Whether you think 'Belle of the Ball' or making a big SPLASH or simply standing out in the crowd, it all comes down to getting noticed. Effective marketing is all about creating the positive first impression. You might think this post is intended to provide guidance for a job interview - and it could as it certainly applies! But my topic title today is about how important it is for folks selling real estate to have their property in 'show ready' condition. In the next few moments I hope to illustrate to sellers how important it is to 'make the grand entrance' into the real estate market.
Property in today's market has to reach out and capture the emotions of potential buyers. This is especially critical when sellers have multiple properties to consider as the competition for qualified and willing buyers becomes much stiffer. Sellers should not kid themselves. Purchase decisions - ALL purchase decisions - are driven off emotions. It is a fact. And it is critical for the motivated seller to recognize this fact in how they present their property to the market. Seller's cannot control the economy any more than they can control the location of their existing property. However, sellers do control the marketing strategy and they absolutely do control the condition of their property as it is prepared for introduction to the market. Capture the emotions and you've captured the buyer.
Just remember this: ALL purchase decisions, and especially the purchase of homes, are emotion-based decisions. I'll illustrate this key point with one question: Are residential property buyers shopping for 'houses' or are they shopping for 'homes'? The answer is they are shopping for 'homes'. Houses are structures. Homes are those places where people get together and create all types of warm, fuzzy memories. Homes are where the chocolate-chip cookies are baked and where families gather for celebrations and holidays.
A buyer's first impression of your property is the most critical moment in that potential transaction. Is the property neat and clean or does it look like 'work'? Is the yard picked up or will a prospective buyer feel like they are invading someone else's space? Is there a light on at the front steps, are the windows sparkly, is the siding clean and free of blemishes, does the house role out the red-carpet in 'grand entrance' fashion and say 'Welcome Home!'?
I've sold real estate long enough to recognize the look on a buyer's face when they have found 'the one'. And very, very often that 'look' appears before the buyer has even entered the property. They become captured in the moment - their thoughts swirling with emotions of relief and joy in having found their home. Just like in job interviews, homes need to create the positive first impression. If they do not succeed in doing so, the game may already be over.
Are you serious about selling a property soon? Make it SPLASH! Create the grand entrance.
Until next time . . .
Jon Drews
Associate Real Estate Broker
www.SearchFergusFalls.com
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Friday, July 18, 2008
A few random thoughts . . .
Greetings to all! All signs suggest we have most certainly locked into our Minnesota summer groove. Roadscapes throughout our lake-splashed county are views of lush green woods and waves of maturing corn, beans, and wheat. Blue skies and glistening water treat travelers with unrivaled splendor.
Another sign I notice of summer's advance is the staggering number of raccoons found 'sleeping' along our roadways. (As parents are prone to do, we used to shield our kids from the crushing realities of road-killed critters with this 'sleeping' reference.) In any event, raccoons do not fair as well in road-crossing as do chickens. But in the raccoon's defense, I have never, ever observed a chicken crossing the road - nor have I ever wondered why a chicken would want to cross a road . . .
Along with sleeping raccoons, I have noticed a good many turtles smacked prone on the asphalt. I ask myself, 'How is it that turtles are forever being hit on our roads?' It is not like they are able to jump out in front of speeding vehicles. It is only a theory of mine but if there is some evolutionary process at play enabling creatures to become more adaptive it has certainly overlooked the turtle. If turtles were evolving to their environment their upper shells would have taken on the form and color of blaze-orange safety cones long ago.
So, what does any of this ramble have to do with real estate? Not a darn thing! I'm just settled back on my patio pondering random thoughts whilst I enjoy some of the most alluring weather and fixating waterscapes on the planet. Minnesota - land of 10,000 lakes . . . and inspiration for my finest dreaming. Till next time -
Jon Drews, Associate Broker with Century 21 Vista
www.SearchFergusFalls.com
Another sign I notice of summer's advance is the staggering number of raccoons found 'sleeping' along our roadways. (As parents are prone to do, we used to shield our kids from the crushing realities of road-killed critters with this 'sleeping' reference.) In any event, raccoons do not fair as well in road-crossing as do chickens. But in the raccoon's defense, I have never, ever observed a chicken crossing the road - nor have I ever wondered why a chicken would want to cross a road . . .
Along with sleeping raccoons, I have noticed a good many turtles smacked prone on the asphalt. I ask myself, 'How is it that turtles are forever being hit on our roads?' It is not like they are able to jump out in front of speeding vehicles. It is only a theory of mine but if there is some evolutionary process at play enabling creatures to become more adaptive it has certainly overlooked the turtle. If turtles were evolving to their environment their upper shells would have taken on the form and color of blaze-orange safety cones long ago.
So, what does any of this ramble have to do with real estate? Not a darn thing! I'm just settled back on my patio pondering random thoughts whilst I enjoy some of the most alluring weather and fixating waterscapes on the planet. Minnesota - land of 10,000 lakes . . . and inspiration for my finest dreaming. Till next time -
Jon Drews, Associate Broker with Century 21 Vista
www.SearchFergusFalls.com
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Minnesota Summer Dreams . . .
Hello, Folks - It has been too long since my last post. The summer in Otter Tail County is in full swing. Lake activities are the place to be! Swimming, boating, and fishing are where you will find the 'tanned and sassy' crowd.
Real estate sales, despite what is being touted by national media, remain very healthy for quality lake front - and Otter Tail County has some of the most 'qualitiest' (I just made that word up this very moment.)
Yours truly has also made time for some high-end water recreation. Except, instead of becoming tanned and sassy, I wound up turning 'red and crispy'. Guess who spent 11 hours out on the water and forgot their sun screen . . . Would somebody plesase flip me over, I'm starting to stick!!
There is no better place on earth than Minnesota in the summer time. If you haven't experienced it, you need to. And what better way to experience a Minnesota Summer Dream than to own your own slice of it. Talk to an area real estate agent today and ask about available properties in Otter Tail County - the Land of 1,000 (and forty-eight) Lakes!! Oh, yes, and be SURE to remember the sun screen.
Take care,
Jon Drews
Associate Broker with Century 21 Vista, Inc.
www.SearchFergusFalls.com
Real estate sales, despite what is being touted by national media, remain very healthy for quality lake front - and Otter Tail County has some of the most 'qualitiest' (I just made that word up this very moment.)
Yours truly has also made time for some high-end water recreation. Except, instead of becoming tanned and sassy, I wound up turning 'red and crispy'. Guess who spent 11 hours out on the water and forgot their sun screen . . . Would somebody plesase flip me over, I'm starting to stick!!
There is no better place on earth than Minnesota in the summer time. If you haven't experienced it, you need to. And what better way to experience a Minnesota Summer Dream than to own your own slice of it. Talk to an area real estate agent today and ask about available properties in Otter Tail County - the Land of 1,000 (and forty-eight) Lakes!! Oh, yes, and be SURE to remember the sun screen.
Take care,
Jon Drews
Associate Broker with Century 21 Vista, Inc.
www.SearchFergusFalls.com
Monday, March 31, 2008
A Primer for First-time Home Buyers
Now is the perfect time to purchase your first home!
Interest rates remain historically low and property selection is excellent. By taking just a few basic steps you will be soon standing at the door of your first home. But before you get to that point there are a few things we should discuss.
First home buyers are some of my absolute favorite clients! I think it has to do with their energy level and how I become a part of that energy. It seems first homes are the most memorable – there is a lot of emotion and energy that moves in along with that couch and kitchen table.
There are a couple of steps first-time home buyers can take that will greatly simplify the process of purchasing their first home. Preparing for your first home purchase starts well ahead of moving your stuff - or picking out paint and decorating schemes.
Probably one of the most important considerations is how the home will be purchased. Rich uncles can come in very handy at this point but if you do not have the luxury of a 'rich uncle' now may be a good time to consider the various financing options that are available to first-time buyers.
There are a number of great programs available to new home buyers but before you do anything else, I recommend you take a moment to talk with a REALTOR® - and I would whole-heartedly encourage that individual be affiliated with the CRS (Council of Residential Specialists) for added assurance of receiving the utmost in guidance.
A CRS designee must complete specialized, residential real estate focused, training PLUS have verifiable sales and listing volumes to be eligible for this designation. CRS designees provide better service because they want to – they are driven to. Their personal goals to provide best-practice services become the basis for the demonstrated sales performance. The bottom line is first-time home buyers can have assurance their CRS affiliated REALTOR® will provide them with the best service possible!
The value of this initial guidance is immeasurable and will do more to ensure a successful, smooth transaction than any other step in the process. In fact, once you are connected with a CRS affiliate, everything - including the search for financing - will become much easier.
Please note this as well: It is important to consider shopping for financing much in the same way as buying a pair of sneakers. You may need to shop around to find the best 'fit'. (This particular analogy has real meaning for me because I have webbed toes and a ‘bad fit’ means pain down the path. OK, that was probably too much personal information . . .)
In any event, your CRS-affiliated REALTOR® can offer the necessary guidance regarding locating qualified and capable lenders that offer programs especially designed for that perfect ‘first-step’ home buyer ‘fit’!
Have fun - and stay safe!
Jon
www.SearchFergusFalls.com
www.MNFirstHomeBuyer.com
Interest rates remain historically low and property selection is excellent. By taking just a few basic steps you will be soon standing at the door of your first home. But before you get to that point there are a few things we should discuss.
First home buyers are some of my absolute favorite clients! I think it has to do with their energy level and how I become a part of that energy. It seems first homes are the most memorable – there is a lot of emotion and energy that moves in along with that couch and kitchen table.
There are a couple of steps first-time home buyers can take that will greatly simplify the process of purchasing their first home. Preparing for your first home purchase starts well ahead of moving your stuff - or picking out paint and decorating schemes.
Probably one of the most important considerations is how the home will be purchased. Rich uncles can come in very handy at this point but if you do not have the luxury of a 'rich uncle' now may be a good time to consider the various financing options that are available to first-time buyers.
There are a number of great programs available to new home buyers but before you do anything else, I recommend you take a moment to talk with a REALTOR® - and I would whole-heartedly encourage that individual be affiliated with the CRS (Council of Residential Specialists) for added assurance of receiving the utmost in guidance.
A CRS designee must complete specialized, residential real estate focused, training PLUS have verifiable sales and listing volumes to be eligible for this designation. CRS designees provide better service because they want to – they are driven to. Their personal goals to provide best-practice services become the basis for the demonstrated sales performance. The bottom line is first-time home buyers can have assurance their CRS affiliated REALTOR® will provide them with the best service possible!
The value of this initial guidance is immeasurable and will do more to ensure a successful, smooth transaction than any other step in the process. In fact, once you are connected with a CRS affiliate, everything - including the search for financing - will become much easier.
Please note this as well: It is important to consider shopping for financing much in the same way as buying a pair of sneakers. You may need to shop around to find the best 'fit'. (This particular analogy has real meaning for me because I have webbed toes and a ‘bad fit’ means pain down the path. OK, that was probably too much personal information . . .)
In any event, your CRS-affiliated REALTOR® can offer the necessary guidance regarding locating qualified and capable lenders that offer programs especially designed for that perfect ‘first-step’ home buyer ‘fit’!
Have fun - and stay safe!
Jon
www.SearchFergusFalls.com
www.MNFirstHomeBuyer.com
Sunday, March 30, 2008
The Splendor of Land Ownership!
Minnesota offers a rich year-round heritage for people longing to spend time outdoors. Our land, our woods, and our lakes create the backdrop for countless memories of family gatherings and ventures. Be it ice fishing on one of our countless ‘No-Name' lakes or traveling trails - by foot or sled or hoof or ATV - Minnesota offers a bounty of outdoor recreation opportunities.
Much of this heritage began with the family farms of yesterday. Those farms became - and still remain - the primary gathering points for some of our best upland bird hunting, waterfowl hunting, deer hunting, and fishing. It would be difficult for me to imagine an existence devoid of these memories.
Speaking from personal experience, the most-cherished of all my memories of outdoor excursion and adventure have taken place on my family's home farm. A property we have been so privileged to have resided on and managed for over 100 years and five generations. This, in a nutshell, illustrates the allure of property ownership. It is the preservation of history and a link to both past and future generations.
If you are seriously considering the dream of owning your personal duck pass or deer woods or ‘Lake No-Name', there are countless opportunities available. And now, with the bonus of low interest rates, we have not just countless opportunities - but perfect opportunities - to turn those dreams into reality.
Real estate has historically been a great investment for three reasons. First, there is a limited supply (no more is being made). Second, we are seeing an ever-increasing demand as Baby Boomers seek to enter a major chapter in their lives: Retirement in Minnesota's Lake Country. And, third, it is an investment you can walk on, you can point to it on a map, and you can build all your dreams and memories on it. Try doing that on a day-by-day basis with a money market account!
Take care - and stay safe,
Jon
www.SearchFergusFalls.com
Much of this heritage began with the family farms of yesterday. Those farms became - and still remain - the primary gathering points for some of our best upland bird hunting, waterfowl hunting, deer hunting, and fishing. It would be difficult for me to imagine an existence devoid of these memories.
Speaking from personal experience, the most-cherished of all my memories of outdoor excursion and adventure have taken place on my family's home farm. A property we have been so privileged to have resided on and managed for over 100 years and five generations. This, in a nutshell, illustrates the allure of property ownership. It is the preservation of history and a link to both past and future generations.
If you are seriously considering the dream of owning your personal duck pass or deer woods or ‘Lake No-Name', there are countless opportunities available. And now, with the bonus of low interest rates, we have not just countless opportunities - but perfect opportunities - to turn those dreams into reality.
Real estate has historically been a great investment for three reasons. First, there is a limited supply (no more is being made). Second, we are seeing an ever-increasing demand as Baby Boomers seek to enter a major chapter in their lives: Retirement in Minnesota's Lake Country. And, third, it is an investment you can walk on, you can point to it on a map, and you can build all your dreams and memories on it. Try doing that on a day-by-day basis with a money market account!
Take care - and stay safe,
Jon
www.SearchFergusFalls.com
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
He was Tough, but Never Hardened
I had intended to provide a brief overview of the CRS (Certified Residential Specialist) designation today but, instead, will postpone that bit of information for another day.
I paid a visit to the Minnesota Veteran's Home located in Fergus Falls yesterday and had the opportunity to share some time with a resident. Until that moment he was unknown to me, but our conversation managed to awaken a flood of memories related to many dear friends now since departed. Without exception, the passing of each has made my life both richer with the lessons they shared . . . and less full in the profound absence of their physical presence.
Each friendship has been a journey laden with joy as immense as sorrow's depth. These men and women understood not just the concept of allegiance, but the cost. Through it all, I believe their strengths have shared a common thread. As difficult as times were - with hardships I can't even fathom - these great humans were never hardened in their hearts. In fact, that alone - their tenacious grasp on human kindness and patience, an unwavering hope for greater good - is likely what allowed them to survive these gravest of moments in our Nation's recent history.
And with the passing of each - as we pay final tribute - the same question taunts my confidence: Could we ever be as strong as these? (I pray that we should never find out.)
Not long ago I was driving through town and noticed an elderly gentlemen waiting to cross the street. I slowed to a stop so that he could cross and when I did, I recognized him - a WWII Veteran and close friend of the family. I had not seen him in some time but had heard he was engaged in yet another trying battle - a battle with dementia. As I watched him pass before me, I saw in his stride the pride he held for our Nation. Here walked a man of Honor. My throat tightened with each step he took. His journey - his life - had become an endless confrontation with forces that first sought to debilitate governments with the same callous ravage as he was now facing in his own mind.
And then, just as he stood directly in front of my paused vehicle, in a moment that will never escape my memory, he turned towards me. He was no longer able to recognize who I was, but it did not matter. From the depths of his being, he straightened his worn frame, stood at attention, and saluted. There was no point in trying to fight the tears that ran down my cheeks. He would remain unwaivering and steadfast - to God and Country - until his final step.
He turned and proceeded to the other side of the street to continue his, by all appearances, carefree journey - distracted by little, or nothing at all.
So, what does this story have to do with real estate? Absolutely nothing . . . and absolutely everything. The story is all about service to others. For each of us - you and I - in all we do, regardless of what we do, we should do our very best in service to those around us.
Today, Veteran's Day is nearly half-way around the calendar. I would hope we should not wait so long to take a moment to thank a Veteran - or 'future' Veteran - for their service to our Nation and also, through a handshake or a pat on the back, we might feel the immeasurable strength of those tough hearts that were never hardened. May God continue to bless America with hearts such as these.
Jon
I paid a visit to the Minnesota Veteran's Home located in Fergus Falls yesterday and had the opportunity to share some time with a resident. Until that moment he was unknown to me, but our conversation managed to awaken a flood of memories related to many dear friends now since departed. Without exception, the passing of each has made my life both richer with the lessons they shared . . . and less full in the profound absence of their physical presence.
Each friendship has been a journey laden with joy as immense as sorrow's depth. These men and women understood not just the concept of allegiance, but the cost. Through it all, I believe their strengths have shared a common thread. As difficult as times were - with hardships I can't even fathom - these great humans were never hardened in their hearts. In fact, that alone - their tenacious grasp on human kindness and patience, an unwavering hope for greater good - is likely what allowed them to survive these gravest of moments in our Nation's recent history.
And with the passing of each - as we pay final tribute - the same question taunts my confidence: Could we ever be as strong as these? (I pray that we should never find out.)
Not long ago I was driving through town and noticed an elderly gentlemen waiting to cross the street. I slowed to a stop so that he could cross and when I did, I recognized him - a WWII Veteran and close friend of the family. I had not seen him in some time but had heard he was engaged in yet another trying battle - a battle with dementia. As I watched him pass before me, I saw in his stride the pride he held for our Nation. Here walked a man of Honor. My throat tightened with each step he took. His journey - his life - had become an endless confrontation with forces that first sought to debilitate governments with the same callous ravage as he was now facing in his own mind.
And then, just as he stood directly in front of my paused vehicle, in a moment that will never escape my memory, he turned towards me. He was no longer able to recognize who I was, but it did not matter. From the depths of his being, he straightened his worn frame, stood at attention, and saluted. There was no point in trying to fight the tears that ran down my cheeks. He would remain unwaivering and steadfast - to God and Country - until his final step.
He turned and proceeded to the other side of the street to continue his, by all appearances, carefree journey - distracted by little, or nothing at all.
So, what does this story have to do with real estate? Absolutely nothing . . . and absolutely everything. The story is all about service to others. For each of us - you and I - in all we do, regardless of what we do, we should do our very best in service to those around us.
Today, Veteran's Day is nearly half-way around the calendar. I would hope we should not wait so long to take a moment to thank a Veteran - or 'future' Veteran - for their service to our Nation and also, through a handshake or a pat on the back, we might feel the immeasurable strength of those tough hearts that were never hardened. May God continue to bless America with hearts such as these.
Jon
Monday, March 24, 2008
Buying or Selling a Property? Pay Attention!
I was hoping to walk away with some inspirational material today after a visit with our Miniature Donkeys, Amber Rose and Benjamin. Well, I certainly did walk away with some ‘material’ but, being located on the bottom of my overshoe, it did little to inspire me.
In a near-vain effort to ‘walk off’ my new-found ‘inspiration’ I paced about near our barn in one of the few remaining drifts of snow. In that moment of dreadful futility, Amber and Ben’s message dawned on me: PAY ATTENTION!
I looked back over my shoulder to see Ben’s cheesy grin as he mused on my struggle. I thanked him for the guidance and he replied with a snort of approval while trotting back into the barn.
Indeed, it is very important to pay attention – especially when buying or selling property.
For sellers, it is absolutely vital that thought be given to the most effective marketing efforts available. Today, that means using the services of a professional agent – one that understands how to effectively market property with the goal of maximizing seller proceeds. This will likely require an understanding of broad-brush marketing techniques utilizing the latest technologies as well as an eye for the fine points of property presentation – or ‘staging’. Staging is basically a seller’s stepping back to identify and best remedy property conditions they may have grown accustomed to in their day-to-day living that might interfere with a buyer’s ability to see a seller’s home as their home.
Obviously a buyer needs to pay attention as well to find a property that best meets the buyer’s needs. Similarly, a service professional – spelled ‘REALTOR®’ - can provide equal value to a buyer. A house does not become a home unless it meets the needs of the owners. People occupy houses but they live in homes. By paying attention, a REALTOR® can hear what is most important to a buyer and help identify properties that meet the rational needs and thereby empower the buyer to make the emotional connection.
In summary, buying and selling in the real estate market should be a pleasant experience. To ensure your next transaction does not leave you feeling like you ‘stepped in something’, pay attention and hire a REALTOR®.
My next post will review a designation held by fewer than 4% of REALTORS® and how that designation adds exceptional value for both buyers and sellers. The designation is offered by the Council of Residential Specialists, the largest not-for-profit affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS®. Stay tuned to the REAL Blog For Real People!
In a near-vain effort to ‘walk off’ my new-found ‘inspiration’ I paced about near our barn in one of the few remaining drifts of snow. In that moment of dreadful futility, Amber and Ben’s message dawned on me: PAY ATTENTION!
I looked back over my shoulder to see Ben’s cheesy grin as he mused on my struggle. I thanked him for the guidance and he replied with a snort of approval while trotting back into the barn.
Indeed, it is very important to pay attention – especially when buying or selling property.
For sellers, it is absolutely vital that thought be given to the most effective marketing efforts available. Today, that means using the services of a professional agent – one that understands how to effectively market property with the goal of maximizing seller proceeds. This will likely require an understanding of broad-brush marketing techniques utilizing the latest technologies as well as an eye for the fine points of property presentation – or ‘staging’. Staging is basically a seller’s stepping back to identify and best remedy property conditions they may have grown accustomed to in their day-to-day living that might interfere with a buyer’s ability to see a seller’s home as their home.
Obviously a buyer needs to pay attention as well to find a property that best meets the buyer’s needs. Similarly, a service professional – spelled ‘REALTOR®’ - can provide equal value to a buyer. A house does not become a home unless it meets the needs of the owners. People occupy houses but they live in homes. By paying attention, a REALTOR® can hear what is most important to a buyer and help identify properties that meet the rational needs and thereby empower the buyer to make the emotional connection.
In summary, buying and selling in the real estate market should be a pleasant experience. To ensure your next transaction does not leave you feeling like you ‘stepped in something’, pay attention and hire a REALTOR®.
My next post will review a designation held by fewer than 4% of REALTORS® and how that designation adds exceptional value for both buyers and sellers. The designation is offered by the Council of Residential Specialists, the largest not-for-profit affiliate of the National Association of REALTORS®. Stay tuned to the REAL Blog For Real People!
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