It is amazing to me that the people that I run into on a daily basis seem to have similar characteristics.  Somehow they just “get it” – they are non-threatened by the changes in their environment and they know how to roll with the punches so to speak.

I read a book a number of years ago call Leader as a Coach, by Dr.s’ Peter Davidson and Mary Hicks.  They presented 4 Realities

#1 – Change is inevitable

#2 – People must learn to adapt quickly

#3 – Employees (People) want to grow and experience fulfilment

#4 – People are the real source of Competitive Advantage

All of these realities pertain to the real estate industry.  When you are looking to make one of the most significant financial transactions of your life – you should investigate who (whom?) in your local area is considered to be on the industry cutting edge – Which Brokerage is constantly looking to stay ahead of the curve and is re-investing in their technologies.

I can say with great confidence that Bear Realty is continuously looking for those new methods to provide better exposure for our listed homes and properties, we are set apart by the ability to advertise our listing in both the Wisconsin and Illinois MLS.  We have double the exposure on Realtor.com and a strong advantage with the 7 affiliated websites that come from our Realtor.com partnership.

Bear Realty strives to offer the best service, the most comprehensive marketing plan and the best, most throughly trained agents.  Our agents posses that certain “thing” – hard to capture in words but more in a sentance, it is the “fire in the gut”, the “eye of the tiger”…..those unteachables that make our agents special and successful.  We specialize in Residential, Commerical and Investment.  We are the ONLY local brokerge to have 4 CCIM certified representatives on site.  Experience and Expertise.  Make the Right Move to Bear Realty.

Usually I write from a more corporate tone – putting myself in the “shoe’s of the business” but this past weekend I learned….or, if you will, re-learned such an important life lesson that I would consider it to be fundamental to relationship building whether business related or personal.  So, with some humility and a little embarrassment I will share my epiphany with you….

Now that was a mouthful but I hope that you will take a moment to “hear me out”.  After all, isn’t that what we are all looking for?  The opportunity to be “heard”, to be “understood”, to be “valued”.

Here was the situation that provided my not-so-gentle reminder.  I was with a friend that I have known for some time.  This dear friend is getting ready to sell his home, he is busy with repairs, improvements and a timeline that continues to put pressure on him, he lives well out of my area of expertise but he still asks me for small inputs and insights regarding his real estate situation.

Well, anytime I get the chance to put my Realtor hat on, I jump in with both feet.  I was off to the races making suggestions, giving opinions and providing “guidance”…….yes – I AM the expert you know.

Well, I walked away from that conversation with a frustrated friend and a level of uncomfort that was totally avoidable.  Without going into the street definition of “I assumed” ……..I assumed that I understood his motivation to sell, I thought I fully understood his situation and I thought he would sense the value in my opinions given all of my real estate experience. 

What I failed to do was to Take Time, Take Interest and Fully Understand.  I gave answers without knowing the questions and I brought frustration instead of help.

I say all of this to say – when you are looking for a service provider make sure that the provider you chose takes active steps to understand you, what your goals are and what you have in mind as a successful outcome.  The process of reaching a common goal can reveal solutions and opportunities that might not have been uncovered without the conversation.

Each week our Bear Realty agents get together to discuss marketing efforts, new listings, sales stat’s and what is working – I have been consistent in my support of building those types of relationships that will make you the agent of choice.  I wish that I would have considered that when I was dealing with my friend. 

So here is my lesson – in each situation, Listen twice as much as You Speak – Work to Develop a Clear Common Goal – and then add your two cents.  I do have a lot of information, experience and expertise and that is all wonderful in and of itself but it is only beneficial when the goal is fully understood and the information matches the desired outcome.

Give me a moment and let me know what you think – I am ready, willing and able to Listen!

At one time Condominiums were considered the appropriate next step for those looking to “snow bird” or retiring and looking for a more convenient, less stressful lifestyle.

Well, the convenience and less-stress are still there but the the condo Lifestyle has become more and more attractive to a wide range of buyers.  A quick review of the advantages provides an eye-opening list of reasons why so many people today, regardless of age or family status, are choosing the carefree Condo Lifestyle.

Here is a quick summary of advantages for Condo Living graciously provided by Bear Communities – www.bearcommunities.com

Pros and Cons of Going Condo

Condominiums and townhouses offer an affordable option to single-family homes in many markets, and they’re ideal for those who appreciate a maintenance-free lifestyle. But before you buy, make sure you do your legwork. These are some of the important elements to consider:

• Storage. Some condos have storage lockers, but usually there are no attics or basements to hold extra belongings.

• Outdoor space. Yards and outdoor areas are usually smaller in condos, so if you like to garden or entertain outdoors, this may not be a good fit. However, if you dread yard work, this may be the perfect option for you.

• Amenities. Many condo properties have swimming pools, fitness centers, and other facilities that would be very expensive in a single-family home.

• Maintenance.Many condos have onsite maintenance personnel to care for common areas, do repairs in your unit, and let in workers when you’re not home — good news if you like to travel.

• Security. Keyed entries and even doormen are common in many condos. You’re also closer to other people in case of an emergency.

• Reserve funds and association fees. Although fees generally help pay for amenities and provide savings for future repairs, you will have to pay the fees decided by the condo board, whether or not you’re interested in the amenity.

• Resale. The ease of selling your unit may be dependent on what else is for sale in your building, since units are usually fairly similar.  

• Condo rules. Although you have a vote, the rules of the condo association can affect your ability to use your property. For example, some condos prohibit home-based businesses. Others prohibit pets, or don’t allow owners to rent out their units. Read the covenants, restrictions, and bylaws of the condo carefully before you make an offer.

• Neighbors. You’re much closer to your neighbors in a condo or town home. If possible, try to meet your closest prospective neighbors.

Check our available properties at www.bearcommunities.com or all listed properties at www.bearrealty.com