A new limited service rule
A new required data entry field came into effect in the Charlottesville MLS earlier this month addressing "limited service" companies: This new field applies to those properties that are listed by an MLS member, for a flat fee or commission, for a seller who is…
Whither false blame?
After yesterday's comments, a rebuttal is almost redundant. This all might be a proverbial tempest in a teapot, as most people with any familiarity with the real estate business learn early on the difference between a real estate broker, an agent (who is an independent…
So much misinformation about Realtors it’s almost comical
I'm working on a rebuttal, but I wanted to bring attention to this article at Wharton's blog. That perhaps the top Business School in the Country is putting forth such garbage is shameful and sad. Choice quotes from the article: "The (Realtor), 99% of the…
Does community involvement matter to consumers?
Well, does it? One of the (many) points of discussion at the Virginia Real Estate BloggerCon this week was community involvement by Realtors. The consensus in the room was generally that Realtors who are involved in their communities likely are better Realtors. One perspective is…
Another reason blog “leads” are better
The differences between leads generated from blogs and "leads" purchased through one of the various blood-sucking non-value-adding referral companies are many. Some of the most crucial differences are that blog clients: 1) Are typically further along in the process of hiring an agent (whether buyer's…
How to Choose an ethical lender
This is me in today's HooK: The answer to the question, "How do I find an ethical lender?" is simple - Find someone you trust. Ask them. Charlottesville, in spite of its growth, remains a small town. Word of mouth carries faster and further than…
Insight into blog readers’ minds
They come from all over and provide tremendous insight into what's on consumers' minds. In no particular order: - can a builder discriminate against a realtor - sure, why not? But if that Realtor has a qualified buyer, what good would come from shooting yourself…
Mid-Year numbers for Charlottesville Realtors
I've noted Realtor (in)activity before - January '06 and January '07 as well as when the Minnesota Association of Realtors suggested some Realtors seek a new profession. So far this year, 105 Realtors have had more than 10 sides. 333 have had more than 5…
The web is changing accountability – for everybody
The defendant's personal gain aside, what he is doing highlights how the rules have changed. At the heart of the fight is a Web site started by Mike Morgan, the real-estate broker, to collect complaints and dispense advice about what he considers shoddy workmanship on…
Is real estate blogging advertising?
Or is it both advertising and journalism? What rights should bloggers have? How does one define "advertising?" When contemplating this article, more questions than answers presented themselves, ultimately arriving at the most appropriate answer to the title question - "maybe" and "it depends". Painting all…