National Community Involvement Award Winners – Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty

Posted on May 22, 2013 by admin

We are honored to have received the coveted Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Community Involvement Award! This accolade recognizes our company as a real estate brokerage committed to giving back and making our community stronger. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you and the entire Staten Island community! To learn more, view the following video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugRRWM3WMvc

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BUYER LEADS

Posted on May 6, 2013 by admin

Sadly enough, there is no question that generating buyer leads has been one of the main focus’ of real estate brokers in our area. Despite the explosion of technology and the burden the great expense that staying on top of technology brings to the table, “LEADS” are still the single most sort after item.

Historically though, the conversion rates seen on these leads has been less than what a broker would expect. We have participated in numerous surveys and to this day the rate still is around a 2% conversion. That is 2 out of 100 buyers. At the same time these surveys have shown that over 35% of the buyers actually bought from someone and another 40% were actively looking for a home. Pretty poor numbers if you ask me. But how do take this information and enhance our own ability to improve your closing ratio?

Today’s buyer is not really any different, although the technology they use gives them more information than their predecessors. There are times when they know more about a property than the agent that they are speaking with, so what are they looking for when the contact you?

More often than not they are looking to find an agent with whom they feel comfortable with. We are finding with sites such as ZILLOW that buyers are pretty seasoned and generally ready to make an offer, but finding an agent that they feel good about may become their final decision maker as to presenting an offer.

So as an agent how have you evolved? Are you able to discover what a buyer wants or are you still asking the same old questions? Maybe it is time you speak with your broker and discover what he has to say about how you are doing business today. I am sure your broker has already evolved and is waiting for you to come and find out what you need to do to be successful in today’s super charged business atmosphere.

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BHGRE Safari Realty announces new Military Veteran’s Initiatives

Posted on March 20, 2013 by admin

For too long our returning and retired military veterans have had a hard road to follow to readjust to a more normal lifestyle. Starting a new career, re-entering the civilian job market and purchasing or selling a home, military vets have in many cases had to go it alone.

Today Brokers Frank and Fran Reali of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty, one of Staten Island Leading Real Estate Companies announced two initiatives aimed directly to this segment of our population. “We looked at a situation and after careful planning believe we have come up with something that will help ALL our veterans, those returning from active duty and those who have retired over the years,” stated Fran Reali.

First we looked at how we could assist those veterans looking to build a new career, stated Mr. Reali. How could we help these fine people get started in real estate and utilize their own experience and ingenuity to earn to their maximum potential. Getting started in real estate has always required two things, time and money. Potential agents are required to successfully complete a 75 hours salesperson licensing class and pass a state test. They then need to associate with a real estate company and they are then required to join the local board of realtors and the local multiple listing service. They can then expect that with the proper training and exposure to need approximately 6 months worth of investment money to get their career started. All of this takes both time and money, which is in many cases a problem for the potential real estate agent.  The program called Veterans to Real Estate Professional allows veterans to transition into a rewarding career as a real estate salesperson.

While we could not shorten the time it takes to take classes, said Mrs. Reali we believe that we have come up with a scholarship program which will help our military veterans reduce their out of pocket expenses and allow them to more easily start and build a real estate career. Details of our program will be given out at a seminar soon to be announced so that we can help get the veterans moving in the right direction and give them the opportunity they deserve. It is our way of saying thank you said Mr. Reali.

Similar to the military, we train our recruits. We understand the discipline, resiliency, and respect for procedures veterans developed during their time serving our country. Those characteristics, combined with the tools and support available at BHGRE Safari Realty, make for an exciting and successful new career in Real Estate.

For more information to learn how to take advantage of this exciting program please call for an interview at 718.442.5200 and mention that you are interested in the Veterans to Real Estate Professional Program.

Secondly we looked at how to assist all our military veterans enjoy the benefits of homeownership, and even help those looking to sell and relocate. We did not have to look far for an answer. Over the years BHGRE Safari Realty helped hundreds of veterans through our association, as the Principle Broker, with CARTUS Relocation Network and their affiliation with USAA. All veterans who are members of USAA receive benefits when they utilize the services of BHGRE Safari Realty. The problem has been that many military veterans have not joined the USAA Network and miss out on valuable savings not only for the sale or purchase of a home but also for mortgages and insurance. Presently we are reaching out to all the veterans in our area to make sure that they realize what they are missing.

We can help those veterans who are not members of USAA join the USAA network and take advantage of the benefits they deserve, by putting them in touch with our USAA Team, stated Gail Sweeney the company’s Relocation Director.

Our entire company is excited about these two new programs and we encourage EVERY veteran whether a recent veteran or a more seasoned retiree to call us today at 718.442.5200 and mention you want more information about joining USAA so we can help you get started.

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty, one of the leading real estate companies on Staten Island, is located at 1958 Victory Blvd. and is a member of the Staten Island Board of Realtors, Brooklyn NY Board of Realtors and the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty is a member of multiple listing services on Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau and Suffolk Counties which expands the exposure of the company and its listings. BHGRE Safari Realty main constituency is the Staten Island Community and presently has over 40 licensed real estate sales agents or associate real estate brokers working from it’s easy to reach and easy to recognize mid-island location. BHGRE Safari Realty provides real estate assistance for buyers and sellers. Commercial assistance is provided through the BHGRE Safari Realty Commercial Division. BHGRE also boasts specialized marketing services through its two specialized brands Urban Properties dedicated to those specific needs and Distinctive Properties dedicated to the specific needs of the high end market. Our relationship with CARTUS Relocation allows us to assist many corporate, and affinity buyers and sellers including those members of the USAA network. To have your home listed with BHGRE Safari Realty, to reach any of Safari Realty’s award winning agents or get more information about the company you may call 718.442.5200 or e-mail us at info@safarirealtyonline.com. BHGRE Safari Realty invites you to visit us on the web at our newly designed web site www.safarirealtyonline.com. You can also plan your open house searches at these sites as well as see over 20,000 homes for sale in Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island. So remember, if you are looking for a REALTOR who can help you with all your real estate needs, “at Safari, we can do that”.

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6 BHGRE Safari Realty Agents Garner Top Producer Awards

Posted on March 20, 2013 by admin

March 14, 2013 was an exciting day for Staten Island Realtors as the Staten Island Board of Realtors announced the Top Producers from 2012. Six members of the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty were recognized as Staten Island Top Producers for their production in the Staten Island Real Estate Market.

Winning the Bronze Award were Jeanine Del Gaudio, Barbara Tringali, Rita Colon-Burnett and Nicholas Tortora. Being recognized for the Gold Award were Gail Sweeney and Cindy Cheung.  As an added surprise to everyone in the room The Staten Island Board of Realtors announced the induction of just 5 sales agents to their Top Producer Hall of Fame, the criteria was being recognized as a Top Producer in each of the last 10 years. Brokers Fran and Frank Reali were excited to hear that Gail Sweeney was one of those five honorees. When asked how they became top producers at a time when the real estate market is in such flux they all responded that hard work and determination allowed them to achieve their current status. They also thanked the support team, which was in attendance, for their assistance in the daily day to day operation , and thanked brokers Fran and Frank Reali for their vision and persistence in providing an atmosphere where customer service and service to the sales team co-exists to insure everyone has a successful real estate experience.

Frank Reali stated that we are excited that 20% of our sales team ranked in the upper echelon of real estate agents onStaten Island, it proves that our quality over quantity model is working, and working well. A number of our agents just missed qualifying and we expect that next year we will see a few more members of our team on the red carpet. The Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate tag line “BE BETTER” just goes with our desire to be just that, BETTER. And we challenge anyone to find out how they can BE BETTER, by calling our office at 718.442.5200 and schedule an interview.

Gail Sweeney, a broker associate who started her real estate career in April 1993 at Safari Realty and gladly accepted the added responsibility as the Company Relocation Director in 1997 and has been a consistent high level producer for many years. Gail who lives in New Springville has utilized her previous experience as a Vice President at Merrill Lynch, to achieve her lofty status. I was very excited when our brokers announced that we were joining the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Franchise Organization back in November of 2011, said Ms. Sweeney. I knew our affiliation would bring us a myriad of tools to help our customers and clients achieve their prospective goals, especially in these trying times, she added. I am delighted to be recognized as a Gold Award Top Producer and was surprised when my name was announced as a Hall of Fame Member. I am equally excited about my own and our company’s prospects for the future. Gail is married to her husband Robert and they have a daughter Gabriella who is studying for her Masters Degree. Gail can be reached mobilely at 917.678.4926.

Cindy Cheung, who started her real estate career in July 2000 at Safari Realty, is multi-lingual and has proven that she can perform her real estate duties in any market. She has been recognized as a Top Producer numerous times and beamed brightly as she went up for her award. Cindy stated that she was excited to be affiliated with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate safari Realty, because she knew that it enhances her ability to provide the top quality service her customers and clients come to expect. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate is a Brand that is associated with HOMES said Ms. Cheung and that is what we do, help people buy and sell homes to achieve the lifestyle that they want. What better affiliation could a sales agent want but one that works hand in hand on a daily basis delivering lifestyle opportunities for consumers. Cindy can be reached on her mobile phone at 917.601.2627

Nick Tortora, joined the Safari Realty Family in May of 2002, when he decided that a full time real estate career required a full time real estate organization. Nick has been a multi-year Top Producer and sees 2013 has his time to move up in to higher honors. Mr. Tortora resides in Port Richmond with his wife Bonnie and their children was excited when he was told about the honor, stating it is great to be recognized by your broker for your efforts but it is a super feeling when you are honored on the Staten Island Stage by your peers. Our move to the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Organization has provided all of us with more tools than you could imagine. The technology, marketing tools and learning opportunities that we have been introduced to is just the tip of the iceberg of tools that will help us perform our job in a more professional manner. The company web site and the agent website that Fran and Frank provided to us at no cost, have already started to pay dividends in attracting more buyers and more exposure for our listings. Nick can be reached at his mobile phone at 917.273.4344.

Jeannine Del Gaudio has been with the safari Family since 1989 and takes care of the company’s REO Department. Jeannine is also a licensed appraiser and utilizes her immense talents to provide exceptional services to that sector of the market. Ms. Del Gaudio also has built a large referral business form her satisfied client list that continually are call for her expert assistance in either selling or buying a home. The Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate affiliation has proved to be a great benefit for everyone stated Ms. Del Gaudio. When coupled with the ingenuity and dedication of our staff and brokers we all have an arsenal of tools to assist us in being successful. I would expect that 2013 will see the number award winners from our company to double as we continue to work within this great system. Jeannine resides in theFortWordswortharea and can be reached on her mobile phone at 917.613.3269

Barbara Tringali has been with Safari since 2002 and has been a consistent producer over the years receiving her share of recognition. Barbara was excited to hear that she was being recognized as a Top Producer for her work in 2012. It proved that even in a tough real estate environment if you stay focused and work hard you can achieve success. Ms. Tringali credits a strong referral base and the ability to identify serious buyers as the source of her success. We receive plenty of buyer leads over the year, some are serious and some are just lookers. Asking the right questions and listening to and understanding the answers allow me to utilize my time in a way that is beneficial to the consumer. Strong negotiating skills also help, she added. Our move the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate has also allowed me access to BHGRE Greenhouse where I can brush up on various topics and also take advantage of the tools available. The customized listing presentation portfolio that each of us have been given by our brokers also has proven to be of great value. When you finish with the presentation every possible question a seller could have has been answered. It is then time to complete the paperwork. I expect that 2013 will prove to be an even stronger year for me. Barbara can be reached on her mobile phone at 718.490.2457

Rita Colon-Burnett enjoyed a great year in 2012 and has a leg up on 2013 already. Joining Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty in 2011 she has proven to be a valuable member of the team stated broker Fran Reali. Despite all the problems we faced in 2012 Rita was able to stay focused and work toward achieving her stated goals. Every year our broker Frank Reali sits with the sales team and encourages them to set goals for the upcoming year and also put together a business plan that we can follow. He kids us by saying, you will never know if you arrived at your destination if you never had a destination planned in advance. The Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate system has business planning tools as well as goal setting assistance to give every agent the opportunity to build their business on purpose rather than by accident. It is this planning that allows us to continually improve our skill sets and our achievements and also gives us the confidence to assist the consumer in achieving their real estate goals. I have seen a strong start to 2013 and anticipate an even more successful year in 2013. Rita, resides in Arden Heights and can be reached on her mobile phone at 718.490.2457.

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty, one of the leading real estate companies on Staten Island, is located at 1958 Victory Blvd. and is a member of the Staten Island Board of Realtors, Brooklyn NY Board of Realtors and the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty is a member of multiple listing services on Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau and Suffolk Counties which expands the exposure of the company and its listings. BHGRE Safari Realty main constituency is the Staten Island Community and presently has over 40 licensed real estate sales agents or associate real estate brokers working from it’s easy to reach and easy to recognize mid-island location. BHGRE Safari Realty provides real estate assistance for buyers and sellers. Commercial assistance is provided through the BHGRE Safari Realty Commercial Division. BHGRE also boasts specialized marketing services through its two specialized brands Urban Properties dedicated to those specific needs and Distinctive Properties dedicated to the specific needs of the high end market. Our relationship with CARTUS Relocation allows us to assist many corporate, and affinity buyers and sellers including those members of the USAA network. To have your home listed with BHGRE Safari Realty, to reach any of Safari Realty’s award winning agents or get more information about the company you may call 718.442.5200 or e-mail us at info@safarirealtyonline.com. BHGRE Safari Realty invites you to visit us on the web at our newly designed web site www.safarirealtyonline.com. You can also plan your open house searches at these sites as well as see over 20,000 homes for sale in Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island. So remember, if you are looking for a REALTOR who can help you with all your real estate needs, “at Safari, we can do that”.

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Buying a residential property on Staten Island, how much longer do you wait?

Posted on February 19, 2013 by admin

Much has been said over the years about dropping property values and falling sale prices on a National Level, but who really has taken a look at prices in the Staten Island Marketplace? When will we hit a bottom has been the buyers cry and many have waited on the sidelines and missed opportunities to take advantage of buying a home on Staten Island.

There is no question that price corrections have taken place butStaten Islanddoes have a varied marketplace. While some prices continue to correct in some areas, the average sale price has actually gone up in each of the past 3 years. So some smart buyers have been able to take advantage of the market and many owners are starting to see equity return.

The chart accompanying this story shows a 10 year look at the average sale price of Staten Island Residential Properties, 1 and 2 family homes as well as co-ops and condos from 2003 through 2012, based on information available through the SIMLS.

There is no question that the Staten Island Real Estate Market has stabilized and in fact is in pretty good shape. Both buyers and sellers have the opportunity to take advantage of the market to allow themselves to enjoy their own personal dreams.  Interest rates are low and the banks are lending to qualified buyers. This has always allowed the real estate market to expand, and 2013 should be no different. While much of the country is looking at 2013 as the comeback year for real estate, we here onStaten Islandsee 2013 as the year that confidence continues to grow for everyone involved in the sale or purchase of residential real estate.

So whether buying or selling the time is now to take advantage of what the Staten Island Real Estate Market has to offer.

The writer of this article is the Broker/Owner of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty, Frank Reali. He has studied and continues to study trends in real estate on Staten Islandand the BHGRE Safari Realty sales team is always equipped with the latest information to help the consumer make the right decision. He can be reached at 718.442.5200, the company web site www.safarirealtyonline.com has listings of homes for sale in Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island as well as Monmouth andOceanCounties inNew Jersey. Stop in and visit the web site or call the office and take advantage of what we have to offer.

 

 

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Real Estate As An Investment – Staten Island, NY

Posted on February 18, 2013 by admin

As the real estate market returns to some normalcy consumers still may question whether or not real estate is a sound investment. In my opinion the purchase of a one family owner occupied home should not be considered as an investment. That may sound as heresy from a real estate broker but I think you need to consider some things before you condemn the “heretic”.

We need a place to live and there are only limited options. We can always stay or return to our parents, if they will have us; we can choose to rent possibly by getting a roommate, and help someone else with their investment; we can choose to live on the street generally not a good idea; or we can purchase a home and pay off our own mortgage.

Homeownership provides one of the few entitlements available to us as tax payers. Most of us are still able to take advantage of this tax shelter by writing off real estate taxes and interest from our mortgage payment. Your accountant can assist you in finding out how much of a benefit you may be able to enjoy but in many cases buyers have found out that the tax benefit has proven to bring the mortgage payment closer to what they were paying in rent.

The length of time you own your home is where it becomes an investment vehicle. Over the years real estate has proven to be a great hedge against inflation, generally increasing in value at the rate of inflation or better. Usually the longer you hold on to the property the better chance you have of selling it for more than you paid for it. This gives you an opportunity to build wealth. The fact that you usually purchase a property without paying for it fully, down payments your true initial investment are generally only a portion of the purchase price, allows a great return.

If you have the stomach for it some buyers have built wealth by selling sooner and buying up again using the equity built in their present home to increase the opportunity for financial gain. In this process you have more exposure to yearly price adjustments and must consider closing costs as part of the investment necessary. In either case if you are living in the house you still get the benefit of a roof over your head, potentially an improved quality of life and some cushion from the fluctuations of real estate values.

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BHGRE Safari Realty 25 years and counting!!!

Posted on January 30, 2013 by admin

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty held its year-end meeting at the LiGreci’s Staaten inWest Brightonusing the opportunity to update the sales team on the analysis of 2012 and the expectations of 2013.

Broker Fran Reali opened the meeting by announcing that 2013 is the 25th anniversary of the formation of the company and that our goals have stayed consistent through the years and that was to provide a quality real estate experience for consumers and team members alike. Fran welcomed the newest staff member Tricia Burke-Laino who now gives the company a three headed technology strong support team to assist everyone in the real estate transaction. With Lucy Lacagnina, Daniella Reali and now Tricia we have an interactive cross-trained team to make sure that everything goes smoothly for all those involved in our company.

Frank Reali took over the meeting from there reviewing the activity from 2012. A 15 year residential graph showing closed sales from 1998 to the present on Staten Island showed the highs and lows but more importantly proved that theStaten Islandmarket had reached its bottom and was moving in the right direction. We have never accomplished anything by crossing our fingers and hoping but rather through constantly studying the trends and providing good solid information to our buyers, sellers and professional real estate team. The graph showed the consistent number of sales over the past 30 months with a slight increase over 2011 which was right on target with Mr. Reali’s prediction last January. He then made his prediction for the 2013 year which is an eight to ten percent overall increase in residential sales.

Mr. Reali congratulated the team on their outstanding accomplishments in 2012 allowing the company to maintain its top 5 real estate office position onStaten Island, closing $74,851,853 in sales volume and singled out those top producers for their personal production during the year. Mr. Reali announced that the company had 2 members of the sales team finish in the top 10 agents on Staten island and 7 agents overall in the top 10% of the industry.

Recognized as Bronze Zebra Million Dollar Club members were Ted Williams, Joann Maviglia and Rita Colon-Burnett. Introduced as Silver Elephant Two Million Dollar Club members were Theresa Passanesi and Barbara Tringali. The members of the Gold Leopard Three Million Dollar Club were Jeannine Del Gaudio and Nick Tortora, and reaching the Diamond Tiger Five Million Dollar Club were Cindy Cheung and Gail Sweeney. The group are the company leaders which overall had 75% participation from the sales team in 2012.

Mr. Reali also announced that as we start 2013 16 members of the sales team already had transactions in contract waiting to close which puts many of the team members on track to reach and even surpass their personal goals for the year.

As members of an International Real Estate Organization Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate members of the sales team are also eligible for International Awards based on their production. Mr. Reali announced those agents who are in line to receive recognition at the upcoming Fusion Conference inLas Vegas. BHGRE International Silver Award Honoree’s are Jeannine Del Gaudio and Nick Tortora and the BHGRE International Gold Award Honorees are Cindy Cheung and Gail Sweeney.

Technology has always been on the forefront of the BHGRE Safari Realty’s agenda and Fran and Frank Reali gave the sales team an update and look into the future as they reviewed some of the highlights from the Inman Conference they attended last week. We have the capabilities right now to provide a seamless and paperless real estate transaction to the consumer tight now stated Mr. Reali. For years we have had computerized listing presentations, the ability to perform live comparable market analysis’ for sellers and all our forms have been in the cloud for easy access from the many remote locations today’s top agents find comfortable to work from. The bricks and mortar office allows a central location for operations but no longer is the only location that an agent has to work from. Shared desks, wireless access allow agents to come and go with their own mobile devices and stay as productive and busy as they like, knowing a strong and experienced staff is behind them assist them in getting the job at hand accomplished with the least amount of stress and aggravation.

Mr. Reali announced that BHGRE Safari Realty has contracted with a number of companies to tie all the initiatives together and with the recent announcement of electronic signatures becoming legal and acceptable we would soon be able to take advantage of much of the technology that today’s consumers are demanding. The end of the horizon is limited only by your personal vision stated Fran Reali and our vision is 20-20 forward always looking for how to improve the real estate experience.

The sales team was reminded of the many learning opportunities, and numerous tools that the affiliation with Better Homes and Gardens has been able to provide to everyone and Mr. Reali encouraged the team to continue taking advantage of what is available, from new agent training to experienced agent refresher sessions there is something for everyone. Our partnership with the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Franchise System has proven to be what we needed to stay in tune with the constantly expanding technological improvements in our industry, and it has proven beneficial for all our agents regardless of their age and experience level. This has proven to be a great marriage stated Mr. Reali, and we expect that many of new and experienced sales agents will start to realize those benefits as we continue to expand our influence on the Staten Island Real Estate Landscape.

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty, one of the leading real estate companies onStaten Island, is located at1958 Victory Blvd.and is a member of the Staten Island Board of Realtors, Brooklyn NY Board of Realtors and the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty is a member of multiple listing services on Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens,NassauandSuffolkCountieswhich expands the exposure of the company and its listings. BHGRE Safari Realty main constituency is the Staten Island Community and presently has over 40 licensed real estate sales agents or associate real estate brokers working from it’s easy to reach and easy to recognize mid-island location. BHGRE Safari Realty provides real estate assistance for buyers and sellers. Commercial assistance is provided through the BHGRE Safari Realty Commercial Division. BHGRE also boasts specialized marketing services through its two specialized brands Urban Properties dedicated to those specific needs and Distinctive Properties dedicated to the specific needs of the high end market. To have your home listed with BHGRE Safari Realty, to be included in an upcoming Open House Sunday, to reach any of Safari Realty’s award winning agents or get more information about the company you may call 718.442.5200 or e-mail us at info@safarirealtyonline.com. BHGRE Safari Realty invites you to visit us on the web at our newly designed web site www.safarirealtyonline.com. You can also plan your open house searches at these sites as well as see over 30,000 homes for sale in Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island andNew Jersey. If you are interested in a new career in real estate or are ready to take advantage of all we have to offer call our career advisor team headed up Tricia Burke-Laino at 718.442.5200 for a confidential interview.  So remember, if you are looking for a REALTOR who can help you with all your real estate needs, or a new career jump start “at Safari, we can do that”. Why not join us today !!!

 

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Next Generation of Homebuyers Are Knowledgeable, Responsible and Savvy According to New Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Survey!

Posted on January 30, 2013 by admin

 Working a Second Job and Moving in with Mom and Dad are Unexpected Ways

 

Generations X and Y are Willing to Save for a Home

 

Better Homes and Gardens® Real Estate today released the results of a national survey of 18-35 year old Americans that reveal that the impact of the housing crisis has given rise to two of the most knowledgeable generations to become homebuyers, Generations X and Y, which account for an estimated 103 million Americans. More than three-quarters (77 percent) of the Gen X and Y Americans surveyed believe that they have become increasingly knowledgeable about homeownership due to increased media coverage that has magnified real estate topics throughout the past six years. The survey’s findings show that these two younger generations of potential homebuyers are not deterred from home buying and believe owning a home is a key indicator of success (75 percent). Furthermore, they are willing to do their research and save in ways that may surprise those who believe the values of Gen X and Y have strayed from those of their parents, including taking a second job and moving in with mom and dad.

“Every generation faces defining economic events that alter their collective perspective,” said Sherry Chris, president and CEO of Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC. “‘The Greatest Generation’ was shaped by the Great Depression and Baby Boomers were impacted by the oil crises throughout the 1970s. Gen X and Gen Y experienced their ‘coming of age’ moment during the largest housing market downturn in American history. As such, these generations believe that the details, risks and rewards of home buying are integral to their planning. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate recognizes this shared generational experience and its effects on young homebuyers. We realize how important it is for real estate professionals to understand generational differences and be able to adapt their business to best serve these two generations that will drive the economy for the next 30 years.”

 

Key findings from the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate survey include:

 

•

 

Not the “Me” Generation.

The majority of Gen X and Gen Y survey respondents (71 percent) understand that homeownership is not something they deserve; rather it is something they must earn. Nearly all those surveyed are willing to adjust their lifestyle to save for a home by eating out less (62 percent), working a second job (40 percent) or even moving back home with their parents (23 percent).

•

 

 

In the Know.

Sixty-nine (69) percent believe that the recent housing downturn has made them more knowledgeable about homeownership than their parents were at their age. Gen X and Y members appear to be doing their homework before making one of the biggest investments of their lives. For those surveyed, interest rates (58 percent), home prices in a desired neighborhood (59 percent), and the ability to secure a loan (51 percent) are the top areas to research before buying.

　

 

• Homeownership is the New Bling. Gen X and Y are not blinded by flashy signs of success; 75 percent believe owning a nice home is a fundamental indicator of success over taking extravagant vacations (12 percent), owning an expensive car (9 percent), or owning designer clothing (5 percent).

 

•

 

 

First Things First. Gen X and Y want to make sure they are ready

to own. Sixty-nine percent believe someone is ready when they can afford to buy while also maintaining their lifestyle. For 61 percent of respondents, the “readiness indicator” is when they’ve landed a secure job.

“Many people have misconceptions about the priorities, the work ethic and the grit of Generations X and Y, said Chris. “Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate sees a group of people who are wise, proactive and are taking a strategic approach to their future. For example, over the last few years high rental statistics have been attributed to an apparent decreased interest in homeownership. Our findings indicate this is not true for Gen X and Gen Y. Our network of real estate professionals are prepared and ready to accommodate this thoughtful, informed population.”

 

For more information regarding the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gen X and Y homeownership survey, visit www.bhgrealestate.com.

 

 

 

About the Survey

 

The Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Survey was conducted by Wakefield Research among 1,001 nationally representative Americans, ages 18 to 35, between July 18, 2012 and July 26, 2012, using an email invitation and an online survey. Quotas have been set to ensure reliable and accurate representation of the U.S. population ages 18 to 35.

 

Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. The magnitude of the variation is measurable and is affected by the number of interviews and the level of the percentages expressing the results. For the interviews conducted in this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 3.1 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample.

 

About Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC

 

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC is a dynamic real estate brand that offers a full range of services to brokers, sales associates and home buyers and sellers. Using innovative technology, sophisticated business systems and the broad appeal of a lifestyle brand, Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC embodies the future of the real estate industry while remaining grounded in the tradition of home. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate LLC is a subsidiary of Realogy Holdings Corp. (NYSE: RLGY), a global provider of real estate services. The growing Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate network includes approximately 7,600 sales associates and more than 230 offices serving homebuyers and sellers in Canada and 25 U.S. states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, South Carolina, Texas, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia and Washington. For more information, please visit www.BHGRealEstate.com.

 

 

 

 

 

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A Stabilizing Residential Real Estate Market is a positive sign for Staten Island Real Estate!!

Posted on January 25, 2013 by admin

The graph shows a 15 year history of residential real estate sales onStaten Islandbased on SIMLS data available. The normal ups and downs during various cycles now show that a flat line bottom has been significantly reached. While the real estate market was subsidized by tax incentives in 2009 and the first part of 2010 the last 30 months going back to August 2010 have been consistent. The slight increase in sales from 2011 to 2012 was right on target on I believe 2013 will see the growth of residential sales on Staten Island range between 8 and 10 percent.

We at Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty continue to be a significant participant in the Staten Island Real Estate Marketplace and as we celebrate our 25th year in business continue to study the trends in real estate to provide our consumers and sales team with the best information to allow them to be successful in the real estate endeavors.

As a leader in the Staten Island Real Estate Market in both listing homes on Staten Island and selling homes onStaten Islandour grasp of the constantly changing landscape allow us to be the real estate guide of choice for many buyers and sellers.

Written by: Frank Reali NYS Licensed Real Estate Broker Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty.

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3 at BHGRE Safari Realty gain International Recognition!

Posted on January 25, 2013 by admin

Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Safari Realty Broker Frank Reali announced today that three members of the sales team have received International Recognition by The Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Corporate Office for their 2011 production. It is always nice to be recognized for one’s achievements on a local company or industry level it is even better when that recognition pierces the boundary ofStaten Islandand is recognized both nationally and internationally by Corporate, stated Mr. Reali.

The agents, all long term full time real estate professionals, who were recognized for their 2011 sales production, were Gail Sweeney, Cindy Cheung and Nick Tortora. We are very happy that part of our new relationship with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate is being part of a professional real estate organization that recognizes the integrity, ethical behavior, dedication and commitment of its sales team members, said Broker Fran Reali.

Gail Sweeney, a broker associate who started her real estate career in April 1993 at Safari Realty received the Masters Award, BHGRE’s highest recognition. Gail resides in New Springville and gladly accepted the added responsibility as the Company Relocation Director in 1997 and has been a consistent high level producer for many years. Gail has utilized her previous experience as a Vice President at Merrill Lynch, to achieve her lofty status. I was very excited when our brokers announced that we were joining the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Franchise Organization back in November of 2011, said Ms. Sweeney. I knew our affiliation would bring us a myriad of tolls to help our customers and clients achieve their prospective goals, especially in these trying times, she added. I am equally excited about my own and our company’s prospects for the future. Gail is married to her husband Robert and they have a daughter Gabriella who is studying for her Masters Degree. Gail can be reached mobilely at 917.678-4926.

Cindy Cheung, who started her real estate career in July 2000 at Safari Realty, received Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate’s second highest honor the Performance Award. Cindy resides in Great Kills and is no stranger to being recognized for her achievements. Cindy is multi-lingual and has proven that she can perform her real estate duties in any market. Cindy stated that excited with the new affiliation because she knew that it would enhance her ability to provide the top quality service her customers and clients come to expect. Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate is a Brand that is associated with HOMES said Ms. Cheung and that is what we do, help people buy and sell homes to achieve the lifestyle that they want. What better affiliation could a sales agent want but one that works hand in hand on a daily basis delivering lifestyle opportunities for consumers. Cindy can be reached on her mobile phone at 917.601-2627.

Nick Tortora, joined the Safari Realty Family in May of 2002, when he decided that a full time real estate career required a full time real estate organization. Mr. Tortora received Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate’s third highest award the Achievement Award for his 2011 real estate sales production. Mr. Tortora resides in Port Richmond with his wife Bonnie and their children was excited when he was told about the honor, stating it is great to be recognized by your broker for your efforts but it is a super feeling when you are honored on an International stage. When made the announcement that we were joining the Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Franchise I was sure he knew what he was doing, but over the last three months I have started to see why. The technology, marketing tools and learning opportunities that we have already  been introduced to is just the tip of the iceberg of tools that will help us perform our job in a more professional manner. The new company web site and the new agent website that Fran and Frank provided us have already started to pay dividends in attracting more buyers and more exposure for our listings. Nick can be reached at his mobile phone at 917.273-4344.

Our affiliation with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate has been better than we could have imagined stated broker Fran Reali. The technology that we had access to allowed us to build an entirely new state of the art website. The pinpoint marketing programs have allowed us to market the homes listed with us in a smarter fashion. The Distinctive Properties program gives us the ability to present a customized program for the high end market here onStaten Island.

The new Lead Router technology will tie together all of our electronic and internet programs, including our own web site, the BHGRE Corporate website, the Realtor.com Company Showcase and Featured Homes programs, the SILIVE.com and the over 100 other web sites that feature those properties listed with our company and provide a quicker turnaround time for consumers who contact us, said Frank Reali. With over 85% of buyers starting the search for agents and properties on the internet, this new program will allow our agents greater access to interested buyers and super benefits for homeowners who list their properties with our company.

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