Friday, December 21, 2012

Watch A RE/MAX TV Ad


The ad campaign, "For All the Things That Move You," centers on the pivotal life moments – a marriage proposal, a new baby, a student leaving home for college – that drive the decision to buy or sell a home.




New Ad

Land a new job? Need to relocate? RE/MAX can help!http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKVWWXijWws

The four new TV ads will appear in 15- and 30-second versions on major network and cable programming. In a fifth, 30-second TV ad in the U.S., RE/MAX CEO Margaret Kelly thanks buyers and sellers for helping RE/MAX earn its two trophies from J.D. Power and Associates. That ad debuted in December during the RE/MAX World Long Drive Championship on ESPN.

Monday, December 17, 2012

Free Home Efficiency Scheduled Soon


January 17th  5pm to 6:30pm


Many homes and businesses are too cold in the winter and too warm in the summer. The idea of making the buildings more efficient while keeping costs down is daunting, and many home and business owners don't know where to begin.


Puget Sound Energy (PSE), Thurston Energy, Echo Energy, Generations Credit Union and the Northwest Energy Team are partnering to provide home efficiency information to home and business owners. The program is called HEAT: Home Efficiency Action Training. This free seminar will be held at the Lacey Library and will give attendees the basics of home efficiency upgrades.

To learn more about this seminar, call 360-357-9167 or visit the Northwest Energy Team website.

Thursday, December 13, 2012

A Year Of Runs In Photos



2012 St Patricks Day 10k

2012 Seattle Rock 'N Roll 1/2 Marathon
2012 Seattle Rock 'N Roll 1/2 Marathon Medals
2012 Oly Trot Thanksgiving Day 4 mile




2012 Jingle Bell 5k

Tuesday, December 4, 2012

New Fannie Mae Guidelines for Investors

Fannie Mae has made some major changes in its polices that now allow real estate investors to purchase up to 20 properties, using renovation loans similar to 203k mortgages.

The new changes that took effect on Oct. 1 are big news for smaller investors, and are designed to help Fannie clear out its inventory of foreclosed properties. Previously, Fannie Mae guidelines limited investors to 10 mortgages on nonowner-occupied residences. And, while the new policy allows the purchase of up to 20 properties by one investor, half of the purchases now are required to be Fannie Mae foreclosures.
Here’s the fine print:
  • Minimum downpayment (on each home) is 30%
  • No mortgage insurance needed
  • Appraisal not required
  • Contributions from sellers and other interested parties are limited to 2%
  • Purchase loans only, no refinances
  • No second homes
  • Properties 11 through 20 have to be Fannie Mae foreclosures
  • 203k type renovation loans available through Fannie Mae finance partner
Investors have to purchase properties through the HomePath program and finance those homes through Fannie Mae’s finance partner, Prospect Mortgage.

Over the past months, investors have stepped into markets all over the country, whether to concentrate on "flipping" properties, or renovating and renting.  I've sold my share of Fannie Mae homes - call me for details.


Friday, November 30, 2012

3.8% Tax: What's True, What's Not

Ever since health care reform was enacted into law more than two years ago, rumors have been circulating on the Internet and in e-mails that the law contains a 3.8 percent tax on real estate. NAR quickly released material to show that the tax doesn’t target real estate and will in fact affect very few home sales, because it’s a tax that will only affect high-income households that realize a substantial gain on an asset sale, including on a home sale, once other factors are taken into account. Maybe 2-3 percent of home sellers will be affected.
Nevertheless, the rumors persist and the latest version that’s circulating falsely say NAR is advocating for the tax’s repeal. But while NAR doesn’t support the tax (it was added into the health care law at the last minute and never considered in hearings), it’s not advocating for its repeal at this time.
The characterization of the 3.8 percent tax as a tax on real estate is an example of an Internet rumor, says Heather Elias, NAR’s director of social business media. Elias and Linda Goold, NAR’s director of tax policy, sat down for a discussion of how the tax works and how Internet rumors work and you can find their remarks in the 6-minute video below.
Goold says the tax will affect few home sellers because so many different pieces must fall into place a certain way for the tax to apply. First, any home sale gain must be more than the $250,000-$500,000 capital gains exclusion that’s in effect today. That’s gain, not sales amount, so you really have to reap a substantial amount for the tax to even come into play. Very few people are walking away with a gain of more than half a million dollars today, even in the high-end home market, so right off the bat only a few home sellers would be a candidate for the tax.
For the few households that do see a gain of more than the $250,000-$500,000 exclusion (that’s $250,000 for single filers and $500,000 for joint filers), only the amount above the exclusion would be factored into the tax calculation, and that would still only apply to high-income households, which the law defines as single people earning $200,000 a year and joint filers earning $250,000 a year.
So, if you are a households with annual income of $250,000 or more and you earn a gain of more than $500,000 on your house (again, that’s after the $500,000 exclusion), any amount of gain above the exclusion would be plugged into a formula to see if it’s taxable. If it turns out that it’s taxable, then the amount could be subject to the 3.8 percent tax. If the household had a gain of more than $500,000 but only earned $249,000 a year in income, the tax wouldn’t apply.
(Note that these are just hypothetical examples. To know if a case would really be subject to the tax, a professional tax preparer or tax attorney has to look at all the particulars of the tax filer’s case. Only a tax professional is in a position to say the tax is applicable, but the examples cited here could help you get a sense of how the tax works.)
The other thing about the tax worth noting is that, although it takes effect in 2013, any impact on taxes wouldn’t happen until 2014. That’s because the tax filer would do the calculation in 2014 for the 2013 tax year. Because it’s not a tax on a real estate sale but rather on a capital gain, it’s not calculated at the time of an asset sale, whether that asset is a house or something else. It’s calculated at the time the filer figures his or her tax.
This is all explained clearly in the video, so if you have questions about how the tax works, or if you’re still hearing rumors about the tax and you’re not certain of the accuracy of what you’re hearing, the video should prove helpful.
Information provided by REALTOR.ORG  | SEPTEMBER 2012 | BY ROBERT FREEDMAN

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Prequalification vs. preapproval: What's the difference?

Seller's want to know you have the ability to obtain a loan before you enter their home and as agents, we want to ensure that the time we spend showing homes is with preapproved customers.  These two home mortgage terms often get used interchangeably, but in fact, they're very different.


  • Prequalification is an estimate of the loan amount a lender may be willing to lend based on the preliminary information provided.  A prequalification is really just a general figure to help the buyer get started shopping for a home.

  • Preapproval is more formal than a prequalification and means that a lender has tentatively committed to an amount for a buyer's loan.  It is based on a preliminary review of the buyer's credit information and provides the approximate mortgage loan amount and monthly payment for which the buyer qualifies.
As always, I can give you names of lenders who can help you with the process.  Just let me know.

Thursday, November 1, 2012

The West Wins: Top 10 'Turnaround' Housing Markets



Western states continue to dominate, showing some of the fastest paces of recovery in the nation’s housing markets. With inventories falling, national median list prices increased 2.54 percent year-over-year during the third quarter, Realtor.com reports. 


I sold this Olympia home in July for full asking price in less than 30 days.

The site released its rankings of the top 10 turnaround towns, based on third quarter housing data of median list price increases, inventory levels, and employment rates.


1.     Oakland, CA
2.     Sacramento, CA
3.     San Jose, CA
4.     San Francisco, CA
5.    Seattle-Bellevue-Everett, WA
6.     Bakersfield, CA
7.     Santa Barbara-Santa Maria-Lompoc, CA
8.     Phoenix-Mesa, AZ
9.     Fresno, CA
10.   Miami, FL


Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Survival Tips After The Storm: CPSC, FEMA and USFA Warn About Deadly Dangers After Hurricane Sandy Passes


WASHINGTON, D.C. - Hurricane Sandy is a massive, slow moving storm that has left millions of Americans along the East Coast without electricity. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) are warning residents in hurricane-impacted areas about the deadly dangers that still remain as Hurricane Sandy tracks north.

 Consumers need to use great caution during a loss of electrical power, as the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning from portable generators, fire from candles, and electrical shock from downed power lines increases.

In order to power lights, keep food cold or cook, consumers often use gas-powered generators. CPSC, FEMA, and USFA warn consumers never to use portable generators indoors, in basements, garages, or close to a home. The exhaust from generators contains high levels of carbon monoxide (CO), greater than that of multiple cars running in a garage, which can quickly incapacitate and kill.

"Our goal is to save lives and prevent further disasters in the aftermath of Sandy," said CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. "Never run a generator in or right next to a home. Carbon monoxide is an invisible killer. CO is odorless and colorless and it can kill you and your family in minutes."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with those in the Mid-Atlantic states who've been affected by this storm. We strongly encourage all of those in affected areas to stay indoors, in a safe location and to continue to monitor conditions," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "As the federal government continues to support the life-saving efforts of state, tribal and local officials, individuals need to do their part and remain out of harm's way. Do not try to return home until local officials give the all clear."

"We know from experience as victims try to recover from disasters, they will take unnecessary risks with candles, cooking and generators. These risks often result in additional and tragic life safety consequences," said U.S. Fire Administrator Ernie Mitchell. "When you consider the challenges faced by firefighters and their departments to also recover from the same disasters, it is important that all of us remember even the simplest of fire safety behaviors following disasters of any type."

Deaths involving portable generators have been on the rise since 1999 when generators became widely available to consumers. There have been at least 755 CO deaths involving generators from 1999 through 2011. While reporting of incidents for 2011 is ongoing, there were at least 73 CO related deaths involving generators last year. The majority of the deaths occurred as a result of using a generator inside a home's living space, in the basement or in the garage.

Do not put your family at risk. Follow these important safety tips from CPSC, FEMA, and USFA in the aftermath of the storm.

  • Portable Generators

Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open. Keep generators outside and far away from windows, doors and vents. Read both the label on your generator and the owner's manual and follow the instructions. Any electrical cables you use with the generator should be free of damage and suitable for outdoor use.

  • Charcoal Grills and Camp Stoves

Never use charcoal grills or camp stoves indoors. Deaths have occurred when consumers burned charcoal or used camp stoves in enclosed spaces, which produced lethal levels of carbon monoxide.

  • CO Alarms

Install carbon monoxide alarms immediately outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home to protect against CO poisoning. Change the alarms' batteries every year.

  • Electrical and Gas Safety

Stay away from any downed wires, including cable TV feeds. They may be live with deadly voltage. If you are standing in water, do not handle or operate electrical appliances. Electrical components, including circuit breakers, wiring in the walls and outlets that have been under water should not be turned on. They should be replaced unless properly inspected and tested by a qualified electrician.

Natural gas or propane valves that have been under water should be replaced. Smell and listen for leaky gas connections. If you believe there is a gas leak, immediately leave the house, leave the door(s) open, and call 911. Never strike a match. Any size flame can spark an explosion. Before turning the gas back on, have the gas system checked by a professional.

  • Candles

Use caution with candles. If possible, use flashlights instead. If you must use candles, do not burn them on or near anything that can catch fire. Never leave burning candles unattended. Extinguish candles when you leave the room.

Consumers, fire departments and state and local health and safety agencies can download CPSC's generator safety posters, door hangers and CO safety publications at CPSC's CO Information Center or order free copies by contacting CPSC's Hotline at (800) 638-2772.

Download FEMA and USFA's lifesaving information on disasters at www.Ready.gov and www.usfa.dhs.gov

To see this press release on CPSC's web site, please go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml13/13021.html


Monday, October 22, 2012

Clutter: My Worst Nightmare


clut·ter

  [kluht-er]  
verb (used with object)
to fill or litter with things in disorderly manner

choices for each object when decluttering your homeClutter – I hate it.  Both professionally and personally.  In my business, attempting to sell a cluttered home can be a recipe for disaster.  In my personal life, I operate most efficiently if I can limit the amount of clutter around me.

This simple image, if properly applied, with enough time and determination, can help you unclutter your home, and keep it that way.

The supplies, when used properly, encourage you to take on the task in bite-sized chunks, help you make decisions, and help you finish each decluttering session with positive steps taken, without it looking like a whirlwind has come through your house making it look worse, not better.

As you can see, the equation is not complex, it just takes a timer, boxes, trash bags, recycling bin and you'll get a home that is decluttered and ready for you and your family to enjoy together (or for me to promptly sell before the clutter re-enters).


Thursday, October 4, 2012

October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month!


What better time than now to march down to your local shelter and take home a canine in need? A new dog can greatly improve your life, like:

• help you get outside and exercise
• provide companionship for you and your family
• provide protection from intruders
• improve your mood
• provide assistance for people with disabilities

But if you can't take in an animal, don't worry, there are ways you can still help! Consider fostering animals who are looking for homes, volunteering at your local shelter, or making a donation to a shelter or animal care organization.  I often donate my used blankets to the shelter as well as dog food.

You can help too!  Here are a few local resources in the Thurston County/Olympia Area:

Concern For Animals 360-456-8176


Saturday, September 29, 2012

Fall Cleaning To-Do List



Fall is in the air.  With a new season comes another to-do list.  Even the newest of homes demand occasional upkeep so take the time to walk around your home and make a mental list of those items in need of attention.  With fall fully upon us and winter just around the corner, here's a brief list of items to tackle, one at a time, so you can settle in for a worry-free winter.

Roof

  • Inspect your shingles once a year.  Check for cracked, cupped, curling or broken shingles.  Pay attentions to the f lashings as well and call a recommended roofer for further concerns.  (I have names)
  • Trim away any tree limbs that hang over the roof, especially branches that touch the shingles, which make them wear out faster.
Gutters
  • Clear gutters of debris with a trowel.
  • Flush gutters and downspouts with a garden hose to clear away remaining sludge, and to get a look at how well the water drains.  A leaky or overflowing gutter can cause fascia boards to rod.
Paint
  • Wash away mold and mildew with a solution of one part household bleach and three parts water.
  • Brick and stone veneers can accumulate a powdery surface deposit called efflorescence.  It's harmless and can be scrubbed away, but it's also a sign of water infiltration.  Seal any cracks you find with masonry caulk and brush a masonry sealer over the entire surface.
Windows
  • Replace broken pains and check all seals, replacing as necessary.
  • Scrape off and replace any glazing putty/caulk that is cracked or has pulled away from the glass.
Lawn
  • Bare spots should be reseeded and top-dressed with a thin layer of soil.
  • Fix small drainage problems by filling low spots with fresh soil.
  • Allowing fallen leaves accumulate on grass can kill it; rake them away or use a mulching mower to chop them for compost
  • When the lawn stops growing and goes dormant, give it a final cut that's a little shorter than usual.  Then spread a fertilizer that's the right mixture for fall and winter.
Garden
  • Identify which shrubs should be protected and shelter them with burlap.
  • Rake beds clean of leaves and other debris.  Then add a layer of compost and peat moss to improve nitrogen levels.

Alike anytime of year, should you need the help of a qualified expert, please just ask me.  I have a list of reputable local contractors from roofers to masons, designers to landscapers.

Monday, September 24, 2012

Moving with Pets

More often than not, my clients have a pet or two.  Moving is hard but add a child or pet to the mix and it becomes even more cumbersome.  So to ensure the move is seemless for your furry four-legged family member, here's 10 tips for moving with pets.

Embedded image permalink
My yellow lab, Zoe

  1. Update your pet's tag.  Make sure your pet is wearing a sturdy collar with an identification tag that is labeled with your current contact information.
  2. Ask for veterinary records.  If you're moving long distance and you'll need a new vet, ask for a current copy of your pet's vaccinations.
  3. Keep medications and food on hand.  Keep at least one week's worth of food and medication with you in case of emergency.
  4. Seclude your pet from chaos.  Pets can feel vulnerable on moving day.  Keep them in a safe, quiet, well-ventilated place, such as the bathroom, on moving day with a "Do Not Disturb!  Pet's Inside!" sign posted on the door.
  5. Prepare a first aid kid.  First aid is not a substitute for emergency veterinary care, but being prepared and knowing basic first aid could save your pet's life.  A few recommended supplies: Your veterinarian's phone number, gauze to wrap wounds or to muzzle your pet, adhesive tape for bandages, non-stick bandages, towels, and hydrogen peroxide.
  6. Play it safe in the car.  It's best to travel with your dog in a crate; second-best is to use a restraining harness.  When it comes to cats, it's always best for their safety and yours to use a well-ventilated carrier in the car.  Secure the crate or carrier with a seat belt and provide your pet with familiar toys.  Never keep your pet in the open bed of a truck or the storage area of a moving van.
  7. Get ready for takeoff.  When travelling by air, check with the airline about any pet requirements or restrictions to be sure you've prepared your pet for a safe trip.
  8. Find a new veterinary clinic and emergency hospital.  Before you move, ask your vet to recommend a doctor in your new locale.  Talk to other pet owners when visiting the new community, and call the state veterinary medical association (VMA) for veterinarians in your location.
  9. Prep your new home for pets.  Pets may be frightened and confused in new surroundings.  Upon your arrival at your new home, immediately set out all the familiar and necessary things your pet will need: food, water, medications, bed, litter box, toys, etc.  Pack these items in a handy spot so they can be unpacked right away.
  10. Learn more about your new area.  Once you find a new veterinarian, ask if there are any local health concerns such as heart-worm or Lyme disease, or any vaccinations or medications your pet may require.  Also, be aware of any unique laws.  For example, there are restrictive breed laws in some cities.

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

How To Watch Your Water Consumption


Less than 2% of the Earth's water supply is fresh water, and only 1% is available for drinking. Yet the average American uses 140–170 gallons of water per day! Here's how to cut your water consumption–easily:

1. Shower instead of bathe. Bathing and showering account for 27% of daily water use. A typical bath takes 37 gallons of water. A 5-minute shower? 15–25 gallons. So...enjoy your shower!

2. Cut toilet flushes. You can flush just as often, but use less water by putting a closed container full of water in the tank. Or replace your toilet with one that uses less water. Toilet flushing accounts for the largest amount of water used daily. 

3. Don't leave the water running when brushing your teeth. You'll save 5 gallons!

4. Get an energy-saving washing machine. New designs can save about 20 gallons per load. If you pay for your water, this machine can quickly pay for itself. 

5. Use a car wash. The EPA says washing a car yourself can use up to 500 gallons of water. An efficient car wash uses only 32 gallons–and recycles the water! 

6. Let your grass grow a little longer. It'll hold water better and need less watering.

7. Fix leaks. Check for leaking faucets and running toilets,  as well as outside spigots and hoses. Stopping these leaks can have a huge impact. 

Each month shows more evidence the housing market is turning around. Yet prices are still very affordable and mortgage rates remain near record lows. But it's a good idea to get the process started early. So if you're thinking about buying, please call or email us now to talk about your situation.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Back To School Scenario's To Discuss


With kids back in school, it is a good idea to run through some scenarios with your kids, not to be alarmist, but because kids handle breaks in routine better if they have been given the tools to deal with them:

- If you come home and mom or dad is not home...
- If you miss the bus in the morning...
- If the bus driver forgets to let you off the bus
- If you feel like someone is following you
- If you are alone and someone you don't know, says they know mom/dad

Other points to cover:
- Do not discuss your after school arrangements with anyone. e.g. "I use the hide a key and stay alone until dad gets off work”
- Establish safe house in your neighborhood for your child to go to
- Is your child old enough for cell phone for emergency purposes?
- Do not write child’s name on the outside of his/her backpack or display it other places that allow someone to pretend to know them


Courtesy of our trusted family pediatrician Dr. Lindgren, Healthy Future Pediatrics, 360-528-4220 http://www.healthyfuturepeds.com/

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Mortgage Rates Slowing Moving UP


Mortgage rates are inching up as the economy slowly improves. Rates for a 30-year fixed mortgage rose to an average of 3.62% for the week ended Aug. 16, from 3.59% a week earlier.

That was below the 4.15% average rate a year ago and this year’s 4.08% high in March. The economy’s growth, though still weak, has pushed up Treasury yields—in turn putting pressure on mortgage rates.


(Conor Dougherty, Wall Street Journal)

Monday, August 20, 2012

Home-sale prices show first year-over-year gain since 2008


The selling price of homes and condos in Western Washington showed a year-over-year gain in April – for the first time in more than four years.

A home I just sold, 29 days on market, listed for $238,639, sold for $240,000,
appraised for $237,000 which was the final sales price.

Prices rose 1.27 percent between April 2011 and last month, after declining for 50 consecutive months, sometimes by double-digit percentages.

The median price for closed sales in 21 counties was $240,000, compared to $237,000 a year ago.

Brokers who reported the numbers to the Northwest Multiple Listing Service (MLS) did temper their optimism, though, saying any recovery in the housing market will be slow and incremental. Especially in outlying areas, the turnaround could be delayed, they said.

Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Speak Your Mind ~ City of Olympia & City of Lacey


VOTE - it's your right!

Tonight August 14, 2012 - City of Olympia 
7pm - City Hall - Council Chamber
601 4th Avenue E
Olympia, WA 98501
   
*Briefing on the Use of Plastic Bags
1. Informational Flyer
2. Community Meetings Schedule
  
*Timeline and Milestones for Acquisition of Isthmus Properties 
*Family Support Center's Proposal to Purchase the Smith Building
1. Proposal
2. Summary of Conditions, Etc


   
LACEY WATER UTILITY TO HOST SERIES OF OPEN HOUSES ON MUNICIPAL WATER SYSTEM AND RATE PROPOSALS
LACEY, WA, August 9, 2012: Lacey water utility customers are invited to participate in any of three open houses scheduled this month to learn about their municipal water system and proposed changes to water rates. Attendees will be able to visit with water utility staff from 5 to 7 p.m. on: 
Thursday, August 16, at the Lacey Community Center, 6729 Pacific Avenue SE
Monday, August 20, at the Hawks Prairie Golf Club's Talon Grill
Wednesday, August 22, at the historic Jacob Smith House, 4500 Intelco Loop SE

  • Flood Plan Update  PLUS:  Important flood-risk information on your property available!
Please attend one of two workshops on Thurston County's Comprehensive Flood Hazard Management Plan.  A steering committee of staff and citixens is working with county employees and a consultant to update the Flood Plan, which includes hazard mapping, policies and regulations, and flood damage history.
PUBLIC WORKSHOPS -
Monday, August 20, 5:30-9:00 pm
County Courthouse Bldg. 1 Rm. 152
2000 Lakeridge Dr SE
Olympia, 98502

Tuesday, August 21, 5:30-8:00 pm
Emergency Coordination Center
9521 Tilley Rd SW
Olympia, 98512

For more information, contact Mark Swartout, 360-709-3079;

Friday, August 10, 2012

Tour the Inspiration Home



Inspiration Home Banner

Would you like a home that costs less than $200 to heat for an entire year? The Inspiration Home was created to raise awareness that everyone can own a distinctive and stunning home that is energy efficient, healthy, low maintenance, and, most importantly, affordable. 

Whether you're considering a new home or looking for ways to make your existing home more efficient, we invite you to the Inspiration Home Tour to see, touch, and discover the innovative products and building techniques that make this house extraordinary.

Admission: FREE, $5.00 donation requested. 100% of the proceeds benefit The Salvation Army.
Dates: Saturdays & Sundays, August 18-19 and 25-26
Hours: 10 am to 4 pm
Location: 1402 13th Ave SE in Olympia, WA 98501

Tour Requests: No photography, backpacks or strollers allowed in home(s). Flat shoes only, no heels. Smoking, food and beverages prohibited in house and on grounds.

Tuesday, August 7, 2012

8 Signs That Housing is on the Mend

1.    Housing prices are on the rise across the country.
2.    Foreclosures have slowed. Analysts suggest that as the supply of distressed homes slows, buyers will be forced into higher-price properties too.
3.    Inventories of for-sale homes on the market are decreasing. In fact, inventories of for-sale homes have dropped 24 percent from a year ago.
4.    Mortgage rates are at ultra record level lows, for those who can qualify.
5.    Housing starts rose 6.9 percent in June. Also, existing-home sales were up 4.5 percent higher in June compared to one year ago.
6.    Home building stocks are on the rise.
7.    For investors who are buying homes, rents are soaring, allowing them to cash in on their investments. Rental prices are at a 10-year high as median units rent for $710 a month.
8.    Home affordability is at record highs for the median income family, due to falling home values and super low mortgage rates. In fact, a recent study found that it is cheaper to buy a home than rent in basically every major city in the U.S. For those who buy, you can save the cost of renting by owning the home for five years or less.

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

It's Blizzard Time!


Indulging your sweet tooth can be a rewarding experience on Miracle Treat Day. When you order a Dairy Queen Blizzard on Thursday, July 26 in the U.S. and Canada, proceeds will benefit Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and other worthy causes in your community.


Did you Know?  RE/MAX Associates have raised more than $115 million for CMN Hospitals since 1992.

Monday, July 16, 2012

RE/MAX is global


It’s the site that has revolutionized international real estate search. Now, global.remax.com is getting an online marketing boost with new web banners available in seven languages, and some of them are appearing before millions of readers on the Wall Street Journal’s website.


The online banners, designed by the RE/MAX Graphics Team, are available in seven languages – English, Spanish, Hindi, German, Italian, Chinese and Portuguese.  The banners depict a variety of scenarios – a new baby, a wedding, a child going off to college – that tie in to the RE/MAX advertising campaign, "For All The Things That Move You."
"Our regions and Associates around the world now have these invaluable tools that speak to consumers in their native languages so they can promote global.remax.com in their markets," says Larry Oberly, RE/MAX Vice President of International Development. 

"With the English banners appearing on the Wall Street Journal’s website, millions of consumers are learning of the network’s global reach and ability to cater to any buyer, anywhere in the world. This is a tremendous advantage no other real estate organization comes close to."

Since launching last fall, global.remax.com has added hundreds of thousands of home listings in more than 70 countries and territories in 32 languages. The site has attracted nearly 750,000 unique visitors who have generated more than 18 million page views. The majority of visitors are from China while the most-searched city is London. In April, the top areas being searched included Costa Rica, the Bahamas and Belize.

Visitors can also check prices in 31 currencies and get the latest world real estate news and events through an in-depth and detailed news feed. The closest competing website offers properties in only 18 countries, 11 languages and 20 currencies.