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Ken Glidewell

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SF Apartment Market Impacted

01-30-09
Ken Glidewell

Just this past week, a major SF apartment landlord was reported to have given some 50+ apartment properties back to the bank. The apartment buildings reportedly represented about 1500 apartments in San Francisco.

My question is: Are other real estate professionals seeing similar activities in their cities or is this an isolated case?

If so what do you think the impact will be in your area with the overall rental market and condominium sales market?

Hang on we are in for a ride!!

For more information or details contact Ken at: kglidewell@pacunion.com

or visit his website at: http://www.KenGlidewell.com

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It's official, Bay Area real estate Slowdown...

12-15-08
Ken Glidewell

Always the realist, I am know to be conservative in my calls but I think it is official, The Bay Area has hit its own real estate slowdown.

As near as I can tell, the full impact started in San Francisco & the Pennisula about November 10th. I know you are saying "duh" the country knew this months ago.

Well it really did not affect our market until recently and still there are districts in San Francisco that are still active and parts of the pennisula that are still growing in price per unit and sales. (can you say Palo Alto?)

National pundits are saying that the Bay Area was the last to get hit and will be the first to recover so if their prognosis is accurate then lets figure a second quarter turn for us to the upside.

Locally, I have been telling my buyers to get familiar with their targeted market so when we see a change then we can act accordingly. To me that means "snatch up some deals" before prices start rising again.

If you are an investor, think about 6-10 unit apartment buildings now. Because rents are holding steady and there are several local apartment owners who have over extended themselves.

Anyway, I wish everyone the best this holiday season, Happy Holidays!!

For more information or details contact Ken at: kglidewell@pacunion.com

or visit his website at: http://www.KenGlidewell.com

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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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