Oct. 20, 2009 - Please get out and vote in Waxhaw November 3rd!
As many of you know, I live JUST outside the city limits of Waxhaw. So I don't get the opportunity to vote on issues that will affect me, and my business. So I am doing my part to encourage all of you, who do live in Waxhaw to get out and vote November 3rd! Early voting has actually already begun!
In addition to the commissioner races, 2 referendums are on the ballot reqarding liquor by the drink, and malt beverages. Both really need to pass.
Here is the latest from Mark & Patte Kennedy of Southsiders, who have been at the forefront of this issue, which will affect business in Waxhaw:
Here’s the latest update for the mixed beverage referendum:
I have a few 11 X 17 posters remaining if anyone wants them for windows. They’re paper so they won’t work too well outside in the rain. Most of the local businesses have posters up in their windows or at the register when you check out. You can see them in virtually every store in downtown and at the Old Hickory shopping center and many of the merchants in the Cureton shopping center are showing their support as well as many other merchants along 16. Please thank them for their help and support when you patronize their businesses.
We began distributing hand bills during Autumn Treasures weekend with a very positive response. We’ve also started distributing them in our local subdivisions. I have volunteers distributing them in Cureton, Alma Village and Hermitage Place. If anyone else would like to walk their subdivision please feel free to stop by and pick some hand bills up. The rain hampered our abilities to get out and really blanket the area last week so any help would be greatly appreciated.
About voting - Keep in Mind:
Early voting can be done at the Union County Public Library in Monroe and there is always the option to cast an absentee ballot.
Early Voting (Called One stop) Began on 10/15 and continues through 10/31 in the Griffin Room of the Union County Public Library @ 316 East Windsor street Monroe. Here are the hours:
MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8:30 A.M. TO 6:00 P.M.
SATURDAY, OCT. 31, 2009 9:00 A.M. TO 1:00 P.M.
Here’s the link for what you need to do to get an absentee ballot; though after I got done reading it, it seems easier to me to just drive to Monroe to cast an early ballot.
If you’d like to pass out hand bills for a little while at your polling place, that would be a big help too!
There are two referendums on the ballot; one is for malt beverages and one is for mixed beverages. BOTH referendum need to pass. While baby steps may sound like a good idea, the reality is if we only pass malt beverages, we’ll get the kind of places we may not really want. Mixed beverages will bring upscale restaurants and will help improve the ones that are already here. Also, the town has done an excellent job protecting the town from adult entertainment establishments. Through zoning and UDO’s regulating their proximity to other structures such as resident’s homes, churches and schools; it would be all but impossible to open one. We already have chain restaurants in Waxhaw including the Godzilla of chain restaurants, McDonald’s (Soon to open up near Lowe’s by the way the city made them take their sign down I wonder why?).
This is very important – if the referendums don’t pass this time, we won’t be able to get it on another ballot for three years. That’s three more years that quality, independent restaurants will pass us by and go to neighboring communities along with the jobs they would bring. Some of the restaurants already here will close their doors and other businesses that are looking forward to the additional foot traffic these referendums will bring will leave as well. As more businesses are driven away or disappear, so will those tax dollars and be assured, the town government will make up for that missing revenue somewhere.
Finally, remember every single vote counts so don’t kid yourself into thinking “my vote won’t make a difference”. There were so many people in every neighborhood and business who worked so hard to get this done - well they’ll tell you different and that your vote does matter!
So, please encourage your neighbors and friends to vote “YES” for malt beverages & “YES” for mixed beverages on November 3rd! Forward this e-mail to as many residents as you can the more people who know about the greater the chance they will pass!
I’m always available to answer questions you’re welcome to respond to this e-mail or stop in the restaurant and chat.
Regards,
Mark & Patte Kennedy
--
Southsiders
113 E. North Main Street
Waxhaw, NC 28173
704-243-1325
Well all the hub bub in town has everyone excited. Precious little Waxhaw is always at it's best when the rumors are swirling. It just makes me smile. As long as it's harmless, that is.
Latest story floating around is about the "Naked Jogger." It seems as if there is a woman who "wears shoes and socks, and not much else," taking to the streets of Waxhaw at night. Even desecrating our famous Foot Bridge. Well, I guess that depends on your opinion if nakedness is ok or not, and whether or not this "lady" is attractive or not.
But any reason to boost morale in these trying times for me. And Waxhaw can stand to be "woke up" a little.
And for those of you who keep asking me if I am the nekked Jogger of Waxhaw (& there have been many to ask): My response: "Y'all should know - I don't .... JOG!" :-)
What do you think? Have you seen her? Anyone have a good description? Somebody send me a pic for my blog, if you get one.
Just had a thought... Can we keep the name and make the mascot look like James Dean? I mean seriously, I'm all for that look. And with all the motorcyclists that live here... Might be a great compromise.
I feel that it's utterly rediculous! Then the media gets involved and makes it a "story". Come now-little minds-little thoughts. Someone needs to find something to do productive
What's the deal with Rebels? They didn't own any slaves, they just fought. The plantation owners and politicians like Thomas Jefferson owned them. I don't see any objections to the schools named after them.
That's very true Les about Thomas Jefferson and many of the other politicians in our history having owned slaves. So why don't they rename the Jefferson Monument too? (I'm not really suggesting that but... you get my point).
There is a line here somewhere folks... a point b/w history, heritage and offensiveness. My question is,IS this offensive? You tell me how then.... I really want to try to understand.
Now this is not US History we should be proud of ... by no means. But it is history. It was the times. But do we really learn anything by re-writing history and renaming anything, and trying to pretend it never happened? Another question floating around in.my mind this morning....
I hope we all go throughout the day loving our fellow man (and hey wo-man too!), no matter who they are, and where they came from. And know that our strength comes in learning from our mistakes. Not re-writing them.
This is terrific! We have 1,034 signatures and 134 petition forms in circulation throughout the town of Waxhaw. Our goal is to have 1,886 signatures in by the 3rd week in July. The magic date is July 27th. Mark that down, July 27th is the date I’ve got to bring our petitions into the Union County Board of Elections With over 134 petitions out, if everyone comes back completely signed, we’ll have more than enough signatures to see this on the ballot in November.
There are petition forms available to be signed at Southsiders and at the following Waxhaw merchants, Main Street Grill, Mamma Lena’s, Rendini’s, Big Dog Café, Ice Cream and Pizza Works, Marino’s, Waxhaw Tack Exchange, El Vallarta, The Village Gallery, Burch Studio’s, Fuzion Hair Salon and Southport Gift Store.
If you’d like to pass petitions or fliers around your neighborhood stop by Southsiders and I’ll be happy to set you up with flyers, petitions or voter registration forms. Or if you just want to come in and sign the petition we have at the counter, every little bit is going to help.
There are only 2 qualifications for a person to sign them. First they have to be a Waxhaw town resident and second they need to be a registered voter. If they need to register, I have forms at the store or they can go to the following web site:
The target number of valid signatures is 1,886 - We do have a few signatures that are from out of the city limits and we’ll need to make up for it but there are only a few.
As well, there is a small group of people who are going door to door to gather signatures. Help is needed in this effort as well. If you can spend a few hours on a Saturday even if it’s working to canvas your own neighborhood – well many hands make light work! Please contact Donna @:
Remember, this is not a done deal, the vote taken back in March was not binding and there is no guarantee that the future vote scheduled for July 14th will pass. If it doesn’t pass, there won’t be enough time to gather signatures and still make the 60 -120 day window required by state law to make the November 3rd ballot.
The people helping with this project have been great! As well, the support from both residents and non-residents has been nothing short of phenomenal. I only wish our town council members and mayor could hear what we hear I think they’d be tripping over themselves to see this referendum on the ballot in November.
Let’s keep those signatures coming in!Please bring in any full sheets you may have and thank you again!
Regards,
Mark & Patte Kennedy
--
Southsiders
113 E. North Main Street
Waxhaw, NC 28173
704-243-1325
May. 13, 2009 - Mixed Beverage Referendum Petition Info
FROM MARK & PATTE AT SOUTHSIDERS:
Our first week in the petition drive to bring mixed beverages to Waxhaw is over and off to a great start! We’ve had many residents step forward and offer to help. Patte and I have been over whelmed by the response. We’ve even had volunteers return completed petition forms and leave with more.
In February of 2008 Patte and I asked the town council to put this on the May 2008 primary ballot. Essentially the response from the commissioners was that there wasn’t enough time.
Over the past year, in spite of continual pushing, the needle has moved very little and a vote is still pending. The council has slated a vote for July 14th. If it fails, there won’t be enough time to gather petition signatures and still get it on the November ballot. It’s become necessary for the citizens and businesses of Waxhaw to assume the responsibility that the town council has shirked for years.
In the current economic climate, we see other business communities benefiting from the sale of mixed beverages while the restaurants and merchants of Waxhaw struggle to survive – some haven’t. We see our own residents going to other areas of Charlotte to get what they want while contrary to the vision of Waxhaw’s 2030 comprehensive plan our downtown area isn’t vibrant or well visited.
We have a daunting task ahead of us and we need 1,886 signatures. I’m confident that with everyone’s support, we can get this on the ballot – pass it and renew the process of seeing our town prosperous with a multitude of job offerings and an abundance entertainment and dining establishments.
There are petition forms available at Southsiders, if you’d like to pass some around your neighborhood or if you want to come in and sign the petition yourself, every effort is going to help.
Regards,
Mark & Patte Kennedy
--
Southsiders
113 E. North Main Street
Waxhaw, NC 28173
704-243-1325
I can't help but see the signs of change in Waxhaw. We all do. So many things attempted or started, but not yet completed... leaving Waxhaw teetering on the brink of much positive or negative.
With the recent foreclosure of many lots and land in and around Waxhaw as of late, along with uncompleted commercial projects such as Jackson Station and Prescot, it leaves me wondering what is in Waxhaw's future. And now BL Patch & Associates and Blue Ribbon Realty have jointly proposed another Mixed Use project for the Historic Downtown area. It's a beautiful project that I truly hope does well, but in my opinion, we need to consider the other ones first...
I am not against any or all of these projects, but we really need to take a good hard look at the ones which are at a standstill and determine what the problem is. One could blame the recent downturn in the economy, but that would not explain Jackson Station, which has sat empty for years other than a lone CVS and now a few mostly empty office spaces. The developement certainly would not have supported a Walmart facility with the current road structure, but what can be done with this parcel to benefit the community?
Then there are several other projects like the Moser Group one near Bojangles, and the Prescot one, near the bridge on Providence. Did they damage their ability to complete these due to the extensive bull-dozing and tree removal, prior to even having tenants pre-sign agreements? Perhaps the bad publicity when the large number of huge Oak and other trees where removed (even from the exterior borders) prevented tenants from wanting to move there. But why is no one (including those developers) at least replacing trees, or other concerned citizens donating some, to be growing there now? Seems like these eyesores will never get better unless we force someone to do something about it, or for us to be able to take action & beautify these areas ourselves if we have to.
Rather than work against these projects, I hope the citizens of Waxhaw will see the need to be involved and help these succeed and add character to the community. I too, abhor, the "strip mall," mentality of much commercial development in a town which has so much history and quaintness to it, but feel that if done right, that we NEED to have commercial projects to broaden our tax base, and provide services for our citizens. I know I am tired of driving all the way to Blakeney & Ballantyne for many of my shopping needs (esp clothing).
I also do feel that Liquor by the drink is an issue we definitely need to consider to allow. I do think it will require much research, and I also empathize with those who don't want the big chain restaurants flooding our town. I don't either but I know our local "Mom & Pop" restaurants that we have grown to love, would do much better if they had this ability too.
However, I think even if they do come to town, by controlling architectural restrictions, that we can retain our quaintness. Example Charleston, who has the oldest and one of the most reveered (& feared I might add! LOL!) Architectural Control Boards in the country. BUT, they have allowed and promoted growth WHILE controlling the esthetic integrity of that most lovely city.
I love "my Waxhaw." I want to see it succeed and prosper, but I also want to see it retain it's character. What do you think? And if you live in a different town, that has been at this stage, what helped? What didn't? We all know that you either go forwards or backwards with progress, but I for one, want Waxhaw to go forward and do it right!
Feb. 26, 2009 - How Banks Are Destroying the American Builder (and the American Dream)
If you rob a bank, you will be prosecuted. Heavily prosecuted. However, the government is fully allowing banks to rob the American Homebuilders, that are barely hanging on by a thread as it is, in these tough economic times. Let me share with you some of my personal knowledge and experiences of what they have done to my family.
Let me give you some background info:
I have been married to a homebuilder for 17 years. Although we are now separated, and pending a divorce, it truly pains me to see what they are doing to the business that we BOTH put our hearts and souls into for over 10 years. Our company is very representative of the average American small homebuilder. We built approximately 50 homes in 2007 and cut that down to about 20 last year. We are no longer building, but just trying to sell off remaining inventory. After that, I don't know what the company will do, other than the occasional pre-sold custom build.
We pride ourselves in our reputation. Not only with our customers, but within the industry. And our family names are on the business. We planned on handing it down to our children, if they so choose. Chris was a third generation homebuilder. Now, barring a true miracle, it probably won't go to a 4th generation. We are the faces and the hearts behind the names. We don't want you to look at us as a statistic or just "another number." Everyone in this business has a "story" and these days it often involves a lot of pain.
We moved here for better opportunities from West Virginia back in 1999. Soon thereafter, Chris learned the "tools of the trade" from his Uncle, who has been in the building business for around 20 years. It came natural to him, as his grandfather, and great uncles, had all been builders and tradesmen as well. I got my real estate license shortly after he started building, and together we partnered into building our company into a business that in 2007 was listed as one of the top 25 builders in Metro Charlotte (even against the BIG guys).
While over the last ten years, we have enjoyed many rewards and opportunities of this business, we have never been "filthy rich." We have lived comfortably and purchased our family farm, after a 3 year search, for an affordable amount. We paid our employees well, and considered them not only our business partners, but our extended family. Our last remaining employee will leave "our family" tomorrow.
Unless you have ever owned a small business, you can not possibly know how much it hurts to let good, hard working employees go, thru no fault of their own. Worrying about how they will feed their families and pay their bills. But we have our own children to feed, and our own bills to pay too. But we have ALWAYS paid...
This is where the banks come in. While we have made many tough decisions, dismissed employees, consolidated offices, and made huge cut backs, we have always paid our bills. This includes thousands upon thousands of dollars of commercial loans and their interest "carry." Most of these notes were issued a year or more ago. At one year, these notes are either "called" or "renewed" by the commercial lenders.
We have never, to my knowledge, missed a payment. Something that we're proud of, but now feel like we are also being penalized for. Banks will NOT negotiate with a debtor that is not behind. In fact, upon renewal they are RAISING the Interest rates on these commercial loans in SPITE of the prime interest rate being SIGNIFICANTLY lower, than when the original note was issued! This is also in spite of our good payment history. Our personal experience has been a 2-3% rate hike over a commonly issued 6% original commercial loan from last year.
The banks say that this is "risk management." I think it is HIGHWAY ROBBERY, and that at the very least I want the American public to know what they have done. They are "socking it to" the ones of us who are left, to make up for the ones already gone. They are running us out of business with these rates and practices. Many, many of our builder and trade friends are truly suffering. Losing their new and personal homes, filing bankruptcy, and yes even ... going hungry. These are not just statistics people, they are families.
Today, I got a call from a closing attorney regarding a transaction scheduled to close tomorrow (thank God!). But the banks and the title insurance nearly derailed this sale, which would have been devastating not only to us, but to the homebuyer, I am sure. It seems that banks have requested that no title insurance be given unless, not only the builder signs there are no lien waivers, but that each and EVERY VENDOR who EVER worked on that home, signs lien waivers too.
This news comes a DAY before closing! And many of the original framers, roofers, and various vendors are now out of the business. We have no idea how to even track them down. We have a few new ones on our list to complete warranty work, and that is about it.
I never thought I would say this, but I am glad the home has sat finished for nearly a year. It was our saving grace. I remembered that in the state of North Carolina, that all mechanic's liens HAVE to be filed within 120 days of completion (certificate of occupancy). I told Chris to call back the Attorney's office and tell the Title Insurance Company AND Bank of America, to "wipe their hineys" with the CO, and that they better not stand in the way of this closing. Yes indeed, I was mad, but I am gonna get my paycheck tomorrow. And Chris will pay off this loan, at least, to another greedy lender who recently raised our rates extraordinarily.
And hopefully, we still have enough left in our dwindling savings to keep paying for our own home, and for our children's meals. But we are now at a definite crossroads, where we too are contemplating, pursuing other means of providing. Even though we both take great pride in our individual companies, and what we have accomplished, that won't keep paying the bills.
And consumers (and buyer agents too), something else you should know, just because you see that the Seller/Builder is walking away with a few thousand dollars from the closing, please do NOT think they have made that all as profit. I have recently had to stop going to closings because I had an obnoxious buyer who went off that we "made money." He didn't realize that my family personally took a $40K loss on that house, and just the lender got paid. I was so mad but restrained myself to the point of just shaking my head, walking out, bursting into tears, and punching the wall (instead of him) on the way out of the building.
Don't worry I still review all HUD statements prior to closings for Sellers, and attend with my buyers. But I admit I get too emotional, knowing how much money I, or Chris, or one of my other builder friends, is losing at that table...
I do not look at these things with regrets. I do have hope. I have experienced this before growing up in the hills of West Virginia, and knowing what hungry and poor, really is. It's not that bad ... And I pray it never is. I do know these hard times are just life lessons that teach us to appreciate the good times that we have had, and that hopefully we will have again. I don't mean to be the "downer" or want sympathy or empathy. But we are the face of the American builder that these lending practices (i.e. ROBBERY) are destroying. The American public can either choose to ignore it and turn away, or fight back.
Twitter Friend @SteveSherron, of the Monroe Scoop took some of my simple shots, taken with my i-Phone and made this little video. This is my farm, Blessing Hill, located in Waxhaw, North Carolina. I love the outdoors and even when it snows, I like to be out "in it."
One of the great things about Waxhaw, is that there are many scenic farms, and beautiful parks, like Cane Creek where you can enjoy the great outdoors, and scenic views. And yes, we do REALLY have four seasons. These shots are proof!
I hope all of you take time out of your busy day, to stop and look around you, and enjoy the great outdoors. Have a great day!
P.S. Please check out Steve's site at theMonroe Scoop for lots of local information, and more great video's. Get the Scoop on Union County!
@LisaSanderson, @DerekOverbey, @SarahWV, @PhoenixREGuy, me (@BeeRealty), @KimWood & @TheLynn
So do you ever wonder what it's like meeting your "Followers" from Twitter in real life (#IRL) ? Well a picture is worth a thousand words. This one simply says "comfortable."
That's what it's like. Ok, at first, I will admit to being a little star struck by a few big names that I met at Inman Global Connect New York last week. Especially Jay Thompson (@PhoenixREGuy ) whom I've known in cyberspace for 5 years or so now. But then, when we started talking, it was like homecoming. These aren't JUST personalities or personas, they are real! Even better than online.
So I just wanted to write a brief blog that if you EVER get the chance to meet your followers or those you follow: Go for it! Be yourself, and be amazed at how comfortable you can get and the AMAZING relationships that develop.
GRATUITIOUS SHOUT OUT: I LOVE & MISS YA #INCY Peeps! EVERY SINGLE ONE OF YA'S!
I recently read this story for the first time, and it has inspired me to give the gift of "giving" this Christmas. I wanted to share it with all of my readers, customers & fellow agents as well, to inspire them. Merry Christmas!
SIMPLE WHITE ENVELOPE
It's just a small white envelope stuck among the branches of our Christmas tree. No name, no identification, no inscription. It has peeked through the branches of our tree for the past 10 years or so.
It all began because my husband Mike hated Christmas -- oh, not the true meaning of Christmas, but the commercial aspects of it -- the overspending, the frantic running around at the last minute to get a tie for Uncle Harry and the dusting powder for Grandma -- the gifts given in desperation because you couldn't think of anything else.
Knowing he felt this way, I decided one year to bypass the usual shirts, sweaters, ties, and so forth. I reached for something special just for Mike. The inspiration came in an unusual way. Our son Kevin, who was 12 that year, was wrestling at the junior level at the school he attended. Shortly before Christmas, there was a non- league match against a team sponsored by an inner- city church.
These youngsters, dressed in sneakers so ragged that shoestrings seemed to be the only thing holding them together, presented a sharp contrast to our boys in their spiffy blue and gold uniforms and sparkling new wrestling shoes. As the match began, I was alarmed to see that the other team was wrestling without headgear, a kind of light helmet designed to protect a wrestler's ears. It was a luxury the ragtag team obviously could not afford.
Well, we ended up walloping them. We took every weight class. And, as each of their boys got up from the mat, he swaggered around in his tatters with false bravado, a kind of street pride that couldn't acknowledge defeat. Mike, seated beside me, shook his head sadly, "I wish just one of them could have won," he said. "They have a lot of potential, but losing like this could take the heart right out of them." Mike loved kids -- all kids -- and he knew them, having coached little league football, baseball, and lacrosse.
That's when the idea for his present came. That afternoon, I went to a local sporting goods store and bought an assortment of wrestling headgear and shoes and sent them anonymously to the inner- city church.
On Christmas Eve, I placed the envelope on the tree, the note inside telling Mike what I had done and that this was his gift from me. His smile was the brightest thing about Christmas that year and in succeeding years. For each Christmas, I followed the tradition -- one year sending a group of mentally handicapped youngsters to a hockey game, another year a check to a pair of elderly brothers whose home had burned to the ground the week before Christmas, and on and on.
The envelope became the highlight of our Christmas. It was always the last thing opened on Christmas morning, and our children, ignoring their new toys, would stand with wide- eyed anticipation as their dad lifted the envelope from the tree to reveal its contents.
As the children grew, the toys gave way to more practical presents, but the envelope never lost its allure. The story doesn't end there. You see, we lost Mike last year due to cancer. When Christmas rolled around, I was still so wrapped in grief that I barely got the tree up. But Christmas Eve found me placing an envelope on the tree, and in the morning it was joined by three more. Each of our children, unbeknownst to the others, had placed an envelope on the tree for their dad.
The tradition has grown and someday will expand even further with our grandchildren standing around the tree with wide- eyed anticipation,watching as their fathers take down the envelope.
Mike's spirit, like the Christmas spirit, will always be with us. May we all remember Christ, who is the reason for the season, and the true Christmas spirit this year and always. God Bless! -- pass this along to those friends and loved ones who you know are the givers who understand the true meaning of Thanksgiving and Christmas.
With special thanks to Nancy Gavin's family for allowing us to share this beautiful story. Nancy wrote this article for Women's Day Magazine in 1982.
Nov. 18, 2008 - Sharing Your Passions Online Builds Business
Life is not about work alone, but your life's passions can help you build business. Too often we don't network with the people that share those passions, which is a huge mistake. It's a natural building block for business and friendship when you already have something in common. And you need to do this both off and online. Who want's to work with, or refer to, a boring, all business agent? I don't find that niche particularly drawing.
Some of my passions are first and foremost: My Children. I love my kids. They come first, even before business. And if you don't get that, well... we probably won't work well together. However, I'd love to hear about yours too! And I talk a lot of real estate at those soccer and basketball games. And the cool thing is, I don't even have to hard sell. Wearing my shirt or coat with my logo just about always draws a real estate question or two. Parents care about their real estate investments and want to know what is going on with the market. And finding those great backyards for their families is so much fun!
Another HUGE passion of mine includes horses. I have always loved horses and ever since I can remember, I was always asking for one. Now I own a Dutch Warmblood and a Thoroughbred, and my daughter shares in that passion, with her own Hunter Paint pony, Jackson (picture above). I often find myself at shows networking not even realizing it. Land and horses go together, and when I am at events or even just at the barn practicing, all kinds of real estate questions come up. And I absolutely love looking for land for the those future beautiful barns! My friends that are in the horse world, know that I know what it takes to find good property, with good facilities, topography and grasses for their prized horses. That honestly is my favorite real estate endeavor.
I also love dogs. And whether my clients have just one or many, we naturally "get" each other. I understand that they may not want to be in a neighborhood with covenants and restrictions. They may want to search for land for a kennel (only work with reputable breeders of course!) where there won't be noise ordinances. Having shown English Setters and Cavaliers for over 5 years now, I know that they also search for homes with "doggie" doors, fencing, and for existing or possibility for future, grooming facilities.
I also love music and watching sports. I started out as a music major and come from a musical family who often had their "sound rooms." Good acoustics are important in evaluating and recording yourself! And watching sports (esp Football) is a pastime that carries over into finding great theatre rooms, that allow for entertaining and good sound and clear visuals. I've helped lay out and design 3 Theatre rooms for myself, and many more for some of the new construction homes I've sold. Experience teaches you a lot in good flow, and in good video and sound!
Last but not least, my favorite passion INSIDE of a home, is the Kitchen. I love to cook and I love wine. And many of my clients also share those passions, and look for homes with chef style kitchens, double ovens with built in griddles, big pantries, and wine cellars. And if I can't find an existing home for them, I can help them plan those features with my new construction experience. That is soooo much fun! And I love even more being invited back to their new homes for dinner and vino! :-)
Customers out there looking for someone who shares one or more of my passions - I'd LOVE to work with you! Agents who "know" their clients need someone who understands their interests, call me! I'll take great care of your referrals.
I have observed a lot of agents reporting on the market, giving stats, and not much else. Those things are good, and should be incorporated into your business plan, but focus on your passions on and offline. Find customers with something in common with you, and you AND your clients will be much happier for it in the end. Cheers!
Nov. 13, 2008 - Lifestyle Marketing is Necessary for REALTORS
I have learned a lot about Social Networking in the last few months. Still learning every day about the Do's and Don't's. And there is certainly lots to learn. But there also seems to be a bit of a divide in thinking on how much is too much. There is definitely a fine line there, and one, that I am STILL trying to figure out.
I admittedly post a lot on Twitter and Facebook. I didn't realize until I got a Direct Message via Twitter that it was bothering anyone. There were some good points in the message, and I did not take offense to it, but tried to learn from it. For example, I am learning to use Direct Messaging more on Twitter when the conversation goes back and forth more than a time or two. Apparently, people don't like "listening in" on those conversations. Which I understand, NOW that it was pointed out to me. :-)
However, I also have seen/heard comments made by Tech/SEO/Web experts who say they don't want to see personal posts about us going to fairs, our animals or our kids, etc. Hmmmm....I don't think they understand our business. We really do have to "sell" who we are, and where we live, and what we can do, both business and recreation wise in our area, to attract customers, or even referrals from like-minded agents! It's called Lifestyle Marketing, and it's what makes or breaks an agent, especially in a tough market like this one.
I promise I will try to keep in mind, that I really don't want everyone to "be in my business" in a personal manner, but those pictures/comments of my life, paint a portrait of who I am, and the kind of person you will be working with, to find you a great home, or take care of your referral client. I think those things are much more important in our business, than say perhaps someone who sits behind a computer all day developing websites, where it probably doesn't matter as much.
That's not to say that I don't appreciate their concern and try not to go overboard either. I know we have a lot to learn from each other, and I truly want them to keep me in check! I just also want them to understand we ARE different in our marketing techniques. While I am trying to keep an open mind, and listening to their thoughts and concerns on what we do as agents, right or wrong while utilizing all the various forms of social media, I do also hope they keep in mind that the real estate business is highly personal.
Customers and even other agents (who send referrals) want to know we are Mom's, Farmers, Dog or Horse Lovers, into Wine, Ski, Cook, Garden,Volunteer for Children's Charities, etc, before they even choose to work with us. Posting listings and statistics all the time is not going to cut it online, when it comes to whether somebody wants to spend days/weeks/months looking for a home with us. In fact I would say a lot of customers would be turned off by that, if there were no personal interjections whatsoever. The hard sell is proven NOT to work in our business.
I love my job, and I love sharing the things that make me happy living here in the Carolinas. And hopefully some of those things will strike a chord with others, and want them to work with me and live here too.
Oct. 29, 2008 - For my fellow agents: Enough blogging tips already! Are we in real estate or what?
I got my morning e-mail from Active Rain this morning, and just saw it smacking in the face. Real estate agents are morphing into bonified techie experts. I mean just how many posts can we read on how great blogging is to our business? That's all there seems to be on here these days. Is anyone working the business? Or all we just talking about it? And it's not just on Active Rain, I wanna give equal credit to Real Town, and Relib, among others for this proliferation of "expert knowledge."
I don't mind so much from the "experts" and the website hosts, but all the agents too? Don't get me wrong, there are some great tips here and there, but let's face it a lot of this stuff is all repeat technological info. Every once in a while there is some new info to share, but in general I am tired of reading all the tips and "why we should be blogging," or "what you're doing wrong blogging," or "how to generate more comments" type articles. We're here already, so don't we know that? Huh?
If you are into real estate, I'd like to read about that, or even just about who YOU are. True branding is personal, not just "stuff." And it's not about what I should or shouldn't be doing blogging.
I'm here, so I know already how important it all is... let's change the subject just a bit... please?!
Pumpkins for Sale by Waxhaw United Methodist Church at farm just as you come into town on NC 16 (Providence Road) . And there's always the Farmer's Market on Saturday Mornings too...
Oh, and I THINK Lowe's is open! Looks like it from number of cars in parking lot!
Gotta run .... lots to do! Have a great weekend looking for the Great Pumpkin!
Starts bright and early at 7 a.m. for the 3rd Annual Waxhaw Fire Department and Rotary Pancake Breakfast.
Children under 9, can feast for $5. Adults who buy a ticket in advance can dine for $8, or pay $9 at the door. Breakfast will be available at the Waxhaw Volunteer Fire Department until 10 a.m. Proceeds benefit the fire department's building fund and Rotary programs.
Autumn Treasures festivalWaxhaw's Autumn Treasures arts and crafts fair officially begins at 10 a.m. Saturday and continues through Sunday. Kid's Autumn Art Treasures starts at 10:15 and continues all day, both days, featuring live entertainment, crafts, balloon sculpting and face painting.
On the main stage across from the fire hall and under the big oak, bluegrass fans can savor the sounds of Cane Creek Band at midday and enjoy live entertainment throughout both days of the festival.
More than 80 fine artists and crafters are featured during the two-day festival. DrumSTRONG and a visit from Radio Disney on Sunday are planned. Information: 704-843-2195 ext 26 or at events@waxhaw.com.
Other events this coming weekend:
Civil War Infantry WeekendSaturday10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 2 p.m.-5 p.m.: The staff of the Museum of the Waxhaws will present Civil War soldiers and civilians from the 35th Regiment, North Carolina Troops, Company F. The event is at the Museum of the Waxhaws.
The original Company F was drawn primarily from residents of Union County. The members of this reactivated unit will provide demonstrations and answer questions. To find out more about the group, visit the regiment's My Space Web site: www.myspace.com/35thnct.
The reenacting group will be camped throughout the weekend and displaying activities typical of camp life and military drilling during the Civil War.
Barnful of Quilts - a personal favorite!
Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at FOX FAMILY FARMS on SIMS ROAD: Barnful of Quilts was originally started to raise money for and awareness of missions and outreach for Waxhaw Presbyterian Church. Now in its sixth year, the Fox Family Farm serves as host for this exceptional exhibition of quilting and fiber arts. The event features a bake sale, silent auction and raffle quilt, along with the transformation of the Fox Barn into a gallery of creative outpourings by the various artists. We went last October and had a terrific time. Good food, fun music and great ambiance.
This year's featured artist is Ellen Guerrant, and there will be talks with traditional artist and quilt historian Sarah Woodring. Admission is $5 unless you are over 80 or under 18.
...WHEN THEY PICK AND CHOOSE WHAT THEY WANT TO HEAR!
I had the unique opportunity to speak to the media not once, but twice this past week, while at the NC Association of REALTORS convention, earlier this week. Well, that was an eye opening experience for me!
Well, it was very interesting to me to see what "tidbits" they edit out to get what they "want to hear." My comments were much more upbeat and positive for the future in actuality, but this interview was just the tip of the iceberg. Overall, this story wasn't a horrible report.
However, in the Tuesday edition of the Charlotte Observer, I was (MIS) Quoted as saying my business was down 50%. While I did state that, it was NOT the end of my sentence! Nor the beginning! My "quote" was prefaced that my market had a double whammy, because not only were we hit here in Union County with the market downturn, that the new APFO's and other anti-growth ordinances, as well as the sewer moratorium, which all affects new construction (my primary focus - now changing! )... had hit us as well. Union County was the 6th fastest growing county in the NATION last year, but I doubt if it will be in the top 20 next.
I hate it more than anyone that my business has slowed, but I also told the Observer that my year last year, was a BANNER year, so it's hard to compare and I am just back to a "normal" market year. Of course, they didn't say all that. (But I will be happy to take your referrals now! LOL )
The Observer then took all that out and made it seem like the entire market was down 50% in Waxhaw, when the resale market is actually doing pretty well. Just great! I took quite a bit of razzing at the Convention for the piece. But I also found it interesting that I also had MANY agents come up to me and say... "Finally someone telling the truth."
Which also makes me wonder, how do you be honest and upbeat (I was trying really hard!)? I know a lot of complaints have been issued against NAR for not being totally forthright with their market reporting, and that their "It's a great time to buy campaign!", which I personally like, makes it hard to get sellers to also be realistic with pricing and selling terms. So where is the balance? Can it even be done?
I don't think being "chicken little" or the "ostrich" with my head in the sand, is a good way to go, but the media always seems to put their slant on the story, no matter how balanced and accurate you try to be.
So in hindsight, I am thinking... how do we talk to the media, or should we even try? How do we chose our words carefully. Hence the reason for my post. My experience should serve as a warning... Your words can and will be taken out of context. But it's also a reminder that in ALL things that the media reports on, that we need to keep in the back of our mind, that those things too, also might not be fair and balanced reporting either. Be careful out there.
Post your bad experiences, warnings, or even good ones here... I'd really like to learn more about what everyone else has to say. And I hope everyone will take a moment to "read between the lines" and re-evaluate the information provided to you by the news outlets.
Hannah Bee and her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Raleigh at the "Cutest Dog" Contest in which Raleigh was dressed appropriately as a BEE. Hannah also had her "Queen Bee" t-shirt on. Can you believe they didn't win!!!
Welcome to this Waxhaw, NC Blog. I look forward to seeing your thoughts and comments about the growth of our wonderful community. Please be aware that this blog can be viewed by children, and I hope that all commments will be strictly professional. Opposing views are encouraged, rudeness is not!
And if you happened upon this blog, interested in Waxhaw Real Estate, please e-mail me at Lori@BeeRealty.com. Thanks and let's get blogging!
Waxhaw (pop. 2,868)
Perhaps nowhere else in Union County is history as evident as in Waxhaw. The town that took its name from the Indian tribe dates back to the 1700s but is attracting a fair number of settlers today. Located along N.C. 75 southwest of Monroe and near the South Carolina border, Waxhaw has developed a reputation as an antiques haven. The town has more than a dozen antique and gift shops. These establishments and two annual antique fairs draw customers from all over the nation.
The Andrew Jackson Memorial/ Museum of the Waxhaws depicts the area’s history from the 1600s to 1900. Events such as the Waxhaw Scottish Games, “Listen and Remember” outdoor drama, Civil War battle re-enactment, and old-timey Fourth of July parade draw large crowds to town.
Waxhaw dates back to the 1700s, but it wasn't until 1888 that the railroad, laying tracks to Atlanta, brought prosperity. Tracks still run through the center of town along the Green, the grassy strip dividing two rows of stores.
The community was once dependent on cotton, but when the fiber lost its luster in the early 1960s, Waxhaw reshaped itself as an antiques center. The town has about a dozen antiques shops and some gift shops. (Not all shops are clustered together, so explore; a brochure is available to guide you.) Restaurants include Dearstyne's Bistro, which appeared in the CBS miniseries "Shake, Rattle and Roll."
It seems like every month there is an event - Civil War reenactment, Scottish games, antiques shows, house tours, fire department fund-raisers, an antique car show, and a historical drama. The Museum of the Waxhaws Andrew Jackson Memorial, on the grounds of the Waxhaw Amphitheatre, tells about the area's history from the 1600s to 1900.
The Waxhaw Historic District is on the National Register of Historic Places, and Waxhaw has some wonderful old houses near the center of town. For new housing nearby, look along N.C. 16 toward Charlotte, along N.C. 75 east and west of Waxhaw, and along Rehobeth Road.
Near Waxhaw on Harkey Road is Cane Creek Park, a 1,050-acre county-owned park that draws visitors with its 350-acre trophy bass lake, a beach and swimming area, boats for rental, miniature golf, campsites and rental cabins. Eight miles of trails beckon mountain bikers.
Located south of town is JAARS - the technical service arm for Wycliffe Bible Translators and Summer Institute of Linguistics. The group translates the New Testament into several hundred languages and trains linguists in its use. The complex includes an airstrip, offices and two museums, the Museum of the Alphabet and the Mexico-Cardenas Museum. William Cameron Townsend, Wycliffe's founder, is buried on the grounds.
Waxhaw, NC is a quaint "bedroom" community for Charlotte,NC, but is quickly growing. It is known for it's friendly people, historic downtown, equestrian heritage, and quirky atmosphere. Share your thoughts about the changes you've seen and what you think Waxhaw's future holds.
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As many of you know, I live JUST outside the city limits of Waxhaw. So I don't get the opportunity to vote on issues that will affect me, and my business. So I am doing my part to encourage all of you, who do live in Waxhaw to get out and vote November 3rd! Early voting has actually already begun!
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)... had hit us as well. Union County was the 6th fastest growing county in the NATION last year, but I doubt if it will be in the top 20 next. 
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