An article for the agents

What is an agent to do? The economy tells us that the housing market continues to develop negatively. Many agents are either taking on second jobs or hanging up their license altogether. Over the past 10 years business had been great! It seemed like everyone was able to buy a house and the market was appraising at a very rapid pace. However, these times are much different and it is extremely important to stay on top of potential clients while focusing on marketing techniques. I don't see the amount of agents who are dropping out of the business as a sign that I should do the same, rather I see it as an opportunity to diversify myself and grab new business. So, what are you doing to get more business? Here are some ideas that could help get the ball rolling:
Create a blog and advertise it to everyone you know.
Let those same people know that you are still in the business and that you LOVE referrals.
Attend networking events with other professionals.
Get involved in community groups and charity events.
Pick a four-five block radius around an area that you know well and market yourself door to door.
Partner up with another agent in your firm and work together to obtain greater exposure.
Find For Sale by Owner properties for the potential to list.
Advertise on college campuses to attract first time buyers.
These are just some ways to separate yourself from the pack. Remember, you are selling yourself and a service the services that you can provide. Business isn't going to always walk through the door so you are going to have to go get it!

10 months to sell a home (on average)

This is an interesting article regarding how long it can take to sell your home in the Springs. Starter homes are obviously going quicker because they are more affordable and discounted. I have to agree with the individual who commented on the article when they said that "if priced right" it is more on average with 3-4 monthes.

A great caucus turnout!

Colorado gets a voice! This is the first time that Colorado has been part of Super Tuesday (our caucuses used to be held in March.) I hope that everybody will get a chance to participate in this wonderful democratic process!

Never hurts to think SAFE!

2007 Top 25 top accident-prone intersections and rankings:

1. BRIARGATE PY/N POWERS BLw+* 6.29
2. N POWERS BL/N UNION BLw 2.97
3. S ACADEMY BL/S CHELTON RD 2.49
4. HY-83/N ACADEMY BL 2.42
5. NEW CENTER PT/S CAREFREE CR 2.19
6. AUSTIN BLUFFS PY/RANGEWOOD DR 2.17
7. E WOODMEN RD/N UNION BL+ 2.17
8. N POWERS BL/OLD RANCH RDw+ 2.13
9. E BIJOU ST/N ACADEMY BL+ 2.12
10. HY-83/N POWERS BLw+ 2.09
11. BRIARGATE BL/N UNION BL 2.08
12. E UINTAH ST/N WEBER ST 1.98
13. LAKE AV/SOUTHGATE RD+ 1.95
14. DUBLIN BL/N ACADEMY BL+ 1.93
15. BRIARGATE PY/HY-83 1.88
16. GALLEY RD/N MURRAY BL 1.80
17. AIRPORT RD/S ACADEMY BL+ 1.77
18. E PLATTE AV/N UNION BL 1.76
19. N CAREFREE CR/N POWERS BLw 1.64
20. ASTROZON BL/S ACADEMY BL 1.63
21. E PLATTE AV/N WAHSATCH AV+ 1.59
22. E PLATTE AV/N NEVADA AV+ 1.57
23. CHEYENNE MOUNTAIN BL/HY-115w 1.51
24. AUSTIN BLUFFS PY/N UNION BL+ 1.51
25. DURYEA DR/E WOODMEN RD 1.49

The goverment wants you to do what!?

Now that the government has decided to give you a 600.00 rebate(single) or 1200.00 (per couple) check they want you to....................shop till you drop. It's hard not to notice all of the people who have come out of the woodwork stating that in order to revive the economy you should spend that money as soon as you get it. Even investors are getting in on the act by putting their money in large retail establishments while hoping for large gains. Do yourself a favor and put that money to work for YOU and your family rather than blowing it all on frivolous purchases. You can help the economy much more by paying down some of your debt or putting your money in a bond or CD. If your looking to buy a house this is an excellent opportunity to add funds to help with your down payment costs. If you absolutely have to go out and buy a material item, how about a bicycle. Not only are they great for exercise but they can help save on some fuel costs too! Additionally, you can get a energy efficient appliance to help cut down on energy costs. Use your new found money to improve your situation which in turn will ultimately lead to a greater economy.

More good news!

T-Rowe to bring in 650 jobs to Colorado Springs! Amazing! This is exceptionally great news to hear. During this difficult economic time for the country it is acts like this that are truly separating Colorado Springs from the typical dismal recession talks. By bringing more jobs plus the steady inflow of our military, Colorado Springs is in much better shape then the average bear might think!

Over the last five years, the Springs saw appreciation of 4.2 % a year, which outpaced every major Colorado city other than Grand Junction!

Yes, you read that title right! Even in these dark times for property values the Springs still managed to keep a 1.6 appreciation rate in property values this past year. Click on the title of this entry for a great story from the C/S Gazette by Rich Laden on what local economist Fred Crowley had to say at a recent conference to REALTORS about Colorado Springs and its local economy. We need to realize how lucky we are to be in such a wonderful city that can protect us from many things that are happening in other parts of the nation. I highly recommend reading this article as it will give the reader good perspective on the current situation.