THE LAFAYETTE REPORT

Think Locally - Where Should Purchasers Search for New Homes and Condos?

Sun, 07 Mar 2010 12:01:20 -0600

USE OF INTERNET WEBSITES AS A HOME SEARCH TOOL

With the rise of the Internet, there are now hundreds of websites that offer consumers the ability to search for homes online. According to NAR and other surveys, over 90% of purchasers use the Internet to assist them in searching for a new home. In the 2008 NAR Survey of Buyers and Sellers, the survey found that purchasers used the Internet reported using the following sites:

60% Local Multiple Listing Service Sites
48% Realtor.com
46% Real Estate Brokerage Sites
43% Real Estate Agent Sites
19% For Sale by Owner Sites
11% Local Newspaper Sites

QUANTITY AND QUALITY OF LISTING INFORMATION VARIES BY SITE

As purchasers increasingly use the Internet to search for homes, we decided to take a look at some of the search portals commonly used by purchasers in our area. The results indicate that not all real estate search engines or search portals are created equally. The quantity (ie. # of listings) and quality (ie. accuracy of information) varies greatly from site to site. Often, quantity and quality issues depend on how the sites obtain their listing information. It varies from site to site and includes:

Paid Placements
Feeds from Other Sites
Direct Entry by Owner or Agent

As a result of how the sites are updated and when they are updated, it is common to find wrong, inaccurate or dated information on real estate search engine or portal sites (ie. aggregator sites). Common problems include:

Inaccurate # of Bedrooms/Bathrooms/Sq.Footage
Wrong Location on Maps
Inaccurate or Dated Pricing Information
Wrong Status Reports (pending or even sold)

WHERE SHOULD PURCHASERS SEARCH FOR HOMES?

Given the problems with real estate search engines and portals described above, we posed the question: WHERE SHOULD PURCHASERS LOOK FOR THE BEST DATA ON HOMES LISTED FOR SALE? Our answer is: GO DIRECTLY TO THE SOURCE.

If you are a serious buyer, want accurate and complete information, and don't want to waste time, I would strongly suggest that you use a REALTOR with MLS access. Why? The simple answer is that the MLS provides real-time data, is more accurate in terms of its data, and is more comprehensive for geographic specific locations. It is also an equal playing field - meaning that search results are based on your criteria and not based on paid placements.

A SIMPLE TEST - SEARCHING FOR HOMES AND CONDOS IN 63104

To test our theory, we entered the same search into MARIS (the local MLS for metropolitan St. Louis), Realtor.com, StLToday.com (the search portal for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch), Trulia.com, Zillow.com and Yahoo Real Estate. The search was simply for any residential home or condo in the 63104.

Here were the results based solely on the number of listing available on each site:

Here were some simple conclusions based on quantity alone:

The MLS had the most listings. Given that the MLS uses real-time data, it isn't surprising that it is the most comprehensive source for data on homes and condos listed for sale.
Realtor.com was a close second. The difference between the results for Realtor.com and for the local MLS appeared to be attributable to new listings within the past 48 hours. The difference could also be brokerages or individual owners opting out of the listing feed from MLS to Realtor.com.
Aggregator sites such as Trulia, Zillow, and Yahoo Real Estate fared poorly by comparison. From 10% to 40% of the available MLS listings weren't shown on these sites. There sites, in theory, should exceed the MLS with the inclusion of For Sale by Owner listings and REO listings. However, they not only didn't exceed the MLS in terms of the number of listings; they didn't even match the MLS in terms of available listings. Here is how the fared:
- Trulia failed to include in its search 40% of available listings in the search area (83 listings).
- Yahoo failed to include in its search 10% of available listings in the search area (21 listings).
- Zillow failed to include in its search 14% of available listings in the search area (28 listings).
Paid sites like StLToday.com were of limited utility and reflect the decline in classified advertising generally. The StLToday site failed to include in its search 65% of available listings in the search area (135 listings). For consumers, you are seeing limited listings. The good news for agents is that your listing are more likely to be seen because there are fewer listings.
When you consider that this test was for a single zip code in the St. Louis metropolitan area, the conclusion is that for broader searches you are missing hundreds of listings that may meet your criteria and not be show on sites that require paid placement or on sites that are aggregators as opposed to originators of listings.
If you were searching specifically for condos, the differences were even more dramatic.

In this post, I simply looked at the quantity of listings. In the next post, I will take a look at the quality of the listings on these sites.

If you want to search for homes in the St. Louis using real-time data from the MLS, please visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com. Or better yet, send me an e-mail with your search criteria to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com and I will set you up with a private MLS search portal.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

PREA Signature Realty is a full service brokerage located at 1709 Park Avenue in the Lafayette Square neighborhood of the City of St. Louis. PREA Signature proudly serves the following city neighborhoods: Lafayette Square, Soulard, Benton Park, Benton Park West, Downtown Loft District, Forest Park Southwest, Central West End, Tower Grove East, Tower Grove South, Compton Heights, Shaw, The Hill, Dogtown, Carondelet, Holly Hills, St. Louis Hills, Dutchtown, and the Other Historic Neighborhoods of the City of Saint Louis, Missouri.

The opinions expressed herein represent the opinions of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of PREA Signature Realty. All photos and written content were produced by PREA Signature Realty. All Rights Reserved - PREA Signature Realty (2009). This content may not be reproduced or reprinted, except for Active Rain re-blogging, without express written permission of PREA Signature Realty.

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

2010 WCR Metro St. Louis Technology Panel - Video, Photo Blogs, Blogging Tips, Google Tools and Tech Gadget and Much More

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 10:31:31 -0600

The next Business Resource Meeting is set for March 4, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. at the Sheraton Westport Chalet. This Business Resource Meeting will feature a technology panel covering such topics as video marketing, photo blogs, blogging for business, Internet radio, Google tools and other tech gadgets and WCR tech resources such as the WCR toolbar and WCR Live streaming audio and podcast.

Here is the line-up for the 2010 WCR Technology Panel:

Video – How to Effectively Use Video to Market and Sell Homes

Speaker: Darin Wood - Film That House

Website: www.FilmThatHouse.com

Topics will include:

- Tips on How-to Shoot a Good Video

- Sites for Editing Videos

- Sites for Hosting Videos

- Suggestions on How-to Integrate Video into one’s Marketing Plan

- Creation and Use of YouTube Channel

- Common Mistakes Made by Realtors in Shooting Video

- Benefits of Using a Professional Videographer

Photo Blogs – How to Set Up a Photo Blog and Drive Traffic and Business Leads to Your Website

Speaker: Michael Allen - Preservation Research Office

Website: www.preservationresearch.com

Blog: www.ecoabsence.blogspot.com

Topics will include:

- Tips on How-to Shoot a Good Photographs

- Sites for Editing Photos

- Sites for Hosting Photos

- Suggestions on Set Up a Photo Blog

- Tips on Blogging

Blogging for Business – A Realtors Perspective

Speaker: Don Rogers - RE/MAX Gold

Website: www.DRogersHomes.com

Blog: www.activerain.com/blogs/donrogers

Topics will include:

- Developing Your Blogging Voice

- Topics that Drive Traffic

- Common Mistakes Made by Realtors when Blogging

- Blogging Tools

Google Tools and Other Tech Gadgets

Speaker: Ryan Shaughnessy

Website: www.PREASignatureRealty.com

Blog: www.LafayetteReport.com

Topics will include:

- Google Tools

– Google Talk/Google Wave/Google Calendar/Google Analytics

- Box.net

- JotForm

- SlideShare

WCR Live on www.BlogTalkRadio.com

Speaker: Michelle Silies – PREA Signature Realty and/or Klaus Bank – Keller Williams St. Louis Realty

Website: www.BlogTalkRadio.com/WCRLive

Topics will include:

- Show Schedule

- Upcoming Topics

- How to Participate

The WCR Toolbar will also be unveiled. All of the websites and tools that St. Louis real estate professionals need on a single Google search toolbar.

For more information on the 2010 WCR Technology Panel program, visit: www.WCRSTL.org. Reservation are required for this event. Cost: $25 for WCR Members / $30 for Guests. For reservations, contact Shelly Clark at Shelly@CardinalSurveying.com.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

GOOGLE TOOLS FOR REALTORS SERIES - USING GOOGLE ALERTS TO MANAGE YOUR ONLINE REPUTATION AND MORE

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 16:21:14 -0600

GOOGLE TOOLS FOR REALTORS SERIES

In this Google Tools for Realtors Series, we will cover, review and provide how-to tips and strategies for Google's suite of productivity tools including such tools as:

Google Calendar
Google Alerts
Google Wave
Google Documents
Google Maps
Google Earth
Google Local Business Center
Google Adwords / G-Mail Ads
Google Blogger
FeedBurner
Google Analytics
Google Groups
Google Sites
G-Mail
Picassa
YouTube
Google Talk
Google Voice
Google Search
Google Toolbar

GOOGLE ALERTS

In the second installment of the Google Tools for Realtors Series, we will take a look at how Realtors can effectively use Google Alerts in their real estate practice including such topics as:

Why Use Google Alerts
Setting Up Google Alerts
Google Alert Success Stories
Non-Google Reputation Management Tools

WHY USE GOOGLE ALERTS?

Google Alerts allows you to create automated searches of diverse media such as blogs, images, video, groups, news and the Internet based on simple keywords. The tool has many benefits:

Monitor Real Estate Trends (e.g. St. Louis Market Reports)
Competitor Research (e.g. Name of Agent or Brokerage)
Tracking Upcoming Real Estate Events (e.g St. Louis REBar Camp)
Manage Online Reputation (e.g. Ryan Shaughnessy or PREA Signature Realty)
Identify Misuse of Your Listings (1515 Lafayette or the Georgian)
Monitor Past Clients (e.g. Client A)
Use as Customer Service / Testimonial Tool (e.g. Ryan Shaughnessy or PREA Signature Realty)
Track Technology (e.g. Google Tools)
Track Government Information and Announcements (e.g. Missouri Real Estate Commission)
SEO Management (e.g. www.LafayetteReport.com)
Catch Copyright Infringement (e.g. Blog Titles)

HOW TO SET UP GOOGLE ALERTS

Step 1 - Log into Google account. Go to: www.google.com/alerts.

Step 2 - Enter the search information.

Search Terms: Use Narrow Keywords to Limit Search to Relevant Items
Type: Select the type of search - comprehensive, image, video, blog, groups, news, internet or comprehensive.
How Often: Select period - immediate, daily, or weekly,
E-Mail Length: # of returned search items - 20 mentions or 50 mentions.
Deliver to: Your preferred e-mail address.

Step 3 - Review e-mailed alerts.

Step 4 - Manage alerts. If you are receiving too many or too few alerts, change your search terms for the alerts.

KEYWORD SEARCH OPERATORS

Use standard Google search operands to narrow or refine your search:

Inclusive Search: AND - "Real Estate" AND Technology
Alternate Search: OR - "Second Empire" or "Federal"
Wild Card Search: "* with a mountain view"
Specific Site Search: site:http://www.PREASignatureRealty.com
Link: link:http://activerain.com/blogsview/1507292/google-tools-for-realtors-series-google-calendar

GOOGLE ALERT SUCCESS STORIES

Over the past 18 months, Google Alerts has been an invaluable tool. Here are some of the success stories:

Identified Competitor Copying and Pasting Market Report.
Discovered Long Forgotten Media Video Clip of One of Our Agents.
Discovered Misuse of Craigslist Posting by Unlicensed Real Agent and by Rental Scam Artist.
Discovered Problem with Trulia Feed Directing Leads to Competitor's Website.
Found Article on Past Client regarding New Development Project.
Identified Buyer for Commercial Property.
Found Negative Comments regarding a Development in Area.
Identified End-User Subscribing to RSS Blog Feed.

NON-GOOGLE REPUTATION MANAGEMENT TOOLS

Oddly, different alert services focus on different media and yield different search results. Here are some other services:

www.Trackle.com
www.SocialMention.com
www.SocialOomph.com
www.steprep.com

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT HOW TO USE GOOGLE TOOLS IN THE MARKETING AND SALE OF REAL ESTATE? Contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an e-mail to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

GOOGLE TOOLS FOR REALTORS SERIES - GOOGLE WAVE FOR COMMUNICATION, COLLABORATION AND INTEGRATION

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:01:14 -0600

GOOGLE TOOLS FOR REALTORS SERIES

In this Google Tools for Realtors Series, we will cover, review and provide how-to tips and strategies for Google's suite of productivity tools including such tools as:

Google Calendar
Google Alerts
Google Wave
Google Documents
Google Maps
Google Earth
Google Local Business Center
Google Adwords / G-Mail Ads
Google Blogger
FeedBurner
Google Analytics
Google Groups
Google Sites
G-Mail
Picassa
YouTube
Google Talk
Google Voice
Google Search
Google Toolbar

GOOGLE WAVE

In the third installment of the Google Tools for Realtors Series, we will take a look at how Realtors can effectively use Google Wave in their real estate practice including such topics as:

What is Google Wave
Google Wave 101 - Terminology
Google Wave 102 - Basic Features
Suggested Uses for Google Wave
Google Wave Tools

WHAT IS GOOGLE WAVE?

Google Wave is currently available by invitation only. It is an interesting tool for communication, collaboration and the transfer and sharing of media. It is a hybrid product that looks and feels like e-mail, text messaging, forum threads, wikis, social media and more. However, the best may be yet to come. Google Wave is built on an open source platform which means that there will be competing products and a large amount of extensions/tools/applications built around this new platform.

GOOGLE WAVE 101 - TERMINOLOGY

What is a "wave"? A "wave" can best be described as a hybrid between conversation and document. People can communicate and work together with text, photos, videos, maps and more. A "wave" is shared. meaning that any invited participant can reply anywhere in the message, edit the content and add participants at any point in the process. The playback feature creates accountability and lets anyone rewind the wave to see who contributed what and when. A wave is live. As a live document, can have faster conversations, see edits and interact in real-time.

GOOGLE WAVE 102 - BASIC FEATURES

Google Wave has some interesting features as a communication and collaboration tool. Here are some of the highlights:

SPLIT CONVERSATION INTO THREADS: E-mails are static and linear. That is, you send an e-mail. You then receive a reply. When you are "replying" to a wave (e.g. message), you can reply in the message itself creating a thread within the message or after the message similar to e-mail. For example, someone sends an agenda. Instead of replying at the end, you can actually interlineate your comments within the agenda itself. The arrows below show where new threads can be inserted. It is similar to when you include the original e-mail and interlineate in the original e-mail questions, comments or responses.

INSTANTANEOUS/SIMULTANEOUS CONVERSATIONS: Communication via Google Wave is in real-time. Althought it looks and feels like e-mail in some respects, it is more like text messaging. Two or more people can reply to the wave at the same time. The communication is live and can change even as your are reading the screen.
HIDE REPLIES: When the "wave" or replies generated by the "wave" are done, you can hide and/or delete replies to clean-up the conversation. You can also copy the completed "wave" into a new wave.

INVITE OTHERS TO THE COMMUNICATION: Communication via Google Wave can be 1-on-1 or you can invite a group to participate. Even after the conversation has started, you can add additional parties to the conversation. For example, the comments drift into another person's area of expertise or responsibility. You can add the additional person to the conversation by simply clicking a button or by dragging and dropping from the contact section of the Google Wave platform.

PLAYBACK FEATURE: Since you can add a person at any time, the new participant can replay the entire communication sequence by sequence from the creation of the wave through each contribution. You can see who wrote or added what and when. Here is a simple example showing the progression . There was an initial wave containing an invitation to speak. The second action was to add Don Rogers as a participant. The third action was Don Rogers' acceptance of the invitation.

PRIVATE REPLIES: Within a "wave", you can reply to the wave which is visible to all participants or can reply privately to one or more participants. When you reply privately, the reply only appears on the "wave" of the parties to the private reply and not on the "wave" viewed by all participants.

DRAG & DROP FEATURE: You can drag and drop other waves, photos, videos, links etc. into the wave.
ATTACHMENTS: You can add attachments with a click of a button.

DOWNLOAD IMAGES: For photo sharing, Google Wave permits each participant to add photos, edit titles, and download all of the photos. It is a nice and easy way to share photos. You no longer have to worry about e-mails being hung up or bounced back due to the size or resolution of the photos.

GOOGLE SEARCH FEATURE: You can search within the Wave using Google and ad links. Click on G+ icon. Enter search terms. Add to wave. Here is an example including a resource link into the invite to Don Rogers.

SMART FEATURES: Google Wave has a series of built-in smart features. For example, you include a video link in the wave. It shows a light bulb. By clicking on the light bulb, you will then be given options such as show the video as a link or embed.

LIVE CONCURRENT ONLINE EDITING: Google Wave allows users to edit each others messages, contents and even replies. This allows for online editing and collaboration.
GADGETS: You can use Google Wave's gadgets or import gadgets into your wave. Here are a few examples:
- You can insert a Yes/No/Maybe feature for approvals, RSVPs, votes, etc.
- You can insert a map. You can place pins for locations and can draw on the map.

SUGGESTED USES FOR GOOGLE WAVE

Google Wave has great potential. However, converting the potential to actual use will require an expansion in the number of users, the addition of more extensions or applications and a learning curve as users adopt this tool for communication and collaboration. Here are just a few anticipated uses:

SINGLE COMMUNICATION: Consolidate information into a single living document. Use with customers to define housing criteria, map tours, transmit and store documents, provide instructions, review closing documents and more. Instead of searching through dozens of e-mails, you have a single communication thread which can be accessed by all members of your team - agent, transaction coordinator and clients.
TEAM COLLABORATION/EDITING: For teams, groups and organizations, you can take a single document and allow multiple parties to collaborate on a project in real-time. You can draft content, discuss items and solicit feedback all in one place. It eliminates the need for creating multiple copies that get out of sync. For example in the context of an organization, you could set a meeting and outline the agenda. Each participant could then add additional information, action items or documents to the agenda such as place, map to location, parking instructions, documents to be reviewed prior to the meeting and more. After the meeting, meeting notes or action items can be added and tasks disseminated to others.
SHARE PHOTOS: Instead of e-mail photos back and forth, each participant can upload and share the photos. Each participant can then download all of the photos. You can create a photo album easily online.
BRAINSTORMING: You can present an idea, concept or problem to a group. You can use Google Wave to brainstorm ideas. You can add rich content like video, images, URLs, etc. to provide examples or to clarify ideas and concepts. Google Wave can be used a virtual white board.

GOOGLE WAVE TOOLS

Google Wave has great potential as a collaboration tool and as a communication tool. However, the gadgets and applications developed using the platform offer an interesting glimpse as its possible use as an integration tool. Although Google previewed a number of extensions, gadgets and applications (see video below), the most intriguing use of Google Wave is the ability to embed a wave in your website or blog. After a wave is embedded, people can communicate with you in real time within the embedded in a blog - but directly to you via the Google Wave. That is, a post could be included in a wave and posted on multiple sites. The replies or comments received would then be aggregated. This tool would give you a single access point to engage others in discussions. Here is an example from Google using their Bloggy prototype application showing a wave and then the embedded wave in a blog post:

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT HOW TO USE GOOGLE TOOLS IN THE MARKETING AND SALE OF REAL ESTATE? Contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an e-mail to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

GOOGLE TOOLS FOR REALTORS SERIES - GOOGLE BASE FOR MANAGING YOUR LISTINGS ON GOOGLE MAPS

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:59:49 -0600

GOOGLE TOOLS FOR REALTORS SERIES

In this Google Tools for Realtors Series, we will cover, review and provide how-to tips and strategies for Google's suite of productivity tools including such tools as:

Google Calendar
Google Alerts
Google Wave
Google Base
Google Documents
Google Maps
Google Earth
Google Local Business Center
Google Adwords / G-Mail Ads
Google Blogger
FeedBurner
Google Analytics
Google Groups
Google Sites
G-Mail
Picassa
YouTube
Google Talk
Google Voice
Google Search
Google Toolbar

GOOGLE BASE

In the third installment of the Google Tools for Realtors Series, we will take a look at how Realtors can effectively use Google Base in their real estate practice including such topics as:

What is Google Base
Google Base Offers Competitive Advantages
Why Use Google Base
How to Feed Your Listings to Google Base
How to Create Your Google Base Listing Feed
How to Manage Your Google Base Listing Feed
Conflicting Feeds
How Google Base Displays Your Listings
Google Base Strategies

WHAT IS GOOGLE BASE

Google Base is an easy way to upload your online and offline content to the Internet. For Realtors, the importance of Google Base is to get your listings displayed on Google Maps with the most current information and to drive traffic to your website or blog. Google Base can be searched directly. More importantly, listings entered into or fed to Google Base are more easily found in Google Maps and Google search results.

GOOGLE BASE OFFERS COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGES

Here is an example of the power of Google Base. Using the local MLS, a search of Lafayette Square shows 31 condominiums listed for sale. However, when you search Google Maps using the same search parameters, there are only 4 highlighted map pins. Google Base gives you a competitive advantage to agents who take the time to directly feed their listings into Google Base.

Here is the map from the MLS Search and from the Goolge Maps Search:

MLS Search - 31 Listings for Condos for Sale

Google Maps - 4 Listings for Condos for Sale

WHY USE GOOGLE BASE

Google Base offer the following benefits:

EXPOSURE: As shown above, Google Base provide increased exposure to your listings on Google and Google Maps.
CONTROL OF LISTING DATA: By uploading directly to Google Base, you control your listing content and data. It will preempt duplicate feeds from other services.
DIRECT CONSUMERS TO YOUR WEBSITE OR BLOG: Although there are several other services that feed or allegedly feed to Google Base (e.g. Trulia, Hotpads, Point2Agent, Postlets, Real Estate Book, etc.), these feeds often direct consumers to sites that include other competing listings. With Google Base, you can direct consumers to your website or to your blog, not to third party sources of the feed.
DATA ACCURACY: By uploading directly to Google Base, you control the accuracy of the data. That is, price changes, open houses, etc. appear in hours as opposed to days or weeks.
MLS RESTRICTIONS: Some multiple listing services feed listing to Google Base. However, the feeds are limited by the MLS regulations. For example, some multiple listing services prohibit self-promotion in the marketing comments or place restrictions on photographs or on branding of video and virtual tours. By uploading directly to Google Base, you can better brand your listing and can avoid MLS restrictions on content.

HOW TO FEED YOUR LISTINGS TO GOOGLE BASE

You can submit listings to Google Base in three ways:

Upload via File Transfer Protocol
Upload via Third Party Service (e.g. Postlets, Point2Agent, Hotpads, etc.) using the Google Base API
Directly Upload to Google Base

As discuss above, this post only addresses how to upload your listings directly to Google Base.

HOW TO CREATE YOUR GOOGLE BASE LISTING FEED

Step 1 - Create a Microsoft Excel file.

Step 2 - Create spreadsheet headers across the top of the spreadsheet matching the attributes used by Google Base:

title
agent
area
bathrooms
bedrooms
broker
description
expiration_date
feature
hoa_dues
id
image_link
link
listing_status
listing_type
location
lot_size
mls_listing_id
mls_name
open_house_date_range
price
price_type
property_type
provider_class
publish_date
school
school_district
year
zoning

You can also create custom fields for other information like:

links to video
blog site
brochure download

Step 3 - Under each header, fill in your information. Note: Where a URL is specified, you have to use the actual URL as opposed to a hyperlink. If there is missing information or information in an incorrect format, you will receive a Google Base summarizing all required changes.

Step 4 - Save the file as a tab delimited text file (.txt).

Step 5 - Register your data feed. Go to http://base.google.com/base/bulkuploads. Click on New Data Feed. Select the target country (United States) and type of feed (Housing) and type in the name of the file created above (PREAHousingFeed.txt). Click on Save Changes.

Step 6 - Go to your Google Base Dashboard. Locate the feed you just registered and click on Manual Upload. Click on Browse to locate the file. Click on Upload and Process this File.

Step 7 - Google Base will process your listing feed. Depending on the size of the file, it will take between 30 minutes and 2 hours. If there are errors in the file content, you will receive an errors or exception report via e-mail. Simply, correct the errors and reload the file using the steps above.

Step 8 - Go to Google Maps. Search for your listings. Click on your files to verify that the information is correct.

Step 9 - Repeat by uploading new file every 14 days (preferred is to upload daily).

HOW TO MANAGE YOUR GOOGLE BASE LISTING FEED

From the Google Base Dashboard, you can see each of the feeds submitted to Google Base.

You can also click on Active Items to see each item by title included in the feed. You can also see the expiration date for each item and can track the # of impressions and clicks.

By clicking on the item, you can also see the individual item as displayed on Google Base.

CONFLICTING FEEDS

The first step for eliminating conflicting feeds is to control where you send your information. For example, the MLS often allows you to opt-out of their feed (not advisable). However, even if there are more than one feed sent to Google Base, Google Base manages the conflicts process. When it receives the same listing from two or more sources, it automatically groups the separate listings into a single search result and then orders the search result by recency (ie. latest update has higher priority) and completeness (ie. update with the most data gets priority).

HOW GOOGLE BASE DISPLAYS YOUR LISTINGS

By creating a listing base feed, you expose your listings to consumers in four primary ways:

Google Search Results
Google Base Search Results
Google Map Results
Third Party Sites (e.g. RealBird.com)

However, it is important when creating your Google Base listing feed that you remember what will be seen on sites like Google Maps. Often, it is only the lead image and the first part of your marketing comments so plan out your comments and photos with this in mind.

GOOGLE BASE STRATEGIES

Google Base gets you on Google Maps. Now, the key is to then drive consumers to your website or blog. One strategy is to use the link in Google Base to direct people to a blog post on your ActiveRain blog. In the blog post, you can integrate such information as:

General Listing Information
Embedded Photo Slideshow
Embedded Video
Mortgage Information (including monthly payment information)
Tax/HOA Fee Information
Insurance/Utility/Service Information
Downloadable Brochures and Other Forms
Request for Showing Button
Lead Capture Forms
Google Call Me Button
Links to Your Other Listings in Area
Links to Your Market Reports
Links to Your Local Neighborhood Reports
Embeddable Real Estate Serach Engine

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT HOW TO USE GOOGLE TOOLS IN THE MARKETING AND SALE OF REAL ESTATE? Contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an e-mail to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

GOOGLE WAVE EXTENSIONS - IS GOOGLE SET TO CHANGE THE CONCEPT AND STRUCTURE OF E-MAILS?

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 21:39:49 -0600

We will soon see a wave (pun intended) of Google Wave extensions, applications and gadgets. Google Wave is an open source platform that will result in companies (e.g. SaleForce.com) and many others rolling out extensions and even platforms duplicating Google Wave. Here are a few extensions being tested by Google and others:

Bloggy: Bloggy is an extension that allows wave users to embed a wave live into a website or blog. Replies to the wave appear in the wave as well as on the website or blog. Here are screenshots with my test comment in a wave which then automatically appears on the blog.

Tweety: Tweety is an extension that allows you to embed a Twitter feed into a wave. Tweety includes a search box that allows you to include the Twitter user name and receive a streaming feed of Tweets by the specified Twitter user. Here is a screenshot of the extension with my streaming Tweets:

6Rounds: 6Rounds has developed an interesting application that allows users to communicate via live webcams. This isn't necessarily unusual, except you can embed the video conference in a wave, watch a video or view a website together, and allow others to then replay it. Here is a screenshot:

If you want to stay ahead of the curve and see Google Wave extensions before they are launched by Google or others, apply for Google Wave Sandbox account. Click here for the Google Wave API - Developer Page.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT HOW TO USE GOOGLE TOOLS IN THE MARKETING AND SALE OF REAL ESTATE? Contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an e-mail to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

GOOGLE TOOLS FOR REALTORS SERIES - GOOGLE CALENDAR

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 13:31:25 -0600

GOOGLE TOOLS FOR REALTORS SERIES

In this Google Tools for Realtors Series, we will cover, review and provide how-to tips and strategies for Google's suite of productivity tools including such tools as:

Google Calendar
Google Alerts
Google Wave
Google Documents
Google Maps
Google Earth
Google Local Business Center
Google Adwords / G-Mail Ads
Google Blogger
FeedBurner
Google Analytics
Google Groups
Google Sites
G-Mail
Picassa
YouTube
Google Talk
Google Voice
Google Search
Google Toolbar

GOOGLE CALENDAR

In this first installment of the Google Tools for Realtors Series, we will take a look at how Realtors can effectively use Google Calendar in their real estate practice including such topics as:

Getting Started with Google Calendar
Working with Calendars
Using/Syncing Google Calendar with Other Calendar Programs
Mobile Google Calendar
Embed Calendar
Strategies for Using Google Calendar

GETTING STARTED WITH GOOGLE CALENDAR

WHY USE GOOGLE CALENDAR?

Google Calendar is a great tool for organizing your business meetings, marketing efforts and more. The benefits to Google Calendar include:

Online Access - Available Anywhere at Anytime
Multiple Calendars - Ability to Create Multiple Calendars that Can Be Viewed Individually or as an Integrated Calendar
Sharing - Easy to Share and Coordinate Schedule with Others including Making the Calendar Public, Embedding in Website or Blog, or Allowing Others to Subscribe to Updates via RSS Feeds
Scheduling - Easy to Schedule Meeting, Events and More
Synchronize - Easy to Synchronize with BlackBerry's Calendar, Microsoft Outlook and More.

CREATING A GOOGLE CALENDAR

Step 1 - Create a Google account. Then go to http://calendar.google.com.

Step 2 - Click on Create.

Step 3 - Using the Create New Calendar input screen include:

Calender Title - Use a short distinctive name. The calendar name should be short so that it can easily be viewed under the My Calendars section. It should also be distinctive so that the title can be recognized by others with whom you may share the calender.
Calendar Description - Google calendar makes it easy to create public calendars and to share calendars with others. The description of the calendar should be keyword rich so that others can find your calendar - especially if it is used by an organization.
Location - Similar to Calendar Description, the Location simply assists others to find your calendar.
Time Zone - Google Calendar allows you to share calendars across the world and syncs events on calendars in other time zones to the time zone for your account.
Public Calendar - If your calendar is for an organization or if you want it searchable by the public generally, click on Make this Calendar Public. For organizations advertising their group events, this is recommended.
Sharing - If you want to share the calendar with a specific group of individual, enter their e-mail addresses. Then set their permission settings such as view only, edit, etc.

TYPES OF CALENDARS

Google Calendars allow you to create multiple calendars. The benefit is that you can create calendars for specific purposes and specific groups. Once created, you can view the calendars individually or can integrate the calendars as a single calendar. Events can be color coded based on the assigned calendar.

We recommend creating calendars for specific purposes. Here are some examples of the calendars that I have created for my use, the use of team members, and groups:

Personal
Business
Marketing
Prospecting
Blogging
Listing Tracking/Showings
Training
Closings
Women's Council of Realtors - Events

CALENDAR VIEWS

Google Calendars can be integrated showing all Google Calendars, can be viewed individually or can be viewed as groups by hiding selected calendars (either by highlighting only the calendars to be shown or by clicking on hide calendar if already shown).

Google Calendars can also be viewed by day, month, custom setting (set in your general calendar setting screen) or by using an agenda showing a list of events in chronological order without the calendar.

WORKING WITH GOOGLE CALENDARS

ADDING EVENTS - VIA GOOGLE CALENDAR

After you have created a Google Calendar, add an event to your calendar.

Step 1 - Click on Create Event.

Step 2 - Using the Add Event input screen include:

What - Enter the name of the event or action.
When - Enter the start date/time and end date/time
Where - Enter the location by general description or address.
Calendar - Before hitting save, make sure that the event is being added to the correct calendar.
Description - Include a description of the event or task. For example, for a meeting, include the agenda or action items to be discussed.
Attachment - Upload and attach a Google document (e.g. agenda) to the Event. People viewing the Event can then download the document. The document can be in any format supported by Google Documents such as Word, Excel Spreadsheet, PowerPoint, PDF and others.
Repeats - If this is a reoccurring event, you can make a single entry and create a reoccurring event selecting daily, weekly, monthly or annually. If you have a repeating event with different topics, you can create the event and then go back clicking edit on the edit shown on the calendar. This will allow you to edit all of the reoccurring events, the future reoccurring events, or the specific event only. This is helpful where you have reoccurring events with different topics, speakers or action items.
Reminders - See below.
Privacy - Privacy determines who can view the event. Whether your calendar is public or private, there are times when you want other to see some or not all of the events. For example, if you have a public calendar, you may want the event to be shown (e.g. meeting). However, you may want to hide the items or deadlines that you entered on the calendar associated with event (e.g. send out invites/agenda).
- Default allows you to set the event's privacy to the same setting as the calendar's privacy setting.
- Private allows the event to be viewed by you and anyone else with whom you have shared the calendar and have the permission setting to make changes to the events. For example, if a private event is placed on a public calendar, it can only be viewed by you and the other people who have an administrative setting allowing them to edit events.
- Public allows anyone to see the event - even if the calendar itself is private.

Step 3 - Editing Events. If you need to edit an event, simply double click on the event to open and edit the event.

ADDING EVENT - VIA G-MAIL

You can also add events to your calendar via G-Mail.

Step 1 - Open E-Mail.

Step 2 - Click on More Action Tab.

Step 3 - Click on Create Event.

Step 4 - Repeat actions described in Add Event - Via Google Calendar above.

SET GENERAL GOOGLE CALENDAR SETTINGS

For Google Calendar, there are four general settings:

General - The general settings relate to time zone, format and related items. Set "Automatically add invitations to my calendar:" to "No, only show invitations to which I have responded."
Calendar - The calendar settings include a list of calendars, notification settings and sharing for each of your calendars covered below.
Mobile - The mobile settings allow you to enable texting of daily agendas, reminders, etc. Enter your cell number. Receive text. Enter code to enable texting.
Lab - The lab settings allow you to include add-on items to your calendar. Click enable or disable.

SET INDIVIDUAL CALENDAR SETTINGS

For individual Google Calendars, there are three general settings:

Calendar Details- Change "Auto-accept Invitations" to "Do not show invitations."
Share Calendar - Allows you to share calendar with specific group of individuals. Set permissions to approved level.
Notifications - Set when you want to be notified. If you select Daily Agenda, you receive a daily e-mail with a list of the day's scheduled events.

CREATING REMINDERS/DAILY AGENDA FOR A CALENDAR

To create reminders for an entire calendar, click on the Notifications tab. You can set up reminders (one or multiple) to send you an e-mail or pop-up at a designated interval prior to an event. You can create a daily agenda of all of the day's events to be sent to you via e-mail. If you have opted to receive a daily agenda from more than one calendar, it will be sent in a single e-mail received at 5:00 a.m. each morning.

Here is an example of a Daily Agenda received via e-mail:

CREATING REMINDERS FOR AN EVENT

In addition to setting default reminders for a calendar, you can override the default reminder for a specific event by clicking on Options when creating an Event. The setting for the reminder for the Event will override the default setting for the Calendar.

USING/SYNCING GOOGLE CALENDAR WITH OTHER CALENDAR PROGRAMS

IMPORTING OTHER CALENDARS INTO A GOOGLE CALENDAR

Step 1 - Open calendar in Microsoft Outlook or other calendar program. Save file in an iCal format. Same approach can be used for importing Facebook event to your Google Calendar.

Step 2 - Under Other Calendar / My Calendar list, click on Add. Select import Browse to located saved iCal file. Select the Google Calendar where the events are to be imported. Click Import.

EXPORT GOOGLE CALENDAR EVENT TO OTHER CALENDAR

Step 1 - Go to Google Calendar Settings. Click on Calendar Details Tab. Scroll down to Private Address. Click on iCal.

Step 2 - Click on URL.

Step 3 - Click open with Microsoft Outlook.

SYNC MICROSOFT OUTLOOK (Default File) AND GOOGLE CALENDARS (Primary File)

Step 1 - Download Google Sync Calendar file from http://dl.google.com/googlecalendarsync/GoogleCalendarSync_Installation.exe.

Step 2 - Run file.

Step 3 - Enter Google e-mail and password. Select 1-way or 2-way sync. Select time intervals for updates.

Note: Only the primary Google Google Calendars will sync. Secondard Google Calendars will not sync.

MOBILE GOOGLE CALENDAR

CONNECT TO GOOGLE CALENDAR VIA CELL PHONE

Step 1- Open browser on cell phone to www.google.com/Calendar.

Step 2 - Sign into Google Calendar.

RECEIVE NOTIFICATIONS VIA TEXT MESSAGING

Step 1 - Go to general Google Calendar Settings. Go to Mobile SetUp tab.

Step 2 - Enter cell telephone number to receive text message. Enter Google code from text message.

Step 3 - Go to specific Google Calendar's Notification page. Click on SMS to receive Daily Agenda. Repeat for each Google Calendar.

CHECK YOUR GOOGLE CALENDAR VIA TEXT MESSAGING

Step 1 - Enable texting messaging as described in Step 1 above.

Step 2 - Send command to GVENT (48368):

nest - for next calendar event
day - for all event's today
nday - for all event's within next 24 hours

SYNC GOOGLE CALENDAR WITH YOUR BLACKBERRY

Step 1 - Point Blackberry browser to http://m.google.com/sync. Download Google Sync.

Step 2 - Click menu button and select Get Link. Click download.

Step 3 - On Blackberry Home Screen, click on Google Sync icon. Sign into Google. Click on Sync Now button.

EMBED CALENDAR

To embed a calendar on your website or blog, take the following steps:

Step 1 - Go to Google Calendar Setting Page. Click on Calendar Details Tab. Go to Embed this Calendar section.

Step 2 - Click on "Customize the color, size, and other options". Then select options such as calendars to include, size, color, etc. Click on Update HTML.

Step 3 - Cut HTML code and paste into your website or blog.

STRATEGIES FOR USING CALENDAR

Strategy 1 - Google Calender is a great calendar for creating a dynamic calendar for your website, blog or Facebook Fan Page. Change your Google Calendar and it automatically updates your website and blog.

Strategy 2 - Google Calendar is a great collaboration tool for groups or teams. The calendar is live with data automatically updated. There is no need to sync or e-mail calendars.

Strategy 3 - Google Calendar is a great tool for time blocking. Plan your sales calls, your prospecting activities, your marketing activities and other reoccurring events in a single spot.

Strategy 4 - Google Calendar isn't a CRM product. However, it can be used to track things like listing tasks, closing tasks, etc.

Strategy 5 - Google Calendar is a good back-up system for proprietary calendar platforms.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT HOW TO USE GOOGLE TOOLS IN THE MARKETING AND SALE OF REAL ESTATE? Contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an e-mail to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

New Toolbar Now Available from the Metropolitan St. Louis Chapter of the Women's Council of REALTORS - Powered by www.Conduit.com

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 10:16:38 -0600

For REALTORS in the St. Louis, Missouri area, the Metropolitan St. Louis Chapter of the Women's Council of REALTORS has added a new dynamic resource - a toolbar powered by Conduit.com. The new toolbar called WCR-Assist is available for download at WCR Assist Toolbar. The download actually includes two separate tool bars that you can toggle back and forth between the WCR Assist Toolbar and WCR Affiliate Toolbar.

Screen 1 – Primary Toolbar – WCR Resources/Agent Resources/WCR Tech Toolbox/Radio/TV

Screen 2 – Secondary Toolbar – Affiliates by Category – Click on “+” to switch from Primary Toolbar to Secondary Toolbar

Screen 3 - Menu Tab with Links to WCR Resources (including Websites, Google Docs/Calendars, JotForm, Box.net and Other Resources)

Screen 4 – Menu Tab with Links to Agent Sites (including Brokerage Sites, MLS, Association Sites and More)

Screen 5 - Links to Technology Related Websites

Screen 6 –Menu Tab with Links to WCR Live, Streaming Audio and Podcasts

Screen 7 –Television Feeds

Screen 8 - Alerts

Screen 9 - Analytics (New Downloads, Clicks Per Day, Clicks Per Toolbar Tab, and More)

THE TOOLBAR OFFERS THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS:

Branded Toolbar - Increase the visibility of your corporate brand by including a logo on the toolbar and on the search box returning the search results.
Single Access Point - By creating a toolbar, your agents/members/clients no longer have to search for website URLS. Your toolbar becomes a powerful resource tool
Increased Use of Association Tools - Ever have an agent say "I couldn't find it." By creating a toolbar, you you can bring the websites, content and tools to agents/members/clients by placing them in a single, easy to use and easy to locate toolbar.
Community Toolbars - You can set-up multiple toolbars in a single spot with a toggle feature. The result is more tools in less space.
Auto Updates - When you update your toolbar, it automatically updates all installed toolbars. There is no need for a second installation or re-installation of the toolbar by your agents/members/clients.
Alerts - You can send periodic alerts to your agents/members/clients. The alerts appear as pop ups from the system tray area (lower right hand corner).
Income Generation - Each time your toolbar is installed you are paid a small amount of income. The income varies based on number of users, use history, longevity of toolbar, etc.
Easy Installation - The toolbar is easy to install. Simply, go to download URL, click install and the toolbar is install at the top of your browser.
Analytics - Use internal analytics to track toolbar downloads, member usage, popularity of tabs and more.

If you are a REALTOR in the St. Louis area, support the Metropolitan St. Louis Chapter of the Women's Council of REALTORS by downloading the WCR Assist Toolbar and telling other REALTORS about the toolbar. If you are a brokerage or a company in an affiliated industry, contact Ryan Shaughnessy, 2010 WCR-STL Technology Task Force, at Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com to inquire about WCR design services for brokerage or company specific toolbars.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

The Power of Twitter and Social Networks as a Customer Service Tool

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:37:09 -0600

Admittedly, I did not understand or realize the power of the micro blogging site Twitter. Although other real estate professionals have raved about the contacts, referrals, etc. that they have obtained from Twitter, I simply did not see its use or potential. However, a recent news story and my own experience showed me a glimpse of the power of Twitter:

In this week's edition of BusinessWeek (March 2, 2009), there is a short sidebar article entitled "A Social Networker's Story: Zappos CEO and UPS Step In." The story describes how Tara Hunt, a marketing executive with Intuit, initially contacted UPS regarding the tracking of a delivery package and received a generic response from the customer service representative explaining that packages sometimes aren't delivered until 9 p.m. during the Christmas season. Not satisfied with the response, Ms. Hunt summoned the power of Twitter and posted a message on Twitter (known as a "tweet") describing how she wanted to walk her dog and was waiting on UPS to deliver a package. The tweet was heard by the CEO of Zappos who was having dinner with UPS's President for the Western Region, who then mentioned the tweet to the UPS exec. The Zappos CEO replied to the tweet "someone will call." The UPS exec contacted the operations manager who then was able to schedule a pre-set delivery time. The UPS driver arrived not only with the package - but also flowers, chocolates, and dog toys. It was an excellent example of customer service. But, the question remains, did it pay off? You bet. Ms. Hunt now goes out of her way to use UPS and even purchased a pair of shoes from Zappos.

Similar to the story above, I posted a story to my blog on ActiveRain.com about a hijacked listing on Trulia.com. It explained my frustration with Trulia.com regarding one of our listings appearing on their site with with links directing prospects to our competitors for information on the property. The blog post was sent to Twitter via ActiveRain. Similar to Ms. Hunt, I had contacted customer service only to receive a generic reply indicating that a work order was being opened. However, Rudy of ActiveRain and Trulia fame saw the post on Twitter, read the blog post on ActiveRain, and rolled up his sleeves and dove right in. The issue was resolved in 24 hours. Again, it was an excellent example of customer service. Although I didn't get flowers, chocolates or dog toys like Ms. Hunt, I did get great customer service. Similar to Ms. Hunt, I am a satisfied customer and will go out of my way to encourage our agents to use Trulia for their listings.

So here is what I learned from the article and my own personal experience:

Customers hate automated replies or generic responses.
Customers can accept mistakes and problems if they know what is going on with their problem or complaint and receive timely updates.
Whether blogging or tweeting, remember that others are or may be listening (including friends, family, employers, competitors, etc.).
If you are a company, you may just want to listen in on Twitter to see what your customers are saying about your company and the service it provides.
A satisfied customer is more likely to be a source of repeat business and referrals.

Interested in City Living? Interested in learning how technology can help you buy or sell your home in St. Louis? Contact Ryan Shaughnessy at PREA Signature Realty at 314-971-4381 or by e-mail to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

Save the Dates - Upcoming Speaking Engagements - Using Technology and Social Media to Market and Sell Real Estate (Missouri Programs)

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 08:27:49 -0600

We are looking forward to the following speaking engagements on using social media and technology to market and sell real estate. Here is the current line-up:

MARCH 4 - WOMEN'S COUNCIL OF REALTORS® - METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS - TECHNOLOGY PANEL

Topics will include:

Use of Video to Market and Sell Homes
Creation of a Photo Blog
Blogging – A REALTOR'S Perspective
Tech Gadgets
WCR Live - St. Louis Broker Conference Call - Using Talk Radio Shows/Podcasts
WCR Social Media

For more information on the program, visit: www.WCRSTL.org.

APRIL 22 - KANSAS CITY REGIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® - SOCIAL MEDIA PANEL

Topics will include:

Blogging for Business - ActiveRain and Other Platforms
LinkedIn Strategies - No Longer the Redheaded Stepchild of Social Media

For more information on the program, visit: www.kcrar.com.

JULY 8 - WOMEN'S COUNCIL OF REALTORS® - ST. CHARLES COUNTY - SOCIAL MEDIA

Topics will include:

The Don’ts of Social Media – Common Mistakes
5 Social Network Strategies to Build Your Business (LinkedIn/Facebook/Twitter)
Blogging for Business – Topics that will Drive Business to You
Google Tools for your Business and Other Tech Gadgets
Social Media Resources

For more information on the program, visit: www.wcrstcharlesco.org.

We hope to have a few more training events scheduled in the next week, including a program focusing on the use of technology and social media by professional association.

NEED A SPEAKER FOR YOUR NEXT SALES MEETING? Contact Ryan Shaughnessy at PREA Signature Realty at 314-971-4381 or by e-mail to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

New Government Regulations May Impact Your Closing Date

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 23:52:38 -0500

NEW GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS MAY IMPACT YOUR CLOSING DATE

When it comes to the $8,000.00 Federal First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit, you can't afford to wait until the last minute to purchase a new home. In 2008, the government changed some of the laws and regulations associated with mortgage lending including the adoption of the Home Ownership and Equity Protection Act ("HOEPA"), the Housing and Economic Recovery Act ("HERA"), new Truth in Lending Act disclosure regulations, and the Home Valuation Code of Conduct ("HVCC"). To view the new Truth in Lending Act regulations, click on: Revised TILA Regulations.

Here is a summary of the new regulations:

Initial Loan Disclosures: Within three business days after the submission of a loan application by the borrower to the lender, the lender must provide the borrower with the initial Truth in Lending Act disclosures.
Mandatory Review Period: The lender may not close the loan until seven business days after the delivery of the initial Truth in Lending Act disclosures.
Revised Disclosure Requirements: If the APR disclosed on the initial Truth in Lending Act disclosure increases by more than .125%, the lender must provide the borrower with revised Truth in Lending Act disclosures at least three business days prior to the closing date.
Appraisal Report: The lender must provide the borrower with a copy of the appraisal report three business days prior to the closing date.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS ON THE APR

The borrower, their agent, and the lender must be aware of these requirements and must manage the loan process to minimize the possibility of delays in closing dates attributable to changes in the APR. Here are common occurrences that may impact the APR and may thereby trigger the requirement that the lender provide revised Truth in Lending Act disclosures to the borrower with or without the three day waiting period after the delivery of the disclosures:

Unlocked Rate
Change in Loan Amount
Loan Product Changes
Rate Re-Lock due to Market Improvements
Change in Closing Date
Changes in Loan or Settlement Fees

HOW TO AVOID DELAYED CLOSING DATES

In today's lending climate, it is important that the purchaser/borrower, real estate agent, lender, and settlement agent work together to ensure timely closings. Each participant in the sales transaction has a role to play. Here are some general tips and suggestions:

For the Borrower/Purchaser:

Obtained a credit based pre-approval letter prior to searching for a new home.
Plan for at least a 30 day close.
Request a written time line of the loan process so you know and understand the deadlines for each step in the loan process and understand the impact that missed deadlines may have on your closing date.
Review the appraisal requirement and consider whether or not to waive the 3-day review period prior to closing.
Select your loan product and lock your interest rate at least 10 business days before the closing date.

For the Real Estate Agent:

Set realistic expectations by providing the borrower/purchaser with a time-line with milestone dates associate with the loan process.
Discuss the new regulations with the borrower/purchaser specifically explaining what actions or changes might impact the closing date.
Manage the loan process, including missed deadlines that could impact the closing date.
Confirm that accurate settlement fees are promptly sent by the settlement agent to the lender at least 10 days prior to the closing date.

For the Lender:

Promptly obtain information from the settlement agent regarding closing fees.
Promptly issue the initial Truth in Lending Act disclosures at least 3-days after the submission of the loan application.
Confirm selection of the loan product and lock the interest rate at least 10 days prior to the closing date.
Promptly issue any revised Truth in Lending Act disclosures at least 3-days prior to the closing date.

For the Settlement Agent:

Provide the lender with accurate settlement fees upon receipt of the initial title order.

With a little planning, these new regulations shouldn't impact you closing date.

Interested in learning more about the loan process, the $8,000 Federal First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit, or builders offering "guaranteed delivery dates" on new home construction in connection with Federal First-Time Tax Credit program? Contact Ryan Shaughnessy at PREA Signature Realty at 314-971-4381 or send an e-mail to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

Call to Action for Missouri Realtors

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 14:09:46 -0500

Missouri Association of Realtors President T. David Rogers issues call to action to Missouri Realtors to support current fundraising events for RPAC to raise funds for lobbying on issues of importance to real estate professionals. Mr. Rogers specifically cites the need to monitor and develop grassroots opposition to future proposals for a 1% transfer tax. In the current market, owner/sellers, purchasers and real estate professionals can ill afford to pay a transfer tax on the sale of real estate. For example, for the sale of a $200,000.00, it means that one party to the transaction would be forced to pay tax on the sale of $2,000.00 thereby artificially inflating prices, reducing the volume of sales, and increasing the number of short sales.

Here is the video from Mr. Rogers:

Interested in learning more about RPAC and its legislative agenda? Visit the Missouri Association of Realtors website.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

Real Estate Technology - Facebook Fan Page Series - Creating Your Facebook Fan Page - The Basic Set Up

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 20:14:41 -0600

In this series on How to Set Up a Facebook Fan Page for Real Estate Associations, Brokerages and Agents, we will discuss the basics on how to set up a Facebook Fan Page. Here are the topics in this series:

How to Set-Up a Basic Facebook Page
How to Create Customized Tabs for Facebook Fan Page
HTML/FBML Code, Cheap Tricks and Short Cuts, and Other Design Ideas
Strategies for Using Facebook Fan Page to Market and Sell Real Estate

Step 1 - Go to Facebook Home Page. Scroll down to the bottom and click on "Advertising." On the Advertising Page, click on "Create Pages".

Step 2 - Select the appropriate page type. The choices are local, brand/product/organization or artist/band/public figure. The initial choice is important because it will impact what info is displayed on the Info Tab of your Facebook Fan Page.

Here is the information contained in the Local Info Tab:

Here is the information contained in the Brand/Product/Organization Tab:

Here is the information contained in the Artist/Bank/Public Figure Tab:

Step 3 - Enter the name of your Fan Page including the company name and clever business tagline.

Step 4 - After entering your Fan Page name and clicking enter, you will then be taken to Fan Page site. Click on the photo box identified by the "?" and upload a photograph. Using graphics that will stand out as a thumbnail is preferred.

Step 5 - Click on the "Info" tab and enter the appropriate information. Don't limit yourself to the description used by Facebook. Expand the "Info" information to reflect your business, practice areas, geographic service areas, etc.

Step 6 - Click on "Write Something about..." on the left column of your Facebook Fan Page. Add a description of your business or service with a clever business tagline.

Step 7 - Plan out your tabs. Basic Facebook Fan Pages have a total of six tabs with two of the six tabs fixed and universal to all Facebook Fan Pages - the "Wall" and "info" tabs. Although only six tabs appear across the top of the Facebook Fan Page, additional tabs can be accessed by clicking on the "+" Tab. However, consumers and fans using your Facebook Fan Page may not realize that you have additional content so the most important content should be included in one of the six tabs.

Step 8 - Organize your tabs. Click on "Edit Page". In the second section of the Fan Page edit page, you will see a series of boxes with your pre-set Facebook Applications, including Discussion Boards, Events, Links, Notes, Photos and Videos. Set where the application appears on your Facebook Fan Page - either "box" or "tab" - by clicking on "Application Settings" and then specifying "Tab" or "Box" by clicking on "Available" to change it to added and vice versa. It is possible to include an application on your Facebook Fan Page as both a "Tab" and as a "Box".

Step 9 - Click on "Add More Applications." On the Applications Page, click on "Pages". Some good applications are:

My Office - Collaboration tool good for non-profit organizations.
Social RSS - Use for Blog and Other RSS feeds.
Slideshare - Display your Powerpoint and other presentations.

Repeat Step 8 to set where these applications will appear on your Facebook Fan Page.

Step 10 - Click on "Edit Page" and Click on Edit Settings to set your country restrictions, your age restrictions, and to publish the Fan Page.

Step 11 - Click on "Wall Settings". First, set the default view for the wall. Your choice is "Posts by Page" or "Posts by Page and Wall." This selection will determine whether your wall is interactive or is outgoing message only. For social network sites, more interaction is preferred so select "Posts by Page and Wall". Second, Second, set the default landing tab. Until you create a landing page, your default page should either be your wall, your box tab, or your discussions tab - depending on where the best content is located. Third, set the fan access to specify whether fans have access rights to post to wall or upload photos, videos, and links.

Step 12 - Populate your site with sample posts such as wall posts, notes, links, photos and more. Here are some ideas and examples from the Metropolitan St. Louis Chapter of the Women's Council of Realtors.

Here is an example of a Wall for interacting with members by posting notices, links, photos, videos, event announcments and more.

Here is an example of the Info Tab showing location and websites. Content will vary based on the type of group selected at the outset of creating the Facebook Fan Page.

Here is an example of a Landing Tab for a Facebook Fan Page.

Here is an example of content for a Boxes Page including links, photos, videos, etc. Also, include Boxes that integrate your other social media platforms.

Here is an exampe of a Discussion Tab.

Here is an example of a a Download/File Sharing Tab.

Here is an example of a Tab Banner for advertising, recognizing others, etc.

To see a recent Facebook Fan Page set up for the Metropolitan St. Louis Chapter of the Women's Counsel of Realtors, click on: WCR-St. Louis Fan Page. It is still a work in process but you will get some ideas.

In the next post, we will discuss how to create customized tabs for your Facebook Fan Page.

For more information on how to create your customized Fan Page, contact Ryan Shaughnessy at PREA Signature Realty at 314-971-4381. Or, visit www.PREASignatureRealty.com and click on the "Technology Toolbox."

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

Real Estate Technology - Facebook Fan Page Series - Creating Your Facebook Fan Page - Creating a Custom Facebook Fan Page Tab

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:05:51 -0600

How to Set-Up a Basic Facebook Page
How to Create Customized Tabs for Facebook Fan Page
HTML/FBML Code, Cheap Tricks and Short Cuts, and Other Design Ideas
Strategies for Using Facebook Fan Page to Market and Sell Real Estate

In today's installment, we discuss how to create customized tabs. As discussed in the prior post, Facebook Fan Pages have six tabs with two tabs universally dedicated on every Facebook Fan Page - Wall Tab and Info Tab.

Step 1 - Install Static FBML Application. Go to Wall Tab. On left side, click on "Edit Page". The bottom section is labeled as More Applications. Click on "Browse More". On Applications Page, enter "FBML" or "Static FBML" into search box. The search results should include an application called "Static FBML". Click on "Static FBML". On the Static FBML under the Application icon, click on "Add to My Page". There will then be a pop up showing your Facebook Fan Pages. Click on the Fan Page upon which you want to install the custom tab.

Step 2 - Create Custom Tab. Go to Wall Tab and click on "Edit Page." Go the FBML Application. Click on "Application Settings". Click on "Tab Available Add."

Step 3 - Create the Page Content for the Tab. Now, click on "Edit". There will be an elongated rectangular box. In the first section, enter the name of the custom tab in the "Box Title" section as you want it to appear on the Facebook Fan Page Tab Bar. In the second section, cut and paste the HTML/FBML code into the box entitled "FBML".

Step 4 - Creating HTML/FBML Code. There are three divergent methods on how to create the Page Content for the custom Facebook Fan Page Tab. Here are some of the methods:

HTML Code: If you are an experienced programmer, you simply write the HTML code necessary to create the page content. For this method, you want to employ a professional such as Mike Mueller on Activerain. Here is a link to his website describing his custom Facebook Fan Page Business Services.

HTML Editor: Use an HTML editor to create the intended design and look and then click on the source code to obtain the HTML code. NVU is a free and easy to use HTML editor and can be downloaded for free. Or, if you blog on ActiveRain, use their WYSIWYG editor, save as draft, and then open again click on HTML. To join ActiveRain under a free membership, click on New Member. Cut and paste the code into the Static FBNL box.

NVU Editor

Design on Screen

Click on Source at the bottom of the design screen to obtain HTML code.

Cut and paste HTML code.

ActiveRain Blog

Design on screen using WYSIWYG editor.

Save as draft.

Click on edit to open blog post. Click on HTML to switch from WYSIWYG editor to HTML editor. Cut and past HTML code.

Image Only HTML: Create your intended content using any program such as Microsoft Publisher. Use a screen image capture service like the free Snagit Editor to capture the image and then save the image as a .jpg file. Upload the jpg file into a free photo hosting service like Photobucket. Edit the photo to create an image a maximum of 760 pixels wide. Cut and paste the HTML code from the photo hosting service into the Static FBML box.

Create item. Use screen capture like Snagit to capture the image. Save as a .jpg.

Upload .jpg file to Photobucket. Cut and paste HTML code for image.

To see a recent Facebook Fan Page set up for the Metropolitan St. Louis Chapter of the Women's Counsel of Realtors using all of the methods described above, click on: WCR-St. Louis Fan Page. It is still a work in process but you will get some ideas.

In the next post, we will discuss how to create more specialized boxes and tabs using simple HTML code.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.

Real Estate Technology - Facebook Fan Page Series - Creating Your Facebook Fan Page - HTML/FBML Code, Cheap Tricks and Short Cuts, and Other Design Ideas

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:56:37 -0600

How to Set-Up a Basic Facebook Page
How to Create Customized Tabs for Facebook Fan Page
HTML/FBML Code, Cheap Tricks and Short Cuts, and Other Design Ideas
Strategies for Using Facebook Fan Page to Market and Sell Real Estate

In today's installment, we discuss in two installments the HTML code used to create the Facebook Fan Page for the Metropolitan St. Louis Chapter of the Women's Counsel of Realtors. To view the Fan Page, click on: WCR-St. Louis Fan Page.

A. Custom Header for Landing Page.

Code:

B. Custom Intro Tex for Landing Page.

Code:

C. Custom Link Table.

Code:

<h3>GETTING STARTED…</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href=”http://www.facebook.com/WCRStLouis?v=app_11007063052”>Sign-Up for WCR-STL Announcements </a> <div class=”descrip”>Receive announcements of WCR-St. Louis events, business resource meetings and more.</div>
</li>
<a href=”http://www.facebook.com/WCRStLouis?v=app_10442206389”>Sponsorship and Advertising Opportunities</a> <div class=”descrip”>Sponsor a WCR-St. Louis event, business resource meeting, etc. or gain additional exposure by advertising in WCR-St. Louis newsletters, event announcements, and online media.</div>
</li>
<li><a href=”http://www.facebook.com/WCRStLouis?v=app_6009294086”>New Member Inquiry</a>
<div class=”descrip”>Become a member or affiliate of the Women’s Council of Realtors</div>
</li>
<li>
<a href=”http://www.facebook.com/WCRStLouis?v=app_7146470109”>Join a WCR-St. Louis committee. </a><div class=”descrip”>Contribute to the success of WCR-St. Louis by giving your time and sharing your knowledge, experience and expertise. </div>
</li>
</ul> </div> </tr> </table>

D. Custom Banner Footer.

Code:

<a href="http://www.BannerFans.com"><img src="http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/7030/433778588090db2m3.jpg" border="0" width="700" height="100" alt="BannerFans.com" /></a>

E. Box Image with Link.

Code:

F. Document Downloads Powered by Box.net.

Code:

<a href="http://s474.photobucket.com/albums/rr109/GildedAgeSales/WCR-Facebook/?action=view&current=Header.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i474.photobucket.com/albums/rr109/GildedAgeSales/WCR-Facebook/Header.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>
<style type=”text/css”>
.menu {
background:#FFFFFF none repeat scroll 0 0;
border:1px dashed #BDC7D8; padding:5px;
font-family:”lucida grande”,tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif; font-size:15px;
width: 600px; margin-left:10%; margin-right:10%;
}
.menu h3 {
margin-bottom:10px; padding:5px 0 0 5px; font-size:14px;
}
.menu ul {
color:#3B5998; padding:0 10px 5px;
}
.menu li {
font-weight:bold;
list-style-image:none; list-style-position:inside; list-style-type:square;
padding:0 0 5px;
}
.menu .descrip {
color:#444444; font-weight:normal;
padding:3px 0 0 15px;
}
h3 {color:#3b5998;}
<!–
a:link {color: #3b5998; text-decoration: none; }
a:active {color: #3b5998; text-decoration: none; }
a:visited {color: #3b5998; text-decoration: none; }
a:hover {color: #3b5998; text-decoration: none; }
–>
</style>
<div class=”menu” >
<h3>WCR - Downloadable Forms</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href=”http://www.box.net//URL deleted</a><div class=”descrip”>President Message, Officer Reports and Other Chapter Information </div></li>

</ul> </div> </tr> </table>

By replacing the image URLs, document hosting URLs and text, you have a roadmap for creating the code for your Facebook Fan Page. In the next post, we will discuss some HTML codes written specifically for Facebook Fan Pages using FBML.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

PREA SIGNATURE REALTY

For more information, visit our website at www.PREASignatureRealty.com or contact Ryan Shaughnessy at 314-971-4381 or send an email to Ryan@PREASignatureRealty.com.