Daytona Beach Real Estate Blog

In the last few days, as I've been perusing and commenting on different blogger's posts, I happened to stop in my tracks, as I noticed far too many images that looked like they'd been taken by the same person, while holding the camera at arm's length. They looked more like a picture I would have on my non-business Facebook page. Is it just me, or do these pictures actually lower the level of professionalism on our blogs? Shouldn't a potential client see a quality photo that says "I'm a professional"?

Now I admit that I'm a very visual person. Half the time I build a blog post around a photo, instead of the other way around. But if I feel that way, then there are certainly many others who feel the same! If you only knew how much time I put into painstakingly getting professional-looking photos (not necessarily BY a professional photographer) that I feel are a good representation of my business persona, as opposed to the quick, and/or silly shots I place on my Facebook wall!

So again I ask, "Is it just me?"  What are your thoughts on this subject? Don't you want your potential clients to see you as a professional and not just someone they might run across on Facebook? The only exceptions I can think of are my personal friends and family members who will do business with me regardless... and are already among my Facebook friends!

But that leaves out the other part of the equation... the people who will NOT automatically be my clients! What good does it do you to have good SEO, if when you're found, the first thing that is seen is... well... a Facebook shot that you probably took of yourself, with your arms extended, and a strange look on your face?

And all that brings me back to; is it just me? Or do some supposedly "business" pictures look highly unprofessional? And for the record, I'm NOT talking about the casual pictures we have taken with local scenery in the background, which are part of our personal branding.

If you're not sure what I mean, just use my own examples. Can you guess which pictures I use on Facebook, and which ones I use for business?

www.LisaHillRealtor.com

**PLEASE READ MY OWN COMMENT!! IT CLARIFIES SOME MISUNDERSTANDINGS.**

Since I've recently shared with you all, that I've been writing a LOT, only it's not about real estate, I decided to share just a little something from under The Willow Tree. Whether you worship on Saturday or Sunday, we serve the same God; and I pray blessings, healings, miracles, and encouragement for all of you.  (The following poem/prayer *possibly a song in the future, if I add to it*, was written about a year ago.)

BURNING

As we look up to the Heavens; His fire is burning and it glows.

May that fire falll upon us, and purify our souls.

Lift your eyes toward Jesus, See Him burning on His throne.

I fall on my knees in worship. Now He's burning in my soul.

Let's keep our eyes on Jesus; and let the whole world know

of His great love and power, as we let Him take control.

Just a spark can change a nation, with the fire of Heaven's glow.

Lord Jesus burn within me. I let go.   Lord... take control.

© Lisa C. Hill and Willow Tree Ministries. All rights reserved.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thanks for reading. I hope you have a blessed day. And although this particular post has nothing to do with real estate, I am a full-time REALTOR, and Daytona Beach native. I have experience selling all types of real estate in Daytona Beach, Port Orange, Ponce Inlet, Ormond Beach, and every city around and in-between ;-)

For all your real estate needs, make a Smart Choice and choose Lisa Hill.

www.LisaHillRealtor.com

(Willow Tree on Facebook)

**ALL content, including text, logos and images, is owned and copyrighted by Lisa C. Hill. Do not copy or duplicate in any manner!**

I'm going to start this post with a bit of info about a sale on one of my real estate listings. But more importantly; I'm going to segue into some very important food-for-thought about how you, as a real estate buyer or a real estate seller, choose a real estate professional to represent you; and hopefully I'll educate you a bit, about the importance of how your REALTOR® handles the many intricacies that happen behind-the-scenes.

At this time, I have a bilateral contract on the house I have listed at 225 Arragon, located on the Holly Hill/Ormond Beach border (just 10 minutes from the Daytona Beach city limits). It's a very short drive to either the Seabreeze Bridge or the Granada Bridge, both of which lead directly to the ocean. I always love it when I reach the top of a bridge, and I can see the sun sparkling off the ocean, directly in front of me.

This affordable 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath home (with room for potential 3rd bedroom), is located in a great area, and conveniently located near all types of shopping; and it has finally found some happy buyers :-D   These particular real estate buyers are getting their financing through FHA and we've already been through all the initial inspections. The sellers of this home are making some repairs, as required by FHA, and despite a few bumps in the transaction-road, things are still rolling along fairly smoothly.

And now I want to go out of my way, to draw attention to something that is very important to a real estate transaction:  Bear in mind that there are MANY occurrences that happen in YOUR OWN real estate sales, that the REALTORS® (or real estate agents) will handle, and you may never know the extent of the long hours, stress, and complexities that were involved. To tell our clients every detail we've handled would either bore you, or sound like we're complaining, or possibly even boasting. So we do our jobs quietly and efficiently so that you don't have to endure any more stress than you already have when buying or selling real estate. For me anyway, this is the most professional way that I've found to work for my clients. But suffice it to say, there's a LOT of work that's done, that never meets your eyes and ears. But before I get to that part, let me share my experience thus far, in the particular sale that I mentioned above.

I am the listing agent in this sale. The buyers, and their offer on this house (which is now a contract) were brought to me by another local REALTOR® (member of the Daytona Beach Area Association of REALTORS®, and subscriber of the REALTOR® Code of Ethics). This particular REALTOR® has been amazing to work with! It's a breath of fresh air when the listing and selling agents are working together in the best interests of their clients (it's part of our job to make sure things do NOT get personal!), and as the real estate professionals on each side of the transaction, we are being just that... PROFESSIONAL! So far, it has been my pleasure to work with this agent who, through my marketing efforts, detailed property description, and numerous photos, found my listing and went out of her way to pull the recent comparable sales (the same ones I used to keep the house properly priced while on the market) and presented this evidence to her buyers so they would know that it truly was properly priced!

Side note: If the home had not been properly priced, this agent and her buyers would have discovered that when they pulled the comparable sales data. This is another good reason for real estate listing agents and sellers to make sure their listings remain competitively priced, for the duration of the listing period, until they reach a successful contract and closing. And don't forget, both buyers and sellers MUST be willing to compromise, in order to negotiate on the many points where negotiation is a possibility. Money alone, is not everything!

To continue with my experience in this particular sale, and with the agent who is working with the buyers... I know that most of the general public are not aware that our REALTOR® Code of Ethics prohibits us from speaking negatively about another REALTOR®, no matter what we know about them! (Yes, sometimes our tongues are bleeding due to our biting so hard on them! Thankfully, NOT so in this case.) So I just want to emphasize how much greater the chances are of reaching a successful closing, while minimizing any undue stress to the real estate buyer(s) and seller(s) of a house/condo/vacant land, etc., when behind the scenes, the REALTORS® (or real estate agents) on both sides of the transaction are doing their jobs to the best of their abilities, and have good attitudes and a good working relationship with each other! Did you catch that? Let me repeat it!

I want to emphasize how much greater the chances are of reaching a successful closing, while minimizing any undue stress to the real estate buyer(s) and seller(s) of a house/condo/vacant land, etc., when behind the scenes, the REALTORS® (or real estate agents) on both sides of the transaction are doing their own jobs to the best of their abilities, and have good attitudes and a good working relationship with each other!

Now you're probably wondering how you can find out if an agent you're interviewing/considering, has a negative reputation with other agents; because yes, if they've been in the business for any significant amount of time, their reputation (either good or bad) WILL precede them among other! And I've already stated that our REALTOR® Code of Ethics prohibits us from speaking negatively about other REALTORS®, no matter what we know about them.

Unfortunately, I don't have a foolproof method for the public to know the secrets that only other REALTORS® know... unless you're not working with a REALTOR®. Remember, real estate agents (not REALTORS®) do not subscribe to the Code of Ethics; therefore they can say whatever they want about other agents. But the reason this rule IS part of the Code is to make sure no lies are told. After all, we all know people (in all professions and walks of life) who like to spread rumors, regardless of whether or not they're true. This is a very good reason to have this rule in the REALTOR® Code of Ethics. It prevents any "fabrications" from being told. My mother taught me "If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all".   ;-)

So we're back to the question at hand. How do you protect yourself from being aligned with a REALTOR® who doesn't play well with others? Well, the good news is that most of the REALTORS® I've worked with throughout the years have done their jobs well, and have good reputations with other REALTORS®. But it's what you DON'T know that CAN hurt you, or in this case, it can hurt or completely end your sale! This means you have more homework to do than you originally thought you needed!

So how many of you are thinking you'll just trust your gut instinct about a REALTOR®? That's great if you have a strong instinct like that. I'm one of those people. However, just because you can meet with a REALTOR® and have an instant connection with them, this does not mean that REALTOR® generates the same response from other REALTORS®!

So on to Plan B. I can't offer any guarantees, but here are a few suggestions.

• Here on Active Rain, we not only write blog posts that reveal our personalities in each post we write, you can also learn a LOT about a person through the comments they leave in response to those left by others.  =)

• Remaining on the same line of thinking, you'll also find that many of us form relationships with each other. And along with those relationships, we frequently do favors for each other by showing some "link-love". This simply means that we embed links to each others' blogs or web sites, along with niceties about each other in our own blog posts. But don't forget #1. Check what's in the blog of the person who's doing the recommending as well! Ever hear the adage that "you're known by the company you keep"? (Just some food for thought)
  

• STILL on the blog subject; try following the comments we leave on other blogs. With Web 2.0, you can find just about anything you want to know, on any person you choose. And here on AR, you can find the comments we leave, as well as the posts we write. So go ahead; check it out!

• Many of us have personal blogs as well as professional ones. And we have multiple real estate blogs too. Once again, check it out!

• Many agents will tell you to Google their names. While I can tell you to do the same about me, unfortunately there's an artist in California with the same name, and she also does a great job of marketing herself online. So if you're going to Google me, just add Volusia County, or a city in this area. That will make it easy for you to find me  =)

• Finally, you can talk to past clients of the REALTOR(S)® you're considering, but if you talk to a seller whose property eventually sold, they'll be able to tell you it sold, and they may have even loved their REALTOR®. But they may have had several previous offers, or even contracts that fell through. And these may have Nothing At All to do with their REALTOR®! But then again, what if a bit of "attitude" or "laziness" (or worse) from their REALTOR®, directed toward the other REALTOR®, home inspectors, handymen, or other parties involved in the transaction carried more weight than any those sellers realized? What if their first offer could have resulted in a successful sale, if only their REALTOR® had been... well... "nice"?  Quoting my mother again; "You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar".

I'll end my suggestions here. I'm sure my commenters will have some other suggestions. And PLEASE do not think that every problem that de-rails a real estate sale can be blamed on the REALTOR(S)®! There are many parties to a real estate transaction, and many ways to prevent a closing. And sometimes these problems are unavoidable. But there's always that "what if" to consider.  So think about that when you're shopping for your next real estate professional. And try doing a little bit more homework. I understand that making more phone calls, and doing more research is probably the last thing you want to do when you're already feeling the stress and/or pressure of needing to move. But just a little bit more time could quite possibly lead you to the best real estate experience you've ever had. And you might just end up with a life-long friend as well!

For all your real estate needs, make a Smart Choice and contact Lisa Hill. I'm a Daytona Beach native with experience selling ALL types of real estate in EVERY city in East Volusia county and beyond. (And I play well with others too)  ;-)

www.LisaHillRealtor.com

**This post is written by a Florida REALTOR®, with the understanding of Florida real estate laws and "Agency". Florida REALTORS (and real estate agents) work primarily as "Transaction Brokers" rather than "seller's agents" or "buyer's agents". Also, the scenario described herein is partially focused on a real estate transaction taking place in Volusia County Florida, in the Greater Daytona Beach area. Be sure you consult local and state laws and procedures in your own locale before proceeding with the advice offered here.**

**ALL TEXT AND PERSONAL LOGOS ARE OWNED AND COPYRIGHTED BY LISA HILL. OTHER IMAGES ARE PUBLIC DOMAIN, WITH CERTAIN EXCEPTIONS ON THE REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF THE REALTOR® LOGO.**

Can it be!??

No, of course not. It's just a Snowy Egret :-D  My brother took this photo. And I think he did a great job on this one (except for the date stamp), so I decided to share it. (This is from the bro who took those crazy weather shots over the ocean!) But this one's much more peaceful. And this little guy doesn't seem to mind if his feathers are getting ruffled.

If you're interested in buying or selling real estate in the Daytona Beach area, I'd love to help. I'm a Daytona Beach native, with experience selling ALL types of real estate in every city in east Volusia county, and sometimes beyond those boundaries.

I hope you all have a great week! And for all your real estate needs, make a Smart Choice and contact Lisa Hill.

**ALL TEXT, LOGOS, AND IMAGES (except copyright symbol) ARE COPYRIGHTED. DO NOT COPY**

I guess I'm on a re-blog kick today. I just found this incredible post by Sally Cheeseman. Her statements are so accurate, in accordance to what so many people mistakenly believe to be true. Read her post below.

I love her comparison of REALTORS and real estate agents being like small business owners rather than CEO's of large companies! We can't afford what people think we can!

www.LisaHillRealtor.com

It seems like summer (in terms of children and school) can fly right by. Before you know it, your children are back in school and a grade higher (hopefully)  ;-)   But to families where both parent's work, or in single-parent homes, summers can be a stressful time. And you don't want your children sitting idle and bored. You probably want something your children can enjoy, while you can have some peace of mind while you're working to support your family! So I ask, have you considered your local YMCA?

When my daughter was younger (she's now in college and chose to work in the admissions office for the summer, to reduce her costs and gain some other college-related benefits next year) I enrolled her in the YMCA which has SO many different things for children to do! I remember how my daughter used to bring home her projects she had completed each day, and how she looked forward to their swim-time in the olympic-sized pool, and being amongst friends from school, as well as making new friends who attended other local schools.  And when you're in the Port Orange YMCA, you can't miss the many signs that hang from walls and ceilings; filled with positive affirmations and encouragement, to build confidence in all who enter.

I believe it also bears mentioning, I know personal experience, from teaching aerobics at the YMCA, that ANYONE who works at a YMCA, in any capacity at all, must be finger-printed, bonded, and be currently certified in basic CPR and First Aid. The YMCA takes the safety of the children very seriously. And they have plenty of staff on hand as well.

In addition to the above-mentioned requirements, everyone who works at a YMCA (even aerobics instructors) are expected to keep an eye out for the children, and help if they see the need. (There's a specific protocol involved for each situation.) So if live in, or want to move to the Port Orange or Ormond Beach areas (I've taught aerobics at both facilities), I highly recommend enrolling your children in their summer programs. And although we're well into the summer season, sometimes families move to other areas, and children are withdrawn from the programs, creating vacancies. (This happens when REALTORS and real estate agents sell homes to the many families who are moving during the summer, before the next school year begins.) Try getting your children on a waiting list if you need a safe, fun, friendly environment for them. (And there are after-school programs as well!)

And don't forget, even if your children are not enrolled in a YMCA, full-time summer program, there are still other options. When I was a child, my brothers and I all learned to swim at the YMCA. I have fond memories of advancing through the levels as we learned to tread water, kick more powerfully with legs in proper positions, swim and breathe by turning your head to the side, learning different strokes, etc. We advanced to each level by properly demonstrating our ability to execute each portion of learning to swim. (My daughter was taught to swim while she was still in pre-school, in a summer program taught by local lifeguards, in the pool of a local hotel.)

If you live in or near the Port Orange area, the Port Orange YMCA is located at the Port Orange City Center. If you're a regular reader of my "Localism" blog posts, you may have noticed many events in Port Orange are held at the Port Orange City Center. Stay tuned for more upcoming info about the Port Orange City Center, and more family-friendly events for ALL ages.

If you're interested in buying a house in Port Orange, I'd love to help! Make a Smart Choice and contact Lisa Hill for all your real estate needs.

Lisa Hill-Daytona Beach and Port Orange REALTOR, and Daytona Beach Native. <-- About Lisa Hill

www.LisaHillRealtor.com <--Real Estate Info for East Volusia county

www.PortOrangeRealEstateSales.com <--Info for City of Port Orange FL

Need real estate info? Contact Lisa Hill today! <--Contact Lisa Hill

**ALL TEXT, PICTURES AND LOGOS ARE OWNED AND COPYRIGHTED BY LISA HILL. DO NOT COPY!**

 <-- This copyright logo is Public Domain. Everything else in this post may NOT be copied!

Daytona Beach area residents and visitors, here's some interesting news for NASCAR Racing Fans. The Daytona International Speedway is currently being repaved... a one year project that began right after the "400". What's interesting about this repaving are a couple of key points.

• This is the first time the track has been re-paved since 1978; only the 2nd re-paving since it was built.
  

• Fans will have an opportunity to own a piece of the old track. This idea came from the behaviors of passionate Dale Earnhardt fans who began digging up turf from the infield after his historic 1998 win at the Daytona 500. Those who have already purchased 2011 season tickets will automatically receive a piece of the old track.

For those of you who are interested in reading more information about the re-paving, and the speedway itself, here are some interesting links...

• Waltrip Brothers Help Repave Speedway - Darrell and Michael Waltrip at Daytona International Speedway 07/12/2010
  

• Daytona International Speedway Repaving

• Daytona International Speedway to Mine Asphalt for Souvenir Gold

• Grab Your Piece of Racing History

On a personal note, I once participated in a bike-a-thon on the 2.5 mile track. I can assure you that without a racing car, that track is a beast! It's breath-taking to actually BE ON the track, and see the steep incline that surounds the edges of the track (where the cars actually race). It looks almost like a wall in and of itself. You MUST have a race car to ride on that incline. It actually requires those unbelievable speeds, in order for gravity to do it's job.

Some last tidbits of information for this post...

Apparently the Daytona International Speedway has been receiving complaints from drivers for several years now, although it has always held a certain infamy for it's bumpy turns. It's been part of the challenge, and the draw for the drivers who race there. It's why it's one of the highest honors when a driver wins on this particular track. It will be interesting to hear what the driver's think of the finished track when it becomes a bit smoother after it's completion.

In the interim, there's MUCH work to be done! Before the new pavement goes down, the list of prep-work is quite daunting. Just consider the sheer height of the turns, as well as the 57 light poles, the barriers, and the safety-fencing on the high-bank turns. And that's not the part that's even started yet. For now, they're beginning with the 8,300 linear feet of "Safer" barrier. And guess who has been there to help with the beginning of the removal of 17 million plus pounds of asphalt and lime rock? How about... Darrell Waltrip and Michael Waltrip?

According to Bob Zeller; Motorsports Editor, before the new pavement goes down, there's a lot of preparation work to be done. Recently, workers began removing 57 light poles, the safety fencing in the high-banked turns and 8,300 linear feet of SAFER barrier.

So to all you Daytona Beach NASCAR racing fans, we'll see you next year, as racing is done on a brand new track! And if you'd like to obtain your own piece of history as the old track is removed, just follow the link to the DIB web site.

If you're interested in buying real estate in Daytona Beach (which could save you money on the astronomical prices of hotel rooms during special events), I'd love to help! I'm a Daytona Beach native, and experienced REALTOR®. Make a Smart Choice and contact Lisa Hill for all your real estate needs.

www.DaytonaBeachRealEstateSales.com

Last night I was reading a post by Ginger Faust titled "Sellers and Realtors: Staging Education, Part Seven, DRAMATIZE". Her post contained such wonderful before-and-after photos that I was considering printing the page, to use in my listing presentations for those listings that contain furnishings and decor that will actually hinder, or prevent the listing from selling. We've all had real estate listings like these. And it's always a problem when it comes to trying to tell a real estate seller that their house is too cluttered, too sparsely decorated, or that their furnishings are actually detracting from the home itself. Obviously, you're going to hurt their feelings, and probably not get the listing. But we need to be honest! And this is where home stagers enter the equation.

I think we all know that in this economy, EVERYONE is trying to save and/or make more money. And bringing up the subject of home staging is not exactly easy, since no matter how tactfully you address the subject, there's always a possibility that the sellers may perceive that you're telling them there is something wrong with their property. But as I was leaving a comment on Ginger's post, I was thinking out loud (again), and commented that Home Stagers should have some type of photo book for REALTORS® and/or Real Estate Agents to use in their listing presentations. And my mind quickly went through the possibilities and benefits for everyone involved; taking into consideration that if I was a home stager, obviously I wouldn't want to spend money on a venture such as this, if I went to the trouble of creating some type of "Look Book", only to have the agents who received it, not use it. And I would want to keep my costs to a minimum...

A few solutions came to mind...

1. Create a poll for real estate agents; asking who would use and/or see the benefit of something of this nature. There are plenty of free web sites where you can create these polls. You could then post the link to Twitter, Facebook, your blogs, and anywhere you're doing your social networking.
2. If your local MLS allows it, (ours has a bulletin board) post an entry, asking local REALTORS® to take your poll. Also, call and e-mail the agents with whom you've done business in the past, or with whom you know personally, and contact top producers. Get feedback from all of them, and start making of list of those who feel strongly about your product and abilities, and whom would see the benefits of including YOU in their listing presentations. (It can also be used as a tool during the listing period, to address helpful ideas with real estate sellers during the listing period.)
3. To keep costs at a minimum, why not create a couple of different ways to access your before and after photos. Always keep in mind, a picture speaks a thousand words! So why not create a section of your own web site that is filled with before and after images? Then secure a domain name that points directly to that section of your web site (or just use an image site such as Flickr or Photobucket). You can provide this part to ALL local real estate agents in your area! It's not like it's going to cost you any more money! But also create a print booklet for agents who still do a "paper" presentation. You could print some before and after photos on photo paper and place them in a 3-ring folder with a clear plastic front. Get those beautiful photos right on that front page so the real estate sellers will be drawn to it, and see the benefits of your services. 
4. Consider e-mailing links of your before-and-after photos to agents who can print out your beautiful, high-quality images to photo paper on their own! (Even less cost to a home stager)

These were just my quick thoughts that I believe could be beneficial to Home Stagers, Real Estate Listing Agents, Home Sellers, and even Home Buyers! Since many real estate buyers have a hard time getting a mental picture of how they could make use of certain rooms; a book of practical uses, or even better... an already staged home, would help them realize the benefits of buying a house or condo that they may not otherwise have considered.

I'm sure there are other possibilites. Feel free to comment with your own ideas. And be sure to view the fabulous before-and-after photos on Ginger's post. They really draw attention to some very simple yet drastic solutions to problematic rooms and spaces. And if you're a real estate home stager, please comment so agents in your area will be able to find you (or re-blog this if you like). And I'd love to hear the ideas that I'm sure so many of you have, in addition to my quick thoughts. Or feel free to elaborate on my ideas. Or let us now how you're already promoting yourself in your area. Working together right now is tantamount to the success of ALL parties involved in a real estate transaction!

Looking forward to the brainstorming session, and the success stories as well!  :-)

www.LisaHillRealtor.com

If you're a real estate buyer, or a real estate seller in the Daytona Beach, Port Orange, Ponce Inlet, Daytona Beach Shores areas (and all other cities in east Volusia county), Lisa Hill is a Daytona Beach native and experienced REALTOR®. Make a Smart Choice and contact Lisa Hill for all your real estate needs.

*ALL CONTENT IS PROTECTED BY U.S. COPYRIGHT LAWS. DO NOT COPY!*

Two Truths and A Lie. Watch for me. coming up soon! :-D   My only problem is how much I've revealed in my years of vlogging and blogging! >.<  D'oh!

These are good though. Make your guesses before the big reveal!

Visitors enjoying Daytona Beach. You think they might want to buy a condo on the ocean? They're sure enjoying it a lot. Look at those beautiful tans! =)

If you'd like to buy an oceanfront condo in Daytona Beach, make a Smart Choice and contact Lisa Hill for all your real estate needs.

www.DaytonaBeachRealEstateSales.com

This weekend only. Ponce Inlet, Port Orange, Daytona Beach area residents and visitors; this weekend only, visit Down the Hatch Seafood Company in Ponce Inlet, and mention the Down the Hatch FACEBOOK PAGE, and receive a FREE Fish Dip Appetizer.

Search Down the Hatch on Facebook, located in Ponce Inlet Florida and stay abreast of their specials. You can also Subscribe to the Down the Hatch Newsletter.

If you're a Ponce Inlet real estate seller, I'm a native of this area with 16 years of experience selling homes here. I'd love to help. Feel free to call or e-mail me for your Free CMA.

If you're interested in buying a house or condo in Ponce Inlet, I'd love to put my native-knowledge, and years of experience to work for you.

www.LisaHillRealtor.com

This is perfect. Sage advice from Russel Ray. These few words say so much! This is a good reminder for me, if nothing else.

Summer is officially here in Port Orange, Florida! You know it by the sweltering heat that always accompanies the months of July and August. (We dread the electric bill every year during these months.) You know it's summer when you walk across the bright, sunny parking lot (leaving umbrella in the car) into our "gi-normous" (my daughter's word-just combine giant + enormous. lol) Super Wal-Mart to buy your groceries, and anything else you could possibly need; and 30 minutes later you hear, and feel the vibrations of huge bursts of thunder. So you rush for the checkout counter, buying yet another umbrella to add to your collection, and race for the doors, only to discover it's too late. You now stand in the croud of people who are waiting for a break in the torrential downpour, accompanied by sharp bolts of lightning, immediately followed by booming thunder.

When you think of moving to Florida, is this part of what you envision? It should be. Remember, we are in a tropical climate. The good news is, as fast as these storms roll in, they roll right back out. And some days you can experience pouring rain during bright blue skies with puffy white clouds, and unstoppable sunshine! You can pretty much expect some type of rain EVERY afternoon in the summer if you live in the Daytona Beach area. But don't worry. They roll in and out within about 30 minutes to 2 hours.

When I'm showing houses to real estate clients, I'm prepared for these events. I have a stack of umbrellas in my car. If we have appointments to keep, with sellers waiting for us to arrive, I hand everyone an umbrella, tell them to leave their shoes in the car, and we run for it. LOL! Yes, I'm serious. Unfortunately, if it's truly a torrential downpour, the umbrellas only keep your head dry! I've gotten drenced, ALL the way through my clothes on many occasions. But remember, the sun usually comes back out fairly quickly, and we can all dry out just as fast.

The only times I do NOT take my real estate buyers into homes where sellers are waiting while it's raining, is if there's lightning along with the storm! (And of course, if my buyers prefer to sit in the car and wait. Then we just chat for a while.) But most sellers are understanding, and are waiting at the door with towels when we arrivel. That's just another bit of southern hospitality =)  But if there's lightning, you can tell how close it is by how long the interval is between the show of lightning, and the sound of the thunder.

When I was stuck in Wal-Mart recently, I had to wait inside, since the thunder was booming immediately after the lightning. On that particular day, I didn't really care if I got wet. But I didn't want to be struck by lightning! (Duh!) So I stood there, listening to the conversations of all the surprised, obviously non-locals, and mentally counted the seconds between the lightning and thunder as they gradually grew further and further apart. As soon as I was counting about 5 or more seconds between the lightning and the thunder, I made a break for it. Yep. I got thoroughly drenches, expect for my head, which the umbrella was covering. But I was headed straight home. I was amused though, by all the people who looked at me like I was crazy. I guess they weren't aware of the count-the-seconds-rule; or they just didn't want to get wet. I personally wanted to get home so I could play with my daughter =D (She's 20 years old; was home from college for the weekend; and we did the Cupid Shuffle, and the Put A Ring On It dance when I got home. :-D)

If you're interested in buying real estate in the Port Orange, Daytona Beach, Ponce Inlet, Ormond Beach areas (and all the cities around and in-between), I'm a Daytona Beach native. My personal, first-hand knowledge of so many little intricacies of daily life, and of major happenings over long periods of time is a large advantage for me, and for my real estate clientele. I'd love to put my knowledge and expertise to work for you. And we don't have to get wet if you don't want to ;-)

Need real estate listings or information? Don't wait til the last minute. Call or e-mail me now. I'll get you setup on our automated MLS system which will automatically send you new listings within your specifications every day. This will give you an idea of what's going on in our real estate market, and keep you abreast of any changes. I've worked with many real estate buyers who have taken years before they made their decision to buy a house or condo here in the Daytona Beach, Port Orange, Ponce Inlet areas (et al). Our MLS does most of the work, and you can e-mail me with questions along the way. It's no imposition for me. It's my job!

My phone is beside me right now! If you're planning to move to the Port Orange or Daytona Beach (et al) areas, call 386-212-5357 (For real estate buyers and sellers only-no solicitations). Or e-mail Lisa@LisaHillRealtor.com (again, for real estate buyers and sellers only-all spam is reported to the FTC).

www.DaytonaBeachRealEstateSales.com

www.PortOrangeRealEstateSales.com

I STILL CAN'T UPLOAD ANY IMAGES! I'LL DO SO AS SOON AS THE SYSTEM LETS ME!!!

Instead of just a photo post today, I've decided to share a photo of one of the beautiful walking paths between the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse and the Inlet. Walking these relaxing paths is an enjoyable way to spend some time, if you're a visitor or a local resident. This particular wooden-walking-bridge is near the Marine Science Center, and leads you over peaceful marshes and even has a tower you can climb, to overlook the area.

If you're interested in buying or selling a house or condo in Ponce Inlet, it's a beautiful place to call home. In Ponce Inlet right now, there are currently 120 condos listed for sale in the Daytona Beach area Association of REALTORS® and Multiple Listings Service (MLS), and 50 single-family houses for sale, listed in the Daytona Beach area MLS. Due to the possibility of being able to live directly on the ocean, or the Intracoastal Waterway/Halifax River, or on any of the quiet streets in-between, there is a wide range of prices for the houses and condos for sale in Ponce Inlet. So if you're not working with any other REALTORS® (or real estate agents who are not REALTORS®), feel free to call or e-mail me for details on any of these properties. I can even get you setup with our automated MLS feature, which will send you new listings within your specifications as they come on the market.

Make a Smart Choice and contact Lisa Hill for all your real estate needs.

Lisa Hill is a Daytona Beach Native with strong community ties.

www.LisaHillRealtor.com

(I CAN'T GET ANY OF MY LOGOS TO UPLOAD RIGHT NOW. I'LL HAVE TO TRY AGAIN LATER!!!)

Now here's a very NON PC post about the Gulf oil spill; written by Jennifer Allen. I'm not saying if I agree or disagree with her opinion, but she does raise some valid points. And I'm choosing to re-blog it now, because I'll be following up with my own post on the subject.

Just last week I blogged about our First Amendment Rights being suspended, with video included. There are just so many aspects of this disaster that will probably be far-reaching. So although June 27 was declared a "Day of Prayer" for the Gulf Coast disaster, let's not forget that we can ALWAYS be praying! God doesn't take a break from hearing our prayers. And every little bit helps.

Read Jennifer's Non-PC post below. And watch for my follow-up post in the next day or two.

www.LisaHillRealtor.com

BTW, if you're a real estate buyer or seller, Daytona's Beaches are still oil-free!

I just read this post by Jeremy Blanton, and HAD to share it with those of you who have not yet read it. The statistics he shared are astounding! Read his blogging statistics below.

If you're looking to buy a house or condo in Port Orange or Daytona Beach, or if you're looking to sell a house or condo in Port Orange or Daytona Beach (or any city in East Volusia County) make a Smart Choice and contact Lisa Hill for all your real estate needs.

www.DaytonaBeachRealEstateSales.com

www.PortOrangeRealEstateSales.com

It's summer time and kids are out of school. If you're a parent who's looking for artistic things for your kids to do this summer, here are some suggestions in the East Volusia County area.

Summer Art Camp for ages 6-12; Atlantic Center for the Arts; Community Arts Center at Harris House in New Smyrna Beach, FL. www.AtlanticCenterForTheArts.org - 386-423-1753.

Music & Dance Academy of Florida - Offering Music and Dance Lessons for All Ages and All Levels; Siblings can take music and dance lessons at the same location and time!  Summer MUSIC Classes Offered: Piano - Violin - Voice - Guitar - Drums - All Band & Orchestral Instruments. Summer DANCE Classes Offered: Ballet - Jazz - Hip Hop - Tumbling - Ballroom - Latin/Salsa. Located at 136 N. Orchard Street, Ormond Beach, FL. www.MusicandDanceAcademyofFlorida.com - 386-233-9342.

La petite ARTiste; "Where Every Child Is An Artist" (for ages 5 and up) - Children's Art Studio & Gallery. Materials are Provided and Creativity is Encouraged!  www.LaPetiteArtisteStudio.com - 386-290-7960.

www.LisaHillRealtor.com <--For all your real estate needs in Daytona Beach, Port Orange, Ormond Beach, New Smyrna Beach and all surrounding areas.

View Daytona Beach Area Real Estate MLS Listings For Sale <--Click here.

**ALL TEXT AND REAL ESTATE LOGOS ARE COPYRIGHTED. DO NOT COPY!**

I was just reading (and viewing) a photo blog post by Mike Mitchell titled "Sailing". As I commented on his post, it reminded me of the days when I met my husband. He had sold a lucrative business in Michigan, bought a sailboat (a Hudson Force 50) and taken a 2 year sabbatical. Since he didn't have much else to do, he was taking my aerobics class all the time. (For about 23 years I taught all kinds of fitness classes. I was always able to supplement my income and get a free gym membership, and there were even times when I taught aerobics full-time so I could keep my daughter with me when she was younger.)

Anyway, Mike's post inspired me to share some photos of my husband's sailing days. I believe I've posted some of these photos in the past, but it's been a LONG time! And I can't remember which photos I used. So let's not stress about it =)  Enjoy! And if you ever saw the movie "Captain Ron", this is the exact same type of boat that was used in that movie. Maybe it's just me, but I think that's pretty cool =D

(Do you like his pirate flag? He's such a goof!)

If you're interested in buying or selling real estate in the Daytona Beach area, I'd love to help. If you need real estate buyer info <-- click here. If you need real estate seller info <-- click here. To view Daytona Beach area real estate MLS listings <-- click here.

Whatever your real estate needs may be, I'd love to help! I'm a Daytona Beach native with experience selling ALL types of real estate in EVERY city in East Volusia County and Beyond!

If you're a sailing enthusiast, we have beautiful marinas all over the Daytona Beach and Ponce Inlet areas where you can store and launch any type of boat. And Ponce Inlet is absolutely beautiful!

**ALL TEXT AND IMAGES ARE OWNED AND COPYRIGHTED BY LISA HILL. DO NOT COPY!**

I was recently reading an article in a local magazine, that was written by a Little League Baseball Coach. He is a bonafide Rule Enforcer. He knows every rule of the game, and exactly how far they can or cannot be bent. He also knows a couple of common mistakes that are made by other coaches when they get 2 similar rules confused. As I read the article, my mind was comparing his nature, and his experiences, to my own nature and experiences, and how these can apply to the real estate industry as well.

I admit to being a Rule Enforcer. I have absolutely no problem singling out the Rule Breakers, which is probably obvious from my very rare "rant" posts. (Just be glad they're rare =P) But this post is about how as real estate professionals, we have MANY rules and laws that must be followed. And when representing my clients, I use my knowledge of the legalities, the rules, and the REALTOR® Code of Ethics, in a manner that best benefits my clients. (I imagine most of us work in a similar manner; within the means of our own strengths and personalities.)

Again, I'd be remiss if I didn't admit to my love of Rules! I like knowing exactly where the boundaries are. And I like knowing exactly how far a rule can or cannot be bent. (Blatant Honesty Moment: I DO NOT like gray areas, and I don't think much of people who live in the gray areas!) And I Use My Knowledge for the Benefit of My Clients! Yes, I admit to that too. I go out of my way to take the instructional classes at the Daytona Beach REALTOR® Association  (available for REALTORS® only - not just real estate licensees) every time the FAR/BAR contracts are changed. I go out of my way to seek out the changes and differences in the Standard FAR/BAR contract vs the "As Is" FAR/BAR contract! 

To clear up any confusion here, we have 2 separate contracts instead of just an AS-IS rider. This was changed several years ago, in order to clear up some common legal problems that were occurring due to mis-use, and mis-information when implementing the "As Is" clauses, formerly referred to as the "D' and "N" clauses. Also, so there's no confusion, in our area, the FAR/BAR contract is the one that is expected to be used when presenting an offer; so I'm only addressing the 2 FAR/BAR contracts, rather than the "FAR" contract(s).

I enjoy learning the legalities and reasoning for why certain changes have been made to our FAR/BAR contracts, and how we can protect our real estate clients. (Again, the contracts AND the training classes at the REALTOR® Association are only available to actual REALTORS®, not just those who hold a real estate license.)

I'm now going to show my hand a tiny bit here by pointing out the most common mistakes that I've personally seen, where other REALTORS® misstep on the FAR/BAR contract. And no, I do not point these mistakes out to them when they bring me an offer on one of my real estate listings. I just keep it under my hat, and pull it out if the offer becomes a contract, and the other agent starts dropping the ball on their end. My reasoning? From the very beginning of an offer, I'm focused on the big picture... the long haul... the "what if" of what could happen in the Worst Case Scenario. And I want my clients to be ahead of the ball! It's just good business and BEING a real estate professional.

Now for my tiny tips as I show my hand just a bit  ;-)

In the Daytona Beach area, the most common places where mistakes are made in our FAR/BAR real estate contracts are...

1. The "money" section, and how what wording is used, and in what places it is used, when a deposit/good faith money is not collected at the time of the initial offer. Do you use verbiage like "Upon Acceptance" for when the good faith money will be provided by your buyers? Hmm. Maybe you should take that class at your local REALTOR® Association.
   
2. Writing any type of verbiage that reference clauses that are already detailed in the contract. Why would you do this? Isn't all the necessary verbiage already there? Wasn't that legal verbiage used, based on real estate history and past problems? Isn't that verbiage stated in a manner that's meant to prevent the problems we've had in the past?  What are the potential problems that can happen when you add to that verbiage?

OK. So I've just posed 2 problem areas, and several questions. In reading this, do you know WHY the examples I've given might pose a problem? I know this post is open for the whole world to see, and I'm only addressing Florida real estate, but we can still learn from each other. So what are your experiences? How do you handle these areas? Or do you encounter other contractual areas that are a greater problem in your location?

So many questions. So many loopholes and potential pitfalls. What's your take on the rules, laws, and REALTOR® Code of Ethics? Have you been an "unintentional rule breaker"? I'm interested in the thoughts of all of you who work in ANY area of real estate, even if you're not a REALTOR®, and even if you're not in the "sales" part of the industry.

And yes, I'll answer some questions as you comment. I wouldn't want to just leave you all scratching your heads and wondering what the heck my point could be. Just consider this an educational blog post for everyone involved in real estate; even the individual buyers and sellers. =)

Looking forward to your comments!

www.LisaHillRealtor.com

**ALL CONTENT IS COPYRIGHTED. DO NOT COPY**

Today is July 1st. It's almost Independence Day. And in Daytona Beach, that means we'll be overrun by race crowds. As a Daytona Beach native (and REALTOR®) who tends to forget about practically every special event we have, I was reminded of our upcoming Big Race when one of my Jacksonville cousins contacted me via Facebook, to see if they could crash at our house this weekend before heading to the "Coke Zero 400".

So I guess I'll have a house full of relatives tomorrow night, and I'll need to allow for a lot of extra time when showing houses and condos, and when heading to church Sunday morning. Locals and visitors, make sure you do the same. It's also a good idea to avoid major roads and intersections, although of all the special events we have in Volusia County, the race fans tend to spread out the most. Thus, the need to allow for extra time, wherever you go this weekend.

For those of you who are only currently here for a visit, but are planning to eventually move here, just bookmark this post for future reference so I can help you find you find your next home or investment whenever you're ready. I'll soon be posting the real estate statistics for the first half of 2010, which will be very helpful in making an informed decision regarding your next real estate investment. I also suggest you bookmark my web site at www.DaytonaBeachRealEstateSales.com. It contains loads of helpful real estate information.

So wherever you are, I hope you all enjoy your 4th of July events. And if you're here in the Daytona Beach area, feel free to call, text, or e-mail me for any local information you may need. I'll be happy to suggest additional things to do and places you can visit while you're here.

Real Estate Buyers and Sellers Only; call or text Lisa Hill at 386-212-5357. (No solicitations on this phone number!)

**ALL CONTENT IS OWNED AND COPYRIGHTED BY LISA HILL. DO NOT COPY**