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Kitsap County Real Estate Articles

Rich is known nationally as a writer. He has hundreds of Real Estate related articles published and re-published on a variety of websites across the internet.

Below you will find one of his many artices, written for consumers. The primary focus of these articles is Kitsap County real estate.

View articles Rich has written for SoundBiteBlog here.

View articles Rich has written for AgentGenius here.

View articles Rich has written for ActiveRain here.

ActiveRain Newsletter Trivia Question for July 14th, 2008

Really easy points!

 

 

Okay, Sportsfans!

For an easy 500 points, what State in the US makes it illegal to walk across the road with a Duck on your head?

First 5 people to respond here with the correct answer, snag 500 ActiveRain points!

"Symphony of Success" - Closings in Today's Market

I recently posted an article on the well known platform Agent Genius regarding my observations on the current difficulties associated with 'doing' real estate business in today's troubling market. It just seems as though nearly every transaction is filled with its fair share of relentless challenges and hurdles to overcome. It takes a concerted effort and dogged persistence to forge through all the obstacles, and achieve closure.

The basic gist of my other article was that, given the numerous variables involved in a standard real estate transaction, that there are so many elements outside of my ability as a Real Estate Agent to control. Even though I may try to the very best of my ability to orchestrate a smooth deal, there are times when something goes south, and a contract falls apart.

It's at times like this when you learn to appreciate the value that 'other' professionals bring to the table.

As a Buyer's Agent, perhaps your most vital asset is a knowledgeable Mortgage Loan Officer. In today's business climate especially, with loan underwriters tightening their requirements, and changing funding conditions mid-stream, it's imperative to have someone who can stay on top of the almost 'daily' loan shifts, and resolve any issues quickly as their arise. Even some of the 'cleanest' files are now subject to intense scrutiny, and are in need of constant, diligent oversight.

The next major key to a successful transaction is the Real Estate Agent on the other side of the fence. While, as true professionals, we both understand that we owe our primary fiduciary/statutory duties to our clients, to solely represent 'their' best interests, we also strive to treat one another with honesty and respect. We both want to see our clients succeed, and achieve their buying/selling goals. As such, we both ensure that communication between our two parties is efficiently clear and prompt. Neither of us allows egos or attitudes to get in the way. We both understand the bigger picture, and work together towards that goal. We work collectively/cooperatively at resolving issues or potential problems.

I've found that a skilled Escrow Officer can make a huge difference in the process as well. Many times they have the ability to diffuse a potentially heated problem during the signing. They offer a very calm and reassuring presence to the equation. Their organizational talents provide for a more stress-free experience for our clients.

A qualified Home Inspector is also worth their weight in gold. You want someone who can effectively evaluate a home's condition, and provide a detailed analysis of any discrepancies. A good inspector knows that he is under contract to the Buyer, and works for the Buyer, not the Agents. They can diplomatically point out any deficiencies that may exist with the home without unduly sabotaging the potential sale.

An effective Real Estate professional is like the conductor of a symphony, helping all the players to perform to best of their ability, but ensuring that they all follow a common score!

Being MeMe'd - E-mail Chain Letters on Steroids

Let me start of by saying "Thanks a Million!" to Matthew Rathbun of Client Centric Real Estate for forcing me into this. I'm not usually a big fan of such online frivolities, but since it came from Matt, what the heck!

In case you're in the dark, for all the lowdown 911 on the current virtual craze know as MeMe's, GO HERE.

Question 1: Who is your favorite Musical Artist?

Actually, my musical tastes are rather eclectic. I like classic rock - Kansas, Doobie Brothers, Fleetwood Mac, Beatles, and then it diversifies from there into Harry Connick, Jr., Sting, Jim Brickman, Relient K, Giovanni Peroglesi, John Rutter, Hillsong United, David Crowder, Joel Hanson, Matthew Ward, Michael Omartian, Switchfoot, Mae, and so many more!....

Question 2: Who is my favorite Artist?

I guess I should be more of an art aficionado than I am. While I don't necessarily have any preferred artists, I do very much appreciate art, and the skill/talent that goes into creating it. My youngest son, Luke, is pretty gifted at drawing, especially sports figures.

Question 3: Who is My Favorite Blogger?

Wow, this is a tough one. Ask me a couple years ago, it might have been easier. For Social Media in general, I like Chris Brogan of ChrisBrogan.com; Joel Burslem, Marketing Director for Inman News on Future of Real Estate; Michael Arrington of TechCrunch; any of the very talented Gang over at AgentGenius; and my SoundBiteBlog co-conspirator, Mark Flanders (if he ever decides to start writing again!).

Question 4: If you could meet anyone (dead or alive), who would it be and what is interesting about them?

Hmmm, the late D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, pastor of Westminster Chapel and renowned Bible expositor. He preached a series of Friday night sermons from the book of Romans, spanning 13 years, that dramatically changed my own personal theology.

The Apostle Paul. I would get his take on Reformed Theology, and find out how many petals his TULIP has.

Robert Downey, Jr. - I don't think there is another actor in our generation (besides Tom Hanks) with so much natural talent and ability, but who has seemingly squandered so much of his life in destructive pursuits. What's he doing now to stay focused and out of trouble?

Question 5: What did I want to be when I grew up?

Well, let's see...I wanted to be a Forest Ranger, a Disc Jockey, a drummer in a rock band, and a preacher.

Question 6: What is the most interesting piece of Trivia that I know?

Three independent research studies have been carried out to determine how many licks it takes to get to the center of the Tootsie Roll Pop. Engineering students at Purdue University devised a "licking machine" that showed an average of 364 licks were needed to get to the center. Using 20 human volunteers, the figure was 252. A doctoral student at the University of Michigan created another licking machine and came up with an average of 411 licks.

Question 7: If you could live in any point of history when would it be and why?

From reading books like "Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett, and "TimeLine" by Micheal Crichton, the Medieval Period has its appeal. Or perhaps, during the 1st or 2nd Great Awakenings, time of amazing revival across Europe and the American Colonies.

Question 8: What is the most interesting job you’ve every had?

I once worked for a small, privately owned corporaton, and started as a Regional Sales Manager, responsible for a 4 State territory in the Midwest. Based on my successes, I was transferred to a new manufacturing plant in Lawrence, KS, and was promoted to Product Manager for a newly acquired line. In a few short years, we took that product line from annual sales of $300K up to over $12M. It was an amazing ride! Later, I became Export Sales Manager, made several trips overseas, and then was given title as the National Marketing Manger, with oversight over all corporate marketing/advertising.

Some parting thoughts:

I am indebted to my wife of 25 years this coming July, for loving me in spite of my numerous failings, and for having such a wonderfully positive impact on our four amazing kids. They say that behind every successful man is a good woman. I would be nothing, going nowhere, without her undying love and support.
And now, I have to tag 8 more people to perpetuate this Meme (oh joy!)

Soli deo Gloria....Sparky