Campaign '08

If your looking for my opinion in the race for the White House, you won't find it here. Staying neutral on issues like politics have been a very important aspect of running my business. A party sticker on my car is going to alienate one client of mine or another, it's just not worth it. Voting is tomorrow however, and I encourage everyone to get out and cast theirs.

A recent survey taken by Zillow.com shows that one candidates supporters have more confidence in their home values than the others. Their survey also concludes 74% of homes have lost value across the nation in the past 12 months. 49% surveyed think their home has increased in value, so like Mark Twain said, "Denial ain't just a river in Egypt". Triangle agents are seeing their listing agreements expire day after day, with many not selling simply because of unreasonable expectations.

This is why I am campaigning for these expired and withdrawn listings. Many agents compete for a listing by trying to put the biggest price tag on it, an unethical and narrow-minded way to approach selling a home. I am working to get these sellers down to earth, put a reasonable price tag on the home and adjusting their inflated expectations. This is just one reason I consider myself a "consultant" rather that a "salesman". I want to give these sellers a realistic education on our market and let them make educated decisions. If they prefer to list with another agent who will price the home beyond the value I see, so be it. I prefer not to have my sign sit in a yard for 180 days anyways.

Because of the Triangle's strong Economic foundation, I don't think a lot of the disillusion is coming from here. Although for the first time in decades we are a "buyers market" with 15% more inventory than last years, that is gradually changing. Our market is not full of over-priced homes, but the ones expiring are good evidence of some that are. Over the next several months I am hoping my campaign will capture some of this business from sellers who are now deciding to take a more realistic approach.

Hi dee ho Neighbor! I hope everyone had a great Halloween. Chapel Hill scaled back it's festivities this year, but it sure felt the same. I was dressed as Wilson, the friendly neighbor from Home Improvement. I received some recognition, however I heard guesses ranging from "defense" to "Are you on the fence about voting?"

I hope lines at your polls are short, and that your candidate wins. Until next time...