Raleigh - Durham...A Real N.C. Girl's Perspective

NACA - Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (A NON-PROFIT LOAN OPTION YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT!)

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 19:48:30 -0500

IF I told you that there is a HOMEOWNERSHIP PROGRAM that will allow your buyers to purchase a home with:

NO DOWNPAYMENT................................You would probably say: (NO BIGGIE...)
NO CLOSING COSTS.................................You would probably say: (NO WAY!!!)
NO CONVENTIONAL CREDIT.....................You would probably say: (NOW...You are just CRAZY...LOCO!)
NO MORTGAGE INSURANCE......................You would probably say: (WHAT planet are you from?)
NO KIDDING!!!.......................................You would probably say: (OKAY...I'M LISTENING!)

NOW that you are listening...LET ME ADD:

30 YEAR FIXED RATE
A BELOW MARKET INTEREST RATE (CURRENTLY 5.625%)
RATE CAN BE REDUCED TO ZERO!!!

YOU ARE ASKING...WHAT'S THE CATCH??? HONESTLY...THERE IS NO CATCH!!!

The Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America ("NACA") is a non-profit, community advocacy and homeownership organization. NACA's primary goal is to build strong, healthy neighborhoods in urban and rural areas nationwide through affordable homeownership.

I first learned of NACA several years ago...through a client. This particular client had almost no credit, and he earned $12/hour. The very best loan option I could find for him was an FHA; however, he did not have enough money for the down payment. He learned about NACA through a friend who had just closed on his new home...at a 4% FIXED RATE!!! When my client told me about his friend's mortgage, I could not believe what he told me. My disbelief prompted me to investigate...IF FOR NO OTHER REASON THAN TO PROVE THAT IT WAS NOT TRUE!

My mom always taught me to admit when I am wrong. Folks...I WAS WRONG! NACA IS REAL! I have since helped many first time buyers to purchase their home using NACA to obtain their loan. Let me tell you about my first NACA clients.

Alejandro and Tana lived in a mobile home community. Their backyard was a parking lot. They dreamed of buying their own home with a huge yard for their children, but they had little credit. I referred them to NACA, and they were approved for a $140,000 mortgage. They knew exactly what kind of home they wanted, because they had been dreaming about it for eight years. Within days of being approved by NACA, they were under contract to purchase the home of their dreams. Eight weeks later...they were sitting at the closing table.

IF I had not witnessed it myself, I would not believe what I am about to tell you. Through NACA, they were able to obtain a 30 year fixed rate mortgage at less than 1%!!! TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE?? IT'S TRUE...I WAS THERE!

SO...WHY HAVE YOU NEVER HEARD ABOUT NACA BEFORE?

Although NACA is the best answer for many buyers...some REALTORS® are hesitant to recommend NACA to their clients. From my experience, the reasons for this vary from agent to agent. Some are simply unfamiliar with NACA and see it as 'too good to be true'. Other agents know that NACA is legitimate, but they feel that NACA's process is too lengthy. (In most cases, it takes 3-6 months to go through the approval process.) Quite a few agents have expressed to me that they are not willing to wait 6 months to get paid. I've also spoken with several agents who have worked with NACA and feel that the program requires too much work from the agent.

If I am completely honest, I agree that NACA is a NOT an easy program. Six months is a long time to wait for an approval, for both the buyer and the agent. AND...YES...NACA's stringent guidelines require much more effort on the part of both buyer and agent. I have closed many successful transactions with NACA, and all of them have been difficult. However...ALL OF THEM HAVE CLOSED! Furthermore, in every case, my clients have told me that the end result of having their own home was worth ALL OF THE WAITING AND HARD WORK. ALL of them have thanked me for recommending them to NACA and for sticking with them till the end.

NACA IS NOT FOR EVERY BUYER...BUT...IT WILL OPEN THE DOOR TO HOMEOWNERSHIP FOR MANY PEOPLE WHO MAY NOT OTHERWISE QUALIFY FOR A HOME.

**NACA is a program for FIRST TIME BUYERS ONLY. If your client owns a home, they MUST sell their home before they apply for a loan with NACA.

**NACA is NOT just for low-to-moderate income families. Anyone,who does not currently own a home, may apply for financing with NACA.

**NACA also offers refinancing. (See naca.com for details.)

For more information about NACA...visit their website at naca.com

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR® - The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams - www.ElizabethNieves.com

Rule #4 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) TO ALL LISTING AGENTS: PLEASE GIVE ME SOME WARNING THAT YOUR SELLER IS INSANE

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 16:05:10 -0500

A few years ago...I was assisting a young, Hispanic couple with the purchase of their first home. They wanted a home in a very specific area of Raleigh, North Carolina...a popular neighborhood where homes sold fairly quickly. We had been looking for a few weeks when my client called one afternoon to tell me that she had driven past a FSBO (For Sale By Owner) in the neighborhood...that it seemed to be the perfect home.

Immediately, I checked the MLS and found that the home was also listed for sale through a local real estate broker...with a limited service listing agreement...allowing both the owners and the REALTOR® to market the home. Knowing that my client was anxious to see the home, I called CSS (Centralized Showing Services) to make an appointment for later that same afternoon. The appointment was confirmed for 4:30pm.

Around 3:30pm, I received a call from CSS...stating that the sellers wished to reschedule the appointment for the following day...no reason was given. Since my clients had already made their plans around this appointment and were already en route, I called the listing agent directly to try to work it out. I explained to her that my clients were ready, willing and able to purchase the home. She agreed to call the owners and ask for an exception.

Within minutes, she called me back and told me that the appointment was back on...that the sellers just wanted me to be aware that the baby MIGHT be napping...that we MAY NOT be able to go into the nursery. ::NO PROBLEMO:: I jumped in my car and headed to Raleigh...hoping to arrive a few minutes early.

As I turned into the neighborhood, my clients pulled in directy behind me. Rounding the corner, I saw the home for the first time...a large brick home...on a lovely, corner lot...up on a hill. ::THINKING TO SELF:: "YES...this is PERFECT!" I also noticed that the family was sitting outside...waiting for our arrival.

While my clients were exiting their vehicle and getting their children out of their car seats, I made my way up the hill to introduce myself to the owners. With a big smile and extended hand, I said "Hi...I'm Elizabeth Nieves...thanks for allowing us to take a look at your home this afternoon." I was STILL smiling, and my hand was STILL extended...but they were just staring blankly at me. Thinking that maybe I was at the wrong home, I glanced down the hill and saw the 'FOR SALE' sign in the front yard.

::OKAY...TRYING AGAIN::

"When I spoke to the listing agent this afternoon, she mentioned that your baby might be sleeping. That is no problem. We'll just take a minute to walk through the home, and we'll be really quiet."

At this point, the wife spoke up nervously and stammered..."Ummm, this is just NOT a good time. I've been at a doctor's appointment all day, and I'd really rather you not show the home today. You can call our agent back and make an appointment for another day."

::COMPOSING MYSELF:: "Oh...I see. Well...I DID ACTUALLY CONFIRM THIS appointment just an hour ago with your agent...AND...my clients and I drove from Durham. Since we are already here...please...can't we just take a quick look? My clients are extremely interested in this home, and they are absolutely ready to make a decision today."

Out of the corner of my eye, I could see the husband's face turning brighter and brighter shades of red. I chose NOT to look at him, but I was pretty sure I could feel rays of heat radiating from his firey stare. Behind me...halfway down the driveway...my clients were standing silently...aware that there was some kind of conflict. ::WHAT AM I SUPPOSED TO SAY NOW?::

Just as the wife opened her mouth and began saying "Oh...I guess it will be okay...", the husband raised his right arm (in which he held a big hammer) into the air and lunged toward me...screaming "I don't care who told you what. This is my &^%*($%# house! You don't hear good, do ya? Git yurself and yur &^%*$%#@ outta my &^%*($% yard right now before I lose control!" ::THINKING AND RUNNING AT THE SAME TIME:: "BEFORE YOU LOSE CONTROL???!!!"

As I reached the bottom of the driveway, I looked back up at the owners. He was still standing there with the hammer raised into the air...shouting racial profanities. ::LIGHTBULB GOES ON:: "Mr. Seller is NOT just INSANE...he is INSANE AND RACIST!"

Shaken but safe in our cars, I signaled for my clients to follow me. A few streets away, I pulled to the side of the road to call the listing agent. Our conversation went something like this:

"Hello 'Christine'...this is Elizabeth Nieves. I just TRIED to show your listing on Brentwood Road."

"Oh yes, Elizabeth. How did that showing go?"

"Well...I suppose it did not go sooooo badly considering that I escaped BEFORE your insane seller cracked my head open with the hammer!!!" ::EXPECTING 'CHRISTINE' TO BE SHOCKED::

After a long moment of silence, 'Christine' replied "Elizabeth, I'm really sorry about that. He is LIKE THAT sometimes...especially when it comes to 'certain races'. When I talked to his wife earlier, she told me that she could keep him under control."

"You are telling me that you KNEW that he was capable of behaving like that, and YOU DID NOT WARN ME? ARE YOU KIDDING ME?"

Interrupting me..."Elizabeth, this is the first time that a Hispanic family has looked at the home. I knew that he is prejudice, but I never expected him to be violent. What I need to do is get this home sold so that I don't have to deal with him anymore."

::STUNNED:: "NO...what you need to do is get a huge sign that says 'BIG, UGLY, INSANE RACIST LIVES HERE...ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK!' and stake it in the front yard. Furthermore, I cannot tell you how to run your real estate business, but IF you are SO desperate that you need to take a listing from someone like this...perhaps you should consider a different profession."

Ironically, a month later I learned that 'Christine' had left the real estate business.

Moral of the story:

IF...in the interest of full disclosure...you need

THIS SIGN-------------->

You might just want to consider passing on

THAT LISTING!!!

(BTW...names have been changed to protect the guilty!)

Rule #1 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***NO NAKED PEOPLE ALLOWED TO 'POP OUT' DURING SHOWING***

Rule #2 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***NO! YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE A R.E. LICENSE IF YOU CAN'T COUNT!***

Rule #3 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SHOW IT!***

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR® -- The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Search Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill Homes for Sale

Rule #7 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) * It will take a lot more than candles to hide the DEAD PEOPLE in the backyard from THIS REALTOR®! *

Sun, 09 Nov 2008 23:40:39 -0600

Early in my real estate career, I assisted a young couple to buy their first home. They were so pleased with their transaction that they referred family members to me…another young, engaged couple (‘John and Susie’) who was anxious to find their new home before their upcoming wedding. It was my pleasure to make their dream my top priority.

On a Thursday afternoon, I met with ‘John and Susie’ in my office. After going over the home buying process thoroughly with them, ‘Susie’ bounced out of her chair and asked when they could start looking at homes. It was almost 7pm…but I did not wish to put a damper on their excitement. With a few hours of daylight left, I scheduled appointments to show them four homes…most of which were vacant. Thus…we began the home-hunting adventure.

The first home was just okay…not bad and not great…but they were in a hurry to move on to the second one. The second home was nicely decorated…but it was a bit too small. (Is this beginning to sound like ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’?) The third home was larger and had a lovely lot, but the kitchen was tiny and outdated. We lingered for a while in that home, but I sensed that neither ‘Susie’ nor ‘John’ was truly satisfied.

As we pulled into the driveway of the fourth home, ‘Susie’ exclaimed…”WOW! I think this is it!” and exited the car as quickly as possible. ‘John’ seemed equally impressed with the practically new, two-story home and impeccably manicured lot. It was significantly larger and nicer than either of the previous homes but still within their limited price range. Instinctively…my ‘red flag’ radar began to beep…but I remained silent.

Opening the front door, I was expecting the interior to be…well…awful. Much to my surprise, it was beautiful…stunning…spectacular, even! The décor was fabulous…the use of color exquisite. Although it was completely vacant, it felt warm and inviting…almost too inviting, actually. Classical music was playing softly in the background, and there were candles flickering throughout the home. Standing in the middle of the living room…taking it ALL in, I could not find a single thing that I did not love about the home.

Too anxious to wait for me to give them a tour, ‘Susie and John’ were exploring the bedrooms and planning the furniture placement in what they were already referring to as’ their new home’. Above the joyous squeals coming from the excited couple…I could hear my ‘red flag’ radar continuing to beep.

Although ‘Susie and John’ were too caught up in the moment to notice anything other than the beautiful home, my experience made me immediately ask the question: Why would a busy listing agent, with over 40 active listings, take the time to come to a vacant (exceptionally gorgeous) home to light candles and turn on music? I smelled a rat…a really big one!

While I was still evaluating the situation, ‘Susie and John’ exited the master bedroom and announced that they were ready to make an offer on the home…that they wanted to go back to my office immediately and take care of the paperwork. Wanting to protect them from whatever was making my ‘red flag’ radar beep…but not wanting to discourage them…I suggested that we take a few more minutes to look around the home…including the lot. They looked at one another and then agreed to take a walk around the exterior of the home.

As we stepped from the side door into the yard, I realized that the sun had almost completely set while we had been inside. There was just barely enough light to see into the backyard…a relatively flat area that backed up to a few trees. On one end of the yard, there was a wooden playset and…ummmm…something else...something that looked like…but surely couldn’t be what it looked like. Thinking the darkness was playing tricks on my eyes, I took a few steps toward the strangely shaped object until I was certain of what I was seeing. The beeping of my ‘red flag’ radar was deafening as I stood close enough to see that there were several tombstones just behind the childrens’ play area!!!

From several feet behind me, I heard ‘Susie and John’ speculating as to what had attracted my attention. As I turned toward them, I said…”Well…now I know why the house looks like it was staged for a romantic date. The listing agent was hoping you would fall so in love with the house that you wouldn’t notice that the BACKYARD is actually a GRAVEYARD!” (YES...it was actually ON the property...NOT across the street or on the adjoining lot!)

In truth, the listing agent’s strategy almost worked. Even after discovering the graveyard, ‘Susie and John’ tried to convince themselves that having a graveyard in the middle of the backyard was not such a terrible thing. ‘John’ even joked…”At least, they will be quiet neighbors!” ‘Susie’ chimed in…”And imagine the fun Halloween party we could have!” I added, “Yes…but I’m thinking three to five years down the road when you are ready for me to sell this home so you can buy another one. ‘BEST HALLOWEEN PARTY HOUSE’ is not a particularly great selling point.”

After another hour of conversation, ‘Susie and John’ finally agreed that ‘the Halloween House’ was not the best home for them. They were disappointed, but I assured them that they were significantly less disappointed than they would have been if they had rushed into a sales contract for that home. They agreed with me on that point, and we moved on. Just a few days later, we did find their dream home…with a lovely yard (and NO dead people!)

Moral of the story:

The most beautifully and artfully wrapped empty box…is STILL JUST AN EMPTY BOX.

Rule #1 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) NO NAKED PEOPLE ALLOWED TO 'POP OUT' DURING SHOWING

Rule #2 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) NO! YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE A R.E. LICENSE IF YOU CAN'T COUNT!

Rule #3 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SHOW IT!

Rule #4 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) TO ALL LISTING AGENTS: PLEASE GIVE ME SOME WARNING THAT YOUR SELLER IS INSANE

Rule #5 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) * F.S.B.O. does NOT stand for material (F)ACTS (S)HOULD (B)E (O)PTIONAL! *

Rule #6 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) * When you add photos to your NEW listing in the MLS…PLEASE make sure that they were taken WITHIN THE LAST DECADE! *

**Candle photo courtesy of Freefoto.com.**

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR®

The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Search Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and ALL Triangle Homes for Sale

Rule #6 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) * When you add photos to your NEW listing in the MLS…PLEASE make sure that they were taken WITHIN THE LAST DECADE! *

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:18:13 -0500

Some years ago, I was working with a buyer who wanted an older, brick home...something that was structurally sound but cosmetically challenged. I had no trouble finding 10 or 12 options in his designated area and price range.

Determined to see ALL of the homes in one day, we began our journey with a certain vigor. The first two homes were okay...but my buyer wanted a big backyard...which neither had. The third home was tenant-occupied and appeared to have severe water damage to the foundation sill. Moving on to the fourth home, my client was really excited.

From the MLS pictures and description, home #4 seemed to be the perfect home for my client. It was a 1960's brick Ranch, with three bedrooms and two baths. It had hardwood floors throughout and a large, eat-in kitchen. Best of all, the home was situated on an almost .75 acre wooded lot...just a few miles from downtown Raleigh. My buyer was convinced that...after seeing home #4...his search would be over. I was equally hopeful.

Pulling into home #4's long driveway, I immediately sensed that something was not quite right. I grabbed the MLS sheet...to verify that I was at the right house. YES...it was the correct address...but it was definitely NOT the same home...or was it?

The MLS sheet showed a well-maintained brick home with a nicely manicured lot. With overgrown bushes and tall weeds for a lawn...this home appeared to have been abandoned for years. There was something else missing...or added. In the MLS photo, you could clearly see the whole front of the home...with only one small tree in front of the bedroom window. That ‘small tree' had grown a little since the MLS photo had been taken...about 35 or 40 feet to be more specific. It was so large, in fact, that the whole side of the house was hidden.

Somewhat speechless, we made our way up the front steps and into the front door. Pausing in the doorway, I could hardly believe my eyes. The gorgeous hardwood floors (from the photos) were partially torn up...leaving exposed beams and holes to the basement below. There was garbage and debris scattered from one end of the home to the other...with at least 10 bags of garbage stacked in the kitchen area. Most of the windows in the home were cracked or completely missing, and the ceiling was falling down throughout the home. The dated appliances were nowhere to be found, and the bathrooms had NO TOILETS. There was nothing (ABSOLUTELY NOTHING) about the house that even remotely matched the pictures in the MLS. As you can imagine, home #4 was a huge disappointment and a complete waste of our time.

Driving to the next listing, I gave Mr. Listing Agent a call about home #4...but he must have been too busy falsifying information in the MLS to take my call. I did leave him a ‘sweet' message...asking for a return call at his earliest convenience. Two days later, he had still not found a convenient time to call me back...so I called him again...leaving another ‘sweet' message...

"Hi Mr. Listing Agent, this is Elizabeth Nieves AGAIN. I showed your listing on Liars Lane the other day, and I am calling to report that someone has broken in and vandalized your listing. You need to get over there right away, because the damage is extensive. They have torn up the beautiful, hardwood floors. The appliances are missing. There is garbage everywhere, and they EVEN stole the toilets! OH...they did leave one clue behind. I think the vandals are landscapers, because...after they totally trashed the house...they planted a 40 foot tree in the front yard. Have a wonderful day!"

The Moral of the story:

'FLUFF' is the 'STUFF' in the middle of an oreo cookie.

THIS IS MISREPRESENTATION!

Rule #1 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***NO NAKED PEOPLE ALLOWED TO 'POP OUT' DURING SHOWING***

Rule #2 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***NO! YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE A R.E. LICENSE IF YOU CAN'T COUNT!***

Rule #3 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SHOW IT!***

Rule #4 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***TO ALL LISTING AGENTS: PLEASE GIVE ME SOME WARNING THAT YOUR SELLER IS INSANE***

Rule #5 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) *** F.S.B.O. does NOT stand for material (F)ACTS (S)HOULD (B)E (O)PTIONAL! ***

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR®

The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Search Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and ALL Triangle Homes for Sale

1104 Pebblestone Drive Durham, NC 27703 Former Model Home FOR SALE in Ridgefield Community! ONLY $174,900

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 16:08:44 -0600

Links

Photo Gallery

Description

Just minutes to Brier Creek and RTP...this incredible home will wrap you in warmth from the moment you step inside. The open and interesting floorplan is enhanced by the impeccable decor. Make an appointment today to see this GORGEOUS HOME!

Features Include:

BEAUTIFUL KITCHEN with Tons of 42in Maple Cabinets
9FT SMOOTH CEILINGS on 1st Floor
CROWN MOULDING in Living Room
Master Bedroom has TREY CEILING & Walk-in-closet w/ Organizer System
SCREENED PORCH with POND VIEW!

Hablamos ESPAÑOL! Llamanos AHORA par obtener mas informacíon!

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	2.5
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	2005
Subdivision:	Ridgefield
Lot Size:	.13
Garage Size:	1
School District:	Durham County
Square Footage:	1557
Agent Name:	Elizabeth Nieves
Broker:	The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams
MLS #:	1648299

Location

1104 Pebblestone Drive Durham NC 27703

vFlyer Id: 2279972

Rule #3 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SHOW IT!

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 13:27:22 -0600

Dear Mr. Listing Agent,

Although we have not yet met...you have been the source of great inspiration for me. Oh YES...that is why I am writing you today. You see...I'm dedicating a whole chapter just to you...as you have contributed so much valuable material to my (yet-to-be-published) R.E. Rule Book. Rest assured that I will reserve an autographed copy just for you; however, I'll give you an exclusive, never-before-seen, sneak peek right now.

I sincerely hope that you will enjoy reading Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book and recommend it to all of your friends. As you read, you may even recognize THEIR contribution to this chapter, as well.

Thanks again for ALL of that you have personally done to make Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book a reality!

Warmest regards,

Elizabeth Nieves

Rule #3: IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SHOW IT!

(Rule #3 is such an important and complex rule...I have broken it down into FIVE parts.)

A. IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...PLEASE TAKE PICTURES!

Okay...Mr. Listing Agent...I feel as though I need to remind you that this is 2007...almost 2008. Digital cameras are dirt cheap, and even the most technologically disadvantaged agent can learn to operate one. Buy a digital camera and take pictures. IF you don't have pictures on your MLS listing, I'm probably going to click past it. Sorry...but I am easily distracted by all the pretty pictures. Besides...(and please don't be offended)...IF your listing is so wonderful...why won't you show me a picture?

B. IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...PLEASE DON'T MAKE ME WAIT THREE DAYS TO SHOW IT!

You know who you are, don't you? I know you do! This one is just for you...Mr. Listing Agent...who asks for 72 hours notice before I can schedule an appointment to show your listing. And...OH NO...your 72 hour notice does not apply to just one listing...it is your STANDARD SHOWING POLICY. Please understand that my clients will be under contract on another home within 72 hours...and your listing will still be on the market. Just a suggestion...you may want to consider a NEW POLICY!

C. IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...PLEASE GIVE ME ACCURATE DIRECTIONS!

YES...I can read a map...but I assume that you can also. It is, after all, YOUR listing. Am I wrong to expect that YOU will know the best and fastest route to take to YOUR listing? I REALLY want to show your listing. You took such lovely pictures! Just please...PLEASE...give me good directions. And...if it is NOT too much to ask...could you also spell the neighborhood and street names correctly? That is so helpful...in the event that your directions lead me into the great and glorious unknown. (OH YES...that place does exists...I've been there while looking for your listings.)

D. IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...PLEASE DON'T HIDE THE LOCKBOX FROM ME!

When I was a little girl, I LOVED Easter egg hunts. What wonderful memories I have of searching for the cleverly hidden eggs...the delight I felt when I discovered a brightly, colored treasure. I'm over that now. I assure you that I do not enjoy playing 'Hide-n-Seek' the combination lockbox...nor 'Lockbox Marco Polo'. And...if you feel that you MUST place the lockbox somewhere other than the front door...would you please be so kind to make a note of its location in your showing instructions.

One last thing...for those of you who do place the lockbox on the front door (but forget to give the combination to the showing service)...could you just NOT do that? Or...at the very least...will you please call me back with the combination when I call to inform you that I wish to show your listing?

E. IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...PLEASE WARN ME IF YOUR SELLERS ARE FREAKS!

Mr. Listing Agent...I truly understand that you work for your client. I promise that I will never ask you to compromise your fiduciary duty; however, I would very much appreciate a little warning if your client is a freak.

IF your client is a recluse who has not been out of his home in five years...I would like to know.

IF your client is prejudice and has threatened to shoot if someone of color comes to his house...that is valuable information to me.

IF your client is on medication to control his violent outbursts...and he often forgets to take his medication...I need to know this!

IF your client is an exhibitionist...just a little mention in the agent only remarks is all I'm asking.

IF your client verbally or physically threatened the last agent who attempted to show his home...please share this information with me.

IF your client has a large attack dog who answers the door...you must give me warning. (This rule also applies to reptiles of all kinds.)

And finally...IF you are afraid to be alone with your client...or you feel the need to 'pack' a weapon when you visit your listing...PLEASE forget about me and save yourself. (You should be ashamed of your greedy self for taking that listing in the first place, but get out while you still can.)

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR® -- The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Visit our website at http://www.elizabethnieves.com

"They Done Shot Bobby!!!" (This is a TRUE CRIME STORY with a TWIST)

Sat, 03 Jan 2009 22:40:21 -0600

SINCE today is Saturday...and SINCE Saturday comes at the end of the week...and SINCE I want a good excuse to tell this story...I'm going to USE today being Saturday as my EXCUSE!

::LOOKING AROUND TO SEE IF THAT FLEW...AND MOVING ON::

(Just a few short years ago...) When I was sixteen years old, I had a summer job at Wendy's. (It was a horrible job, but that has nothing to do with this post.) One afternoon...listening to music and daydreaming about what I would do with the rest of my day...I was driving happily along after finishing my shift. I had a white Mazda RX3...standard...that would backfire every now and then when I changed gears quickly. (Keep this in mind, as I continue the story.)

As I was driving along, just about to turn onto the highway, I noticed something (out of the corner of my eye) that didn't seem quite right. I looked closely and saw a young guy standing behind an old man. The old man was mowing his lawn, and the young guy had come up from behind him and was strangling him with a tshirt. It seemed as though the young guy was trying to take the old man's wallet, but he could not get it free from his pocket. In his adrenaline-driven panic, he was choking the old man...close to death.

Without thinking about what I was doing, I whipped the car around and started heading directly for the old man and young thief. The young guy released the old man and bolted down the street...with me hot on his trail. We were inside the city limits...with a stopsign at each corner. Therefore, I had to stop and go a lot...but I kept the punk in my sights.

We had traveled six or seven blocks when I heard many frantic voices screaming..."They done shot Bobby...OH MY LORD...They done shot Bobby!" Just then, I saw the young thief take a dive through the air from the street to a house below street level. As he landed, I saw that the source of the screaming voices was ten or so hysterical people on the porch of the house he dove onto.

Satisfied that I knew where he lived, I turned back around to go check on the old man and call the police. As I drove back up the street, I saw people lined up along the sides of the road...straining to get a better look. They were looking at ME! Then, I saw five police cars in front of the old man's house. "GOOD"...I thought..."NOW they can go get the bad guy!"

Still pumped up from the chase, I parked and jumped out of my car...heading toward the police and yelling, "Let's go get him. I know where he lives." They were standing in the old man's front yard...in a circle...and they were NOT moving. They were also staring at me. "Come on...I KNOW where he lives!!!"...I screamed. ::WHY AREN'T THEY DOING ANYTHING?:: Two officers began to walk in my direction. They looked at me...then looked at my car...then looked back at me. By this point, I was really frustrated that they were not reacting..."Sir...PLEASE...come with me. I can show you where he lives."

At that moment...I had that same (icky) feeling that you get when you are called to the principal's office but you don't know what you did wrong. ::HEY GUYS! DON'T YOU KNOW THAT I'M THE HERO HERE?:: One officer spoke up, "Maam...is that your car?" ::DUH...DIDN'T I JUST DRIVE UP IN IT?:: "Yes, sir, that is my car." Then he said, "We have received many reports from the neighbors...of a white lady in a white Toyota...chasing a barefooted black man down the street...shooting at him. What can you tell us about that?" ::OOOOOOMMMMMMMGGGGOSSSHHHHH...THEY THINK I'M THE BAD GUY!::

Trying NOT to laugh...cuz no one else was laughing...I said, "Sir...as you can see, I don't have a Toyota. It is a Mazda. AND...I was NOT shooting at anyone! My car backfires when I change gears too quickly. That is probably what people heard. NOW...can we please go get the BAD GUY???"

Still a bit puzzled by what had occurred, the two officers escorted me to their car and asked me to show them where the perpetrator (I really wanted to use that word!) lived. When we arrived at the home, the officers lined up ALL of the young men who were in the house...ALL eight of them...and asked me to pick out the guy I had seen strangling the old man. Of course, he was not there. In the time it had taken for the officers to realize that I was NOT the bad guy, the real bad guy had gotten away. As far as I know, they never found him.

Through the years, I've thought about this particular day many times and tried to imagine what the scene must have looked like through the eyes of EVERYONE ELSE. From my perspective, it was sooooooooooooo utterly clear...it was absolutely cut and dry. There was a victim and a predator...a good guy and a bad guy. (AND ME...the HERO!) And...YET...from their (the police officers' and witnesses') perspective...from where they were standing...it was not so clear. In fact, they got the facts turned completely upside down and inside out.

That thought led me to this question: How often do we (humans) see something or somene and make a judgement...without realizing that our glasses are fogged up...that our view is distorted...that our perspective is JUST PLAIN WRONG? How many times do we walk away believing what we have 'seen with our own eyes' when we've really not 'seen' anything at all? HOW DO WE DISTINGUISH TRUTH FROM DECEPTION...ESPECIALLY WHEN THE DECEIVER IS...OUR OWN SELF?

I'm glad you asked!

Proverbs 3: 5-6 "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

IF we trust God...REALLY trust Him...TRUST Him with ALL of our hearts...He will reveal truth to us. He will allow us to 'see' more clearly and understand more fully. Our perspective will allign with His perspective...and He will bring our vision into focus. What once was cloudy will become clear...what was once confusing will become simple...what once was gray will become spectacularly colorful.

CARY, NC Homes for Sale -- What can you buy for 200K? (You might just be surprised!)

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 12:05:56 -0500

Cary, North Carolina Homes for Sale

September 2008

Single Family Homes -- Under 200K

The least expensive home is priced at $140,000...$19,627 BELOW TAX VALUE. It is offered for sale 'AS IS'.

Based on this current list of single family homes for sale in Cary, NC...the price per square foot ranges from $93 to $151. The average price per square foot is $123.

The following home is the least expensive home on this list, based on the price per square foot.

Priced MORE THAN $57,000 BELOW TAX VALUE...this SHORT SALE at 10709 E. Bridgford Drive could be a GREAT INVESTMENT!

This updated beauty is a rare find in Cary, NC...with a partially finished basement and a .44 acre lot! The AMAZING KITCHEN is my favorite part of the home.

This charming home on 1/3 of an acre...walking distance to BEAUTIFUL BOND PARK...is another one of my personal favorites from the list of currently available homes.

Of the currently available single family homes...priced under 200K in Cary, NC...this spacious home on 1/3 wooded acre is 'Elizabeth's Pick of the Litter'! At $175,000...NOT ONLY has the home been drastically reduced...BUT THE SELLER IS VERY MOTIVATED and calling for ALL OFFERS!

Cary, NC is a great place to live!

Call me today so that I can assist you to find YOUR NEW HOME in Cary, NC.

(919)749-3749

Email me: Elizabeth@ElizabethNieves.com

I look forward to hearing from you!

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR®

The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Search Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and ALL Triangle Homes for Sale

The 'Magic Formula' for Finding the JUST RIGHT PRICE...

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 07:50:18 -0600

Today, I had to tell a seller that I did not wish to list his home. More accurately, I CHOSE to tell a seller that I did not wish to list his home...but it was NOT an easy decision.

Since beginning my real estate career in 2003, I have sold more than my fair share of 'challenging' listings. In fact, my 'trophy case' is quite full of successful sales that I call my 'repeat offender' and 'fat-chance' listings.

'Repeat offenders' are those properties that have been listed by at least one other agent previously, without success.

'Fat-chance' listings are properties that are either so unique that the buyer pool is reduced to one in 47,243 buyers -OR- so ordinary that they do not stand out from the plethora of available, cookie-cutter homes.

Early in my career, I realized that there was a magnetic force field surrounding me that attracted these types of listings. Being the hungry, new agent in the office...I viewed EVERY listing as an opportunity to gain valuable market exposure and establish myself as the best REALTOR® in my area. With each closed sale, I acquired more self-confidence and more respect from others.

Even more importantly, I learned that there IS a buyer for EVERY home...

IF THE HOME IS PRICED RIGHT!

In other words, there is a 'magic formula' that looks something like this:

SIZE + CONDITION x LOCATION - WEIRD -or- PLAIN JANE FACTOR = JUST RIGHT PRICE

As a professional, experienced REALTOR®...I know and understand the current market conditions. By combining my knowledge with the 'magic formula', I am able to determine the 'right price'...the highest price that the market will bear. YES...you heard me correctly...the HIGHEST PRICE the market will bear.

Today, when I recommended that we list his home for the 'right price'...the seller suggested that we 'try' a much higher price...even though he desperately needs to sell his home quickly. After explaining (again) how I had arrived at the 'right price', he insisted that he wanted to 'try' a higher price. Without hesitation, I thanked him for the opportunity to meet with him and sincerely wished him the best of luck with his sale.

You see...IF I had agreed to list his home for the 'wrong price', in a market with eleven months of available inventory...I would have done both the seller and myself an injustice. I may have even placed him at risk of losing his home to foreclosure. As difficult as it was to tell him that I did not wish to list his home today, it was far easier than knowing that I was setting him up for failure in the future.

Thinking about selling your home?

Want to know the 'RIGHT PRICE'?

Call or email me today for a FREE Comparative Market Analysis.

(919)749-3749

Elizabeth@ElizabethNieves.com

***Photo courtesy of FreeDigitalPhotos.net***

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR®

The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Search Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and ALL Triangle Homes for Sale

NEGATIVITY and OPTIMISM are both contagious. Which would you rather ‘catch’?

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 21:30:46 -0600

“One bad apple spoils the whole bunch.” You’ve heard that phrase before, but have you ever thought about what it really means? Scientifically…it is true that the gases emitted from a ripening apple will cause other apples to ripen more rapidly. However, if an apple is too ripe…if it has begun to grow mold spores…the other healthy apples will soon be covered with mold spores, as well.

In this same manner, one person who is infected with negativity will quickly spread his ‘spores’ to every healthy person with whom he comes in contact. Negative people are rarely content to keep their ‘disease’ to themselves. On the contrary, they usually seek to make others as miserable as they are because “misery loves company!”

“Smile and the world smiles with you” is another well-known quote…suggesting that a smile (which is the outward evidence of inward joy and happiness) is also contagious. I once took part in an unofficial ‘smile study’ in which the participants were asked to genuinely smile at strangers, neighbors, co-workers, clients, cashiers, waiters/waitresses, the person in the car beside you, joggers you pass on the trail and everyone you meet for one full week. The goal of the study was to determine the impact of a simple, genuine smile on those around you.

Within a few hours of beginning my assignment, I had a new appreciation for the power of a smile. With the exception of a few weird guys who must have thought I wanted them to ask me out, the results were amazing. I watched as one person after another lit up with the biggest and brightest smile in reaction to my smile. In some cases, I would see them smile at someone else…causing that person to smile, as well.

According to the APP (American Academy of Periodontology), 50% of people claim that the smile is the first thing they notice about a person. The APP did not ask my opinion, but I completely agree with their results. A genuine smile lights up the whole face and draws people closer. It emanates self-assurance, warmth and authenticity. It inspires trust and confidence.

In these uncertain, economic times, it is difficult to shield yourself from the epidemic of negativity that seems to come from everywhere. There is no vaccine to protect you from this disease; however, you can choose to remain optimistic and positive…even when those around you are not. Your smile is the most powerful anti-venom against the poison of negativity.

Give a smile to someone today who has lost theirs.

It costs you nothing, but its value is immeasurable.

~Elizabeth Nieves~

Job 29:24

When I smiled at them, they scarcely believed it; the light of my face was precious to them.

(Now...I challenge you to go read the full story of Job. IF ever a man had a reason to be bitter and angry, Job is THAT MAN. He was surrounded by 'bad apples', but he remained optimistic and faithful. I want to be like Job.)

***Photo courtesy of Freefoto.com***

3011 Redwood Road Durham, NC 27704 -- STUNNING Remodeled & Updated Home on Almost .5 Acre!!

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 17:16:04 -0600

Links

Photo Gallery

Description

Beautiful COUNTRY SETTING...just off of I-85 and 13 minutes from Brier Creek...this ABSOLUTELY GORGEOUS HOME is READY FOR NEW OWNER!

Features Include:

FABULOUS Tiled Kitchen, Dining & Family Area w/ Gaslog FP
Kitchen has Tons of Maple Cabinets, ALL BLACK APPLIANCES and Bar!
ALL Four Bedrooms w/ HARDWOOD FLOORS
Finished BONUS or 5th Bedroom
STYLISH DECOR
Completely FENCED BACKYARD w/ Storage Shed.

Hablamos ESPAÑOL! Llamanos AHORA par obtener mas informacíon!

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	1.5
Year Built:	1963
Lot Size:	.46
School District:	Durham County
Square Footage:	2465
Agent Name:	Elizabeth Nieves
Broker:	The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group
MLS #:	1644822

Location

3011 Redwood Road Durham NC 27704

vFlyer Id: 2216186

4024 S Roxboro Street Unit #: 330 -- STUNNING...BETTER THAN NEW...End Unit Townhome in Elm Grove @ Hope Valley Farms!

Sun, 25 Jan 2009 06:56:00 -0600

Links

Photo Gallery

Description

This SPECTACULAR 3 Bedroom 2.5 Bath CRAFTSMAN STYLE Home Includes:

Open Floorplan
ALL Stainless Steel Appliances
Granite Countertops
9 Ft. Ceilings and HARDWOODS Throughout the First Floor!
Tons of Storage
View of the Trees from YOUR PRIVATE PATIO!!!

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	2.5
Parking Spaces:	Assigned
Year Built:	2006
Subdivision:	Elm Grove @ Hope Valley Farms
School District:	Durham
Square Footage:	1383
Agent Name:	Elizabeth Nieves
Broker:	The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group
MLS #:	1643258

Location

4024 S. Roxboro Street #330 Durham NC 27713

vFlyer Id: 2200430

NACA - Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (Part Two -- What I have learned from MY EXPERIENCE!)

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 20:36:09 -0500

Yesterday...I posted an article about NACA...The Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America...a non-profit community advocacy and homeownership organization. That post was an introduction and overview of the program. Today...I will attempt to answer your many and varied questions...based on my personal experience with NACA.

For the record...I DO have EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE working with NACA. I closed my first transaction with NACA in June 2006. From that point, I personally closed 3-5 NACA transactions per month. My buyers' agents closed 1-2 per month, as well. Considering that the Raleigh, NC NACA office only averaged about 20 closings per month in 2006, our closings represent a fairly large percentage of the total. I currently have about 100 clients who are enrolled in the NACA program.

Now that I have established myself as a credible witness...I will share some of the things (wisdom...knowledge...'INSIDER SECRETS') I've learned from my vast encounters with NACA. (PLEASE FASTEN YOUR SEATBELTS...WE MAY EXPERIENCE SOME MILD TURBULENCE DURING OUR FLIGHT ;-)

To say that a NACA transaction is VASTLY DIFFERENT from traditional loan programs is an understatement, at best. The very first requirement, in the NACA process, is that the buyer must attend a 4 hour seminar. (The agent is also required to attend the seminar prior to being approved by NACA...to work with THEIR OWN BUYER!)

Assuming that everyone takes the first step...the next step is to schedule an appointment to meet with a NACA counselor. IF the client has ALL of their documentation in order (something I coach them to do EVEN BEFORE they attend the seminar)...it is possible to receive an appointment within a few weeks of the seminar. I also encourage my clients to call every few days and ask for cancelled appointments. In many cases, the very act of calling shows their level of interest and commitment...getting them in the door faster.

At their initial appointment, they could POSSIBLY receive an instant approval IF THEY PROVIDE ALL OF THE DOCUMENTATION NACA REQUIRES ...and...THEY QUALIFY BASED ON THAT DOCUMENTATION. I've had READY, WILLING and ABLE BUYERS approved within 3 weeks of attending the seminar. (Again...I coach my clients from the first day about the NACA process and give them the information they need to walk into their first appointment fully prepared.) IF they arrive unprepared...they WILL receive a list of required documentation and a polite invitation to call NACA again when they are prepared.

In either case...once NACA does approve a client...NACA will issue a loan commitment letter. This letter is not a pre-qualification...not a pre-approval...it is a commitment to lend...assuming that they have no changes to their qualifying circumstances AND the home passes the rigorous NACA standards. Based on the numerous transactions I've had with NACA...their loan commitment is STRONG! I've personally not had a single NACA transaction fall through.

Although NACA's approval process is NOT CREDIT DRIVEN...NACA does check credit and will not approve someone with BAD CREDIT. Instead...NACA will work with the client to repair their credit issues. Because NACA is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to promote homeownership...their primary objective is to ensure that the client can afford the home BEFORE they fund the loan. Therefore...NACA will not grant an approval until such a time as they can see 1) a 3 month savings pattern AND 2) a serious attempt to correct any bad habits that contributed to their bad credit.

To specifically address some of your comments.....

Brandon said that "NACA doesn't usually work out too well for the seller." IF you think about the fact that NACA makes homeownership possible for MANY people who would otherwise NOT BE ABLE TO BUY...then it seems to me that NACA is good for sellers. More buyers equals more homes sold. Especially in the current market...NACA is a sellers' best friend. Furthermore...what is more frustrating to a seller than pulling his home off the market and having the deal fall through at the last minute. With NACA...there are some added headaches...but you can be confident that you will end up at the closing table.
Grant wrote, "Most (buyers) fall out or don't complete the program." Unfortunately, Grant made a valid point. The process is lengthy and requires a tremendous amount of commitment. However...look at the reward (NO DP...NO CC...and a LOW, LOW, FIXED RATE!) With this program...it is particularly important for you to be in constant contact with your client. Keep them motivated and encouraged. THEY WILL THANK YOU IN THE END.
Kris wrote, "IF they (my client) can be persistent...so can I!" EXACTLY!!!! And again...REMEMBER...with ALL of the issues in the lending world...these clients MAY NOT have any other option!

A FEW MORE POINTS TO CONSIDER (THE GOODIES!):

In my opinion...NACA is SUPERIOR to any loan option for purchasing new construction. With NACA's stringent inspection/repair process...it does not work as well for homes that need extensive repairs. However, most of the transactions I have closed have been existing construction. Of those, only ONE was a foreclosure, but it was in fairly good condition.
It is a good idea to educate the listing agent when you present a NACA offer. I have a letter that I present with EVERY NACA offer. It explains the benefits AND challenges of a NACA transaction. I find that my honest and upfront approach answers their questions and overcomes their objections.
I said it before, and I'll say it again. NACA is NOT for EVERY BUYER! If your client has a time restraint...and other loan options...you should probably encourage them to investigate ALL of their options.
I've referred to NACA's 'stringent inspection/repair process' several times. Your client MUST have an inspection performed by a NACA approved inspector, and the inspector submits the inspection report directly to NACA. NACA has a separate department (HAND) whose sole purpose is to evaluate the inspection report and generate a repair request. ALL repairs must be completed by a licensed contractor. NACA will not move forward with the loan until the seller agrees, in writing, to make the necessary repairs. Upon completion, the inspector will perform a second inspection to ensure that the repairs were done properly. I could write pages JUST about the inspection/repair process, but for your sake...I WON'T!
NACA is not a lender, and the people who work for NACA are not loan officers...they are housing counselors. They are also typically overworked and overwhelmed. I have learned, the hard way, that faxes get lost...emails are not always returned in a timely manner...and sometimes, the counselors don't get around to calling the clients back for days. I DON'T LIKE IT, BUT I DEAL WITH IT. I am pro-active with the housing counselors. I follow up much more than I would with loan officers. I offer my services as the liason between the housing counselors and my clients. I take the iniative to get things done...before the NACA counselor even asks for it. I KNOW that many of my closings would have been delayed had I not taken this approach. IS IT MY JOB? YES and NO! It IS my job to ensure that my clients close on time...if it is within my control. By staying a step or two ahead of the process...I give my clients the VERY BEST I CAN GIVE. I think they deserve it, and they always appreciate the extra effort.
LAST BUT NOT LEAST...when you refer a client to NACA...be absolutely certain that you document them in the NACA system. YOU need to register them for the seminar and enroll them on the NACA website. IF YOU DO NOT...AND IF THE CLIENT CONTACTS NACA ON THEIR OWN...you will have to pay a 33% referral fee to NACA at closing. THAT WOULD MAKE ME CRY!!!

I feel as though there is so much that I've NOT covered. I also feel that what I have covered is a bit overwhelming. Please do not be concerned! Once you learn the system...and YOU are already ahead of the agents who haven't read this post..NACA is no more difficult than any other non-traditional loan program. You just have to invest the time to understand the rules of the game!

For more information...visit naca.com

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves -- Broker, REALTOR® -- The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams -- www.ElizabethNieves.com

Rule #2 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) NO! YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE A R.E. LICENSE IF YOU CAN'T COUNT!

Mon, 26 Nov 2007 00:36:42 -0600

In elementary school, we all learned the three R's...Reading, wRiting and aRithmatic. Anyone having flashbacks to storytime on the reading carpet? ::OH...THAT'S JUST ME!?:: What about the giant abacus with huge red and yellow beads...anyone have one of those in your class? MAN...I loved that thing!

Well...apparently...there are some listing agents (in my neck of the woods) who skipped elementary school. (OR...they fell asleep on the reading carpet.) I know this must be true...because all too often, I show their listings.

Not too long ago, I was working with a single mom (I'll call her Barbara)...a referral from another satisfied client. Barbara was on a pretty strict budget, but she wanted a nice four bedroom home for her children...in a specific school district. In her price range, there were few four bedroom homes. However, I was hopeful.

Every morning, I checked to see if there were any new four bedroom listings in Barbara's price range. After several weeks, the perfect home came on the market. I called Barbara immediately, and we rushed to see the home. Barbara was so excited that she took a few hours off from work. The home appeared to be a great bargain, and she did not want to miss the opportunity.

As usual, I arrived a few minutes before Barbara to the appointment. I opened the front door and quickly realized that the home needed more work than the listing sheet had indicated. Still...it was in a great neighborhood...had four bedrooms...AND was within Barbara's price range. "This is perfect"...I thought.

As I was exploring the first floor, Barbara arrived also...a bit early. Convinced it was 'the home' for her family, she anxiously moved from room to room. I followed her to the second floor and into the master bedroom. From there, we made our way through the two secondary bedrooms. Stepping back into the hallway, she asked me where the fourth bedroom was located. ::OH MY!:: "Hmmm...let's get our bearings. Maybe we missed it in the excitement."

A quick trip back through the home confirmed that there were, in fact, three bedrooms...NOT four. Now, you are probably thinking that there was some 'other' room that the listing agent was calling a 'bedroom'. NOPE! No sunroom...no study...no bonus room...no office...nothing...nada...zip!!! The home had a living room, dining room, kitchen, three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. THAT WAS IT!

Frustrated that Barbara had taken time from work to see the home (because the listing agent advertised it as a four bedroom)...I called the listing agent during the appointment. He answered, and I calmly explained that I was at the showing but that I was having some difficulty finding the fourth bedroom. (I will admit that I wanted to chew him out...but I didn't!) Without hesitation he said, "Well...it's got to be there somewhere. You must have overlooked it." Before I could respond, he hung up.

On the drive back home, I called him again and left a message expressing my client's disappointment that he had misrepresented the number of bedrooms. I suggested that he might want to correct the information in the MLS in order to avoid the same thing happening to another agent. Several weeks later, I stumbled across the listing again...STILL stating that the home had four bedrooms. It was apparent to me that the listing agent had no intentions of correcting the information...that he may have even misrepresented the number of bedrooms purposefully...to create more interest in the home. Either way...he was clearly wrong.

In my next telephone message to him, I said "Mr. Listing Agent...this is Elizabeth Nieves...and I just happened upon your listing at 123 Happy Trail again this morning. It appears that reporting information accurately and truthfully is not on your list of priorities...as I made you aware of this misinformation weeks ago, and you have yet to make the correction in the MLS. Perhaps, you don't care that you caused my client to lose valuable time and money at work...or that I drove an hour to show her a home that she would never have looked at had you done your job properly. Maybe not...but I think I know someone who will. Have a nice day!" Before the end of the day, the listing was corrected.

REALTORS are human beings (contrary to public opinion), and we will inevitably make mistakes. However, we have a great responsibility to our clients, and our fellow agents, to use due care and diligence in all aspects of the real estate transaction. Like my mom always told me, "If you do it right the first time, you won't have to waste time doing it again."

Written and Posted by:

Elizabeth Nieves - Broker, REALTOR® -- The Elizabeth Nieves Realty Group @ Keller Williams (A Bilingual Real Estate Team serving Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill NC and surrounding areas.)

Visit our website at http://www.elizabethnieves.com

ActiveRain Week in Review 1/18/09 -- 1/24/09

Sun, 25 Jan 2009 22:38:57 -0600

If you hang around ActiveRain long enough, you will inevitably receive an email from Mr. Neal Bloom...asking if you would like to take a turn doing the Week in Review. Actually...Neal has a way of finding me when I've been away from the Rain too long and bringing me home. Thanks, Neal!!

If you have ever had the honor of doing a Week in Review, you know that it is incredibly difficult to decide which posts to include...as there are so many brilliant bloggers from which to choose. After many hours of reading hundreds of posts from this past week, I have chosen to share the posts that truly speak to me. I invite you to sit down with a good cup of coffee or hot tea and take your time to enjoy the best of the best of this past week on ActiveRain.

*********************************************************************

One of the first posts I read this week was Do real men wear make-up? by Mike Frazier. From his title, I was expecting a good laugh, but he tricked me. This story about his daughter, Lauren, will touch you deeply and make your heart smile.

Now that you are smiling, it is the perfect time to read Giving Back to Your Community as a School Volunteer by Russell Lewis. In this post, Russell exposes his.... (I'm NOT going to spoil the surprise!!)

Speaking of giving back...my good friend, Nick Bastian, is always the first one in line for an opportunity to give. Please take a moment to read Nick Bastian and RailLife.com want you to help us fight Cancer! and support Nick in his efforts.

"Courage is not defined by those who fought and did not fall, but by those who fought, fell, and rose again." I do not know who first said those words, but I remember the first time I heard them. For me, they were life-changing.

My heroes have always been people who face life's greatest challenges with a determination to persevere and overcome. They emerge from the wreckage with a greater passion for life...and they inevitably choose to make a difference in the world. Jammin' for Julian - An Update Date on a 5 Year Old in Need by Christine Donovan tells of one such family. This post is a wonderful reminder that each one of us has a responsibility to make the world a better place.

In a little over a year here at ActiveRain, I have become friends with some of the most amazing humans on the planet. One of my New Years resolutions is to meet many of those wonderful people this year face-to-face. So...I was a little jealous when I came across these next few posts: Meeting Active Rain Members Kristin and Sheila Moran in Greune (San Antonio) -Texas! by Liz Moras and ActiveRain International Dinner in Austin, Texas! (Okay, so maybe that sounds a bit dramatic). by Jason Crouch. Okay, Liz, how about a trip to North Carolina sometime soon, girlfriend???

ActiveRain is the best place on the internet to build lasting friendships. Need proof? Read Carole Provenzale's touching story My BEST ActiveRain SUCCESS Story: He Had me at Hello : )

Need MORE PROOF? I Just Gave out A Referral to An Active Rain Agent...and I Liked IT!!!!!!! by the one and only Larry Bettag will give you the motivation you need to keep those brilliant posts coming!

Okay...at the core, ActiveRain is about real estate. So naturally, some of my picks of the week are actually about real estate. (Imagine that!!)

In When is a Gift Not a Gift but a Bribe?, Elizabeth Weintraub shares a pretty unbelievable experience with clients who had unrealistic expectations. Has this ever happened to you?

This is a story about Guns and Unwelcome Guests..........BEWARE! by Ann Allen reminds all of us in this profession to be careful. This is a must read!

Mirela Monte must have been reading my mind when she wrote This is no Longer a Career; It's a Disease! I bet you feel this way sometimes, also.

In Progress Report - I Can Do ALL Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me, Loreena Yeo shares how she handles the stress and pressures of this business. She is one amazing woman! If you have not had the pleasure of reading her blog, you will be hooked from the first post.

Dream It, Believe It and Do It by Kathy Clulow is packed with truth and motivation for anyone who needs a gentle 'push' toward greatness.

I can always count on Jesse Clifton to deliver great advice and wisdom with just the right balance of humor. The best agent to use just might be the one who tells you the truth... lives up to all my expectations of him.

Gary Woltal is the undisputed king of positivity who continually inspires us all. His recent post Getting Better Means Growing Through It is especially meaningful to me right now.

This past week was filled with moments few of us will ever forget. My final, featured posts were written to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King...a man whose life work paved the way for the events we have just witnessed.

Honoring Martin Luther King This Day... by Broker Bryant Tutas is a bit of a walk down memory lane for BB. In this raw and honest post, he shares his insights and experiences from a perspective that many of us have never seen.

A Thank You to Dr. Martin Luther King - May Your Vision of Peace and Unity Be Realized by my dear friend, Carol Smith, reminds us that it is our responsibility to continue to fight for Dr. King's dream of a country without racism.

100 Quotes: The Legacy of a Man - a dream realized. by Alan May will infuse you with passion and purpose. I cannot think of a better way to end a celebration of another wonderful week at ActiveRain.

Neal Bloom has kept the Week In Review alive and well and if you would like to take a stab at doing the next one please contact him!

Weston Florida Real Estate Blog, Neal"The Real Deal"Bloom

Neal Bloom-Realtor ® Assoc.-CRS-Weston FL - Weston, FL

Raleigh - Durham...A Real N.C. Girl's Perspective

NACA - Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (A NON-PROFIT LOAN OPTION YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT!)

Rule #4 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***TO ALL LISTING AGENTS: PLEASE GIVE ME SOME WARNING THAT YOUR SELLER IS INSANE***

Rule #7 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) *** It will take a lot more than candles to hide the DEAD PEOPLE in the backyard from THIS REALTOR®! ***

Rule #1 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***NO NAKED PEOPLE ALLOWED TO 'POP OUT' DURING SHOWING***

Rule #2 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***NO! YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE A R.E. LICENSE IF YOU CAN'T COUNT!***

Rule #3 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SHOW IT!***

Rule #4 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***TO ALL LISTING AGENTS: PLEASE GIVE ME SOME WARNING THAT YOUR SELLER IS INSANE***

Rule #5 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) *** F.S.B.O. does NOT stand for material (F)ACTS (S)HOULD (B)E (O)PTIONAL! ***

Rule #6 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) *** When you add photos to your NEW listing in the MLS…PLEASE make sure that they were taken WITHIN THE LAST DECADE! ***

Rule #6 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) *** When you add photos to your NEW listing in the MLS…PLEASE make sure that they were taken WITHIN THE LAST DECADE! ***

1104 Pebblestone Drive Durham, NC 27703 ***Former Model Home*** FOR SALE in Ridgefield Community! ONLY $174,900

Rule #3 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SHOW IT!***

"They Done Shot Bobby!!!" (This is a TRUE CRIME STORY with a TWIST)

CARY, NC Homes for Sale -- What can you buy for 200K? (You might just be surprised!)

The 'Magic Formula' for Finding the JUST RIGHT PRICE...

NEGATIVITY and OPTIMISM are both contagious. Which would you rather ‘catch’?

3011 Redwood Road Durham, NC 27704 -- **STUNNING** Remodeled & Updated Home on Almost .5 Acre!!

4024 S Roxboro Street Unit #: 330 -- STUNNING...BETTER THAN NEW...End Unit Townhome in Elm Grove @ Hope Valley Farms!

NACA - Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America (Part Two -- What I have learned from MY EXPERIENCE!)

Rule #2 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) ***NO! YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE A R.E. LICENSE IF YOU CAN'T COUNT!***

ActiveRain Week in Review 1/18/09 -- 1/24/09

Rule #4 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) TO ALL LISTING AGENTS: PLEASE GIVE ME SOME WARNING THAT YOUR SELLER IS INSANE

Rule #7 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) * It will take a lot more than candles to hide the DEAD PEOPLE in the backyard from THIS REALTOR®! *

Rule #1 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) NO NAKED PEOPLE ALLOWED TO 'POP OUT' DURING SHOWING

Rule #2 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) NO! YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE A R.E. LICENSE IF YOU CAN'T COUNT!

Rule #3 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SHOW IT!

Rule #4 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) TO ALL LISTING AGENTS: PLEASE GIVE ME SOME WARNING THAT YOUR SELLER IS INSANE

Rule #5 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) * F.S.B.O. does NOT stand for material (F)ACTS (S)HOULD (B)E (O)PTIONAL! *

Rule #6 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) * When you add photos to your NEW listing in the MLS…PLEASE make sure that they were taken WITHIN THE LAST DECADE! *

Rule #6 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) * When you add photos to your NEW listing in the MLS…PLEASE make sure that they were taken WITHIN THE LAST DECADE! *

1104 Pebblestone Drive Durham, NC 27703 Former Model Home FOR SALE in Ridgefield Community! ONLY $174,900

Rule #3 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) IF YOU WANT ME TO SELL YOUR LISTING...I HAVE TO BE ABLE TO SHOW IT!

3011 Redwood Road Durham, NC 27704 -- STUNNING Remodeled & Updated Home on Almost .5 Acre!!

Rule #2 (of Elizabeth's R.E. Rule Book) NO! YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE A R.E. LICENSE IF YOU CAN'T COUNT!