Wanda Greif

We have all had a listing that, for whatever reason, just does not sell. And the longer it sits on the market, the less attractive it becomes to some buyers. Price reductions can often "confirm" these buyers' misconceptions that "there must be something wrong with it."

How do you combat this? What strategies or marketing techniques do you utilize? What advice do you heed in these situations? Are there ways to make a property "fresh" again? How do you save a listing? Does your local board of REALTORS have regulations that pertain to this situation?

We'd love to hear thoughts from agents everywhere!

Do you every wish you could include the caveat "No Moms Allowed" to an agency agreement? Oh yeah, and add "Over Protective Dads", "Grandpas Who Bought Their First Home for $5,000", "Spoiled Sisters In Law" and "Know It All Best Friends"... Family and friends who accompany first time home buyers on their house hunt have good intentions, no doubt. But their lack of market knowledge, strong opinions and subjectivity can really kill a sale.

Well-meaning friends and relatives can offer so many conflicting opinions that it can cause confustion and frustration. First time home buyers start to second guess their instincts, become indecisive and reluctant, and rely too heavily on what everyone else thinks they should do.

It's a good idea for an agent to have a "Prep Talk" with clients before setting out on what can become an excruciating number of showings if things get out of control. Preparing your buyers for the process by giving them objective, informed and practical advice can prevent some of the common roadblocks.

One piece of advice that works well with first time buyers is to have them wait until they have narrowed their search down to three properties before bringing in the troops for a barrage of opinions. By the time they have narrowed it down, they have hopefully learned about their needs and wants, the realities of what their budget will buy, and their personal tastes. Also, at this point it may actually be helpful to hear what others think, as they may have experiences that could provide good insight.

By suggesting this method to buyers, you may also take a little pressure off of them by giving them a plan. It's hard to say "no" to Mom and Dad, but a simple statement, like the one below, can help ease any guilt and hard feelings and set the tone for the transaction:

"Jake and I are seeing properties this weekend. As soon as we have our top three, we will definitely need your help and opinion before making a decision."

First time home buyers in the Cedar Rapids, Iowa, area should contact Wanda Tharp for expertise, experience and trustworthiness. Contact Wanda today at WandaTharp@CBHRealty.com or 319-361-2383.

From Frontdoor.com

Read the Top 10 Things You Need to Know About Foreclosure:

1. Foreclosure is a process, not a thing.
2. The foreclosure process has four phases. The terms and length of each phase vary by state.
3. A difficult financial situation doesn't have to lead to foreclosure.
4. The mortgage lender is not eager to take your house away.
5. You can sell your home immediately when foreclosure is looming.
6. All is not lost once you get a notice of default.
7. A short sale is better than going through foreclosure.
8. Foreclosure has major legal, tax and credit consequences.
9. Buying a foreclosure property doesn't always mean you'll get a bargain.
10. Understanding your mortgage can help you avoid foreclosure.

When you choose a home, you are not just choosing what is beneath the roof and within the walls. You are choosing, a neighborhood, and essentially, a lifestyle. The Cedar Rapids area has a wide variety of neighborhoods, all with their own unique features. This post is dedicated to highlighting a little bit about what this Northeast neighborhood has to offer.

Homes in this family-orienteted neighborhood tend to sell very quickly. Many buyers are drawn to the desirable school district, and convenient location with close proximity to Rockwell Collins, the Lindale Mall area, and easy access to 1-380. The first home was built in 1964, and the area has been continually developed since. With several different phases from Bowman Woods I, II, III, Bowman Ridge and Bowman Trail, and so on, home prices range from the mid 100,000's to half a million dollars.

Many of Bowman Woods' residents enjoy the private pool and tennis court within walking distance from home. Bowman Woods Elementary also is adjacent to a lovely park and a large hill famous for sledding! Whether you are in the older section on top of Brentwood hill or the newly developed area still underconstruction, you are certain to find friendly neighbors, happy kids, and a comforting sense of home.

To visit homes available in the Bowman Woods neighborhood, contact Wanda Tharp today at 319-361-2383 or email WandaTharp@cbhrealty.com

Imagine at the age of 7 being unable to tie your shoes. Not because you haven't learned, but because it hurts too badly. Imagine at the age of 26 having your spouse dispense your toothpaste, squeezing out hair gel with your knees and being unable to turn the keys in your car's ignition. Imagine at 55 being unable to hold your grandchildren or plant mother's day flowers as you've always loved.

This is the daily reality of life with arthritis. My little sister has been living with Rheumatoid Arthritis since the age of 20. She was an all star athlete, fitness enthusiast and as healthy as can be. Never did it occur to her that at age 26, her husband would have to carry her up and down the stairs of their townhome on her "bad days".

I hope you can find a little extra change and a little extra compassion to help support our team in the upcoming Arthritis Walk. Our family takes part every year and is committed to helping find more effective treatments and a cure.

If you cannot make a financial contribution, we also welcome you to put on your walking shoes and join our team! We also gladly accept positive vibes, prayers, etc. Thank you for your consideration!
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