This weeks' Grand Rapids Association of Realtors® e-mail newsletter announced the creation of a new entity...the President's Blog. 2009 incoming president, Greg Carlson wrote a short memo to the 2,200+ member association inviting the members of the association to participate in a "conversation' with him, the Board of Directors and the staff.
According to the communique...
"The blog will enable Greg to provide important GRAR updates and news regarding industry issues and trends. More importantly, it will enable members to provide comments, feedback, and suggestions directly to Greg. That feedback will then be conveyed to the Board of Directors and taken into consideration in the decision making processes."
I think this is marvelous!
I'm thrilled to see our association making good use of the open forum that blogs provide to respond to member concerns and create a unfiltered avenue of communication to the leaders of the association. It's definitely a change whose time has come!
Greg's willingness to be available to the membership through this forum is the sort of 'out of the box' thinking that leaders within our profession need to cultivate. To date, most of the real estate blogging activity in the industry has been a conversation between agents and/or members of the public. I think it's time, we used the creativity unleashed by this powerful tool to enable a conversation within our association leadership and it's members about the future they'd like to create.
I'm curious...are you aware of any other Realtor® Boards/Associations that are using a blog to facilitate a conversation between its members? If you're aware of one or are a part of one, could you post a comment. I'm sure Greg and the members of the Grand Rapids Association of Realtors would welcome your insights. Thanks.
Copyright 2008 Audu Real Estate All Rights Reserved
The Ann Arbor, MI Real Estate Blogging & Technology Class scheduled for December 11, 2008 has been postponed. The class will be rescheduled for Spring of 2009. Updates regarding date and time will be posted when they are available.
Blogging Seminars provides Continuing Education Courses for Real Estate Professionals in Michigan. Approved courses include: Blogging Basics for Real Estate Professionals (K1061) and Blogging Ethics for Real Estate Professionals (K1062)
Lola Audu, CRS, GRI, e-Pro is an approved instructor registered with the State of Michigan. She writes and teaches extensively on New Media to real estate professionals across a wide variety of disciplines. In addition, Lola Audu, through Blogging Seminars provides Blog Coaching to individuals and groups. For further information, send inquiries to info@auduhomes.com or call 616-791-0511
One thing that can always be said about Grand Rapids, Michigan is that there's a little of everything for everyone when it comes to the weather. Today, winter snow lovers awoke to find that they had been blessed by the arrival of an early winter wonderland as a thick blanket of snow cover transformed everything into pristine whiteness.
This frigid blast of air matches the latest trends which have spread some icy tentacles across the Grand Rapids Michigan real estate marketplace too. October was a weird month. Watching the lurching, frantic financial roller coaster ride on Wall Street was the main event, but across the nation, the housing market was also plunging into new territory.
This was certainly the case for Grand Rapids, Michigan where foreclosure numbers for October accelerated to account for just under 65% of the total number of sales for the month. This was an an 80% increase over the same period of time last year! Dollar volumes and total inventory also declined. Given the incredible sequence of events on the national stage in which the auto industry was requesting an emergency bailout and the specter of thousands of more jobs potentially on the wire, it is perhaps remarkable that the results were not more grim.
The fact remains that homes are still selling. In fact, during the period of ‘black October', over 700 homes sold and closed successfully. Our office actually had one home receive 4 offers! Last month, Iwrote a blog post about the steps that homeowners need to address if they intend to sell their homes in this market. The advise given is still pertinent!
It's hard to predict exactly when this will end. Prior to the financial meltdown in October, I was encouraged by the drop in inventory levels and the increase in home sales even if they were distress sales as this indicated that we were going through the mounds of excess inventory which had increased our absorption rates to nearly a year.
There are still a lot of IF's. IF automobile industry does NOT collapse entirely and send another huge wave of homes onto the market, we will have time to catch our breath and continue the recovery which was just underway. IF new green jobs are introduced to take advantage of existing Michigan infrastructure and natural resources, the additional jobs will begin to nurse the flagging economy into a more stable status.
The thing about all the IF's is that they are entirely out of the control of the average person. So, what's to be done? Well, take care of the stuff you CAN take care of.
When winter visits the Grand Rapids, Michigan area, prudent individuals take cover and venture outside well protected. This advise should also be heeded in shaky economic times. Debt should be entered into very cautiously. This is not the time to over spend on credit cards or to increase credit card debt. House payments are a priority.
If you're considering a purchase, take advantage of the extensive inventory and $7,500 tax credit if you're a new home buyer to purchase a good deal which requires no more than 30% of your gross income to finance. Plan on putting money down. Save for a down payment and spare yourself the grief of continually living on the edge. If you'd like to sell your home, be realistic. Over-pricing in this market will cost you much more than pricing your home competitively.
What do I mean, well let's spell it out clearly...a year ago, the over-pricing penalty was about 25%, today it's closer to 40%. That's a huge penalty to swallow for not responding to current market conditions and not worth it when you think of the fact that simply pricing your home correctly would have saved you time AND money.
To end on a good note, let me leave you with this number, 10,250+. That's the number (give or take) of current listings on the market. While still a hefty figure given somewhat anemic sales, it's 11% lower than the inventory that was on the market a year ago. So, if you'd like to sell, there's somewhat less competition. If you're interested in exploring your real estate selling or investment options further, please give Audu Real Estate a call. We believe that adequate preparation and education can assist our clients in making prudent choices.
Related Posts:
The Secret Behind Multiple Offers on your home in Grand Rapids, MI
I was whizzing down the street recently when I passed this profusely advertised home. The Question comes to mind...Could anyone have missed the fact that this home was for sale? Marketing a property is about more than putting a sign in the yard. Another good reason to trust the marketing of your West Michigan home to an online, internet savvy real estate professional in Grand Rapids, MI! Contact Audu Real Estate to explore the benefits of professional representation.
P.S. You can view more of Lola's randomly captured images by visiting her photostream on flickr
Today, I had the honor of being the Guest Speaker at the Women's Council of Realtors® Luncheon at the Watermark Country Club in Grand Rapids, MI. I arrived early to find the members already busy at work, manning the tables and decorating the hall.
Mary Mishler, the chapter President was attending to the final details and making sure everything was in order. There was a good vibe in the room and Mary indicated that registration for this luncheon was one of the highest of the year!
The Grand Rapids Chapter of the Women's Council of Realtors® (WCR) has provided real estate professionals in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area with a number of different educational opportunities throughout the year.
They have also been involved with projects which serve the community. Recently, WCR participated in the F.L.O.W. project which coordinated Free Landscaping for several homes which were owned by moderate income families in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The project combined the efforts of volunteers and local business leaders in beautifying local neighborhoods.
The Womens' Council of Realtors ® Grand Rapids, MI chapter has been graced with forward thinking, visionary leaders. Their meetings cover issues which are impacting the lives and welfare of agents today. They had asked me to speak about Social Media & Digital Technology and the ways in which professionals in the real estate industry could utilize these tools to thrive. My presentation lasted for about 30 minutes and covered information about significant consumer and generational shifts as well as practical ways in which Social Media can be used to generate business and build relationships.
It was so exciting to see a great turnout. Men & women from various areas of the real estate community including real estate agents, real estate brokers, lenders, stagers, builders, inspectors and appraisers came to learn about the manner in which business is being transformed with the aid of Social Media tools.
As I surveyed the room, I was struck by how fortunate we are to have women like Mary Mishler, the current Grand Rapids, MI WCR President, JoAnne Hatfield, President Elect for the Michigan Chapter of WCR, Donna Batdorf, the past President of WCR in Grand Rapids and Pat Vredevoogd-Combs, past President of the Grand Rapids Chapter of WCR, the Michigan WCR President and the 2007 President of the National Association of Realtors® in our midst amongst others. I am grateful to be a part of an association which produces leaders who are making vital contributions at the local, state and national level.
On the east side of the state, another Active Rain member was also educating members of her professional community. I just stopped by Kathy Tofts blog about Missy Caulks presentation in Ann Arbor, Mi yesterday. It was wonderful to see Missy sharing her vast knowledge and experience with agents in her area.
I'm looking forward to being with Missy and other agents in the Ann Arbor area in early December (December 11, 2008) to teach Continuing Education Classes in Blogging, Technology and Ethics.
It's wonderful to see how these grassroots efforts are providing real estate professionals with the information and tools that they desperately need in these tough times. I ended my session with the following statement. "Things are going to change. The question is will YOU be willing to make the change we need happen?"
It's great to see Michigan agents leading the way and advancing the progressive knowledge of these technological breakthroughs. In spite of all we're going through, Michigan remains an extraordinary place to live and work. I'm proud and thankful to call it home!
*Special Thanks to Michelle Gordon who kindly forwarded pictures of the event. My camera battery decided to sputter out just as the event started.
Michelle Gordon has also blogged about the event here...
Ed Vogt, a first time attendee to a WCR event blogged about her experience here...
Copyright 2008 Audu Real Estate All Rights Reserved
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Grand Rapids, Michigan Real Estate including information on local real estate market conditions and insights from Lola Audu ~l Grand Rapids, MI Real Estate Broker.
Lola Audu, CRS GRI
Associate Real Estate Broker & Owner Audu Real Estate
, Grand Rapids, Michigan
I have been a Realtor since 1995 and have had the opportunity to meet and assist hundreds of families and individuals. Over 95 percent of my clients hear about me from a friend or family member. I don't believe in a cookie cutter approach, rather I think that each transaction should be handled the way a skilled tailor would fashion a suit made to fit.
I have travelled extensively within the United States and several countries. My background in an international community exposed me to individuals from all over the world. As our nation becomes increasingly diverse, this wonderful opportunity I have to live, work, play and gain knowledge about all God's children is a gift I celebrate every day!
*Lola has written and taught a variety of courses. View her Training courses on-line....
An important professional development this year is the opening of our new real estate agency, Audu Real Estate. We've outgrown our previous location and will be moving to a brand new refurbished office on the corner of Alpine and 4 Milejust behind our current office. The address is 3659 Alpine Our office suite is adjacent to Audu Engineering Consultants, a full service civil enginering firm. Audu Engineering Consultants also provides structural services and design consultation for subdivision developers which enhances the options available to our investor clients.
Our team currently has full-time real estate specialists who work with several auxiliary consultants in the lending and inspection industry and strive to provide memorable, grace-filled real estate transactions to our clients, their family and friends. Each Client Specialist at Audu Real Estate commits to a rigorous on-going program of training and personal development. "On Track for Success" our agent training program is a 1-2 year long apprenticeship to ensure that the skill and art required to become a professional real estate practitioner are mastered.
As Internet savvy real estate professionals, we utilize the power of blogs and online professional networking to enhance the flow of information about the housing market in Grand Rapids, Mi and to market the homes we represent. Because we embraced this emerging technology early, our clients receive are kept abreast of the latest developments which are impacting the purchase or sale of a home.
This commitment to excellence and dedication to our clients is expressed daily in follow-up, follow-through and results! Meeting and exceeding your expectations means that home sellers and home purchasers receive extensive research for their homes and several have received multiple offers on homes listed for sale this year; one of the most challenging markets our local area has ever experienced!
Audu Real Estate: How We do Things Differently.
In addition to assisting sellers with selling their homes and assisting buyers with their home purchase, we offer a number of specialized unique services and products which include:
1. Staging your Home for Success
We provide staging expertise to help you make your home a memorable showing experience for potential home buyers and their real estate agents. We have access to a number of individuals who have extensive experience in interior design and home accessorizing. The service of staging can cost several hundreds of dollars, but there are indications that a properly staged home nets 7-13% More than a home which is not staged. This service is FREE to our clients. To learn more....
2. E-Neighborhood Reports- FREE to our Seller & Buyer Clients
An E-Neighborhood Report is a detailed 15-30 page report about the neighborhood including recent sales, types of financing, community demographics, types of homes and much more! We also make this informative report available to buyers to compare up to 4 DIFFERENT communities before making an important investment decision. The E-Neighborhood neighborhood analysis is combined with a Professionally prepared Comparative Market Analysis to focus on homes which are most like yours in your community. The benefits of understanding these facts prior to listing or purchasing a home are important in protecting your home equity. To learn more...
3. Broker is also a trained Loan Originator and has processed closed loans
We are Realtors and this is by choice. But as the mortgage industry has expanded in recent years, it became clear that we needed to have more understanding in this area for the benefit of serving our clients. We are able to provide assistance to clients in selecting the right loan and reviewing options for financing. The Broker's knowledge of financing has helped clients make wise choices in a number of different situations including re-financing a home, negotiating short sales with banks and comparing different mortgage programs. We will work to create a cooperative working arrangement with any Mortgage lender the buyer selects and monitor the transaction to ensure a smooth closing.
4. Experience with Relocation and Sales nationwide and internationally
We have closed transactions with clients in a number of states and have worked with clients who have been relocated or been on assignment overseas during the process of transaction. Lola Audu's cross-cultural experience in living and visiting several countries on three continents gives her a window to the world and this appreciation and dexterity enables us to provide an understanding environment which is sensitive to the unique challenges of differences in backgrounds and culture. We serve and honor the dignity of the human soul and that transcends culture.
5. Foreclosure & Short Sale Negotiation
For Homeowners...
We have successfully negotiated and assisted many clients through the bewildering and disheartening process that often accompanies the unfortunate circumstances which may necessitate a short sale. Our focus and energy is directed in giving sound counsel and providing clarity. We understand that by the time a short sale or foreclosure is necessary, people are drained on a number of different levels. Our goal is to provide the information & support to get the home sold and whenever possible avoid more trauma.
For Home Buyers...
Grand Rapids, Michigan has recently gained national recognition as being one of the most affordable places to live in the United States. This is a solid community and Investors are beginning to appreciate the opportunities that exist here. If you are interested in investing in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area, this is an excellent time to be a buyer. We provide a number of services and referrals for Investor clients.
Get Free List of Forclosures in West Michigan and surrounding communities....
6. Thoroughly Well Trained Agents
Every new agent with Audu Real Estate is enrolled in a 1-2 year apprenticeship. In addition to weekly educational classes, agents are required to complete assignments and work with a skilled Mentor to develop their skill set. All contracts are reviewed by the Mentor. Because we know that we can't improve or correct what we do not know, ALL clients are given an opportunity to grade our agent experience. Compliments our agents have received can be viewed here. You can also see Examples of Class Selections and Training offered through Audu Real Estate including our NEW 2007 Learning Series.
7. Negotiation of Transaction & follow-up Through to Closing
We present all offers and include a Net Sheet. There is NEVER a surprise about the proceeds at a closing. Negotation is a skill set and an art form. It requires an understanding of legal implications and an ability to protect and enhance a clients options and position. The real estate transaction is inherently adversarial. Both parties aim to get the best deal possible. We don't think this necessitates enmity. Our aim is to ensure a fair and good result for our clients. We know that our reputation for fairness and competence benfits our clients and their real estate concerns.
When you're ready, Use this Site to Search for Homes in Various Local Grand Rapids Area School Districts....
Search the Local MLS for Homes in Byron Center School District,Allendale School District,
Cedar Springs School District, Caledonia School District
Comstock Park School District, East Grand Rapids School District
Forest Hills School District,Grand Rapids School District
Grandville School District,Wyoming School District
8. Other Stuff...
Yes, there are all sorts of things that we do to serve our clients. First of all, it is our sincere desire to build friendships, not just sell homes. We take the time to really listen and seek to understand. We keep in touch, not just because it is our job, but because we want our clients to be informed participants in the process and we also enjoy touching base. We've assisted with arrangements for cleaning, moving unwanted debris, shoveled snow, made a bed, done some dishes. But, what's this amongst friends! Lastly, we know that no one is introduced to our practice by accident. We strive to discern the true reason for the encounters we experience. Our weekly prayer focus for each client is for God's blessing in their lives in the way they need it most. Sometimes, this may be the greatest service we give.
BLOG DISCLAIMER
The information contained in the articles on this blog is the property of Audu Real Estate. Comments posted in response to individual blog posts are the opinions of the respondents. Audu Real Estate is not responsible for the opinions, thoughts or ideas expressed by visitors to this blog nor for any liability for any damages or losses direct or indirect that may result from the
use or reliance on information contained herein. The information provided is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. This blog is provided for informational purposes only. Readers are advised to contact a real estate professional for specific counsel related to their individual real estate needs.
Recent testimonial-- 2008
January 21, 2008
To Whom It May Concern:
After my husband got a new job, we needed to move. Having been married just over a year, we were not planning to become homeowners so soon, but seeing that the market seemed to favor buyers, we decided to look into purchasing our first home. We received a personal referral from a close friend to consider Audu Real Estate. After our initial meeting with Lola Audu, we knew we had found the right real estate agency.
Lola was very personable and genuinely interested in our needs. She asked us what kind of things we were looking for in a home, but she also asked us what our personal interests were and where we saw ourselves in the future. We enjoyed the conversation and were impressed by the holistic approach that Lola took. In addition she explained many of the home buying process basics. Click here to continue reading...
Dear Renee & Lola
I wanted to write a quick note and thank you BOTH for all the love and concern and just plain WORK you put into our journey of finding the "right" owner for my folks home these last 6 months.
I was pleased from beginning to end with everything. It was all handled with such excellence and I am sure quick to refer anyont to your company, Lola :) And thank you for the lovely roses that were delivered to the office on Friday...What a treat!!! You two were the best. Thanks again for everything,
Thank you so-o-o much for your diligence; but most of all for your prayers. Praise God
Flo G.
Dear Lola,
Thank you for taking time for the staging appointment at my folks home. What a neat experience! I learned so much and realized how much you know. Thanks again for being everything God has called you to be.
Love Sue
Dear Lola & Ed,
Thank you for giving us such a smooth closing on the condo. It is always enjoyable to work with professional Realtors like yoursevles.
Best wishes,
Dave
P.S. Let's not wait another 5 years to do another deal!
Things went great! Thank you again.
Rich & Linda
Please visit us on-line at http://www.auduhomes.com/ to view many comments from our clients!
ActiveRain Corp. is not responsible for the accuracy of the site's content (which is written by members of the ActiveRain Real Estate Network) and does not endorse the views of the real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and others listed here.
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