This is an except from a newsletter I sent out to my clients in mid year 2008. It was telling them that no matter how bad the market, some people find it the optimum time to buy... SO, did these people buy??? Here's the rest of the story!
Hi all, It has been awhile since I wanted you to know that Bob and I have been selling real estate even with the challenges in today's market. We are fortunate to have buyers to assist, who recognize the opportunity of the market. Could this be you?
Buyer #1 Connie has been saving for over 10 years to buy something and really would have been a condo buyer, until this downturn in the market. She looked at a fixer in a neighborhood near where she grew up and because of today's market was able to get the house across the street, in much better condition for a good price!!! UPDATE-Connie is enjoying her new home and yard and doesn't have any neighbors above her. YEAH!
Buyers #2, Virginia and Tom have been looking for about a year! We have seen a lot of homes together and they have seen as many or more at open houses. We have made offers on less than perfect condos and cluster homes, good buys perhaps, but no bank cooperation on the short sales. We were just guardedly persistent and voila, found the perfect home with yard, corner lot, new windows, beautiful flooring, updated and charming gardens and it's NOT a short sale... In a market where everything appraises for UNDER the asking price no matter what that is, this one appraised for a little over, a sign that the appraiser was affirming what a great value it was. A single family home 3/2 with family room corner lot, $480,000!!! Talk about happy?! UPDATE-Virginia and Tom have actually been able to refinance at todays lower rates because the price we paid was already below market for the condition and neighborhood that they still have the value to do so. Pretty good in a down market.
Buyer #3, Kristina, patient Kristina. We are looking for a home, also would have had to take a condo or cluster home a while ago. We just made an offer on a 5 bedroom, 3 bath fixer in a good neighborhood for $415,000!!! We'll see if it gets accepted. We'll find something as Kristina and her family won't give up and the bargains just keep coming so we're confident we'll find something before the market turns. UPDATE-This home upon inspection had BIG problems and we had to back off, in the meantime the market flip flopped. Kristina, like many buyers today had to regroup when the market took some blips with credit score requirements and such, so is saving more money and is waiting for a bit, but still anxious to be a homeowner as possible. We're keeping on the lookout for her for the perfect place the moment she has the downpayment.
Another Buyer Dennis, just purchased a condo nearby where he was living. Truthfully you can't afford to rent at these prices when you can own. I saw him in Safeway the other day and he's contemplating buying another with the market so favorable for buyers. UPDATE-Dennis decided to wait on buying the second unit but he truly likes having his own place and the independence it gives him.
ARE YOU THINKING YOU'VE ALWAYS WANTED AN INVESTMENT PROPERTY, OR KNOW SOMEONE LOOKING FOR THAT FIRST HOME? Well, just ask any of our buyers above, we are persistent but it pays off in the end, they got a house. If we can help you or anyone you know, give us a call, we'd love to get you in at the BOTTOM!!! Interest rates are so good, it makes the payments as good as rent in most cases. And, you can invest your IRA money in real estate now. So, if you want to chat about real estate or just get together for a barbeque to catch up on things, give a call or email.
The rest of the story is that success is what we strive for and like many Realtors, this year we couldn't anticipate everything for everyone, but our clients were taken care of the way they needed to be and are still working on obtaining their dreams of home ownership. We just guide them through the maze and when we hit roadblocks we reevaluate and regroup and move forward. We are fortunate to have their loyalty and trust. AND, look forward to the buyers and sellers of 2009 and seeing how we can help them.
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Terrylynn and Bob Fisher, Diablo Realty, Walnut Creek, California If you are looking for persistent and hardworking Realtors who will tell it like it is and guide you through the reality of the market we are in, we're here, ready, willing and able to help you assess your real estate needs in 2009. Call us, won't you? 925 876-0966 Terryshomes@astound.net
That is great to hear. Way to keep your head up and keep pushing forward, it turned out great for you.
Once again TL - you always look on the bright side and I love that about you. I'm certain that your professional ways of taking care of your clients is just another reason why you are successful at what you do. This year will bring more opportunities for finding creative solutions, and I'm sure you have already anticipated areas which most of us haven't even begin to think of! You are an inspiration. Here's to a fantastic 2009!
Sean, thanks so much for the comment. I guess the point is that everyone has a different situation but we do our best to serve them the way they need and want to be served. We owe them our best even in tough times and whatever they need, sometimes that being NOT to buy, is what we counsel them to do. The ultimate decision is up to them of course.
Mary, my friend, my Oregon rock...I love talking to you, you make me feel so useful!!! Glad I can inspire and want you to know you inspire me too. I have the greatest admiration for your strength and forward thinking. You are an inspiration to those in your area and many emulate you. They are lucky to have you there. Have a good 2009 my friend...see you soon. T
Terrylynn, wow you are both patient and persistent! If you were successful last year, I know you will do even more this year! And thank you for NOT buying into the media bologna about the bad market....
Join my NEW group for professionals who work from their home office at http://activerain.com/groups/virtualoffice
Regina P. Brown
Great stories showing your commitment to assist your sellers most beneficial to them. They are lucky to have you on their team Terrylynn! Happy New Year!
What? There is a bad market? I enjoyed meeting you at the Expo and I know that 2009 will be a fabulous year for all. Lori speaks so highly of you and I do hope to meet you again. Ryan
T,
Every buyer and seller would be delighted to have you as their Realtor. Your caring, concern and always positive attitude and customer service is what every Realtor should aspire to. You are "one in a million" and I'm glad to call you my friend. Look forward to seeing you soon.
G
Terrylynn, I loved reading this as well....it shows how hard you work and your persistance pays off. I'm sure your clients very much appreciate all you do to help them--and keep them updated.
Michele, thanks so much and happy new year to you too. Here's to a great 2009.
Ryan, I am sure we'll meet again. I think highly of Lori too, she's a love.
GAIL, awwwwww see you in Los Angeles??? T
Carole, thanks, your comments mean alot to me.
Sounds like you had a lot of success and are a great agent which means you will continue to have success.
I've got my first contract of the year and it's going to close before the end of the month. It's going to be what we make it and I think YOU and BOB and myself will have great years, because we're going to make them great.
Terrylynn, these stories are what I would expect from you and Bob, because you are both the epitome of the professional real estate agent/broker. Your kindness and caring for other people shows in everything you do, every interaction I've seen either of you in and we've known each other a long time. You guys are shining examples not only for Realtors but for all business professionals. Heck, I'll say it, for all humans... Ok, was that too much gushing? Sorry, but I meant every word.
Tammy, GOOD for you, YES we will. Good for you, congratulations missy, just keep it up.
Joanne, thanks so much. WOW! I am humbled by your comment. You are a good friend and we love you too. (That $50 is yours when we see you Saturday!!! lol)...
T...has your hat size increased???????????? lol All true comments.
Gail, awwww shucks. Thanks, You are too kind. Every once in a while, you have to go to that drawer with all the testimonials and quotes from happy clients to remind you why you do what you do. This was one of those days, and it felt pretty good.