"There is no Santa Claus..."

The “original” Santa Claus (derived from his original name, Saint Nicholas) was born March 15 270 and lived to age 73. Many of you know he had a reputation for secret gift-giving, such as putting coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him, and thus became the model for what we today know as “the spirit of Santa Claus”. Saint Nick’s reputation became well known among the faithful, as was common for early Christian saints.

 

We are all called to know Christ, remain in relationship with Him, and model in our daily lives as best we can by what He has taught us about this life. Over the next few days, as we give and receive presents, I know His is the only gift that matters. Since I believe that Christ was the perfect sacrifice for my (and your) imperfect life, and that His Holy Spirit dwells within me, it’s easy for me to also believe in the spirit of Santa Claus. I would expect it is because the Spirit is one in the same.

So to those of you who are quick to proclaim “there is no Santa Claus”, I’d think again. And to those of you who know this profound and everlasting truth, I know you will have a wonderful and meaningful Christmas!

Have you ever thought about selling your home someday? Part 1

Now's the time to think about it. Far better now, than when your life situation requires it (expecting a child, relocation, job change, desire for less exterior work, etc.). It's the same as retirement or insurance - when you need it is not the best time to think about buying it.

So what can we do *now* to help put you in best position to sell your home *one day*? And how can you start to reap the benefits today? Having spent a large part of my life in the field of project management, the best thing is to have a *plan*. For example, you may not have thought about consulting a Home Inspector, enlisting the services of a Home Stager or exploring the market with a Realtor, but that's the very best time to have those discussions - when you are not in immediate need.

Part 1 - What can a Home Inspector do for you that benefits you now?

Would you benefit from knowing what major systems may need minor repairs now to avoid major repair or replacement later? In the real estate industry, we call this situation "deferred maintenance". Good news is, I have developed relationships with Home Inspectors who will focus on your major systems for a reduced fee.

The best immediate benefit to you is that you will benefit now from a qualified Home Inspector identifying and help you prioritize any repairs required - and that you will enjoy the result of having this work done while you can enjoy it for many months (or years). And even if you determine to do nothing at this point, it can be part of how you prepare and market your property to get it sold more quickly and for the best possible price - and not be disappointed at the point you *do* need to sell.

So what's the big idea? Home Inspectors aren't just a benefit to a prospective Buyer who is looking to get a negotiating advantage once a homeowner has already agreed to sell their home. It's a fact that shrewd homeowners can use a Home Inspector strategically to enjoy their home more now, as well as get more for their property when they decide to sell in the future.

Stay tuned... my next blog will talk about the value of engaging Stagers and Realtors long before you need them.

(A side note. This blog is original content from between my ears. If you like what you read, leave a comment and let me know. If you want to discuss or research other topics of interest to you, let me know that too!)

Do you have a roof over your head?

It's the Christmas season. And ever since we opened a preschool 5-1/2 years ago in a tougher part of Nashville, we are painfully aware of those who don't. 

Whether we give thanks for it or not, those of us who do have a roof over our head are blessed - whether we rent or own. And I am doubly blessed, as I have recently obtained a license to help all of my friends with real estate, including those of you whom I have not yet met!

So when should I seek out a licensed and professional Realtor ???

Does it cost me money ??

What should I expect ?

If you own a home, it may surprise you that I can help you now - even if you are not yet thinking about selling your home or buying another. Your home is mostly likely your largest investment. There are things we can do to protect that investment - so it remains an asset, and doesn't become a liability.

If you rent an apartment or home, make no mistake - this is a great time to buy, particularly in Middle Tennessee. But can I offer some simple advice? Don't start looking for homes until we do some preliminary up-front work together.

Have you ever heard the expression "when you fall in love with something, you lose your ability to negotiate"? It is true with everything - particularly the purchase of a home.

So, I would encourage you: Don't go shopping for a home until you and I have had the chance to talk. And if you ever expect that you will want to sell - or refinance - your current home, it's better that we talk long before you anticipate the need to enter into that most important transaction.

I commit that I will give you honest advice. And know that it's easier to hear that advice when you are not pressed to sell your home, and when you are not already in love with your future home.

Make sense?

Back to those people who don't have a home during these holidays. We can help them as well. Please let me know, and I can get helpful organizations in our area to surround and lift up these people in need.

Let's all have a wonderful holiday season - and watch as God creates some miracles!

 

How do I communicate with my Realtor® ???

If you are a home Seller, you have probably entered into a Listing Agreement with your Realtor®. If you are a home Buyer, you may - or may not - have put a Buyer's Agreement in place.

But, then what?

Here's an example. My Buyer informed me today that his computer can't read the PDF ("Portable Document Format") files I have sent him. While his computer properly prompts him to download Adobe's PDF reader, he is understandably gun-shy. In an era of cyber-terrorists, how can I blame him???

It would have been reasonable for me to insist that he download the PDF reader. But remember "the Golden Rule = do unto others..." The minute I became aware of his technological hurdle, I *immediately* changed my communication method and required no changes on my Buyer's part. Even though it takes a couple of extra steps on my side, I converted all PDF files to JPG (Joint Photographic experts Group) - by the way, this is the same method that digital cameras use.

That's one example of effective, client sensitive communication. First, set a reasonable expectation; then meet or *exceed* it. It seems simple, but consistent communication builds TRUST.

Do you feel that you have a trusted relationship with your  Realtor®? While I hope so, I would be pleased to help you increase your expectations of what a Realtor® can do for you - particularly *after* you've signed an Agreement.