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#C21News: October 2016

November 10, 2016 By

While September was great, we’re happy to announce that October was even better. Don’t just take our word for it though, read the infographic and text below for detailed accomplishments that make the CENTURY 21® Brand SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.®

CENTURY 21 Peak Commercial closed a record sale with a substantial healthcare facility thanks to Becky Shreve. Her sale contributed to 3% of sales for assisted living in Los Angeles and Orange County combined. Now that’s impressive.

CMO Cara Whitley was named a finalist in the Stevie Awards for Communications or PR Campaign of the Year for her ground-breaking idea to “Give Dad Nothing” last Father’s Day. Check out the campaign, and maybe start planning next year’s gift to Dad.

CENTURY 21 Judge Fite was named the best place to work by not one, not two, but three Texan outlets — the Dallas Morning News, Texan Association of Business, and the Dallas Business Journal. Normally, that’s a big deal. In Texas, it’s even bigger.

Two offices and over one hundred thirty agents united last month as CENTURY 21 Wieder expanded through the merger of Heath and Joseph Real Estate in Boynton Beach, Deerfield Beach, and Wellington, Florida.

Our two G.O.A.L. program winners, CENTURY 21 Southern Star of Prattville, Alabama, and CENTURY 21 Triton Realty of Crescent City, Florida, increased their YOY listings by 14% and 107%, respectively. As a special treat, we honored them with local events starring Christen Press and Meghan Klingenberg of the U.S. Women’s National Team. After all, professional soccer players know a thing or two about hitting a goal.

Three new franchises have to share the spotlight this month, but we’re not complaining. We welcomed CENTURY 21 Colorado Springs, Colorado, CENTURY 21 Daleville, Virginia, and CENTURY 21 Sri Lanka on board last month, and are excited for things to come. In 2017, our global presence will grow from our 76 countries and territories as CENTURY 21 Sri Lanka is set to open its first office.

The press is turning to leaders in the CENTURY 21 System for insight on important industry issues. New Home Source included words from Collin Bray, president of sales of CENTURY 21 Cityside. Read the full article to learn about his vision for the potential of new homes in the market.

Stay tuned to see what November has in store!

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#C21News: September 2016

October 19, 2016 By

It’s no surprise that CENTURY 21 Real Estate has been gaining momentum. Now, we’re growing at such a rate that we’re worried you might miss something. Don’t worry, though. C21® News will keep you up to date on monthly happenings within the system so you’ll be in the know. First up: September 2016. Last month was anything but quiet, so we’ve compiled some key points you’ll want to have heard about. Take a look at the infographic below, and find even more information beneath that.

CENTURY 21 New Zealand saw an incredible listing increase of 97% YOY from July 2015 to July 2016 despite nationwide reports of decreases in the market. Looks like C21 is going against the odds — and winning.

CENTURY 21 Peak Commercial paired up with top commercial producer Jason Flashman and his team, The Flashman Group. With a new Los Angeles office, they’re adding to an aggressive expansion plan. This office is their 5th brokerage firm and 2nd for commercial real estate exclusively. We’re so excited to see what the future has in store for them!

New agents are a bit of a big deal here. Last month, CENTURY 21 Blue Marlin welcomed five new agents with diverse expertise and invigorating outlooks.

Agents from the greater Boston area were somewhat celebrity status last month. Those who come to our Agents of the Future event delved into real estate topics and got to hear Josh Altman of Million Dollar Listing speak.

Our CEO, COO, and CMO have big plans for the future. As the CENTURY 21 brand is poised for even more growth, their 2017 vision capitalizes on SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.®

We welcomed a new franchise to the family! Melanie Kishk Realty is now a part of the CENTURY 21 System. We’re excited to grow with them as we continue working towards a better future.

We couldn’t be happier with the momentum we have to build on. October should be great.

Until next month!

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What Millennials Look for in a Home

August 9, 2016 By

Millennials have grown up in a world of technology, connectivity, and awareness that distinguishes them from the baby boomer homeowners before them. Be prepared for their differing interests, hobbies, and priorities that may shape their ideal home sweet home. We’ve provided an easy to read infographic to help you navigate a home sale and find the perfect fit for your millennial home buyer.

Remember, each client is different. While this may serve as a guide when selling to millennials, always communicate with home buyers to understand their individual needs. Click on the infographic to take a closer look!

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Questions for Every Room of the Open House

August 9, 2016 By

Open houses provide more than the opportunity to showcase your clients’ listed homes; they also allow you to exercise your knowledge as a real estate agent by fielding questions from potential home buyers. While these questions can range from the common to the rare, most of them are focused on the house or neighborhood in general. However, as they walk through your open house, different rooms may inspire inquiries that are a bit more specific in nature. With CENTURY 21® Real Estate’s insight, you may find it easier to anticipate these niche questions and prepare for them in advance. Take a look at what questions each area of the house might elicit from potential home buyers.

The Front Door

Some, if not most, potential home buyers are already taking stock of the house before they step in the door. Just seeing the exterior of the house in its neighborhood may lead to the following:

  • When were the windows installed?
  • How old is the roof?
  • What are the neighbors like?

Structural renovations, such as replacing drafty windows or aging roofs, may be costly. Since roofs tend to need replacement every 20 or 25 years, the home buyer will want to factor in maintenance costs. Neighbors are not so costly, but they may affect quality of life. Try talking up positive aspects of the relationship between the current homeowners and their neighbors.

The Kitchen

This room is often the hub of family homes, so it’s important to know its quality beforehand. Expect questions similar to the following:

  • What are the cabinets made out of?
  • When were the appliances installed?
  • Is the countertop sealed?

Cabinets made of solid wood tend to last longer, and newer appliances usually function better. Answer honestly and accurately, but remember to focus on the positive or memorable aspects of these features.

The Bathroom

Maintenance issues with this room are often the most inconvenient, for obvious reasons. The home buyer will want to make sure that everything is functional before they commit. You might hear things like:

  • How old is the plumbing?
  • Where does the sewage lead to?
  • Has it ever been treated for mold?

While these aren’t the most glamorous of topics, they’re key to the quality of the house. Be truthful about the facts, but this might be an area where you stay away from anecdotes.

The Basement

Whether or not the basement is finished, potential home buyers are sure to take a look at it. After doing so, they may ask:

  • How old is the wiring?
  • Have you ever experienced water damage?
  • Has there ever been flooding?

Here, it’s crucial that you discuss past issues you may have had because they may pose an indication for future events that the home buyer should be aware of. For example, if the basement flooded only once during an unusually strong storm, just tell them. It might not be a deal breaker, but it may be something they’d like to know to prepare for in severe weather. Just be sure to include information on how the current homeowner dealt with the problem, and the precautions they took to prevent it in the future.

Develop answers to these questions for your next open house and you may enhance the home buyer’s experience while showcasing your skills as an agent who’s SMARTER.BOLDER.FASTER.®

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What Singles Look For in a Home

March 4, 2016 By

Single and ready to…own a home? Today, more and more people are looking to buy a home before they enter into relationships. In 2015, singles made up over 20% of the home buying market, and that number may grow this year. As a real estate agent, are you ready to cater to this growing demographic? Here are some things to remember that may help you navigate this type of home buyer.

Their Safety is Top Priority
While most people generally value their safety, singles may make it a higher priority since they will more likely be leaving and returning home on their own. When showing a home to potential home buyers, make sure to highlight aspects that may make them feel more secure. These can include structural features such as an attached garage and window locks, as well as neighborhood qualities like well-lit streets and bustling businesses nearby. Guide them towards properties in close-knit communities, since neighbors there may be more on the lookout for each other’s well-being.

They’re Not High Maintenance
With only one source of income, potential home buyers may not want to spend the money on home maintenance tasks. While this may differ from client to client, start with listings that won’t require too much upkeep. For example, show houses with no paint siding, which cuts down on the need for additional coats. Also consider simple landscaping, so a homeowner won’t have to do much more than mow the lawn and water a small garden occasionally. Something more intricate outside of the house may look nice, but can involve more gardening than one’s willing to commit to financially.

They Like to Have Fun
Unlike their coupled counterparts, single homeowners may not be ready to settle down and stay in at night. After all, with no tykes to tuck in early, they can stay out late. Show them properties in areas that have a nightlife or cultural scene, such as one with bars, restaurants, museums, or recreation centers. To narrow down on their interests, ask single clients about their hobbies and how they like to meet new people. Their answers may help you gauge which businesses they would like to have nearby.

An Agent Relationship is Key
Couples who buy a home together can turn to each other to bounce ideas and seek advice. However, a single home buyer who doesn’t have the same access to a sound second opinion must rely on you for advice. Most experienced single homeowners have stated that they left agents because they didn’t listen to what he or she was saying, ranging from home preferences to safety concerns. Combat this stereotype by hearing out your clients and restating their messages back to them so nothing gets lost. If you focus more on the nature of your relationship with a specific client, he or she may feel more comfortable when it comes time to make a decision.

These considerations should serve as a guide, but they are not all inclusive. All clients are different, so remember to talk to yours and listen to their needs in order to figure out what is best for them.

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Neighborhood Checklist

February 24, 2016 By

When you buy a home, you’re getting more than just the structure of the house — you’re getting the neighborhood, too. We recommend visiting the new area multiple times at different times of the day to get a feel for it, since that may determine your family’s experience while living there. A great house might not be as enjoyable if the surrounding community isn’t a good fit. To help out with your neighborhood evaluation, use this checklist of important items to look out for.

Sidewalks – The presence of sidewalks may indicate that the neighborhood is an active one. It may also be safer for those with children, since drivers and pedestrians won’t be sharing the same space.

Parks – A nearby park might be beneficial for you and your family to get some exercise while meeting new people.

Schools – Check to see how far away the schools are, and how your children would be getting there. This may not be as important for homeowners who don’t have children.

Major Roads – Drive around to locate the closest major highways. If big roads are close, they may increase noise level around your home or become a security concern for those with small children and pets.

Transportation – Depending on the area, you might not always depend on a car to get around. Explore the local public transportation options to see what works for you.

Shopping Centers – Figure out how close you are to shopping centers so you can estimate how long it will take to run errands on a typical day.

Restaurants – If your family likes to dine out, check out the food scene near your house to see if you’ll enjoy frequenting those restaurants.

Recreational Centers – Whatever you and your family do for fun, make sure there’s something within a reasonable distance. Think fitness centers, pools, dance or martial arts studios, painting classes, or anything else that could entertain you and your family.

At your next open house, bring this checklist with you as you go for a walk around the neighborhood. Your new community might be a perfect fit!

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Home Buyer Checklist: What to Look for in an Open House

February 8, 2016 By

Open houses may be staged to look like a home decor dream, but don’t let that distract you from the real reason you’re there: to potentially buy a home. Make sure you can look past the neatly arranged furniture and focus solely on whether the house would be a good fit for you and your family. To help, here’s a home buyer’s checklist of things you might have missed at first glance.

Windows – Look specifically if they are facing the right direction to let sunlight in, and whether they open to a nice view (versus directly toward another neighbor’s window).

Under the Sink Cabinets – Check for possible signs of water damage due to leaky plumbing.

Electrical Outlets – Make sure there are enough outlets for the appliances and other electronics you’ll be using. If not, you can decide if that’s a renovation you’d like to make.

Storage Space – Don’t just look to see if there’s enough closet space, but look for closet placement. Also check that the storage is in a convenient location.

Appliances – If they’re included in the house, make sure they’re in good condition. They should be on and working while you’re there.

Under the Rugs – Lift up any rugs to check the condition of the floor underneath.

Floor Level – Check to see if the floors are level. Place a marble or another small, round object on the floor and see if it rolls consistently in one direction.

Attic – If the house has one, make sure it’s well insulated.

Water Spouts – Runoff from the gutters should be pointed away from the house, so take a step outside to see if this is the case.

This list isn’t all-inclusive, but it’s a good place to start. Talk to a CENTURY 21 ® agent to see what else he or she might add.

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5 Common Questions Potential Home Buyers May Ask

February 5, 2016 By

After seeing your home online or during an open house, potential home buyers may have additional questions for you, the homeowner. Being knowledgeable and honest with potential buyers may expedite your home’s sale. Below are five questions you should be able to answer during the selling process.

What is the status of…?
Although you’ve probably listed the vital information about your home’s integrity in accordance with state law, there’s some information that may be absent from those forms and of general interest to potential buyers. They will likely want to know the quality and age of items such as your roof, appliances, plumbing, windows, central heating and cooling, and garage doors. Research your home’s various parts to know this information for potential home buyers.

Has your home ever had a pest problem?
Potential buyers may want to know if your home is prone to infestation by rodents, insects, or any other irksome little creatures. You’ve most likely managed any pest problems before putting your home on the market, but it’s important to give an honest account of your pest history if asked.

How’s the neighborhood?
This question is intentionally open-ended to let you share any pertinent information about the neighborhood that potential buyers should know. Buyers may be curious about neighbors, schools, restaurants, entertainment, safety, and other general facts. Be sure to highlight the stellar aspects of the neighborhood and shift emphasis away from any negatives.

Where is…?
Certain features of your home may be harder for buyers to locate. They may want to inspect items such as the water heater, sprinkler controls, thermostat, pool filter, and circuit breaker. Show potential buyers where these can be found and how they’re maintained.

Is there anything else I should know about this house?
This is your chance to share all the information you wish you’d had known when you moved in or things that may not have been covered yet. You could share things like when trash day is, the nearest hospitals, the best way to care for your lawn and garden, or which neighborhood dogs are your favorite.

Be ready to answer any question a potential home buyer asks. If you don’t know the answer right away, be honest about it and be sure to get back to them promptly.

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5 Numbers You Need to Know When Buying a Home

January 25, 2016 By

C21_Jan_B2_Infographic_v2There are so many things to consider when buying a new home, from house features to location, that it’s easy to overlook what’s really important. However, remember that buying a home is more than just picking out floor plans and backyard space — it’s a financial investment. Plan for a home you can afford by keeping these important numbers in mind.

Buying a home can be daunting, but CENTURY 21® can help. Visit www.century21.com for more home buying resources.

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Kitchen Magic: 5 Must-Have Features

January 15, 2016 By

The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where you prepare meals for your family, and where you all come together to share those meals. So shouldn’t your kitchen portray that same warmth that you feel? Having a dream kitchen is a goal for many home owners, and while not everything is as easy as waving a wand, there are a few things you can implement that may make your kitchen more beautiful and more practical.

Double Oven

For those who love to cook, a double oven might just be a necessity. Can you imagine how much easier cooking holiday dinners would be if you had two separate ovens? Reduce cooking time with the ability to prepare two dishes at the same time, on different temperatures. Cook potatoes in one oven while roasting your turkey in the other, and you’ll no longer have to start cooking dinner so early.

Kitchen Island

One of the most important things in a perfect kitchen is ample counter space. What better way to get that than with a large island in the center of your kitchen? You might never have to fight for space again when you cook with family or friends. Not to mention, an island can double as a great eating space with the addition of a few bar stools.

China Cabinet

An instant way you can increase style in your kitchen is to install a china cabinet. This piece can allow you to display your glassware and china in a beautiful way, as opposed to hiding them in the back of drawers. If you’re working with a smaller kitchen, you can create the same effect by installing glass panels into your current kitchen cabinets.

High Neck Faucets and Deep Sinks

A larger sink helps you avoid splashing water when you do the dishes. A deep sink fits more dishes, and also gives you more room for washing vegetables or fruits. Add a high neck faucet and it may be even easier to fill pots, pans, and bottles. In addition, these items can make your kitchen look chic and modern.

Hidden Outlets

Have you ever been cooking in a crock pot or using a blender and wishing that you didn’t have to move your tools around the kitchen looking for an outlet? Hidden outlets are one great solution that can make your kitchen both classy and accessible. Have outlets installed under your cabinets, or inside drawers to ensure that you can plug anything in, wherever you’re standing.

With just one of the items on your must-have list, you can move one step closer to the perfect kitchen. What other features would you want to have?

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