Failure: the Key to Success

I just woke up from a dream nightmare. It was one of those ones where it seemed so real I was actually emotional upon awakening.  For some reason, my broker decided he would acquire and open a restaurant, and all of us agents would be required to work there (Remember, this IS a nightmare.).  We went through a couple of weeks of training and helping to set up the place, all the while contimuing our duties as REALTORS®. Opening day arrived and I came to find out that everyone else had received a time card to punch in and out in order to record their hours. For whatever reason, I was never issued a time card and had no idea I was supposed to clock my hours. (It’s been quite a while since I punched in and out on the job…)

Long story short…I was not going to get paid for all my hard work. AARRGGHH!

Upon waking, I pondered this nightmare for a while and wondered what the hidden meaning might be. After a cup of coffee, I realized I was surely thinking about the closing I have going on right now that is a nightmare in itself.

This transaction has been a whopper from the moment I received the call for the listing appointment. I have been challenged in ways I could never imagine.  After 3 months, we finally got an offer and I worked hard to get the buyers up to about $10,000 ABOVE current market value in that neighborhood.  My husband made a comment once the contract was ratified that “Now, it should be smooth sailing.” Nope. It is never over until it is OVER (and recorded…).

This transaction has gone on and on with the buyer dragging her feet for whatever reason. We are almost a month past the end of the 21 day extension. Now, we are working the contract on a new 14 day extension. I have called the buyer’s agent daily for updates and get nowhere. It seems they are missing a document the bank requires. These days, the banks need EVERYTHING to be in perfect order. My seller’s attorney has started to think this thing is not going to close at all. I am beginning to wonder as well.

Hence, my nightmare…I just might not get paid. After all my hard work and the stress and drama, I may just have to add it all up to a learning experience.  It remains to be seen whether or not this transaction will close. If it does not, there’s a whole other can of worms that will be opened, since my seller is already moved into her new home elsewhere and the closing there is contingent upon THIS closing…

I do a great deal of personal development, and am constantly reading and listening to motivational literature. I am gradually learning that no one has ever become a huge success without a little failure along the way. In fact failure seems to be one of the key factors in achieving mind-boggling success. Failure teaches us how NOT to do things; what NOT to put up with; what NOT to say. If we can learn from our failures, we can do better the next time. I have also learned to accept the things over which I have NO control.

This complicated closing has had me reconsidering my commitment to staying in real estate at all. Yes, it has been that bad.  But, then last night, a friend of mine asked me to help her find a new home to buy. The old positive me jumped back in the game as I remembered WHY I do this in the first place. Yes, it IS about a paycheck. But, it is also about helping people and becoming a better person than I was yesterday.

And heck, the closing still COULD pull through….

Happy House Hunting!

Moving Day!!

Ok, so you have done everything you need to do to close on your new home (or sell it) and made it through all of the closing pitfalls and it is RECORDED that you now own your new home. YAHOO!

Now what????

It's MOVING DAY! Hopefully, you have made plans in advance as to how the move is going to happen, the exact date and time, and where you are headed. Be sure your electricity, water, and other utilities have been transferred into your name. (Believe it or not, some people need reminders about all of this...) It is definitely preferred for the seller to get moved out and have a cleaning crew come through to tidy up prior to closing. A few days prior to closing! But, this sometimes does not happen. I have had a closing where the sellers were still moving out a few hours before closing, so the final walk-through is crucial to be sure you will not have a huge mess when you arrive in your new home. 

Preparing for the move from your former house can be a great deal LESS stressful if you attempt to stay organized and think ahead. I have moved a ton of times in my life so far, so I have my system down. I begin early packing up everything I can think of that is not essential to every day living. As soon as your contract is ratified, you might want to walk through your existing home and start taking stock. 

Then, start with one room at a time, one box at a time, packing stuff up that you just don't use every day. Be sure to use a Sharpie and detail what's inside each box! Nothing is more overwhelming than unpacking a bunch of boxes that all look the same with no idea what is inside. Need boxes? I highly recommend hitting your local liquor store and asking for empty boxes. The boxes they usually have there are medium in size and sturdy; and there's always plenty! Try not to get overwhelmed. Just do a little at a time; a couple of boxes a day. For fragile items, write FRAGILE in large letters on all sies of the box and arrows for THIS SIDE UP. If you have 30 days to closing, you should have lots of time.

Some people would rather have a moving company do it all. There are movers who will come in and pack everything down to the last cup, plate, and pair of socks. (For a price, of course.)  When I moved from my rental home to my permanent residence, I used Coastal Transfer out of Georgetown (15 mins South of Pawleys Island). They were inexpensive, FAST, and friendly. Since I had packed up my house myself, they simply loaded it up, and delivered everything to our new home. The entire procedure took 2 hours. They can also do a full scale move for you where they will pack it all for you. Sometimes, if you can afford it, this might be the better option, because they would not move things that were not properly packed for insurance reasons. Contact them and ask them lots of questions about your move.

When moving day arrives, be sure to have lots of water and snacks on hand. If someone can keep the kids and pets, that is a good idea; if not, have the little ones and critters stay in one room that keeps them out of the way of the movers. Also, just like closing, expect the unexpected. Don't plan anything else on moving day if possible. (I know, duh...but I am trying to prevent pitfalls for you!)

Lastly, stay calm and be patient. It will all get done eventually. Just try to relax and enjoy the ride. Soon, you will be settling into your new home!!

Happy House Hunting!

Allston Plantation, awesome Pawleys Island community

Hi all! I just left a great Open House in Allston Plantation, located at the Southern tip of Pawleys Island. I was inspired to share this awesome community with you. I love this neighborhood...only 3 minutes to the beach on Pawleys. Check it out:




I would love to show you around Allston Plantation, so head for the beach and CONTACT ME!

Happy House Hunting!

Pawleys Island Favorite Faces and Places: Asher Robinson

In today's technologically charged world, it is refreshing to find local artists who still use their hands to create new and beautiful works to share with the world around them.  Pawleys Island has a handful of talented local artists, but one is a stand out for me in terms of persistence and perseverance: Asher Robinson.

Asher does not have a website (yet), and he claims he is not very active on Facebook.  But, he is pretty easily found if you are looking for him. He "sets up shop" on sunny days underneath a shady tree in front of the Food Lion on the South Causeway of Pawleys Island.  His business model is simple, he displays his array of Pawleys Island-inspired folk art on the ground or leaning up against the tree for shoppers to discover as they hit the Food Lion, Groucho's Deli, or one of the other businesses in the complex.

Asher began his "residency" under the tree at Food Lion 3 years ago.  A few friends, including one of the owners of Groucho's Deli, suggested he give this format at try. He has been painting since he was a little boy, but when he whipped out a handful of paintings of fish, turtles, and other sea life, it stuck.  The very first weekend he offered his folk art, he had an overwhelming response. It was enough for his to keep it going, and now Asher makes his living selling these simple, but charming works of art.

 

 There is something about Asher's folk art that fits perfectly with the arrogantly shabby style of Pawleys Island. His laid back personality comes through in his work; carefree, colorful, and whimsical. I own the three pieces you see here in this blog, and I am certain Asher's works can be found in many Pawleys Island homes. They seem to scream beach house!

If you cannot find Asher at the Food Lion, stop by local eatery Mama Rue's, or Latte Litchfield, where some of his paintings hang for purchase.  He has created commissioned works in the past and is happy to create something special for you. Check him out!

Just one more reason Pawleys Island is such a fabulous place to visit or call home. Book your vacation HERE or call me at 843-424-0995 and we will find you your own perfect piece of paradise!

Happy House Hunting!

I'm Dreaming of a White Victorian...

I absolutely ADORE Pinterest!! How about you? I could spend hours browsing through the beautiful pictures, handy tips, and mouth-watering recipes. As a REALTOR®, I tend to look at and have seen some spectacular images of dream homes and cool decor on Pinterest.  So, I got to daydreaming yesterday about MY dream house and what it would look like. As your agent, I encourage you to do the same if you are planning to buy a new home. Aim high, dream big...it's still a buyer's market!!

So just for fun, let's see what Rachel the REALTOR®, dancer, surfer, musician, wife, and Mommy would look for in a dream house ( we are talking just-won-the-lottery, unlimited budget here....)

First thing I would want in my dream home is a specific curb appeal.  I ADORE Victorian houses. My current home (which I LOVE in all of its simplicity, BTW) is not at all Victorian, but if I found the perfect piece of land and built my dream home from the ground up, I think it would look something like this:

Who knows, perhaps there is a Victorian somewhere in the Pawleys Island area that has all of the features I would like...but what are they? It is important to dream them up and write them down when you are in the process of house hunting, because it can help your agent narrow the scope of the search.

Number one on my list of interior must haves is an awesome master bath. I want it all: double vanity, large shower, jacuzzi tub with a gorgeous view, and a luxurious dressing area in my massive walk-in closet. Yes, I have been inspired by some of these images on Pinterest:

Looks pretty awesome so far, doesn't it?! Ok, next I think I would want an oversized laundry room. Call me crazy, but I love doing laundry.  There's something about the smell and feel of clean clothes that always makes me smile. It brings back memories of me helping Mom fold laundry as a kid. Incidentally, my dryer conked out and I have a new one being delivered today, but my current laundry room is far from dreamy. It lacks a utility sink and folding area. I think I would like something a bit more like this would make ANYONE (even my husband) want to do laundry:

I know a great kitchen sells a house these days, so I suppose I could use one of those as well.  I am a mediocre chef at best, so I don't think I need all the bells and whistles. If I had them, I guess I could learn to live with them and maybe even use them. :-)  Stainless steel appliances, yes. Double oven, absolutely. I would not mind one of those pasta sinks by the stove either. And of course, a cute breakfast bar area for my daughter and her friends to have their snack.

Boy, this is one DREAMY house!! See how fun this can be?? Ok, my final must have in our dream house is a separate studio for music and dance. My husband would call it his "man cave," but we would have to share the space and alternate time slots. Only thing I would add to this picture is giant velvet curtains that could be pulled across the mirrors and windows to catch the sound when recording drums (yes, my husband Tommy, is a professional drummer...)

Now, this is my major wish list. Also important in planning your dream home are simple facts such as number of bedrooms and bathrooms, square footage, and location, location, location! The more details the better. And write it all down. Your REALTOR® will thank you for it. Even if you are not ready to buy, you might want to start your list for fun. Who knows what tomorrow may bring? I have learned that dreams are powerful...write them down and visualize them; you might be shocked at how quickly you achieve results.

Unfortunately, you may have to compromise a bit on your wish list if you are looking for a resale.  But, I still say, dream big...you just never know. Your ultimate dream home may be out there waiting for you!

If you are ready to find YOUR dream home in Pawleys Island, grab your list and contact me!

Happy House Hunting!

Why CAN'T I Take That With Me...It's MINE?!

I learn so much every day out here in the Real World of Real Estate. It is amazing the surprises and pitfalls we REALTORS face on a daily basis. If you aren't up for the challenge of constantly switching gears when least expected, you might not want to practice real estate for a living. For those of us Type A+ personalties who enjoy problem solving, we LOVE it!

Here is a scenerio for you: Ms. Seller is a week or so from closing and has decided she wants to dig up half of her landscaping and take it with her to the next state. She claims one of the trees to be her "baby" that she raised for the last 11 years. According to standard South Carolina Agreement to Buy and Sell Real Estate, Article 4, "The property, including but not limited to, landscaping and lawn, shall be maintained in the same condition from the effective date of this agreement until possession is delivered..." Digging up the tree or any other landscaping might hinder closing if the buyer gets miffed about its removal.  It is NEVER over until the "fat lady sings" and the new owner's name is recorded at the court house. You might be surprised at the seemingly miniscule items that can hang up a closing.

(The picture of the actual tree has been changed to protect the innocent...lol)

It is very important for sellers to discuss in depth which items in (and around) the house will and will NOT convey (or transfer ownership) in the sale. Specify whether or not the major appliances, window treatments, and any furnishings will stay with the home in the sale. All of this can be detailed in the listing BEFORE, the agent begins to advertise for you.  Deciding after the fact can cause some real problems.

If you state that the home is being sold furnished, be SURE to walk through each room and make a detailed inventory of personal items that will not convey. You would be shocked at the stink a buyer can cause over something as small as a child's framed artwork on the wall.  To you, it could be a priceless memento; to the buyer, it might be a deal breaker!

Buyers, all of this detailing goes for you as well. If you view a property and make an offer, be sure to READ the contract thoroughly (see my blog on lawyers) and include any items you would like to convey with the property. Even if the fridge is listed as an item that conveys, I would still have it included either under Article 2 of the sales contract, or in a separate Bill of Sale. Now, that being said, some agents will insist on putting ALL items that are not physically attached to the structure, or fixtures,  on a Bill of Sale. Some loan types, such as FHA or VA loans, have restrictions against including anything that is NOT a fixture on the face of the sales contract.  However, if you REALLY want that gnome out in the garden or beach scene print hanging in the living room, you had better ask for it in advance and in writing.

I know, I know...it seems very nit-picky. But, I promise you it is worth it off the get-go. Don't forget that wars have been fought and blood has been shed over the transfer of property...

Happy House Hunting!

Real Estate Closings: Why Do I Need a Lawyer?

In South Carolina, buyers and sellers are required to select an attorney in order to close a real estate transaction. I have had clients in the past ask me, why do I need a lawyer? Well, here's why...

By definition, a contract is an agreement entered into voluntarily by two parties or more with the intention of creating a legal obligation. Any time I see the word legal, I am thinking lawyer! The fact of the matter is that a real estate contract is not something to be entered into lightly; it is a legally binding document enforceable even upon the event of death (yes, if you sign an agreement to purchase real estate and kick the bucket, your heirs will be liable!). It is not a bad idea to have your attorney review the purchase agreement BEFORE you sign it, so that you can be sure you are protected.

Once offer and acceptance are made, there is a meeting of the minds, and buyer and seller have signed the document, it is lawyer time. Buyer and seller select an attorney to handle their side of the transaction. If you do not have a preferred real estate attorney, your REALTOR will usually have a few suggestions of offices they have worked with in the past. In Pawleys Island, you will have to choose an office that can close transactions in Georgetown County. My personal favorites are Sean Phelan with Elliot and Phelan Law or Jimmy Moore with McNair Law Firm.


So what does the lawyer do?


On the buyer's side, the attorney (or more likely the proficient paralegal) will perform a title search on the property.  This process establishes and double-checks the chain of title, which answers three important questions:

1. Does the seller actually OWN the property and do they have the right to sell it?
2. Are there any restrictions, easements, or allowances that affect the use of the land?
3. Are there any liens (mortgages, back taxes, mechanic's liens, assessments) that must be paid off at closing?

Anyone can conduct a title search, as ownership of real property is a matter of public record. However, in SC, and attorney's office can conduct a most thorough and exhaustive search. If a cloud is found on a title, meaning an irregularity in the chain of title, then it will have to be corrected before the sale can close. It is a good idea to purchase title insurance that protects a buyer from any title problems that may come up after closing. Ask your attorney about this.

Your attorney also prepares all of the legal documents that transfer ownership of the property to the buyer. You can review your HUD-1 Settlement Statement one day prior to closing. It details all services and fees associated with closing and gives you your bottom line (how much money you need to bring to closing, or how much you walk away with as the seller).

When you meet with your attorney the day of closing, he or she will go over the HUD-1 and the hefty stack of documents which you will sign to transfer ownership. Closing can be done remotely, meaning you do not actually HAVE to be present on closing day; the attorney can Fed-Ex all documents to you for signatures. This is particularly common here in Pawleys Island, where many properties are purchased as a vacation home or investment. 

Once all signatures are acquired, the attorney has goes to the court house to record the deed in the name of the new owner. At that moment, ownership is officially transferred. Champagne time!

The purchase of real property is somewhat complicated affair. Wars have been fought over who has rights to certain properties. In my opinion, the details are best left to a good attorney. Do your research and find a lawyer you trust and feel comfortable with. A real estate lawyer is certainly there to help you with a smooth closing, but you may want to "shop around" to find your best fit.  Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions; that's what they get paid the big bucks for...see HUD-1....:-)

Happy House Hunting!