Listing your Home? Teamwork, It's just common sense!

Listing your Home?  Teamwork,   It's just common sense!

Yesterday as I donned my hat (and hoodie) for it was pretty chilly out there, and laced up for my morning ritual of a trip around the track, I noticed a couple out there talking and laughing, just generally chatting it up.

Most of the time I like to go solo as it is always a good time to think without interruptions, but watching these two got me thinking that maybe teamwork here makes sense too.

When hiring a Realtor to market your home, a team approach makes sense.   Why? 

Well, to name a few reasons, Availability, Innovation, Motivation, Flexibility, Creativity, and that all important Second Opinion!

For all intents and purposes, real estate is a 24/7 type of business.   While most Buyers don't make an impulse purchase you don't want to do anything to have them rule your home out.    So if they have a question, we want to answer it quickly.  When an offer is on the table we want to respond quickly. 

It would not be realistic to expect that your Realtor never have a day off.

Having said that, you, a Seller,  would like someone available to you and representing your home at all times.

Hiring a team makes sense.    You have someone who is  available at all times, and, not just someone, but someone that has a financial stake in seeing your home go from listed to sold!  That is a clear benefit. 

What might not be so clear is the behind the scenes collaboration.     Two sets of eyes looking at the marketing pieces, making sure the photos look right and the words are perfect.  Two people dissecting  the market and finding who might be the best fit for your home.   Two people evaluating the market and how you home is positioned in it.

Two different styles of closing and negotiating.   That flexibility brings strength to your side of the table, and that second opinion!

Lets not forget that intangible factor of excitement.    Loving your listings and talking them up is a important.    Who couldn't use a little more love?  

Teamwork has worked well for our business for the past 20 plus years.    People like it.  In fact, it has become a trend.  Why?    For most, it is just common sense.  

Are you thinking of selling your home?    Give this team a call!    We offer a free market analysis and as always, our service guarantee!   

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

www.FranklinMAAreaHomes.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

If It's Just the Carpet That You Find Dated, Why Don't You Make An Offer?

If It's Just the Carpet That You Find Dated, Why Don't You Make An Offer?


Lately I've seen buyers looking at homes for a second peek.   "The second showing."     That generally means they like enough about the home and want to investigate further.   But why aren't these second showings turning into offers?

There appears to be many a home that remains on the market even after a "second showing" because it needs "work".  


The term work means something different to all of us.     I always thought of work to mean heavy cosmetics or a structural or mechanical kind of thing, but I am finding today that folks use the term work when a home needs a paint color change, a flooring change or maybe a fixture change.   Essentially anything that appears dated usually equals the term work.

So that being said, and you love all other factors or most other factors of the home, why don't you make an offer taking the "work" into consideration?    In most cases, an agent and a Seller have already taken that into consideration when pricing a home, but maybe not.    Why?    

We all have different decorating styles and tastes.  What I find wonderful many may find way out!   A color that I find old and ugly many may find soothing and comforting!    That floral odor that many may find lovely, might make me want to hold my nose.

The thing that you find needs a change may not have appeared that way to the Seller or the listing agent.    Who knows, if presented correctly, they may agree with your argument!

My point. 

If you find that carpet dated, or the lights ugly, why don't you make an offer taking that into consideration?  I'm NOT advocating you be unrealistic.  On the contrary.   If you are reasonable, you may just win the home, and be able to make the change that will suit your needs! 

So, If It's Just the Carpet That You Find Dated, Why Don't You Make An Offer?

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

www.FranklinMAAreaHomes.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

____________________________________________

Carol-Ann Palmieri, is full time Real Estate professional working as a full time Realtor in Massachusetts for the past 24 years.  Along with her partner Al Mussi, she has helped hundreds of families find, sell or purchase new places to live.

A former US Marine, she grew up in Walpole, MA and is committed to the serving the community through various volunteer opportunities.   She attended MA Bay Community and Suffolk University and is continually updating her Real Estate education. 

Al and Cal are licensed in MA and RI.   Their primary areas of service Franklin, Bellingham, Medway, Millis, Medfield, Norfolk, Wrentham, Plainville, Blackstone, Walpole, Milford, Holliston, Hopkinton, Mansfield, and Foxboro, North Attleboro, Hopedale, Mendon, Millville but have worked hard at developing personal relationships with agents across the country in order to help anyone, anywhere with just the right fit....

Her mission....  To exceed your expectations!

Thoughts on an Open House and A Post Open House Briefing

Thoughts on an Open House and A Post Open House Briefing

A personal marketing strategy for many of my listings is to hold a public open house or two.    While some may think they are not effective, and in the not to long ago past, I would have agreed, these days they have proved more effective for me and I am generally able to seduce more potential buyers to attend.    We are able to promote the open house on line and through direct mail and reach more that might have interest in coming.

In the past, agents would not send their Buyers for fear a listing agent might poach them out from under their noses, but we have grown, and that is no longer the case.     Agents feel comfortable sending their buyers along, knowing that the hosting agent will be respectful and as a result these events seem to have more merit.    As a result, I believe more buyers are showing up to open houses encouraged by their agents and we all win with a higher degree of exposure.

With that said, I held a sunday open house yesterday at 51 Hewes Street in Cumberland RI. 

The price of the home is a really attractive $189,900 and I have to say myself that the presentation of this home in ads and on line is pretty fabulous!   ;) 

Post Open House Briefing

After holding the open house, securing the property and retrieving  signs, my next call is always to the sellers of the home.    They are after all, anxious to hear what has happened and who showed up.    I know in their hearts they are looking to hear the words "offer", but that usually won't come until the buyers come back for a second peek.

Yesterday, a beautiful afternoon with blue skies and a calm soft breeze, we were able to keep the windows open for the first time of the year.    That always makes a home feel more attractive as the fresh air and sounds of spring will bring any home to life!  
Eight sets of folks came through and I must say there was not a dull moment.    Of these 8 sets of folks there were at least two that have interest.   

I did get to hear and see these buyers response to my listing first hand instead of relying on other agents feedback.   I was able to relay this to the seller and we now have more information to help us move along with this property.

I placed follow up calls to these folks and or their agents. 

Although the home isn't sold yet, I feel confident that we are on the right track and am hopeful that one of these open house visitors will move to make this their new home. 

*  If you or anyone you know is looking to sell their home in the Franklin MA area and surrounding communities,  please give me a call!    I have been marketing and selling real estate for the past 24 years and can put my experience to work for you!      Carol Ann Palmieri

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

www.FranklinMAAreaHomes.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

Has Home and Garden TV Changed your Real Estate Expectations?

Has Home and Garden TV Changed your Real Estate Expectations?

I don't know about you, but I am addicted to HGTV.    ( I am also addicted to reality TV, so clearly my reality might be a bit off.)

Seriously.   As if I don't already live, eat, sleep and dream real estate,  I can't resist tuning in to "House Hunters."     I especially love the international show.    And what about those makeover shows?    (where the material costs $1000, but the labor appears to be free!)

I am curious?  While these shows are entertaining and give food for thought, has HGTV changed a Buyers expectations of what that "perfect" home looks like?

Buyers seem to be leaning towards the homes that have a better presentation.  They are no longer willing to look beyond the clutter or envision themselves tearing wall paper down or imagining what a kitchen would look like without those orange counter tops.

But, it's not just geared towards Buyers.

Has Home and Garden TV changed a Sellers expectation of how a Realtor works? 

On several occasions, I have watched a show where the Realtor actually takes the Seller out on a home tour of similar homes before listing.   The intention is to help the Seller position their home in the marketplace.

While I don't do this, technology has afforded us the next best way to take a Seller into each of the comparable homes.   With trusty IPad in hand, we can take them on a virtual tour of their competitor's homes. 

Also to keep abreast of the current trends, Al and I offer a staging consult for all of our Sellers.     We feel that it sets our Sellers apart from the competition, helps to draw attention to the places we want to draw attention to,  and helps meet  Buyers expectations.  
 

 I guess I would say that HGTV has changed my outlook a bit.

I am curious, is it changing Buyers and Sellers thoughts of what to expect in the real world?   

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

www.FranklinMAAreaHomes.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

Summer Art Camp for Kids

Summer Art Camp for Kids

I know, I know.  Snow in the forecast for today and tomorrow and I am blogging about summer, but this is the time of year to start thinking ahead about what the kids are going to do in the off time for summer vacation!


Here is an idea  Art Camp! 


Everyone loves to create and this is a great opportunity for your kids, heck, or maybe you too! 

Rosemarie Morelli Crocker, art teacher extraordinaire is offering her summer art classes and they are filling up fast.    I can vouch first hand that Rosemarie is an excellent teacher.    For a couple of different reasons.  Last summer  my nieces took classes from her.    They loved them.  They learned a lot and produced some amazing pieces of art no less!               

    Click here for Art Camp Brochure

My First Oil Painting with the Guidance of Rosemarie

I was so inspired by their art work, that I signed up and have taken classes with Rosemarie.  She is an terrific artist with a dynamic teaching style.  Learning, I am, just starting on my second oil painting under the guidance of Rosemarie.

Don't wait to sign the kids up.   No one wants to hear,
"I'm bored" this summer.

 The kids love her.   You will be amazed with what they learn and produce.    And, they will have fun doing it!

Rosemarie Morelli Crocker
399 North Street
Walpole, MA 02081

Looking for a home in the area?    Looking to sell?  

We have been selling and marketing real estate locally for the past 24 years.   

The Al and Cal Realty group would be honored to help you with your move.   Call 508-494-9061 or email Cal @ AlandCal.com

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

www.FranklinMAAreaHomes.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

A Moving Experience A Realtors Confession

A Moving Experience A Realtors Confession


For those of you that know me, know that I have been selling and marketing real estate for the past 24 years.    I love helping folks move into or from their homes.     I feel that I am an empathetic person with a good ear and heart. 
 

For my Sellers, the process begins as I hire a professional Stager to come in and help them get their home ready for market.   We all know that we don't present a home for market like we actually live in it.   Once we are ready to go, it's showtime and the showings begin.         Those photos have to be perfect, the home has to be ready, and once we secure a buyer they have to be ready to move when that closing date comes.... and so the tale begins.

Be it ever so humble

Humble pie that is......   

For the first time in those 24 years, this Realtor has decided to make a move.    Moving within the area no less, but moving just the same.   I have always held the opinion that moving across town is the same as moving out of state.    That opinion is for the moving process, not the rest of the stuff that goes with it... 
never the less...it's  time to make my move.
I have been packing and cleaning and lifting and making trips to the goodwill for days now.   Where did all this stuff come from??    It seems never ending and certainly overwhelming!

My Confession!

When I think of all those times that one of my Sellers balked at the Stager coming in and changing their home around and I nodded understandingly... NOW, I Really Get IT!

When I think of all those times that one of my Sellers didn't want to show the house one day because it wasn't show ready and I encouraged them to show it anyway....    Now I UNDERSTAND!

When I think of all those times that one of my Sellers was crying because the moving process was stressful and I gave them a hug... NOW, I UNDERSTAND!

When I think of all those times that one of my Sellers needed more boxes and I thought to myself, wow, where did all that stuff come from as I brought them more boxes... NOW, I GET IT!

When I think of all those times that one of my Sellers couldn't get out fast enough as I picked up a broom and helped them sweep...   NOW, I REALLY UNDERSTAND!

When I think of all those times that one of my Sellers needed to take a day off from getting ready to move and I encouraged them to forge on ....   HELLO????

And, Last but not least, when I think of all those times, when a Seller told me how emotional it was to leave their memories behind and I said I understood....  But really didn't.  I Confess, I DO NOW!

Will this Moving Experience Make Me a Better Realtor?

Honestly the answer is no.    I will always do my job to the best of my ability.     What this moving experience will do though, is make me have a better understanding of how difficult the process is no matter the reason for the move.     I can know from experience how hard it is to pack box after box and take trip after trip to the transfer station.   I can know from experience how hard it is to have every inch of that home sparkle for the new resident.      I will encourage folks at any age if they financially can to hire a professional mover and cleaner.  

And last, but not least

My thoughts on closing gifts have shifted.     I am now thinking a gift certificate for a massage might be just the ticket!

Just because I am moving doesn't mean I don't have time for you!   ( In fact, give me any reason to get away from the packing! ) 

Please give me a call to start your home search or to learn about how we would market your home for sale!      Just call 508-494-9061 or send an email to Cal @alandcal.com

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

www.FranklinMAAreaHomes.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061

A Valentine's Day Real Estate Love Story

A Valentine's Day Real Estate Love Story

It is Valentine's Day.   I was thinking of all the couples that I have found homes for and how happy there are/were in their new homes and how lucky I am that in most cases I have been a part of a very happy moment for many, many young couples.  

There are many stories to be told, but this is a really good one!

There was this amazing young couple that I had sold a home to when they were just married.   They were hard workers with good professional jobs.   The purchased a new home and were delighted and delightful to work with.   Even the builder though so.   

It was no surprise to me when they called me up to say that their family had grown and it was time to move up to a larger home.    We began the search and looked at many homes.   Their wants were specific as were their locational needs.

I knew exactly what they were looking for and after time the perfect home came on the market!

It was an expanded cape in a delightful neighborhood.  Homes set apart.   All a bit different but with distinctive characteristic of a well built custom New England development.    Hold the train!   There is always a catch, right?   Right.   This home was just outside of their desired area.    I knew, it wasn't too far from the commuter rail, but still..... 

I contacted them and said, "I have the perfect home!"   I told them where it was and they were hesitant.  Too far from the train, etc.    "Can you humor me?"  I asked them to drive by.   They did. 

....If this were video... this is where I would insert the sappy music.....

The Buyer called me and asked me to get them into the house pronto!!!!   

I did.  They bought it.   

Here is the real love story.....

Turns out... when they were first dating many moons ago... leisurely driving around as young lovers do, they fell upon this neighborhood.   The husband (then boyfriend), said to the gal... that is the house we are going to live in.    Yep...the very same house!    

That friends is my Valentine's Day true love story! 

Carol-Ann Palmieri

Al and Cal Realty Group

www.FranklinMAAreaHomes.com

Cal@AlandCal.com

508-494-9061