Sunday, June 03, 2007

More Positive MOVES For 'Clients First' in May

We had another GOOD month in May. Added eight new agents and a few million more in real estate sales.

We would like to Welcome Ann Wilson, Lazaro Sandoval, Todd Rhode, Steven Palica, Jeff Kist, Ryan Hightower, Dave Gerhardt, and Glenn Crandall to the CFR Organization. We have a great bunch of agents and we keep getting more. Remember, to send agents to us and collect your $100 referral. Be sure to tell them to let us know that you sent them.

If you are new or not, please take the time to get comfortable on the CFR website (call us, if you need assistance). You will find a tremendous amount of information available to assist you already placed on the site, under the 'RESOURCE' tab and more being added each week.


The new Profit Sharing Program had a good initial start up. We have received in excess of $10K in the first 30 days from enrolling members in the program. This is just another way that you can systematically grow your individual wealth through real estate and share in the growth of your organization. We will all accomplish more as a team. If you have questions, please call Corporate and we will try to get you the answers. Some of the 'Fund Members' requested a 'acceleration vesting clause' be added to the program. The normal earnings vesting period was set up on a standard five years program, per the recommendation from our mutual fund consultants. After reviewing this request with the Corporate CPA's and our fund consultants the following will be added to the fund contract. Once a member's fund deposits have reached $10,000.00 dollars, the member will be 100% 'earnings' vested in the fund and the five year pro rata 'earnings' vesting period will be waived for that fund member.

We are currently tracking for 150 to 200 transactions in 2007 that is presently averaging out to be approximately 45 million dollars in real estate sales for the year. We feel certain this will increase as our agent numbers go up through out the rest of the 2007.

We will continue to email you different CE class information being offered by the different entities (title & mortgage co.) each month. If your licences are scheduled to be renewed in June of 2007 please contact us. By waiting one day and renewing on Monday July the 2nd, you will have a new four year license instead of the existing 2 year license.

Thank you all again for your support and suggestions .... Have a Great June, WMS/DB

Tuesday, March 27, 2007

NEW NEW NEW----LOOK LOOK LOOK

NEW BUSINESS CARDS

NEW CAR MAGNETS AND/OR PERSONALIZED HOUSE SIGNS


NEW CLOTHING LOGO - HATS, SHIRTS, ETC.


NEW OPEN HOUSE SIGNS



NEW HOUSE SIGNS - JUST ADD YOUR NAME RIDER
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Just come by the office to see sample of the new look. The color combination is terrific. Shows up extremely nice.
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We are signing up more new agents this week, so keep a eye on the website for new pictures and names.
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We are working on several ad projects currently that will bring our branding into view dramatically over the next few months.
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Thanks for all your help and keep writing those contracts. WMS/DB



Tuesday, February 20, 2007

KEY EXCHANGE AND DON'T FORGET

ON 2.19.2007, MONDAY THE GATE KEYS TO THE GSK BUILDING; CLIENTS FIRST REALTY, LLC CORPORATE OFFICE WAS CHANGED IN A EFFORT TO CONTINUE MONITORING AND MAINTAINING SECURITY FOR EVENING AND WEEKEND HOURS.

PLEASE COME BY THE OFFICE DURING NORMAL OFFICE HOURS TO GET YOUR NEW GATE KEY. YOU CAN THROW THE OLD GATE KEY AWAY. IT WILL NO LONGER WORK.

HOWEVER, YOUR OFFICE KEY IS STILL GOOOOOOOOOD.
DO NOT THROW IT AWAY.
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DON'T FORGET
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ANY NEW AGENT YOU REFER TO US AND WE SIGN UP IS WORTH
$100.00 THANK YOU FROM CFR.
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WE NEED TO CONTINUE HIRING AGENTS AND
WRITE CONTRACTS.
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THIS IS GOING TO BE A GREAT YEAR IN REAL ESTATE !!!

Monday, February 05, 2007

THINGS THAT WE NEED TO PAY ATTENTION TOO !!!

We do not like imposing fines on our agents due to paperwork and time violations but Arizona Department of Real Estate and the Arizona Revised Statutes hold the Company responsible for the actions or lack of actions of all agents licensed under the 'Employing Broker'. ADRE and the State of Arizona has a zero tolerance policy when it comes to these issues, so we must ask that you make every effort to adhere to the requirements set on all of us. As transaction generated paperwork increases so must your timely compliance with the statutes, codes and rules governing our real estate industry. Your cooperation and consideration concerning these items will be greatly appreciated.

YARD SIGNS W/O YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION

If you have a listing and are using CFR generic yard signs, be sure to add a rider with your name and phone number. Had several calls at the office this weekend about listings, from individuals driving around without a realtor, wanting information about the property. Normally we are in and out on the weekends and do not live answer the phones. Most people will not leave a message. Riders are cheaper than lost business opportunities.

Arizona Department of Real Estate

The Arizona Department of Real Estate Rules and Regulations require that each licensed Designated Real Estate Broker keep records of all real estate transactions handled by or through the Broker as well as establish a system to ensure all documents are turned into the Broker in a timely manner. The records shall be open at all reasonable times for inspection by the commissioner or his/her representatives. The Broker shall keep the records of each transaction for a period of at least five years (withdrawn or rejected—1 year) from the date of termination of the transaction. Access to the Broker’s files must be arranged through the Broker’s office. Removal of any file from the Broker’s office may lead to termination.

Arizona Revised Statute 32-2151.01 states that the Broker will review and initial all documents within 5 calendar days of the date of execution.

It is, therefore, the agent’s responsibility to see that the Company is given all executed contracts, counter offers and addenda within 5 days of the last signature date, including MLS printouts and any changes. Associates will also be responsible for ensuring all relevant documents concerning a transaction are placed in the file. Once a sale is closed, the complete file with all required paperwork, including the Settlement Statement from escrow, the disbursements to and from both sides of the transaction, all correspondence, inspections, contingency waivers, and related information shall be delivered to the Associate’s Support Staff for final sign off of completion in the Broker file.

NO COMMISSIONS WILL BE PAID OUT UNTIL THE FILE IS COMPLETE AND SIGNED OFF BY THE BROKER.

Associates who fail to turn in their documents in a timely manner as required by the Arizona Department of Real Estate will be subject to Clients First Realty, LLC Late Paperwork Policy.

Required Paperwork

It is the policy of Clients First Realty, LLC and the Broker that, whenever possible, the most current Arizona Association of REALTORS® (AAR) and Arizona Regional Multiple Listing Service (ARMLS) forms will be used in all transactions. These forms are available through the local Associations, through each office, and some forms are available on line at the ARMLS or AAR website. The Broker also directs agent to obtain the Broker’s approval (prior to use) in the event any non-approved form is used. Contracts and related forms are updated from time-to-time. It is the policy of this Company and the Broker to use only the most current version. The responsibility for the use of any form is the sole obligation of the agent. Clauses that are not specifically approved for use in contracts by the Broker are not permitted. Various resources of previously approved contract clauses are on file in the Broker’s office. Where there are blank lines or boxes in the contracts or forms draw a line through that box or blank line.

It shall be the Policy of Clients First Realty, LLC to require a substantially complete "Seller’s Property Disclosure Statement" (SPDS) in all transactions. An agent shall not complete the form for the owner / landlord. When selling the listing of another office, structure an offer in such a manner that the current AAR disclosure form shall become a condition of the buyer or tenant's offer. Should the Seller for any reason, refuse to provide a Buyer/Tenant the Disclosure Statement, the Associate shall document a diligent effort was made in order to obtain such Disclosure.

As an agent associated with this Company, the agent shall disclose all adverse material facts that may adversely effect the consideration to be paid by any party. In addition, the agent shall not promote the interest of one party to the detriment of another in a transaction nor disparage the conduct, reputation or character of another licensee, in or out of this office. Any known fact that agent knows or thinks is germane to the property must be disclosed to the parties to an agreement. Said disclosure shall be made in writing and shall supplement the agreement between the parties.


Clients First Realty, LLC Paperwork Policy

Per The Arizona Department of Real Estate, CFR requires that any contracts or listings be submitted to CFR within 5 days of contract acceptance. This includes listing contracts, purchase contracts and lease agreements. CFR allows paperwork to be submitted via fax, e-mail, or hand delivery. Each CFR agent is responsible to verify that their paperwork has been received by the agency. The Company will notify all agents on the transaction VIA e-mail.

Please be proactive during your transaction to ensure that you resolve any missing paperwork or broker review items early on in the transaction. We encourage commission paid direct from Title Company, as long as all paperwork is completed. If you wish to pickup your check at title, please have your paperwork finished at least 72 hours prior to Close of Escrow, so we can inform the Title Company to release your commission.


If a transaction has been submitted more than 5 days after acceptance, the following will occur:

1) The Broker’s e-mail will indicate that the Company received your paperwork more than 5 days after acceptance and will require you to submit a “Late Paperwork Submission Explanation”.
2) A note will be made in your personnel and the transaction file indicating your paperwork was submitted late.
3) If an agent repeatedly submits paperwork late, the agent will be subject to termination.


If a transaction has been submitted timely, but we are still missing documents that are required at the close of escrow, the following will occur:

1) You will receive a phone call and/or e-mail notifying you that we have received a notice of intended closing from title, and your CFR’s transaction file is incomplete.

2) If we do not receive the missing documents within 72 hours of the phone call, you will be notified (via e-mail) that you are in violation of CFR’s paperwork policy.

3) If we still do not receive any communication from you and we
have not received the missing paperwork within 72 hours of the
e-mail, you will be notified by a final e-mail that you are being
assessed a fine of $50.00 dollars in addition to transaction and
risk reduction fees.

4) If within 15 days after the close of escrow you still have not
submitted the missing paperwork, your entire commission will
be subject to forfeiture.

If paperwork HAS NOT BEEN submitted to Clients First Realty, LLC and we receive a closing package and commission check, the following will occur:

1) You will receive a phone call and/or e-mail notifying you that we have received a closing package and commission check. You will have 7 days to submit all required paperwork.
2) If we do not receive all paperwork within 7 days of the phone call, you will be notified (via e-mail) that you have been assessed a $250.00 fine and that you are in violation of Clients First Realty, LLC and the Arizona Department of Real Estate policy for submitting paperwork. You have 72 hours to contact the office regarding the missing paperwork.
3) If we still do not receive any communication from you and do not receive all paperwork within 72 hours of the e-mail, you will be notified by a final e-mail that you are being assessed an additional $250.00 fine (in addition to the 1st fine and all other transaction fees).
4) If within 15 days after the close of escrow you have still not contacted the office regarding the missing paperwork or have not submitted all required paperwork, your entire commission will be subject to forfeiture and you will be subject to termination.

If you are unable to supply us with the missing paperwork, at the Broker’s discretion, you may be able to complete a “Missing Paperwork” explanation statement. The Broker will then make the sole decision if the commission will be released to the agent.


As you can see from the above policy, we are very serious about our policy for submitting paperwork timely and complying with the Arizona Department of Real Estate rules. All fines can be avoided by submitting paperwork within 5 days of acceptance.


Broker Review

Upon receipt of any contract, listing or lease agreement, the Broker shall review and e-mail the agent. It is the agent’s responsibility to comply and correct any issues that the broker addresses. The e-mail will also indicate what paperwork was received and what paperwork is still needed to complete the file. Any corrections should be addressed and then submitted to CFR as soon as possible. Please do not wait until the day before close of escrow to address any missing items or necessary corrections as it may delay commission disbursement.

Wednesday, December 27, 2006

1 2 3 OF HOME BUYING


Special Real Estate Report:
"The 1 2 3 of Home Buying, Made Easy"

By William M. Slaughter, P.C., REALTOR / Designated Broker
ABR, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, RECS, RFS, SRES

Congratulations! Buying your own home is one of the smartest financial decisions you will ever make. For most Americans, the equity that they build in their home is their biggest source of wealth.

I realize that buying a home can be a stressful undertaking. Whether this is your first home purchase or your twentieth, you want things to go as smoothly as possible with no last minute surprises.

This guide is designed to familiarize you with how the whole system works, and make you as comfortable as possible about the home buying process.

As your real estate agent, I will represent your best interests throughout the entire process.

The first step is to meet with the mortgage company to be pre-approved for your loan (unless you are paying all cash). This first step is very important for several reasons.

Once you are pre-approved, you can shop for your new home in confidence, knowing that you won't have any problems getting the loan.

Many buyers who skip this step and just go out house hunting are unsure and nervous when they find a home that they like, because they don't really know for sure if they will be approved for the loan.

Loan underwriters have specific rules and guidelines they must follow. Many would-be homebuyers have been dismayed and disappointed to find out 2-3 weeks after they enter a contract that the lender has turned them down.

Please realize that one of the biggest fears a home seller has is that they will enter a contract with a buyer, prepare to move, and then find out that the buyer didn't qualify.

When you get pre-approved first, we will obtain a letter from the loan company stating the amount that you are approved for. When shown to a seller, the letter makes the seller feel more comfortable, and will add more power for us in negotiations. Many of the best homes can have several offers on them at the same time from different buyers. Often, the buyer that can show that they are already approved for their loan will get the house.

The bottom line is that getting pre-approved for your loan first means stress-free home shopping AND more leverage with the seller!

You can use any lender you wish, but I do have a group of Bankers and Brokers that have assisted my clients on past transactions. I have total confidence in this group of professionals. They can meet or beat the interest rate and pricing of any other lender, plus you will never be at the mercy of someone neither one of us knows - just waiting around helplessly trying to find out the status of your loan.

The home buying process is quite complicated, and nothing will throw a wrench into things faster than a mortgage company that drops the ball.

You may have already met with the lender. If not, here is a general list of items you should bring to your Loan Officer.

1) W-2 (2 years) & current pay stubs
2) Past 2 years pay history for landlord/mortgage company
3) Employment information (2 year history)
4) All bank account numbers and balances
5) Last 3 month's bank statements
6) Open loans - names, addresses, account #, balances, monthly payments
7) All information on any other real estate loans
8) Drivers license or other photo ID
9) Check for credit report
10) Certificate of eligibility or DD214 (VA loan only)
11) Self employed: Last 2 year's complete tax returns, year to date Profit & Loss and Balance Sheet

The next step is for you to come into the office for your initial consultation. We will sit down and evaluate your situation, and determine if it is in your best interests to proceed with buying a home at this time.

If you decide to move forward, the next step is to complete the buyer-broker agreement that authorizes me to represent your best interests.

I can then assist you every step of the way. This includes advising you about the community and specific areas, values, trends, and helping you pick the home. I also will assist with the financing, structure the contract, and handle all the negotiations.

I also coordinate all of the details with the title/escrow company, mortgage company, appraiser, inspector, other real estate agents, etc. throughout the entire process.

You can rest assured that everything will be handled properly. Clients First Realty, LLC is a professional real estate organization, with over 20 top agents. We complete hundreds of real estate transactions each year, that total in the millions.

I, as your Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) and Certified Residential Specialist (CRS), will be hired by you to represent your best interests. My Buyer/Broker fees are transaction generated and are normally charged to the Seller's proceeds at Close of Escrow. Sometimes there are special arrangements made, but usually, there are no up front charges regarding my compensations.

The next step is to determine the features and benefits that you are looking for in a home. We will review items such as:

PRICE RANGE
AREA
STYLE
SIZE
1 OR 2 STORY
NUMBER OF BEDROOMS
NUMBER OF BATHROOMS
FAMILY/BONUS ROOM
AGE OF HOME
LOT SIZE
POOL/SPA
FIREPLACE
GARAGE
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS, ETC.

We will do a computer search on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) system and find a group of homes that meet your desired criteria. We will then start to eliminate homes one by one until we have settled on the right property for you. Many potential buyers prefer to drive around on their own searching for the right property, however, we have found after years of experience that this process usually is an 'exercise in futility'. You should use your REALTOR'S expertise, experience and guidance during this elimination process.

Consider your REALTOR as your real estate LIFEGUARD. He or She is there to protect your best interest in any transaction. There are a number of 'discovery' and 'disclosure' items that must be addressed on any potential property, whether RESALE or NEW BUILD COMMUNITY type homes. My best advice to you is 'get your moneys worth'. Use your REALTOR throughout the entire home buying process.

Once we find the home that best meets your needs, we will write up the purchase agreement and other necessary paperwork. Our goal is to get you the home that you want for the best possible price and terms, and we will discuss strategy for accomplishing this goal.

Once we have a accepted contract, our next step is to get a property inspection. Please remember this; NEVER buy any real estate on the resale market without a property inspection. This must be done within the first ten days after contract acceptance.

A day or so prior to closing we will conduct a "final walk-through" inspection to make certain that all items specified to stay with the home are still there, and to verify that all heating/cooling, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and other systems are in proper working order.

There are many different forms and papers involved in the home buying process, and we know that can be a little scary to some people. You will be furnished copies of the necessary forms to be used in your transaction. We will review all of them at our first meeting to make sure you are familiar and comfortable with them. This straight forward approach is necessary for your peace of mind, confidence and trust throughout the home buying process. (NO SURPRISES!!!)

The average time from getting the contract accepted to closing is about 30 days, although shorter or longer closings can be negotiated. Every transaction is unique, so I will monitor all of the details very closely, keeping you informed every step of the way.

Remember that I am here to serve you. If you are concerned or confused at any time, let me know immediately. There is no such thing as a stupid question when you are dealing with a large investment like this!

To review, the steps in the home buying process are:

Step 1 - Determine if buying a home now is smart for you.
Step 2 - Get pre-approved for your loan.
Step 3 - Study the real estate market.
Step 4 - Identify neighborhoods you like.
Step 5 - View specific homes.
Step 6 - Pick a home that meets your needs.
Step 7 - Analyze the value.
Step 8 - Negotiate the contract.
Step 9 - Close and move.

Don't hesitate to call me any time you have a question or concern. I look forward to working with you, and seeing you settled into your new home.

CHICAGO TITLE 1ST QUARTER FREE CE CLASSES

Hello Everyone,
Here is the class and event schedule for our Arrowhead office from Jan-March. The schedule includes the Limo Tours we are offering. Please bear in mind the tours are restricted to Real Estate Agents only unless you are a sponsor of the tour.
The Commercial class is on a first come first serve basis as that fills up very soon so please RSVP as soon as you can to reserve your spot as we can accommodate only a certain amount of people.

We Thank You for your business in 2006 and look forward to working as your Partner in 2007. I will be happy to sit down with you and re-evaluate your marketing plans for the New Year as well.

May you have a Happy, Prosperous and Healthy New Year!

Elizabeth Andari
Sales Representative
Chicago Title Insurance Company
Northwest Phoenix & Arrowhead Areas
Direct:(602) 339-6001
Fax: (602) 298-0703
Email:
andarie@ctt.com

For information on upcoming classes & events see my website at:
www.Chicagotitlearizona.com/andari

Chicago Title Insurance Company
ARROWHEAD Office- Class Schedule & Events

January-March 2007

Wednesday 1-17-07
Arrowhead Limo Tour
Hosted by: Elizabeth Andari, CTIC Sales Rep & A Great Lender!
Dazzle your Sellers with tons of agents coming to see their property!
Leaving the office at 9:30am returning at 12:30pm (duration 3hrs)
Lunch will be served immediately after the tour so stay to eat with us!
Featuring your listings from grids : 317, 318, 321 and 322 W.of 59th Avenue
Email your plano’s to
andarie@ctt.com to get on board!

Wednesday 1-24-07
Chicago Agent, Premier Services & Foreclosure Website
Taught By Elizabeth Andari, CTIC Sales Rep
How to do buyer and seller net sheets in seconds- download the program on your PC or Palm Pilot!
Learn how to do CMA’s/Listing Kits for your clients in just two keystrokes with Demographics, Public/Private Schools, Sales Comparables that are updated within days of their occurrence!
You can pull comps, ownership, encumbrances, demographics all on one site!
We have the best foreclosure website around! Learn how to make it work to your advantage including printing labels and mail merge letters!

Wednesday 02-07-07
How to Create Immediate Buyer Business
Taught By Elizabeth Andari, CTIC Sales Rep
Learn how to identify Best Buyer Contact Areas
Structure a Personal Buyer Contact System
Produce lasting results by Goal Setting
Get great new ideas to take your business to the next level!

Wednesday 02-14-07 (Come Enjoy our Valentines Tour!)
Arrowhead Limo Tour
Hosted by: Elizabeth Andari, CTIC Sales Rep & A Great Lender!
Dazzle your Sellers with tons of agents coming to see their property!
Leaving the office at 9:30am returning at 12:30pm (duration 3hrs)
Lunch will be served immediately after the tour so stay to eat with us!
Featuring your listings from grids : 317, 318, 321 and 322 W.of 59th Avenue
Email your plano’s to
andarie@ctt.com to get on board!

Thursday 2-22-07 (3 RENEWAL HOURS)
1031 Tax Differed Exchanges - IPX
Dave Tornell, Instructor
· Legal Issues Credited Class
Assist your investor clients with the best financial strategies for their investment or income properties
Learn which properties qualify for exchanges
Learn how to increase your clients cash flow, depreciation write-off and increase their overall net assets

Wednesday 03-14-07 (St. Patty’s Day Tour)
Arrowhead Limo Tour
Hosted by: Elizabeth Andari, CTIC Sales Rep & A Great Lender!
Dazzle your Sellers with tons of agents coming to see their property!
Leaving the office at 9:30am returning at 12:30pm (duration 3hrs)
Lunch will be served immediately after the tour so stay to eat with us!
Featuring your listings from grids : 317, 318, 321 and 322 W.of 59th Avenue
Email your plano’s to
andarie@ctt.com to get on board!

Thursday 3-22-07
Due Dilligence –Commercial Class (3 RENEWAL HOURS)
Taught By: Dave Miller, Commercial Sales Mgr. Chicago Title
A Must for those interested in the Commercial Arena
Become an expert on Due Dilligence for Commercial Real Estate
You will be up to speed with new legislation
Learn the Differences between Commercial & Residential Real Estate
Familiarize yourself with the Commercial Tool Box a Great Asset to your business!


CLASSES START AT 9:30 am (approximate duration: 3 Hrs)
It is Necessary to RSVP to
andarie@ctt.com
or by calling (602) 339-6001


Classes are held at Chicago Title Insurance Co. (Arrowhead Office)
17235 N. 75th Ave Ste G-105
(Just North Of Toy’s R US on the NW Corner of 75th & Bell)

Thursday, December 21, 2006

2006 ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY **

MONTI - BILL - VICKIE

TIM - VICKIE - PAT


GIDGET - FELIPE & FRIEND

MRS SLAUGHTER

DARYL - SUSAN

Sunday, December 17, 2006

2006 ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY *


BILL-DARYL-GREGG-KERI

ANITA


TIM-VICKIE-PAT-LAURA-MR. OHMER


ROOM FOR ALL
HILTON CREW VERY NICE PEOPLE

2006 ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY

GIDGET AND FRIENDS

PAT, BRENDA AND JASON


MONTI-KAREN-MR. NAVARRO & FRIEND-GIDGET-MARIA-KERI


FELIPE-MONTI-KAREN


TIM-SUSAN-PAT-MARIA-DARYL

GREAT CAKE

GOOOOOOOOOD FOOD!

Wednesday, December 13, 2006

TAXPAYER RELIEF



Legislation included in the 1997 federal budget made significant changes that improve a homeowner's ability to profit from the sale of real estate. The capital gains tax exclusions on the sale of a principal residence is just one of several benefits for homeowners. When you sell a home you have owned and use for two of the five years prior to the sale, married couples are allowed to keep up to $500,000 in tax-free profits and taxpayers filing as singles can keep up to $250,000 before paying capital gains tax.


Long-term capital gain is also taxed at lower rates as a result of the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act passed in 2003. The maximum capital gains tax rates dropped from 20% to 15% and from 10% to 5%, effective for sales and exchanges taking place on or after May 6, 2003 and through December 31, 2007. In 2008 the 15% rate continues for higher income taxpayers, while the 5% rate for lower income taxpayers drops to 0%, but only for the 2008 tax year. On January 1, 2009, the 10% and 20% rates will be reinstated.

Consult your tax advisor for advice regarding your particular circumstance.

Tuesday, November 28, 2006

A REAL ESTATE AGENTS EXPERTISE

A Real Estate Agents Expertise, by Mario Romero, CRS

Are you doing the following things for your Clients? Better question, do your Clients feel you are doing these things for them?
Remember, Clients Don’t Care How Much You Know, Until They Know How Much You Care.

If you are using the services of a professional real estate agent to find a new home, good communication is crucial to the transaction. A real estate agent who knows your most significant criteria can work much more effectively to show you homes that will meet your needs.Let the real estate agent know why you are interested in a specific location.


Discuss specific requirements such as proximity to your job, good schools, or recreational activities. If there are no houses available in your price range, the agent may suggest alternate neighborhoods with the same amenities. Do you need a home office or do you have hobbies that you want to accommodate? Is there a particular style of architecture that you prefer?

Agents sometimes have to be intuitive when we work with buyers. The more you can describe to your agent what elements in the home are essential and where you are willing to compromise, the easier it will be to use their expertise to find a home that's perfect for you.

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

ONLINE UPDATES & INFO FROM CFR

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AGAIN, HAPPY THANKSGIVING
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Does anyone know what 11-24 is besides the day after Thanksgiving or the biggest shopping day of the year?
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It's Monty Crawford's Birthday. Monty is a REALTOR with CFR.
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY MONTY
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Would like to WELCOME ABOARD four new REALTORS this week: Perry Adan, Brenda Browne, Eric Holmstedt, and Brian Rygiel. It is always great to have new people. Remember, if you know of a REALTOR looking for a home, send them to us. It's worth a $100!!
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Because a lot of our agents have full time jobs, we are going to have our training schedule set for Saturday afternoons, starting at 2:00 PM. This training will cover orientation to the company, basic paperwork, question and answer sessions, working on the MLS, ZIP Forms, etc. We ask that all new Agents attend a few of these meetings. It will help you get comfortable with the Company and some of the basic "How To's" of handling buying and selling paperwork and procedures.
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Training is a on going process in real estate. Due to the large number of laws, codes, standards of practice, etc., that controls our business we must be progressive in our learning efforts. We at Clients First Realty, LLC will always try to offer our personnel in-house training, along with our support partners at Title Companies and Lending Institutions who continually furnish on going training that is relevant to your real estate careers.
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Vickie O'Neil and myself, will make ourselves available to you on a individual bases to answer questions or to assist you with your transactions. Please do not hesitate to call if you need an answer.
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PLEASE REMEMBER TO RSVP VICKIE AT VICKIE@CLIENTSFIRSTREALTY.COM FOR THE COMPANY HOLIDAY PARTY ON FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15TH, AT THE POINTE HILTON
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CFR PERSONNEL AND SPECIAL INVITED GUEST
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You & a Guest are cordially invited to our Annual Holiday Party, Friday Dec. 15th, 6:30 PM. at the Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resorts Lantana Grille, 7677 N. 16th Street. (South of Northern on 16th Street) (North East corner of 16th Street & Morten)
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Again a Happy Holiday to All of YOU!!! - WMS/DB

Tuesday, November 07, 2006

PAPERWORK, PAPERWORK, PAPERWORK



See how HAPPY you will be when you get your paperwork done quickly, professionally and thoroughly. Two of the most important initial forms is your FAX COVER SHEET - REQUIRED DOCUMENT REFERENCE GUIDE & the CONTRACT INFORMATION SHEET for SALES, LISTINGS AND RENTALS. When the Contract Information Sheet is filled out completely and correctly, it allows a smooth transition in your transactions administrative life.

All the forms and procedures during a residential real estate transaction is designed to protect all parties involved before, during and after the transaction. By taking short cuts, you are jeopardizing all parties. This is why the policies, procedures and forms were implemented in the first place.

Not my favorite topic, but one that has to be covered from time to time. When dealing with lenders, title & escrow, appraisers, inspectors, etc., you will find some great ones in the metro area. You will also find ones with poor attitudes and some that are full of themselves. This attitude comes across to your CLIENTS and is a direct reflection on you. If you need some personal guidance concerning this matter, drop by for a chat with me or Vickie O'Neil. Sometimes our guidance and experience can save you from losing repeat business from your CLIENTS.

It is your responsibility to insure that the Title & Escrow Companies furnish you and your brokerage with the necessary documents. Even though we have to chase papers from time to time, it is much easier for you to handle the situation. (A Lot Less Feathers Get Ruffled)

Now on the very POSITIVE, for the most part, I say at least 95% of the time, your paperwork is looking great. Thanks for ALL your HELP, concerning your laboring tree by-products.

Have A Great Day and Keep Writing Those Deals - WMS / DB

Thursday, November 02, 2006

FYI E-NEWS IN NOVEMBER

ENVIROMENTAL DATA RESOURCES AND REPORTS

Third-Party Disclosure Legislation Provides Confusion – Clarity Coming!

Last legislative session, HB 2779 allowed a seller of real property to authorize a third-party company to produce a limited disclosure statement on their behalf. The legislation also required that companies providing these reports had to possess $10 million dollars worth of insurance as well as indemnify parties to a real estate transaction in the event their disclosure report contained en error. What started out as a very simple law and a limited disclosure report, became confusing for REALTORS® and their clients. Third-party companies have been marketing the new law to real estate stakeholders as the new law requires compliance or that it is mandatory to purchase third-party disclosure reports(NOT TRUE). In the upcoming 2007 Legislative Session, AAR will either be seeking a repeal of the recently enacted law or amend it to prohibit false marketing efforts to real estate industry partners and sellers. If you have recently received marketing material by a third-party company that seems suspect, please forward a copy to AAR and your Broker/Manager.

TECHING UP WITH COMPUTER FAXES

In the real estate business, we are always faxing things back and forth on every transaction. If you have a computer and printer, you can easily have a fax as well.

There are several places you can go to get this service, but
www.GODADDY.com is a good source and easy to use. Just go to the main page, find the Business Button on green task bar, move arrow over, get drop down, click on FAX THRU EMAIL. You can get an 800 fax number or a local fax number; you can get different size usage programs, depending on your fax volume. When you get a fax, it comes straight to your email address as an attachment. You can then save it to your clients file, print it or forward it, or all of the above. Your monthly expense is about the same as getting an additional phone line to your house or office, without having to buy a fax machine and all those ink cartridges. A lot of agents will have a traditional fax, as well as an e-Fax. The advantages and conveniences will surpass the expense.

COMPANY’S HOLIDAY GET TOGETHER – COMING SOON

Vickie has already started to work on the Holiday Company Party and the date is Dec 15th on a Friday. Please keep this date open, if you can. You will receive more info as the event gets closer.
KEEP THOSE AGENTS COMING
Don't forget to keep sending your agent prospects to Vickie O'Neil, Director of Agent Services. She is always looking for new REALTORS and BROKERS for 'The Company'.
Have a Great Day - WMS / DB

Friday, October 27, 2006

ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATES & INFO

Special Thank You

Thank you to the Agents, Vendors, and Associates that have helped with the New Agent Recruiting. We have added several new REALTORS® to the CFR roster in October. Again, THANK YOU for all your efforts.

Administrative Information for CFR Agents

There are three fax lines coming in to the Corporate Office. Your primary fax number is 602-296-7768. The secondary administrative fax is 602-358-7851 and there is a direct fax to the Broker at 602-374-2792.

Please use the primary fax whenever you are sending paperwork to the office and this is also the fax number we want given out to vendors and associates. The additional fax line information is for CFR Agents, Brokers and Staff.

The primary fax is designed to handle up to six incoming faxes at a time and also has twelve hours of memory storage, but just in case of paper jams, out of paper, out of toner, etc., you will have the additional numbers to use. We hope you find this information helpful.

REALTOR® Designation Awareness Month

All of your Local, State and National Associations of REALTORS® are pleased to announce the arrival of REALTOR® Designation Awareness Month. NAR has established November as a month in which to encourage its members to "Keep it in the Family" by starting, completing, or continuing an official NAR-endorsed designation program through NAR or one of its affiliates. NAR and its nine Institutes, Societies, and Councils offer twenty advanced education designation and certification programs to help members remain up-to-date in the dynamic environment of Real Estate. The National Association of REALTORS® and the Glendale Board of REALTORS® strongly encourage its members to increase their professional image, marketability, productivity, and income through the pursuance of a designation or certification program.

Timely Sign Removal

Whenever you have a listing and have set up a yard sign, it is your responsibility to remove the signage once the listing has reached the Close of Escrow, expired or has been cancelled. The accepted industry timeline is 48 hours. Remember, Courtesy is Contagious.
Thanks Again for Being part of CFR, WMS / DB

Friday, October 20, 2006

NEW SIGN - CONGRATULATION - WELCOME ABOARD !!!


The new CFR house sign attached to a 'red post' stands out from way down the street. Great way to bring attention to your listings. It won't take to long before the 'red post' branding will become synonymous with Clients First Realty.

We all should congratulate Mr. Navarro. 90 days in the business over $30,000 in commissions RECEIVED. This is during a slow market. Please don't tell Felipe.

Like to WELCOME Laura Ohmer from High Profile, Edward Olson from Westford College of Real Estate and Tim Riordan from Century 21. Some of the students we have talked too had some problems with the test. Don't give up. Test isn't easy for everyone but it can be passed if you study hard.

The first orders placed for the car magnets should come in today or Monday. Remember if you want a set, the Company is paying half.

Both Chicago Title and Magnus Title are offering classes. Please take advantage of them when you can. Some qualify for CE hours. Remember, you need 24 hours every two years to maintain your licenses. You have certain mandatory categories that must be satisfied in your 24 CE hours. Please don't wait until the last minute to renew your licenses.

Do you want to qualify for your CBR (Certified Buyers Representative)designation? Westford College is holding a three day course, Oct 30th, 31st and Nov 1st.

Clients First Realty is going to start a session every Wednesday from 5 to 7 called "Ask The Broker". Just show up with your questions or areas you need some coaching with. We will try to address all legitimate topics that you want to learn about.

Clients First Realty is proud of our REALTORS and Staff. We want to show you off on the Corporate Website. Please send us your BIO and PICTURE to display. Thank you to the Agents who have already sent theirs in!!!

Talk To You Soon, WMS/DB

Friday, October 13, 2006

NEW CAR MAGNETS AVAILABLE NOW !!!

To All Agents, Brokers, and Staff

You can order 12 X 18 car magnets with your name and phone # on them. They are manufactured through Realty Signs. The cost on each set of signs is currently $110 + Tax. If you decide you want a set, just contact the office and we will order them for you. As an incentive to everyone, the Company will split the cost of these advertising magnets. Your cost will then be $55 + Tax and will be billed to your quarterly statement.

Just call or email the office to place your order. WMS/DB

Wednesday, October 11, 2006

DUE DILIGENCE - INSECT INSPECTIONS

This is an attempt to clarify the Company's position on what is commonly referred to as "the termite report". Clients First Realty, LLC does not place the wood infestation report as a mandatory item for our Agents, but we HIGHLY recommend that it is done on each and every transaction. According to AAR's Resale Purchase Contract 5/05, page 5, paragraph 6c, lines 198-202 the following will be found.

"Wood-Destroying Organism or Insect Inspection: IF CURRENT OR PAST WOOD-DESTROYING ORGANISMS OR INSECTS (SUCH AS TERMITES) ARE A MATERIAL MATTER TO THE BUYER, THESE ISSUES MUST BE INVESTIGATED DURING THE INSPECTION PERIOD. The Buyer shall order and pay for all wood-destroying organism or insect inspections performed during the Inspection Period. If the lender requires an updated Wood-Destroying Organism or Insect Inspection Report prior to COE, it will be performed at Buyer's expense."

I have found a simple clause placed on each contract where I represented the Buyer clarifies what your Buyer expects to happen if termites are found in the prospective property being purchased. Making this clear up front, should help insure a smoother transaction through the Due Diligence phase of the transaction. The clause reads as follows and is normally placed on page 8 (Additional Terms Section) AAR RPC 5/05 Form:

Seller agrees that, based on termite report, seller will correct all issues and procure a clear termite report acceptable to lender and treat the entire home for termites or treat as per warranty, if any.

I hope this answers the questions that several Agents had concerning this item.

Have A Great Day, WMS/DB



Wednesday, October 04, 2006

A NEW LOOK IS COMING ! ! !


Hey Everyone

Just letting you know what's going on with your Company. We are presently redoing the YARD SIGNS, so to create a stronger, more recognizable branding. Should have the first few within the next couple of weeks. Hopefully, if it works like we think it will, the RED POST will create the positive branding we are searching for with our listing signs.

Just a reminder, if you have changed addresses since joining CFR, please update our files with an email or fax. Arizona Department of Real Estate requires you change your records online within 10 days of the move. If you need help doing this, just give us a call and we will walk you through the process.

FYI reminder... Take advantage of the Chicago Title Classes, if you have time... They are free and informative. The instructors are great and they always have cookies.

The New Transaction Tracking System is working great. This is a quick and easy way to keep you up to date on your transactions. If you have any concerns or questions about the system give me or Vickie a call. If you see a way it could be better, please make us aware of it. If the change is possible and benefits everyone, we will attempt to implement it.


Have A Great Day, WMS/DB

Thursday, September 28, 2006

New Transaction Tracking System

The New Transaction Tracking System is in place. A simple but professional method for you to know what paperwork we have received and what we are missing. Lets you know when your clients file is complete. Shows what corrections are needed, if any.

Log on the
www.ClientsFirstRealty.com go to the RESOURCES tab, scroll down to CFR AGENT ONLY, click and log in. ( ID cfr agent - PW agent ) Once you are logged on, you will find the Transaction Tracking System, click, find your name, click again and find your clients. Each client will have a TRANSACTION SYSTEM CONTROL SHEET. There are three types of control sheets. ( Listings, New Build, & Resale Purchase ) The whole system is very easy to read and understand, once you have went through it a couple of times. If you have any questions on how to use the system, please call and we will be happy to walk you through the process. The Transaction Control Sheets will be in PDF format. The download for Adobe Reader is in the same section under free downloads.

Once you send the corrected or additional paperwork in you will see it change on the Tracking System, normally within 72 hours.


This is just another way Clients First Realty, LLC is trying to assist you during your transaction.

Good Listing and Selling - WMS/DB