a handful of programs designed to prevent more homeowners from losing their properties to foreclosure home listings. Foreclosure relief and bank accountability are just some of the issues touched upon by the proposals. Although the housing industry is starting to stabilize, there is no denying that there are still a lot of homeowners that require some help. Whether new programs or an extension of existing ones will prove to be useful is another issue altogether. Government Mulling Foreclosure Relief Effort The U.S. administration is reportedly…

  • Foreclosure Listings Attracting Different Types of Buyers

    Elizabeth Rush
    26 Jan 2012 | 6:54 am
    The low prices of residential properties in the country, particularly those offered at foreclosure listings, have provided people from different walks of life a chance to become homeowners. This has proven to be highly beneficial for the housing sector in general as sales of houses continue to rise. Traditionally, families are the most common buyers of houses. Now, however, single people and younger individuals being assisted financially by their older folks have also become viable homeowners. Foreign property buyers have also come into the market, which can only benefit the housing industry…

  • Investors Target Foreclosure Listings

    Elizabeth Rush
    19 Jan 2012 | 6:46 am
    There have been gloomy predictions that the housing market will continue to suffer throughout the year as foreclosure home listings remain considerable. However, it looks like these properties have become a viable investment option for most real estate businesses. Claims that housing will continue to be in poor condition in 2012 because of the huge amount of properties under foreclosure list is not exactly accurate. The presence of more distressed properties under foreclosure listings can actually be considered a sign that the housing sector is poised for a recovery. The Good Side of…

  • Investment Opportunities Abound at Foreclosure Listings

    Elizabeth Rush
    11 Jan 2012 | 1:22 pm
    It has been a well-known fact that houses and condos under foreclosure listings are some of the lowest-priced deals homebuyers and investors can find. These properties offer a host of possible investment vehicles to investors and even to independent buyers. Recently, real estate buyers are finding rental homes as some of the most profitable ventures in the market. With foreclosure listing properties being sold at very low prices, those who invest in them can expect great returns in the coming months and years. Foreclosure-Buying Benefits Most Sector It is not just investors purchasing…
 
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    Oakville Homes for Sale

  • More Winter Home Maintenance Tips

    5 Feb 2012 | 9:48 am
    Remember to check the outside of your Oakville home after a snow fall and monitor outdoor vents, gas meters and chimneys for ice and snow build up. Make sure to keep snow away from gas meters vents and basement windows. Also, make sure that your Oakville home is equipped with snow shovels, snow blowers and ice melter before the snow starts.Taking the time to prepare and maintain your Oakville home will save time and money in costly repairs later and if you are thinking of selling in the winter months will show prospective buyers the house is well maintained.For more information Contact…

  • Feng Shui and the Power of Staging

    1 Feb 2012 | 10:07 am
    Selling a house in today’s real estate market requires more than a little redesign and renovation. How you present your home to prospective buyers is similar to putting on a show. You want those viewing it, to connect with your home visually as well as emotionally just like an audience in a theater.Selling a home back in simpler times used to be a much less time intensive process. On Sundays a family or two would stop by with a realtor, gingerly touring your house without opening closet doors, expecting stainless steel appliances or an entertainment room. You’d get a call one day that one…

  • Home Staging Oakville Real Estate Jo Hardy

    26 Jan 2012 | 10:17 am
    Joanne's design sense was honed from planning and overseeing several home renovations, personally and professionally, as well as acting as a home stager. After buying and selling many properties in Oakville, Toronto and cottage country, she fell in love with the process; viewing properties, learning the market, identifying which attributes spoke to her and navigating the real estate process.  For more information Contact Joanne Hardy, 67 Lakeshore Ave West. Oakville Ontario L6K 1C9 (905) 338-9000Cell: 416- 230-1425http://www.housesforsaleoakville.com/blog/feed/

  • Tips on Winter home Maintenance

    22 Jan 2012 | 9:45 am
    Inside your home you should inspect your fireplace and call a chimney sweep if necessary. An inspection and maintenance should be preformed for your heating system. An inspection of your dryer hoses and exterior vents should be done at least once a year. Making sure that your hot water tank is in good working order is another step in maintaining your Oakville home. Just prior to the winter months it is good to have the ducts in your home inspected and cleaned-after all you will be relying only on the air that passes through them as you will not be able to open windows in the winter months. It…

  • Five Home Renovations That Pay Off

    19 Jan 2012 | 9:31 am
    Five Home Renovations That Pay OffWith homes sitting on the market for months, many homeowners are turning to remodelling projects that not only make the house look better, they also help increase the value of the home. Even if you're not selling your home, you may want to consider some of the renovations listed below that help increase the value of a home: #1 Get the roof replaced: If you have an older home, get the roof replaced. The average roof costs anywhere from $6,500 to $8,000. Experts state that if you get the roof replaced, a homeowner can recoup the costs, plus an additional 50% on…
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    Massachusetts Real Estate News

  • Short Sale Negotiations|Seller Cash Contribution

    Bill Gassett
    23 Jan 2012 | 6:47 am
    Negotiation With Short Sale Lenders In working in the short sale arena for the last five plus years, I have seen lenders do just about everything when it comes to negotiating short sales with home owners. There really is no “standard” in short sales. The way one short sale file at one particular lender is handled can be totally different on the next. One of the biggest reasons for this is that every lender has different investors that actually own the loans. There could be more than twenty five different investors that have interests in loans at one lending institution. So for…

  • What is Real Estate Title Insurance

    Bill Gassett
    29 Nov 2011 | 7:03 am
    Real Estate Title Insurance Explained When purchasing a home one of the things that buyer’s will be asked is whether or not they want Real Estate title insurance. Often times I find that home buyer’s lament over this decision because of the expense involved. Real Estate title insurance is certainly not cheap! While title insurance is a one time expense, it can be disturbing for a buyer tight on cash to have to come up with such a large unexpected expenditure. Real Estate title insurance can easily run into thousands of dollars in a home purchase. Unlike other insurance policies…

  • Credit Scoring Impacts Short Sale vs Foreclosure

    Bill Gassett
    11 Oct 2011 | 6:29 am
    It is probably safe to assume that most consumers like to work with folks they know can be trusted. In Real Estate, like some other businesses there are those that can always be counted on for delivering great advice and others that only care about their own pocket book. I always tell people some of the best Real Estate agents are those that don’t NEED to make a sale! It makes perfect sense because an agent that NEEDS business is far more likely to tell a buyer or seller something they want to hear rather than the truth. Short sales unfortunately are a specialized Real Estate…

  • A Guide To Mortgage Equity Loan Options

    Bill Gassett
    19 Sep 2011 | 6:31 am
    When looking to take money out of an existing home or other Real Estate borrowers often have a decision to make on what is the best method to do so. There are basically three financing options that are available to home owners. These include a cash out re-finance, home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC). Determining which of these type of loan options will work best basically comes down to what purpose the money is going to be used for. Unfortunately being in the Real Estate field, I often come across folks who have over extended themselves and find that they have created…

  • Fixing Your Finances After Foreclosure or Short Sale

    Bill Gassett
    15 Aug 2011 | 6:30 am
    There are not many things that can negatively impact your credit score more than a foreclosure or short sale. In fact one of the more common untruths you will hear from many Realtors is that short sales don’t impact your credit scores like foreclosures do. This is absolutely WRONG! If you fail to pay your mortgage during a short sale the credit score impact will be nearly identical to a foreclosure according to My FICO the governing body for credit scoring. Being a Realtor myself for the last twenty five years it does not surprise me when I hear this misinformation being spewed in…
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    Kendyl's Open House

  • 2011 La Cañada Home Sales 91011

    Kendyl
    2 Feb 2012 | 10:56 pm
      Address Bd Bth SqFt LotSz Year Date Sale Price 4841 La Canada 3 2 1,231 10560sf 1953 12/30/2011 785,000 5105 Castle Rd 4 3 3,036 24742sf 1942 12/30/2011 1,255,000 5314 Stardust Rd 5 4 3,535 12750sf 1957 12/30/2011 1,259,000 327 Santa Inez Way 4 5 3,838 10947sf 2009 12/30/2011 2,065,000 4032 Hampstead Rd 4 4 2,956 18800sf 1938 12/28/2011 1,315,000 4440 Commonwealth Ave 3 2 1,873 9119sf 1949 12/22/2011 900,500 2112 Bristow Dr 4 3 2,234 9800sf 1962 12/21/2011 735,000 4605 Vineta Ave 4 4 4,385 21275sf 1987 12/16/2011 1,280,000 5431 Ocean View Blvd 3 3 1,980 14792sf 1957 12/15/2011 735,000…

  • 2011 Glendale Homes Sales 91201

    Kendyl
    2 Feb 2012 | 10:51 pm
        Address Bed Bath Lot Sq.Ft. Year Date Sold 1364 Justin Ave 4 4 2,582 10228sf 1926 12/31/2011 640,000 1420 Sycamore Ave N 3 2 1,393 5757sf 1936 12/30/2011 555,000 1421 Spazier Ave 3 1 1,374 5730sf 1926 12/28/2011 435,000 1806 Bel Aire Dr 3 2 1,352 7250sf 1937 12/28/2011 480,000 1261 Raymond Ave 3 2 1,353 8450sf 1929 12/16/2011 450,000 1706 W Kenneth Rd 3 2 1,552 7306sf 1930 12/15/2011 515,000 1531 Garden St 2 2 1,286 4995sf 1940 12/8/2011 382,000 1226 Justin Ave 3 1 1,276 8450sf 1925 12/6/2011 535,056 1739 Glenwood Rd 3 3 1,366 6480sf 1918 12/5/2011 412,000 226 Winchester Ave 2 2…

  • 2011 Glendale Home Sales 91202

    Kendyl
    2 Feb 2012 | 10:49 pm
        Address Bed Bath Lot Sq.Ft. Year Date Sold 1232 Graynold Ave 3 2 1,546 6240sf 1941 12/29/2011 438,500 715 Palm Dr 3 2 1,485 6394sf 1926 12/23/2011 401,000 852 Omar St 3 2 1,590 5499sf 1939 12/14/2011 368,000 1435 Idlewood Rd 3 2 1,788 7800sf 1927 11/30/2011 413,000 1110 Highland Ave 3 2 1,496 6800sf 1935 11/25/2011 505,000 602 South St 2 1 929 6500sf 1923 11/22/2011 385,000 525 Spencer St 2 1 1,292 7000sf 1925 11/21/2011 480,000 358 W Kenneth Rd 2 2 1,761 8060sf 1950 11/21/2011 565,000 829 Omar St 3 2 1,442 5930sf 1940 11/14/2011 495,000 515 Palm Dr 2 2 1,198 6199sf 1923…

  • 2011 Glendale Home Sales 91206

    Kendyl
    2 Feb 2012 | 9:29 pm
        Address Bed Bath SqFt LotSz Year Date Sale Price 621 Sinclair Ave 4 6 2,074 23680sf 1925 12/13/2011 465,000 622 Solway St 3 3 1,928 12000sf 1957 12/15/2011 660,000 423 Waltonia Dr 3 2 1,316 7500sf 1938 12/14/2011 505,000 1410 E Glenoaks Blvd 3 2 1,791 11700sf 1948 12/7/2011 605,000 901 Verdugo Circle Dr 3 3 1,250 8710sf 1941 11/30/2011 451,000 2248 E Chevy Chase Dr 3 3 1,879 11466sf 1951 11/22/2011 428,000 670 Ridge Dr 3 3 1,832 10190sf 1963 11/15/2011 562,310 3255 Emerald Isle Dr 3 2 1,775 9312sf 1968 11/10/2011 645,000 3757 San Augustine Dr 3 2 2,046 19900sf 1968 10/25/2011…

  • 2011 Glendale Home Sales 91207

    Kendyl
    2 Feb 2012 | 9:27 pm
        Address Bed Bath SqFt LotSz Year Date Sale Price 938 N Isabel St 3 2 1,750 6750sf 1927 12/29/2011 674,500 1322 Cordova Ave 2 2 1,501 6425sf 1948 12/24/2011 585,000 1641 Greenbriar Rd 4 3 2,548 9984sf 1966 12/12/2011 720,000 1444 E Mountain St 4 3 2,725 7150sf 1929 12/9/2011 680,000 1446 Dwight Dr 3 2 2,137 6190sf 1939 12/9/2011 737,000 901 Misty Isle Dr 4 3 2,589 14049sf 1969 12/2/2011 750,000 950 N Jackson St 3 2 1,723 6535sf 1949 11/30/2011 615,000 1360 Greenbriar Rd 4 5 3,099 8400sf 1978 11/30/2011 800,000 1330 Cordova Ave 2 2 1,555 5668sf 1924 11/22/2011 585,000 610 Bohlig…
 
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    Lofts.com

  • Deal set for Vacant Filenes Site

    Yoni Haiminis
    6 Feb 2012 | 9:20 pm
    Vacant Loft of former Filene's site   The Gaping hole at the former Filene’s site in Downtown Crossing has received good news that developer Milllenium partners will take control of the long idle project and build a tower with a mix of retail, office and residential. Construction has been idle for more than 3.5 Years and was originally planned to be the centerpiece of the revitilization and link between Dowtown crossing, Mid-Town ChinaTown & The Theatre District.  The original plann was called to be 39 stories with retail on the Ground floor with offices above and…

  • Former Boston Herald site to be developed and renamed “The Ink Block”

    Yoni Haiminis
    2 Feb 2012 | 8:36 pm
    Rendering of proposed Ink Block Project on the Former Boston Herald site The Boston Herald’s newly vacated South End Headquarters now shuttered is slated to be transformed into the “Ink Block,” a six acre complex of apartments, stores and restaurants. The property’s owner yesterday outlined a plan to replace the Herald’s squat brick building with four new structures containing 475 apartments a grocery store, and a mix of smaller shops and restaurants. The proposal calls for buildings from five to nine stories, with each designed to have its own modern flair,…

  • More residential Housing proposed for Seaport District

    Yoni Haiminis
    23 Jan 2012 | 4:11 pm
    Rendering of a a proposed development at 411 D Street South Boston developers filed recently with the Boston Redevelopment Authority for a 200,000 square-foot project on D Street in the Seaport District across from the Convention & Exhibition center. The development at 411 D Street would raze the current commercial structures on the property and replace them with two residential structures with retail/commercial space on the ground floor.  This would be a great addition to the fast growing seaport District neighborhood as residents of neighboring 437 D Street Lofts have continued to…

  • DNA Lofts to be Auctioned off!!

    Shuki Haiminis
    9 Sep 2011 | 11:26 am
    The DNA Lofts development located at 944 Dorchester Ave in Boston, MA is going to be auctioning off the remaining condominiums.  The auction is set to take place on the evening of Thursday October 6th, will be for 25 luxurious loft-style condominiums.  DNA Lofts is a newly constructed complex located in North Dorchester , just minutes from Boston Medical Center, Umass Boston The South End and the Red-Line.  Minimum bids start at $115,000 up to 60 percent below asking prices and dramatically lower than the current average listing price in Greater Boston The DNA Lofts development was…

  • Spacious sky-view Seaport loft

    Shuki Haiminis
    8 Aug 2011 | 6:00 am
    The 1922 South Boston factory/headquarters of the Joseph Burnett Company, a manufacturer of vanilla and other flavorings, food colorings, puddings and cake mixes for more than a century, has acquired a new flavor and color as The Lofts at 437 D St., a 42-unit loft condominium. Now for sale here at $869,000 is a 1-bed, 2-bath penthouse unit with 54 feet of windows, exciting city views, radiant sun, and high, wide living spaces that can be arranged according to your personal taste. Configure creatively Home arrangement is a piece of cake in this 1,719-square-foot unit because of how the old…
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    MLS Maps

  • Weekly Real Estate Mix – Jan 30 – Feb 3

    Ken Horst
    4 Feb 2012 | 9:50 am
    I’ve started including both real estate news items and popular blog items in the weekly real estate mix for your reading pleasure.  Here are a few of the more interesting real estate stories from around the country for the week of 1-30-2012. It May be a Good Time to Buy a Home, But Not to Sell Recent Fannie Mae survey finds 71% of people think it is a good time to buy a home but only 11% think it’s a good time to sell a home.  Can you say First Time Home Buyer to the rescue! Original story from: MarketWatch Search  MLS Listings After Two Decades, Real Estate Returns To the Super Bowl…

  • 15 Cool Real Estate Infographics

    Ken Horst
    30 Jan 2012 | 7:43 am
    One of the first posts I published when I launched this blog back in February of last year was “5 Cool Real Estate Infographics“. Almost a year later, this post continues to be one of the most popular posts on the blog and it occurred to me that there have probably been many more cool real estate infographics created since then. After a few hours of digging around, I was able to find the following 15 real estate infographics that I think do a great job of informing Realtors and home buyers and sellers about the real estate market.  I hope you enjoy these and find them useful! 1.

  • 8 Location Factors That Influence Home Buyers

    Ken Horst
    23 Dec 2011 | 12:24 pm
    We’ve all heard the old real estate saying, “The three most important things in real estate are location, location and location.”  I couldn’t agree with this more as this was one of the determining factors in every home my wife and I have purchased. This would also explain the huge growth in map based mls listings web sites. I can never figure out what would cause anyone to buy a home on a busy road or on the edge of apartment city, yet some people do.  The fact is, not all home buyers look at a “location” the same way. Fortunately, because of survey…

  • Top 10 Ways People Start the Home Buying Process

    Ken Horst
    9 Dec 2011 | 12:16 am
    This list comes out every year as part of a larger survey, the National Association of Realtors Survey of Home Buyers and Sellers.  Year over year the methods used for finding a home don’t change much but the percentages of people using each method has seen some changes. As you could guess, as the internet became more widely used over the years and web sites appeared making it easy to shop for a home online, this method of finding a home grew like a weed.  One interesting fact about this years list is that while the internet is still the #1 place home buyers start their search, the…

  • Edina Realty Listings May Be Harder to Find Online

    Ken Horst
    18 Nov 2011 | 8:12 pm
    We’ve all heard the 3 most important things in real estate are 1. Location; 2. Location; and 3. Location and to a certain extent, that’s accurate.  With the recent decision by Edina Realty to stop syndicating their listings to third party real estate websites, it’s apparent that they forgot the 3 most important factors in real estate marketing and advertising; 1. Exposure; 2. Exposure and 3. Exposure. As mentioned in recent posts by Drew Meyers and Jay Thompson, Edina Realty has stated that they will stop sharing listing data with Truilia on November 30th and with…
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    RealLead Blog

  • What’s all the Tweeting About?

    reallead
    19 Jan 2012 | 2:18 pm
    As the CEO of RealLead, I was excited to get the opportunity to share our free mobile marketing tools on stage at the Inman Connect conference last week in New York City. It was great to hear so many Agents and Brokers talk about the need for having a mobile marketing strategy in order to reach today’s consumers.  If you missed the conference below is our 5 minute demo – and below that are some of the great Tweets about our technology. Thanks for the great support! We’re excited to offer a top quality mobile marketing tool to allow Agents and Brokers to generate more…

  • Comparing Mobile Phone Lead Gen Tools

    reallead
    4 Jan 2012 | 4:29 pm
    For the real estate industry, it’s imperative to have a mobile marketing solution for generating real-time leads for your listings. Below is a chart that compares the current mobile phone technologies that allow you to generate leads – including when the technology was first used, consumer usage, consumer adoption, and whether or not it’s hit a tipping point in the market. One of the things we do here at RealLead is track mobile marketing trends. For example, QR codes are all the rage right now, but we know they will soon become obsolete, or morph into something that…

  • Two Real Estate Industry Predictions for 2012

    reallead
    30 Dec 2011 | 2:08 pm
    It’s that time of year when people start making predictions about what’s to come in the year ahead. The real estate market is no different – we all want to know what lies ahead for home owners, buyers, sellers, realtors, banks, investors, mortgage companies, and real estate technology… We’ve scoured the Web and below are the two themes based on overall market behavior and trends. One is about properties, and the other is about technology… #1:  Ubiquity of Real Estate Owned (REO) Properties: Several people are predicting that the large inventory of…

  • Free Signup for Mobile Leads – For Real…

    reallead
    21 Dec 2011 | 4:51 pm
    Today is an important day here at RealLead – we’ve officially moved from Private Beta into Live Beta. Any of the  users listed below can sign-up for RealLead, and activate properties with unique mobile codes for FREE! Yeehaw! This means you can: Sign-up – for free! Activate all of your listings with Pay-Per-Lead mobile plan – for free! Set-up multiple mobile marketing campaigns – for free! Track where you leads are coming from on your personal Dashboard – for free!           Are you? A Realtor®? A Broker Owner? A Commercial…

  • Take a Tour of RealLead

    reallead
    13 Dec 2011 | 11:40 am
 
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    PropertyShark BlogCenter

  • Sales Pick Up in New York City’s Hospitality Market in 2011

    Catalin
    6 Feb 2012 | 9:19 am
    Click to enlarge In line with the general commercial real estate market trend, the New York City hospitality sector saw a robust growth in 2011, with over $3.2 billion in sales. Sales were up 148% over 2010, and up by a whopping 524% over 2009. Moreover, 2011 saw the volume of sales reach a 5-year high. The figures indicate that the market is recovering from its recessionary lows and that hotels are among the most desired investment properties. The average selling price per transaction reached $84 million in 2011, the highest value over the past 7 years. A significant contribution to this…

  • Home Sales in Queens Take a Dip in 2011, But Prices Keep Up

    Catalin
    1 Feb 2012 | 6:45 am
    Click to enlarge The number of homes sold in Queens decreased slightly in 2011 with 9,128 properties changing hands, our latest analysis shows. The Y-o-Y decrease is 11%, while compared to 2006 (when the number of transactions reached a 7-year peak), the decrease is 39%. At $305,000, the yearly median sale price has stayed flat for a third consecutive year. The median sale price in Q4 2011 was $300,000, a 5% decrease over Q3 2011 and a 6% decrease over Q4 2010. The zip code with the highest median sale price in 2011 was 11109 ($694,000), comprising 3 neighborhoods: Hunters Point, Sunnyside…

  • Foreclosures surge in Manhattan, but down everywhere else in NYC

    laura
    20 Jan 2012 | 8:31 am
    NYC foreclosures recorded a sharp fall as a consequence of the bank moratorium, making 2011 the year with the lowest number of foreclosures in the last seven years. The 996 first-time foreclosures recorded in 2011 are down 61% compared to 2010 (2,579) and down 74% from the peak recorded in 2008 (3,874). “The impressive drop in foreclosures merely represents a delaying of the inevitable. Thousands of homeowners are behind on their mortgage payments or have stopped making them altogether.” said PropertyShark founder Matthew Haines. “I expect that thousands of home foreclosures…

  • Biggest Real Estate Commercial Sales of 2011 in NYC

    Catalin
    18 Jan 2012 | 6:17 am
    As first reported by The Real Deal, 2011 saw a rise in the number of commercial transactions in NYC. A very long distance away from the gloomy days of 2009, the 10 biggest sales of 2011 accounted for $5.76 billion in volume of transactions. Nine of the ten deals that make up the top 10 involved Manhattan properties, with one in Queens (the building at 42-1 28th Street, in Long Island City). 1. 601 W 26th Street Topping the list is the building at 601 W 26th Street, a.k.a. the Starrett-Lehigh Building. The 19-story, 2.3 million-square-foot building occupies an entire block in Chelsea and was…

  • Most Expensive Home Sales in the Hamptons in 2011

    Catalin
    9 Jan 2012 | 9:14 am
    2011 was anything but a banner year for real estate in America, and although many reports hailed the strength of the luxury real estate market, in many regions facts are hard to come by. The biggest sale of 2011 in the Hamptons didn’t even come close to the biggest in 2010, which raked in a whooping $43.5M. As a matter of fact, the most expensive home sold in the year that just ended would have only grabbed 3rd spot in 2010. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that 2011 lacks any spectacular transactions, on the contrary. Here’s a top 10 of the most expensive homes sold in 2011. 1.
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    Green Home Design

  • Buying Quality Furniture Means Greener Living

    admin
    3 Feb 2012 | 1:37 am
    Once upon a time, furniture was built to last. It wasn’t out of the ordinary to see a cabinet or a bookshelf pass through several generations. But things started to change around the turn of the 20th century. One of the many transitions brought on by the industrial revolution was a preference for cheaper, factory-made [...]

  • Tiny Eco House in Tokyo

    admin
    2 Feb 2012 | 3:58 pm
    We often hear that building small means building green. Although, I cannot say I always agree that small equals eco, there is certain sense in this statement. At least, heating and electricity is much cheaper in a smaller house. I don’t know if the Tokyo architectural firm Mizuishi Architect Atelier had eco houses in mind [...]

  • 7 Giant Herbs You Can Grow at Home

    admin
    25 Jan 2012 | 4:14 pm
    For those who love to cook and eat a lot of salad there is nothing better than having one’s own herb garden. To grow your own herbs, it is not necessary that you should have a large garden, as you can grow them in pots or in a small section of your garden. You can [...]

  • Don’t Sit on the Fence – Reuse Plastic Bottles

    admin
    20 Jan 2012 | 2:58 pm
    As far as the plastic bottle facts go, it’s truly amazing how much plastic we consume every year. In Britain, we use estimated 15 million plastic bottles every day! Worldwide, however, people consume around 9 billion bottles per year. Sadly, only between 2.5 and 5% of the PET bottles are being recycled, depending on which [...]

  • Home Owners Turn to Renewable Energy as Utility Bills Rise in the Recession

    admin
    17 Jan 2012 | 11:46 am
    Drastic rises in gas and electricity prices have left millions of households across the U.K. feeling the squeeze when it comes to energy bills. Last year alone saw a shocking £224 added to the average household’s living costs; an increase made even more daunting by budget and wage cuts made during the recession. Simply put, [...]
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    Calgary Real Estate

  • Mortgage Rates – 5th Week of 2012

    8 Feb 2012 | 4:13 am
    Source: RateSuperMarket.ca After the Bank of Montreal (BMO) offered a five-year fixed rate of 2.99 per cent, the lowest five-year rate in modern Canadian history, this week’s rate grew and the lowest five-year mortgage was offered by Dominion Lending Centres. BMO has recently earned an award for the 2011 Mortgage of the Year from Canadian Mortgage Trends. Their mortgage product offered the best innovation, flexibility, and savings for homeowners across Canada. “We developed the low-rate mortgage because customers were telling us that they wanted to become mortgage-free faster, pay less in…

  • Calgary and Alberta Real Estate Market in 2011

    30 Jan 2012 | 5:50 am
    Calgary by Kevin Saff 2011 started with a few signals of improvement in real estate market. The condo market, which was impeded and stagnating at its bottom a year ago, began to pop back up, mainly thanks to a planned University City project at the Brentwood Village Shopping Centre. However, the market still followed its weak trend. Two months later, the city’s future development became clearer. First and Second Quarter: Recovering In March, the Conference Board of Canada predicted that Calgary, driven by the energy sector, would be among top five cities for growth in gross domestic product…

  • Mortgage Rates – 3rd Week of 2012

    27 Jan 2012 | 6:03 am
    Prime and Qualifying Rate 3rd week of 2012 Source: RateSuperMarket.ca The Bank of Canada left its overnight rate target of 1 per cent unchanged for the 16th consecutive month. Mark Carney, BoC governor, said that although interest rates remain unaltered, the Bank is aware that their decision could cause additional household debt. He believes that continued low interest rates will offset global economic uncertainty and lead to a strong housing market and increased consumer spending. “Household expenditures are expected to remain high relative to GDP (gross domestic product) and the ratio of…

  • Investment Tip of the Week – 106 – 635 57 Avenue SW

    26 Jan 2012 | 5:44 am
    106 635 57 Avenue SW INVESTORS ALERT THE BELGRAVIA BUILDING. This is the deal of the year so far and the best price in Windsor Park. Across from Chinook Mall, this 500 sq.ft 1 bedroom apartment is a steal at this price! Condo fee is only $206 and building is managed by a professional management company. Potential rent is $800. At 2.99%, monthly mortgage payment is $480. Great for first time home buyers as well – why pay rent? Very good price, fantastic neibourhood, needs some work, one bed room apartment. Close to Chinook Mall. Property will be sold “as is where is with no warranties or…

  • Renting vs. Buying: What to Choose?

    19 Jan 2012 | 9:49 am
    Calgary Neighborhood by Justin Scott Campbell Buying own home – who doesn’t dream about that? However, after financial crisis more and more people reconsider their dreams and realize that renting has advantages that are worth of giving up the own-home-dream at least temporarily. “With the tight credit market and stricter downpayment requirements, rent-to-own has emerged as a trend for people who otherwise would be home buyers,” said Eric Mangan for Forbes, spokesman for ForSaleByOwner.com, a real estate listing company. No Investment General belief that buying real estate will be…
 
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    Back Bay Realty Group Blog

  • Tipping My Cap to the W Boston

    Chris Dunn
    26 Jan 2012 | 11:55 am
    It’s no secret that The Clarendon is out front when it comes to sales out of the group of new full service buildings. In 2011 though, perhaps the best kept secret was the W Boston. The W has been through a lot in the past year including a bankruptcy, but in spite of this, the W still sold an impressive number of homes. According to MLS records The Clarendon sold 32 Homes in 2011 while the W sold 30. Now, W sales team will tell you the numbers are actually a difference of 1, but nevertheless it’s still impressive. So a tip of my cap to Dinny and her staff and we wish them continued…

  • Renters make Buying more Difficult

    Chris Dunn
    23 Jan 2012 | 2:50 pm
    Over the past few years the number of people who have decided to rent our their condos in Boston rather than sell them has certainly increased, and in some cases dramatically so. The side of effect of all this renting is just beginning to show it’s face. We’ve already talked about how rentals are now priced sky high, (see here) but there is now a second side that is starting to show it’s face. Owner Occupancy Rates Most people have never really focused on this little used metric when buying a home, but it’s incredibly important. The most important use of this statistic…

  • Be on the Parade Route

    Chris Dunn
    22 Jan 2012 | 6:14 pm
     The Patriots unbelievable win over the Ravens and return to the Superbowl has the entire city of Boston overjoyed. It was a remarkable win and now it’s time to look ahead. Assuming a Superbowl win, we have found the perfect place to celebrate. 410 Boylston Street #2 is currently on the market for $1,995,000. This beautiful new construction 3 bed features two private decks one right out front and one in the back. The front deck will provide unparalleled views of the parade route whether it’s the Patriots, Celtics, Red Sox or Bruins you will have a front row seat to the action.

  • Green Moving

    Chris Dunn
    20 Jan 2012 | 9:56 am
    So Boston has been on a big kick lately to make the city more green in any way it can. While I applaud the city and it’s residents for their efforts, there are times when you have to be honest and say, “Ok now you’re taking it just too far.” The best example, bicycle movers. Yes, Gentle Giant the moving company with the big purple trucks that are a common sighting over the summer months, is introducing a new service. The offering is called Bike Moves. The idea behind the program is that for Boston residents who are moving just around town, this will cut down on costs…

  • Yacht Apartments

    Chris Dunn
    20 Jan 2012 | 9:21 am
    So our last home on the water was a big hit and now we have another for you to consider. This home comes not from Seattle, but rather Sweden home of Ikea. The owners,  a couple who live in Stockholm, decided they were done with land living and decided to move aboard. As a boating enthusiast, I read about how people are doing this all the time, but not many go to the lengths they did. Their custom home is stunning from Bow to Stern. The kitchen is fantastic with it’s butcher block counters and gas range. They even managed to sneak in a full size dishwasher. The living room has a wood…
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    Houston Real Estate | Homes for Sale Houston Tx | Houston Texas Real Estate

  • Houston's Most Expensive Homes For Sale - January 2012

    paige-martin
    29 Jan 2012 | 2:38 pm
    The Houston real estate market is one of the nation's most affordable large cities, with great deals on Houston single family homes for sale, Houston townhomes and Houston condos for sale.read more

  • Houston Real Estate Market Update - January 2012

    paige-martin
    29 Jan 2012 | 2:19 pm
    December marks the seventh consecutive month of increased home sales; 2011 bests 2010 in sales volume and pricing 2011 ENDS ON A HEALTHY NOTE FOR THE HOUSTON REAL ESTATE MARKET read more

  • Houston Loft For Sale & Houston Loft For Lease - Bayou Lofts

    paige-martin
    29 Jan 2012 | 9:09 am
    There's a fabulous new Houston Loft that is listed both for sale and for lease in Bayou Lofts at 915 Franklin Street, Houston, TX, 77002. This is a rare chance to live in the prestigious 'A' unit located in the historic Southern Pacific Railroad building known as Bayou Lofts!read more

  • H.R. 1309: Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2011

    paige-martin
    28 Jan 2012 | 9:58 am
    In May 2012 the most recent Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2011 will expire if Congress does not pass H.R. 1309, which would extend the act for five more years. This act has raised eyebrows and controversy within the realms of homeowners. In a summary of the most recent draft, Congress states that this bill is: read more

  • 2012 Houston Real Estate Market Forecast

    paige-martin
    14 Jan 2012 | 8:56 am
    Following is one of the best Houston Real Estate (and Texas Real Estate) market forecasts that I have seen. It was created and presented by Ted C Jones, Phd. who is the Chief Economist for Stewart Title. Some of the highlights include: - There's no such thing as a National Real estate market or a National Economy; - Job growth is everything and drives the real estate market; - Texas has one of the best tax policies of any state; read more
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    Kristin Kanan

  • Occupy LA Wants Occupy LA Murals: After the Occupy LA camp raid…

    Kristin Kanan
    7 Feb 2012 | 1:19 pm
    After the Occupy LA camp raid in late November, the city took possession of the four-sided mural that had surrounded a fountain on the City Hall lawn (the city had put up the plywood to protect the historic fountain). In early January, the Department of Cultural Affairs put out a call for institutions to display [...]

  • Morning Linkage: A Trump-Related Dodgers Bidder, People Sure Love Granite

    Kristin Kanan
    7 Feb 2012 | 1:19 pm
    Metro station in Hollywood via Tom Andrews / Curbed LA flickr pool · States sign foreclosure settlement, but California holding out [LAT] · Jared Kushner among 9 Dodgers bidders to advance to round two [LAT] · El Monte brining In-N-Out, another chain to vacant lot [SGVT] · On homeowners and gotta-have-it granite [WP] · Some [...]

  • Red Line: Metro Red Line Subway Stations Getting Fancy New Hats

    Kristin Kanan
    7 Feb 2012 | 7:18 am
    Images via Behance Network Work started on January 28 on a new canopy for the Pershing Square subway station, according to a construction notice from Metro (pdf); work should wrap up in the summer, Brigham Yen reports. All the Red Line stops will get the same Jetsons-like canopies, Metro tells us, and they’re checking to [...]

  • Zoning Out: Councilman Wants to Kill Spot Zoning in Southeast Long Beach

    Kristin Kanan
    7 Feb 2012 | 7:18 am
    The zoning fallout from the somewhat surprising failure of the second+pch megadevelopment in Long Beach in December marches on. At the Long Beach city council meeting tomorrow, Councilmember Patrick O’Donnell will present legislation to speed along the updating of the Southeast Area Development Improvement Plan, the zoning code for the area that includes the now-dead [...]

  • Trainwreck Real Estate: Don’t worry, there is always some…

    Kristin Kanan
    7 Feb 2012 | 5:19 am
    Don’t worry, there is always some Charlie Sheen real estate dramz somewhere in the world. The latest is over the Mulholland Estates house that Sheen picked up from Black Swan producer Mike Medavoy last April for $6.999999 million. His ex-wife Brooke Mueller’s mom is now suing Sheen’s real estate agent, saying he promised her 25 [...]
 
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    HSH Associates Financial News Blog

  • Speaker Boehner is wrong: Don’t delay new housing plan

    Peter Miller
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:50 pm
    The White House is out with a new housing plan, but not everyone is thrilled. Speaker John Boehner (R-Ohio) thinks the program is history, bad history. “We’ve done this at least four times where there’s a new government program to help homeowners who have trouble with their mortgages,” said Boehner. “None of these programs have worked,” he continued. “I don’t know why anyone would think that this next idea is going to work. All they’ve done is delay the clearing of the market. The sooner the market clears and we understand where the prices…

  • The economy sends mortgage rates to new record low

    Tim Manni
    6 Feb 2012 | 10:26 am
    The economic seesaw brought mortgage rates down to new record lows last week. Two weeks ago, mortgage rates flared higher thanks to a warmer set of economic data. Last week, that increase “was cut off at the knees” by a softer-than-expected fourth quarter GDP report and a Federal Reserve outlook that left a lot to be desired, explained Keith Gumbinger, vice president of HSH.com, in the latest Market Trends newsletter. Sign up for our weekly Market Trends newsletter today The Fed not only pushed back their expectation for when interest rates will rise, they also indicated that more…

  • Here’s what the jobs report means for mortgage rates

    Tim Manni
    3 Feb 2012 | 11:07 am
    In what was a surprise to market observers, the economy added 243,000 jobs in January, the most in nine months. The unemployment rate had an impressive showing of its own, falling to 8.3 percent. Estimates for the January report varied. While a group of economists surveyed by MarketWatch predicted 121,000 new hires last month, HSH.com expected 180,000. Both November and December’s job numbers were revised higher, meaning January’s numbers could be even more impressive than they already are. Time to celebrate? Despite the best job numbers we’ve seen since last April, many experts warn…

  • Obama’s latest refinance effort: I’ve seen this movie before

    Tim Manni
    1 Feb 2012 | 12:51 pm
    The president addressed the nation today from Falls Church, Va., to announce a widespread housing effort that tackles everything from refinancing non-Fannie and Freddie borrowers to a homeowners “bill of rights.” Is this proposed refinance plan–that can potentially save you $3,000 a year–a game changer or a pipe dream? At the moment, I—along with many others—am leaning towards the latter. Why? Plain and simple: it requires Congressional approval. The president’s widespread housing effort requires banks to pay a fee to cover the plan’s estimated cost of $5 billion to…

  • Can we restart the housing market with down-payment insurance?

    Peter Miller
    31 Jan 2012 | 2:10 pm
    That’s the idea economist James A. Wilcox, a professor of business at the University of California, Berkeley, wrote about recently in the New York Times. “Homebuyers could purchase protection from the government for a one-time fee, say 1 percent of the house purchase price, or $2,000 on a house selling for $200,000,” wrote Wilcox. “The fee could vary with the risk of house price declines in each area. The plan would be open to all buyers.” Wilcox continues, “At the end of three years, the government would automatically mail checks to protected homeowners if average…
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    Move Apartment and Home Trends

  • Apartment Community Spotlight – The Monarch

    Dave Masters
    5 Feb 2012 | 11:04 am
    Moving to Austin, “the live music capital of the world”? Austin, which is also the capital of Texas, is home to this week’s Apartment Community Spotlight.  The Monarch Apartments, a 29 story high-rise located in the vibrant Market District area of Austin, is just walking distance to many of the local music venues which play host to the yearly South By Southwest festival. In addition to living in an incredible area, this community comes with some amazing amenities. A cyber cafe with free wi-fi, billiards room, lounge pool with a sundeck, and of course, being a high-rise, it…

  • Apartment Community Spotlight – 1600 Glenarm Place

    Dave Masters
    30 Jan 2012 | 11:03 am
    Looking for New York style luxury high-rise style living in downtown Denver? This week’s Apartment Community Spotlight, 1600 Glenarm Place, may just be the place for you. Steps from the light-rail system, head downstairs (or order delivery) from Earl’s restauranut, or grab some yogurt from Pinkberry – also downtown.  Prefer to make your own meals? There’s a grocery store on site as well. No worries if you eat too much food while living here either because, 1600 Glenarm Place has a fitness center to help keep you in tip top shape! Wi-Fi in common areas, housekeeping…

  • Industry-Friendly Marketplace Focused on Consumer to Realtor Connections and Accurate Listing Content

    Curt Beardsley
    27 Jan 2012 | 6:30 pm
    Curt Beardsley VP Move, Inc./REALTOR.com At Realtor.com, we respect the content rights of all brokers and we believe they have the right and responsibility to market the homes they have listed for sale in the best ways possible. We also believe that the facts used to support their decision are important, especially as it relates to the sites they select to market their listings to potential buyers. Much of the argument today that’s being made in the industry about accuracy, completeness and the timeliness of listing data on Realtor.com – is in itself – inaccurate. At…

  • Apartment Community Spotlight – Archstone Santa Monica on Main

    Dave Masters
    27 Jan 2012 | 11:02 am
    Situated just steps from the beach in Santa Monica, as well as all of the shopping & dining that Main Street has to offer, the beautiful Archstone Santa Monica on Main is this week’s Apartment Community Spotlight.  Santa Monica living doesn’t get much better than this folks. Literally, walk 3 minutes and be in the sand. 3 minutes in another direction, and take in boutique shopping, surf/skate shopping, eating, and sipping coffee from the plethora of options available to you on Main Street. Walk 10 minutes in the other direction and find yourself at the historic Santa Monica…

  • Move Expands ListHub Network

    Scott Garner
    11 Jan 2012 | 6:00 am
    Move is announcing today that ListHub, the largest syndicator of real estate listings, is launching the Real Estate  Network (REN) to extend the syndication of property listings to highly trafficked websites operated by real estate franchisors and brokerage networks. ListHub’s Real Estate Network will be available at no charge and as a voluntary syndication option for brokers and Multiple Listing Services (MLSs). Century 21, Coldwell Banker, Realty Executives International, and RE/MAX are among the first publishers to join the network at launch. Together, these publisher websites attract…
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    Real Estate Coaching Productivity Junkies - Social Media

  • Debating Is Not Selling

    darin
    7 Feb 2012 | 3:01 pm
    Debating is not selling. You don’t make a professional level of profit by spending your time debatin’. You make a professional level of profit by Picking the right target Communicating with them with an effetive message Communicating with them in an effective method Nurturing the relationship until they are compelled to take action But I see lotsa people debatin’ in the social media space like they want to be the next Republican candidate. CLICK HERE to see the problem with debatin’ online. I told someone to UN-Like My Page The other day I posted on the Productivity…

  • Does Your Day Follow The 90/50 Rule Or The 50/90 Rule?

    darin
    2 Feb 2012 | 5:24 pm
    There is a lot of self-employed, business owners and freelancers out there killing their business and… AND… their personal lives. I hope you are not one of them. Want to know what these people are doing, that is killing their business and personal lives? Maybe you are doing this too, but I hope not. They are living the 50/90 Rule. When they should be living the 90/50 Rule. I’ll explain what these rules are, and no, they are not the 80/20 rule. Nope. Not what I’m talking about here. But first, let me share with you another problem. If you are a business owner, a real…

  • Marketing Lesson From Biggest Loser

    darin
    2 Feb 2012 | 1:59 am
    “Noooo! Don’t go to commercial!” This was Katherine’s reaction last night when watching the Biggest Loser. They were doing the weigh in and one of the contestants got on the scale. This contestant needed to have lost 5 lbs for her team to win and for them to be safe from eliminating anyone. She was the last one to get on the scale. It was left up to her. Just her. She got on the scale. The scale starts flickering around. Numbers going up and down. Seem serious dramatic music playing and then…. The show goes to commercial! Katherine throws her arms up in the…

  • Tools To Stay Productive With Katie Lance – Productivity Nugget #224

    darin
    5 Jan 2012 | 3:08 pm
    Katie Lance, Social Media Director, for Inman News has a full plate. The number of platforms that she covers is mind numbing. The amount of content that she needs to create and consume is overwhelming. So how does she do it all? Take a listen to this Productivity Podcast where she shares How she handles her email How she handles her social media Can’t see the audio player? CLICK HERE I will be joining Katie and the Inman News team at Real Estate Connect next week. Will you be there? For more info on Productivity… Get Immediate Access to the Productivity Kit For FREE you will get…

  • I see you Oel ngati kameie!

    darin
    4 Jan 2012 | 12:18 pm
    I see you! That would be the translation of ”Oel ngati kameie!” “Oel ngati kameie” means “I see you” in the Navi language, from the movie Avatar. What a wonderful greeting, huh? I see you! Acknowledging someone. Letting them know you see them, that you are giving them attention. Boy, that sure seems the opposite of marketing and especially social media now a days. There seems to be a lot of screaming online, “Look at me!!!” How’s that working for you? Is your facebook page bringing you business? Is your facebook profile bringing you the…
 
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    Foreclosure Process and Questions

  • Kansas Foreclosure Process

    nehaag
    6 Feb 2012 | 1:16 am
    Kansas State is located in the Midwest. It is today a leading state in agricultural products. With the railroads linking Kansas to the markets of the Atlantic coast other industries made their debut – meat packing, aircraft building, automobiles etc. From 2001 the economy began to stumble with layoffs and droughts. As per report of November 2011 the economy in Kansas is moderately expanding but employment is stagnant at 6.7% – far below the national figure. Activity in the housing segment is subdued. Sales have been down by 19% (year-over-year). From the peak of housing boom the…

  • Foreclosure Process in Delaware

    nehaag
    3 Feb 2012 | 4:02 am
    Delaware State is on the Atlantic coast and comprises of three counties – New Castle, Kent and Sussex. Delaware was the most prosperous state of USA from the 30’s till the 70’s. The prime contributor to the economy of the state has been the automotive and chemical industries but this soon gave way to dominance of finance, real estate and insurance; also included in the upward swing were general services like hotels, recreation activities, automobile repair, health etc. In the gloomy mood of the economy across the country following the recession the good news is that housing costs…

  • Wonder of wonders – CitiMortgage Makes Modification Amount Higher than the Original

    nehaag
    31 Jan 2012 | 8:03 pm
    One victim of CitiMortgage shares his woes but remains behind a fictitious name – Mike, because of social constraints. Mike fell into foreclosure although he never defaulted. A self-employed person, all he wanted was to know how the exorbitant interest on his mortgage could be lowered. At that time the monthly payment was $1,000 per month. This simple phone call led him into a maze of problems that ultimately ended with a foreclosure threat. The bank’s representative told Mike that that with modification the interest would be lowered and this could be done easily. First he would have to…

  • Want to Prevent Future Foreclosure Crisis? No More Sweetheart Loan Deals for Politicians and Cronies

    nehaag
    29 Jan 2012 | 7:47 pm
    The Attorney General of California, Kamala Harris has rightly been opposing the settlement deal about to be finalized between the mega banks and the government agencies at both state and federal levels. Harris and some other attorney generals want deeper digging to get at the roots of the abuses before finalizing any deal. California is one of the worst affected states. It accounts for 36% of all the mortgages but for 55% of all the foreclosures. The concentration is the neighbourhoods resided by Blacks and Hispanics coming from the low-income group. There were many to be blamed for the…

  • Pop goes the House into Foreclosure Because of 80 Cents!

    nehaag
    28 Jan 2012 | 8:05 pm
    Pop goes the house of 56 old Tom Mudie, a Floridian, because of a shortage of 80 cents on his mortgage payment. Mudie, had been trying to get Bank of America modify his loan but a worry is haunting him that a mistake of 80 cents could end up tragically for him – he could lose his home in Largo at Florida, to foreclosure. The bank had placed him on a trial period covering three months. If he managed to be current on this new payment during this time he would get his loan permanently modified. He had made the payment via telephone and accidentally paid 80 cents on one of the monthly payments.
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    Vancouver Real Estate

  • Pre-Offer Home Inspections Catching On

    admin
    4 Feb 2012 | 6:33 pm
    One of the items regularly listed on an offer is a requirement for a home inspection. These days, there is such a demand for multifamily investment properties, that some developers/agents are offering pre-offer home inspections. This saves time and gives … Continue reading →

  • Debt is Still Problem in Canada, Bears Watching

    admin
    1 Feb 2012 | 2:12 pm
    The more you borrow, the more you owe. That is certainly proving to be the case in Canada, where those who have extended themselves the most are finding it harder to catch up. A report by CIBC World Market noted … Continue reading →

  • Affordable Housing Survey Places Vancouver as Second Most Expensive Locale

    admin
    31 Jan 2012 | 11:36 am
    Vancouver took second place in a recent worldwide survey of least-affordable places to live. Hong Kong was the only city more expensive, and out of the 325 cities surveyed, that is saying something. The median price of a home in … Continue reading →

  • No Price Correction for 2012 per Royal LePage

    admin
    26 Jan 2012 | 2:41 pm
    There has been talk of a housing bubble in Canada for some time. But one of Canada’s largest realty firms, Royal LePage, does not believe this is in the cards. Rather, their prediction is for almost a three percent increase … Continue reading →

  • Real Estate Market Close to Balance

    admin
    22 Dec 2011 | 8:00 am
    After being one of the most volatile real estate markets in Canada, British Columbia may finally be in balanced territory. November 2011 Multiple Listing Sales are down just a hint from the same month in 2010. As far as price … Continue reading →
 
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    Merrimack Valley Real Estate- Serving Northeastern Massachusetts

  • Amesbury Massachusetts Short Sale Closed

    Massachusetts Realtor
    6 Feb 2012 | 4:25 pm
    Closed on another Amesbury Massachusetts Short Sale on Friday February  3rd.  The property was a condominium located at Senee Court in Amesbury Massachusetts.  The short sale closed under the HAFA Short Sale  program with a first mortgage from GMAC and a second mortgage from Bank of America.   We were able to negotiate arrearages on condo fees and municipal taxes and have the bank pay all of those fees.   The buyer received a relocation fee from the short sale as well as all the benefits of completing a successful short sale.  While having a level of difficulty the HAFA program does…

  • Home Marketing- Your Homes Online Image

    Massachusetts Realtor
    31 Jan 2012 | 12:12 pm
    How you market your home is an essential piece in selling your home in today’s real estate market.  Home Marketing covers what I call the 3p’s, Preparation, Pricing and Presentation.  Today’s article will cover a narrow piece of home marketing covered under presentation and that is your home’s online image.  It is a real estate agents job, to present your home to the buying public to compel them to want to see your home and ultimately want to write an offer. Home sellers need to realize many home buyers (over 95%) are making decisions based upon what they are seeing…

  • New Feature to my Massachusetts Real Estate Search

    Massachusetts Realtor
    30 Jan 2012 | 3:58 pm
    As a buyers agent trying to help homeowners find a new home, I try to keep my home search features on the cutting edge.  A recently added feature, t0 my Massachusetts Real Estate Search, is one I think some home buyers will find useful…. a radius search.  You are now able two type in a location and search for homes in a .5 mile, 1 mile, 2 mile, 5 mile, 10 mile or 20 mile radius from the indicated location. You can also set the criteria to only show home in a certain price range, with a certain feature or use any of the other available criteria. The radius search feature is great if…

  • 35 Riverwalk Way, Unit 105, Lowell, MA 01854 (MLS # 71331266)

    Massachusetts Realtor
    28 Jan 2012 | 9:35 am
     Loft Style Condo  |  1 Bath  |  1 Bedroom  |  960 sqft  |  for sale  $160,000  |  MLS 71331266 35 Riverwalk Way, Unit 105 a loft style unit located in Lowell Massachusetts in Renaissance on the River.  Renaissance on the River is a two building, historic restoration completed in 2006, running along Riverwalk Way and Lawrence Drive.  Located along the Merrimack River at the old Lawrence Mills site, consisting of 153 loft style units 35 Riverwalk Way, Unit 105  a stunning loft style unit.  Soaring ceilings and five massive floor to ceiling windows leave this loft unit splashed…

  • Showing Your Home- Is your agent hindering showings?

    Massachusetts Realtor
    21 Jan 2012 | 1:29 pm
    Showing your home leads to offers.  I think that it goes without saying, that in most cases, the more showings you receive on your home the more likely you are to receive an offer. With that said, I write this post out of a little frustration.  Last Saturday, I tried to schedule 7 showings in Haverhill, Massachusetts.  It was like pulling teeth to schedule the showings.  I had to contact the listing agents directly on 5 of the homes and 2 I contacted had to contact the agency.  The 2 agency showings went relatively smoothly, where the other showings that had to be arranged directly with…
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    Active Website Enterprise Network Blog

  • Milestone Goes LIVE with Redesigned Site

    Amanda Stephan
    3 Feb 2012 | 5:45 pm
    We’re happy to announce that Milestone Realty Consultants has launched their redesigned site on The Enterprise Platform. Representing Kentucky houses, Milestone has been a pillar of the Central Kentucky region since 1959. In order to better serve their local community, Milestone kept the needs of the customer at the forefront of their redesign. Creating a more positive experience with their site, Milestone made several enhancements including: prominent placement of important call to actions on their homepage photo slideshow, multiple tabs to showcase Just Listed and Newly Priced properties,…

  • Real Estate Comes to Pinterest

    Amanda Stephan
    27 Jan 2012 | 1:41 pm
    (Tweet this article!) If you haven’t heard of Pinterest by now, I HIGHLY recommend checking out this new site that allows you to make virtual pinboards of items you find interesting – from recipes to crafts to fashion and more. I’ve been a member of Pinterest for several months now, and besides the fact that I’m sleep deprived from spending all night pinning my favorite items and browsing other’s boards for my next project idea (seriously, it’s my latest online addiction), I think this platform provides a unique opportunity to the Real Estate Industry. Pinterest and real estate…

  • Network Mobile Traffic Is Double Internet Average

    dyanagutierrez
    26 Jan 2012 | 11:27 am
    (Tweet this article!) Last week, we released our mobile Individual Property Websites (IPWs) and as a follow up, we want to discuss why we felt there was a need to release these mobile IPWs now.  As we all know, the usage of mobile is continuing to grow as more and more Americans are adopting Smartphones – which in turn is generating more mobile traffic to the internet and your website. In a report released last October by comScore entitled Digital Omnivores: How Tablets, Smartphones and Connected Devices are Changing U.S. Digital Media Consumption Habits, they found that 6.8% of all…

  • Mobile IPW’s Now Available for Network Members!

    Amanda Stephan
    19 Jan 2012 | 5:22 pm
    (Tweet this Article!) We’re pleased to announce that mobile-enabled Individual Property Websites (IPWs) are now available on The Enterprise Platform! With over 53 million SmartPhones in use in the United States, having your website enhanced for mobile viewing is important in order to provide potential buyers with detailed property information on-the-go. Designed with usability in mind, our mobile IPWs give customers the ability to navigate a property website with ease anytime, anywhere. Customers will be able to scan a QR code or enter the property’s URL on their mobile device to…

  • Training Your Agents in 2012

    dyanagutierrez
    18 Jan 2012 | 2:06 pm
    (Tweet This Article!) Looking back at 2011, we saw huge advancements when it came to search functionality, lead tracking technology, website development and social integration – just to name a few. These innovative tools were developed as a result of the modern consumer’s expectations. Today’s real estate customer is more tech-savvy and has access to a plethora of information online – and they expect their agents to be more knowledgeable as well. Preparing your agents for these inevitable changes is crucial to your future success as a highly-regarded brokerage. With technology…
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    International Real Property Exchange

  • Italian Inspired Home @ Portofino, Alabang

    Buy Philippine Homes
    23 Jan 2012 | 3:23 am
    Property Details:Address: Portofino Heights, Alabang Daanghari roadPrice: Php 35,000,000Category: House and LotYear Built: 2008House Size: 605Lot Size: 507Bedrooms: 8Bathrooms: 8Property Description:Brittany’s Portofino takes center stage as the most luxurious residential estate in the Uptown section of Evia. Portofino, named after a seaport town in Southern Italy that means ‘fine gateway,’ is a vast 300-hectare European-inspired community, located only minutes from Alabang Town Center, along Daang Hari. It is a fitting landmark community in the gateway to ‘the new south’ –…

  • The CIPS Institute COMES to MANILA, PHILIPPINES

    Buy Philippine Homes
    26 Dec 2011 | 4:46 pm
    In cooperation with the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® (NAR), the largest trade association of real estate agents in the USA, we are proud to offer the Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS), a well renowned training for international real estate transactions. The five-day curriculum will provide all participants full interactive participation, working groups, learn how to solve case studies, and most especially learn how to package and market yourself for global exposure!FOUR (4) MORE COMPELLING REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND THE CIPS COURSE AND OBTAIN CIPS DESIGNATION:Be the…

  • Ten Ways to Prepare for Home Ownership

    Buy Philippine Homes
    21 Dec 2011 | 8:00 am
    Decide what you can afford. Generally, you can afford a home equal in value to between two and three times your gross income.Develop your home wish list. Then, prioritize the features on your list.Select where you want to live. Compile a list of three or four neighborhoods you’d like to live in, taking into account items such as schools, recreational facilities, area expansion plans, and safety.Start saving. Do you have enough money saved to qualify for a mortgage and cover your down payment? Ideally, you should have 20 percent of the purchase price saved as a down payment. Also, don’t…

  • House And Lot @ Shangrila Village, Baguio City

    Buy Philippine Homes
    12 Dec 2011 | 10:39 am
    Property Details:Address: Shangrila Village, Baguio CityPrice: Php 12,900,000Category: House and LotYear Built: 2008House Size: 310Lot Size: 354Bedrooms: 4Bathrooms: 3Property Description:Where the cool, fresh air and mountain vistas of Baguio is within reach...witness the dramatic cloud as it envelopes your very own backyard and enjoy a "Relaxing Baguio!" everyday...Home Features:kitchen with granite countertops and backsplashbreakfast bar with glass tilescathedral ceilings with crown mouldings throughouthuge master bedroom with walk-in closetcozy family roomgranite and hardwood floors…

  • Panagbenga 2012 Schedule Of Traditional Activities

    Buy Philippine Homes
    18 Nov 2011 | 12:39 pm
    The major annual festival in Baguio City has been officially declared open last November 14, 2011. Panagbenga 2012, formerly known as the "Baguio Flower Festival" is in its 17th season with the theme "Community Convergence for a Sustainable Tourism Growth is expected to attract thousands of spectators as well as tourists as it did in the past celebrations. Baguio City is now gearing up for the events and the secretariat has released recently the schedule of traditional activities. Panagbenga is a "Kankanaey term for “a season of blooming”.Panagbenga 2012 Major Highlights Panagbenga…
 
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    Austin Real Estate Secrets

  • Top 10 Things You Should Know Before Buying Your Home

    Tim Thornton, Greater Austin Area Realtor® ZipRealty, inc.
    5 Feb 2012 | 12:21 pm
    Whether you are buying your first home or this is your third or fourth home, you probably don't do what I do 65 hours a week--working Real Estate transactions and numbers. New homes or resell--there are huge advantages to having a Realtor working for you (for free to you!). What a Realtor knows and how a Realtor negotiates a transaction for his client, is very different from buying a new car or other large dollars negotiation. Realtors are using unpublished information and relationships to work through the best possible deals for their clients--even on new home transactions. Especially on new…

  • How To Buy A Foreclosure in Austin or Anywhere

    Tim Thornton, Greater Austin Area Realtor® ZipRealty, inc.
    30 Jan 2012 | 9:36 am
    There are certain assumptions that often go along with the purchase of foreclosure properties. The most common assumption is that banks are happy to receive virtually any offer on a foreclosure--especially a cash offer.  But this is not how banks look at their assets. Banks have no emotional investment in a property. It is just a non-cash asset to them. Furthermore, banks are looking at their bottom line, first and foremost. When a bank gets an offer on a foreclosure property, they are doing what any seller would do--looking at how much is due on the loan vs how much the offer price is…

  • Can you Recommend a Good Realtor in Austin?

    Tim Thornton, Greater Austin Area Realtor® ZipRealty, inc.
    24 Jan 2012 | 10:55 pm
    This week I ran into a friend/past client that I have not seen in almost 3 years since I sold one of his homes. He said to me "I have been thinking about you this week. I need to give your name to a friend who is selling his house." It is very interesting because this person had been referred to me by another client and friend after I listed and sold her house and another neighbor's house. In a very short period of months I had been referred to three neighbors and sold all three of their homes. And now, those clients are referring me to their friends and neighbors. More than a few of past…

  • Austin Real Estate Inventory is Low Low Low! Time to Sell!

    Tim Thornton, Greater Austin Area Realtor® ZipRealty, inc.
    23 Jan 2012 | 12:27 pm
    Do you know how low the Austin Real Estate inventory levels are right now? Low. Low. Low. Translation: It's a seller's market and it's time to put your home on the market. Right now. Let's Talk this week! about what your home is worth where you live! Here is detailed information on some key communities in Austin where I focus the majority of my time and resources: Steiner Ranch/River Place/Westminster Glen:(77) Homes For Sale (30) Pending contracts (60) Sold - past 90 days Estimated 3 months of inventory Westlake area:(65) Homes For Sale (13) Pending contracts (39) Sold - past 90 days…

  • Happy Chinese New Year!

    Tim Thornton, Greater Austin Area Realtor® ZipRealty, inc.
    22 Jan 2012 | 12:00 am
    Chinese New Year is one of the most important days in the Asian Calendar. Based on the Lunar Calendar, Chinese New Year is a lot like our Thanksgiving tradition--a celebration of family ties and great food. To my family in Taiwan, my friends in Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Thailand and South East Asia and to my friends here in Austin celebrating the Lunar New Year-- I wish you a very Happy New Year! Tim Thornton, Realtor ®, Austin, Texas.
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    RealtyBizNews: Real Estate News & More

  • California Hotels: A Market In Discomfort

    Mike Wheatley
    8 Feb 2012 | 8:22 am
    The hospitality sector is a market many overlook as an overall indicator economy wise. By way of illustration, the rise in hotel foreclosures in California last year mirrored the state’s overall situation. According to this report from the LA Times, hoteliers across the state went out of business at a rate that was 66% greater than the year before. Think how many jobs this cost, how many homes and livelihoods were tied to those hotels. The situation is growing more and more uncomfortable. The White Swan Inn - Another Atlas listing in San Francisco Face it, when a 330 plus room Hilton…

  • Low Appraisals Continue to Hurt Real Estate Sales

    Mike Wheatley
    8 Feb 2012 | 3:32 am
    Thousands of real estate deals up and down the country continue to called off due to low appraisals which come in lower than the previously agreed-upon sales price, new surveys have revealed. Low appraisals continue to harm housing sales © Olivier - Fotolia.com Last December, almost one third of professionals in the real estate industry reported experiencing a contract fall through following a low appraisal, a 9% rise from one year before. Low appraisals, together with mortgage application denials, have been identified by numerous housing industry groups as the biggest reason for…

  • How To Write “Subject-To” Offers

    Donna Robinson
    8 Feb 2012 | 2:56 am
    A “subject-to” offer simply means that the buyer is willing to purchase a piece of property “subject-to” some specific circumstance. Usually that circumstance will be the sellers existing mortgage. It can also be a variety of other things. Image courtesy of Rubin 110 via Flickr.com One of the most common “subject-to” clauses in real estate contracts is “subject-to” buyers inspection. But for real estate investors, the most common use of the term “subject-to” is in relation to purchasing a property “subject-to” the sellers…

  • Beat the Competition to Foreclosed Homes

    Mike Wheatley
    7 Feb 2012 | 7:20 am
    Although we might be awash with foreclosed homes at the moment, the best of these properties aren’t always so easy for buyers to get their hands on. One of the main problems is that foreclosures are available at such big discounts – perhaps as much as 35% less than the market rate – meaning that investors with cash in hand are often able to trump the rest of us. Tips for winning the foreclosure race. Image courtesy Duffy via Flickr.com Still, those buyers who do see a foreclosed home for sale that they absolutely have to have, all is not lost. The following tips will give them a great…

  • Looking Forward to the Spring Sales

    Mike Wheatley
    7 Feb 2012 | 6:46 am
    Traditionally in real estate, the spring season is the time of year that things begin to hot up, with big increases in the number of homes being bought and sold. Experts are hopeful that this year’s spring could well be one of the best we have seen in quite a while. Dreaming of a better spring... How will home sales fare this year? © Pavel Losevsky - Fotolia.com There are a number of signs pointing to a positive spring in 2012: housing affordability is at a record high level, mortgage rates are super-low, inventories are in decline, and finally, the unemployment situation seems to be…
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    Latest news and deals on Property, Land and Solar Investments

  • Where Will Solar Power be in 5 Years?

    gilliancook
    5 Feb 2012 | 12:48 pm
    For users of solar energy the long-term benefits of installation are evident, although developments in the near future are less clear. The reduction in development costs has already led to greater accessibility for users, but government feed-in tariffs are set to be reduced by half if installation occurs after December 2011, and this means future users will face a reduced return on what that they can feed back in the system, reducing their potential savings. Feed-in tariffs, the amount that users can expect to earn for contributing to the national grid, are now much reduced and this is…

  • Unique UK Property Investment Opportunity – Secure Exit Strategy

    admin
    18 Jan 2012 | 1:59 pm
    Secure Exit Strategy™ Do you want keys to a property or to just make profit from property? It’s a fundamental question which many property investors forget to ask themselves at square one. If it’s a simple return on investment that you seek, Investor Square would like to introduce the Secure Exit Strategy™ (SES), which delivers high returns without risk or even the need to own a property: minimum returns from 20% annualised over a maximum 3 year term your investment capital is protected by insurance bond your investment returns are protected by corporate guarantee the transaction is…

  • Clean Coal Energy Production Investment

    admin
    14 Jan 2012 | 6:46 pm
    The threat of Global Warming increases over the years. Today researchers are continuing their efforts to explore ways to help prevent our extremely sensitive ecosystem from becoming off balance. We are looking at a future of terrible storms, colder winters, and our deserts becoming terribly dry. We need solutions. Yes renewable energy, such as wind and solar energy are the future of green energy production, but let’s also take a look at a green alternative energy, clean coal. Clean Coal Technology is any technology that aims to reduce the environmental impact of coal energy generation. It…

  • Plan of Action to Make Money via Investing in Rental Property

    admin
    4 Jan 2012 | 12:49 pm
    How many of you would like to get rich and retire young? Well, all I guess. Real estate is a profitable business, which can help you hit this target. However, like any other investment, investing in rental property involves a certain amount of risk. Nevertheless, if you stay cautious and follow some strategic plans, you can be sure that your investment is in safe hands. Read ahead, to know how investing in a rental property can help you make money. Locate a property in your residential area   Remember, time is money so, the closer it is, the better. Buying an investment property near to…

  • Why Invest in Edinburgh? UK Property Investment

    admin
    20 Dec 2011 | 2:37 pm
    Due to increasing amount of demand in residential property, the UK has become well known as a secure and fast based property in vestment market. One of the recent hot-spots for savvy eyed property investors, is the city of Edinburgh in Scotland. It is a tremoundously beautiful and historic city, with so many unique and stunning monumental features and has an outstanding amount of national heritage. It has lead to increase in property investment. But why? Capital City Well for a starter its the capital of Scotland, and is also known as the engine of the Scottish economy. Culture There is a…
 
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    Calgary Real Estate

  • Mortgage Rates – 5th Week of 2012

    8 Feb 2012 | 4:13 am
    Source: RateSuperMarket.ca After the Bank of Montreal (BMO) offered a five-year fixed rate of 2.99 per cent, the lowest five-year rate in modern Canadian history, this week’s rate grew and the lowest five-year mortgage was offered by Dominion Lending Centres. BMO has recently earned an award for the 2011 Mortgage of the Year from Canadian Mortgage Trends. Their mortgage product offered the best innovation, flexibility, and savings for homeowners across Canada. “We developed the low-rate mortgage because customers were telling us that they wanted to become mortgage-free faster, pay less in…

  • Calgary and Alberta Real Estate Market in 2011

    30 Jan 2012 | 5:50 am
    Calgary by Kevin Saff 2011 started with a few signals of improvement in real estate market. The condo market, which was impeded and stagnating at its bottom a year ago, began to pop back up, mainly thanks to a planned University City project at the Brentwood Village Shopping Centre. However, the market still followed its weak trend. Two months later, the city’s future development became clearer. First and Second Quarter: Recovering In March, the Conference Board of Canada predicted that Calgary, driven by the energy sector, would be among top five cities for growth in gross domestic product…

  • Mortgage Rates – 3rd Week of 2012

    27 Jan 2012 | 6:03 am
    Prime and Qualifying Rate 3rd week of 2012 Source: RateSuperMarket.ca The Bank of Canada left its overnight rate target of 1 per cent unchanged for the 16th consecutive month. Mark Carney, BoC governor, said that although interest rates remain unaltered, the Bank is aware that their decision could cause additional household debt. He believes that continued low interest rates will offset global economic uncertainty and lead to a strong housing market and increased consumer spending. “Household expenditures are expected to remain high relative to GDP (gross domestic product) and the ratio of…

  • Investment Tip of the Week – 106 – 635 57 Avenue SW

    26 Jan 2012 | 5:44 am
    106 635 57 Avenue SW INVESTORS ALERT THE BELGRAVIA BUILDING. This is the deal of the year so far and the best price in Windsor Park. Across from Chinook Mall, this 500 sq.ft 1 bedroom apartment is a steal at this price! Condo fee is only $206 and building is managed by a professional management company. Potential rent is $800. At 2.99%, monthly mortgage payment is $480. Great for first time home buyers as well – why pay rent? Very good price, fantastic neibourhood, needs some work, one bed room apartment. Close to Chinook Mall. Property will be sold “as is where is with no warranties or…

  • Renting vs. Buying: What to Choose?

    19 Jan 2012 | 9:49 am
    Calgary Neighborhood by Justin Scott Campbell Buying own home – who doesn’t dream about that? However, after financial crisis more and more people reconsider their dreams and realize that renting has advantages that are worth of giving up the own-home-dream at least temporarily. “With the tight credit market and stricter downpayment requirements, rent-to-own has emerged as a trend for people who otherwise would be home buyers,” said Eric Mangan for Forbes, spokesman for ForSaleByOwner.com, a real estate listing company. No Investment General belief that buying real estate will be…
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