tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30856447496210030532024-03-20T21:38:34.952-07:00Northern Michigan WeblogNorthern Michigan Real Estate and Life in general.Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-67440933615921516362009-10-14T10:37:00.001-07:002009-10-14T10:37:57.681-07:00September Sales show signs of recovery<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><div style="background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); font: normal normal normal 13px/19px Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; padding-top: 0.6em; padding-right: 0.6em; padding-bottom: 0.6em; padding-left: 0.6em; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; background-position: initial initial; "><p>September proved to show a long anticipated increase in real estate activity in Northwest Michigan. Buyer activity has been trending upward after a lackluster summer season, and we're driving into the fall with a lot of offers being written and properties being put under contract.</p><p>The number of residential sales for September we up 31% over 2008- actually they were the best they've been in the past 4 years. This has been driven by the downward adjustment in sale prices. Buyers flocked to those listings where the prices had dropped in concert with the regional market trend. Median price as compared to the prior year was down about 11%, which is on par with year to date figures as well.</p><p>Overall, we've seen home prices decline just under 21% since their peak in 2005/2006.</p><div class="mceTemp mceIEcenter" style="text-align: center; "><dl id="attachment_46" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-right-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-bottom-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-left-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); text-align: center; background-color: rgb(243, 243, 243); padding-top: 4px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; -webkit-border-top-right-radius: 3px 3px; -webkit-border-top-left-radius: 3px 3px; -webkit-border-bottom-left-radius: 3px 3px; -webkit-border-bottom-right-radius: 3px 3px; width: 480px; "><dt class="wp-caption-dt"><img class="size-large wp-image-46 " title="Sept 09 Sold Market Analysis" src="http://mattcase.wordpress.com/files/2009/10/sept-09-sold-market-analysis.jpg?w=783" mce_src="http://mattcase.wordpress.com/files/2009/10/sept-09-sold-market-analysis.jpg?w=783" alt="Home Sales Rebound in Northwest Michigan, September 2009" width="470" height="614" style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; " /></dt><dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 4px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 4px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">Home Sales Rebound in Northwest Michigan, September 2009</dd></dl></div><p>Value leaders have been in the low and middle ranges- you'll see in the chart below a sharp increase in the number of sales under $40,000 (WHAT! A house in NW Michigan for under $40,000? Yep.) That trend is reflected up into the midrange, with gains up through the $180,000 range.</p><div class="mceTemp mceIEcenter" style="text-align: center; "><dl id="attachment_48" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-right-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-bottom-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-left-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); text-align: center; background-color: rgb(243, 243, 243); padding-top: 4px; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; -webkit-border-top-right-radius: 3px 3px; -webkit-border-top-left-radius: 3px 3px; -webkit-border-bottom-left-radius: 3px 3px; -webkit-border-bottom-right-radius: 3px 3px; width: 624px; "><dt class="wp-caption-dt"><img class="size-large wp-image-48 " title="Sept 09 Sold Price Analysis" src="http://mattcase.wordpress.com/files/2009/10/sept-09-sold-price-analysis1.jpg?w=1024" mce_src="http://mattcase.wordpress.com/files/2009/10/sept-09-sold-price-analysis1.jpg?w=1024" alt="Home Market Price Analysis for Northwest Michigan, September 2009" width="614" height="467" style="border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; " /></dt><dd class="wp-caption-dd" style="font-size: 11px; line-height: 17px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 4px; padding-bottom: 5px; padding-left: 4px; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; ">Home Market Price Analysis for Northwest Michigan, September 2009</dd></dl></div><p>Where we've fallen off is at the higher end, made up primarily of waterfront/vacation homes. Many of these sellers are either insulated from the economic pressures of our current economy, or have just not come to terms with the effect that the overall market has had on their values. While waterfront properties have suffered much less exposure to price erosion, the lack of transactions indicate that the buyer population is waiting for adjustment to take action. There are some exclusive enclaves (such as<a href="http://www.cbgreatlakes.com/Property/MI/49635/Frankfort/170_BEACH_RD" mce_href="http://www.cbgreatlakes.com/Property/MI/49635/Frankfort/170_BEACH_RD" title="Crystal Downs Real Estate" target="_blank">Crystal Downs</a> on Lake Michigan) where little if any depreciation is occurring, but what we've seen on other lakes is that only those properties that have made adjustment are selling.</p><p>We continue to have some very good values, but the best deals get picked off very quickly, and as inventory continues to tighten, we'll see increased competition for these listings. Multiple offers are already common, and by all indication this trend will continue.</p></div></span>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com127tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-32685578125759039572009-07-28T08:27:00.000-07:002009-07-28T08:33:25.962-07:00New price in West LAThat's Lake Ann for those of you who don't know Northwest Michigan lingo.<br /><br />Who: Motivated sellers who just improved their price to $118,000<br /><br />What: World’s neatest 3 BR bi-level, with fully finished basement and detached garage.<br /><br />Where: 6226 Reynolds Road (just South of 610/Almira Road), close to state land and lake access.<br /><br />When: New price NOW- bring your buyers TODAY.<br /><br />Why: Because you’re tired of seeing worn out, beat up bank owned homes.<br /><br />How: <a href="http://www.cbgreatlakes.com/Property/MI/49650/Lake_Ann/6226_N_REYNOLDS_RD">Click here to check out the listing</a>, then call me office to schedule a showing, or if you’d prefer email/text/tweet/facebook/smoke signals/mental telepathy- I’ll try to make it easy on you!Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-17584293150226152652009-06-26T10:30:00.001-07:002009-06-26T10:36:22.937-07:00Take advantage of market micro trends<p class="MsoNormal">I handle REO (foreclosure) listings for several banks, including Bank of America and local banks, and the number<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>of new listings incoming have dropped off dramatically recently.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>In conversation with others who handle these properties, and with local banks, this dip was often echoed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It’s likely that a foreclosure moratorium in place over the winter has delayed some properties coming onto the market.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal">A little background research revealed that the number of bank owned listings as a percentage of all new listings did indeed peak last winter, and has since dropped dramatically.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>While this has occurred, demand for good values in real estate have not abated- I’ve got a list of ready buyers, actively seeking good values (OK, some are waiting for a great value).<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Driven by value, bank owned properties have cleared from the market at a rapid pace.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Here’s a chart of the ratio of bank owned to total new listings since last August</p><p class="MsoNormal"><script src="http://www.gmodules.com/ig/ifr?url=http://fusioncharts.googlecode.com/svn/trunk/fusioncharts.xml&up_ct=Column3D&up_c=New%20Listing%20Analysis&up_sc=Bank%20owned%20listings%20as%20%25%20of%20all%20new%20listings&up_xt=Month&up_yt=%25%20of%20Bank%20Owned%20Listings&up_sn=Current%20Month&up_l=Aug.%2008%3B%20Sept.%2008%3B%20Oct.%2008%3B%20Nov.%2008%3B%20Dec.%2008%3B%20Jan.%2009%3B%20Feb.%2009%3B%20Mar.%2009%3B%20Apr.%2009%3B%20May%2009%3B%20June%2009%3B&up_v=13.2%3B%2014.8%3B15.05%3B17.30%3B20.33%3B16.2%3B18.8%3B15.24%3B9.73%3B9.47%3B9.38&up_t=&up_bA=1&up_bSLb=1&up_bSV=0&up_bSLm=1&up_bSLg=1&up_bRL=0&up_bFN=1&up_bFS=1&up_bTT=1&up_np=&up_ns=%25&up_d=0&up_cbg=FFFFFF&up_ccbg=DCDCDC&up_ccbr=808080&up_f=Arial&up_fs=9&up_fc=2F4F4F&up_fOC=Verdana&up_fOCs=9&up_fOCc=191970&up_dl=3&up_dlc=808080&up_bSA=1&up_as=10&up_ar=3&up_lt=1&up_bP=1&up_bPL=0&up_yMax=&up_yMin=&up_debug=0&synd=open&w=600&h=280&title=FusionCharts&border=%23ffffff%7C3px%2C1px+solid+%23999999&output=js"></script><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I don’t expect the rate of new foreclosure listings to remain on a downward trend- there is a fair amount of consensus that we’ll see a new round of foreclosures coming on the market this fall, and some indications that these are trending toward mid-range homes , and some higher end homes, as opposed to the past tendency toward the very low end of the market.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What this information reveals for buyers is that when they’ve identified a good value, quick action and a solid offer are in order.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Prices have adjusted, and affordability is high.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">What it means for sellers is that you likely have a roughly 60 day window of opportunity to sell with far less competition from distressed sale pricing on bank owned listings.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This is your opportunity to price your home right, have it clean, staged and “turn key” ready and to make it as appealing as possible to purchasers.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Reinforcing this opportunity are low mortgage rates and, most importantly, the $8000 home buyer tax credit, which is scheduled to expire in November, and is driving buyers into the market.</p>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-81129414910790574772009-06-10T07:16:00.000-07:002009-06-12T12:17:13.417-07:00Cars vs. Cribs: How the Tax Credits stack upThe passing of the <a href="http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0609/23550.html">$4500 "Cash for Clunkers" tax credit</a> out of the House got me thinking. First, let's not fool ourselves into thinking that this is serious efficiency legislation- yes, it puts an incentive on deciding upon a fuel efficient vehicle, and that's certainly more palatable than forcing higher efficiencies and limiting consumer choice. But this is about getting auto sales moving more than anything. And as an old car guy (I grew up around my father's Chrysler dealership) I cringe when I hear that the "clunkers" traded in would be "recycled"- it's a certainty that some very serviceable vehicles are going to be taken out of circulation. That means they won't be available for resale to those who can't afford a new car.<br /><br /><br />Let's compare this incentive to the $8000 first time buyer tax credit, shall we?<br /><br /><br />Average new-car transaction price has dropped to $27,941, according to <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124217606060513323.html">The Wall Street Journal</a>. This means that the credit given is 16% of the average price- a pretty healthy incentive, and no restriction on who can buy, other than you have to move up in efficiency.<br /><br /><br />Compare this with the 2008 US Median Sale Price of $198,100 (per this <a href="http://www.realtor.org/research/economists_outlook/commentaries/homesales_stimulate0309"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">NAR</span> report</a>) and the $8000 First Time Buyer Tax Credit, and we're looking at an incentive of 4%. Still very nice, thank you, but think what a bump in the tax credit, to say $15,000 could do. Especially if it were paired with revisions making the credit applicable to all buyers of primary residences!<br /><br /><br />Danielle Hale, a research economist with the National Association of REALTORS(R) put together <a href="http://www.realtor.org/research/economists_outlook/commentaries/homesales_stimulate0309">this analysis</a> that shows each home sale at the median generating $63,101 in economic impact. That's an enormous number, and one that drives activity in all sectors of the economy.<br /><br /><br />My opinion: The current home buyer tax credit is a good thing, but it would be a much more significant force in helping clear inventory and stabilize values with the changes noted above.Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-74546623662014672822009-04-16T19:50:00.000-07:002009-04-16T20:51:36.838-07:00Spring has Sprung!It's been a darn good week here in Benzie County. The sun finally found its way back to our little corner of the world and warmed things up some. Most of the golf courses are now open (I even got out to play once!) and most of the snow is gone. I've also heard that the steelhead fishing is great- Betty from <a href="http://www.vacationtrailer.com/">Vacation Trailer Park</a> on the Betsie River tipped me off this when I saw her at the Benzie Chamber Expo on Tuesday, and I noticed a similar report when I discovered a link to <a href="http://honormotel.blogspot.com/">Honor Motel's Blog</a> on Twitter. I also saw that the folks from Honor Motel did a nice job of pointing out the good values in Benzie County lakefront real estate.<div><br /></div><div>Since the fishing is good, it's nice to have a couple of listings on the river, and I've noticed a spike in inquiries on both the <a href="http://www.crystal-rentals.com/423/homestead-resort-betsie-river.html">Homestead Resort on the River</a> which I have listed <a href="http://www.cbgreatlakes.com/matt.case/Property/MI/49616/Benzonia/2399_DAM_RD">for sale</a>, and on my listing for a <a href="http://www.cbgreatlakes.com/matt.case/Property/MI/49616/Benzonia/9132_FREDS_LANDING">secluded retreat on the Betsie River</a> which just got a healthy price reduction.</div><div><br /></div><div>Speaking of price reductions, I was really pleased to have secured price adjustments on five of my listings this week. While it seems that real estate activity has ratcheted up another notch, most of the activity is still being driven by value/price. More on those values in an <a href="http://unrealdeals.blogspot.com/">UnReal Deals</a> post soon.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks to lots of hard work, I've stayed pretty busy all year, but it's at another level now, and I'm hearing that others are seeing the same trend. One agent I spoke with put deals together for 8 customers in the past two weeks, and I have two properties that received multiple offers this week. In other words, we had two buyers battling for one property. It's all good news, and combined with a downward trend in the number of new listings being placed on the market, we're working toward a healthier inventory level. <a href="http://unrealdeals.blogspot.com/2009/04/what-can-i-get-for.html">Great mortgage rates</a> and the <a href="http://www.cbgreatlakes.com/matt.case/Blog/WSJ_Clock_is_Ticking_for_First_Time_Buyers">$8000 first time buyer tax credit</a> are helping out some too. It's a shame that the tax credit is limited to folks who haven't owned a home in the past three years though.<div><br /></div><div>Tomorrow I'm off to Cadillac to give a presentation for the Paul Bunyan Board of REALTORS about the use of Social Networking by REALTORS, then back to the office for a 3:30 closing before heading back south to Kentwood, hauling the props for my oldest son's Odyssey of the Mind Competition.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">If anyone hears any reports on Steelhead, smelt, or morel mushrooms, please post a comment. General information is find, no specifics necessary. I don't expect anyone to give up their favorite spot!</span></span><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-76973431176468055052009-03-16T11:28:00.001-07:002009-03-16T11:34:48.490-07:00Is that Irony? It's at least funny.Over the weekend I received notice of a new comment on a post I made a while back, titled "<a href="http://nwmirealestate.blogspot.com/2009/01/twitter-and-pickup-lines.html">Twitter and Pickup Lines</a>". This post was inspired by someone who started pitching me on a home based business before we'd even exchanged pleasantries. Basically, it says... don't blindly pitch- that's not what SM is about.<div><br />So here's the comment:</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; "><dt class="comment-author blogger-comment-icon" id="c1515740995180683699" style="margin-top: 0.5em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 16px; background-image: url(http://www.blogger.com/img/b16-rounded.gif); background-repeat: no-repeat; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: initial; padding-left: 20px; background-position: 0% 50%; "><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13658737072418755150" rel="nofollow" style="color: rgb(68, 85, 102); ">jeromine</a> said...</dt><dd class="comment-body" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.25em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 20px; "><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: 0px; ">Hi nice Blog.Mona Vie Juice products featuring an exclusive acai berry juice blend <a href="http://www.biot350.com/home-based-business-opportunity.php" rel="nofollow" style="color: rgb(68, 85, 102); ">Home Based Business opportunity</a>.</p></dd></span></div><div>I hope this was an automated comment. If not, the person certainly did not read the post.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks for the laugh, jeromine!</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: 'Trebuchet MS'; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-77171183857103874012009-03-06T07:33:00.000-08:002009-03-06T07:34:05.115-08:00Fannie's new rule matters more to the market than it does to brokers<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: Verdana; font-size: 12px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><div><div>I noticed the new ruling by Fannie regarding "negotiating" commissions, and have to say I'm hopeful that it is a sign of positive direction.</div><div><br /></div><div>The long and short of it is Fannie has instructed their servicers that they may not negotiate a commission below 6% in conjunction with a short sale (existing commission agreements below that level are acceptable.) I know many agents have been burned in working short sales, when after weeks or months of hard work, their commission gets axed for the sake of the deal.</div><div> </div><div>This ruling demonstrates that Fannie recognizes the importance of getting short sales closed, both to their customers and the overall health of the market. It also recognizes the importance of Real Estate professionals in bringing these deals to fruition.</div><div> </div><div>The link below provides more information about these new instructions. </div><div><a href="http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102488764522&e=0019TPQfQfB026IaP9znHKzI12an2OvrQxydyPRTxeB1kK0wp2xqcOQlVtI8-b4PB0J563VH-8S_OCC8p6UvvKtyjFKrbSqmixTzdKrsCHtpd2b4eB0xyGuIQRawY0nnQVd9RtOQbyMB24HrkRUg9dYIA==" title="http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102488764522&e=0019TPQfQfB026IaP9znHKzI12an2OvrQxydyPRTxeB1kK0wp2xqcOQlVtI8-b4PB0J563VH-8S_OCC8p6UvvKtyjFKrbSqmixTzdKrsCHtpd2b4eB0xyGuIQRawY0nnQVd9RtOQbyMB24HrkRUg9dYIA==" target="_blank" style="text-decoration: underline; color: rgb(30, 119, 185); ">http://www.mirealtors.com/content/030309.htm#pp</a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><div>I'm hopeful that in taking a leadership position on this topic, Fannie will encourage other mortgage holders to follow suit. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's a small step, and certainly pales in comparison with the issue of the time it takes to respond to short sale requests and get the sale done. The market <span style="font-weight: bold; ">should </span>drive a correction there, as one would hope that banks will, sooner or later, realize that by dropping the ball on short sales they are losing massive amounts of money.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>In the process of foreclosure, home values most frequently drop dramatically. With no homeowner in place, it just becomes a house, with no history, no sign of life, and no pride of ownership. Foreclosures have one thing and one thing only to compete on- price. The increased significance of foreclosure sales drag the balance of the local market downward with them, and while increased affordability is great, the trend becomes cyclical. Surrounding homeowners now have increased difficulty getting their homes to appraise for re-financing, or have to fight for a short sale themselves when it comes time to sell.</div><div><br /></div><div>What's the issue with banks approving short sales? One can only assume it is either systemic lack of resources, corporate structures that don't allow for dispersed decision making, or just sheer ignorance, coupled with arrogance.</div></span></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-77328172262478443272009-02-25T17:45:00.001-08:002009-02-25T18:55:55.536-08:00Verdict is in. NAR "gets it"A long long time ago (like October,) the National Association of REALTORS announced their plans to hire a Social Media Manager. The job posting was quickly noticed by a broad range of REALTORS who were actively engaged in SM already, and <a href="http://twitter.com/">Twitter </a>and Blogs were abuzz.<div><br /></div><div>Lots of talk on the blogs was skeptical, some cynical, some hopeful. There was some chatter about it at the NAR Convention in Orlando (including some late night pontification between Aaron Wheeler of <a href="http://www.oakvilleproperties.net/default.aspx">Oakville Properties</a> and myself.) To be quite honest, I gave consideration to applying for the position myself. What stopped me? Well, the way I saw it, this position could be one of two things:</div><div><br /></div><div>A menial, mid-level position that paid a ho-hum wage, got carted out for shows, toed the company line and generally didn't have room for a big personality (OK, maybe that should read ego) like mine. Not my cup o' tea</div><div><br /></div><div>OR NAR would go for </div><div><br /></div><div>A "Player," well established in SM, networking and tech, with established ties to the "Twitterati" and top voices in the RE Blogsphere. Someone who had already set up shop at the intersection of technology, networking, and real estate. I'm not that guy either- I get it, but I haven't innovated, I don't blog regularly enough, haven't learned all the cutting edge tools in webcasting <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">(like <a href="http://realestatezebra.com/">RealEstateZebra</a> Daniel Rothamel), developed a kick ass resource/online shrine to my community (like Ines Hegedus-Garcia </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-family:Georgia;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">did with <a href="http://www.miamism.com/">Miamism</a>) or mastered the <a href="http://activerain.com/blogsview/782122/Now-Available-the-Jeff-Turner-Technology-Implant-Get-Yours-Today">direct transcranial uplink</a> (like <a href="http://www.realestateshows.com/">Real Estate Shows</a> Pres Jeff Turner.)</span></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Well the cat's out of the bag, and NAR did it right. They hired a Ninja, to use Todd Carpenter's own term.</div><div><br /></div><div>Now I've never met Todd. I've been following him on Twitter for quite a while, and feel like I know him a little, which is to say I know his reputation amongst people I respect, I know he doesn't take himself too seriously, he works out regularly (sadist) and has great taste in music (thanks <a href="http://blip.fm/">blip.fm</a>)</div><div><br /></div><div>This hire and my reaction to it illustrates the importance and value of Social Media/Social Networking for businesspeople. I don't know Todd in real life, but I still feel like I know him. I feel confident he can do the job, and do it very well. I think the people who hired him are smart, and I look forward to meeting him in person and doing "business" with him.</div><div><br /></div><div>Isn't that what any of business person would want their future customers to feel about them?</div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-44385010921724516962009-02-05T12:19:00.000-08:002009-02-05T12:55:55.469-08:00Embracing WinterWinter is definitely making a big deal of itself here in Northern Michigan this year. Lots of snow (though not too much lately) and really cold temps have been de rigueur. I've long been a believer that the best way to make it through the cold and snowy days of winter is to embrace it, get out and enjoy it. I ski with my kids even though I really don't enjoy it that much by myself, on account of abusing my knees in the past and not being the best skier to start with. I ride snowmobiles, ice fish a little, and of course theres sledding and snow forts with the kids too.<div><br /></div><div>We've got events coming up in the area to make winter more fun, too. The second weekend of February (14th this year) is <a href="http://www.crystallakecommunitybusinessassoc.com/">Winterfest </a>on Crystal Lake in Beulah. There is a softball tournament on the ice, fishing tournaments, a parade and fireworks, among other events. This is a long standing event that I can remember attending as a kid. In particular I recall racing down the lake on my old snowmobile with a perch in my pocket trying to make the deadline for the fishing contest. I made it, but the perch wasn't quite as big as I thought it was.</div><div><br /></div><div>The following weekend, Frankfort is holding a brand new event called <a href="http://www.frankfort-elberta.com/PDF/Event%20Poster.pdf">Shiver by the River.</a> In addition to their own parade, games and fun, there also will be a snowcross race, right in town in what's known as "goose park". This isn't a couple of guys on their old Rupps, but a real live snowcross race event. Should be lots of excitement.</div><div><br /></div><div>See you on the snow!</div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-43110151012463555682009-01-08T13:27:00.000-08:002009-01-08T14:33:01.763-08:00Twitter and pickup linesI've heard Social Media venues compared to a coffee house or a bar, but it really struck me how deep the parallels are recently.<br /><br />Case in point: I was reviewing my recent followers on <a href="http://twitter.com/">Twitter</a> and deciding whether or not to follow them back and was pleased to discover that one of them, whom I'll call Twit#1, lives not too far from me. Super! I'm in an out of the way sort of place, and always am pleased to find people nearby tweeting, so locals are pretty much an automatic follow. Right after following Twit #1, however, I get a Direct Message asking "Have you ever considered a Home Based Business Opportunity." Whoa! I don't even know you yet! Can't we get to know each other a little bit first?<br /><br />Now, I should have seen this coming... If I would have looked deeper into their twit stream, I'd have seen this single theme coming up over and over. But Twit #1 (and by now you know who you are if you're reading this) could get a lot farther by recognizing that Social Media is a great tool to create relationships that evolve into business opportunities. Instead I got the feeling that they only wanted to sell me something.<br /><br />Now <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">juxtapose</span> that with the response I got from @<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">nik</span>_<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">nik</span> after following her:<br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Woohoo</span>! Thanks for following Matt! I made this video so you'd know what you're getting yourself into! <a href="http://tinyurl.com/8wdsfg">http://tinyurl.com/8wdsfg</a> </span><br /><br />I hope you click the link, because Nicole (see, I know her real name already) deserves to be outed for what she is: A charming, smart person who isn't afraid to ham it up a little, and who wants to get to know me personally. She's into sharing ideas, listening to your opinion and telling you what she thinks too. She blogs, digs technology and real estate, and likes music.<br /><br />Let's take this back to my pickup line analogy, and imagine I'm at Bob's Business Bar:<br />Me: Hi, I'm Matt<br />twit#1: Wanna hook up?<br /><br />Me: Hi, I'm Matt<br />@<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">nik</span>_<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">nik</span>: Awesome to meet you! Doesn't this band rock? These are my other friends... care to join our conversation?<br /><br />Now who are you going to start a relationship with?Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-356589776765469632009-01-02T13:15:00.000-08:002009-01-02T13:18:15.625-08:00Look! Over there!I started another blog dedicated to some of the best deals I come across in my local real estate market. I'm calling it UnReal Deals, and believe me some of these deals are unreal. To check it out you can go to <a href="http://www.unrealdeals.blogspot.com/">www.UnRealDeals.blogspot.com</a>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-15977753205743560112008-12-17T07:21:00.000-08:002008-12-17T07:43:59.279-08:00UnReal DealsI keep coming across great deals in our marketplace, and have been sharing them with friends on Twitter and Facebook. I'm going to start posting them here as well, where I can tell a bit more about them.<br /><br />Prices for homes have taken a hit, and with current mortgage rates in the 5% range, the values are outstanding. Unfortunately for me, I can't buy them all, so I'll share the information. The listings I'll talk about will not be limited to my own inventory. If I see a great deal that is someone else's listing, I'll tell you about it.<br /><br />I'll start off with a home I just listed for a bank. It's a 3 bedroom, 2 bath 1970's manufactured home on 5 very nice wooded and rolling acres. It has a full basement and a large deck, and is very close to the new <a href="http://douglasvalley.net/index.html">Douglas Valley Organic Vineyard Community</a>, where lots alone are offered starting at $129,000.<br /><br />It's also close to <a href="http://www.littlerivercasino.com/">Little River Casino</a>, the Manistee River, Lake Michigan, Portage Lake and Onekama. <br /><br />This house sold in 2004 for over $100k. It's now available for just <span style="font-size:130%;">$34,900</span>. <a href="http://www.cbgreatlakes.com/Property/MI/49660/Manistee/4615_SCHOEDEL_RD">Here's a link to more information</a>.Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-5561453300981434312008-11-25T09:22:00.000-08:002008-11-25T09:24:34.011-08:00Watch for falling mortgage ratesFannie Mae's intraday MBS yield is falling sharply, which means that mortgage rates will likely follow. The drop is significant, and likely is in part tied to the new Treasury plan to buy Mortgage Backed Securities.<br /><br />If you've been thinking of buying, you would be wise to talk with your lender for a rate quote. A drop in rates increases your purchasing power, and with the incredible values that are on the market right now, you may find you can get a whole lot more for your dollar than you would have just a few months ago.<br /><br />Homeowners who may have been considering a refi should also consider taking action now.<br /><br />In other words, real estate is on sale, and mortgage money is going on sale too! That's something for which we can be thankful!Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-83348158116876537782008-11-13T13:12:00.000-08:002008-11-14T08:12:25.075-08:00Greetings from your rogue agent<span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><em>From: Steve </em></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><em>Sent: Thursday, November 13, 2008 11:20 AM</em></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><em>To: <a href="mailto:Matt@2cases.com">Matt@2cases.com</a></em></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><em>Subject: greetings from your rogue agent<br /></em></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><em>Hi Matt,<br /></em></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><em>I'm first writing to apologize for my lack of participation and communication with the office. I have been in contact with Kathy for some extensions but that's about it. I will make an effort to get to some meetings and be more involved.<br /></em></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><em>It's been a disappointing year to say the least. I had such high hopes that we would get some real buyer activity down here, but it didn't happen. I had showings,(not as many as I would have expected), but offers were slow to come. I was also hopeful that the new development nearby would bring traffic, but it hasn't yet. I'm optimistic going forward because Frankfort and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Benzie</span> County is still poised for growth, I just know it's going to take time. I'm not recommending major price reductions to my sellers because I don't sense that is the reason we're not getting traffic. (A couple listings are down 10%+ and still no offers). If I had some desperate sellers, it would be a different story but I don't. I think we're fairly priced here compared to the market...we just need more buyers.</em></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><em>The tourism trade has been strong and I expect it will continue, despite the economy. We just need some help from the overall economy and downstate home sales to help stimulate 2<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">nd</span> home purchases up here. It will happen...hopefully sooner than later. </em></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><em>Thanks and I'll talk to you soon. </em></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><em></em></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><em>Steve</em></span><br /><br /><br /><br />Hi Steve,<br /><br />Rogue agent... I like it. Nice hearing from you. I don't know that I'll concede that if you don't have any desperate sellers they don't need to reduce their prices. We've seen median sale prices drop 9.7% in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Benzie</span> County <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">YTD</span>, and a total of 13% since 2006. If that trend continues, the gap between your sellers prices and the market will widen. You and they need <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">to be</span> aware of that risk.<br /><br />Total sales are down 21% <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">YTD</span> in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Benzie</span> County, so you're right that we need more buyers. Their return is dependant on a lot of things: increased confidence, increased liquidity in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">MBS</span>, availability of credit, the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">stock market</span> and how TARP and housing stimulus are implemented all will play a factor. We're building pent up demand, but need some significant triggers to release that demand.<br /><br />On the positive side of things, we're seeing early indicators of a recovery in our industry, especially here in NW Michigan. It appears that supply is beginning to tighten, with the number of new residential listings down 19.3%year to date in the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">TAAR</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">MLS</span>, and building starts way down as well.<br /><br />Another leading indicator of a turn around is a recovery in number of transactions. Last Friday at the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">NAR</span> Convention in Orlando, Chief Economist Lawrence <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Yun</span> noted that housing sales show signs of turning in Michigan, driven by affordability. The rebound of sales units will precede the rebound in prices or sales volume, and I believe it will precede it by at least 12-18 months.<br /><br />The good news is that while home sales (for the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">MLS</span> as a whole) are down 11.4% year to date, when we look <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">at October</span> 08 vs October 07 we're only down 1.3%. That means that October was a huge improvement vs. the year overall. In fact, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">Benzie</span> County actually posted an 8% gain in October!<br /><br />It's been a heck of a bumpy year, and the economy and stock markets have scared a lot of buyers out of the water. While the words "we're from the government and we're here to help" strike fear in my heart, I know that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">NAR</span> is actively advocating for prudent stimulus and relief that will aid homeowners and home buyers. I'm very pleased that they have attacked the deficiencies which I felt were inhibiting the use of the current home buyer stimulus package.<br /><br />The current offering calls for the $7500 to be paid <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">back over</span> 15 years, and it is restricted to first time home buyers only. I feel that to be effective the $7500 credit should not be required to be <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">paid back</span>, but more importantly that the credit should apply to all buyers of a primary residence, regardless of whether or not they currently or recently owned a home.<br /><br />In the mean time we're building pent up demand. I spoke with one of our regions largest home builders tonight, and he's sold about 43 units this year. He stated that he fully expects that when our market breaks free, he'll do 200 units the first year. A normal good year for him is around 100 units.<br /><br />I'm always here if you want to talk strategy.<br /><br />MattMatthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-36676136515485031082008-11-11T12:49:00.000-08:002008-11-11T13:07:55.837-08:00Honoring our VeteransA lot of what I learned about honor, I learned from my parents. Today I'm thinking about a lesson I learned from my dad, and it's about honoring our Veterans.<br /><br />Dad didn't actually teach me this lesson himself. I learned this lesson from my dad via his very good friend, Theo. Theo is much like a second dad (or sometimes an older brother) to me. Theo served in Vietnam, and carries the toll that the war took on him to this day as he fights the early onset of Parkinson's disease.<br /><br />In College, I took a course on the history of the Vietnam war one fall semester, and as luck would have it, Theo and I spent time together that fall traveling to hunting camp. Just he and I in a dark truck on a cold night, going somewhere we loved to go. We talked about his experiences and what I'd learned. About wild times in his past and about love and friendship.<br /><br />And then Theo told me that when he returned from Vietnam my father showed up at his door to thank him for his service. And that my dad was the only one that made it a point to thank him for many many years.<br /><br />Every year on Veterans Day, I make it a point to thank whomever I know who has served our country in time of war. I'll start making phone calls as soon as I collect myself after writing this, as I could not make it through this post without tears welling up in my eyes and my nose starting to run.<br /><br />I was touched by comments the Joe Theismann made yesterday when he spoke at a conference I attended. I happened to be videotaping at the time, and have posted that video on YouTube.<br /><br /><object height="350" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gK-Acb1X7x0"><br /> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gK-Acb1X7x0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="350"></embed> </object><br /><br />I'm extremely fortunate not to have lost a loved one in a war. But I'm even more fortunate to live freely, happily and safely in this wonderful experiment in democracy known as America.<br /><br />Have you thanked a veteran lately?Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-79979790161918356322008-10-30T12:05:00.000-07:002008-10-30T12:45:29.413-07:00Would you like my autograph?I got a nice little plug on the 11:00 news last night. <a href="http://www.tv7-4.com/">TV 7&4</a> (NBC) contacted me yesterday afternoon about buyer activity and the market. The reporter, <a href="http://www.tv7-4.com/about/bio.aspx?id=228">Courtney Rehmer</a>, was looking for a local tie in to the NAR figures for September. I spent a solid half hour with her at one of my listings in Beulah.<br /><br />I'm very proud to have bumped politics and Barack Obama's infomercial Blitz from the top billing, as I was the lead story! <a href="http://tinyurl.com/6r5b66">http://tinyurl.com/6r5b66</a><br /><br />They didn't use everything that Courtney shot, but I think it turned out quite well. Some of the information that was left "on the cutting room floor" included:<br /><br />That while closed units were down 11% Year to Date in the region, September was off just 4% over last year, indicating we're closing the gap.<br /><br />That inventory levels are shrinking, and the ratio of listings taken to listings sold has improved dramatically.<br /><br />That we're at or near the bottom price wise.<br /><br />After the interview I got to thinking, and emailed Courtney that <em>"There is one more thing that occurred to me, and that is that we do not need more foreclosed homes on the market, or more people displaced from their homes by foreclosure. Please encourage viewers to take action if they are having trouble making their payments. For the most part, banks do not want to take their homes and should be willing to work with them. There are resources available, especially if they act quickly. If they're having troubles with their lender they can contact the TAAR office or ask a REALTOR for guidance."</em><br /><br />While it was trimmed off of the end of the video posted online, I was glad that this was included in the news report. In fact they used it as a segue to some extent, and followed up with advice from financial advisers that they've had answering viewer calls this week.<br /><br />Good deals are out there, as well as some great ones. For buyers who are making a sound financial decision, and are buying for the long term (5 years as opposed to 1) it is a great time to buy.<br /><br />It was fun having the opportunity to do the interview, and I've gotten quite a few comments on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/people/Matt_Case/626659663">Facebook </a>and via text from friends and colleagues.Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-24404104166456207792008-10-24T19:06:00.000-07:002008-10-24T19:13:43.876-07:00CorrectionI submitted a correction to <a href="http://www.tcbusinessnews.com/">The Traverse City Business News </a>recently, as I noted an error in a story on the real estate market. Gayle Neu was quick to respond with apologies and a promise that they'd address it. Whether it's stories on new businesses, the real estate market, or being included in their annual 40 under 40 feature, I really enjoy working with Gayle and the crew at TCBN, and know that the error was innocent and not an attempt to spin the news to the negative.<br /><br />At any rate, the information is worth sharing here.<br /><br />To the Traverse City Business News,<br />I noticed the article titled "Traverse City real estate: alive and (relatively) well" by Bill Wheadon in your October 2008 issue. I wish to point out an error in the labeling of the data, as well as provide some additional information that may clarify the figures reported. While I will address my home market of Benzie County specifically, I believe the error to be the same for all areas, though how that changes the assumptions which were made will vary.<br /><br />In the chart provided, sales information is reported as being thru July. The data is actually for the month of July alone, NOT year-to-date through July. Thus, this is a one month sample of what is occurring in the market. Small samples are inherently less accurate for deriving a mean (or average) than a large sample, a fact which I believe is illustrated in the % change indicated.<br /><br />A search of YTD sold data for all property types (Residential, Vacant, Commercial and MultiFamily) in the Traverse Area Association of REALTORS MLS shows that through September 30th, the number of sales in Benzie County decreased by 33%, while the median price fell from $122,000 to $115,000, a drop of 5.7%.<br /><br />As much of the focus is on what is happening in the Housing Market, I have been tracking Residential Sold data separately. Year to date in Benzie County through September 30th, I find that the number of residential sales has fallen from 179 to 134 (-25.1%) and median prices have fallen from $155,000 to $132,500 (-14.5%)<br /><br />While our region is seeing a decline in home prices, we continue to outperform most if not all of the state. The availability of mortgages at low interest rates (yes, mortgages are still available, and with favorable terms,) increased affordability of homes, the forecast growth expected for our region, the desirability of the area including quality of life, and the impact of the baby boom generation will continue to make the Grand Traverse region one of the best areas in Michigan to purchase real estate. Buyers who act now are making exceptionally good deals, and we are seeing some owners choosing to take advantage of the market to move up into a larger home. Inventory is beginning to tighten, with less new inventory coming onto the market and the ratio of Listings Taken to Listings Sold for September at 3.06/1, a much healthier ratio, and vast improvement from its peak of 5.78/1 in January of 2007.<br /><br />Attached is the data from which the statistics on sales were drawn. Please let me know if I can be of further assistance.<br /><br />Sincerely yours, <br /><br />Matt Case<br />Associate Broker, Director of Support Services<br />Coldwell Banker Schmidt REALTORS<br />President, Traverse Area Association of REALTORSMatthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-80296440293214323312008-10-12T19:39:00.000-07:002008-10-12T19:45:38.896-07:00Air TimeI went "on air" to talk about the Grand Vision last Friday, when I was a panelist of sorts on <a href="http://www.interlochen.org/ipr/">Interlochen Public Radio's</a> <a href="http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/wiaa/news.newsmain?action=section&SECTION_ID=371">Points North</a>. Jim Maitland from the Grand Traverse Road Commission, Jim Lively from the Michigan Land Use Institute and I had a discussion with Peter Payette. <a href="http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/wiaa/news.newsmain?action=article&ARTICLE_ID=1386439&sectionID=371">Here's a link to the interview</a>.Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-16148858170204327022008-09-30T07:46:00.001-07:002008-09-30T08:25:15.012-07:00Where do we go from here?I spent Sunday afternoon with my wife and kids, along with my sister, enjoying fall in Northern Michigan. First we went in search of a cider mill and fresh donuts, and found our way to The Covered Wagon near Lake Leelanau. I say found the way, because we worked from memory as opposed to maps in making our way through the Leelanau Peninsula.<br /><br />Next we visited <a href="http://www.jacobs-corn-maze.com/">Jacobs Corn Maze</a>, just a bit west of Traverse City on M-72. I've wanted to do a corn maze for a while, and was excited to hear that one was open in our area. Mike and Laverna Witkop and Steve and Lisa Fouch created a great recreational asset for our community, and we had a blast. Garrison and Jared (8 and 6) ran 90 percent of the time in the maze which means they put on several miles at a trot. Nathan at 2 1/2 tried to keep up, but also delighted in riding on grown up shoulders- "go fast! Go fast!" <br /><br />Using the map provided and being able to read it was critical in getting through in a timely fashion. It would have easily taken us twice as long (if not more) had we not used the map. We quickly settled into a pattern. Kids run ahead with instructions to stop at any intersection. "Which way do we go?" and off they run again. Great fun.<br /><br />Now I sit here wondering where we go from here once again, as the Economic Stabilization Act was defeated, the Dow plummeted, and debate (and finger pointing) rages on. I've been having mixed feelings on the defeat- I'm a fiscal conservative, but understand that the risk of doing nothing is significant. I had only the broadcast news interpretation of the Act, which provided little substance, and having heard enough spin on it, I decided to try to learn more.<br /><br />After brushing through several news sites, I decided to turn to my professional association, and visited the National Association of REALTORs website at <a href="http://www.realtor.org/">REALTOR.org</a>. There I found a summary of the act written from the REALTOR point of view, speaking to the REALTOR community. This summary gave me a deeper understanding of facets of the bill. Here's a look at that document: <a href="http://tinyurl.com/4ghbho">http://tinyurl.com/4ghbho</a><br /><br />Whether this act was the best possible solution will never be answered to everyones satisfaction. I firmly believe, however, that dramatic action is needed to address the credit crisis, and it is needed soon. Political infighting and rhetoric will serve no one, nor will placing blame for how we got here. May our Representatives and Senators be blessed with open minds, clear insight, and the strength to unite in action.Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-2855221316485411262008-09-23T10:19:00.000-07:002008-09-23T12:19:44.842-07:00Understanding the ImpactIt's a challenge to get a grasp on what's going on between Washington and New York, and how it is affecting our markets. Still more difficult is the task of predicting and tracking what works. I came across three articles on <a href="http://www.inman.com/">Inman News</a> today that made it to my del.icio.us list (see sidebar) because they improved my understanding of the current situation.<br /><br />First this article on the <a class="" title="Fannie-Freddie Rescue" href="http://www.inman.com/news/2008/09/22/fannie-freddie-rescue-averted-collapse" target="_blank" mce_href="http://www.inman.com/news/2008/09/22/fannie-freddie-rescue-averted-collapse">Fannie-Freddie Rescue</a>. Debate it all you'd like, this action was essential.<br /><br />Next, an analysis of the debate surrounding the proposed <a class="" title="Treasury Buy Up of Bad Loans" href="http://www.inman.com/news/2008/09/22/700-billion-question-fate-bad-loans" target="_blank" mce_href="http://www.inman.com/news/2008/09/22/700-billion-question-fate-bad-loans">Treasury buy up of bad loans</a>, including some speculation of what it could be, and how the program and the properties might be managed.<br /><br />Third, <a class="" title="Federal Actions lead to housing hesitation" href="http://www.inman.com/news/2008/09/23/federal-actions-lead-housing-hesitation" target="_blank" mce_href="http://www.inman.com/news/2008/09/23/federal-actions-lead-housing-hesitation">Federal actions lead to housing hesitation</a> takes a look a what impact all of this is having on buyers right now.<br /><br />It seems for a long time, we've had every bit of good news stifled by a share of bad news or drama, supporting an atmosphere of uncertainty that has kept some buyers on the fence. I am hopeful that these bold moves will help to break up this hesitancy and move us out of deadlock. There are incredible values available in our markets, and likely in many others as well. <br /><br />The buyers I'm working with are making great deals, and I believe will be some of the biggest winners when the market regains its footing... WHICH IT WILL DO! Those that act soon will take advantage as well. Those who wait until the market rebounds will pay higher prices, but still do well. So long as buyers are making wise financial decisions, based on need, and recognize they are making a long term investment, this <strong>is</strong> a good time to buy.Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-33980524986474457192008-09-18T08:25:00.001-07:002008-09-18T08:25:34.438-07:00MAR ConventionI'm currently at the Michigan Association of REALTORS Convention and Expo in Detroit.<p>Meetings opened last night with the REALTOR of the Year announcement. Congratulations to Joe Bayai! We were also proud of the nominee from the Traverse Area Association of REALTORS nominee, Peter Read.<p>I missed part of the Keynote speach to handle some business (good news!) and then visited the trade show before going to dinner.<p>This morning started with the RPAC breakfast and an address from Senator Mike Bishop. The Senator thanked us and encouraged us to stay involved, including contacting our senators and representative.<p>Then on to classes...I'm focusing on tech this morning, and thinking that podcasts might be a valuable means of communication with our mrmbers.<p>I've also gotten a glimpse of the behind the scenes power held in Google. Almost too much information, and I'm ready for a break and lunch.<p>Very cool that this event will be coming to Traverse City next year!Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-23423731392002232142008-09-10T11:44:00.001-07:002008-09-10T11:44:21.665-07:00Second SeasonIt appears the second season is upon us. I spent 30 minutes in Backcast Fly Shop yesterday. It wasn't my intention to spend that long, nor was I planning a leisurely browse of the store. I actually was hurrying, but wanted to buy this years hunting licenses.<br>What I found when I walked inside was a lengthy line at the register and more people lookinh through the wares.<br>There were three fly fishermen lamenting over the latest version of their favorite reel, which it seems isn't as durable as the model it replaced. One was having his reel replaced and re-wound with fresh line.<br>Another young man was looking for patching material for his waders, and I offered a suggestion based on my own battles with leaky boots. He later asked me where he might buy new waders locally. Others were selecting various bits of tackle.<br>All this at 4:30 pm on a Tuesday in September! This is a great indication that our heathy fisheries are of great value to our region.<br>I was pleased to see that folks were still travelling to our area to take advantage of our resources, and contributing to our economy while they were here!<p>Posted while mobileMatthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-71085029008981333552008-08-22T13:53:00.000-07:002008-08-25T08:37:25.245-07:00Local Business featured on The Food NetworkI just received an email from the <a href="http://www.benzie.org/">Benzie County Chamber of Commerce</a> announcing that Graceland Fruit will be featured in the television series “How’d That Get On My Plate?” on <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/">The Food Network</a>. The Episode is scheduled to air this coming Monday August 25th at 8:30 p.m.<br /><br />It's not the first time The Food Network has turned their focus to our area. They've featured foods from <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/show_fi/episode/0,1976,FOOD_9962_32297,00.html">Northern Michigan in Food Finds</a>, and our cherries are mentioned in several recipes.Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-50391805496184645052008-07-16T10:46:00.000-07:002008-07-16T11:27:38.377-07:00Pearl Lake<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0yQnjA7PnB7pj5AwnpM0E1K0dJRBjjZGP8UZ14CkwHXPB_hjpDw_K8anc-A-zwHu4Gg-WbNZ1ZRsetoB0ldYYCLC3yXQTlQ5xeeKg3jPKvOPUa106veV2_6S3bw2BMw_PYeMmqgmqHo/s1600-h/MVC-009S.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5223677475167399794" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 221px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 161px" height="203" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip0yQnjA7PnB7pj5AwnpM0E1K0dJRBjjZGP8UZ14CkwHXPB_hjpDw_K8anc-A-zwHu4Gg-WbNZ1ZRsetoB0ldYYCLC3yXQTlQ5xeeKg3jPKvOPUa106veV2_6S3bw2BMw_PYeMmqgmqHo/s320/MVC-009S.JPG" width="298" border="0" /></a><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div><br /><div>I’ve been thinking about one of my listings, a lot on Pearl Lake. Pearl Lake is unique in a number of ways. First off, it’s located just south of the Benzie-Leelanau County line, with thousands of acres of state land in the Pere Marquette State Forest wrapping around its western and southern sides. There’s not a major road that takes you close enough to get a good look at the lake, and actually there’s only one paved road that will get you anywhere close to it, that being Pearl Lake Road. Yet it’s a big lake- 800+ acres, with a bunch of arms stretching in different directions.<br /><br />The isolation and size are a couple of things that make it rare. I think it’s fair to say it’s the largest “natural” type lake in Benzie County- one of the ten biggest, I’d say, and the undiscovered for the most part. There are homes and lots along the north edge, but not much else. You can find whole arms of the lake that are untouched by human progress. Taking a look at the <a href="http://terraserver-usa.com/image.aspx?T=2&S=12&X=732&Y=6196&Z=16&W=2">Topo Map</a> or <a href="http://terraserver-usa.com/image.aspx?T=1&S=12&X=732&Y=6196&Z=16&W=2">Aerial Photo</a> from Terraserver gives you an idea of the interesting layout.<br /><br />I first discovered Pearl Lake about 14 years ago, thanks to a friend from High School. We'd been camping nearby at Lime Lake, and he suggested we go fishing on Pearl Lake. He was somewhat astonished that I didn't know where it was, and I was a bit embarrassed when he explained it was less than a half mile away. The hills and forests that surround the lake do a heck of a job at hiding it until you're right upon it. Anyhow, we fished for bass and pike, and I enjoyed it so much that I went out with another freind and his girlfriend the next day. As I recall, she outfished the guys, but by then I was more interested in exploring all the coves and bays than fishing anyhow.<br /><br />College took me away for a while, and it was at least 5 years before I got back to Pearl. This time I was in search of Canada Geese during the fall hunting season. It must have been early in the season, as I recall it was warm. I also recall that my hunting mate forgot his paddle, and we made it to out hunting grounds using a flattish stick and an old board. I don't however, recall the geese cooperating that day.<br /><br />While there isn't much out there regarding the lake, there are some photos on <a href="http://www.flickr.com/search/groups/?q=pearl%20lake&w=317730%40N24&m=pool">Flickr</a>, and I've read an article from the Traverse City Record Eagle about the lake. Unfortunately, I haven't been able to track that article down in their online archives, but will post that when I do. The writer, Mike Terrell, recounts an evening of kayaking on the lake, and notes seeing loons, eagles, Canada geese, sand hill cranes, deer, and many songbirds. I do have a rather poor scan of the article in pdf format, which I'll be happy to email to anyone interested.<br /><br />One thing I love about this job is the reflections and memories that properties bring forth. I got started on Pearl Lake because of the <a href="http://www.2cases.com/Pearl%20Lake.htm">lot I have listed</a>- a beautifully wooded lot, on a cove off of one of the arms. The site is perfect for a walkout basement, and the south facing slope means you get to make the most of the suns rays in winter, while being protected from the north winds. It's in Pearl Lake Estates, which provides an association beach in addition to the 126 feet of private lake frontage. The other homes in Pearl Lake Estates are very attractive and nicely done, and there are about 60 acres of common area and an area to have a pole barn for storage. We've just priced this lot at $175,000, which is a real value in my book. It's $124K lower than the next available lot in Pearl Lake Estates, and is $60k cheaper than another that's available nearby in Pearl Lake Land Division. The most recent tax assesment indicates it's worth over $218k! I'm really enthused about this listing, and with luck I'll find time in my schedule to use it as an excuse to explore the lake further...with my fishing pole in hand, of course.</div></div></div></div>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com63tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085644749621003053.post-31315114717285584662008-07-10T05:01:00.000-07:002008-07-10T04:58:00.681-07:00The Fourth in the North<DIV> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">There’s no place in the world that I’d rather celebrate Independence Day than in <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1:place w:st="on">Northern Michigan</st1:place>.<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>From the crowds present this past week, I’d venture to say many others feel the same way.</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p> </o:p></P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">The Fourth of July is one of my favorite holidays, and one that’s rich with tradition. <SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>For nearly every one of my 35 years, the holiday has begun with a family breakfast with aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents at our family homestead known as “The Pines” located just outside of Benzonia, overlooking the site of the old Case Mill Pond on Cold Creek.</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><o:p> </o:p></P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">What’s so great about Independence Day up north?<SPAN style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </SPAN>From morning to night:</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt"><o:p> </o:p></P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Cold dew on your toes </P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Strong coffee in chipped mugs</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Cooking bacon and eggs over a campfire</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">A cinnamon roll from the Cherry Hut</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Taping signs to an old convertible</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Decorating a bike or wagon in red white and blue</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Driving or riding in the Beulah Parade, trying not to miss anyone you know, or</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Watching friends and neighbors from the curb as they roll by, shouting their names when they throw candy.</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">A dip in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:City w:st="on">Crystal Lake</st1:City></st1:place> after the parade</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Dripping dry in the sun</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Pop-its tossed on the sidewalk</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Lunch from a cooler, on a boat, at the sandbar</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Football in the water</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Little ones snoozing with a beach towel for a blanket</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Burgers, brats and hot dogs on the grill</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Cold beer for the grownups, lemonade for the kids</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Lighting the campfire early</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Tubing and waterskiing after dinner</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Smores</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Daylight lasts forever</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Lighting sparklers while you wait for the fireworks</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Watching boats come down the lake to see the show</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Singing God Bless <st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region> to yourself or out loud</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Bright reflections on smooth dark water</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Snuggling together with your eyes to the sky</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Cheering for the grand finale</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Finding out it wasn’t the finale after all</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Horns tooting their appreciation</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Motors starting, green and red lights on the water as the boats make their way home</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Kids sleeping on parents laps</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Finding the big dipper</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Catching fireflies</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Seeing a shooting star</P> <P class=MsoNormal style="MARGIN: 0in 0in 0pt">Going to bed sandy, smoky and sunburned, proud to be an American and thankful for all that you have.</P></DIV>Matthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15915971232211674736noreply@blogger.com0