In our age of nearly instantaneous communication, we find ourselves paradoxically with exponentially more opportunities to make fools of ourselves. With every Tweet, Facebook update, Instagram comment, bulk email, accidental “reply to: all,” blog post (and blog comment), we have countless opportunities to stick our feet squarely in our mouths.

What’s even more daunting is how the lack of face-to-face communication makes it easier to be outright negative. How many times have you come across blog and Facebook comments that no one in their right mind would say to someone in person?

Character and integrity matter as much as they always have, especially in the professional world of real estate. We try to keep this in mind as we interact online, and perhaps some tips we use as guidelines for civil, friendly discourse online can help you, too.

For example:

1. Ignore spam; delete and move on. Most of the time, it’s not even a human that has spammed your mailbox or blog… it’s a program, or “robot” and your effort in responding is a waste. (Like shouting into a dial tone!)

2. Do not feel compelled to respond to all negative comments. Let them hang in the air or delete them if you can’t stomach it. But don’t feel every negative comment is an occasion to speak. Remember: Engaging trolls also legitimizes them. Do you want that?

3. Do not engage in point-by-point arguments. They sap your energy and produce nothing. People aren’t interested in seeing you “dismantle” someone’s opinion online. These debates quickly turn into personal attacks that can get ugly.

4. Acknowledge differences without creating enemies. Ask yourself: How would I respond in an office meeting? An open house? Find a way to acknowledge your difference in opinion without making a fight about it. Do you have to be “offended” by a difference of opinion? Of course not.

Staying above the storm is a mark of integrity.  It shows you know how to keep a cool head and it also gives you more authority when you do weigh in on an issue. 

We read somewhere that the Eagle is the only bird that, in order to avoid the rain, starts flying above the cloud. It’s too easy to get caught in the storm online. Choose instead to fly high!

Realty Executives Midwest
1310 Plainfield Rd. Ste 2 | Darien, IL 60561
Office: 630-969-8880
E-Mail: experts@realtyexecutives.com

These days it can feel like everything is subject to dramatic and sudden change. If you’ve found yourself unsure how to live well in the face of “technological disruption” or other macro forces in the media and the markets, perhaps some perspective will help.

Most anger and anxiety around upheaval and uncertainty comes from fear. “Where do I fit in?” “How will I adapt?” Sometimes this fear blossoms into full-blown denial. Denial includes a refusal to accept the changes happening before our eyes, an unwillingness to learn about future possibilities, and self-soothing stories which assure us that all will remain basically the same.

Instead, you might do well to enhance your mindset perspective. Here are five tactics to help you prepare:

1. Look at patterns in other areas. Though there is no “one size fits all” for radical change, there are lessons to be learned from recent history. Understanding big shifts in other industries, markets, or countries may help you get a feel for how your world may change.

2. Recognize when you’re in the echo chamber. Many established players will tell you what you want to hear: “Don’t panic, everything’s fine.” It can be alluring to listen to those voices who say “change is overblown” or “we’re in a unique industry, immune to many of the changes.”

3. Seek contrary opinions. Find out who holds different values. Listen to the arguments they have for revolutionizing the world or urging for reforms, even if it threatens your “normal.” You may disagree, but you can’t rationally evaluate your options if you keep your head in the sand.

4. Avoid catastrophizing. Catastrophizing “is an irrational thought a lot of us have in believing that something is far worse than it actually is.” (Learn more here) Even sea changes take time. Many predictions are too dire and unrealistic. Don’t let your fears drive your actions. Be smarter about your feelings.

5. Don’t fall victim to excessive nostalgia. We have a tendency to romanticize and simplify the past, giving ourselves the luxury of rose-colored glasses. Take time to appreciate the upside of change. Wishing for a time machine is a sure-fire way to remain paralyzed.

Yes, adapting to these changes can be a challenge. But take heart. You are more resilient than you might realize.

Curious about changes in the real estate market and the value of your home? Let’s talk!

Realty Executives Midwest
1310 Plainfield Rd. Ste 2 | Darien, IL 60561
Office: 630-969-8880
E-Mail: experts@realtyexecutives.com

Realty Executives Midwest
1310 Plainfield Rd. Ste 2 | Darien, IL 60561
Office: 630-969-8880
E-Mail: experts@realtyexecutives.com

When inventory is tight and newly renovated homes are wooing prospective buyers, you need to take a step back and remember that the home you’re hunting for is a long-term investment. While futuristic appliances and gleaming hardwood floors may seduce you into making a quick offer, understand that there’s much more to a home than what lies on the surface.

Investors who renovate homes want to maximize their profit as quickly as possible. While many are upstanding folks, there are those out there who will cut corners in order to boost their return. Sometimes when a home is renovated, an investor will do a “lipstick flip.” Basically this means fixing up what’s cosmetic and leaving the rest as-is. Paint, flooring, appliances, fixtures… all may get a tune-up. But this doesn’t necessarily take into account foundation issues, leaks, plumbing problems, and work performed without permits.

Once buyers close on a home, they’re responsible for the home. This includes issues which may be costly to repair or remain simply unsafe for habitation. This is why it’s vitally important you take the necessary steps to protect yourself before signing off. Here are some tips to prevent the headache and heartache of a bad “lipstick flip” home:

• Do not waive the inspection. In addition to the usual areas, have inspections for exposed wiring in the attic and mold. Include a termite inspection.

• Ask for a complete list of all work done with receipts for the work.

• For all work done, make sure the seller used a licensed contractor.

• Ensure the work on the home passed inspection and is up to code. Request a copy of the certificate of occupancy.

• Ask the seller for a current disclosure statement, as required by law.

If the seller balks at these requests, it may be necessary to pass on the home. If issues come up during inspection, you may change your mind about the home, or you may negotiate for repairs or closing credits, depending on your agent’s advice.

Don’t worry, not all flipped homes are money pits. But as a trusted real estate advisors, We'd like to be certain our clients don’t get burned! Looking for a home? Connect with our experts today!

Realty Executives Midwest

1310 Plainfield Rd. Ste 2 | Darien, IL 60561
Office: 630-969-8880
E-Mail: experts@realtyexecutives.com

As boomers age, more and more people want to stay in their own homes or avoid large, institutional settings. A sweet spot between these two options is something called an RCFE, or Residential Care Facility for the Elderly.

Though they’re also known by other names, the concept is the same… elderly residents live together in a smaller, communal living situation which has been optimized for safety and state regulations regarding senior care.

Residential homes can be converted to RCFEs. Often three-bedroom-plus properties, these homes are frequently single-level ranch-style homes which adhere to codes regarding 24-hour medical care, fire safety, and accessibility. Sometimes two residents will share a bedroom, but the rooms must be large enough to accommodate individual beds, chairs, and dressers. Many are also modified to manage non-ambulatory or wheelchair-bound residents, meaning they have roll-in showers and doors wide enough to handle chairs (3-feet wider).

(Please note: These are only sample requirements, and the regulations vary by state. RCFEs must be licensed, and the licensing process is vital to the legal, safe operation of the home. There are educational and training programs available for those interested in a deep dive into the space.)

Demand for RCFEs is hot. Properties which are suitable for conversion draw a great deal of interest from investors and those looking to enter into the elderly care market. You may own or know someone who owns a home which is perfect for such a conversion.

If you think you have a floor plan which is suitable for conversion, this can be a real selling point. We are always on the lookout for properties which could become a pleasing, comfortable, safe home for seniors.

We all need to plan for the future! Get in touch:

Realty Executives Midwest
1310 Plainfield Rd. Ste 2 | Darien, IL 60561
Office: 630-969-8880
E-Mail: experts@realtyexecutives.com