Bruce Mullen

This article from Forbes magazine had some good points, things worth trying to get a house sold in this difficult environment we are in. You can read the full article here:

http://www.forbes.com/2008/10/21/homes-sale-fast-forbeslife-cx_wb_1021realestate.html

There were 5 points to be taken from it:

1-Position your listing in the right price range

2-Have information readily available about schools, taxes, utilities, neighborhood covenants/restrictions and anything regarding a lien that has to be relased prior to closing

3-Advertise to people who have just listed homes within a 5 mile radius of your listing. Possible they have kids and not wanting to leave the school district..worth trying.

4-Offer creative financing terms to attract more buyers

5-Use a private auction. If the reserve isn't met, the owner isn't obligated to sell.

Most of this sounds like textbook ideas, but many agents forget what some of their options are. Hope this helps someone.

Today, real estate in Charleston is changing! The blue and white signs you were familiar with around Charleston are coming down and the name is changing from Prudential Carolina Real Estate to Carolina One Real Estate, and affiliating with Leading Real Estate Companies of the World. The flexibility of a strong local brand tied to a global network will allow us to best serve the real estate needs of the Greater Charleston community.

Leading Real Estate Companies of the World is a network of over 700 independent companies in 38 countries that does more real estate business than any franchise worldwide. Some Leading Real Estate Companies of the World members whose names you may recognize include Allen Tate, # 1 in North Carolina, and Long and Foster, #1 in the Virginia/Maryland area.

Carolina One Real Estate has done business in Charleston under several different names over our 45 year history. Each decision to change was always based on what was in the best interest of our clients. As technology and consumer behaviors change, so must we. The impact of the Internet and alternative advertising trends, including the need for a global connection, especially for our luxury market, make us confident that the decision to become independent of a franchise is the right decision, both today and going forward. It allows us more flexibility to respond to local market needs; directs more of our marketing funds locally; and our new network immediately increases national and international exposure for all of our listings. What remains unchanged is the same continuing local ownership and leadership; the fact that we are the market leader, selling 3 of every 10 homes sold in Charleston; and our commitment to you.

It's been a great changeover so far and agents and staff are excited. If you have any questions or are seeking an agent to assist in your buying or selling plans, please contact me today. Take care and have a teriffic week!!

Bruce