Archives of real estate blog entries for May 01, 2010

Featured blog posts


By Brad Andersohn, ActiveBrad - 707.646.1876
(Retired Executive Director of Education at eXp)
So by now, most or ALL of you have heard of ActiveRain University.  Our newest project with a focus to bring even greater value to ActiveRain members and to the Real Estate Industry as a whole.  Our goal and mission at ARU is to provide you FREE training and support on a variety of topics and technologies that will help you with your online marketing, networking, social media efforts, and growing your business.  It's all about sharing and learning how and what other successful professionals are using and doing to be successful. This week, Jared James is coming to share "How To Systematize Your Business" Jared James is the CEO & Founder of Jared James Enterprises.  He travels around the country speaking to and coaching REALTORS. As a REALTOR®, he's built one of the largest and fastest gr...
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By Claudette Millette, Buyer, Broker - Metrowest Mass
(The Buyers' Counsel)
Was the Home Buyer Tax Credit Really a Help or Just Hype?   Now that the drop dead date of April 30 has come and gone we can look at the government's home buyer tax credit through a different set of eyes. I don't know how this program played out with most Realtors® but I really had very few people who were driven by it or that actually took advantage of it.  It was more a question of, "If it happens fine - if it doesn't that's fine, as well."  As a home buyer, if you did not have a home under contract by yesterday, you stood to lose an either $8,000 tax credit if you were a first time home buyer or a $6,500 credit if you were an existing buyer.  Some people will be distressed by having missed this chance. However, there is another way to view this.  There is a strong possibility that th...
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Blog posts


By William True, Sarasota Real Estate
(True Sarasota Real Estate)
  At this point it's May 1st and too late any buyers who were hoping to take advantage of the tax credit, but either couldn't find what they were looking for or waited until the last minute and ran out of time! For those who were able to meet the deadline this time around, congrats! I don't think the federal government will offer another extension or program at this point. Sarasota Real Estate   For more info: www.KammieQuinonesRealEstate.com
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By R. Bruce Lynn, Broker Associate and Your Realtor
(Keller Williams Realty-DFW Preferred)
Located just on the edge of Las Colinas in Irving is the small townhome community of The Villas of Cottonwood Creek.  I have sold in this neighborhood for years now and have likely sold and leased more townhomes in this neighborhood than any other agent.  This is a neighborhood of approximately 200 townhomes on the streets of Corbeau, Rue de Ville, Champagne, Jardin, and Honfleur.  I've always said it is one of the best values in the Dallas area.   There are a couple of reasons I really like this community.   One is that the quality of construction seems very good.   Twin Oaks was the developer and is still building in the area.  Often builders show you the model which has all the nice upgrades, but when you are ready to purchase they give you the stripped down base price which is what ...
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By William True, Sarasota Real Estate
(True Sarasota Real Estate)
  While Facebook is a great way to keep in touch with friends, I think for educational and business purposes, Active Rain is a much better tool. The exception would be for promoters, bands , and party planners where Facebook is extremely effective. I use my Facebook account to keep in touch, but in real estate, I haven't found it all that helpful yet. Sarasota Real Estate   Since I haven't been able to log in to Play in the Rain, I've been working on my Russel Ray Photos web site and I joined Facebook. Interestingly, I joined Facebook as Russel Ray Photos, which was acceptable for about eight hours. Then they changed it to just Russel Ray. Ah, well, it was worth a shot. LOL I also upgraded to Internet Explore 8 and, surprisingly, was able to log in and do this blog post. Remains to be s...
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                               For more information, please contact: Aaron Rice 443-244-0051 aaron@baltimorehometeam.com Local Agent Provides Free Government Program Eligibility Surveys to Maryland Homeowners Facing Financial Hardships  Website presents information and answers questions on homeowner eligibility with new foreclosure avoidance resource. Baltimore, Maryland - May 1, 2010 - Local CDPE-designated agent and community advocate, Aaron Rice of Keller Williams Realty Baltimore has announced the expansion of an information website for Maryland-homeowners in distress: www.AaronRiceHelps.com This resource now contains eligibility surveys for government programs offering help to distressed homeowners, including the Home Affordable ...
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By William True, Sarasota Real Estate
(True Sarasota Real Estate)
  As a Sarasota real estate broker, all my agents are independent contractors. As insurance costs continue to spiral out of control, affordability issues are always of concern, especially for those with children. My hope is that when the new health insurance policies come into effect, the common man will still be able to afford insurance.   Providing private health insurance for a family can seem like an intimidating task. The cost of health insurance is one of the factors that can keep would-be entrepreneurs and small business owners from taking the plunge. First, there is the search for a healthcare provider. Next, comes all the cost considerations, from monthly premiums to co-pays. Providing health care for loved ones is a necessary obligation. The reality is that it only takes one h...
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By Neal Bloom, Realtor CRS-Weston FL Real Estate
(Brokered by eXp Realty LLC)
NEAL BLOOM | KELLER WILLIAMS PROPERTIES | (954)608-5556 701 SW 128TH AVE, Pembroke Pines, FL 1BR/1+1BA Condo offered at $35,000 Year Built 1987 Sq Footage 900 Bedrooms 1 Bathrooms 1 full, 1 partial Floors 4 Parking 1 Uncovered spaces Lot Size Unspecified HOA/Maint $333 per month DESCRIPTION 1BR 1.5BTH,HANDYMAN SPECIAL,LOCATED ON THE GOLFCOURSE,WASHER AND DRYER IN UNIT.GREAT LOCATION,PRICED RIGHT FOR A QUICK SALE see additional photos below PROPERTY FEATURES - Central A/C - Central heat - Walk-in closet - Living room - Dishwasher - Refrigerator - Stove/Oven - Laundry area - inside - Balcony, Deck, or Patio - Yard - Swimming pool COMMUNITY FEATURES - Guest parking - Clubhouse - Storage space(s) - Fitness center - Swimming pool(s) - Tennis court(s) - Golf course - Gated property - Secured...
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By Ginny Gorman, Homes for Sale in Southern RI and beyond
(RI Real Estate Services ~ 401-529-7849~ RI Waterfront Real Estate)
Why can't we green our houses up a bit more like the Passive House (passivhaus in german)? As a country we can't seem to lessen our dependency on oil for the auto but we could look at the constructs of building homes and adapt to a better energy efficient home building model. Maybe it's just me but I'm not seeing much in the way of true energy efficient homes being built...somehow we are losing something for the future now and you know we have an influence here as realtors.                                     What is a true Passive House- besides being green in energy efficiency...It has three requirements to meet:-it's orientation for solar capture-incredible insulation -airtight   THAT IS IT It reuses the heat it gives off which I can't technically explain but it's done mechanically p...
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By The Somers Team, Delivering Real Estate Happiness
(The Somers Team at KW Philadelphia)
2 OPEN HOUSES in Fishtown Sunday, May 2nd 1-3pm    1115 Marlborough Street Photo Gallery This beautiful 3 story Victorian Fishtown home with many original features and expertly updated throughout.  This customized remodel offers a perfect balance of contemporary taste. Some of it's outstanding and must see features include: recessed lighting Stunning decorative mantle and mirror combination Kitchen that is the heart of this home Laundry & ½ Bath near kitchen Garden Sanctuary Curved Staircase 3 bedroom suites Hardwood flooring Skylights Basement with antique cherry bar Central Air Conditioning Please stop by for the tour since you will want to admire all these beautiful features in person!  313 E Wildey Street Garage parking, 3 large bedrooms, a potential 4th bedroom for guests, and a co...
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By Fernando Herboso - Associate Broker MD, & VA, 301-246-0001 Serving Maryland, DC and Northern VA
(Maxus Realty Group of Samson Properties )
  Short Sales Maryland The Differences are very clear.. . Should you do a short sale or just let them foreclose on your property? It's your choice: The "Issue" Foreclosure Short Sale Facing "The Deficiency Judgment " A deficiency judgment is the difference of what the property sells for (plus expenses) and what you signed in the original loan. The bank has the right to pursue a deficiency judgment against you In a successfully short sale negotiation , a deficiency judgment can be removed when the Lender approves the short sale. Tip: In Maryland, a lender has up to three (3) years to pursue a deficiency judgment against  the homeowner. Short Sales: To read the complete series " Short Sales vs Foreclosure"  ← click here To find out more if a short sale is an option for you: (Click on the ...
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By Bill Foxworthy, Jill Turner, Real Estate - Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel
(Carpenter Northeast)
Server Errors explained!!         Friends, followers, and connections are the way of the future.   Make sure you check out some of our Facebook Fan Pages Too!
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By Lenn Harley, Real Estate Broker - Virginia & Maryland
(Lenn Harley, Homefinders.com, MD & VA Homes and Real Estate)
Just Popping in... Michael Thornton - Nashville, TN area Home Inspector (Complete Home Inspections, Inc.) Michael.  I wish I had a nickel for every time I've "just poppoed in" in the past week.  Has it been a week??  Facebook.... Hmmmm. Russel Ray, San Diego Marketing & Business Consultant & Photographer (Russel Ray) Russel.  Spend some time on Facebook and you'll appreciate the "user friendly" structure of ActiveRain.  I did. First Time Tax Credit Expired Today William True, Broker,ABRM,CIPS,CRB,CRS,GRI,RSPS (True Real Estate) William.  We had a bit of a crunch from buyers that didn't climb up on the fence until about a week ago.  Agents were rushed to write and get signatures from sellers.  If the listing agent didn't respond, it was all over.  Private Mortgage Insurance Basics Ki Gra...
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By Silvia Dukes PA, Broker Associate, CRS, CIPS, SRES, Florida Waterfront and Country Club Living
(Tropic Shores Realty - Ich spreche Deutsch!)
Just Sold:  Villa in Glen Lakes Golf and Country Club Community, Weeki Wachee, Florida Two bedrooms, two baths, den, spacious living room, a beautiful kitchen... and never been lived in.  This maintenance free villa in the Glen Lakes Golf and Country Club Community in Weeki Wachee, Florida, just sold for $120,000 as a REO property.  Although the first time homebuyers tax credit incentive expired on April 30th, there are still many good homes for sale that are offered at competitive prices in the Glen Lakes Golf and Country Club community and other golf course communities in the Spring Hill, Florida, area.  Whether you are interested in golf course living, foreclosure properties, or short sale opportunities, please contact me for more information.
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By Bill Foxworthy, Jill Turner, Real Estate - Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel
(Carpenter Northeast)
    41 North Linwood Avenue in Indianapolis $49,900 2 Bedrooms1 BathSq Ft: 1677 MLS# 21018160     Single Family Home  This spacious and beautiful bungalow has it all! Gorgeous updated kitchen with beautiful cabinets and flooring. The bath has also been updated. Original woodwork adds to the charm of this home. Built in cabinetry in the formal dining room. The rec/play room could easily be converted into a third bedroom. Entertain on the large wood deck or the glass enclosed front porch. Possibility of the two car garage being a workshop. A very large bungalow for the money. Come see come buy!     Features     List Date: 04/23/10 Lot Size: 40x136 Garage: Yes       Subdivision: Tuxedo Park School District: Indianapolis Public Schools Rooms: 7       Style: Bungalow Stories: 1 Level Approxi...
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By William True, Sarasota Real Estate
(True Sarasota Real Estate)
As a Sarasota real estate broker, all my agents are independent contractors. As insurance costs continue to spiral out of control, affordability issues are always of concern, especially for those with children. My hope is that when the new health insurance policies come into effect, the common man will still be able to afford insurance.Providing private health insurance for a family can seem like an intimidating task. The cost of health insurance is one of the factors that can keep would-be entrepreneurs and small business owners from taking the plunge. First, there is the search for a healthcare provider. Next, comes all the cost considerations, from monthly premiums to co-pays. Providing health care for loved ones is a necessary obligation. The reality is that it only takes one health...
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By The Somers Team, Delivering Real Estate Happiness
(The Somers Team at KW Philadelphia)
OPEN HOUSE:  Northern Liberties Sunday, May 2nd, 12:30-3:30 1027-31  N 4th Street, Unit L Photo Gallery Virtual Tour  Enter through the gated courtyard with communal brick patio outdoor space to your 1st floor private entrance. Unit has an open layout with a modern kitchen with cherry wood cabinets, pristine granite counters, stainless appliances and hardwood throughout. The living room has a romantic gas fireplace and there is a half bath off of the living room. Terrace overlooks the beautiful courtyard. The third floor has a spacious bedroom with skylight, slider glass door with Juliette Balcony, a full master bath, washer and dryer. There is a tax abatement along with low condo fees. Walking distance to the Piazza, Liberties Walk and many coffee shops, café's and restaurants.    Disc...
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By Bill Foxworthy, Jill Turner, Real Estate - Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel
(Carpenter Northeast)
    7163 Stubbington Ln in Mccordsville $151,987 4 Bedrooms2 BathsSq Ft: 2607 MLS# 21011834     www.pictureplanit.com/in/7163stubbington Single Family HomeMove-in ready & ready for YOU! Immaculate 4 BR 2.5 BA home in Mt. Vernon school district. Formal LR, warm FR, updated kit w/all appls. Bkfst room w/bay window steps out onto patio & deck area. Fully fenced lrg back yard. Office/den on main, sep laundry rm. Upstairs is host to master BR, master BA has sep shower, tub area & double sinks. Three addit'l BR's, walk-in closets, another full BA & a loft area complete this inviting home. Exclude washer, dryer & draperies. Challenges Comparison!!     Features     List Date: 03/10/10 Lot Size: 8712 Sq Ft Garage: Yes, 2CarAttach       Pool/Spa/Hot Tub: Yes, See Fee Include School District: Mt ...
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By Bill Foxworthy, Jill Turner, Real Estate - Indianapolis, Fishers, Carmel
(Carpenter Northeast)
http://www.pictureplanit.com/in/6222woodsedgedr     6222 N Woods Edge Drive in Mccordsville $162,900 3 Bedrooms2 BathsSq Ft: 2,009     Single Family Property Brick & vinyl ranch in McCordsville area. Three BRs, 2 full BAs, laundry, GR, eat-in kit & sunrm all on main flr. Secluded Mstr BR w/walk-in closet. Double sinks, separate tub & shower in MSTR BA. All stainless steel appls stay in open flr plan kit/eating area. Cath ceilings in GR, kit, sunroom. Lrg carpeted bonus room on second flr is perfect for game room/home theatre. All new shades/window coverings will remain with house. Neighborhood has comm pool, bath house, playground, basketball courts.     Features     Lot Size: 125x60 garage: 2 car garage Year Built: 2007       School District: Mt. Vernon Heating Features: Gas Fuel, Gas...
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By William True, Sarasota Real Estate
(True Sarasota Real Estate)
This age old argument has gone back and forth over the years without many concrete conclusions. For many Sarasota real estate agents, cooffee is the jet fuel they need to keep things going! Many are unable to function without their morning coffee. So in the long run, I think more people are drinking coffee for the caffeine than any alleged health benefits!Can drinking coffee help you live longer?  Maybe. A 2008 study found that women who drank coffee regularly -- up to six cups a day -- were less likely to die of various causes during the study than their non-coffee-drinking counterparts.  Coffee contains antioxidants.  While coffee drinkers may have other lifestyle habits that could explain the potential health benefits, researchers are also looking for compounds in coffee that explain...
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By 1~Judi Barrett, BS Ed, Integrity Real Estate Services -IDABEL OK
(Integrity Real Estate Services 116 SE AVE N, Idabel, OK 74745)
I've seen the comments, status updates, and tweets on Active Rain, Facebook, Twitter, etc about the frustration that everyone is feeling trying to log on to Active Rain, post blogs, read, and comment on others.  The fact is that the frustration speaks to what a great network Active Rain is.  Come on now, let's face it: if it were not such a great network, we would not be wanting to log on... if it were not such a great network, we would have found somewhere else to be... when you come to expect good things, and they are not there, you get frustrated but if you're on a site that is lousy, you don't expect much so ... You know how it is when you've found a really good restaurant that is consistently serving good food.  Your anticipation at visiting is always good.  Every time you go away ...
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By 1~Judi Barrett, BS Ed, Integrity Real Estate Services -IDABEL OK
(Integrity Real Estate Services 116 SE AVE N, Idabel, OK 74745)
I've seen the comments, status updates, and tweets on Active Rain, Facebook, Twitter, etc about the frustration that everyone is feeling trying to log on to Active Rain, post blogs, read, and comment on others.  The fact is that the frustration speaks to what a great network Active Rain is.  Come on now, let's face it: if it were not such a great network, we would not be wanting to log on... if it were not such a great network, we would have found somewhere else to be... when you come to expect good things, and they are not there, you get frustrated but if you're on a site that is lousy, you don't expect much so ... You know how it is when you've found a really good restaurant that is consistently serving good food.  Your anticipation at visiting is always good.  Every time you go away ...
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