Do you feel overloaded with the weight and time consumed with updating your social networks? There is a simple 1-click solution - Ping.fm.
The Problem...When it comes to managing social networks, it is difficult to stay active in more than 2-3 social networks at a time. Often, we gravitate to 2-3 sites and ignore the rest. A major part of the problem is that participating in most social networking sites includes the repetitive task of "updating your status." If you participate in more than 2 or 3 social networking sites, this can be a time consuming and repetitive task. It goes something like this "find password... go to website... wait for it to load... log in... post... log out." After 5 or so updates, your eyes will start to blur.
Cross Posting as a Partial Solution... Some sites are slowly solving the problem. Some sites allow cross posting from site x to site y. Other sites allow you to pull data from site y to site x. Most the applications developed seem to focus on cross posting to or from Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn or photo applications like Fickr or Facebook. However, there has been little attempt to develop a coherent platform (until now).
The Final Solution - An Integrated Single Source Platform... Now, Ping.fm allows you to send or post a single message - whether a blog post, microblog post, or status post - across and to multiple social networking sites.
Social Networks on the List... Ping.fm currently supports approximately 50 social network, blogging and other sites, including: Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, GTalk, Plurk, LinkedIn, Tumblr, Identi.ca, Brightkite, FriendFeed, Blogger, Plaxo Pulse, LiveJournal, BeBo, Hi5, Mashable, kwippy, Xanga, WordPress, Rejaw, Delicious, Friendster, Yahoo360, Koornk, YouAre, Yammer, Flickr, Utterli, Imeem, Seesmic, Laconi.ca, Jaiku, and Vox.
How Do You Set It Up? After you create your Ping.fm account, you simply enter into your account information and password. For some sites, you also have to log in and authorize access for Ping.fm. This process is time-consuming, but it is better than the other alternatives - not updating your status or not participating in as many social networks. Once set up, you can then send message with the click of one button. Ping.fm allows you to enter your message by using the interface from their web interface, by e-mail, or by instant message. Also, Ping.fm automatically shortens URL addresses using your preferred URL shortening provider. Although I have yet to figure out how to use them, Ping.fm allows you to use "triggers" to post messages only to certain networks or groups of networks.
My Mea Culpa...In conclusion, one small piece of advice - remember to turn off your existing cross posting settings on your social networking sites before you send your first ping. Otherwise, you might just end up irritating your followers on Twitter by inundating them with the same message over and over. I did just that when I was testing Ping.fm. To my Tweeps,sorry about those multiple posts.
If you are interested in affordable sales training for your sales staff, please contact Ryan Shaughnessy at PREA Signature Realty at 314-971-4381 or by e-mail to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Monday, March 2, 2009
The Articles Archive from My ActiveRain Blog
Current Articles from My ActiveRain Blog:
Real Estate Listing Syndication - A Brief Overview - 09/30/08 05:02 PM What is Real Estate Listing Syndication?Real estate listing syndication is a web-based software program that permits you to expose your listings to the internet on such aggregator sites as BackPage, Craigslist, Google Base, HotPads, Kijiji, LiveDeal, Oodle, Trulia, Vast, Zillow and 100s of specialty sites. It is a great equalizer for … (10 comments)
The Internet - Changing Search Dynamics - 09/30/08 04:52 PM The Internet - Changing Search DynamicsToday, prospective purchasers are increasingly starting their home searches on the internet. The internet is initially used as a broad search tool and then is used to exclude or eliminate homes. Although a corporate website is a good starting point, the internet marketing model of driving internet … (7 comments)
In the News - Relocating and Looking for Value - Consider St. Louis, Missouri - 10/30/08 10:47 PM The City of St. Louis may just be one of the nation's best kept secrets. Whether you are a young professional, raising a family, an empty nester or retired, the City of St. Louis offers a low cost of living, affordable housing and an active lifestyle. Here are some of the awards and honors … (0 comments)
First-Time Homebuyers - Preparing for Homeownership - 10/29/08 10:55 PM When it comes to purchasing a new home, there is no such thing as a free lunch. As a buyer's agent, we can assist you and provide you with guidance regarding the home search and sales process. However, we strongly suggest that you take control of the process, set … (4 comments)
Agent Safety is No Accident - 10/29/08 08:32 PM As real estate professionals, we often show vacant homes or work with new customers that we do not personally know. As a result, there are inherent risks associated with our jobs. Every year, there are news stories regarding assaults and other crimes against real estate agents. To read a … (10 comments)
Discover Lafayette Living Today - Historic Homes, Great Neighbors, and a Vibrant Community - 10/29/08 01:56 PM Recently, a prospect relocating to Saint Louis, Missouri, asked a simple and direct question - What does Lafayette Square have to offer me? Well, I could and did explain to the prospect the economics of this market. That is, it is a strong and stable market with increased sales and consistent price … (0 comments)
Saint Louis (Lafayette Square/Georgian Square), Missouri - 2008 Brokerage Market Share Report - 10/28/08 03:08 PM We are a small, local and independently owned real estate brokerage working primarily in the Lafayette Square, Georgian Square, and other historic neighborhoods. We have 7 licensed agents. We may be small but we deliver big results. Here are our year to date totals in the neighborhoods that we serve:… (0 comments)
An Architectural History - City Hospital No. 1 - 1515 Lafayette - City of St. Louis, Missouri 63104 - 10/28/08 12:16 AM A Brief History - Georgian Revival ArchitectureIn 1909, the City of St. Louis started construction on City Hospital No. 1. The most prominent building in the City Hospital complex is and remains the Main Administration Building. The Main Administration Building is a five-story red brick building and was designed by architect Albert … (2 comments)
Changing Your Sales Philosophy - Property Oriented to Service Oriented - 10/27/08 12:04 PM Recently, we had a lively discussion in the office. It centered on a simple question - What is your personal sales philosophy? There seemed to be two schools of thought:Property First: The first school of thought centered on the property. The general view was that it was the sales associate's … (67 comments)
Is Your Partner Impaired - Substance Abuse and the Current Financial Crisis - 10/25/08 04:32 PM In the NewsRecently, I have read national and local new articles relating to the impact of the financial crisis - including layoffs, foreclosures, decline in value of retirement accounts, etc. - on suicides, domestic violence, and substance abuse. From these news stories, it would appear that Americans are struggling with … (0 comments)
2008 Real Estate Law Update (Missouri) - Legislative Action - 10/23/08 04:02 PM Here is an update of a few changes in Missouri law that may have an impact or relate to sales transactions in Missouri:HCS SCS SB 1033 - Real Property Transfers to Counties - Acknowledgements Now RequiredIn Missouri (except the City of St. Louis), grantees generally are not required to … (5 comments)
New Home Sales - Do You Register or Survey Your Prospects? - 10/23/08 12:53 PM Whether you sell new homes or existing homes, I will bet that your sales manager or broker has said something like "Get Everyone Registered" or "Get Everyone Signed-In." I think these statements are good advice. Nevertheless, I think this advice alone is incomplete. Although I agree that you should capture contact … (12 comments)
Featured Local Business - October, 2008 - And the Winner is... Park Avenue Coffee - 10/22/08 08:48 PM THIS MONTH'S FEATURED BUSINESS - PARK AVENUE COFFEE - 1919 PARK AVENUEWell, I think that a neighborhood is only as strong as its local businesses. This month's featured business is Park Avenue Coffee located at 1919 Park Avenue in the heart of Lafayette Square. As my colleagues already know, I … (2 comments)
New Home Sales - The Use of Resident Sales Ambassadors - 10/21/08 10:48 PM Increasingly, builders-developers are turning to their customers-residents to supplement their sales staff. Some experts ask the question: "Is it a mistake not to have a seasoned sales staff to sell homes in this challenging market?" There are no simple answers. However, there are some distinct advantages to using customer-residents as a … (8 comments)
Seller's Disclosure Statements - Tips for Managing Risk and Limiting Potential Liability - 10/21/08 01:40 AM Over 70% of claims asserted against real estate agents arise regarding disputes regarding defects in or physical conditions of the property sold that impact the value, desirability or use of the property. Seller's disclosure statements, if handled correctly (as explained below), are an effective means to reduce and manage the risks … (7 comments)
A Primer on Cohabitation Agreements - Sex and the City and the Pitfalls of Cohabitation - 10/20/08 11:34 AM Buyer Beware - Purchase of Homes by Non-Traditional FamiliesJoint ownership of residential real estate by unmarried individuals is increasingly common. Recent census figures indicate that there are over 6.5 million unmarried cohabitating couples in the United States. Gay couples, elderly couples, heterosexual couples deferring marriage (divorced or otherwise), and couples … (4 comments)
For Sale - The Georgian (Formerly City Hospital No. 1), 1515 Lafayette Avenue, St. Louis (Georgian Square/Lafayette Square), Missouri 63104 - 10/18/08 12:34 PM … (1 comments)
For Sale - Eden Lofts - 1720 Chouteau - St. Louis (Lafayette Square), Missouri 63103 - 10/18/08 12:31 PM … (1 comments)
For Sale - Mississippi Place - 1618 Mississippi (Display), St. Louis (Lafayette Square), Missouri 63104 - 10/18/08 12:29 PM … (2 comments)
For Sale - Abbey on the Park, 1505 Missouri, Unit 2E, St. Louis (Lafayette Square), Missouri 63104 - 10/18/08 12:26 PM … (0 comments)
For Sale - Union Club - 2340 Lafayette, St. Louis (Lafayette Square), Missouri 63104 - 10/18/08 12:24 PM … (0 comments)
For Rent - Eden Lofts - 1720 Chouteau - St. Louis (Lafayette Square), Missouri 63103 - 10/18/08 12:19 PM … (0 comments)
Expanding Your Sphere of Influence - Leave Cyberspace and Network in the Real World - 10/17/08 08:20 PM Recently, I read another blog post that asked the question "How do I expand my sphere of influence?" The simple answer is by networking. When it comes to networking, you need both a web strategy and a real world strategy. Your web strategy will most likely focus on social networking sites … (42 comments)
A Primer on "As Is" Sales - 10/17/08 12:38 AM What is an "as is" sale?As real estate professionals, there are times when we are directed by the owner of the property to offer the property for sale on an "as is" basis. The intent of the owner may be to emphasize that the owner is not willing to make … (9 comments)
Market Report - The Lafayette Report - October, 2008 - 10/15/08 08:13 PM MARKET SUMMARY: Lafayette Square is a fashionable neighborhood in high demand in the City of St. Louis. SUPPLY: It is an established neighborhood with restricted supply. It has fixed boundaries and has little vacant land for new construction projects. Growth in supply is limited to in-fill and conversion projects.DEMAND: … (0 comments)
Watch the Time Clock - When the Clock Hits Zero the Game is Over - 10/15/08 03:00 PM In today's hectic world, it seems that we are all too often faced with a shortage of time. The concept of time has changed over the past 20 years. There seems to be less "free" time. More importantly, time has changed in the sense that clients demand more instantaneous communication. In … (0 comments)
FDIC Insurance - Are Your Funds at Risk? - 10/14/08 06:18 PM In a residential or commercial closing, funds are deposited into an escrow account held by an intermediary such as title company, settlement company or attorney. The good news is that the FDIC looks at the beneficial owners of the account. That is, each customer who has deposited funds into the escrow … (0 comments)
In Search of the Holy Grail - Free Advertising (and the Submission of Newspaper Articles) - 10/14/08 12:05 AM In the real estate industry, free advertising is the Holy Grail. When you have a new development, a historic home, or a unique property, you have a special opportunity to promote both your business and your listing. Local daily papers, neighborhood papers, trade magazines, association newsletters, and even non-real estate bloggers … (7 comments)
Are You a Hunter? Or Are You a Farmer? - 10/11/08 12:40 AM At a recent luncheon, we had a lengthy discussion regarding the real estate market. An experienced agent asked "Where have all the purchasers gone?" It was followed by a series of comments starting with "Remember when... " There was a longing for the days when the phone rang off the hook … (3 comments)
Website Review - www.mohomeprograms.com - A Resource for First-Time Homebuyers in Missouri - 10/10/08 05:07 PM The internet is an amazing tool. It certainly can be used to bridge the "information gap" for first-time homebuyers. However, the sheer number of websites can cause "information overload." Because of the number of websites, I am hesitant to recommend just one. However, for first-time homebuyers, I would start with mohomeprograms.com, … (0 comments)
Do You Lead the Customer or Do You Follow? Remember It Isn't All About You - 10/10/08 03:41 PM In a prior post, I suggested that key to successful sales started with developing meaningful rapport. However, I received questions and comments on the "how to" aspect. Here are some of my suggestions:• The Greeting - Stand and meet the person as they enter the home or display. When greeting a … (5 comments)
Monthly Realtor Luncheon - November 11, 2008 - 10/08/08 07:33 PM INVITATION TO MONTHLY REALTOR LUNCHEONGilded Age Sales would like to invite local Realtors, members of the Active Rain community, and the general public to attend our Monthly Realtor Luncheon on November 11, 2008, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This month's featured property is The Georgian (former City … (0 comments)
Why Dialing for Interest Rate Quotation is a Bad Idea - 10/08/08 12:41 AM I am always amazed when I ask purchasers how they located their lender and they tell me that "they just started calling lenders" for interest rate quotations. It is a bad approach. Think about it. Here are some of the reasons why this is the wrong approach:• Typically, when you … (2 comments)
Just Ask Warren - Smart Investors are Buying Now - 10/07/08 10:01 PM "LET BLOCKHEADS READ WHAT BLOCKHEADS WROTE." (Warren Buffett)Warren Buffett has it right. You can just follow the herd. You must investigate the facts, read between the lines, and make decisions based on your personal circumstances, not on market rumors and pundit opinions. Local and national media outlets are playing on … (3 comments)
Don't Work Harder... Work Smarter - 10/03/08 05:34 PM AVOID TIME THEFTTo be successful, you don't necessarily have to work harder or spend longer hours at the office. You may just need to work smarter. The key may just be to better or more effectively manage your time. It starts with eliminating time theft. On average, 6 minutes per … (21 comments)
Melting the Polar Icecap - Developing Meaningful Rapport - 10/03/08 12:21 AM THE PROBLEM - INHERENT SUSPICIONSWhen I purchased my first car, I was struck with the simple observation that the initial meeting was inherently confrontational. I dreaded entering the show room. Here is what happened:· The salesperson pounced at the door.· The salesperson then proceeded with rapid fire questions. · When simple … (5 comments)
Success is a Planned Event - 10/01/08 09:08 AM What Separates the Best - Success is a Planned EventWe recently had informal discussions with a number of new home sales managers and their sales representatives. The focal point was what makes a top performer. Are top performers just born to sell? Or are top performers created by training and experience? Is … (8 comments)
Motivation - The Extra Effort Matters - 10/01/08 09:03 AM The Extra Effort Top performers in new home sales have various personal styles, training and experience. However, one of the characteristics displayed by all top performers is a strong work ethic. A short movie, 212 Movie, shows how extra effort makes the difference. The movie is premised on a simple fact of science. At … (2 comments)
Commentary - Another Tool for First Time Home Buyers - Federal Tax Credit - 10/01/08 09:00 AM Commentary - Another Tool for First Time Home BuyersThe first-time home buyer tax credit provides another reason for a first-time home buyer to purchase their home today. The greatest misperceptions regarding the program are that the tax credit is a "giveaway" and that the purchasers receive a "check at … (1 comments)
ARMs - Throwing the Baby Out with the Bath Water - 10/01/08 08:56 AM ARMs - Throwing the Baby Out with the Bath WaterCurrent Crisis Recent new stories attribute much of the blame on the credit and housing crisis on the wide spread use of adjustable rate mortgages ("ARMs"). This type of loan product has an interest rate that adjusts periodically. Because of these … (0 comments)
Mortgage Matters - When Smart People Panic - 10/01/08 08:51 AM Mortgage Matters - When Smart People PanicWe are inundated with daily stories about tightening credit markets. The national press has started beating the drums with the stories of denied loans. However, these stories are sometimes misleading. The borrowers who are on the front of the mortgage crisis are generally the … (2 comments)
National vs. Local Trends - Combating Misinformation - 10/01/08 08:47 AM A Self-Fulfilling Prophecy Over the past 18 months, prospective purchasers have been bombarded with negative news stories regarding the "housing bubble." The term has been used to describe a wide range of national market conditions ranging from a decrease in housing starts to increases in inventory to declines in median sales … (0 comments)
The Art of Blogging - Eliminate the Bull and Improve Your Posts - 11/13/08 03:29 PM I am a novice at blogging. Often, I write a post only to see that it only got one or two comments. I then read a post and there are hundreds of comments. When it comes to blogging, there are some writers who are naturals. Their posts are … (25 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - Internet Based Directory Assistance Resources - 11/12/08 11:42 PM Have you lost the person's business card or telephone number? Is the lead sheet incomplete? Is the handwriting illegible? Are you prospecting and want to contact an owner of a property but only have the address and not the name or telephone number of the owner? Sometimes you may find a … (13 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets for the Mobile Phone - GPS Tracking, Targeted Text Messaging, Mobile Social Networking and Much More - 11/12/08 01:32 AM As any real estate agent will tell you, the mobile telephone is one of their most important tools. Over the years, it has evolved from being simply their telephone to providing internet access, mobile computing, and PDA items like calendars, task lists, etc. However, the technology associated with mobile … (14 comments)
Veterans Day - Thank You for Your Service and the Sacrifices Made in Defense of Our Country - 11/11/08 09:56 AM On behalf of the principals and sales staff at PREA Signature Realty, we want to thank the nearly 24 million veterans who have served their country in the armed forces in war and and in peace and who have protected our country and its values over the years. We are … (3 comments)
Favorite Movie Quotations Applicable to Sales - 11/10/08 12:25 PM Every once in a awhile, I have to rally the troops so I pull out a movie clip to emphasize a point at a sales meeting. Most of the clips are not directly related to sales - but can be applied to sales. … (26 comments)
BuilderOnline.com & eBuild.com - Resources for Developers, Builders, Sales Agents, and Owners - 11/10/08 12:31 AM Whether you are a new home sales consultant or a real estate agent working in a traditional real estate brokerage, there may come a time when you need product information on a variety of appliances, construction materials and other products. Here are some of the many requests that we have received over … (3 comments)
2008 Soulard Parlour Tour - December 6-7, 2008 - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - 11/09/08 09:54 PM 33rd Annual Soulard Parlour Tour Saturday-Sunday, December 6, 200810:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.The Soulard Holiday Parlour Tour is a great opportunity to see the historic homes in the Soulard neighborhood decorated for the Christmas holidays. Ticket Information: Tickets are $20.00 and can be purchased online at … (0 comments)
New Home Sales - Top 10 Realtor Turnoffs - 11/09/08 06:43 PM Although it varies by market, approximately 50% of new homes sales in my submarket (based on MLS data) are attributable to showings involving an outside or cooperating selling agent. Recognizing the importance and impact of outside or cooperating selling agents on new home sales, I attended a recent meeting of … (24 comments)
Stay Motivated - Real Estate Sales Is Like a Roller Coaster - 11/09/08 03:24 PM New home sales can be like a roller coaster - sudden drops, unanticipated turns, slow climbs to the top, and breakneck speed. At all times, you must stay prepared and sustain your motivation and drive. Whether you are a new salesperson or an experienced salesperson, you will experiences slumps or … (4 comments)
2008 Lafayette Square Holiday Parlor Tour - Sunday, December 14, 2008 - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. - 11/08/08 01:49 PM Sunday, December 14, 2008 - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.The Lafayette Square Holiday Parlor Tour is a great opportunity to see the Victorian-era homes in the historic Lafayette Square neighborhood decorated for the Christmas holidays. Proceeds from the tour are used for restoration projects in Lafayette Park and the … (2 comments)
Is Real Estate Sales Just a Numbers Game? - 11/07/08 10:55 PM As an owner of a small independent brokerage and a manager of developer sales staffs, I often hear the comment that "sales is a numbers game" from owners/developers and sales associates alike. While I agree with some aspects of the statement, I disagree with the statement when it is used as … (15 comments)
The Willy Wonka Blogging Strategy - 11/07/08 09:02 PM Willy Wonka was a marketing genius. He offers a "free" factory tour, garners a ton of "free" publicity, and in the process creates a crazed demand for his Wonka chocolate bars as children across the world buy his Wonka chocolate bars in search of the five golden tickets for the tour. … (13 comments)
New Home Sales - Mastering the Fundamentals - 11/07/08 12:43 AM As new home sales professionals, the goal is get the purchaser to say "Yes" and to purchase our homes. However, before we can make a sale, we must first master the fundamentals (or more accurately the "Five Must Knows"). To be able to effectively sell new homes, you must master … (9 comments)
Stop Making Excuses - Start Marketing Yourself Today - 11/01/08 12:40 AM Now, as some of you may know, I often will use a private conversation with my current and former colleagues - both inside and outside my brokerage - as a source of inspiration for my blog posts. I use a variety of devices to protect the innocent such as waiting several … (58 comments)
Lafayette Square - Special Sales Incentives (Expires December 31, 2008) - 12/19/08 06:32 PM FINAL 2008 SPECIAL INCENTIVESThe Georgian - 1515 Lafayette - $10,000 Special Allowance Eden Lofts - 1720 Chouteau - $1,000 Closing Cost Assistance Mississippi Place - Prices Rolled Back to Pre-Construction Pricing Abbey on the Park - 1505 Missouri - Reduced Pricing - $265,000 Union Club - 1 Year Membership … (3 comments)
Buy Now - Mortgage Rates Decline to Historic Lows Creating a Once in a Lifetime Buying Opportunity - 12/19/08 01:09 PM Mortgage rates fell this week to the lowest levels since 1971. The average rate on 30-year fixed rate mortgages declined to under 5.20%. Purchasers with a substantial downpayment and a strong rate may qualify for a home mortgage as low as 4.50%. These historic low rates coupled with favorable pricing represent a once … (0 comments)
New Home Sales Training - 10 Resolutions for Better Customer Service in 2009 - 12/18/08 04:11 PM At PREA Signature Realty, we are licensed Realtors and are bound by the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice adopted by the National Association of Realtors as well as the regulations of the Missouri Real Estate Commission. We also provide our agents with extensive training on new home sales, including … (12 comments)
PREPARE FOR PROPERTY TAX APPEALS NOW - CITY ASSESSOR PREDICTS REAL ESTATE TAXES "WON'T FALL" IN 2009 (CITY OF SAINT LOUIS, MISSOURI) - 12/18/08 03:31 AM 2009 IS TAX REASSESSMENT YEARIn Missouri, real estate taxes are reassessed in odd years. Reassessment is the process by which the County (or City) Assessor's Office updates or adjusts the real estate values for purposes of determining value of your home upon which real estate taxes will be assessed. In … (2 comments)
Moving Guide - Simplify the BIG Move - 12/17/08 01:59 AM It is 10 p.m. on Thurday night. The movers are set to arrive in 12 hours and you still have two rooms to box up before morning. As it gets later, you are frantically worried about the move. Plus, you need to be at the closing table at 9 a.m. Isn't … (5 comments)
Google Adsense - How to Install Google Adsense for Content on Your Real Estate Website - 12/16/08 09:24 PM Google Adsense is extremely easy to install on your real estate website in seven easy steps. There is something said for making the process easy and fairly understable - with the exception of the help page on how to set up channels. Here are the steps to install Google Adsense on your … (7 comments)
Localism - Lafayette Square - And the Highest Sales Price Winner for 2008 is... - 12/14/08 06:41 PM In the past 18 months, the news has been less than good for the real estate market. However, there are some not so surprising bright spots. Lafayette Square remains a fashionable and hotly sought after neighborhood. Purchasers continue to flock to value, which is good news for owners of homes, … (2 comments)
Localism - 2008 Lafayette Square Holiday Parlor Tour - December 14, 2008 - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. - 12/09/08 09:35 PM 2008 LAFAYETTE SQUARE HOLIDAY PARLOR TOURThe 2008 Lafayette Square Holiday Parlor Tour is set for December 14, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The self-guided tour starts at 2023 Lafayette and showcases 10 Victorian homes and 2 newly constructed Victorian replicas, including a home built by Gilded Age, … (1 comments)
Need MLS Access to Search for New Homes in Saint Louis, Missouri - Visit www.PREASignatureRealty.com - 12/09/08 09:08 PM At PREA Signature Realty, we understand that over 85% of our customers begin their search online. We invite you to visit our website to access the local multiple listing service for the Saint Louis, Missouri market area. Click on MLS to search for homes in the Saint Louis area. MLS access … (0 comments)
PREA Annoucement - Introduction of New ActiveRain Members - 12/09/08 08:49 PM PREA Signature Realty is pleased to welcome three members of its management team and sales staff to ActiveRain: Michelle Silies, Chris MacLellan, and Georgia Endicott. We couldn't keep the secret and the word has spread. Other associates are asking what all the "buzz" is about. Well, if you want a site to … (0 comments)
Real Estate News - 1-Stop Source - Visit www.PREASignatureRealty.com Today - 12/09/08 08:12 PM Concerned about the current market? Visit our Real Estate News website page. It is updated within minutes of when new stories are posted at their source. Review in one place national real estate news stories including stories from the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, RIS Media, Inman News, Mortgage News Daily, and other … (0 comments)
Overview - Selling a Home 101 - 12/08/08 10:29 PM At PREA Signature Realty, we strive to educate and inform our owners/sellers regarding the sales process and then guide them through the process so that they have a timely sale and smooth closing. Here are some of the the steps in the home sales process:STEP 1-SELECT A LISTING … (2 comments)
Overview - Home Purchase 101 - 12/08/08 05:24 PM At PREA Signature Realty, we believe it is important that our customers have a strong and complete understanding of the home buying process. An educated and informed customer is our goal. But, you are never alone. Our professional staff stands ready to assist you and add value at each … (1 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadget - Web-Based Automated Reminder Systems - 12/08/08 02:41 PM Everyone has some sort of to do list or system for managing tasks. It can be as simple as a stack of post-its taped to a computer monitor or a handwritten list of tasks or a more sophisticates system like Outlook or other software programs. However, all too often … (2 comments)
Website Development - Low Tech, High Value - 12/07/08 11:11 AM We recently underwent change in the structure of our business model which went from an in-house sales team to an independent brokerage and found us with an immediate need for a content filled website. We started to review our options. In fact, there seemed to be too many options - … (11 comments)
Moving to New Home - 5 Websites You Should Bookmark in Case of Emergencies - 12/06/08 02:28 AM Whether you have relocated to a new city or simply moved to a new neighborhood, it is important that you plan for possible emergencies. When an emergency strikes or natural catastrophe occurs, it is important to have correct information at your fingertips. Here are five websites that your should bookmark, review … (11 comments)
Saint Louis Ranks #9 of the Forbes' 2008 Most Affordable Cities to Raise a Family List - 12/04/08 07:04 PM If you are relocating, Saint Louis, Missouri, remains an affordable alternative to the high cost of living offered by cities on the East and West coasts. Forbes Magazine published its Top 10 Affordable Cities to Raise a Family List. Saint Louis, Missouri, ranked #7 on the list. In determining its list, Forbes … (7 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - Content Distribution Using Podcasts - Convert Blog Text to MP3 Files and More - 12/03/08 01:39 AM For real estate professionals looking for ways to create podcasts, Odiogo.com offers a quick, easy, and free way to convert the text from blog entries into spoken words that can then be listened to online, can be listened to as streaming audio, or can be downloaded as MP3 files. It also … (8 comments)
Announcement - Podcasts Now Available at PREASignatureRealty.com - 12/03/08 12:06 AM PREA Signature Realty is pleased to announce that the blog Lafayette Report, written by Ryan Shaughnessy and hosted by ActiveRain.com, may now be heard online using streaming audio feeds powered by Odiogo.com. To listen online, download podcasts, or subscribe to the podcasts, visit our website PREASignatureRealty.com or go directly to our … (0 comments)
New Website - PREA Signature Realty - www.preasignaturerealty.com - 12/01/08 10:24 AM PREA Signature Realty is pleased to announce the availability of its new website - PREA Signature Realty Website. It is up and running and functional. However, it remains a work in progress with additions being made to the site daily. Here are some of the features:Home Page - A brief description … (2 comments)
Lending Update - Missouri Housing Development Commission Offers New Loan Program to Assist First-Time Home Buyers to Take Advantage Federal First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Program - 01/30/09 12:02 PM THE FEDERAL FIRST-TIME HOME BUYER TAX CREDIT PROGRAM. In July, 2008, the U.S. Congress approved the first-time home buyer tax credit program which provided an interest-free loan to first-time home buyers. The maximum amount of the tax credit was set at $7,500.00 and had to be accumulated based on changes to your income … (2 comments)
The Power of Playing in the Rain - Thank You ActiveRain - 01/18/09 05:59 PM Since January 1, 2009, we have implemented our 2009 internet marketing strategy. It has been a slow and sometimes tedious process. However, the attention paid to our profiles, blogs and comments on ActiveRain paid huge dividends so far this month.Here are some of the benefits that we have seen from … (25 comments)
New Construction Sales Training - Staying Motivated and Achieving Outrageous Success in 2009 - 01/17/09 10:32 PM When you start a new job or take a new position, you often start with a great explosion of positive energy. However, when the activities performed at the outset don't generate immediate results, it is hard to stay focused, to keep on point, and to remain motivated. Here are some tips … (1 comments)
New Construction Sales Training - Networking and the Art of Developing a Referral Network by Saying "Yes" to Business Opportunities - 01/17/09 10:03 AM Recently, Anne Marie Malfi posted an inspirational article suggesting five great ways to "tune-up" your real estate business. It was a fine post. However, when she used the phrase "program your brain to see opportunity", it really resonated with me. In new home sales, I often see sales associates who have … (14 comments)
Featured Business - Blues City Deli (Benton Park) - 01/17/09 08:42 AM FEATURED BUSINESS - JANUARY, 2009BLUES CITY DELI When Two Cents Plain closed in Downtown St. Louis, I bemoaned the loss of one of the last old time delis. However, there is a new sheriff in town and his name is Vince Valenza. On … (0 comments)
Property Available for Redevelopment - 3225 Chouteau Avenue, Saint Louis Missouri (Near St. Louis University Medical Center) - 01/10/09 10:44 PM 3.13 ACRES - PROPERTY IS AVAILABLE FOR REDEVELOPMENT OR FOR USE AS TRUCK TERMINAL, TRANSIT FACILITY OR CONSTRUCTION RELATED USES.This commercial property includes 182' of frontage on Chouteau Avenue, a large front parking lot, 3 drive-thru truck bays, office with storage loft and truck repair building, large rear … (0 comments)
Developing a Blueprint for Success in 2009 - 01/10/09 10:02 PM With the start of a new year, we earnestly make resolutions to improve our personal and professional lives over the next 12 months. For those few precious days or weeks, we zealously pursue these resolutions. However, after the holidays are over, the hectic pace of everyday life begins. With each passing … (8 comments)
Monthly Realtor Luncheon - January 13, 2009 - 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - 01/10/09 08:19 AM MONTHLY REALTOR LUNCHEONS - FIRST QUARTER 2009January 13, 2009 - Union Club - 2340 Lafayette AvenueFebruary 10, 2009 - Georgian - 1515 Lafayette AvenueMarch 10, 2009 - Mississippi Place - 1618 Mississippi AvenueWe would like to invite all real estate professionals as well as anyone else interested in … (2 comments)
Strange, True or Urban Legend? Trivial Reasons for Relocating to Missouri - 02/28/09 01:38 PM More than a State Motto - The Show Me State: The unofficial motto for the State of Missouri is "The Show Me". The phrase was coined by U.S. Congressman Willard Duncan. While giving a speech at a naval banquet in Philadelphia, he uttered the line: "I come from a state that raises … (12 comments)
Buy Now - Or How I Missed the Chance of a Lifetime - 3 Compelling Reasons to Buy/Borrow Now Before Loan Products, Terms and Interest Rates Change Again - 02/26/09 01:47 PM Well, I told you so...In October, 2008, and again in January, 2009, we urged buyers to BUY NOW. The recommendation was made based on a number of key economic factors, including:Historically Low Interest Rates Excess Inventory - Favorable Pricing Federal First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit ($7,500) Well, I have some good … (9 comments)
The Power of Twitter and Social Networks as a Customer Service Tool - 02/24/09 01:37 PM Admittedly, I did not understand or realize the power of the micro blogging site Twitter. Although other real estate professionals have raved about the contacts, referrals, etc. that they have obtained from Twitter, I simply did not see its use or potential. However, a recent news story and … (50 comments)
Going Green - State and Local Incentives for Green Repairs and Improvements - 02/24/09 01:22 AM In the current economic times, home owners are increasingly looking for home repair and improvement projects that increase energy efficiency of their homes in the hope that these repairs will reduce their short and long term energy costs. In addition to the energy cost savings, there are a number … (4 comments)
Going Green - Website for Measuring the Costs, Savings and Return on Income of Green Repairs and Improvements - 02/24/09 12:36 AM GreenandSave.com's slogan is simple and direct - "Saving Your Money and the Planet One Household at a Time." If you ever wondered whether a certain "green" repair or improvement was worth it, then this is the website is for you. It has calculations on the cost and potential savings for … (5 comments)
Going Green - Find Recycling Centers Nationwide - 02/23/09 10:47 PM If you are new to a city or neighborhood or if you just became aware of the need or benefits of recycling, then you may want to take a look at the website - Earth911. Earth911 is a clearinghouse for information on recycling. Here are some of the features of the … (7 comments)
Lofty Aspirations Require Concrete Ideas - Flooring Matters in Today's Market - 02/23/09 01:32 PM CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONSWhen customers look at "lofts", they typically expect tall ceilings, oversized industrial windows, exposed brick walls, concrete pillars, exposed or open HVAC and other conduit, and wood plank, concrete or terrazzo floors. The appeal of lofts is that they do have an edgy, industrial look and feel. However, the … (0 comments)
Great Rental Opportunity - The Meridian - 1136 Washington Avenue, Unit 204 - Downtown St. Louis (Washington Avenue Loft District), Missouri - 02/22/09 10:18 PM Property: The Meridian - 1136 Washington Avenue, Unit 204 (63101) (2 BR/2Ba/1254 sq.ft.) 12 Month Lease - $1,300 per Month (includes HVAC and 1-Garage Parking Space) THE MERIDIAN - CONTEMPORARY LOFTS IN THE WASHINGTON AVENUE … (6 comments)
Legal Alerts - Playin in the Rain is Fun... But Sometimes I Like Playing in the Dirt - UMKC's BrokerDirt Offers a Forum for Attorneys and Brokers to Ask Questions and Discuss Legal Issues relating to Real Estate Sales - 02/21/09 06:24 PM If you are a real estate broker or real estate attorney and you have a strong interest in real estate issues and trends that impact the daily operations of real estate brokerages, then you may want to join the list serv Dirt or BrokerDirt by clicking here.What is Dirt and … (9 comments)
Website of the Week - Staying Ahead of the Technology Curve with 3 Easy Websites for Tracking New Tech Tools and Gadgets (Plus as a Bonus - List of 30 Great Geek Speak Blogs) - 02/21/09 04:19 AM Technology plays a very important role in our real estate brokerage. From the syndication of our listings to lead generation, we use technology to maintain a competitive edge.Each week, I search the internet to find new tech tools and gadgets. I read several reviews. I then select 2 or 3 sites to … (11 comments)
Legal Alert - Lenders Entering Homes Prior to Foreclosure Sale Reported in Washington State - 02/20/09 12:00 AM Recently, there have been an increase in reports of lenders entering homes pending foreclosure, changing the locks and removing personal property. Often, the justification provided by the lenders is that they received a report that the property was vacant and unsecured and that they were simply securing the property … (63 comments)
Sales Training: It's a Jungle Out There - Couldn't We All Use Tarzan as Our Realtor - 02/19/09 11:12 PM It's a Jungle Out There...Now, in today's housing market, it is a real jungle out there. For the average buyer, it is a dark, inhospitable place, where at every turn there is some animal waiting to take a bite out of them. Worse, there are hustlers and poachers out there pushing … (14 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - Using the Internet to Stay Alert - 02/18/09 02:25 AM When I first started practicing law, the tools for monitoring your or your client's reputation and business goodwill or for researching the opposition were limited. Back then, we subscribed to a "clipping" service that scoured hundreds of trade journals, newsletters, newspapers, etc. to find information on people, companies, projects and … (78 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - Tools to Grade and Value Your Website - 02/17/09 01:20 AM Website GradersLinkVoodoo offers several SEO measurement tools on its site. I found the Quality Rank Tool to be helpful. It measures or otherwise ranks a site using several factors including the following.Factor 1 - Alexa Ranking: Compares site against other sites on the internet using traffic statistics, links, etc. Factor 2 - … (18 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - TwitterHawk as a Lead Generation Tool and Guidelines for its Responsible Use - 02/16/09 09:08 PM Social networking sites and advertising seem to be like oil and water and simply don't mix very well. However, a relatively new website TwitterHawk may bridge the gap and offer a workable solution for identifying potential leads using Twitter. How It Works: Using TwitterHawk, you set it to search for … (9 comments)
Legislative Alert from the Missouri Association of Realtors - State Historic Tax Credit Program - 02/16/09 11:35 AM FROM THE MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS:The information supplied below is from the e-Alerts published by the Missouri Association of Realtors. If you are a resident of the City of St. Louis, Missouri, you need to look no further than Downtown, Lafayette Square, Central West End, Soulard, etc. to see the impact … (1 comments)
National Association of Realtors - Use the NAR Library to Download e-Books in Adobe, MP-3 and Other Formats - 02/14/09 09:47 PM The National Association of Realtor has made it too easy. I can no longer complain about not having enough training materials. With NAR's E-Library, you can download e-Books in a variety of formats ranging from Adobe E-Books to MP3 to other audio format in 3 easy steps:Step 1 - Download … (20 comments)
Restaurant Review (Sort Of) - St. Raymond's Cathedral - A Maronite Catholic Church and Heck of a Lunch Spot on Wednesdays - St. Louis (LaSalle Park), Missouri - 02/14/09 04:35 PM Wednesdays at St. Raymond's CathedralSt. Raymond's Cathedral is a Maronite Catholic Church founded in 1898. The Cedars, the St. Raymond's Parish Center, is located at 931 Lebanon Drive in the LaSalle Park neighborhood of the City of St. Louis, Missouri, South of Downtown and East of the Lafayette … (3 comments)
Tips from Our Mexican Taxicab Drivers on How to Develop a Referral Only Business - 02/14/09 04:48 AM On occasion, it seems that we are so overloaded with everyday tasks that we sometimes fail to see how simple marketing can be. The best advertisement for our services is our existing customers. Good customer service generates more word-of-mouth referrals and repeat business than 100 advertisements. So, when it comes to marketing, … (71 comments)
Localism - A History of Eden Lofts - From Storefront Publishing House to 40-Residential Lofts - 1895 to 2009 - 02/13/09 10:49 AM From 1896 to 1979, 1712-1724 Chouteau served as the home to the Eden Publishing House, a publishing house dedicated to the printing of ecclesiastical materials for the Lutheran Synod. However, this building was not built as a single building. It evolved over time with four separate building phases. By looking … (5 comments)
Business Practices - Hijacked Listing Caused by Feed or Feed Reading Error - 02/11/09 09:52 PM I have never seen or heard of this problem. However, I was checking Trulia.com to see one of my new listings. I found that our listing had been hijacked.Here is the link: Trulia Listing. Now, if you look at the listing, there is a brokerage shown in the top right hand … (41 comments)
Legislative Update - Missouri Historic Tax Credits as a Tool for Revitalization is under Attack - 02/11/09 12:19 PM The Missouri General Assembly has several proposals that would reduce the effectiveness of the Missouri Historic Tax Credit Program or, worse, eliminate it in future years. As a Realtor serving the historic neighborhoods of the City of St. Louis, Missouri, the Missouri Historic Tax Credit has been an extremely … (9 comments)
Listing (St. Louis, Missouri) - The Georgian - 1515 Lafayette Avenue, Unit 114 - CONTEMPORARY LIVING IN A LANDMARK LOCATION - 02/11/09 12:06 AM Georgian Condominiums - Live Life in this Local Landmark - Short Walk to Lafayette Park and Soulard MarketLocation: Georgian Square/Lafayette SquarePROJECT: Georgian Condominiums ADDRESS: 1515 Lafayette Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63104 TYPE: New Construction - Condominiums - 104 Units AVAILABILITY: 86% SOLD - Immediate Occupancy SIZE: 733 - 1608 sq. ft. … (7 comments)
ActiveRain is a Great Community - Even Better When You Meet in Person - 02/10/09 09:12 PM Although I had previously visited Blu City Spaces, I had not met Ms. Evelyn Sharp, the sales manager, on the past two visits. Recently, I visited her property with a customer. After the showing, I received a courtesy telephone call from her regarding the showing and had a very nice conversation. Unfortunately, the property … (2 comments)
Listing (St. Louis, Missouri) - The Georgian - 1515 Lafayette Avenue, Unit 105 - CONTEMPORARY LIVING IN A LANDMARK LOCATION - 02/09/09 05:20 PM Project: The Georgian Address: 1515 Lafayette Avenue, Unit 105 (63104) Neighorhood: Lafayette Square/Georgian Square (St. Louis, Missouri) Price: $199,000.00 ($146.32 per sq. ft.) 2 Bedroom / 2 Bathroom - 1360 sq. ft. Monthly Condo Fee: $346/per month. REMARKABLE UNIT IN THE GEORGIAN CONDOMINIUMS with STUNNING COLORS & DESIGN AND OUTDOOR … (8 comments)
Localism - How to Locate Free WiFi Access in Lafayette Square and Other Neighborhoods - 02/08/09 08:16 PM Do you have an hour between real estate showings and need a place to cool your heels and check your e-mail and the Internet between showings? Don't know where you can find WiFi Internet access? It is simply a click away.Here are a few websites that you can use to … (4 comments)
Localism - Construction Update - I-64 Construction Remains on Schedule - 02/08/09 07:34 PM Whether it is Y2K or road construction, it is good to plan for the worst case scenario. However, the doomsday scenarios of traffic gridlock associated with the re-construction of I-64 have simply not occurred. The construction work is on-time and on-budget. Congratulations MO Dot on a job well done!To … (0 comments)
New Homes Sales Training - Succeed in Sales by Asking the Right Questions - 02/08/09 05:17 AM When I see an agent show a series of condominium units that they thought matched the prospect's needs and the prospect loses interest because the agent can't locate the right property for the prospect or the prospect writes a sales contract on a totally different style of property, it prompts me to ask … (31 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadget - Tired of Monkeying Around with E-Mails - Use MailChimp.com to Send E-Blasts of Newsletters to Customers - 02/07/09 08:58 PM Tired of monkeying around with e-mail templates, try www.MailChimp.com. This little chimp sure delivers gorilla-like results. MailChimp.com allows you to generate professional looking newsletters, advertorials and other touch-type marketing materials. Here are a few of its features:Easy interface is so easy that even a monkey could … (14 comments)
Politics - ActiveRain Boulevard - Why Not? Everyone Else Has One including Barack Obama - 02/06/09 03:57 PM On Janaury 16, 2009, the Board of Aldermen for the City of St. Louis voted to bestow the honorary title "Barack Obama Boulevard" on Delmar Boulevard and to spend money on new street signs for the six intersections impacted by the name change. Now, I can see some rationale for this … (16 comments)
Website of the Week - Use BillShrink.com to Select the Mobile Plan for You - 02/06/09 02:42 PM For the average real estate professional, their cellular phone is their lifeline. It also can be one of their more significant reocurring, monthly expenses. Today, it is important to monitor and reduce expenses where possible. www.billshrink.com is one such tool that allows you to find the best mobile plan to meet … (10 comments)
Real Estate Research - Use of Journals, Studies and Other Research to Support Pricing Decisions, Marketing Assertions, and Operational Decisions - 02/06/09 01:03 AM Real estate brokerages and agents often are faced with questions where we lack the hard empirical data necessary to make an informed decision or provide sound advice. We turn to collective decision making, rely on anecdotal evidence, and use our instincts to make a decision or provide advice.Here are a few examples of some … (1 comments)
Motivation - Ancient Wisdom - 02/05/09 03:45 PM Often, the pearls of wisdom offered by ancient philosophers still hold up today. Here are a few rambling quotations to consider regarding sales and sales management:Confucious - A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.Socrates - Let him who would move the work, first move … (4 comments)
Motivational Post - The Other Mr. Coffee - The Story of Howard Schultz - 02/05/09 02:32 PM Does the name Howard Schultz ring a bell? It didn't for me and I bet it didn't for you either - unless you are a coffee officiando, a resident of Seattle or a shareholder in Starbucks. Yes, when you pay $4.75 for that venti latte with chocolate, soy milk and whip cream, … (0 comments)
A Study and A Survey - Listing Agents versus Buyer's Agents - What Generates More Revenue? - 02/05/09 11:57 AM Previously, there was the perception that listing agents generated or otherwise produced more income than buyer's agent or agent's maintining a balance between representation of buyers and sellers. However, the recent changes in the housing market have changed this perception. So the question for today is: Is it better for … (62 comments)
Website of the Week - TheCoolHunter.net - 02/04/09 02:23 AM Are you like me approaching 40 and feeling decidedly un-hip? Well, there is a great site for keeping in touch with the latest and greatest trends - www.TheCoolHunter.net.If you are interested in keeping abreast of what is the lastest and greatest trend or just like pretty pictures, then I would … (5 comments)
Localism - Restaurant Review - Niche - Slow Roasted Pig's Head Anyone? - 02/04/09 01:19 AM Chef Gerard Craft and the staff at Niche in the historic Benton Park neighborhood continue to garner a series of awards such as:Chef of the Year (Sauce Awards 2008) Favorite Overall Restaurant (Sauce Awards 2008) Best New Chefs (Food & Wine 2008) Best Local Chef (Riverfront Times 2007) Chef Craft's success … (0 comments)
Localism - Mardi Gras 2009 is in Full Swing in St. Louis' Soulard Neighborhood - 02/03/09 02:25 AM The Mardi Gras season is now in full swing in St. Louis. If you haven't been to Mardi Gras in St. Louis, you are missing one of the great people watching events of the year. But, it isn't just about the parade, crowds, and hurricanes. It is a … (0 comments)
My Reading List - Web Resources for Learning New Sales Skills - 02/03/09 12:38 AM When it comes to sales training, I subscribe to the belief that you can never stop learning. Well, it may not actually be learning - it may just be a reminder as to what we already knew. ActiveRain has been a great resource. However, I still stray to other sites. Here … (8 comments)
New Home Sales - Common Mistakes Made by Real Estate Developers and Builders in Marketing and Advertising their Communities - 02/02/09 10:22 PM At a recent luncheon, I had the opportunity to discuss with a number of on-site builders representatives the perceived weaknesses in their respective company's marketing and advertising campaigns. Although hindsight is 20/20, the comments did reveal certain common criticisms of how real estate developers plan, implement, and measure the success and … (3 comments)
Sales Training - Google Books, the Virtual Library, and the Search for Self-Improvement - 02/02/09 03:58 AM The power and ambition of Google never ceases to amaze me. I had heard about Google Books and its ambitious project to create an online library. However, I only recently started exploring its content. You can find a book for almost any topic in any genre. Here are just a … (16 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - Tools to Measure the Effectiveness of Your Website, Search Engine Optimization Strategy and Content - 02/01/09 11:40 PM Like any business plan, I find that it is important to track what impact my search engine optimization strategies for my website (http://preasignaturerealty.com) have on how Google views and ranks my website and its individual pages. When we first launched our website in November, 2008, I manually entered my website's URL by entering it … (22 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - Free Incoming and Outgoing Fax Services - 02/01/09 07:31 PM As a business organization, I believe that it is important to maintain a professional image. Based on this belief, I do not typically use free e-mail and other free web-based services and prefer branded products that promote the professional image of our company. At the same time, I am a pragmatist … (9 comments)
Website of the Week - ArtsZipper.com - The Hot Calendar for Cool Culture in St. Louis, Missouri - 03/01/09 05:38 PM When it comes to St. Louis, there is sometimes the perception that St. Louis is just a sports town. However, it has much more to offer than just sports. St. Louis has a vibrant and diverse art community ranging from film to theatre to dance and much more. There hasn't always been … (4 comments)
The Positive Approach to Life - 9 Tips from Man's Best Friends - 03/01/09 01:07 PM Today, I would like to introduce you to my oldest associates - Winston (14 years old) and Miles (7 years). These Schnauzers have worked their way through the company and have had a number of roles:Greeter (ie. mad race to door) Security Guard (ie. barking at the door) … (8 comments)
Real Estate Listing Syndication - A Brief Overview - 09/30/08 05:02 PM What is Real Estate Listing Syndication?Real estate listing syndication is a web-based software program that permits you to expose your listings to the internet on such aggregator sites as BackPage, Craigslist, Google Base, HotPads, Kijiji, LiveDeal, Oodle, Trulia, Vast, Zillow and 100s of specialty sites. It is a great equalizer for … (10 comments)
The Internet - Changing Search Dynamics - 09/30/08 04:52 PM The Internet - Changing Search DynamicsToday, prospective purchasers are increasingly starting their home searches on the internet. The internet is initially used as a broad search tool and then is used to exclude or eliminate homes. Although a corporate website is a good starting point, the internet marketing model of driving internet … (7 comments)
In the News - Relocating and Looking for Value - Consider St. Louis, Missouri - 10/30/08 10:47 PM The City of St. Louis may just be one of the nation's best kept secrets. Whether you are a young professional, raising a family, an empty nester or retired, the City of St. Louis offers a low cost of living, affordable housing and an active lifestyle. Here are some of the awards and honors … (0 comments)
First-Time Homebuyers - Preparing for Homeownership - 10/29/08 10:55 PM When it comes to purchasing a new home, there is no such thing as a free lunch. As a buyer's agent, we can assist you and provide you with guidance regarding the home search and sales process. However, we strongly suggest that you take control of the process, set … (4 comments)
Agent Safety is No Accident - 10/29/08 08:32 PM As real estate professionals, we often show vacant homes or work with new customers that we do not personally know. As a result, there are inherent risks associated with our jobs. Every year, there are news stories regarding assaults and other crimes against real estate agents. To read a … (10 comments)
Discover Lafayette Living Today - Historic Homes, Great Neighbors, and a Vibrant Community - 10/29/08 01:56 PM Recently, a prospect relocating to Saint Louis, Missouri, asked a simple and direct question - What does Lafayette Square have to offer me? Well, I could and did explain to the prospect the economics of this market. That is, it is a strong and stable market with increased sales and consistent price … (0 comments)
Saint Louis (Lafayette Square/Georgian Square), Missouri - 2008 Brokerage Market Share Report - 10/28/08 03:08 PM We are a small, local and independently owned real estate brokerage working primarily in the Lafayette Square, Georgian Square, and other historic neighborhoods. We have 7 licensed agents. We may be small but we deliver big results. Here are our year to date totals in the neighborhoods that we serve:… (0 comments)
An Architectural History - City Hospital No. 1 - 1515 Lafayette - City of St. Louis, Missouri 63104 - 10/28/08 12:16 AM A Brief History - Georgian Revival ArchitectureIn 1909, the City of St. Louis started construction on City Hospital No. 1. The most prominent building in the City Hospital complex is and remains the Main Administration Building. The Main Administration Building is a five-story red brick building and was designed by architect Albert … (2 comments)
Changing Your Sales Philosophy - Property Oriented to Service Oriented - 10/27/08 12:04 PM Recently, we had a lively discussion in the office. It centered on a simple question - What is your personal sales philosophy? There seemed to be two schools of thought:Property First: The first school of thought centered on the property. The general view was that it was the sales associate's … (67 comments)
Is Your Partner Impaired - Substance Abuse and the Current Financial Crisis - 10/25/08 04:32 PM In the NewsRecently, I have read national and local new articles relating to the impact of the financial crisis - including layoffs, foreclosures, decline in value of retirement accounts, etc. - on suicides, domestic violence, and substance abuse. From these news stories, it would appear that Americans are struggling with … (0 comments)
2008 Real Estate Law Update (Missouri) - Legislative Action - 10/23/08 04:02 PM Here is an update of a few changes in Missouri law that may have an impact or relate to sales transactions in Missouri:HCS SCS SB 1033 - Real Property Transfers to Counties - Acknowledgements Now RequiredIn Missouri (except the City of St. Louis), grantees generally are not required to … (5 comments)
New Home Sales - Do You Register or Survey Your Prospects? - 10/23/08 12:53 PM Whether you sell new homes or existing homes, I will bet that your sales manager or broker has said something like "Get Everyone Registered" or "Get Everyone Signed-In." I think these statements are good advice. Nevertheless, I think this advice alone is incomplete. Although I agree that you should capture contact … (12 comments)
Featured Local Business - October, 2008 - And the Winner is... Park Avenue Coffee - 10/22/08 08:48 PM THIS MONTH'S FEATURED BUSINESS - PARK AVENUE COFFEE - 1919 PARK AVENUEWell, I think that a neighborhood is only as strong as its local businesses. This month's featured business is Park Avenue Coffee located at 1919 Park Avenue in the heart of Lafayette Square. As my colleagues already know, I … (2 comments)
New Home Sales - The Use of Resident Sales Ambassadors - 10/21/08 10:48 PM Increasingly, builders-developers are turning to their customers-residents to supplement their sales staff. Some experts ask the question: "Is it a mistake not to have a seasoned sales staff to sell homes in this challenging market?" There are no simple answers. However, there are some distinct advantages to using customer-residents as a … (8 comments)
Seller's Disclosure Statements - Tips for Managing Risk and Limiting Potential Liability - 10/21/08 01:40 AM Over 70% of claims asserted against real estate agents arise regarding disputes regarding defects in or physical conditions of the property sold that impact the value, desirability or use of the property. Seller's disclosure statements, if handled correctly (as explained below), are an effective means to reduce and manage the risks … (7 comments)
A Primer on Cohabitation Agreements - Sex and the City and the Pitfalls of Cohabitation - 10/20/08 11:34 AM Buyer Beware - Purchase of Homes by Non-Traditional FamiliesJoint ownership of residential real estate by unmarried individuals is increasingly common. Recent census figures indicate that there are over 6.5 million unmarried cohabitating couples in the United States. Gay couples, elderly couples, heterosexual couples deferring marriage (divorced or otherwise), and couples … (4 comments)
For Sale - The Georgian (Formerly City Hospital No. 1), 1515 Lafayette Avenue, St. Louis (Georgian Square/Lafayette Square), Missouri 63104 - 10/18/08 12:34 PM … (1 comments)
For Sale - Eden Lofts - 1720 Chouteau - St. Louis (Lafayette Square), Missouri 63103 - 10/18/08 12:31 PM … (1 comments)
For Sale - Mississippi Place - 1618 Mississippi (Display), St. Louis (Lafayette Square), Missouri 63104 - 10/18/08 12:29 PM … (2 comments)
For Sale - Abbey on the Park, 1505 Missouri, Unit 2E, St. Louis (Lafayette Square), Missouri 63104 - 10/18/08 12:26 PM … (0 comments)
For Sale - Union Club - 2340 Lafayette, St. Louis (Lafayette Square), Missouri 63104 - 10/18/08 12:24 PM … (0 comments)
For Rent - Eden Lofts - 1720 Chouteau - St. Louis (Lafayette Square), Missouri 63103 - 10/18/08 12:19 PM … (0 comments)
Expanding Your Sphere of Influence - Leave Cyberspace and Network in the Real World - 10/17/08 08:20 PM Recently, I read another blog post that asked the question "How do I expand my sphere of influence?" The simple answer is by networking. When it comes to networking, you need both a web strategy and a real world strategy. Your web strategy will most likely focus on social networking sites … (42 comments)
A Primer on "As Is" Sales - 10/17/08 12:38 AM What is an "as is" sale?As real estate professionals, there are times when we are directed by the owner of the property to offer the property for sale on an "as is" basis. The intent of the owner may be to emphasize that the owner is not willing to make … (9 comments)
Market Report - The Lafayette Report - October, 2008 - 10/15/08 08:13 PM MARKET SUMMARY: Lafayette Square is a fashionable neighborhood in high demand in the City of St. Louis. SUPPLY: It is an established neighborhood with restricted supply. It has fixed boundaries and has little vacant land for new construction projects. Growth in supply is limited to in-fill and conversion projects.DEMAND: … (0 comments)
Watch the Time Clock - When the Clock Hits Zero the Game is Over - 10/15/08 03:00 PM In today's hectic world, it seems that we are all too often faced with a shortage of time. The concept of time has changed over the past 20 years. There seems to be less "free" time. More importantly, time has changed in the sense that clients demand more instantaneous communication. In … (0 comments)
FDIC Insurance - Are Your Funds at Risk? - 10/14/08 06:18 PM In a residential or commercial closing, funds are deposited into an escrow account held by an intermediary such as title company, settlement company or attorney. The good news is that the FDIC looks at the beneficial owners of the account. That is, each customer who has deposited funds into the escrow … (0 comments)
In Search of the Holy Grail - Free Advertising (and the Submission of Newspaper Articles) - 10/14/08 12:05 AM In the real estate industry, free advertising is the Holy Grail. When you have a new development, a historic home, or a unique property, you have a special opportunity to promote both your business and your listing. Local daily papers, neighborhood papers, trade magazines, association newsletters, and even non-real estate bloggers … (7 comments)
Are You a Hunter? Or Are You a Farmer? - 10/11/08 12:40 AM At a recent luncheon, we had a lengthy discussion regarding the real estate market. An experienced agent asked "Where have all the purchasers gone?" It was followed by a series of comments starting with "Remember when... " There was a longing for the days when the phone rang off the hook … (3 comments)
Website Review - www.mohomeprograms.com - A Resource for First-Time Homebuyers in Missouri - 10/10/08 05:07 PM The internet is an amazing tool. It certainly can be used to bridge the "information gap" for first-time homebuyers. However, the sheer number of websites can cause "information overload." Because of the number of websites, I am hesitant to recommend just one. However, for first-time homebuyers, I would start with mohomeprograms.com, … (0 comments)
Do You Lead the Customer or Do You Follow? Remember It Isn't All About You - 10/10/08 03:41 PM In a prior post, I suggested that key to successful sales started with developing meaningful rapport. However, I received questions and comments on the "how to" aspect. Here are some of my suggestions:• The Greeting - Stand and meet the person as they enter the home or display. When greeting a … (5 comments)
Monthly Realtor Luncheon - November 11, 2008 - 10/08/08 07:33 PM INVITATION TO MONTHLY REALTOR LUNCHEONGilded Age Sales would like to invite local Realtors, members of the Active Rain community, and the general public to attend our Monthly Realtor Luncheon on November 11, 2008, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This month's featured property is The Georgian (former City … (0 comments)
Why Dialing for Interest Rate Quotation is a Bad Idea - 10/08/08 12:41 AM I am always amazed when I ask purchasers how they located their lender and they tell me that "they just started calling lenders" for interest rate quotations. It is a bad approach. Think about it. Here are some of the reasons why this is the wrong approach:• Typically, when you … (2 comments)
Just Ask Warren - Smart Investors are Buying Now - 10/07/08 10:01 PM "LET BLOCKHEADS READ WHAT BLOCKHEADS WROTE." (Warren Buffett)Warren Buffett has it right. You can just follow the herd. You must investigate the facts, read between the lines, and make decisions based on your personal circumstances, not on market rumors and pundit opinions. Local and national media outlets are playing on … (3 comments)
Don't Work Harder... Work Smarter - 10/03/08 05:34 PM AVOID TIME THEFTTo be successful, you don't necessarily have to work harder or spend longer hours at the office. You may just need to work smarter. The key may just be to better or more effectively manage your time. It starts with eliminating time theft. On average, 6 minutes per … (21 comments)
Melting the Polar Icecap - Developing Meaningful Rapport - 10/03/08 12:21 AM THE PROBLEM - INHERENT SUSPICIONSWhen I purchased my first car, I was struck with the simple observation that the initial meeting was inherently confrontational. I dreaded entering the show room. Here is what happened:· The salesperson pounced at the door.· The salesperson then proceeded with rapid fire questions. · When simple … (5 comments)
Success is a Planned Event - 10/01/08 09:08 AM What Separates the Best - Success is a Planned EventWe recently had informal discussions with a number of new home sales managers and their sales representatives. The focal point was what makes a top performer. Are top performers just born to sell? Or are top performers created by training and experience? Is … (8 comments)
Motivation - The Extra Effort Matters - 10/01/08 09:03 AM The Extra Effort Top performers in new home sales have various personal styles, training and experience. However, one of the characteristics displayed by all top performers is a strong work ethic. A short movie, 212 Movie, shows how extra effort makes the difference. The movie is premised on a simple fact of science. At … (2 comments)
Commentary - Another Tool for First Time Home Buyers - Federal Tax Credit - 10/01/08 09:00 AM Commentary - Another Tool for First Time Home BuyersThe first-time home buyer tax credit provides another reason for a first-time home buyer to purchase their home today. The greatest misperceptions regarding the program are that the tax credit is a "giveaway" and that the purchasers receive a "check at … (1 comments)
ARMs - Throwing the Baby Out with the Bath Water - 10/01/08 08:56 AM ARMs - Throwing the Baby Out with the Bath WaterCurrent Crisis Recent new stories attribute much of the blame on the credit and housing crisis on the wide spread use of adjustable rate mortgages ("ARMs"). This type of loan product has an interest rate that adjusts periodically. Because of these … (0 comments)
Mortgage Matters - When Smart People Panic - 10/01/08 08:51 AM Mortgage Matters - When Smart People PanicWe are inundated with daily stories about tightening credit markets. The national press has started beating the drums with the stories of denied loans. However, these stories are sometimes misleading. The borrowers who are on the front of the mortgage crisis are generally the … (2 comments)
National vs. Local Trends - Combating Misinformation - 10/01/08 08:47 AM A Self-Fulfilling Prophecy Over the past 18 months, prospective purchasers have been bombarded with negative news stories regarding the "housing bubble." The term has been used to describe a wide range of national market conditions ranging from a decrease in housing starts to increases in inventory to declines in median sales … (0 comments)
The Art of Blogging - Eliminate the Bull and Improve Your Posts - 11/13/08 03:29 PM I am a novice at blogging. Often, I write a post only to see that it only got one or two comments. I then read a post and there are hundreds of comments. When it comes to blogging, there are some writers who are naturals. Their posts are … (25 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - Internet Based Directory Assistance Resources - 11/12/08 11:42 PM Have you lost the person's business card or telephone number? Is the lead sheet incomplete? Is the handwriting illegible? Are you prospecting and want to contact an owner of a property but only have the address and not the name or telephone number of the owner? Sometimes you may find a … (13 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets for the Mobile Phone - GPS Tracking, Targeted Text Messaging, Mobile Social Networking and Much More - 11/12/08 01:32 AM As any real estate agent will tell you, the mobile telephone is one of their most important tools. Over the years, it has evolved from being simply their telephone to providing internet access, mobile computing, and PDA items like calendars, task lists, etc. However, the technology associated with mobile … (14 comments)
Veterans Day - Thank You for Your Service and the Sacrifices Made in Defense of Our Country - 11/11/08 09:56 AM On behalf of the principals and sales staff at PREA Signature Realty, we want to thank the nearly 24 million veterans who have served their country in the armed forces in war and and in peace and who have protected our country and its values over the years. We are … (3 comments)
Favorite Movie Quotations Applicable to Sales - 11/10/08 12:25 PM Every once in a awhile, I have to rally the troops so I pull out a movie clip to emphasize a point at a sales meeting. Most of the clips are not directly related to sales - but can be applied to sales. … (26 comments)
BuilderOnline.com & eBuild.com - Resources for Developers, Builders, Sales Agents, and Owners - 11/10/08 12:31 AM Whether you are a new home sales consultant or a real estate agent working in a traditional real estate brokerage, there may come a time when you need product information on a variety of appliances, construction materials and other products. Here are some of the many requests that we have received over … (3 comments)
2008 Soulard Parlour Tour - December 6-7, 2008 - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. - 11/09/08 09:54 PM 33rd Annual Soulard Parlour Tour Saturday-Sunday, December 6, 200810:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.The Soulard Holiday Parlour Tour is a great opportunity to see the historic homes in the Soulard neighborhood decorated for the Christmas holidays. Ticket Information: Tickets are $20.00 and can be purchased online at … (0 comments)
New Home Sales - Top 10 Realtor Turnoffs - 11/09/08 06:43 PM Although it varies by market, approximately 50% of new homes sales in my submarket (based on MLS data) are attributable to showings involving an outside or cooperating selling agent. Recognizing the importance and impact of outside or cooperating selling agents on new home sales, I attended a recent meeting of … (24 comments)
Stay Motivated - Real Estate Sales Is Like a Roller Coaster - 11/09/08 03:24 PM New home sales can be like a roller coaster - sudden drops, unanticipated turns, slow climbs to the top, and breakneck speed. At all times, you must stay prepared and sustain your motivation and drive. Whether you are a new salesperson or an experienced salesperson, you will experiences slumps or … (4 comments)
2008 Lafayette Square Holiday Parlor Tour - Sunday, December 14, 2008 - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. - 11/08/08 01:49 PM Sunday, December 14, 2008 - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.The Lafayette Square Holiday Parlor Tour is a great opportunity to see the Victorian-era homes in the historic Lafayette Square neighborhood decorated for the Christmas holidays. Proceeds from the tour are used for restoration projects in Lafayette Park and the … (2 comments)
Is Real Estate Sales Just a Numbers Game? - 11/07/08 10:55 PM As an owner of a small independent brokerage and a manager of developer sales staffs, I often hear the comment that "sales is a numbers game" from owners/developers and sales associates alike. While I agree with some aspects of the statement, I disagree with the statement when it is used as … (15 comments)
The Willy Wonka Blogging Strategy - 11/07/08 09:02 PM Willy Wonka was a marketing genius. He offers a "free" factory tour, garners a ton of "free" publicity, and in the process creates a crazed demand for his Wonka chocolate bars as children across the world buy his Wonka chocolate bars in search of the five golden tickets for the tour. … (13 comments)
New Home Sales - Mastering the Fundamentals - 11/07/08 12:43 AM As new home sales professionals, the goal is get the purchaser to say "Yes" and to purchase our homes. However, before we can make a sale, we must first master the fundamentals (or more accurately the "Five Must Knows"). To be able to effectively sell new homes, you must master … (9 comments)
Stop Making Excuses - Start Marketing Yourself Today - 11/01/08 12:40 AM Now, as some of you may know, I often will use a private conversation with my current and former colleagues - both inside and outside my brokerage - as a source of inspiration for my blog posts. I use a variety of devices to protect the innocent such as waiting several … (58 comments)
Lafayette Square - Special Sales Incentives (Expires December 31, 2008) - 12/19/08 06:32 PM FINAL 2008 SPECIAL INCENTIVESThe Georgian - 1515 Lafayette - $10,000 Special Allowance Eden Lofts - 1720 Chouteau - $1,000 Closing Cost Assistance Mississippi Place - Prices Rolled Back to Pre-Construction Pricing Abbey on the Park - 1505 Missouri - Reduced Pricing - $265,000 Union Club - 1 Year Membership … (3 comments)
Buy Now - Mortgage Rates Decline to Historic Lows Creating a Once in a Lifetime Buying Opportunity - 12/19/08 01:09 PM Mortgage rates fell this week to the lowest levels since 1971. The average rate on 30-year fixed rate mortgages declined to under 5.20%. Purchasers with a substantial downpayment and a strong rate may qualify for a home mortgage as low as 4.50%. These historic low rates coupled with favorable pricing represent a once … (0 comments)
New Home Sales Training - 10 Resolutions for Better Customer Service in 2009 - 12/18/08 04:11 PM At PREA Signature Realty, we are licensed Realtors and are bound by the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice adopted by the National Association of Realtors as well as the regulations of the Missouri Real Estate Commission. We also provide our agents with extensive training on new home sales, including … (12 comments)
PREPARE FOR PROPERTY TAX APPEALS NOW - CITY ASSESSOR PREDICTS REAL ESTATE TAXES "WON'T FALL" IN 2009 (CITY OF SAINT LOUIS, MISSOURI) - 12/18/08 03:31 AM 2009 IS TAX REASSESSMENT YEARIn Missouri, real estate taxes are reassessed in odd years. Reassessment is the process by which the County (or City) Assessor's Office updates or adjusts the real estate values for purposes of determining value of your home upon which real estate taxes will be assessed. In … (2 comments)
Moving Guide - Simplify the BIG Move - 12/17/08 01:59 AM It is 10 p.m. on Thurday night. The movers are set to arrive in 12 hours and you still have two rooms to box up before morning. As it gets later, you are frantically worried about the move. Plus, you need to be at the closing table at 9 a.m. Isn't … (5 comments)
Google Adsense - How to Install Google Adsense for Content on Your Real Estate Website - 12/16/08 09:24 PM Google Adsense is extremely easy to install on your real estate website in seven easy steps. There is something said for making the process easy and fairly understable - with the exception of the help page on how to set up channels. Here are the steps to install Google Adsense on your … (7 comments)
Localism - Lafayette Square - And the Highest Sales Price Winner for 2008 is... - 12/14/08 06:41 PM In the past 18 months, the news has been less than good for the real estate market. However, there are some not so surprising bright spots. Lafayette Square remains a fashionable and hotly sought after neighborhood. Purchasers continue to flock to value, which is good news for owners of homes, … (2 comments)
Localism - 2008 Lafayette Square Holiday Parlor Tour - December 14, 2008 - 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. - 12/09/08 09:35 PM 2008 LAFAYETTE SQUARE HOLIDAY PARLOR TOURThe 2008 Lafayette Square Holiday Parlor Tour is set for December 14, 2008, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The self-guided tour starts at 2023 Lafayette and showcases 10 Victorian homes and 2 newly constructed Victorian replicas, including a home built by Gilded Age, … (1 comments)
Need MLS Access to Search for New Homes in Saint Louis, Missouri - Visit www.PREASignatureRealty.com - 12/09/08 09:08 PM At PREA Signature Realty, we understand that over 85% of our customers begin their search online. We invite you to visit our website to access the local multiple listing service for the Saint Louis, Missouri market area. Click on MLS to search for homes in the Saint Louis area. MLS access … (0 comments)
PREA Annoucement - Introduction of New ActiveRain Members - 12/09/08 08:49 PM PREA Signature Realty is pleased to welcome three members of its management team and sales staff to ActiveRain: Michelle Silies, Chris MacLellan, and Georgia Endicott. We couldn't keep the secret and the word has spread. Other associates are asking what all the "buzz" is about. Well, if you want a site to … (0 comments)
Real Estate News - 1-Stop Source - Visit www.PREASignatureRealty.com Today - 12/09/08 08:12 PM Concerned about the current market? Visit our Real Estate News website page. It is updated within minutes of when new stories are posted at their source. Review in one place national real estate news stories including stories from the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, RIS Media, Inman News, Mortgage News Daily, and other … (0 comments)
Overview - Selling a Home 101 - 12/08/08 10:29 PM At PREA Signature Realty, we strive to educate and inform our owners/sellers regarding the sales process and then guide them through the process so that they have a timely sale and smooth closing. Here are some of the the steps in the home sales process:STEP 1-SELECT A LISTING … (2 comments)
Overview - Home Purchase 101 - 12/08/08 05:24 PM At PREA Signature Realty, we believe it is important that our customers have a strong and complete understanding of the home buying process. An educated and informed customer is our goal. But, you are never alone. Our professional staff stands ready to assist you and add value at each … (1 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadget - Web-Based Automated Reminder Systems - 12/08/08 02:41 PM Everyone has some sort of to do list or system for managing tasks. It can be as simple as a stack of post-its taped to a computer monitor or a handwritten list of tasks or a more sophisticates system like Outlook or other software programs. However, all too often … (2 comments)
Website Development - Low Tech, High Value - 12/07/08 11:11 AM We recently underwent change in the structure of our business model which went from an in-house sales team to an independent brokerage and found us with an immediate need for a content filled website. We started to review our options. In fact, there seemed to be too many options - … (11 comments)
Moving to New Home - 5 Websites You Should Bookmark in Case of Emergencies - 12/06/08 02:28 AM Whether you have relocated to a new city or simply moved to a new neighborhood, it is important that you plan for possible emergencies. When an emergency strikes or natural catastrophe occurs, it is important to have correct information at your fingertips. Here are five websites that your should bookmark, review … (11 comments)
Saint Louis Ranks #9 of the Forbes' 2008 Most Affordable Cities to Raise a Family List - 12/04/08 07:04 PM If you are relocating, Saint Louis, Missouri, remains an affordable alternative to the high cost of living offered by cities on the East and West coasts. Forbes Magazine published its Top 10 Affordable Cities to Raise a Family List. Saint Louis, Missouri, ranked #7 on the list. In determining its list, Forbes … (7 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - Content Distribution Using Podcasts - Convert Blog Text to MP3 Files and More - 12/03/08 01:39 AM For real estate professionals looking for ways to create podcasts, Odiogo.com offers a quick, easy, and free way to convert the text from blog entries into spoken words that can then be listened to online, can be listened to as streaming audio, or can be downloaded as MP3 files. It also … (8 comments)
Announcement - Podcasts Now Available at PREASignatureRealty.com - 12/03/08 12:06 AM PREA Signature Realty is pleased to announce that the blog Lafayette Report, written by Ryan Shaughnessy and hosted by ActiveRain.com, may now be heard online using streaming audio feeds powered by Odiogo.com. To listen online, download podcasts, or subscribe to the podcasts, visit our website PREASignatureRealty.com or go directly to our … (0 comments)
New Website - PREA Signature Realty - www.preasignaturerealty.com - 12/01/08 10:24 AM PREA Signature Realty is pleased to announce the availability of its new website - PREA Signature Realty Website. It is up and running and functional. However, it remains a work in progress with additions being made to the site daily. Here are some of the features:Home Page - A brief description … (2 comments)
Lending Update - Missouri Housing Development Commission Offers New Loan Program to Assist First-Time Home Buyers to Take Advantage Federal First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Program - 01/30/09 12:02 PM THE FEDERAL FIRST-TIME HOME BUYER TAX CREDIT PROGRAM. In July, 2008, the U.S. Congress approved the first-time home buyer tax credit program which provided an interest-free loan to first-time home buyers. The maximum amount of the tax credit was set at $7,500.00 and had to be accumulated based on changes to your income … (2 comments)
The Power of Playing in the Rain - Thank You ActiveRain - 01/18/09 05:59 PM Since January 1, 2009, we have implemented our 2009 internet marketing strategy. It has been a slow and sometimes tedious process. However, the attention paid to our profiles, blogs and comments on ActiveRain paid huge dividends so far this month.Here are some of the benefits that we have seen from … (25 comments)
New Construction Sales Training - Staying Motivated and Achieving Outrageous Success in 2009 - 01/17/09 10:32 PM When you start a new job or take a new position, you often start with a great explosion of positive energy. However, when the activities performed at the outset don't generate immediate results, it is hard to stay focused, to keep on point, and to remain motivated. Here are some tips … (1 comments)
New Construction Sales Training - Networking and the Art of Developing a Referral Network by Saying "Yes" to Business Opportunities - 01/17/09 10:03 AM Recently, Anne Marie Malfi posted an inspirational article suggesting five great ways to "tune-up" your real estate business. It was a fine post. However, when she used the phrase "program your brain to see opportunity", it really resonated with me. In new home sales, I often see sales associates who have … (14 comments)
Featured Business - Blues City Deli (Benton Park) - 01/17/09 08:42 AM FEATURED BUSINESS - JANUARY, 2009BLUES CITY DELI When Two Cents Plain closed in Downtown St. Louis, I bemoaned the loss of one of the last old time delis. However, there is a new sheriff in town and his name is Vince Valenza. On … (0 comments)
Property Available for Redevelopment - 3225 Chouteau Avenue, Saint Louis Missouri (Near St. Louis University Medical Center) - 01/10/09 10:44 PM 3.13 ACRES - PROPERTY IS AVAILABLE FOR REDEVELOPMENT OR FOR USE AS TRUCK TERMINAL, TRANSIT FACILITY OR CONSTRUCTION RELATED USES.This commercial property includes 182' of frontage on Chouteau Avenue, a large front parking lot, 3 drive-thru truck bays, office with storage loft and truck repair building, large rear … (0 comments)
Developing a Blueprint for Success in 2009 - 01/10/09 10:02 PM With the start of a new year, we earnestly make resolutions to improve our personal and professional lives over the next 12 months. For those few precious days or weeks, we zealously pursue these resolutions. However, after the holidays are over, the hectic pace of everyday life begins. With each passing … (8 comments)
Monthly Realtor Luncheon - January 13, 2009 - 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. - 01/10/09 08:19 AM MONTHLY REALTOR LUNCHEONS - FIRST QUARTER 2009January 13, 2009 - Union Club - 2340 Lafayette AvenueFebruary 10, 2009 - Georgian - 1515 Lafayette AvenueMarch 10, 2009 - Mississippi Place - 1618 Mississippi AvenueWe would like to invite all real estate professionals as well as anyone else interested in … (2 comments)
Strange, True or Urban Legend? Trivial Reasons for Relocating to Missouri - 02/28/09 01:38 PM More than a State Motto - The Show Me State: The unofficial motto for the State of Missouri is "The Show Me". The phrase was coined by U.S. Congressman Willard Duncan. While giving a speech at a naval banquet in Philadelphia, he uttered the line: "I come from a state that raises … (12 comments)
Buy Now - Or How I Missed the Chance of a Lifetime - 3 Compelling Reasons to Buy/Borrow Now Before Loan Products, Terms and Interest Rates Change Again - 02/26/09 01:47 PM Well, I told you so...In October, 2008, and again in January, 2009, we urged buyers to BUY NOW. The recommendation was made based on a number of key economic factors, including:Historically Low Interest Rates Excess Inventory - Favorable Pricing Federal First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit ($7,500) Well, I have some good … (9 comments)
The Power of Twitter and Social Networks as a Customer Service Tool - 02/24/09 01:37 PM Admittedly, I did not understand or realize the power of the micro blogging site Twitter. Although other real estate professionals have raved about the contacts, referrals, etc. that they have obtained from Twitter, I simply did not see its use or potential. However, a recent news story and … (50 comments)
Going Green - State and Local Incentives for Green Repairs and Improvements - 02/24/09 01:22 AM In the current economic times, home owners are increasingly looking for home repair and improvement projects that increase energy efficiency of their homes in the hope that these repairs will reduce their short and long term energy costs. In addition to the energy cost savings, there are a number … (4 comments)
Going Green - Website for Measuring the Costs, Savings and Return on Income of Green Repairs and Improvements - 02/24/09 12:36 AM GreenandSave.com's slogan is simple and direct - "Saving Your Money and the Planet One Household at a Time." If you ever wondered whether a certain "green" repair or improvement was worth it, then this is the website is for you. It has calculations on the cost and potential savings for … (5 comments)
Going Green - Find Recycling Centers Nationwide - 02/23/09 10:47 PM If you are new to a city or neighborhood or if you just became aware of the need or benefits of recycling, then you may want to take a look at the website - Earth911. Earth911 is a clearinghouse for information on recycling. Here are some of the features of the … (7 comments)
Lofty Aspirations Require Concrete Ideas - Flooring Matters in Today's Market - 02/23/09 01:32 PM CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONSWhen customers look at "lofts", they typically expect tall ceilings, oversized industrial windows, exposed brick walls, concrete pillars, exposed or open HVAC and other conduit, and wood plank, concrete or terrazzo floors. The appeal of lofts is that they do have an edgy, industrial look and feel. However, the … (0 comments)
Great Rental Opportunity - The Meridian - 1136 Washington Avenue, Unit 204 - Downtown St. Louis (Washington Avenue Loft District), Missouri - 02/22/09 10:18 PM Property: The Meridian - 1136 Washington Avenue, Unit 204 (63101) (2 BR/2Ba/1254 sq.ft.) 12 Month Lease - $1,300 per Month (includes HVAC and 1-Garage Parking Space) THE MERIDIAN - CONTEMPORARY LOFTS IN THE WASHINGTON AVENUE … (6 comments)
Legal Alerts - Playin in the Rain is Fun... But Sometimes I Like Playing in the Dirt - UMKC's BrokerDirt Offers a Forum for Attorneys and Brokers to Ask Questions and Discuss Legal Issues relating to Real Estate Sales - 02/21/09 06:24 PM If you are a real estate broker or real estate attorney and you have a strong interest in real estate issues and trends that impact the daily operations of real estate brokerages, then you may want to join the list serv Dirt or BrokerDirt by clicking here.What is Dirt and … (9 comments)
Website of the Week - Staying Ahead of the Technology Curve with 3 Easy Websites for Tracking New Tech Tools and Gadgets (Plus as a Bonus - List of 30 Great Geek Speak Blogs) - 02/21/09 04:19 AM Technology plays a very important role in our real estate brokerage. From the syndication of our listings to lead generation, we use technology to maintain a competitive edge.Each week, I search the internet to find new tech tools and gadgets. I read several reviews. I then select 2 or 3 sites to … (11 comments)
Legal Alert - Lenders Entering Homes Prior to Foreclosure Sale Reported in Washington State - 02/20/09 12:00 AM Recently, there have been an increase in reports of lenders entering homes pending foreclosure, changing the locks and removing personal property. Often, the justification provided by the lenders is that they received a report that the property was vacant and unsecured and that they were simply securing the property … (63 comments)
Sales Training: It's a Jungle Out There - Couldn't We All Use Tarzan as Our Realtor - 02/19/09 11:12 PM It's a Jungle Out There...Now, in today's housing market, it is a real jungle out there. For the average buyer, it is a dark, inhospitable place, where at every turn there is some animal waiting to take a bite out of them. Worse, there are hustlers and poachers out there pushing … (14 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - Using the Internet to Stay Alert - 02/18/09 02:25 AM When I first started practicing law, the tools for monitoring your or your client's reputation and business goodwill or for researching the opposition were limited. Back then, we subscribed to a "clipping" service that scoured hundreds of trade journals, newsletters, newspapers, etc. to find information on people, companies, projects and … (78 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - Tools to Grade and Value Your Website - 02/17/09 01:20 AM Website GradersLinkVoodoo offers several SEO measurement tools on its site. I found the Quality Rank Tool to be helpful. It measures or otherwise ranks a site using several factors including the following.Factor 1 - Alexa Ranking: Compares site against other sites on the internet using traffic statistics, links, etc. Factor 2 - … (18 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - TwitterHawk as a Lead Generation Tool and Guidelines for its Responsible Use - 02/16/09 09:08 PM Social networking sites and advertising seem to be like oil and water and simply don't mix very well. However, a relatively new website TwitterHawk may bridge the gap and offer a workable solution for identifying potential leads using Twitter. How It Works: Using TwitterHawk, you set it to search for … (9 comments)
Legislative Alert from the Missouri Association of Realtors - State Historic Tax Credit Program - 02/16/09 11:35 AM FROM THE MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS:The information supplied below is from the e-Alerts published by the Missouri Association of Realtors. If you are a resident of the City of St. Louis, Missouri, you need to look no further than Downtown, Lafayette Square, Central West End, Soulard, etc. to see the impact … (1 comments)
National Association of Realtors - Use the NAR Library to Download e-Books in Adobe, MP-3 and Other Formats - 02/14/09 09:47 PM The National Association of Realtor has made it too easy. I can no longer complain about not having enough training materials. With NAR's E-Library, you can download e-Books in a variety of formats ranging from Adobe E-Books to MP3 to other audio format in 3 easy steps:Step 1 - Download … (20 comments)
Restaurant Review (Sort Of) - St. Raymond's Cathedral - A Maronite Catholic Church and Heck of a Lunch Spot on Wednesdays - St. Louis (LaSalle Park), Missouri - 02/14/09 04:35 PM Wednesdays at St. Raymond's CathedralSt. Raymond's Cathedral is a Maronite Catholic Church founded in 1898. The Cedars, the St. Raymond's Parish Center, is located at 931 Lebanon Drive in the LaSalle Park neighborhood of the City of St. Louis, Missouri, South of Downtown and East of the Lafayette … (3 comments)
Tips from Our Mexican Taxicab Drivers on How to Develop a Referral Only Business - 02/14/09 04:48 AM On occasion, it seems that we are so overloaded with everyday tasks that we sometimes fail to see how simple marketing can be. The best advertisement for our services is our existing customers. Good customer service generates more word-of-mouth referrals and repeat business than 100 advertisements. So, when it comes to marketing, … (71 comments)
Localism - A History of Eden Lofts - From Storefront Publishing House to 40-Residential Lofts - 1895 to 2009 - 02/13/09 10:49 AM From 1896 to 1979, 1712-1724 Chouteau served as the home to the Eden Publishing House, a publishing house dedicated to the printing of ecclesiastical materials for the Lutheran Synod. However, this building was not built as a single building. It evolved over time with four separate building phases. By looking … (5 comments)
Business Practices - Hijacked Listing Caused by Feed or Feed Reading Error - 02/11/09 09:52 PM I have never seen or heard of this problem. However, I was checking Trulia.com to see one of my new listings. I found that our listing had been hijacked.Here is the link: Trulia Listing. Now, if you look at the listing, there is a brokerage shown in the top right hand … (41 comments)
Legislative Update - Missouri Historic Tax Credits as a Tool for Revitalization is under Attack - 02/11/09 12:19 PM The Missouri General Assembly has several proposals that would reduce the effectiveness of the Missouri Historic Tax Credit Program or, worse, eliminate it in future years. As a Realtor serving the historic neighborhoods of the City of St. Louis, Missouri, the Missouri Historic Tax Credit has been an extremely … (9 comments)
Listing (St. Louis, Missouri) - The Georgian - 1515 Lafayette Avenue, Unit 114 - CONTEMPORARY LIVING IN A LANDMARK LOCATION - 02/11/09 12:06 AM Georgian Condominiums - Live Life in this Local Landmark - Short Walk to Lafayette Park and Soulard MarketLocation: Georgian Square/Lafayette SquarePROJECT: Georgian Condominiums ADDRESS: 1515 Lafayette Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63104 TYPE: New Construction - Condominiums - 104 Units AVAILABILITY: 86% SOLD - Immediate Occupancy SIZE: 733 - 1608 sq. ft. … (7 comments)
ActiveRain is a Great Community - Even Better When You Meet in Person - 02/10/09 09:12 PM Although I had previously visited Blu City Spaces, I had not met Ms. Evelyn Sharp, the sales manager, on the past two visits. Recently, I visited her property with a customer. After the showing, I received a courtesy telephone call from her regarding the showing and had a very nice conversation. Unfortunately, the property … (2 comments)
Listing (St. Louis, Missouri) - The Georgian - 1515 Lafayette Avenue, Unit 105 - CONTEMPORARY LIVING IN A LANDMARK LOCATION - 02/09/09 05:20 PM Project: The Georgian Address: 1515 Lafayette Avenue, Unit 105 (63104) Neighorhood: Lafayette Square/Georgian Square (St. Louis, Missouri) Price: $199,000.00 ($146.32 per sq. ft.) 2 Bedroom / 2 Bathroom - 1360 sq. ft. Monthly Condo Fee: $346/per month. REMARKABLE UNIT IN THE GEORGIAN CONDOMINIUMS with STUNNING COLORS & DESIGN AND OUTDOOR … (8 comments)
Localism - How to Locate Free WiFi Access in Lafayette Square and Other Neighborhoods - 02/08/09 08:16 PM Do you have an hour between real estate showings and need a place to cool your heels and check your e-mail and the Internet between showings? Don't know where you can find WiFi Internet access? It is simply a click away.Here are a few websites that you can use to … (4 comments)
Localism - Construction Update - I-64 Construction Remains on Schedule - 02/08/09 07:34 PM Whether it is Y2K or road construction, it is good to plan for the worst case scenario. However, the doomsday scenarios of traffic gridlock associated with the re-construction of I-64 have simply not occurred. The construction work is on-time and on-budget. Congratulations MO Dot on a job well done!To … (0 comments)
New Homes Sales Training - Succeed in Sales by Asking the Right Questions - 02/08/09 05:17 AM When I see an agent show a series of condominium units that they thought matched the prospect's needs and the prospect loses interest because the agent can't locate the right property for the prospect or the prospect writes a sales contract on a totally different style of property, it prompts me to ask … (31 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadget - Tired of Monkeying Around with E-Mails - Use MailChimp.com to Send E-Blasts of Newsletters to Customers - 02/07/09 08:58 PM Tired of monkeying around with e-mail templates, try www.MailChimp.com. This little chimp sure delivers gorilla-like results. MailChimp.com allows you to generate professional looking newsletters, advertorials and other touch-type marketing materials. Here are a few of its features:Easy interface is so easy that even a monkey could … (14 comments)
Politics - ActiveRain Boulevard - Why Not? Everyone Else Has One including Barack Obama - 02/06/09 03:57 PM On Janaury 16, 2009, the Board of Aldermen for the City of St. Louis voted to bestow the honorary title "Barack Obama Boulevard" on Delmar Boulevard and to spend money on new street signs for the six intersections impacted by the name change. Now, I can see some rationale for this … (16 comments)
Website of the Week - Use BillShrink.com to Select the Mobile Plan for You - 02/06/09 02:42 PM For the average real estate professional, their cellular phone is their lifeline. It also can be one of their more significant reocurring, monthly expenses. Today, it is important to monitor and reduce expenses where possible. www.billshrink.com is one such tool that allows you to find the best mobile plan to meet … (10 comments)
Real Estate Research - Use of Journals, Studies and Other Research to Support Pricing Decisions, Marketing Assertions, and Operational Decisions - 02/06/09 01:03 AM Real estate brokerages and agents often are faced with questions where we lack the hard empirical data necessary to make an informed decision or provide sound advice. We turn to collective decision making, rely on anecdotal evidence, and use our instincts to make a decision or provide advice.Here are a few examples of some … (1 comments)
Motivation - Ancient Wisdom - 02/05/09 03:45 PM Often, the pearls of wisdom offered by ancient philosophers still hold up today. Here are a few rambling quotations to consider regarding sales and sales management:Confucious - A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.Socrates - Let him who would move the work, first move … (4 comments)
Motivational Post - The Other Mr. Coffee - The Story of Howard Schultz - 02/05/09 02:32 PM Does the name Howard Schultz ring a bell? It didn't for me and I bet it didn't for you either - unless you are a coffee officiando, a resident of Seattle or a shareholder in Starbucks. Yes, when you pay $4.75 for that venti latte with chocolate, soy milk and whip cream, … (0 comments)
A Study and A Survey - Listing Agents versus Buyer's Agents - What Generates More Revenue? - 02/05/09 11:57 AM Previously, there was the perception that listing agents generated or otherwise produced more income than buyer's agent or agent's maintining a balance between representation of buyers and sellers. However, the recent changes in the housing market have changed this perception. So the question for today is: Is it better for … (62 comments)
Website of the Week - TheCoolHunter.net - 02/04/09 02:23 AM Are you like me approaching 40 and feeling decidedly un-hip? Well, there is a great site for keeping in touch with the latest and greatest trends - www.TheCoolHunter.net.If you are interested in keeping abreast of what is the lastest and greatest trend or just like pretty pictures, then I would … (5 comments)
Localism - Restaurant Review - Niche - Slow Roasted Pig's Head Anyone? - 02/04/09 01:19 AM Chef Gerard Craft and the staff at Niche in the historic Benton Park neighborhood continue to garner a series of awards such as:Chef of the Year (Sauce Awards 2008) Favorite Overall Restaurant (Sauce Awards 2008) Best New Chefs (Food & Wine 2008) Best Local Chef (Riverfront Times 2007) Chef Craft's success … (0 comments)
Localism - Mardi Gras 2009 is in Full Swing in St. Louis' Soulard Neighborhood - 02/03/09 02:25 AM The Mardi Gras season is now in full swing in St. Louis. If you haven't been to Mardi Gras in St. Louis, you are missing one of the great people watching events of the year. But, it isn't just about the parade, crowds, and hurricanes. It is a … (0 comments)
My Reading List - Web Resources for Learning New Sales Skills - 02/03/09 12:38 AM When it comes to sales training, I subscribe to the belief that you can never stop learning. Well, it may not actually be learning - it may just be a reminder as to what we already knew. ActiveRain has been a great resource. However, I still stray to other sites. Here … (8 comments)
New Home Sales - Common Mistakes Made by Real Estate Developers and Builders in Marketing and Advertising their Communities - 02/02/09 10:22 PM At a recent luncheon, I had the opportunity to discuss with a number of on-site builders representatives the perceived weaknesses in their respective company's marketing and advertising campaigns. Although hindsight is 20/20, the comments did reveal certain common criticisms of how real estate developers plan, implement, and measure the success and … (3 comments)
Sales Training - Google Books, the Virtual Library, and the Search for Self-Improvement - 02/02/09 03:58 AM The power and ambition of Google never ceases to amaze me. I had heard about Google Books and its ambitious project to create an online library. However, I only recently started exploring its content. You can find a book for almost any topic in any genre. Here are just a … (16 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - Tools to Measure the Effectiveness of Your Website, Search Engine Optimization Strategy and Content - 02/01/09 11:40 PM Like any business plan, I find that it is important to track what impact my search engine optimization strategies for my website (http://preasignaturerealty.com) have on how Google views and ranks my website and its individual pages. When we first launched our website in November, 2008, I manually entered my website's URL by entering it … (22 comments)
Real Estate Tech Gadgets - Free Incoming and Outgoing Fax Services - 02/01/09 07:31 PM As a business organization, I believe that it is important to maintain a professional image. Based on this belief, I do not typically use free e-mail and other free web-based services and prefer branded products that promote the professional image of our company. At the same time, I am a pragmatist … (9 comments)
Website of the Week - ArtsZipper.com - The Hot Calendar for Cool Culture in St. Louis, Missouri - 03/01/09 05:38 PM When it comes to St. Louis, there is sometimes the perception that St. Louis is just a sports town. However, it has much more to offer than just sports. St. Louis has a vibrant and diverse art community ranging from film to theatre to dance and much more. There hasn't always been … (4 comments)
The Positive Approach to Life - 9 Tips from Man's Best Friends - 03/01/09 01:07 PM Today, I would like to introduce you to my oldest associates - Winston (14 years old) and Miles (7 years). These Schnauzers have worked their way through the company and have had a number of roles:Greeter (ie. mad race to door) Security Guard (ie. barking at the door) … (8 comments)
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