Monday, February 28, 2011

The Future is Here

Whether we like it or not, change is inevitable. The real estate industry is not exempt from that. While the meat and potatoes of selling homes is still the same (make an offer, negotiate, agree, sign, and buy & sell), the way we do our jobs is continuing to change.

I recently signed up for Docusign, which is an online way to sign documents. The days of having to run all over town to sign documents are nearly over. If my client has a computer and an email address, they can sign on the computer! Now, there aren't too many of us in this area that do this, but it's a real advantage. My clients love it!

I try to stay on top of the new technology as much as possible. And, while I don't know everything, I do realize that times are changing. My clients use text messaging, email, and the internet for the most part. I still like to have the face-to-face contact and the personal phone calls, but we are increasingly moving away from information that requires long amounts of time to relay.

I believe that we'll see a shift in the types of agents still practicing their craft within a 5-year period. As it becomes more of an edge for an agent to use technology, those that aren't willing or able to change with the times will fade away. Those of us who are different and open to change will steam roll ahead of the competition by offering our clients what they want.



If you want an agent who sets herself apart from the rest and has resources available that make the home buying and selling process easier and more streamlined, call me today. I am here to help you and am almost always available. Visit my website at www.BuyHendersonKYHomes.com to see all the ways I stay connected and to view homes in your desired area.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Get Your 2010 Energy Tax Credits: Filing Tips for Form 5695

Visit houselogic.com for more articles like this.

Copyright 2011 NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

February 2011 Market Watch Newsletter

This month I would like to discuss home inspections. These are an important part of virtually every real estate transaction. Unfortunately many buyers and sellers do not consider inspections before purchasing or selling a home. I always recommend home inspections for buyers. This is an opportunity for the buyer to hire a 3rd party professional to evaluate both structural and mechanical systems in a home before the transaction closes. When significant, unknown problems are discovered this gives the buyer an opportunity to ask the seller to make an allowance or repair defects in the home prior to closing. The inspection is not intended to sour a transaction because of minor, inexpensive defects. Too often I see buyers asking for a laundry list of minor repairs especially when considering an older home. Keep in mind that inspectors will, and should, point out items for the buyer’s benefit that are not necessarily major defects but simply minor repair or maintenance items.

I try to remind sellers that most buyers will ask for an inspection. In many cases the inspection will uncover some legitimate defect(s). In these cases, it is often in the seller’s best interest to make the repair because any known defects must legally be disclosed by both the seller and the Realtor. The next buyer will likely ask for the same repair.

As I hinted last month we have just relaunched FCTuckerEmge.com as well as an upgraded TuckerMobile.com for your web-enabled phone. The new sites are designed to make the customer experience as quick, easy and efficient as possible. TuckerMobile is the only local GPS enabled site and also allows the customer to search easily. Please try both. I know you will be happy with the experience.

If you would like to receive this newsletter every month to get useful information, send me an email request at nicolefleming@fcte.com. If you're in the market to buy or sell, take a look at my website at www.BuyHendersonKYHomes.com, then call me to help!

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Do you prefer an eat-in kitchen and a formal dining room?

Do you prefer an eat-in kitchen and a formal dining room?

Just taking a poll! Do you prefer an eat-in kitchen and a formal dining room? How many people prefer to have an eat-in kitchen that you can fit a table in AND a formal dining room in their home? And what price home do you think should have both?

This is an interesting question. There was a time when newer built homes were being built with both. I personally have a formal dining room that I took my table out of and put a couch and bar and television in for entertaining. It seemed we were doing more finger food gatherings than sit-down formal dinners. No need for a big table. But, we also have a large kitchen that fits a six-seater table. So, we have room not to have a formal dining room table.

But, what do most people prefer? Please give feedback for your market and tell me where your market is.

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Article: Simple Tips to Take the Pain Out of Shoveling

Take a look at this article. We often don't think about shoveling as an activity requiring some thought. But, when I recently almost slipped while shoveling, then read this, I thought more about what I could have done differently to be more safe. Hopefully, we won't need to shovel that much more this year!

Simple Tips to Take the Pain Out of Shoveling | RISMedia

Friday, February 4, 2011

Hilarious New Etrade Commercial

For those who don't know me, I love commercials. My mom said when I was little the only time I'd shut up was when commercials were on TV. I'm always on the lookout for some awesome 30-second break from reality. There are some companies known for their commercials, which is great because that what commercials are for--advertising. If they don't get your attention, then what's the point.

Every year during the Super Bowl, I'm like a kid again. I chit chat during the game (which I could care little about, sorry football fans), but am all eyes and ears during commercials. Last year, I was actually in one! Much to my surprise. I really mean it, I was in one. Thanks to Toyota. This year, I doubt you'll find me in one, but I'm sure there will be some great ones, like this one from Etrade, who always seems to have something interesting to show us. Watch this and crack up like I did.



Oh, and here's the link to the first of two commercials I was in. About 13 seconds in I'm the girl in the hat and safety glasses. Purty!!!