Homes Database Real Estate
Chicago Home Owners: Todays real estate market and How It Affects You
The days of dropping a sign in the yard, putting an ad in the paper and baking cookies for a Sunday Open House are gone. Today’s real estate consumer is using the internet to gather information and make preliminary decisions before they even go out to see homes. If your listing agent isn’t prepared for this shift in the industry, your home could go largely unnoticed.
Over the last several years the real estate industry has changed dramatically. Some agents feared it, some agents ignored it, but the best agents embraced it and learned to play by the new rules. The best Realtors discovered they now had to do more to market a home. They had to learn all the new avenues consumers would come into contact with homes for sale. Most of all, they had to be technologically savvy and have a proactive marketing campaign to get a home sold.
The first shift was from the individual agent to an entire team. This approach allows the agent to focus more on finding buyers for your home. The agent’s staff can focus on marketing the home, processing paperwork and doing the day-to-day operations. Ask yourself, why wouldn’t you want an entire team working to sell your home versus a single agent when it doesn’t cost you a penny more?
Secondly, agents needed to be more proactive. Custom full color brochures have become commonplace in most homes for sale. Agents became involved in more direct mail campaigns marketing homes to neighborhoods and potential buyers. Some Realtors have even developed buyer databases that they can reference as they list homes for sale. These databases automatically alert them to matching buyers making an instant connection between buyer and seller.
A huge shift in the industry has been the internet and it’s ramifications on how consumers are searching for homes. This led to more and more Realtor websites. It began with a few sites posting a picture of a home for sale. Then came virtual tours, allowing home buyers to preview a home from the comfort of their desk or couch. The latest cutting edge tool used by some of the best agents are home websites. An entire website devoted to a single home for sale. These sites provide more information for buyers than any other avenue, even seeing the home with an agent. These sites offer unlimited photos (both exterior and interior), virtual tours, property documents (like disclosures) available for online viewing, links to schools, area information, mortgage calculators, heck, you can even set up a showing appointment! What’s next, maybe you’ll be able to buy the home sight unseen!
Another shift has been in value added services. Consumers are doing more work on their own, they need justification for what they’re paying their agent. More and more Realtors are offering value added services such as home warranties, home appraisals, home staging experts to prepare a home for sale and even FREE moving trucks!
Even with all this technology, the heart of the transaction still needs to be good communication and superior customer service. Some agents have unfortunately lost touch with these qualities as they have become more wrapped up in the technology. If you’re considering selling your home, make sure your agent possesses these skills. Get plenty of references and find out how they will be communicating with you throughout the transaction.
Perhaps the last thing that is important when you’re looking for a Realtor these days is some form of Performance Guarantee. Some agents like to charge a processing fee, or marketing fee, for listing your home for sale. If you decide to cancel your listing or it doesn’t sell you’re out! A good agent will provide you with an “easy exit” or Performance Guarantee stating that you can cancel your listing at no cost.
These are just some of the things changing the real estate industry over the last few years. Take this advice to heart when it comes time to sell your next home. A lot of consumers may be unaware of these changes, and what they should be looking for in a Realtor. Don’t get burned find an agent that has adapted to these changes yet held on to the most important qualities like customer service and communication!
About the Author
Kris Kombrink has been working in his family-owned real estate business since 1995. Specializing in Geneva, St Charles and Batavia Illinois residential real estate his team stays on top of the latest trends while maintaining superior customer. Learn more about his team at www.kombrink.com or email kris@kombrink.com
Listing suddenly taken off MLS (no transition to option period, no record of sale)…what gives?
I made an offer on a foreclosure that just yesterday was listed as active at HAR.COM. >>I bid $1000 OVER the asking price<< and came pre-approved (IE brought all the paper-work..it was NOT a low-ball offer).
However, today I checked at HAR.COM and the property was GONE. And, no...I did not receive an offer accepted/rejected letter. Plus HCAD.org (the appraisal district) still has the title in the same bank's name!
Every other property I've seen on that site (which is directly linked to the MLS database) goes to sold status and can be found by looking up the home's full address.
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Any idea what happened and/or if there may be foul play at hand and, perhaps, I should hire a real-estate lawyer?
BTW, the sellers agent did say they got my offer. Side question, should I fire my agent for being too slow and get a new one for the next home? I've had the papers ready for about a week sent to my agent and ready to send to them.
This happens all the time, and there is no ‘foul play’ involved. Someone else beat you to the punch with an offer which was accepted by the selling lender. Properties don’t come off of active status until there is an actual accepted offer. The lender very well could have made a decision on another offer before you even wrote an offer. You were just not a quick as the guy who got the accepted offer. The property may be gone from the MLS because the lender wants no further action on the part of the listing broker. Simple as that.
And of course the home is still in the bank’s name. THAT won’t change until closing has occurred, and closing could well be a month away from now.
Realtors: Explode your Real Estate Referrals, Sell More Houses and MAKE MORE MONEY!!
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Indies by Meyer Real Estate $330 Indies by Meyer Real Estate is the perfect choice for your Gulf Shores vacation. Though not directly on the beach, this professionally managed resort offers the amenities and comforts of home to discerning travelers. Guests at the Indies by Meyer Real Estate have private beach access, electric BBQ grills located on the roof top sundeck with misting stations, business center, an outdoor pool, exercise room, and a game room. Each of our condos is designed to provide you with a relaxing stay. Conveniences featured include comfortable furnishings, fully equipped kitchens, and spacious surroundings.Please note that boats, trailers, jet skis, or motor homes are not allowed on property. Limit 2 cars per unit. PETS NOT ALLOWED. All units are non smoking. The price includes everything, and there are no fees that are charged upon arrival. 2 bedroom/2 bath no view condo 3 bedroom/2 bathroom no view condo 3 bedroom/3 bathroom no view condoEnjoy excellent views of the gulf from the condos at Indies by Meyer Real Estate. Each spacious condo features a private balcony, comfortable furnishings, and a fully equipped kitchen complete with refrigerator and microwave. 2 bedroom/2 bathroom unit sleeps 6. Unit bedding varies. There is a 132.00 cleaning fee that will apply to the 2 bedroom unit.3 bedroom/2 bathroom unit sleeps 6. Unit bedding varies.3 bedroom/3 bathroom unit sleeps 6. Unit bedding varies.There is a 148.00 cleaning fee that will apply to both 3 bedroom units. Unit Amenities Alarm ClockCoffee PotIron Ironing BoardKitchen Fully Equipped MicrowaveRefrigeratorBalconyTV/VCRDVDPhoneWasher/DryerNon SmokingViewsCable TVPhone CallsPets Not AllowedAir conditioningTowels Provided |
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Basic Real Estate Report $39.95 Basic Real Estate Report |
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Bluewater by Meyer Real Estate $445 This professionally managed beachfront resort offers the amenities and comforts of home to discerning travelers. Bluewater by Meyer Real Estate is the perfect choice for the vacationing family or a group of friends. Our beautiful three bedroom condos offer the conveniences of a home away from home including comfortable furnishings, TVs, VCRs or DVD players, and fully equipped kitchens complete with refrigerator, stove and microwave. All of our guests also have access to the outdoor pool, childrens pool, indoor pool, sauna, and the exercise room. Please note that boats, trailers, jet skis, or motor homes are not allowed on property. There will also be a cleaning fee charged upon booking. Limit 2 cars per unit. PETS NOT ALLOWED. All units are non smoking except on the balcony if applicable. The price includes everything, and there are no fees that are charged upon arrival. 3 bedroom/2 bath gulf front condo 3 bedroom/2 bath large gulf front condoThe spacious condos at Bluewater by Meyer Real Estate offer comfortable accommodations for your beachfront vacation. Each of our condos offers a private balcony, comfortable furnishings, TVs, VCRs or DVD players, and fully equipped kitchens for your convenience. 3 bedroom/2 bath gulf front condo sleeps 8. Unit bedding varies. 3 bedroom/2 bath large gulf front condo sleeps 10. Unit bedding varies. Unit Amenities Alarm ClockCoffee PotIronIroning BoardKitchen Fully Equipped MicrowaveRefrigeratorBalconyTV/VCRDVDPhoneWasher/DryerNon SmokingCable TVPhone CallsPets Not AllowedAir conditioningTowels Provided |
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Dunes by Meyer Real Estate $311 Conveniently located two blocks from the Gulf of Mexico, this beautiful professionally managed resort offer the amenities and comforts of home to discerning travelers. Each of our beautiful condos offers the convenience of a home away from home with TVs, VCRs or DVD players, and fully equipped kitchens complete with refrigerator, stove and microwave. Guests also have access to all the on site amenities Dunes has to offer including an indoor pool, outdoor pool, exercise room, and steam room. It also is conveniently located across the street from the Public Marina and Boat Launch and near the Ft. Morgan Marina and Ferry.Please note that boats, trailers, jet skis, or motor homes are not allowed on property. Limit 2 cars per unit. PETS NOT ALLOWED. All units are non smoking. The price includes everything, and there are no fees that are charged upon arrival. 1 bedroom/1 bathroom no view condo 2 bedroom/2 bathroom no view condoEnjoy the convenience and comfort of a home away from home by staying at Dunes by Meyer Real Estate. Each of our beautiful condos features TVs, VCRs or DVD players, and fully equipped kitchens complete with stove, microwave and refrigerator.Unit bedding varies. Unit sleeps 6. There is a 110.00 cleaning fee that will apply to the 1 bedroom unit. Unit Amenities Alarm ClockCoffee PotIronIroning BoardMicrowaveRefrigeratorBalconyTVVCRDVDPhoneWasher/DryerNon SmokingViewsCable TVPhone CallsPets Not AllowedAir conditioningTowels Provided |
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Live Love Real Estate Construction Sweatshirt by CafePress $39.5 You love remodeling and renovating homes and property. Great gift for your favorite realtor, real estate investor or developer, mortgage broker, general contractor, house flipper, or real estate agent Construction Sweatshirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt Warm up in our stylin’ Hanes Heavyweight 90/10 cotton/polyester sweatshirt. Thick but not bulky, for maximum comfort and durability whether you’re working out or hanging out. 10.1 oz. patented PrintPro174; fabric in a 90/10 cotton/polyester |
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Lani Kai by Meyer Real Estate $185 This beautiful professionally managed resort offer the amenities and comforts of home to discerning travelers. Each of our beautiful condos offers the convenience of a home away from home with TVs, VCRs or DVD players, and fully equipped kitchens complete with refrigerator, stove and microwave. Guests also take advantage of the outdoor pool and direct beach access. Please note that boats, trailers, jet skis, or motor homes are not allowed on property. Limit 2 cars per unit. PETS NOT ALLOWED. All units are non smoking. Please note that the price includes everything, and no fees are charged upon arrival. 2 bedroom/1 bathroom no view condoThe spacious gulf front condos at Lani Kai by Meyer Real Estate are designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. Each of our condos features a fully equipped kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, parking and a VCR or DVD player. Unit bedding varies. Unit sleeps 6. Max Guests 6 Cleaning Fee 1462 bedroom/2 bathroom no view condoThe spacious gulf front condos at Lani Kai by Meyer Real Estate are designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. Each of our condos features a fully equipped kitchen with refrigerator, microwave, parking and a VCR or DVD player. Unit bedding varies. Unit sleeps 6. Max Guests 6 Cleaning Fee 146 Unit Amenities BalconyKitchen Fully EquippedMicrowaveRefrigeratorTVVCR |
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Villagio by Meyer Real Estate $184 Each of the condos at Villagio offers a fully equipped kitchen, TVs, VCRs or DVD players, and much more. Please note that boats, trailers, jet skis, or motor homes are not allowed on property. Limit 2 cars per unit. PETS NOT ALLOWED. All units are non smoking. Please note that the price includes everything, and no fees are charged upon arrival. 3 bedroom/1 bathroom no view condoEach condo features wonderful amenities including TVs, VCRs or DVD players and a fully equipped kitchen. Unit bedding varies. Unit sleeps 7. Max Guests 7 Cleaning Fee 163 Unit Amenities Air conditioningCoffee PotKitchen Fully EquippedMicrowaveNon SmokingPets Not AllowedPhoneRefrigeratorTV |
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Tradewinds by Meyer Real Estate $385 Located on the pristine white sand of Romar Beach, this professionally managed resort offers the amenities and comforts of home to discerning travelers. Each of our beautiful condos at Tradewinds will provide you with everything you need while you enjoy the glistening waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The condos feature amenities that include TVs, DVD players, and fully equipped kitchens for your convenience. You will also have access to the wonderful onsite amenities which include an indoor pool, an outdoor beachside pool, and a boardwalk directly to the beach.Please note that boats, trailers, jet skis, or motor homes are not allowed on property. Limit 2 cars per unit. PETS NOT ALLOWED. All units are non smoking. The price includes everything, and there are no fees that are charged upon arrival. 1 bedroom/1 bathroom gulf front condo 1 bedroom/1 bathroom no view condo 2 bedroom/2 bathroom gulf front condo 2 bedroom/2 bathroom no view condoBreathtaking views from your own private balcony combined with the comfort of home can be found in the condos at Tradewinds. Each condo offers spacious accommodations with comfortable furnishings, DVD players, and a fully equipped kitchen complete with microwave and refrigerator.1 bedroom/1 bathroom condo sleeps 4 6. Unit bedding varies. There is a 40.00 cleaning fee that will apply to both 1 bedroom units.2 bedroom/2 bathroom condo sleeps 6. Unit bedding varies. There is a 40.00 cleaning fee that will apply to both 2 bedroom units. Unit Amenities Alarm ClockCoffee PotKitchen Fully Equipped MicrowaveRefrigeratorBalconyTVDVDPhoneNon SmokingViewsCable TVPhone CallsPets Not AllowedAir conditioningTowels ProvidedIron Ironing BoardWasher/Dryer |
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Shoalwater by Meyer Real Estate $447 Located on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico in Orange Beach, this professionally managed resort offers the amenities and comforts of home to discerning travelers. Shoalwater is the perfect place for a vacationing family or a group of friends. All of our condos are three bedrooms and are equipped to make your stay as convenient as possible including TVs, DVD players and full kitchens complete with refrigerator and microwave. All guests have access to the beautiful on site amenities as well including an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, sauna, childrens pool, fitness room, lighted tennis court, and more. Enjoy the best during your stay in Orange Beach at Shoalwater.Please note that boats, trailers, jet skis, or motor homes are not allowed on property. Limit 2 cars per unit. PETS NOT ALLOWED. All units are non smoking. The price includes everything, and there are no fees that are charged upon arrival. 3 bedroom/2 bath gulf front condo 3 bedroom/3 bath gulf front condo The lovely condos at Shoalwater will provide you with a wonderful place to relax in after basking in the sun on the beautiful beach right outside. Each condo features TVs, DVD players, and a fully equipped kitchen for your convenience. Our units also feature a private balcony with great views.3 bedroom/2 bath gulf front condo sleeps 6 8. Unit bedding varies. There is a 151.00 cleaning fee that will apply to the 3 bedroom/2 bath condo.3 bedroom/3 bath gulf front condo sleeps 8 10. Unit bedding varies. There is a 151.00 cleaning fee that will apply to the 3 bedroom/3 bath condo. Unit Amenities Alarm ClockCoffee PotKitchen Fully Equipped MicrowaveRefrigeratorBalconyTVDVDPhoneNon SmokingViewsCable TVPhone CallsPets Not AllowedAir conditioningTowels ProvidedIron Ironing BoardWasher/Dryer |
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Live Love Real Estate Construction Jr. Raglan by CafePress $28.5 You love remodeling and renovating homes and property. Great gift for your favorite realtor, real estate investor or developer, mortgage broker, general contractor, house flipper, or real estate agent Construction Jr. Raglan Our Jr. Raglan from American Apparel is body contoured and baby soft. Made of 100% superfine combed cotton baby rib, this raglan provides the perfect look for any season. 5.8 oz. 100% Ultra-fine combed ring spun 1×1 baby rib cotton. Size up |
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Live Love Real Estate Construction Jr. Jersey T-Shirt by CafePress $22.25 You love remodeling and renovating homes and property. Great gift for your favorite realtor, real estate investor or developer, mortgage broker, general contractor, house flipper, or real estate agent Construction Jr. Jersey T-Shirt Tee, TShirt, Shirt Turn heads in this hot, hip, curve-hugging tee from American Apparel. Made of ultra-fine, ring-spun cotton, it gets softer with each washing. Lightweight for summer comfort or winter layering, it39;s a casual, effortless way to ensure you39;re stylin |
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Lost Key by Meyer Real Estate $243.2 Discover the beauty and charm of Perdido Key, Florida in a manner unknown until now. This professionally managed resort offers the amenities and comforts of home to discerning travelers. Set among natural preserves, Lost Key Golf and Beach Club provides a quiet island retreat in this unique area, rich in history and undisturbed by time.A premier golfing experience is offered at Lost Keys 18 hole, Arnold Palmer designed Audubon Sanctioned Silver Series certified golf course. The challenging course is set among wind sculpted trees and calming waterscapes and also features Sea Dwarf Paspalum greens for a smooth, fast putting experience. Guests will find the new Lost Key Golf Club the perfect place to unwind with exceptional amenities, elegant dining, a fully equipped pro shop and locker rooms.Please note that boats, trailers, jet skis, or motor homes are not allowed on property. Limit 2 cars per unit. PETS NOT ALLOWED. All units are non smoking. The price includes everything, and there are no fees that are charged upon arrival. 2 br/2 ba golf course oriented condo 3 br/2 ba golf course oriented family package 3 br/2 ba golf course oriented individual packageGolf lovers will love Lost Keys condos. After a beautiful day on the greens, they are the perfect place to come back to and relax. Each spacious condo offers the utmost in comfort including TVs, DVD players, a master bath with jacuzzi tub, a screened balcony, and a fully equipped kitchen. 2 br/2 ba golf course oriented condo sleeps 4 6. Unit bedding varies. There is a 40.00 cleaning fee that will apply to the 2 bedroom unit.Both 3 bedroom golf course oriented condo sleeps 6 8. Unit bedding varies. There is a 40.00 cleaning fee that will apply to the 3 bedroom unit. Unit Amenities Alarm ClockCoffee PotKitchen Fully Equipped MicrowaveRefrigeratorBalconyTVDVDPhoneJacuzzi TubNon SmokingViewsCable TVPhone CallsAir conditioningTowels ProvidedIron Ironing BoardWasher/Dryer |
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Beach Club by Meyer Real Estate $1088 Located on the Gulf of Mexico, the Beach Club is a vacation destination like no other in Alabama. This professionally managed resort offers the amenities and comforts of home to discerning travelers. You will find The Palm Bar and Club Restaurant, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, and the Gulfside Grill and Tiki Bar offering casual cuisine. The Village Market and Mercantile serves breakfast, lunch, desserts and great daily specials, plus an exciting shopping experience for the whole family. Pamper yourself with a spa or salon experience, play a game of racquetball, work out in one of the fitness rooms, or take a trip to the sauna or steam room. There is also the Childrens Club, water and step aerobics, tennis and so much more. Limit 2 cars per unit. Please also note that boats, trailers, jet skis, or motor homes are not allowed on property. Clubhouse facilities available by fee at property. There will also be a resort fee charged upon booking. PETS NOT ALLOWED. All units are non smoking. The price includes everything, and there are no fees that are charged upon arrival. The walk up fees for using the Beach Club facilities will be USD 20.00 per day. Anyone staying in a particular property gets a full day of access to the Club, fitness room, locker rooms/sauna/steam room, game room, indoor pool, outdoor pools heated in spring and hot tubs. Towels, board games, shampoo, etc. in the locker rooms are furnished. 1 bedroom/1 bath gulf front condo 2 bedroom/2 bath large gulf front condo 2 bedroom/2 bath small gulf front condo 3 bedroom/3 bath gulf front condo 3 bedroom/2 bath no view condo 4 bedroom/4 bath gulf front condo 5 bedroom/5 bath gulf front condoThe spacious condos at the Beach Club are the perfect place to relax after a day on the beach. Each condo features comfortable furnishings, TVs, DVD players, and a fully equipped kitchen complete with refrigerator and microwave. You will have a home away from home without the work at the Beach Club. 1 bedroom/1 bath large gulf front condo sleeps 6. Unit bedding varies.2 bedroom/2 bath large gulf front condo sleeps 6 8. Unit bedding varies. 2 bedroom/2 bath small gulf front condo sleeps 6.3 bedroom/3 bath gulf front condo sleeps 8. Unit bedding varies.4 bedroom/4 bath gulf front condo sleeps 10. Unit bedding varies.5 bedroom/5 bath gulf front condo sleeps 12. Unit bedding varies. Unit Amenities Alarm ClockCoffee PotKitchen Fully Equipped MicrowaveRefrigeratorBalconyTVDVDPhoneNon SmokingCable TVPhone CallsPets Not AllowedAir conditioningTowels ProvidedIron Ironing BoardWasher/Dryer |
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Close-Up of Real Estate Sign $79.99 Ed Clark Close-Up of Real Estate Sign – Photographic Print |
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Real-Time Database and Information Systems $157.32 This book is in Acceptable condition |
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Selling Homes 1-2-3 Insider Advice on Becoming a Surprisingly Better Part-Time or Full-Time Real Estate Agent $14.89 This book is in New – Excellent condition |
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Selling Million Dollar Homes: Industry Leaders On Becoming A Tier 1 Real Estate Agent $36.34 No Synopsis Available |