After my first blog on short sales, I have to admit that short sales is still not my forte but that does not mean that I cannot or am not capable of processing one and not willing to learn.

I look at short sales like this: It is like meeting someone for love and I don't quite connect or feel physically attracted to, but once I get to know them and see their qualities, then love grows and blossoms. The qualities of short sales are different than a normal real estate sale but it can help you stay alive in this market. I am beginning to fall for short sales. Not that cute when it first introduced itself but I am beginning to take care of it and see the benefits involved.

The journey so far has been intriguing because I get to actually live a short sale cycle in my real estate lifetime. Also, I get to use it as an experience, educate the public when confronted with a question about short sales and add it to my resume for future business endeavors.

What is interesting about the short sale process is that you either take classes (a short cut) or you learn by real estate school of hard knocks. Welcome, Hard Knocks University School of Real Estate Short Sales!

There are still some things that I am learning and to be quite honest, it is putting my patience to the test but no matter what or how many people complain about the market, it is what it is, accept it or not, take it or leave it, join in the list pioneers of real estate or look for another career.

Not that I don't have patience, I have survived raising two kids as a single parent and every parent knows that you definitely have to have two things with parenthood (and in life) love and patience.

Just yesterday I received my first offer. It is not nearly close to the asking price but this is what I love about my career the most; the challenges that I face with negotiations, and not for nothing, but I am very aggressive on that part of my job.

Anyways, while I call the buyer's agent to acknowledge the fax with the offer, they then asked me who my attorney was and I asked, "What attorney"? They started to talk to me like I did not know what I was doing. They also sounded panicky on the phone, OMG! "See, this is the thing about some realtors, they think that they know what they are doing with short sales"

After those striking words to me, all of a sudden fear took over me. I started pacing back and forth in my living room, and started to doubt myself and what I was doing. Am I wrong? Should I hire an attorney?

Meyling Calero, Vice President of Colonial Guaranty & Title, Inc, who is helping me process my short sale deals, helped to calm and relax me after a few emails back and forth. I call Meyling my short sale hero, she is very intelligent and knowledgeable with everything to do with short sales from A to Z.

I called the buyer's agent and told them what was needed to be told in regards to the negotiations and for some reason that time around, I felt confident in myself and felt that the tables had turned around. What was said was something very simple yet the words were very powerful and nice. I took control of the conversation and the buyer's agent said, ‘oh, okay'. Period, END of conversation.

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"I went into a McDonald's yesterday and said, "I'd like some fries." The girl at the counter said, "Would you like some fries with that?"

Jay Leno - US Comedian and Television Host - Michael Moncur's Daily Quotes

This quote reminded me of how mechanical we can become when we are used to the same scripts and/or sales pitch that we use with our real estate customers lest be forgotten that we fail to use our 'good listening skills. Instead of listening to our customer's needs, the majority of Realtor's fail to listen and only hear what the customer is asking for.

But let me paraphrase that quote: "I went to a real estate office and said, "I'd like a 5 Bedroom with 3.5 Baths for $250,000 with an equity of over $100,000" The real estate agent said, " Would you like a den, pool, marble floors, updated appliances, close to A schools, etc?

Unlike the unrealistic home that the customer above is looking for, (and the house may just be on the market like a needle in a haystack in today's distressed real estate market), we fail to sharpen our ears to focus on the customer's needs because the mechanics of real estate have disrupted our people skills, disorienting our minds and disconnecting ourselves with reality, I'm talking to you for now. More on Mr. Customer later. 

You can practice effective listening skills by being mindfulness. The next time you encounter a buyer or seller, pay attention dutifully to their needs by jotting down their wants and needs - let them speak while you observe. Watch, listen, take notes, be mindful, if you are asked a question, answer but then ask questions yourself so that they see that you are interested in their real estate needs and shows that you are listening.

Obviously the girl was not paying attention to Mr. Leno and failed to listen to his needs. Should Jay care? Maybe not, but in real estate it is important to be alert, look at your customer in the eyes and convey to them that you are there with an "At Your Service" attitude.

Now more on Mr. Customer: They might not be a good listener either, but it is up to you to take control of the situation by educating them how the real estate market works, the latest trends, and if they really want that 5 Bedroom with 3.5 Bath's, show them that it may be out there but they will probably have to sacrifice square footage, location, condition of the property, etc. You know what to do, you are a professional!

In the early 1980's, cell phones were used in analog mode and big enough to install the car phone in a vehicle. In the 1990's, technology advanced cellular use into digital mode allowing users the advantage of email, text messaging, and web browsing.

In today's technology we have camera and video phones allowing communications at a more convenient and higher speed.

The daily use of cell phones for a long period of time raises a health concerned question: Should we be concerned with the radio frequencies that are emitted through the waves and its health effects in our brains?

Cell phones emit electrical magnetic fields at a minute frequency much lower than a microwave oven, but even at a small amount, cell phone users be concerned?

I don't know what would be more lethal, using the cell phone too much or text messaging while driving.

In a recent analysis conducted at the University of Utah, "...studies showed that...there was no increased risk of brain tumors among high use cell phone users."

Strange though how there are approximately over 30 billion cell phone users in the majority of the worldwide population who also use may be using headphone sets, they watch television, listen to the radio, etc.

I am not imposing that cell phone use has no correlation between cancer and cell phone use, however, I personally feel that some people may/can be sensitive to electrical magnetic fields.

In such conditions, such people may not live in areas where RF towers exist. It is difficult to define the link between cell phone use and the health risks as there are more research study's being conducted on the subject, most particulary in the European region. 

In the meantime, epidemiologists, scientists, researchers, and cell phone companies suggest that cell phone use be used to its limits such as emergencies or when mostly needed, use the speakerphone, even a headset or Bluetooth.

But even the Bluetooth does not guarantee lowering the health risks associated to the brain and cell phone use.

To be on the safer side, it is suggested to use your own discretion and be aware that such health precautions may after all, exist.

The Food and Drug Administration and the Federal Communications Commission are related to these delicate health concerns from the public. For more information please visit:

http://www.fda.gov/cellphones/

Sources: David Kohn, Caution on Cell Phone Use, McClatchy, Tribune Business News, Washington: July 24, 2008, Retrieved August 24, 2008, ProQuest.

©2008 Diana Perez

South Florida is known for its pristine beaches that lie between the tri counties of Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beaches. It is the lifestyle of beach goers that embrace the beauty and weather of South Florida and truly appreciate Luxury Lifestyle Living on the beaches of South Florida's East Coast.

South Florida is an epitome of the Atlantic Ocean where charming beaches are coalescent between South Beach and Palm Beach. As a proud property owner, you will appreciate the culmination of elegance while captivating luxurious living in any of the skyline towers that mark an opulence row of Luxury Lifestyle Living with amenities that suit you from the daintiest to the most demanding personal needs and treats.

The beach of Hollywood is among the pristine beaches of the Atlantic Ocean and it is just minutes from the Aventura Mall and Bal Harbour Shops. Hollywood is also intricately located and surrounded by crème de la crème restaurants, boutique shops, art galleries, amongst other inviting pleasures to suit your variable needs.

The city of Hollywood is located between Miami and Ft. Lauderdale giving you a close commute to the Miami and Ft. Lauderdale Airports. While you are here, don't forget to visit The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino for gaming fun, nightlife clubbing, restaurant delights, and shopping sprees or just try your luck with one of the newest games offered at the Hard Rock - Black Jack.

Just south of Hollywood is the city of Hallandale which is best known for its Gulfstream Park Casino. Gulfstream Park is also known for its world class thoroughbred racing and the Mardi Gras Gaming.

Come visit and experience Hollywood by exploring local areas of interest such as The Boardwalk on Hollywood Boulevard and A1A and Downtown Hollywood for its nightlife. Stroll among the shops, restaurants, clothing boutiques and businesses of an area that is full of action. Discover a beachside hidden oasis in North Hollywood too.

Please contact me for more information regarding real estate sales and rentals at the Majestic Properties office in Hollywood. I am only a phone call or email away.

©Diana Perez 2008 All Rights Reserved

I found this in a website and wanted to share.

A man and his son were walking in the forest. Suddenly the boy trips and feeling a sharp pain he screams, Ahhhhhhhhh!. Surprised, he hears a voice coming from the mountain, Ahhhhhhhhh!

Filled with curiosity, he screams, Who are you?, but the only answer he receives is, who are you? This makes him angry, so he screams, You are a coward!, and the voice answers, You are a coward!

He looks at his father, asking, Dad, what is going on?

Son, the man replies, pay attention! Then he screams, I admire you!. The voice answers I admire you!. The the father shouts, You are wonderful!, and the voice answers, You are wonderful!

Then the father explains, People call this ECHO, but truly it is LIFE! Life always gives you back what you give out! Life is a mirror of your actions. If you want more love, give more love! If you want understanding, give understanding and respect. If you want people to be patient and respectful to you, give patience and respect! This rule of nature applies to every aspect of our lives.

Life always gives you back what you give out. Your life is not a coincidence, but a mirror of your own doings.

www.experiencefestival.com

Whether you are considering redecorating your home with furniture, art, or color, or you are staging your home for sale, you can add simple colors to match your décor without having to sacrifice the simple taste of minimalism.

The basics of simplicity begin with clearing out your clutter. You can begin simplifying your décor by getting rid of clutter before you decide to redecorate your home by getting rid of items that you no longer need.

The Basics: Getting Rid of Clutter

Start by creating a pile of unwanted items to throw away, another pile to donate, and another for the maybe pile. It's funny how we never know how much junk we accumulate throughout the years unless we move or decide to unclutter our homes. You will find that organizing your home will give you more space and a sense of  simplicity while making your life easier by finding what you need and knowing where things are at a glance.

Redecorating your home should then be an easier task once you get rid of your clutter to make room for the new items that you want to add to your personal taste and home style.

Be Creative: Dare to Color

The color of your walls should blend in with your furniture, giving every room an accent of flair while exuding your personal style. Color can also move you. If you are not sure what colors to add or blend into your personal style, try paint and color experts such as Sherman Williams on how to emphasize certain features while minimizing others. You will also find that you do not have to sacrifice too much of your time by simplifying color to its minimal. Too much color and painting techniques such as faux pas (besides being giving your walls a beautiful textured look) is time consuming unless you hire someone or do it yourself. Consider a simple paint job if you decide to use color if you are staging your home and you feel that it needs it.

Also, you may consider leaving your walls all one color or adding an accent wall while the color of your furniture, accent pillows, throw rugs, knick knacks, works of art, and window treatments all compliment one another while breaking the monotony of a simple colored wall. The best results will be to have all of the colors of any room in the home blend in together.

Organizing and redecorating should be a pleasurable experience and not a daunting one. The colors that you choose should compliment your décor to stage your home. If you are redecorating your home you will find that simplicity meets minimalism.

"Most of these sites are trying to sell products, but they are free to use and could give new home owners some good ideas". Realtor Online Magazine - August 25, 2008

http://www.designmyroom.com/ A little complex but gives you an idea of color, furniture, drapes, etc.

http://www.bhg.com/ Comtemporary Gets Comfortable

http://www.andersonfloors.com/ "There's Only One Style That Matters, Yours"

http://www.woodfloors.org/consumer/design.aspx From Cherry wood to Maple, choosing your floor is not that difficult with the help of woodfloors.com.

Dupont's Room Designer

Have fun decorating!

©2008 Diana Perez  All Right Reserved

South Florida is known for its pristine beaches and among them is the beach of Hollywood, where 55 acres of natural beach and park areas offer natural parks, recreation, mangrove trees, wild and sea life, and activities for the entire family.

You can start your day by experiencing Hollywood's eco friendly paradise, which offers a natural wonder and metropolis that is rich in nature. The Anne Kolb Nature Center at West Lake Park, (Johnson Street east till the end of the road), offers you to experience a led-hike nature walk through the mangroves among other varieties of activities; a beautiful, fun and relaxing way to spend a Saturday or Sunday afternoon with the family.

Also at the Anne Kolb Nature Center, you can enjoy kayaking, canoe rides, snorkeling; take your kids on a boat ride through the mangrove trees through the protective natural beach areas.

Bring your boat and go through the canal channels and head to Hollywood's Dockside Dining on the Intracoastal Waterways.

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Mark your calendars for September 26^th through the 28^th for Hollywood's 7^th Annual Hollywood Beach Clambake on The Boardwalk.

Also, the Hollywood Beach Latin Festival is having their 15^th Celebration on September 21^st, on Hollywood Boulevard and A1A.

The Seaside Crafts Affair which is being held till May 2^nd and 3^rd 2009. Bring your artistic talents or come to enjoy a great way to meet friends, local artists, or bring your family.

The city of Hollywood boasts of international dining so bring your appetite with you!

Click here to view visithollywood.org's streamline video.

For Visitors:

Get your free vacation planner by visiting http://visithollywood.org/contactus.aspx

Attention Music Lovers!

There is a music Playlist widget which you can add to your profile. You are listening to mine. Hope you enjoy listening while you read. If not, simply turn the speaker volume down or off on your computer.

If you like what you hear or would rather add your own favorite music genre in your profile, simply go to www.playlist.com, register, create your profile, and start music searching. Playlist gives you the prompts on how to get the code and add to your 'settings' on your AR profile with a copy and paste.

I really enjoy listening to music while I work and it does not bother me to hear someone's music genre preference opposite to mine. But, is it a good idea to add to the AR profile or not? I try to add music that is instrumental but I am a bossa nova, gospel, electronica, old school, house, techno, easy listening, jazz music freak!

If this might have been a major publication then of course I would not add the music playlist, but since Active Rain has yet regulated any rules on adding music to my profile then I will continue to add more music. Hope you have enjoyed listening to my music, if not, hope your turned the volume down of off. Yey or ney? It's a matter of choice!

Music is known to be a therapeutic natural modality. I need music! It motivates me, I do everything to music, uh-huh! I remember having to listen to music playing before a sales orientation began every morning from Monday through Friday, such songs were, I Want Money, The Cup of Life, and other inspiring music to get the office agents fired up to work and make some deals!

You can also try www.pandora.com. It's awesome! I think you will love it too!

Southeast Florida's Love 94 93.9 FM "The Smoothest Spot on The Dial", offers listener's to listen live while on the Internet. Their website offers HD technology in a local and national level. The HD Radio Technology allows listener's to choose a city and listen to that city's local radio stations.

Even the Angels sing in Heaven!

©Diana Perez 2008 All Rights Reserved

This was emailed to me from a friend of mine. Thought it was cute I wanted to share. It reminded me of my grandmother who passed away at 84 in '96 and although she never drove a car like the one below, I really enjoyed listening to her stories and am very fond of them and her memories. She had 16 children which means I have a looooot of cousins!!

Give your grandmothers a hug today, call them and tell them how much you love them if she is still alive, that goes for grandfathers too!  I love the elderly, their wrinkles show signs of years of work, life experience and many smiles and laughter's, tears, sorrows, and everything else too but I am focusing on the positive side of life. Talk to an elderly today, they love to tell their stories of their youth, some implausible, some sad, some funny, some wise ones, you might learn something new. 

Check out Active Rain member Russel Ray, a Home Inspector, Property Consultant, Business and Marketing Consultant in the San Diego, CA area. His story of his grandmother is very inspiring, moving and motivating. http://www.mywiseoldgrandmother.com/

GRANDMA STILL DRIVES!!!

Grandma's letter. She is eighty-eight years old and still drives her own car. She writes:

Dear Granddaughter:

The other day I went up to our local Christian book store and saw a Honk if you love Jesus bumper sticker.  I was feeling particularly sassy that day because I had just come from a thrilling choir performance, followed by a thunderous prayer meeting.

So, I bought the sticker and put it on my bumper.

Boy, am I glad I did, what an uplifting experience that followed. I was stopped at a red light at a busy intersection, just lost in thought about the Lord and how good he is, and I didn't notice that the light had changed.
 
It is a good thing someone else loves Jesus because if he Hadn't honked, I'd never have noticed.  I found that lots of people love Jesus!

While I was sitting there, the guy behind started honking like crazy, and then he leaned out of his window and screamed, For the love of God!  Go! Go! Go! Jesus Christ, GO!  What an exuberant cheerleader he was for Jesus!

Everyone started honking! I just leaned out my window and started waving and smiling at all those loving people. I even honked my horn a few times to share in the love!

There must have been a man from Florida back there because I heard him Yelling something about a sunny beach.

I saw another guy waving in a funny way with only his middle finger stuck up in the air.  I asked my young teenage grandson in the back seat what that meant.  He said it was probably a Hawaiian good luck sign or something.  Well, I have never met anyone from Hawaii , so I leaned out the window and gave him the good luck sign right back.  My grandson burst out laughing. Why even he was enjoying this religious experience!!

A couple of the people were so caught up in the joy of the moment that they got out of their cars and started walking Towards me.  I bet they wanted to pray or ask what church I attended, but this is when I noticed the light had changed.

So, I waved at all my brothers and sisters grinning, and drove on through the intersection. I noticed that I was the only car that got through the intersection before the light changed again and felt kind of sad that I had to leave them after all the love we had shared.  So I slowed the car down, leaned out the window and gave them all the Hawaiian good luck sign one last time as I drove away.

Praise the Lord for such wonderful folks!!

Will write again soon.

Love, Grandma