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The uncertainty of today's economy,combined with the recent attention the media has given the real estate market, has made many an agent, home seller and/or buyer extremely nervous. My goal is to calm your fear and bring to the helm the positives, which is why I opted for a longer message this month. Success is,after all, when preparation meets opportunity. Keeping this thought in mind,combined with following a few simple rules, will help reassure you, even during these uncertain times.

Have you ever noticed that the strong seem to survive even in an uncertain economy? With the current credit crisis in hand and banks, mortgage lenders and other businesses tightening up, it's time to remain focused and concentrate on staying power The government should be talking about what a time it is to buy or invest in real estate, rather than paint a gloomy picture on the entire economy.Money can be made in a variety of markets. Profitability can expand to new levels. Historically, the greatest fortunes have been made when times were tough and assets were simply "on sale."Opportunities abound in real estate everyday. We just have to keep the "glass is half full" mentality! Rates are at a historical low.Pricing on both investment real estate and single family housing markets are down,and those in the position to do so can do quite well in the current economy.

My advice this month relates to being strong as a real estate agent as well as a real estate company, and serving the public in the most professional way possible. How do we do this? Simple. A realtor in this economy needs to find the road less traveled and then follow the "rules of the road.

to concentrate on doing several things well. There are no "secrets" in this business. The average agent continuously makes changes, always looking for a "new trick" when there really are none. Today's economy is about working smarter, not harder. Success relies on a systematic approach to achieve goals and out perform the competition in order to obtain positive results for clients.

Agents need to be proactive, not reactive. Being proactive requires scheduling daily and weekly events in a stream-like manner, so everything flows. This allows the reactive tasks to fall into the open time schedules and eliminates the need for "last minute crunching."

A successful agent also needs to allow ample time between appointments. Proper time management allows the agent better overall preparation.

Running late tells clients our time is more valuable than theirs is. A successful agent makes running late the exception, not the rule. A professional agent also understands the sales cycle, which deals directly with accountability. As soon as a sale occurs, contracts need to be delivered to appropriate parties; any tests required need to be ordered;lenders need to be held accountable for commitment dates, and title insurance typically needs to be ordered. It is also smart to schedule settlement 2-3 weeks in advance. Clients will notice the preparation and professionalism, and in many cases, your best advertisement is positive referrals from satisfied clients.

Properties, in general, are sitting for a slightly longer time. Sellers in today's economy are willing to pay more of the buyer's closing costs.There is simply more competition and this creates for a buyer's market. Tobe successful as a seller you need a combination of aggressive marketing,the best location, the best price or condition, or a combination of all of the above. In doing so, you get your investment to settlement more quickly and put a higher bottom line in your pocket. The local market place has gone from an extreme seller's market to a solid buyer's market. In my opinion, the market will level out in Spring of 2010. In the meantime, if you are a current buyer, my advice is to shop and compare, get into this market if you are not already in, and make certain you get the best financing program based on your individual needs. In addition, remember,always take the road less traveled, follow the rules of the road, and be prepared!

Thanks for reading!
Until next time,
imothy F. Straub Owner
Straub & Associates Real Estate Group