Don’t get scared off by these 8 common house problems

August 6, 2021 By C21 Communications

When house hunting, it’s hard to see past flaws. However, there are lots of minor repairs and aesthetic fixes that should never keep you from buying an otherwise perfect home. If you love the neighborhood, the style, the size, and the backyard, don’t let these eight easy fixes get in your way.

Damaged window screens. If the screens have small tears, simply bond the edges together with clear nail polish. If they’re completely shot, pick up a DIY window screen repair kit for fast, inexpensive replacement.
Ugly caulking. If the caulking around the tub, toilet or other fixtures is nasty, don’t worry. With caulk remover, a putty knife and a caulking gun, you can make your bathroom look brand new in an afternoon.
Holes in the wall. Holes up to the size of your palm can be easily (and cheaply!) fixed with spackle. To blend the repair, use a sanding sponge and a fresh coat of paint.
Old, sticky drawers. Older wooden drawers often stick and squeak, but a quick coat of household paraffin wax along the slides is all you need to fix the problem.
Bad wall colors. As overwhelming as a bad paint color can be, never forget it’s one of the simplest fixes. One person can repaint an entire room in a day.
Missing smoke or carbon monoxide alarms. These alarms are inexpensive, easy to find and very easy to install on your own.
Outdated appliances. Replacing old appliances with new ones is an easy (if a bit expensive) process. Don’t let bad appliances turn you off from a great house, especially if it’s under budget.
Boring or patchy landscaping. When the yard is plain or patchy, you can easily create your own garden beds, add plants and apply lawn treatments to fix things up.

It’s easy to feel nervous about buying a house that needs work. But when the fix is quick, inexpensive, and straightforward, you shouldn’t let it scare you off from your dream house. Pull Quote: If you love the neighborhood, the style, the size, and the backyard, don’t let these easy fixes get in your way.

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Build Your Brand By Being A Better Person

July 3, 2018 By Ariel Jordan

In the following interview, Mark Fields, president of CENTURY 21 Mark Fields and Associates in Asheville, N.C., discusses branding, culture, luxury marketing, and more.

Region Served: Asheville, N.C., and surrounding areas
Years in Real Estate: 40+
Number of Offices: 1
Number of Agents: 10

Favorite Way to Communicate With Clients: Face-to-face. A lot of communication is nonverbal, so when you text, email or speak on the phone, a great deal of nuance can be lost. It’s the expression on someone’s face that can identify best how a person is feeling, and it could also lead to solutions to challenges and overcoming objections.

What is your top tip for real estate newbies?
Affiliate with a company that represents your values and provides the culture of learning and support you will need to get started—one that ensures its people provide the highest possible level of service to your buyers and sellers. Second, learn the real estate contract. Know all the legal ‘ins and outs,’ but remember that more than 50 percent of being a great real estate professional isn’t what you learn in real estate school. Third, learn how to be a good communicator, which starts with being a good listener.

How do you build yourself as a luxury brand?
Marketing. I have a background in marketing, not through formal education, but through experience. I’ve watched the best people market themselves, and so I learn from the best. Early on, I asked myself who was doing great luxury marketing. I take inspiration from the “greats.” I built my company reputation by becoming the best I could be.

Please describe your company culture.
We are a family. When I hire, I make sure the person’s heart is in the right place. They’re not going to be competing with our family or undercutting the people we work with, and for. We are here for each other. We support each other. No matter how big we become, we care about each other.

What sets your team apart from other brokerages?
When I bring people in, I make sure they’re committing to my company for the right reason—not just to make money, although that’s an important motivator, but to provide the very best service they can. I can’t have mediocrity. I need people who strive to be the best they can be—to provide the best service they can, no matter what. As high-end real estate professionals, we make a lot of money. If you’re going to play the game, you have to truly earn it. You have to offer equal value for what you’re earning. My goal is to never get to a closing table without feeling 100 percent sure that I earned that money.

How are you staying abreast of industry and market shifts?
We’re in it. We’re living it, so we feel it. Every time there’s even a small ripple here, we feel it.

This article was originally posted on RisMedia.com.

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CENTURY 21Ⓡ Open House: Keeping Data Safe

November 28, 2017 By Casey Danton

In a world rampant with identity theft and data breaches, it can be scary to give information to anyone. However, when buying a house, disclosing classified information is a must. Rett Harmon of CENTURY 21 Novus Realty shares the careful steps realtors can take to keep sensitive info safe and secure.

Digital Records

“We keep our data secure by storing all of it in the cloud. Thankfully, we have never suffered a security breach as we try to use the most trusted cloud-based sources,” explains Harmon.

Most tech insiders agree1 that cloud-based storage systems are secure. In these systems, data is kept in off-site servers that can be anywhere in the world. While this might sound riskier than keeping your information where you can see it, the fact is that hacking attempts mainly target traditional computer servers. Cloud storage systems offer more protection from hackers and cyber attacks.

“All of our data is backed up in the cloud. We make sure that we do business with cloud-based service providers that have locations in multiple areas and often backup their servers. We don’t rely on an IT department, and you will find zero servers in my office,” says Harmon.

Wire Transfers

An unfortunate drawback to life in the age of the internet is wire fraud. This can make placing a down payment on a home nerve-wracking for clients.

It’s important to have conversations about staying vigilant. Even though a wire transfer can be initiated from home using a mobile banking app, it’s a good idea to discuss the transfer with a bank or credit union. Certain banks have security measures in place, and it’s important to know what they are. If someone receives an e-mail telling them that the wiring instructions have changed, they should double check e-mail correspondences to be sure they are in fact communicating with right party.2

Security

The same type of precaution is necessary when signing electronic documents. Using secure services like DocuSign as opposed to e-mailing a signed PDF provides more protection. FIles sent through DocuSign display information that the document has been protected, or conversely can show when a document has been tampered with and can’t be trusted.3

Files sent without this type of protection, for example PDF files attached to an e-mail, are at risk of having a signature stolen by a hacker.

Printed Records

“Printed records should be a thing of the past, but my office staff still likes to keep a paper backup. It does drive me crazy, but I have to pick my battles,” Harmon says. “We do have many security measures for printed materials. We keep a securely locked container for any items with client or personal information. The box is picked up routinely by a company that properly destroys then recycles it to continue to keep the information confidential, even once we no longer need it.”

It’s no surprise that digital files are more convenient to all types of businesses. We no longer have to search file cabinets for a record, just simply type what we need into a search bar. However, digital records mean new methods of data security must be implemented.

“Confidentiality is of the utmost importance to us,” Harmon says. “We want our clients to know that their conversations are between us. Building Trust is the key to success and longevity in this business.”

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#C21News: October 2016

November 10, 2016 By Casey Danton

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 Casey Danton

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 5^th brokerage firm and 2^nd 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 Casey Danton

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 Casey Danton

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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How to Inform Potential Buyers About the Neighborhood

June 3, 2016 By Casey Danton

C21_May_NeighborhoodWorksheet CENTURY 21® Agents don’t just sell houses, they sell future homes. Potential home buyers must be able to envision their future in a particular location. To do so, they must consider every aspect of the home, including the surrounding area. While you should always be prepared to answer questions about nearby schools, hospitals, parks, and transportation, CENTURY 21 wants to help you go above and beyond client expectations. We’ve provided a professional template for you to customize according to each neighborhood where you have an open house. Download the image below to get started.

Hand these out during your next open house and you may stand out in the mind of potential home buyers. This is just one of the ways that the CENTURY 21 System helps you to be smarter, bolder, faster.

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Neighborhood Checklist

February 24, 2016 By Casey Danton

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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Avoid These Common First-Time Home Buyer Mistakes

September 29, 2015 By Casey Danton

Buying a home for the first time can be cumbersome. You’ve never done it before, so it’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. Luckily, we’ve pulled together some of the common mistakes first-time home buyers make. Learn from them, and you may have a smoother home buying process.

Forgetting About Costs:

Your mortgage will probably not be the only cost when it comes to buying a home. Smaller costs like property insurance, taxes, electric and water bills, and other fees may start to pile up. Before buying a house, you may need to look further into your savings to figure out if you can pay for all of these additional charges.

Looking for a Home Before the Loan:

Once you find a house and decide to buy it, you don’t want to spend time wondering if you can afford it. Knowing your budget, and that you are a qualified buyer before you begin your search may make the process easier and more efficient. Once you decide that it’s time to buy a home, get pre-approved for a loan.

Not Hiring Professionals:

Moving isn’t as simple as packing up your stuff and renting a van. It takes a village to move into a new neighborhood. Your team can only be as good as your weakest link, so you may want to ensure that you have only the best players. Get your home buying team in place before starting the search.

Being Too Picky:

There’s nothing wrong with knowing what you want when it comes to buying a home. But if your “must-have” list get too long and too specific, you may end up looking for your perfect house for a very long time. Also, remember that you can make changes once you move in. It may be wise to take the time to figure out what you really need versus what you want. If you are unsure where to start, our checklist may help!

Lacking Vision:

Some of the open houses you attend may not look move-in ready. But plenty of homes have hidden potential. When you look for a home, try to look past the 70’s shag rugs and lava lamps. Imagine what the home will look like after you’ve moved in with all of your own belongings, or try to envision the structure of the home without the stuff inside it. This will be an important skill, especially if you’re looking to buy a fixer-upper as your first home.

Ignoring the Future:

If you plan on living in this house for a long time, you may want to think ahead. You may decide to have kids in a few years, and then you’ll have to worry about another set of questions. Will there be enough bedrooms? Is the house located in a good school district? These may be things to think about when buying your home.

So whether you’re just starting to think about buying your first home, or you’ve already spent some time looking, there may be a lot to learn from this list of mistakes.

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