Written by:
Darleen McCullen, REALTOR®, Broker
Keller Williams Realty
Phone: 919.454.8864
Email: darleen@darleenmc.com
The Big Question of the Day: Do you think Home Inspections should be required by lenders - just as hazard insurance is?
This particular question popped in my head today as I was out driving around in the rain.
I tend to solve quite a few of the world's issues - and think of lots of questions while I'm having what I refer to as Windshield Time (i.e. spending lots of time in the car.) For me, Windshield Time gives me time to think and mediate on things relating to my business, as well as my life in general - but I digress! Back to the topic at hand...
Home inspections are near and dear to my heart. And if you've been reading my posts, you know that I've written a couple of posts about this topic: Home Inspection for New Construction? Of Course!! and Buyers: Should You Save Your Cash for Furniture OR Should You Purchase an Inspection?
I guess I'll keep blogging about it until there is no more "push back" about why one should, "waste" the money on getting a "new" home inspected. This doesn't happen too often, but it happens often enough that it's disturbing to me - and I'm giving Windshield Time to thinking about it.
What are your thoughts about this being a requirement? I would say "YES"! Can you think of any drawbacks to this? We would love to hear from you!
P.S. After reading Mike Jaquish's comment below...I thought about it - and this could possibly be a benefit to the lender. If home owners are happy with their purchases (because it's not falling apart!), then perhaps they will be less likely to walk away from the home if money is tight. If they love their home, perhaps they'll make an extra effort to avoid foreclosure? Just a thought...
Darleen McCullen, REALTOR®, Broker
Keller Williams Realty
Phone: 919.454.8864
Email: darleen@darleenmc.com
Website: http://www.darleenmc.com/
Graphic courtesy of RealEstateClipart.com
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed by those who are part of the ActiveRain community, including those providing comments relating to this blog, are their opinions and their alone - and do NOT reflect the opinions of Darleen McCullen and Keller Williams Realty. Darleen McCullen and Keller Williams Realty are not responsible for the accuracy (or lack thereof) or content provided by others.
Written by:
Darleen McCullen, REALTOR®, Broker
Keller Williams Realty
Phone: 919.454.8864
Email: darleen@darleenmc.com
Do you find that you go beyond the Call of Duty for your clients - or are you just average - and do "just enough" to get by to get your clients to the closing table?
I would venture to say that most Buyers and Sellers are seeking a REALTOR® who goes the extra mile - and who is a Problem Solver and not just an Order Taker.
In 2008, let's all strive to exceed our clients' expectations by over delivering.
I have the perfect example of going above and beyond...if I may have I have a moment to toot my own horn...
Recently, I had a First-time Home Buyer client who had a huge problem - and desperately needed someone to help him. Because of client confidentiality, I will spare you all the details here - but I will say that by the time everything was over, he was singing my praises. Yea!
We were having to deal with a large corporation - and because of some "bright" individual's error, my client's closing had to be rescheduled several times. Everyone was giving him the runaround - and no one in the company seemed to be willing to help.
When I found out about the problem, I researched the Executives at the company and put in a phone to the Chief Executive Officer's assistant. I emailed her, as well as the CEO of the company.
Within 15 minutes, my client had a phone call - and the problem was resolved. Complete with multiple apologies from the management at the company. My client said they were tripping over themselves to be helpful!
He will forever sing my praises because I solved a huge problem. My client said to me, "That was some email that you wrote. I read it several times - and it was quite impressive. Thank you so much for helping me!!"
It's stressful enough being a First-time Homebuyer without having major obstacles - but it does sometimes happen. I am just grateful that I was able to step in and do what was necessary for the client.
No one should have to endure the stress of being a First-timer + all of the additional stresses the come along with moving.
I wanted to relieve as much stress as possible for my client. After all, my motto is "REALTOR® on a Mission...NOT Just Seeking a Commission!TM And I do everything within my power to live up to it.
Please share...What do you currently do - or have done to go above and beyond for your clients?
Darleen McCullen, REALTOR®, Broker
Keller Williams Realty
Phone: 919.454.8864
Email: darleen@darleenmc.com
Website: http://www.darleenmc.com/
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed by those who are part of the ActiveRain community, including those providing comments relating to this blog, are their opinions and their alone - and do NOT reflect the opinions of Darleen McCullen and Keller Williams Realty. Darleen McCullen and Keller Williams Realty are not responsible for the accuracy (or lack thereof) or content provided by others.
Written by:
Darleen McCullen, REALTOR®, Broker
Keller Williams Realty
Phone: 919.454.8864
Email: darleen@darleenmc.com 
Should REALTORS® Take Monetary "Incentives" from Sellers?
I really struggle with this one. Today, with the housing market suffering the way it is, many sellers are offering Agent Incentives. I've seen everything from flat screen television to $10,000 in cash to Caribbean cruises.
We work hard, right? And sometimes, we don't see the fruits of our labor (i.e. the sale doesn't close for whatever reason!)
So, why not accept an incentive when it comes our way?
I recently overheard an agent talking about the fact that she received a significant bonus, which of course is disclosed to the Buyer. At closing, the Buyer thought they should've received the Agent's Bonus towards their closing costs - rather than the agent pocketing the extra cash.
Some people say that accepting the bonus may be a conflict of interest- and may lead the Buyer to think that the agent "pushed" a certain property just because they wanted to receive the incentive.
So...what are your thoughts? If given the chance to pocket an extra, say $10,000 during the transaction. Would you? OR would you give the entire bonus to your Buyer - whether they needed it or not? WHY?
Darleen McCullen, REALTOR®, Broker
Keller Williams Realty
Phone: 919.454.8864
Email: darleen@darleenmc.com
Website: http://www.darleenmc.com/
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed by those who are part of the ActiveRain community, including those providing comments relating to this blog, are their opinions and their alone - and do NOT reflect the opinions of Darleen McCullen and Keller Williams Realty. Darleen McCullen and Keller Williams Realty are not responsible for the accuracy (or lack thereof) or content provided by others.
Written by:
Darleen McCullen, REALTOR®, Broker
Keller Williams Realty
Phone: 919.454.8864
Email: darleen@darleenmc.com
I am saddened when I hear from individuals who dream of owning a home, but they're having trouble saving an adequate down payment.
These days, it seems that each time I turn on the television or read the news, there's doom and gloom everywhere! If it's not a report on how Americans are being squeezed at the gas pump, or at the grocery store, it's a story on how unemployment is on the rise.
Are we heading into a recession? Some folks seem to think so. Hopefully, they're wrong!
I thought it would be a great idea to put together some money-saving tips that can help all of us make our money go a tad bit further. As I learn of additional tips, I'll post them here.
Here's a way to help stretch your monthly food budget...
Angel Food Ministries: This program allows individuals in many states, including North Carolina, to order discount food through local churches for as little as $30. (NOTE: These are some of the same foods you'll see on your grocery store shelves -- only cheaper!)
Also...There are absolutely no restrictions. Anyone can participate.
Angel Food Ministries says that it should be enough food to feed 4 people for a week - or an elderly citizen for a month!
Each month the menu changes. The February 2008 menu for North Carolina follows:
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In addition, with the purchase of the above "unit" of food, it's possible to buy the following:
FEBRUARY SPECIAL #1 - 6.5 lb. Steak and Meat Combo Box - $20.00
(1.5 lb. Bone-in Ribeye Steaks (2 x 12 oz.), 1.5 lb. Bone-in New York Strip Steak (2 x 12 oz.), 2 lb. Lean Hamburger Steaks (4 x 8 oz.), 1.5 lb. Mild Italian Sausage)
FEBRUARY SPECIAL #2 - 3.75 lb. Prime Rib Steak Box - $19.00
(3.75 lb. Prime Rib Steaks (6 x 10 oz.))
FEBRUARY SPECIAL #3 - 10 lb. Chicken Combo Box - $18.00
(2 lb. Breaded Frying Chicken, 2 lb. Chicken Tenders, 2 lb. Chicken Wings, 2 lb. Grilled Individually Quick Frozen Chicken Breasts, 2 lb. Chicken Breast Chunks)
So...Do you have any money-saving tips to share with the AR Community?
Darleen McCullen, REALTOR®, Broker
Keller Williams Realty
Phone: 919.454.8864
Email: darleen@darleenmc.com
Website: http://www.darleenmc.com/
Photos courtesy of www.RealEstateClipart.com and www.Microsoft.com
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed by those who are part of the ActiveRain community, including those providing comments relating to this blog, are their opinions and their alone - and do NOT reflect the opinions of Darleen McCullen and Keller Williams Realty. Darleen McCullen and Keller Williams Realty are not responsible for the accuracy (or lack thereof) or content provided by others.
Written by:
Darleen McCullen, REALTOR®, Broker
Keller Williams Realty
Phone: 919.454.8864
Email: darleen@darleenmc.com
Do you love holidays as much as I do? One of my favorites 
is Valentine's Day.
Could it be that it seems okay to deviate from my "diet" and eat as much chocolate as I like? Hmmm... My mouth is watering just thinking about it!
So...what is there to do in Raleigh (and the Triangle) for Valentine's Day? Dine out, of course!
Within this post, there's a little something for everyone...
Those who want to dine out OR Who wish to prepare a meal at home;
For singles, as well as those who celebrate "Anti - Valentine's Day".
Let's start with a few of my favorite eateries...
115Midtowne Restaurant -Upscale, contemporary, metropolitan restaurant, featuring international recipes.
Jimmy V's - Steakhouse serving certified Angus beef, seafood, lobster, and boasts an extensive wine list. I love this restaurant not only because the food is good, but also because it's named after Jimmy Valvano, the former coach at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. No...I'm not an NC State fan but I love what Jimmy V stood for: "Never give up!"
The Melting Pot - Fondue restaurant. Offers a couple of Valentine's Day packages ranging from $150 to $199 per couple. My favorite part of the dining experience is the chocolate fondue dessert. Yum, yum!
Rio Churrascaria - Brazilian Steakhouse. Has more than 40 items on its salad bar, as well as all-you-can eat beef, pork, chicken, and leg of lamb. You'll be stuffed when you leave - but not broke. :-)
Simpson's - Wonderful atmosphere, and excellent place for a steak or seafood. Nice selection of wines.
Sullivan's Steakhouse - Located in Downtown Raleigh. Great selection, including steaks, seafood, and a variety of sides. I love their mashed potatoes.
Sweets
A Southern Season - Has everything from heart-shaped Moravian cookies to chocolate gift boxes and towers.
Cathy's Cookie Bouquets - Offers cookies for every occasion, including Valentine's Day.
Whimsical Cookies - Handpainted cookies, including conversation hearts.
Flowers and Balloons
Blooming Balloons Fallons Flowers Lake Boone Florist
Eating In...
Instead of dining out - or purchasing Sweets for your Sweetheart - perhaps you'd like to prepare a special meal at home instead. Following are Websites containing recipes you may find to be appealing:
The Food Network - Showcases Valentine's recipes such as Lobster Parfaits; Rack of Lamb with Carmelized Shallots; Lemon-Butter Green Beans with Pine Nuts; Hasselback Potatoes; Classic Coeur a la Creme with Raspberry Coulis and Fresh Raspberries; and Citrus Hot Chocolate
Southernfood.About.com - Has recipes for "Novice Cooks and Busy People", as well as the Top 10 Valentine's Day Recipes
Don't Believe in Valentine's Day or feel that it's a "fake" holiday?
Well, you'll be in good company at Hi5's 3rd Annual Anti-Valentine's Day Party.
If you're single in the Triangle, there are plenty of things to do for Valentine's Day
So...What's Your Favorite Eatery or Favorite thing to do on Valentine's Day?
Please share a link with us!
Darleen McCullen, REALTOR®, Broker
Keller Williams Realty
Phone: 919.454.8864
Email: darleen@darleenmc.com
Website: http://www.darleenmc.com
Photograph courtesy of Microsoft.com
Disclaimer: Opinions expressed by those who are part of the ActiveRain community, including those providing comments relating to this blog, are their opinions and their alone - and do NOT reflect the opinions of Darleen McCullen and Keller Williams Realty. Darleen McCullen and Keller Williams Realty are not responsible for the accuracy (or lack thereof) or content provided by others.
Driven, Dedicated, Determined...Darleen McCullen. Servicing real estate needs in: Land, Homes, Foreclosures, Investment Properties. Cary, Raleigh, Knightdale; Wake Forest; Durham; all Wake County.
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