Brené Brown

The Power Of Vulnerability!

I unexpectedly came across this on YouTube. It struck a chord with me and realized I too have hidden behind an armor of trying to excel and perfect things; my excuse for not connecting; my way of protecting. And often, I won't even try as failure or being judged seemed more convenient.

Delivered in a most profound way,  Brené Brown has changed my perspective toward being vulnerable. It scares the sh*t out of me though, this vulnerability stuff, but here’s my new mantra: To live fearlessly, dare greatly, and love wholeheartedly – I can’t wait to see what happens.

I would love to listen to her in person. But for now, I am reading her books: Daring Greatly and Gifts of Imperfection. And "NO", I'm not promoting her book (well, maybe, kinda, because the books are linked to Amazon ;). But I’m just a regular person, like everyone else, trying to make sense of things and keeping my head up... more than anything, I just wanted to share this!

I got the message, Brené Brown. Thank you, wholeheartedly!

Brené Brown, Ph.D., LMSW

2010 TEDxHouston talk on Vulnerability

2012 TED talk "Listening to Shame"

Now Is a Great Time to Buy A Home.



Buying A Home

 Market prices are at its lowest and are affordable. Home Loan interest rates are still low! 

Property values have declined drastically over the past two years. Not surprising, so have the sale prices. We’ve seen most areas taking a dive at 40% or more in the decrease in value making homes prices affordable and within reach for most buyers now.

I have had clients and friends who say: Nah, we'll wait till the holidays; or after the elections; or even, next Spring "when there is more inventory".  I can't help but wonder: when one has enough saved for a downpayment and the lender says they're pre-approved for a home loan, why not seize the opportunity?

Maybe some are waiting for the interest rates or home prices to go up??? Uhhmmm... Yes, it's frustrating and very competitive for buyers right now, because of the low inventory of homes on the market. But competition is good and healthy.

You just need a great realtor on your side to assist you, especially in negotiating price and terms. Call or email me if you don't have an agent to represent you. Don't be waiting and missing out on the low home prices and interest rates.

Saving Commissions

Saving on Real Estate Commissions.

Looking to save money (who aren't these days?) sounds appealing? Yes, certainly. An owner can sell their own property; a buyer, of course, can buy directly from the seller.

Real estate commissions represent a significant amount to save regardless of the price range of the property. But like anything else, not having a professional handle such a large investment, is risky and can have a potentially high liability down the road, if one is not careful.

For most of you who know me, I am all about saving money. However, at the risk of sounding "just like another realtor", this is one area I wouldn't want to skimp on. Mind you, I would definitely try to negotiate commission and what have you - there's no harm in trying. 

Seriously (as if I was not serious on other things), here are points to consider and ask yourself as a Seller or a Buyer:

1. Do you have adequate and reliable sources to obtain information to determine property value?
2. Are you confident enough to represent yourself in negotiating the many aspects of selling or buying the most important investment you probably will have in your lifetime?
3. Are you familiar with the various State and Federal disclosure requirements; the complexities of securing financing, inspections, escrow process, and so on?

And as an important note: if you are looking to purchase an REO or a foreclosed property, you'll find that most lenders hire real estate brokers to handle their properties.

Something to think about, seriously.