The Space Needle is not the only iconic building here in town. The first Grande Dame of Seattle skyscrapers was the Smith Tower, completed way back in 1914. For nearly 50 years, she was the tallest building west of the Rockies.
The building is named after Lyman Cornelius Smith, industrialist and inventor (1834 - 1910). He was 'the Smith' of Smith and Wesson Firearms and Smith and Corona Typewriters.
The current owner, Walton Street Capital out of Chicago, defaulted on their $42.5 million loan this past year. The loan was acquired by CBRE Group (formerly known as CB Richard Ellis, Inc) for an undisclosed amount and the auction is set for March 23, 2012.
Talk about being upside down. The current assessed value was set for this year by the King County Assessor’s office is $21.3 million.
Walton Street purchased the Tower back in April of 2006 for $42.8 million (top of the market) and in early 2007 filed plans to convert the smaller office spaces to condominiums. The plan stalled when Seattle’s luxury condo market went soft.
I hope the old Dame makes out okay and I wish her well. As a native of the area, she’s a landmark that’s practically etched into my DNA. Even though the Smith Tower is no longer dominant in the Seattle skyline, I’m always delighted to find views of her when I’m driving around town.
The Smith Tower has a neoclassic charm that captivates most everyone who visits. A quick look on Yelp.com shows 53 reviews. With only a couple of exceptions most rate her at 4 and 5 stars.
Seattle and Tacoma have enjoyed a relationship of rivalry since day 1. Originally in 1909, Smith planned to build a 14 story building but his son, Burns Lyman Smith, persuaded him to build the much taller skyscraper to out do Tacoma's National Realty Building. At 16 stories in 1911 it was for a time the tallest building in the west.
The 38 story structure has a granite facing on the first 2 floors and the remainder with terracotta. On the 35th floor is the observation level known as the Chinese Room. The hand carved ceiling and the furniture were gifts of the last Empress of China. I was fortunate to attend several special occasions here over the years. I love the inner city views from here.
For the love of Maps...
I have loved maps since I was a half-pint. Not that I’m all that tall now, but back when I was 8 or so to about 12, I remember being enamored by them. I was one of those kids that ordered weather maps from the back page ads in Boys' Life Magazine.
We often went to the local library during that time and I was fascinated to look over maps by early explorers of the Northwest like Lewis & Clark, Captain Vancouver and Cook, etc.
Out of that experience I made maps about our adventures in the woods across the street from our home. I detailed the trails, where our tree houses were, where our rafts were hidden at the big pond, where our stashes of pop, candy, and tools were kept, and where our super secret emergency meeting place was (by the old abandoned mining shaft deep in the blackberry thickets) just in case we got into trouble with the railroad detectives because we were messing around where we didn't belong down by the tracks.
Right out of the movie American Graffiti, growing up in our little neighborhood of Earlington, on the west side of Renton, it was still rural. We didn’t have but a couple of street lights and no sidewalks. In fact, along side our streets were open ditches and neighbors raised rabbits and chickens.
Who would of thought years later I’d work for a title company? It wasn’t long before I ended up in customer service and worked with maps all day long. I loved it.
One of the things that took me years to appreciate was how well King County maps were done. The KC Assessor’s maps were beautifully detailed and as my local knowledge grew to other counties I learned how special and unique that was.
I'm very familiar with the KC Assessor's map below. I did a lot of research on portions of it for a client several years ago who wanted to develop it. Property can appear to be so simple and obvious when your standing on it, yet when researching it you can find yourself in a quagmire trying to sort out the changes and legal descriptions as title passed from owner to owner over the years.
On the left 3rd is a relatively newer plat, a division of Olympus, in Newcastle, Washington (mid 80’s to mid 90’s). Yet note within that space KC LLA and a number following. That means a King County Lot Line Adjustment was recorded. Below that, note the diamond shape. That stands for a Government Lot and it translates to some kind of anomaly existed either because prior surveys weren't accurate or terrain made it impossible to determine.
Just to the right you see the darker parallel lines running vertical with “pipe line” in between. This is a major water pipeline that runs through this area underground and then underwater in Lake Washington to supply fresh water to Mercer Island.
Note the overlapping dark lines that curve to the right with “Pacific Coast”... This is just one of the many old abandoned railroad right of ways in the area that once served the Newcastle coal mines. Then there’s the “NC BLA” which is a City of Newcastle boundary line adjustment, and if you’ll notice SE 84th Way and on the very right (Newcastle Parkway) you’ll find notes “not to scale”. That translates to these roads are so old and their exact locations changed so many times over the years by everything from weather, spoken agreement, land barons, use by horse and buggy and the consequences of terrain and a path of least resistance for ingress and egress, to now being within an incorporated modern city and becoming a major arterial thoroughfare that it’s boundaries have been determined, "it is what it is because it is where it is."
For the love of Maps. To the initiated, they tell quite a story.
Maybe I could put that a little more succinctly?
“I’m no expert, but I love to tinker.”
As a guy with an artist’s bent I love looking at everyday common things and finding one thing about it that’s special or unique. Be it blogging or composing I enjoy revealing the inherent drama any object or idea has by framing it in an attempt to reveal how a most simple thing can convey a lot of meaning, feeling, or emotion if it’s just looked at in the right setting or from a certain perspective.
I studied music composition and theory for many years. This is my wellspring for almost everything I create. It’s where I come from. I love all kinds of music and a favorite genre is 20th Century orchestral music by composers like Stravinsky, Bartok, Debussy, Ravel, Harris, Copeland, etc. One thing I learned from them and have always admired was their ability to illuminate a very simple idea into an amazing work. They took you on a journey not unlike an epic novel or a great movie.
How did they do that?
They developed a personal language and style. They created systems to adhere to. They created rules for each piece they composed and they followed them.
Stravinsky once put it like this.
“Just as appetite comes by eating, so work brings inspiration, if inspiration is not discernible at the beginning.”
What he meant was composing is not just about being inspired. It’s cool when you are (so get it all down before the editor turns on) but more often than not it’s having discipline and doing the work that creates the inspiration.
He followed a path of inquiry and explored. In short, he created a box where he was free to roam and explore and play with anything he wanted to as long as it was from within the box.
Through this self imposed limitation he found freedom.
He no longer had to grapple with infinity.
Great advice for bloggers don’t you think?
Inspiration comes from doing the work. Create your box and stay in it!
Well at least for one post!
Okay, it happened. I broke up last week, just like people do these days and I made the jump. You know what I’m talking about, we’ve all been there one way or another... that line you naively crossed one unsuspecting fateful day where life, the universe, and everything changed in a second.
I’m sorry, I just got swept away by the passion of the moment.
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| I knew there was no going back and I knew life would never ever be the same again yet I chose to go.
I had that day last week. I showed up at the office on Monday morning and there was this unsuspecting small brown cardboard box from FedEx sitting on my desk. What is it? |
My little BB, my Blackberry Curve 8330, we’ve been together since early 2008. You've been very very good to me. Small, good looking, slim and petite. We've enjoyed each other’s company immensely. But times change and there's no denying this last year you've been choking, freezing, burping, and crashing. Heck, the last few months I’ve almost had to reboot you once a day. What's with that?
I guess all those social media apps, videos, messages, and emails were just too much.
I couldn’t help it, within the day I became so absorbed with i, I lost track of my little BB. It was kind of weird. I was overcome with guilt. “I’m sorry little BB." I’m not ungrateful and it seems like we’ve been together forever. We were closer than close, you and I You were my life line, my constant companion. We were always together. |
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Yet now, already, I can’t remember where I last set you down.
I’m calling you (from i's place) so I can find you. Heck, I wasn't expecting that.
"Oh the retch that I am, plotting scheming and planning. How fast can I move everything over and shut you down?"
What kind of a heartless thankless ungrateful beast have I become?
Yes, me... who dares call himself a gentleman!
We broke up, what can I say?
I’ll get over it.
Hey, by the way... What's your top 10 favorite iPhone apps?... just curious.
Question: What is a search engine’s job?
Answer: To offer up the most relevant and freshest content it has based on the terms we use to search.
Why? Search engines like Google, (Bing and Yahoo) want to provide everyone with the latest and most useful on target content they can so we keep coming back. The more ‘eye time’ on their pages the more opportunity is created to click those paid-for-ads.
That’s it in a (proverbial cyberspace) nutshell!
Granted this explanation is a gross over simplification, yet... The more you understand what the search engine wants to accomplish the more opportunities you’ll find to get your brand out there and seen.
Let me put it this way...
We wouldn’t do over a billion searches a day on Google if they didn’t offer up the answers and content we were looking for.
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This is why geographic or hyper-local blogging is so powerful. People out of town checking out your area, yet more so, locals looking for the best deal on a new coffee pot, the best chicken teriyaki joint, the lowest price on a set of tires for the car, when is the museum open, what's playing at the cinema, what grocery store has the best deals this weekend, the phone number for the local cleaners, and yes, real estate. You know (or should) if all we talk about is ourselves and how we’re the #1 choice in real estate people are not going to find us very interesting, nor are they likely to follow or engage us, and neither will Google, Bing, or Yahoo. I hope you see the obvious, search engines need content. A lot of it. Not necessarily content about you (like advertising), but the content people look for every single day. I want Google, Bing and Yahoo to consider me a good source of relevant content. If they do they will choose my content as a 'best solution' to fulfill the searchers request. |
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Blogging about your community creates an opportunity to become a purveyor of content that the search engines will want to offer up. If they find you a reliable source of good local information your visibility will grow.
What is marketing? I heard this so many years ago I can’t remember who said it or how exactly they put it, but I morphed it into this...
Marketing is two things...
1. Attract people who are not doing business with you and convince them they should.
2. Convince your present clients they should keep doing business with you.
There’s no denying in today's world that pull is more powerful than push. Getting and staying in front of people means what you have to say better have some value, be useful, hopefully interesting, and/or entertaining.
Write about the world your clients live in. Address their interests, needs, wants, and desires... And the more your topics align with what the search engine needs to fulfill its objectives, the more you’re going to be smack dab in front of your audience creating opportunity.
When people do have a need for a real estate professional, who do they know? Who will they remember? Who will they call?
What is a search engine’s job? It’s a job very much like yours.
New Media Marketing, Real Estate Education...
Seattle, Washington... RE Barcamp Seattle kick off event, March 18, 2010.
Medford, Oregon... Social Media in Real Estate Workshop, October 23, 2009.
© ARFCO MEDIA... an audiorium enterprise
Social Media Marketing Consultant, Web Presence Development, Speaker
Renton, WA 98055
Communities are conversation and conversation is opportunity...
Known throughout the Pacific Northwest for his innovative marketing programs, René Fabre is a sought after speaker and motivator respected for his knowledge, keen interest, and insightful approach to contemporary marketing ideas and technologies, especially in real estate. His obvious passion for the subject is contagious.
A frequent attendee and guest speaker at Seattle area networking events, He’s an engaging conversationalist about developing successful business and real estate practices in the evolving social media environment. René has over 20 years in the title insurance industry working directly with Real Estate Professionals.
"Rene Fabre is by far the most savvy and creative marketer that I know-period. He is innovative and utilizes his depth of industry knowledge to develop competitive strategies for both the people he works with and the clients he works for as a title professional. He integrates technology with the human experience to create thought provoking writing and videos meant to teach businesses how to find their voice in a very noisy world."
Janet Matzke - Sr Account Manager, First American Title, Tacoma, Washington
“René is a pioneer in the application of new web tools for marketing. He's got a creative mind and the kind of get-it-done attitude that makes people want to sit up and listen. Do listen. You'll be glad you did.”
Meri Walker - The Virtual Meeting Coach, Ashland, Oregon
“René is one of the rare people in the industry that really walks the walk when it comes to his teachings. To be honest it really isn't teaching that he does, he has more of a conversation with the groups he meets and once to pass on the knowledge that he gathers day in and day out trying to help agents and mortgage officers take their business to the next level in this age of the internet.
René and I met online and we finally met in person in the spring of 2009 at an event in Portland, I've now been to three of his events and have to say each time we have taught each other something new. He is a person that is never satisfied with his present online image or knowledge and is always searching for more and then shares it with the world!
If you ever get a chance to attend one of René events, I suggest you do, because you will learn something about web 2.0 and how it can increase your business, no matter what business you are in.”
Todd Clark - Broker/Sales Coach... Knipe Realty, Tigard, Oregon
I work with René, he has a strong commitment to service. He's always helping someone, be it a client or co-worker. Additionally, René has vast experience in our industry and brings that as well as many fresh new ideas to our clients and co-workers. René has personally helped me and many others enter the world of social media and marketing. René truly is the best "go to" person and adds huge value to our team.
Susan Edwards - Sr Account Manager, LPO, Cert. Clock Hour Inst., The Talon Group
René is a social media "master". He really understands how to get the most web presence possible to grow your business. He's been a huge help to me.
Jenny Clauson - Account Representative, The Talon Group
René is a stand up guy. Not only is he very knowledgeable about all there is to know about Internet Marketing, he also is a great guy to know. He is passionate about what he does and he loves to meet other people and talk about his passion. I have learned a lot from just one meeting and would love to have more opportunities to talk to him and pick his brain. He is a one of a kind!
Stacia Whatley - REALTOR, Hawkins-Poe Inc.
René "Gets it" is the best way I can describe the value he brings to the conversation. I attend as many events that René is at knowing that I will bring away many nuggets of gold that I can use in my business immediately.
Scott Cowan - Keller Williams, Gig Harbor, Washington
Your voice both in classes and in blog posts is so surprising, NON-NERDY yet beyond competent and self depricating, refreshing! You have a great combination of skills which is why you're busy speaking all over the country, and you seem to be having fun at it too.
Heather White - REMAX INTEGRITY Eugene, Oregon
“If you ever get a chance to take one of Rene's classes don't miss out. He changed my whole paradigm with regard to marketing myself on the internet. Thanks Rene!”
Pam Lorange - Managing Broker, Windermere Van Vleet & Associates, Ashland, Oregon
"I admire René for his exceptional knowledge of technology and his uncany ability to convey that knowledge in layman's terms so that others can actually put effective tools in place enhancing their businesses and/or personal lives."
Kim LaMantia - Collison Realty LLC, Tacoma, Washington
Rene is very knowledgable about the real estate industry, social media, and is a great person to know!
Monica Ray - JAM Media Group, Missoula, Montana
“Rene's gift in the marketing world is taking the fear and intimidation out of technology for all, making it something to persue and not avoid! Whether a beginner in the networking world, or a veteran, he is the master teacher.”
Julie Olsen - Ticor Title, Astoria, Tillamook, Seaside, Oregon
"René’s ongoing quest for online marketing information is really a HUGE help for busy Real Estate Professionals. The social networking masterminds and training meetings are very worthwhile. Thank you, René!"
Fay Ainsworth - Keller Williams, Federal Way, Washington
"Rene is an excellent teacher for the internet. He put into plain language for my agents, why and how they integrate their business with the new age of the internet."
David Culbertson - Principal Broker/Owner, Coldwell Banker Pro West, Medford, Oregon
“René has been absolutely wonderful to work with. He is a very positive and creative person that is always willing to think outside the box for new ideas. He is a highly requested speaker and is thought of as a walking wealth of knowledge.”
Nicolle Ettel - Business Development Specialist, Ticor Title, Salem, Oregon
“Within a company there are always a couple of individuals who I consider leaders in their field. René Fabre is one of those individuals! His unique perspective on our industry and his ability to implement innovative tools and processes help me tremendously in my market center. René is a great person to work with and to team with!”
Matt Houston - VP/Sales Manager, Ticor Title, Portland, Oregon
“René is a creative thinker and has provided some of the most unique and exclusive tools for us. He is always in inspiration to think outside the box!”
Rosi Green - Business Development Specialist, Ticor Title, Silverton, Oregon
“René is a great trainer and very well educated in the IT field.”
Lorraine Klopfenstein, CRS, RE/MAX Performance Plus, Renton, Washington
“René is a visionary who has the ability to come up with innovative tools to help our clients grow their business. He has developed many exclusive tools that have helped Ticor's market share grow very quickly. His knowledge and dedication is a big asset to our company and our clients, and he is always willing to help all members of the team. Without hesitation I recommend working with René if you have the opportunity. You will find he has the ability to design and implement strategies that are second to none in our industry, and will grow your business.”
Victoria Linton, Owner - Everything Is Coming Up RosieDaisy! Portland, Oregon
“René is a great asset to the Ticor family. He manages to keep everyone on top of what is going on in the market and help us to stay in front of our clients with useful tools and resources!”
Heather Williams - Sales/Business Development Specialist , Ticor Title, Portland, Oregon
“René sifts through miles of internet info and gives us the best. His suggestions are tools that can be used immediately. He is smart, reliable, fun, and always a pleasure. René makes me and my business associates smarter.”
Julie McCullough Hale - Title & Escrow Sales , Ticor Title , Seattle, Washington
“René is a visionary and a wonderful teacher. He helped design successful sales and marketing programs that were used on a regional basis. His presentation and sales skills are exceptional and he is able to really "speak" to the real estate community about upcoming trends.”
Adria Quinones-Masur, AVP/Sales Manager, Ticor Title Company, Santa Clara, California
“René, thank you for your continued information and I truly value your insights to the web and beyond, you're awesome..."
Candis Wade - Education & Marketing, Ticor Title Company, Coos Bay, Oregon
“René is a wealth of knowledge and expertise when it comes to marketing and programming. He is hands down the best at what he does and always gets it done with a smile. I worked directly with René in our customer service division where he designed not only the marketing pieces but the programs (PI3/PI4) we worked from. He is reliable and professional and the number one man for the job.”
Denise Baker - Escrow Assistant, Ticor Title Company, Seattle, Washington
“I found René to be a resource without end, constantly looking for a new way to use technology to advance our company and make our jobs more productive. René has been directly behind many of the tools that I use on a daily basis and is always available to help with any ideas or areas you may need. René is wonderful to work with and has a great attitude that brings an excitement to any project he’s involved with.”
Timothy McElroy Ciulla - Information and Marketing Support, Ticor Title, McMinnville, Oregon
“René is an extremely bright VP with unique ideas that benefit the entire company. René is constantly creating marketing campaigns designed to help work flow, increase exposure and help customers have ease of doing business with his company. René always has a smile on and is a joy to work with. He tends to look at the big picture to make very educated decisions.”
Becky Daily, Area Sales Mgr, Ticor Title, Seattle, Washington
“If you want to know more about how technology can help your business, contact René. He's up on what works, more importantly he's up on what's relevant.”
Ryan Kalalau - Sales Manager, Ticor Title Company, University Place, Washington
“René is brilliant! René’s ability to connect people with great marketing tools is exceptional.”
Kay Wissman - VP/County Manager, Ticor Title Company, Roseburg, Oregon
"Rene is a mentor through various networking groups and freely gives his great knowledge and expertise to all who request it. He has helped me improve both my individual and my companies online presence and brand."
“As a teacher, Rene has a gift for making the complex seem simple. He has been intsrumental in explaining the how-to's and why's of enhancing my online presence in today's marketplace. I have seen immediate results personally and for the firm for which I work.”
Rob Rieder - Real Estate Consultant, Tacoma, Washington
"Wow, what a great resource, and what a wonderful impact Rene has had on so many people in such a short amount of time! This self-described 'explorer' would be called 'expert' by anyone else. Both are accurate."
Scott Lewis - Real Estate Facilitator, Coldwell Banker Pro West, Medford, Oregon
"I have attend two of Rene's seminar's and I have always walked away with great information I can use in my business immediately. The information is timely and relevant and leaves me with a little homework. Thanks Rene!"
Leslie Stewart - Realtor, CRS, eCertified, Broker, Prudential Real Estate Professionals, Stayton, Oregon
"Rene is a valuable resource when it comes to networking information. With Rene's help I have taken my online networking 10 steps ahead of any where I could ever have gone on my own."
Sean Keane - Realtor, Broker, Keller Williams Realty, Portland, Oregon
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