October 1991 - October 2017 ( Going on 26 years )

Wow, it is hard to believe that I started working in the real estate industry back in 1990 with my brother David. He had already been in the market for about 5 years. For the first year my main job was scheduling appointments on the phone with expired listings. I was basically an apprentice for the first few years of my career. For the first couple of years I did everything I could to learn the ins and outs of what it takes to get a home sold and everything behind the scenes. For the most part it was school. That teaching was invaluable to me. Back then, we did not have the internet, email, iPhones or much of the technology we have today. I can remember when the internet was coming to fruition and people were saying that real estate agents would be a thing of the past very soon. How wrong they were. For quite a long time we pulled information up from the MLS from a small machine that looked like a miniature fax machine including the paper the information printed on. I would then need to copy the fax paper on the printer so that I could make calls.  

Today we have so much more technology at our disposal and yet we need the professional services of a realtor more than ever. It is true that information is readily available from the internet. Current listings, many of the sales etc. However, since people buy houses and people sell houses, the need for a professional sales person to make the deal happen is just as important as it was before the internet or the information was available.

I can not imagine that a person selling a 1 million dollar car, a $500,000 watch, a 2 million dollar luxury yacht or a $250,000 diamond ring would simply do it on-line with an on-line algorithm to determine value or that they would look to use the " cheapest " person available. Most would find the best of the best to represent them. The same is true of someone needing medical care. These days’ people can learn quite a bit about medical issues on line. However, that does not take place of the doctor when it is time to get the operation.

Computers are fact driven and that is why they are so exacting. There is definitely a place for those exacting numbers or procedures. Selling homes is akin to someone having a detailed operation. Machines are used in the assistance of the operation. In many cases the machine may do al most all of the work. Under the supervision and direction of the skilled doctor or facilitator. That is what is like to sell a home.

This year I will celebrate 26 years serving clients in my real estate practice. What a pleasure it has been.

If I can assist you give me a call. 408-482-0992...

What Would Abraham Lincoln Do?

I just finished reading a story about Abraham Lincoln.  It seems he had quite a temper and a big mouth for much of his life.  Always giving people his opinions and in many cases he was outright offensive. Until one day when it all changed.  Circumstances of this encounter changed his life. Someone stepped in at the last minute and saved his life.  There after, Mr. Lincoln decided he would not speak in a negative way about anyone.  As I continued reading the author of this little story said the next time you are tempted to open your mouth, say something negative, take out a five dollar bill and look at Abraham Lincoln.  Ask yourself, what would Mr. Lincoln do?  Chances are Mr. Lincoln would have just smiled, walked away or excused himself from the room.  This may just be enough for you to avert the situation at hand and start fresh. Be encouraged and have a great day!!!

The 7 Day Mental Diet Challenge...

I just read a short read called " The Seven Day Mental Diet." Written By Emmet Fox.  It is a short 9 pages and took all of about 15 minutes to read.  A bit longer because I highlighted and underlined all the way through.

The challenge is this....

Can you go the next 7 days and completely change the way you think about everything and everyone in your entire life.  And by the way, you can not tell anyone that you are on this little diet.

Are you up to the challenge?   Go on line and get the book and if you are up to it.  Start the challenge and go for it.  

Would you hire this agent to sell your home???

Recently I was in a conversation with a newer agent who made a very interesting comment to me.  I asked this person if they would use themselves to buy or sell a house (I ask this question to every new agent in the business) knowing their own experience level which was nonexistent.  I was looking for this agent to express to me a most compelling reason to use their services.  This individual said that homes really do just sell themselves, the market is great and why would someone not use them. To me this did not answer the question as to why would I use them.  

This person basically said that realtors have no value except to push the paperwork through.  Just not in those exact words.  At first I was a bit shocked from his comment, but then realized that many people think the exact same way.  Especially since it is very easy for people to get their real estate license.  Take a few courses, prepare for a test, take a test and you can now sell real estate (in a nut shell).  Interesting, new agents want to get paid big fees, but most (not all) have no real time experience negotiating real estate transactions and have nearly no idea about how to advise buyer's or seller's as to the best way to either purchase or sell their home.  

I can’t imagine using a doctor who took a few classes, passed a few tests and had no real world experience.  It would be akin to having a first year medical student do open heart surgery.  There is a chance that with proper studying he / she could have a positive outcome.  But in reality, there is more likely chance of a real tragedy happening. Even if the tragedy was not noticed right away.   

After all of that being said, I do think that newer agents to bring something very valuable to the home purchasing / selling process.  "A willingness to learn."  Many agents that have been selling for years and think they know it all.  No need to learn anything new.  The old way / their way, works just fine... They will take their continuing education classes, but only so that they can renew their license. 

When selling or buying a home, make sure that your agent is experienced enough to successfully negotiate your transaction and is willing to utilize the newest tools and techniques help you stay protected and safe weather buying or selling a home. 

If you are thinking of using a new agent (maybe a friend, family member, co-worker etc.) make sure that they are part of a bigger team.  Not just part of a great office, but a true team.   Otherwise, you may be dealing with an agent that has to go to  his / her manager for every new question that comes up.  Which in fact will be almost all of the questions that come up.  And, there is a good chance that they information they need will not always be available when they need it most.  Being part of a bigger team ensures that the newer agent will have the necessary training and mentoring to make your transaction as smooth and profitable.

Celebrating nearly 25 years os selling real estate and looking forward to many more to come...

  

Jim Mauldwin

BRE # 01125380 – since 1991

Intero Real Estate Services

408-482-0992

Weekly Real Estate Update

Weekl

Service For Life!!!

Insider Tips for Healthy, Wealthy and Happy Living – View in browser Jim Mauldwin's... Service For Life! ®   Inside This Issue...   Advantages & Problems With Store Credit Cards... Try These Substitutes For Common Food Sensitivities... Fun Facts and Laughs: Sleep Better With Your Smartphone, Popular Restaurant Review Websites, And More... Trivia Challenge: Win A free coffee card!!! Real Estate Q&A: How Can I Stage My Home So It Sells Quickly For A Price I Want?   If you're not already a subscriber to my free e–newsletter email me to sign–up   Jim Mauldwin "Real Estate Sales By Referral" Intero RFeal Estate Services BRE #  01125380 - since 1991 Phone / text: 408-482-0992 Email: jmrealestate@wwdb.org www.jimmauldwin.com   Dear Friends, It seems like every store offers a store credit card now, but is it worth it? In today’s Service For Life!® Free consumer newsletter you’ll learn the advantages and problems of opening a store card so you can better see what makes sense for you. You’ll also learn what to substitute when you (or a friend) can’t eat certain foods, three apps to sleep better – plus fun facts, a trivia challenge, and lots more. But first...  When you notice people talking about real estate in the next few weeks, can you tell them about the free consumer information I provide? They may be people with a graduating senior and they want to buy an investment property while their child is in college. You can mention my Free Consumer Report: "8 Secrets For Saving Thousands When Finding, Buying and Financing Your Next Home" Or, request a copy for a friend by simply emailing me atjmrealestate@wwdb.org or you can call me direct at 408-482-0992...   Today's Brain Teaser . . . Mary takes her car to the hotel, and immediately upon arriving is declared bankrupt. How has Mary gotten herself in this situation?   (see answer below) Is Opening A Store Credit Card Worth It? That store card the clerk offers you at the checkout line sounds great, but is it a good choice? Store credit cards are branded with the store’s name and they often come with a large discount off your first purchase, a percentage off all purchases, 0% financing, or other incentives like free shipping at online storefronts. Here are the pros and cons to see what’s best for you... Reasons why a store card would BENEFIT you:   If you’re saving 20% each visit at a store you visit often, and pay off purchases so you don’t carry a balance, the higher interest rate won’t affect your savings.  If you have a low credit score, stores are more likely to approve your application than regular credit card companies. It can be a good way to start rebuilding your credit.  Some store cards can be used at places outside the store. If you qualify for a card that also has a MasterCard, Discover, Visa, or American Express logo, it can be used anywhere you shop outside the store. For example, Costco and Sam’s Club credit cards offer cash back on any dining and at any gas stations. DRAWBACKS to store cards:   Store credit card interest rates are high – regular cards are around 15%, and store cards are over 20%. If you carry a balance, you can pay much more for purchases in the long run. You may even have money to pay off the balance but forget to pay the bill for a card you don’t use often.  Store cards can negatively impact your credit score. If you plan to apply for large loans like auto or home loans in the next few months, it’s not a good idea to apply as opening the card may temporarily lower your credit score.  Some are only good for purchases at the store. If you can’t use the store card at other places like a regular credit card, you may be better off getting a card that you can use anywhere with a lower interest rate. Forward this to a friend   Thinking Of Selling Your Home Soon? Don’t attempt to sell your home without my Free Consumer Guide, “6 Steps For Selling Your Home For TOP DOLLAR.”My exclusive report will give you all the facts for a fast, top dollar sale. To request your copy, email me by clicking here. Best Substitutes If You Know Someone With Food Sensitivities It seems like everyone has a food allergy or sensitivity these days, especially kids. But what do you prepare instead to get the same nutritional benefits of a food you or guests at your dinner party can’t eat?   Can’t eat fish? Fish is high in protein, low in fat, and provides omega-3 fatty acids: necessary for your body, and can help with joint pain, asthma, possibly brain function, and lower your blood fats. Luckily, this important nutrient is available from: walnuts, canola oil, flax seeds, chia seeds, soy beans, and pumpkin seeds. Try to eat a variety of these foods.  Can’t have dairy? Dairy foods like cheese and yogurt are high in protein and contain lots of calcium, which is great for your bones. The good news is, stores now offer lots of options including: soy milk, coconut milk, and even cashew milk. Find one you like and you’ll get most of the same health benefits.  Staying away from gluten? Whole grains are high in fiber, contain important vitamins, and may reduce your risk for heart disease and digestive problems. Grains that are gluten-free and provide similar benefits include: rice, oats, and quinoa. With the popularity of the gluten-free diet, there are many more options for gluten-free foods that contain other grains. Forward this to a friend   Here’s A Free, Valuable Resource... Now You Can Search The Home Market, Get Helpful Community Information, AND Receive Important Resources For Saving Time And Money When Buying Or Selling At www.jimmauldwin.com Fun Facts and Laughs Sleep Better With Your Smartphone . . .  Hate that morning alarm wake –up? There’s an app for that! Sleep Cycle monitors your movements to determine what sleep phase you are in. Then, you are awakened during your lightest sleep phase so you can wake refreshed. Sleep Cycle is available on iTunes or Google Play for $0.99. Sleepbot can act as a simple time log or track your every movement and record sound! Sleepbot is available on iTunes and Google Play for free. Sleep As Android is a sleep cycle tracker and an alarm clock. It provides sleep deficit stats and lets you know when it’s time for bed. It even plays nature sounds to help you sleep. The trial version lasts for two weeks. If you want to continue to use it, you can unlock it on Google Play or Amazon App Store for $2.99. Forward this to a friend Most-Used Restaurant Review Websites . . . www.yelp.com – Read and place honest reviews regarding local restaurants – you can even post pictures of your food. www.urbanspoon.com – Find restaurant rankings and sort based on the location, cuisine, times, etc. www.opentable.com – Reviews and rankings of top restaurants and you can make a reservation right from your mobile phone. Forward this to a friend Quotes To Live By . . . Don’t let the fear of striking out hold you back. –Babe Ruth Find something you’re passionate about and keep tremendously interested in it. –Julia Child Forward this to a friend Have A Laugh – Funny Real-life Ads . . . FOR SALE: Complete set of Encyclopedia Britannica. 45 volumes. Excellent condition. $1,000.00 or best offer. No longer needed. Got married last weekend. Wife knows everything. Three-year-old teacher needed for pre-school. Experience preferred. Nordic Track $300 hardly used, call Chubby. Free puppies: 1/2 cocker spaniel, 1/2 sneaky neighbor’s dog. Forward this to a friend   Please Welcome New Clients And Good Friends Into Our Real Estate Family... I’d like to take a moment to personally introduce and welcome a few of my newest clients and good friends who have supported my business over the years. And special thanks for everyone who thought of me with your referrals! Jon Drew, Steve Schmidt, Greg Krisfalusy Trivia Challenge for the Month... “Who Else Wants To Win A free coffee card!!!?” Every month we will have a trivia question with one lucky winner. Be the first to contact me and you can win a $5.00 coffee card.  Good luck!!! What does S.O.S. stands for? a) Save Our Souls b) Save Our Ship c) Send Out Succor d) SOS does not stand for anything EMAIL ME BY: Clicking Here OR Call Me At 408-482-0992 And You Could Be One Of My Next Winners!   Brain Teaser Answer: Mary is playing the board game Monopoly and her game piece is the car. She landed on a hotel spot and didn’t have enough money to pay the rent, so she’s bankrupt! Thanks For Thinking of Me! Did you know I can help you or any of your friends or family save time and money when buying or selling a home? Thanks for keeping me in mind with your referrals...and spreading the word about my services. Real Estate Q & A . . . Q.  How can I “stage” my home so it sells quickly for the price I want?   A. Make sure you address both the outside and the inside of the house by cleaning and de-cluttering everything, from the front yard to the garage to the kitchen, bathrooms, and basement. Put away your personal items so buyers can imagine themselves living there. One way to take years off your home is with paint. Check the home’s exterior paint job, and don’t forget the front door, mailbox, garage doors, and walkways. In the interior, remove the pictures from the walls (as well as old wallpaper) and paint the walls in a neutral color. Also, consider these tips if you want to sell your home fast for a good price: a) Hire professional cleaners to do the work; b) Get a home inspection before you put it on the market; and c) Make your landscaping look sharp. For a list of the specific steps you should take, ask for my Free Consumer Report called “4 Steps To Stage Your Home For A Fast Sale.” I’ll send a copy right over to you. Do you have a real estate question you want answered? Feel free to call me at 408-482-0992 or email me by clicking here. Perhaps I’ll feature it in my next issue! Forward this to a friend   THANK YOU... for reading my Service For Life!® personal newsletter.  I wanted to produce a newsletter that has great content and is fun and valuable to you.  Help your friends get more out of life by forwarding this email to them...

What's new about getting your house sold???

2015 is here and we are experiencing a shortage of listing inventory in the greater San Jose area.  That being said, I am still seeing homes expire from the market.  Many of these homes are very nice to the eye and most of them should be sold.  Since January 1st, there have been 56 homes that have expired.   (  approximately 9.5%  ).  As of today there have been only 103 homes that have sold in the same time frame (  approximately 17.5 % ). The current inventory of homes for sale in my local area which include houses, town homes and condos is 594 homes. On average, 73% of the homes for sale are sitting on the market and not selling.  This is a very curious phenomenon. By the way, the homes that are expiring range in price from $3,599,000 all the way down to $275,000.  Every price range in subject to improper marketing, over pricing and poor showing instructions.  Selling a home is like creating and baking a great soufflé. It takes the right ingredients as well as the proper heat of the over and the proper container to bake it in. If you remove one of the ingredients or cook it at a slightly higher or lower heat, your dish is ruined. The same goes for selling a home.  There is a proper recipe to get a home sold.  Most of the time seller's try to short cut one or two of the key ingredients and the result is almost always a disaster. I put together a 194 step program to getting homes sold.  If you follow each step and then implement the key ingredients you come out with a winner every time.

Feel free to give me a call to talk about your situation.

Jim Mauldwin
Intero Real Estate Services
BRE # 01125380 - since 1991
408-482-0992