We all decide to sell our homes for different reasons. No matter what the reason, most everyone I meet here in Orange County, California wants me to help them sell their homes and condos in the shortest period of time, for the most money with the least amount of hassle.
For years, print advertising was a great way to advertise properties that are for sale. If you've met with a Realtor® lately to discuss selling your home, you may have been surprised when they told you they wouldn't be advertising your home in the newspaper or in a glossy magazine. Watch this compelling video to see why...then ask your Realtor® how they will be using social media and other types of internet marketing to get your home S O L D...
If you or someone you know is thinking about buying or selling a home in Orange County California it would be my pleasure to work alongside to help. Helping you achieve your goals and dreams is what I get to do...it's my profession and my joy...I'm here to help!
Marlene Bridges, REALTOR®
800 777-1775 - Toll Free ~ or ~ Text Me 714 745-2592
Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce 2007-2009
President - Southern California Chapter Certified Residential Specialists® 2010
Marlene is an experienced and respected South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods (formerly Leisure World), Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, and Mission Viejo.
Today, while researching properties for a buyer I came across a listing that piqued my interest. The reason I decided to look further at this particular property is that it was priced at nearly double the asking price of any property in the development. The description suggests that the property is "A Must See" and that needs to be taken literally rather than figuratively...Why? Sadly, after 34 days on the Multiple Listing Service there is "No picture available". Here's what prospective buyers of this property saw on MLS:
GREAT REMODELED UNIT; NEW KITCHEN, BOTH BATHROOMS, NEW FLOORING, NEW PAINT, NEW WINDOWS, --- A MUST SEE !!!!!!! 3 LARGE BEDROOMS, MASTER BEDROOM WITH PRIVATE BATHROOMS, 2 BATHROOMS, PRIVATE PATIO, ---------------------- A MUST SEE !!!!!!
In today's market, people rarely sell because they want to. There is typically a need that causes them to put their property on the market. It may very well be that this seller needs the price they are asking. But it would be very surprising that anyone would even look at this property that appears to be so overpriced. Even if someone decided to look at it and make a full price offer (pretty much a long shot, but let's just say it happened) the buyer would need to be prepared to pay cash or pretty close to all cash to get it to close escrow. There simply is no loan available for overpriced properties. The buyer would need to come in with cash to cover the gap between the loan amount and the purchase price.
The simple truth of the matter is when hiring a real estate agent, which would you prefer?
The agent you choose to represent you is a critical factor in how quickly your home is going to sell. The speed of the sale becomes one of the most important factors to consider when home prices are in a downward trend. To avoid becoming an example of what not to do when hiring a real estate agent ask good questions during the interview with your prospective agent. For a list of questions to ask your real estate agent during the interview, email me and I'd be happy to email you a great set of questions to ask your prospective agent.
If you or someone you know is thinking about buying or selling a home in Orange County California it would be my pleasure to work alongside to help. Helping you achieve your goals and dreams is what I get to do...it's my profession and my joy...I'm here to help!
Marlene Bridges, REALTOR®
800 777-1775 - Toll Free ~ or ~ Text Me 714 745-2592
Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce 2007-2009
President Elect - Southern California Chapter Certified Residential Specialists® 2008 - 2009
Marlene is an experienced and respected South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods (formerly Leisure World), Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, and Mission Viejo.
This morning is a beautiful Spring Saturday. I came downstairs to check my emails and get ready for the day ahead. The first thing I saw was Sally Cheesman's email announcing the winners of her latest POSITIVE ATTITUDE for the Weary Soul.Group's contest - Spring Fresh Contest. So of course I needed to check the list to see how many of my old friends made the cut. I met some new friends there and of course saw the names of some great old friends and now have a great list of positive reading for the next couple of weeks as I work through the list.
Today in many ways is like a lot of Saturdays. I get to show property. That's not just part of my job, it's a privilege. There are some nice folks who have entrusted me with the responsibility of making the many phone calls to line up the properties that are appropriate for them to see. This task has become a bit more lengthy than in previous years. Selecting the properties, then calling each agent to see if the short sale truly is a short sale and if the agent is skilled at working with short sales or REO's is an added layer of effort. The few extra hours of effort in the office can save countless hours and possible disappointment for my clients.
Today, as I began collecting all the materials and staging them next to my front door, I thought about how many times I've gone through this process before. It's a little like a matador who prepares in advance for his work (my job isn't quite so glamorous or dangerous). I won't be donning a suit of lights, but I will be putting on appropriate attire for the day including flat shoes that allow me to keep up with the long strides of my 6'2" client. My shoes are also slip-on so I can easily kick them off to protect the freshly cleaned carpets in homes we will be seeing today. All the listings of the homes we'll be visiting are neatly organized in little books for both my clients. Pens have been attached for their convenience. My GPS has been programmed with the addresses we'll be visiting. The car is clean and has a full gas tank.
As I began preparing for the day, I thought of how many times I've done this before and yet each time it is brand new. There's a hint of excitement in the air as I think that today may be the day that we find the perfect house for my clients. Today may be the day that we all get to experience that wonderful AHA moment where we all know that this is it...the home we've been hoping to find. No matter how many times that happens, it seems new every time. That's just one of the best parts of what I get to do as a REALTOR®. I get to participate in one of the most exciting times of another person's life. I get to help them find their dream homes. What an extraordinary opportunity that is and one of the many reasons I realize that I love what I get to do for a living. It's an honor, privilege and joy. Today is a good day!
If you or someone you know is thinking about buying or selling a home in Orange County California it would be my pleasure to work alongside to help. Helping you achieve your goals and dreams is what I get to do...it's my profession and my joy...I'm here to help!
Marlene Bridges, REALTOR®
800 777-1775 - Toll Free ~ or ~ Text Me 714 745-2592
Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce 2007-2009
President Elect - Southern California Chapter Certified Residential Specialists® 2008 - 2009
Marlene is an experienced and respected South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods (formerly Leisure World), Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, and Mission Viejo.
A Realtor® friend of mine called me today to ask my advice on what to do to be sure his buyers were able to see houses while he's going to be on vacation for the next week and a half. He hasn't taken a vacation in years, so wasn't sure how to make sure his clients needs were being met. He explained that in the price range his buyers are looking in they've been making offers, but have been getting beaten out in multiple offer situations. He wants to assure that while he's away they won't skip a beat in seeing properties as soon as they come on the market and getting their offers in early.
My friend plans to take his laptop with him and to write up any offers and negotiate them on behalf of his clients while he is out of state. He was wondering what kind of compensation he should offer to an agent who would show houses to a couple of his clients while he's away.
I suggested that rather than doing a commission split, he might want to consider paying one of the office agents an hourly rate ($25/hr.) just to set the appointments with the sellers and open the doors for his clients. I have done this in the past when I just couldn't be in two places at one time. It works well because your clients feel that you're making sure they get to see the houses as they come on the market. And, they know that you are still the one who will be handling presenting the offer, doing the negotiating for them and walking them through the process to closing.
It's a win-win-win situation:
Buyer's Agent is happy...he gets a vacation
Showing Agent is happy - he gets paid without having to much more than just show up
Buyers are happy - they don't feel that they are missing out on making offers on properties while you take a well-deserved vacation
Over the years, I have been surprised when I tell my clients that I'll be away for a few days to attend a seminar or to take a vacation that they consistently are very supportive and tell me to relax and have a great time because I deserve it. Try it, you'll come back rejuvenated, refreshed and ready to deliver even better service after more training or some well-deserved rest.
Marlene Bridges, REALTOR®
800 777-1775 - Toll Free ~ or ~ Text Me 714 745-2592
Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce 2007-2009
President Elect - Southern California Chapter Certified Residential Specialists® 2008 - 2009
Marlene is an experienced and respected South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods (formerly Leisure World), Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, and Mission Viejo.
In working with a nice couple we came across a home that was listed in the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) in Orange County, California.
Here are a few highlights that were included in the listing:
My clients have been looking at this house off and on for a period of a couple of years. They first saw it when it was offered for sale by the builder at a much higher price. When they saw it on MLS they asked me to check on it for them. I was intrigued, so I drove by to take a look thinking maybe I could find a lockbox somewhere at this vacant property.
Here's what I found when I got to the property:
This is an absolutely lovely property that is scheduled for foreclosure in about 2 weeks. I've emailed the listing agent to see how I can get inside the home to assess the condition before we make an offer...no reply.
So, how does one make an offer on a property like this? I wrote another post about this particular listing that will tell you how we are going to be handling making an offer. Read it here.
In this interesting market, Realtors® are having to do far more legwork than ever before. Many homes have multiple offers, many buyers are having to make numerous offers before they actually get to buy a home. If you or someone you know needs help navigating their way to buy or sell a home, I'm here to help.
Marlene Bridges, REALTOR®
800 777-1775 - Toll Free ~ or ~ Text Me 714 745-2592
Orange County Real Estate Website
Orange County Seniors Lifestyles Blog
SRES - Seniors Real Estate Specialist®
CRS-Certified Residential Specialist®
President - Laguna Hills/Laguna Woods Chamber of Commerce 2007-2009
President Elect - Southern California Chapter Certified Residential Specialists® 2008 - 2009
Marlene is a highly experienced and respected South Orange County CA REALTOR® specializing in residential Real Estate and the sale of Homes and Condos in South Orange County, California and Saddleback Valley cities of: Laguna Woods, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Mission Viejo.
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Providing superior Real Estate service in the South Orange County California cities of Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, and Laguna Niguel.
The Real Estate Market is Constantly Changing...Buying a home or condo in South Orange County (Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods-formerly Leisure World, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Aliso Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Ladera Ranch and Laguna Niguel, Laguna Beach, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, San Clemente) requires more than it did just a few years ago. It requires a REALTOR® who is experienced in identifying market values and trends, strong negotiation skills and a knowledge of the area. In an effort to keep in pace with the changing markets and provide superior service to her clients, Marlene has acquired a number of special designations including:
CRS® - Certified Residential Specialist is acquired by only about 5% of all agents. Yet CRS's account for over 80% of all transactions in the U.S. The training not only offers cutting edge information, it also provides a National Referral Network. So, when Marlene's clients need to make a move to another area, she is able to refer her clients to the best of the best throughout the U.S. and Canada.
SRES® - Seniors Real Estate Specialist which affords her special knowledge in working with seniors and their families. Seniors have very specific and specialized needs with regard to real estate. Marlene has prepared to identify those needs and to care for the senior client's and their families during times of lifestyle transitions.
ePro® - Demonstrating computer knowledge and internet marketing excellence.
Marlene also serves in her community as the President of the Laguna Hills and Laguna Woods Chambers of Commerce and the South Orange County Regional Chambers of Commerce. Marlene is also actively involved with the Pacific West Board of REALTORS and currently serves on the Professional Standards Committee and formerly served Grievance Committee Chair in 2007 and on the Charity Foundation Board. On a broader level, Marlene is currently serving as President Elect for 2008 for the Southern California Chapter of Certified Residential Specialists She monitors and attends 4-5 CRS education classes each year. This gives her an opportunity not only to serve others, but also increases her knowledge of cutting edge technology and information that assists her in better serving her clients.
Cruising the net to find Orange County Real Estate, can be overwhelming. The process of buying or selling a home has become very complex with the ever-changing market as well as the many laws that govern the business of real estate. Marlene's goal is to guide you through the maze, keeping you informed every step along the way. Your home buying or home selling experience should be hassle-free. There are many tasks that are performed behind the scenes including detailed paperwork and negotiating. Marlene's strong negotiation skills and attention to detail have garnered the respect and gratitude of her clients. With over 81% of all her business being referred or repeat clients, it is very important to keep all her clients satisfied---satisfied beyond their expectations.
Many agents have also appreciated that it is Marlene's practice to work together to accomplish mutual goals for clients. Marlene has been referred by numerous agents to represent their families in selling and purchasing homes particularly working with senior in Laguna Hills and Laguna Woods a senior retirement community in South Orange County.
If you or someone you know is planning a move outside the area, Marlene is prepared to assist you as a member of a national network of top real estate professionals. Marlene will ascertain your needs, then interview top agents to assure that you receive the same level of excellent service from the agent on the other side of the move as you have come to expect from your work with Marlene.
Who do you know that you need to introduce to Marlene today?
She specializes in real estate in South Orange County California cities of Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods (a 55 and over senior community), Aliso Viejo, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, Ladera Ranch, Talega, Las Flores and Rancho Santa Margarita. Her business is assisting people with lifestyle transitions. Whether it's working with first-time buyers, people who need to move into a larger home, or people who find a need to scale down.
Marlene offers a unique concierge service to families who have experienced the loss of a loved one or have a parent who is no longer able to live alone. Marlene assists in getting family heirlooms packed, helping to hire estate sellers if necessary, orchestrating repairs, painting, recarpeting, etc. to get the home ready for prospective buyers. This service is provided without charge as part of her service in helping families to sell their homes. This seniors real estate service has been of particular assistance in the nearby senior community of Laguna Woods. Laguna Woods real estate and home sales in Laguna Woods requires specialized services. If you are looking for someone who has a track record in helping seniors and their families with senior real estate needs, Marlene is the person to call.
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Do you have any good testimonials that clients have provided you in the past? Be sure to add them here.
"We didn't think we were ready to buy a home. Thanks for all your help in getting us into our first home. We couldn't have done it without you!" E.K. & N. I. - Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
"Thanks for all the great info at your class. And, thank you for helping us get the perfect home for our family."
"You went far beyond the call of duty in helping to get my home sold. Thanks you for referring and overseeing the work that needed to be done to get my home ready to sell. You're a miracle worker." M.B. - Laguna Hills, CA
"After Mom died, it was really hard to get down to selling her home. Thank you for your help in sorting out and packing all the family memories. The estate sellers you referred us to did a great job. We were able to use that money for the painting, carpet and handyman services you arranged for. It was such a blessing to know that we didn't need to come fly to California from our homes in Colorado to get all this accomplished. We knew we could count on you. When the house was ready to put on the market, you also did a great job explaining the offers we received and helped us to get the best price possible for Mom's home in Laguna Woods." M.S. & D.S. - Colorado
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