tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9688961753227218332024-03-05T11:19:30.250-06:00Stories by Megan IrvineAn ongoing journal reflecting every day life, "how to" home information, and first hand experiences from your Realtor. My attempt at bringing small town connections and relationships to our large KC community (and beyond).Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-38069545965291575312015-10-23T13:37:00.001-05:002015-10-23T13:37:55.256-05:00Did you ever "FALL" off a wagon? Happy Fall!<br />
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Somehow, I fell off my writing wagon this year; which is odd because its relaxing and enjoyable to me.<br />
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Maybe it was the 100's of deliveries of treats to my families for enjoyment as part of my client appreciation program ....<br />
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Maybe it was the 100's of home tours with families in search of "the one"....<br />
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Maybe it was the 100's of notes written as follow up ....<br />
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Lucky for me, "work" never feels like work. Serving families in their search for a new space and marketing homes for sale is a treat for me. Lucky for my clients, I prefer no tricks -- just treats.<br />
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So ... whether your home looks like this:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj12Nx7jthZ6OQhXoK-iRPjTXhotmSWtqt_BtO6cPm3JIg0ysT14k-RYwKmPNSCClZRacvUP7hvo1LtuXMi1woDu7VJ0ND5ZamQWV16jec4ONQFFfdn6pGa_1JhBv66omQ57ElSYllZ_JQm/s1600/hauntedhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj12Nx7jthZ6OQhXoK-iRPjTXhotmSWtqt_BtO6cPm3JIg0ysT14k-RYwKmPNSCClZRacvUP7hvo1LtuXMi1woDu7VJ0ND5ZamQWV16jec4ONQFFfdn6pGa_1JhBv66omQ57ElSYllZ_JQm/s320/hauntedhouse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Or like this: </div>
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<a href="http://megand.reecenichols.com/homes-for-sale/14940-Dearborn-Street-Overland-Park-KS-66223-161390462" target="_blank"><img alt=" 14940 Dearborn " border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLHCD3RwD5MizVL6TFyPXADV9ekZBh1q3vsFeAFnHUQCaTl2ypw4K_6nRmu5ColvuijUkPhfquQZZ6YWtvBInnfr5qaZ9f_hZ2N3hxirhB7qfUzMbvq9DLQ33KJgNKqV8-VvLtHwhH14nh/s320/14940DearbornSt_01.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am happy to treat you with exceptional service! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-17362500371523468022015-01-28T14:06:00.005-06:002015-01-28T14:07:53.453-06:00What's Your Word?Remember how I like to choose a word of the year, find a picture to plop on my desk as a motivator and reminder, and then work all year with that word directing my focus and energy?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfwwQNxdnjTtDq_q4-g-OgF3GuIf5zBJliJuma0UsEMT2cbqP-6pnZHTh8XiDTsNIAZ3zAr66lK8YvvzOqdOexRYS7drs3FLfYAAwVOCJo_zh613aowjg0a1IskrHq83_uTCOUoEA8Q2MS/s1600/2015WordoftheYear.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfwwQNxdnjTtDq_q4-g-OgF3GuIf5zBJliJuma0UsEMT2cbqP-6pnZHTh8XiDTsNIAZ3zAr66lK8YvvzOqdOexRYS7drs3FLfYAAwVOCJo_zh613aowjg0a1IskrHq83_uTCOUoEA8Q2MS/s1600/2015WordoftheYear.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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2015's Word:<br />
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cat·a·pult</div>
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ˈkadəˌpəlt/</div>
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a device in which accumulated tension is suddenly released to hurl an object some distance, in particular.</div>
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hurl or launch (something) in a specified direction with or as if with a catapult.</div>
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<span style="line-height: 15.6000003814697px;">Families We Serve: I will do my best to <i>catapult</i> our clients' moving goals and dreams in the direction of their choice, with precision, skill, and experience. </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 15.5999994277954px;">Irvine & Co.: I want to be YOUR <i>catapult</i>, helping you propel your business in the specific direction you want it to go using our systems, coaching, and accountability.</span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 15.5999994277954px;">Self: I will <i>catapult </i>my own business and our team's volume by actively recruiting 2-3 more full-time agents, adhering to our business coaching system, and upholding the team charter we created. </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 15.6000003814697px;">Feel free to share your word and <i>explain further if you'd like on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/IrvineCo" target="_blank">Facebook Page</a>.</i></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 15.6000003814697px;">Look out 2015 -- We are OPEN FOR BUSINESS & ON FIRE already.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-74349467540769414322014-12-03T16:14:00.002-06:002014-12-04T13:27:16.716-06:00Sleigh bells ring...are you listenin?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicSRqurdP2sg4lV0TvZcK0TZv7qt-k5jfgUE3XV83o2BPYzWGnQRraOHMGKxxL1Czbc0p06r6lgr_X-siCL-X-S8w-EI16doTn1Bkl5wNt2g0xYqme3dOCXexbsnXfys4jIXJgfgTMRdPD/s1600/christmaslightsplaza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicSRqurdP2sg4lV0TvZcK0TZv7qt-k5jfgUE3XV83o2BPYzWGnQRraOHMGKxxL1Czbc0p06r6lgr_X-siCL-X-S8w-EI16doTn1Bkl5wNt2g0xYqme3dOCXexbsnXfys4jIXJgfgTMRdPD/s1600/christmaslightsplaza.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of my favorite family traditions includes bundling up our family, along with my mom and dad, and heading down to the Plaza for a carriage ride and hot chocolate. I can't put my finger on whether its the familiar smell of the horses (I grew up riding), the jingle of the sleigh bells, the sounds of their hooves clip-clopping, the squished Irvine kiddos' eyes beaming out from beneath their scarves & hats, the taste of the peppermint chocolate latte, or the sight of my mom & dad holding hands and giggling as they listen to my kids' chatter.....maybe its the combination of it all that defines <i>exactly</i> what makes the tradition <b>magical</b> to me.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When I was little, I remember trying to be the first to see our small town's courthouse angels from the backseat of the mini-van as we drove to our family's Christmas Eve party. Tradition back then was defined by the excited tummy to hear Santa coming down the stairs after we sang Christmas carols, the 57 cups of red punch that mom & dad didn't keep track of, the ping pong tournament, the nip of the air & the smell of wood burning stoves when we left the party headed back home to snuggle into pj's and dreamland: <i>that</i> was <b>magical</b> to me.</span><br />
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Phillipsburg, KS courthouse</div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Time marches on and naturally, traditions change. Many of my clients will be experiencing Christmas and the holiday season for the first time in their new homes. Where will the tree go? How many lights can we hang and how late into the night should we leave them on (without offending the new neighbors)? Who will host Christmas this year? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our beautiful courthouse was magical to me growing up and I hope that my kids find magic in the Plaza lights. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Irvine & Co wishes you a season of magical moments....usually found in the smallest details of the day or night...(like the sounds of sleigh bells or the ding-dong of your new home's doorbell signaling the arrival of family & friends).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-35766849969944612222014-10-01T15:00:00.000-05:002014-10-01T15:00:00.713-05:00#BeRoyal #BlueOctober #GoRoyalsDear Royals, <div>
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I am forever indebted to you. You are the reason my husband moved to KC from Florida. You hired his best friend to come play for you, years ago....and my husband tagged along for the major league ride. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8-Hh8sTYfKPLfJRUen1BZ3kNUFsRNqMffvvFGjJRMX-SDyLpWr6-dQOy0YKXMSjuUrH_bpD9qAeUrJHWQl8Qtk6OAUPY6C0s9uBzHXKlAaGWcnNX6oQd2zOy_FhYaWDRoxDzRpZFb2a2I/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8-Hh8sTYfKPLfJRUen1BZ3kNUFsRNqMffvvFGjJRMX-SDyLpWr6-dQOy0YKXMSjuUrH_bpD9qAeUrJHWQl8Qtk6OAUPY6C0s9uBzHXKlAaGWcnNX6oQd2zOy_FhYaWDRoxDzRpZFb2a2I/s1600/photo.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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You are also the source of countless fun memories over the years. We can't imagine raising our kids without the game on TV in the background most evenings throughout the season. Our <i>almost</i> 5 year old son has every player memorized by jersey number. Our <i>almost</i> 3 year old daughter is already talking about what it will be like when she gets to take her first trip to "The K" next season. </div>
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You provide common conversation ground for families, friends, and neighbors throughout our great city....and this year, conversation is electric with excitement toward your achievement of a #BlueOctober. </div>
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You honor our country's service men and women at every game in a prideful way that brings tears to my eyes every time. Thank you. Thank you for honoring not only them, but also their families. As a big sister to a brother who is serving, its a BIG deal. </div>
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And lastly, your success gives our city a unified reason to chant "We Believe That We Will Win" over and over...last night was unforgettable. </div>
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I am grateful to be a loyal Royal. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-6202999658900941452014-08-06T10:42:00.000-05:002014-08-06T10:42:48.512-05:00"No Place Like Home"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My childhood Home:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ9xhw4qVG9cda5FC2pXAawRsHgPT42Ei8EscQyrxL1sYzenyjalC00aO-MvA3S2Zs6ucqV7mM7jSR1mN8lYhtD_hGRVMdkm0xRxnjMotSNR4BGx3pYp_7nL2x3kfxpHcUuD39digm6_R3/s1600/photo+(30).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ9xhw4qVG9cda5FC2pXAawRsHgPT42Ei8EscQyrxL1sYzenyjalC00aO-MvA3S2Zs6ucqV7mM7jSR1mN8lYhtD_hGRVMdkm0xRxnjMotSNR4BGx3pYp_7nL2x3kfxpHcUuD39digm6_R3/s1600/photo+(30).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLVtur1RR2ATp2MFuEK4DTeXJSHdf7QHVunAjANGmmlwA6f_GtyInsNryF2K6yWKq7AAtnYAYtBEXT9DYdei7uHyW7VhlO3si7-8HfiLT9l1H6HmD2w1Fdgkx5isWe6RsjmvTbyFPwkMqk/s1600/photo+(27).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLVtur1RR2ATp2MFuEK4DTeXJSHdf7QHVunAjANGmmlwA6f_GtyInsNryF2K6yWKq7AAtnYAYtBEXT9DYdei7uHyW7VhlO3si7-8HfiLT9l1H6HmD2w1Fdgkx5isWe6RsjmvTbyFPwkMqk/s1600/photo+(27).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrsPsgtkGwUA_pJSP6HtZwzun6UVQwnV-hf8FtKDg-E7-4Re1zdvB_uTlvE5XmRrKVT2jY802p8zpu-uGv-jq5JlAcfbChVa37ewgZjCDW8NC4DqVyfb2TlhzL36aCpUQ0pstVBMi7U8Q_/s1600/photo+(28).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrsPsgtkGwUA_pJSP6HtZwzun6UVQwnV-hf8FtKDg-E7-4Re1zdvB_uTlvE5XmRrKVT2jY802p8zpu-uGv-jq5JlAcfbChVa37ewgZjCDW8NC4DqVyfb2TlhzL36aCpUQ0pstVBMi7U8Q_/s1600/photo+(28).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Every time I go "home" to western KS...I am reminded of how precious HOME is. </div>
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Its where you roots are. Its where your family lives. Its where your memories still live. </div>
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This j-o-b I have of helping folks buy and sell their homes, is not just an everyday occurrence or a business transaction. There are deeply rooted memories, big dreams and plans, and families under construction in the spaces we call HOME. </div>
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It is my honor to share some of my roots through photos here...yep, everyone is famous in a small town. We put cheerleaders on fire trucks and drive tractors down Main Street under the title "parade." We host <a href="http://www.kansasbiggestrodeo.com/" target="_blank">Kansas Biggest Rodeo</a> annually and we gather around pot-luck dinners (which is actually lunch) to catch up with family and friends. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNBx-v_ypNOt8bPbqHQ_AN8fXYnquh2xbjBUH41QuhDi87Whqu_AYYK3Z-h70OFK_o-dO-bO5fcxPfzTtmvWMt0Z4XjVkDFTituc45h7bBYqPiWYd1YhNqYtAmDzx1WSgQ3CEHbJG7rVpa/s1600/photo+(26).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNBx-v_ypNOt8bPbqHQ_AN8fXYnquh2xbjBUH41QuhDi87Whqu_AYYK3Z-h70OFK_o-dO-bO5fcxPfzTtmvWMt0Z4XjVkDFTituc45h7bBYqPiWYd1YhNqYtAmDzx1WSgQ3CEHbJG7rVpa/s1600/photo+(26).JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyiBGDerT3TPKlsnG2x2xfEjY4Qk3CvnOAZYcW92cfgkbkGo_R-XXX46KPQbxKWY6I_q8KuSJoEBSuUFYhOGdS6vOLlz_LhtZuxmBgbjM1yCUqM3swn3Q1MDbYpVh2Y2yoiW-jK49LsthJ/s1600/photo+(29).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyiBGDerT3TPKlsnG2x2xfEjY4Qk3CvnOAZYcW92cfgkbkGo_R-XXX46KPQbxKWY6I_q8KuSJoEBSuUFYhOGdS6vOLlz_LhtZuxmBgbjM1yCUqM3swn3Q1MDbYpVh2Y2yoiW-jK49LsthJ/s1600/photo+(29).JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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My son rode a mutton for all of 2 seconds, my daughter chased and ate at least 25 suckers at the parade, and we all took in another year's worth of Rodeo. </div>
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I am grateful for my job of helping families find their next home or move out of their current home. I am grateful for the Home I grew up in and the Home I now have filled with my own family...because when you return from wherever you have been...</div>
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There is No Place Like Home. </div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-22385721272520931822014-06-28T22:48:00.003-05:002014-06-28T22:48:54.468-05:00S - T - R - E - T - C - H<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Stretch: <span style="font-size: x-small;">M</span></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">y "Word" for 2014. This is the image that sits on my desk each day to remind me to stretch my goals, stretch my comfort zones, stretch my legs & arms, stretch my heart....</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj-_lBBqrvclT0xhLARz3Mpn8VT2pE6PUS18Cd5t6Zc2cDA3cXk9j4MUIg7svG078fIij6nDNmzsHDEzqkutEFbxzVgh7gqN6tyhkFmbVjPVFg7c8zWQlLDwLqG8goulk09GXkv-TOfwqO/s1600/2014eliharvest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj-_lBBqrvclT0xhLARz3Mpn8VT2pE6PUS18Cd5t6Zc2cDA3cXk9j4MUIg7svG078fIij6nDNmzsHDEzqkutEFbxzVgh7gqN6tyhkFmbVjPVFg7c8zWQlLDwLqG8goulk09GXkv-TOfwqO/s1600/2014eliharvest.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eli on Grandpa's Combine</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">So today (when I have stretched my limits of patience in waiting for my family to return home from 2014 Wheat Harvest in western KS) --- I decided to stretch myself. </span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyBO1xERREc3SXDaloAJuzTDZ0v3K0F3CGSw7J342g1Df9kTt-JZmlDyxhgeqhR7fIZDzVE2hrZEiSW8E1C7ICuJcTyMoRjlSF-mreOMKqRQzpGAIxdparhVQ6H2GDa-Sz-6eR-crwk8g/s1600/2014harvestruby.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTyBO1xERREc3SXDaloAJuzTDZ0v3K0F3CGSw7J342g1Df9kTt-JZmlDyxhgeqhR7fIZDzVE2hrZEiSW8E1C7ICuJcTyMoRjlSF-mreOMKqRQzpGAIxdparhVQ6H2GDa-Sz-6eR-crwk8g/s1600/2014harvestruby.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruby Kate on Grandpa's Combine<br /><br /><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I listed a home this morning, showed a new family a home at noon, delivered over 25 bottles of celebratory "bubbly" to some of my favorite past clients to share excitement in the growth of Irvine & Co., negotiated an offer on a home listed 2 days ago, & went for a 2 mile walk. Here is the sky I was greeted with at the closing of my STRETCHED day. Ironic? I think not.<br /><br /></span><br /></span></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOYWKa5_u6lDwwAZD5MtMNsKG390GnXpwqXD9DU4-9egx1XwYTXfd1v6Eyhmgku3AueNCYWtdEB8r6DPTKMxrZDbLQlaS36kEeoXsO5uXYbBvJunZvWrzlt1Lm8H3jG0FrLiacZJerfNS/s1600/stretch2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOYWKa5_u6lDwwAZD5MtMNsKG390GnXpwqXD9DU4-9egx1XwYTXfd1v6Eyhmgku3AueNCYWtdEB8r6DPTKMxrZDbLQlaS36kEeoXsO5uXYbBvJunZvWrzlt1Lm8H3jG0FrLiacZJerfNS/s1600/stretch2.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-17335918861512821142014-05-06T17:52:00.001-05:002014-05-06T17:53:32.522-05:00The Need for Seeds<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: none; text-align: center; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 18.0pt; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">Where I come from, we NEED seeds. Seeds turn into wheat; which turns from green to gold, before being sold (at the grain elevator). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 18.0pt; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">Where I am now: I NEED seeds. These kinds of seeds <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 18.0pt; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">include families of all sizes </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 18.0pt; font-style: italic; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">on the move</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 18.0pt; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">. Seeds who want to grow from where they currently reside into something <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 18.0pt; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">Do you know of any “seeds” on the move this Spring and Summer? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-jP6YyuGrMlpYe2K7HodpoeHVm4aLJyC8iWuyz383LK3YJorpb5GcCqblhL0oocJtYQophfkqnLYovL23meNhU4fNPFB_zQ5mQPOUxX_lIqKaa_cbj622Wigj4LV9Ay_HG870F6_yWiC/s1600/forgetmenotseeds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2-jP6YyuGrMlpYe2K7HodpoeHVm4aLJyC8iWuyz383LK3YJorpb5GcCqblhL0oocJtYQophfkqnLYovL23meNhU4fNPFB_zQ5mQPOUxX_lIqKaa_cbj622Wigj4LV9Ay_HG870F6_yWiC/s1600/forgetmenotseeds.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-52863679400824376422014-03-26T11:08:00.001-05:002014-03-26T11:09:00.226-05:00C'Mon Spring!While Spring has sprung in my house -- it seems to not want to stick around outside for longer than 12 hour blips of warm sunshine.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vWeedhVwyViGXiqJCY6WG3eY1vT0MSpd727niyb7-6HcApt3Y4fNtIZwulx3lZzTvIpkZMJ8yhW5BuJovAiph0dNPhrnFft6ra3xlgxVhZWsh3TWUn8W6tmEUj-BWKT-VaUsbKaId3rM/s1600/eastertree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3vWeedhVwyViGXiqJCY6WG3eY1vT0MSpd727niyb7-6HcApt3Y4fNtIZwulx3lZzTvIpkZMJ8yhW5BuJovAiph0dNPhrnFft6ra3xlgxVhZWsh3TWUn8W6tmEUj-BWKT-VaUsbKaId3rM/s1600/eastertree.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Those of you that know me well have seen my "Season Tree" don its many outfits depending on the time of year you have visited. Eli & Ruby Kate have started "helping" me decorate now and boy does that take all kinds of patience from me. Deep breaths!<br />
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Speaking of deep breaths, this time of year can be confusing and frustrating for people considering a move. Is it too early to put our home on the market? Will we miss the rush of buyer traffic if we wait for the sun to shine? </div>
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Buyers are thinking...how will we ever find the right home with so little to choose from? And why are all the "good ones" going so quickly for full price or more?</div>
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A little perspective: </div>
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1. NOW is the right time to get your home on the market. You have not missed the rush of buyers and we are in need of quality homes to sell. </div>
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2. The right home for you IS out there. The hunting process has to be more of a sniper approach though with a seasoned professional guiding your tour. </div>
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Pricing is stable. Our economic downturn in 2008 led to 5 years of consecutive home value declines. Our prices are finally starting to rebound and they are moving up at a healthy rate of 5-7% yearly in appreciation. </div>
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You can afford a much larger, nicer home today than you would have been able to without the economic shift. So focus on the Sunshine....I promised Spring is just around the corner.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rR-5wVLUZxYyDl8aw3tzSF56j6wkBaymrNb-y-4WOAxok38mz8ieVcROe8i47HFXq_sX7l-6rZtbDskYl4bHE2DJ3IodmjvlroXFOBGWWI6Zg6Ejn27QK53zkXHu8s4WWhyfHMDiF7qT/s1600/springsign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0rR-5wVLUZxYyDl8aw3tzSF56j6wkBaymrNb-y-4WOAxok38mz8ieVcROe8i47HFXq_sX7l-6rZtbDskYl4bHE2DJ3IodmjvlroXFOBGWWI6Zg6Ejn27QK53zkXHu8s4WWhyfHMDiF7qT/s1600/springsign.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-33523367255072447822014-02-21T11:00:00.000-06:002014-02-21T11:00:01.749-06:00Ice "Dancing"Meryl and Charlie, USA's gold medalists, left it all on the ice (over the past 17 years in training together) to earn their post atop the podium.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMi06eegngcw7scS11UjoFQTWYsx3ITyIUhlR6Oc4_NPbuplMNv2-5_FLUF8PJP6-bnR1Fnl-1yiiYhhwe6c1i6GVpnjvX77RSy4ITJSu0uxB-510mpioUgXZgxEfzCO3fBKzFb-sJHUxb/s1600/IceDancing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMi06eegngcw7scS11UjoFQTWYsx3ITyIUhlR6Oc4_NPbuplMNv2-5_FLUF8PJP6-bnR1Fnl-1yiiYhhwe6c1i6GVpnjvX77RSy4ITJSu0uxB-510mpioUgXZgxEfzCO3fBKzFb-sJHUxb/s1600/IceDancing.jpg" height="196" width="320" /></a></div>
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With the snow and ice of early February 2014...I often found myself ice "dancing" in and out of homes while touring with families in search of "the one."</div>
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Unfortunately, my balance and charisma on ice lacks luster. One morning, a couple of Saturday's ago, I was headed out to show a handful of homes. With my arms loaded full of stuff (coat, purse, file folders, ekey, water bottle, snow boots...just in case), I went to open my back hatch to get something.</div>
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In one flick of an eyelash, my double Lutz turned into a triple <a href="http://figureskating.about.com/od/figureskating12/a/Assorted-Ice-Skating-Terms-Every-Skater-Should-Know.htm" target="_blank">fLutz</a>. </div>
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Every blasted item I insisted on carrying in ONE trip to the car was scattered on the driveway. Every ounce of dignity sprawled out on all fours while trying to pry myself UP off the ice. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbdoYV9k8aALb6iRUkpk85Ged1U_dD1B_Nq54bspCRMOxv_LGr8VmbFBjs_Wzg4jK1g-6NnCLb40UodiPOR4Fn7POGqiiD5fSAJH_cAUsDzJLJ_ameYLFxXW-92_Oer01BI8hSaNM2CP5/s1600/icefall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbdoYV9k8aALb6iRUkpk85Ged1U_dD1B_Nq54bspCRMOxv_LGr8VmbFBjs_Wzg4jK1g-6NnCLb40UodiPOR4Fn7POGqiiD5fSAJH_cAUsDzJLJ_ameYLFxXW-92_Oer01BI8hSaNM2CP5/s1600/icefall.jpg" /></a><br />
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I decided snow boots were no longer optional that morning as I dried my tears, wiped my cut knees and hands, and hustled back out the door...now 10 minutes late. </div>
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I may not be a gold medal Ice Dancer...but I have a heart that seeks gold in others and a work ethic that carries (or drags) me through ice & snow. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-74431667410941488592014-02-18T12:11:00.003-06:002014-02-18T12:29:46.119-06:00If You Are Broken And You Know It; Write It Down (To the tune of "If You are Happy and You Know It")Our car is often filled with tunes like "Old MacDonald" & "Twinkle Twinkle" in order to get us from spot A to spot B with minimal complaining or fighting between Eli and Ruby Kate.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR_94YnHa0U2Letk8tPzPxkAK3xX36xDH3v9L8BvjpLOXYcn8e-7O_4dbM8Lfu70Dt9MFfSy0hbWvpvsaZQwGoCdHrJGXzscFU9jDTaz_0NmdsZNPgZbO37_Ur9o_VNZWvTVKvECp62Ey2/s1600/218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR_94YnHa0U2Letk8tPzPxkAK3xX36xDH3v9L8BvjpLOXYcn8e-7O_4dbM8Lfu70Dt9MFfSy0hbWvpvsaZQwGoCdHrJGXzscFU9jDTaz_0NmdsZNPgZbO37_Ur9o_VNZWvTVKvECp62Ey2/s1600/218.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a> <span style="font-size: x-large;">VS</span> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiXPS6e_YMIxA7lC_2Rv_Ntv8YyfBEb9pAL0fSxjpNCJWvrLm_2GcR6FODnP4v5Z7leiN7gryftJ4JtXvAQu3KySlwc39r12XuLRLDLzTld4fQDXrKaDhh23aXm-KRmaxm8Ria1XNOsng6/s1600/102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiXPS6e_YMIxA7lC_2Rv_Ntv8YyfBEb9pAL0fSxjpNCJWvrLm_2GcR6FODnP4v5Z7leiN7gryftJ4JtXvAQu3KySlwc39r12XuLRLDLzTld4fQDXrKaDhh23aXm-KRmaxm8Ria1XNOsng6/s1600/102.JPG" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
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Naturally, one of their favorites is "If you are Happy and You Know It."<br />
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Because my twisted mind is constantly circling back to real estate -- I thought of this little jingle to aid my current and future seller clients while filling out their seller's disclosures.<br />
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If you are broken and you know it...write it down. (write, write)<br />
If you are broken and you know it...write it down. (write, write)<br />
If you are broken and you know it and you really want to show it,<br />
If you are broken and you know it...write it down.<br />
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Today's buyers do not expect perfection. But they do (and always have) expected honesty.<br />
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When in doubt, spit it out. Its a little lesson these monkeys are learning (over and over).<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-65719121873606465652014-01-24T12:27:00.001-06:002014-01-24T12:27:06.295-06:00Thank You White House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here is the White House I spent countless hours and days at while growing up. Within its walls are magical rooms transformed into bed and breakfasts, train stations, and doctor offices. Card games and Coke floats served with home-made macaroni are staples in this White House. Outside I played tree-house, Little House on the Prairie, rode horses, and hide-and-seek along the creek. Nothing can compare to the childhood memories at Grandma and Grandpa B's White House. </div>
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Here is another White House with cherished memories. Fresh in my mind, as we just returned from Cabo San Lucas where I fell asleep to the sound of the ocean's waves on that top level "pent-house suite." Within the gates of this resort-style home we were treated to kayaking & paddle-boats on a private beachfront, amazingly talented chefs, team dance parties, and star gazing like I have never seen (and its nearly IMPOSSIBLE to top the view of the stars from my childhood home in western KS). This is Kristin's White House - her treat to us for accomplishing goals in 2013. </div>
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Without the ideals, background, and lessons learned throughout my childhood, this second White House would only be fantasy. Thank you family and Thank you <a href="http://www.kristinmalfer.com/" target="_blank">KMA</a> for irreplaceable memories and experiences.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-71274790605474517552013-12-30T22:36:00.000-06:002013-12-30T22:36:05.605-06:00525,600 Minutes...525,600 Moments So DearRemember this song from <a href="http://youtu.be/wsj15wPpjLY" target="_blank">RENT</a>?<br />
<br />
How did you spend your 525,600 minutes this year?<br />
<br />
How will you spend your 525,600 minutes next year?<br />
<br />
<br />
Real estate is all about numbers and the ability to translate numbers into powerful actions. Price point positioning, number of days on the market, ratio of your sales price to your asking price, average neighborhood sales price, number of months of inventory...<br />
<br />
Since we are on the topic -- here are my 2013 business numbers:<br />
<br />
Average Days on Market: 25<br />
Ratio Asking Price to Sales Price: over 98%<br />
Number of Families Served: 61<br />
<br />
What will my 2014 numbers look like?<br />
<br />
Well, if I fill my 525,600 minutes with <i>at least</i> 2,079 business calls/notes/coffee chats....I will be on target to serve another 60+ families.<br />
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What will I do with all my extra time?<br />
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I am certain I can fill them with "Moments So Dear."<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-83328840698187060792013-12-09T13:17:00.002-06:002013-12-11T21:07:46.371-06:00B.U.S.Y.Years ago, I learned an acronym for B.U.S.Y. that has changed my perspective on the way I work and live.<br />
<br />
B urdened<br />
U nder<br />
S atan's<br />
Y oke<br />
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In real estate there are all kinds of agents: old, new, seasoned, fresh, established, focused, retired, laid-back, fierce, competitive, young, adventurous, pace-setter, goal oriented, tired, and BUSY.<br />
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I would love to behold many of these qualities while others I can do without. My ultimate goal is to never become so <i>busy</i> that I forget to watch for the moments that make the profession worthwhile. The moments when eyes light up as we cross the threshold of "the one" or when tears of relief trickle now that a chapter can be closed and they can move onto whatever is "next" in life.<br />
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During holiday season we like to hustle and bustle, make lists until we are crazed, and set expectations of "magical moments" at an all-time high. Have you ever noticed that all of this can end up pulling and tugging at the very merriment of your heart if you let it. Hmmmm B.U.S.Y.?<br />
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Maybe, just maybe, we could all take breath...loosen the yoke...look up and <i>smile</i>. Graciously give to someone in need, open a few extra doors, and look around. There are monumental moments of magic in all kinds of corners in your own home if you just look away from the texting, ipad, laptop, etc...(yoke).<br />
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What is it that you are <i>BUSY</i> doing? Its a powerful question for any career. Its a powerful question for a family, a marriage, a friendship.<br />
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My Christmas wish is that you loosen the yoke of "crazy" -- tie on some bells of "jingle" instead, and smile more this holiday season because you are relishing and relaxing in the moments around you.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-26710617028359610082013-11-11T22:44:00.000-06:002013-11-11T22:44:39.640-06:00Veteran's Day, Homeless....San Francisco<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbfPSf_0iicVx92PvUbGU9XMA79ULrjOAbwZcndIehhLqewLV9yavlUWfDhM4Payc6xhlsw_kVWTZzulj7wJhQCjdlHeKQIUg7fUQfoJ38Y-3GTIlfOcQ7ka7DNn3DRAYAZXeyTHs5cvp0/s1600/baybridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbfPSf_0iicVx92PvUbGU9XMA79ULrjOAbwZcndIehhLqewLV9yavlUWfDhM4Payc6xhlsw_kVWTZzulj7wJhQCjdlHeKQIUg7fUQfoJ38Y-3GTIlfOcQ7ka7DNn3DRAYAZXeyTHs5cvp0/s1600/baybridge.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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With a serene setting line this...its hard to imagine anything but <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0454921/" target="_blank">happiness</a>. I had the opportunity to attend the National Association of Realtors convention this weekend in San Franciso where agents from around the world gather (over 20K) to share knowledge, leverage experience, and forecast industry evolution. Lessons learned were influential and relevant to our current market: I am energized for 2014.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheFMKzGYpR2doO5CE5jqgaJ_tBIUQzHsv2yuHjm28BMYI0a2eQVL1zjQn2P0I768aOojdd3aQjJA78mZMs2j8pMVl5J_ph6Nt0K-apGKekHz_Yh347ouX6xn1NkLJdyslwnWNR22SWfWM4/s1600/sanfranstreets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheFMKzGYpR2doO5CE5jqgaJ_tBIUQzHsv2yuHjm28BMYI0a2eQVL1zjQn2P0I768aOojdd3aQjJA78mZMs2j8pMVl5J_ph6Nt0K-apGKekHz_Yh347ouX6xn1NkLJdyslwnWNR22SWfWM4/s1600/sanfranstreets.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiutVvvP_FTsanGQLJEtGuv2dkx-cUmVzUHMiTRThSvAg2q96XlEbaYoTC-LOfCt_UZzVLSsDPDYRcAXFJ1J2HppF-XCemS-ffaAzSSO_JKXPCVNm0iqaDF7bsUwHd7VguLfcsAkgyEiqI/s1600/sanfransaks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiutVvvP_FTsanGQLJEtGuv2dkx-cUmVzUHMiTRThSvAg2q96XlEbaYoTC-LOfCt_UZzVLSsDPDYRcAXFJ1J2HppF-XCemS-ffaAzSSO_JKXPCVNm0iqaDF7bsUwHd7VguLfcsAkgyEiqI/s1600/sanfransaks.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a> <br />
Location is everything in real estate -right?<br />
Our boutique hotel was only a few blocks north of our conference center, therefore much of our time was spent on heels vs. wheels. Here is what I learned (or was reminded of from a different perspective): Many people do not have homes...which means they have no bathrooms, running water, or personal space to care for themselves. The smells of the city are nothing like the smells of the farm where I was raised. And no matter what you believe or where you land on the rights of humanity and what is "just" or "fair" when it comes to homelessness...we are all being taken care of RIGHT THIS MINUTE and have been for so long we have forgotten to remember. By whom? Our current and past military.<br />
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So take a minute, an hour, day, week, or even a month to share your gracious thanks with either a Veteran or someone Homeless. Chances are, the lessons you will learn are Golden. Thank you San Francisco and everyone that is serving our country now and in the past.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-57869179664478216512013-10-06T21:30:00.003-05:002013-10-06T21:30:45.338-05:00"Storytime" Round about 7:30 p.m., nightly...you can hear stories begin in our household (we'd love for that time to be 7 but somehow that feat is impossible for us). Ruby's favorites currently include the Max & Ruby book about Rainbows, and "Tea for Ruby." Elijah's into anything Berenstain bear or Dr Seuss (at the moment) and I should note his <i>storytime</i> begins closer to 8:15. <sigh><br />
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My point? Storytime is my favorite time of day. I get snuggles, smooches, "I love you Mommy" to help fill my cup from whatever the day has emptied. I capture precious moments of Bri with the kids and most every night ends with me back on the computer wrapping up loose ends from work; while listening to him sing Eli one last song, or two, of the night right above my office.<br />
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What does this have to do with helping people buy and sell houses? It just so happens that "Storytime" is the WHOLE base of my business.<br />
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I purposefully meet with each new buyer client over coffee to listen to their STORY. I want to know as much as possible so that we can write their home buying story as eloquently as possible.<br />
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When first touring a potential home to market...I listen to the seller's family tell me the STORY of their time in the property. What have they done to transform a house into a home? Their answers are the basis for my story. The goal: to compose a compelling enough story about the property so the next buyer family understands why <i>this home</i> can be the start of their next chapter.<br />
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My whole job is Storytime...to listen, to create, to efficiently write, edit, and publish each family's buying and selling stories.<br />
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I am one blessed author.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-57750364069014317872013-09-08T15:22:00.003-05:002013-09-08T15:25:33.111-05:00Are You a Stalker? Do you drive through your neighborhood at night hoping to snag a flyer in your neighbors' sign box?<br />
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Do you snap pics on your phone of addresses so you can remember to look up the price when you get home?<br />
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Do you ask your neighbors what "So & So's" house sold for and how long it took them to get a contract?<br />
<br />
Is <a href="http://houzz.com/">Houzz.com</a> more fun to you on a Friday night than seeing the latest Blockbuster?<br />
**DANGER - super addictive**<br />
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You may be a <i>stalker</i>...a Real Estate Stalker that is. </div>
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AND I have your cure: MyNeighborhoodReport. This handy-dandy tool can be delivered to your email weekly or monthly (courtesy of me), so that market activity within your neighborhood is at your fingertips without you engaging an any stalker-esque activities.<br />
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Simply shoot me a text/email/FB message with your name and address and I can get you on the road to real estate stalker recovery in no time. </div>
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As for introducing you to Houzz --- well, at least you are in good company, right?</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-31179448351025456392013-08-21T10:59:00.001-05:002013-08-21T10:59:31.392-05:00"All I Wanna Do is Zum, Zum, Zum and Boom Boom"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihV91E46zNQP8arc_miFlIXfz1-_Zs1YgeShXz2vWEd2A_4vwKN_2bX-gV_tYNiA0F_JB5VUJWIpoXJj6xKBkST3CjdBIBHbKFR4pmJEfJp-fwou31N67qny5liedQKCjgqTA4WukdrIdx/s1600/ZumbaJump.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihV91E46zNQP8arc_miFlIXfz1-_Zs1YgeShXz2vWEd2A_4vwKN_2bX-gV_tYNiA0F_JB5VUJWIpoXJj6xKBkST3CjdBIBHbKFR4pmJEfJp-fwou31N67qny5liedQKCjgqTA4WukdrIdx/s1600/ZumbaJump.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>ZUMBA</b>, that is. </div>
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For those of you that know me well -- you know I like to pretend that I can dance. Whether its in my living room with my hubby, in the kitchen to provide entertainment for Ruby while she dines, or at the gym. You will find me front and center at our gym's Zumba classes 3 or 4 times a week (unless of course, I have a house to client that needs to see a home at that time).</div>
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Many of you also know that my word of the year is JUMP. So I couldn't help but share this pic of a Zumba Jump. So poetic, huh? </div>
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Why the heck am I sharing this?</div>
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The energy garnered from Zumba class stays with me for about 24 hours post class. That energy fuels my drive to JUMP at my clients needs, but more importantly their <i>wants</i>. </div>
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It reminds me that its FUN to shake it like a Polaroid picture, on occasion. And that no matter how dog-tired I may be from yesterday's work load---I started today with Zumba...so look OUT!</div>
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What's your Zumba? I would LOVE to hear from you.</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-74016532428669976182013-08-12T22:57:00.001-05:002013-08-12T22:57:14.006-05:00How do you say "Rodeo Drive?"In Beverly Hills, it has a ring to it that sounds a tad different than the one I grew up with.<br />
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Our family of four traveled "home" to Phillipsburg the first weekend in August for Rodeo. The first night official night of <a href="http://www.kansasbiggestrodeo.com/" target="_blank">Rodeo</a> is Thursday with performances from animals, cowboys, cowgirls, and clowns through the grand finale Saturday night.<br />
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Rodeo parade kicks off the Saturday festivities where Eli and Ruby Kate helped line the streets of Main (otherwise known as Highway 36) to watch the town floats (consisting of cheerleaders, high school band, &local businesses), tractors, bicycles, and horses parade through town. We had front row seats and those two collected more candy than any Halloween night. <br />
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I won't bore you with the details of our every move...<br />
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In summary: We are blessed to get to go "home" to Rodeo weekend where we find family reunion potluck dinner waiting for us post-parade, loads of classmates home for the event and eager to catch up on life outside of Facebook, action-filled Rodeo events and an overall sense of belonging that can be found nowhere else but "HOME."<br />
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If you are looking for a new place to call home - I want to help...no matter how you say Rodeo.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-52530234576873743722013-07-11T17:15:00.002-05:002013-07-11T17:15:15.100-05:00Play Ball: T-bones Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h2 style="background-color: white; background-image: url(http://blog.reeceandnichols.com/wp-content/themes/panorama/images/dots.gif); background-position: 0% 100%; background-repeat: repeat no-repeat; color: #333333; font-family: tahoma, arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 21px; font-weight: 100; line-height: 20px; margin: 5px 0px; padding: 0px 0px 5px 5px;">
<a href="http://blog.reeceandnichols.com/index.php/2013/07/t-bones-discount-july-2013/" rel="bookmark" style="color: #999999; text-decoration: none;" title="Permanent Link to T-Bones Discount – July 2013">T-Bones Discount – July 2013</a></h2>
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By <a href="http://blog.reeceandnichols.com/index.php/author/admin/" rel="author" style="color: #bf2f37; font-weight: 800; text-decoration: none;" title="Posts by Reece & Nichols">Reece & Nichols</a>, July 2, 2013 9:14 am</div>
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Reece and Nichols invites you to join us July 15-17 for a special ticket promotion with the Kansas City T-Bones! Tickets are available for purchase at our discounted rate of $7 for select seats. All you have to do is click the links below and enter the special offer code “<strong>reece</strong>” to access your tickets. Be sure to act fast because seats are LIMITED!</div>
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<a href="https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/BuyClear.asp?EventID=87215&continue=buynew.asp#.Ud8t6fmUT0E" target="_blank">Click here</a> to order tickets for the July 15th Game.</div>
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<a href="https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/BuyClear.asp?EventID=87216&continue=buynew.asp#.Ud8trvmUT0E" target="_blank">Click here</a><span id="goog_1812577396"></span><span id="goog_1812577397"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a> to order tickets for the July 16th Game.</div>
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<a href="https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2/BuyClear.asp?EventID=87217&continue=buynew.asp#.Ud8uDfmUT0E" target="_blank">Click here</a> to order tickets for the July 17th Game.</div>
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Snap a pic of yourself at the game and send it my way - would love to "catch up" with you and hear how your Summer is going.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-3229606489892880932013-07-01T15:45:00.003-05:002013-07-01T15:45:59.477-05:00Sun Up to Sun Down<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwSWE_oEdww9__ygCac7pBYUOrqKNJ5VAYu_9Ajs53127_4-R6t7IsecAre7ToK-V-i7x33v-kEK3kEflH3hFvmp7IE6wWtjK5899djobdVH8FR63EI5PKlA4iQ3X4_qe7xe8kFBnotKX/s1200/elidadrubygrandpa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuwSWE_oEdww9__ygCac7pBYUOrqKNJ5VAYu_9Ajs53127_4-R6t7IsecAre7ToK-V-i7x33v-kEK3kEflH3hFvmp7IE6wWtjK5899djobdVH8FR63EI5PKlA4iQ3X4_qe7xe8kFBnotKX/s320/elidadrubygrandpa.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Harvest.<br />
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I grew up in western KS where we looked forward to all kinds of things in the summertime: 4-H Fair, Rodeo, Stockton County Fair (they had carnival rides!), Riverless Festival (that's right...we have no river), Vacation Bible School, and HARVEST.<br />
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Harvest meant early mornings, late nights, lots of dirty work, and hopefully bins full of grain. It was a time of replenishing depleted accounts and full on family cooperation. Mom and Grandma split up meal preparation and delivery to the fields so that my dad, grandpa, uncle, and brother could continue working.<br />
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This year, my husband and kiddos traveled west to help with harvest for their first time. They were, of course, welcomed graciously and appreciated for the unique gifts they brought to the table. Bri brought "greenhorn" skills with lots of laughs and patience while driving the wheat truck to and from the elevators. Eli and Ruby Kate were unofficial meal helpers and even co-pilots in the combine on a few occasions.<br />
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Harvest is preceded by months of preparation from planting to fertilizing and then of course, the prayers for rain, prayers for no hail, prayers for bountiful crop.<br />
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Its a gamble that requires a leap of faith. Much like a real estate career.<br />
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I plant seeds, nurture the relationships, and pray for continued growth and stability in the business to support my family.<br />
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2013's Harvest in western KS brought in an average crop that struggled some from lack of rainfall this Spring.<br />
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2013's Harvest in KC real estate is gratefully bringing in an above average crop...so until "Harvest" ends...it is Sun Up to Sun Down for my business.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6bMw6UYWp3Ljul7wXPMP_dS6mKhtSWHZk9br9nO3_i6oAt4NdHuQ5GE8GpcYFBTB0Tg8S9ONlNH5A21nEy6hX9dcZFi-poeknfUQYF3iAYEtQ_J7vvSX0e211m0OZOvNncmVBab7iGrC/s1200/windywheatfield.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ6bMw6UYWp3Ljul7wXPMP_dS6mKhtSWHZk9br9nO3_i6oAt4NdHuQ5GE8GpcYFBTB0Tg8S9ONlNH5A21nEy6hX9dcZFi-poeknfUQYF3iAYEtQ_J7vvSX0e211m0OZOvNncmVBab7iGrC/s320/windywheatfield.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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(my dad, Grandpa Greg, with Eli & Ruby Kate)</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-7327204706492548912013-06-24T16:32:00.001-05:002013-06-24T16:32:42.511-05:00Sunny Skies vs. Grey Skies<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When you hear the news that our market is recovering...do you automatically think: "I'm sure this is just another bubble that will soon pop?" or "Wow, that's great news! I wonder what my home is worth now."</span><div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAy8u7wV-kJXUSPm-AWoIg60YDfx0aeJBuhH71tLEoM1j5Bh-kuYyljkriQ86MvzC2DBiDrEc8oeXGnnyNZTDzn9l2Oxg8B8c-VKs2A4DuAXeX_Eu9IFBrFfae0HUbaux6KZeNMtKfHAuV/s1600/MoreKSSky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAy8u7wV-kJXUSPm-AWoIg60YDfx0aeJBuhH71tLEoM1j5Bh-kuYyljkriQ86MvzC2DBiDrEc8oeXGnnyNZTDzn9l2Oxg8B8c-VKs2A4DuAXeX_Eu9IFBrFfae0HUbaux6KZeNMtKfHAuV/s1600/MoreKSSky.jpg" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On a recent weekend trip to Colorado we enjoyed vibrant weather shifts from stormy Kansas skies to breathtaking sun-filled mountaintops.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRhaSvqCZpx0cUrEJDD-Y8yGM_IGZ70Nc0TZcfZR8UgN48DRla59JthTWJGG8HP7Lh6Z4l64uFLk6OozRizcMTXIRobXsL2-LsPEna6lek-eLtfFtIHgB30aOpG6P71JddoJDpWxZ4mJof/s1600/KSSky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRhaSvqCZpx0cUrEJDD-Y8yGM_IGZ70Nc0TZcfZR8UgN48DRla59JthTWJGG8HP7Lh6Z4l64uFLk6OozRizcMTXIRobXsL2-LsPEna6lek-eLtfFtIHgB30aOpG6P71JddoJDpWxZ4mJof/s1600/KSSky.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">While spending time away on vacation...do you think: "I am missing so much work. How will I ever catch up?" or "I am blessed to be here. I'm going to soak up every second."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We all get a choice DAILY, sometimes hourly, to have sunny skies or grey skies floating around in our noggins. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you to all the recent angels in my world to help remind me that dark clouds pass quickly if you focus on the sunrise instead.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Its a SUN FILLED market. Let me show you! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Call/email/text me for an updated market analysis on your home or neighborhood. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-33279076898810148692013-05-22T14:49:00.002-05:002013-05-22T14:49:57.883-05:00Mediocre...I think notMediocre is just not my style. <div>
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Our market shift has buyers' mindsets turned sideways a tad. There are not as many options to choose from and the asking price is generally the sales price. Over 60% of my buyers are experiencing competition with other buyers when presenting offers. </div>
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Does your agent prepare your offer package with a cover letter and comparable homes as justification to your offer price?</div>
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Does your agent have you write a letter to the sellers to express your sincere interest in the property encouraging them to PICK YOU? </div>
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Do you know EXACTLY where you want to live? If so...has your agent sent a custom mailing out to homeowners in that neighborhood to let them know you want to purchase a home in there?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Let's find you a <a href="http://reecenicholsimages.fnistools.com/Uploads/Teams/139130/ContentFiles/testimonials.pdf" target="_blank">better than mediocre agent</a>!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-5637847536179825742013-03-25T15:18:00.003-05:002013-03-25T15:18:15.684-05:00Get R' Done<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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In the last couple of weeks, I have emptied stinky trash accidentally left behind by some clients that moved out of state, shoveled driveways and sidewalks of clients that have moved out of state so that future owners can access the home for showings, and delivered homemade cinnamon rolls to first time home buyers as a thank you for their loyalty.<br />
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<li>The "trash" house got 2 offers within a day of the trash being removed. </li>
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<li>The snowed-in house is under contract since the family didn't break their necks on the stairs leading up to the front door.</li>
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<li>The first time owners hopefully aren't feeling so overwhelmed as they have sweet treats in their tum-tum, which always makes me happy. </li>
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I am not afraid to get my hands dirty or ache from some snow removal. Especially if it means I get to repeat my past 8 days of 7 homes under contract.<br />
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Bottom line: I will do whatever it takes to GET R' DONE in the way of service <b><i>with results</i></b>.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-18680434042224408982013-03-04T08:55:00.000-06:002013-03-04T08:55:43.110-06:00Jump Rope for Heart. <br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">Jump Rope for Heart. Who remembers?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpQbjHAL2zRiigVz9q6nQHajtKm2EZxS3yBa89Cg-m6YZQRiyvwE88AvgDm32ApjZh4r_7cm5H7cT4DHzYYH_79auasSlS8f7SzyLCtSKjEqm-xDRF27eL8Lhub14KZitn2ELjIWGUZwbI/s1600/jumprope.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpQbjHAL2zRiigVz9q6nQHajtKm2EZxS3yBa89Cg-m6YZQRiyvwE88AvgDm32ApjZh4r_7cm5H7cT4DHzYYH_79auasSlS8f7SzyLCtSKjEqm-xDRF27eL8Lhub14KZitn2ELjIWGUZwbI/s1600/jumprope.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">When I was in 3rd grade, a jump rope competition was announced with a packet of “how to’s” in collecting donations and earning prizes for every hour you jumped rope. The funds raised were given to the American Heart Association and kiddos across the country set off skipping rope and calling their grandma’s and grandpa’s for donations. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Not me. A few donations and a t-shirt weren’t even in my realm of understanding. I </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-style: italic; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">wanted</span><span style="font-family: Arial; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;"> to WIN. I asked my teacher how much I needed to raise to get both grand prizes: a mountain bike and a Nintendo (because that’s the only way a Nintendo was making its way into our household I had been told). From there, I remember making my list and then sitting at the kitchen table for hours making phone calls to all of my parents friends, teachers, and family to get to that winning number. The thought of not reaching grand prize never crossed my mind. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">Fast forward to Jump Day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">I jumped. I collected my prizes (including both grand prizes) and eagerly looked forward to the next competition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">What does this have to do with real estate? For years I have struggled with the title “sales person” as most of us have experienced unfortunate experiences with a Slick Willy or Sly Sally. My family’s background is education and farming. My bachelor’s degree is elementary education, specifically special education...so how could I head straight from KU with an education degree into real estate sales? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">Pretty simple really: I love to jump. I jumped into real estate hoping to supplement a teaching <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">income. Quickly I recognized that feeling of winning and reward through helping others in need. I love to win. I love to jump more often and higher than the rest of the “sales people” out there <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">because it helps my clients win. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">Let’s jump into this Spring market together. There is less competition than ever, which is great for sellers. The competition for great homes as a buyer is fierce, therefore you need a Jump Rope for Heart champ on your side. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial; language: EN; mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-arabic-font-family: Arial; mso-armenian-font-family: Arial; mso-ascii-font-family: Arial; mso-currency-font-family: Arial; mso-cyrillic-font-family: Arial; mso-default-font-family: Arial; mso-greek-font-family: Arial; mso-hebrew-font-family: Arial; mso-latin-font-family: Arial; mso-latinext-font-family: Arial;">Jump with me! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-968896175322721833.post-11608152337741026342013-02-24T15:13:00.002-06:002013-02-24T15:13:12.560-06:00Full Service? You bet.The other day while out showing homes to a first time home buyer...we discovered she had locked her keys into her car. It was a gorgeous afternoon and so luckily her friend had left her window cracked open....hmmm...now what???<br />
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No need to panic.<br />
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I simply grabbed my tape measure, stretched it out long enough to reach down into the car in hopes of snagging the unlock button, moved the tape measure into lock position (for better leverage, of course) and started fishing for that car door's unlock button.<br />
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In less than 5 seconds we had moved past our dilemma were on our way to house #2 of our tour.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04450906934844534024noreply@blogger.com0