JUST SOLD! **SHORT SALE** 859 Mariposa Ct. in Morganville, NJ - Marlboro Township's "Point de Jardin" Community

JUST SOLD! **SHORT SALE**859 Mariposa Ct. in Morganville, NJ - Marlboro Township's "Point de Jardin"

 

 

This 3-bedroom + 2.5 bath townhome was listed at $290,000 and sold for $280,000.

**NOTE** This home actually closed on 4/13/2009, and it sold for $12,000 more than a different home (that was the exact same model) sold for less than 3 months prior.

  

 

 

The former homeowners/sellers for this home had experienced a legitimate hardship, and were searching for a Realtor in Marlboro specializing in short sales. They researched me online at my main site, as well as my blog here on ActiveRain.com before inviting to their home to discuss the sale of their home.

They had already done the necessary due diligence, by discussing loan modification optionswith their mortgage lender. As much as they wanted to continue to stay in their home, it became apparent to everyone involved that by excercising a successful short sale, they'd be afforded an opportunity to regroup and start over in the near future.

 

 

The community this townhome is located in is "Point de Jardin"in the Morganville section of Marlboro Township in New Jersey.

Towhomes in this particular development don't stay on the market very long for the following reasons:

1. The entire community offers (which is equip with an outdoor pool and gorgeous landscaped grounds) is affordably priced  3-bedroom + 2.5 bath units only (no 2-bedroom units) ranging from the upper $200K's to the mid $300K's.

2. Point de Jardin is located in Marlboro Township NJ, a highly sought after area in central NJ known for having top-ranked schools. Details about before & after care are available here.

3. NYC commuter Park-N-Ride lots and public transportation via NJ Transitare conveniently located on Route 9 mere minutes from the entrance of Point de Jardin.

 

 

The interest in this home was strong from the first day I listed it.

However, selling it wasn't a cinch for a variety of reasons.  Namely, the home was listed as a "short sale" and that alone scared a few buyers who clearly were misinformed about the HUGE opportunity buying a short sale presents.

In general, buyers who are scared of purchasing short sale homes are usually apprehensive, because of stories they may have heard from friends or even certain Realtors who have not been successful with these types of distressed properties.

  

 

 

After 2 short months on the market, 2 price reductions and 45+ showings, we finally received 2 written offers from buyers. I reviewed the offers with the sellers, and they chose the one that whose overall terms were most appealing.

I was able to get a FULL SHORT SALE APPROVAL for the first offer on this short sale listing within 3 weeks of turning in all the appropriate paperwork. Anyone who is really familiar with how short sales work can attest that an approval in 3 weeks is a very fast turnaround! Unfortunately, the buyer was represented by an agent who was admittedly clueless when it came to short sales, and shortly after we received bank approval the buyer's attorney backed them out of the deal.

 

When I broke the news to the sellers they were initially nervous. Foreclosure was the last thing in the world they wanted. I encouraged them to stay positive, and reassured them that I would get their home SOLD! Sure enough...we had a breakthrough...We canceled the deal with the "flighty" buyer, did one final small price reduction and voila! 4 additional written offers poured in. The sellers chose to accept a buyer who was represented by agent whom I felt confident would do what was necessary to keep her client patient and focused, while we waiting for the seller's mortgage lender to approve this new contract. Within 10 business days I had a new approval from the lender, and 14 days later the home SOLD successfully! The sellers were happy, the buyers were thrilled and myself & the other agent felt relieved. The #1 key to success with short sales is being PREPARED for anything!

Short sales in stable and well-established condo/townhouse communities such as Point de Jardin in Marlboro, NJ don't necessarily come along everyday. So when one does come along, the majority of buyers clamor for a chance to purchase in this development, because they know they will very likely get a good deal. In this case it gets very competitive amongst buyers and buyer's agents. If you see a good short sale deal in this type of community don't let it pass you by! 

 

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

Looking to SELL or BUY a NJ home in Marlboro, Manalapan, Freehold or any of the surrounding areas?

 

AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND

Strategic Marketing Expert & Short Sale Specialist 
Weichert Realtors (Marlboro ~ Manalapan office)

455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office

"Your Reliable Resource For NJ Short Sales, Real Estate Listings, Local Info & More"  

BANK APPROVED SHORT SALE: 859 MARIPOSA CT. IN THE POINT DE JARDIN COMMUNITY ~ MARLBORO TOWNSHIP, NJ

"BANK APPROVED SHORT SALE" 

859 MARIPOSA CT. IN THE POINT DE JARDIN COMMUNITY ~ MARLBORO TOWNSHIP, NJ

Offered at $280,000

 

Amber Noble-Garland | Weichert Realtors (Marlboro office) | 917-723-5645
   

Mariposa, Marlboro, NJ
"BANK APPROVED" SHORT SALE! COMMUTERS LOVE THIS BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED & UPDATED 3-BDRM + 2.5 BATH MARLBORO TOWNSHIP TOWNHOME NEAR RTS 9
3BR/2.5BA Townhouse
offered at $280,000
           
Year Built Unspecified
Sq Footage Unspecified
Bedrooms 3
Bathrooms 2 full, 1 partial
Floors 2
Parking 1 Uncovered spaces
Lot Size Unspecified
HOA/Maint $0 per month
 
DESCRIPTION

"BANK APPROVED" SHORT SALE! COMMUTERS LOVE THIS BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED & UPDATED 3-BDRM + 2.5 BATH HOME NEAR RTS 9, 18, GS Pkwy, Turnpike! This is the LOWEST PRICED unit in POINT DE JARDIN. NEWER ceramic tile, stainless steel appliances, gas marble-encased fireplace, crown molding, recessed lighting, vaulted ceiling in master bdrm suite feat walkin closet + prvt bath, two addtl nicely sized bdrms and laundry room upstairs. Great shopping and restaurants around the corner. Top ranked Marlboro Township school district...WOW!



CHECKOUT -> www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com
 


see additional photos below
  
PROPERTY FEATURES


























Central A/CCentral heatFireplace
High/Vaulted ceilingWalk-in closetTile floor
Living roomDining roomDishwasher
RefrigeratorMicrowaveStainless steel appliances
WasherDryerLaundry area - inside

   
COMMUNITY FEATURES






Guest parkingSwimming pool(s)Playground


 
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS


Photo 1

Photo 2

Photo 3

Photo 4

Photo 5

Photo 6
Contact info:

 



  
Amber Noble-Garland
Weichert Realtors (Marlboro office)
917-723-5645
For sale by agent/broker

powered by postlets Equal Opportunity Housing
Posted: Mar 2, 2009, 10:13pm PST

Information courtesy of:

   

AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro ~ Manalapan office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

"Your Reliable Resource For Marlboro Real Estate, Local Info & More" 

SHORT SALES 101: RUMOR vs. REALITY CHECK ~ (FEBRUARY 2009 edition)

SHORT SALES 101:   RUMOR vs. REALITY CHECK 

"Solutions To Help NJ Homeowners Avoid Foreclosure"

(FEBRUARY 2009 edition)

 

RUMOR:  If a homeowner contacts their mortgage lender/bank and tells them they can no longer afford to pay for the home they purchased, the lender MUST agree to allow a short sale.

REALITY CHECK:  Not true! Many mortgage lenders/banks are willing to consider allowing a homeowner in serious financial trouble (who can no longer afford to pay the mortgage) to do a SHORT SALE.  In fact, in many cases as long as the "net loss number" (the amount of money the bank is left with after paying all fees, commission, delinquent water bills, etc) doesn't prove to be too painful for the mortgage lender, most lenders will go from considering a SHORT SALE to actually approving a SHORT SALE. Lenders are in the "lending money" business, not the "landlord" business, so they'd often rather have a property sold and move on. However, a lender is NOT obligated to grant a seller permission to do a SHORT SALE. 

 

SOLUTION = People who know you often mean well, but sometimes they will unintentionally leave you with misinformation.  When you're seeking options, only rely on information from your mortgage lender/bank, the government's site for housing assistance, a trained SHORT SALE Realtor with experience or an attorney who specializes in SHORT SALES. Tune out random opinions from individuals who don't have any experience with this type of business matter. It will save you time, money and energy in the long run!

 

Information courtesy of:

   

AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND

Short Sale Specialist
Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro ~ Manalapan office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

"Your Reliable Resource For NJ Real Estate, Local Info & More"  

FUN THINGS TO DO IN NJ! ~ Atlantic City's First Ever "Restaurant Week" ~ March 1 - 7, 2009


A GREAT GIFT IDEA
AC Restaurant Week Gift Certificates - Click to Purchase   Atlantic City Restaurant Week is a seven-day celebration of the culinary scene in Atlantic City. For the week of March 1-7, 2009, participating restaurants will offer a multi-course meal for the fixed price of $15.09 for lunch and $33.09 for dinner (not including beverage, tax and gratuity). Restaurant week offers gastronomes and gourmets an extraordinary opportunity to explore some of Atlantic City's classic restaurants - and some of the city's newest - to sample a variety of the exceptional dishes prepared by Atlantic City's chefs at incredibly reasonable rates.


Atlantic City Restaurant Week March 1 - 7, 2009

WHEN - Sunday, March 1 through Saturday, March 7, 2009

WHAT - Participating restaurants will offer fixed price, three-course meals at prices far below the normal and cheaper than early bird specialst:

Lunch: $15.09 per person
Dinner: $33.09 per person


**NOTE:  Prices DO NOT include taxes, beverages or gratuity**

WHERE - Approximately 70 casino restaurants and independent restaurants throughout Atlantic City, NJ and Atlantic County.

How can I find out which restaurants are participating?
Please visit http://www.acrestaurantweek.com for full details. The restaurant list is under the ‘Restaurants' tab. If you click ‘View' for the restaurant of your choice, you'll see a description of the restaurant, location, contact information, the days and hours they are participating, and the special Restaurant Week menu they are offering.

 

 

Information courtesy of:

AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro~ Manalapan office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

www.AmberNobleSellsHomes.com 

"Your Reliable Resource For NJ Real Estate, Local Info & More" 

DID YOU KNOW? ~ Before & After Care Is Available For Marlboro Townhsip NJ School Aged Students!

LOOKING FOR A SECURE, PRODUCTIVE AND STIMULATING ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR CHILD "BEFORE & AFTER" SCHOOL IN THE MARLBORO TOWNSHIP NEW JERSEY AREA?

Below is information I hope you'll find helpful regarding "before & aftercare" for ALL Marlboro Township elementary and middle school aged students...

 

 

Knowledge Learning Corporation School Partnerships (KLC), formerly known as Medallion, provides both a before- and after-school care program in Marlboro Township's elementary schools - Champions - and an after-school program in the middle schools.

The program is designed to provide children of working parents with a safe, caring, fun, and enriching "home away from home" during those hours that school is out but parents are at work.

The program is open to students in kindergarten* through eighth grade. Five optional daily activity areas are set up at each site: Sports Zone, where students are able to participate in physical activities; Take the Challenge, where students can engage in shared reading or complete homework assignments with the help of a teacher; Imagine That, where students can work on an arts and crafts or theatre project; The Nature of It, where students can construct projects related to science or nature; and Snack Attack, where students learn about healthy foods and have the opportunity to cook, create, and eat the final product. Professionally-trained adult supervision is provided at all sites.

Children may be enrolled for two, three, four, or five days per week. Tuition is based on the number of days for which a child is enrolled, and a discount is provided for siblings. An extra fee is charged for days when school is closed for a holiday or there is a one-session day scheduled. Before-school care programs begin at 7 a.m. After-school care programs end at 6:30 p.m.

"As needed" or "drop-in" care slots are available, whereby once parents pay the annual registration fee, a child may be permitted to attend an AM or PM session that is paid for on the day of service.

KLC also provides service for most one-session and school recess days. This is available for parents whose children regularly attend KLC's before- or after-care programs as well as for those parents who wish to avail themselves of KLC's services on an "as needed" or "drop-in" basis only.

Financial assistance is available.

Delayed Morning Opening- If the district issues a delayed opening, the program will still open at 7 a.m. as usual.

School Closing After Delayed Opening- If the district determines that schools will be closed after initially announcing a delayed opening, the KLC PM program will not be provided. The KLC staff will notify participating AM parents.

Early Closing of School-If schools are closed for inclement weather or for any other situation, the KLC program will be open for a 2-hour period. KLC staff will notify parents that the program is cancelled, and ask that the parents arrange to pick up their children within the 2-hour window.

If you are interested in receiving a registration packet or have additional questions about the program, contact Thea Pace, KLC Area Manager, at 732-536-2592 or tpace@klcorp.com

*Call for availability of kindergarten after-school care program*


PLEASE LET ME KNOW IF YOU NEED ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT ANYTHING RELATED TO MARLBORO TOWNSHIP OR THE SURROUNDING AREAS.

Information courtesy of:


AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro~ Manalapan office)
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office

http://www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

"Your Reliable Resource For Marlboro Real Estate, Local Info & More" 

DID YOU KNOW??? ~ Volunteers Are Needed For The Marlboro Township, NJ Historic Commission

DID YOU KNOW???

 

The Marlboro Township NJ Historic Commission is seeking members. A LOVE of local history is a must!

The Commission meets one evening a month at Town Hall to discuss issues concerning impact on historical properties and various aspects of their significance.  Volunteers also participate in local events promoting the Township's rich history.

Interested volunteers can call Ed Piotrowski at 732-970-0134 for the date and time of the next meeting.

 

Town Hall
1979 Township Drive
Marlboro, NJ 07746
732-536-0200

 

 

 

Information courtesy of:

Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro ~ Manalapan office)

455 Route 9 South

Manalapan, NJ  07726

917-723-5645 - cell

732-536-4400, ext 199 - office 

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com 

"Your Reliable Resource For Real Estate & More" 

FUN THINGS TO DO IN NYC ~ New York Times Travel Show (February 6-8, 2009)

The New York Times Travel Show
GENERAL PUBLIC SHOW SPECIALS SHOW ATTRACTIONS EXHIBITOR INFO SPONSORSHIP INFO TRADE ATTENDEES PRESS

Exclusive Trip Packages

JOIN US FEBRUARY 6 - 8 AND FIND GREAT TRIPS, TRAVEL DEALS AND MORE!

Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or an exotic journey, a spectacular cruise or a relaxing spa retreat, a romantic honeymoon or an action-packed adventure, The New York Times Travel Show is the place to find and book your dream trip. Explore hundreds of destinations around the world, and discover unbelievable deals, special giveaways and unique cultural experiences for the whole family.

 

  FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6

2 - 7 PM
(open to trade professionals only; industry reception on the show floor from 5 - 7 PM)


SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 7

10 AM - 6 PM
(open to general public & trade professionals)


SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 8

10 AM - 4 PM
(open to general public & trade professionals)


TICKETS ARE ON SALE!  CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS.







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Information Courtesy of :

Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro office)

455 Route 9 South -  Manalapan, NJ  07726

917-723-5645 - cell

732-536-4400, ext 199 - office  

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

"Your Reliable Resource For Real Estate & More"

FUN THINGS TO DO IN NYC ~ Restaurant Week Winter 2009 (Jan 18-23 & 25-30)

NYC Restaurant Week Winter 2009

NYC Restaurant Week Winter 2009
Jan 18-23 | 25-30
Reservations Now Open.

Three-Course prix-fixe dining Sunday through Friday.
Lunch $24.07 | Dinner $35

Over 250 of the City's best restaurants
Beverages, gratuities and taxes are not included.

Plus, during NYC Restaurant Week when you use any American Express® Card to pay for your meal at any participating restaurant, American Express and NYC & Company will donate $.25 per transaction to City Harvest, up to $10,000.*

Tables go fast. Book yours today at nycgo.com

American Express® City Harvest NYC Restaurant Week Winter 2009

 

Information Courtesy of :

Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro office)

455 Route 9 South -  Manalapan, NJ  07726

917-723-5645 - cell

732-536-4400, ext 199 - office  

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

"Your Reliable Resource For Real Estate & More" 

GOOD NEWS STORIES About Local MARLBORO TOWNSHIP, NJ Residents & Business Owners (January 2009)

With so much negativity and bad news on TV, the radio and Internet, I think it's about time we start spreading the GOOD NEWS!

 

There are plenty of GOOD LOCAL NEWS STORIES of Marlboro Township, NJ residents and business owners who are making great things happen, locally and around the world.

Sometimes those folks' stories make the news, and other times they're just ordinary hard-working people who achieve extraordinary things but go unnoticed.

 

I will regularly bring you a Top 5 series of stories that will highlight the exciting accomplishments of everyday who live and/or work in Marlboro Township.

Simply click the links below to read each story.

Enjoy!  

 

 

1.  Army Pvt. John C. Whitenack II, of Marlboro, N.J.graduated from Basic Combat training at Fort Sill, Lawton, Okla.

2.  Several Jerseyans are making a name for them selves in the world of TV, including Marlboro's Rob and Esther Kluge in NBC's "Momma's Boys."

3.  Sophomore guard Clarence Jackson, from Marlboro, N.J., scored a career-high 28 points for the Saints.

4.  Marlboro's own, Glenna Rosenberg, has an award-winning eye for photography.

5.  Entrepreneur, Patricia Romanzo, Owner of Ultimate Tan of Marlboro, NJ wins national recognition for her business achievements.

 

If you are a Marlboro Township, NJ resident or business owner, and you'd like to share a GOOD LOCAL NEWS story that may not have made the newspaper, click this link and email it directly to me. If I publish a story about you, it could potentially be read by thousands of people online!

 

Information Courtesy of :

Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro office)

455 Route 9 South Manalapan, NJ  07726

917-723-5645 - cell 732-536-4400, ext 199 - office  

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

"Your Reliable Resource For Real Estate & More"

People don't just care about what you know...they want to know that you care...

"People don't just care about what you know...they want to know that you care."

 

That's is a quote that my branch manager/broker, Barbara Berg, often repeats in our weekly sales meetings. It's also a an adage (as someone pointed out) used by the legendary trainer/speaker, Floyd Wickman. I've probably heard that quote a million times, but for some reason this past week it really sunk into my brain.

Now that I read Jennifer Allan's super "Selling Soulfully" more frequently, I've noticed her reinforce a similar theme throughout her posts. It reminds me of what Barbara had been saying all along, and suddenly everything became even clearer.

 

Here's how I see it:

Expertise is invaluable, education is definitely important, producing results are critical, but...

If you don't consistently show people that you actually care, all of those qualities may be exist in vain and your career could be destined for a bunch of "one-off" transactions and achievements. 

Now don't get me wrong...By no means am I suggesting that one can't be successful in real estate or business, simply because they don't make a conscious effort to show clients that they care. In fact, I know of quite a few successful Realtors and other business people who don't show that they care about their clients, yet they do quite well for themselves. Actually, it's not always that they don't care about keeping in touch; some are just so overwhelmed and busy.

Regardless of why they don't stay connected, one thing I notice about that same collective of professionals is that the often have to keep generating new business leads and start from scratch to build new relationships constantly. They don't get as many referrals as they could.

I really believe it has to do with the fact that they barely keep in touch with past clients, and only reach out when they needed to make an additional sale to meet a quota, needed another commission check to pay a bill, etc.

 

 

My goal for 2009 is to make time for letting family, friends and clients how much I appreciate and care about them. I plan to do it first and foremost, because it's just the right thing to do. They deserve as much of my attention as they try to give me of theirs.

Even if it's a simple hand-written note or an occasional phone call. Something is better than nothing!

 

 

How about a surprise visit (like the one I made at my uncle Earl's home on Christmas day in Philadelphia)?

He gave me away at my wedding, July 26, 2008, because my father (who is also his brother) passed away from a battle with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) on October 25, 2007.  I've been so caughtup trying to stay busy to get past the pain of losing my father, "doing my own thing," focusing on real estate and becoming adjusted to being a newlywed, that I hadn't even spoken to my uncle since my wedding.

 

 

When my husband (the handsome guy in the tux) & I showed up at his door unexpectedly on December 25th, he put his hand on his chest like he was gasping for air and told us the surprise of receiving our wedding "thank you" note a few weeks ago literally brought tears to his eyes.

 

**Yes it took me 5 months to write & mail all 170+ thank you notes, but I say "better late than never!"**

 

 

 

If I am rewarded with new or additional business as a result of my efforts to reconnect with people, then that's a cherry on top! If I don't get a single piece of business from it, I'll feel good knowing that I put good karma out into the universe.

 

 

Like Barbara always says, "People don't just care about what you know...they want to know that you care."

What are some ways you show clients and your sphere of influence that you care?

Stay motivated,

Amber

 

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

If "Destiny" Is By Choice Not Chance, What Are You Choosing?

"Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved." - Winston Churchill

 

 

As I began my day this morning, the quote above struck me and got me thinking. I thought about my own destiny, as well as those who are close to me who've shared their goals & aspirations for the 2009.

Our destiny is basically our destination for our life...it's the place where we intend to arrive after we put away the road map (figuratively speaking) or turn off the internal navigation GPS, once we finishing driving.

 

 

 

I recalled a conversation I had not too long ago with a recently former Realtor whom I relied on occasionally for my own accountability.

Each time we'd speak to one another he kept telling me about what he was "going to do" and "what he had been thinking about doing."  However, he rarely could give updates on what he actually had done.

When I questioned him about what had been holding him back, his explanation was always the same.

He seemed to believe that the reason he hadn't achieved the majority of his 2008 business goals was because it "just wasn't his destiny."

Did he really believe that he was less worthy, capable, deserving or destined for success than the next Realtor?

 

I could not believe my ears!

Our destiny is not by chance; on the contrary it is the result of our intentions and our deliberate actions that follow suit.

Destiny isn't accidental, and it doesn't come through osmosis; you've got to think it, believe it, commit to it, do it, be passionate about it and achieve it!

So what are you choosing your career destiny to be in 2009?

 

Stay motivated,

Amber 

 

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

 

MONDAY MOTIVATION ~ Oprah Was Accountable...Are You Willing To Be In 2009?

Are you willing to be accountable in 2009?

 

It wasn't on a whim that media mogul, Oprah Winfrey, decided to share with the world her disappointment in allowing her weight loss goals to become sidetracked; it was definitely by design.

 

In fact, many articles have been written about the effectiveness of accountability. Many researchers agree that accountability can have a transformative effect on our lives.

 

We are expected to be accountable to a long list of people and entities.

1. The IRS - To avoid being penalized you try to pay your taxes on-time.

2. Your real estate broker/manager - To avoid being called into their office...lol!

3. Buyer & Seller clients - To keep them happy, as well earn their future business you honor your word.

4. Creditors - To avoid having bad credit you try to pay your bills on time.

5. Tax collectors - To avoid a lien on your property to pay your taxes in a timely fashion.

6. Banks - To avoid us overdrawing money that we don't actually have in our accounts.

7. Our family - To avoid letting them down, you try to be there when they need you the most.

 

Each of these groups have a system of checks & balances in place that expects us to do what we've committed ourselves to do, and holds us accountable.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here's an idea for the 2009...Why not find accountability partners? These can be one person or a few people whom you trust and feel comfortable sharing your best & worst moments with.  They can either work in the same profession as you, or work in a different field.

 

If you're prefer to be accountable to someone who doesn't work in your same local area, then find an accountability partner(s) who works in the same industry but in a different part of the country.

 

The great benefits of having an accountability partner are:

1. You develop a support system and a trusted confidante.

2. You develop a give & take relationship with someone who wants to see you succeed, while getting satisfaction from helping them achieve their goals as well.

3. You have an objective source to share creative ideas, as well setbacks with.

4. You learn valuable tips that will help you grow your business.

5. You develop better listening, fidelity, leadership and communication skills which can help you in many areas of your life.

6. You gain a buddy who will hold you accountable so you do what you say you're going to do help propel your own career.

 

 

Accountability can be a catalyst to help your business flourish. Will you give it a try in 2009?

Stay positive & motivated,

Amber 

 

AMBER NOBLE-GARLAND
Weichert, Realtors
455 Route 9 South
Manalapan, NJ 07726
917-723-5645 - cell
732-536-4400, ext 199 - office

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

www.AmberNobleSellsHomes.com 

"Your Reliable Resource For Real Estate, Local Info & More" 

Every Homeowner's Nightmare...Fix This ASAP Or Run The Risk Of Getting Sued & Ruining Your Sale!

 Yesterday I showed my buyer clients four wonderful homes in the areas of Old Bridge, South Amboy, Marlboro and Manalapan...desirable towns in Monmouth and Middlesex County New Jersey.

Each home was beautiful in it's own way; amazing views, upgraded galore inside, granite countertops, premium cabinetry...you name it, these homes have it!

However, there were two unwelcoming and undesirable features that 3 of the 4 homes offered, and frankly these things overshadowed many of the home's key selling points.

ICY FRONT STEPS AND AN ICY DRIVEWAY!!! 

 

My buyer client (the husband) spent 10 minutes each (20 minutes total) at 3 of the 4 homes, helping me (his agent) and his wife (the other buyer) up and down the driveway and steps. In a brief moment of panic his wife nearly slid down the driveway, and I almost busted my knee on the icy rear steps trying to put the keys back in the lockbox. It was absolutely ridiculous!

I couldn't believe that anyone who is in the process of trying to sell their home, would leave their home's exterior so vulnerable, especially considering the snow and rain stopped 24 hours prior.

So, instead of the final moments of our time together in the frigid cold being spent on recapping the appeal of the homes, my clients instead expressed how annoyed and turned off they were. They were so disgusted by the way the homeowners neglected to remove the ice from the property.

Not only have those sellers of 3 of the 4 homes compromised their potential for a sale, but they've also put themselves in jeopardy to be sued. If someone goes to view their home, and they slip & fall, they might file a lawsuit!

 

 

WHO LOSES IN THIS INSTANCE & WHY?

1. The seller loses...Why? They may lose great buyers (like mine) whose current home is paid off, and they don't need to sell it in order to buy a different home.

2. The seller loses...Why?They may get sued if someone falls and gets hurt, thus making their homeowners insurance premium go up!

3. The buyer's agent loses...Why? They could fall, get hurt and then be out of work with no income coming in. Then what? If they don't have disability insurance they're going to be in trouble.

4. The seller's agent and the buyer's agent lose...Why? They both could lose out on their commission, thus compromising their potential income.

 

WORD TO THE WISE...

  • Listing/Seller's Agents: Double-check each of your listings, and make sure you sellers have have shoveled, put salt down and taken measures to remove any snow and/or ice.

 

  • Home Sellers: Please double-check to make sure you have no icy walkways, steps or driveways, before you have the next buyer take a look at your home.

 

I'd like to think that most people are honest (like my buyer clients whom I showed those four homes). However I am not naive, and I realize there are unscrupulous people in the world who would deliberately take advantage of others for their own personal gain.

Don't forget folks...we ARE in a recession and some good people just desperately need money.

Let's not give anyone opportunity to prey on homeowners trying to sell their houses...Please REMOVE the snow & ice!

Stay motivated,

Amber

 

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

 

MONDAY MOTIVATION ~ Your Future May Seem Uncertain But These 5 Things Should Give You A Boost!

Earlier today I was talking on the phone to various former colleagues, a friend and even a client that I hadn't spoken to in awhile. They all work in different industries...real estate, mortgages, radio, TV, music, finance, law, transportation and automotive.

Some of the conversations were just me on the phone with them one-on-one, and others were 3-way chats where we were "shooting the breeze" for nearly an hour.

There was one resounding theme I noticed, and that was a sense of uncertainty about what the future may bring.

  • One person had been instrumental in the growth of a major TV broadcasting company for nearly a decade, and suddenly she received her pink slip.

  • Another person had worked their way up at a big record label in the music industry, devoting their life to the company, only to be given 2 weeks of severance pay and a half-hearted "good luck."

  • The third person is a promising young trader on Wall Street who sees his future crumbling, but feels lost and doesn't know what to do. He's so depressed and unhappy with the job he used to love that he says he can't even get out of bed in the morning to go to work.

  • The fourth had been promised to be made a partner in her law firm, only to find out that someone else less qualified was chosen.

  • The fifth is a 10+ year veteran car salesperson. She sells luxury vehicles and is phenomenal at her job. The dealership owner told all the sales people (including the "top producers") that they'd have to take a $50,000 pay cut, yet the next week he flew overseas on his private plane with his family for the next 2.5 weeks.

  • The sixth is a Realtor who had to make a tough decision to leave his current brokerage for a different brand who truly sees his value, respects his hard work and is willing to pay him accordingly.

  • Another is a mortgage consultant who can't seem to get himself out of a slump and drum up new business. Instead of "networking" he said he finds himself "chasing Realtors like a personal injury lawyer chases ambulances"...his exact words.

  • The final convo I had (literally in the midst of writing this post) was with a client of mine who works in transportation. He drives a bus, and it's taking a toll on his health (physically & mentally). He's stuck between a rock & a hard place, because they're cutting back on hours and he just bought his family their first home.

 

 

While they all work in different professions, they shared the commonality of not being sure of what is "next." 

Change is good and necessary, but it isn't always pretty or comfortable. In fact, change can be pretty uncomfortable.

When we stop changing, we stop growing. Don't ever fear change!

 

For anyone out there who feels uncertain about their future, remmber you've got a BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD OF YOU!

Here's my advice to you...

 

 

 

  1. Believe in yourself, even when others don't.
  2. If you're going to have to "roll the dice," bet on YOU.
  3. Know your worth, your value and don't accept anything less.
  4. Nothing is promised, so always have a "Plan B, C and D." 
  5. Remember, "sometimes you've got to go to grow."

Stay motivated,

Amber

   

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

Marlboro, NJ: Foreign Language Ciriculuum On The Way For Students Grades K-3

The state of New Jersey is requiring a world language program be provided for students in kindergarten through third grade, as explained recently to the public by administrators of the Marlboro, NJ K-8 School District.

Members of the Board of Education heard the administration's proposed plan for these grades during a Nov. 11 workshop meeting.

School administrators believe that some additional staff will be necessary to deliver the foreign language instruction.

An overview of the plan to introduce students in younger grades to a variety of languages was given by Victoria Andalucia, the district's supervisor for world language. 

  • American Sign Language would be introduced into the classroom for kindergartners at the Marlboro Early Learning Center.

 

  • Students in grades one through three would receive exposure to three languages.

*First graders would learn Mandarin Chinese*

*Second graders would be taught Spanish*

*Third graders would be taught French*

  • Third grade students currently choose between French and Spanish to continue with for fourth through eighth grade.

 

  • Board members said the Marlboro district prefers to conform its foreign language selections to the options that would be open to those students upon entering the Freehold Regional High School District.

 

  • The instruction for these languages would take place through video programming, like the Salsa program, which teaches Spanish, and the BBC's Muzzy program in French.

 

  • For American Sign Language, there are staff members at the Marlboro Early Learning Center who know basic signs and that developmental programs are offered for the language. With the other two language options, school administrators would like to see support offered to those particular teachers.

A survey was recently offered to parents concerning the language program. 1,557 parents took the survey which asked what language they'd like their child exposed to. 13% of the respondents selected French, 22 % selected Mandarin Chinese and 59 % selected Spanish. Administrators may consider incorporating a language like Italian into the program in the future, to satisfy popular demand by a large # of parents.

 

Information courtesy of:

 

Realtor-Associate / Multi-Million Dollar Producer

Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro/Manalapan office)

455 Route 9 South - Manalapan, NJ  07726

917-723-5645 - cell  or  732-536-4400, ext 199 - office  

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

"Thank you for the referrals of your family, friends and colleagues. It is the highest compliment you could ever pay me." 

Marlboro, NJ: 'A Very Merry Christmas' Concert...FREE For The Entire Family!

FREE

A Very Merry Christmas Concert

Friday, December 19, 2008

7:00pm-9:00pm

Location: Marlboro Recreation Center

1996 Recreation Way

Marlboro, NJ  07746

Performances by: Marlboro High School Band, Monmouth Worship Center Choir and Center Stage Dance School

Special appearances by Santa & Frosty!

No pre-registration required...Just stop by and enjoy the holiday festivities!

 

Information courtesy of:



 

Realtor-Associate / Multi-Million Dollar Producer

Weichert, Realtors (Marlboro/Manalapan office)

455 Route 9 South - Manalapan, NJ  07726

917-723-5645 - cell  or  732-536-4400, ext 199 - office  

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

"Thank you for the referrals of your family, friends and colleagues. It is the highest compliment you could ever pay me."

 

Sometimes, you know what? Life happens...

"You must take personal responsibility. You cannot change the circumstances, the seasons, or the wind, but you can change yourself" - Jim Rohn

 

Sometimes, you know what?

We can try to do everything to absolute perfection...be the best Realtor, Loan Officer, friend, neighbor, spouse, whatever and that still may not be enough.

Things may not always go the way we want, but that's just life.

There have been times when deals fell through and that commission check I was banking on became non-existent. 

Has this happened to you before at least once?

Or remember that listing that you just knew would be yours? You refused to be dishonest about the true current market value of the home so the sellers gave it to the agent who inflated the real numbers?

 Yep...Happened to me more than once.

We've all experienced disappointment at some point, and we constantly ask ourselves those two $64,000 questions..."Why me?" "Why now?"

Well I say, "Thank goodness it was me!" That sounds a little crazy and twisted, right? Not really.

With every problem or challenge I face, I grow an inch more.

If you've never experienced setbacks or defeat, can you really savor the sweet taste of triumph and victory?

So since we cannot change the circumstances, the seasons, or the wind, let's take control of what we can change...ourselves and how we "play the hand we've been dealt!"

It's time we reclaim our power, our profession and take back what's rightfully ours! 

Stay motivated,

Amber

 

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS: Deaf Couple & Blind/Autistic Child's Home Saved by "Angel" Donors

Today, Larry & Judy Vardon got the foreclosure financial relief they had so desperately been praying for.

 

 

 

 

 

In 2004, the couple's Michigan home was refurbished by ABC Network's popular program, 'Extreme Makeover: Home Edition."

 

The Vardon who are both deaf, were selected because the financial challenges of caring for their now 16 year old blind and autistic son, Lance, were more than they could handle.

Following the rehab of the home, the Vardons refinanced their home. After the refi mortgage was sold to a different company, their new rate ballooned to 11% and their monthly payment nearly doubled from $1200 to a whopping $2300. Combine that with the fact that the husband, Larry, works at a Chrysler car plant where he's been laid off on more than one occasion and there you have a grave situation.

In addition to the mortgage hike, the Vardon's medical insurance refuses to cover the treatment for Lance's autism treatments.

Their home which was on the verge of foreclosure due to 4 months of past due payments has been rescued by the kindness of strangers.

Donations began pouring in after the couple (who has not solicited for any help) appeared on various national news programs lik this one.

The Vardon's story is so similar to thousands of stories we've all collectively heard. In fact, many real estate practioners are dealing with this sort of scenario on a personal level themselves.

Truth is we may not be able to help every single person going through this type of crisis, but there is 'power' in the media and in our own keyboards. This story is proof it exists. Yet what good is the power if we don't use it to benefit the greater good?

We constantly get bombarded with mass chain emails for all sorts of get-rich schemes. Often you'll see those emails forwarded around the world millions of times over...Even though they're most likely hoaxes.

If you know of someone who is in dire need of help (and doesn't mind being helped) please use the power of your keyboard and the reach of the "Rain" by telling as many people as you know!

Stay motivated,

Amber

 

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

 

7 Benefits To YOU from Darryl Davis' "Attitudes of a Top Producer" Seminar...

This is the 2nd installment of a three part recap of the seminars I attended along with my colleague(Monica Walters) during the recent the NJ-NY-PA "Triple Play" real estate confab in Atlantic City.

The 1st part of this series was the based on the featured post "The Top 5 Things I Took Away From The Millionaire Maker Potato Chip Marketing" Seminar.

Many of you may know about Darryl Davis, while others may not be as familiar with him. Darryl is a popular motivational speaker/real estate trainer/coach/author, who infuses humor with his authentic New York persona to create his unique, high-energy presentation. The two books he's written are "How To Become A Power Agent in Real Estate" and "How To Make $100,000 Your First Year As A Real Estate Agent."

At first I was kind of shocked to discover that Darryl is also a former actor and current stand-up comedian, who continues perform at NYC's legendary Caroline's Comedy Club. However, after watching him give his rapid-fire, animated seminar, it all made sense.

Darryl shared very personal stories during the 3 hrs we spent with him. He reflected on everything from reconnecting with his mother before she died of an incurable illness, to having an emergency medical moment that had him feeling like he was experiencing a heart attack, to running the the 26 mile ING Marathon in an effort to raise money for sick children (despite not being in the best of shape...his words, not mine...lolol). To hear him speak was inspiring, heart-breaking, invigorating and inspirational all at the same time.

Did I mention that Darryl Davis also is an ActiveRain member? Click here to read his profile.

 

 

Below are the 7 benefits from the seminar "Attitudes of a Top Producer."

 

Again, these are geared toward real estate practitioners like myself, but they can be used in other professions as well. The over-arching theme of this session was essentially how to take your career to the "Next Level" (a popular phrase that Darryl actually owns the trademark to). Are you surprised?

 

#1  -  Change your mindset, and you'll change your life.I touched on a similar topic in a recent featured post, "You Are A Living Magnet...So What Are You Attracting Into Your Life." What you think (good or bad) is what you attract into your life. Commit to a positive goal or something that is bigger than you. Remain enthusiastic, enlist the support of people who really care about you, and you'll become empowered to accomplish anything!

 

#2  -  Stay focused on your goals in a very disciplined fashion. This is VERY important, because it's one of the top reasons people "fall off the wagon." We say we're going to "get in shape," New Year's comes around, we develop a fitness routine, do it for a couple of months weeks and then things go right back to normal. Yet, we see that small number of people who set out to accomplish the very same goal, but some how they actually achieve it. Sound like the ole' 80/20 rule, eh? Is it because those who are successful at achieving the fitness target are smarter than us? NO! Are they're luckier than us? NO! The difference is that small group of people was far more focused and disciplined than the rest of us...period!

#3  -  Direct your attention on helping other people, and you will help yourself in the process. This concept isn't necessarily about generating leads by focusing on other people. I perceived it as being more about developing an attitude of humility, as well as learning to enjoy serving others people's needs, which will in turn heighten your sensitivity to serving the needs of your clients. Great client service will help your business soar!

  • Clean up past relationships (both personal and professional).
  • Do something unexpected for your family (i.e. take them on a vacation, out to dinner, surprise gift).
  • Join a community service effort that may take you out of your "comfort zone." Perhaps you're afraid of needles but you decide to volunteer with the Red Cross or maybe you don't like cooking & doing dishes, but decide to donate a few hours to a local soup kitchen to feed the homeless.
  • Help find a job for a friend who may be unemployed or dealing with a financial crisis. In fact AR member Cedric "Ced" Reynolds wrote an excellent post about this.

#4  -  Manage your business "like it's a business"....not a hobby or a job but like you are the CEO of your own company. In other words, place more emphasis on increasing your market-share (aka the number of listings you have) and increase your dollar volume & profit (aka getting more of your listings SOLD for the best price).

  • Create a system of communication (i.e. letters, postcards, email blasts, etc.) where you directly solicit prospects to generate new leads. Checkout this great read from AR member Liz Ward Small entitled, "The A-List of Top 10 Lead Generation Tips For Greater Results."
  • Focus on marketing your listings to agents (not just to buyers). Increasing the commission package and/or adding a bonus is not a bad idea. It gives agents an even greater incentive to show & sell your listings.
  • Get your current sellers to lower their asking price to reflect the current market value, by using 3rd party validation, i.e. local news articles about current market conditions, housing & mortgage outlook reports, statistical data from your local real estate board.

#5  -  Make it clear and obvious that you believe in yourself when you attend listing appointments. That doesn't mean get all cocky, but rather aim to exude confidence. How are you going to convince sellers that you can do a phenomenal job for them, when you haven't even convinced yourself? Trust me, sellers can smell "fear." Using Darryl's R.E.A.L. approach below may help:

  • R. - Rapport building is the key...If you don't establish good rapport, the listing presentation is going nowhere.
  • E. - Engage the sellers with compelling information.
  • A. - Advise them on how you will solve their problem
  • L. - Listings will be YOURS!

#6  -  Become a "master rainmaker." The more leads you generate and follow-up on, the greater the likelihood you will turn those leads into appointments, then turn those appointments into writing contracts, those contracts turn into closings and those closings turn into CASH! Rainmakers get PAID despite the stormy real estate climate.

  • Prospect, prospect, prospect....constantly work towards generating leads.
  • Always look to schedule as many appointments scheduled as you can handle.
  • Actually attend as many appointments as possible.
  • Listings, listings, listings and more listings is the name of the game.

#7  -  Be sure to hang around positive people. We are often a reflection of our environment. When we hang around positive people, their positive attitude, optimistic outlook and good habits will rub off on us. Choose the company you keep carefully!

NOTE:  BY MONDAY I WILL CONCLUDE THIS 3-PART "TRIPLE PLAY RECAP SERIES" WITH A RUNDOWN OF THE 3RD INFORMATIVE SEMINAR I ATTENDED (LEAD BY UPSTATE NEW YORK BROKER/AGENT, JIM PUGILESE).

Stay motivated,

Amber

 

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com

 

Top 5 things I took away from the "Millionaire-Maker Potato Chip Marketing" seminar...

Below are the Top 5 things I took away from the seminar taught by marketing consultant, trainer, speaker, author (Jennifer Cummings) at the "Millionaire Maker Potato Chip Marketing" seminar at the NJ-NY-PA "Triple Play" regional real estate convention in Atlantic City this week. Perhaps you read the article she wrote in the recent Realtor Magazine.

I'm paraphrasing a lot of what she said in the session. Everything is broken down based on the notes I wrote feverishly, as I listened to her every word intently... 

1.  The #1 mistake most real estate professionals make is they confuse advertising with marketing.  Advertising is to generate attention and create awareness. Marketing is to position something to actually compel someone to buy it. Personally, I assumed that every real estate professional knew the difference, but looking around the room I got the sense that wasn't the case. It was an eye-opening revelation for many to learn that while the two are related, they also have very distinctly different functions.

2.  W.I.I.F.M. (what's in it for me) - Real estate professionals should focus their marketing on what they can do for the client, instead of totally centering the marketing around themselves. Find the answer to solve their problem, and you've earned a client for life. We should definitely tout our resume' and accomplishments, as these are these tools that help tell our uniquely individual stories.  However, we need to make sure everything leads back to the W.I.I.F.M. (what's in it for me) for the client. 

3.  Consistent follow-up is important, but being too persistent may come off to clients as desperate. Find a balance of being thorough but not over-bearing.

4. In addition to being a "general practitioner" finding a niche is also a great idea. Buyers & sellers often take comfort in knowing they're dealing with an "expert."  If luxury estates or waterfront homes or investment property or first time buyers or listings or commercial deals is your "thing" then become known as an expert. Whatever your special "thing" is, definitely try to develop a niche. The more focused you are, the more powerful your are.

5.  Realtors get paid in direct proportion to the value they give. You've got to give to get. Don't hoard information and force people to give you their "last born" in order to get insight from you, i.e. don't put a mandatory opt-in page on every single page of your website, in order for consumers to browse your site. The more value you "give" the more loyalty and business your clients will give you in return.

TOMORROW I WILL SHARE THE TOP 5 THINGS I TOOK AWAY FROM SEMINARS WITH TWO OTHER WELL-KNOWN MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKERS & TRAINERS.

Stay motivated,

Amber

 

www.AmberLovesRealEstate.com