2007 September | Indy Real Estate Talk

Really Simple Syndicate Ask the Agent Ask the Lender

PAULA HENRY
REALTOR ®
RE/MAX Excel
Office: 317-272-5002
Direct: 317-605-4174
Fax: 866-373-5769

Archive for September, 2007

How Long is Your Contract?

September 29th, 2007 categories: Indianapolis Real Estate News, Indy Home Sellers

Sign contract This is a question I am routinely asked by those interested in selling their home. Many are fearful of getting into a contract with no option for release in a market where six to twelve month contracts are the norm.

When I sign up to try a new innovation or marketing program for Realtors, I ask how long the contract is and what are my options if I am not satisfied.

It is a reasonable question.

When it comes to listing contracts, I take a different point of view. Clients who list their home with me, sign for four months. You see, I want my clients to feel comfortable they have made the right choice in the Realtor they have chosen to represent them. Then……I set out to prove they have made the right choice! After four months, I want them to extend our contract. By offering a shorter contract, I believe it benefits both parties.

If we have not sold the property in four months, we each have a choice about whether or not to continue our partnership and the contract. Sometimes, it is I who chooses not to. I have had clients who do not take my advice, those who make it impossible to show the home or who do not keep the home in showing condition. When the client works against my best marketing efforts, it is no longer a viable partnership.

Many homes do sell within four months when they are properly prepared and priced for the market. When they don’t, my client and I have options. I want my clients to choose me again! I work hard to ensure they do!

Tags: Indianapolis+Real+Estate, Selling+Homes

Authored by | Discussion: 2 Comments »

With All Due Respect Kermit, It Is Easy Being Green

September 18th, 2007 categories: Indianapolis Real Estate News

Green Living in Indianapolis Kermit the Frog once sang “It’s not easy being green.” And many people may be under the impression that “going green” or using sustainable materials or green design isn’t easy or is cost prohibitive. What with $13 light bulbs and all, you can appreciate their point. It’s also true that the very nature of sustainability is about life cycle costs and future savings not necessarily about saving money up front.

But you don’t have to take your existing home off the grid and use 100% recyclable materials today. If you’re planning a new home or major Renovation, work with a design professional who is proficient in the issues of sustainable design. Work with them to design the most sustainable home that fits within your budget today and throughout the life of the home.

If you’re not ready to take on a major Renovation project though, think green in smaller degrees. When a light bulb burns out, replace it with a compact fluorescent bulb. If your water heater stops heating water, consider a tankless water heater as a replacement. If you need new windows, think Low E and insulated glass. Buy low VOC paints when it’s time to repaint your bedroom or dining room. In short, consider the green alternatives for each project that you tackle around the house and before long only Kermit will be singing that old song.

Tags: Indianapolis+Green+Living, Remodel+Renovation

Authored by | Discussion: 7 Comments »

Client Care is Good Business

September 16th, 2007 categories: Indianapolis Real Estate News

This is not specifically about real estate or Indianapolis. I know my readers can see the obvious connection of good client care practice regardless of the business or city.

In search of new communication devices to keep me accessible wherever I am, I went online to find a new phone and wireless card. The wireless company I have used since 1998 had a great offer for a Blackberry and the price of their wireless card was not too bad. I went through the online process only to discover I could not take advantage of the offer since I am an existing customer.

For a new customer, the price was $149. For me, who has been a long term customer, the price for the Blackberry was $489. and an additional two year renewal period. Then there was the cost of a wireless card.

I spend a lot of money monthly on their service for my families collection of cell phones, download ringtones and text message habits. I have college aged children:) I spoke to their virtual receptionist and no , the offer is not available to existing customers. Same story at their brick and mortar outlet.

It seems to me a long term client would be given some latitude…….some care and consideration. In the wireless phone industry, where competition is on every corner, I think their service priorities are a bit skewed. They prefer to reel in the new clients with some special offer and keep the existing clients tied to a contract.

I will have to pay the $175. early termination fee because I now have a new cell phone company which gave me a free Blackberry, a free wireless card, a great rate for unlimited minutes on both and a one year contract. It doesn t take a genius to figure out the numbers.

If you don’t take care of your clients and customers, someone else will. It’s common sense and good business sense.

Tags: Client+Care, Indianapolis+business

Authored by Chris | Discussion: 6 Comments »

Zionsville Homes in Stonegate

September 14th, 2007 categories: Indy Neighborhoods, Zionsville Real Estate

Stonegate in Zionsville is the location of this year s Home-A-Rama Home Show. Although the show was a few months ago, you have an opportunity to view these beautiful homes again this weekend.

September 15 16 Noon-6:00 p.m.

This time, admission is free! Of course, they may not have the great golf carts out to drive you around. It is supposed to be a beautiful weekend, so make plans to go look at the design and architecture of these new homes. The homes are no longer decorated, but are completely finished. They really are beautiful and you may get an idea or two to take home with you. I almost guarantee you will. I’ll see you there I ll be the one taking pictures!

Tags: Indianapolis+Homes+Show, Zionsville+Homes+Stonegate

Authored by Paula | Discussion: 3 Comments »

A Tribute From Indianapolis

September 11th, 2007 categories: Indy Photo Spot, Indy Places

Today, September 11, will forever be a reminder to Americans of catastophic loss and commendable bravery. To all who are serving our country, those who have gone before and those who will bravely go, I thank you! God Bless You!

In the heart of our city of Indianapolis is the Soldier and Sailors Monument. It is a monument dedicated to those who bravely serve. Although it commerates the war between the States, it was the first such monument specifically dedicated to the common soldier. Me, I don t think there is such a thing as a common soldier. They are all heros in my eyes.

Soldiersandsailorsmonument