Florida- Midori Miller-Real Estate Training

Joining Social Networks and Taking A Step Back!

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 23:34:48 -0600

Today I was looking at my outside blog from Activerain....I rarely go there except to check on how the large font looks outside of the network..then I noticed something that just warmed my heart.

Looking at the footer..I was reminded it was MY content.....and for some reason... it made me smile maybe because I have been joining other networks...and then taking a step back..once reading the terms and conditions... and in most networks it includes specifics on your content and the use of it...there are a couple I have joined..and then stopped and took a step..right back to ....Activerain!

Read the Terms and Conditions of Every Social Network Because They Are All Different!

Thank You Activerain and you made me smile and that little gesture..went a long way with me!

Midori Miller is a licensed real estate associate with CENTURY 21 Sundance Realty, Real Estate Trainer and Manager. If you are interested in a career in real estate please contact me! All calls and inquiries are confidential. CENTURY 21 Sundance Realty is located in Volusia County with 3 office locations to better serve the public. Daytona Beach, Ormond Beach and Ormond by the Sea. midorimiller@yahoo.com (386) 453-3236

Why Brian Brady? Why? Another Meme by Midori

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 07:23:11 -0600

Brian Brady tagged me for this MeMe. Here are the rules based on Brian's post... Here are all of the ground rules that need to be followed:

1. Create a blog post with a link to the person who so happily tagged you. See above!

2. List all of these rules in the post. Feel free to cut and paste this.

3. Share seven things that others may not know about you. Do I or have I HAD a life outside of real estate?

4. Identify seven friends, contacts or near enemies in which to adorn this MEME. Tag them at the end of the post and give a link to their blog.

5. Contact each of the tagged members and let them know that you were indeed fast enough to catch them and that you did indeed tag them...no matter how much they say you missed them! No schoolyard rules in this MEME, nope you gotta do it if you are tagged. Sorry guys!

Before I took my walk down the aisle the first time...I refused to come out of the Bridal room...and my dad came in to tell me jokes...the preacher told jokes and my future ex-husband was concerned.. my dad gave me two options...go out there and meet my future husband at the altar...or take the keys and drive the van as far as I can go...It's up to me..I finally went out to meet my future ex-husband....I don't think it was really anything against my ex-husband...because when the computer scientist and I tied the knot...it was like a reenactment....for some reason I had trouble taking that walk once again but this time it was different...it wasn't my dad handing me van keys...it was my brother who told me....

GET MOVING..he's a good man! So I got moving and met him under the tree!

When my kids were young...the power rangers were in town...that's right...mom stood for hours and hours to get Tommy's autograph...I climbed tables...got in to spats...and Bobby loved every minute of it...when Bobby talked to Tommy(I think he was the green ranger)...he told him...my mom is single...will you marry her? I was embarrassed..and Tommy was a good sport!

When I was a little girl...we always went on vacation...to Disney..Busch Gardens...you name we all went as a family and traveling sometimes was not fun...dad seemed to lose his patience the further we drove...9 people and 1 Volkswagen van....we stopped to get breakfast..and the waitress asked how I wanted my eggs? I told her cooked...what else? Needless to say...dad was irritated once again..but I was dead serious...I wanted my eggs to be cooked!

Boys..my first kiss was in high school and a very bad experience...I was a freshman...and he was a senior. When my date dropped me off...there were 16 beady eyes looking through the front window...it was my entire family...waiting to see...once my date kissed me...I ran in the house...bypassed all those beady eyes...ran to the bathroom..spit in the toilet...that kissing thing...I wasn't ready for it and swore I would never do it again! Can you say Liar!

I never knew I had a fear of birds until recently...Sammy our Siamese...was in the front yard...and ran and grabbed a bird...the computer scientist grabbed the bird and brought it in the house...the poor bird looked dead...until he got comfy in the house and started flying around...I was screaming and freaking out!...The computer scientist...didn't want to hear my mouth any longer and could see the fear in my face....he got that bird out of the house as fast as he could. We will never own a bird in our lifetime as long as it is up to me!

My brother is moving to Alabama..my baby brother..originally I was to spend Christmas in January with my parents...but because little bro is moving..and he suggested to my mom to change Christmas ...because we have a chance to be all together..my mom is so very happy and opted to change Christmas to February....I can't wait! There is always so much laughter...fun...and yes we still get into trouble and sometimes mom and dad... still thinks we aren't very funny!

This may sound strange but it is definitely worth sharing..I am not big on doctors as a matter of fact we practice herbal medicine...and alternative medicine. A few months back I had a huge mole..in my hair line...while most would go to the doctor and was told over and over again I should...I opted to treat it with vinegar...and guess what in a matter of weeks that mole... completely gone!

Now to tag 7 others....

Sheldon Neal - ThatBritishAgent - (RE/MAX Real Estate Limited)

Pacita Dimacali, REALTOR, e-PRO, SRES, MBA

Debbie Hutchins - REALTOR - GRI,CRS,ABR,CSP

Charlie Ragonesi Big Canoe homes, Jasper ,Ball Ground,Benttree,Dahlonega

Fred Chamberlin - Eugene/Springfield's #1 Experienced FHA Mortgage Consultant

Susie Blackmon-Maggie Valley Waynesville NC Realtor/RE Blogger/Photographer

Richard Iarossi, Crofton MD Real Estate, Annapolis MD Real Estate

Naysayers Take A Walk This Real Estate Market Is Mine!

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 15:57:48 -0600

It takes more than a positive attitude to make it in this business...living in reality...working hard..facing each day with enthusiasm... and learning something new every single day!

Real Estate is not that hard compared to working a construction job or even as a medical doctor...but the tasks required sometimes aren't fun...and stressful!

So I ask myself...what makes a good real estate industry professional and what could possibly make a good professional better? 3 things that make an exceptional real estate industry professional

Passion.....Focus....Service!

"Naysayers take a walk because this market is mine!"

Remember your first real estate transaction...or your first loan...how about the day when you felt that finally...you made connections with your staging customers...and you....yes you...impacted and changed someones life by helping them through the buying or selling process! Take that memory and think about why you got in this business in the first place!

When I think of passion...it's pride...it what I do...and I know that I do it well! Its the drive to help others achieve what so many want...and that is to buy and sell real estate! When I talk real estate you can see it...you can feel it...why because I love what I do..because others benefit...isn't that one of the reasons you got into real estate industry in the first place?

"Don't ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive." ~Harold Whitman

Focus-Why view the whole world as falling apart?...you are in the here and now and have the ability to transform your world as well as others...So don't focus on office gossip...or media predictions or even echo the news..you and only you can change your world regardless of what others do!

"Focus on where you want to go, not on what you fear." Anthony Robbins

Service-yes we are in the service business....quit talking about what you are not willing to do...man..its gets old and buyers and sellers are looking for guidance...for support but most of all service! It doesn't mean you are their puppet but as I read through the net...that is the biggest conversation I hear...its all the things that people are not willing to do! Oh brother, is that the best you got for your potential customers?

"If you make customers unhappy in the physical world, they might each tell 6 friends. If you make customers unhappy on the Internet, they can each tell 6,000 friends." JEFF BEZOS

Is it a great time to buy? You betcha! If you can afford it..... Great deals..low interest rates and a huge selection!
Is it a great time to sell? Only if you have to...but think about this...if for some reason a seller takes a loss...there is a good chance...they will make up the difference or even a profit...by upsizing or downsizing!

This year I will not be part of the problem...but am proud to state I will be part of the solution...and instead of playing into media or mirroring what has already been written...said and repeated....over and over once again......nope I won't be doing that! This year I am committed to take back my industry...and live and work with passion...with focus...and most of all service..darn good service!

It would be my pleasure to assist you!

Naysayers take a walk... because this market is mine and obviously...we aren't on the same path to success!

4-H Club Saves The Day-A Quick Guide To Parliamentary Procedure!

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 04:09:35 -0600

In High School I was the President of the Future Business Leaders of America, and yes I've been on a few committee's at our local board of REALTORS but this year is really exciting to me...

I've been named.....

Chairperson of our Education Committee for 2009!

While I am so excited but I admit I am little nervous..being in my new found position I might want to brush up on my Parliamentary Procedure skills..

Yes I learned it in high school and yes I participated in a few committee meetings...but heading a meeting..believe it or not...I'm a little nervous!

Thanks to the 4-H Club...I might not embarrass myself! Need to brush up too?

Assume and There Is A Chance You Might Lose Blog Readers!

Sun, 04 Jan 2009 12:55:45 -0600

I've been attempting to spend more time on my outside blogs...trying to be a little more organized and offer niche reading...right now..things seem out of wack..tearing apart...replacing and updating but the most important task..darn it I forgot...is testing....

On All Of The Browsers

I use Mozilla Firefox..and I assumed so does everyone else

And you know what happens when you assume?

YOU MAY LOSE READERS!

Let me explain..I use IE in my office it seems to be where I edit my site...but at home I use Mozilla Firefox with the Internet Explorer tab.. I do have Internet Explorer on my computer and rarely use it..except what else..to get into the office of my site!

Recently I wrote a post about linking to your old posts...and Missy offered her recent experiences...

"Thanks I need to link to more of my past posts. I do it but not all the time. I never really look at my blog log here either. I do on my outside blog because I am still trying to build my readership. One person who I met here, follows me there and I was so grateful she contacted me on Sat and said she could not open my blog on IE. So I checked and I could not either. It was fine in FF and Safari, so I went to Twitter and posted the HELP and Danny Thorton jumped in and tried to figure it out. Brad Carroll said I might have a widget interfering and I took off my latest one and voila it worked again. I will not check all the search sites if I add a widget or pluggin." Missy Caulk-Ann Arbor- Realtor(R)- Ann Arbor Real Estate (Keller Williams-Ann Arbor)

So for a few days now..I couldn't open my blog on Internet Explorer and in truth I probably would have never checked. But Missy's comment rang a bell...and I remember some chaos over widgets on the rain...

And to think I assumed everyone used Modzilla..don't assume anything.... check all of your blogs on the various browsers out there!

p.s. It was a few of my widgets that I just removed and will have to adjust the code around..the code sometimes does not work in all web browsers!

And to think..

I said I wasn't technical...I'm not...... I just surfed the net and got my answer!

Various Browser Statistics and more various browser statistics and even more various browser statistics

I think you get it each source varies! Have you checked your blogs lately?

Ready To Quit Real Estate?...Pull Yourself Up and Lets Go!

Sat, 03 Jan 2009 07:54:37 -0600

Starting in real estate in the 90's...I've seen the many ways real estate professionals have worked through the years...as a matter of fact..some old school thoughts combined with modern day methods might help you especially if you are struggling or ready to quit. I say if you are in...then commit and pull yourself up and lets go!

It's clear that there are many ways to practice real estate as far as technique...there is NO RIGHT WAY OR WRONG WAY to market...regardless of what many of the experts say...its a whole globe out there you are dealing with...some will be analytical...some will be emotional..

EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT..YOU WON'T APPEAL TO ALL BUT YOU CAN GET YOUR FAIR SHARE!

Many people tend to work out of their homes...and in truth for many years...I was not one of those people...kids running around..dogs barking...I tried it but I would find myself watching...Oprah or doing laundry..I did everything but real estate..so if you are struggling and don't seem to get much done at home...do yourself a favor...and GO INTO THE OFFICE! Even as unpopular as it may sound...go into the office! This is isn't about doing what others are doing but what is best for your career! Being cool or like everyone else will not feed your family!

Not big on phone calls..the reality...blogging is great...email is great..but sometimes in order to have people you know think of you in real estate..it requires a visit or a phone call! Just imagine the results if you put them all together... Again...some would disagree...but picking up the phone could in fact...generate business! That's why you are in the real estate right? INCOME...can't seem to bring yourself to prospect everyday..then add 5!

Farming-even as unpopular as it sounds...even though so many are not doing it...FARM..CULTIVATE...and grow your own personal network in neighborhoods. Showing your level of expertise..in post cards..in community newsletters...in market reports...CULTIVATE!

Step away from your computer and get face to face-That's right I said it and I am serious...start attending community events...socials and fairs. Sponsoring a table...volunteering for these festivities...get involved..not only in the community but building your real estate career. Home Shows, Arts and Crafts Events...get it get involved and get active! Talk to people wherever you go...in the grocery store at the movie theater...talk to people about what you do!

Niche Marketing-yes don't be so scattered but niche market...First time home buyers, International real estate, Investment properties..condos...get it... specialize in something and become the master!

Listings are the name of the game-Regardless of what many say...listings are the name the game...will always be the game...a listing can generate thousands and thousands of dollars. That means price them right...based on location...condition and demand..saleable listings are the name of the game...not just any piece of property.

No listings-Borrow someone's listing and market it with permission...advertise for buyers by focusing on your niche marketing. If you should happen to sell a house...market the sold as much as possible there is a good chance...you'll get listings based on sold!

Build global referrals-yes, referrals are a great way to generate additional income..just make sure...the referral is in writing...and be ready to pass it on quickly. I've been given referrals in the past..without results..why because I was too late..waiting on someones referral form....use an email...or scan your own referral form. If you are giving referrals be ready and just get it done!

Mentoring, Coaching and Training-get a mentor..a coach or trainer....learn from them...follow them...and earn from them! Another words..pick their brain...work hard...and get educated..sometimes a piece of a commissionis better than no commission at all..and look at all the new techniques you have gained in the process!

Be True To Yourself-All trainers, coaches and fellow associates will not hesitate to give you their opinion but the truth is..if you don't feel comfortable or if it doesn't feel natural..there are two things to think about...in some instances..its not you really talking..and you don't buy into what you are saying another words you aren't being true to yourself..using scripts that do not suit you!...OR..maybe just maybe you need to get out of your comfort zone...do some of the things you hate in real estate..that you have let go..#1 thing....PROSPECTING..but more importantly practice your techniques!

I almost quit real estate at one point in the 90's...but then an amazing thing happened to me...I got into the right office...had a full office of mentors..went on to take Floyd Wickman. If you are on the fence...about leaving your career...maybe one of these things might make a difference for you! And remember one thing....

There is plenty of business to go around...you have to go for it...look for it...and cultivate it..and remember you might be a real estate professional or a real estate consultant..or whatever you might like to call yourself..the reality...you are a real estate sales person...did you catch it? One thing about real estate...no matter how you slice it...look at it or dissect it....you are...

In Sales!

"Every boxer fights differently, and every salesman has his unique style. But the results are the same- you are either a champion or just another fighter, you either get the sale or you don't. The real key to success is to do those things that will prepare you to be a champion." Dan Brent Burt

Make It A Great Selling Day!

Fri, 02 Jan 2009 07:57:48 -0600

A Few Real Estate Thoughts To Take With You in 2009

Wed, 31 Dec 2008 07:48:43 -0600

Goodbye 2008...what a year!...and I look forward to 2009!

I've been getting a lot of emails with questions about various topics in real estate and its interesting..because we all have so many different points of view.

But when someone comes to me for assistance...

I tell them what I think and its up to them to decide and implement or not.

As I read opinions on the rain...it's clear no two agents are alike or trainers for that matter...but as 2009 approaches..I tend to take my dads advice...

Prepare for the worst and hope for the best...and Don't Wallow in Self Pity!

Take Action...Action That Produces Results!

Listing Presentations do you have one? Nope..I don't call them listing presentations...the presentation is what you do its our famous real estate lingo and nothing more!....but I do have a pre-listing proposal and a full marketing proposal..and now a better one due to the Makeover2Takeover Contest...and I have offered a sample...you can request yours at midorimiller@yahoo.com. If you have requested in the past...and did not receive it...contact me again! Remember one thing about marketing proposals...the purpose...handle your objections...give the consumer something to touch and feel and think about!

Buyer Consultations-If you have never done them before..this might be the year...to sit down with a buyer...and consult with them...let them ask you questions...learn more about your buyer and remember we often short change buyers...if you sit and chat with a seller before marketing their property..you might want to sit with a buyer to make sure they can and will buy!

Prospecting-Yes I believe you should prospect and have planned time everyday. In the early stages of my career...I prospected everyday until I got an appointment..thanks to Floyd Wickman. Prospecting is a vital part of sales...and there are various methods but the methods work best...when you implement them all together and it creates a beat....call...email...visit...write...call...email...visit...write! Even the most successful agents continue to prospect...that's how they remain....so SUCCESSFUL!

Screen Your Leads-Do you place people in your car without knowing anything about them? Do you show up at listing appointments without all the vital information....if so...2009 is the year to change your mindset...its no longer about gas prices but more along the lines...time management....determining real business vs. wishful thinking! Think about inventories and the state of the market...screen your leads...your buyer leads and your seller leads..and do the entire profession a favor!

Your Appearance-Some would disagree with me...name tags (I don't care for them but the public does), then again...I understand its not for me or about me! I dress as if I am going out on an appointment everyday...comfortable business attire...name tag..sometimes THE JACKET or shirts to let people know that I am in the real estate business. Last but not least a good attitude and always always a smile! Are you a secret agent or are you a real estate professional?

Time Management-Have you started filling in your time for 2009, in truth you should have lots done already...include personal time, prospecting, your company meetings, events, vacations...get it...have an idea what your day will consist of everyday in 2009.

Short Sales-I believe everyone should not do them...if you lack patience, or know how..maybe short sales are not for you...it sure doesn't take rocket science..it takes persistence and understanding..hey if you don't want to do them refer them out!

Social Networking-Many ask, how do you find time? I make time knowing that 83% of the buyers are on line, 100% of the college students are online..

I only blog in a few places...but set up great profiles in as many places as possible!

Blogs don't necessarily have to be words..they can be photos, pod casts, video..you don't have to be a great writer to generate business from blogging!

But just like everything else...social networks require time management..

I am so very addicted.

There is a lot of opportunity in 2009 but it won't always come to you!

You have to go for it!

I am making great strides right now...to make 2009 my best year ever and I hope you are too! Don't play into the media...or the negativity of peers...GO FOR IT ON YOUR TERMS!

Think about this...many will be getting out of the business NOW! It will create more opportunity...fewer agents...less junk on the market...and most of all remember you have to create these opportunities for yourself!

Wishing everyone a Healthy, Happy and Very Prosperous 2009 and Thank You..all of you have enhanced my 2008 and that's how I know 2009 will be my best year ever!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not reflect the opinions of Midori Miller AKA Daytona Beach Real Estate Trainer and CENTURY 21 Sundance Realty. Midori Miller and CENTURY 21 Sundance Realty are not responsible for the accuracy or content provided by The Community.

No Links? Why Blog-Social Networking is Marketing Too!

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 14:18:31 -0600

It's an interesting thing...many write...but don't link...for me I have to reference...past posts...because no matter how you slice it...Blogging...Social Networking..is marketing too!

I've had my hand slapped for self promoting...by one silent blogger...

But for every one of those hand slapping bloggers..there are many who appreciate the extra links... and don't get offended by the self promotion...

After all that is what most bloggers are trying to accomplish...

Readers..Friends..Business..and opportunities..

Get Your Name Out...its a huge blogosphere and you want a piece of it, right?

Take into consideration..how many utilize the net...every day...every hour...every minute..

My goal everyday is to see.....at least 100 readers a day...so if I can't get in one blog post...

There might be two...but just because you may have under 100 readers in a day...doesn't mean people are not reading.....

I can tell you...

People sit on blogs and read a few pages if the posts are interesting...

If you provide a wealth of information..

I can assure you if you offer links to your past posts many of your readers will appreciate them...read them...and there is a good chance...

They will come back for more.

Why not help it along...and link to some of your older posts...after all google loves it!

Remember everyday new people join all of our social networks that we belong too

Less than 1% leave comments...that tells me many are reading..

Yesterday I took a screen shot of mybloglog at about 4:30 pm...for me its my favorite tool...check out the statistics..and see for yourself...people are reading...and they will read more...if you link back to some of your older posts!

BTW according to mybloglog...I finished the day...

112 readers-441 page views- 20 off site clicks-not bad in a days work!

Are You Flexible? If Not..Maybe The Internet Might Help!

Sun, 28 Dec 2008 13:04:04 -0600

It seems I am going through some kind of life change...don't laugh or click off the page just yet! I've noticed I have spent a good part of my life...saying I won't...I never...NO WAY...not because I was stubborn but because of my beliefs..my personal views of what is right for me...but for some reason as I get older...

My beliefs have changed....and so have my views.... and thanks to the Internet I've become much more flexible..being flexible brings that great quality...tolerance...

Here are a few thoughts that may help grow your business and feel free to add your own!

When dealing with someone out of the U.S...I realize..on occasions they may in fact disturb me..due to the time difference... or they may not get back to me in a timely fashion..maybe they can't..because across the globe..there are still areas without Internet access and phone capabilities..and reception problems.

In the U.S. my parents have to get dial up for now..they have a hard time receiving their calls on their cell phone..we are talking Alabama!

I know that many of the general public..don't have the luxury of working 9 to 5 some with over night shifts...or 24 hours on..sometimes its a benefit to adjust your business hours to suit a wider range of the population.

If you as a family are struggling financially there is a good chance most people you encounter have had their fair share this year. It may not be what you might perceive is financial struggles..don't kid yourself..most people are affected..go talk to the general public individually.

Financial struggles mean different things to different people in different parts of the world.

Not everyone may find my humor funny as a matter of fact maybe in some cultures it might be found offensive, it matters...we are a diversified group..human beings that is!

I know that education levels vary around the globe..I take that into consideration..when I speak to the general public...when I write...

An education does not make you a better person A Smarter person with a chance to become a better person..its makes you educated..

Some things folks say would be considered offensive-in the way they address people or the conversations they hold and thoughts that some have..I think about this because we deal with so many cultures.

I've learned not to take things so personally..because there is a chance I'm not being flexible enough? Doesn't make me wishy washy..doesn't make me weak...I just realize...

I'm dealing with human beings and every one of us are different...unique...and global! The Internet has taught me that! With all the information...sources and the people of the web!

"People from all around the world!"

We all yearn for a few things in life...health, happiness..love and wealth...Its a funny thing...a few things we all have in common but yet each person can be so different!...To be flexible brings about tolerance and boy in this day and age we could sure use more of that!

“The test of courage comes when we are in the minority. The test of tolerance comes when we are in the majority.” Ralph W. Sockman

Is Flipping A Short Sale A Good Idea In Today's Real Estate Market?

Sat, 27 Dec 2008 08:07:07 -0600

I got a call from an Investor.. The interesting thing about this investor...he is participating in a new program available to the public.

I've listened to some of the webinars...and I have had the chance to look at the contracts..and skim through the book. When they say full disclosure... they aren't kidding...everything is disclosed.....right in the sales contract...I am impressed..but very skeptical!

I sat with this gentleman for over 2 hours...he had questions...I had questions..I was very curious...another investment program...

FLIPPING Shortsales

I used a short sale listing as an example when speaking with him......why because that is the only type of property these investors are interested in..and they must be single family homes.

Now I don't know what's happening with short sales around the country but in our area.....

They are plentiful...

So plentiful...we watch property value drop..just about every time something closes...get it...

WE WATCH PROPERTY VALUES DROP JUST ABOUT EVERY TIME A PROPERTY CLOSES!

But is property value dropping or prices reflecting true market value in today's current market conditions?

While you think you might be getting this great deal...right now...for short sales...many are priced...

For true market value....

True market value for what it is worth today in this current real estate market..

Its the factual numbers I am talking about from current comparibles...from current CMA's and from current appraisals!

Are you seeing short sales listed way below true market value or are they selling at a price...that shows true market value for your current market conditions?

Would you..knowing what you know...flip short sales now in hopes to make huge profit right now in your current marketplace? I can see investors...investing....leasing their properties but flipping??? Sorry, you'll have to convince me...

The Gold Nuggets in Your Blog Posts-Comments!

Thu, 25 Dec 2008 16:06:11 -0600

Today I was evaluting my blogging for the past year..and in doing so..I really paid attention to the little gold nuggets in my blog posts..not written by me..but others in comments. Call it training..or future blog material..these are some of my favorites for 2008!

The Activerain Featured Dashboard is Not Enough.... "Hi Midori - I'm glad to see Blogger's Choice get some featured attention. It's an excellent solution to recognizing all of the great content on the Rain, with the added benefit of really getting the members involved."

John Novak - Las Vegas and Henderson NV Real Estate

Basic Mortgage Information Every Real Estate Professional Should Know! "Midori. You are so right. This article should be memorized by every agent who has ever uttered the words "That's not my job". I believe that about 50% of the contracts that don't close could be either closed or never written if agents would learn basic financing, qualifying, etc. The trend of agents these days to see how many tasks they don't do just perplexes me. They don't qualify buyers. They don't qualify sellers. They don't go to inspections. They don't go to settlements. They don't, they don't, they don't. How can they complain about fees going down when they are not willing to provide the service for which they wish to be paid."

Lenn Harley, Broker, Homefinders.com in Maryland and Virginia

Blogging Class In Session, Tips on Gaining Customer's Everyday! Mmmidori... you summed it up perfectly with "Building relationships on Web 2.0 to me is much more valuable than top placement on the web"... That point seems to get lost in the race for SEO position or between the next batch of social network invitations. The only real way to stand out from the crowd these days is to deliver consistent, useful, quality content to attract and keep a loyal following, sort of like our own personal fan club. A zillion things & people are trying to get our attention on the web, we all have limited time and attention so we have to make the most of it if we want someone to pay attention to us. As you said, it's all about the relationship!"

The Blog Artist - marti garaughty

Talking to Activerainer's..Do You Ever Get Star Struck? C'mon Admit It.. Sometimes I do! "Midori, I've spoken to several Rainers and I was shocked the first time I got a call! My first thought was... ME? Are you sure you want to talk to ME? LOL...since then, friendships have grown, many calls have been made and I can't wait to talk to the next new Rainer :)"

Lisa Heindel, New Orleans West Bank Real Estate

Real Estate Professionals How Far Will You Go? "Midori, THANK YOU for keeping an eye, but not delving deep into compensation. GFE's should be compared for a fair market price. Loan originators work VERY hard to obtain loans, especially in this credit-tight market! The compensation is well-earned and, more times, than not, is less than the realtor's commission. A Realtor should not begrudge a loan originator and vice-versa. Realtors and lenders need to work together for the common cause: a happy seller and a happy buyer."

Ann Sabbaugh

Let's Try Conversing! Real Estate Customers Are Not Always Right! "Midori, Several years ago when I had filed for divorce from my wife of 23 years, she loved to yell and scream into the phone. I had a therapist tell me to just hang up when this would start. She would go ballistic each time when calling back and I would hang up again. After a few more times things would calm down and a discussion could start. Haven't had to do this in a business sense for many years. Better to not respond than fan the flame. We have a tendency to usually say something we will regret later."

Kim Harris-Broker/Owner/Sound Realty

Never Forget Your Humble Roots! Pay It Forward! "Midori -- you have no idea how much this means to me. So many I have mentored and assisted and it is the few that show gratitude for the help that mean the most. I too am coming up on my two year anniversary -- July 1. I remember when we all started and were trying to figure it out. We all helped each other out. Today it is a different attitude. Back then,it was a natural evolution Kristal Kraft mentored many of us in the beginning, our group carried it on to you and those that are helping others. Today, I see too many members that want it handed to them.... "Western New York Home Sales/Colleen Kulikowski

Technology Tools for Internet Surfers! Not One is Real Estate Related! "Midori, I am so glad I switched to firefox. It has saved my posts so many times. and comments. Everyone should use it that blogs or surfs, also great for not getting trogans and viruses."

Missy Caulk-Ann Arbor-Realtor (R)- Ann Arbor Real Estate

Still Packing And Not Closed. Put Yourself in The Seller's Shoes! "There are always mixed emotions when a family leaves their home. I remember when we packed up my grandparents in Connecticut and moved them to Florida when I was in high school. It was strange, thinking that someone else would be living in the house that Grandpa built!!!

Barbara-Jo & Bill's North Pinellas Blog - Florida Realty Professional - AHWD

Buyer Broker Agreements-Its Not Always About The Deposit! "Some people say there is no benefit for the buyer in a buyer's agreement. That is a misconception, and I have seen it in living color - here are a few examples of benefits for the buyer who chooses to sign a BA. BAs protect buyers from greedy FSBO sellers (they aren't all greedy, but they do exist) by allowing the buyer to have a third party negotiate price, inspection repairs and follow-up. Timid buyers don't want to offend the seller (They seem sooo nice). BAs guarantee that someone will dig in and check a price, market conditions, upcoming tax assessments, easements, utility averages, previous insurance claims and more. BAs guarantee that the agent won't bid against the buyer in Ohio. BAs guarantee that the agent will show the buyer every home on the market, not just what is on the MLS. BAs help the buyer get the best price, best value and best representation and highest level of commitment from an agent, because they know they are not competing against other agents due to their agreement with the buyer. In Ohio, agents have a much higher level of legal commitment to buyers when a BA is in force. There is much more, but I don't want to hijack this post!! My thought: If an agent doesn't know how to protect his/her own interests, how can they be expected to look out for the buyer's best interests?"

Dawn Maloney, ABR

Problogger, Can I Have Your Autograph? Midori's Book Review "Midori, I loved your analysis of this book. I'm definitely going to order it as well. I do subscribe to Chris G's feed. I think I picked that up from one of Marti's blog posts. Thanks for the head's up. ;-)"

Teri Ellis - Homes Arizona Real Estate

Survey Says: Real Estate Is A People To People Business "Hi Midori - I think anyone who is set out to blog trying to network. I agree, it's a people business & people who need people (:)) blog, it doesn't always have to be about real estate. I have read that here & there all along that we need to stay on topic and I disagree with this. You can't always be cut & dry & if it's always about RE you will bore the consumer. Besides, when you have client in the car your topic isn't always RE - you get to know them. Blogging is a way of letting them get to know you."

Kristin Moran ~ San Antonio, Texas ~ Real Estate (RE/MAX Access )

ReBlog Please! Tell Ten Friends And So On... "The Susan Kommen Cancer Foundation has made great strides in Cancer Awareness. Also, the MRS. AMERICA pageant has brought much attention. Thanks for the blog..."

John Hurbon from Benson, AZ

Featured Post or Featured Quality? "You hit it right on the nail or err post button. Here's our top 10 reasons why writing for a feature works and makes sense.

You force yourself to write high quality posts with a larger degree of content
You end up researching topics more in order to have valid information
Forces you to write to a higher constituency
Due to heightened expectations from your readers you try harder each time
To stay consistent at a higher level above others
Allows you to use that resourceful content on other blogs/sites you own
Keeps you focused on the bigger goal, to dominate by points (joke)
To keep up with the jones'
To up the anny'/Raise the bar/Improve Active Rain
To keep Brad Andersohn and Rich Jacobsen busy / Job Security (truth)

I think #9, is the primary reason why the feature should continue and yet another reason why it improves Active Rain as a whole. Thanks for the mention Midori, i will be sure to pay it forward to you in short time O.o\ :)"

Castellum Realty - Lancaster real estate - homes for sale in lancaster county PA

A Lesson In Appreciation-Meeting Online Celebs! "Midori - I love the way your purity and appreciation comes out in this post. It must be amazing to really connect with great people on line and then to be able to meet and network in person is just awesome. We have not been on AR long but already feel that connection and yearn for the next opportunity to be a part of something bigger !!! It warms my heart to see and read a number of posts of how great a time people had but more importantly their appreciation to be a part of it and have that interest to be a part of someone else's life as well. Is beautiful. There are certainly a lot of on-line celebs there - including yourself !!!!!"

Christopher and Stephanie Somers - Realtors - Philadelphia Real Estate

You Want To Be A Better Real Estate Professional? Focus On Your Mistakes! "Midori, I enjoyed reading your blog and you're absolutely right. We should sit back and analyze our mistakes, and try and learn from them so that we can become better at what we do. I think initially we instinctively try to avoid thinking about our mistakes because it's often painful to reflect on them. Naturally, everyone likes to think they're perfect, right? But as Monika said earlier, "no pain, no gain."

TRACY MILLER - Short Sales Specialist & Mortgage Mediator

Thanks Everyone!

For the interaction...the conversation but most of all thanks for the little gold nuggets....Your Comments!

Holiday Wishes From Daytona Beach Florida!

Wed, 24 Dec 2008 06:28:21 -0600

Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect." ~ Oren Arnold

Wishing you and yours a very beautiful holiday season and thank You friends for your support throughout the year! Much love and happiness now and throughout 2009!

Google Alerts Gone Wild?

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 06:25:31 -0600

There seems to be a huge party going on in my email box and from the looks of it...mine is not the only one. Recently I have been getting google alerts for many posts...and many that are not my own. It sounds to me like Google Alerts Gone Wild! I admit..I love it...even if I don't understand it!

My google alerts:

Funny thing, it's not only happening to me but many others. Someone recently contacted me...yes...she has gotten 20 google alerts for her name but with my posts...not sure how it has happened but I do remember writing about her a few times. I used her name in my tags on a few posts.

The same thing is happening to me...with some of the comments I leave...or posts from the past that someone else has written. Has google alerts gone wild or is it a glitch?

If its google alerts gone wild...Wayne said it best..Party On!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone, and do not reflect the opinions of Midori Miller and CENTURY 21 Sundance Realty. Midori Miller and CENTURY 21 Sundance Realty are not responsible for the accuracy or content provided by The Community.