How many of your past clients are you still in contact with? Do you have a relationship with them? Do you call them to say hello, happy birthday, congratulations? Why not? This is your bread and butter and cream of the crop for business building.
Creating a system to keep in contact with your past clients you can plant seeds of suggestions. By keeping touch with them you need to let them know how much you appreciate their business and for referring their family, friends and co-workers to you. After all, they have already done business with you, so they know how detailed oriented you are and really worked hard for them in achieving their dreams.
If you are not staying in touch with your past clients, now is the time to start. Send them a card or call them. Explain to them it was a genuine honor to work with them and that it is important to you that you have satisfied clients. Ask them if there is anything they need or you can do for them. Offer a free home value analysis or to meet with them to evaluate their real estate portfolio, which means determine if they are in a position to buy or sell. You could even talk to them about maybe considering a re-fi since the interests rates are low. This could save them hundreds of dollars a month if they are paying high interest rates.
When you take the time to stay in touch with your past clients, you are planting the seed. It also gives them the confidence in referring you to others and brings them back to you when they are ready to buy or sell.
Planting the seeds of suggestions is just that - a subtle reference to the idea of referral, especially with non-business contacts. Use a "By the way..." indirect approach to avoid appearing pushy or desperate. By implementing this technique not only helps develop contacts from friendships, but friendships from contacts.
Take a few minutes to write down how you will indirectly mention that your business is built on referrals. Then start planting the seed.
Need help in this area of your business? Contact me so we can discuss how your system should be created so you can start building your referrals.
Showing posts with label kim hughes real estate virtual assistant. Show all posts
Showing posts with label kim hughes real estate virtual assistant. Show all posts
Sunday, May 26, 2013
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
How to…Vyoo.it – Real Estate Listings Go Mobile
We all know how the iPhone and other mobile computing devices have changed the way we use the Internet. Did you know that Web (HTML) traffic visible through a browser is now only a quarter of all Internet traffic? That’s half of what it was ten years ago. The app rules, and we have the latest cool find in real estate apps.
If you’ve tried to read real estate listings on the Web with your mobile device, you know how hard it is to view on a small screen. Enter Vyoo.it, a new mobile marketing app that is designed to give you online listings via the mobile Web.
Your buyers are mobile. You want them to be able to get all the information they could possibly need on your property on the spot. The Vyoo.it app optimizes listing information, Web sites and virtual tours for a four inch screen. It can optimize any exiting listing and give it mobile ready landing page.
Vyoo.it also provides a short link and a QR code (a two-dimensional bar code) that you can post on Facebook, Twitter and other social media accounts with just a couple of clicks.
And the best part – it’s free. Expect to pay for advanced features down the road, but the standard app is free for now. Upcoming features include customized URLs and traffic analytics –be prepared to pay for those upgrades.
Vyoo.it uses Facebook’s single sign-on to register and log in. From there, all you have to do is provide a valid property address, a link to the online listing and some basic property information. Vyoo.it does the rest. Vyoo.it works best for iPhone and Android devices and they are creating optimized versions for Blackberry, Nokia and other smartphones.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Build Your Campaign with Traffic in Mind – Try Google Analytics URL Builder
We all want to drive traffic to our Web sites, and search engine ranking and indexing has become an important part of our marketing efforts. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and SEM (Search Engine Marketing) are hot topics, with keywords, meta tags, description lines part of our daily marketing vocabulary. We also want to track traffic, and many of us are use site analytics tools to determine where the Internet traffic goes to and where it comes from.
In making your site friendlier to organic (not paid) search results, don’t forget to improve the structure of the site URLs. We think carefully about the primary site URL and pay to procure domain names for our sites. But the URLs within the site are important too – each page has a unique one, and Google offers opportunities for you to better organize your site and make it easier for Internet ‘robots’ and ‘spiders’ to crawl the pages. In particular, Google has a great tool to help you manage promotional campaigns through Google Analytics URL Builder. You have to be a current user of Google Analytics to use the tool.
The free URL builder uses a simple online form to help you create and track URLs for the landing pages of your latest marketing campaign. Just enter in the primary URL (domain name) of your site and follow the easy steps on the form. Be clear and specific on each descriptive title you add to the builder – Google uses these titles to help you identify the traffic once the campaign is launched.
When you’ve completed each field, just click on the “Generate URL” button and the tool will create a tracking URL that you will use as the page link for the banner ads specific to this campaign.
To measure the traffic results of your campaign, log into Google Analytics and click on “Traffic Sources,” followed by “Campaigns.” Google then displays your traffic by each marketing campaign.
As with most things Google, we love that it’s free, simple and highly effective!
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Heard About SikkU? Check Out This Mobile Information Tool for Home Buying…
SikkU is a home buying/selling information tool that brings together mobile devices, online search and social networks for buyers, sellers and other real estate and mortgage professionals.
Here are just a few of its great features:
• Free to join
• Access to live real estate data.
• Check prices and other home information with your mobile device
• Get real estate information and listings
• Listings are complete: price, square footage, rooms/baths amenities and more.
• Change your search location to search other areas in the country
• Share your favorites and ideas with your family and your realtor
• Get real-time alerts for listings that match your criteria
SikkU also provides a dashboard tool that lets you customize your own personal tracker. The registration process is fast and simple – you can sign up in seconds. SikkU offers an SMS text service that sends info to mobile phones in seconds, 24x7 (where there is wireless coverage). With basic text keywords, users can search local homes for sale, request property information, get home values, property details and payment amounts. If you have a smartphone, you can use your Web browser to get instant information.
You can access SikkU’s home shopping tools from your home or office computers, from your mobile phone through SMS Text or through your mobile Web browser. The tools not only give you instant data and dashboard reporting, but they also work together to create a unique social networking site for the home buying and selling community. Check it out today at www.sikku.com.
Wednesday, May 05, 2010
Broker Brain
Broker Brain software was developed by brokers, for brokers with great tools and features that help you manage your REO business from A-Z! Here are just a few of the asset management tools you get with Broker Brain:
• Secure access from any location
• Daily task lists
• Auto generated forms
• Full Online Document Storage
• Photo Storage with Auto Resizing
• Mapping Integration
• Advanced reporting tools
• Consolidated property information
• Real-time property information to prospective buyers
• Public Web site
Broker Brain also offers great support – comprehensive online documentation, free Web-based support, fee-based (per incident) phone support and onsite training. Broker Brain also provides options for importing your property data into the system.
Pricing is based on the size of your portfolio, and starts at $145 per month for up to 50 properties. Whether you are an individual, small brokerage house or large management company, Broker Brain has tiered pricing model that fits your business. Also check out the 30 day risk free trial – no obligation and no setup fees.
This module based software set offers a wide range of services for the REO broker – everything from HOA and multi-market support to tracking expenses. Broker Brain encrypts all data traffic so that your sensitive information is secure. The service also uses multiple hosting servers and provides regular back-ups by location. Don’t rack your brain over REO complexities – see if the folks at Broker Brain can put your mind at ease.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
The IRS Posts Ten Facts about the First-Time Homebuyer Credit
If you are an agent or maybe a first-time homebuyer you might be interested in what the IRS has to say about the 2009 Tax Credit. This article is from the IRS newsletter and could answer a lot of questions for you or your client.
Many taxpayers who purchase a home this year will qualify for an $8,000 federal tax credit. The refundable first-time homebuyer credit is a major tax provision in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. But time is running out to qualify for this credit.
Here are ten things the IRS wants you to know about the first-time homebuyer credit:
1.To be considered a first-time homebuyer, you – and your spouse if you are married – must not have jointly or separately owned another principal residence during the three years prior to the date of purchase.
2.You cannot claim the credit before there is a completed sale and purchase of the residence. The sale and purchase are generally completed at the time of closing on the purchase.
3.To qualify for the credit, the completed purchase must occur before December 1, 2009.
4.The home must be located in the United States.
5.The credit is either 10 percent of the purchase price of the home or $8,000, whichever is less.
6.The amount of the credit begins to phase out for taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income is more than $75,000 or $150,000 for joint filers.
7.The credit is fully refundable. A homebuyer with no taxable income, who qualifies for the credit, may file for the sole purpose of claiming the credit and receive a refund. The credit will be paid out to eligible taxpayers, even if they owe no tax or the credit is more than the tax owed.
8.The credit is claimed on IRS Form 5405, First-Time Homebuyers Credit.
9.Taxpayers can claim the credit for a qualified 2009 purchase on either their 2008 or 2009 tax return. For those who have filed a 2008 return, a Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return can be filed in order to get a refund in 2009.
10.The credit for qualified 2009 purchases does not have to be repaid, as long as the home remains your main home for 36 months after the purchase date.
Qualified taxpayers who have been considering a main home purchase may find extra incentive from this tax credit to buy now so they can complete the purchase before the December 1 deadline.
For more information on this and other key tax provisions of the Recovery Act visit the official IRS Website at IRS.gov/Recovery.
Links:
• First-Time Homebuyer Credit
• YouTube Video - First-Time Homebuyer:
• Audio File for Podcast - First-Time Homebuyer Credit 2009
• The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009: Information Center
• Form 5405, First-Time Homebuyer Credit (PDF)
• Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return (PDF)
Many taxpayers who purchase a home this year will qualify for an $8,000 federal tax credit. The refundable first-time homebuyer credit is a major tax provision in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. But time is running out to qualify for this credit.
Here are ten things the IRS wants you to know about the first-time homebuyer credit:
1.To be considered a first-time homebuyer, you – and your spouse if you are married – must not have jointly or separately owned another principal residence during the three years prior to the date of purchase.
2.You cannot claim the credit before there is a completed sale and purchase of the residence. The sale and purchase are generally completed at the time of closing on the purchase.
3.To qualify for the credit, the completed purchase must occur before December 1, 2009.
4.The home must be located in the United States.
5.The credit is either 10 percent of the purchase price of the home or $8,000, whichever is less.
6.The amount of the credit begins to phase out for taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income is more than $75,000 or $150,000 for joint filers.
7.The credit is fully refundable. A homebuyer with no taxable income, who qualifies for the credit, may file for the sole purpose of claiming the credit and receive a refund. The credit will be paid out to eligible taxpayers, even if they owe no tax or the credit is more than the tax owed.
8.The credit is claimed on IRS Form 5405, First-Time Homebuyers Credit.
9.Taxpayers can claim the credit for a qualified 2009 purchase on either their 2008 or 2009 tax return. For those who have filed a 2008 return, a Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return can be filed in order to get a refund in 2009.
10.The credit for qualified 2009 purchases does not have to be repaid, as long as the home remains your main home for 36 months after the purchase date.
Qualified taxpayers who have been considering a main home purchase may find extra incentive from this tax credit to buy now so they can complete the purchase before the December 1 deadline.
For more information on this and other key tax provisions of the Recovery Act visit the official IRS Website at IRS.gov/Recovery.
Links:
• First-Time Homebuyer Credit
• YouTube Video - First-Time Homebuyer:
• Audio File for Podcast - First-Time Homebuyer Credit 2009
• The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009: Information Center
• Form 5405, First-Time Homebuyer Credit (PDF)
• Form 1040X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return (PDF)
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Social Network Marketing for Real Estate Agents
Daily I am reading about new opinions, tricks and new applications with social networking. Sometimes I think "this is consuming my life" - But, really it is the best marketing you can do for yourself and your business, if you do effectively.
Because I work with so many real estate agents across the country in building their social networking presence I find real estate has its own social networking niche. What works for other businesses or industries is not necessarily the case with real estate.
You need to constantly work on re-crafting your talent and message to your target audience. Your audience already knows you help buyers and sellers with their real estate needs, so get creative in keeping them focused on you because you don't necessarily focus on your real estate marketing, but focus on local charities that need attention, local events, local issues. Ask yourself - Why would the local community connect with you? Yes, you should throw some real estate in there on occasion, but you will receive more positive exposure by focusing on what your audience is craving. Be unique and supportive. Get to know your audience and engage with them.
Believe me - this has a bigger impact and makes your audience want to see what is next or rely on you to have the information about what is happening in the local area.
As for who your audience is. You need to focus on your community. Sure connect with other agents (Keep them private, if you can) and learn from their posts and hopefully build a great network for referrals, but engage your neighbors, local businesses, etc.
I made this suggestion to a client and we re-focused and he even went as far as hosting a social networking event to help his community to involved in social networking. This was unique and a big-big hit!
Another client hosted a church networking event and again - huge hit.
I discovered the principal of our high school was following me on Twitter. I told him I would be happy to build a background page for the high school. He was very appreciative. After I created the background I would get stopped at events by people saying they saw the page. I thought to myself "WOW! Word sure gets around!" So, remember people talk and share information, so do something that gives your community something to talk about and WANT to connect with you.
Social Networking is about socializing. You have a wonderful opportunity to offer so much more than just real estate, but make them remember you when it comes to their real estate needs.
Tip - You might want to have two Twitter accounts - one for real estate connections and the other for your local community. I have two and it is amazing how well this works.
If you are attending the 2009 STAR POWER Annual Conference look for me and let's see how I can help you make this social network marketing concept will work to your advantage.
Because I work with so many real estate agents across the country in building their social networking presence I find real estate has its own social networking niche. What works for other businesses or industries is not necessarily the case with real estate.
You need to constantly work on re-crafting your talent and message to your target audience. Your audience already knows you help buyers and sellers with their real estate needs, so get creative in keeping them focused on you because you don't necessarily focus on your real estate marketing, but focus on local charities that need attention, local events, local issues. Ask yourself - Why would the local community connect with you? Yes, you should throw some real estate in there on occasion, but you will receive more positive exposure by focusing on what your audience is craving. Be unique and supportive. Get to know your audience and engage with them.
Believe me - this has a bigger impact and makes your audience want to see what is next or rely on you to have the information about what is happening in the local area.
As for who your audience is. You need to focus on your community. Sure connect with other agents (Keep them private, if you can) and learn from their posts and hopefully build a great network for referrals, but engage your neighbors, local businesses, etc.
I made this suggestion to a client and we re-focused and he even went as far as hosting a social networking event to help his community to involved in social networking. This was unique and a big-big hit!
Another client hosted a church networking event and again - huge hit.
I discovered the principal of our high school was following me on Twitter. I told him I would be happy to build a background page for the high school. He was very appreciative. After I created the background I would get stopped at events by people saying they saw the page. I thought to myself "WOW! Word sure gets around!" So, remember people talk and share information, so do something that gives your community something to talk about and WANT to connect with you.
Social Networking is about socializing. You have a wonderful opportunity to offer so much more than just real estate, but make them remember you when it comes to their real estate needs.
Tip - You might want to have two Twitter accounts - one for real estate connections and the other for your local community. I have two and it is amazing how well this works.
If you are attending the 2009 STAR POWER Annual Conference look for me and let's see how I can help you make this social network marketing concept will work to your advantage.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
5 Tips to Teaming with a Real Estate Virtual Assistant
You love the idea of finding a virtual assistant who specializes in real estate, but you are just not sure where to begin finding the right one for you.
Over the years I have found that any real estate agent, real estate coach or the entrepreneur wants is to have someone to assist them in organizing, maintaining and creatively assisting in building their business with them. Someone who will have an interest your success. One thing about a virtual assistant is they are a business owner and they are successful only when their clients are successful.
So, when you are ready to find the right real estate virtual assistant to assist you keep these 5 tips in mind.
1. Decide what you need a virtual assistant to help you with. What skills and abilities do you want your VA to have? What projects/tasks do you want to delegate to them? Do they have the knowledge and experience you need? Visit their websites, view client testimonials, view the services they offer and get to know them through their profile.
2. Jack-of-all-trades. Although VAs primarily offer administrative support, many are now specializing in specific industries/niches. If you’re looking for someone who offers listing coordination, lead management, website assistance, copywriting, blogging, marketing, social networking and/or transaction management look for a VA that specializes in these areas. Most real estate virtual assistants offer these unique real estate services, but it is important that they have the knowledge and experience.
3. Cheaper isn’t always better. Even though you are on a budget that does not mean to find the VA who has the lowest fees. I know it is tempting, but in the long run it could cost you more. Why… if a VA is charging less than the average rate, think about how many clients are they going to contract with before the break even in their business. The last thing you want to do is not have the deadlines met, too busy to call you and give you personal attention, mistakes because they are rushing. This will leave you with a bad experience. Remember, you get what you pay for and in most cases the higher the fee the more experience the VA will have and in the long run will save you money.
4. Virtual Assistants are Business Owners. The virtual assistant is a business owner and should run their business like a business. They may work all hours of the day and night, but they have a business and should run their business like any other successful business. Virtual assistants are organized professionals and they have systems in place to ensure their business runs smoothly so they can take care of their clients. When contacting a VA keep this in mind. This is to your advantage. They have a process of scheduling appointments for client consultations and will offer to try to meet your timeline, but may not always be able to, so work together on this. They are giving you their time for free to consult with you and to discuss your specific needs. Each client is different and will require at least an hour to determine if there is a good fit to work together, making sure they can accommodate your needs, etc. You should never work with a VA until you have spoken to them and confirmed they can handle your tasks and projects. This is the most important part of the process when working with a VA and if the VA determines they cannot meet your needs they will be happy to recommend someone who can. Everyone wants to have a positive experience and it is important to remember that the VA has your best interest.
5. Sign the dotted line. Once you and the VA decide to move forward with your working relationship they will send you an agreement, which you will be required to sign. Make sure to read it. It is important to know and agree to exactly what is expected of each other. The agreement will include information about the fees, terms & conditions etc.
And remember to schedule weekly, bi-weekly or monthly conference calls to stay on target and comfortable with the relationship.
Having a real estate virtual assistant on your team is a great asset and the return on investment in priceless. They can help you to become more organized, help you focus on what is important and allowing you to have the time you need for your business or personal life.
Your Virtual Assistant will help you plan, strategize and achieve the goals you have set for yourself. And if you have worked with a virtual assistant and had a bad experience don’t let that leave a bad taste in your mouth. Find another one. I guarantee if you work together and communicate the possibilities are endless.
Over the years I have found that any real estate agent, real estate coach or the entrepreneur wants is to have someone to assist them in organizing, maintaining and creatively assisting in building their business with them. Someone who will have an interest your success. One thing about a virtual assistant is they are a business owner and they are successful only when their clients are successful.
So, when you are ready to find the right real estate virtual assistant to assist you keep these 5 tips in mind.
1. Decide what you need a virtual assistant to help you with. What skills and abilities do you want your VA to have? What projects/tasks do you want to delegate to them? Do they have the knowledge and experience you need? Visit their websites, view client testimonials, view the services they offer and get to know them through their profile.
2. Jack-of-all-trades. Although VAs primarily offer administrative support, many are now specializing in specific industries/niches. If you’re looking for someone who offers listing coordination, lead management, website assistance, copywriting, blogging, marketing, social networking and/or transaction management look for a VA that specializes in these areas. Most real estate virtual assistants offer these unique real estate services, but it is important that they have the knowledge and experience.
3. Cheaper isn’t always better. Even though you are on a budget that does not mean to find the VA who has the lowest fees. I know it is tempting, but in the long run it could cost you more. Why… if a VA is charging less than the average rate, think about how many clients are they going to contract with before the break even in their business. The last thing you want to do is not have the deadlines met, too busy to call you and give you personal attention, mistakes because they are rushing. This will leave you with a bad experience. Remember, you get what you pay for and in most cases the higher the fee the more experience the VA will have and in the long run will save you money.
4. Virtual Assistants are Business Owners. The virtual assistant is a business owner and should run their business like a business. They may work all hours of the day and night, but they have a business and should run their business like any other successful business. Virtual assistants are organized professionals and they have systems in place to ensure their business runs smoothly so they can take care of their clients. When contacting a VA keep this in mind. This is to your advantage. They have a process of scheduling appointments for client consultations and will offer to try to meet your timeline, but may not always be able to, so work together on this. They are giving you their time for free to consult with you and to discuss your specific needs. Each client is different and will require at least an hour to determine if there is a good fit to work together, making sure they can accommodate your needs, etc. You should never work with a VA until you have spoken to them and confirmed they can handle your tasks and projects. This is the most important part of the process when working with a VA and if the VA determines they cannot meet your needs they will be happy to recommend someone who can. Everyone wants to have a positive experience and it is important to remember that the VA has your best interest.
5. Sign the dotted line. Once you and the VA decide to move forward with your working relationship they will send you an agreement, which you will be required to sign. Make sure to read it. It is important to know and agree to exactly what is expected of each other. The agreement will include information about the fees, terms & conditions etc.
And remember to schedule weekly, bi-weekly or monthly conference calls to stay on target and comfortable with the relationship.
Having a real estate virtual assistant on your team is a great asset and the return on investment in priceless. They can help you to become more organized, help you focus on what is important and allowing you to have the time you need for your business or personal life.
Your Virtual Assistant will help you plan, strategize and achieve the goals you have set for yourself. And if you have worked with a virtual assistant and had a bad experience don’t let that leave a bad taste in your mouth. Find another one. I guarantee if you work together and communicate the possibilities are endless.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Social Networking - Where You Need To Be NOW
All the buzz among today's conversations is social networking. Are you constantly being asked "What is your Twitter profile?, What is the link to your Facebook profile? Are you on LinkedIn?" You might answer yes to all these questions, but deep down thinking "I don't have a clue."
Everywhere you turn you are seeing the new term "Social Marketing Expert", but is anyone really an expert? The Social Networking phenomena is just now catching on and those like me who have been at it for months I suppose can be called the experts, but the question you should be asking is "What makes you a Social Marketing Expert?" "What can you do to help me get to the next level?"
The first thing you need to understand is by just setting up an account and a creating a profile does not do all that much for you. Sure, your on the network, but unless you really get involved it does not all that much for you in the way of search engine optimization, exposure, etc.
This is where you need someone that understands how to work each network for you and your business.
As a virtual assistant specializing in real estate assistance I have seen this new way of marketing work, but only if it is done correctly. It can be a very time consuming task if you don't know what you are doing, so you have to research each network to see how it will benefit you and what steps you should take to make that happen.
Because I am a virtual assistant my job is to stay on the leading edge of technology. As part of my services I offer today's business owner the help they need in setting up their social marketing action plan and making sure it is implemented to benefit you and the industry you work with.
If I may plug my services here - I think it is vital to your business to get on board with social networking even if you don't "get it" just yet. This is where I will help you and save you the trouble learning what I already know. Save time by having Kim Hughes & Company put in the forefront with your peers, industry leaders, clients, and more.
You can view my profiles on each one of the social networks in the left column to see I do know what I am doing and I do know how to help you.
So, get on the social networks today! My in-depth action plan is one that I have spent hours putting together and it is exclusively for my clients and know that your return on investment is unbelievable.
Everywhere you turn you are seeing the new term "Social Marketing Expert", but is anyone really an expert? The Social Networking phenomena is just now catching on and those like me who have been at it for months I suppose can be called the experts, but the question you should be asking is "What makes you a Social Marketing Expert?" "What can you do to help me get to the next level?"
The first thing you need to understand is by just setting up an account and a creating a profile does not do all that much for you. Sure, your on the network, but unless you really get involved it does not all that much for you in the way of search engine optimization, exposure, etc.
This is where you need someone that understands how to work each network for you and your business.
As a virtual assistant specializing in real estate assistance I have seen this new way of marketing work, but only if it is done correctly. It can be a very time consuming task if you don't know what you are doing, so you have to research each network to see how it will benefit you and what steps you should take to make that happen.
Because I am a virtual assistant my job is to stay on the leading edge of technology. As part of my services I offer today's business owner the help they need in setting up their social marketing action plan and making sure it is implemented to benefit you and the industry you work with.
If I may plug my services here - I think it is vital to your business to get on board with social networking even if you don't "get it" just yet. This is where I will help you and save you the trouble learning what I already know. Save time by having Kim Hughes & Company put in the forefront with your peers, industry leaders, clients, and more.
You can view my profiles on each one of the social networks in the left column to see I do know what I am doing and I do know how to help you.
So, get on the social networks today! My in-depth action plan is one that I have spent hours putting together and it is exclusively for my clients and know that your return on investment is unbelievable.
Friday, February 06, 2009
Feedburner Moving to Google
If you have not heard, Google has acquired
FeedBurner. In order to maintain your feeds you will need to move your FeedBurner account over to Google no later than February 29, 2009.
If you are wondering why do I need to do this take a minute to visit the FAQs Transferring FeedBurner Accounts to Google Accounts FAQ.
If you a
lready have a Google Account, then you would use that username to make the transfer, if you don't have an account with Google you can open one by visiting Google.Once you move your feeds your old FeedBurner feeds with automatically redirect traffic to the new address.
This is a very quick and painless tasks, but if you are not sure what to do ask your virtual assistant to assist you with this very important tasks. Just another way your virtual assistant can help you with your everyday business.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
10 Things to ask when Getting a Mortgage Loan
As a member of several groups across various social networks it is my responsibility as a real estate virtual assistant to know what is going on the the real estate industry. I came across this article today and though this would be something of value to my readers. Let me know what you think.
We know that buying a home is a big and important decision. Selecting a good Loan Officer is a key part of your financial success. You will find our way of finding a good Loan Officer may be different from other blogs or postings. I am seeing quite a few blogs or posts that are saying the same thing and I find the questions do not really pertain to finding a good Loan Officer. Also, I find it interesting to learn that a company is selling the data.
What we have below did not come from any source that we paid for but comes from the heart and after being in the industry for a long time. At LendingLadies.com, we find character and experience plays a large part in finding a good Loan Officer. Therefore our questions are based upon that. If someone is a smart and truly caring person, they will end up being a good Loan Officer. It does not mean that everyone will agree with us, but some of you will. Please see our suggested list of questions to ask below. As always, LendingLadies.com encourages you to ask us the questions below.
Please pass this along to anyone who will be obtaining a loan in the future.
- Do you guarantee your fees on a Good Faith Estimate? (This is important. You do not want to work with someone who will last minute add an additional charge. Please do get this in writing)
- Have you won any national or local awards? ( If someone is good, they will be recognized)
- Do you volunteer in the community? (We suggest you also ask in more detail. If a Loan Officer is a truly caring person, it will show in their efforts in the community. If they care about their community, they will care about finding you your best home loan. You do not want to work with one who only helps a few hours a year but does so on a monthly basis)
- Do you have any references or testimonials? (A good Loan Officer will have these available)
- How long have you been doing this? (You want to ask this since experience does pay)
- What makes you different from the other Loan Officers? ( It is good to learn their own perspective on how they perceive themselves)
- Do you prefer a fixed mortgage or an adjustable? Why do you choose so? (Write down what they say and really think about their answer)
- Can you shop several different banks local or non local, or do you close loans for one bank? (You do not want to work with someone who is limited on their products or rates. You want to work with someone who can shop different financial institutions and find the best loan for you)
- Do you have any specials? (You just never know what they may have going on that they would not tell you without you asking)
- Are you willing to speak to my accountant or financial advisor to insure I will receive the best home loan? (You want to look for someone who is willing to work with your team of experts)
Written by Jessica Peterson with Lending Ladies.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Change The Way You Think in 2009
Well, here we are moving into a New Year! I am thrilled to leave 2008 behind, but take the experiences of 2008 with me. On the eve of the New Year I always look at the good and the bad that I experienced in the previous year, feel the experience again and then decide what I take with me that will improve my life into the new year. 2008 is no exception. I had some crazy things happen - as the movie is called "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly". Can't we all relate to the title? We all have experiences in life, but which one's are you going to take with you in to the new year. Make sure you take the positive experiences with you, but remember the not so positive one's - these will keep you grounded.
So, this morning I am reading Chris Brogan's blog and thought is was great, so take a minute to visit what he has to say about going into 2009. Then take a minute to reflect.
One thing I know I will take from 2008 with me into 2009 and that is the friendships I made, my clients appreciation, the knowledge and the ideas that I generated that will make such an impact on my life.
Wishing you a wonderful new year! Make it count and take time to help others - even if it is just to say hi to a stranger. It is amazing the impact we all can make by just smiling and showing compassion towards one another.
So, this morning I am reading Chris Brogan's blog and thought is was great, so take a minute to visit what he has to say about going into 2009. Then take a minute to reflect.
One thing I know I will take from 2008 with me into 2009 and that is the friendships I made, my clients appreciation, the knowledge and the ideas that I generated that will make such an impact on my life.
Wishing you a wonderful new year! Make it count and take time to help others - even if it is just to say hi to a stranger. It is amazing the impact we all can make by just smiling and showing compassion towards one another.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
ActiveRain Tip - Make It Work For You
If you want to know the #1 benefit of working with a real estate virtual assistant is we are constantly educating ourselves with the daily changes to how the Internet and Technology works. In the 10 years of being a real estate virtual assistant I have built some very solid friendships with REALTORS across country. We chat about what is going on with the real estate markets and by having this relationship with so many I am kept informed of what is going on everywhere.
So, today I am talking with my friend and client Sam Miller in Knox County, Ohio about Social Networking and how it has impacted our business. During this call we are going over some projects for the first quarter of 2009. One of the goals is to make sure his social networking sites are reviewed and updated. This lead to a conversation about Active Rain.
Active Rain has over 126,000 members today and membership continues to grows. As with any program you have to stay educated on what changes/updates are being made.
When viewing ActiveRain blogs have you ever noticed the "View all Real Estate listings in your area" field, which is up in the left corner of the screen, and a field for the consumer to enter their "city". If you have never noticed this go to your blog on Active Rain then look for this field then put in your city. Notice where the link takes you - JustListed.com - all the leads from Active Rain are being passed along to HOUSEVALUES.com participating agents! Why? I have no idea, but thanks to Sam I can show you how to make sure you get the lead.
Here is how to correct this issue:
1. First make sure the home search field does not already point to your IDX. If it doesn’t then follow these instructions:
2. Log into your AR Control Panel, click on Settings, scroll to the bottom of the page and UNCHECK the box that says "Show the Listing Router search box". Then click "Update" to save your changes
3. If you have an IDX system, follow the instructions below to set up the Listing Router Search to utilize YOUR IDX system for the cities in your MLS area. When you go into Listing Router, go down to the second item to set up...."My Markets" to route inquiries to your own IDX search for that town. You will need to add the direct link on your IDX for every town you want included, but at least the result is that those leads will come to YOU! Once that is completed, you can go back into your Settings and re-enable the search box.
4. Make sure to add your "custom link", the very last Settings item. This will appear to the right of your name at the top of your blog. Another way to capture the leads you are generating.
5. Be sure the IDX site you are directing visitors to has a good lead capture system in place. The "Find Homes For Sale" search box will now appear at the top of your screen and will "Float" as visitors scroll through your Blog, your profile, and your individual posts. Searching for property is literally just one click away now."
If you are not a member of ActiveRain, send me an email Kim@KimHughes.com and I will send you an invite.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Real Pro Systems Gold 3
It just keeps getting better and better! If you are a member of the RealPro Systems Family and you have not upgraded your system to Gold3 - now is the time to make the change.
When you make the upgrade you don't have to worry about finding the time or have the knowledge to do this, just ask your real estate virtual assistant to assist you with implementing the new system.
I love Real Pro Systems! As one of the first real estate virtual assistants to use the program with my clients I will say that there are so many success stories with this program that you will just have to call me so I can share them.
Real Estate Virtual Assistants are the solution to working with the RealPro Systems Team. They are so helpful, patient, and fun to talk to. I don't think I have ever called and an answering system picked up - I have always reached a live person. That right there is a huge benefit and the help is immediate.
Because Real Estate Virtual Assistants have many clients using the program we are experienced in setting up your system quickly.
Visit RealPro Systems TODAY! This is the best investment you can make for your business. OH! Tell them Kim Hughes sent you.
When you make the upgrade you don't have to worry about finding the time or have the knowledge to do this, just ask your real estate virtual assistant to assist you with implementing the new system.
I love Real Pro Systems! As one of the first real estate virtual assistants to use the program with my clients I will say that there are so many success stories with this program that you will just have to call me so I can share them.
Real Estate Virtual Assistants are the solution to working with the RealPro Systems Team. They are so helpful, patient, and fun to talk to. I don't think I have ever called and an answering system picked up - I have always reached a live person. That right there is a huge benefit and the help is immediate.
Because Real Estate Virtual Assistants have many clients using the program we are experienced in setting up your system quickly.
Visit RealPro Systems TODAY! This is the best investment you can make for your business. OH! Tell them Kim Hughes sent you.
Monday, December 15, 2008
The Law of Attraction for Real Estate Professionals
I just read the below article in Dr. Maya Bailey's Real Town Articles - I think it is worth sharing.
Did you know that your thoughts and intentions play a big part in your success? Not only that, but what you choose to focus on determines what you'll attract?
This article describes the Law of Attraction and why it's so important to master this Law. By learning how to implement the Law of Attraction you'll be able to create your Ideal Income.
The 5 steps:
Step 1: Get clear on what you don't want.
It sounds strange doesn't it to focus on what you don't want? However, that's what most of us do all the time, unconsciously.
In my 30 years of empowering people to reach their goals, I have discovered that most people are focusing on what they don't want . So, for example, if they have a pile of bills, they'll focus on their pile of bills and their lack of money. What do they get? More of what they are focusing on.
In my 30 years of empowering people to reach their goals, I have discovered that most people are focusing on what they don't want . So, for example, if they have a pile of bills, they'll focus on their pile of bills and their lack of money. What do they get? More of what they are focusing on.
Step 2: Get clear on what you do want.
For everything that you don't want, ask yourself, "So what do I want?" By doing that, you are sending signals to your conscious and subconscious mind to bring you more of what you do want. If money is your concern and there is a big contrast between the money you have and the money you want, put your focus on the money you want.
Step 3: Create your desire statement.
So after you begin focusing on what you do want, write a paragraph describing what you desire. If it's about money, then write out a Desire statement describing you Ideal Money Situation, as if it were happening right now. For example, "I now have an abundance of prosperity. Every month there is more coming in than going out. I am happily buying what I need and I have money left over......" and so forth.
Step 4: Clear your beliefs.
What would block you from manifesting the prosperity that you want? When I ask my clients that question, I usually get answers like, "I don't deserve it". "No one in my family makes that amount of money." "If I have that money everyone will want some of it and I'll never know if people like me or they like my money." "I don't' have what it takes to succeed at that level".
So what self-limiting beliefs do you have? What stops you from having your ideal income? What self sabotaging strategies do you use?
Step 5: Allow it to come to you.
In other words, suspend all doubt and just trust that you'll be guided into inspired action. By following your hunches and keeping your focus on what you want, you become increasingly magnetic.
A tip: Read your desire statement each day out loud and feel what it feels like to have it. Really allow your self to experience it so that you magnetize it to you.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dr. Maya Bailey, author of, Law of Attraction for Real Estate Professionals, integrates 20 years of experience as a psychologist and 12 years as a business coach with her expertise in the Law of Attraction. Her powerful work creates a success formula for real
estate professionals ready to double and triple their incomes. Get Dr. Maya's free report, 7 Simple Strategies For More Clients in 90 Days, by visiting . Also, check out her new Success Program, designed to help you get focused , motivated, stay on track and create a Positive Mindset, no matter what.
www.90DaystoMoreClients.com
Managing Twitter - Great Add-ons
Most likely you are Twittering and if not then why not? It is a cool way to social network with others in your industry and to get referrals, new business or just to stay in-touch.
Being a real estate virtual assistant, I have been twittering for a while now, but found it took to much of my time, so I did not focus on using it until I found two great add-on tools. If you are like me you want what works and is effective. So, try these two add-on programs to Twitter and then follow me. I will follow you back.
Twitter Deck - The only add-on I have found useful in managing my time with Twitter. TweetDeck enables users to split their main feed (All Tweets) into topic or group specific columns allowing a broader overview of tweets. Make sure to set up Groups! You can set up groups for real estate agents, virtual assistants, friends, family, etc. and keep everyone organized.
Twitter for Blackberry Users - Have everything set up on your Blackberry so you can manage your tweets anywhere - anytime.
If you are using a different PDA and want to install Twitter, just do a Google search and you will find a program for that PDA.
And, don't forget to follow me - Kim Hughes - Real Estate Virtual Assistant
A Word to the wise, don't just twitter about silly things, make your tweets and eye-catcher. The more you have to offer the more followers you will get.
Being a real estate virtual assistant, I have been twittering for a while now, but found it took to much of my time, so I did not focus on using it until I found two great add-on tools. If you are like me you want what works and is effective. So, try these two add-on programs to Twitter and then follow me. I will follow you back.
Twitter Deck - The only add-on I have found useful in managing my time with Twitter. TweetDeck enables users to split their main feed (All Tweets) into topic or group specific columns allowing a broader overview of tweets. Make sure to set up Groups! You can set up groups for real estate agents, virtual assistants, friends, family, etc. and keep everyone organized.
Twitter for Blackberry Users - Have everything set up on your Blackberry so you can manage your tweets anywhere - anytime.
If you are using a different PDA and want to install Twitter, just do a Google search and you will find a program for that PDA.
And, don't forget to follow me - Kim Hughes - Real Estate Virtual Assistant
A Word to the wise, don't just twitter about silly things, make your tweets and eye-catcher. The more you have to offer the more followers you will get.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
NJAR Triple Play Realtor Convention in Full Swing
When attending the NJAR Triple Play Realtor(R) Convention this week you will find more than 7,000 Realtors who are taking the time to invest in their business by attending classes, seminars, checking out the latest real estate programs and best of all learning how a real estate virtual assistant can help them take their business to the next level.
Just how savvy are these Realtors? Well, yesterday during a seminar on real estate virtual assistants a Realtor called me from his Blackberry after doing a Google search and found me at the top of the list. While he was sitting in the seminar we discussed the virtual assistant services he would need as the speaker gave his presentation. During this time I sent him the information he needed and we are well on our way to taking his business to the next level.
When considering the services a well qualified real estate virtual assistant offers ask them more in-depth questions and be very clear as to what your specific needs are. Every Realtor is different and require different needs. The last thing you want is a real estate virtual assistant that cannot walk the walk.
Real Estate Virtual Assistants offer the knowledge and experience every Realtor needs and we can take an idea to the next level or take your request and enhance it. Real Estate Virtual Assistants are a vital part of your business, so take the next step and ask one how we can make 2009 your best year yet.
Just how savvy are these Realtors? Well, yesterday during a seminar on real estate virtual assistants a Realtor called me from his Blackberry after doing a Google search and found me at the top of the list. While he was sitting in the seminar we discussed the virtual assistant services he would need as the speaker gave his presentation. During this time I sent him the information he needed and we are well on our way to taking his business to the next level.
When considering the services a well qualified real estate virtual assistant offers ask them more in-depth questions and be very clear as to what your specific needs are. Every Realtor is different and require different needs. The last thing you want is a real estate virtual assistant that cannot walk the walk.
Real Estate Virtual Assistants offer the knowledge and experience every Realtor needs and we can take an idea to the next level or take your request and enhance it. Real Estate Virtual Assistants are a vital part of your business, so take the next step and ask one how we can make 2009 your best year yet.
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
The #1 Question Asked By Today's Homeowner
In the real estate industry the #1 question is.... What is my home worth in today's market? Now you can get the latest quarterly median home price for your market, and its percentage change from the previous quarter by clicking here.
Real Estate Virtual Assistants offer you the tools you need to succeed in today's economy. Real Estate Virtual Assistants are creating ideas for you to use in your business so you do not spend valuable time in research. I have been offering virtual assistance to real estate professionals for 10 years now and if you are interested in the services of a REVA, but not sure how you would use the skills of one, then ask another agent that actually uses one or better yet ask a real estate virtual assistant how they can assist you.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Are Your Photos Legal?
Something interesting happened today, I was contacted by a past real estate client today that the images I used on his website were being used illegally! I, of course, did not use any photos for his website or any other clients website illegally. As a real estate virtual assistant I know better than that and I responded to him that any photo that I personally used on his website were purchased through www.istockphotos.com and I have receipts to verify this and was happy to produce them at a given moment to anyone challenging this fact.
Since I started my company in 1999, as a real estate virtual assistant, I knew right away to always buy your photos or at least get permission from the photographer, not the person who has the photo, but the person who took the photo. This is important because if you get permission from anyone other than the original owner this does not mean anything in court. So always go to the source for permission.
It took me a matter of 5 minutes to open my archives on past clients, pull his folder and review the photos and review the invoice with the photo. I then told the client if anyone was challenging him on this have them contact me to resolve this situation.
In a matter of minutes this problem was resolved, so lesson here people, get a receipt and save it where you can find it. This was a project I worked on over 3 years ago. The IRS says they can legally request your past 7 years of tax returns, but if you need to prove you have the right to use an image, an article, etc. make sure you keep very good records on everything you purchase.
My personal opinion of the online photo company is they are bullies and they are looking for ways to take your money. I researched this company only to find out that they are notorious for sending these emails, but when challenged they back-off. So, don't panic if you get this type of letter, just make sure you can prove it and if not make them prove you do not have the rights. Don't just send them money, make them prove it to you.
And, be careful in the way you use images from Google Images, Flickr, etc. Check to see if the image or photos are copyrighted and if you do find a photo on the Internet ask them where they got the photo and then get permission.
This also goes for articles. Do not take an article without written permission from the author and when you have permission make sure you link back to them for credit.
We all can play nice in the sandbox, just know the rules.
Since I started my company in 1999, as a real estate virtual assistant, I knew right away to always buy your photos or at least get permission from the photographer, not the person who has the photo, but the person who took the photo. This is important because if you get permission from anyone other than the original owner this does not mean anything in court. So always go to the source for permission.
It took me a matter of 5 minutes to open my archives on past clients, pull his folder and review the photos and review the invoice with the photo. I then told the client if anyone was challenging him on this have them contact me to resolve this situation.
In a matter of minutes this problem was resolved, so lesson here people, get a receipt and save it where you can find it. This was a project I worked on over 3 years ago. The IRS says they can legally request your past 7 years of tax returns, but if you need to prove you have the right to use an image, an article, etc. make sure you keep very good records on everything you purchase.
My personal opinion of the online photo company is they are bullies and they are looking for ways to take your money. I researched this company only to find out that they are notorious for sending these emails, but when challenged they back-off. So, don't panic if you get this type of letter, just make sure you can prove it and if not make them prove you do not have the rights. Don't just send them money, make them prove it to you.
And, be careful in the way you use images from Google Images, Flickr, etc. Check to see if the image or photos are copyrighted and if you do find a photo on the Internet ask them where they got the photo and then get permission.
This also goes for articles. Do not take an article without written permission from the author and when you have permission make sure you link back to them for credit.
We all can play nice in the sandbox, just know the rules.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Are You Prepared to Send Your Holiday Cards?
Well, another task that a virtual assistant can assist you with is preparing your holiday cards. How can a virtual assistant help you with this important task you ask? Well, all you need to do is send the virtual assistant your holiday cards, database, postage and the message you would like to include along with your signature. The virtual assistant will write the message in each card, include your signature, prepare it for mailing, place a stamp on the envelope and take it to the post office for you. And, if you would like to include a gift, your virtual assistant can order it for you.But, what if you don't w
ant to delegate this important project to a virtual assistant, but you still do not have the time to get this together. Well, you might want to consider Send Out Cards to help you out. Once you open your account you can upload your database, choose your card, include your message to each one of your recipents, choose your gift, choose the date to send the card and gift and then SUBMIT.Or, you can have your virtual assistant handle this for you as well. All you need to do is open the account. This literally takes 5 minutes at the most.
By having this incredible time-saving, cost effective program you can send cards on a
whelm. Send a birthday card, thinking of you card, congratulations on your new home card, thank you for the referral card and the list goes on. This program offers you unlimited possibilities and one that is becoming the must have program for any real estate agent or for any business for that matter.Want more inform
ation on how this program works? Easy, go to Send Out Cards and take a look around. Want a personal walk-through on how this program is going to benefit you and your business? Then let me take you on a tour of the back-end. If you have 20 minutes - it could be the best 20 minutes you ever spent on your business.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)