Schuylkill County Real Estate

Schuylkill County HUD Homes for Sale: 3528 Sweet Arrow Lake Rd. 17963

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 17:14:00 -0600

NEW HUD HOME entered the market 3/11/2010

3528 Sweet Arrow Lake Rd. Washington Twp, PA 17963

If you have the cash or can qualify for a mortgage, you can buy a HUD home.

Bid Deadline: 03/20/10 for owner-occupants. Bidding opens for investors 3/21/10.

2 bedrooms (according to MLS system) 1 bath. 2 car garage. Call 570-622-6006 to put a bid in on this property.

HUD Homes are sold “as-is,” without warranty. That means that HUD will not pay to correct any problems. But even if a HUD Home needs fixing up – and this one does – it can be a real bargain! For example, HUD’s asking price on the home will reflect the fact that the buyer will have to invest money to make improvements. HUD might offer special incentives such as an allowance to upgrade the property, a moving expense allowance, or a bonus for closing the sale early.

And keep in mind that on most sales, the buyer can request HUD to pay all or a portion of the financing and closing costs.

We can fill you in on all the details.

Buying a HUD home is a bit different than buying an owner-occupied property. It may seem tricky or overwhelming, so find a good real estate broker who knows what they are doing. Not all agents know how to handle HUD homes, and not all real estate brokers/firms are licensed to put your bid in with HUD.

In Schuylkill County, REALTY EXECUTIVES is a licensed HUD home broker. We can show HUD homes to you and guide you through the process. Call us today for a list of current HUD properties in Schuylkill County: 570-622-6006 or email eramus@comcast.net

3528 Sweet Arrow Lake Rd. Pine Grove, PA 17963

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

Serving all of Schuylkill County ... Pottsville, Orwigsburg, Schuylkill Haven, Auburn, Pine Grove, Frackville, Minersville, Ashland, Shenandoah, Port Carbon, Palo Alto, St. Clair, Barnesville real estate. Click on the link above to search Pottsville PA homes for sale or any Schuylkill County homes for sale. We have all properties listed for sale in the Schuylkill MLS on our website -- free search!

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

FTC Cracks Down on "Free Credit Reports" That Just Aren't

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:33:45 -0600

This song is so catchy, my youngest son used to sing it constantly. They've done a great job marketing the site, but not great job in disclosing it is NOT FREE!

Via Eleanor Thorne 919-649-5057 Cary Mortgage Loans (First Financial Services, Inc):

I'm tired of that "F-R- Double E Spells FREE" credit report commercial! Because what they are "hawkin' is NOT free!
Thankfully, on March 3, 2010 the Federal Trade Commission file a revision to the Free Annual File Disclosure Rule to address the abuses and deceptive advertising for Free Credit Reports. This was part of the new Credit Card Accountability and Responsibility Act 2009.

The new disclosure is available now, but must be used after April 2, 2010, per the FTC ruling... however the Radio and Television Ads don't have to go off air until September 1, 2010 (although the advertisements must adhere to the interim disclosure in the Credit Card Accountability Act until then.)

"The pre-existing requirement to make a free annual credit report available to consumers applies to consumer reporting agencies that operate on a nationwide basis. The new marketing requirements apply to parties that offer free credit reports. For purposes of the requirement, a "Free Credit Report" is a file disclosure prepared by or obtained from, directly or indirectly, from a nationwide consumer reporting agency that is represented, either expressly or impliedly, to be available to the consumer at no cost if the consumer purchases a product or service, or agrees to purchase a product or service subject to cancellation."

I think this is GREAT news for consumers who have been PAYING for what services they don't need!

If you are looking for credit repair from someone who cares about your situation, and will show you how to immediately, and over time imporve your score - please call Steve Thorne, Credit repair specialist 919-649-5058 also check out this site ... it's all about credit repair and dispute information!

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

FTC Cracks Down on "Free Credit Reports" That Just Aren't

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:33:20 -0600

This song is so catchy, my youngest son used to sing it constantly. They've done a great job marketing the site, but not great job in disclosing it is NOT FREE!

Via Eleanor Thorne 919-649-5057 Cary Mortgage Loans (First Financial Services, Inc):

I'm tired of that "F-R- Double E Spells FREE" credit report commercial! Because what they are "hawkin' is NOT free!
Thankfully, on March 3, 2010 the Federal Trade Commission file a revision to the Free Annual File Disclosure Rule to address the abuses and deceptive advertising for Free Credit Reports. This was part of the new Credit Card Accountability and Responsibility Act 2009.

The new disclosure is available now, but must be used after April 2, 2010, per the FTC ruling... however the Radio and Television Ads don't have to go off air until September 1, 2010 (although the advertisements must adhere to the interim disclosure in the Credit Card Accountability Act until then.)

"The pre-existing requirement to make a free annual credit report available to consumers applies to consumer reporting agencies that operate on a nationwide basis. The new marketing requirements apply to parties that offer free credit reports. For purposes of the requirement, a "Free Credit Report" is a file disclosure prepared by or obtained from, directly or indirectly, from a nationwide consumer reporting agency that is represented, either expressly or impliedly, to be available to the consumer at no cost if the consumer purchases a product or service, or agrees to purchase a product or service subject to cancellation."

I think this is GREAT news for consumers who have been PAYING for what services they don't need!

If you are looking for credit repair from someone who cares about your situation, and will show you how to immediately, and over time imporve your score - please call Steve Thorne, Credit repair specialist 919-649-5058 also check out this site ... it's all about credit repair and dispute information!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Mr. President, stop throwing money at the housing industry, that isn’t the problem

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:44:50 -0600

Todd Clark has a great commentary on what NOT to do to "fix" the housing problem.

Via Todd Clark (Broker) (503)524-9494 (Beaverton, Oregon Real Estate Expert) (All Brokers Real Estate):

By Todd Clark (Broker/Sales Coach) 503-524-9494

This morning I read a report that the President says the problem with the housing industry is short sales and he wants to fix it. I thought GREAT, ABOUT TIME! But then I read the article and quickly I realized that our President has no clue about what is going on with the housing industry. As with most politicians he thinks if we throw money at a problem, he thinks it will go away.

You see, the President says the problem with short sales is that the sellers don’t want to move out and that he is willing to offer $1500 to home owners to move out, so they can have money to move. WHAT? Since when do we have a problem with sellers not wanting to move out? Does he not realize what a short sale is? A short sale is where a seller puts his home on the market because he knows he is in trouble and wants to move. Now, I think this is going to be a huge chance for fraud!

You see, the real problem with short sales is the banks are taking so long to respond that the home ends up going in to foreclosure and that is when the sellers are refusing to move out. They tried to do a loan modification, they tried the short sale… the banks are the problem, not the sellers.

I think we are going to see a lot of sellers take advantage of your $1500 program and actually create the problem of sellers not moving out until they get their $1500 a real thing. Mr. President, if you want to fix the problem, make it so the banks have to respond to short sale offers submitted to them within 30 days of being submitted. (The reason I say 30 days, is so that gives them time to do a BPO or an appraisal) If they don’t respond within the 30 days, they have to give a $500 a day credit to the home owner that will go toward back payments and principle.

I promise, if you do this, as soon as the banks realize that they are getting people out of default with their delays, the short sale problem will go away.

Todd Clark - Broker / Sales Coach
All Brokers Real Estate
Phone: (503)524-9494
Fax: (503)622-8739

Beaverton Oregon Homes for Sale, Beaverton OR homes for sale, homes for sale in zip code, 97006, 97007, 97008, 97005, 97223, 97224, 97124, 97123, Beaverton Oregon Realtor, Beaverton OR Realtor, Beaverton Oregon MLS Search, Beaverton OR MLS Search, 1st time home buying expert, short sale expert, avoiding foreclosure in beaverton, helping families home, LivingBeaverton, Townhomes for sale, home for sale, house for sale, Merlo Station, Hart Neighborhood, Greenway Neighorborhood, Sexton Mountain Neighborhood, Aloha Neighborhood, Lexington Neighborhood, Cooper Mountain neighborhood, Sorrento neighborhood, Murrayhill Neighborhood. Beaverton Oregon Real Estate, Beaverton OR real estate, Todd Clark, (503)524-9494, WWW.LivingBeaverton.com, www.IFoundYourNewHome.com, www.SavingyouFromForeclosure.com

©2010 Todd Clark - Mr. President, stop throwing money at the housing industry, that isn’t the problem

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Calling all Film Makers: Sharp Mountain Film Festival, Pottsville pA

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 18:43:19 -0600

Calling all Film Makers: Sharp Mountain Film Festival, Pottsville PA

April 24th, 2010 in Pottsville, PA April 25th, 2010 in Hamburg, PA

April 16th - 18th, 2010 48 Hour Film Competition

Sharp Mountain Film Festival, located in Pottsville, PA, at the foot of Sharp Mountain, is dedicated to bringing independent film and filmmakers to Schuylkill County and North Eastern PA.

Sharp Mountain Film Festival celebrates the initiative and commitment of independent filmmakers by providing a showcase for their work. We provide conversations between local residents and film industry professionals in an attempt to demystify the profession and share creative insights.

In addition, Sharp Mountain Film Festival sponsors a "48 Hour" Film Competition as part of the Festival in an attempt to foster new and aspiring filmmakers. Competitors will be given a line of dialogue, a prop, and a theme. Filmmakers will then have 48 hours to write, shoot, and edit a 3 to 5 minute short film. Completed films must be submitted by 6pm, April 18, 2010. Entries will be screened at the Festival April 23-25th. Prizes will be awarded. Entry fee for the General Category is $25. There is no entry fee for the High School Category but filmmakers and/or teams must register by April 16th in order to enter. Our "48 Hour" Competition will also include a special High School category open to all registered high school students.

The Film Festival is presented in conjunction with The Block of Art-- downtown Pottsville's annual arts celebration. This will be The Block of Art's fourth year celebrating visual and performing arts with multiple exhibit venues and performances April 23-25th. Sharp Mountain Film Festival is pleased to offer local and regional independent films as a complement to The Block of Art's vibrant arts programming.

Here is their web page info: http://www.sharpmountainfilmfestival.com/

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

“Diakon Living and Learning after 50” APRIL 2010 Events

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 15:39:13 -0600

“Diakon Living and Learning after 50” April 2010 Events

This series offers stimulating learning opportunities geared for people aged 50 and above. The courses focus on spiritual, intellectual, physical, social, and emotional wellness. The goal is to engage the younger seniors who are not currently involved with any of our community senior centers.

Introducing the “new” senior to what our centers and programs have to offer – perhaps recruiting new volunteers and program participants. Additionally, profits made from “Living and Learning After 50” are reinvested back into the Schuylkill Senior Centers to promote stability and growth as state and federal funding decreases.

Susan Long / Diakon Living & Learning After 50

118 S. Centre St. Ste 1 Pottsville, PA 17901

email:longs@diakon.org

APRIL 2010

YOGA FOR THE REST OF US In this seated yoga class participants will receive the total yoga experience with gentle yoga postures. Location: Schuylkill Arts Center - 1440 Mahantongo St., Pottsville Thursday, March 25, Apr 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 / 5: 30 - 6:30 pm / $36

COUNTRY LINE DANCE Shirley Morris, Instructor Line Dancing is a fun and energetic way for anyone who loves music to get a little exercise and have a great time. No partner is needed. Location: Sweet Arrow Lake Clubhouse - Clubhouse Road, Pine Grove Thursday, April 1, 8, 15, 29 May 6, 13 / 6:30 - 8:30 pm / $30

MICROSOFT® OFFICE EXCEL® 2007:LEVEL 1 Location: Pottsville Senior Center - 201 North Centre Street, Pottsville Monday, April 5, 12, 19 / 2 - 5 pm / $50

MAKING MUSIC – LET THE MUSIC TAKE YOU Calling all singers, songwriters, and instrumental musicians. If you are looking to improve your skills, develop stage presence, communication skills, overcome shyness, and build self confidence then this course is for you! Location: Trinity Lutheran Church - 300 West Arch Street, Pottsville Tuesday, Apr 6, 13, 20, 27 / 6:30 - 8 pm / $40

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS Location: Pottsville Senior Center - 201 North Centre Street, Pottsville Tuesday, April 6, 13, 20 / 6 - 9 pm / $50

SCHUYLKILL COUNTY NATURALLY Learn about the local wildflowers and trees, folklore and animals. Location: Schuylkill County AG Center - Rt. 901, Pottsville Wednesday, April 7 & 14 / 6:30 - 8:30 pm / $25

MICROSOFT® OFFICE WORD® 2007: LEVEL 2 Location: Pottsville Senior Center - 201 North Centre Street, Pottsville Thursday, April 8, 15, 22 / 2 - 5 pm / $50

RECYCLED ART Do you want to do your part for the planet by using materials that you never thought possible can be turned into eye-catching conversation pieces . Location: St. John’s UCC - 121 East Main Street, Rear, Sch. Haven Thursday, Apr 8 & 15, 6:30 - 8:30 pm / $25 Location: Sch. Regional Resource Center - 138 W. Centre St., Mahanoy City Friday, April 9, 16, 23, 30 / 9:30 - 10:30 am / $25

PORTRAYING BUTTERFLIES Discover how to depict the butterfly’s delicate charm in the medium of watercolor. Location: Pottsville Senior Center - 201 North Centre Street, Pottsville Saturday, April 10 & 17 / 9:30 am - 12:30 pm - $30

SHALL WE DANCE? One Day Dance Workshop Don't have a lot of time? Have a special event coming up? Take a step out of the ordinary. The afternoon will feature the dance instruction of Con Gallagher, who will teach three consecutive dance workshops every hour, including ballroom, Latin and East Coast swing. Participants will have a dinner break from 4 to 5:30 p.m. before putting their new dance skills to the test during a social from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. What a great way to get into the world of dancing!! Location: Sweet Arrow Lake Clubhouse - Clubhouse Road, Pine Grove Sunday, April 11 / 1 pm / $50

TAI CHI Join this 6-week course to reap all the benefits of Tai Chi. Location: First UCC Fellowship Hall - 110 Route 61 South, Sch. Haven Tuesday, Apr 20, 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25 / 10 - 11 am / $36

BALLROOM DANCE Learn the basic steps for the Waltz, Foxtrot, Cha-Cha, Jitterbug (swing), Tango and Rumba in 6 easy lessons! Location: First UCC Fellowship Hall - 110 Route 61 South, Sch. Haven Tuesday, Apr 20, 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25 / 6:30 - 8:30 pm / $30

BEGINNER PASTEL Learn the more refined art of working with hard and soft pastels on paper. Location: Pottsville Senior Center - 201 North Centre Street, Pottsville Wednesday, Apr 21 & 28 / 6:30 - 8:30 pm / $25

CHANGE YOUR MIND, CHANGE YOUR LIFE Think your way to success, health & well-being. You will be guided on how to release old beliefs and attitudes that will open your heart and accomplish your hopes and desires. Location: Diakon - 118 South Centre Street, Pottsville Wednesday, Apr 21 / 6:30 - 8:30 pm / $15

WOODWORKING Learn how to use a scroll saw while creating a wooden puzzle. Location: St. John’s UCC - 121 East Main Street, Rear, Sch. Haven Thursday, April 22 / 6 - 8:30 pm / $12

AROMATHERAPY - A Smell of a Great Time! Learn the basics of Aromatherapy including the definition, origins, safe use of essential oils, how they work and their therapeutic properties. Location: Pottsville Senior Center - 201 North Centre Street, Pottsville Saturday, Apr 24 / 12 - 4 pm / $75

COFFEE ART Location: St. John’s UCC - 121 East Main Street, Rear, Sch. Haven Thursday, April 29 / 7 - 8:30 pm / $12

TELL-A-TALE-TEA Attention eight to eighty year olds, who are young at heart. Please come share a “day of wonder” with family and friends at the Lazy Dog Café. Enjoy an afternoon fine food, flavorful teas and new traditions. Storyteller Kathy Long will share with you how to dig through your experiences to discover your hidden stories. Storytelling is a treasure to be handed down from one generation to the next. What a wonderful way to share the day with someone dear just before Mother’s Day. Location: Lazy Dog Café - 18 East Sunbury Street, Minersville Saturday, May 1 / 2 pm / $25, $15 for children twelve and under

Visit website for up-to-date information www.diakon.org/LL50

“Diakon Living and Learning after 50” April 2010 Events

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Schuylkill County HUD Homes for Sale: 1682 Breezy Acres Road, Orwigsburg, PA 17961

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 20:48:14 -0600

1682 Breezy Acres Road West Brunswick Twp, PA 17961

It's been a SLOW winter here in Schuylkill County for HUD Homes for sale. There were a few in November/December that went quickly, then a drought until February. A house listed on Norwegian Street in Pottsville in February, and that was snapped up immediately, then nothing for weeks.

The drought is over. A cute little home in Orwigsburg popped up on Friday.

1682 Breezy Acres Road West Brunswick Twp, PA 17961

1700+ square feet, 4 bedrooms 2 baths, nice detached garage.

Sits on large lot, close to Pinebrook development.

Listed Friday for $67,000

We are a licensed HUD broker in Schuylkill County, PA.

Not all brokerage firms are authorized to submit bids on these government owned homes. But we are!

Call us to see this home now. For owner occupants bidding closes next Sunday, the 14th at midnight. So if you intend to live in this house for 1 year or more, you can bid on it any day this week. The bidding ends Sunday and on Monday or Tuesday we'll know who won the auction.

If no owner occupants win the house, then it is opened to investors on Monday the 15th.

Again, not all real estate agents know how to help you with HUD homes, and not all real estate brokers are authorized to bid on these properties. We are. This is a unique niche in the real estate business. Call us to put your bid in and we can advise you every step of the way.

1682 Breezy Acres Road West Brunswick Twp, PA 17961

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Dear Seller, About that number in your head....

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 11:08:20 -0600

Via Ruthmarie Hicks (Keller Williams Realty):

Whenever I go on a listing appointment, I generally find that the seller already has a “number in their head” about what their home should sell for. This number can come from various sources. It is – unfortunately – almost always higher than the current market can command.

In truth, I can’t blame sellers for this…their minds have been levered to continued price increases to such an extent that the current market has left most sellers blind sided.

The first thing I often hear is that “I need to get X out in order to buy my next home which I can now get for Y because its gone down in price.    The trouble if the property you want to buy has gone down so much in price, chances are the property that you want to sell has gone down by a similar percentage. Wishful thinking is often the culprit here. Markets are fluid – that was fine when prices were going up – but it also holds true when prices decline.

Misinformation is another issue. Many sellers look at what their neighbor is asking for their home. Asking isn’t getting. Many listings are overpriced in this market – so setting your price on the basis of other listings is not a wise strategy.

“But my neighbor sold their house for X just six months ago!” Six months is a lifetime in a depreciating market.   If your market is depreciating – and many markets still are – then prices have decreased over six months.

Zillow zestimates and other information on the internet may or may not be accurate. Zillow has been off as much as 25% in our area.   So if the zestimate of your property seems too good to be true, it probably is.

If you need to sell, price your home competitively – this is particularly important in a declining market where inventories are high and buyers are few. Overpricing your property will result in fewer or no showings. The property will sit as the market declines further – resulting in an even lower price down the road.   Overpricing a home is just about the worst thing you could do in this competitive market.

© 2010 Ruthmarie G. Hicks – http://thewestchesterview.com – All rights reserved.

Dear Seller, About that number in your head….

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

20 Eco-Savvy Steps Sellers Can Take to Attract Eco-Friendly Buyers and a Speedier Sale

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 01:40:28 -0600

Via Asheville NC Real Estate- LAND & Green Built Homes:

20 Eco-Savvy Steps Sellers Can Take to Attract Eco-Friendly Buyers and a Speedier Sale

Looking for added value, Buyers demand eco-friendly features and Sellers benefit from that demand. . Sellers, you know the "Banish the Clutter!" anthem.Creating a great first impression is important, but investing in a home- and that's what buyers are doing- means Buyers are also looking for added value.

Today's buyers demand eco-friendly features such as those found in an energy-efficient house.

Going healthy sells.  Smart eco-renovations sell. And slashing the monthly energy bill, reducing water usage and costs, improving indoor air quality attracts Buyers.

If you want to make your home stand out from all of the rest and tap into a market where sales are brisker than average consider the following advice from an Eco Certified® Real Estate Consultant who knows the local real estate market and can point clients in the "right" direction.

Here is a list we offer to Sellers. It reflects the current market buyers' demand for eco-friendly features and benefits. Taken step-by-step it can provide sellers with a way to stand out in the crowd.

20 Eco-Savvy, Free, Inexpensive and/or Cost Effective Steps Sellers Can Take to Attract Eco-Friendly Buyers and a Speedier Sale

•1.      Order an energy audit. (Free)
•2.      Investigate potential for federal, state or local tax credits associated with going green. (Free)
•3.      Learn about green certifications-EPA's Energy Star for Homes, HealthyBuilt® and/or LEED ®for Homes programs. (Free)
•4.      Connect with buyers and a real estate professional who has earned the NAR GREEN® Designation who "speaks the language" and works with eco-friendly clients. (Free)
•5.      Implement energy savings suggestions from the energy audit. (Cost Effective)
•6.      Impress buyers with a flyer-display that documents how monthly bills change reflecting energy savings. (Inexpensive)
Show comparisons to typical bills for similar-sized homes in the neighborhood.
•7.      Use CFLs. (Cost Effective)
•8.      Emphasize daylighting and passive solar advantages. (Cost Effective)
•9.      Go green with rainwater harvesting. A simple rain chain and rain barrel can make an eco-friendly buyer smile. (Inexpensive)
•10. Put aerators on faucets. Save 50% on water consumption. (Inexpensive)
•11. Spruce up the home's exterior with native and edible landscaping. (Cost Effective)
•12. Pay attention to indoor air quality (IAQ.) a) Plants can help reduce by 50% airborne molds and bacteria. Try: Rubber Plant, Ficus, English Ivy, Boston Fern, Spider Plant. (Inexpensive) b) natural aromatherapy with essential oils. (Inexpensive)
•13. Clean. Use only non-toxic cleaning formulas. (Inexpensive)
•14. Brighten walls with non-toxic (NO VOC) paints. (Inexpensive)
•15. Donate "energy hog" appliances to charity
•16. Install Energy Star® appliances- 10% to 50% more efficient. (Cost Effective)
•17. Install a programmable thermostat. (Inexpensive)
•18. Caulk cracks. (Inexpensive)
•19. Create healthy alternatives underfoot. Recycled wood. Natural throw rugs. Bamboo. Or eco-friendly carpeting that does not emit allergens and toxins. (Cost Effective)
•20. Utilize social network marketing. (Free)

_________________________________________________________________________________

Asheville NC Real Estate: LAND and LOT EXPERTS- Going Green/ Eco-Friendly Properties. Tools for Sellers and Buyers. Mountain Homes, Land Legacies, LOTS and Land For Sale by Owners.

__~o
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(*)/'(*)    ..........      ............" We are on the roll for sustainable innovation." © 2010. Asheville NC Real Estate     Unauthorized reproduction of any information on this site is a violation of existing copyright laws. All rights reserved.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Schuylkill County Artists: BLOCK OF ART 2010

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 17:30:16 -0600

Schuylkill County Artists: BLOCK OF ART 2010

The Organizing Committee for “Block of Art”, a three day arts exhibition scheduled for April 23rd, 24th, and 25th, 2010 in Pottsville announces a call to artists working in painting, printmaking, colored pencil, pastels and other traditional visual media, sculpture, photography, mixed media, book arts, fabric arts and smaller-scale installation art. Also, please contact us if you’d be interested in staging a small street performance (music, theatre).

Submissions will be accepted throughout the month of March.

Please deliver work to either of these locations:

Many Worlds Gallery /Hours: Wednesday to Saturday from 11 AM to 5PM (215-290-1193)

All Things Good /Hours:Wednesday to Friday 1PM-7PM, Sat 11AM-3PM (570-624-9841)

Many Worlds also invites you to explore the Spring opening of our gallery on March 3, 2010 Featuring work from the artists of Schuylkill County, Latin America and Europe

Schuylkill County Artists: BLOCK OF ART 2010

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

50 Inexpensive Tips to Dramatically Increase the Value of Your Properties

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:16:16 -0600

Via Tai DeSa (Significa Corporation):

50 Inexpensive Tips to Dramatically Increase the Value of Your Properties

By Tai A. DeSa, Significa Corporation

Professional landlords and investors involved in property flipping should constantly seek to improve their property value while keeping costs low. Below is a list of 50 tips that we shared with our property investment club (the Lehigh Valley Real Estate Investors Group).

Tip #1: Add a basic alarm system. The number one concern for any resident is security. If a homeowner or tenant does not feel secure, then eventually they will move elsewhere. Many security alarm providers have lucrative introductory offers for equipment and/or installation. If you provide an alarm system for your tenants, raise the rent and offer a "free security system." Or, have your tenants pay the monthly monitoring fee.

Tip #2: Install matching light fixtures and ceiling fans. Consider some track lighting with dimmers to highlight artwork or showcase a particular part of the room. Consider flex track lighting or suspended track lighting. The addition of a dimmer switch makes your lighting more versatile and is a great mood enhancer. Ceiling fans add value, and you may want to consider adding them in place of staid old light fixtures. If you don't want to replace existing ceiling fans, make sure you clean the dust off the blades and update the decorative pulls at the end of the chain.

Tip #3: Do some basic landscaping, particularly in the front yard. The front yard is the first thing that potential buyers see, so don't miss out on your chance to pique their interest. Prospective buyers and tenants make up their minds about your home as they walk the first 10 feet from their car to your front door. A junky yard will make them think that you've neglected maintenance. A pristine yard will reassure them that your home is well kept. Focus on a clean cut, straighten up the lawn edges, freshen the landscaping and add some color spots or striking shrubs for impact. Mulch is inexpensive, so use it. If your yard lacks interest, consider constructing a retaining wall. Use railroad ties, bricks, or stones to construct that wall. The landscape design should complement your home's style and colors.

Tip #4: Get a new front door, or give the existing one a facelift. Paint the front door a complementary but bold color. Choose a color that says, "Look at me!" Once you're finished painting the door, install a new doorknob that emphasizes sturdiness and class. Also install a new kick-plate that matches your lockset finish. Remember, while your prospective homebuyer or tenant is waiting for you or the real estate agent to let them in, they are observing your front door. If you have an old storm door, get rid of it. If you really feel the need for a storm door, install one of those with a lot of window space to highlight the bold color of your front door.

Tip #5: Install some blinds and window shades. Certain rooms could really use blinds or shades to emphasize style. The best places to start are the living room, kitchen, master bedroom, and master bathroom. These are the four rooms that prospective buyers and tenants will study most when evaluating your property. Pick window shades that complement existing furniture or your paint color. If you want to stick with inexpensive vinyl blinds, then make sure all the blinds in the room are a matching color. When showing a home during the day, you should always have your blinds and shades open to let in abundant light (unless you've got a clear view of the mess in your neighbor's backyard).

Tip #6: Get rid of photographs of people. You may love Aunt Matilda, but you don't need to have her portrait posted all over the home you're showing! Prospective buyers and tenants need to imagine themselves living in the home, not you and your family. If you are going to put up photos, display pictures of nature.

Tip #7: Clean off the tops of the water heater, furnace, oil tank, washing machines, and any other mechanical fixture. Most homeowners don't bother to do this at all. Clean the dust and grime off the top of your furnace, water heater, oil tank, washing machines, and so on. This makes these devices look newer, well-maintained, and clean. If you have a dirty-looking furnace, don't be surprised if your buyer demands a concession for a new furnace. Don't say I didn't warn you!

Tip #8: Make sure every light bulb in the house works. Always make sure that every light bulb in your home works. If the prospective homebuyer or tenant can't see your place, then you can't expect them to like your place. When people see lamps with one good bulb but three burned-out ones, they think that you don't maintain the residence and they worry about other deferred maintenance. Where it's safe, use higher wattage light bulbs in your lamps for a bright, warm atmosphere. Also consider slightly pink-tinted or full spectrum "natural" light bulbs to create a warm glow for your home. Don't forget about the bulbs in your basement and in your exterior lamps.

Tip #9: Place decorative flowers and candles throughout the home. Fake (or real if you can water them regularly) flowers work wonders. You can often buy fake flowers at yard sales or in the clearance section of stores. Candles give the home a romantic or warm feel. Scented candles are best. Some scents are so strong that homebuyers can smell them even when the candle isn't burning. Once you've sold or rented the home, pack the flowers and candles in a box and stage your next property.

Tip #10: Place magazines about luxury homes around the house. Magazines about elegant homes or sophisticated styles can put prospective homebuyers and tenants into the mood. When they see that bright, shiny issue on your nightstand or coffee table, they envision your property as the stylistic new home that they wish to live in. Grab some copies of Our House®, Elegant Homes, Beautiful Homes^TM, and Better Homes and Gardens^TM.

Tip #11: Refinish your hardwood floors. Most people like hardwood floors, particularly if the floor has a luster to it. If your hardwood floors are stained, you still may able to sand them and apply a darker finish that hides stains. If your hardwood floors don't need to be sanded but have dull spots or cracks, try some off-the-shelf refinishing agents or cleansers. Murphy's® Oil Soap or Rejuvenate polish are personal favorites to restore that classic wood look.

Tip #12: Get rid of clutter. Space sells. If you have clutter, don't stuff it in your closets, or your basement, or your garage. Throw it out or rent some storage space. Prospective buyers and tenants should not feel hemmed in because of all the boxes you have laying around or those old rickety chairs you can't seem to discard.

Tip #13: Shampoo your carpet. Yes, many people like new carpet for obvious reasons. However, we can't always afford to buy new carpet, for obvious reasons. Rent a carpet cleaning vacuum or hire a shampoo service. The proper detergent and equipment can get rid of old stains and make odors disappear.

Tip #14: Place air fresheners throughout the home. You'd be amazed at how easy this one is but how many people don't actually do it. Potpourri and air fresheners set the mood. People tend to associate fresh scents with cleanliness and purity. Be careful not to overdo it with the air fresheners, or people will think you're trying to hide an odor.

Tip #15: Powerwash the exterior of the home. Road dust builds up under overhangs and coverings. Mold, moss, or insects may accumulate on your siding. By powerwashing your place, you'll make your house that much more inviting from the street. Even though there's a For Sale sign in the front yard, be advised that many passersby will not call the phone number if the house looks dirty or old. If they do call the number, they may be looking to give you a lowball offer because they think you can't afford the upkeep.

Tip #16: Install brushed-nickel or brass switch plate and wall outlet covers in the master bedroom, the kitchen, and the dining room. Many places I've seen for sale or rent do not have matching switch plates and outlet covers. Some are ivory, some are brown, some are white, and most are dirty. New outlet covers and switch plates can cost anywhere from a few cents to several dollars. You may want to consider installing brushed-nickel or brass covers in your most heavily trafficked rooms. These covers give the room a look of elegance and style.

Tip #17: Replace those old, worn-out doorknobs. I've seen doorknobs that are over 80 years old and have been painted over several times. Ugh! Doorknobs can be some of the most dirty, bacteria-infested items in the house, and don't your prospective buyers know it! Replace those old doorknobs with new ones. If you have a brass theme in the room, go with brass. If it's brushed-nickel you like (and that's "in" nowadays), then go with that look.

Tip #18: If you have a paved driveway, reseal it. If your driveway is already paved but is cracked or otherwise in bad shape, repair it and/or use a driveway sealer. A sharp-looking driveway is the first thing a prospective buyer or tenant sees because that's what they're driving toward. Besides, the sealer prevents existing cracks from becoming worse.

Tip #19: Compile a full list of the warranties on the appliances and fixtures, and leave that list on the kitchen counter. If your home has been repaired in recent years, such as a new roof, or if you've replaced major appliances, be sure to have the receipts on hand to show interested buyers. Better yet, type up a list of the warranties and leave copies of that list on the kitchen counter. Many homebuyers need to feel secure that items in the house are in good working order. If your house is the only one with warranty information, these buyers may be more likely to make an offer (and a good one at that).

Tip #20: Run an air purifier to get rid of those lingering odors. You're used to the odors in your house, but trust me, no one else is. If a thorough cleaning and some well-placed potpourri don't do the trick, then it's time for an air purifier. I have an EcoQuest air purifier, and it eliminates the bacteria that can cause odors. There are less expensive purifiers on the market, so take your pick. A good place to run an air purifier is the basement.

Tip #21: Refinish your vinyl or tile floors. Clean your vinyl and tile floors. If that isn't enough, then it's time to find the right chemicals, solutions, or polymers to make those floors look like new. Tile floors may need new grout. Perhaps you need to replace a cracked tile (I should hope you bought one or two extra tiles way back when for just such a need). Regarding vinyl floors, I am a fan of Rejuvenate polish. You can use a flat mop to apply it, and it fills in cracks and shines the floor.

Tip #22: Spend a day looking at Open Houses held by property sellers. After observing what other people do with their homes, you'll view your property with a fresh perspective. Plus you'll get a feel for what the market values are in your neighborhood. Top athletes check out the competition. Top businesspersons check out the competition. You should too.

Tip #23: Oil your door hinges so they don't squeak. You may not notice the squeaking hinge because you've heard it so many times, but buyers will wonder what else needs maintenance. Oil those hinges. Also make sure that every door opens and shuts with ease. Sometimes doors get misaligned and they don't shut unless you apply lots of pressure.

Tip #24: Replace your doorbell if it is old or worn. One of the first things a prospective homebuyer notices is the doorbell. Is it old? Does it work? Does anyone in the house hear the bell? Imagine if you're home, waiting for a prospective homebuyer to stop by, and you can't hear them ringing the bell. Doorbells are inexpensive items, and a new one (at least a new button) will impress your visitors.

Tip #25: Clean, clean, clean. Once the potential buyer walks through your front door, they should be wowed by the cleanliness. A sparkling home just screams that it's been properly maintained. Even if you clean regularly, chances are, there are things you don't notice because you live there. Consider spending a couple hundred dollars and bring in the professionals for a thorough cleaning. With a window cleaning, your house will surprise you with a new look.

Tip #26: Modernize that kitchen. As the hub of family interaction, the kitchen is the heart of the home. Brighten the cabinets with a fresh coat of paint or some updated hardware. Add a new faucet or light fixtures to rejuvenate the space or change the window coverings for a more modern feel. Buyers are always interested in the kitchen, so try a quick facelift that will turn up the heat on your bottom line.

Tip #27: Brighten up rooms with new paint. This one is obvious but many people still don't do it (or do it properly). New paint may be one of the most effective dollar-for-dollar value enhancers. You can hire a professional or do it yourself. Choose neutral colors for most rooms, but don't be afraid to use a bold color (red? black? violet?) on a wall or two to create contrast or style. Just don't go crazy with the bold colors. Also consider painting the walls and trim complementary colors.

Tip #28: Give the master bedroom a bold and romantic look. People associate the master bedroom with romance, authority, comfort, and style. Give the people what they want! Buy some new bed sheets or throw pillows. Consider a new comforter. Set up candles and flowers. Get rid of junk. Don't leave any clothes laying around.

Tip #29: Add crown moulding. It is available in countless colors, widths, and styles - from simple to elegant; classic to contemporary. Moulding can give an ordinary looking room the special touch needed to make it really stand out.

Tip #30: Add landscape lights or a decorative street lamp. A classy street lamp gets attention, even during the daytime. Landscape lights can really establish security and elegance at the same time. I've seen prospective homebuyers view a home during the day, and then insist on coming back at night to see how the place looks. You don't have to overspend, but consider adding or updating your exterior lamps.

Tip #31: Install a new mailbox. Mailboxes can be relatively inexpensive. Install a new one so your prospective buyers and their prospective houseguests don't have to look at that dingy old thing on the front of the house.

Tip #32: Remove weeds from between concrete slabs and walkways. This is a sure sign of property neglect and a big turn off for potential buyers. Nowadays, you can buy weed-killing chemicals that destroy unwanted plant life in hours. Or you can try a solution of 20 percent bleach and 80 percent water.

Tip #33: Build a new garage or add a carport. Every homeowner knows the advantages afforded by a garage, and every prospective buyer will see a garage as a big plus. A new home garage is a great property enhancer that increases the market value of the home. Carports are a less expensive option. Many basic carports retail for $795 to $995. I've seen people fall in love with the interior of a home but fail to put in an offer because they complained about the lack of a garage.

Tip #34: Install an automatic garage door opener. Another fine way to increase property value is to install a garage door opener. Select a model with a multi-code garage door opener remote that routinely changes the code for additional security.

Tip #35: Enhance your porch or doorstep with pots or baskets of blooming annuals. This is an inviting and fragrant way to boost visual appeal and add eye popping color. You can find flower pots at dollar stores, and a bag of topsoil may cost only slightly more than a dollar. I like to keep flower pots at many of my properties for sale, and once they've sold I take the pots (flowers and all) and plant them on the doorstep of the next property I want to sell. A tip to keep the flower pots light is to place some empty water bottles in the base and cover them with soil. Sometimes the flowers won't need a lot of dirt, and the empty bottles create space but not added weight. Make sure you water the plants often enough, because dead plants will have the opposite effect of what you intend.

Tip #36: Give your old BBQ grill a makeover. Degrease it first, rinse well; repeat if necessary. Once totally clean and dry, refinish it using a bright fireproof/high-temperature paint. Select a color that complements your home's exterior look. Or try something fun that will really stand out, such as orange, yellow, or blue.

Tip #37: Install shutter and window box sets that match. Shutters and window boxes add charm and character to a home. Some people prefer to place fake flowers in the window boxes, while others prefer the real thing.

Tip #38: Install a skylight dome or roof skylight. People like natural light, especially light from above. Skylight installation also increases natural lighting in rooms; making them more inviting and cheerful.

Tip #39: Build a mini herb pantry. Many homes are sold based upon the setup of the kitchen. An herb pantry can be something as simple as a cubby hole built into the wall between studs. Or it may be a closet area converted into an herb pantry with a glass door.

Tip #40: Add something "green," like solar panels. Green is good these days (or any day). Many homebuyers need to feel like they are doing something good for the planet, while saving money at the same time. Solar panels are en vogue again. Consider installing some of them. Another green activity that enhances value is to add insulation where it's needed.

Tip #41: Empty out that cluttered basement. Many basements can be downright scary. You certainly don't want that impression. When selling your property, I suggest you empty out the basement as much as possible. Take your junk to the trash dump or place it in storage. Homebuyers need to sense that they have lots of open space (to store the junk they have in storage).

Tip #42: Trade in those old, leaky faucets for shiny new ones. We all know that kitchens and bathrooms can attract buyers, or repel them. The centerpiece of any kitchen or bathroom is the sink, and the centerpiece of any sink is the faucet. Replace them yourself or hire a handyman. You'll often find perfectly good faucets on the clearance shelf at home improvement stores.

Tip #43: Change the filter in your air conditioner. You want to avoid that musty, stale smell when it is operating. Whether it's a window air conditioner or a central air system with ductwork, change the filter.

Tip #44: Hang a large mirror in the living room. It creates virtual space and the illusion of greater size. Buyers and renters love open space. Give it to them!

Tip #45: Make sure the colors of your kitchen appliances match. A kitchen with a yellow refrigerator, a stainless steel range, and a white microwave may look okay to you, but it doesn't look right to buyers. Make sure you match the colors. This may not require purchasing all new appliances. Sometimes it's a matter of ordering the right color panels.

Tip #46: Hang new towel bars and toilet paper holders. Once you've replaced the bathroom faucet, you'll want to change the towel rack and toilet paper holder to match it. Always make sure that you have a roll of toilet paper on the holder. I suggest you hang a decorative towel on the bar too. That makes the bathroom look complete.

Tip #47: Run a dehumidifier. A perpetually damp basement or bathroom can be the breeding ground for mold, odors, and insects. Neither mold nor odor nor insect helps your cause. Run a dehumidifier to dry out the air and cut down on the musty smell.

Tip #48: Paint the fence or railings surrounding your home. A freshly painted fence creates a tremendous Wow! factor. Prospective homebuyers often observe the exterior of a property before even considering whether to view the interior. If your exterior is old and decrepit, then you simply won't have many showings. By repainting the fence, you may even inspire your neighbors to paint their fences and railings to keep up with you. Spray paint works well on metal or cast-iron railings. Be sure to use primer first.

Tip #49: Install new street numbers on the front of your home. When prospective buyers or tenants are driving around the neighborhood trying to find your address, their eyes will gravitate toward bright, shiny, new street numbers. I should hope that those shiny numbers are affixed to your house. It only costs a few dollars to buy new brass or brushed-nickel numbers to boldly identify the front of your property. This is money well spent.

Tip #50: Use throws in colors that match the room to cover up worn sofa and chair upholstery. You could attempt to buy all new furniture to spruce up a room in the place you want to sell or rent. Or if all new furniture is not in your budget, buy some throws and pillows to place on your furniture.

Thank you for taking the time to read our blog on how to increase the value of your properties. We hope that these tips will aid you in your property investment buying and selling. We at Significa are grateful to be aligned with people like you.

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About the Author: Tai A. DeSa is Chief Executive Officer of Significa Corporation, a professional real estate investment company based in Pennsylvania (www.significacorp.com and www.significadeals.com). DeSa is a graduate of The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Prior to entering the real estate investment business, he served as an officer in the U.S. Navy. He is the oldest in a family of 11 children and was valedictorian of his high school class. DeSa is also an Associate Broker with Keller Williams Real Estate (www.thetaidesateam.com). He is an organizer of the Lehigh Valley Real Estate Investors Group (www.lvrig.com) and an Area Director with Business Network International (www.bnidvr.com).

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

REAL ESTATE 101: QUALIFY THE CALLER

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 16:49:04 -0600

Via Coco Plum Realtors, Kelly Willey, FLORIDA KEYS:

REAL ESTATE 101: QUALIFY THE BUYER CALLER

Is it because sales are slow or agents have forgotten the basics? Either way it needs repeating and/or re-learning that you ALWAYS qualify the buyer Caller.

When a call comes into your office from the sign, internet or less frequently an ad, it is the real estate professionals duty and obligation to QUALIFY the caller. At this point they are merely a caller and not a genuine buyer. Until you have taken the time to collect the basic information and make a determination as to their qualifications to actual complete a sale they are CALLERS. We and the sellers BOTH want BUYERS.

I am hearing more and more listing agents NOT qualify the caller and letting these people into the listings....SHAME ON YOU. We have an obligation to our sellers to know exactly who is going through their homes and IF they have the financial ability to actual purchase. To that end you should NEVER let anyone into a seller's home without first:

Verifying WHO they are. At the very lease you should have name, address, phone number and look them up to verify they have given you real information. If they come into the office ask for a copy of their driver's license.

Verifying they are not contractually obligated to another REALTOR. I always ask them if they have a Buyer's contract with another agent.

Getting their proof of funds if paying cash or having a lenders pre-qualification letter in your hands.

Now I know some of you are going to balk at this and to you I say...SHAME ON YOU!! Ask your sellers if they want anybody and everybody going through their home. Mr Seller can I let anybody into your home or do you want me to verify who they are? In this day and age with crime so rampant all sellers are going to want you to protect their property and their family by verifying who is going into the home.

Mr Seller, do you want only financially qualified people coming into your home? Or, do you want me to let in anybody who has an interest in seeing your décor?

You see where I am going? You as the professional have to keep in mind the interests of the Sellers and knowing who is going into the house, if they have a REALTOR and IF they have the financial ability to buy is fundamental REAL ESTATE 101.

Call Kelly Willey, Broker at Coco Plum Realtors for all of your

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305-289-2212

Not Just Listed...SOLD...we get RESULTS!!!

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Schuylkill County Property Tax Cut--Don't Miss Out!

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 11:51:26 -0600

Schuylkill County Property Tax Cut--Don't Miss Out!

Deadline near to apply for property tax cut In our area, state-funded tax relief is providing millions of dollars per year in reductions on property tax bills on primary homes.

However, many property owners have missed out -- you have to be signed up through the homestead exemption to qualify. The deadline for the applications is Friday, March 5. (The normal deadline is March 1, but the Schuylkill County Assessment Office is extending it due to the expected snowstorm.)

In Schuylkill County, property owners who already have been approved for a homestead exemption don't need to reapply unless they’ve changed their deed or address.

If you're not sure whether your home is already approved for the exemption, contact the Schuylkill County Assessment Office at 570-628-1025.

You can download the application here (button to download PDF is on the right hand side of the webpage) or call your school district’s business office.

Completed applications can be mailed to:

Tax Assessment Office

401 N. Second St., Pottsville, PA 17901

Completed applications must be received in the assessment office by the close of business March 5.

Schuylkill County Property Tax Cut--Don't Miss Out!

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Who's the right realtor for you?

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 10:54:58 -0600

Unlike what you may think, ALL REALTORS ARE NOT ALIKE.

Not all work at this job full time.

Not all know what is going on in the market, and what is the best value for you.

Not all are experts in the market you're looking for.

Who is the right agent for you is a very personal decision. Pick someone you trust. Pick someone you feel comfortable working with. And Pick someone who knows what is going on in your local market... the trends, the housing statistics, the prices.

Buying a home is too big a decision to trust to just anyone....

Via René Fabre (ARFCO MEDIA - social media consulting):

Who's the right realtor for you?

I've worked with a lot of them. Some just starting out in their 20's, many in their 40's, most of them in the US are now around 50,* and I know several still at it in their 70's and even 80's. They come from everywhere and every background. Most of them didn't grow up in real estate. They chose it as a second career after doing something else and more often than not they came to real estate because of the entrepreneurial life style and saw it as an avenue to serve their community.

Where they came from, how old they are, what their greatest passion is, or how formerly educated they may be has absolutely no bearing on the quality of service and/or the level of expertise they can bring to you. I learned that by working with them for over 20 years from the title insurance side of the fence. It's in the blood or not (kind of thing). They learned real estate by doing it. They showed up to the party one day, fell in love, and stayed.

Young or old, the best experiences I have working with realtors (and the most fun) are those running around with their hair on fire. Okay, I jest (sort of). Most of them have a very cool and calm exterior, but really, the fun one's are those with the bright eyes who care, they're purpose driven passion machines; you can hear it in their speech and see it in their body language. They have urgency before them and they don't hesitate to face challenges. They get involved. They like people. They'll make that phone call nobody else wants to make. Most important, they return phone calls, email, and text messages.

Which one will you choose?

Statistics tell us that you're more than likely to pick a realtor who's someone like you. Is this wise? I say not necessarily, but the fact remains its human nature and we do it often. But don't be foolish. Take advantage of the means at your disposal and find the realtor that's right for you. We all have an aunt, brother, friend with a son, sister or cousin that just got their real estate license. I'm not saying don't choose them. Just don't take the path of least resistance, look around.

Realtors are in the relationship business.

Personally, I want one of those. I want one that's really good at relationship and very well connected. To me, that means the greater likelihood they'll sell my place and/or help me find and purchase the new home I want. A lot of that ‘likelihood' today takes place on the web and an agent who is online can be a fabulous resource.

Communities are conversation and conversation is opportunity. A realtor who knows their craft and spends time online building relationships is making a big investment. It takes commitment. If they make an honest and consistent attempt to authentically contribute to the online conversation, they bring a lot of value to all of us. They're investing in community and paying it forward (as we say in social media parlance). They're building a network of opportunity and resources and we all benefit. As a home buyer or seller, I want to work with a realtor that has this larger view and connection.

Where might I find one?

A good place to begin your search for a realtor is where you begin your search for most every one of your wants, needs, and desires... the internet. So, Google it. In today's consumer web-savvy world you'll find the forward thinking realtors here. Those of us who work online and have worked in real estate related industries know from the endless pedantic stream of industry market studies that most of you (duh) are already online and you very likely started your search with Google then moved on to other real estate sites like Trulia.com, Zillow.com, Realtor.com, CraigsList.com, and many others. We know millions of you do that every day and many of you when it's time take action, will choose your realtor online.

It's important to choose a real estate professional that's adept at new consumer behavior and proficient online. This is the new status quo. Any realtor who's taken the time to create a good online presence has not only made a monumental leap of faith, they brought their careers and themselves to a very global and transparent stage. It won't take long to separate the makers from the fakers. Look for one's that have something to say, not just the one's with the biggest baddest slickest websites.

Look for the bloggers who talk about their neighborhoods, shares statistics, alert you to what's going on, and rally to good causes. They're demonstrating professional commitment. Not all realtors are bloggers, and they need not be. As I said above, realtors are in the relationship business. You have to be in a conversation to build relationships.

For example, Google them... What shows up? If they're involved online, they will show up. If they have a common name you'll have to tinker with your search terms a little, but usually "agents name, company name" or "agents name, city" or "agents name, realtor or real estate" will get results. You should see links to their website or blog and the networks and sites they associate with in your search results. Follow those links. You'll learn a lot. It won't take long and the time is well worth spent.

Dig a little deeper. Do they have a Facebook.com account? Do they have a Fan or Business page? Are they on Linkedin.com the largest professional business network online? If they are they'll have a profile with work history, recommendations, and associates. Are they on ActiveRain.com, the largest network online for real estate professionals? They might blog here, check it out. They'll be rubbing virtual elbows and be in conversation with other very net savvy realtors. This is important. If relocation is part of your real estate plans they'll likely know someone in that area.

If you use Twitter, are they there? What do they tweet? Follow them and find out. Are they involved with Biznik.com, a network of business entrepreneurs, or Meetup.com for special interest groups like photography, hiking, web design, you name it? Both of these last two hold events around town, most are free. A lot of realtors show up at these networking events. So can you.

In today's world, we still have a lot of real estate professionals lagging behind. They're stuck in the heavy boots of outdated marketing methods. They're marketing to an empty room because everyone left the building. I'm not saying if you interview a realtor you tell them you do not want your home listed in the Sunday paper, don't send post cards, or don't have an open house. That might be very appropriate. But what else is in their toolbox?

The two most important questions you can ask a realtor today are:

"What is your internet marketing strategy?" and, "What do you do online to create opportunity?"

Our world changed. Now days we need to know a lot of people to maximize our opportunities and those relationships are often cultivated and maintained online. I work with realtors everyday that proactively make the effort to stay on top of current trends, technology, consumer behavior, and the marketplace to bring the best service possible to their clients. They're hip, savvy, honest, giving, and authentic. Pick one of them. Choose the one that fits your personality, but more importantly choose the one that's well connected online and off. They have more resources.

If you're selling, they'll know how to give your listing global exposure. They have networks to talk with and can rapidly disseminate wants and needs to a vast number of people. If you're buying, they'll know the neighborhood, the inventory, schools, issues, prices, and amenities better than anyone.

Happy hunting...

René

The median age of a realtor in the USA is 52 years old.

The median age of the first time home buyer is 30 years old.

Originally posted on 2/4/2010 on: classichomesnorthwest.com

René is well known throughout the Pacific Northwest for his innovative marketing programs. He is a sought after speaker and motivator respected for his knowledge, keen interest, and insightful approach to contemporary marketing ideas and technologies. His obvious passion for the subject is contagious. René frequently gives workshops, lectures, and consults businesses large and small on Social Media Marketing and Web Presence Development. René is a long time resident of Renton, Washington.

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.

Pottsville, PA Recreation Commission

Erica Ramus - Realty Executives / Pottsville PA Real Estate — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 17:59:01 -0600

Pottsville, PA Recreation Commission

The City of Pottsville has a great Recreation Commission. They are extremely active and have lots of things going on for both kids and adults. The Recreation Department is under the direction of Councilwoman Lori Spotts and is a non-profit service agency for PASD citizens. For more information regarding these programs, call City Hall at 622-1234 Ext. 346 Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Here is the Winter/Spring 2010 list of what's going on with the City of Pottsville Recreation Commission:

*AQUA AEROBICS* At I.U. #29 Pool in MarLin TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS 6:00 - 7:30 PM Suspended until September 2010 due to pool renovations Instructor: Loretta Wonchalk - Call 682-341

*BALLROOM DANCE* At CATHOLIC WAR VETERANS FRIDAYS 7:00-9:00 PM January 8- June 4, 2010 Fee: $4.00/class. Register at class. Learn basic dance steps for the waltz, foxtrot, jitterbug, cha-cha, tango & rumba. Instuctor: Barbara Snitzer - Call 622-6619

*D.H.H. LENGEL SWIMMING POOL* Family swim-all ages-under 18 must have parent signature. Lap swimming available upon request. SATURDAYS and SUNDAYS 1:00-4:00 PM no open swim on 2/13, 2/20 and 2/27 Fee: $3.00/adult resident, $4.00/non-resident, $1.00 students & children Use rear entrance to Martz Hall. Facility may be closed due to scheduled school events. Sponsored by Pottsville Recreation & Schuylkill YMCA D.H.H. LENGEL SWIMMING POOL

*YOUTH TRACK MEET HERSHEY QUALIFIER* At PAHS Veterans Stadium BOYS and GIRLS ages 5-14 SUNDAY, APRIL 18th, 1:30 PM Rain date: Sunday, April 25th 50, 100, 200 & 400 Meter Dash, 800 & 1600 Meter Run, 4 X 100 Relay, Standing Long Jump, Softball Throw FREE - Registration begins at 12:30, parent signature required. Individuals may only participate in one local meet. Winners ages 9-14 advance to Hershey's Track & Field District Meet to be hosted by Blue Mountain, date

*M & T NIGHT at the MAJESTIC THEATER* Brought to you by POTTSVILLE RECREATION Free admission & popcorn Time 7:00 p.m.

March 20, 2010, 7:00 PM - Cloudy with a chance of Meatballs This animated adventure follows a scientist who tries to solve his town's problems only to see things go awry as food falls from the sky. Rated PG

April 17, 2010, 7:00 PM - Astro Boy In this animated feature, a robot child, created to replace a lost son, becomes a world famous super hero. Rated PG

May 22nd - New Moon In this newest episode of the Twilight saga, Bella is devastated by the departure of her vampire love but her spirit is rekindled by her growing friendship with Jacob. She finds herself drawn into the world of werewolves and finds her loyalties tested. Rated PG-13 Sponsored by M&T Bank and Pottsville Recreation

*EASTER EGG HUNT* At Alumni Field SATURDAY, MARCH 27th , 2:00 PM Rain date: Sunday, March 28th Age groups: 2 & under, 3-4, 5-6, & 7-8 Bring a basket or collection container

EASTER BONNET CONTEST - All ages: prizes for most original, prettiest & funniest

MEET THE EASTER BUNNY - TAKE PHOTOS Flower for Mom- prizes & refreshments for children

*HOT SHOT BASKETBALL* At Martz Hall SUNDAY, MARCH 7th , 4:30 PM FREE - Registration begins at 4:00 Shoot from 5 distinct spots - Separate contests for Boys & Girls Age groups: 9-10, 11-12, 13-14 PRIZES AWARDED Use rear entrance to Martz Hall

*Schuylkill YMCA* 520 North Centre Street 570-622-7850 or www.schuylkillymca.com Fitness Center/Open Gym/Classes/ Youth & Teen Center/Private Parties

*Barefield Development Corporation* Barefield Recreational Complex 823 Terry Reiley Way Outdoor Private Parties PHA Warehouse 300 East Railroad Street Private Parties For information call: 570-628-5079

*Cancellation Policy* When the I.U. at Marlin or Pottsville Area School District closes school or has early dismissal, recreational programs are automatically cancelled for that evening.

For more information regarding all programs, call Pottsville Recreation at 622-1234 ext. 346 Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

Pottsville, PA Recreation Commission

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Erica Ramus is Broker/Owner of Realty Executives in Pottsville, PA.

If you're looking for a PROFESSIONAL to represent you in all of your Schuylkill County real estate needs, call Realty Executives at 570-622-6006.

We can meet all your buying / selling needs ... and will exceed your expectations. That's what being an EXECUTIVE is all about

We also operate Schuylkill Appraisal Services, for all your appraisal needs.