Northern Michigan Real Estate

"Let's Talk Real Estate" with Angie Ridley, How's the Market?

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Sun, 02 Oct 2011 09:10:37 -0700

Angie gives us some great info on why you should consult your LOCAL Realtor before you begin your search to purchase a property.

Thanks Angie

Via Complete Realty, LLC:

How's the market in Genesee, Lapeer and Oakland County Michigan? Angie Ridley shares market insights and the answer to "How's the Market?" and "Is it a good time to buy?" Rates, Banks and market conditions all come together for the answers. As always, contact your local Realtor for your local market conditions.
Green for the future...

Angie Ridley, Broker,
2011 Recording Secretary Michigan Council of Residential Specialist
ABR, ABRM, e-Pro, CRS, At Home With Diversity, "GREEN", EcoBroker Certified^®, TRC, SFR, PMN
2010 Presdent, Michigan Chapter Women's Council of Realtors

Angie@AngieRidley.com
www.CompleteRealtyLLC.com,
2442 E. Maple Ave. Ste. 209
Flint, MI 48507 810 744 4600
Serving Real Estate needs in Michigan's Oakland, Genesee, Lapeer and Tuscola Counties

Skype: Angie.Ridley Facebook Angie's Blog

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

How To Put "Social" In Social Media Marketing.

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Fri, 07 Jan 2011 04:12:03 -0800

This is a fantastic blog that speaks about integrating social marketing with relationship marketing. Relationship marketing has always been a much smarter way to market. I am going to work on implementing some of Emma's tips into what I do each day. It makes a lot of sense.

Via Emma Tiebens (The Relational Marketer):

Social Media... Social Marketing... Social Networking...

Buzz words that have been around for at least 3 years now but only now continuing to catch more steam.

This morning, I just heard giant CBS Studios promotin CBSSocialMedia.com

If you're already have online presence using Social Media Marketing, congratulations! You're on your way to becoming known, liked and trusted. After all, isn't that why we're taking the time to learn the ropes? So we can attract more prospects and convert them into clients?

One would expect that being in social media denotes that one needs to be... well... social. Social Media marketing is really NOT marketing but the art of engaging. This is not a vehicle to be used to pitch your product and services constantly but to let people know about you and what you have to serve them with.

Are you a naturally social person? If so, do you find it easy or not as easy to socialize "virtually"?

Interestingly enough, being social offline doesn't guarantee that it will be easy for you to be social online. The opposite is also true, if you are somewhat introverted and shy offline, it doesn't mean that you will have a difficult time connecting online.

How can you efforless put the "social" into Social Media Marketing?

For the past 2 years, I have created my brand The Relational Marketer. I used those 2 years, learning, implementing, connecting and giving value. Now, after hundreds of thousands invested in courses, seminars and mentors and many happy clients served, I am confident to say that I know a thing aor two about how to create a V.I.P. Brand that is Visible, Influential and Profitable and it all starts with knowing how to become a social being online!

Here are my "Top 7 Relational Marketing Secrets To Put The Social Into Social Marketing":

1) When you ask to connect with people on FB or Twitter, address them by name.

2) When you acknowledge someone's post or comment on your FB Wall, again, call them by name!

3) Check your "Newsfeed" and see and engage in the conversation and again, address people by name.

4) If you blog, why not feature someone from your friends list who are doing remarkable things then post the blog link on your Wall and let the person know that you wrote about them and "Tag" their name so it will also show on their Wall.

5) If you're comfortable with video, create a video testimonial for a mentor, industry leader, author you admire or have learned something relevant from and be sure to let them know that you have a video out there about them by either posting it on their FB Wall or uploading the video on YouTube and sharing it on their Twitter or FB profiles.

6) Become a Connector! If you know people who would benefit from another's products and/or services, connect both of them by "tagging" each other's names on your Post so the post will also show on their Wall.

7) Be a blog commentor! If there are blogs you like to read from and have subscribed via RSS, leave a comment and post those blogposts on your FB and Twitter Wall and tag the author... you will not only gain a great connection but you will also be visible to the people following them.

There you have it! Now go and socialize and let me know of your progress...

Until next time, I am right here...

Cheering You On To Your Success!

Emma Tiebens

"The Relational Marketer"

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

This could be your marketing genius of 2010!

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 16:01:40 -0800

Homes for Heroes has been a fantastic addition to my real estate business. Having two sons in the military, it was a natural fit for me.

Via Homes for Heroes, Inc.:

HomesforHeroes - Why should you be the Affiliate for your community?

Caleb Shaw 18 Hero closings Debbie Moran 7 Hero closings in just under 6 weeks

CONTRIBUTION - Your business will be doing something unique that affects peoples lives and makes a contribution towards a better community. We call it “profit with a purpose”. If you have the right mindset and vision about giving back while growing your business then this program is for you.

CAUSE MARKETING - Your business will be associated with a worthy cause - 89% of Americans would switch from one brand to another brand of a comparable product and price if the latter brand were associated with a "good cause". Our affiliates have found that giving back to those who do so much for us is not only the right thing to do – its good business too. “Cause Marketing” is a win-win situation. Good for your heart, good for your business.

BRANDING - Your business becomes aligned with a trusted, nationally recognized brand. Designation as an official Home for Heroes Affiliate for your market establishes you and your company as a community supporter. People remember the brand and logo and it all funnels directly to you.

TERRITORY –You can become the designated affiliate for your marketplace. All activity and lead generation for that area is directed towards you and no one else. Markets will be assigned to a select few businesses that best fit the goals of the program on a first come first served basis. Time is of the essence. Territories in California are being assigned so act now before they are gone.

LEAD GENERATION - Provides you direct lead connection with hero logins generated from the website within your designated territory resulting in increased business without your direct involvement. You’ll also have potential relocation referrals from your new network of nationwide affiliates too.

NICHE MARKETING – You now specifically reach the hero community where word of mouth quickly spreads. Differentiates you because of the brand name and recognition the program has. Customizable Homes for Heroes branded marketing materials are made available to you. Internet promotion through Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

TEAMWORK – Realtors, Lenders, Home Inspectors, Termite, and other affiliated vendors work together in your market area. This total package of savings differentiates you from a typical discount. Also, neighboring affiliate’s marketing efforts will spill over into your market. These new relationships create a great referral network. We take it even further with the “Friends of Heroes” program.

FRIENDS OF HEROES – The heroes’ benefits don’t just end with the house. On a national and local level Homes for Heroes is constantly adding community minded businesses to this program. Together these businesses share in the promotion to the hero community and help each other grow their businesses while giving back to their community. Any local vendor can participate and you can work with the Friends of Heroes directors to add businesses to your marketplace. See website for more details.

BEST PRACTICES – Affiliate forums, conference calls, coaching and a national support system for you. Share with fellow affiliates across the nation. Learn how to implement Homes for Heroes in your marketplace the right way. We help make you successful in your business.

This could be your marketing genius of 2011 !

Register online at www.HomesforHeroes.com for more information on available territories

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

Real Estate Agents turn creative to find customers in this tough market.

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 15:21:53 -0800

If you are looking for a way to SET YOURSELF APART from all the other Realtors in your market, you will want to take a look at this fantastic niche marketing program for your business in 2011!!!

Via Homes for Heroes, Inc.:

The math adds to more competition: There are fewer homes on the market and fewer sales, but there are only minor declines in the number of real estate agents chasing business.

That’s why more agents are looking for ways to stand apart, from Facebook fan pages and advertising to YouTube videos, Twitter and QR codes, which consumers can scan with their smart phones to get listing details. See More Ideas Here

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

Homeowners Insurance Coverage - Owner Beware

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 07:23:49 -0700

Many neighborhoods around the state are seeing more and more homes being rented out or just unoccupied. If you find yourself having to relocate because of a job change or any other circumstance, make sure you check with your insurance company about your coverage.

If your home is unoccupied for more than a month and suffers damage as a result, you may find yourself non covered for the damage. The actual amount of time you can leave your home unoccupied before it affects your coverage will vary from insurer to insurer. Insurance companies view unoccupied homes as a higher risk policy and you should expect to pay a higher premium for coverage. Some companies will not insure at all on these higher risk properties. An independent insurance agent can help you search for policies that will fit your circumstances.

If you are renting what was your primary residence, you will also need to contat your insurer and get a new policy. Insurerr also consider a rental property a higher risk policy than one that is owner occupied. This is due to the renters having less interest in caring for the property. If you are going to rent out your primary home, you must place a landlord policy on the home. These premiums are higher but they do cover for loss of rental income if the house burns or becomes otherwise uninhabitable. Landlord policies will not cover tenant possessions if they are stolen or damaged, so it is important to encourage your tenant to purchase a tenant homeowners policy. Renter's insurance is relatively inexpensive. Premiums are usually less than $250 a year.

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

Networking Secrets

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 07:43:16 -0800

We have all been there, spent hours each week going to networking events to come home with no new contacts and the feeling of "why did I waste my time on that event". It takes more than jsut being a wall flower in a room full of potential customers. You have to work the room.

Show up early and ready to work with your pockets full of business cards
Attend with a business associate and split the room, you will reach twice as many people and you can then share your contacts.
Make sure that your 30 second commercial is compelling to listen to. The Little Red Book of Sales Answers by Jeffrey Gitomer is a wonderful source for refining your 30 second commercial.
Have your 30 second commercial refined to a point where you don't stumble over anything when you present it. This may take a few hundred times of practice in front of the mirror but the results will be well worth the effort put forth.
Be happy and positive. No one wants to be around or do business with Mr. or Ms. doom and gloom.
Don't waste your time if the person is not a good prospect. Disengage with them gracefully and move on. Remember, your single goal is to make new contacts for potential new clients.
Eat early, it is hard to eat and mingle.
Leave the drinking up to everyone else. You will have a distinct advantage of being sober.
Make sure you stay until the very end. The longer you stay at the event, the more contacts you will make.

Event selection is critical in networking. each week, your local business journal, newspaper or Chamber of Commerce will publish a list of business events. Don't forget about the social and cultural events as well, these are great networking possibilities. Select events that attract customers or people that you want to work with and build your clientele from.

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

Fabulous Home on 7 Acres

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Wed, 26 May 2010 14:51:56 -0700

2784 Willsey Rd Traverse City, MI

Click For Listing Website Click For Interactive e-Tour This colonial home is nestled in a serene 7 acre country setting. Complete with lush flower gardens and several fruit trees. Large, well groomed private back yard allows for quiet evenings watching beautiful sun sets and fantastic star gazing. Twenty by twenty five foot 2 stall horse barn has water and electric. Five plus acres of invisible fencing so your pets can enjoy the yard as much as you do without fear of them running off. Four bedroom two and one half bath two story home complete with two gas fireplaces. Both fireplaces can be converted back to wood burning. This home has many extras including oversized bedrooms with ample storage in each room and an intercom system throughout the home. Call today for a private showing. MLS# 1715816
$398,000
4 Bed, 2.5 Bath
2784 Willsey Rd
Traverse City MI, 49686

Christine Stalsonburg
EXIT REALTY PARAMOUNT
231-409-4140
cstalsonburg@charter.net

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

The Village Grand Traverse Commons

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Wed, 26 May 2010 14:46:58 -0700

800 Cottage View Dr Ste 403 Traverse City, MI

Click For Listing Website Click For Interactive e-Tour This Urban Chic Condo is located at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons. This spacious two bedroom, one and a half bath unit offers an abundance of natural lighting throughout the living area. Granite counter tops and stainless appliances makes for a fabulous kitchen workspace. Loft over the Master Bedroom allows you a spacious home office and a quiet space to relax. Pedestrian friendly walkways allow for miles of hiking trails along Kid's Creek and throughout the 480 acres of preserved parklands. Dozens of merchants, restuarants and shops fill the Mercato. This unit is a must see, call today for your private showing. MLS# 1716294
$355,000
2 Bed, 1.5 Bath
800 Cottage View Dr Ste 403
Traverse City MI, 49684

Christine Stalsonburg
EXIT REALTY PARAMOUNT
231-409-4140
cstalsonburg@charter.net

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

Homes For Heroes - CASH REBATES for Heroes buying or selling a home

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Wed, 12 May 2010 12:37:44 -0700

Homes for Heroes - Exit Realty draft from Sizemore Media on Vimeo.

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

IRS requirements for First-Time Homebuyer Credit and Long-Time Resident Credit

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Sun, 25 Apr 2010 12:07:16 -0700

If you are lucky enough to be selected by the IRS to show proof of eligibility for the First-Time Homebuyer Credit or the Special Rule for a Long-Time Resident, you will need to make sure that you have the following information for them.

You will need to provide all fo the following if it was not filed with your return:

A copy of the settlement statement, the buyer(s) and seller(s) names, the property address, the purchase price and date of purchase. If the settlement statement is unsigned, also provide a copy of the final purchase/sales contract.
If you purchased a mobile home, a copy of your executed retail sales contract, the property address, the seller(s) and buyer(s) names, purchase price and date of purchase.

AND

A copy of your most recent monthly/quarterly mortgage statement.

NOTE: If your purchase was financed through a private mortgage and statements are not available, you will need to provide a copy of a cancelled check (front and back) from a payment made within the last 3 months. If your purchase was a cash sale, you will need to provide proof you paid for the property - a copy of your cancelled check(s) (front and back) or other payment instrument.

AND

A copy of the certificate of occupancy if the home you purchased was a newly constructed, or a manufactured (modular or mobile/trailer) home and you are the first occupant(s).

You will need to show verification that the new property is your primary residence and will have to provide at least 2 of the following:

Current driver's license or other state-issued identification showing your name and new address.
Recent pay statement (within the last 2 months) showing your name and new address
Recent bank statements (within the last 2 months) showing your name and address
Current automobile registration showing your name and new address
Change of address confirmation from the U.S. Post Office showing your former and new address
Contract from moving company indicating you receipt of transported household items, showing points of origin and destination.

If you are claiming the credit as a Long Time Resident, you must verify that you lived in the prior residence for 5 consecutive years, during the 8 years prior to the date you purchased your new primary residence, please provide at least 2 of the following:

Copy of the final closing contract showing the buyer(s) names, date of purcahse and proeprty address of your prior residence.
Copies of tax statements and cancelled checks showing real estate tax payments for the property for at least 5 consecutive years; the information should show the address of the property.
Copies of annual mortgage interest statements for 5 consecutive years.
Any other information which shows your ownership of the prior residence, and that you used it as a principal residence for 5 consecutive years. This may include copies of homeowners insurance policies, statements from utility companies, or school records which show your name(s) and address.

Not that everyone will get an audit for their tax credit but if you do, you can be prepared for what they will ask for. You will only be given 30 days to provide this information back to them.

Hope that this information has been helpful.

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

100% financing options are still out there

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 08:36:49 -0700

Rural Development guaranteed loans are slowly starting to lose their allotment for this year. In an area where this lending source is prevalent, this presents a challenge for those buyers who are looking for a ZERO DOWN program for their home purchase. There is an option left out there for ZERO DOWN.

Veterans' Administration Loans

100% financing for purchase

No down payment required

No monthly mortgage insurance

Low closing costs

Low fixed rates

First Place Bank in Traverse City has staff that is experienced in VA loans.

If you qualify for a VA loan, you also qualify for Homes for Heroes

Homes for Heroes offers Realtor , lender, title company and other associated discounts from local businesses. Call today to for more information about the program or register on line

www.HomesforHeroes.com

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

Condo Living at It's finest

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 04:57:59 -0700

2079 Seaview Dr Traverse City, MI

Click For Listing Website Click For Interactive e-Tour This lovley two bedroom two bath condo is nessled in a country setting. Cathedral ceilings enhance the openness of this home. Master bath is complete with a whirlpool tub. Covered deck allows for outdoor enjoyment. Close to town and to the Bay. 2079 Seaview is where you should call home. MLS# 1714498
$149,000
2 Bed, 2 Bath
2079 Seaview Dr
Traverse City MI, 49686

Christine Stalsonburg
EXIT REALTY PARAMOUNT
231-409-4140
cstalsonburg@charter.net

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

Charming Condo near Bissle Pond

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 07:36:34 -0700

5620 Millbrook Dr Williamsburg, MI

Click For Listing Website Click For Interactive e-Tour This cozy 2 bedroom 2 bathroom condo is nessled on a wooded lot near Bissle Pond. Tile entry leads into an ovrsized living room complete with brick fireplace. Cathedral ceilings lend for a very open feel. Directly off the living room is a spacious dining area with sliding glass doors leading out to a large deck for entertaining. Kitchen cabinetry is complete with crown molding. Breakfast bar and plant shelving gives this kitchen a little extra special feel. Extra wide hallway leads to large master bedroom with lenty of room for a sitting area to look out glass sliding doors that lead to deck. Master bath with tile flooring and stall shower have extended height dual sinks. Second bedroom can make a great bedroom for guests or an office/den. Back patio spans the entire length of the condo and makes a wonderful gathering place for entertaining. 5620 Millbrook Drive is where you shoudl call home. Call today for a private showing. MLS# 1713868
$149,000
2 Bed, 2 Bath
5620 Millbrook Dr
Williamsburg MI, 49690

Christine Stalsonburg
EXIT REALTY PARAMOUNT
231-409-4140
cstalsonburg@charter.net

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

Homes for Hereos Discounts

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 09:18:15 -0700

Homes for Heroes Discounts

Did you know that you could be saving hundreds or even thousands of dollars on the purchase or sale of your home? You can with Homes for Heroes. The mission of Homes for Heroes is dedicated to those who give so much to our communities on a daily basis. Military Personnel, Firefighters, Paramedics, EMT's, Police Officers, Educators, and Medical Personnel can visit www.homesforheroes.com and register for these savings right on line. No additional paperwork to do and they get their savings right at the closing table. From their affiliate Realtor, our heroes receive 25% of the commission earned on their side of the transaction. Our affiliate Lenders offer a 50% reduction in their loan origination fee and or affiliate title company offers a substantial reduction in their processing fee. Depending on the area that you are in you could also receive many additional discounts from Friends of Heroes. Friends of Heroes are our community business partners who have graciously agreed to offer discounts to Heroes participating in our program. So, if you fit into this category or know someone who does, please take a minute to visit the web site www.homesforheroes.com.

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140

Beautiful Home In The Highlands

Christine Stalsonburg Your Traverse City Michigan Realtor (Cherry Wings Realty) — Sun, 28 Mar 2010 11:11:53 -0700

1469 Oban Way Traverse City, MI

Click For Listing Website Click For Interactive e-Tour This spacious ranch style home is nestled on a wooded lot, located in The Highlands. Grand entry leads into open living space with quality hardwood floors and a two way fireplace. Upgraded kitchen looks out to large deck which is perfect for entertaining complete with outside sound system. Master bath has dual sinks and a relaxing whirlpool tub. Master bath shower is elegently accented with tile and an overhead shower head. Lower level has one room that is finished and ample room to design the remaining space and it plumbed for a full bath. Construction renovations to complete this home can easily be incorporated into a 203K rehabilitation loan. Spacious backyard backs to wooded tranquility and is comlete with a fire pit for those cool Spring and Fall evenings. This home is full of upgrades and must be seen to really appreciate MLS# 1713526
$235,000
4 Bed, 2 Bath
1469 Oban Way
Traverse City MI, 49686

Christine Stalsonburg
EXIT REALTY PARAMOUNT
231-409-4140
cstalsonburg@charter.net

Christine Stalsonburg, Broker/Owner

Cherry Wings Realty

231-409-4140