Sandy Aichner's Lake Norman Blog

There IS a New Real Estate Transfer Tax in the ObamaCare Law

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 11:43:19 -0400

this is a great article. I had no idea!

Via Lane Bailey - REALTOR & Car Guy (Diamond Dwellings Realty):

Image via Wikipedia

One of the forums in which I participate has had stories on both sides of this issue for a couple of months… with the more conservative members saying that there is a 3.8% sales tax on the sale of homes, and those that are more supportive of the President and his policies saying that there isn’t.

Neither side was real specific about their information source… talk radio for some, blogs for others… nobody seemed to be going to the source… the 20,000+ page law signed by the President. In all fairness, there is a LOT of room in 20,000 pages to hide a lot of little Easter Eggs like this. And being fair to the other side, if there isn’t a tax, the bill isn’t going to say “there is not a tax” anywhere…

I have an answer…

There is indeed a tax on the sale of real estate. It doesn’t apply to many people, but it WILL apply to some people that have profit from the sale of their homes. Starting in 2013, those with incomes over $200,000 will have to pay a 3.8% tax on profit from the sale of their primary residence or investment properties. The exact amount will be based on a formula that includes the profit from the property and the income above $200,000. The tax is not an income tax, but rather it is a “payroll tax”… officially it is a Medicare Tax.

It does not just apply to real estate, but also applies to investment income and dividends.

The bottom line is that both groups are right… and both are wrong.

But…

It will drive another nail into the luxury real estate market. It has been in the doldrums for a while. Adding new taxes will not get it going again. And if you are thinking that this only affects ‘the wealthy’, think again. Those homes are not built by ‘the wealthy’. Those homes are not renovated by ‘the wealthy’. Those consumers are more likely to hire contractors to do improvements. And they are more likely to update more often… They are a driver in the housing sector. This added tax is NOT putting gas in the tank…

from LaneBailey.com

Unless otherwise noted, all content of this blog is the property of Lane Bailey, ©2009 Lane Bailey.

I'd love to hear from you...

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

Sandy Aichner, GRI, ABR, CDPE, SFR Broker,REALTOR Licensed in NC and SC
RE/MAX Executive Realty
(704) 746-7513
Lake Norman Homes
Copyright 2008-2010, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, by the Author - Sandy Aichner

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

113 E. Cold Hollow Drive,Mooresville, NC 28117 - The Farms

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 07:31:08 -0400

sandyisyouragent | RE/MAX Executive Realty | (704) 746-7513

113 E. Cold Hollow Drive, Mooresville, NC

Immaculate home with Apartment over 3 car garage!

5BR/5BA Single Family House

offered at $769,000

Year Built 2006 Sq Footage 5,000 Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 5 full, 0 partial Floors 2 Parking 3 Car garage Lot Size 1.21 acres HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Immaculate home w/extensive landscaping,California walk-in closets w/built-ins,Spa shower in MBR,10 foot ceilings on main,Built-in cabintry throughout,electric pet fencing,Chef's kitchen,Stainless applcs,3 Fireplaces,outdoor grill +Firepit,Central Vac,High-end antique fixtures,Extensive millwork,Air Jacuzzi tub,Granite cntrs, Full 1 bedroom Apartment over 3 car garage w/ separate entrance!
see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C - Fireplace - High/Vaulted ceiling - Walk-in closet - Hardwood floor - Tile floor - Family room - Living room - Bonus/Rec room - Office/Den - Dining room - Breakfast nook - Dishwasher - Refrigerator - Stove/Oven - Microwave - Granite countertop - Stainless steel appliances - Attic - Laundry area - inside - Balcony, Deck, or Patio - Yard - Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Clubhouse - Fitness center - Swimming pool(s) - Tennis court(s) - Lake - Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- 1 Bedroom Apartment with Kitchen & Bath w/sep entrance - Spa-like master bath with spa jets & jacuzzi tub - Upgraded fixtures, Antiqued bronze - Several fireplaces - 1 wood burning - Outdoor in-ground gas grill & firepit - Extensive landscaping and garden area w/ fruit trees - Large Plank hardwoods in some rooms - Church pew seating, Granite Island, Pot filler in Kitchen - Gas stove with griddle - 3 car garage w/portico - 1.21 acre lot with seasonal Water view of Lake Norman - Screened-in porch, Electric pet fencing

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

113 E. Cold Hollow Drive

Patio

Screened-in Porch

Firepit area

Office entrance

Grill

front yard

Den

Formal dining

Back view

Colonial Porch

Breakfast area

Kitchen

MBR

Living Room

Kitchen view 2

Office

Contact info:

sandyisyouragent

RE/MAX Executive Realty

(704) 746-7513

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 20, 2010, 2:57am PDT

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

Kannapolis New Construction Foreclosure - Almost 200K less than original List price!

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 18:10:24 -0400

sandyisyouragent | RE/MAX Executive Realty | (704) 746-7513

4800 Breden Street, Kannapolis, NC

Fantastic New Construction in Kellswater Bridge!

4BR/2+1BA Single Family House

offered at $239,000

Year Built 2009 Sq Footage 2,703 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 2 full, 1 partial Floors Unspecified Parking 2 Car garage Lot Size 7,405 sqft HOA/Maint $290 per month

DESCRIPTION

New Custom Home in Community w/ Amenities Galore! Spacious floor plan features Granite counters, Huge Owner's suite, Hardwoods, Ceramic Tile, Carpet, Gas logs Fireplace, 2 Car Garage, Rocking chair porch, Deck, 42' custom cabinets,tile backsplash. HOA's include Fiber Optics to your home: digital cable, phone service, alarm, year round lawn service, and more! Seller is offering 1 year of PAID HOA dues with accepted offer!
see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C - Fireplace - Walk-in closet - Hardwood floor - Tile floor - Living room - Dining room - Breakfast nook - Dishwasher - Refrigerator - Stove/Oven - Granite countertop - Laundry area - inside - Balcony, Deck, or Patio

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Clubhouse - Swimming pool(s) - Tennis court(s) - Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- Bank Owned

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Photo 1

rear view

amenities galore

tile backsplash

Contact info:

sandyisyouragent

RE/MAX Executive Realty

(704) 746-7513

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jun 15, 2010, 7:39am PDT

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

428 Augusta Drive, Statesville, NC 28625 - Shannon Acres - Statesville Country Clu

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 18:06:56 -0400

sandyisyouragent | RE/MAX Executive Realty | (704) 746-7513

428 Augusta Drive, Statesville, NC

GREAT level building lot in the heart of Statesville!

1 acres Vacant Land

offered at $75,000

Lot Size 1 acres

DESCRIPTION

Neighborhood of Statesville Country Club with optional memberships avaialable, golf, tennis, pool, clubhouse with fine dining. Voluntary HOA dues. City water and sewer available at street.
see additional photos below

LOCATION FEATURES

- Can connect to city utilitites - Located in Statesville Country club neighborhood - Minutes to I-77 - Optional HOA, Club, Fitness, Tennis, Swim

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

428 Augusta

Contact info:

sandyisyouragent

RE/MAX Executive Realty

(704) 746-7513

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 6, 2010, 12:15pm PDT

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

413 Bayberry Creek, Mooresville, NC 28117 - The Farms - Foreclosure

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 18:04:29 -0400

sandyisyouragent | RE/MAX Executive Realty | (704) 746-7513

413 Bayberry Creek Circle, Mooresville, NC

Bank-Owned Foreclosure listed 200K less than original!

4BR/4BA Single Family House

offered at $470,000

Year Built 2007 Sq Footage 3,648 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 4 full, 0 partial Floors 2 Parking 3 Car garage Lot Size 1 acres HOA/Maint $0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Bank owned Foreclosure listed more than 200K less than original list price! Award winning Iredell county schools,12 acre amenity facilities w/full time activity director, Open floor plan with room for a pool on lot. Custom built with chef's kitchen, 2 Large Fireplaces, built-ins,and spa-like master bath, screened-in porch,private,wooded back yard,irrigation. Upgraded closet shelving too!
see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C - Fireplace - High/Vaulted ceiling - Walk-in closet - Hardwood floor - Tile floor - Family room - Bonus/Rec room - Office/Den - Dining room - Dishwasher - Stove/Oven - Microwave - Granite countertop - Stainless steel appliances - Attic - Laundry area - inside - Balcony, Deck, or Patio - Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

- Clubhouse - Swimming pool(s) - Tennis court(s) - Lake - Playground

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

- New Construction Foreclosure - Chef's Kitchen - Open Floor plan - 2 Fireplaces

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

413 Bayberry Creek

Contact info:

sandyisyouragent

RE/MAX Executive Realty

(704) 746-7513

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Jul 6, 2010, 1:46pm PDT

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

35 Listings in 90 Days? Do Your Goals Support Your Business Model?

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:49:54 -0400

I had close to 20 listings at one time and I will tell you it's really tough! Even with help, your work/life schedule becomes erratic and in a upswing market, those particular agents will be stuck in a bind with too many conflicts and not enough time.

Via Jennifer Allan, Author of Sell with Soul (Sell with Soul):

Just got off the phone with an ambitious newer real estate agent who is all fired up about selling some real estate. Some serious real estate. He has a plan. He's committed to this plan. He's passionate about his plan. He WILL meet his goal or die trying.

His goal? To have 35 listings in the next 90 days.

Impressive. And given his enthusiasm and commitment, I think he can do it.

But should he?

This agent is a follower of SWS which means, among other things, that he is committed to being the best thing that could ever happen to his clients. Which, it is understood, will result in business and referrals coming his way for years to come from all his happy, satisfied clients.

Do you see where I'm going with this?

No new agent can properly service 35 listings. Oh, I'm not saying that he can't HANDLE 35 listings (although it's questionable), but actually SERVICE them? No way. Very few agents of any experience level can provide repeat-and-refer-worthy service at that level of production.

So, what do I mean by "service?" Well, you can bet I mean more than taking a listing agreement, hiring someone to put a sign in the yard, having the receptionist write up an inaccurate and boring MLS description, taking some awful photos, creating typo-infused home brochures and showing up six weeks later with a smile and an amendment to reduce the price.

No, I mean overseeing all the moving pieces and parts of the complicated process of preparing, marketing, selling and closing a listed property. Really caring about the outcome. Making sure your seller knows you care about the outcome. Keeping your seller informed and involved. So many other things I've written about in the past.

Many say that most of the post-signed-listing-agreement functions can be handled by a $10/hour assistant. I disagree. But that's a post for a different day.

Anyway, I asked this agent if he really thought he could knock the sox off all 35 of his seller clients with his service... or if, more likely, he'd just find himself with 35 unhappy clients who would not use him again or refer him to others.

He's thinking about it. What do YOU think?

Stay tuned for more on the subject in an upcoming post...

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The Daily Seduction
Tips & Inspirations to Generate Business from the Very Important People Who Know You

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

Is the sun about to set on real estate brokerage due to the proliferation of information on the Internet?

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:45:39 -0400

Mac and I have had so many conversations about this and the future of an agent's business in relationship to zillow and trulia and all the internet sites. But after taking 3 buyers in my car this spring, I figured out that most people "still" want my opinions about homes and areas and "still" need help with the contract, inspections, and want someone that is there to protect their interests. Even if they have bought and sold numerous homes. It's good to have someone on your side that is un-emotional about the process as well.

Via Richard Weisser Coweta Fayette Real Estate:

There is no doubt in anyone’s mind that the Internet has changed the way that we all conduct business. The free flow of information and the ability to easily amalgamate MLS data has empowered the consumer more so than any time in the past.

It doesn’t take long for a potential home buyer to truly “get a feel” for an area, and most have narrowed down their selections online by the time they actually speak to a real estate professional.

And it is generally during that initial conversation, that much of the consumer’s “fact finding” is debunked. Because reading about something on the Internet and having personal knowledge about it are sometimes as opposite as night and day.

Because there are some things that are not conveyed through the electronic streams of data illuminating LCD screens across the land.

Things like the smell of pet odor or that concrete plant just down the road, or a crumbling foundation. Things that really make a difference to a home buyer that are generally not disclosed until you get there in person.

Things like the retention pond in the back yard or the functionally obsolete floor plan. There is always a reason that these houses are priced the way that they are, and those reasons are not readily apparent online.

And while compensation models will likely change over time, the VALUE of engaging a competent professional will always be there.

And it could end up saving a lot of time and money in the end!

All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Coweta Fayette Real Estate Better Homes and Gardens Metro Brokers, Newnan Georgia. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2009. Richard Weisser REOS, E-Pro. licensed Auctioneer. 770-827-6225.
Learn more about Coweta County and Fayette County Georgia Real Estate, and to search the entire Georgia MLS for free with no registration required visit CowetaFayetteRealEstate.com! Photos of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Get the latest GA Foreclosure List Updated Daily! We Do HUD bids in Georgia! 770-827-6225

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

100 Ways to Create Real Estate Leads

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 07:30:02 -0400

Karen posted this awesome list! I love it

Via Karen Rittenhouse (Triad Residential Solutions):

100 Ways to Create Real Estate Leads.

How effective is your marketing? Until you start this important element of your business, your business will not really get started...

The key fundamental element in the first level of your real estate investing business is creating systematic and consistent lead generation. Have you focused on that area yet? If not, you do NOT have a business, you have a hobby and a dream. Your commitment to this area of your investing career is critical to your success. There are many different ways to create leads.

Here are about 100:

Accountants and CPA Firms: They have clients with financial problems where an investor can be of help.

Advertising: Never stop. Use simple ads with a USP, Unique Selling Proposition: Quick Closing, All Cash etc., Buy Houses Ads, Newspapers, Flyers.

Attorneys: Attorneys know when people need money, often to pay their fees! Not just probate but divorce, family law and real estate attorneys.

Auctions: Do your homework in advance. Auctions move very fast and a single mistake can be costly. Visit your local auction a few times to just observe. Know values and repair costs before bidding. Foreclosure: Very risky, not for the newbie Sheriff Sale: Same as Foreclosure IRS Sales

Apparel with Logos: Hats, T-Shirts, Golf Shirts, Hand Bags

Appraisers Bandit Signs: Check your local sign ordinances. Some places have no issue with them others do. We Buy Houses Stop Foreclosure

Bird Dogs:These people can be very valuable to your business. It is important to know your local laws about compensating unlicensed people.

“Blue Tarp” Houses: often blue tarps on roofs

Boarded up windows: or visible disrepair

Business Cards different types: one for seller, one for buyers, one for professionals (banker, attorney, CPA)

Builders Models: Frequently builders will sell a model home at a discount.

Building Inspectors Car & Truck Loans: Some folks would rather keep the wheels than a roof over their head. Buy here, pay here dealers can be a good lead source.

Car Repos: If the car is going the house isn’t far behind.

Carpet Cleaners: Many of their customers are preparing a house for sale.

Charitable Groups: Frequently receive gifts of real estate, but they’d rather have the cash.

City & County Inspectors: Code violations and red tags. If you develop a reputation of buying distressed properties and improving them, you become an asset to the community.

Classified Ads: For Sale: Look for Key Words - transferred, motivated, divorce, owner financing Want to Buy For Rent by Owner: Look for burned-out landlords

Condemned Houses: Many counties will provide you a free list.

Consumer Loan Companies: When their loans go bad they are frequently willing to deal rather than foreclose.

Courts: Eviction Filings, Probate Court, Divorce Cases, Tax Liens, Code Violations

Credit Repair Agencies & Counselors: Many times the only way someone can get their spending under control is to sell a house they can no longer afford.

Direct Mail: Pre-Foreclosure Letters, Probate Letters, Out of Town Owners, Post Cards, Bankruptcies, Divorce, Delinquent Taxes, Military Owners

Door Hangers: You can also use pre-printed post-it notes to leave messages at target properties. Be sure to advertise on both sides, you can even sell the back side and recover your advertising cost!

Door Knocking: Distribute flyers and go door-to-door asking residents if they know of anyone planning to move because you'd like to buy a house in their neighborhood!

Drive or walk Neighborhoods: Get to know them well and take notice of changes.

Estate Sales - often the real estate will also be available and perhaps with owner financing

Eviction Court: great place to find landlords

Expired Listings: Connect with an investor friendly Realtor

Family Members: talk about what you do and ask for referrals

Farming Local Areas: Become the local neighborhood expert.

Flyers: Cut your cost in half, print two to a page and distribute: Shopping Centers, Wal-Mart, Home Depot, Malls. Put on car windshields or pay someone to do it for you.

Friends: “Do you know anyone who wants to sell?” Most people know 2 people who will be buying or selling a home this year.

FSBO Signs: for sale by owner

Funeral Homes: Can be a good lead source before information on a decedent becomes public.

Garage Sales: Are they moving?

Hair Salons: Lots of talking going on during hair cuts!

Home Builders: Need to sell their buyers houses so they can close on the new place.

HUD Foreclosures: Internet: Rent Clicks, EBay, Craig’s List, Wholesale Sites, Lead Services, USLeaseOption.com

Insurance Brokers: Policy changes from owner occupant to landlord or vacant house coverage.

Investor Packages: Investor who's ready to retire and cash out their portfolio. May be able to negotiate seller financing as well as a discount.

Judgments: Check the public record or hire someone to do it for you.

Large Employers: Let them know you buy properties because if they need to transfer an employee, they don’t get stuck carrying the house. This can be good for renting executive properties for short-term transferees, too.

Lenders: Banks / REO’s: - Mortgage Brokers, Private Lenders, Hard Money Lenders

Liened Properties: Mechanics Liens, HOA Liens, Tax Liens

Lis Pendens: Notice of a law suits, usually a foreclosure.

Magnetic Car Signs and Wraps: Check with your auto policy carrier as to whether or not this will affect your coverage. A rider may be required.

Market Bulletin Boards: Grocery stores, coffee shops, restaurants

Military Transfers: Military bases provide an excellent transient market for those needing to sell and buy off base housing

Mobile Homes: Get to know park managers. Banks don’t like mobile homes but they can become little cash cows. A special license is required if you’re going to get into the mobile home business.

Moving Companies Neighborhood Newsletters Networking: Other Investors, Call We Buy Houses ads & signs, Churches, Public Speaking, Investment Associations, Work, Clubs

Newspaper Carriers: Who see the vacant houses everyday?

Nursing & Retirement Homes: Frequently residents need to sell a house.

Pens: Buy cheap ones and leave them everywhere you go.

Pet Odors: If your home has housed a number of pets we may be the buyer for you.

Pizza Boxes: many sell advertising or sponsorship spots

Postman Public Speaking: Rotary, Lyons and Kiwanis Clubs, Realtor meetings and other associations

Quit Claim Deeds: Are a sign that something has changed with the property.

Radio Ads or Show Real Estate Agents Referrals Relocations: Great for Subject-to or buying on lease option

Rent Credit: Trade rent credit for a down payment

Rental Agents & Property Managers: Let them know you want to buy and also find a local manager. You buy, they manage…win/win!!

Retirees: A growing population with free and clear homes. Excellent prospects for seller financing.

Section 8 Landlords: Each county maintains a list

Short Sales Social Media: A new way to get your message out: Facebook, Twitter, YouTube

Structural Damage: Once you know what you're doing, you can buy at a rock bottom pricing.

Tax Deed Sale Properties: These do not come with title insurance so do your home work.

Tax Lien Certificate Properties Termite & Pest Control Companies: Write a check and the termites die. Write another check and replace the damaged wood. May find great deals.

Title Companies: Not all transactions close like they are supposed to. Let the title companies know you can help in a pinch, for the right price.

Trading Up: Trade your newly renovated property at retail for a property down the block that you can buy wholesale. Try a sign that says “Will Take Your House In Trade”

TV and Radio: Cable companies may have community service spots for free.

Vacant Properties - look for tall grass and neglected houses

Web Sites Wholesaler Lists: A good wholesaler can find you multiple properties.

Withdrawn MLS Listings: Easy to get from a friendly real estate agent.
As you can see there is no shortage of ways to generate leads.

To start, pick out 10 ways for consistent lead generation for your real estate investing business and focus on those. In the beginning of our investing career, Jim & I walked neighborhoods with flyers and put magnetic signs on our cars. Why? Inexpensive and effective! Not glorious marketing techniques but we got leads and our very first seller called from our magnetic car signs!

The number one common element of failures in a real estate investing business is not treating it like a business. And, the most important step to establish in ANY new business is LEAD GENERATION! Without customers, there is no business.

Whether you are looking for foreclosures, REO's, owner-finance, HUD, wholesale, free & clear, rentals, fixer uppers, spread investing, etc, it all revolves around having leads. Get busy and NEVER EVER stop marketing for leads!

Anything you've tried that's not on my list?

**UPDATE** So many of you are leaving great addtional ideas that I'm adding them to the comments section on my blog so the list will continue to grow! Thanks!

Karen Rittenhouse | www.karensperspective.com | 336-834-0614 | karen@karensperspective.com

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

Wine Maestro in Mooresville NC - Tasting in July

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 08:46:11 -0400

Now this is a wine tasting group that has a lot of fun!!! www.lknwinegroup.com to sign up for free and get emails about new events! We have over 900 members~!

Location

Wine Maestro

279 Williamson Road
Mooresville, NC 28117
704-664-1452
Change Place

How to find us
"I will have my name tag on!"

Who’s coming?

22 Yes · 14 Maybe

Who's hosting?
Sandy Aichner

We will have music that night from 7-10pm outside on the patio, inside if weather dictates it. Our tasting flight will begin at 6pm w/ at least 5 wines ($10/person). Folks can buy glasses or bottles of wine. We have beer, also. We usually put out just minimal snacks, but we do have cheese trays and other items for purchase and food can be ordered from MJ's Bar & Grill next door.

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

Wine Tasting at the Lake Norman Wine Cottage - July 1 - Davidson, NC

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 08:34:02 -0400

Location

Lake Norman Cottage

200-A North Harbor Place
Davidson, NC 28036
704-237-3629
Change Place

How to find us
"I'll have my name badge on and I have short blonde hair"

Who’s coming?

50 Lake Norman Wine Enthusiasts

(no spots left, but a Waiting List is available)

Who's hosting?
Sandy Aichner

It's about time that we visited Trudi at the Lake Norman Cottage where she has nightly wine tastings paired with food. You will have 4-5 tastes of wines and a tasty small menu selection prepared by their chef. More details on what we are drinking and the menu to follow.......

The Lake Norman Cottage is a unique Waterfront Wine Bar, General Store, Gift Shop,Bakery, and serves Gelato @ the lake. You will have a blast tasting wines from around the globe while shopping for unique gifts and conversing with new friends. Or take up the sight of Lake Norman on the back patio.
Time: 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Cost: $20 per person
Location: 200 A North Harbor Place (new location)
Davidson, NC 28036
(next to North Harbor Club restaurant)

FOR MORE EVENTS LIKE THESE, GO TO WWW.LKNWINEGROUP.COM TO RSVP!!!

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

My home is now an AT&T micro cell tower.

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 08:29:13 -0400

For all you AT&T Iphoners out there! This is the perfect gadget!

Via Richard Iarossi, Crofton MD Real Estate, Annapolis MD Real Estate (Long and Foster® Real Estate, Inc.):

Cell phone signals go up and down as indicated by the number of "bars" the phone shows. The more bars the stronger the signal to the cell tower, and the greatest chance of a clear call that doesn't get dropped.

My home office was good for anywhere from one to five bars. Starting today, my entire house is 5 bars...all the time.

Did AT&T increase their towers in my area. No, but I did by purchasing and installing a 3G MicroCell antenna. The antenna is connected to my router actually and propagates a cell tower signal to the antenna in my home office. Pretty simple really. Just connect it to the router, plug it in and program up to 4 AT&T mobile phone numbers on their website.

Take a look at the upper left hand corner of the picture and you'll see that I'm connected to my own MicroCell. If I walk outside, it automatically re-connects to an AT&T tower.

On this one I also bought an unlimited calling plan for $20/month. As long as the calls originate on my MicroCell, they don't count towards my cell phone plan minutes. The actual hardware was $100, with a $100 rebate if I also purchased the unlimited calling plan. No two year contract required either.

This is well worth the purchase to have 5 bars 24/7 in the house. I've been waiting for this technology to come along.

Richard Iarossi, REALTOR®
Long and Foster® Real Estate, Inc.
Crofton, MD 21114

410-451-6255 Office
443-995-9595 Cell
Web: http://www.RichSellsHomes.com
eMail: Rich@RichSellsHomes.com

Annapolis MD Real Estate
Bowie MD Real Estate
Crofton MD Real Estate

©2009 - RichSellsHomes, All Rights Reserved

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

8 Buyer Clients and 2 Contracts in One Day---The Ultimate in Lead Generation

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 08:25:05 -0400

Proven once again that open houses are for catching Buyers!

Via Michelle Gardner (Advance Realty USA):

I have many opportunities to speak to agents and brokers on a variety of marketing, advertising, public relations and technology issues. This particular topic is one of my favorites. Have you ever heard the story of how elephants are trained to be obedient to their keepers? Have you ever wondered why they don't just run away? I mean, given their size and strength, why in the world would they stay chained to a post in the ground that they can easily yank out? The reason is that elephants are trained when they are very young and small and not yet strong enough to escape their bondage. After years of futile attempts to escape, they simply accept their fate and believe that they can never leave. So these enormous, powerful animals are enslaved to their beliefs--not the chain that binds them to the post.

Perception is a powerful thing and we have seen the results of that with the consumer many times with 'the overpriced listing'. But what many of us don't realize is that we are in bondage ourselves to our perception of many things; including sales and marketing strategies. In an environment with such volatile change and where technology has become an integral part of our business, it's time to re-evaluate everything we know from the ground up.

How many of you have paid for lead generating programs? And how much does it cost? A few hundred dollars a month? How many leads did you get? How many did you convert? So do the math on that for a minute and figure out your CPL (Cost Per Lead) and your ROI-(Return On Investment).

What if I told you that I knew of a system that would bring MULTIPLE active buyers to you IN PERSON? And it would happen in HOURS---not days, or weeks, or months. I know someone who used this system and got EIGHT new active clients in 2 hours.

What if I told you that I know someone who used this system and got TWO CONTRACTS on the same day?

If you know of any system that can beat those results (which by the way happened on the SAME day---CALL ME!!!)

Do I have your attention? How much would this system be worth to you? Especially considering the CPL and ROI figures you just wrote down from your previous efforts?

What if I told you that this system is FREE and you can get started right now?

It's called: The Open House. And the two people that got the results above with just one open house each held their opens on National Open House Weekend. I could provide many more success stories, but this just happens to be one of my favorites.

The Open House is the new Elephant In The Room. I believe that after years of doing the same thing over and over again, many Realtors have been missing out on a lot of activity, interest, and sales by committing themselves to bondage with the belief 'Open Houses are a waste of time'.

But consider these statistics: 87-90% of home buyers begin their search on the internet and that same percentage will contract the first Realtor they encounter. So you are competing now on a much grander scale than ever before. Tell me how many opportunities you have to engage that consumer--and get in front of them--before they click on an activity button that goes to Realtor X instead of you?

The biggest and best chance you have of getting face to face with active buyers is The Open House (and home auctions). Buyers know that they can attend an open house without having to contract an agent and more of them are going to open houses unrepresented. In terms of listing leads, this is the ONLY place that sellers can actually 'see you in action' and by inviting the neighbors of the seller, you have an opportunity to meet with them and make a connection instead of just sending them a postcard later.

Update: 6/27--several have asked for more information on how to hold a successful Open House. I refer you to the Realtor who got the 8 buyer clients; June Piper Brandon of Advance Realty Anne Arundel for her expertise! Check out her profile and blog on ActiveRain here:
http://activerain.com/blogs/charmcityrealtor If you're in the Baltimore area, stop by one of her opens!

The Realtor with '2 buyer clients in one day' was Dave McCollough of Advance Realty McCollough & Associates. He is also a tremendous resource on how to have a seller hold their own open house. This is particularly helpful when an agent has more listings than he can hold open in a weekend; and don't forget you can also ask another agent to sit the open for you.

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

5 Things to Do After June 30th to Grow Your Business !

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 08:23:41 -0400

Via Christopher and Stephanie Somers - Realtors - Philadelphia Real Estate (Owner - RE/MAX Access):

5 Things to Do After June 30th to Grow Your Business !

If you are like us, we have been incredibly busy due to the Tax Credit stimulus. The weeks leading up to April 30th were crazy getting buyers under contract and having the majority of our listings fly off the shelve, several with multiple offers. All of those deals have either already settled or will be settling in the next few days. It has been an incredible 2010 for The Somers Team already !

However, we do not want the momentum and the activity to stop. We do believe that the 2nd half of the year will be much slower than the first half. How can it not be when so much demand was pushed up to the first half ? But with mortgage rates so low, that will be a driving force for the second half to be stable. In addition, below is a list of things we are planning to do to help grow our business for the future and to have that kick-start going into 2011 !

1. Take a vacation or take some "me" time

The old saying goes as soon as you go on vacation buyers will come out of the woodwork and a deal or two will come in on your listings. It is a golden rule ! Try it ! More importantly it is so necessary to take a break and relax, rejuvenate and come back stronger ! Or if you do not do a vacation, take some time for yourself as there will be more time in the day. For example, Stephanie just started taking Pilates classes and I have been to The Training Station 3 out of the last 4 days. Hopefully we keep it up !

2. Focus on your marketing and lead generation

When things get slower, that is the best time to lead generate. Focus in on your marketing efforts. Take a look at your website. What can you do to improve it ? If you do not have a website, well now will be the time to get one. Are you involved in Social Media ? If not, now is the time to build your social media marketing strategies. Take a look at what has been working for you and what has not been working as far as lead generation and develop a plan to build on the things that work and perhaps eliminate some of the things that do not. We plan on making some enhancements and changes to our ever-growing The Somers Team site which should be a lot of fun. Our goal is to always stay ahead of the curve from a technology and innovation standpoint.

3. Blog Blog Blog

I am a big believer in blogging. Blog about your community, your stories, your experiences, your knowledge, public events, your clients. Being that you will have more time, take advantage it and knock out several blogs per week. If you do not have a blog, now is the time to get one ! If you have one but it has been static, set a goal for doing 2 or 3 blogs per week. There has been a ton of testimonials from bloggers who have shared the business they have received from blogging. We are no exception. Our blog (s) have been a huge driver for us in terms of exposure and working with new propsects and clients as a result.

4. Network Network Network

This one is not an easy one for me as believe it or not, I have social anxiety disorder sometimes. But with having more time on your hands, what a great opportunity to get out there and do those things that you just did not have time to before with the tax credit frenzy. Attend those tweet-ups, those broker opens, those networking opportunities for groups and civic associations, your neighborhood functions, volunteer groups and so forth. This past week I attended "Homes 4 Hounds" and won 2 prizes from the raffle as well as the Northern Liberties Neighborhood Association monthly meeting which I have missed the last several months just being so busy. As a result, I had the opportunity to see some folks and have some conversations with people I have not seen in awhile. What a great way to stay connected !

5. Jump into a niche area such as short sales

With things being slower, you can take on the more time consuming short sale deals of the world. If you are not doing these deals, now is the time to start ! Blog about it, do a few deals and begin to share that in your community. I would think almost every city has folks who are in hardship and need the services of someone who knows what they are doing. It is amazing here in Philadelphia how few agents really know how to do a short sale or what a short sale is and how it works. We have sellers who find us and need our help just from the short sale blogs that we do. If you are not interested in short sales, find that niche market in your area that you are not involved in yet and jump in ! You will be glad you did in 2011 when your business is up 10 to 20 percent !

These are just a few ideas. Of course, there are many more ! Please share what else you might do the second half of the year to kick-start your business into 2011 ! And please share your thoughts on the above in the comments below.

Let's kick butt the rest of the year !

Feel free to subscribe to our blog 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.

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

What Every Seller Needs To Know In Today's Real Estate Market

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:08:48 -0400

Via Carra Riley CRB, CRS, GRI (Author, Speaker, Consultant, Second Homes AZ LLC):

                              What Every Seller Needs To Know In Today's Real Estate Market





                                            The real estate agent is only the messenger



Sellers please take several deep breaths before shutting down on any offer in today's real estate market.

The agent YOU selected to represent you is doing the job you hired them to do with your best   interest at heart when presenting an offer. You selected the agent based on a thoughtful process now give them a chance to do their job and help you sell the house.

The agent has a fiduciary responsibility to present all offers. It is perfectly normal to be mad when someone writes a low offer on your home. Just remember NOT to take your anger out on the person trying to help you get the home sold. Discuss the offer from a business like standpoint trying to come to a happy medium where both parties are agreeable with the outcome.

Please remember....it is not the agents fault that buyers are making a low offers. The media is fueling the fire with economic status reports and human nature dictates people trying to get a "deal." You are in charge of your hand so use it wisely to create and sign a counter proposal that all might live with.

The market is what it is and the agent cannot change the current conditions. Put your feet in the buyers shoes. If you were purchasing a home in today's real estate economy, ask yourself what kind of offers would you make?

In today's market being creative with counter proposals could help complete your sale. Do you really need all the equity out of your home or are you in a position to carry back with the proper credit checks and legal advise. Is there a possibility of the buyer renting before the completion of the sale. Would renting the property help your cash flow situation? Working with your agent to come up with alternatives to create a sale is why you hired them. Let them do their job in helping you.

Remember, your first offer is almost always your best offer. Try and put something together.

When you walk away from any offer, you just bought your own house back. The buyer did not complete the sale and you still own the property so you in effect bought your house again.

Take the emotions out of the sale. This is a business transaction and you are looking at a pile of assets. You are looking to move the pile of money to another location. Forget all the family memories and the blood, sweat and tears you put in the house. When it comes to selling it should be all business.

Before kicking an offer to the curb think about how you can possibly CHANGE the offer, create a carrot for the potential buyer and create a win/win situation for all parties. Listen and work with your agent.

Try to take the drama out of the initial response to a low offer and turn it into a Donald Trump business transaction. Think about what the buyer really wants and then how to change the terms to meet your needs.

Negotiating is a give and take situation. One party cannot have it all one way or the deal will NOT go together. Think about what you are willing to give up to get what you want. You win by getting the house sold and the buyer wins by getting the home you have to sell.

Receiving a low offer with bizarre terms can make anyone mad at first. It is understandable how you might be thinking about when you listed the property it was a fair price and now a buyer comes in and wants to rip your heart out which is not acceptable to you. This is when you take DEEP breaths, watch the 60 minute video below.

Watch CBS News Videos Online
Now really think about why you want to sell your house and project what could happen if it did not sell this year or even next year. No one including your agent has a crystal ball. Only you can answer and analyse why you need to sell and what happens if you don't sell. As a real estate consultant, I can strongly suggest you READ, THINK and REASON about the current state of our economy, discuss your local market conditions with your agent and then you will get your answer.

If you don't like an offer that comes in on your property PLEASE don't shoot the messenger. The agent you selected is working hard to help you achieve your goals. Be patient and business like in creating a counter offer that works for you and it may just very well work for the buyer if they want your property and you have GIVEN them something in return. This resolution can be a WIN/WIN situation for everyone involved.

Cosmic Cow Pie

Carra Riley

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!

5 To Dos Before Marketing Your Home

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 12:00:22 -0400

I posted a blog like this a while back! Always great tips

Via Kristen Ueckert (Ueckert Realty LLC):

1. Flower up curb appeal. Do the lawn and bushes look neatly manicured? Could it use more? Are pretty flowers or plants framing the entrance? Is the walkway free from cracks? Does it smell like blooms or manure as you approach the front door? Are the windows clean? Is the paint peeling? Is the grass healthy? Weeds are green, too, you know, so by healthy I not only mean green, but I also mean no weeds. Does your front door have a fresh coat of stain or paint? Curb appeal can be a chore or a fun family event. Either way, it has to happen before the sign goes in the yard! And, by the way, continue it 'til the closing. It's just the right thing to do.

2. Have a pre-sale home inspection. Be proactive. An inspector will give you a good indication of what will stand out to potential buyers. Plus, it is highly likely the buyer will hire one themselves and why not eliminate everything he would otherwise report? You'll be able to make repairs before buyers start charging you 10 times the price in the low offers they would bring unmaintained or before their inspector gets there and the repair requests start flying in like rockets. The best way to avoid insulting low offers or nagging repair requests is look like a million bucks to begin with -- get things done before-hand.

3. Get replacement estimates. Do you have big-ticket items that are worn out or will need to be replaced soon, such your roof, old foggy windows or carpeting? Get estimates on how much it would cost to replace them, even if you don't plan to do it yourself. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home and will be handy when negotiations begin. Don't play poker. They will see your foggy window and raise you ten.

4. Find warranties. Gather up the warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for the furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items that will remain with the house.

5. Organize and clean. De-clutter! Items like kitchen tools, out-of-season clothes, toys, and exercise equipment need to GO. Store items off-site or in boxes neatly arranged in storage areas. Clean windows, floors, fixtures, walls and baseboards to make the interior shine.

Sellers, the beauty of a tough economy is a lot of homes are neglected, abandoned, abused or otherwise show like poo. This is your chance to shine! Plus, none of the recommendations above are bank busters.

Search Homes in Lake Norman NC

I can also assist buyers and sellers in Short Sales and Foreclosure sales and purchases.

Please call me If you have interest in purchasing or selling a home in Mooresville, Cornelius, Huntersville, Troutman, Denver, Sherrill's Ford, Catawba, Davidson, or Statesville, North Carolina!