A Theater in Your Handout?
With the New Year knocking on our door, I thought it would be the perfect time to touch on something else that’s new – something that has far-reaching possibilities for the real estate industry. Alright, alright, you can’t think about anything but siestas and celebrating right now. Fair enough. But getting a heads up on such an astounding phenomenon likely will prove extraordinarily valuable. So put the partying on pause for a second.
Here’s the scoop. A few years earlier in the century, Pepsi amazed the reading public with a unique pitch in Entertainment Weekly. Displayed on one of the publication’s pages was a video. We’re not talking link to an online production. This was a fully embedded video that played like it was coming through your widescreen TV. Only smaller. Readers even had an opportunity to choose different video options. Adding to the magic, viewers also could interact with the magazine if the mood struck them.
Have a look at the video to get a feel of the technology’s enormous possibilities.
As with most technologies, the price on this one is getting lower every year. If the trend continues, embedded videos such as the one in EW soon will be tantalizingly affordable.
Embedded videos present tremendous possibilities for real estate marketers. The most obvious is that the mini-productions can offer viewers an instant showcase of your business or a listed home — without a side trip to YouTube. No clicking required. And what an attention getter. I mean, who wouldn’t look at a video that’s planted on such an unlikely channel as paper!
Would you like to learn more about emerging technologies for real estate marketing? Feel free to reach out in my direction. Or fire your questions and comments into the comment box below. There’s always a vacancy.
And, of course, if you want an instant connection to the latest info and opportunities in the Beverly Hills real estate market, I’m ready to make it happen. Call or email today.
Back soon.
In the meantime, Happy New Year!
Terre Steinbeck
(310) 666-4094 DIRECT
(310) 724-7100 OFFICE
Turn Your Real Estate Video into a Rare Vintage
With the onrush of high-tech advances propelling marketing into bright, new areas, who’d guess that taking your real estate video back in time could be a good move? Now don’t jump to conclusions. I’m not advocating a return to 8 millimeter or even video tape (remember that?). I’m simply suggesting the use of high tech processes to give your masterpiece a warm, friendly look that engages customers. Whether you’re a realtor crafting vids on behalf of clients, or a homeowner helming you own productions, you definitely can help your real estate video stand out with a splash of vintage.
Video editing software abounds with ‘aging’ effects perfect for your video showcase. Among the most interesting are:
Rate Reduction. Contemporary films hit the big screen at a brisk 24 frames per second (fps). Silent movies and 8mm home productions slogged through projectors at 14 fps. Dialing down the speed to these older frame rates will help you capture the feel of a bygone era.
Color Coordinated. Look at any 8mm home movie, and you’ll notice an orange tint. Or go back a few years to silents, which, of course, came in only two shades – black and white. Depending on the intended effect, video creators easily can employ either one of these ‘color’ options.
Dirty Look. For the ultimate vintage showcase, add generous amounts of scratches and/or graininess to your masterpiece. Virtually any video editor puts these effects right at your fingertips.
Would you like to learn more about enhancing the sales appeal of your home with a video showcase? Feel free to reach out in my direction. Or fire your questions and comments into the comment box below. There’s always a vacancy.
And, of course, if you want an instant connection to the latest info and opportunities in the Beverly Hills real estate market, I’m ready to make it happen. Call or email today.
Back soon.
Terre Steinbeck
(310) 666-4094 DIRECT
(310) 724-7100 OFFICE
A Trust is a Must
I have some headache-saving advice. When you purchase a home, make sure you create a living trust for this valuable piece of real estate. I promise, you could be saving your heirs from an avalanche of hassles. Why? Because a trust places your assets safely in the care of a trustee, who will make sure said property goes to the right people when it’s time for inheritances to be distributed. No doubts, no questions, no arguments. Ownership is crystal clear well in advance, tremendously minimizing future inconveniences, headaches, stress, and aspirin consumption.
I can hear some of you now as you toss your heads self-righteously into the air. “Everything is peachy. I don’t need a trust.” Guess again. Assets not protected by a trust could become tied up in a legal labyrinth known as probate. The possibility looms, even when a will has been created.
Probate in Nutshell
Basically, the probate process enables the court to oversee the transfer of property to the rightful heirs. If your real estate is worth at least $10,000, it could be subject to this legal intercession.
Of course, we all know that a journey through the legal labyrinth probably won’t be a joy ride. Along the way will be plenty of tangles and snarls that do a great job of draining time, money, and energy. Still think your home is safe?
The Right Move
Do yourself a huge favor, and put your home snugly into a trust, whether you purchased it yesterday or ten years ago. Unless, of course, you’d rather your heirs inherit a long, drawn out court proceeding, along with whatever property the legal system decides is theirs.
Would you like to learn more about protecting your home with a trust? Maybe you’ve even created one, and you’re ready to share your experiences. I’d really like to hear about it, so feel free to reach out in my direction. Or fire your questions and comments into the comment box below. There’s always a vacancy.
And, of course, if you want an instant connection to the latest info and opportunities in the Beverly Hills real estate market, I’m ready to make it happen. Call or email today.
Back soon.
Terre Steinbeck
(310) 666-4094 DIRECT
(310) 724-7100 OFFICE
Holiday Gift Giving of the Realtor Kind
We’ve heard the message countless times. Absorbed it and embraced it. The holidays are a special time of giving. And not just to department stores. The season finds us expressing generosity in countless ways to our fellow members of the human species.
Generosity, of course, is a very personal thing. Each of us shares with others according to temperament, style, and taste. Naturally, I too, have been embracing the spirit of the season in my own way. During this past week, over a period of 3 action-packed days, I sent out 50 gifts to a very worthy selection of recipients. Help was generously provided, of course. Nevertheless, this labor of love tapped into my energy reservoir in a big way.
The recipients were a very special group of people who help me and my associates get through each year in one piece. I’m referring to our dedicated office staff, parking attendants, housekeepers, and everyone else who helps make our topsy-turvy lives easier. We agents spare no expense in this show of appreciation because, quite frankly, these people deserve it … and more. So again, to every one of these hard-working individuals, a great big thank you.
As I look down the road to the New Year, I realize that I will be making another contribution during January. This will be in the form of MLS and board dues, as well as E & O insurance. Thousands will flow out of my pockets. Hopefully, these recipients will appreciate the generosity.
Do you have a special way of expressing generosity during this holiday season? I’d really like to hear about it, so feel free to reach out in my direction. Or fire your questions and comments into the comment box below. There’s always a vacancy.
And, of course, if you want an instant connection to the latest info and opportunities in the Beverly Hills real estate market, I’m ready to make it happen. Call or email today.
Back soon.
Terre Steinbeck
(310) 666-4094 DIRECT
(310) 724-7100 OFFICE
Make Your Business a Star! … The Exciting Sequel
Real Estate agents and brokers are constantly hunting for golden keys that will unlock the power of their business and personal images. In response to this need, my previous post explored some of the image-building video trends that professionals are embracing in a big way. But that was only the beginning. Here for your personal edification is another set of video trends perfect for real estate professionals. Bring these into your marketing mix, and you could turn your business into a star!
Capture the Highlights. People enjoy discovering the special features of a community. So cover them with video. For instance, ocean-lovers will want the scoop on beachfront properties and related activities such as boating, sport fishing, and sand loafing. Buyers with children are eager for the full 411 on schools and everything these bastions of education have to offer.
Practice Your Craft. You say hiring James Cameron doesn’t fit into your video marketing budget? No problem. With a little practice, you can go from helpless amateur to improved amateur capable of churning out lovable real estate showcases. So get that camera and practice ‘till it hurts. In the long run, you’ll be saving money as you improve your productions.
Keep Your Two Cents Out. Sure it’s your business. And we’re close to Hollywood. But, as with all other endeavors, it’s best to let the experts do their job. So if you’ve gone through trouble to hire a video professional or crew, toss out your director’s chair and let these knowledgeable people do what you’re paying them to do. Believe me, you’ll go further, quicker by focusing on selling homes instead of playing producer.
Have any of you fellow professionals brought video into your marketing mix? I’d really like to hear about your experiences with the medium, so feel free to reach out in my direction. Or fire your questions and comments into the comment box below. There’s always a vacancy.
And, of course, if you want an instant connection to the latest info and opportunities in the Beverly Hills real estate market, I’m ready to make it happen. Call or email today.
Back soon.
Terre Steinbeck
(310) 666-4094 DIRECT
(310) 724-7100 OFFICE
Make Your Business a Star!
With the New Year zooming in our direction, many of us have painstakingly crafted our one true list of New Year’s resolutions. You know, the one we’re really, really going stick to so our lives improve beyond measure. Many of the goals, of course, revolve around improving our image — both in our personal and business lives.
For Real Estate pros, one image-boosting pursuit that’s really taking off is video production. We’re not talking spouting endless facts in front of a webcam or phone cam. Keeping pace with an eruption of innovations, Real Estate videos have made major strides into many of the newest, most exciting areas. To get you started, here are some of the latest trends professionals are embracing to turn their ordinary businesses into stars.
Make the Neighborhood Your Co-Star. The L.A. home you’re selling might be the star with the story. But never forget the community can be a very appealing co-star. A well-crafted video about the neighborhood tells a very compelling tale that adds pizzazz and appeal to virtually any home.
Bring ‘Em In. You may not be 20th Century Fox. But if you’re good and serious about boosting your video image, you might want consider staffing your office with a video crew. Believe it or not, more and more Real Estate professionals are bringing production crews in-house. In the long run, this move actually can lower costs if you’re churning out lots of footage.
Up the Fun Factor. Like or not, there are times when you, the professional, might feel compelled to present a batch of market facts and figures in video form. But who says this production has to be frightfully bland? Reach into your imagination reservoir and get creative with these presentations. Or, if the budget allows, hire professional talent to do your song and dance.
So, how many of you professionals are on board with the whole video thing? And how many of you buyers or sellers have seen video presentations make a difference for your real estate goals? I’d love to hear from you, so feel free to reach out in my direction. Or fire your questions and comments into the comment box below. There’s always a vacancy.
And, of course, if you want an instant connection to the latest info and opportunities in the Beverly Hills real estate market, I’m ready to make it happen. Call or email today.
Back soon.
Terre Steinbeck
(310) 666-4094 DIRECT
(310) 724-7100 OFFICE
You Can’t Flip it Until You Find It
So, you’ve decided to go hunting for big game known as distressed properties. You envision quick and fantastic profits once you’ve bagged this quarry. Unfortunately, you can’t flip it until you find it. And in the foggy swamp of real estate hunting grounds, foreclosure properties are among the world’s most elusive creatures. Locating one is not an impossible dream, mind you. But you do need to know how and where to look. With that in mind, here are some indispensible guidelines for converting your dreams into profits.
Get the Inside Scoop. You want to know where choice distress properties are hiding? Done! A slew of national companies can furnish you with reports of properties in default. But first you have to furnish them with a modest fee. Hey, you’re not the only one with a profit motive.
Hit Up Your Favorite Uncle. Uncle Sam can provide a helping hand during your property quest. Simply visit the HUD website and access its list of government-owned repossessions now on the sales rack.
Grab Yourself a Guru. It’s always a good idea to have a guide along on your property hunt. Many Real Estate offices have at least one foreclosure specialist beefing up their arsenal of agents. Seek you such a guru and have this expert lead you through the swamp-covered lands.
Does it All Add Up? Expenses can gobble up a huge slice of your potential profits. Before leaping into a distress property, make absolutely sure you can flip your find for a healthy profit. Costs to factor in are financing, insurance, brokerage commissions, repair work, and, of course, taxes. If there’s something left after you’ve covered these expenses, you’re sitting mighty pretty indeed!
Well, this completes your quickie course on locating distress properties. If you’d like additional info about profiting from these potential gold mines, feel free to reach out to me. Or just drop your questions and comments into the box below. There’s always a vacancy.
And, of course, if you want to be connected to the latest info and opportunities in the Beverly Hills real estate market, I’m ready to make it happen. Call or email today.
Back soon.
Terre Steinbeck
(310) 666-4094 DIRECT
(310) 724-7100 OFFICE
You Can’t Judge a House by Its Cover
OK, your new L.A. home resembles a stunning castle from top to bottom, inside and outside. But if you’re judging this book by its beautiful cover, you might be in for an unpleasant and potentially costly surprise ending. True, you’re Camelot appears to be a pristine model of domestic perfection. And it may well live up to this admirable image. Then again, there could be flaws lurking beneath all the sheen and the shine.
The good news is, you can discover many hidden issues by taking a closer look at certain areas of your home. Sure, it’ll eat up some time earmarked for your latest tennis exploits. But, believe me, any discoveries made will be well worth the effort. So shift into full visual magnification – you’re zeroing in some of the potential trouble zones.
Under da Sink. Mold doesn’t rank high on the list of popular home accents. Nevertheless, it often shows up, usually uninvited. That’s right. The unsightly stuff could be taking hold in high-moisture regions of your home. A major moisture zone is to be found just below a sink that has a crack in its underbelly. Even if the flaw is microscopically hair-thin, the opening will release water seepage into the area below. And that’s enough to get mold breeding big time. So check your sinks for cracks. If found, fill the gaps in with a good caulking compound.
The Attic Tells All. If your home has an attic, check its insulation. Brand spanking new insulation could be a bad sign. That’s right. A huge negative. Why? Because new insulation often suggests that a leak and water damage have been concealed.
Give Your Home Its Space. Plants and landscaping are wonders to behold. But they’re risky propositions when too close to your home. Plan on having a gap of around a foot between landscaping and your home. That’s because watered landscaping expands the soil and foundation. If the watering ceases, the foundation dries up, shrinks, and often cracks.
Well there you have it. If you’d like additional info about dealing with your home’s hidden issues, feel free to reach out to me. Or just drop your questions and comments into the box below. There’s always a vacancy.
And, of course, if you want to be connected to the latest info and opportunities in the Beverly Hills real estate market, I’m ready to make it happen. Call or email today.
Back soon.
Terre Steinbeck
(310) 666-4094 DIRECT
(310) 724-7100 OFFICE
Will You Be Ready on Moving Day? – II
With the holidays rapidly approaching and the New Year just around the corner, you no doubt have loads and loads on your mind. And some of you will have even more squeezed into your bursting-at-the-seams schedule. Those are the people moving into a new L.A. home during this joyous season. Sure, the relocation will add a million and one new items to your mile-long task list. But it will be worth it in the end. I mean, how could you resist that mind-boggling year-end price? And won’t your larger new home with the breathtaking view be the perfect locale for exhilarating holiday get-togethers?
Still, moving during this hectic time of year can be fraught with challenges. Fortunately, these can be met with simple preparation. It’s really a matter of following some common sense steps. The road to success already has been paved in the previous installment. These additional steps will help you complete the journey.
The Early Bird Edge. You’ve booked the moving company well in advance. But the same early-bird approach is required for important connections like phone and utility service. These companies are piled high with orders. So jump in well in advance. Or your heating system could wind up being the cozy fireplace.
Box It, Baby! Sure, you’re hauling your belongings in the well-padded storage compartment of a beefy moving van. Nevertheless, you’ll want the property further protected and neatly organized in sturdy containers. Your first impulse might be to rush straight into your local stationary store and buy their entire supply of packing boxes. Squash this thought immediately. You can save a small fortune by hitting up local stores for empty boxes. Good choices are electronics and grocery retailers.
Keep Track. Be sure your property is well-documented and tracked on the moving company’s inventory form. And please, insure your valuable belongings. Even the most careful movers in the world aren’t exempt from mistakes.
You are now ready to embark on a smooth move to your L.A. home. If you’d like additional info about making the move to your new home, feel free to reach out to me. Or just fire your questions or comments into the box below. There’s always a vacancy.
And, of course, if you want to be connected to the latest info and opportunities in the Beverly Hills real estate market, I’m ready to make it happen. Call or email today.
Back soon.
Terre Steinbeck
(310) 666-4094 DIRECT
(310) 724-7100 OFFICE
Will You Be Ready on Moving Day?
Congratulations! You’re moving to a new L.A. home. Of course, if you’re like most home buyers, you won’t be leaping straight into the residence. You’ve got some work to do before you settle in. Along with the kids, the dog, and the spouse, you’ll be lugging precious belongings from the home you’re bidding good-bye to. You say you’ve sold the bulk of it on eBay? Doesn’t matter. Even a smidgen of cargo can mean a mountain of work. So get it through your noggins. You’ll need to prepare for the haul.
Fortunately, I’ve raided the vault of eternal real estate knowledge and extracted the following tactics that will help make your move a whole lot smoother. Ignore them at your peril.
Trim the Fat. Even if you don’t qualify for pack rat status, chances are good that sitting in your home right now is a clutter of belongings you neither need nor want. Seek them out, then eliminate this waste mercilessly. Popular disposal routes are eBay, garage sales, charities, and trash bins.
How’s it Fit? Are you sure your mega-fridge fits in the designated space? Long before you haul your belongings to the new castle, take precise measurements to make sure the goods fit. This includes room dimensions, doorways, stove space, etc. Unless you simply won’t mind climbing through the kitchen window if your big boy fridge blocks the doorway.
Advance Notice. Utility and phone companies aren’t exactly spur-of-the moment kind of enterprises. As with you, their schedules are crammed. So don’t wait until the moment of move-in to arrange those all important connections to things like electrical power. A couple of weeks advance notice is what the wise mover allows.
OK, you’re fully educated on the finer points of mover readiness. If you’d like additional info about making the move to your new home, feel free to reach out to me. Or just fire your questions or comments into the box below. There’s always a vacancy.
And, of course, if you want to be connected to the latest info and opportunities in the Beverly Hills real estate market, I’m ready to make it happen. Call or email today.
Back soon.
Terre Steinbeck
(310) 666-4094 DIRECT
(310) 724-7100 OFFICE
Terre Steinbeck Beverly Hills real estate 