Mary Welch-Broker, Owner

6 Tips to Sell Your Home for Top $

Mary Welch — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 21:32:00 GMT

These are the top 6 tips to get top dollar from the sale of your home.

1. Price your home aggressively, setting the right price is the single most important decision you will make. Priced too high and you might turn off every potential buyer, price too low and you loose money. Check out your competition.

2. Hire an agressive listing agent. Although Aunt Sally may have a license, it doesn't mean she would be the best person to use when marketing your home. Look on the major websites and see what agency is out there promoting their listings. Check out www.realtor.com, www.frontdoor.com and other top websites. This is typically where the bulk of the buyers are looking. That is where you want to be.

3. Stage the home and use curb apeal. This time of year, the exterior of most homes needs cleaned up. Get rid of toys, junk and debris left outside to accumulate. If it doesn't look good from the outside, you limit people willing to look.

4. Consider offering incentives such as, if you know your family room needs new carpet, maybe provide a carpet allowance with a full price offer. Be willing to negotiate repairs, etc. There are so many variables.

5. Get your home pre-inspected. A whole house inspection would be a worthy investment and just showing your prospective buyer that you have already done this and offered all this information upfront, speaks volumes.

6. Get a good agent. I know that I have already covered this in item 2, but this is VERY, VERY IMPORTANT! You need to make sure that your agent puts sufficient $ in marketing your home. A sign in the yard and an advertisement in the paper is NOT sufficient advertising. Especially when you consider people look at the online sites FIRST. Call us, we can help you!

Ranch For Sale in Harper

Mary Welch — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 21:06:00 GMT

• 1,266 sq. ft., 1 bath, 2 bdrm ranch - MLS® $65,000

Harper, Harper County - This is a nice ranch style new home offered by Interfaith Housing. This two bed, 1 bath home includes all appliances, washer/dryer, stove and refrigerator. Built in dishwasher ALL NEW!

Assistance programs available for buyers. Individual Development Account Program-Down Payment and Closing Costs Assistance-USDA Rural Development Financing.

It is possible to own for less money than you can rent.

Property information

Price Reduced on 215 N Kansas in Anthony

Mary Welch — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 23:06:00 GMT

UNDER CONTRACT-Anthony, Harper County - Announcing a price reduction on 215 N Kansas, a 1,737 sq. ft., 2 bath, 4 bdrm 2 story. Now MLS® $29,900 - Reduced!.

Property information

Our Lake House Bed & Breakfast...

Mary Welch — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 21:21:00 GMT

Announcing our new Lake House Bed and Breakfast! Located at the Anthony Lake in Anthony, Ks. You CAN get away from it all, without having to drive drive and drive. Our Lake House will provide you a get away for an evening or a week or weekend.

Our Lake House can be a sanctuary for you if you need to check out of the madness for awhile and gather your thoughts. This quiet and serene setting offers a full house, nothing like a motel room, this is a 2 bedroom home with 2 bath, kitchen,living room, dining room and when weather permits, an outdoor deck to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.

Kitchen stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and microwave oven, just like home. Breakfast can be as simple as you want it or as hearty as you wish. We provide an assortment of baked goods, yogurts, fruits and kitchen stocked with eggs and breakfast foods. No set time for breakfast, you will not be disturbed. Fix what you want, when you want or grab and go. It is up to you. You can even leave us the dirty dishes.

Please go online and check it out, we will be updating pictures soon at www.ourlakehouseonline.com. Call 620-896-2800 to schedule your visit. We also have gift certificates available.

Single Story For Sale in Harper

Mary Welch — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 02:53:00 GMT

• 1,128 sq. ft., 1 bath, 3 bdrm single story "Ranch style" - $27,900

Harper, Harper County - Bank owned home needing some tlc. Home will be sold as is. No warranties implied. Call agent to see.

Was under contract before and inspection found furnace, ac unit and water heater did not work so was removed from property. Also garage door was removed to secure the property.

Back on market, priced to sell quick.

Property information

Open House in Harper on Sunday

Mary Welch — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 15:09:00 GMT

Harper, Harper County - We invite everyone to visit our open house at 1118 Central on December 5 from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Property information

Ready to buy or sell?

Mary Welch — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 13:32:00 GMT

When a person decides that they are ready to buy or sell property, especially with selling, you have to ready yourself by making an emotional decision. First you have to determine if you can really walk away from your home. Typically what helps you do this is the fact that job or family is impelling you to make that decision.

But as a buyer, how do you need to be emotionally ready? Glad you asked. You have to go into your next home purchase like it is a business deal, because it is. Emotionally you may view having children and raising them in this new home, you can see where your Christmas tree will fit in the new place. You strategically place your furniture and maybe also plan to buy more to fill your new place. You get emotionally involved in that house, as you plan on making it your home.

But are you emotionally ready? Is this the one? Are you sure? Are you ready to commit to this house? Are you ready to work through the possible repair hassles with the seller. Are you ready to get your lender everything he needs to insure that the timeline of the contract is adhered to?

There is alot to getting ready to buy. But after you have signed that legally binding contract, you must commit to doing your part to see it through. You must be willing to sometimes negotiate, price, repairs and sometimes the sellers personal property. It takes maturity. It takes committment. Like a marriage. You don't get engaged and then go look at who else is out there. Just like you don't make a committment to purchase a house but continue to look at houses.

You go into your purchase as a mature adult, taking on the responsibility to try to get what you want, but also endeavoring to be fair and reasonable. You must realize that you are not an expert when it comes to repairs. You need to rely on qualified, licensed people to determine things like the condition of the roof, plumbing, electrical..etc. The list can go on.

You need to rely on a REALTOR with enough years of experience, to advise you on things you don't understand. It is our job to help you understand the process and work through it like adults. Things can be negotiated if everyone keeps their cool and their intentions are the same, to come to a mutually acceptable agreement.

If at any time, during the process, it gets personal, then you have gone off track and need to get back on track with the same resolve and committment to be reasonable and fair and see it to its natural conclusion....which in real estate...is closing day.

If you find the process emotionally draining, then you have let emotions run you and your decisions during this process. Get back on track.

But, also if you find you are not ready to buy because you just aren't ready for the committment it will take to maintain a home, then don't contract to buy. Keep renting. Let your landlord maintain his property for you. You may not be emotionally ready. Be honest with yourself. That is always a good place to start.

Don't wait until after you have contracted to buy a house, to decide you are in over your head.

Bungalow For Sale in Harper

Mary Welch — Sat, 23 Oct 2010 20:26:00 GMT

• 1,220 sq. ft., 2 bath, 2 bdrm bungalow "Clean & tidy inside" - $50,000 - House and 4.2 acres!

Harper, Harper County - Tidy and neat inside this 2 bedroom, 2 bath rural home that sits on 4.2 acres. Many outbuildings included that features a great barn with electric and cement floor. Fruit trees and alot of garden space. Large bathroom space, bonus room. Quiet and peaceful setting. Call to see. From Harper-East on 160 to 50th avenue, North to house.

Property information

The Country Creamery-Harper, Ks.

Mary Welch — Sun, 26 Sep 2010 22:06:00 GMT

This article is unpublished at this posting and the writer, David Slaughter II, writes for the Harper County Herald and he gave me permission to post this recent article he wrote. I have enjoyed being neighbors with the Konkels on 160 for years and enjoyed this so wanted to share it here.

Of all the businesses along Highway 160 in Harper, there resides a place where travelers and locals alike can come in, get something good to eat, and be treated like a friend. And, even if you don’t favor one of the many Kansas collegiate sports teams, like K-State or KU, it doesn’t matter. You are always invited to eat at the Country Creamery.

The Country Creamery is a family operated business with Jim and Mary Elen Konkel as owners. But, don’t let their titles as owners concern you, because they are right in the middle of the needed operations and hospitality that make this business just as successful today as when it began 23 years ago.

Ye ole History

Jim Konkel began his life in the restaurant business while living in Kingman, Kansas in his early years. At that time, he worked for his father, who owned the Hub Café. And, after Jim’s father retired from the business after fifteen years, he passed a legacy to his son and the Hub Café continued to thrive.

“When I took over”, said Jim. “I already knew the ins and outs of the business, which helped with future businesses- including the Creamer. I kept the Hub running for seventeen more years after my father left it to me.”

When Jim and his wife, Mary Ellen, moved to Harper, they had not come without existing prospects. Not only did Jim operate the Hub Café in Kingman, but they also had another business in their new home town. It was and remains known as the Country Creamery.

“We began the Creamery 23 years ago”, reflected Jim. “I remember because Mary was still pregnant with our son.”

Even with the Creamery beginning in the late 1980s, Jim and Mary Ellen didn’t move to run solely this Harper establishment until the 1990s.

The history of the Country Creamery itself is an interesting one. And, not just because of who currently owns the business. The building has been a gas station, a sandwich shop, and even a previous restaurant, known as the French Roll.

“When I bought the building, it was known as the French Roll. At that time, the building was smaller, consisting of this room (known as the Old Dining Room) and part of the neighboring room (which serves as the ice cream foyer).”

When the Konkels took over, they immediately set out to expand the small establishment, which now has a seating capacity of 100. Included in the renovation is a much larger room, known as the New Dining Room. As for the Old Dining Room, it now serves as a dedication to the three colleges the Konkels’ children attended- Kansas State, Kansas University, and Fort Hays State.

Pointing to a small single booth resting high on a platform within the Old Dining Room is a room dedicated solely to the KU Jayhawks (which Jim and Mary are avid fans of). According to Jim, “There will be young people who will come in and see that one room. And, it is funny. If it is occupied, the kids will actually wait for that one room to open.”

Family Atmosphere

Whether your last name is Smith, Johnson, Jones, or whatever, if you visit the Country Creamery, you can expect to be treated more like family than as a customer. As such, Mr. Jim (as Jim is referred to by everyone) is making up the good food along side his kitchen staff and Mary Ellen is hosting and serving along side daughter Kimberly and other wait staff on shift.

Mary Ellen loves to converse with those who walk the floors of the Creamery and takes the time to, not only ask how someone is, but also gives genuine interest to travelers who have stopped in for something good from the menu. Kimberly, who came to work with her parents after college, is similar to her mother in making people from all over feel welcome. But, always a show stealer is Mr. Jim, who amusingly says he is often the center of attention. However, perhaps that may be a bit overstating.

As strangers come from miles around, including Harper, Anthony, Argonia, Attica, Kingman, and even from Wichita, the Konkel family and the Country Creamery are always glad to have them come. As for those who work for the Creamery, whether related or not, the atmosphere for them is just as admirable. In fact, during the interview with Jim, one kitchen cook had just ended her shift and came to let Jim know she would be back the next day for work. Jim beckoned the employee to him, to which the young lady responded. Motioning, as if he had a secret only for her, she bent toward her boss. And, not making it completely secret, Jim said in a loud whisper, “I’ll see you tomorrow”, which was a repeat of what the worker had originally said to Jim before hand.

The family business and friendly atmosphere has kept people coming back time and time again. Of course, having a great menu selection always helps, and in the case of the Country Creamery, this is certainly what you will find. Jim describes what one will find in the decorative menus as “eclectic”.

“It offers southwest or Mexican. Sandwiches. Desserts. Menu is dedicated with single pages for each style of food. We have Italian, including spaghetti and fettuccini Alfredo. Salad bar. 16 different kinds of hamburgers. Most people who eat here say the Mr. Jim burger is the best one we offer. It is half-turkey and half-ham with selected cheese. I called it that because if it is good for Mr. Jim, it is good for them.”

Country Creamery is opened Tuesday through Sunday from 11 AM to 8 PM. It is located at 123 E. 14th Street in Harper. 14th Street is also known as Highway 160. And, while people do venture to Harper and pay visits to the Creamery, Mr. Jim says, “I am waiting for the Casinos to open up in Wichita and Wellington because it will be a big shot in the arm because of the highway traffic going and coming to there.”

Tough times call for tough decisions

Mary Welch — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 15:24:00 GMT

I'm going to venture out, away from real estate in this blog and share some recent decisions that had to be made that impacts the lives of people in our community. Being on the Harper City Council is a big responsibility. It would be easier to make my decisions and find fault in other decisions from my arm chair, second guessing and not having the facts.

Having the facts is a burden. We have been in a situation for years as a council, knowing that someday we will have to take definite action on providing safe, clean, healthy drinking water to our community. Our drinking water has been threatened by nitrates. It is being monitored so we know where we stand. Years ago, council decided they did not want to raise the water rates in our area and put a hardship on the people. But most recent findings, showing the nitrates were not getting better and our wells are not hanging in there for the long term, brought about a tough decision.

It was found out that to qualify for grant money (free) we would have to show that we were first helping ourselves by keeping our water use rates up to what is determine normal. We were below normal, which threatened getting a grant. Having the opportunity for a grant, relieves the financial burden so of course we want to go for a grant. But have to raise the water rates. This week, we voted to raise the water rates by $10 for every household. No council member wanted to do this, but as I say, the facts are a burden, so we had to make the decision. Keep in mind this decision also impacts each of us, some more than others as some have businesses.

Many would find a $10 increase on their monthly bill to be a BIG additional charge to be burdened with. Others will see that $10 a month is acceptable to insure that their family has safe, clean, drinking water. This is how I see it. It is an investment in a much needed commodity. I remember a while back that Mulvane, Ks I think it was, gets their water from ElDorado and there was some kind of blockage in the system so Mulvane resident's water supply was threatened. I would hate to see our community faced with that threat.

Tough decisions come with business. It would be great if we could all put on our superman capes and stand against injustice and rising water rates. But we can't, we have to make the tough decisions and be unpopular. I am thankful for some of the council members we have that choose to face the facts rather than ignore them and try to make themselves look better to the public. Many difficult decisions are made more difficult because of those that refuse to see the big picture and focus only on how they will appear.

We also have a new relocated library because of the council members who wanted good things for our community. If you want to know who on your city council is actually wanting our city to grow and provide for our community, you can check the minutes of past meetings. You will see consistent opposition by the same people. It will open your eyes. It reminds me of a saying, "Your talk talks, and your walk talks, but your walk talks louder than your talk talks."

Just sayin.

Mary

Are you behind the "pace car" in your business or venture?

Mary Welch — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 15:02:00 GMT

Wikipedia's definition of the pace car "pace car or "safety car" is a car which limits the speed of competing cars on a racetrack in the case of a caution period such as an obstruction on the track. During a caution period the safety car enters the track ahead of the leader. Competitors are not allowed to pass the safety car or other competitors during a caution period, and the safety car leads the field at a pre-determined safe speed, which may vary by series and circuit. At the end of the caution period, the safety car leaves the track and the competitors may resume racing."

There are down times in any business. Fact. But if you remember what your thoughts and goals were when you started, you will never find yourself behind the pace car. The pace car sets the speed. You can't do anything but keep up. At that time, you aren't in the lead nor are you gaining anything, you are just maintaining until you can break out of the crowd and resume racing and win the race.

Business is like this if you allow it to be. If you choose to follow the pace car and never take a challenge and venture out, you will be caught on the same track as those just keeping up. Sometimes opportunities come and people will jump into it full heartedly wanting to succeed. But you see them not doing anything any different that anyone else. Just behind the pace car. They don't go the extra mile to make sure they stand out from the crowd. I'm thinking they never really thought the plan through. They just thought everything happens by osmosis. Kind of the build it and they will come way of thinking. It doesn't work that way.

Work is work. Planning for success is hard work. It takes drive. It takes resolve. It takes a committment. How many times have I heard a new person thinking of going into business and this is their thought process. "I'm going to TRY this or that." TRY? Then give up now, because if you are just going to TRY something, it will never work. You will find that you can't get anyone else excited about your business venture either if you are not committed to it.

When you made that big decision to get married, were part of your vows "I will try to live with this person". Of course not, hopefully you made a committment, the same is true for business. You make a committment to make it work. You don't sit behind the pace car waiting for an opportunity to break out of the crowd. You break out of the crowd. YOU take the initiative. YOU commit, YOU resolve YOU will make it work. Could it fail? Yes. Would that make you a failure? No.

I've been around business all my life. I've seen success. I've seen failure. But, I have never seen failure in people who committed, were driven, and weren't afraid to launch out ahead of the pace car.

It really is mind over matter.

Mary Welch-Broker/Owner Preferred Choice Realty

1403 Central

Harper, Ks. 67058

Ok, Congress has passed it now!

Mary Welch — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 03:36:00 GMT

Wichita Area Association of REALTORS Congress has passed an extension of the Homebuyer Tax Credit closing deadline, the Homebuyer Assistance and Improvement Act (H.R. 5623). The extension applies only to transactions that have ratified contracts in place as of April 30, 2010 that have not yet closed. The legislation is designed to create a seamless extension with September 30, 2010 being the new closing deadline for eligible transactions.

Forget what you've heard about the tax refund

Mary Welch — Sat, 26 Jun 2010 16:44:00 GMT

I do not forward any information until I have the truth from reliable sources. Truth is, you may have heard that the tax credit will go on until end of September of this year for first time home buyer's. This is not true. Here are the facts from Luke Bell, Vice President of Governmental Affairs with the Kansas Association of REALTORS.

KAR Special Notice

Over the past few weeks, you may have seen several articles in the media that the United States Senate had extended the closing deadline to qualify for the $8,000 first-time homebuyers’ tax credit and the $6,000 homebuyers’ tax credit. Unfortunately, these media reports have been premature and no legislation has been passed by Congress that modifies the closing deadline for the homebuyers’ tax credits. For the time being, you should notify your clients and customers and proceed with the knowledge that the closing deadline for the homebuyers’ tax credits will continue to be June 30, 2010.

As you will recall, an individual must have entered into a binding written contract on the home prior to April 30, 2010. Once that requirement was satisfied, that individual had until June 30, 2010 to complete the closing on the purchase. If the home is not closed prior to 11:59 PM on June 30, 2010, then that individual will not be eligible to claim the homebuyers’ tax credit. The amendment to the statute (which has not been approved by Congress) would extend that closing deadline until 11:59 PM on September 30, 2010.

The National Association of REALTORS® is actively pursing all available options with senior Congressional staff to secure passage of legislation that would extend the closing deadline for the homebuyers’ tax credits to September 30, 2010. However, it is uncertain at this time whether those efforts will ultimately be successful. If Congress does extend the closing deadline for the homebuyers’ tax credits, we will be sending you immediate notification. In closing, please be aware that nothing has changed for the time being and the current closing deadline for the homebuyers’ tax credits remains at June 30, 2010.

One of the toughest parts of my job.....

Mary Welch — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 20:32:00 GMT

is typically telling the potential seller that the price they have in mind to list their home and the price I have data for are...two different things. It is then finding the happy medium. As a seller it is very important that you listen to your agent when he or she gives you the data on recent sales and comparables of properties that have sold within the last 6 months in your area.

You can't argue the facts. Yes, you have more square feet, and yes your home is newer than so and so's, and that all figures into the final price. But sometimes your data is based on rumors not fact. The mls shows what the property sold for and sometimes something you wouldn't have ever thought of is in the mix. Such as the seller contributed $3000 in closing costs for buyer. You wouldn't have known those details.

It is tough to bust that bubble though when someone has a certain amount they think they can get from the sale of their home. But if your agent goes along with your price, with the data showing it should list much lower, your agent is doing you a great disservice. Maybe your agent will take any listing just to get a listing. That is not good for you, or the agent.

But as in all aspects of life, honesty is the best policy and as they say "it is what it is". Data doesn't lie. Overpriced listings don't sell.

Sometimes as agents, we have to be the bearer of bad news. But sometimes we are the bearer of good news-like you can get more than you thought for your house!

Love it when I get to say that...and it happens, just on rare occassions.

Mary Welch

Broker/Owner Preferred Choice Realty, Harper, Ks.

2 Story For Sale in Harper

Mary Welch — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 02:56:00 GMT

Under remodel

• 1,743 sq. ft., 2 bath, 4 bdrm 2 story "Bath on both levels" - MLS® $79,900

Harper, Harper County - Two story, 3 bed, 2 bath, bath on both levels. New, new, new. Kitchen cabinets with self closing drawers, new sink, countertops, floor, total remodeled kitchen, comes with all new appliances. Formal dining, eating bar, large living room with new carpet, exposed wood floor in formal dining. Bay window, pocket doors, this home has lots of vintage charm even with all the upgrades.

Master on second level, all bedrooms have large walk-in closets.

New HVAC system. Agent owned. Call Broker for showings.

Property information

You still have time for the tax credit.....

Mary Welch — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 19:02:00 GMT

You still have time: First-time home buyers who bought after January 1, 2009 and before April 30th 2010 (with closing to take place by or on June 30, 2010), would get the $8,000 home buyer tax credit. This means you need to have purchased on or before April 30, 2010. However, in cases where a binding sales contract is signed on or by April 30, 2010, a home purchase completed (closing, final inspection etc) by June 30, 2010 will qualify. Make sure you attach a copy of the pages from the signed binding contract to make a purchase showing all parties' names and signatures, the property address, the purchase price and the date of the contract. - For the purposes of claiming the tax credit, the purchase date is the date when closing occurs and the title to the property transfers to the home owner. If you and your spouse claim the credit on a joint return (both of you must meet the income and past ownership criteria to qualify), each spouse is treated as having been allowed half of the credit for purposes of repaying the credit. So the total amount claimable is still only $8000

Mary Welch Broker/Owner Preferred Choice Realty Harper Ks.

Respect, trust, character and KOOLAID

Mary Welch — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:58:00 GMT

Everyone wants to have respect and trust. But both are earned. They don't always come easy. Respect is earned from what we DO, not from position, status or power. Because as you have noticed, some in power don't deserve our respect. Unless they do respectfull things. People who are disrespectful, don't earn respect back.

Trust happens from a series of events when people SEE that we are sincere and transparent. Some think that being sincerely wrong is the same as being sincere. No, it isn't. This is where transparency comes in. People are not ignorant of your motives when your motives are wrong, or personal as a personal agenda based on personal feelings, not fact. Truth is, spend enough time with a person and you will see who they truly are. This is demonstrated by what they say, how they treat others and how they think. Some people can be very very mean. This is why deserted islands were created. This is where mean people should live, until we get that living on other planets thing down.

We can greatly increase our chances for earning trust and respect when we choose to suspend judgment of others-and keep our minds open to considering other perspectives. Sometimes it comes down to agreeing to disagree, which is how most groups function. You can't be in total agreement with everyone all the time. Case in point, marriage. I'm sure that said it all. There are just times you aren't in sinc because you have differences of opinion. Talk it out and may decide you still dont' agree, doesn't mean one of you need to go. You realize everyone is different, raised differently, different perspectives and opinions. It is normal.

Character is a persons observable behavior. If a person is always nit picking, never problem solving, always finding wrong, but never having or wanting resolve, you can pretty much tell their character. These are people you run across time to time that think everyone is wrong because they don't agree with me. They are in denial if confronted with something they did wrong, instead of owning up to it. They justify it. We have all done this to some degree.

Character is developed over a long period of time. A strong leader is a good thing, but a strong leader with a bad character would be a gang member. Not good. You can take good character qualities such as respect, responsibility and trustworthiness, but if not combined with the other pillars of character, such as fairness, caring and citizenship, you have an incomplete package. Not good character. Some great points, but not adding up to a good big picture.

How charismatic was Jim Jones? At least this is what has been told about him, I don't know from personal experience. He must have had respect, he must have had trustworthiness and alot of responsibility, was he caring? Truth played out. He cared for himself and his agenda, only.He purposely sought out weak people he could manipulate. It is a study in human nature to see how easily people can be manipulated. Manipulators seek out these types of people. The manipulators can eventually talk them into anything. To the point the manipulated doesn't have a thought of their own. They voice the opinion of the manipulator. People who cannot be manipulated, make the manipulator mad. Probably because they saw right through them. Over time.

I'm here to tell you, DON"T DRINK the KOOLAID! Think for yourself. See that you are being manipulated by someone you probably respect and trust, but their character is off...way off. Their agenda is personal and not meant to benefit anyone but themselves. Selfish little people.

I am reminded of the old old cartoon "Milton the Monster", anyone remember this? The mad scientist wanted a monster, but realized if he didn't add a little tenderness, the monster would destroy even him. So he added some tenderness and slipped up and added too much. The monster was created with an inbalance and way too much tenderness. Instead of being threatened, the mad scientist had created a wuss. Milton was a cute monster. Most monsters arent' cute.

Mary Welch

Preferred Choice Realty-1403 Central-Harper, Ks.

Wow, life is one big human experiment. Isn't it?

Pod People

Mary Welch — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 16:23:00 GMT

I had a meeting last night and I came away thinking of an old Twilight Zone storyline from years and years ago. It was a scenario that some "pod people" were taking over. They were like zombies, I guess. Hard to describe and only remembering the feeling I got from it. It was scarry.

It followed I think, a couple of characters, that found these empty pods all over the place and they discovered if they went to sleep, they would also be replaced by "pod people". Unthinking people, just roaming around like zombies, don't even remember what they did. I don't recall them doing anything. But being young at the time, I was a little scarred.

When I went to bed last night, after a very disturbing meeting, I was thinking if I go to sleep, I will be one of them. LOL. I know, ridiculous.

I was thinking a while ago, if life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. If it gives you pods, are you suppose to make podcasts? I know, I'm tired, emotionally drained by someone who sucks the life out of me, while I'm awake.

I will deal. Is there not a cause?

Look around today, do you see pod people??

There is a funny poster at city hall one of the employees put up a while ago. It is like the movie the Sixth Sense. It says "I see dumb people, they don't know they are dumb".

I love it.

Mary Welch-Broker/Owner Preferred Choice Realty-Harper, Ks.

More eye opening reports...

Mary Welch — Sun, 21 Mar 2010 22:13:00 GMT

So, just received another report/study that was done on home buyers, and the results are in. 78% of people who use the internet to look for homes, say the top 3 things they look for in their search for their next home are.

1. Virtual tours

2. Pictures

3. Property description

Next, 6.1 million people use www.realtor.com each month to search for real estate.

And, 86% of their online search time was spent on www.realtor.com.

So, what am I trying to say? If you are a seller, and have your property listed with an agency, check to see if your home is showing up on www.realtor.com because that means 6.1 million people may potentially be viewing YOUR home. If your home is NOT showing up on that site, it indicates your agent is NOT a REALTOR and not exposing your property to the maximum number of buyers possible!

Next, does your home show up on a virtual tour? Is that even offered by your real estate salesperson?

...or is that extra?

Use a REALTOR next time you list your home, we "actively" market property. It is what we do, and we do it 24/7.

Mary Welch-Broker/Owner Preferred Choice Realty-Harper, Ks.

Price Reduced on 1304 E 5th in Pratt

Mary Welch — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 21:11:00 GMT

Pratt, Pratt County - Announcing a price reduction on 1304 E 5th, a 1,637 sq. ft., 2 bath, 3 bdrm single story. Now MLS® $58,900 - .

Property information

Would you use the same real estate agent...again?

Mary Welch — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 18:15:00 GMT

Yes, "they" did a report and the score was terrible. They asked the question, "would you use the same real estate agent again?" Only 22% of buyers were happy with their agent. Bad percentage. But I certainly understand it, as an agent myself, I am only happy with about 50% of agents. Why? Agents don't return phone calls!! I understand busy, I can write a book on it, but common courtesy dictates you return a phone call. ESPECIALLY when another agent wants to show one of your listings!!

But back to the report. There are alot of reasons why people are unhappy with the last agent they used to buy a house. It could be, they didn't have their own agent, just thought they did. The listing agent (the one who listed the house) cannot be your buyer agent too. It is illegal in Kansas to represent buyer and seller. So, chances are, the listing agent wasn't representing you, because they couldn't.

Or, you just didn't get the deal you wanted. Maybe paid more for the property than you planned on. I guess this is the agents fault? Not really, market dictates price and if there is competition for the the same property, there might be a bidding war and the highest offer wins. That is not always the case either, sometimes the best terms win. So many variables in real estate. Sellers might not have budged. Sellers want the best deal as well as buyers.

Maybe, the house you purchased, just didn't meet your expectations. Blame the agent? Yes! No! Really, the agent hasn't lived in the house, only knows what the seller told him/her and inspections (your agent better have told you to get) revealed. It was your decision. Unless you feel the agent pushed you, then you have a legitimate gripe.

Maybe, just maybe your agent, if he/she was your agent, just didn't know HOW to represent you. Some agents don't want to be buyers agents and don't know the first thing about it.

Or, maybe there was a lack of communication with you and your agent. Hard to know what the problem was.

Whatever the situation, it is bad news for our industry that that only 22% of buyers are happy with their agent.

That makes us all sad.

Next time, use a REALTOR!

Mary Welch

Broker/Owner

Preferred Choice Realty of Harper, Ks.

OPEN HOUSE!! 121 E 11TH, HARPER, SUNDAY!!

Mary Welch — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:48:00 GMT

Sunday, on March 11th, Interfaith Housing will have their new Harper house open to the public. Please stop by and see this great home. Staff will be present to explain the program options available to purchase this great family home! Located at the corner of Washington and 11th in Harper, Ks.

Open house hours are from 1:00 to 2:30 this coming Sunday afternoon. So come out and see, you know you are curious. This is a beautiful home.

House for sale in Harper, Kansas 1309 Oak

Mary Welch — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 19:31:00 GMT

Harper, Harper County - 1309 Oak, a 2,490 sq. ft., 2 bath, 4 bdrm 2 story. Listed at $60,000 - All this charm for that amount of money? Yes. Vintage charm outside and throughout the interior on this home. Hardwoods in the foyer, living room, dining room and maser bedroom have all been recently redone. Home is move in ready. Contact me today to see this property.

Property information

It is time to get your house on the market...

Mary Welch — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 14:16:00 GMT

This IS the perfect time to get your house on the market so start getting ready to fix all the necessary things that need fixing and get your house polished and ready to showcase in the Spring market. Spring and Summer are the best times to get your house on the market. The weather is changing and Spring IS coming, no matter what the weathermen say. It is time!

Let us know when you are ready to get it on the market. By "market" we mean ACTIVE MARKET. This is the only way to showcase your home. A sign in the yard and a broker's website isn't enough. You need to get it actively listed and put out there where EVERYONE can see. You need the expertise of a REALTOR, a real estate agent or broker who knows HOW to market your house. A real estate agent or broker who is a member of the Association of REALTORS, local, state and national. That would be us. We are the only office in Harper County who is a member of the REALTOR Association.

We know how important it is to market your home. We realize that is our job! Your job is to get your house ready to sell. Ours is to get it the maximum exposure it needs! We can do this. Our online marketing allows your home to be exposed to buyers all over!

Our Spring inventory is picking up! Someone asked last night how the market was doing. Well, we've had 3 closings this week if that tells you anything. One in Wichita, one in Anthony and a Harper house today!! I would say that was a good week!

Smart buyers are out there checking out the inventory as we speak, they are aware the hot market season is coming up, so if you are a seller, give us a call, right now. We will give you an idea of what you need to do to get ready, give you a good marketable price for your home and get on our way to marketing your home, the way it should be done.

By the way, there are other real estate companies out there, but the way we look at it, we have no competition. We work with other real estate offices and will also allow them to show your house as well. You see, it isn't about who sells it, it is about getting it sold. It IS however, all about who lists your house as you need to go with someone who can "market" it effectively. Again, that would be us.

We advertise on all the major real estate sites, number one is REALTOR.com! Give us a call and we will get to work. It's what we do!

Mary Welch-Broker/Owner Preferred Choice Realty Harper, Ks.

Just the facts ....Jack

Mary Welch — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 17:16:00 GMT

On the average, buyers inspect 12 homes before making an offer. That means 11 other homes are competing against yours.

What that means to you as a seller, is..

In today's market, buyers are increasingly savvy. Many sellers are "testing the market" resulting in a high number of listings. This means the competition is stiff!

Working together, we can make sure your home gets the attention it needs to stand out from the pack.

Your job is to make your home bright, shiny, and clean--as close to a "model" home as possible. My job is to "tell the world" and work to gain maximum market exposure.

In other words, you need to listen to us, sellers, when we tell you to clean, declutter and freshen up your interior and exterior.

Oh and true story one of my agents are going through right now. We have a contract on a house for the seller, 1 week before closing, seller tells us she will not be removing her dead appliances from the basement. She can't afford to. Now, think with me. Do you think the seller is serious about selling? If you were a buyer do you want the old appliances that don't work removed?? YES!

"Working together" is key here. I am sure she was told upfront to get all the dead appliances out of the house and she didn't, now we have a stand off and an unhappy buyer and this just may not sell now. Hmmm.

If I were the buyer I would assume the seller is not serious and move on. This happens all the time.

Just trying to tell you....

Mary Welch-Broker/Owner Preferred Choice Realty Harper, Ks.

yep, I could write a book...