Good business, Great timing.
By Jeff Sherman,
Principal Broker iGATE Properties LLC


Questions asked of us Realtors often help us understand our potential clients. A typical inquiry may begin like this: “Has the apparent decline in the real estate market had an impact on your business?” At first glance the question seems to be directed at the market. However, it is likely probing deeper into the actual effectiveness of our individual business approach and our ability to repel the current industry challenges.

Potential sellers and buyers are very aware of economic trends and seek effective assistance from their trusted agents. They see pricing becoming very competitive and may wonder what it will take to sell or buy a home. These buyers and sellers may not, however, understand the advantages one home has over another with respect to a strong presentation or the condition of the home itself. This is one area in which a dedicated realtor can assist them in recognizing the potential of their home. It is good business and great timing.

As agents, we visit many homes and can easily identify the differences and advantages of homes that are ready to be showcased. We realize that potential buyers perceive value based on cleanliness of the home, the first appearance, and quality of workmanship. They desire ease of access, roominess, and serenity in their new home.

Have you ever shown a would-be impressive home feeling a bit let down by the experience. What caused your lull? Chances are the great home didn’t show so great.

Some property owners dissuade potential buyers with yard turbulence (like last season’s holiday-lighting whipping against the fascia). It is a little thing, but it could make the buyer’s “flight” a little less enjoyable. Encourage home owners to try these small touches that can smooth out the experience:

 Invite visitors into the home with a clean Entry and a fresh welcome mat
 If the front door handle resembles a grungy handrail in a public facility give it a cleaning and little polish.
 Never cover a nasty odor with momentary freshener. Discover the source and clean it or replace it.
 Make the home appear as new as possible. Remove clutter. A feeling of roominess will help sell a home.
 Is the sink tidy, clean, and sealed correctly? Make the kitchen sparkle.
 Air out the bathrooms to rid the dampness and always dry out the shower. Replace any bad grout.

Agents and clients alike, as we look for the good we discover that there is a brighter side. This is as true in relation to homes as it is in relation to life. Make it a showcase!

Red Rock Retreat

This years Red Rock Retreat is scheduled for Thursday, June 5th and Friday, June 6th. In addition to all of the great CE Educators planned for this event, we will have again this year our RPAC Silent Auction Table and a host of vendors set up in the common area.

The mini trade show in the hallway has been expanded in 2008 to include not only Affiliate Members and "Projects" but new this year, individual Brokerages are invited to participate as well. Anyone interested in becoming a part of the Red Rock Retreat as a featured vendor should contact Linda Stuart at the Board Office or Mitch Larsen at Southern Utah Title. Space is limited to the first 14 commitments so don’t delay.

Here is a photograph from a meeting with Congressman Jim Matheson. Those pictured in the photo, from left to right, are: Neil Walter - NAI - WCBR Treasurer Brad Demond - 5 County AOG - DAWHAC Ombudsman Sam Sampson - Coldwell Banker Premier - Real Estate Commissioner Craig Morley - Morley & McConkie Appraisal - State Appraisal Review Board Scott Gibson - SGI Mortgage Vardell Curtis - WCBR Congressman Jim Matheson Lori Chapman - Coldwell Banker Premier - WCBR President John Houston - ERA Brokers Consolidated - WCBR Past President Cindy Campbell - ERA Brokers Consolidated - WCBR Director Ryan Andersen - ERA Brokers Consolidated - WCBR Director Brent Holloway - Coldwell Banker Premier - Governmental Committee Chair This was an informal meeting for the Congressman to learn more about the real estate industry and related economy from a grass roots perspective. We were able to talk to him about the recent NAR Call to Action dealing with increase in FHA loan limits being changed from a temporary status to a permenant status. We also discussed various topics including Illegal Immigration, the Toquop Coal Fired Power Plant, Loan Fraud and the Lake Powell Pipeline.

Wendy Brown, new Principal Broker of River Realty

Effective March 1, 2008 Wendy Brown became the Principal Broker of River Realty in St George, Utah. Wendy has worked with the real estate company for 11 years in the capacities of sales agent and office manager and is well qualified to take over the operation which specializes in marketing of new communities, Property and HOA Management and other real estate services. Wendy is married to Sean Brown, is the mother of 4 children and has been a resident of St George for 27 years, having moved here from Northern Utah in 1981. She has been active in the real estate industry since 1990.
River Realty was formed in 1992 by Milo McCowan as a tool for marketing new home communities and has successfully sold thousands of new homes in the St George and Kanab areas. Wendy is also a full partner of the firm. McCowan is still involved as an Associate Broker and developer specializing in Kane and Coconino Counties. Wendy can be contacted at 435-674-1444, at www.river-realty.net or via e-mail at wendy@river-realty.net