Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Monday, November 5, 2007
Saturday, November 3, 2007
WOW - You go Joey!!!!
As a new member of the Chevy Chase office Joey Silverstein has impressed everyone with his enthusiasm and talent. A couple of days ago, he posted this on Youtube (see link below). This is a great example of innovative (and free) ways to go after an the largest buyer population, the 28-40 year old. Way to go Joey!
By the way, Joey already has 40 out of 50 points needed for his trip to Atlantic CIty, all based on doing the little things.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=flWk8q0ikLs
You can also see Joey's blog at http://www.cupofjoerealestate.blogspot.com/
By the way, Joey already has 40 out of 50 points needed for his trip to Atlantic CIty, all based on doing the little things.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=flWk8q0ikLs
You can also see Joey's blog at http://www.cupofjoerealestate.blogspot.com/
Thursday, November 1, 2007
The Great Hair Dilemma
I have a serious problem I would like to share. It is delicate and personal, but, I realize I need help, and the first step is admitting I have a problem. The fact is, my hair is too long, but I know not what to do.
There are some in this office of Chevy Chase who, with passionate fervor believe, I should not get a haircut - that I should let the locks of curls grow until I become some-kind of Jewish version of Dr. J from the late 70’s.
There are also some, however, who believe the opposite - that the unruly nature of my grooming has made me a the key representative of the grunge slacker, Seattle coffee drinking, internet addicted, Gen X poster boy, who looks, well, like a moron.
So, my question is, what do I do? Do I do a Chia Pet or Bruce Willis? Carrot Top or Jay Haverty?
Jedi Master Paul V says, “Do it while you can!”
My wife says, “Cut it off!”
HELP!!!!!!!!!!!
VOTE HERE!
There are some in this office of Chevy Chase who, with passionate fervor believe, I should not get a haircut - that I should let the locks of curls grow until I become some-kind of Jewish version of Dr. J from the late 70’s.
There are also some, however, who believe the opposite - that the unruly nature of my grooming has made me a the key representative of the grunge slacker, Seattle coffee drinking, internet addicted, Gen X poster boy, who looks, well, like a moron.
So, my question is, what do I do? Do I do a Chia Pet or Bruce Willis? Carrot Top or Jay Haverty?
Jedi Master Paul V says, “Do it while you can!”
My wife says, “Cut it off!”
HELP!!!!!!!!!!!
VOTE HERE!
Thursday, October 25, 2007
The Three P’s
The Three P’s
(Placement , Placement, Placement)
By Darrin Friedman
Branch Vice President, Associate Broker
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Chevy Chase
Some - many, actually - will tell you that real estate is about three basic principles: location, location, and location. That’s why a home in Bethesda has more monetary value than the same home in Frederick, and a home in Arlington can fetch a higher price than a home in Manassas.
Of course it would be silly to dispute it. I won’t even try. But I do want to ask you a question: What if the three sacred laws of real estate also pertained to a nonphysical or virtual space?
Just for a second, instead of thinking of real estate as just a place on a map, or an intersection you may know, imagine that “location” also refers to real estate or internet placement on a proven high-volume website, where the vast majority of all people looking for a home go to find their information. So, when you think location, location, location, you are also thinking, placement, placement, placement!
It is a fact that 82% of people who are going to buy a home this year will do most of their search online, and 86% of those online searchers will go to Realtor.com.
So, here is my bold, young, arrogant statement: physical location is important, but unless you have superior internet placement, it may not matter. In fact, I’ll go further. I would make the contention that the internet placement of a home on the market is the single most important factor that makes a home sell.
Now, please, do not misunderstand. It is not enough to have a home marketed online. A home must be marketed using a proven online strategy that has demonstrated its ability to secure “eye-balls,” or hits.
For instance: It’s not enough to have a virtual tour with low-resolution taken hastily by an agent. Rather, it is vital to have professional, high-resolution photographs taken because that is what the product (your home) deserves!
It is not enough to just have an internet site. Rather, it is vital to have an effective portal specializing in the marketing of homes which converts eye-balls to ready and willing buyers!
“Whoa,” you say. “This is too much! I have bought and sold my own homes several times in my life, and I never used blogs, or web sites, or any kind of virtual tours, let alone effective ones.”
I have, in all honesty, been accused of being young. I am, after all, 33 years old. In fact, one of my agents, upon meeting me for the first time, quipped that she had shoes older than I was. Well, I will tell you what I told her: “It’s time to buy new shoes.”
We live in a different world than we did 5 years ago. Today’s real estate market is vastly different than the one from the beginning of this millennium, let alone from the mid-90s or mid-80s.
Initial market position (list price) and location are important - I am not saying they are not - but choosing an agent, office, and company that truly understands internet placement and marketing is vital.
As the manager of a real estate office, it has truly been a remarkable year. Our numbers in 2007 are significantly better than they were in 2006.
“How is that possible?” you say. “Isn’t the market horrible? Don’t you read almost daily that the housing market ‘bubble’ has burst?”
Well, I would argue that interpretation is everything.
I can say, without doubt, by using actual tracking and statistics, that using certain technology has helped us move inventory (your house) within a shorter amount of time.
We have repeatedly, through our knowledge of technology and marketing, successfully positioned homes in the market place to sell and it has worked!
Is the real estate industry still about people? Absolutely, but it is also about the sophisticated marketing of a commodity and creating a perception of value. Have you ever heard of a little internet site called eBay?
So, the next time you interview an agent to represent you in the selling of your home, ask them, specifically, what their online marketing strategy is. Listen carefully. And when you hear only silence, or the meaningless chatter of words they do not understand, pick up the phone and call me. I’ll translate.
(Placement , Placement, Placement)
By Darrin Friedman
Branch Vice President, Associate Broker
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Chevy Chase
Some - many, actually - will tell you that real estate is about three basic principles: location, location, and location. That’s why a home in Bethesda has more monetary value than the same home in Frederick, and a home in Arlington can fetch a higher price than a home in Manassas.
Of course it would be silly to dispute it. I won’t even try. But I do want to ask you a question: What if the three sacred laws of real estate also pertained to a nonphysical or virtual space?
Just for a second, instead of thinking of real estate as just a place on a map, or an intersection you may know, imagine that “location” also refers to real estate or internet placement on a proven high-volume website, where the vast majority of all people looking for a home go to find their information. So, when you think location, location, location, you are also thinking, placement, placement, placement!
It is a fact that 82% of people who are going to buy a home this year will do most of their search online, and 86% of those online searchers will go to Realtor.com.
So, here is my bold, young, arrogant statement: physical location is important, but unless you have superior internet placement, it may not matter. In fact, I’ll go further. I would make the contention that the internet placement of a home on the market is the single most important factor that makes a home sell.
Now, please, do not misunderstand. It is not enough to have a home marketed online. A home must be marketed using a proven online strategy that has demonstrated its ability to secure “eye-balls,” or hits.
For instance: It’s not enough to have a virtual tour with low-resolution taken hastily by an agent. Rather, it is vital to have professional, high-resolution photographs taken because that is what the product (your home) deserves!
It is not enough to just have an internet site. Rather, it is vital to have an effective portal specializing in the marketing of homes which converts eye-balls to ready and willing buyers!
“Whoa,” you say. “This is too much! I have bought and sold my own homes several times in my life, and I never used blogs, or web sites, or any kind of virtual tours, let alone effective ones.”
I have, in all honesty, been accused of being young. I am, after all, 33 years old. In fact, one of my agents, upon meeting me for the first time, quipped that she had shoes older than I was. Well, I will tell you what I told her: “It’s time to buy new shoes.”
We live in a different world than we did 5 years ago. Today’s real estate market is vastly different than the one from the beginning of this millennium, let alone from the mid-90s or mid-80s.
Initial market position (list price) and location are important - I am not saying they are not - but choosing an agent, office, and company that truly understands internet placement and marketing is vital.
As the manager of a real estate office, it has truly been a remarkable year. Our numbers in 2007 are significantly better than they were in 2006.
“How is that possible?” you say. “Isn’t the market horrible? Don’t you read almost daily that the housing market ‘bubble’ has burst?”
Well, I would argue that interpretation is everything.
I can say, without doubt, by using actual tracking and statistics, that using certain technology has helped us move inventory (your house) within a shorter amount of time.
We have repeatedly, through our knowledge of technology and marketing, successfully positioned homes in the market place to sell and it has worked!
Is the real estate industry still about people? Absolutely, but it is also about the sophisticated marketing of a commodity and creating a perception of value. Have you ever heard of a little internet site called eBay?
So, the next time you interview an agent to represent you in the selling of your home, ask them, specifically, what their online marketing strategy is. Listen carefully. And when you hear only silence, or the meaningless chatter of words they do not understand, pick up the phone and call me. I’ll translate.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Broker Status Achieved
By Kermit D. Frog, and Hermione Granger
The Muppet News Press in Association with the Daily Profit Thursday, July 26, 2007; 1:16 PM
WASHINGTON -- The District of Columbia awarded Darrin J. Friedman his District broker certification today after passing the law portion of his DC Broker exam, finally putting to rest any question of just, as one witness called it, “who the MAN is”.
“I’m just relieved,” said Friedman shortly after exam success. “I mean, really, it feels great. I feel like singing songs about rainbows ands what’s on the other side!”
Muggle born and raised, Friedman has long been known to have difficulty with written examination, and rumblings of late have made the usually charismatic leader question his ability to pass his O.W.L’s.
Dominique Thomas, the Office Administrator for the CB Chevy Chase branch, and long time supporter of Mr. Friedman said she had confidence and resolve, saying before hand that she knew this time would be it. “I just felt something different this time. We all knew he could do it, but knowing and doing are two different things,” she said. “After all, he did stay up an finish Book 7 in 72 hours. If he could do that, he could do anything.”
Now, with this behind him, many have shown the same kind of enthusiastic outpouring of support. In fact, one agent in particular, Sherman Mcdaniel, echoed the relief, “It’s about frickin time!”
Though Friedman says he doesn’t feel any different, and that he firmly believes he is no smarter today than he was yesterday, the palpable energy surrounding the triumph is obvious to anyone familiar with him, and the branch itself.
In fact sources close to Paul V (the President grand poo-bah of big-blue) reported him to be ecstatic, saying, also, but with much more conviction, “It’s about frickin time!”
SO, as July ends and the summer begins to set in its final month of lounging, swimming, and vacation, Friedman can finally, and with quiet confidence, answer his phone as, “This is Darrin, DC Broker,” which, as many have reported is all he ever wanted to say.
-----------
Glossary of terms (This is for you Sarah)
O.W.L: a test given to Hogwarts students after the end of their 6th year. It stands for Ordinary Wizarding Level.
Muggle: Non magical person.
The Muppet News Press in Association with the Daily Profit Thursday, July 26, 2007; 1:16 PM
WASHINGTON -- The District of Columbia awarded Darrin J. Friedman his District broker certification today after passing the law portion of his DC Broker exam, finally putting to rest any question of just, as one witness called it, “who the MAN is”.
“I’m just relieved,” said Friedman shortly after exam success. “I mean, really, it feels great. I feel like singing songs about rainbows ands what’s on the other side!”
Muggle born and raised, Friedman has long been known to have difficulty with written examination, and rumblings of late have made the usually charismatic leader question his ability to pass his O.W.L’s.
Dominique Thomas, the Office Administrator for the CB Chevy Chase branch, and long time supporter of Mr. Friedman said she had confidence and resolve, saying before hand that she knew this time would be it. “I just felt something different this time. We all knew he could do it, but knowing and doing are two different things,” she said. “After all, he did stay up an finish Book 7 in 72 hours. If he could do that, he could do anything.”
Now, with this behind him, many have shown the same kind of enthusiastic outpouring of support. In fact, one agent in particular, Sherman Mcdaniel, echoed the relief, “It’s about frickin time!”
Though Friedman says he doesn’t feel any different, and that he firmly believes he is no smarter today than he was yesterday, the palpable energy surrounding the triumph is obvious to anyone familiar with him, and the branch itself.
In fact sources close to Paul V (the President grand poo-bah of big-blue) reported him to be ecstatic, saying, also, but with much more conviction, “It’s about frickin time!”
SO, as July ends and the summer begins to set in its final month of lounging, swimming, and vacation, Friedman can finally, and with quiet confidence, answer his phone as, “This is Darrin, DC Broker,” which, as many have reported is all he ever wanted to say.
-----------
Glossary of terms (This is for you Sarah)
O.W.L: a test given to Hogwarts students after the end of their 6th year. It stands for Ordinary Wizarding Level.
Muggle: Non magical person.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
I have a new Jedi Master
Yesterday I met with my new Master, Ruth P. I would tell you her last name but it's too hard to spell. Anyway, after a 3 hour marathon debriefing I can report without doubt that she is fully aware of the ways of the force and will prove to be a powerful master.
Here are some details listed from my google search (I added an update- see parenthesis):
Licensed in 1983, Ruth Papuchis brings extraordinary talent and energy to her role as Regional Vice President for CBRB. She is an Associate Broker in Maryland and DC and serves on the Board of Directors for GCAAR. (She has been the co-manager of the Gaithersburg, MD Long and Foster office for the last five years where she oversaw the operations and training of over 200 agents) and managed a successful Coldwell Banker office for 4 years previous to that. Prior to management, Ruth was a top producing Realtor with both RE/Max and Shannon & Luchs (now Weichert).
By the way, Ruth is also an editor - so it looks like the days of a blog full of spelling errors are over!
Okay, enough PR! Just as a side note, what is with this heat!!! I am so not happy - the main reason being it requires me to see Richard Urban in shorts. Seriously, who did I upset in a former life.
Other than that, I am not in the mood to go into great detail about anything - again, it's too hot.
Oh, only 48 hours away from my Harry Potter Book 7 mandatory seclusion. Woo-Hoo!
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Free at last, free at last, thank God oh mighty, I am free at last!"
What can one say about taking and passing the Maryland Broker's exam? I'll tell you what this one says, "Halelluya."
Seriously, can I hear it from the congregation?
After 135 hours of class, studying like it's 1992, and pretending I know what the hell I'm talking about, the little Dell workstation at PSI said "PASSED". In honor of All Pacino, OOH-AH.
(Excuse, me Mr. Darrin - but aren't you supposed to pass the Broker's exam? asks Frank Snodgrass, who - after riding a bike across the country somehow feels very empowered upon his return. Yes, Frank, I am! But supposed to and actually are two different things.)
So in honor of my test I would like to submit the following multiple choice questions from my exam for your pondering.
Question 1: What, if anything, should you do if a client asks you to join his cult, where as followers of Zuhl (see Ghostbusters), they do elaborate dancing, bake pound cakes, and celebrate the lighter side of the satanic diety that wants to destroy the known universe?
A. You accept his invitation because Zuhl followers are a protected class and there is nothing illegal or immoral about marketing to a group of people you have a common bond with.
B. You refrain from accepting his offer but accept the pund cake because it is airier than Jay Haverty's version of the same.
C. You run.
D. After accepting an agency relationship with your firm, you explain you would surtey enjoy the company of his minions as long as he buys something.
Question 2: Buyer A tells Seller B that he likes Seller B's go - go platforms in the home's basement. The Go - go platforms have bars that extend from the floor to the cieling. What kind of property are the platforms?
A. Chatel
B. Real Property
C. Fake Property
D. Fixture
Question 3: If Paul V comingles Anne D and Dean C what do you get?
A. Anne C
B. Dean D
C. Anned
D. None of the above.
Question 4: How does it feel to pass the test?
Priceless.
Seriously, can I hear it from the congregation?
After 135 hours of class, studying like it's 1992, and pretending I know what the hell I'm talking about, the little Dell workstation at PSI said "PASSED". In honor of All Pacino, OOH-AH.
(Excuse, me Mr. Darrin - but aren't you supposed to pass the Broker's exam? asks Frank Snodgrass, who - after riding a bike across the country somehow feels very empowered upon his return. Yes, Frank, I am! But supposed to and actually are two different things.)
So in honor of my test I would like to submit the following multiple choice questions from my exam for your pondering.
Question 1: What, if anything, should you do if a client asks you to join his cult, where as followers of Zuhl (see Ghostbusters), they do elaborate dancing, bake pound cakes, and celebrate the lighter side of the satanic diety that wants to destroy the known universe?
A. You accept his invitation because Zuhl followers are a protected class and there is nothing illegal or immoral about marketing to a group of people you have a common bond with.
B. You refrain from accepting his offer but accept the pund cake because it is airier than Jay Haverty's version of the same.
C. You run.
D. After accepting an agency relationship with your firm, you explain you would surtey enjoy the company of his minions as long as he buys something.
Question 2: Buyer A tells Seller B that he likes Seller B's go - go platforms in the home's basement. The Go - go platforms have bars that extend from the floor to the cieling. What kind of property are the platforms?
A. Chatel
B. Real Property
C. Fake Property
D. Fixture
Question 3: If Paul V comingles Anne D and Dean C what do you get?
A. Anne C
B. Dean D
C. Anned
D. None of the above.
Question 4: How does it feel to pass the test?
Priceless.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
The Gummy Bear Conspiracy
As the hot, hazy days of Washington summer approaches I would like to discuss the conspiracy gripping our Chevy Chase branch. As all Washington D.C conspiracies begin, this one starts simply. The other day, I was typing away on a report I was preparing for the now ascended Paul V (see last blog entry for details) and I paused, as I so often do, for a little sugary mid afternoon treat.
But as my hand reached for the plastic carton of gummy bears that sit on my credenza, I realized there was nothing there.
"Where, oh where, could my Gummy Bears be!" I cried in horrified angst. "How could this happen?"
I rushed hurriedly through the office, frantic - obsessed even in trying to retrieve my dear multi-colored hibernating friends, when I came across her. It was Cynthia Mariz, agent / linguist extraordinaire (the woman does speak 5 languages). Holding the carton she stood defiant, "I have the Gummy Bears," she says, "Do not ask for them back. We have decided you do not need them and I am taking them away."
"We what?!"
"You heard me," she said, this time repeating the entire thing again this time in Portuguese just because she could. Confused and trying to keep my wits about me, Eva Arias (who - as a new agent just ratified her 3rd contract in 4 months), came to her side. "You are not aloud to eat these anymore!" She said, taking out a carton of something dark and grimy. "You shall have these."
"What are those?" I asked.
"Apricots," Eva said with the kind of confidence one would expect from a person with early career success. "But just not any apricots - organic apricots. They have less sugar!"
"Then what's the point!?" I asked, now completely undone. But, just then, the amazing Mark Rutstein himself came to my defense. And lets face it, if I were to have a defender, Mark Rutstein would be it.
"Please," he began with determined flare, "do not deprive Darrin of his sugar. After all, Darrin is always there for us when we need him, we must not be judgmental in how it is he keeps his energy. If he wants to destroy his summertime figure with such horrible, processed fake food, we must not stop him. He is our leader. We must not look down at him, even in his desire to destroy himself."
As I realized my doomed fate, understanding that I will no longer have my red, yellow, green cocktail delight, I went back to my office to finish my report, realizing that they do, after all, only have my best interest at heart - right? No, I decide. I shall be punitive in my sugarless state.
In so being, the following people shall not be forgiven - being marked as co-conspirators:
1) Dominique - by ordering the little monsters it is your fault I have incurred such dependence. Shame on you!
2) Reid - ever since you got your first listing after only being in the business a couple months you have been haughty, and therefore you cannot be trusted. And that little gift of collar stays, which I thought was such a nice gesture at the time - was really done to throw me off your scent. Alas, it will not work!
3) Haverty - enough said.
4) Ana Maria - infectious laughter. I-think-not. A nervous reaction in fear of getting caught? YES!
5) Sherman - anyone that goes away on vacation without taking me with them is enemy number on in my book. I don’t care how much business you do. Okay, let me rethink that. I do care. Okay, you’re off the hook. But will you stop pulling all nighters? It’s seriously not good for you.
6) Santiago - It's just easy to blame you for everything.
That’s it for now. Just to be clear, though, my investigation is not complete. Oh, yes, the day of reckoning will come!
But as my hand reached for the plastic carton of gummy bears that sit on my credenza, I realized there was nothing there.
"Where, oh where, could my Gummy Bears be!" I cried in horrified angst. "How could this happen?"
I rushed hurriedly through the office, frantic - obsessed even in trying to retrieve my dear multi-colored hibernating friends, when I came across her. It was Cynthia Mariz, agent / linguist extraordinaire (the woman does speak 5 languages). Holding the carton she stood defiant, "I have the Gummy Bears," she says, "Do not ask for them back. We have decided you do not need them and I am taking them away."
"We what?!"
"You heard me," she said, this time repeating the entire thing again this time in Portuguese just because she could. Confused and trying to keep my wits about me, Eva Arias (who - as a new agent just ratified her 3rd contract in 4 months), came to her side. "You are not aloud to eat these anymore!" She said, taking out a carton of something dark and grimy. "You shall have these."
"What are those?" I asked.
"Apricots," Eva said with the kind of confidence one would expect from a person with early career success. "But just not any apricots - organic apricots. They have less sugar!"
"Then what's the point!?" I asked, now completely undone. But, just then, the amazing Mark Rutstein himself came to my defense. And lets face it, if I were to have a defender, Mark Rutstein would be it.
"Please," he began with determined flare, "do not deprive Darrin of his sugar. After all, Darrin is always there for us when we need him, we must not be judgmental in how it is he keeps his energy. If he wants to destroy his summertime figure with such horrible, processed fake food, we must not stop him. He is our leader. We must not look down at him, even in his desire to destroy himself."
As I realized my doomed fate, understanding that I will no longer have my red, yellow, green cocktail delight, I went back to my office to finish my report, realizing that they do, after all, only have my best interest at heart - right? No, I decide. I shall be punitive in my sugarless state.
In so being, the following people shall not be forgiven - being marked as co-conspirators:
1) Dominique - by ordering the little monsters it is your fault I have incurred such dependence. Shame on you!
2) Reid - ever since you got your first listing after only being in the business a couple months you have been haughty, and therefore you cannot be trusted. And that little gift of collar stays, which I thought was such a nice gesture at the time - was really done to throw me off your scent. Alas, it will not work!
3) Haverty - enough said.
4) Ana Maria - infectious laughter. I-think-not. A nervous reaction in fear of getting caught? YES!
5) Sherman - anyone that goes away on vacation without taking me with them is enemy number on in my book. I don’t care how much business you do. Okay, let me rethink that. I do care. Okay, you’re off the hook. But will you stop pulling all nighters? It’s seriously not good for you.
6) Santiago - It's just easy to blame you for everything.
That’s it for now. Just to be clear, though, my investigation is not complete. Oh, yes, the day of reckoning will come!
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Jedi Master Paul V gets his day
As anyone who reads this blog knows, I am sorta attached to my Jedi Master, Paul V. But, as yesterday’s announcement by NRT shows, I seem to not be only one. Yes! Apparently others have found that his mastery in the ways of force truly superior as he now transcends to the Presidency of the company as Hal Maxwell moves on to take on more responsibilities.
So, as I now realize I will have to share my master with many more people, I am now resigned to the fact that I have been selfish. I realize, only now, I MUST continue my detox of my Paul V dependency and strive to be clean once and for all.
Will I be successful? I do not know.
I do, however, know that things will not be the same.
Ah, CHANGE! that wonderful verb meaning: to mess with Darrin's head.
"Excuse me, Darrin," one blogger asks, "Why are you afraid of change? Aren't you the guy who tells everyone to read Who Moved My Cheese? The guy who says that we must embrace change and look forward to all that the future holds?"
"Why yes," I reply as I take my 3rd Xanax (if you’re reading this, don’t tell anyone). "I am that guy."
I fundamentally do believe that change is good. I do believe that we all prove our worth by proving ourselves adaptable, flexible, and resilient. After all, did Harry Potter ask why when Dumbledore transcended to the other side because of that weasel Professor Snape, or did Luke Skywalker fold up the tent when Obi Wan got struck down by Darth Vader?
Of course not! And in this case, Paul V didn't really leave us - he just got supercalifragalisticexspyalidocious status! He's still here, on this plain of existence (well, some would argue Reston isn’t but that is for another discussion). And unlike Harry and Luke, he's still just a phone call away, isn't he.
So as I put the bottle of Xanax down, I realize, maybe things will be okay - well, more than okay - it's going to peachy kean! In the meantime though I need to find out some things; such as, is it politically correct to continue to call the big boss Dad.
Submissions requested.
So, as I now realize I will have to share my master with many more people, I am now resigned to the fact that I have been selfish. I realize, only now, I MUST continue my detox of my Paul V dependency and strive to be clean once and for all.
Will I be successful? I do not know.
I do, however, know that things will not be the same.
Ah, CHANGE! that wonderful verb meaning: to mess with Darrin's head.
"Excuse me, Darrin," one blogger asks, "Why are you afraid of change? Aren't you the guy who tells everyone to read Who Moved My Cheese? The guy who says that we must embrace change and look forward to all that the future holds?"
"Why yes," I reply as I take my 3rd Xanax (if you’re reading this, don’t tell anyone). "I am that guy."
I fundamentally do believe that change is good. I do believe that we all prove our worth by proving ourselves adaptable, flexible, and resilient. After all, did Harry Potter ask why when Dumbledore transcended to the other side because of that weasel Professor Snape, or did Luke Skywalker fold up the tent when Obi Wan got struck down by Darth Vader?
Of course not! And in this case, Paul V didn't really leave us - he just got supercalifragalisticexspyalidocious status! He's still here, on this plain of existence (well, some would argue Reston isn’t but that is for another discussion). And unlike Harry and Luke, he's still just a phone call away, isn't he.
So as I put the bottle of Xanax down, I realize, maybe things will be okay - well, more than okay - it's going to peachy kean! In the meantime though I need to find out some things; such as, is it politically correct to continue to call the big boss Dad.
Submissions requested.
Monday, April 16, 2007
The Degoba System
Where have I been you ask? The Jedi Master Paul V has been keeping in a secluded location deep in the confines of the Jedi Temple teaching me the ways of the world. The dark side, other wise known as sub-prime lenders, has been trying to ruin our industry, bur we have persevered and pushed them back where they belong - out of business.
In other tidbits, we have a ton of new faces at Chevy Chase, like:
Cynthia Mariz comes to us from WC & An Miller. I am so excited to have he here, after all, the woman speaks 6 languages. If Brad Pitt had her in Babble the movie would be like 2 minutes long.
New agents this month include:
Cynthia
Bill
April
Tina
Tola (yes they are different people)
Michela
Scott
Josh
Please say hi to them when you have a chance.
Anyway, Chewbacca needs a chess opponent, so I have to go.
-Darrin
In other tidbits, we have a ton of new faces at Chevy Chase, like:
Cynthia Mariz comes to us from WC & An Miller. I am so excited to have he here, after all, the woman speaks 6 languages. If Brad Pitt had her in Babble the movie would be like 2 minutes long.
New agents this month include:
Cynthia
Bill
April
Tina
Tola (yes they are different people)
Michela
Scott
Josh
Please say hi to them when you have a chance.
Anyway, Chewbacca needs a chess opponent, so I have to go.
-Darrin
Friday, March 30, 2007
Cool article from Inman - Lend an ear, save your career
http://www.inman.com/InmanNews.aspx?ID=62682
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Live from Broker's Class, it's Thursday monring!
Here I am, filling my mind with the educational splendor of Broker's Class. The man in the front, Old Blue Hat (as the professor affectionately calls himself), smiles his smile, dispensing his infinite knowledge on me and the others behind his 2 inch thick glasses - no doubt bought in 1979, and his fisherman's cap - stained brown by years of loyal use.
His strained vocal cords reverberate with a bass that is long past its prime; his weathered face, beaten by decades. Willy Lowman, Arthur Miller's brilliant character, he is! Seasoned, gruff, jaded - his time long passed.
What he must think of us?
What I must think of him.
I respect his experience. I respect his knowledge. But does he respect me? Does he see the vision I see? Does he see the future like I can? Does he care?
I sit, invigorated. Now more than ever, I sit, determined to build the kind of branch where people who understand where we are going as as industry. Now, more than ever, I am focused on those of us who truly get it, rather than wasting time on those who do not.
Do you see what I see? Do you see the potential? If you do, welcome.
His strained vocal cords reverberate with a bass that is long past its prime; his weathered face, beaten by decades. Willy Lowman, Arthur Miller's brilliant character, he is! Seasoned, gruff, jaded - his time long passed.
What he must think of us?
What I must think of him.
I respect his experience. I respect his knowledge. But does he respect me? Does he see the vision I see? Does he see the future like I can? Does he care?
I sit, invigorated. Now more than ever, I sit, determined to build the kind of branch where people who understand where we are going as as industry. Now, more than ever, I am focused on those of us who truly get it, rather than wasting time on those who do not.
Do you see what I see? Do you see the potential? If you do, welcome.
Monday, March 19, 2007
Media be damned!
If there is anything consistent about March, it is the madness it brings. The sub prime lending chaos has brought some fun debate to the end-of-the world skeptics, and the media is still having fun in their bombardment of our industry, but check this out:
WMAL just reported that of the 100 largest metropolitan areas, Washington DC is last in foreclosures. LAST!
The simple fact is our DC market does not reflect the overall trends of the rest of the country. Because Backersfield, CA has an enormous foreclosure rate, does not mean that your client buying in Dupont will be forced into some horrible loan. Just last week, even after the stock market had its fun, Preferred Mortgage Guru, Troy Hines, still had rates as low as 5.875 - and that was on a 30 year fixed loan.
I'm not saying that those in Bakersfield, or Fresno, or Florida do not have it bad because of aggressive loans made by sub prime lenders, I'm just saying it does not effect us.
So the next time you hear a howl coming from the Wisconsin Avenue region of our fair city, know that it is me. For sure, there was a reporter somewhere bemoaning the horrible state of things, and me throwing my remote at the television.
Ah...now I feel better.
WMAL just reported that of the 100 largest metropolitan areas, Washington DC is last in foreclosures. LAST!
The simple fact is our DC market does not reflect the overall trends of the rest of the country. Because Backersfield, CA has an enormous foreclosure rate, does not mean that your client buying in Dupont will be forced into some horrible loan. Just last week, even after the stock market had its fun, Preferred Mortgage Guru, Troy Hines, still had rates as low as 5.875 - and that was on a 30 year fixed loan.
I'm not saying that those in Bakersfield, or Fresno, or Florida do not have it bad because of aggressive loans made by sub prime lenders, I'm just saying it does not effect us.
So the next time you hear a howl coming from the Wisconsin Avenue region of our fair city, know that it is me. For sure, there was a reporter somewhere bemoaning the horrible state of things, and me throwing my remote at the television.
Ah...now I feel better.
Thursday, March 8, 2007
Coldwell Banker - LAS VEGAS!!!!!!!
I have now seen the light! Being in a room with 10,000 people, all Coldwell Banker affiliated, is somewhat awe inspiring.
Before you accuse me of being transfixed in a Tom Cruise type hypnosis, I will tell you I have never quite experienced anything like it. Imagine meeting people from Japan, and Denmark, and Israel - agents all, who are dedicated like you to making the dream of home ownership for our clients a reality.
Needless to say, it was way cool.
The bad news is I lost at every game in the casino. Seriously, I should never be allowed into the state again. My dream of being a professional poker player on TV was dashed as I sat there with my head in my hands a woman with a periwinkle bandanna took my chips.
Oh well. Such is life.
This just gives me time to refocus on my other dream, being on Survivor.
Before you accuse me of being transfixed in a Tom Cruise type hypnosis, I will tell you I have never quite experienced anything like it. Imagine meeting people from Japan, and Denmark, and Israel - agents all, who are dedicated like you to making the dream of home ownership for our clients a reality.
Needless to say, it was way cool.
The bad news is I lost at every game in the casino. Seriously, I should never be allowed into the state again. My dream of being a professional poker player on TV was dashed as I sat there with my head in my hands a woman with a periwinkle bandanna took my chips.
Oh well. Such is life.
This just gives me time to refocus on my other dream, being on Survivor.
Friday, February 23, 2007
Chevy Chase Real Estate - No one is ever going to buy a house online!
10 years ago, a man of great influence within the Real Estate community (who will remain nameless) said in his infinite wisdom, "No one is ever going to buy a house online."
To quote another man of influence, "Of course the world is flat - if it wasn't we would all fall off."
To dispute these beliefs, my boss, the great Jedi himself - Master Paul, sent an article to me yesterday. Check out some of these stats:
-92% of Internet buyers found their agent on a web site; 63% found them through an Internet search engine; 0% of Internet buyers found their agent through brochures, flyers, yard signs or mailers to their home.
-In 2000, 28% of people said that they used the Internet as an important part of their home-buying and selection process. In 2006, 70% said they did.
-86% of home buyers started using the Internet as part of their process BEFORE they started looking for a specific home - the other 14% did after they started looking, but BEFORE they contacted a real estate agent; that means that 100% of buyers surveyed started looking at homes first, agents second. When you combine that finding with the already existing one that fully 81% of Internet buyers stay with the first real estate agent they choose to contact.
-Internet buyers spent an average of 4.8 weeks doing research before contacting an agent; traditional buyers only 1.7 weeks. That means an Internet buyer is better prepared and twice+ as less likely to ready and willing to buy.
-Internet buyers bought a home on average after spending 2.2 weeks looking for a home with an agent; traditional buyers spent an average of 7.1 weeks.
-Internet buyers previewed an average of 6.7 homes with their agent (they had already eliminated ones they did not wish to see), traditional buyers previewed 15.4 homes.
- Only 3% of all Internet connections available at the primary computer used for the home-buying process were dial-up: Internet home buyers and searchers are not sticking with dial-up, just as they are not sticking with traditional methods.
- 69% of Internet buyers said response time was extremely important.83% of those buyers chose email as their favored communication method with their agent. 0% chose "in person". The Internet is the new "office visit.
So much for those respected Real Estate moguls who say that people will never buy houses from the internet!
***these stats were taken from the article, "The Real Estate World is Changing even Faster than You Think!"
by Michael E. Parker***
To quote another man of influence, "Of course the world is flat - if it wasn't we would all fall off."
To dispute these beliefs, my boss, the great Jedi himself - Master Paul, sent an article to me yesterday. Check out some of these stats:
-92% of Internet buyers found their agent on a web site; 63% found them through an Internet search engine; 0% of Internet buyers found their agent through brochures, flyers, yard signs or mailers to their home.
-In 2000, 28% of people said that they used the Internet as an important part of their home-buying and selection process. In 2006, 70% said they did.
-86% of home buyers started using the Internet as part of their process BEFORE they started looking for a specific home - the other 14% did after they started looking, but BEFORE they contacted a real estate agent; that means that 100% of buyers surveyed started looking at homes first, agents second. When you combine that finding with the already existing one that fully 81% of Internet buyers stay with the first real estate agent they choose to contact.
-Internet buyers spent an average of 4.8 weeks doing research before contacting an agent; traditional buyers only 1.7 weeks. That means an Internet buyer is better prepared and twice+ as less likely to ready and willing to buy.
-Internet buyers bought a home on average after spending 2.2 weeks looking for a home with an agent; traditional buyers spent an average of 7.1 weeks.
-Internet buyers previewed an average of 6.7 homes with their agent (they had already eliminated ones they did not wish to see), traditional buyers previewed 15.4 homes.
- Only 3% of all Internet connections available at the primary computer used for the home-buying process were dial-up: Internet home buyers and searchers are not sticking with dial-up, just as they are not sticking with traditional methods.
- 69% of Internet buyers said response time was extremely important.83% of those buyers chose email as their favored communication method with their agent. 0% chose "in person". The Internet is the new "office visit.
So much for those respected Real Estate moguls who say that people will never buy houses from the internet!
***these stats were taken from the article, "The Real Estate World is Changing even Faster than You Think!"
by Michael E. Parker***
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
The "Not-So Daily blog"
Yeah, so, in the words of the great Cookie Monster, "I bit off more than I could chew." Daily musings might have to be renamed weekly musings, but we will get back to you. At the moment a think tank downtown is running a focus group on the viability of a daily record - but their answer seems to be ringing a consistent tone - Darrin, you're just not that witty.
In any event, in doing some research I have discovered the mac of all Daddy Real Estate Blog sites. It's at: http://www.bloodhoundrealty.com/BloodhoundBlog/
How is that for information! Like - oh - my - gosh!
Check out the article on the 4 reasons every realtor should be using a Video Podcast. It's actually mind blowing. Really, my head is in two pieces as I write this.
You can find it at: http://blogs.zdnet.com/ip-telephony/?p=1443
Anyhoo, I'm off...
-Darrin
Oh, if you know of anyone looking it get into real estate sales, please send them my way. i would be more than happy to contact them.
In any event, in doing some research I have discovered the mac of all Daddy Real Estate Blog sites. It's at: http://www.bloodhoundrealty.com/BloodhoundBlog/
How is that for information! Like - oh - my - gosh!
Check out the article on the 4 reasons every realtor should be using a Video Podcast. It's actually mind blowing. Really, my head is in two pieces as I write this.
You can find it at: http://blogs.zdnet.com/ip-telephony/?p=1443
Anyhoo, I'm off...
-Darrin
Oh, if you know of anyone looking it get into real estate sales, please send them my way. i would be more than happy to contact them.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Mind Tricks
As the title of the blog states, this is a daily musing, and though this is a self-inflicted trauma the pressure to perform is undeniable, and to be honest, I am not sure I thought this through. How is it possible to be witty yet insightful while keeping true to our theme of Metro DC real estate? Yet, changing the title now would be showing a lack of conviction, don’t you think?
Alas, we will discover together if I am up to such a challenge.
So, here is some exciting news: Richard Urban and his minion of 6 have officially joined the office. He has moved here from Long and Foster where he consistently performed as the top-iest of top producers.
BUT, that's not why I wanted him to join this office.
Little did you know, he is a gifted botanist, and as anyone who knows me can tell you, I have a black thumb of death - having killed every plant I have ever owned (And since on my first day Hal Maxwell, the grand Pooh-Bah of Coldwell Banker, sent me a plant, I have a vested interest in making sure I keep the thing breathing! Richard has promised to be my Yoda of all things green and living, so I am encouraged that I cannot only succeed on my quest, but persevere and show all that, YES, I too, can have a plant).
On another note, we here at Coldwell Banker Chevy Chase continue to grow! We now have 15 new faces calling 5028 home. Plus we have sponsored 3 more Realtors to-be for school in our education center upstairs. And, they all want to join the office as soon as they become licensed. As the Romans say, that's just "NVTS - nuts!"
What's the secret, you ask? Why are so many successful and new agents joining our office?
The answer is simple; I have used a Jedi mind trick on all of them! or as a classic line from a classic movie states, "If you build it, they will come."
So as I conclude my second blog entry ever, I will continue my vow to keep you updated on my plant, on the drapes (see yesterday), and continue my Jedi mind trick training - because only then, will we truly be called master.
P.S. The light saber will be on display in the lobby!
Alas, we will discover together if I am up to such a challenge.
So, here is some exciting news: Richard Urban and his minion of 6 have officially joined the office. He has moved here from Long and Foster where he consistently performed as the top-iest of top producers.
BUT, that's not why I wanted him to join this office.
Little did you know, he is a gifted botanist, and as anyone who knows me can tell you, I have a black thumb of death - having killed every plant I have ever owned (And since on my first day Hal Maxwell, the grand Pooh-Bah of Coldwell Banker, sent me a plant, I have a vested interest in making sure I keep the thing breathing! Richard has promised to be my Yoda of all things green and living, so I am encouraged that I cannot only succeed on my quest, but persevere and show all that, YES, I too, can have a plant).
On another note, we here at Coldwell Banker Chevy Chase continue to grow! We now have 15 new faces calling 5028 home. Plus we have sponsored 3 more Realtors to-be for school in our education center upstairs. And, they all want to join the office as soon as they become licensed. As the Romans say, that's just "NVTS - nuts!"
What's the secret, you ask? Why are so many successful and new agents joining our office?
The answer is simple; I have used a Jedi mind trick on all of them! or as a classic line from a classic movie states, "If you build it, they will come."
So as I conclude my second blog entry ever, I will continue my vow to keep you updated on my plant, on the drapes (see yesterday), and continue my Jedi mind trick training - because only then, will we truly be called master.
P.S. The light saber will be on display in the lobby!
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Way too cool
This is my first official blog and, I must tell you, I feel way too cool. Seriously, how many times can you experience the nirvana of technological rebirth. Anyway, welcome to my official musings. I'm hoping this will offer an opportunity for the curious and insightful to learn more about the really cool things going on here at the Coldwell Banker Chevy Chase office.
For instance, we have just painted the place.
You may say, "But Darrin, painting isn't a big deal. Who cares?"
And I would say, "You silly goose! Of course it's a big deal. Did Michael Angelo say, 'Paint a ceiling!? Who looks up anyhow!"
My point is it's representational. We (the euphemistic Coldwell Banker we) are committed to making this branch a place where people are energized to do their work and be productive. Without positive reinforced energy (i.e. wall color) how can you be profitable?! Before the Red Sox painted the big wall in left field green and called it the Green Monster, it was just a wall. Who ever cared about hitting a home run over a wall - BUT over the Green Monster - now that's something!
In any event, all journey's must start somewhere, and here, at 5028 Wisconsin Avenue, I started with paint.
Who knows, maybe next month, I'll put in drapes.
Ta ta from your friendly local Branch Vice President (I'm still getting a kick out of the title:)
-Darrin
Oh, by the way...If you know of anyone who is truly talented at sales and wants to explore a career in Real Estate, please let me know and I will be sure to contact them.
For instance, we have just painted the place.
You may say, "But Darrin, painting isn't a big deal. Who cares?"
And I would say, "You silly goose! Of course it's a big deal. Did Michael Angelo say, 'Paint a ceiling!? Who looks up anyhow!"
My point is it's representational. We (the euphemistic Coldwell Banker we) are committed to making this branch a place where people are energized to do their work and be productive. Without positive reinforced energy (i.e. wall color) how can you be profitable?! Before the Red Sox painted the big wall in left field green and called it the Green Monster, it was just a wall. Who ever cared about hitting a home run over a wall - BUT over the Green Monster - now that's something!
In any event, all journey's must start somewhere, and here, at 5028 Wisconsin Avenue, I started with paint.
Who knows, maybe next month, I'll put in drapes.
Ta ta from your friendly local Branch Vice President (I'm still getting a kick out of the title:)
-Darrin
Oh, by the way...If you know of anyone who is truly talented at sales and wants to explore a career in Real Estate, please let me know and I will be sure to contact them.
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