Thursday, December 31, 2009
Happy New Year!
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Real Estate, It’s not as hard as it looks
For forty years now I have watched the ongoing cycle of this business of thousands of people each year going into real estate while the same number leave the industry having failed or not liking it. In many cases the process damages these well meaning individuals financially and emotionally in significant and sad ways. Granted many were not suited for our industry or prepared for the realities of it but so many could have made it if pointed in the right direction earlier.
My belief is that we do not imprint new people properly. We actually tell them how tough this is and that they should be prepared not to make any money for a long time then allow them to sit and get ready for months when they could have been doing something to make money from minute one. Proper imprinting starts from the big picture first by telling a new agent what the point of all this is and what their real job description is.
Let me illustrate. In my coaching of new agents I try to get to see two things from day one. First, the point of a twenty year career in real estate is to end up wealthy with equities and residual income. From the days of John Jacob Astor we learn that most all wealthy people became so by investing in real estate. We therefore are working in the commodity of wealth! You get that? When we list and sell we are working for tips while someone else gets the meal. See from day one that you should see our profession as a means to learn to see good investments and to buy, sell, develop, manage real estate as soon as you can get the money to do so. We can get rich selling real estate we get wealthy owning it.
Second. Your job description is and I make them memorize this is, “Hello my name is Bob, I am a Realtor, I help people invest in Real Estate. Now when at a party or meeting people that is what you say. So where do I get leads? Put on a suit, get a chair and sit in the middle of your local mall with those words painted on a sign. Sit there for twenty minutes not saying a word just smile. Soon you will have a small line of people asking you questions, I guarantee it. One girl I trained I told her to get 15 business card each morning and leave home. Give all fifteen cards away during the day and say those words. Within two weeks she had three buyers and one listing. Stop being a “secret agent” and start telling folks who you are and what you do, the commodity will take care of the rest.
So could it be that easy? My belief is yes it could. Please know that you must take the time and energy to learn our business but at the end of everyday it is your job to get out there and get leads and that is not as hard as it looks.
Info on Home Buyers Tax Credit
Check out http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=206291,00.html for FAQ about the tax credits available.
thx,
"I Am Building a Company, By Design, that Honors Success & Productivity."
For a short video on what is EXIT, go to www.ExitRealty.com and click "Up Close and Personal with EXIT"
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Check out the latest from NAR
HouseLogic, NAR’s new consumer Web site, offers everything home owners need to increase, maintain and protect the value of their home. The site provides free information and tools to help home owners with home improvements, maintenance projects, taxes, finances, insurance, and even community involvement. HouseLogic helps consumers make confident decisions about what is often their largest investment – their home.
thx,
"I Am Building a Company, By Design, that Honors Success & Productivity."
For a short video on what is EXIT, go to www.ExitRealty.com and click "Up Close and Personal with EXIT"
Monday, December 14, 2009
FREE ICE SKATING at Pleasant Valley Christmas
FREE event for the entire family, including outdoor ice skating & carriage rides. YES....ICE SKATING! There will be an ice rink built on the parking lot. Skates will be provided! I invite you and your family to this exciting event this weekend, December 18th - 21st. See the attached flyer for details.
thx,
"I Am Building a Company, By Design, that Honors Success & Productivity."
For a short video on what is EXIT, go to www.ExitRealty.com and click "Up Close and Personal with EXIT"
Friday, December 11, 2009
If You Don't Buy a House Now, You're Stupid or Broke
Have you read this article yet? It was featured in Business Week. To the point! The writer, Mark Roth, uses this title to get your attention to make excellent points for those who are on the fence. Namely, that interest rates are at an all time low, in fact, the lowest in 40 years. He noted that in the late 70s, rates hit a high of 18%! Can you even imagine buying a house at 18%? Generation X'ers probably would never dream of purchasing a home above 7% given all they have ever known are super low rates hovering between 5-6%. Mr. Roth points out the history of previous interest rates as well as the impact of rates on one's purchasing power. I happen to agree with his prediction that as the economy becomes more stable, interest rates WILL rise to hedge inflation. Predictions suggest that by this time next year, rates will have risen 1-2% at a minimum. For a typical Pulaski county home priced at $200,000, current mortgage would be around $1073. Next year? $1330. That is a 25% increase in your monthly principal payment! That is IF the price remains the same. Odds are prices of homes will continue to increase as well. Today’s $200,000 may cost you $205,000-$210,000 this time next year.
Get the picture! Reports suggest that 50% of the real estate transactions this year were first time home buyers taking advantage of the $8000 tax credit. The government is giving you FREE money in order to motivate you to make an investment in homeownership which has proven over time it is the best long term investment around. Now, current homeowners can also get FREE money…up to $6500 for buying their next home! Can I get an AMEN from the congregation?
Some buyers may be on the fence because they fear prices may drop further. All the economic statistics say we have reached bottom and can go nowhere but up from here. Pulaski County prices have remained fairly constant with moderate increases this year (2-3%). Next Years forecast - You spend more money per month plus at the higher interest rate, you pay more interest over the life of the loan, and you pay a higher price for the home. Real estate appreciation is always a cycle and as the economy stabilizes, values will level out.
Mark Roth summed up the article, "What I'm trying to impress upon everyone is that if you are planning on being a homeowner now and/or in the foreseeable future, or if you are looking to move your family into a bigger home, then pay more attention to the interest rates than the price of the home. If you have a steady job, good credit, and the down payment, then you really are being offered the gift of a lifetime."
EXIT Realty Deaton Group is here to help with this huge, yet extremely important, decision. If you are currently renting or considering purchasing a home and would like a FREE consultation, lets sit down and weigh your options. It’s the perfect storm – low interest rates, lower home prices, high inventory to choose from, and OH YEAH…the government is giving you up to $8000! Do I hear another AMEN!
thx,
"I Am Building a Company, By Design, that Honors Success & Productivity."
For a short video on what is EXIT, go to www.ExitRealty.com and click "Up Close and Personal with EXIT"
EXIT Realty Deaton Announces Preferred Partner of the Year Award
EXIT Realty Deaton Group’s 2009 Preferred Partner of the Year award was presented to All American Title & Abstract of Little Rock. “Michelle Howard and her team have been wonderful to our clients and to our team of REALTORS over the past 3 years. I am proud to have them as a partner, “ stated Scott Deaton, Broker/Owner of EXIT Realty Deaton Group. This award is handed out annually to a service provider who consistently supports the clients of EXIT Realty Deaton Group with exceptional service.
Congratulations Michelle Howard and the team at All American Title & Abstract.
Needing title services? Contact All American at 501-954-9600.
thx,
"I Am Building a Company, By Design, that Honors Success & Productivity."
For a short video on what is EXIT, go to www.ExitRealty.com and click "Up Close and Personal with EXIT"
Thursday, December 10, 2009
2009 Production Growth Continues for EXIT Realty Deaton Group
EXIT Realty Deaton Group held its annual Christmas event to recognize its agent's success during 2009 on December 4th. Highlighting the event was the announcement that EXIT Realty Deaton Group experienced a 33% increase in production volume YTD for 2009 compared to YTD 2008.
"This continued increase in our agent's success is directly attributed to the training and tools provided to all of our agents through EXIT Realty," states Scott Deaton, Broker/Owner of Little Rock's EXIT Realty Deaton Group. "Our office environment, one-on-one mentoring, professionalism of our agents, and the skills they develop through EXIT's Career Development plan enable our agents to provide exceptional service to our clients. Nationally, during 2008 & 2009, the housing market has been the slowest in many, many years. We are extremely excited about having 30% plus production growth for both of these years! Our agents are the reason,” continues Deaton.
thx,
"I Am Building a Company, By Design, that Honors Success & Productivity."
For a short video on what is EXIT, go to www.ExitRealty.com and click "Up Close and Personal with EXIT"
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Little Rock Ranked 6th on 'Most-Livable Bargain Markets List'
See complete article at LR Ranked 6th on 'Most-Livable Bargain Markets List'. Know someone looking to live in our ‘most livable’ area? Please let me know.
thx,
"I Am Building a Company, By Design, that Honors Success & Productivity."
For a short video on what is EXIT, go to www.ExitRealty.com and click "Up Close and Personal with EXIT"
Local EXIT REALTORS Collect Food for Charity
295 Pounds of Food Collected
Little Rock, Arkansas (Grassroots Newswire) December 9, 2009 -- EXIT Realty Deaton Group REALTORS collect food for local charities.
Jason Machetta, Tamara Miller, and Lindsay Carter-Vick decided to go out and make a difference in their community by doing periodical food drives to collect food for local charities who provide necessary food for those in need. Local charities such as the Arkansas Food Bank will benefit from the drives.
Their first drive was held at the end of November where the trio collected 295 pounds of dry and canned goods by going door-to-door in surrounding Central Arkansas communities. “We did this for the individuals in the community that have no opportunities to donate,” said Tamara Miller. "We wanted to bring it to their front door to make it easier for participation," Jason Machetta adds.
Scott Deaton, Broker/Owner of EXIT Realty Deaton Group commented, "this is an excellent way for our agents to provide a service to our local communities beyond assisting with their real estate needs. We support our communities, because our communities support us." Lindsay Carter-Vick states, "This is a way for EXIT Realty Deaton Group to give back to our community." The trio of REALTORS, along with other agents from the Little Rock EXIT office, are planning the food drives on a quarterly basis.
For more information about EXIT Realty Deaton Group, please call 501-221-3948. EXIT Realty Deaton Group is located at 11300 Financial Centre Parkway, Suite 910, Little Rock, Arkansas. Additional information is also available at www.WeAreExit.com and www.ExitRealty.com.
EXIT Realty Deaton Group announces Team Leggett as Rookie of the Year 2009
Congratulations Mark & Lisa!
thx,
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Vote for the most Recognizeable Real Estate Brands
EXIT – the most recognized word in the world is now synonymous with Real Estate
From Stefan Swanepoel: “Which is The Top 10 Recognizable Real Estate Franchise Brands in the nation?
Six months ago I wrote posted a blog on ActiveRain about The Changing Face of Real Estate Franchise Brands that garnished a lot of attention because I dared to compare and even more list in order the top 10 franchise brands in my opinion.
Then last month I posted another blog on ActiveRain Merge Creates One of the Largest Real Estate Franchises in Northern America exploded with over 155 comments as the debate continued about brands when a significant number of agents had never even heard of the brands mentioned.
Well now I have created an opportunity to see what the industry really thinks.
Starting today and until Friday, December 11th, everyone has the opportunity to grade the top 35 real estate franchise brands on a scale on 0 – 5; starting from “Never heard of the brand” all the way up to “Excellent brand.” Base your vote on your experience of the brands visibility, awareness and impact in your local market.
There have been various studies reporting who is the largest, has the most agents, does the most transactions, etc. Now we will determine the Top 10 real estate franchise brands as voted by the industry itself.”
thx,
"I Am Building a Company, By Design, that Honors Success & Productivity."
For a short video on what is EXIT, go to www.ExitRealty.com and click "Up Close and Personal with EXIT"
FREE Public Webinar Today
Real Estate - Real Answers. Join Tami Bonnell, President of the US Organization of EXIT Realty Corp. International, for an informative, live webinar addressing the most common issues concerning you, the buying and selling public, as you weather today's stormy real estate market. If you're thinking of buying, selling or investing in real estate, you owe it to yourself to get the facts from a veteran real estate expert. The December session marks the last in the 2009 series. Watch for information regarding 2010 webinars. No obligation. No baloney. No sales pitch. Just straight talk.
Click on your preferred time to register:
Tue, Dec 8, 2009 4:00 PM - 4:30 PM EST Tue, Dec 8, 2009 7:00 PM - 7:30 PM EST
thx,
"I Am Building a Company, By Design, that Honors Success & Productivity."
For a short video on what is EXIT, go to www.ExitRealty.com and click "Up Close and Personal with EXIT"
EXIT Realty Deaton Group Announces Team EXIT as Agent of the Year 2009
EXIT REALTY DEATON GROUP
Scott@ExitRealtyDeatonGroup.com
Monday, December 7, 2009
Little Rock #2 Best Bang for the buck in nation.
See the full report at…..
America's Best Bang-For-The-Buck Cities - Forbes.com
www.forbes.com
Solid housing markets, relatively stable employment, enviable cost of living and quick commutes make these metros among the country's most affordable to live.
thx,
"I Am Building a Company, By Design, that Honors Success & Productivity."
For a short video on what is EXIT, go to www.ExitRealty.com and click "Up Close and Personal with EXIT"
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Housing market up!
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Why the Holidays are a Great Time to list your home!
Bad decision! Let's discuss some of the reasons why now is a great time to have your home on the market.
1. If most sellers don't feel this is the best time, then that means that the competition for homes is lowest during this time of the year. Less home for sale. Less competition amongst neighboring houses could mean a quicker sale with a better net proceed to the sellers. High demand, Low Supply = More $ and Quicker Sale.
2. There are ALWAYS buyers in the market, and the buyers this time of year are SERIOUS buyers. They want to make a decision and start brand new as close to January 1 as possible.
3. These buyers could also capitalize on the tax benefits by closing by years end. Don't want to miss a freebie from Uncle Sam!
4. Now with the the extended and expanded US Tax credit, sellers must sell their current home and purchase a new home by April 30, 2010. That is only 5 months away. If your market has a 6 month inventory of supply, then you have already missed the opportunity to get up to $6500 back from the government on your next purchase. But if you are willing to list your home slightly below market, or your market has a 2-4 month inventory level, then your home needs to be on the market now so it sells within the next 3-4 months, and make sure we find your next hime by April 30, 2010. Everyone's happy!
5. Don't wait until the spring market. See #1. Competition for homes increases drastically during the spring market (April - June). Could cost you net proceeds and a longer market time. Your home on the market now can be sold before the others ever make it to the market.
Sellers, if you are considering a move, don't hesitate to put your home on the market during the last months (October - December) and the first months (January - March) of the calendar year. There are definite, proven advantages to selling during these times. Talk to your professional REALTOR about this opportunity today.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Local EXIT Agent Runs for Office
“The county has a history of spending money negligently on things that we can’t afford, while short-changing the jail and public safety,” said Mark Leggett in his press release. “I will work to fix the jail problem so that criminals are not back out on the street before our law enforcement officers get done with the paper work.”
“We are in a recession with high levels of unemployment and unfortunately some people (county employees, private sector alike) cannot be afforded a payraise,” Leggett tells the Tolbert Report. “While some departments might warrant raises, I cannot see how every department does – especially on the heels of a 4% one-time bonus just passed.”
We are proud of you, Mark! Good Luck!