Sell Your Home with Margaret Rome

The Best Part of My Job

2009-06-13T11:46:00.001-04:00

Now I am really happy! Two very special people..both my friends... what pleasure getting you together. Think it was better than a matchmaker. I adore you both!

Tim, I was honored to be one to preview your future best seller, Create a Great Deal. Can't wait to get my hands on the finished masterpiece. Love your writing, you wisdom, your message, your manner of teaching, your kindness...and a fabulous book for all of us to read!

Congratulations to you both.

I remember the day 12/18/2008 when my books were delivered..your smile says it all.

Via Peg Silloway (The Silloway Press):

It's the phone call – "They're perfect!" – when an author receives the first shipment of books. It's the photographs of the justifiably proud author holding the first copy out of the carton. Writing a book is hard work and takes longer than anyone thinks it will. To complete that, and then to actually publish the book, that's something to be very proud of.

Today I'm celebrating Tim Burrell's accomplishment. His book, Create a Great Deal: The Art of Real Estate Negotiating, is one of the best I've seen on the subject. It's well written and has an eye-catching cover thanks to the design skill of his wife, Judy Burrell. It's already received a very good review by Bernice Ross in Inman News on June 1, and endorsements from many of the top names in the business.

Tim knows a thing or two about marketing in addition to his formidable negotiation skills, and I expect this book will be a great success.

Yep, it's my favorite part.

Palm Pre...Definitely Worth the Wait - Baltimore, MD

2009-06-12T11:42:00.000-04:00

Palm Pre...Definitely Worth the Wait in Baltimore,Md.

Any one who knows me knows that I am a Palm person, starting way back with the Palm V. Loved learning how to use that first PDA. I have moved up to the Palm 700P but knew my time was limited, hoping that my trusty Treo could hold up until the Palm Pre arrived. It did!

I was standing in line at the Sprint store that Saturday morning before 7:30AM with Dick Betts; the only difference was that he was in Florida and I was in Maryland. This little bit of distance did not stop either one of us from texting and updating about the phone. I was number 14 in line in Baltimore and he was number 16 in Ocala. Michael and Yvonne at the Sprint store helped with that early morning rush. I found out that the Palm Pre...Definitely Worth the Wait-Baltimore,Md.

When I first touched the display phone I texted Dick saying it was going to take some time to get used to using the QWERTY keyboard because the keys were even smaller than my Treo. But as soon as I got my hands on this sweet little beauty I found I could use my nails for the keys - yeah, I do love that. (I've always used my fingernails and never the stylus, and the the Pre does not use a stylus so I didn't have to unlearn that.)

I am envious that Dick had the luxury of spending unlimited time with his new Pre. I had to show properties and sell a couple of condos, attend an all day class, meet with my publisher, write an offer, attend a funeral, set up home inspections, etc. I need to spend lots more time on my new toy, but I love it so far. Can't wait to read Dick's website with Tips and Tricks for this new tool - hope he will hurry up so I can have the benefit of all this learning!

With over 7000 contacts it took awhile to transfer the data to the new Pre. We did this in the Sprint store, or so I thought, but found out later that only my facebook contacts transferred over. And in the process I discovered a neat feature of the new Pre - the usb cable is part of the wall charger!

Using this cable is how we finally transferred the data.... we used the old hot sync from the TREO then placed the data on a newer computer and then transferring to the new phone.

Still have a lot to learn, but I'm loving this new Palm Pre. I'm also sold on the quality and sound.... the reception is so much better. No "dead" spots in my home or neighborhood.

Palm Pre...Definitely Worth the Wait in Baltimore,Md.

Ice on the Pool in June - Baltimore, Maryland

2009-06-11T11:40:00.000-04:00

It was late on Tuesday after a wonderfully long day, one of those very hot and humid Baltimore days. I had an appointment to show my listing at 3408 Terrapin Rd, parked my car in the driveway and went to open the house. You know - open the shades, turn on all the lights - all that typical stuff we agents do to ready a home for visitors. Suddenly I heard the wind kick up and watched as the sky turned that threatening dark that means a serious storm is brewing. I ran back out to the driveway to move my car under the carport - you remember that special car? – I did not want any dents!

Ran back in the house just in time before the noise and excitement began. Have you ever heard hail in a storm on a skylight?

Looking out the big windows of this contemporary home I watched as heavy hail pelted the ground. Grabbed my camera just in time to see this quick quirk of nature cover the in-ground pool cover with ice balls. These photos are of the actual rain/hail/wind storm – they are blurry not because I was shaking, but because it was coming down so fast and hard!

A few minutes later all was calm and quiet. The ice melted in the afternoon heat, and a beautiful cool breeze came up for the drive home. A nice reward after a long and (briefly) exciting day.

Yes there really was Ice on the Pool...in June -Baltimore, Maryland

An Exciting Day in Class - Baltimore, Maryland

2009-06-10T11:38:00.000-04:00

It wasn't the subject matter. It wasn't even the results of the quiz. As usual, what made the day exciting was the people. An Exciting Day in Class-Baltimore,Maryland

A few days ago I wrote about Anna in my broker class, and how she's a great fan of the Kindle, Amazon's e-book reader. Well yesterday she had it with her and was showing us all how it works. It is so thin, so neat!

But it got better. She pulled up the cover of my book, showed how to turn the pages, and how to put the curser before a word and voilá...the definition.

But she wasn’t done yet – there was one more special feature. The Kindle reads to you. There in front of about 15 other brokers/agents... my book was been read aloud! As one person commented "It sure doesn't sound like you." Nope, it didn't - it was a male voice. Hmm….wonder if you could change that to a female voice with a bit of a southern accent?

It was An Exciting Day in Class-Baltimore,Maryland

Tweeting or Blogging or Meeting Face-to-Face? Baltimore,Maryland

2009-06-04T11:34:00.001-04:00

In the last week I've spent a lunch meeting learning about Twitter, I've been online for hours reading and communicating, and I've visited the annual publishing show in New York to find that most of the buzz was about the growth in ebooks and the influence of the Kindle on the world of books. Everywhere you go, people are texting and tweeting and blogging, often all sitting together and not actually talking to each other! Is this the future?

I don't believe so. Personal connections still make a difference whether you're talking about real estate or any other profession. During that Twitter class, everyone was focused on learning how to make the best use of this 140-character message tool. It was a lunch-and-learn session, but I got so into it that I forgot to eat my lunch.

Sponsored by our local NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners) chapter, there was a good crowd. And because I was there in person, and could talk face-to-face with people, one of them also bought a copy of my book.

And again a couple of days ago I was in my broker's class and met Anna Privalova. She told me that she had been in one of Anne Hruby's GRI classes and heard me speak. One of my favorite things is talking with new agents.... Speaking, Networking, Making Connections!!

Anna said that she has been following me on Active Rain and knew about the book. When she asked how to get a copy, I mentioned all the usual options – Barnes & Noble, Amazon, my site, the publisher's site, and the Kindle version. Her eyes lit up, and she said that if it's about real estate she owns it, but not all books are available on Kindle.

Right there in class she pulled up the Kindle site and ordered the book. Would she have done that if we hadn't met and talked in person? I doubt it.

The world of communication is changing. We can reach many more people faster than ever before. But for true communication I still believe that we need the human element for our complete message to get through. I love the way technology makes my business work better and smarter, but I will NOT stop answering my phone , making my own appointments Yes, I DO! , showing my properties(when necessary) and meeting appraisers and inspectors.

Because that's where the best communication takes place.

Tweeting or Blogging or Meeting Face-to-Face? Baltimore,Maryland

The Big Apple - a Four Day Whirlwing

2009-06-01T23:30:00.001-04:00

On Sunday evening we are sitting on the Acela train after a whirlwind four days in the Big Apple.

It all started on Thursday with a trip to our New York oncologist where we got the best news of all - no change - Lee can come back in one year!

Before the doctor's appointment we stopped at THE Carnegie Deli. (I noticed that Margaret Woda wrote about Rip's Reuben) but let me tell you I think the Carnegie's Reuben might be better.

And look at the size of the pie...no we didn't have any until later that day.

Thursday night we had tickets to "South Pacific" 3 rows from the stage...it doesn't get any better! No need for my opera glasses.

Friday started with a call from Carolyn Tann-Starr who met us at the Milford Plaza and drove us to the Meridien where we had the most decadent and delicious brunch celebrating Lee's birthday and our Anniversary the following day. As many of you know, we count the days we've been married....and May 30th was 14,975 days.

We had a wonderful time including a photo shoot, the two of us taking shots of the hotel, the food, everything. Take a look at her post which I re-blogged and I will try not to duplicate our photos. An Incredible Brunch At Norma's (The Wordy C Margaret Rome Interview.

After lunch, we taxied Lee back to the hotel and went on to the Javits Center for the Book Expo America (BEA), one of the main reasons for this trip.

Books, books everywhere, and we even found mine, Real Estate the Rome Way,and then lots of neat neat titles, and a book with ROME + on a black and white and ROME+ on a white and black.

And the entire time C Tann and I talked about ourselves, our careers, our dreams, our families, our books, our blogs and anything else that came up. There was no shortage of conversation, and the day flew by.

One of the highlights was taking a bike taxi. Imagine the two of us, free to talk to each other, free to photograph, free to speak to people on the street – cab drivers, doormen, tourists – it was like being in a parade. I even did the Miss America WAVE, you know with the palm going side to side.

I have decided that in New York City you can close your eyes, turn 360 degrees, and point the camera - there is not a bad shot to be had!

Before I knew it, it was 6:30 pm and Lee was calling. "Don't forget we have to pick up tickets for our 8:00 pm show." And then another wonderful show, this time we saw "Billy Elliott." My day continued with more walking and seeing the sights of Manhattan, but there was no time to blog about the wonderful day with C Tann.

Then it was Saturday...hey, wait ...it was afternoon...we forgot to get up. There is not much sleeping time in NYC. Lee and I did more walking, more sightseeing and just happened to stop at the "Lion King" box office. Yeah, right, just get tickets on the same day and a Saturday night to boot? They had "Lion King" tickets for us, row M on the aisle. It was our lucky weekend - how could we not take them? A fabulous production with all those characters coming down the isles - we were in the perfect seats.

(Did you know that Michelle and Barack were in the same block having dinner and a show just like us?) Afterward we had a snack at Juniors right next to the theater. There were hoards of people waiting in a line that went for blocks and blocks – we had to find out why - a concert "Black Star."

Sunday morning Josef Katz called to say he was going to be in Manhattan; I said, "Great! Meet us at the hotel." Together we walked a few blocks on 8th Avenue to 49th or 50th and had a beautiful brunch at Thalia's, recommended by our friend Sandie Nagel.

We took the Acela home and I could have been singing I've Been Workin' On the Railroad... where the train stopped somewhere near Baltimore. There was a disabled train on the tracks, they had to switch passengers, clear the tracks of the broken train. before we could move again. And I was blogging all the way.

Got a call from Carolyn and there was more chatting about the day and then.... my tablet turned off and for a moment... there was a bit of panic ( because I Don't Do Upset! ) thinking this entire post was lost.

Just a wonderful four day whirlwind in the Big Apple. Had to go to the gym this morning, just to slow my pace down..

Incredible Brunch at Norma's (The Wordy C Margaret Rome Interview)

2009-06-01T14:34:00.000-04:00

OMG.....each and every paragraph is worthy of a separate blog. My only fear is that it will be missed by many because there is so much good stuff crammed into one post...just like our incredible time together....so much important stuff crammed into a few hours. You are an amazing wonderful friend with unlimited kindness, sharing and boundless energy.

...And you have a PHD in this Type E personality thing!

Via C Tann-Starr (TannStarr.com TannStarr.ws REMAX People Realty):

When social media divas take time out of their busy schedules to share several of their business secrets one should never squander the rare moment that is the gift of shared time. Trendsetters, movers and shakers are fascinating people. You never know what nuggets of wisdom you're going to receive from them. On the flip side, you may find yourself in the position to help them out on a project when you least expect it simply because they need something that you do. You may not know how important your past life's work is, or a hobby you love, until you actually share a bit of yourself with another person.

In the blogosphere, just like in mathematics, the whole is equal to the sum of its parts. Start with little pieces that you feel comfortable with. As your relationships grow, the rest will follow. What you decide to do or share is completely up to you.

Whether a relationship, vendor or consumer, everyone is always looking for something that they need. Being present is half the battle. Sharing something of yourself another part. Letting people know who you are and what you do and what you want is how the dialog gets started. Your likes and dislikes will attract and repel people towards and away from you. What you do with your talents, attitudes and resources create your moments of opportunity. Each window of opportunity will determine what doors open and close regarding your future. Your interpersonal communication skills do not have to be perfect, they just have to be put to good use so you do not miss your moment when it arrives.

Social media is about being social. Most people want to like who they are spending time and doing business with. It doesn't matter if they find you on AR, Twitter, Facebook, Trulia, LinkedIn... What matters is that you pick your platform and run with your virtual ball. You have to create a court to play in. The more you write, the more readers comment, the more you evolve, the more people come back to read you and continue the conversations. They watch how you respond to others with your comments and they make decisions about whether they want to associate with someone who thinks and reacts like you do. You have to brand your blog. You have to brand your projects. You have to brand you...

You can not divorce your brand from you and your art. Writing is an art form where you get to express yourself in many variables or nuances of persuasion. Every time you debate a point you are trying to influence someone. If you don't believe that then get out while you can. Social media requires a skill set based upon information packaged to engage the readers' imagination so they can picture what it is that you see, feel and hear and take a virtual journey with you to a targeted destination. It doesn't matter if you are chatting between Mafia Wars or Sorority, writing in the comment sections, direct messaging or tweeting your comments. What matters is that you are engaged in a dialog, period.

Original content is the key. You will be known by your body of work so arguing one platform is better or worse than another is a moot point. Search engine optimization is also a moot point if you have nothing to say. Micro-blogging is still blogging so don't think your twitter conversations are not being indexed and compiled. Something as simple as sharing a link can say a lot about you...

If you do decide to say something, know your audience. If you try to please everyone you will actually please less people. Be honest with your voice. People will respect you more in the end if you are consistent. I always say I am not here for everyone, but I can be here for someone. Social media has enabled a lot of people to be there for me. If you write about what interests you, you will always have something to share and you will meet people who like and dislike what you do. Sometimes you can create a niche for yourself without realizing your body of work has inadvertently brought you there because you constantly talk about certain subjects. In social media, perception is reality, so if you do not pay attention to, or fail to manage your digital identity, you may find yourself going down roads you never intended to travel. The road less traveled may or may not be a good thing... It depends upon your intent. What do you intend when you write for someone else to read? Are you trying to learn something? Are you trying to share what you have learned? Are you trying to open a door to the next level or gain something intangible to enhance your life?

Savvy media branding is the name of the game and if you do not embrace social media you are doing your firm and personal projects a huge disservice because social media can open doors. Social media introduced me to Margaret Rome and a host of other stellar writers like Elizabeth Weintraub, Chris Elizabeth Griffith, Andrew J Lenza, Paul Slaybaugh, Gary Woltal, Laraine Shape, Lenn Harley, Broker Bryant, TLW, Poppy Dinsey, Richard Weisser, Sheldon Neal, Paddy Pizappi, Susan Mangigian, Jason Crouch, Jeremy Blanton, Jesse Clifton and Josef Katz.

There is only one Mandycap. Melodious rocks. I can not imagine life without Amanda Hall and Melody Botting somewhere in there. The ActiveRain Group Club Chaos has over 600 active members that are all connected by six degrees of separation. There are no strangers in our virtual family. That's a lot of bay-bays converting to brick and mortar friendships who are LinkedIn, Facebooked up, Tweet-peeps and addicted to the Rain. We travel to hang out and have a beer, raise money for cancer, blog for causes, talk about Autism and PDD-NOS while joking about staplers and restraining orders. We laugh and we cry together. We drop F-bombs and atta-boys. We are journalists writing in an international forum who in a blink of an eye become jesters blogging about handcuffs, spandex and virtual par-tays. We are a bunch of licensed professionals who do our own laundry, wash our own toilets between negotiating million dollar transactions and $500 dollar rentals. Sometimes we make movies. Sometimes we write books. Sometimes we appear on national television. Sometimes we go bankrupt. Sometimes we remember our fallen heroes and friends. Sometimes a newspaper or magazine will link back to us and if we are really blessed we'll get a request for an interview. The one thing that we all have in common is we are real people who embrace social media and are not afraid to use it. We write from the heart and people listen because there is a quirky sense of truth to what we have to say, even when others don't agree with the premise that started the post. Social media brings comments to the table. The dialog is what's valuable. Don't ever underestimate your readers. Readers can open doors just as fast as your friends do...

Social media can be the ultimate end game if you only have thirty seconds to make a first brick and mortar impression. You may think you have more time, but truth is, you don't. Smart people tend to make up their mind fairly quickly. Can it be changed? Of course a mind can, but what if you never get another opportunity to meet with the person again? If someone is important to you, you should say what needs to be said while you have them before you each opportunity you get. If you always act as if this meeting may be the last time you'll find the conversations will be rich, diverse, animated and ultimately more meaningful to both sides of the table. You may even discover that the other person is really looking forward to spending some more time with you because they have no idea where the next conversation will take them. People look forward to networking with people who engage their creativity and make them feel that anything is possible if we work together.

Networking only works if you are sincere. People can tell if you really want to be there and if you read their blog. Bullcrap will only get you so far. Fans are fans for a reason. Never lie and say you are a fan of someone you do not read. You will be found out by something as simple as not knowing the name of their spouse, kids or their dog, especially if they always talk about them. I am a huge fan of Margaret Rome's blog and highly recommend her book. We clicked with our very first conversation, I also have her on speed dial so the series of invitations I recently received and the opportunity to spend some quality time with a very talented Realtor turned author was a tremendous treat.

My favorite two M Rome conversations of the day, in sum and substance:

[1] You have to believe in your product. You have to believe in yourself. You have to believe that what you bring to the table has value and you have to know its okay to walk away if people do not want to associate with you or you discover the target audience is not what you believed it to be. Sometimes you have to call a spade a spade and keep on trucking when people do not value you or your time. However, if you do find that gem of a relationship, cultivate and respect it. Treasure it. Savor it. Guard and protect it. Third party introductions are priceless but if you can't get one, then the only one who can open or close a door to forge a new personal and/or business relationship is you. "Hindsight is when you wake up one day and realize it was this unassuming relationship that changed your life and career choices for the best that was yet to come."

[2] One of the beautiful things about the ActiveRain Real Estate Network is the relationships forged between writers who become friends. "When people write honestly, you learn a lot about them and have an opportunity to decide at what level you would like to interact with a person. Sometimes, when you follow a person's blog, you discover you know more about your favorite writer than you do about some of your own relatives..."

In my case with Margaret, I discovered that if you stick around long enough in a relationship you may wake up one day to discover that your friend is famous, you missed the transition and were clueless because you were too busy just hanging out and having fun. It's a very nice feeling, a wee bit shocking at times, yet has the added bonus of making you feel as if you can do anything you want because the only one stopping you from moving forward and doing well is you. Successful people who share insights often inspire others to strive towards success. When they are struggling with the little things in life too and make it plain that the hard work doesn't end because something good is happening at this moment, you may realize you can never afford sit back and rest upon your past works and momentary satisfaction. You have to keep moving forward towards the small goals that are important to you.

Life is precious, life is unpredictable so enjoy your life while you can. When you write you need to always remember that your words may live on long after you are gone. That includes your brilliant moments, your pithy remarks and your stupidity. :-)

What do you want to do with your life? You can change it today if you try. Start with something small and just go do it. Marget was waiting for someone else to write about Type E personalities. When the person she expected to write the book never got around to it, she decided she'd write about what she knew from her perspective. It turned out to be a very good read. I like being entertained when I read and I like it even better when the voice between the pages is so natural and casual that I'm surprised the book is over and I've completed 200 pages with ease. Margaret Rome has a way of connecting with people as a Realtor that overflows into the pages of her writing.

I think that is also my favorite part of ActiveRain. The platform and community members create the ability for the public and professionals to gain access to people they would otherwise find impossible to connect with.

I took 88 pictures while running amuck in Manhattan with Margaret. She loves books just as much as I do so we have a lot of eye candy from the BookExpo to sort through and eventually share with you. What was even more fun was getting to watch her do well in the publishing forum and realize she is such a genuinely sweet and humble person that fame didn't change her a single bit. It just made life a little more interesting when she travels on her book tour (LOL).

If not for ActiveRain and other social media platforms I would not know so many lovely people exist. I would not have made friends with some of them, much less have had the ability to carry on daily conversations with people from all over the globe. The cool thing is when we are not meeting in real life I still get to play with my friends from the comfort of my home. Two years ago I wouldn't have touched social media with a ten foot pole. Now look at me. I'm being read in 24 countries, relocating clients entering the United States and translating my e-mail through Babel Fish. Who knew? I certainly did not see that one coming (LOL). Are you making the most of your social media relationships? Wanna know how?

Make friends first. The business will follow. Social media is a tool, just like your telephone. Don't abuse it or take it for granted... Respect the community rules of the platforms you are on. There's so much you do not know about the people you are reading, you may want to think twice before you leave that nasty comment on a competitor's blog. They may be a lot more influential than you think... including the people who admire and follow them.

Publisher: The Silloway Press * Pub. Date: November 2008 * ISBN-13: 9780980205794 * 200pp

If you haven't read "Real Estate The Rome Way," you may want to float on over to The Silloway Press, Amazon.com or Barnes and Nobles to get yourself a copy.

Elizabeth Weintraub (About.com) did a wonderful book review. I really enjoyed reading her perspective on Margaret's book so of course I have to link back to it especially since I went on-line and got my hands on two copies (pre-ordered and hot off the press). We have little minions, so we need back-ups of the important stuff (LOL). This is an interesting work because it talks about so many different aspects of Real Estate from a first person, Type E witness point of view. ;-)

Didn't you know? Margaret Rome is an industry authority with a compelling Type E personality (LOL). She was kind enough to autograph both of my copies, so if you have a chance to meet her at a book signing, please do. You will not be disappointed plus one does not have to be a real estate professional to read and enjoy this book. You just have to be someone interested in real estate. If you are a first time home-buyer or a seller about to place a home on the market this is definitely the book to explain the process to you. If you've been in the industry for 30 years, you should still check this title out. I bet she may be able to surprise you (LOL). There are a few sum and substance recaps regarding cases you may enjoy discovering. It's not a heavy read, but it's a good read, very direct and to the point. I have my paperbacks sitting on the bookshelf with my Trump University collection of titles. Not too many books get mixed in with the Trump mix. They have their own special little spot in my real estate heart (LOL).

Peg Silloway of Silloway Press has a LinkedIn page and was a Platinum Exhibitor at BookExpo America. I shall have to blog about our BookExpo jaunt at the Javit's Center as well. Can't waste 88 photographs (LOL). It was an honor and privilege to be a guest of Margaret's publisher at this event. We spent quite a bit of time brainstorming on my two books in progress and if not for blogging on ActiveRain none of this would have happened.

Here's a little eye candy from Norma's (located within the confines of the Meridien Hotel). The food is absolutely fabulous. Le Parker-Meridien, New York, is an awesome place for a fine dining experience, indeed. BTW, they actually have a $5,000 dish on the brick and mortar menu. Seriously!!! It's something Presidential and I can only imagine what kind of delightful foodie paradise yummies goes with that kind of spread... :-)

Margaret and Lee Rome at Norma's

Waz Za!

I love atrium's lighting effects...

56 Le Rue, indeed... Lobby of Le Parker-Meridien

There's a lovely bit of eye candy everywhere you turn en-route to Norma's in the hotel...

Margaret is great to have on an eye candy hunt... We're going to meet at Norma's again. :-

Give and Take---Do You Know How to Do Both?

2009-05-21T17:32:00.000-04:00

Give and Take...Do you know how to do both? Baltimore,Maryland

I learned a lot at Monday's Three Divas for Free event. The plan was for Fran Thorsen, Joeann Fossland, and me to do an interactive panel together. Our plans changed when Joeann got a call that Fran would not be able to attend. Thrown off guard but not for long, Joeann was talking with Bernice Ross and told her about the dilemma. Giving person that she is, Bernice asked if Joeann would like her to stay over and go to Baltimore to fill in? She had a new presentation, and Baltimore could be the place to preview it. (Anyone who knows anything about real estate knows that this was like hitting the lottery - having Bernice Ross and Joeann on the same platform.)

And what did I learn? That Joeann was gracious and said, "Yes, I would love for Baltimore to hear your new presentation."

Joeann was able to accept an invitation to help. A few phone calls, a few changes to the flyers, a few more Active Rain blogs, an email went out from Martha Lessner to all the WCR members, and Anita Davis who was also at the NAR convention started putting out the word.

We had a fabulous turn out - Marvin came from Bucks County, Pa, Amad drove in from Ocean City, MD, Andy Norton came in from Northern Virginia, Pat Kennedy drove in from DC. There were many agents and affiliates from Baltimore. With their presentations on ePro and social networking, Joeann and Bernice held the audience from 1:00 until after 4:00 in the afternoon with information, humor, and lots of interaction. The million-dollar-bills that Bernice handed out didn't hurt, either!

Bernice spoke about the idea that "when you give to others, it comes back to you" (what I've often talked about as "you get by giving.") She said the key to effective giving is to stay open to receiving. It is not always easy to receive – we get so used to giving that we forget how to accept, whether it's help or a compliment or a gift.

This was just one small point of Bernice's seminar, but was really an important "ah ha" moment for me. When someone says, "What can I do to help?" think about it before you answer. My friend and publisher Peg Silloway emailed the night before the event and asked, "What do you need me to do?" My response could have been "Pick up the food," or "Bring the ice," but what I really needed was her presence and support. And she was there. No, Peg is not in real estate, but she sat through the entire afternoon, took photos on her new camera, and then went with us to the crab feast afterward. I knew she had an early morning meeting the following day; she could have bowed out easily, but she stayed and she stayed for me.

It was the same when I asked Joeann what I could do. This magnificent gracious lady said, "You already have done it." Though she did a lot of work to help organize and publicize the event, Joeann allowed me to do some giving. And that's the lesson: Yes, it is important to give, but if we never accept, we deprive someone else of the opportunity to give.

How are you at receiving?

Give and Take...Do you know how to do both? Baltimore,Maryland

I am in Love...and We Just Met Today!

2009-05-18T16:29:00.000-04:00

I am not the only one who feels this way about this young man, either. The other Margaret in Maryland, Margaret Woda introduced us: My Hero, My Tech Co-ordinator - David Fox.

For the past 5 hours (I'm writing this Sunday night) I have been shopping, bought a new CPU (which blew up and was running all my printers), monitor, cable connection for an old printer, new keyboard, mouse, replaced Linksys with Netgear, and it is all installed and up and running! All this in just FIVE hours on a Sunday night. It is unheard of to have this kind of trust in a techie that I just met...yet I do.

What is so terrific, he knows real estate and all the systems including MRIS photos, MLS, Internet Sentri, Settlement Express, and all the other goodies that we agents need. Plus he is an Active Rain member....how cool is that!!

I did not have to explain one thing...just told him how I worked and what I needed. Voila a whole new system, back up and virus protection in place, and he set it up so he has remote access to my systems

Where has he been all my computer life? With David just a phone call, I mean an email, I mean a text away, I am one happy agent.

Now I can concentrate on my 15 listings, my seminar this afternoon Still Three, Still Free - But With a New Face , and all the other important things going on in my wonderfully busy life.

How could it be any better? David and I are two of a kind…he is Type E, scoring 29 out of 30!

Still Three, Still Free - But With a New Face

2009-05-15T14:27:00.001-04:00

Life has a way of doing that...changing plans at the last minute. Unfortunately, Fran Thorsen won't be able to join us on Monday, May 18 for our Social Media Divas Share Their Secrets event. But - we are delighted that nationally syndicated columnist, author, trainer, and speaker, Bernice Ross, will be filling in to make the day even better.

Bernice couples her expertise as a Master Certified Coach with 30 years of real estate sales experience. For our event, Bernice will present "How to Build a Successful Online and Social Media Presence for under $2.00 per Day." Is there anyone who wouldn't want to know how to do that??

If you haven't already signed up for this free event, DO IT NOW! Here's what you need to know:

Location: Greater Baltimore Board of REALTORS
1306 Bellona Avenue, Lutherville, MD 21093

Date: Monday, May 18, 2009

Time: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
followed by Dutch-treat dinner at local restaurant

Sponsored by: Margaret Rome

Presenters: Joeann Fossland, Bernice Ross, Margaret Rome

Cost: FREE!

Reserve: at Eventbrite
or on Facebook
or email Margaret at MRome@HomeRome.com

It's going to be one of those "you've got to be there" events - so please join us! We will be continueing the fun with dinner afterwards. Hope you can join us!!

Social Media Divas Share Their Secrets

2009-05-09T14:25:00.000-04:00

Active Rain members are invited to join Joanne Fossland, Frances Flynn Thorsen and Margaret Rome on Monday May 18th 1:00 - 4:00 p.m and continuing with dinner. Let's make it an Active Rain Gathering!

Via Frances Flynn Thorsen, e-PRO, SRS (Socialebb Strategies and Solutions):

Join the Top Three for Free!

Joeann Fossland, one of the Top 25 Most Influential Women in Real Estate 2008, Chief Evolution Officer, Advantage Solutions Group, Senior GRI Tech Instructor, Top 10 Women Bloggers in Real Estate 2006, Master Certified Coach, Certifed e-PRO Workshop Leader, CyberGrandma2

Frances Flynn Thorsen, one of the Top 50 Influential Women in Real Estate 2008. .Frances was one of the first real estate bloggers to receive national attention early in 2005, in Investors’ Business Daily, BusinessWeek Online, Inman News, REALTOR® Magazine, and The Philadelphia Inquirer. She was founding editor of RealTown.com and worked as Community Manager of Trulia.com. She is CEO of Socialebb Strategies and Solutions and offers an ecumenical approach to blog and social media coaching and consulting services.

Margaret Rome, author of Real Estate the Rome Way, a Trulia Top 10 Real Estate Book for 2008.Margaret has won numerous real estate awards that attest to her outstanding service and concern for the people she works with, whether clients and colleagues. Her giving, caring nature is well known throughout the industry.

Use social media to make 2009 your best year ever! Join us for this lively and informative session.

Learn how NAR’s ePRO certification can improve your business.

Hear about the “must have” sites for real estate marketing.

Be part of the discussion about blogging for fun and profit.

Learn about choosing the right social media options for your particular needs.

Sponsored by Margaret Rome, this is a rare opportunity to learn from the best.

This is one interactive and lively session you won’t want to miss. And the fun won’t stop at the end of the afternoon - everyone is invited to keep the conversation going with Joeann, Fran, and Margaret at a Dutch-treat dinner afterward.

Date: Monday, May 18, 2009

Time: 1:00 p.m to 4:00 p.m...and beyond

Location: Greater Baltimore Board of REALTORS®

Cost: FREE!

How to Reserve

Email Margaret Rome at mrome@HomeRome.com , or

Call Margaret at 410-530-2400 or

Please include your RSVP for the after-session dinner.

Space is limited, so email or phone your reservation today!

Wish I May, Wish I Might...I Have the Buyer!

2009-05-07T14:23:00.001-04:00

We need to find this couple the perfect home! You'll recall that I asked them to make a "We won the lottery!" list of everything they could ever want in a home.

And then they were to get real and make a "wish list" of the things that were most important. With that list - and knowing what homes appealed to them before - I would be ready to line up homes for them to see... when they come to Baltimore in early June. Since they are coming from France, and only for a short visit, I need to not waste their time.

They did the exercise and emailed me today!

Now I have their wish list, and there is nothing on it that is unrealistic or unlikely. Whether we can find a home that has all these things is a good question, but I believe we can come close.

This couple recognizes that finding everything on their list in one place and at the right price isn't likely, but we have a good idea of what to aim for.

What are they looking for? The types of things many people desire: three bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths, an updated kitchen with stainless appliances and granite or Corian counters, nice wood cabinets, a master bedroom suite with walk-in closets, a Jacuzzi soaking tub, a good-sized patio and deck, a fireplace, central air conditioning, and a few other details. They have selected about a half dozen neighborhoods.

We have until early June to find several homes that might fit their needs in Baltimore. Can we do it? Stay tuned....

Can't Even...Give It Away!...Well Now You Can!

2009-05-06T13:22:00.001-04:00

Some years ago, I listed a home that had a piano no one wanted. I offered to help the sellers get rid of, not realizing what a big job that would be. I advertised it, made phone calls, and finally found someone who wanted the piano for a child. It was almost as much work as selling the house!

It happened again when I was disbanding my ceramic studio. The same challenge was there – all the equipment remained in my home way way too long... before a charity contacted me. They had a really wonderful use of the potter's wheel, the kiln, and all the other equipment I had collected over the many years of being an artist. It was going to used by children and that made me feel very proud.

The best part, they came that same day with a truck, loaded everything and took it away. No time to change my mind. It was the right decision.

Today I would have a much better way of finding a new home for these items that are still of use but would be costly to have removed. Whether it's furniture, appliances, exercise equipment, a piano or huge ceramic kiln, I would list it on TRAC under the "Take It Away" heading. And then someone else would come Take It Away.

It's a great way to recycle still-useful items – a green solution for sure.

We can all sing along with George Strait on this one! What items can you think of that would go on a Take It Away list?

Yes I Do Answer Blocked Caller ID!

2009-05-02T18:19:00.002-04:00

We've talked about this before, but I recently got a strong reminder of why it is an important discussion. Yes I do answer my phone; I answer if I don't recognize the number, and I answer "blocked calls." If it turns out to be a telemarketer I can always add the number as a " spam" call and hit the "Ignore" button next time (a huge timesaver.) But it is worth it to catch interested clients, as happened this week.

I had an email this week from my IDX site asking questions about an active listing. I responded with the answers to the specific questions and suggested we talk, either they could call me or let me know their phone number and a good time.

Later, while in the car, I got a "blocked number" call. Answering as always with "Good afternoon, this is Margaret," I recognized the name the caller gave me, the same as the email inquiry. Why didn't she give me her phone number on her email? The call was coming from FRANCE!

We had a wonderful conversation, and I found out that she is looking for a second home here in the Baltimore area. I suggested she and her husband make wish lists. one as though they actually hit the lottery.... as if money was no object.... then another as a reality list. This helps them decide what is most important, and what they can and can't compromise on.

She emailed me later saying that, "… my husband and I did the exercise you suggested about making a dream list if we won the lottery. It was a great success, and I was so surprised and pleased that he was excited about doing it and participated fully. Now, we are working on the 'reality' list. I also consulted your website again regarding 'buyers for your home.' It's an impressive idea."

She went on to say that she had been emailing another agent and had expressed interest in two different houses, both of which had been on the market for a long time. In both cases she got no answers, and later found out- on her own - that both had sold!

This couple will be coming to the Baltimore area in early June ready to buy a home. They have asked me to reprsent them exclusivly.

My goal is to have properties pre-selected that meet their criteria so I don't waste their precious time. By looking at what she liked before, and combining that with their wish lists, I'll be ready. In the meantime, I'll post their wish list on the Buyers4YourHome page of my website.

Wish I May, Wish I Might.. I Have The Buyer!

So…I'd say that answering that blocked ID phone call was the right choice, wouldn't you?

Getting High...Not Just Lunch!

2009-04-25T14:17:00.001-04:00

Driving downtown to the Baltimore Inner Harbor, I realized that I never tire of the views of the buildings, the water, the wide streets and all the people. I was heading for 100 East Pratt Street for a NAWBO sponsored Facebook seminar. I was early because I wanted to be able to get parked and set up with my computer. This was a "Lunch and Learn," and what a good idea. It saves time, gets you fed, and you get some learning at the same time.

We met at the office of law firm Tydings & Rosenberg, hosted by Content McLaughlin, the NAWBO chapter president. Our presenter was Leah Messina of Sinuate Media, and we had 19 people around a wonderful large conference table, each having brought a laptop so we could follow along with Leah.

This session generated a lot of interest and filled quickly –There are so many wanting to understand Facebook and how it can be used for business.

Leah covered a lot in just an hour and a half. At one point she took a picture of the room with her camera phone, sent it from her phone directly to Facebook, and within seconds there we were on her page. ( I would show you that photo but it is to small for this post.)

How neat to be able to do that?! Leah will be back for two more lunching and learning sessions, one on Twitter and one on blogging. This series was a first for NAWBO, and a great idea.

And now, for my all "spare time," I have a gazillion new Facebook connections to eventually answer or friend or whatever you do with them!

The one problem I had during the session.... getting distracted. The conference room had glass walls, and just beyond were the wide windows of the 26th floor and Baltimore's harbor below. Plus, I had my new camera, a Panasonic Lumix with a 28mm wide angle plus a 10x optical zoom. How could I not try it out?

Look at the two boats on the shimmering water to the right of our National Aquarium with its triangular roof line. Beneath that roof is a rain forest!

And can you see the smoke stack in the distance? Over there are Ravens Stadium and Oriole Park at Camden Yards.

And look at the mirrored building with roof top reflections; I do think it might be the Sheraton. From another window I could see the skyline with its interesting shapes.

Then I had to see that steeple up close...yep, the zoom works.

When the session was over it was off to another busy day – a listing appointment and another chance to use my new camera. And then back to Active Rain to share my day.

Where Life Goes Better with Art and Auction..Join us May 7th

2009-04-24T14:15:00.002-04:00

Usually when I say "auction," I'm talking about the accelerated marketing that's been so successful for TRAC Auctions. But this time is a little different. There's still a building involved (though it is not for sale). This time it is the paintings and sculpture and gorgeous ceramic art for sale. And just to keep it interesting …the #1 bar in America, recently chosen by "Esquire" magazine.

It began a few months ago when my friend and amazing artist, Tatiana, introduced me to Laura Siner and Leia McKenna who own and run The Art Resource, Inc. The Art Resource represents hundreds of artists including painters, printmakers, sculptors, weavers, mixed media, several lines of limited edition prints and reproductions…and Tatiana and her wonderful ceramic creations.

Their clients include architects, developers, interior designers, corporations, and private collectors. And people like me, who have art in need of a frame – like this painting by that talented Art of Marketing You master, Marti Garaughty –

When I visited the gallery and met Laura and Leia, we talked about Tatiana and how successful the auction of her historic church/home had been. That led to the idea of another auction, this time of Tatiana's ceramics and works of other artists at the Art Resource gallery. One thing led to another, as it often does, and the art auction became a gallery reception and book signing celebration.

When talk turned to refreshments, we went from wine and cheese in the gallery to The Brewer's Art and their great microbrewery and pub on the first floor.

Baltimore's Mount Vernon cultural district is home to world famous institutions like the Walters Art Museum and the Peabody Institute plus galleries and restaurants galore. First Thursdays (the first Thursday in the month) bring people to the area in the early evening hours for special events, leisurely strolls, and pub-crawling.

Please join us!

Thursday May 7,2009 4:00 to 8:00 Pm

The Art Resource

1106 N.Charles St. Ste.303

Baltimore,Md 21201

There Was a Free Lunch...WCR in Baltimore

2009-04-19T14:12:00.002-04:00

Thursday's lunch (free!) sponsored by the WCR drew a good crowd to the Greater Baltimore Board of Realtors® offices. It was a good way to introduce people to our WCR and the perks that come with membership – including 12 credits FREE during the year just by being a member. That's a nice benefit especially with this economy.

The discussion included "Marketing to Women." The presentation included reminders about working with Boomers, who make up 38% of the full time work force, and how important it is to ask what they want instead of telling them about you – they are focused on their needs, not on you. We were reminded that people under 30 don't watch TV as much; they go to the Web to buy, that includes houses. Boomers and busters (kids of boomers) have a lot in common. Market to the boomer's children. Another point ..younger women trust women more, they like to work with women and are not as competitive.

Marney Kirk spoke about social media - Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and - Tah dah! - Active Rain. She kindly called me the "Guru of Active Rain," and used my site and my blog as examples. I didn't plan it that way, but it worked out great since up popped my post with May's schedule and the GBBR logo right up top. That gave Kim Jones, who was sitting right next to me, a chance to invite everyone to the May 1 GBBR Rookies meeting when I'll be speaking.

Someone suggested that we check out Trulia, and there we found the announcement that Fran Thorsen will be here on May 18, along with Joeann Fossland, right in the same room at GBBR. I'm hosting this dynamic duo, and everyone is invited, again for the free, to an informative session.

Every one of those May events I announced a few days ago figured into the afternoon. During the meeting I got a call from Laura at the gallery telling me the postcards announcing the art auction were in. She kindly delivered them right to GBBR and I was able to hand them out on the spot. Don't you love it when things come together like that?

I sat with Erica Solomon who told me she joined ActiveRain after hearing me speak at that WCR meeting a year ago at the Suburban Country Club. She wrote a post about the meeting – good for Erica!

I walked out with a bunch of agents' cards interested in Active Rain – that's one of the best parts, isn't it? I sent out eight invitations. Wonder how many will join. It is fun sharing AR with new folks and seeing how many become Active Rainers.

Save These Dates and...Active Rain Gathering

2009-04-10T13:58:00.004-04:00

My May is shaping up to be a wonderfully busy schedule. Besides the usual real estate fun of listings and settlements, the calendar is holding some special events that I'd love to have Active Rainers enjoy, too. Take a look and see how many of these events you can be a part of:

Friday May 1, 9:30 a.m to 11:30 a.m. at GBBR (Greater Baltimore Board of REALTORS®) office in Lutherville, MD. I'll be talking with the Greater Baltimore Rookie REALTORS® group about my experiences using technology and the new social media. As organizer and host Kim Jones, says, "To keep on the cutting edge of the industry, it is important to stay up on the technological advances that are occurring every day. Social Media definitely is impacting the way we can most effectively reach potential clients." See the details and sign up in the Facebook Special Session page: http://tinyurl.com/dx5a4p.

Thursday May 7, 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at The Art Resource located 1106 N Charles St. in Baltimore, MD. An unusual art auction plus a gallery wine and cheese reception, and book signing. The Brewer's Art restaurant on the first floor makes a convenient stop before, during, or after this First Thursday event.

Tuesday May 18, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at GBBR. Three top real estate women in one place – you know this will be fun!: Joeann Fossland will talk about e-Pro, and Frances Flynn Thorsen will enlighten us about blogging, social media, and No Blogger Left Behind. And all sponsored by Margaret Rome (yep, that's me), author of Real Estate the Rome Way, one of Trulia's Top 10 Real Estate Books for 2008. Let's make this one an AR Gathering, too!

Friday, May 29 through Sunday, May 31 in New York City. At least part of that time I'll be at the Javits Center where my book will be on display at Book Expo America, the annual massive trade show for the publishing industry. If you're in the Big Apple that weekend, let's see if we can connect.

That's it so far, but it's only April, so anything can happen. Where will I see you in May?

Most Prices are Firm...A Three Day Open House

2009-04-06T15:31:00.000-04:00

The day started off with torrential liquid sunshine! I just did not go to the Open House/Yard Sale in the morning, but got to the house around noon when the sun came out. From then on it was a beautiful afternoon.

What a sight! The place was busy and cars were parked on the front lawn leaving barely enough room for the "Open" signs. My wonderful seller told me that she arrived before 7:00 a.m. and there were customers waiting in the downpour to get inside. These were real professional shoppers, or else they truly believe .... the early bird gets the worm.

I was surprised at how much of the stuff was sold, and how much I was enjoying the process, watching the people arrive, then seeing what "treasures" they found.

Someone asked, "Oh, is this for sale? Is the washer for sale?" The seller brought one of her brothers over to discuss this possibility in a quick group meeting. First it was a "No," I want to leave it for the buyer of the house. But my suggestion, take another look, they are far from new or pristine, and anyone buying the house is going to want a newer, cleaner model. OK now let's decide what price to place on it. (You know that old saying, "everything is for sale for the right price!") We asked the customer what he was willing to pay for the machine, but nope, he did not want to play. He asked for a price; it was given. He lives down the street and he wanted to think about it. Bet he returns before the sale was over.

I loved watching people peruse all the books, many of them children's. They were wrapped in groups - a stack of five books in a series for two bucks, bought by a neighbor with four young boys. Now that's a buy. A young preteen found a pair of badminton rackets for another $2.

We closed up around 3 pm, with lots of stuff gone already. Good feelings all around, neighbors had stopped by and it seemed everyone left with something.

There were more special feelings among the brothers and good friends who were all gladly helping with the sale. At one point a brother found some of "Daddy's tools." No, he did not need them, but they were tools that someone special used a long time ago. He also took an old bike that he plans to restore; you can't put a price on those memories. And how fortunate I was to share a bit of the history and the family and the closeness.

I went down again the next day and this time we had gorgeous weather all day. More people came by, things were sold. The washing machine was gone...bought by another customer.

So many people, still buying glasses, dishes, an old coffee pot. "Ooh, ooh, look it's an antique!...and it's $3. Not much reason to bargain. The items were priced to sell.

At least we are accomplishing our first goal – to get the stuff cleared out so we can sell this house. 2414 Lodge Farm Rd. 21219 Baltimore County, Maryland.

This house needs paint and carpet....right now make me an offer "as is"! Don't you love the green sign "Most Prices are Firm!"

Another special part of this experience... the owner had so much family pitching in.... they took shifts to make sure she was never alone. I am so fortunate to be working with such darn good people!

Gunning for Greed!

2009-04-05T12:29:00.000-04:00

There was a lot of reaction to my post about greed and some very greedy squirrels. After reading some of the comments on my post, TLH, Lee took a comment seriously and went out and bought a water gun to help in our attempt at behavior modification and attitude adjustment.

It's called "The Equalizer", and with a range of more than 40 feet he can really have fun getting after those greedy critters. Does it work? Well, it is very accurate and immediately effective but only if you actually hit one. Just getting close was not good enough. Tough little critters. Don't know about long term lasting effects. I have a feeling there will be none.

For the animal lovers out there, don't worry – the squirrels still have their own feeder. All Lee is doing is teaching them which feeder they can eat from and which is reserved for birds.

I think Lee will tire before the squirrels. What do you think?

A Three-Day Open House! Yes...Three Full Days!

2009-04-01T13:27:00.000-04:00

We have been working on getting this home on the market, but 13 years worth of "stuff" has accumulated at 2414 Lodge Farm Rd. 21219 Baltimore County, Maryland.

As you can see, it is a delightful three bedroom three full bath rancher with a full basement, a shed, and two-car garage. There's lots of room, but it is full of things to be gotten rid of…I mean sold. The seller is planning an estate sale, aka indoor yard sale, garage sale, or whatever you would call it.

There are books and shoes and sheets and pillows, and toys and dishes and glasses and electronics and comic books and furniture...you name it.

So we thought, let's do something a bit different. Let's have a three-day open house. If the estate sale is going on for three full days, there will be people in the house, so why not take advantage of the traffic? Well, why not?

So I am going to post the Open House on the MLS, as well as on Active Rain, running an ad in the newspaper, using local flyers, and putting up "Open House" signs.

First, we want to sell the things in the house, but maybe there will be someone who is interested in purchasing this gem. Paint and carpeting will make this home sparkle.

You may know that I don't do open houses – well, not traditional Sunday open houses. But it won't be the first time I have had an unusual Open House.

Remember the Piggy TRAC Bar B Que Open House! and how about this one, Not Your Every Day Open House , the champagne and popcorn Open House? Those last two sold, and that's the point of trying something a bit unusual. What do I have to do in this market to get the houses sold? First, they must be priced right and then they must be seen! This is just another way of getting more traffic in the property.

This is a very special client whom I met many years ago. I have sold another property for her and we are going to sell this one hopefully with the same amount of luck. Another time I will post the story of this remarkable woman.

So here's your chance to see a not-your-usual Open House and maybe pick up a bargain in the process. We are starting at 7:00 am on Friday, April 3, 8:00am on Saturday, April 4, and 7:00am on Sunday, April 5. Please come join us for this very different Open House. It is going to be a beautiful spring weekend

Greed...When Enough is NOT Enough

2009-03-30T18:25:00.000-04:00

Some can call it greed. You can give and give and give and there are those who will still take more. You have to know when and how to be in control. In other words how to put a lid on it.

You know I love my mini aviary and the colorful birds it attracts. But we have other visitors that just won't give up. They have managed to get into the bird feeders in spite of the "guaranteed" guards that are supposed to protect against the furry playful rodents. In addition to the plastic shield, which they were able to navigate, Vaseline on the long "S" hangers and "squirrel proof" bird feeders, the cute but pesky critters could always figure out a way to get to the seeds.

So then I thought, let's try two feeders with the same food, thinking one for the furry and one for the feathered. That meant purchasing more sunflower seeds which I placed in the brown container on my porch. That seemed to work - the pretty finches and other colorful birds were back. What a delight!

And then....

I bought a larger bag of sunflower seeds to supply both of those large feeders. And wouldn't you know it, the bag was too much for the can. I closed the paper/mesh bag and covered it with plastic and then put the can lid on top. There, that should do it.

A few hours later, I heard some noise out front. The lid was on the ground, the seeds were all over the stone porch, and the furry critters were inside the bag and chewing through the bag and the plastic. Why you greedy creatures! Remember, they already had their own feeder at this time, but that was not enough. No, they emptied the squirrel feeder and started on the bird feeder. Time to refill so there is enough for everybody. Then I repaired the damage and put the lid on TIGHT.

How does this relate to real estate? With some clients, enough is not enough. Not enough advertising, not enough contact, not enough showings, not enough offers, not enough attention. You name it, enough is not enough.

How do you decide when to put the lid on?

I love working with my sellers, the ones that are referred, the ones that appreciate what I do, the ones who are pleased with my efforts, my phone calls, my emails, my texts, my ads, my blogs, my google juice, my Realtor.com, my updates, my negotiating skills...etc.

And then there are those few clients who I choose not to work with from the beginning, because enough will never be enough.

That's an important thing to learn – saying "No" to working with people who will never be satisfied no matter what we do.

Did a Paper Truck Throw Up?

2009-03-27T15:23:00.000-04:00

I have been oh, so wonderfully busy this week. Negotiating and ratifying a contract on the Southfield listing. A successful auction at 7001 Park Heights, , two sellers waiting for me to do the listing agreement, then showings on my latest two listings, Terrapin and Oakland. There have been seminars and meetings - CRS and Gee Dunsten last week, a WCR luncheon, a webinar with Frances Flynn Thorsen, a networking evening with Vito Simone at his Canton office, a planning meeting for an art auction in May, lunch with my publisher, and a funeral. Plus, of course, many phone calls, emails, reading, etc. Yep, a typical Type E schedule.

As I was leaving the house this morning for a string of appointments I got a glimpse of my desk – well, actually two desks plus the dining room table separate for doing my income taxes. What did I see? Looks like a paper truck threw up!

Oh…yeah…and my deadline is today for getting the stuff to my accountant.

Now don't think I am not organized. Received a call from a client who had purchased one of my listings back in 2001, and another who bought 14 years ago. Within minutes, had my hands on those folders with all the pertinent information. One of these clients is looking at my new listing and both are thinking of selling their homes.

So it's not a lack of organization that leads to scenes like these. Nope, it's the Type Ein me. All the information is there..I just file by pile. I can find what is needed. It's the task of sorting it into someone else's order that I avoid. And that is why my desks looks like a paper truck threw up!

Are you brave enough to photo your desk before you straighten it up? Come on show us...I dare you.

The Sun, Spring in Baltimore, and Connections

2009-03-26T12:21:00.000-04:00

This morning on the front page of the Baltimore Sun there was the headline, "Spring in Baltimore" along with a most gorgeous photo of early pink buds framing the Pagoda in Patterson Park. It was such an outstanding photo, I just had to look at the photographer's credit line, and sure enough, it was my friend Jed Kirschbaum. We first met when the Sun did an article on my ceramic art many, many years ago. Jed came to my studio that day, and I still have his artistic photos hanging in my office.

Our paths crossed again very early in my career with O'Conor, Piper and Flynn at the first annual Regional Realtor Convention and Exposition at the Timonium Fairgrounds where 1,500 agents attended the seminars and trade show. Jed happened to take this black and white photo of me with the balloons in the background, and it turned out to be the only photo of that convention the paper used. I have this old photo in my office, too.

Seeing his credit line this morning, it was just natural to pick up the phone, call Jed, and congratulate him on bringing such beauty to today's news.

Connections…they are the basis of our business and our lives. I find them through art, photography, friendship, real estate.

Where do you find the connections that enrich your life and your business?

Pod-Katzing, or Making a Podcast with Josef in Baltimore

2009-03-23T12:20:00.000-04:00

A while ago I had the delightful experience of sitting down withJosef Katz to talk briefly about real estate investing for beginners in today's real estate market. In a short time we covered how to find an expert to work with, why having someone who really knows the local market is essential, and why signing with a buyer's agent makes good sense for someone serious about finding a great real estate deal that meets their goals.

Josef is doing a series of these podcasts that appear on the "Trump Tactics" page that provides "Real estate investment tactics and strategies from the experts at Trump University. Free, no registration required." The recording volume is lower on this than we expected, so you need to turn up the volume, but that's the kind of minor glitch you get in the wonderful world of technology. Here's the link: http://tinyurl.com/cwld3l

Josef also has a podcast with the dynamic Carolyn Tann-Starr about using social media and social networking to grow a real estate investing business. You know this one is well worth listening to! http://tinyurl.com/dktky9

Many thanks to Josef for starting this series, and for inviting me to talk with him. He does a great job of covering a topic in a brief, useful, and interesting podcast. Plus, he made it fun!