The Wisconsin Realtors Association (WRA) continues to evaluate and improve the approved forms that realtors are allowed to use in the representation of our Bear Clients.   When the WRA implements new forms it provides for a transition period.  During this time both the current form and the new form may be used. 

Bear Realty Agents are dedicated to providing the highest quality services to our cutomers and clients in the purchase of their new Single Family Home, Investment or Commerical Property.  In doing so, Bear Realty is committed to using the most current forms available from the WRA. 

In that way, we can ensure that your transaction allows for the highest level of representation and information available.

In today’s world of “information on demand” and “tips at your fingertips” it might seem that representation from a real estate professional is a luxury and an adventure that some may want to journey on their own.  Actually, nothing could be further from the truth.  That may seem a bit obvious given that I am a sales manager, work for Bear Realty and represent some of the best agents in Southeastern Wisconsin and Northeastern Illinois but the fact of the matter is this – Today’s market demands strong negotiation skills and representation is critical. 

Many sellers today think of their homes in terms of yesterday’s value – given that a home enables a strong emotional tie, it can be easy to over value the small nuances and forget that a buyer doesn’t see all those special little personal attributes that you built into your home.  Of course, your agent will work to get you the most for your property – the challenge is to remember that it isn’t the agent that sets the eventual price for your home – it is actually a function of the market.  Supply and demand, as always, is the name of the game and remembering your motivation to sell your home today is a key aspect of ensuring that you are successful all the way to the close.

On the other hand, Buyers believe that low-ball offers is the best way to get the home of their dreams.  unfortunately many buyers are losing out on the home they have their hearts set on because they are outbid by another buyer.  A Bear agent will educate buyers to make sure that they understand what the local real estate market supports as far as a “winning offer”.

Bear agents not only give strong representation and negotiating skills, they also serve as a buffer, a sounding board, a source of market information and the voice to get your property properly marketed.

There has not been a market like today’s market in years – oddly enough, there is no better time to have your home up for sale if you are considering a move.  Today’s real estate market is a benefit to home sellers from the perspective that buyers have the Government New Home Buyers Tax Credit as well as the addition if the $6500.00 Existing Home Buyers Tax Credit.  That program coupled with low-interest rates are enticing buyers to get into the market today.  The tax credit will come to its end in April and interest rates are adjusting daily.

If you are considering selling your home – call your Bear Realty agent today – there is no time like the present to have Bear on your side!

Nationwide, Realtors are always keeping their fingers on the pulse of legislation that would have an impact on the real estate market and the overall effects that proposed policy will have on our clients.

Today’s hot topic is the Federal “Cap and Trade” bill.  With strong local support, the National Association of Realtors have been able to address elements of the proposed bill.  NAR focued on an amendment to cut the overall cost of the bill relating to the purchase and sale of Single Family Homes, Multi-Family investment properties and Commerical properties.

One area of success has been the removal of “several real estate-related provisions such as federal energy audit requirements from homeowners and various point-of-sale triggers” (Jan 2010 Wisconsin Real Estate Mag pg 24)

As stated in the Wisconsin Real Estate Magazine many controversial issues still remain.

With the help of our clients, communities and concerned citizens these issues can be addressed at the grass-roots level.  Regardless of your opinion – Your opinion counts!  Contact your local representatives and let them know your thoughts on:

- Exempting existing homes, multi-family homes and commercial buildings from any federal guidelines such as the existing federal Energy Star labeling program;

- Authorizations provided to state governments to pass a law to label homes according to their energy efficiency, but specifically prohibiting labeling during the sales transaction;

- prohibiting the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating carbon emissions for residential and commercial buildings under the Clean Air Act;

- Providing property owners with matching grants and diagnostic tools to make energy-saving property improvements; and

- Creates green building financial incentives for HUD housing, including loans, block grants and underwriting for energy improvements.

Click the link provided to find your local Wisconsin State Representatives information -

http://www.legis.state.wi.us/w3asp/contact/legislatorslist.aspx?house=assembly

Remember – Your voice deserves to be heard!

The last few years have definitely provided much challenege concerning the real estate market and not what any real estate agent might call “fun” however; to every curse there is a blessing….to every cloud a “silver lining”.  When you look to find a real estate agent today for your prized first home purchase or your look to move up into the home of your dreams you will be working with a realtor that has earned his/her salt!

Todays real estate agents need to be prepared to truly negotiate on your behalf – to work hard for your best interest, to hold their ground to meet your desired outcome.  Now, to keep it real, there is always a bit a give and take but the real estate agent of today will be the one that is ready to stand fast for you.

As a client – your agent will be presenting market trends, suggesting various lenders, a number of vender services such as inspectors, handyman services and the like but the heart of the deal is the negotiation and your agent today is better prepared than ever to make that deal come together for you.

The past few years have acted as a “sifting” of our profession – and, as Darwin would say…..only the strong survive!  You have within your communities, the strong, the well-equipped and the true Real Estate Professionals…..

Take some time to talk to a few agents – even if your not interested in moving right now – see how well they know their market, their area and various aspects of the real estate trade.

I think you will be pleasantly surprised how informed today’s real estate agent is and maybe even enlightened as to how much goes into a new home purchase.

2010 holds much promise – got into it with reserved excitement – but go into with a professional on your side!

To the relief of many buyers in the residential home market the $8000.00 tax credit has been extended into 2010.  More exciting is the fact that the tax credit has been opened up to those existing home buyers that have been waiting for an incentive to move forward in their new home dreams.

Per the National Association of Realtors the basics on the tax credit extension are:

Today continues to be a market that lends itself to the buyer – low-interest rates; tax credit incentive for those that qualify and a solid selection of properties in the “first time home buyer” and “second home” category.

2010 will certainly hold it’s challenges but the struggles of 2009 are, for the most part, behind us – there is a “fresh breath” in the market with the hope of a wonderful and wonder-filled new year.

The Kenosha County Residential Homes Market remains steady in comparison to those markets that were drastically affected by the market correction.  It has always been about Location and Price and given that Kenosha is tucked mid-way between Chicago and Milwaukee coupled with pricing that draws favorable attention when compared to those prices and cost of living expenses of Northern Illinois – buying in Kenosha is a solid investment.

It is the Right Here – Right Now Market!!!

Marketing principles have never been so clear in the real estate market….Supply goes down / Demand is up – Prices are higher.  conversely, Supply goes up / Demand remains the same or goes down – Prices go down.

The Wisconsin Real Estate Market finds itself with a “better-than-a-few-months-ago” situation but still, this remains a buyers market.  There is no better time for buyers to move into home ownership.  Often times, buyers are finding that the purchase of a new home leaves them in a better financial situation than a rental situation would.

Now – all sorts of incentives have presented themselves; low-interest rates; stabilized, but still higher inventories with longer market times, not to mention the “Power Punch” – an $8000.00 tax credit for new home buyers OR $6500.00 for those returning to the real estate buying market (certain qualifiers must be met).

This is like learning to swim in a 2 foot deep pool – all the cards are stacked.  I don’t want to sound too “sunny” but, in all of my discussions with those that have been in real estate sales for the better part of 30 years – this is a “new day” for the real estate buying community.  You need a solid negotiator; you have the opportunity to “get in on the ground floor” as they say.

Talk to your Bear Realty agent and let them lead you down the path of home ownership….It is a great day and it is Always a Bear Market!

I have had a great time of self-reflection over these past few months as the real estate market has continued to offer challenges and hardships.  I typically do not deal with the general public – my focus lies with my agents.  I want nothing more and nothing less than the very best for them.  This requires the very best from them.  I watch my agents daily “hit the office” ready to do what is needed for their clients.  I hear them on the phones and review their documentation.  Today is certainly a different day than two years ago.  There is a requisite skill necessary to bring transactions together.  Agents need to be strong, they need to have a backbone to negotiate and they need to be able to deliver results.  At the end of the day, the running, the last-minute showings, the “coming back to the office at 10:15pm, or the trip to the municipality to retrieve documents for the title company”, from an agents perspective, doesn’t matter unless we deliver results. 

We work for the Closing, We work to make your deal come together, We work to deliver RESULTS.  With all of that- we look to work in in such a way that our clients will be so delighted with our service and our efforts that they will pass our name along to those looking to make a move as well.

What I wanted to say today is this – I support some of the best agents in Southeastern Kenosha County at Bear Realty.  They work from sun-up to well past sun down.  They travel from South of the WI/IL borders North to Milwaukee and as far West as Elkhorn and Lake Geneva. (we would go East but that would put us in the Water!  Great Lake Views though!)  This is a wonderful group of people who, if you are looking for someone who will stand up and take YOUR interests in mind – you would want to have on your side.

Andrea Blaziewske / Anthony Nudo - form a solid team that will bring knowledge, residential and commercial experience and a great sense of humor to ease any tensions.  I thank Anthony for his community commitment and the times he answers my questions.  I am grateful for Andrea for always making me smile and keeping the office atmosphere lite!

Joanne Brown – if I had to use one word it would be class but even that does not capture the strength in this great agent.

Fred Conforti – without a doubt – superman.

Tony & Lisa DeBartolo – It is always amazing to watch those in ownership get in alongside of all the other agents and make things happen!  They are both much appreciated.

Gary Emerson – Professional, diligent, caring – Gary is the type of guy that makes you feel better just knowing that he is on your side.

Lisa Fabiano – tenacious – Lisa will battle with you and for you.  She can operate both in Wisconsin and Illinois and has the ability to bring very difficult transactions together.  Lisa is a soldier for her clients and a person you want on your team.

Carol Fischer has great charm and a deep knowledge of the county.  She will walk alongside of you and help to see every option and advantage.  You can count on Carol for continued and thorough follow-up.

Michelle Frederick-Tenuta - Michelle has great marketing and presentation skills – her networking capabilities are Phenomenal and a strong asset to her clients.  Michelle knows the “numbers of the game” and brings a great level of experience and success to her clients.

Joe Geiger, Dennis Serpe and Elizabeth Stalman work as a part of Tony DeBartolo’s team and offer excellence and professionalism in all of their activities.

Jerry Gonzalez – One of the hardest working men in real estate!  Jerry is bi-lingual in English / Spanish and works diligently to provide his clients with the best service and opportunities.  Jerry’s smile brings a level of comfort and stress relief to those that he serves (and those that get to work with him)

Howard Haubrich – Howard is very simply a life saver.  I would have to write forever to explain how he takes care of his clients, his co-workers, friends and family……thanks so much for all that you do!

Jerri Haubrich – Jerri will run to the ends of the earth for her clients.  She knows this area like the back of her hand and has been a huge help to me in my position of sales manager.  She brings a level of knowledge and experience that is rare and so greatly appreciated.

Beth Knoke – I mention Beth because of her great work with Relocation and Referrals.  She is a tremendous resource to our office and her knowledge is invaluable.

Diana Koeppel – Diana brings a wonderful, fresh perspective to real estate sales – her energy will carry you all the way through!

Steve Mills – The kind of leader that teaches by example.  Our Leader!

SR Mills / Dina Perrine-Meinzer - Forging the path for Bear Homes!  Forming the platform for you to experience your New Home Dreams!

Dean Morton – Always plugging away – in a tough market, Dean is getting it done.

Gia Nero – Gia will always have her clients prepared with the truth.  Her honesty and ability to prepare both buyers and sellers have made her a well-respected agent in our Kenosha market.  Gia will bring a lot of strength to her clients but she will deliver it with a great smile, true professionalism and the straight facts about the market.

MaryAnn Pacetti - MaryAnn is a delightful individual – kind and ready to do what it takes to make your real estate dreams come true.

Grace Parrish – GRACE – Grace is professional and deeply concerned about all of your needs.  She always puts her clients interests first.  Having Grace on your (and our) team brings a level of peace.  She takes the stress out of realizing your dream!

Michelle Payette – Michelle is just great – you will look back on your experience remembering the fun you had in getting your new home or selling your existing home.  She will keep the transaction enjoyable…..a hard task today!

Milan Sucevich – I could write about Milan but I am sure you know him!    Everyone knows Milan!  If you don’t, it is to your advantage to have him on your side.  Milan is a forever teacher and I have learned a  lot from him – he does the same for his clients, he is a wonderful resource.

Jan Thimmiesch – Jan always takes the time to know all the facts – she keeps her bases (and yours) covered.

Mark Trecroci - A gentleman, a professional and a man who draws on over 20 years of real estate expertise.  A true asset to those that he serves.

Soula Vassilopoulos - Soula has a level-headed professional approach that will assure you that you are in good-hands.

Corinna Wells – CC!  A delight – a ball of energy and the type of agent that will keep after “it” for you……CC is a fighter and she is the kind of person you want on your side.

Joe Wickersheim – Steady at it!  Joe makes it happen for his clients.  He has a professional, intelligent view of real estate and is very understanding in all of his dealings. 

To all of “my” agents – you are a treasure and I am grateful and proud to be a part of your team.

Call our agents – Expect Results!

Everything is GREAT!  The offer is accepted and we are moving quickly towards the closing date….

This is a great home – a wonderful seller and an excited home buyer.  Does anyone have a C.L.U.E.?

Ok, sorry for the play on words but the CLUE report can contain necessary information pertaining to the ability of the new home buyer to obtain homeowners insurance at a particular rate.  CLUE (Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange is a loss history information database developed and used by insurance companies to share information abut insurance claims, reported losses and damage, and even insurance policy inquiries with respect to properties and individuals.  The CLUE Personal Property report provides a five-year history of losses associated with an individual and his/her personal property.  The date of loss, loss type, and amount paid along with general information such as policy number, claim number and insurance company name are provided for each identified loss.  The report also lists all companies that have inquired about the person’s loss history in the last two years.  Seventy percent of all CLUE reports have no reported claims or paid losses – the average homeowner files an insurance claim only once every 10 years.  Some sellers may not remember the details of property damage events such as water intrusions very well, so having the seller order his or her CLUE report serves as a back-up measure to double-check that nothing is missed.

Agents and prospective buyers cannot order or obtain CLUE reports on properties.  Should a prospective purchaser want a CLUE report for a property, he or she should make it a condition of his or her offer that the seller request and provide such a report. 

Sellers may request a copy of their CLUE report online at www.choicetrust.com

taken from www.wra.org/lu0304.

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

Alrighty then – in our last conversation I provided a list of average interest rates dating back to 2000.  From that information it is really easy for us to see that we can get a loan and Pay Less for it as compared to years past.  What I didn’t explain and what I want to delve into now is the fact that the mortgage you get today can get you Much More Home for the Money!!!!!

So, as a quick recap – we can get (per government qualifications) an $8000.00 tax credit if I am a first time home buyer.  Ok, that is neat!  Secondly, the interest rate on my new mortgage is weighted in the buyers favor as it will cost a buyer less to borrow money as compared to years past.  And now, without further delay – the home that my loan will buy is a home that has more square footage, more amentities, is probably a newer home with a Great Kenosha, Racine or Walworth County location!!!!

Let’s take a look -

As of today, as I search the Bear Realty Property Search using the Metro Milwaukee MLS system, there are 46 Single Family Home listings between $149,000 and $151,000.  I am going to use a new construction listing at $149,900.  The home offers 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths and a 2 Car Attached Garage.

Let’s take a look and see what that home would have cost us in 2005 – Based on the above Criteria a similar home, in 2005 would have been cost us anywhere between $170,000 up to $200,000.  I did the basic search with the same criteria – and I want to encourage any of you reading my blog today to consider your options.  Certainly there is no better time than now to invest in our local Kenosha, Racine and Walworth county real estate market and no better time for You to COME ON HOME to Bear Realty.

Should you have questions give us a visit at www.bearrealty.com

Foreclosure and / or Short Sale circumstances are nerve racking for the home owner by the sheer nature of the situation(s) at hand. Far too many Americans are finding themselves in positions where they are forced to make some very difficult decisions. There are numerous offerings and “extended hands” held out in an effort to “help” but who do you trust? Who really has your best interests in mind?

If you would indulge me – take a minute and consider how the business of your local real estate agent has been affected by the overall downturn in the market. Certainly I think we can all understand that when someone experiences an obstacle in their day to day business – it almost goes without saying that the tough get going when the going get’s tough. With that – the tenacity necessary to be successful in real estate sales in the first place make real estate agents and the Wisconsin Realtors Association the ideal individuals and “tools” (if you will) to educate and inform the public on the basic steps and information necessary to navigate these specific “troubled waters”. It is in everyone’s best interest to get our overall housing market back on track and helping sellers navigate a potential foreclosure situation is a critical aspect of regaining “market health”.

A comforting aspect to the entire situation is the fact that you don’t have to “go it alone” – Keep in mind that the majority of real estate agents will not receive any compensation until the transaction has closed so your upfront exposure, from a financial perspective, is limited. Real Estate Agents work towards your very best outcome. Do your Due Diligence – get to know the agents in your area and get a feel of which agent really has You in Mind. Your local Bear Realty agents are available, experienced and willing to take you through what could be a very scary process while easing your stress and doing what it takes to calm the stormy seas. Questions and comments can be directed to kim@bearrealty.com

http://www.wisconsinforeclosurekit.org/

http://www.bearrealty.com

There is way too much chaos in the world today and many people appreciate any opportunity to cut down on the “running around” and enjoy the rare occasions when they come into contact with a professional that can assist and guide in the overall project and not just one specific aspect.

Regarding Real Estate – find a broker that understands Single Family, Multi-Family, Foreclosure / Short-sale, Commercial / Investment, Rental, Lending, Home Inspections and Title. You will find your experience to run in a manner where the “oh yeah – shoot”‘s are avoided and the seamlessness of your transaction becomes that perfect step in achieving your goal.

Bear Realty partners with Lakeside Title, various lenders, inspectors and appraisers, has a property management arm, construction and development arm and is experienced in all aspects of real estate sales and marketing. Call the people that not only work it and live it every day but also that drive “success into it”…..let us “takes you home”.

In an economy that has many people holding their breath and wondering what tomorrow may hold – those individuals that are positioned to make investments in their future are finding the pricing, mortgage rates and housing inventories a great opportunity to build their “business of the future”.  A key element in building any business is surrounding yourself with the right people – those professionals that have a common goals and bring their particular expertise to the table.  From a real estate perspective, selecting the right agent is key – ask the questions, screen your candidates and understand what your “must have’s” in an agent are. 

First Time Home-buyers – look for that agent / partner that asks YOU a lot of questions.  You need an agent that is not only going to step you through the process of purchasing a home but an agent that will HELP YOU understand the HOME that will meet your needs and fulfill your DREAMS.

Step-up / Step-out – Reselling a property in today’s market takes a strategic marketing plan.  Ask your agent the 5 questions….What, Where, Why, When and How – The right agent will have their office numbers ready to review with you and will explain what is currently working and what hasn’t.  Today’s resale market is changing almost daily – make sure that the data that your agent candidate is sharing with you is current, and that the agent actually understands the data that they are showing you.  Experience is always a plus, but you shouldn’t even have to ask about the current technology tools that are being utilized by your agent candidate – that should already be a part of their presentation……DO ask them to share with you how THEY operate with those tools.

Investors – find that agent that understands operating by “the bottom line” – How does that agent run their own business – what is their success rate in the offer process – (note – take time to research the sales stat’s if this is a property you feel strongly about adding to your inventory – remember, you are competeing with other investors) – be willing to share some key elements of your business plan and select an agent that you are willing to partner with for the long-term.  The right agent for you will become a key member of your team that is always on the lookout for the next great investment.