Just read Tight Supplies Put Home Prices on the Move over at Realtor.com. Stuff we’re seeing, too. Our market is really tough right now: way more demand than homes. We’re seeing multiple offers on homes (one listing we have ended up with 11 offers), and we’re seeing “buyer fatigue”. When offer after offer falls through, it can get really tough. However, you don’t want to give up. This is where a good agent comes in: strategy. Working together with your lender, finding your range, and prepping you for the potential price battles out there. Navigating this market takes savvy. Savvy is what we got!
Author: Carl Setzer
Realtors and Community
I’ve met the occasional real estate agent who struggles with an over-inflated sense of self. This is rather rare, though. More often, though, they’re fighting insecurity, failing to see the value they add. Well, outside of a real estate transaction, that is. Perhaps that’s why so many people lose contact with their agents, even though they’re happy with the service. It’s hard to think of reasons to connect if you only think your value is the single transaction. Calling and talking are a chore with this mindset. You worry about bugging people. Deeply understanding your value-add really is critical. Realize there’s plenty we bring to those you love, to the community around you.
Keller Williams Family Reunion 2015
Most of last week I spent in Orlando, taking part in Keller Williams Family Reunion. Around 15k real estate agents from all over the globe deepening our knowledge and celebrating the unique culture that is KW. It’s an amazing event. I came away with tons of new ideas, which I’ll flesh out more fully in the coming weeks. Evernote got a lot of use!
Friday I took what I called a Decompression Day where I focused on organizing my thoughts, mail and desk. And, since my son had a half day, I got to just hang out with him. We went to Donut Factory, where we’ve wanted to go for awhile. Lynnwood area friends, this is worth your time. Very tasty with an eclectic blend of flavors. So much so that decided to go again yesterday, too.
Florida was great. I lived in Orlando for a few years back in the 80s. The city grew hugely in my absence. I couldn’t navigate without GPS. There were familiar elements, though: trees, sand, the lizards (I really delight in them). It’s as pretty as I remember. I managed to breakaway out to Cocoa Beach, one of my favorite spots, where I was able to watch the SpaceX launch. Very, very cool!
Getting home, Seattle’s weather was dramatically different, but that was great for me. I love Florida, and was thrilled to visit. Seattle, though, is home. The cool morning mists make me content. Once that sense of home is achieved, one’s relationship with place is forever changed.
Meeting Delights
I love the mists
Drifting through
Fir boughs, stretched
Cotton-like by green
Needle fingers,
Every second
Changing shape,
Gray clouds of
Early morning
Shadowy contrasts
Blending variations
Of rich, deep greens
Against the icy
Gray-blue sky
Recommended Video – Mike Libecki
Saw Mr. Libecki on Amazon’s Outside Television App. Guy looks very, very cool and I’d love to have coffee with him. Inspires me to get outside with my boy.
Below talks about his journey to Antarctica with his daughter.
An Education: A father/daughter trip of discovery from Mountain Hardwear on Vimeo.
No, You Go
One of the most bizarre things that happens all the time in the Pacific Northwest is this “no, no after you” stop-light phenomena. It drives me nuts. However, it’s a solid element of northwest culture.
Portlandia’s take on this is spot on. Enjoy!
Artisanal Crafts
If you’re looking for great, locally crafted wares, check out Janet’s Needle Felting. I find her work mind blowing. The skill she uses and detail she captures delight me no end.
Here’s but one sample. Fine example of local artistry, methinks.
Video: How much does it really cost to live in a city like Seattle?
PBS NewsHour had an interesting spot on what it costs to live in Seattle. Considers such issues as raising the minimum wage; it’s well worth your time (< 9 minutes).
The Teriyaki Date – The Oatmeal
As a Seattleite, teriyaki delights me. I’ve been on dates, love teriyaki, been on dates and eaten teriyaki, but have never experienced such psychosis..thank goodness.
The Oatmeal: The Teriyaki Date
Go Seahawks!
Check out @Oatmeal’s Tweet: https://twitter.com/Oatmeal/status/557338470301986816?s=09
Seattle’s sports enthusiasm is expressed uniquely.
