For Anyone Considering Starting a Creative Business...

Ugh, it's a dreary Friday evening. Who wants to talk business? *raises hand* I do.

It's become painfully obvious to me (and probably to you if you've been following the blog long enough) that a regular 8 to 5 isn't really for me. In fact, no "traditional" job comes to mind when I think about the things I would love to do. Yes, I am still applying for jobs that seem "realistic" but what about the fantastic? What about the idea that I can put my creativity to work with my years of business education to make a living for myself? After all, others have made it happen, so I should be able to do the same... I think.

Since there aren't many options for a creative professional in most companies, starting a creative business is the most practical solution. So the challenge is where do I begin? Fortunately, one can find a wealth of info on just about everything online, so that's where I started my search. When I started looking for "starting a creative business" the first sites that came up were tips and advice from people who had done just that. Perfect! One of the best was a post on Blacksburg Belle, where 9 creative entrepreneurs shared the challenges they faced when starting their businesses. I can definitely relate to their experiences, especially the one about figuring out exactly what you love. There are a lot of things that I love, which mean a lot of potential businesses! But realistically I can't do everything. So that's a biggie. The question of "will there be enough money" is one I have too, but at this point I think that's a legit concern considering that right now there isn't...

I also found 10 tips for the creative entrepreneur on Ladies Who Launch. If you're a right-brainer who is struggling with starting your business (or even if you're not struggling but looking for ways to improve/make the process easier) this is a good read. The right-brain business plan is one that stood out to me. I never considered that my plan didn't have to be the standard plan that I learned in business school. That may explain why I've had such an ordeal trying to get it together! Now I'm researching alternative styles to determine which one will be best for me.

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="400" caption="Note to self: This is probably the book I should've gotten from jump!"][/caption]

Finally, I found an awesome guest post on Leslie Laughs from Tahni, a photographer and artist. It's a realistic but encouraging look at what it's like to be a creative entrepreneur (really any entrepreneur for that matter). In it, Tahni basically says: you have to pay your dues, don't beat yourself up if/when you fail, and it's a roller coaster. Of course she said it a lot better than I just did, so read the post.

I've found plenty of information, some useful and some not, and I'll be sharing it here from time to time. Are you, or have you considered, starting a creative business? If you have insights, resources or your own story that you would like to share, let me know!

Ain't I A Woman?

“Nobody ever helps me into carriages, or over mud-puddles, or gives me any best place! And ain’t I a woman?” Since joining the “real world,” Sojourner Truth’s words have resonated with me. As I child, I was taught to be self-reliant because there would be times when I could not count on anyone else. However, I was also taught to expect certain things from a gentleman: holding the door open, helping with packages if I seem overwhelmed, respect, cordiality. And when I worked mostly with other African-Americans, I received those little gestures of chivalry more often than not.

But once I entered a more diverse workforce, I noticed a shift in the attitudes and actions towards not just myself but black women as a whole. One particular incident stands out in my mind: Another woman and I were both exiting the building where I worked. One of my coworkers was walking in, but stopped to hold the door open for the white woman who was only maybe three feet ahead of me. Once she was out of the door, he looked at me and walked on in, letting the door close and nearly knocking me down. I was dumbfounded.

If that were an isolated incident, I wouldn’t have any ground for beef. But I’ve seen and experienced many incidents where black women were simply not given the same courtesy as white women, in the workplace as well as in random social situations. The perpetrators have varied in age and race, which left me even more perplexed. Those acts of geniality aren’t necessarily required, and I’ve come to not expect them either.  But I have to wonder why there is a difference between the way black women are treated versus the treatment of our white counterparts. Is it because black women are supposed to be strong enough to not need assistance? Are we considered less than worthy of such small displays of cordiality? Or is it not necessarily about us, but rather about the pedestal that many people place white women on?

My query is not a complaint, but one of simple curiosity. Even in small, somewhat trivial matters, we see a discrepancy in attitudes and actions. One hundred and sixty years later, I’m still asking the same question. “Ain’t I a woman?”

Downpayment Registries for Newlyweds: Would You Do It?

from realtormag.com:

Forget the toasters and champagne flutes: More engaged couples are doing a different type of wedding registry that allows them to collect cash for a down payment on a home, according to a recent article in The Washington Times.

Dana Ostomel, founder of Deposit a Gift in New York City, says that about 15 percent of their registries are to raise down-payment funds for a home and another 15 percent are for home-improvement funds to pay for upgrades like a new roof or furniture.

"Given that 75 percent of today's engaged couples already live together and are older, very often they are already established with the household basics that you find on a traditional registry," Ostomel said. "What they want is the gift of big-ticket items and longer term goals, like the gift of home ownership.”

The FHA permits gifts from a wedding to be used as a down payment, but lenders are required to document that the funds are gifts. About 27 percent of first-time home buyers use gift money from relatives and friends for a down payment, according to a 2010 National Association of REALTORS® Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers survey.

Source: “Registries Raise Cash Gifts, Avoid Etiquette No-No,” The Washington Times (Oct. 20, 2011)

In the past, it was considered in bad taste to ask for money instead of the traditional registry items like china, silverware, etc. However, in recent years it has become more common to see a note asking to forgo gifts and give cold hard cash. Considering that today's couples are getting married when they are older and more established, they likely have at least one toaster and coffee maker. Why ask for more of the same? The idea of asking for money to use towards an investment such as a house (whether it is to purchase a new home, make repairs, or accumulate rental property) is a sound decision. But could you buck the long-standing rules of etiquette and ask for money on your big day?

Jesus Loves Me... Even If I Don't Forward This Email

I'm not sure why, but I've never been a fan of those cutesy little forwarded emails. Not the ones about how we're all sisters so let's bask in our girl power. Not the generic forwarded prayers. Not the kittens in baskets (although the puppies and babies can get me a little misty-eyed, depending on the time of the month). It's not that I'm completely cold-hearted, they just seem like a waste of time to me. But the thing that irks me most is when people decide to send these forwards to my work email.

Why?!

There is such a thing as email etiquette, and it is especially important at work. Certain things are simply frowned upon, and for many employers, this is one of them. So if you are a forwarding fanatic, you may want to take the following precautions:

1. Don't send every forward you receive
I promise Jesus will still love you, you still love your country, and your luck will not suddenly spiral. There is no reason to flood someone's inbox with forwards. This is especially true at work, and doubly true for coworkers with whom you don't even regularly associate. Which leads me to...

2. Make sure the receiver wants your forwards
A lot of people do like the little inspirational poems and animated squirrels dancing, but there are some like me who don't. Try not to end up in someone's spam list because you decide you want to share with the whole company. At best, folks will just delete it. At worst, you could end up being reprimanded for abusing company email (depending on the policy there). But there is an easy way to avoid that...

3. Send forwards from your personal email to the receiver's personal email
If you have a couple of people who you share non-work emails with, why not get their personal emails and send them there. That way you get to maintain professionalism on your work email account (which is most likely being monitored anyway) and still share a smile with your friends. Everybody wins!

Are you guilty of being the forwarding friend or coworker? Has it ever been a problem where you work?

Tight Standards Make Mortgages Tough to Get

By Julie Schmit, USA TODAY

Home buyers such as Bob and Janet Zych have fueled the U.S. housing market for decades.

They have excellent credit with scores that top 800, lifelong careers, and investment portfolios that have set them up for a comfortable retirement, they say.

But this year, “after faxing a ream of paper” about their finances, they got so fed up applying for a home loan that they simply wrote a check for their new $85,000 vacation condo in Phoenix.

Trying to get a loan “was just a nightmare,” says Bob Zych, 65, a manager for Mohawk Industries in Omaha.

Following the greatest housing crash since the Great Depression, home lending standards have tightened to their strictest levels in decades, economists say. And people such as the Zychs and others nationwide are paying the price.

Tight home-loan credit is affecting everything from home sales to household finances. Many borrowers are struggling to qualify for loans to buy homes. Others can’t take advantage of some of the lowest interest rates in 50 years because they don’t have enough equity in their homes to refinance. Those who can get loans need higher credit scores and bigger down payments than they would have in recent years. They face more demands to prove their incomes, verify assets, show steady employment, and explain things such as new credit cards and small bank account deposits.

Even then, they may not qualify for the lowest interest rates.

The NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® says lending standards are too tight and are hurting the housing industry’s recovery.

The lending industry counters that standards are where they need to be, given still-falling home prices and the shaky economy.

“It used to be anybody with a pulse could get a home loan. Now you have to be an Olympic athlete,” says Guy Cecala, of Inside Mortgage Finance.

“The pendulum has swung too far.”

Read more: http://www.houselogic.com/news/articles/tight-standards-make-mortgages-tough-get/#ixzz1ZHMjxE2T

Going Green? Consider the GreenSwitch

These days, it's all about the green. For some people, saving green means saving money; for others, it means protecting the environment. Now there is an opportunity for savvy home owners to do both. GreenSwitch is an energy saving mechanism that puts you in control of your energy usage. From their site:

We all know our homes quietly drain electricity that we pay for but don’t actually get to use. There are those lights in the basement that we always forget to turn off, or thermostats that are heating or cooling unused spaces, or doing so at the wrong time of the day. And there is “phantom power”– electricity flowing to electronics that are in stand-by or “off” mode. GreenSwitch offers a simple and affordable way to control household energy that saves you time and money!

One convenient slide of the GreenSwitch puts you in custom control of your electricity usage. With GreenSwitch, you designate which outlets and lights are affected and you set the personal settings for your programmable climate control. Single-control outlets let you customize each outlet, allowing you, for example, to turn off the TV in one plug while keeping the digital video recorder in the other socket of the same outlet on and recording.

I chuckled when I read this, because I thought about my dad always fussing about us not unplugging the microwave when we were done. He was concerned about that phantom power usage! And if you are curious about how much "phantom power" is used by common household and office appliances, there is an interactive section on the site to show you. You may be surprised!

Since every home's energy needs and usage are different, GreenSwitch's site does not list prices. However, the site does have a Savings & Payback Calculator to show potential savings. The company also offers a free Home Analysis, in which you answer a few questions about your home and a representative will contact you to discuss (you may also call them).

Whether you are buying, selling, or content in the home you are in, I would encourage everyone to look into GreenSwitch. And if you're not ready to make that investment just yet, there are still ways to save energy and money. Just check out this Energy Savers Booklet (PDF) from the US Department of Energy.

Disclaimer: Tori Whitley is not affiliated with GreenSwitch and did not receive compensation to endorse this company.

The Top 3 Real Estate Deal-Killers

Once upon a time, homebuying was a much less dramatic affair then it is today. The house hunt was fun, if suspenseful, and then there was another exciting whirlwind of inspections, closing and moving in. Today, though, as soon as buyers get the gumption to jump off the rent vs. buy fence, they find themselves on another edge - the edge of their seats, through the entire escrow process waiting to see what obstacle will emerge next, and whether their transaction will survive it.

Deals get killed all the time, and buyers can't relax until they have keys actually in hand. Here are three of the most common real estate deal-killers, and some steps buyers can take to deactivate them.

1. Appraisal too low. Some buyers incorrectly believe that the best thing that could happen to them is for the property to appraise below the agreed-upon purchase price, expecting that a low appraisal forces the seller to bring the price down. In fact, so many of today’s sellers are barely breaking even, that a low appraisal is probably the most common deal-killer around. If an appraisal comes in just a tad bit lower than the contract price, usually the seller will come down if they can, or the buyer will kick in a few extra bucks. But when it comes in 5, 10 or even 20 percent low, most sellers can't - and most buyers won't .

Low appraisals also seem like the most difficult deal-killer to avoid, as this process is entirely out of both buyer's and seller's control. But there are two things buyers can do to minimize the risk. First, check the comps - i.e., recent comparable homes that have sold in the area - before making an offer; your agent will help you do this. Then, don't make an offer bizarrely above the average range of the comparables, even if the property has multiple offers, unless you're prepared to deal with a low appraisal a couple of weeks out.

Also, consider working with a local mortgage broker who also originates loans through its own bank (vs. walking into a large bank's branch off the street); these lenders have the ability to choose from a smaller pool of appraisers that they know are qualified and knowledgeable about your area.

2. Property condition dramas. When the market melted down, lenders found themselves with a lot of decrepit homes on their hands. This explains two things: (1) why lenders are more concerned about property condition now than ever, and (2) the raggedy condition of so many of the "distressed' homes on the market. Homes that have extensive wood rot, dangerous decks or electrical systems, or peeling paint and missing systems (sinks, stoves and the like) are highly unlikely to pass muster when the appraiser walks through, even if they do qualify as being worth the purchase price. And while an individual seller might be willing to do some work, many just can't afford to; short sale and REO sellers simply refuse to make fixes, 9 times out of 10.

Prevention is the best medicine for curing this transaction ailment. If you are buying a short sale or REO property, be aware that when the selling bank says as-is, it really means as-is. Ask your mortgage broker and agent to brief you on what sort of shape your lender will require your home to be in, at minimum, and keep that standard in mind during your house hunt. Your agent can help manage your expectations about which properties will and won't likely pass muster.

3. Loan approval takes too long. Every buyer knows they must get preapproved for a mortgage before they start house hunting, but many don't know that preapproval is just the first in a long list of steps that have to happen before the loan becomes a sure thing. In fact, it's common now for buyers to get their loan preapproval many months before they end up in contract, and lots can change in the interim - further extending the time it may take for their loan approval to come in.

It's common for contracts to include a standard loan contingency period of 17 days, give or take a few. But the appraisal might take longer than that to come in, or the underwriter might have lots of questions and seemingly random nitpicks about the appraisal, or about you: they want to see your driver's license, then your marriage license, then your divorce decree, and after that, a letter from your employer agreeing that you'll be keeping your job even though you're moving an hour away. It never seems like they ask for everything at once, thus it can take longer than 17 days to obtain all the requested items, turn them in and get the underwriter to sign off on them.

Until you get that green light, it's foolhardy to remove your loan contingency, as that step renders your earnest money deposit non-refundable, under most contracts. Many a buyer is forced to either secure an extension from the seller or to let the transaction die, rather than forfeiting their deposit funds. And again, some sellers understand and will play ball, but bank sellers can be particularly resistant to loan contingency extensions, especially if there are backup offers on the table.

Best practice for buyers to minimize the chances of an overtime loan approval process killing the deal? Be ready: be ready for lots of bizarre documentation requests, be ready to provide things you've already been asked for, and be ready to do so quick-like - without pushing back. The faster you can turn around the things the underwriter wants, the better.

Also, it can be very helpful to work with a mortgage broker and agent that have worked together before and have close communications, so that your agent can stay abreast of any and all loan process glitches and keep the listing agent apprised of the legitimate reasons you may need an extension throughout the contingency period, rather than assuring them everything's speeding along then having to ask for a last-minute extension.

(source)

Understanding Personality Types at Work Using MBTI

Anyone who has any work experience knows the frustration that comes along with working with different people. Often, we cannot understand why they do the things they do or act the way they do. However, there is a method of understanding people's personalities that can explain some of their tendencies and help create a more harmonious work environment. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is an accurate, easy to understand tool to determine personality types.

According to Introduction to Type, Isabelle Myers and her mother Katharine Cook Briggs studied the ideas of psychiatrist Carl G. Jung and applied those ideas in order to better understand the people around them. Developed in the 1940s, the MBTI has been used by numerous companies and organizations around the world to better understand their employees and develop training and career planning. This method looks at four factors and, using all possible combinations of these factors, places everyone in one of 16 personality types. The factors that are examined are energy, information intake, decision making and how we deal with the outside world.

Extrovert vs. Introvert (Energy)

Often we mistakenly think that being an extrovert simply means being loud while being an introvert means being shy and quiet. Yet there is more to it than that. Extroverts tend to process information externally. They will be the ones to blurt out the first thing that comes to mind in a meeting, and if no one else is around they can be found talking out loud to themselves. They draw their energy from other people, and as a result tend to visit fairly often, especially when they need to bounce ideas off of someone. Extroverts usually don't mind speaking at the spur of the moment.

Introverts, on the other hand, process information internally. These are the folks that will sit quietly in a meeting, perhaps jotting down notes, and will have questions or suggestions afterwards. They tend to think things over before speaking. Introverts are not unable to speak publicly; instead they simply need time to prepare. If an Introvert has an office door, you can expect it to be closed. Their energy tends to be drained by other people, so time alone is their chance to recharge.

Sensing vs. Intuitive (Processing Information)

Not everyone processes information the same way. When it comes to Sensors, a "just the facts" approach is best. Sensors are data-driven; they take in info through what they see, hear and read. They tend to be very by-the-book and have an eye for detail. Don't expect Sensors to stray from standard operating procedures. Their motto is "If it ain't broke, don't fix it!" Sensors are often seen as very grounded people, as their focus is on present realities.

Their somewhat flightier counterparts, Intuitives, are focused more on future possibilities. As such, they tend to question why things are done a certain way and seek out easier/better ways to do them. Intuitives like to see the big picture, but details can bore them. They are idea-driven, so instead of giving them facts and figures like you would a Sensor, explain how the information can be used to improve, increase, or enhance.

Thinking vs. Feeling (Decision Making)

Don't let the names fool you. Thinkers do have feelings and Feelers can and do think! But when it comes to making decisions, everyone falls to one side or the other. Thinkers are logical and analytical. They will remove themselves from the situation to weigh the pros and cons. These objective decision makers look for a standard to apply in all similar situations. They believe that fairness means everyone is treated equally.

Feelers, on the other hand, are more empathetic. When making decisions, they do so with others in mind and are guided by their personal values. For Feelers, the goal is peace and harmony. Their decision making is objective, and their idea of fairness is that everyone is treated as an individual.

Judging vs. Perceiving (Dealing with the Outside World)

Out of all the factors, this is the one that causes the most friction in the workplace. On one side, you have Judgers. These people are very planned, orderly, and organized. They are methodical and systematic with their work, and make short-term and long-term plans. If a meeting is called for 9:00, expect them to be there at 8:55 at the latest unless something disastrous happens. Judgers are extremely time-sensitive.

It's no wonder that they would clash with Perceivers. It had to be a Perceiver that came up with the concept of "9-ish," because time is not concrete to them. Perceivers are flexible and spontaneous; they usually find routine to be boring and monotonous. They take a more casual approach to work and life than Sensors do. They welcome change and like to leave things open-ended, even up to the last minute. Not surprisingly, Perceivers are often prone to procrastination.

It is important to note that there are varying degrees of each of these traits. People with the same personality type may exhibit some characteristics more than others based on how strong their preference is towards that trait. It should also be noted that just because a person's preference is toward a certain characteristic, it doesn't mean that their behavior cannot be modified to fit a certain role. On the contrary, many people learn to adjust to fit a job, but there must be some outlet in their personal life that allows them to be their true self.

Hopefully, you will be able to better understand yourself and your coworkers (as well as your loved one) through the MBTI, and use it to create a peaceful, productive work environment.

Sources

Myers, Isabel Briggs. Introduction to Type. Mountain View, CA. CPP, Inc., 1998.

Originally posted at Suite101: Understanding Personality Types at Work Using MBTI | Suite101.com

Using What You've Got

*I originally posted this at Skirt.com, where I am now writing as a Skirtsetter! Give the site a visit if you haven't already.

We've all heard the phrase "Use what you've got until you get what you want." It is sound advice, and is applied to many areas of life. But how far should that go? According to a new book, that includes using your feminine wiles to get ahead at work. Catherine Hakim, who is a research fellow at the London School of Economics, has written a book titled Erotic Capital: the Power of Attraction in the Boardroom and Bedroom. In this book, she says six qualities (beauty, sex appeal, social grace, liveliness, social presentation, and sexual competence) combine to create erotic capital. However, she insists that it does not involve sleeping your way to the top.

From The Daily Beast:
Hakim defines erotic capital as more than just sex: a combination of beauty, style, social skills, and charm that can be learned (or, shall we say, bought). If that means spending a fortune on brand-name clothes, so be it—because erotic capital is as important in today’s workplace, she says, as intelligence or skill. Dieting and exercise? That should be a given, because nobody wants to hire the overweight. Tanning, hair dye—even cosmetic surgery. Those are all necessary evils if you’re really driven to make it to the top, says Hakim. (Perfume and high heels also have been known to do the trick.)

“Anyone, even quite an ugly person, can be attractive if they just have the right kind of hairstyle, clothes, and present themselves to the best effect,” Hakim tells The Daily Beast. “This isn’t a frivolous spending of money. It has real benefits.”  As a famous cosmetics creator once put it: “There are no ugly women, only lazy ones.”

Not having read the book, I can't give a full and effective critique of this line of thinking. However, I do have some concerns that I hope the book addresses. The main thing that stood out to me was that it seems to assume that a straight male is the one who determines how far a woman goes in a company. Will she address other possibilities, or is her ideology based solely on heteronormativity and correlating gender roles?

I would also like to read the author's discussion on how this erotic capital comes into play when dealing with sexual harassment. Yes, we all know that harassment and assaults occur even when there is no provocation. But we do not live in an ideal world; the victim's behavior, dress, attitude, etc. all comes under scrutiny when there are claims of sexual harassment. Could this erotic capital be an additional problem for those facing this issue?

To a lesser extent, I'm curious as to whether Ms. Hakim foresees any potential rifts between those who go through the more traditional channels of advancement and those using erotic capital. Surely they would not see each other the same, nor would they be viewed the same by others in the company. What could that mean for those who follow her suggestion, and how can they avoid or overcome that?

Just off of general principle I can't say that I agree with this idea. Yes, of course you should look your best, exude confidence, etc. but shouldn't that be done for yourself? I'll let my work and attitude speak for me on the job, and save the exotic capital for getting out of speeding tickets.

Ladies do any of you use your "erotic capital" at work or do you know someone who does? How has it affected them career-wise and emotionally? If you don't, do you think this is something you would try? Speak out!

10 Worst First-Time Home Buyer Mistakes

Amy Fontinelle at Investopedia.com wrote a great article that highlights some of the biggest and "most costly mistakes that could put a hold on that sold sign." Here, I'll list the ten mistakes she gives and note my thoughts on them.

1. Not Knowing What You Can Afford
You should already know your budget well enough to know what you can afford, regardless of what a mortgage company tells you. While they are looking at your income and expenses, you know about your daily coffee runs (those can get expensive!) or your shoe habit. Not being firm about a price range is a recipe for house hunting heartbreak.


2. Skipping Mortgage Qualification
This is an important step that a lot of people miss! Although technically you can wait to get mortgage approval until after you place an offer, why would you? That is not the time you want any surprises. Find out up front how much your lender is willing to give you, and go from there. That way, you aren't wasting your time (not to mention your agent and the seller's time).


3. Failing to Consider Additional Expenses
There is more to owning a house than just paying the mortgage. You need to consider property taxes, maintenance expenses, possibly HOA (home owners association) fees, insurance... Don't jump at a house without taking these things into consideration.


4. Being Too Picky
I admit, as a first time home buyer myself, this is a difficult thing for me. I've seen so much that I like that it's hard to settle for less! However, you have to realize that most of the time you will have to compromise. Make a list of the things you absolutely must have (for me, I must have a 2/2) and the things you'd like to have but could live without (I love having natural light in the bathroom, but I don't necessarily need it). You may be surprised how many homes you find that fit your criteria once you identify the needs vs.  wants.


5. Lacking Vision
Some things are not worth losing a home over. Some people would walk away from what could be a perfect home because the yard is not in shape, or because they hate the wallpaper. Don't let little things deter you! Cosmetic issues can always be corrected, even if you can't do a complete renovation on move in day.


6. Being Swept Away
Again, I'm guilty. I am a huge fan of granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances. However, I have to stop and ask myself whether those upgrades are worth the additional money. For example, I looked at two condos in the same neighborhood with the same layout. One had the upgrades that I wanted and I immediately fell in love. You know what I wasn't in love with? The fact that it was almost $20,000 more than the other condo. This goes back to #5. All it would take to bring the plain-Jane condo up is a little vision and a little money--which could certainly be less than $20,000.


7. Compromising on the Important Things
You know those needs that you listed in #4? They are needs for a reason! If you know you want a certain location to be in a good school district for your kids or need a yard so that your dog can run around, then make those a priority and stick with it. You can compromise on little things, but don't make a decision you will regret later simply because it's cheaper or you feel like you must make a move right now.


8. Neglecting to Inspect
It always surprises me when buyers decline to get a home inspection. When it comes to houses, everything is not always as it seems. You need to be sure that there are no major issues with the wiring, plumbing, gas main, structure, etc. The fee you pay for an inspection could be hundreds (or thousands) less than what you would have to shell out for repairs and it gives you a chance to avoid potential disaster.


9. Not Choosing to Hire an Agent or Using the Seller's Agent
The seller's agent is under a fiduciary responsibility to the seller. That means that they are obligated to work in the seller's best interest. Although agents are responsible for treating both parties fairly (and working in both parties' best interest once they become a dual agent) a buyer's best bet is to have an agent that is working strictly for them. This makes negotiations easier (as the agent isn't conflicted) and allows a buyer to have an agent guiding them during their home search.


10. Not Thinking About the Future
I completely agree with the author's suggested questions to ask yourself about your potential new neighborhood:

• What kind of development plans are in the works for your neighborhood in the future?


• Is your street likely to become a major street or a popular rush-hour shortcut?


• Will a highway be built in your backyard in five years?


• What are the zoning laws in your area?


• If there is a lot of undeveloped land? What is likely to get built there?


• Have home values in the neighborhood been declining?

The Benefits of Joining Professional Societies

Whether you are still in college, recently graduated & looking for employment, or have already embarked on your career, you can benefit from joining a professional society. Professional societies are usually non-profit organizations seeking to further a particular profession, the interests of individuals engaged in that profession, and/or the public interest.

To some, membership in these organizations may seem unnecessary. After all, it is an additional expense (although usually the expense is minimal); plus, who has time to attend meetings and conferences? You're busy enough already, right?

Wrong.

If you are looking to advance in your chosen career, professional societies are a great way to achieve that goal. Here are five major benefits of joining professional societies:

1. Educational Opportunities
Whether you want to learn a new skill to make yourself more marketable or just want to update your knowledge about your field, many associations offer these opportunities through seminars, annual conferences, and webinars. There is typically a wide range of topics that are covered, so you have the option to pick and choose the training classes that are right for you.

2. Exclusive Publications
Part of membership for the majority of professional associations is access to their exclusive publications at little or no cost. This may be a printed journal, magazine, exclusive content found only in a members-only section of a website or emailed newsletters. These publications include valuable, up-to-date info on your specific interests that may not be as readily available to the general public.

3. Leadership Possibilities
Whether the association you join is a national, state or local group, there is a need for leadership. Taking a leadership role in an organization--whether it be board member, president, secretary, etc.--allows you to sharpen skills that may be used both in your career and possibly your personal life.

[caption id="attachment_1441" align="alignleft" width="226" caption="According to Harvey Coleman, author of Empowering Yourself, success comes in the form of PIE. Are you surprised by the percentages assigned to each attribute? This should let you know how important and powerful networking truly is!"][/caption]

4. Networking
So now that you've gotten the great education, kept up to date with the goings-on in your field and stepped into a leadership role, what's your next step? Networking! Get your name and face out there to let others know what you're doing and what you're capable of. Professional associations are a great way to do this. They give you a chance to connect with possible mentors, people with connections to get you to the company/position you really want, and/or folks to patronize your side hustle.

5. Enhanced Résumé
Involvement in professional organizations looks great to potential employers. It shows interest in and dedication to your chosen field, and it implies that you are knowledgeable about what is going on with your industry (due to those educational opportunities and handy publications that you presumably took advantage of). If you're up against another candidate with comparable qualifications, this could be the little push you need to sway a hiring manager.

If you're interested in joining a professional association but aren't sure where to start, there are several resources online to help you out. Here are just a few of them:

Weddles Association List
Wikipedia list of International Professional Associations
eBlack Studies list of Academic and Professional Organizations

 

When It's Time to Move On (or at least take a break)

When I was younger I had a bad habit of job hopping. Usually around the six-month mark I'd had enough and could just drop everything and leave since I didn't have any financial responsibility. Fast forward to today, and I'm still sitting at my 8-to-5 after more than three years. Not because it's my dream job, but because I have obligations that require real money. Yay, I've grown up.

But then there is the issue of my career. Real estate, that I loved so much.

Notice that it's in past tense?

Yeah.

I've been doing real estate for a little over a year and at first it  was such a fun challenge! Now... Not so much. There are several things that have me thinking I should step back from it for just a little while.

That feeling of dread
Whenever my broker's number pops up on my phone I get to thinking "What now? I don't even wanna know..." Usually it's not anything bad, and I already know this. But I just don't even want real estate to cross my path some days, which is a far cry from just a few months ago when that was all I wanted to do.

Avoidance/Procrastination
My cousin gave me one of his friends' info saying that he had "loads of money" and wanted to buy another house. One of my dad's coworkers contacted me about selling his house and helping them find another one. I've gotten a few emails from potential clients... But I haven't gotten back with either of them. It's a little bit out of fear (my first couple of dealings with clients were not the smoothest), a little out of frustration. I just don't want to do it, and since it's not a must... Well, let's just say if they are still there when/if I'm ready to work again, wonderful. If not, oh well.

Negative effect on my wallet
Real estate is one of those fields where you really should already be sitting on a nice little chunk of change before you get started. (I wish someone had told me that before I got into it!) There are so many fees and dues, plus advertising costs, gas for shuttling buyers to houses... It adds up quickly. And in a slow market like the one we are experiencing, it can leave you in the hole. If I'm shelling out $2500+ a year but only bringing in a little over $1500 in what may be my only sale, what is the point? Last year I was in the hole by waaaay more than I could actually afford. This year, I don't know if it's worth it.

All of this--coupled with the fact that I don't really know what direction I want to go with the real estate and knowing that if the writing takes off I'll leave real estate behind for good--makes me realize that maybe I need to step back, reevaluate the situation and then decide what to do once I have a clear head.

When do you know that it's time to step away from a job? Have you stayed in a position that you'd come to loathe simply because of your financial obligations? Or have you been able to break free into a career that you love?

The Creative Soul in the Corporate World

If I had my way right now, I'd be on somebody's beach in a house with the expansive windows open to the ocean, letting the sights and sounds inspire my painting. Or trekking my way through some foreign country, snapping pictures of the landscape and the locals along the way. Or in a comfy, cozy coffee shop laboring over the storyline of my novel. And those would be my work days.

I'd love for all aspects of my life to reflect the free, creative energy that I feel inside. Instead, I'm downtown in a high-rise office working a government job, preparing for the new fiscal year. Although my new position at work gives me a tiny little bit of creative freedom, this is certainly not the career I would prefer.



So what is a creative soul to do when life and responsibilities have placed us, at least for the moment, in the corporate environment?

There are a few tricks and tips that I've picked up along the way to make a less than desirable situation one that I can tolerate with a smile and (possibly) grow to enjoy.

1. Look for ways and opportunities to exercise your creativity in your current role.
The majority of my responsibilities in my new role are rather mundane. A lot of policies &

procedures, repetition, and dealing with other people's money. But there is a little glimmer of hope: the prospect to design a training class however I want to do it. Although it's not the full-fledged artistic life I want, it is a small way to merge my current reality with what I hope to be my future. There is a way to

2. Have something in your office/space that inspires you or keeps you mindful of whatever it is you love to do.

For me, that would be my notebooks. Of course I have the internet and my phone where I could jot down notes, but the pen and paper really do it for me when I'm trying to create. Having one of my pretty, fancy notebooks in sight helps me at times when I'm in a little funk. It keeps me mindful of the fact that I have a bigger purpose and destiny than sitting at the desk I'm at now. Although it might not be as easy for a musician or artist to keep their tools of the trade close by at work (if you have a job that let's you bring an easel or instrument to work, let me know!), it may still help to have something like a small picture you've painted or a copy of a demo cd, something like that. And speaking of my little notebook...

3. Take time to pause when inspiration hits you.
As I've stated in previous posts, my inspiration hits at the most inopportune times. Sometimes, it's right in the middle of a billing report. But I've learned to stop whenever I have that a-ha moment so I won't lose it. Acknowledging that moment is a breather, of sorts; a tiny escape from my routine. Then once my moment is over, I'm even more enthused to take care of what needs to be done at work so that I can nurture that creative spark into a full-blown fire. (But maybe that's just me?)

4. Use the job as a source of inspiration.
Maybe you have a wonderful view out of your window that would make an awesome painting. Or perhaps your building features unique architecture and you're the ideal person to photograph it. You may possibly have a cast of characters working with you that would make great fodder for a short story or comedy bit. Whatever it is, don't allow your job to just be a job. Look beyond that to see what could be.

5. Remind yourself that this does not have to be the end all, be all.
Sometimes, the best thing you can do for yourself is to stay mindful of the fact that you have not reached the end of the road just yet. As long as you're still breathing you have the opportunity to go beyond the current situation and do what you've always wanted to do. And if that is the case, why let yourself become depressed or frustrated over this temporary situation?

So ladies and gents, have you found yourself in a situation where you were working a "regular" job but had dreams and goals that didn't fit the "norm"? Or are you in that situation now? How did/do you cope with it?

 

On being a "corporate creative":  Ideavist: Corporate Creatives

What one writer discovered after leaving her job: Day Job Believer

If your supervisor is open-minded and always looking for improving his or her managerial style, you may want to share this link with them: How to Manage Creative People

 

Must-Have Apps for Professionals on the Go

I posted this on my real estate blog today, but I figured it would be good info to share here as well. Enjoy!

When I got my iPhone, I knew that it would probably come in handy every now and then when doing business. I had no idea that it would be such an integral part of my day-to-day operations! This is the case mainly because of the apps that are available. Of course, most people know about the dedicated real estate apps from Realtor.com, Zillow, and Trulia. And there are the productivity apps that are included, so I won’t be discussing those. Instead I’m discussing the amazing apps I’ve found that should make working on the go a breeze. And here’s the best thing: most are free!

Mobimileage
By far, this is the best mileage tracker app that I’ve found. It automatically tracks your mileage; just press start and start driving! Once you’ve reached your destination, you stop the meter. It logs the date and your miles, and it will prompt you to save notes for your trip. Whether you’re in real estate, selling Mary Kay door-to-door, an independent mover charging by the mile… whatever! If you have to log your miles for work, you need this app.

CalcMoolator
This is a great little tool for real estate agents, because you can quickly and easily come up with a mortgage payment estimate using loan amount, interest rate, taxes and PMI. This is really helpful when showing houses to clients because then they aren’t just looking at the sales price but a realistic look at how much they will be paying every month. But if you’re not an agent, you still need this app! It has so many calculators it’s ridiculous. Auto Lease vs. Buy, Pay off Credit Card Debt, Break Even Analysis for business, college savings, retirement… I could not think of a financial situation that the developers for CalcMoolator haven’t included.

CardMunch
Do you have a pile of business cards just lying around? I do. Or at least, I did. In real estate, everyone is giving you a card, and admittedly I usually did nothing with it. I just never seemed to have time to sit down and enter all of that info! So I decided to look into card readers and found CardMunch. I love it because it is as easy as snapping a picture! The difference with CardMunch is that, unlike other apps that I found, the picture is sent to a human being to transcribe the info. Then it is sent back to you and you have the option of saving the info (along with a picture of the card) directly to your phone contacts, or just within the CardMunch directory on your phone. Piece of cake! The app is free, and you get about 15 free credits; after that, you must purchase credits.

Jot List
Are you a lister? I am! I lists for just about everything. As a new agent, I list the documents I’ll need when going for a listing presentation, house showing, open house, you name it! And this little app has freed me from all those sticky notes! And of course you can use Jot List for anything, business or personal. Yes, I could theoretically use the Notes app that comes with the iPhone, but the ability to have multiple lists in one app makes this invaluable.

Print Magic
Yes, I know Apple granted printing to iPhones/iPods/iPads, but if you’re like me, you don’t own one of the handful of printers that are compatible with this feature. Fortunately, Print Magic works with any printer that is WiFi enabled. This isn’t one of those apps that I use a lot, but it definitely comes in handy. For $2.99, it’s not bad. The only drawback is that the app requires you to pay for each PDF document you print.

EasySign
One thing I dislike about real estate is how much paper gets wasted! I print off a contract, have my clients sign and then fax or email it. Then I print out the faxed or emailed counter, have it signed, fax/email it back… It goes on and on. And there are the various disclosures, agreements, addenda. You could run up a small fortune in a year on paper and ink alone! That is why I am so glad I discovered EasySign. You simply download the document that needs a signature, sign on the phone/iPad like you would on a credit card terminal, resize as needed, and save or email! No printing, no scanning. Easy breezy. Although the app is free, you do have to buy signature credits, but trust me, this is a deal compared to the alternative.

RingCentral (or any other e-fax service)
Since I’m not in the office regularly, it doesn’t really make sense for me to have an actual fax machine that I’d have to go check every day. I’ve got things to do, places to go, people to see! So why not have my faxes come to me instead of me going to them? The advent of e-fax makes this possible. Whenever someone sends a fax it arrives as an email attachment. How great is that? There are several e-fax services services, so you have to decide which is right for you. RingCentral had a plan that was good for me and the amount of pages I generally send/receive, and they have an iPhone app which makes it even more convenient. That’s a win in my book.

ZipForm Mobile
This one is strictly for real estate agents (but there is probably some equivalent for your industry if you happen to be in another field). ZipForm is software that has the real estate forms for your state (as provided by the local association of Realtors) pre-loaded. You can simply type in the information, add all necessary forms to the transaction, and save them for your various clients. Now that the mobile version is available, you can handle your transactions on the go! So when a buyer finds the one and wants to put an offer in right then and there, they can! Partner this with EasySign and you can handle your whole transaction paperlessly! That’s 21st century business for you! This app will cost you $9.95/year, but if you are truly mobile it is a worthwhile transaction.

I’d love to know what apps you use in business. And if you use Android, I’d like to know if there are Android versions of or alternatives to the apps listed here. That would be a big help in determining whether to get an iPad or a Droid-based tablet!

*Note: I am not affiliated with the developers of these apps in any way. I am not receiving any compensation for featuring them, nor am I guaranteeing their usefulness to you. If you have questions or comments, feel free to email me.*

YPW: What Is Your Online Reputation?

How fitting that this would fall on 4/20, as I see many on my Twitter timeline publicly discussing their drug use. Some even have their real full name in the profile. O_o

More and more, employers are checking out their employees and potential employees via the web. According to an article posted yesterday on Time.com, "A 2010 study by Microsoft and Cross-Tab, a market-research agency, found that 78% of surveyed U.S. companies examined the search-engine results of prospective hires. The study also found that 86% of employers reported that a positive online reputation factors into their hiring decision." They want to see "the real you," not just your representative from the interview. What will they find when they Google you?

Take a moment and do a search for your name. Go ahead, I'll wait. *plays hold muzak*

source

So what did you find? When I search my full name, I get my results related to my business: the real estate website & blog, a professional Twitter handle, and my LinkedIn account. There are also a ton of results that have absolutely nothing to do with me. Guess my name is more common than I thought, which can be a mixed blessing.

The Internet makes it easy to give TMI, sometimes without even realizing it. If you find some not-so-great results for yourself, you may be able to do damage control. Facebook is the biggie here. You notice I didn't list Facebook above. That's because I am militant about my security settings; I check, check and check again. So no, you won't find that by doing a public search. However, that is not necessarily foolproof, so you still need to safeguard your account. Un-tag pictures that may cast a negative light (drug use, extreme drunkenness, displaying weapons), monitor what goes on your wall (keep profanity to a minimum and discourage profanity and hate speech from others), and refrain from the negative comments about your boss, coworkers, customers, etc. I know the last one is tempting! But trust me, managers tend to look down on those kind of things. The same is true for Twitter, Myspace if you haven't stepped out of 2005, and whatever other social networks you may be on. (If you just must have an online venue to vent, I suggest a Twitter or Tumblr account under an alias with a different email address than what's listed on your resume. Can't be too careful!)

If you don't have much info coming up, or if you want to add more positive results, there are several things you can do. Create a LinkedIn account and be sure to update it at least twice a week. (For the uninitiated, LinkedIn is sort of like Facebook but specifically for the purpose of networking with other professionals). Do the same for Twitter. If you don't want to go through the hassle of creating two Twitter accounts, don't! You can make yours what I call a blended account where you discuss business and share select personal information (basically, remember yesterday's rule of not over-sharing and apply it here). You may also want to create a blog to get your name out there. Do one that is strictly professional, or follow the same format you would for the blended Twitter account. It may take a little time to get listed higher up in the rankings, but with regular activity it will happen. (Let me pause here to say that I am ignorant when it comes to Search Engine Optimization. I'm learning, but I can't tell you a thing about it right now, so do like me and do some research on how SEO can be helpful to you.)

Lastly, if you need help burying negative info that you have no control over, you need to bring out the big guns. The professionals. Companies like Reputation.com and Integrity Defenders work to bury negative info (because it's almost impossible to erase stuff from the 'net) under a ton of positive info. These people know all about SEO, search algorithms, all that good stuff. Of course, it will cost you and it can be pretty pricey, so this is not a quick fix because you don't want to change your Facebook privacy settings. This is some in-depth damage control.

So fellow young professionals, how well do you manage your online reputation? Now that you are in "the real world" have you changed your perception of social media and how it's used? Speak on it!

YPW: Make Yourself Marketable

There is an uncomfortable truth that young professionals--and even the not-so-young--have to come to grips with. The days of remaining loyal to one company for 30-something years and retiring in comfort off of your pension plan are long gone. These days, one must often move out to move up, and simply being "good enough" is not enough to get you where you want to be. You have to make yourself marketable, make hiring managers want you on their team because they see you as an asset. The most effective way to do this is through education and training.

You may be thinking, "No no no, I'm not going back to school! I've got all the degrees I need/want for this job." Understandable! I am right there with you (at least, for the time being). Although having x number of degrees is pretty impressive, that's not the only type of education out there for you. Don't think that you can only gain knowledge by sitting in a professor's classroom for a couple semesters. There are other avenues through which you can learn and make yourself more valuable to your current company, future companies who may be looking to hire you, and yourself should you decide to branch out on your own.

Of course, one of the biggest, easiest ways is by looking for information online. If you're like me, you've got access to (and take advantage of) the Internet 24/7. Why not take a break from Twitter to check out an article written by some of the leaders in your industry. Not sure who that might be? Google is your friend! Search for "trends in [industry name]" or "[your industry] industry leaders." The names that come up first and most often are usually the ones you want to go with. However, you must exercise some caution and common sense; there are scams almost everywhere. Beware of links that try to sell you something or that go to shady looking sites. There is also a wealth of information to be found in publications that relate to the type of business you do, such as industry journals and business books. Sure it may seem archaic, but crack open a book sometime to learn more about your business. You'd be amazed at the "a-ha" moments you have once you understand the ins and outs of what you do.

Reading and doing your research is excellent, but that's not the only type of education you need. If you are fortunate enough to work at a company that provides or pays for training, attend as often as possible. This is especially important when the training involves people from other agencies or companies, because they offer benefits beyond the obvious. For example, I am taking part in an Administrative Support Certification Program (ASCP). Of course I don't plan on working in an administrative assistant position for the rest of my career, so why am I taking it? Well, the obvious reason is because it will allow me to learn skills to enhance my current job and make me eligible for a little raise. However, the big bonus here is networking. Some of the instructors work or have worked in fields that interest me: grant writing & management, publishing, consulting, music! And some of the other participants are working in agencies that I would like to work for. I've even connected with other real estate agents and gotten leads from them. Networking with others gives you a chance to pick their brains for ideas that you may be able to implement, leads for job opportunities, and new lunch spots to try.

I would also advise not limiting yourself to the training your job provides. After all, what if your company can't/doesn't provide any at all? You have to take the initiative and find the training that will be beneficial to you. And think outside of the box! Are you in a position or one day hope to be in a position that requires making presentations? Become a part of your local Toastmasters Club. While it's not a traditional "training" you get the experience of making presentations, and mistakes, without having it affect your career. Find conferences and other training opportunities that interest you, then find a way to incorporate them into your work. If you're passionate about it, it will show!

Finally, find professional organizations related to what you do. Some of them may be free, or you can get your employer to offset the cost for you. If you are in the industry that you want to work in long term (or at least one you can see yourself in for a couple years) it would most likely be worth the annual fee. The benefits of being a part of a professional organization are basically the same as the other benefits we've discussed: networking (on a large scale this time) and more training opportunities. Even if you cannot find a professional org that specifically relates to your field, you should try a generic professional group, such as NBMBAA or Young Professional Alliance if there is one in your area.

To the young professionals reading this post, what have you done to make yourself marketable?

Young Professionals Week (YPW): Presenting Yourself Professionally

Although I am an artiste at heart, I am also very business oriented. One of my greatest goals in life is to help others, minority girls in particular, to understand and excel at business. True, not everyone will be an entrepreneur or even work in an industry that involves your typical "business." However, the majority of us will have to work for and with someone else, and in doing so we must learn how to present ourselves professionally. It is critical to our success--and our paycheck!

So how exactly do you present yourself professionally? There are a couple of simple things you can do to show the more refined, business-minded side of yourself, regardless of the nature of your business.

source

When it comes to jewelry and makeup, less is more.
I was recently in a training where an older woman had multiple rings on every. single. finger. Add that to the earrings, necklaces (yes, multiple) and bracelet she had on... When she spoke, where do you think all of the attention went? To the mounds of jewelry, not to what she was saying!  Accessorizing and using makeup to enhance your appearance is great. It projects the image that you care about your job and how the company is presented. However, too much of a good thing really isn't a good thing at all. Practice moderation when it comes to the makeup and jewelry.


Be 110% sure that your clothing is work-appropriate.
Whether you are working with kids, working with power brokers or working with power tools, there is appropriate attire for your job.Since I'm still in the confines of a traditional office job (for now) I focus on that area. Of course, your employer will already have a dress code--most likely written in the policy, but some places it is simply implied. If you're not sure, remember: if you wear it to the club, it's a no. That means the low-cut, super-short, and tight tight outfits are a no-go. After all, you're there to handle business, not sleep your way to the top, right? Also, if you wear it to bed, do NOT bring that to the office! Yes, I have seen some people in places of business dressed as if they were lounging around the house. I can't imagine they were there long. Please leave the sweats, PJ bottoms and Pajama Jeans at home... even if they are comfy. And guys, you aren't off the hook either! The loud Steve Harvey suits with the jacket to your knees? Sir, just say no. I would advise you to say no to buying them at all, but if you must buy them, relegate their wear to Easter service and the Playa's Ball.

Don't over share.
Sure, you're an adult and expected to enjoy adult activities. But do you really think it's appropriate to share how drunk you got over the weekend? Or how good your partners *ahem* skills are? Or how you're gonna whoop so-and-so's behind if they cross you again? Not in the office, it's not. If you've got a coworker that happens to be a good friend, feel free to talk about all of that after hours, preferably at happy hour. Better yet, leave the sordid details of your life outside of work to convos with pals with different employers. Be cordial, of course, but know when and where to draw the line.

Check and double-check your work.
The most important part of your professional presentation is how effectively and efficiently you do your work. No matter how polished you appear physically, if your work appears sloppy, you appear unprofessional. If you are sending out any written document, you need to double check for clarity as well as spelling and grammar. Make certain that presentations meet any guidelines that have been given (such as an allotted time) and that your message is clear and concise. Don't simply rely on spell check to catch errors. If at all possible, have someone else proofread your work

Of course these aren't the last word in professionalism, so what do you have to say? What advice would you give other young professionals? What, in your opinion, is a definite way to portray yourself as unprofessional?

Buyers, are you turning SELLERS off?

Often when people think about the home buying/selling process, it is somehow thought that only the buyers need to be "sold" to make a deal happen. While it is definitely true that the buyers must be impressed with the property to get the ball rolling on the sale, it is important that buyers do not turn off sellers. Even in today's market, sellers don't have to--and often won't--put up with just anything. Here are five common things that buyers do that could potentially kill a transaction, courtesy of Trulia's Tara-Nicholle Nelson. (source)

1. Trash-talking. Trash-talkers are the home buyers who think they’re going to negotiate the list price down by slamming the house, telling the sellers how little it is really worth, how the house across the street sold for nothing, why the school on the corner should make them desperate to give the place away, etc. This strategy never works; in fact, when you attack a seller and their home, you only cause them to be defensive, and think up all the reasons that (a) their home is not what you say it is, and (b) they shouldn’t sell their home to you!

Sometimes this happens with buyers who actually love a house and just walk around it fantasizing about all the ways they would customize it to their tastes while a seller is there.  Sellers: avoid being at home while your home is being shown.  Buyers: save your commentary for your agent; if you do encounter the seller in person keep your conversation respectful and avoid critiquing the house or the list price.

2. Being unqualified for mortgage financing. When a seller signs a buyer’s offer, most often the seller agrees to effectively pull the home off the market, forgoing other buyers who might be interested.  As such, the only thing worse than getting no offers on your home is getting an offer, getting into contract, then having the whole thing fall apart when the buyer’s loan falls through – especially if that could have been predicted or avoided up front.

Sellers: Work with your agent to vet your home’s buyers’ qualifications, including their loan approval, down payment and earnest money deposit – before you sign a contract.  It’s not overkill for your agent to call the buyers’ mortgage pro before you sign the contract and get a level of comfort for how robust their qualifications are.  Buyers: Get pre-approved.  Seriously.  And make sure that you don’t buy a car, quit your job, deposit lottery winnings or do any other financial twitchery between the time you get loan approval and the time you close escrow on your home.

3. Making unjustified lowball offers. No one likes to feel like they are being taken advantage of.  And sellers generally know the ballpark amount that their home is worth, as well as what they need to sell it for to get their mortgage paid off.  Yes – the price you pay for a home should be driven by its fair market value, rather than the seller’s financial needs, and deals are more available in a market like the current one, in which supply so vastly outpaces demand. But just throwing uber-lowball offers out at sellers hoping one will hit the spot is not generally a successful strategy, especially if you really, really want a given property.

Sellers: Don’t get overly emotional about receiving a lowball offer; counter at the price you and your agent decide makes sense based on the total circumstances, including your motivation level, recent comps and the interest/activity level your listing is receiving. Buyers: Work through the similar, nearby homes that have recently sold (a/k/a comparables) before you make an offer to factor the home’s fair market value into your offer price – also factor in how much you want the place, too.  Don’t be amazed if you make an offer far below asking, and don’t get a response.

4. Renegotiating mid-stream. Sellers plan their finances, moves and  - to some extent – their lives around the purchase price a buyer agrees to pay for their home.  If you get into contract to buy a home, find out during inspections that costly repairs need to be made, then propose a lower sale price, repair credit or even actual repairs to the seller, that’s sensible and fair.  But if you were aware that the property needed a lot of work before you made an offer on it, then you come back asking for beaucoup bucks’ worth of credit or price reductions midstream, expect the seller to cry foul.  And holding the seller up two weeks into the transaction because you caught a case of buyer's remorse? Not cool, and not likely to foster the spirit of cooperation you may need to get your deal closed.

Sellers: avoid mid-stream price renegotiations by having a full set of inspection reports and repair bids at hand when you list your home. Buyers: try to avoid renegotiating the entire deal unless you get some major surprises at your inspections or inflating small repairs to try to justify a major price cut.

5. Misleading or setting the seller up. Remember when we talked about buyer turn-offs?  Being misled by listing photos or very fluffy property descriptions was high on the list.  The same goes for sellers.Offering way over asking with the plan to hammer the seller for a reduction when the house doesn’t appraise at the purchase price?  #LAME  Making an as-is offer planning the whole time to come back and ask for every penny ante repair called out by the inspectors?  Lame squared.

Sellers: If you get multiple offers and are tempted to take a sky-high one or one that claims to be all cash, consider requesting proof that the buyer has sufficient funds to make up the difference between what you think the home will appraise for and the actual sale price, and statements showing the cash truly exists.  Buyers: Don’t be lame. I’m not saying you have to tell the seller exactly what your top dollar is, but making offers with terms designed to intentionally mislead is really, really bad form – and can result in losing the home entirely if and when your bluff gets called.

Be a Better Buyer!

Just as there are good agents and not-so-great agents, there are good buyers and buyers that can use some improvement. Ideally, during the process of finding a home, the buyer and the buyer's agent work as a team to find the property that meets the client's needs. This may not always be an easy process, but there are ways that you can make it smoother for all involved.

1. Be honest about your finances.
You should already know your credit history and score before you begin looking for a home. If there are delinquent accounts, recent bankruptcies, etc. that could affect your credit-worthiness, it is absolutely futile to try to keep this away from your agent. It will come out when you try to get approval (or preferably pre-approval). While you don't have to go into the who, what, when & where of your financial situation, be honest and realistic with your expectations.

2. Know what you're looking for.
Shopping blind may be alright when buying shoes, but even that can lead to over-shopping... And you still may not get what you really need! Think about your needs: size, school district, general location, etc. Then think about your wants. Prioritize both lists so that you know exactly what you're looking for.

3. Don't major in the minors.
Paint can be changed. The layout of the house cannot. When you look at houses, it can be easy to get distracted. Whether you're looking at the current owners' furniture and pictures or disgusted by the horrible wallpaper, you must realize that those things are minor (and when it comes to the owners possessions, they are irrelevant unless they are including the furniture in the sale). Remember that list from #2? Keep that handy and refer to it when looking at houses.

4. Do your research.
You're not expected to know as much as your agent, of course. No one expects you to know the ins and outs of the home buying process. However, a good buyer is an informed buyer. Check out the articles on sites like Realtor.com, Trulia.com and various real estate company websites for great information. I also present my first-time buyers with a great book that explains the steps to the home buying process. Just remember: the resources are there, but they do no good if you don't take the time to actually read them!

Reshaping My Relationship with Money (or: Tori D. is broke!)

There was a crucial learning step that I missed as a child. I never really was taught about using money wisely or balancing a checkbook. I think it was taken for granted that these things were simple enough, and with me being a pretty bright child, there was no reason for me not to grasp that concept. And that thinking was correct to an extent; I can balance my checkbook... It may take a while, after hunting down receipts and stuff, I can do it. The thing is, I'm prone to not doing it. My lack of focus, coupled with personality traits such as disorganization and tendency to find tasks like this uninteresting (I'm an INFP for those of you familiar with the Meyers-Briggs personality types) means that it just does not get done. This has lead to some less than desirable consequences for my bank account.

The thing that most recently sent me into shock occurred on Tuesday. I got a call from my mom saying she figured I needed some money for lunch so she transferred some funds into my account. Blow #1: I felt like a middle school kid again, getting lunch money from mommy. I said thanks, but didn't think I actually needed it. The last time I checked my account, it said there was $30-something dollars in there. I'm good! I go to check how much she put in... I see that she put in over $100 but my account was less than $100. How could this be? It turns out, (blow #2) I was in overdraft. Blow #3: Two transactions that totaled less than $10 caused me to get hit with $70 in NSF fees. Y'all, I cried. Like literally boohooed at work. I felt like such a failure! Here I am trying to prove that I'm a responsible adult and ready to be on my own. And my mom had to come save my butt. Again.

I'm not even sure that she knew I was in that position or not. Usually when she does, she'll say something about it but this time she didn't.

That situation has made me determined to do better with my money. I'm going to have to do something drastic. I'm going to start carrying cash.

I never have cash y'all. Ever. The debit card is just sooo much easier for me. But that ease means it's way too easy to overspend, especially when you don't have to actually see the money. It's like you're not really spending it (at the time). I figure if I only carry cash (no debit OR credit cards unless I'm going to get gas) it will cause me to do several things:

1. force me into seriously thinking about what I'm purchasing and how much I spend
2. create a loose budget for the week/month
3. keep me from buying non-necessities--I have enough stuff in my tiny little space as it is
4. cause me to save more

So on payday, I'll take out a small, pre-determined amount and make it last for the month. If I run out by week two, yanno what that means? I can't buy A THING for two weeks. If I have money left over at next payday (a laughable thought, but I guess it's possible) then that amount goes towards the amount I can spend, which means less coming out of my account.
This is a modified version of something a financial planner presented to us while I was an employee at Blue Cross Blue Shield. In his version, you have a separate envelop for each thing. A cash envelop for bills, cash envelop for clothes, cash envelop for food, etc. That doesn't work for me because there's no way I'm sending cash for my credit card bills, car note, all of that. So my bills are paid at the beginning of the month, and then my account will have to sit inactive for a bit.

The only time I'll allow myself a little splurge is when I make a sale. That commission will be split between my savings, credit card payments, and a little bit to spend. By the way, having my savings come out of my check before I get it was one of the best ideas I've ever had! LOL

Have any of you had to make serious changes to your relationship with money? Did you have a good money management foundation from the start, or did you have to learn as you go? What has been your biggest challenge?