October eScreamer by Michelle Marison

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the Official Publication of the Greeley Area REALTOR® Association

October 2011 Inside This Issue President’s Corner .......................4

Members Report...........................4

GARA News & Notes ..................5 Birthdays......................................5 Government Affairs.....................6 Marketing Monkey......................7

Sharon Taylor’s Farewell.............8

Mortgage News..........................10

Ethics..........................................11 Credit News...............................12

Community Spotlight.................13 Calendar.....................................14

By Mary Bengford RE/MAX Alliance If you missed this year’s GARA Installation Breakfast you truly missed a great morning at the Greeley Country Club. Over 160 people were in attendance, 15 of GARA’s past-Presidents and several Dignitaries such as Mayor Tom Norton, Councilmen John Gates, Robb Casseday, Sean Conway, Mike Finn, President/ CEO Larry Burkhardt and our Weld County Assessor, Chris Woodruff just to name a few. Incoming President, Don Tennessen, special guests were his wife Mary and parents Joe and Joan Tennessen. Sharon Taylor’s goodbye speech was reminding the members “Don’t Stop Believing” and recapped about all the promises she made which became a reality this past year. Sharon mentioned she listened to the voices of her fellow peers and made some tough decisions which will keep our board moving forward and alive for many years to come. She also thanked all the 2010-2011 Committee Chairs for all their hard work and dedication. Sharon did receive a standing ovation from her peers which was truly memorable.

Ires Update.................................15

Incoming President, Don Tennessen, 2011-2012 said the theme “Moving Forward TOGETHER,” couldn’t have been more appropriate with all the changes made this past year. Don started his speech by thanking Sharon Taylor for her willingness to make tough decisions, lead the Board through a process to get us back on track financially and appreciated her for coordinating the search process which led to GARA’s new Association Executive hire, Julie Jensen.

Ask Alie.....................................16

Book of the Month.....................17 Market Stats...............................20 Success Secrets..........................22

Visit us online www.garainc.com

Steve Baker

Mary Knutson, LaRue Hauf and Sharon Taylor

Don asked the question about Relevance. He mentioned the Board of Director’s are committed to a stronger voice in advocating issues that affect our community both at the state and national level, offered education programs that should help sell more real estate and said “the more you Continued on page 18

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eScreamer • October 2011

the

eScreamer the Official Publication of the ® Greeley Area REALTOR Association

2011-2012 Officers & Directors OFFICERS

President-Don Tennessen

The Group Inc.

Immediate Past President-Sharon Taylor

Keller Williams

President Elect-John DeWitt

RE/MAX Alliance

First Vice President-Betty Hinze

Sears Real Estate

Treasurer-Colleen Johnson

Coldwell Banker Plains

STAFF DIRECTORS Director-Kevin Schumacher Director-Andrea Rusch

Director-Gerry McFarling Director-Robbie Miner

Director-Jenny Kindsfather

CAR Director-Mary Bengford CAR Director-Bill English

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Julie Jensen GARA Michelle Schuette Cornerstone Mortgage Shelley Ball-Paddock Sears Real Estate Michelle Marison Home Team Lending Laurie Foerster Help-U-Sell

Association Executive-Julie Jensen

Director-Joanne Eskildsen

Creative Team

RE/MAX Alliance RE/MAX Alliance Prudential

Alie Daniel Exodus Moving & Storage Ashley Sandoval The Group Inc.

Pro Realty Sears Real Estate Coldwell Banker Plains RE/MAX Alliance Aspencade Real Estate

I’m cool chillin here until you want this space. October 2011 •

eScreamer

President’s Corner By Don Tenneson President, Greeley Area REALTOR® Association

Thank you for taking a few minutes to check out the new Screamer. A special thanks to Michelle Marison and her team for creating this new communication tool. We look forward to visiting with you throughout the coming year about thoughts and ideas that can help you improve your business, inform you about industry trends, and encourage you to get involved with important community initiatives. The crucial conversation going on in our industry today seems to focus on relevance. Local Boards of Realtors came into being initially as the organizing body that published the MLS “book”. Weekly meetings were held to update new listings, under contracts, etc. Continuing education classes were also largely available through local boards, and of course, social events played a key role in keeping Realtors involved.

members report Office Transfers:

Pres Montoya - Austin and Austin to Property Technica Joanne Eskildsen - The Group, Inc to RE/MAX Alliance Pam Platt - Scott Realty to Coldwell Banker Plains Roxanne Francis - Metro Brokers to Sears Real Estate Lynn Laramore - Scott Realty to Coldwell Banker Plains Rick Wallace - Scott Realty to Coldwell Banker Plains

Drops:

Kimberly Long Tommi Cardenas-Hora Renie Shovlin Laura Mendoza John Zack Amy Dollarhide

New Affiliates:

Bank of Colorado Shelley Bayne

Dropped Affiliates:

Custom Inspection Service

New Realtors:

Jessica Joles-The MLS Xpress Duff Knott-Keller Williams-Ft. Collins

eScreamer • October 2011

Our world has changed. Today’s Internet environment has forced all of us to re-think our strategies to stay relevant in the marketplace. How does the Greeley Area Board of Realtors remain relevant in times like these? Real estate organizations all over the U.S. are grappling with this issue. Your Board of Directors is committed to identifying the “critical few” activities that truly add value to our membership. Initially, our focus includes: • Advocacy for Property Owners Our desire is to be the local voice for real estate issues in the Greeley area. • Help You Help More People With rapid change occurring in our business it is critical that we offer education opportunities that go beyond CE requirements. Our relevance in the marketplace is directly related to the number of customers we help. • Connection and Support Our Board is committed to creating an environment that supports our members. Congratulations! Since you are still here, that means you are committed for the long term for your customers and for our industry. We look forward to serving you.

GARA news

updates

August-Bank of America, Exodus Moving, Heritage Title Company and Tri City Inspection

By Julie Jenson Greeley Area REALTOR® Association The lunches were delicious and we can’t thank these sponsors enough for Welcome to our new, updated version stepping forth to support this monthly of the E-Screamer! I would like to meeting. We realize it is a cost to thank Michelle Marison with Home them and we very much appreciate Team Lending for finding this excittheir willingness to give. Please make ing new format and to the rest of the sure to support them and all of our Screamer committee for giving so sponsors as we couldn’t do it without much of their time to making this hap- them. Again, we apologize for the pen in a short time frame! We hope delay in recognizing them but know you enjoy the new look and find the we are thankful for you all! articles helpful and informative. I also want to acknowledge the following MLS Lunch sponsors for July and August since they were not recognized since there was no Screamer for those two months. They are as follows:

October

coming year. I feel we have a wonderful group of people that make up our membership and look forward to working with each and every one of you. I know our emphasis will be on you, the members, and how we can bring more value to you while being savvy with the resources we have and staying within our budget. We are already working on ways to save money in several different areas and yet moving us forward with some new technology and exciting growth opportunities.

July-Greeley Tribune, Home Team Lending, North American Title and Spradley-Barr Ford

Lastly, I would like to say a big Thank You to everyone for your kind words and encouragement as I get started in the Association Executive position here at GARA. It is certainly an exciting change and I welcome the challenges that our board will face in the

John DeWitt - October 2nd Jenny Lobato - October 2nd Patricia Streeter - October 2nd Gary Carroll - October 3rd Jann Demaske - October 3rd Shannon Blesener - October 4th Jim Dech - October 7th George Stockum - October 7th Adolf Wachsmann - October 8th Al Detmer - October 8th Jenny Kindsfather - October 9th Gene Oblander - October 11th Lisa Queen - October 12th Margie Martinez - October 14th Jason Mahoney - October 17th Toni Alloway - October 18th Penny Rose - October 20th Gerhard Morell - October 20th Maurine Garretson - October 20th

I know we all hear that times are tough but I think having a positive attitude helps overcome so many of life’s obstacles and I promise I will lead the charge in keeping things positive and moving forward! Smiles and laughter are some of the best deterrents to those “negative days” so you can count on seeing a lot of that from me!

Julie Jensen Rich Dendor - October 22nd Chrisann Reese - October 24th Tim Paxton - October 24th Other Birthdays in October Mark McGwire - October 1st Sting - October 2nd Chubby Checker - October 3rd Simon Cowell - October 7th Chevy Chase - October 8th Matt Damon - October 8th Kirk Cameron - October 12th Paul Simon - October 13th Ralph Lauren - October 14th Mickey Mantle - October 20th Pablo Picasso - October 25th John Candy - October 31st

Happy Birthday! October 2011 • eScreamer 5

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS By Barbara Koelzer Regional Director, Government Affairs Weld County Greeley • City Changing Approach to Growth: On Sept. 6th the City Council eliminated its growth boundary definition known as the Mid-Range Expected Service Area (MRESA) in favor of a new philosophy, known as the Adequate Public Facilities Area (APFA). But the change is more than semantic; it is market-driven and allows development to occur at a developer’s pace. Under the old MRESA philosophy, growth could only occur within a specified area. It created artificial barriers that some observers felt limited values for properties outside the MRESA. The APFA does not create any growth boundaries; rather it allows development to occur where public facilities such as streets, water sewer connections, etc. are available or planned within the City’s two-year budgeting schedule.

However, development can still be approved if services are not available if the developer is willing to pay for the necessary City infrastructure. If another developer submits a proposal adjacent to a project for which the developer has already paid for these services, then the second developer will have to repay the first for a share of the services. • Candidates Emerge for City Council: Greeley has a seven-person City Council: mayor, representatives from four wards and two at-large positions. This year voters will elect four representatives: a mayor, representatives for Wards 1 and 4 and one at-large member. However, incumbents Charlie Archibeque (Ward 1) and Mike Finn (Ward 4) are running unopposed so the important races are the mayor’s and the at-large seat. Ballots will be mailed to voters on October 11 and GARA will announce its candidate endorsements soon. Continued on page 17

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eScreamer • October 2011

• Scott Royer, retired STATE • Education Tax Increase Proposal Certified for Ballot: Colorado voters will be asked in November to raise their sales and income tax rates to give public schools and higher education more money. State Sen. Rollie Heath (Boulder), proposed the initiative, which now will be known as Proposition 103. Colorado Secretary of State Scott Gessler announced Wednesday afternoon that supporters of Initiative 25 turned in more than enough signatures to put the measure on the Nov. 1 ballot. If voters pass the proposal, the State sales and use tax rate will be 3 percent, up from 2.9 percent, and the income tax rate will be 5 percent, up from 4.63 percent, for five years. The additional funds are expected to generate $3 billion. Heath decided to ask for the tax increases because of repeated cuts to the State’s education budget in recent years. “Fundamentally, we have to educate kids and our work force,” Heath told the Associated Press. Local school districts could get an additional $200 to $300 per pupil if voters approve the proposition. If it fails, the state will cut between $50

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Make Your Boring Business Fun

By Michelle Marison, Home Team Lending Follow the Monkey Blog at:

http://michellesmonkeymarketing.blogspot.com/ I don’t like to fly. It’s not that I don’t like to vacation – it’s the confined space, recirculated air, ½ cup of juice and six peanuts that I don’t findall that appealing. I go into “survival” mode when I am air bound. A recent trip to New Orleans landed me on Southwest Airlines. The trip from Denver to New Orleans was fine – the crew was pleasant, we arrived on time and that was about it. The flight home, however, was unforgettable. We hadn’t been on the plane for more than 5 minutes when the flight attendant announced that someone had dropped a wallet at the front of the aircraft. “Just kidding,”, he added “it’s mine but now that I have your attention, we will start the safety instructions.” He had the whole plane in absolute stitches with lines like “…if your life jacket still doesn’t inflate…sorry, there is a hole in it” , and, “when the oxygen mask

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drops down, after you are done screaming, put it on”. And one of our favorites, “now put your belongings under the seat in front of you leaving you absolutely no leg room and prepare for take off.” We arrived in Denver 28 minutes early where we were reminded to tell our friends of our great experience because if we were 28 minutes late we would tell EVERYONE we knew. Our last impression was our welcome home; “On behalf of Southwest Airlines we would like to be the first to welcome you to Honolulu. Since we can’t do that, we will welcome you to Denver, now get out.” We all laughed and clapped. Here’s the gold - you could tell the crew enjoyed what they did. They had fun with it. Their lighthearted humor made our flight pleasurable, relaxing and memorable. It’s your turn to take action. Write down 5 things you do in your daily business routine and brainstorm ways to spice it up! Want an example? You can find mine on my marketing blog at http://michellesmonkeymarketing.blogspot.com Suggested book read for even MORE ideas: The Fred Factor by Mark Sanborn

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So Long Farew

but with those come perserverance. Last year I told you, “Don’t stop believing.” Each of you as a member of this organization has a voice in how things are done. We sent out a survey and asked your opinion, and then we set out to make those opinions a reality! We addressed budget issues that have never been addressed or quesFrom Sharon Taylor tioned in the past. Thank you Diane Quigley,for traveling with me to Our Past President Longmont to compare our budgets, as One year ago, I stood before you and well as talking to other boards in the gave an acceptance speech as your region about their budgets. We cut newly elected President. The year thousands of dollars from the budhas flown by and it’s time for me get and hopefully next year as these to share some remarks as we move changes are implemented we can acforward together. tually reduce our local dues. Greeley First, I would like to thank you all currently has sone of the lowest dues for allowing me to be your Presiin Northern Colorado. dent. I would like to thank the terWe changed our weekly morning rific Board of Directors, who worked meeting to a monthly luncheon. alongside me so diligently to make There were those who were sure it this a great year. Thank you! I wouldn’t work but it did! Attendance could not have made it without you! doubled or tripled. Thank you Dori A special thank you for service well Workman and your committee for all done to those outgoing Officers and the work you put into this endeavor. Directors: We have had great guest speakers, a Diane Quigley – Treasurer new and wonderful way to plug our Bob Weimer – First Vice President listings and we get a great lunch for Randy Moser, Immediate Past Presi$1. Thank you from the bottom of dent my heart for making this such a huge Betty Hinze – Director success. I would also like to thank Mary Bengford – Director the affiliates who have stepped forSusan Troudt – Director ward and provided lunches. We have It’s been a great year! It’s been a fantastic affiliates! Please thank them year with changes and challenges, and send business their way.

Terry Rogers and Chelsea Sackschewsky headed up the CRC committee. They teamed up with Annette Foust who chairs CARHOF and we had a “Fall Festival.” We also had our annual pie auction. Annette sold tickets for the CARHOF raffle at one of our luncheons and I believe that this has been our most successful year with CARHOF. Thank you all, your hard work and dedication is greatly appreciated. I promised we’d have a golf tournament this year and we did. It was actually the first Northern Colorado Board War Golf Tournament. Greeley and Ft Collins Realtors battled it out at Water Valley Golf Course. Lindsay Jiricek & Chris Moser took home prizes for Closest to the Pin and Longest Drive. And your President’s team got the award for the highest score (I seem to get confused between golf and bowling scores). Anyway, it was perfect in every way, except Ft Collins did take home the traveling trophy. None of this would have been possible without that lady who has more energy than anyone I know, Teri Rogers along with her great golf committee! Look forward to seeing that trophy in Greeley next year! We actually had new realtors join our association this year. Thank you to Mary Bengford and the Orientation committee for getting them off to a good start. Thank you to Felecia Burke for chairing the Education

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eScreamer • October 2011

well

Committee, keeping us all up to date and helping us earn those CE credits. Fair Housing was chaired by Bill English, Grievance by Mary Sitzman, Legislation by John Dewitt, Newsletter by Shelly Ball-Paddock, Christmas Party by Mike Brown, Broker Forum by Chalice Springfield and Installation by Mary Bengford. Thank you all so very much for a wonderful job! Perhaps the biggest change came in July when we hired Julie Jensen as our Association Executive. This lady is amazing! She started on the job a month after the position had been vacated. It was even the same week our annual dues notices were supposed to go out, not to mention that it was just a little over a month until the Installation Breakfast. She pulled it all together with a smile on her face. Julie has a “yes we can get it done” attitude and she is already seeing changes that can be made to better serve our Realtors. Julie, you are a welcome addition to this organization and we are so glad to have you on board. I also wanted to thank Julie Edwards for coming back to assist Julie and her training. It’s been a pleasure and an honor being your President. I’ve learned so much about being a Realtor. Our National and State Associations are working hard to keep private property rights and home ownership a reality in this nation. I urge you all to do your part. Thank you and God Bless each of you!

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King of Real Estate. King of Advertising. October 2011 •

eScreamer

Mortgage News

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New USDA Annual and Upfront Guarantee Fees Coming Soon

By Michelle Schuette - Cornerstone Mortgage

Effective October 1, 2011, USDA/Rural Development (RD) will implement an annual fee, similar to monthly mortgage insurance, and decrease the upfront guarantee fee for purchase and refinance transactions. New Annual Fee All purchase and refinance loans obligated by RD on or after October 1, 2011, will be subject to an annual fee of 0.30 percent of the borrower’s unpaid principal balance (UPB) in addition to the upfront fee. The additional annual fee charged will be escrowed by the servicing lender and included in the principal, interest, taxes and insurance (PITI) payment. How is the annual fee calculated? • The annual fee is calculated based on the borrower’s average annual UPB • Average UPB is calculated by averaging the beginning UPB for the first 12 monthly payments; first monthly payment beginning balance should equal the total loan amount at closing • Multiply the average UPB times 0.30 percent to calculate the annual fee total • Divide the annual fee by 12 to obtain the monthly amount of the annual fee; this monthly amount must be included in the PITI ratio • The process is repeated to determine annual fees for the remaining months/years of the loan (i.e., months 13 to 24, 25 to 36, etc.) Changes to Upfront Guarantee Fee The upfront guarantee fee for USDA purchase transactions will decrease from 3.50 percent to 2.00 percent effective October 1, 2011; the upfront fee for refinance loans will remain at 1.00 percent. The 2.00 percent upfront guarantee fee can be financed into the loan amount. To learn more how these changes may impact your clients, please contact your mortgage lender. Cornerstone Mortgage Company | The Beck Team Michelle Schuette Tom Beck (NMLS 280374 | LMB100027866) To check the license status of your mortgage loan originator, click HERE.

eScreamer • October 2011

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Contribute to the eScreamer!

it’s @bout time! We are always looking for interesting content! Contact us to talk about the opportunity for your article to be featured! contact julie jensen juliejensengara@gmail.com (970) 353-8884

By Steve Stazel - CAR Instructor

You have just listed a house in which a murder/suicide occurred 8 months ago. Do you disclose this to prospective buyers? Well the Code of Ethics addresses this very subject. Standard of Practice 2-5 states “Factors defined as non-material by law or regulation or which are expressly referenced in law or regulation as not being subject to disclosure are considered not “pertinent” for purposes of Article 2.” The next question I know you have is “What does Colorado law or regulation say about disclosure of a murder/suicide? “ What follows is the law in Colorado. You can find this in the CREC manual. Circumstances psychologically impaction real property—no duty for broker to disclose. (1) Facts or suspicions regarding circumstances occurring on a parcel of property which could psychologically impact or stigmatize such property are not material facts subject to a disclosure requirement in a real estate transaction. Such facts or suspicions include, but are not limited to, the following

(a) That an occupant of real property is, or was at any time suspected to be, infected or has been infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or diagnosed with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or any other disease which has been determined by medical evidence to be highly unlikely to be transmitted through the occupancy of a dwelling place; or (b) That the property was the site of a homicide or other felony or of a suicide. (2) No cause of action shall arise against a real estate broker for failing to disclose such circumstance occurring on the property which might psychologically impact or stigmatize such property. Several things to note---1. You may want to obtain written instructions from your seller as to what they want to disclose. What do you do if the seller says “don’t disclose” ? 2. Maybe you discuss this with your managing broker? 3. If you are a buyer’s agent should you disclose a murder or suicide? What if you are a transaction broker working with the buyer? Steve Stazel is a Professional Standards Instructor for CAR and a member of NAR’s Professional Standards Committee. He has been a senior Ethics Instructor for CAR since 1979. A REALTOR® since 1974. He is available to answer your ethics questions at (303) 773-3333 or email him at stazels@msn.com

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October 2011 •

eScreamer

“How long will it stay?” By Dan Beck, Author of Revealed the Truth about Credit One of the most common questions I get from people is regarding how long certain items will remain on a credit report. Many people have heard all kinds of crazy answers, especially when it comes to negative information. People are usually shocked to find out how long something can stay on their report or they have been told lies by collection companies trying to scare them into making a payment. Here is the real truth about accounts and credit reporting limitations. Accounts Paid on Time –Accounts that have never been late can stay on your credit report indefinitely or can be removed ten years from the last time the account had activity. If the account is closed, this would be based upon the date it was closed. If the account still has activity, it will stay until there has been no activity for 7 years. Bankruptcies – Chapter 7, 11 and non-discharged or dismissed chapter 13 bankruptcies are removed in ten years from the filing date. Chapter 13s are removed seven years from date discharged, but not to exceed 10 years. Charge-offs – Charged off accounts are removed seven years from the date it was charged off. Collections – There are two types of collections: the original account, which was turned over to collections and an account reported by a 3rd party collection agency. Original accounts remain for seven years from the time they went 180 days delinquent prior to the default. Accounts reported by a collection agency remain for seven years from the same date. This means that the collection can remain on your report no longer than the original account that went into default. No where in that statement did I mention “from the date it was PAID” this is because paying a collection does not change how long it can be reported to your credit report. Inquiries – Inquiries are placed on your credit report to indicate who has looked at your credit report. Inquiries that you initiate from an application (such as credit card, auto or mortgage loan) will remain on your credit report for 2 years. These type of inquiries are commonly known as “hard inquiries” and they can negatively

Continued on page 17 12

eScreamer • October 2011

Right Look Right Location Right Now

Tips From The Experts to Share With Your Clients By Romia Pritchett R.C. AutoDetailing & Carpet Cleaning

Cleaning your carpet in the winter? I’ll get to the point, why would you clean your carpets in the winter? Well your carpet is the filter to the air in your home, I know you have a filter in the furnace, but your carpet traps dust, pollen, bacteria, and other pollutants. As for hard wood floors, they don’t trap anything other than moisture, that being said every time you walk on your hardwood floors, all of those dust particles, dander, pollen, etc are kicked up into the air you breathe, not good. At-least the carpet will trap it until you can have the carpets cleaned. Ok with that said, it is in your best health interest to have your carpets cleaned at minimum once a year and more often depending on your health conditions, pets, kids, etc. It is also a great idea to vacuum at least weekly if not more often depending on your lifestyle.

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REALTOR ED

REALTOR ED October 7th -Realtor ED Free 1 CE 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. @ Board Office Comps, CMA & Cloud CMA October 21st -Realtor ED $45 6 CE 9:00 - 4:00 p.m. @ Board Office Water Issues In Real Estate

Community Spotlight

Aims Automotive and Technology Center By Kacie Vaughn Sears Real Estate

If you haven’t visited the state of the art Aims Automotive & Technology Center you will be amazed. The 45,000 sq. ft. center is centrally located near the intersection of HWY 34 and CR 17 in Windsor and opened on January 11, 2010. Programs at the center encompass standard academic classes, such as science, math and English, as well as career and technical educational programs. The

facility is a high-tech learning environment that includes smart-technology classrooms, wireless computer labs and student lounge, a science lab, and conference rooms. The Aims Automotive & Technology Center focuses their education and training in Automotive Service Technology, Collision Repair and Refinishing, Light Diesel Repair, and Upholstery. The programs are nationally recognized and certified in both secondary and post-secondary educational systems with accreditation provided by the National Automotive Technicians and Education Foundation. Tuition for the 2 year degree program at the center is currently $10,000. This semester over 200 students are enrolled, including 18 female students. Students range in age from 16 to 64. The training and skills obtained by the students enrolled will not only prepare them for careers as mechanics, but teach them the skills to work in parts and service management and insurance as well. With 1 in 9 jobs related to the transportation field, the skills and training offered at the center are in high demand. Director, Fred Brown, emphasizes pride and respect at the center and Northern Colorado is extremely lucky to have such an amazing facility producing such knowledgeable and respectable students for our community’s work force.

October 2011 •

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Calendar Details October 2nd - 4th CAR Convention Downtown Denver

October 20th - Greeley Young Professionals 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. Kenny’s Steak House 3502 W 10th St, Greeley

October 7th -Realtor ED Free 1 CE 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. @ Board Office Comps, CMA & Cloud CMA

October 21st -Realtor ED $45 6 CE 9:00 - 4:00 p.m. @ Board Office Water Issues In Real Estate GRI *lunch provided

October 8th - UNC Football Game 1:35 pm vs. Sacramento State October 12th - Business Before Hours 7:00 - 8:30 a.m. Hope Center 2780 28th Ave, Greeley October 19th -MLS 11:30 - 1:00 p.m. High Plains Library Admin Building 2650 W 29th Street, Greeley

October 31st - Halloween!

October 22nd - UNC Football Game 1:35 p.m. vs. Montana State October 27th - Business After Hours 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. A Room with a View 3050 67th Ave, Greeley October 29th - UNC Football Game 1:35 p.m. vs. North Dakota

eScreamer • October 2011

Industry Related UNC Events

Community Related Have events? Email Michelle Marison michelle@hometeam-lending.com

IRES Partners with Fannie Mae By: Ashley Macdonald IRES Public Relations Ambassador On September 8th, Information and Real Estate Services (IRES) announced immediate availability of the Fannie Mae Short Sale Assistant Desk (“Assistance Desk”) to our subscribers in handling post-offer issues that may relate to servicer responsiveness, the existence of a second lien, or issues involving mortgage insurance. The Assistance Desk will collect and submit information to Fannie Mae using a dedicated form with IRES. Complementing the streamlined service, IRES will provide Fannie Mae with data to improve valuations and expedite decisions regarding short sale requests. IRES is the first MLS to provide the Assistance Desk to Real Estate Professionals in Colorado. “We are committed to helping homeowners avoid foreclosure whenever possible,” said Fannie Mae vice president, Marcel Bryar. “The Fannie Mae Short Sale Assistance Desk will help real estate professionals resolve any issues that they may encounter during the review and approval process.” “Short sales in our area are taking over 120 days to close after an offer is received, compared to 30

to 45 days for a property that is not in a short sale situation,” said Lauren Hansen, CEO of IRES. “We hope that our new relationship with Fannie Mae and the Short Sale Assistance Desk will streamline and speed up the process so that buyers and sellers both benefit.” “The goal of the Assistance Desk is to clear the way for more short sales and make the process more efficient,” Bryar added. Real estate professionals should first make a reasonable effort to resolve issues by working through the servicer. The Assistance Desk staff will help in the event the servicer has not provided an initial response within 20 days, a final property valuation within 30 days, or a final decision or specific direction to facilitate a decision within 60 days from the original offer submission date. For more information about the Assistance Desk, IRES subscribers may visit the information located in the Training section f IRESis under the “Resources” tab, or contact our office at 800-596-4901.

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a sk ali e

By Alie Daniel Exodus Moving& Storage

What are some basic ways I can gain more business leads?

Want more leads? Here are some fun and simple ways to stay consciously aware of all the opportunities that are available to you and your business. In the anagram L.E.A.D.S I have broken it down to five simple steps to SUCCESS. Leader. To be a leader doesn’t mean you have to be the Alpha. It means you have pride in yourself and integrity in everything you do. The cliché “actions speak louder than words” is key here! Every person you interact with, you should interact with your heart. People can feel when you are genuine so make sure you’re truly aligned with every action you project. If your intentions are not genuine it is a huge RED FLAG and most people will run from you! Empathy. Connect with people in a heart centered manner. Listen and do not look beyond them scoping out the room for the next best person to talk to. Treat each and every person as they are your largest lead source. Always keep in mind that you never know who your next lead will come from. Authentic Appreciation. What does it mean to give authentic appreciation? It is a way of expressing gratitude in a way that is memorable and totally authentic to YOU! I would suggest you do this for every lead you get BIG or small. People LOVE to assist others and even more they like to be recognized in a gentle way for it. Next month we will talk about Thrifty Thank You’s SO!! if you are unaware of what feels authentic for you I guarantee you can be inspired next month. Dedication. Dedicate time for yourself. Take time to reacquaint yourself with YOU! Strip yourself of all the things your ego thinks you should be or shouldn’t be and embrace what you find, you will be amazed! The more dedication you give to getting to know you, the more authentic and valuable you are to your family, community and your business. Success. Taking into practice all these simple, yet deeply

Alie

eScreamer • October 2011

important ideas will be sure to guide you in a positive manner towards your future success. Being authentic will also enable you to have an excellent reputation not only with yourself but with the community you are trying to reach. I hope these fun and simple ideas inspire you. Thanks so much for your questions. I am looking forward to the many more questions to come. Sincerely, Alie Daniel

Have something to ask Alie? Email her at alie@exodusmoving.com

Positive Thoughts By Laurie Foerster Help-U-Sell Home Advantage

WOW!! The Screamer is back!!! When I was asked to participate again and have a regular column…I thought, “What am I going to write about?” After much thought, I decided on having a column that focuses on Positive Thinking. I know that I personally struggle keeping a positive attitude on a day to day basis…especially now that I am a Realtor. Negativity seems to be the common place…so, how to keep a positive attitude? There are a few things that I have found that can help and I would like to share them with you. 1. Wake up every day giving thanks for the new day ahead and the possibilities it holds. 2. Surround yourself with positive people 3. Read positive and encouraging books 4. Do everything with love in your heart 5. Show trust in others and they will respond to you 6. Never hold a grudge 7. Keep an open mind 8. Live your life with forgiveness and compassion 9. There is nothing stopping you from turning a mistake into an opportunity 10. Think positive things about others no matter what happened and what was said Now that I have shared these, they seem easy, right? Well, for me…they sound easy, but are truly very hard. For the next few months, I would like to expand on them and how they can help you change your attitude and if you try just a few suggestions… you might change your life.

BOOK month of the

By Felecia Burke North American Title

CONQUERING ADVERSITY SIX STRATEGIES TO MOVE YOUR AND YOUR TEAM THROUGH TOUGH TIMES

By Cristopher Novak

The source of adversity are endless - life, health, family, work, finances, addiction, relationships – and each one challenges us to be more than we believe we could ever be. When life is good, it is human nature to believe we are immune to the negatives others experience. We often settle into an “It will never happen to me” mind-set, and “not in my backyard” mentality. Then when adversity strikes, we are shocked, disbelieving, unprepared and often immobilized by the event, even though some mechanism of the human spirit keeps us moving forward, one foot after the other. This book, Conquering Adversity, highlights six strategies to help us deal with tough times – Affirmation, Expectation, Communication, Locomotion, Collaboration and Celebration- strategies that have been tested in the fires of real-life crises and offer a proven plan to create successful personal and professional results amid the ashes of life’s challenges. The principles in this book are absolutely foundational to your success in overcoming adversity. Conquering Adversity is about: • Creating extraordinary success in the face of impossible odds • Not trading tomorrow’s dreams for yesterday’s nightmares • Delivering value at work by finding value at home (My personal favorite) Conquering Adversity is built on the premise that each one of us is bigger than any calamity, stronger than any problem, and that we have the power to move forward even in the most difficult circumstances. This book is inspiring. It introduces you to the hero you already are and gives you six strategies to discover that inner hero when it matters most.

Continued from Government Affairs page 6 million and $300 million next year. Republicans oppose the proposal because it increases taxes. “Colorado’s hardworking families and job creators are struggling to survive in this recession. The last thing they need right now is Democrats pushing another state tax increase,” Speaker of the House Frank McNulty said in a statement. • Public Education Lawsuit Worth Watching: Lobato vs. the State of Colorado is a lawsuit that was filed in 2005 by a group of parents from around the State and school districts from the San Luis Valley. The suit alleges Colorado’s current schoolfunding system fails to provide a “thorough and uniform” system of education as outlined in the Colorado Constitution. The trial began in Denver District Court on Aug. 1 and is expected to last five weeks. For National News - click HERE Continued from Dan Beck page 12

affect your score. When you request your own credit report, that inquiry stays for 6 months and nobody other than you sees it. Inquiries that you didn’t initiate, such as pre-approved credit offers or companies monitoring your credit report, remain for 6 months and are not seen by other companies and do not impact your score. Judgments – Judgments stay on the credit report seven years from the filing date. Repossessions - Repossessions are removed seven years from the date your auto loan went into default. Tax liens – Tax liens include federal, city, state and county liens. They remain seven years from the date they’re released. If they aren’t paid they can remain indefinitely. Keep in mind all these times are the maximum things can stay, that doesn’t mean they can’t come off sooner. Also unfortunately not all companies always follow the rules, just one more reason to check your reports regularly for inaccurate reporting.

October 2011 • eScreamer

Continued from cover article real estate and said “the more you participate the more relevant GARA will become.” His challenges to the members this year… offer more relevance for members by getting involved, join a committee and support the monthly marketing meetings by attending them. “It’s time to get back in the game, there’s always room for one more. Relevance is about what you put in, not what you get out. Real joy is in giving, not the taking.” Kurt Albers, Northeast District Vice President, installed this year’s GARA’s Officers and Directors: President Don Tennessen, Immediate Past-President Sharon Taylor, President-Elect John DeWitt, First Vice President Betty Hinze, Treasurer Colleen Johnson, Directors Joanne Eskilden, Kevin Schumacher, Andrea Rusch, Gerry McFarling, Robbie Miner, and Jennifer Kindsfather, CAR Directors Mary Bengford and Bill English.

Gerry McFarling presented the Rookie of the Year Award to Laurie Foerster with Help-U-Sell. Diane Quigley presented the Affiliate of the Year Award to Michael Brown with Heritage Title Co. Don Tennessen presented the Citizen of the Year Award to Mike Peters, former Greeley Tribune Reporter. Sharon Taylor presented the Distinguished Service Award to Mary Bengford with RE/MAX Alliance. Joanne Eskilden presented the REALTOR of the YEAR Award to Diane Quigley with True Abundance Property Management. We could not have done this event without our wonderful Installation Committee and our Sponsors: Homes and Land, First Bank, Exdous Moving and Storage, Cherry Creek Mortgage Co., Farm Credit Services, Fidelity National Title Co., First Farm Bank, First National Bank, Fort Morgan State Bank, Heritage Title Co., Home Team Lending, Land Title, North American Title Co., RE/MAX Alliance, SEARS Real Estate, Stewart Title, Unified Title Co., and Wells Fargo Home Mortgage.

Betty Hinze, Dianne Q

Jin Dech and Jenny K

Don Tennessen recognized several REALTORS who have been in the industry for 25 years: Carolyn Brazelton, Beth Connell, Ray Pfalzgraff, Matt Revitte, Sheryl Steel and John Valencia. He also recognized David Clarkson who has been a REALTOR for 50 years! Teri Rogers, with the GARA Community Relations Committee, presented a check for $2952.91 to College Promise, a local foundation helping kids in this community go to AIMS or UNC.

John Valencia and Sharon Taylor

Mike Peters

Dianne Quigley an

Annette Robin-Foust recognized SEARS Real Estate for contributing the most to CARHOF, Affordable Housing of Colorado. A big Congratulation’s goes out to all the GARA 2010-2011 Award Recipients!

eScreamer • October 2011

Jenny Kindsfather, Robbie Miner, Betty Hinze, Colleen Johnson, Gerry McFarling, Kevin Schumacherand Mary Bengford

Sharon Taylor and Carolyn Brazelton

Quigley and Sharon Taylor Kevin Minner, Don Tennessen and Chalice Springfield

Kindsfather

John DeWitt and Julie Jensen Chalice Springfield

nd Joanne Eskildsen

Sharon Taylor and Beth Connell

Bruce Willard, Chirs Moser and Randy Moser

Sharon Taylor and Sheryl Steel

Gerry McFarling and Laurie Foerster

Mike Brown and Dianne Quigley

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Julie Broderious and Teri Rogers

Dave Clarkeson and Sharon Taylor

October 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ eScreamer

From the Desk of: Mike Ramstack @ Pro Realty Week Start Date:

9/14/2011

Week End Date:

9/20/2011

Market Statistics RESIDENTAIL # of Active Listings New Listings (week) New Listings (YTD) Avg. Sale Price (YTD) %of List to Sale DOM Sales Last Week # of Sales YTD $YTD Sales Comm % L/S

Currently 1 Year Ago 2 Years Ago 654 878 941 25 51 65 1,235 1,554 1,561 $144,316 $143,165 $139,938 97.98 97.24 99.29 109 100 97 23 (65 mo) 22 (57 mo) 36 (85 mo) 1,075 1,179 1,242 $155,140,613 $168,791,647 $173,133,401 86.79 78.96 77.71

Range of Sales Sold Active $0 - $99,999 9 133 $1k - $129,999 2 113 $130k - $154,999 0 90 $155k - $184,999 5 105 $185k - $249,999 4 113 $250k - $449,999 2 87 $450k+ 1 30 TOTAL 23 654

Absorption Rate = 7.10 months This information is provided by Pro Realty and is deemed reliable. For the most up-to-date info, we recommend pulling your own stats or contacting your favorite REALTOR. :)

A Note from the eScreamer team We hope you have enjoyed this first edition of the NEW eScreamer! Our mission is to have relevant, fun, up-to-date content. If for some reason we have mis-quoted, made a factual mistake or you find a spelling error, we apologize. Our goal is not to offend, or be wrong but to have a fun, light-hearted approach to our newsletter. Please also note that we only take compliments and not complaints and we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take suggestions, only volunteers. :) Additionally, this first edition is SUPER-sized and may not be this long in issues to come. If we have caused any harm to your eyes while staring at the computer or your feet to fall asleep, again this was not our intent. Have a great month...we are already working on the next issue. Oh and ads are now available and cheap! 20

eScreamer â&#x20AC;˘ October 2011

Yours truly, The eScreamer Team

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We saved the best space for last.

Email Michelle Marison For rates and availability michelle@hometeam-lending.com

October 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ eScreamer

Success Secrets By Shelley Ball-Paddock Sears Real Estate

Feature Superstar: Angell Fuchs Home Team Lending As a veteran in the real estate business, I have had the opportunity to do business with Angell may times over the years. I am always touched by her gentle spirit and ability to kindly tell people their credit is in the tank. All kidding aside, if you don’t know Angell, you need to meet her! I love her trust in God, enthusiasm for this business, and work ethic. I asked Angell to share aspects of success that have helped her along her path. “Communicate well and often, even when the news is bad or not much to report.” She also believes in the concept of “under promise and over deliver.” Above all, she truly cares about each person she is dealing with, not only the borrowers, but the Realtors, title staff, co-workers, and her competitors. She also urges us to stay as positive as possible. Angell graduated with a Psychology degree from UNC in 1978. That same year she began working as a processor for

Banker’s Life where she later became a loan officer. She stated that being a processor helped her really understand how to qualify someone. Remember, these were the days prior to credit scores, computers, and desktop underwriting. So who were the individuals that most influenced or taught her about success? “First and foremost, Jesus Christ. He teaches me every day,” says Angell. She also acknowledges her older sister, Jeanne who is her hero. “As the oldest girl in the family, Jeanne helped raise all the kids. She always wants to do the right thing and would give the shirt off her back. She has been a great role model.” She also names her husband Richard as a person of great influence on her life. They married in 1985 and truly are best friends. Some additional advice from Angell is to not live in fear. “Love everyone around you in a big way. You cannot run out of compassion, humor, understanding or joy, so give it freely.” After 33 years as a lender, Angell sums it up by saying, “This isn’t a job for me, it’s my mission….my calling.”

Angell’s Favorite Quote: We sow our thoughts, and we reap our actions; we sow our actions, and we reap our habits; we sow our habits, and we reap our character; we sow our character, and we reap our destiny. - Desiderius Gerhard Erasmus

Photo: Angell and her husband Richard in Italy.

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Email Michelle Marison For rates and availability michelle@hometeam-lending.com

Enough said.