STAGING YOUR HOME WITH NEW ORLEANS-STYLED MUSIC (C) 2014 Wayne D. Lewis, Sr.

Guide to Preparing Your New Orleans-Styled

 Home for an Open House

 

If your home is on the market in New Orleans, one of the essential components to selling your home may not lie in whether the furniture is properly staged, but what is playing on the radio, stereo, or component set. (Component set?  How old are you?) If your home is located in the Garden District, the Irish Channel, Gert Town, 9^th Ward, New Orleans East, Gentilly, Algiers or the “Cutoff”, it shares a common bond with all of New Orleans: music. Gui

Just as great as New Orleans music is how New Orleans celebrates those who have made that music what it is.  So, if visitors just happen to hear a funeral procession in your area, they are likely to join in the “going home” of one our beloved musicians.  The music, no matter the occasion is as enveloping as any concert, because it’s New Orleans music, as only New Orleans can do.

UNCLE LIONEL BATISTE JAZZ FUNERAL 7-23-2012:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBB8OtYyUeM

New Orleans’ identity is her music and how, the world over, if anyone who hears the name of New Orleans doesn’t instinctively here the sounds of New Orleans, it is beyond me.  Just click on the links included here, and hear what others who long to visit, and do visit New Orleans’ various neighborhoods, want to hear whenever there is an Open House in New Orleans. 

If for example, when potential buyer come to visit your home on Bayou St. John, it’s possible you have the Olympic Brass Band playing softly throughout your 3 bedroom cottage.  Can visitors who come to see your home modestly staged, hear those brass horns, the shrill sound of clarinets, and that big, deep bass? ”Boom, Boom-boom”? 

Dejean’s Olympia Brass Band:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7M2SEFvyByk

 

It is her music, born as far back as Louis Armstrong who, in his rendition of “Mack the Knife” is as celebrated as Mardi Gras itself.

Louis Armstrong:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-lHrDPjGfQ

The history of our music in New Orleans continues today with the likes of outstanding notables as Trombone Shoty, Irvin Mayfield, Allen Tousant, Professor Longhair, Pete Fountain, the Late Al Hert, the Nevilles, the Baptiste Family as well as the Marsalles’, just to name a select few.  Obviously, I left out a tremendous number of notables, both past and present.  Count it to my head and not my heart, because so many of our muscians, as individuals, families, and collaborators have contributed significantly to New Orleans’s past and, her future.  Now what does this have to do with marketing your home?

You better second line! Jazz funeral in New Orleans:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EG6KH905cGU&index=10&list=RD7d1Pt2wohnQ

 Why New Orleans music during an Open House?

Music is very much New Orleans’ infrastructure.  Most cities would die to have the kind of music that makes New Orleans the historic and classy lady that she is.  Whether you start in the French Quarters, or uptown, or the 9^th ward, New Orleans’ own music flows through her the  same way the Mississippi River  flows through the pipes in our homes.  The only thing is, that music has flowed back up the river, and across the great oceans, lakes and rivers around the world.  And now, the moment someone comes to New Orleans, it would only be fair that they are reminded of the historic value that our music has not only played in making New Orleans what she is, but how it has also shaped the world with many of our great musicians who have travelled as ambassadors for this great city.

 Professor Longhair - Big Chief Part 1 & Part 2 - 45 rpmv:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UWBO4r11AY

 

By including their music in the showcasing of our homes, it speaks to the connection that we all feel to the spirit of those who have created such great music, but who today, invigorate our city and the world with music beyond compare.

 

Festive Atmosphere

Sure, you can play any music you want to when you hold your Open House.  But what music is going to capture the essence of this city that you live in so well?   And, for the most part, those who are visiting Open Houses, aren’t just people looking to move from uptown to downtown, they are looking to move in to town.  They are not just coming from the Northshore, they are coming from the North (Chicago, Atlanta, Cleveland, and/or Memphis).  Buyers are coming in from the West(California); Buyers are coming from the East (Florida and Mississippi).  But that’s not all, buyers are coming in from China and Europe, to name a few places. The atmosphere is extremely important in any home that is on the market.  And if you can’t think of any atmosphere any easier to create, putting New Orleans-style music on through your IPad, Computer, or whatever means that you may have, is sure to make the few minutes that someone visits your home on the market, truly memorable. 

The Neville Brothers Fire on the Bayou:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XXI4hvLtjKE

I have only thrown in a few links from youtube.com.  But I am sure you can find a few of your own.  Plus, you probably have a few 33’s, 45’s or LP’s hanging around that you can throw on that old component set, that will sound just as clear and crisp as the day it was waxed.  New Orleans’ music is as key to helping you market your home as a fresh coat of paint, and improving the curb appeal.  Visitors who hear New Orleans-styled music as they walk up to your door, are automatically excited and thrilled just to be in a home that features the best of New Orleans.  And unquestionably, New Orleans music is nothing short of the best. 

Make Your Best Offer, New Orleans!

"Twelve's It" // Ellis Marsalis Quartet at The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 2012:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CdXp2fFC3wU

Speaker:  If you are looking for a speaker to for your community group or school, please contact Wayne Lewis at waynelewissoldit@gmail.com

 

Disclaimer:  Not to be considered as legal advice.  Not intended to solicit the business or clients of another broker.  Information here is believed to be from reliable sources but not guaranteed.

 

MARKETING YOUR HOME DURING A SUPER BOWL-BOUND SAINTS’ WINNING SEASON © 2014

by Wayne D. Lewis, Realtor

Guide to Holding Open Houses in New Orleans

during a super season of Saints Football –Who Dat!

 

In New Orleans, there is sports, and then, there are the Saints!  As quiet as it can be kept, because it can’t really be kept too quietly, Saint’s[1] 2014-2015 is about to kick into high gear.  And, being realistic, if your home is on the market, you will have to consider creative strategies to compete with the allure, the excitement and spectacle of a football team that is destined to reach its second Super Bowl Championship for the 2014-15 season.  Bias?  A little more than slightly.  But I also know that there are homes on the market that are, without a doubt, just as spectacular and offer a world of variety, historical value, comfort and location, if not savings and equity in the New Orleans area.  The question is, how does one market competitively, their home against the hometown team of the New Orleans Saints?  Especially, as this appears to be a season to top the 2008-09 season that produced the New Orleans Saints as the 2009 Super Bowl Champions.

To suggest that there is an absolute way to market during this exciting season, would be an error in judgment, even for the most experienced set of real estate professionals, or homeowners.  In order to market one’s home during what promises to be a very exciting Saints season, one must have a set of plays ready to deploy at strategic moments during the next 17 weeks.  Of course, any of these plays that we use to market our homes may have to evolve more as we become more aware of the fact that the football season is not wholly made up of just the Saints playing, but that the Saints are on a mission.  And, in marketing our homes, we too must be on a mission that either equals or excels the excitement of the New Orleans Saints and all that that means to New Orleans.

As the Saints season fires up due to the high probability of a great winning season, it is going to be very challenging to get even the most pressing buyer out to our homes that are on the market.  We have to step up our game when it comes to marketing our homes this season in preparation for the Saints to win this season’s Super Bowl.  Hold on, it’s about to get wild up in New Orleans, and we need to be in it to win it to sell even the most prepared home, regardless of “location, location, location”.  But, we have to start somewhere.  So, let’s get started.  

As the season kicks off, know that as homeowners, it is important to be aware that we have buyers who are very knowledgeable about the timing of buying and selling a home, particularly as the home buying season takes a turn for a slower period just after Labor Day.

There is also the possibility, that there is an outlier that, although not sports related, may also play a nation-wide role in why homes are more competitive to sell during football season: school is in.  Whether as parents of students, or students ourselves, home buyers who may potentially buy homes are also focused on some form of school, even if it is high school football.  To that end, the football season maybe a source of release from studying, or from helping the kids’ with their homework.  In New Orleans, it is very likely that if not our New Orleans Saints’ magnetic draw alone, there are other worthy distractions that homeowners have to design a play that causes even the most resourceful buyer to be drawn off-side, to take a look at their home on the market.  In New Orleans, it’s nothing personal, but Saints Football as a factor in selling a home is not being taught in Real Estate classes.  The only other greater distraction in the marketing of our homes in New Orleans is Mardi Gras!

Check Out the Saint’s Schedule (See link below):

http://www.printyourbrackets.com/printable-new-orleans-saints-schedule.html [2]

A.       17 Week Challenge-If you check the schedule above, or pull out your own, there are approximately 8 home games between September 7, and December 28, 2014.  While that means that there are 8, possibly 9 other weeks (Bye-week) for homeowners to bring their A-game during the weeks that there are away games, don’t count your chickens just yet.

B.      The Bye-week-October 12, 2014 will be perhaps one of the best opportunities to make sure that a home on the market is ready to kick an onside kick.  That means don’t allow that week to get away so that buyers, who may possibly be somewhat down, depressed, or hungry for something to satisfy their hunger for awesome entertainment should have, at the very least, something compelling to grab their attention, even if for 10-15 minutes to view a house that is on the market.

C.      High Noon-11 of the 16 games for this season will be played between 12 and 1p.m.  While it is easy to conclude that these games usually last about 3 hours, one has to be aware that even if buyers aren’t going to go to a game, they are still going to be in game-mode in New Orleans.  One local radio station broadcasts anywhere from 3-4 hours before the game (whether in the Dome or not), and 3-4 hours after the game, plus broadcasts the game itself.  For those who want to hear how the players will be analyzed, dissected and praised, for the true die-hards of us that love the Saints, the challenge to hold an Open House has to include a radio or TV near-by that is tuned into some form of Saint’s oriented play-by-play during an Open House.  Why?  Because if anyone walks through that door, you need to be prepared to tell them the score from the time they walked from the car, around the corner, or if they flew in on a magic carpet.  It’s a challenge for a die-hard Saints fan to go to an Open House, so, at the very least, if you don’t know the score, have the game on.  Be ready for some extra company too.  Make it a festive atmosphere while you have visitors.

D.      Off-Sunday Games-An opportunity to hold an Open House also comes when, if we are lucky, the Saints play during the week.  For example, they play 2 Monday Night games (November 24 & December 15), the Ravens and the Bears, respectively. This leaves Sunday, November 23^rd and December 14 wide open to do a Quarterback sneak.  The Saints also play a Thursday night game on October 30, 2014, where they play the Steelers.  So, that November 2, 2014 is an opening in the offensive line to rush the passer, so to speak, and get an Open House in that sacks a buyer with a ready to view, and contract-ready display.

E.      Risky Games to Hold an Open House Against (my opinion)- If it isn’t too late, please be ready for the Saints vs Atlanta (September 7) or, Atlanta vs the Saints (December 21).  Whether they play here in New Orleans, or in Atlanta, holding an Open House will make you the equivalent of the old “Maytag Repairman”.  Let’s be real.  Atlanta and New Orleans have one of the biggest, deepest, longest love-hate relationships of any team in the NFL.  Let’s keep it real.  If you don’t know this, you don’t know nothing about New Orleans Football, particularly, the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta.  We don’t discuss this in mixed company, but New Orleans fans refer to the Atlanta Falcons as the “Dirty Birds”.  (But you didn’t hear that from me).   During these two matchups, very little gets done in and around the city.  If anything, tail-gating takes on a greater level.  It’s not only hotdogs, burgers, wings, but also ribs, gumbo, dirty rice, jambalaya, and an assortment of beverages, which we won’t name here.  All of your work to try to get anyone to come and look at your home will be for naught.  You may as well bring your TV or radio, because you will be watching the game by yourself, and hardly anyone will venture to your property on the market.  But, nothing beats a failure but a try, as long as it includes something to eat, drink and, at the very least, something to listen to the game.  It is a risk to hold an Open House during these 2 games, but have something in your arsenal equivalent to a Hail Mary play that will get the most definitive Saints-Falcon fan to bring their happy little feet to anyone’s Open House.  Just saying.

Now, let’s get out our playbooks, and design a set of plays that could possibly bring potential buyers to our homes during another fantastic Saints’ season.[i]

Showings

                                                              i.      Sunday Open Houses still draw some interested buyers, some of whom may still be on the fence.  However, during football seasons, that Sunday Open House has to be strategic.  It has to be either on a By-week; a week where the Saints are playing a Monday-night game, a Thursday-night game, or a late Sunday-night game.  These are small windows of opportunities for your home to really “pop”.  Many other homes are on the market during these times, and your home has a very limited opportunity when the majority of those potentially serious home buyers will actually go out to see what’s on the market;

                                                            ii.      Saturday and Dusk Open Houses-These are the opportunities to step out of the box.  A Saturday Open House, during the football season, in New Orleans, is not without its’ drawbacks as well.  The number one football team in LA, LSU occupies 8-12 weeks of free time as well.  Knowing their schedule helps to produce a better turnout of potential buyers.

                                                          iii.      When They Come-When potential buyers come, what do you do?  It is not enough that they showed up, as the seller, you need to show up to, figuratively (you don’t need to be present during Open Houses).  As your Realtor will share with you, they can show your home, but it is important that you as the seller present a home that is ready to be sold.  Here are some additional tips:

1.      Smells-use odor neutralizing sprays or unscented candles;

2.      Make sure doorknobs and handles are tightly in place;

3.      Make up beds, clean out closets

4.      Even if in the process of moving, stack any boxes in the garage, or arrange to place in storage

5.      Make sure lighting is perfect-have all light bulbs replaced

6.      Correct any running toilets

The Competitive Edge-

During the football season, a home on the market is in good company.  Per the local MLS reading[3], there are over 1000 residential properties for sale right now, in the New Orleans area, going into the regular football season.  Some may have contracts pending that aren’t recorded, or other factors maybe in play.  But the number of homes that are actually on the market can’t be that far off from my review.  Your home, now more than ever, has to step up her game.  It’s time to huddle, throw away the Summer season of marketing your home where you may have had a high visitor-rate because school was closed, or families were vacationing in the New Orleans area. Get ready to pull out the winning plays that are going to help you market your home effectively.  Let’s see what we can suggest.

A.       Nighttime-  Believe it or not, buyers look at homes at night, as well.   They drive through the neighborhoods that have potential homes for sale.  A home with a For Sale sign in front of a well-lighted home gives potential buyers an extra sense of comfort.  In addition to the aesthetic view of the home, security is also important, as a well-lighted home conveys a sense of security.

B.      Day time-During the day, if your home has landscaping that has not been upgraded, this would be that time!  It’s not enough to have the grass cut, make it look manicured.  Make sure the roses are pruned, the hedges may need to have a little shape to them.  Additionally, if an old car hasn’t been re-moved from in front of the house in some time, have it towed off.  Also during the day time, although you may be at work, it would be a plus to make sure your home appears occupied-lived in and enjoyed.  Leave blinds open, hang some plants from the porch and water them.  The water on the porch will suggest that you take care of the home.

C.      Throw A Party!  Well, not really, but one of the things that I find particularly noteworthy is that sometimes neighbors have a family member that they would love to move near them.  Get to know your neighbors (preferably before having to sell your home).  Invite them over for a private showing or little get together.  It’s possible that neighbor maybe reminded of a family member who may just love your home.  You may want to find out who your neighbor’s favorite team is (other than the Saints). Select a day when and where football won’t be a distraction (at least try).  Perhaps you can have a catered event and invite immediate neighbors, church members, or invite colleagues from work over to your home while it is on the market.  During this time, have information out on the home, including any financial assistance, your agent information, and perhaps a disclosure on your home.  If they have any questions, refer them to your agent.

D.     Bulletin Boards-While your agent is marketing in newspapers, on-line and the like, you as a homeowner have access to locations that your agent doesn’t have access to (your job, for example).  Unless disallowed, put flyers of your home on the bulletin board of the lunch rooms.  You can put tear off sheets on the flyer for potential buyers to call your agent.  Church is also a great place to put up a flyer with your agent’s contact information.

 
Conclusion

We have just shared a few suggestions as to how to take it to another level on marketing your home against an awesome team season of the New Orleans Saints.  Buyers are still on the prowl, but they will have to be distracted by a hard-count, that draws them off-side, if but for a commercial break, to see your home.    Noting most importantly, that it doesn’t really matter if you get a buyer into the home if it is a disappointment.  Make sure your home shines, like the Lombardi Trophy[4].  In addition to curb appeal, which is nothing to take for granted, the first 2-3 steps inside your home’s front entrance must be captivating, inspiring and motivating to a potential buyer, who has to feel like they are walking into an atmosphere worthy of taking time out from the half-time break of 15 minutes, so that even if they go back and watch the game, they are marking their scorecard with your home in mind.  Make this Saint season the right season to sell your home, so that you cannot only celebrate the sale of your home, but the Saints historic second winning of the Super Bowl.  Make Your Best Offer!  

Speaker:  If you are looking for a speaker to speak to your community group or school, please contact Wayne Lewis at waynelewissoldit@gmail.com

Disclaimer:  Not to be considered as legal advice.  Not intended to solicit the business or clients of another broker.  Information here is believed to be from reliable sources but not guaranteed. Information contained herein should  not be considered as an endorsement of any products or services.

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[1] New Orleans Saints- http://www.neworleanssaints.com/ 

[2] Saints Schedule 2014-  http://www.printyourbrackets.com/printable-new-orleans-saints-schedule.html

 (not an endorsement)       

[3] MLS-  http://nom.mlxchange.com/  (membership required)

[4] Lombardi Trophy- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vince_Lombardi_Trophy

 

 

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[i] Consult with your respective New Orleans Realtor(s) before enacting or following these suggestions, as your situation(s) may vary.  Or, call your Realtor of choice for their suggestions on how best to market your home during the Saints 2014-15 super-winning season.

SHOULD YOU BUY A HOME WARRANTY? (C) 2014 by Wayne Lewis, Sr.

 The cost of a home warranty, for single home can range rom $300 to $700, depending on the features/coverage that you, as a buyer, are looking for, or choose to select.  Please consult with your agent or home warranty specialist for details.

As a purchaser, 3 things that you may want to be aware of in most the purchases of home warranty are the following:

A.  Deductible-The deductible can vary from $50 to $100 in some cases, depending on the program you select.  The deductible is generally required as with any warranty.  Depending on the policy, it can be paid to Servicer or to the Home Warranty company (see your policy for details).  In most cases, the deductible is per incident.  For example: If a covered item (Stove) malfunctions during the coverage period, and another covered item (A/C) goes out, the deductible, ($50 for example), the total deductible will be for $100.  This is, of course, deducted from the total cost of repairing the covered item.

B.  Not Covered:  Check your policy, but you may have several items that are not covered for at least 2 reasons:  A.  The item was not working at the time the policy was put in effect (pre-existing condition), or B. the damage or disrepair to an otherwise covered item was such that the policy excludes coverage if the item was not used in the manner in which it was designed.  For example: putting lawn mower parts in the washing machine, and the tub comes off of its base-not covered. 

C.  Saves Money- The amount of money saved cannot be predicted in this forum.   However, there are 2 trains of thought that come to mind.  First, in many cases, the home warranties can be negotiated to be paid for by the seller of the home.  The coverage is often paid for out of the closing proceeds, so the seller hardly notices.  The buyer is receiving an awesome "gift" that should lend itself to a piece of mind, knowing that if a major repair occurs, the worst case-scenario is the deductible, all things considered.  Secondly, if the seller chooses not to buy it at closing, the buyer still has the option to purchase a warranty, and piece of mind. The main benefit, even if nothing happens, is having something that if needed is there to save money on otherwise costly repairs.

Compare Reviews on Home Warranty Companies:
http://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/aaa_warranties.html

There are other benefits to purchasing a home warranty.  Consult with your Realtor or Home Warranty Specialist to determine what is the policy for your home and for you.  There are a number o home warranty companies on the market, so feel free to use the link above to shop for the Home Warranty program available.  Hopefully, this information will give you an indication of the value of purchasing a home warranty when buying your new home.  Note that your home does not have to be new, and for the most part, your covered items just need to be in working order at the time you purchased your home.  Good luck, and don't forget, always MAKE YOUR BEST OFFER!

Disclaimer:  Information provided here is deemed to be from reliable sources, but not guaranteed.  Not an intent to solicit the business or clients of other brokers.  No information contained herein should be considered as an endorsement of any services or company.

HAVE YOU CHANGED YOUR LOCKS? © 2014 by Wayne D. Lewis, Realtor

 

Have you changed the locks on your home since you bought it?  How long has it been?  1 week?  1 year?  Nothing has happened?  Fantastic!  Hopefully, nothing ever will.  But, why chance it?  Yes, the last owner gave you all of the keys that they had at closing, but were they all of the keys that were given out to your new home?  What are the odds that someone from the previous owners’ past (a son, granddaughter, or tenant), may come out of the blue and enter your home?  Perhaps slim, but again, why chance it? 

If it is about cost, then we know the cost can be measured very easily.  Let’s take a look:

Weigh the cost of someone who enters your home without permission, but with a key, who then proceeds to take your valuables compared to replacing a lock or locks to all of your external doors  What do you think the difference in cost is?

If for example, someone removes expensive dishes, jewelry, laptops and/or computers, tv’s or appliances, what is the cost of anyone of these items to replacing a lock or having the locks changed?

The probability factor is probably greater that someone will break into your home without a key before someone will come back with a key.  But, for the sake of peace of mind, safety and reducing the risk of losing valuable possessions, a locksmith can possibly come to your home and change the locks for between $25 and $50, depending on the type of locks that you have, or the type of locks and number of keys that you may request.

Isn't it worth the peace of mind to change your locks or have your locks rekeyed?

Speaker:  If you are looking for a speaker to speak to your community group or school, please contact Wayne Lewis at waynelewissoldit@gmail.com

 

Disclaimer:  Not to be considered as legal advice.  Not intended to solicit the business or clients of another broker.  Information here is believed to be from reliable sources but not guaranteed.

HEY MISTER! SHOW ME SOMETHING![1]© 2014 By Wayne D. Lewis, Sr.

5 Questions Buyers Maybe Asked

 When Calling a Real Estate Agent

By Wayne D. Lewis, Sr.

 

As the home buying season gets ready to kick into full gear, agents are waiting to hear from buyers.  Whether the buyers are standing in front of homes with FOR SALE signs, or from the various real estate websites on their laptops, tablets or cell phones, buyers are going to call their local real estate offices and agents.  Their main objective:  “Come show me this house!”  For agents on the other end, nothing would be more welcoming than to receive such a call, and then rush out to meet a perspective buyer at the home of the potential buyer’s choice.  Only…….

This approach to buying a home has many drawbacks, both for buyers and agents, and while it would be exciting for each agent to run out and meet a perspective buyer at a home that maybe the purchaser’s desired home, it would be important for a real estate professional to take important steps to help the buyer to choose a home that is right for them.

Even after the showing, buyers may find that the house needs more work than they intend to do, or that the price of the house is way more than they expected to pay for the small bedrooms, or the galley-size kitchen.  So, for the real estate agent, it may help both the buyer, as well as the seller, if a few questions were asked (by the agent), and answered (by the buyer).  The intent is to save time and frustration that may ultimately discourage the buyer right off the bat if they are either a first-time home buyer or, are looking at their next home to move up to, move down to or, are relocating to a new area.

Below, are just five important questions that buyers and agents should be able to discuss before meeting for the first time at a home that is FOR SALE.  These questions are not designed to discourage the buyer from seeing, nor the agent from showing the property.  But, these questions are in an effort for both buyer and agent to have a reasonable idea of what the buyer’s expectations are, and how the agent can help the buyer achieve his or her goal.  Here are five basic questions with a few sub-questions that may need to be asked in order for the agent to be well informed about the direction the buyer is intending to go in the home buying process (Questions are in no set order):

1. How long have you been looking at homes?
    
2. What are you hoping to see as you look at this home? For example:
   1. Is it important to you that the master bedroom is only 11’ X 10’?
   2. Are you aware this home only has 1 bathroom?
   3. Does it matter to you that the property is occupied?
       
3. Are you looking at other homes in this neighborhood?
   1. How does this home compare to other homes you have looked at before
   2. How did you preview the other homes?
   3. What do you like about this neighborhood/home?
       
4. How did you come across this home?
   1. Did you find it driving by?
   2. Did you find it using the internet?
   3. Are you working with an agent?
       
5. I may need to give the seller 24 hour notice before showing their home, can you give me another time option for tomorrow, if necessary?
   1. What is your name?
   2. What is your contact number if I need to call you back if something changes?
   3. Do I have permission to bring information on other properties in the area?
   4. Will you be needing any information on financing, or have your secured financing already?
       
      Now, if we count, there are actually 18 questions here.  But note how the additional questions are related to the prime question.  These questions are necessary not only to the agent, but to the buyer, as well as to the seller’s agent, and the seller.   The seller’s agent and seller need to be aware of who is being shown their home?  They need to know how often the house is being shown, or how often someone calls in on their home.  The agent needs to have an idea of the buyer’s determination, and readiness to buy a home.  The process of buying a home is strongly related to selling a home, and there are many aspects to the process that requires not only that questions be asked, but what questions are also answered. 
       
      Additionally, the questions that a real estate agent may ask, helps them sell themselves as a professional.  Granted, many of these questions could be asked at the house when the buyer and agent meet, asking some of the questions before hand, also helps set the stage for how the real estate professional acquires information, and how that information is processed well enough between the initial call and the initial showing.  As a buyer, you may want your real estate professional prepared and informed when they meet with you, even if on a drive by showing that started with just a FOR SALE sign in the front yard.
       
      The questions above are just a snapshot of the types of questions that your real estate professional may ask.  Your questions, and answers, may vary.  But as a buyer, you should be prepared to answer any number of questions leading up to, and including, showing a given home for the first time.  As always, regardless of which home you choose, be sure to Make Your Best Offer![2]
       

SPEAKER: If interested in having Wayne Lewis speak before your community group, please email him at waynelewissoldit@gmail.com

 

DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED IS DEEMED TO BE FROM RELIABLE SOURCES, BUT NOT GUARANTEED.  NOT AN INTENT TO SOLICIT THE AGENTS, CUSTOMERS OR BUSINESS OF ANY OTHER AGENT OR BROKER. NO INFORMATION PROVIDED THROUGH ANY OF THE POSTS ON THIS BLOG SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AS LEGAL OR FINANCIAL ADVICE.  PLEASE CONSULT YOUR ATTORNEY, FINANCIAL ADVISOR OR RELATED PROFESSIONAL REGARDING INFORMATION PERTAINING TO YOUR CASE.

 

 

 

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[1] The title of this post is taken from the famous phrase: “Hey Mister, throw me something!”  Many of us know this phrase all too well, as it comes from the throngs of parade goers at Mardi Gras here in New Orleans.   While the title is “Hey Mister, Show Me Something,” this in no way seeks to diminish or discriminate against our female real estate professionals throughout the real estate industry.

 

[2] Make Your Best Offer! ©2014 by Wayne D. Lewis, Sr.

DO NOT TEXT AND BUY (REAL ESTATE) © 2014 By Wayne D. Lewis, Sr.

4 Concerns Why You Should Be Careful

When Texting in the Sale of Real Estate

By Wayne D. Lewis, Sr.

 

 

The challenges of buying and selling real estate have become integrally meshed with technology.  Being from the old school, I remember the big old books that we would have to order each quarter, if we wanted to stay in the loop in order to help our clients with the latest on properties on the market.  Today not only allows us as agents to access the most recent of information regarding buying and selling properties in our respective areas, but, technology also allows buyers and sellers to have access to virtually the same information.  To that end, we as real estate professionals need to be just as informed in order to know where that divide exists between the most informed buyer and seller, and those who are waiting to be informed.

Among the many things that technology allows buyers and sellers to do, is to email, video tape, digitally sign, or text their questions and responses throughout the buying process.  For example, a potential buyer may ask an agent a question about a home via text, along with a picture, that requires an informed answer, and quickly.  If the agent doesn’t reply quickly, that buyer maybe off to find a real estate professional who is more likely to respond, and, more quickly.  Texting obviously provides an opportunity for buyers in particular to inquire about prices, how many bedrooms, or baths.  Texting also allows for the agent to send photos, or in some cases attachments that the tech-savy buyer can pull up right away on their cellular device, or a Smartphone[1], thus, helping the buyer to make a very important decision as to whether to buy, or put off buying a particular property.  But texting, as good as it is, should not be fully relied upon during the home buying process.  Below, I’ll explain four (4) reasons why shortly.

THE BENEFITS OF TEXTING- There is no question about it, texting is an extremely beneficial tool of communicating.  As many of us have come to know, we will most likely see someone texting a friend across the room, rather than talk to them face-to-face.  Not that there’s anything wrong with that! (In my Jerry Seinfeld voice)[2].  The benefits have no doubt been far reaching.  From school activities where parents can keep tabs on their kids for extra-curricular activities. Or, where families can communicate at a shopping mall or a large amusement park, texting has become very important to many of us.  But, as important as texting is, there are times when texting should be used sparingly.   One area is buying and selling Real Estate.  Here are four reasons why:

LIMITED COMMUNICATIONS

1.  Deadlines-Whenever discussing time and deadlines, neither a buyer nor seller, should rely solely on texting their commitments.  An improper text message with respect to time could cause the loss of an investment.  For example, if in texting, a buyer agrees to submit a deposit by 12 without indicating noon or midnight, a deal could be lost.  Additionally, in response to a deadline, texting a response does not necessarily commit a seller or buyer with respect to a contract deadline.  If for example, a seller has until 9a.m. Feb 25^th, to accept a counter offer, a texted message may not be a sufficient response to the buyer who has taken the time to submit a formal counter offer.  Unless so stipulated as acceptable in advance, submitting a text message should only be used to confirm that the formal response was received, on time.
    
2. Auto Correction-If any of us have had our misfortune with auto-correction and text messages, we know that we need to be very careful in sending specific information.  Whether it has to do with a reimbursement on a repair for a (fight) light; or paying $3000 for closing (cots) costs, or a dome (home) warranty (exaggerated examples), if a textual response has terms in it that causes the respondent to wonder if you are a serious buyer, it is possible that the respondent could start taking evasive action by not responding at all to any of your text messages.  When texting about something as important as buying and selling a house, you will want to seem attentive in detail to the recipient.  So, try to avoid texting large volumes of important details, where the possibility of sending misspelled words, left out words or words that may send a totally different message than intended.
    
3. Backup to Other Sources-Texting in the buying and selling of real estate should only be used as an alternative to other sources.  One of the most reliable sources for transferring information electronically is emailing, and second to that, is faxing.  Whatever other sources are included, it must at least reference what was texted so that it reduces confusion between the intent of the message sent and the perception of the message received.  What we are trying to avoid is getting to the closing table where someone pulls out a text message that, for all practical purposes, contradicts, or seems to present an altogether different message than what the HUD or Settlement Statement is revealing.   
    
4. Group Texting-The idea of group texting should be very limited, if not avoided altogether.  The backlash of group texting is that someone in response may reveal coveted information that may compromise your position as a buyer or seller.  If you must group text, include the term group text in the initial text message.  But the best thing to do is avoid group texting when it comes to negotiating or relaying any information in the purchase or sale of your home or investment.
    
   As valuable as it is in our daily communications, texting in any aspect of the home buying process should serve as a back up to email, phone calls and formal documents.  Particularly, where any acknowledgement requires a written approval or concession between buyer and seller.  While it is fast becoming a wonder as to what or how we functioned before texting, texting should be seen in the context that it offers:  a brief message, that addresses social, and in many cases, pertinent issues.  However, because of what is often on the table when we are talking about buying and selling real estate, the need to ensure that which we intend to convey, is not left to texting as a primary source of making an offer, counter offer, accepting an offer, or even rejecting an offer.   Texting should be extremely limited, and backed up by confirmation, including, but not limited to a face-to-face conversation, or by (cell) phone.

In Conclusion-  The above are just four of several concerns we should all share in when it comes to buying and selling real estate.  There are other concerns when it comes to the use of social media, but if nothing else, they should be some concerns of your own as you sit with your device in hand, and prepare to respond to, or initiate information in a textual form as it relates to buying and selling your home, or real estate investment.  It will be easy to send that text, but be sure that what is sent is what is understood.  These four areas should be considered along with the overall importance of buying and selling real property.  The time and effort involved in buying and selling real property should not be risked with the latest gadgets and devices of social media that it risks the loss of a property, or perhaps even, thousands, if not millions of dollars by a buyer or seller.  To answer the impending question:  Yes, it’s that serious.  My advice: Do not text and buy (real estate).

SPEAKER: If interested in having Wayne Lewis speak before your community group, please email him at waynelewissoldit@yahoo.com

 

DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED IS DEEMED TO BE FROM RELIABLE SOURCES, BUT NOT GUARANTEED.  NOT AN INTENT TO SOLICIT THE AGENTS, CUSTOMERS OR BUSINESS OF ANY OTHER AGENT OR BROKER.

 

 

 

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[1] Smartphone- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smartphone

[2] Jerry Seinfeld- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oj3VphK9AMk