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Ken Glidewell

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Getting ready for Winter: Ol' Skool style!!

11-19-08
Ken Glidewell

It is a little chilly here in San Francisco today and I am not talking about the real estate market.

The cooler temperatures remind me that it is winter time in the balance of the country and what better time to make your home "winter ready".

Here is a short list of items to check before it starts raining or snowing where you live:

  • Check the rain gutters & roof for debris
  • Trim trees, bushes and gather leaves
  • Maintain plumbing pipes
  • Set a minimum temperature on your thermostat (I recommend 70 degrees but most experts say 65 degrees is minimal)
  • Check your water heater and wrap with insulation as necessary
  • Check insulation in attic, basements and crawl spaces
  • Make a list of qualified contractors for emergencies (plumber, roofer, handyman etc...)
  • Drain or service hotubs, pools and spas

These and other tips are available as a free service to my clients and friends.

Have a great winter!!

Ken Glidewell, kglidewell@pacunion.com

http://www.SFLuxuryProperties.com

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"LinkedIn - Part Deux"

10-27-08
Ken Glidewell

A month or so ago, I expressed my thoughts on using "LinkedIn", the professional social networking service.

Well this month I am again singing its praise. My 'network' has experienced a steady growth adding about 5-10 new connections per month.

I answer real estate questions asked by the audience of 30 million users and join real estate "groups" (and others) that I believe add value to my business. Like my alumni association and other social organizations I frequent.

Question: Are you getting any business from the site?

Answer: YES, 2 transactions with 2 more buyers currently looking for property.

Utilizing LinkedIn's "network effect" is very similar to a real estate person developing a "referral base". I think we all understand how valuable that is to a real estate agent's business.

Heck I am still using the free version but frankly with the traction I have been getting I am seriously considering buying the upgrade version. $20.00/mth is alot cheaper than the website, blog, open house ad's, postcards and all the other marketing efforts that I am paying for each month.

If you have not tried LinkedIn yet or are like some who just don't get it, I STRONGELY suggest creating a profile and start building your network today!!

Ken Glidewell, kglidewell@pacunion.com, http://www.KenGlidewell.com

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Technology Book Recommendation

10-14-08
Ken Glidewell

I recently got my hands on a new technology / business book and I must pass on my praises.

"Closing the Innovation Gap" By: Judy Estrin

When you get past the impressive resume of the author (current Board Member of Disney & FedEx) one will find a direct, clear and alarming expose of hopefully waking up the innovative society in America.

With recommendations from Bob Igor, Vint Cerf and Andrew Grove, I have no reservation in supporting this book.

I challenge all of us to support education and research from now until the end of time...

And you SHOULD read the book too!!

http://www.closingtheinnovationgap.com

Ken Glidewell - http://www.KenGlidewell.com

or

email me at: kglidewell@pacunion.com

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GMAC Home Services acquired by Brookfield residential Property Services

09-25-08
Ken Glidewell

The other day we were notified that our parent firm "GMAC Home Services would be acquired by Brookfield RPS, a division of Brookfield Asset Management".

My opinion: it seems that the transaction makes sense for all parties and they all have a vested interest in making it hugely successful.

I for one, look forward to what the future has to offer!!

Ken Glidewell

Pacific Union GMAC Real Estate

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Inman Connect 2008

07-31-08
Ken Glidewell

Last week I was in the midst of another "Connect" conference for real estate and technologists.

And what a week it was, reacquainting with past attendees, seeing the latest offerings of new technology companies and hearing what agents from across the country are experiencing.

Makes me think how lucky we are to live and work in the Bay Area. While I am working on another successful year my peers from other states are not having it so good.

A big take away from this year is how it seems the real estate industry while being "local" is evolving to a national and internationally influenced industry. Many of the new offerings reflect what is happening in Australia, London, Europe and even New Zealand. (There's your plug Alistair.)

Information and data are becoming more prevalent with bloggers and websites while syndication seems the popular movement of late. www.Trulia.com continues to provide new and interesting tools for agents and consumers alike.

Yes, I loved it and Yes, Brad ( www.Inman.com ) I will be back next year!! Oh, and Joel another great series of panelist for 'Bloggers Connect'. Thanks!!

Thanks for reading!! kglidewell@pacunion.com or http://www.SFLuxuryProperties.com

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