Who says Open Houses are dead?

I have heard so many agents spread the word that open houses don't work. They say open houses are a waste of time? They say open houses don't serve the seller's interest. They say open houses have been replaced by the Internet. They say....yadda....yadda...ad nauseam.

When I go on a listing presentation I tell the seller's that I do open houses. I tell the sellers the truth - less than 1% of homes sell at open houses. I tell them that if I can't sell your house to an open house visitor, I will try to sell them another. I tell sellers that an open house is one of my methods of generating business - but not the only method!

In this buyer's market it is a challenge to find legitimate buyers and sell homes. You do have to utilize the Internet. You do have to do a little print advertising although I believe it is the least effective method. You do have to do a little direct mail. You do have to produce some flyers and, you do have to do open houses!

I conducted an open house yesterday. The traffic was satisfactory although it could have been better. I will admit it was the most traffic I have had in a year. The source of the traffic...not the ads, not the Internet... no, plain old red arrow signs. You never know which method will be effective so you have to try them all.

Of the visitors I believe I have a couple of folks interested in the property and a couple of folks interested in other homes in the area. Will I sell any of these? I don't know but I have the opportunity... because of the open house.

So, do I believe open houses are dead? No, they have their place in real estate marketing!

Interested in selling your Viera, Suntree, Rockledge or Melbourne Florida home? Give me a call or drop me an email. I would welcome a chance to discuss my marketing approach with you. Likewise, if you are a buyer, give me a call!

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne Florida, 321-255-2600 or email to agent@moving2brevard.com .

You Build Relationships - Not Advertise them!

I read a very interesting blog this morning. The point of the author was the overuse of the descriptors "trust" and "honesty" in the real estate advertising world.

I believe it goes beyond the real estate profession and extends to many others. Heard that car sales ad from "Honest" John the auto salesman telling you that he will give you a great deal? Famous last words "Trust me!" I see real estate ads that purport honesty and trust as the reason to call them. The overuse of "trust" and "honesty" transcends all professions!

I will be the first to admit honesty and trust are necessary characteristics to living a fruitful, happy life. That may be my naivete showing. Anyway, I see them as required human character traits.

And how does one advertise those traits? You don't!

Your actions, your results, your satisfied customers will spread the word. I, as a real estate professional, am in the relationship business. I want the results of my efforts to make my clients want to spread the word about me!

Looking for real estate in Viera, Suntree or Rockledge Florida? Give me a call. Looking to sell you Rockledge, Viera, Suntree or Cocoa, Florida home? Give me a call. I want your business!

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida. I can be reached by phone at 321-255-2600 or by email to agent@moving2brevard.com .

Treat others the way you want to be treated

I was in the office yesterday. I received a call from someone who had seen a listing advertised in the local Brevard County Florida issue of Homes and Land magazine. Specifically, he wanted the address - nothing else.

As is my usual manner, I provided the information as well as assistance with directions. I thanked the caller for calling and gave him my name and cell phone number. No pressure form me. If he wants me to show him a house or whatever, he has my information.

Shortly after the call I found out the property had a contract pending. A new development I was not aware of. I did know that he was currently living about 25 miles from the address. I called him back immediately and advised him to save his gas!

I met with this gentleman this morning and gave him the results of a search I had conducted for him. At the end of our conversation he explained why he selected me to be his Realtor.

He explained he spoke to three other agents before I spoke with him yesterday. He said they were all trying to "hard sell" him. He actually said a couple of them were rude. I can't imagine why anyone would be rude to a potential client. Anyway, he told me why he selected me - I called him back to tell him to save his gas!

I thanked him and advised that I would have wanted someone to do the same for me. At $3.31 a gallon why waste money?

I have always tried to be a considerate person, regardless if you are a client or a stranger.

Anyway, it cost me nothing to make this courtesy call. If you are looking for a real estate agent in Viera, Suntree, Melbourne, Rockledge or Merritt Island, please give me a call. If you're looking to your home, give me a call. My goal is to provide prompt, courteous, professional service! I do want to be your Realtor of Choice!

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty Melbourne Florida. I can be reached at 321-255-2600 or by email to agent@moving2brevard.com

Getting noticed will get you a speeding ticket!

When you stand out from those around you, you will get noticed! This can be good. This can be bad.

So you are running late and need to get to work as soon as possible. Those around you are going 40 miles per hour and you zoom by at only 5 miles faster. Down the street is your local constable....you catch his eye. Before you know it, you are explaining your need for speed. Yep, you got noticed and not for a good reason.

Such is the case when you try to sell your home. How can you get yourself noticed? And, once noticed, is it for a good reason. You want to get yourself noticed? Here are some tips.

• Price it right. Appropriately pricing a property gets noticed by the people who matter...real estate professionals, buyers surfing the Internet, readers of print advertising.


• Make it appealing. Starting with the exterior appearance (landscaping, paint, no bikes in the driveway, etc.), make your home attractive from the curb. Heck, get your neighbors involved by making their homes appealing as well. Buyers want a nice looking neighborhood. Of course this may be asking a lot of your neighbors!


• Get rid of the "stuff." Buyers don't need to see all those pictures on the refrigerator. Sure, you are proud of your family and pets but don't let the buyers get distracted from your home's features.


• Don't let the furnishings overshadow the space. Sometimes you see "big" furniture take up more space than is necessary. Even a large room can look small when too much furniture is crammed into the space.


• Offer the buyer an incentive. There is nothing wrong with offering to assist with closing costs. If you are in an area of new construction you are probably competing with builders who are tossing in a few incentives for potential buyers.


• Smoking. Smoke filled homes do not sell unless your target market is a smoker! I find even smokers do not smoke in their homes, especilaly while it is for sale. Want to get scratched from the list? Smoke in your home - you will be noticed!


• Pets. Most of us love pets. But having your home smell like a pet or even worse, having a pet jumping all over, barking or snapping at a buyer will also get you noticed.... in a bad way!

Marketing your home in this buyer's market can be a challenge but homes are still selling! Doing the right things early on will get the traffic in the front door. And that is what you need. Rarely has a home sold without the buyer ever entering the front door!

Selling your Viera or Suntree home? Let me help you make your home stand out! Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida.

Open House Viera Saturday March 29, 2008

If you are in the market for a Viera Florida home, please stop by this Open House on Saturday March 29th from noon until 4:00 pm . Located at 2397 Deercroft Drive in the Bayhill subdivision (off Murrel Rd in Viera), this 4 bedroom 2 bath, 2 car garage pool home is well worth a look.

Very attractively priced at $238,900, this home was built in 2001 and has over 1900 square feet of living area. Relax on the covered back porch while you sit by your solar heated inground pool.

Close to I-95, Avenues Mall, restaurants, excellent schools including new Viera High, Space Coast Stadium. Exceptional Value!

For more information please contact Gary Waters, Realtor, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida at 321-693-3850 or by email agent@moving2brevard.com .

There is no Cookie Cutter Short Sale Recipe

I attended another "short sale" training session yesterday. Why? Because every session I attend gives me insight into the process. And it reaffirms my existing opinion that there is no cookie cutter recipe for a short sale.

I have heard so many different things as well as read various expert opinions on the short sale process. Likewise, my experience has been different than some I have heard or read about.

Some lenders say they will not consider a short sale unless the borrower is behind in mortgage payments. Some apparently will consider short sales even before the borrower is delinquent. Some lenders will not consider a short sale option until an offer/contract from a buyer is presented with the request. Apparently some lenders will consider the request before the property is listed for sale.

Who knows for sure? Each lender is different. I even heard the staunch anti-short sale lenders such as SunTrust will now consider short sales. At least that is the rumor.

In my opinion why would any lender not be willing to consider a short sale?

• Given the choice between a short sale and a foreclosure why not cut your losses? A foreclosure costs money.
• A foreclosed property has the potential of being vandalized or damaged in some way.
• Foreclosure properties have the reputation of being distressed properties which sell for less.
• When a homeowner is not making payments, the lender has to cover tax payments. Banks are in the business of lending money...not owning real estate.

So, why not accept a short sale?

Although the time period for completion of a short sale is very often from one to three months or more, they are an available option for sellers and buyers. So, patience is required in a short sale transaction!

Desire information on short sales in Brevard County, either as a buyer or seller? Please feel free to contact me to discuss your circumstances. Be aware that I am a real estate agent and not an attorney or accountant. For that type of advice, please consult the appropriate professional.

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida.

Viera Florida to get new hospital - finally!

It seems that the new 100-bed Viera hospital will finally get built! A ruling this week gave Health First the OK to move forward with its planned Viera campus.

Health First, which already runs three hospitals in Brevard County, has been engaged in legal battles for several years from local rival, Wuesthoff Hospital. Wuesthoff owns two hospitals - one in nearby Rockledge and the new facility in Melbourne.

With all the tremendous growth in Viera (as well as Suntree and Rockledge) it is hoped the new facility will be completed sometime in 2010. Health First has plans for physician offices and other facilities as well. Its huge fitness center appears to be nearing completion now.

With Viera offering great shopping, restaurants, lots of new housing choices, sports facilities, parks, wonderful golf courses (Duran, Baytree, Viera East), easy access to I-95....well, actually Viera offers a lifestyle - a Florida lifestyle, it is nice to see the hospital construction getting the OK.

Interested in Viera real estate? Please give me a call or drop me an email. My office is located in Viera so I know the area! Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty.

Like waving chocolate in front of a fat man!

OK, my apologies to all the fat men out there! I know you don't all like chocolate! Just kidding, after all I am not the slimmest guy in the world!

What does chocolate, fat men and real estate have in common? Not much...actually, the answer is at the bottom of this post.

This morning I was reading an article by a lady who likes houses. She does not go out and buy shoes like some women (sorry - no stereotyping intended). Rather, she loves houses. So, she buys houses. The point of her article - with the prices low, the inventories high, this is a challenging time for her. Actually, I believe she is a keen investor who does not arbitrarily buy real estate.

But her point remains true in the Viera, Suntree and Rockledge market. There are opportunities. There are opportunities for foreign buyers who can make an already good deal even better by the very favorable exchange rate! There are short sale deals. There are pre-foreclosures. There are new construction deals.

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne Florida.

Question: What does chocolate, fat men and real estate have in common?

Answer: Me..sort of chunky ( I prefer "big boned"), real estate agent who likes chocolate!

Providing Service - Not Earning a Paycheck!

There is a difference between earning a paycheck and providing a service. I was reading a blog today about a gentleman's experience at a copy center. Apparently the level of service he encountered at one of the "big box" office stores was lacking. He went across the street to a competitor. There he met a young man who was energetic and interested in helping him meet his current need.

Within minutes he had received the service he required and was on his way. And you know what? The next time he has a need for a similar service he will be back. No, the job was not an expensive or complex task. It was not selling something expensive like a new computer or copier. Even though it was not a major deal, it set the stage for future business.

This is the approach I take in dealing with my real estate clients. You may not be in the market for a $500,000 home in Viera, Suntree or a "beach side" condo. You may be in the market for a rental property in Viera, Suntree or Rockledge. That is OK.

I am here to meet your current need...promptly, professionally and with the utmost respect.

Why? Because my business depends on satisfied customers who are happy to refer me to their friends and acquaintances.

So, if your real estate needs involve locating temporary lodging/rental property, be it a single family home, a condo or town house, give me a call. I will do my best so when you do decide to purchase in the future, you call me! I am not here to earn a paycheck but rather to provide great service!

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida. I can be reached by phone at 321-255-2600 or by email to agent@moving2brevard.com .

"Home Sellers More Realistic" - FL TODAY March 25, 2008

The title of this post was pulled from the Florida Today newspaper business section this morning. Maybe it will be official now in Brevard County Florida once the local mullet wrapper has proclaimed it!

I am not anti-Florida Today although I disagree with some of their positions. But the truth is a lot of folks limit their knowledge to the information provided by headlines. It may the teaser headlines for the local evening news, it may be the headlines from the local newspaper. Regardless, folks seem to relish in the gathering of tidbits of knowledge and then discussing the issues widely. Reminds me of those old CliffsNotes that summarized a topic in 20 pages or so. They gave you the general idea although an incomplete, indepth understanding of the topic!

This is one headline I hope they discuss. The other headline appeared on the front page of the Florida Today this morning a well. It stated "Existing-home sales rise, but prices fall." Another great tidbit of information.

Is the media finally on-board with the actual state of the Brevard County real estate market? Let us hope so. It is not all gloom and doom..... Sellers are more realistic and buyers have great opportunities.

Interested in Brevard County real estate? Give me a call at 321-255-2600 or email me at agent@moving2brevard.com .

Gary Waters, Florida Licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida. Call me about Baytree Golf Course homes - after all, it is in our name!

How does the Foreclosure market impact your "normal" sale"

It has been said by many "experts" - the market is what it is! That is so enlightening! If you look in any neighborhood in Brevard County, Florida, I am sure you will find a "distressed" property for sale (probably more).

What is a distressed property? I consider these to be properties that are being sold as bank-owned (REO), pre-foreclosure, foreclosed, or short sale properties. Regardless of label, these are not your common real estate listings.

If now is the time for you to have or place your home on the market, take heart. Sure, the market is what it is but that does not mean you can't sell!

You just have to be aware that you have some additional competition!

There are buyers out there who may be attracted to the "bargain basement" price but that is not all buyers. I submit that most buyers want a nice home, in a nice neighborhood, in move-in condition, without a ton of liens to be cleared before closing. And they want to close now - not 2,3,4 or more months down the road!

It does take a special type of buyer for these distressed market. That buyer may be an investor. That buyer may be a "handyman" with lots of repair skills. That buyer may be a first time homebuyer with patience, energy, and the time to "make it new again!"

But most buyers do not want a fixer upper.

And, they, Mr. and Mrs. Seller, are your target market. There are more than enough houses for each type of buyer to choose from. So, now that you know who your buyer will more than likely be, it is up to you and your chosen real estate agent to market to your potential pool of buyers.

So, does the foreclosure market hurt you? I say not really because your buyer is not a foreclosure buyer. However, admittedly, prices are lower than they were.

If you are looking to buy or sell a home in the Viera, Suntree or Rockledge areas of Brevard County Florida, give me a call. Looking to purchase a golf course home in Florida, Call me. Interested in Baytree Golf course, homes, call me.

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne Florida. After all, Baytree is in our name! Telephone 1-800-651-6940 or email me at agent@moving2brevard.com .

Please read my other blog at www.activerain.com/blogs/gwatersc21 .

Real Estate Classifieds - Wasting your money?

I spent this morning much as I do every day....got my coffee, TV turned on to MSNBC's Morning Joe, and grabbed my Florida Today newspaper. We all have our own method when it comes to reading a newspaper. Some grab the comics first, some grab the business section, some grab the sports section but few grab the classified real estate ads I am sure.

Now, why do I bring this up? I tried to read the classified real estate ads this morning. What a mess! Even with my glasses on they all appeared to be gibberish. Tons of print with very little distinctiveness. Wasted paper, wasted ink!

There are some real estate advertisements that make an impact and and are deserving of your local newspaper. Let's see, what are the types?

• Multi-column ads with pictures and larger print. These are attention getters!
• Special advertising sections that take up a quart, half or even full page ads. These are usually photo ads such as our Century 21 ads in the Sunday paper.
• Larger Open House ads with photos in a special display. Again, attention getters!
• Regular open house ads on the weekend. People do grab the classified on the weekend if they are looking for open houses or garage sales!
• Special events...grand openings, Parade of Homes and the like!

So what is missing from the above? The "typical" 3 bedroom 2 bath 2 car garage, like new... yadda.. yadda... yadda... advertisement that looks like the other 500 in the paper.

When selling a house you must make it stand out. An ad that looks like the rest and blends into the print is just a waste of money! I say this because as a real estate agent I am always getting asked about running ads in the newspaper. I do run ads that fit into the types listed above but not the others!

Marketing is more complex and there are more effective ways. There are methods that return a lot more for the investment. If you are thinking of selling or are currently a FSBO (for sale by owner) in Brevard County Florida, give me a call. Let's talk about how I can help you market your property. It is free...no obligation!

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne Florida. I can be reached by phone at 1-800-651-6940 or by email to agent@moving2brevard.com .

Hey, I am retired....I got the time!

I saw a previous client the other day. Actually, I saw him as I drove by his house. It was a listing I had about two years ago. It had been a FSBO (for sale by owner) when I got the listing.

I worked hard on the listing but we just could not get it priced correctly. We were pricing by looking through the rear view mirror.

Some folks, including some real estate agents, do not understand that in a falling market you have to price ahead of the curve. If you price just a little more attractively you will sell sooner while the higher priced comparable properties make you look even better!

It was a FSBO for a year before I took the listing. I had the listing six months and it expired. I do not like to have any listing expire. I see that as a failure.

Now I don't feel as badly about that "failure." Why? Two years later the FSBO price is where it was before I took the listing. This is like putting a do not disturb sign under your "For Sale By Owner" sign! Incidentally, it is about a hundred thousand too much. But, hey, that is OK! Why?

Because the seller is retired and has the time!

If you are interested in selling your Viera, Baytree, Suntree or Rockledge Florida home and do not have all the time in the world, call me! Looking to purchase in Brevard County, give me a call.

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne Florida. I can be reached by telephone at 1-800-651-6940 or by email to agent@moving2brevard.com .

Using Your Real Estate Agent

I was in the office this morning when I received a call from a lady. She had seen one of our Century 21 Baytree Realty signs in front of a property. She took down the number and called. That is why we place the signs there! She could not tell me the address but she could tell me the street and how to get there!

I looked it up and provided her with the information. Her response - "that is priced too high. The "comps" in the neighborhood don't support the price." She advised me to tell the owner to come down about a hundred thousand dollars and then she would look at it!

I am not the brightest light in the chandelier. However, from her remarks I knew she was either a real estate agent or was working with one. So I asked. Yes, she is working with another agent.

My advice to her was simple.... Contact your real estate agent and request they speak with the listing agent. You see, in Florida once you have a real estate agent representing you another agent should not interfere. And, I play by the rules - always!

If you are in the market for a property, find yourself a good, professional real estate agent to work with you. If you are a buyer, remember it does not cost you anything to have an agent work for you! Sticking with one agent protects your interests.

If you are looking to purchase a home in Viera, Rockledge, Suntree or north Melbourne, Florida, I would like a chance to be your real estate agent. Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida. I can be reached by telephone at 1-800-651-6940 or by email to agent@moving2brevard.com .

Short Sales: Creating new wealth

Turbulence in the housing market...leveraged buyouts.....financial markets struggling ......housing starts down......mortgage rates.....yadda yadda yadda...blah....blah...blah.... You have to love those talking heads telling us the way it is every day!

I had to go to the the medical lab today to donate some blood for an upcoming doctor's appointment. Wearing my Century 21 Baytree Realty name tag as I always do, the lab tech asked me the same question everyone else does - "how's the market?" My response, still slow with some attractive prices. Like any good salesman I inquired if she was in the market for a house. Her response was one that I hear frequently....

Like many others in the Brevard County market, she is trying to sell her home as a "short sale." Without going into details she basically found herself in a situation where the monthly payment went from $800 to $1,600 a month. Quite a steep increase for anyone!

Short sales are plentiful in the area. Newer homes, some never lived in, great locations, at excellent prices. And, I do believe the banks want them sold and will negotiate some good prices. This is where my post title comes into play.

I believe that down the road, at some point, folks who had the means and foresight to purchase some of these short sale properties may become wealthy. They may not become instantly rich but over the long term real estate does increase in value.

I would never say the real estate market is the place to sink your life savings into right now. Nor would I ever encourage anyone to mortgage their family's future on speculative real estate investments. Some tried this over the past few years and are now paying the price!

But, if you are in the market for a real estate investment or a new home in the Brevard County Florida areas of Viera, Suntree, north Melbourne and Rockledge, please feel free to contact me at 1-321-255-2600 or by email at agent@moving2brevard.com .

Sure the economy is struggling....

I am at the office working diligently for my clients. I heard this morning that the stock market was going to open down. I just read a blog about whether or not we are in a "recession" right now. Now I am not an economist, only a real estate agent, but here are my thoughts on it ...

It is obvious that the economy is slow...call it what you want. Characterize it as slow, stagnant, whatever....All I know is...gas is expensive, groceries are going up, I can't afford a new car, my income is not growing and I saw a guy at the car wash this morning washing his own Rolls Royce! From my perspective, I am a little bit nervous.

Now, why would I make such a statement? First of all, just in case you don't recognize it, the above statement is a little sarcastic. But, I do see things as they really are! There are challenges facing all of us. I am not telling everyone I see to go out and buy a house. I know it is not realistic to think all is rosey!

If you find yourself in a position of having to sell your home, I understand the challenges you are facing. If you are a buyer, there are uncertainties you face which cast doubt in your mind about whether you are making the right decision.

As a buyer you know that you can rent a place until the economy is robust, construction is growing, prices are on the upside....you can be patient. Whether that is a good strategy is another issue.

However, if you are a seller, know this - the market really does set the price. The buyer sets the price. Unfortunately, you are not going to get more than the market dictates. No matter how many upgrades you put in that home when you had it built, the price is set by the market.

I have heard it said so many times...the price - it is what it is....!

So what does a seller do?

• Price it right.
• Make the home stand out from among the competition.
• Understand the market for what it is and,
• Be patient.

Selling is stressful - Control what you can, and be patient! In the words of Little Orphan Annie...the sun will come out tomorrow!!!

Buying or selling in Brevard County Florida, please give me a call. Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21, Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida.

Sure, It is a Buyers Market... But not all Sellers are stupid or desperate!

Over the past few weeks I have had the opportunity to work with several buyer clients. A couple of these folks really got me to wondering...was it me or them?

There is this Kinkos commercial on TV where this genius brings in black and white originals and wants color copies made for the boss. Although the Kinkos employee explains several times that he has black and white so his copies will be black and white, he still insists on color copies. Some folks, don't get it. Some buyers in this market do not get it....

One guy wanted to look at $700,000 plus homes and offer $500,000. There are some sellers who may be desperate but in Viera and Suntree you are not getting that kind of deal! One buyer wants to offer around $200,000 for a $270,000 property. Now neither of these targeted properties is a short sale or pre-foreclosure - No fire sale here.

So, I must ask again ....what are some buyers thinking?

This is a great time to get a nice property at a very attractive price but in Suntree and Viera, they ain't giving them away! Many times folks come into our Florida area looking for a retirement home or a vacation or holiday (for our European friends) home which is understandable. Coming from out of the area, please rely on your real estate agent to tell you the truth....If homes are being given away, I will be the first in line. I will let you know when it happens!

Looking to buy a home in Viera, Suntree, Rockledge or North Melbournem Florida...please give me a call. Feel free to email me and request listings be emailed to you...no obligation, free!

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida. Contact me at 321-693-3850 or by email to agent@moving2brevard.com .

Let's see, why are you selling?

I was showing property today. Good thing for a real estate agent in Viera Florida to be doing on a beautiful Saturday afternoon. Actually, it was such a nice day I would have probably preferred being at the Space Coast Stadium watching the Washington Nationals spring training game against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Just in case you don't know, Viera is home to the Washington Nationals' spring training. Nearby in Vero Beach you will find Dodgertown, home for at least this year to the Los Angeles Dodgers. I wonder who won the game....will have to check the Florida Today later.

So, I showed 6 properties in Heritage Isle, a 55+ community in Viera. Of the 6 properties, only 1 was occupied. After viewing this home my buyer did express an interest in this property. I called the owner (who was also his own listing agent) and asked about his price and room for negotiation.

His response....he is where he is and that is it.

Well, let me tell you....he had a nice house but not the nicest. He did have the home with highest list price. Yep, he was $30,000 above the market (in my opinion). And, as a real estate agent he should know, you ain't going to sell at that price. Take it off the market. (this sentence is supposed to be rosy as in the rose colored glasses this seller sees the world through!)

He told me, he did not have to sell. He told me, he owned the house free and clear. He told me selling was only possible if his price was met.

I wonder....New construction for a similar model is $25,000 less than his two year old house.... Which one would I choose? My buyers opted for new construction at less money! Not surprising....

My advice to sellers such as this....take it off the market, please!

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida buyers and sellers in Viera, Suntree and Rockledge, Florida. Call me at 321-693-3850 or email me at agent@moving2brevard.com .

Won't vs. Can't....Short Sales and Nicotine

I read something a few days ago. I can't remember the exact source but it was a discussion about short sales. Actually, it was a comment in response to a web log (a blog) such as Observations of a Viera Florida Real Estate Agent.

This blog basically unfairly blasted those who are now resorting to "short sales." These so-called short sales are not give away's for real estate owners!

Short sales are not decisions that are easily arrived at. They exist because someone has a challenge to their life which interferes with their ability to meet their mortgage obligations. That challenge may be the result of

• Loss of employment
• Serious illness
• Divorce
• Death in the family.

Basically, a short sale is a transaction where the lender "settled for less than the total amount owed."

Short sales can be considered any time during the foreclosure and redemption period. Some short sales occur even though the loan is current. Besides, as a real estate professional I would never encourage someone to fall behind in mortgage payment so they can do a short sale!

Now back to my title.... There is a heck of a difference between "Won't and "Can't!" Look back up a couple of paragraphs...Do any of the reasons listed look like "won't" issues? No. Of course not! They look like issues that could reasonably lead to a difficult situation.

Some former or current smokers find that even though they want to quit smoking, they can't. Even though the desire is present...they can't. Even though they know they need to, they can't. The same is true of most short salers. They want to meet their obligations, they just can't!

If you are in a situation where selling as a short sale may be required, give me a call. I am not judgmental. I understand problems...I have experienced them myself. Call me. I would welcome a chance to discuss your situation.

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne Florida, 321-693-3850 or email agent@moving2brevard.com .

Sellers - This is not the time to be "Short"Sighted

This post started out as a brief article on sellers who have priced their homes outside of the competitive range for their market. We all should know that real estate markets are local. What a home is selling for in Atlanta, Georgia or Newport, Rhode Island does not impact the prices in Melbourne, Florida.

Deciding to sell your home is a significant decision. It is a time for honesty - with yourself and your real estate agent. It is a time to examine your motivation and necessity for selling. If you really want or need to sell, look at some of the critical issues surrounding your market.

What are some of these issues?

• Time Frame. Selling a home takes time. In the Melbourne (Brevard County), Florida market, the average days on the market (DOM) is hovering around 120 days. Usually the closing takes place about 30-45 days after the parties to the sale agree on a price so that leaves about 75-90 days on the market before you get that contract.


• Pricing. I have written previously about what I call a real estate listing's "golden period." This has nothing to do with the fact that I am a Century 21 real estate agent, really! When a listing is first placed on the multiple listing system it generates interest. These first few weeks are critical. Once a listing sits for a while folks begin to wonder why the home has not sold. My buyer clients always ask how many days a property has been on the market. Right or wrong there is a perception that a stagnant listing compromises a seller's bargaining position. (That is what a buyer believes.)


• Selling is work - hard work. Even with a professional real estate agent out there marketing your home, there is substantial work on the seller's shoulders! Getting a home prepared is work. Starting with the outside and curb appeal. No major investment, just make it appealing. Touch up paint. Get inside and declutter. Do the Feng Shui thing. (Actually there are many professional home stagers who are the experts out there - use them!) Always keeping the home "show ready" requires careful attention. Lots of work that pays dividends!

Now, finally, getting to the "short"sighted reference in the title. I am seeing more and more homes that are now "short sales."

Why? Some of the sellers were greedy and overpriced. Some real estate agents failed their clients by not being honest with them. Some sellers priced through the rearview mirror, making changes after the market dropped. Now, the market has decreased and the market is commanding a price which is less than owed. Thus, a "short sale."

Don't get caught "short."

• Plan your timeline early.
• Price it right.
• Prepare it right.

Considering selling in Viera, Suntree or Rockledge, please contact me for a free price right analysis. Planning on buying a home in Viera, Suntree or Rockledge, call me. I know the market!

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, FLorida. Contact me by phone at 1-321-693-3850 or by email to agent@moving2brevard.com .

Buyers are surfacing in the Viera, Suntree and Rockledge area!

Like any other hard working real estate agent these days, I am always on the look out for buyers. After all, if I don't sell real estate, I don't have an income!

Over the past several days I have had a couple of potential buyers contact me about 55+ communities in Brevard County. Actually another potential buyer referral showed up today in my email.

Anyone who knows the Viera, Suntree and Rockledge market is aware that it is a buyer's market right now. Prices are very attractive and sellers are motivated!

As a full-time Realtor, the news that there are buyers actively searching gives me renewed optimism! I must admit that even in the slower market I have not lost my optimism! Some may think that strange, however my clients appreciate optimism and results!

Where are the buyers coming from? I can attest to the fact they are searching the Internet. The Internet is such a great resource any seller today must have their home marketed extensively over the "net" by a technologically savvy agent.

If you are considering selling your Viera, Suntree or Rockledge home, please give me a call. I work hard for my clients - every day! If you are considering purchasing a home in Brevard County, give me a call.

Just curious and want some listings emailed to you? I will gladly set you up with an automated search that will send you properties that meet your needs as they are entered into the MLS system.

Click here to search the Brevard County MLS system yourself. If you find a property of interest and would like additional information, please send me an email to agent@moving2brevard.com .

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne Florida.

Short Sale Market in Viera, Suntree and Rockledge Florida

If you have been following the real estate market lately you have heard about "short sales." If you are not familiar with the subject, please search this blog for additional posts.

As of today there are 89 properties listed for sale in the Brevard MLS service as "short sales" in the Viera, Suntree, and Rockledge areas of Brevard County.

Some of these homes appear to be really nice properties at some really attractive prices. For example, a 2002 year built 4 bedroom 2 bath 1900+ sq foot (living area) home listed for less than $200,000! The "listing" prices for these short sale properties run the entire gamut from $89,000 for an older potential rental property (or 1st time buyer) to $1.3 million dollars for a really large, really nice home in Viera.

I recognize some of these homes. Some I showed potential buyers at least 6 to 12 months ago. One I recognize was overpriced back then (my opinion). Interesting that some folks set their asking price using the "rear view mirror" approach.

In a changing market you can not adjust a price downward by following the price changes. You need to be out front! I wonder how many properties would have already been sold had the pricing been competitive and realistic a long time ago!

Additionally, I noticed there are 40 properties listed for sale as bank-owned properties (also known as REO). These are homes that probably went through the foreclosure process and reverted back to the bank. (By the way, foreclosed does not mean the bank will sell (give) these away for pennies on the dollar.)

I was reading on the Florida Today web site that there were 766 foreclosure filings in Brevard County during February 2008. The total filings for January and February totaled 1,472 which is more than the entire filings for 2005!

If you are interested in the short sale market in Viera, Rockledge or Suntree, please feel free to contact me by email at agent@moving2brevard.com or by phone at 1-321-693-3850.

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida.

Short Sale Decisions...when will they come?

I was speaking with another agent in my office yesterday. She has been diligently working with a lot of "short sale" purchasers lately. I inquired about her progress. Her response....

"short sales are a pain..."

Having worked a few short sales previously I understood what she was saying. You find the buyers. You find the right property. You negotiate the deal with the "seller." You get the offer forwarded to the lender. You wait...and wait...and wait...

Short sale decisions do not come quickly, usually. Even when all the preliminary work is done, the documentation presented to the lender, and lines of communication established...decisions take time.

Sometimes the lender calls to say they have another offer. Do they really? I wonder.... Sometimes the lender's decision makers are in Kansas and the property is in Viera or Suntree Florida. [Toto we are not in Kansas...was that Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz?]

Short sales are good opportunities for buyers. If you are a seller and facing a hardship, don't lose your home to foreclosure. Talk with a lender about loan modification. Talk to your lender about a short sale. Want me to discuss the possibility of a short sale with your lender, email me at agent@moving2brevard.com .

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent serving all of Brevard County Florida and specifically the areas of Viera, Suntree, Rockledge, and Cocoa.

Still Busy doing BPOs

I did a couple of new Broker Price Opinions (BPO) this morning, actually over the course of a couple of days. These were both in the zip code 32940 which is primarily Viera and Suntree (north Melbourne) Florida.

Homes in these two areas are almost always nice and of newer construction. Such was the case for these two properties. Let me tell you, the competition is keen for active , "for sale" properties. Finding comparable "sold" properties is getting more and more challenging. And, the eye opener?

Prices are so low....!

I have submitted both of these price opinions. When I submit BPOs I submit three active "for sales" and three "solds." I wonder if I will get questions....why the price opinion is low. My response - it is a buyer's market, lots of homes for sale, really, really cheap! There are lots of short sales and foreclosures in Viera and Suntree!

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida.

The "new" real estate fad - REO!

I am beginning to believe that REO is the new real estate fad. I track key words used to find my web sites and several blogs. It seems that more and more frequently folks are finding my site as a result of searching on "REO Brevard" and similar phrases.

So, what are "REO" properties?

REO is just another anacronym for "real estate owned." Basically, these properties are owned by the financial institution. More often than not, these are cases where the property has gone through the foreclosure process and not sold.

Quite often the foreclosure process is conducted, the foreclosure sale is conducted, and the bank still owns the property. Why? I wrote a post a couple of days ago on whether to buy a foreclosure or a short sale. I still believe the short sale is the way to go. Read my post here for my reasoning.

I encourage you to consider short sale properties if REO investments are in your future. For information on the Viera, Suntree, Melbourne and Rockledge REO market, please send me an email to agent@moving2brevard.com or contact me at 1-321-693-3850.

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida.

Short Sale or Pre-Foreclosure or Foreclosure? Which is best buy?

Yesterday I attended a short sale seminar sponsored on by North American Title Company of Melbourne Florida. As short sales is a big topic among real estate buyers and sellers these days I found this very enlightening.

I have worked with sellers who had to sell their homes as a short sell. I have worked with buyers attempting to purchase short sell properties. Having worked both sides of the transaction Ioan tell you - it is a lot more challenging than any "normal" transaction.

I have shown properties that were listed as short sales, pre-foreclosures and foreclosures. By and large the property that was the most "move in" ready was the short sale.

An interesting thing I have noticed about foreclosure properties. They are vacant. The electricity and water are usually turned off. The appliances are usually missing. I have seen the sinks, vanities, garage door opener, water heater, air conditioner, interior doors, and other items missing. Sometimes vandalism is an issue. Sometimes the owners remove items before moving out. Regardless, foreclosures are usually not never in good condition once the owner leaves!

What about short sale properties? Well, usually the owner is still living in the home. The owner has a vested interest in getting the most for the house. The owner still has an emotional attachment to the property. The owner is trying to make the best of a difficult situation. The owner still cares!

The property that makes that sense from my experience is choosing the short sale over the foreclosure. Why? Again, people care. Who are the "people?" The owner, the lender, the seller's agent, everyone involved. Once a foreclosure is bank owner, who cares? Some lender in some state perhaps thousands of miles away? Not really. Sure, there is an employee somewhere but do they really care? I doubt it!

Want to know more about short sales? Want to see what is for sale in the Brevard County short sale market? Please email me with your interest and I will gladly send you the listings.

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida serving Viera, Rockledge, Suntree, Melbourne and all of central Brevard County. Email me at agent@moving2brevard.com or phone me at 1-321-693-3850.

My worst nightmare has come true!

I heard someone remark today that their worst nightmare had come true. That got my attention so I took the bait and asked the question - what worst nightmare? The response was serious.

"I have outlived my money!" Of course the individual broke into a grin to let us know he was joking. But it did get me to thinking.

It costs a lot of money to live...to get by...to make ends meet. As a real estate agent I face the same challenges that we all face. There is a budget. There are fixed expenses. There are some nice to have things.

Housing is one of the most costly expenses we face in our budgets. Housing is not cheap! If you are renting or paying a mortgage payment, the cost is probably not cheap!

I am not going to tell you that this is the right time for you to buy a house. It may very well be. Only you know your situation. But, if it is, and you are in the Viera, Melbourne or Suntree areas of Brevard County, please give me a call.

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida.

Does "Short Sale" mean the same as "Quick Sale?"

I spoke with a potential client yesterday. We discussed the Brevard County market and because she has some time I asked her about short sales. She was not familiar with the term which does not surprise me at all. Sometimes those of us who deal with real estate every day fail to remember that others are exist in a world outside of real estate.

She had been looking at MLS entries and seeing them described as a "short sale." She thought maybe that referred to accelerated closings or something. Get a quick closing thus a short sale - sounds logical, doesn't it?

If this were only true...So, what is a short sale?

Simply put, it is a situation where the likely sales price of the property will be less than the money owed to the lender. Short sales are great opportunities for those who have the time. Since bank or some other third party approval is required, these deals take time - and patience!

The time required may be as short as a month but I would allot about 60 days for the deal to close...after a contract is negotiated.

The approach to a short sale is the same as any other home purchase. You view the property and negotiate (through your real estate agent) with the seller (through their real estate agent). Once an agreement on a contract price is reached then the offer is transmitted to the lender.

Once approved by the third party, the closing can go forward.

Short sales are not fire sales! They are homes that are attractively priced to move - even in a slow market. As such, they are potentially great opportunities for those with patience, money, good credit and knowledge! By the way, there are short sales at all prices from the $100,000 mark to the million dollar range!

Interested in the "short sale" market for Brevard County Florida? Email me for information. Interested in the Suntree, Viera and Rockledge short sale market? Email me. Or, call me at 1-321-255-2600 or 321-693-3850 direct, email agent@moving2brevard.com .

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne Florida.

Who Pays the Real Estate Agent? Not the buyer!

First of all, let me say I am not saying anything specific about commissions such as how much, etc. There are no standard commissions. Commissions are negotiated between the client and the real estate professional.

If you are unfamiliar with the purchasing process you may not be aware of who pays for the real estate agent. In most cases it is SELLER not the buyer. So, if you are looking to buy a home, find yourself a knowledgeable real estate agent and don't worry about paying the agent - he gets paid when you purchase a property. As a buyer you normally never pay a fee unless you have some special agreement with an agent.

This sounds like a great deal, doesn't it? You want to purchase a home. You need an expert to represent you. Experts cost money... and the seller ends up paying for your expert!

Why would you not want to be represented?

Looking to purchase a home in Viera, Rockledge, Suntree, or Cocoa Florida? I would love a chance to be your real estate professional! Give me a call or drop me an email to discuss what I can do for you!

Gary Waters, Florida Licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida, 1-321-255-2600. Email me at agent@moving2brevard.com .

Interested, Potential, Maybe I will Sell, Individual's Challenge

Yesterday I spoke to an interested, potential, maybe I will sell, individual. I really can't call this individual a "seller." Why?

A few days ago, maybe even last week, I posted an article entitled being a "Seller" or a "For Sale-r". This individual is not quite a "For Sale-r" but is definitely not a seller either. You can read that short little post here - http://www.activerain.com/blogsview/400814/Are-you-a-Seller .

He voiced his requirement to get out of the property what he has into it. If you purchased a home in Viera, Suntree, Rockledge or pretty much any place in the Brevard County market within the last 3 or 4 years, chances are , that ain't going to happen.

Did I say "ain't?" All the effort those English teachers put into trying to teach me! All the effort wasted! The same could be said of any real estate agent and "interested potential, maybe I will sell individual" who tries to market a property and get out of it what they put into it! All the effort...wasted!

So, what does this "interested, potential, maybe I will sell, individual" do? First of all, examine motivation. If you do not have to sell, don't even list the property. If you have to sell, accept that you may not get "what you have put into it." Remember, you don't buy a residential property to flip it and make a profit but rather as a dwelling. If you do sell and make a profit, wonderful!

Marketing a property requires a lot of effort. If you are in a situation where perhaps foreclosure is a potential, have you considered a short sale? Have you spoken with the lender about alternative arrangements in the interim? There are options.

Back to my premise.... If you want to be a seller, contact a knowledgeable real estate agent and get it on the market at the right price. If you want to be "For Sale-r", perhaps you should wait.

If you are considering selling your Viera, Rockledge or Suntree home, please give me a call. I would love to discuss what I can do for you in this buyer's market. Looking to purchase? Bargains are plentiful. Please let me know if I can assist you!

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne Florida. Email me at agent@moving2brevard.com or call me at 321-693-3850.

Auburn Lakes (Viera) Market Report

This started out as an activity report for the Auburn Lakes subdivision for February 2008. However I decided to initially introduce Auburn Lakes and then talk about what has sold, is for sale, etc.

First of all if you are not familiar with Viera, you will find Auburn Lakes on the east side of Interstate 95 in Viera in the "Villages of Viera East."

This development features homes primarily built between 2003 and 2004. The most common living area of the homes is between 1600 and about 1920 square feet with two car attached garages.

The location is great as it is within walking or biking distance of Ralph Williams Elementary School. Also, close by is the Viera East Golf Course and other great shopping and entertainment areas.

Only minutes to the Space Coast Stadium, Brevard County Courthouse complex, excellent restaurants, the Indian River and several great golf courses! Auburn Lakes does offer a great neighborhood with plenty of nearby amenities. Auburn Lakes has a great community pool for its residents and the nearby community park offers basketball, tennis, volleyball, a playground and more. With lots of conservation areas as well, you are not in a concrete jungle!

So what is on the market in Auburn Lakes?

There are about 11 properties actively listed for sale. During the month of February a couple of properties did go under contract. Prices in Auburn Lakes now run the range of $175,000 to $299,000 - amazingly good prices compared to the highs of several years ago!

A couple of comments about these active listings. The $175,000 price involves a short sale listing. These involve negotiation with a third party, usually a bank. The $299,000 price seems a little high for the neighborhood...my opinion!

I am sure there are a couple of FSBO (for sale by owner) homes out there as well. Thinking about buying a FSBO? Shop around. Use a real estate agent even to approach a FSBO! Most FSBOs will pay the real estate agent commission and you, the buyer, get representation!

Interested in Viera homes? Considering selling a Viera home? Please give me a call at 321-693-3850 or email me at agent@moving2brevard.com .

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne Florida (located in Viera next to Denny's)!

February Market Report for Baytree Golf Community Homes

The gated communities within the Baytree National Golf Links still offers buyers lots of opportunities. The end of February 2008 finds there are 26 properties active in the the Brevard MLS.

The good news, a couple of homes did sell during February.

The two homes selling were basically opposites - one on the market for 154 days, the other only 16 days! One listed for $500,000 and sold for $490,000 in 16 days. The other was listed for $699,000 and sold for $585,000 (quite a drop!).

Looking at the homes actively for sale I noticed that 5 of these were in the maintenance free gated community of the Isles of Baytree. Kind of ironic that there is a gated community within a gated community! Of course the initial entry from the "outside" has a full time security guard.

The Isles of Baytree homes all feature Mediterranean type tile roof and most back up to preservation areas. These homes are really not small with most being 1900 to 2500 square feet of living area.

The most expensive listing in Baytree is $1,085,000 for a 5 bedroom, 4 bath home with almost 4500 square feet of living area. A lot of home for sure!

If you are looking for private living in a very exclusive golf course community then Baytree is the place to look. There is a home for all budgets from around $300,000 and upward! If you would like information on Baytree, please let me know. We are Baytree experts - after all, it is in our name....Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida.

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent. Email me at agent@moving2brevard.com .

February Market Report for Viera, Suntree, Rockledge, Florida areas

I posted a blog this morning that talked about the market activity last month for the entire Brevard County area. This post specifically covers the are of Viera, Suntree (includes Baytree National Golf Links development) and Rockledge.

There are lots of homes on the market at this time, both new construction and re-sales. Total active listings as of this morning are about 1,165 units. These include single family detached, town homes, and condos. Prices range from just below $100,000 to more than a million dollars. There are golf course homes, gated communities, 55+ communities, new construction....you name it!

Although only 40 units sold in this area, compared to the county averages, the numbers (prices) are higher and days on the market are less. With homes selling for about 93% of list price it does look like that sellers are negotiating. It appears to me that the list prices have become more realistic as well.

Briefly, some of the numbers.....

Homes Sold Viera, Suntree and Rockledge Feb 08 -40
Average Selling Price - $353,999
Average Listing Price - $380,375
Average Days on the Market - 100
Median Selling Price - $306,750
Median Listing Price- $333,245

If you would like information on the Viera, Suntree or Rockledge market, please contact me at agent@moving2brevard.com . Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida.

{Numbers quoted in this post were obtained from the Brevard County MLS system.}

February 2008 Market Report Brevard County Florida

Another month has come and gone....

So, how did the market do last month? I guess the answer depends on who you ask! There were 307 sellers of residential properties that closed in February. I guess those sellers would probably say the market was alright.

There are 7,199 single family residences, 2221 condos, and 612 town homes on the active MLS market today. Ask those sellers and they will say....not so well!

Ask me as a real estate agent and I will say....I have seen better but activity is picking up!

Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Melbourne, Florida. Serving Baytree, Suntree, Viera, and Rockledge in Central Brevard County Florida - Florida's Space Coast. Email me at agent@moving2brevard.com .

When Relocating to New Area - Do Your Research!

In most areas of the country the inventory of homes for sale is at record highs. Buyers have many varied choices when looking. Finding a new home is kind of like finding a mate...you have to do a lot "screening" or "filtering" before you find the right one!

How do you filter your home choices?

First of all, get familiar with the area. If you are new to the area, ride around. Ask questions of everyone. Concerned about the schools, visit the schools. Concerned about crime, call or visit the local law enforcement agencies. Concerned about travel time to the job or airport, drive it! Whatever your concerns, take the time to research them!

After you have done some preliminary research, call the local expert.

Who is that expert? He or she is the Realtor who sells homes in your area of interest. Don't necessarily call the individual who has the name on the sign out front of the home you like. Remember, the name on the sign out front works for the seller, at least that is the case in Florida!

{Actually, do some research, find a knowledgeable agent, and touch base with them early. They should be able to point you in the right direction, provide some resources, earn your trust.}

If you are moving to Brevard County, Florida give me a call. I primarily work in Central Brevard County in Viera, Suntree, Rockledge, Lake Washington and other central Space Coast communities. However, I have colleagues, experts who work in the other areas.

Contact me at agent@moving2brevard.com . Visit my web site http://www.moving2brevard.com/ or stop by my office - Century 21 Baytree Realty, 8195 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne FL 32940. I can also be reached by phone at 321-255-2600.

Seller or "For Sale-r"?

I posted this blog on my "other web log." I decided to re-post part of it here because I feel the information is critical if you want to sell your home.

Are you a seller or "For Sale-r"? I have had the fortune of speaking with folks who have had homes "listed" but have not sold. Thus, the listing has "expired." And I can truly say that every expired listing homeowner I have met with has been a "For Sale-r".

I believe folks who say they want to sell their homes fall into one of these two categories - "Seller" or "For Sale-rs". Both of these are different sides of the same coin.

What is the word I am thinking of? Oh, a dichotomy - two different, contradictory positions.

First of all, let me say that the"For Sale-r" is not always the cause for her or his condition. They are sometimes the unfortunate benefactor of poor advice, be it from a friend, neighbor, or their real estate agent. Yes, real estate agents do give bad advice on occasion.

So, what is a "For Sale-r"? Some or even all of these characteristics are or may be present in a "For Sale-r"....

• List a house for sale at a price that is probably too high for the neighborhood.
• Do nothing to prepare the home for showings [clean, de-clutter, take care of the little maintenance issues, curb appeal],
• Don't allow an electronic lockbox - Potential buyers must give 24 hours notice for showings,
• Owner (or agent) must be present for all showings,
• Not willing to negotiate on an offer "less than list" price,

And, what is a "seller"?

• Set a reasonable price considering the market,
• Willing to negotiate an offer because you prepared when identifying price,
• Have home staged,
• Have your home clean,
• Make it easy to show your home,
• Have your home marketed not just listed in the MLS!

If you are looking to be a "seller" in the Viera, Suntree, Baytree and Rockledge areas of Brevard County, please give me a call. If you would like a free, no-obligation price right analysis, please let me know. Gary Waters, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty Melbourne Florida. Visit my web site http://www.moving2brevard.com/