Thursday, August 12, 2010

And now... the NFL


Just happy to see that NFL football is on the Television again! I believe my wife is happy as well - but for different reasons. She sees it as a chance to get out here and there for a bit of shopping since while I'm home watching the games  - I'm also able to keep an eye on the kids. That's about as close to a win, win situation as anybody gets these days. Of course our Realtor lifestyle makes Sunday games difficult since we are usually hosting Open Houses here around Burbank and Los Angeles. Thank God for DVRs! OK, I'm off to watch the rest of the game. Have a great day folks!

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Common Myth - Working with the listing agent will give you an edge...

There is a common assumption out today with many buyers that if they use the Listing Agent of the property they desire for their representative not only will they be able to get the property easier - but they will also get a better deal. Many think if the list agent represents both the seller and buyer that he will cut his commission in order to pass savings along to the buyer as gratitude for signing with him. The first thing one needs to know is that the commission on any house is decided/ fixed in a contract long before any buyers ever enters the property so that 6% is coming off the top no matter what. The goal of every agent is to make money on the properties they represent. When one is fortunate enough to cover both ends of a transaction - all there is to do is claim the whole commission for oneself. Not many Realtors will give up half of their commission for a buyer - especially when they are in the type of market where others are waiting to purchase the property.

I'm not convinced having the list agent as a duel agent is in any buyer's best interest. When an agent agrees to list a property, his duty is to fulfill the best interest of the seller in that transaction. Sure, he would also have the same responsibility to the buyer but how adept is anyone at debating and negotiating with oneself? The best one could hope for in duel representation is a compromise somewhere in the middle. I'm pretty sure I would rather have an outside agent representing me and not conceding my interest just to push a sale through. As for having an edge on the competition, one would be hard pressed to find any seller who would take a lesser offer because his agent represents the buyer and is advising him to do such. Would you? In fact, I would be very skeptical of my agent's motivation. It's plain and simple - the best offer will be accepted no matter who is representing whom.

Overall, the person you decide to represent you in any home transaction should be someone you feel confident will represent YOUR best interests. Buyers should review their agent's performance during the process leading up to the act of submitting an offer. Are they answering/returning phone calls and emails in a prompt manner? Are they properly advising you on the homes you are viewing - pointing out upgrades or potential problems? Do they know the market and how fast the homes are selling? There are no fool proof ways of getting around the sales process but having a knowledgeable, competent agent is your best bet.

Friday, August 6, 2010

Around Burbank: Handy Market - 2514 W. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91505

"Whoa - what's that smell?" That is what is commonly heard each Saturday around 2514 W. Magnolia Blvd -known as Burbank's Handy Market. The reason is simple once you are on the spot - grilling meats! Every Saturday (year round) this little convenience market brings out their team of experts to grill up some of the areas best BBQ. One can regularly witness cars driving by - rolling down their windows in order to let the smokey aromas waft into their compartments for a  precious few seconds as they roll on by. Some slow down to extend the pleasure.

We at Team Keppel wholly endorse the establishment which has been voted Best of Burbank for just about every - if not all the years of the poll. Come down some Saturday and stand in line for a bit. One can actually feel the energy and excitement from the veterans in line waiting excitedly for their chance. We recommend the Tri-tip sandwiches which can be found inside at the deli counter (skip the outside lines) You will not be disappointed! Have a great weekend!

Thursday, August 5, 2010

Team Keppel's now listed in Blog Catalog

We are happy to announce today that fans can now find us easier now that our blog is listed on the search engine - blog catalog.

Thursday has been a slow day so far. Outside of busy work - Jill and I have just finished with the realtor caravan. There were some interesting properties - new today so contact us if you, or anyone you know is currently looking in the Burbank or surrounding communities! Have a great day!

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Exclusive Magnolia Park - Burbank, CA 91505 Listing Preview!!!!

Get a jump on the competition! For the next few weeks, Team Keppel and Bill Toth and Associates will be offering a sneak preview of our latest property coming to the market. This 2 bedroom, 1 bath probate fixer may be your way into the Burbank, CA Market! Again, one will only be able to preview this property through us or one of our office representatives so take advantage of the opportunity! Sorry - no Agents/Brokers, or their representatives. Clients may write early offers but all offers will be held for review until the property is officially on the market - August 17th. Contact us for more information. Have a great day!

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

What to do?

Jill and I are trying to plan out what we are going to do for tonight's block party on Rose Street in Burbank, CA. We're undecided on what types of items to hand out or whether we should set up a game for the kids. We're leaning towards a lollipop game where kids pull the lollipops out of a board and get a prize determined by the color of the stick but we may just go boring and hand out our promotional materials. We have a few hours to decide so  no pressure for now. have a great day folks!

Monday, August 2, 2010

Have a Night Out...

Join Jill and I for the 2010 National Night Out/Annual Rose Street Block Party - Tuesday, August 3rd from 5 to 8:30p.m. Rose Street between Magnolia and Chandler in Burbank, CA. We will be there representing Bill Toth & Associates - handing our promotional materials, mingling with the crowd and answering any Real Estate questions. Jill and I enjoy participating in these community events and invite you to join us if you are in the area!