17 Sep

Posted at 15:23h in Palm Desert, Windermere Palm Desert by
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WINDERMERE AGENTS IN PALM DESERT STAR IN ALL IN VIDEO CAMPAIGN SERIES
Local Brokerage Expands Impressive All In Video Ad Campaign Series Starring Top Real Estate Agents

[September 12, 2019] – On September 6th Windermere Homes & Estates brought the highly anticipated “All In, For You” campaign to the desert!

Word spread and the buzz was high from the audition success in San Diego a few months back. In June, over forty agents signed up for a Casting Call to kick-start the campaign series. With camera-ready looks, scripts in hand, and smiles beaming bright – one by one, agents shared their unique stories in front of the camera.

The newly successful campaign series went live on July 30th. Following in suit with the first casting call from the San Diego offices, Windermere Homes & Estates geared the casting towards agents that work directly with their clients every day, collecting moments, experiences, and achievements while utilizing the tools Windermere provides, helping agents streamline their work and embrace their talents, going “All in” for their clients.

“We were thrilled to have had such a great turn out and we are excited to have even more agents participating in the campaign,” expresses President and CEO of Windermere Home & Estates, Rich Johnson. “After experiencing the first Casting Call, I realized this is something beyond just ourselves – this is something significant for the agents individuality and the company as a whole.”

He continues that there are over 6,500 agents in the Western Region, and a family mindset has been the true success for Windermere over the last forty-six years. “We firmly believe in our agents and helping build their careers – providing the best technology, resources, and guidance possible, but that also includes listening to the agents and acknowledging the value they bring every day to their clients and to each other.”

Windermere Home & Estates Senior Marketing Coordinator, Katie Wyatt points out the continued support the agents have shown for the All In, For You campaign. “The agents represent what Windermere is founded upon: relationships. We want to honor their stories just as much as they uphold Windermere’s, and the families they help. Not to mention, this is fun and something different for us and the agents — it brings us together!”

Windermere Homes & Estates has an emphasis on servicing their clients and the community, continuously striving for integrity, a strict code of ethics, serious market expertise, and a hardcore commitment to the community.

Each month for the remainder of the year, the All In, For You campaign showcases videos, photos, and stories from different agents and will be featured throughout the media, social platforms, and television.

Johnson mentioned, “One of the most repeated comments we heard agents say was how fulfilling it was to be a part of someone’s story in finding a home. Seeing agents share their story is most fulfilling for me.”

The All In, For You Campaign is a true testament in the power of story telling and brings a new standard to empowering agents and the strong, long-lasting relationships Windermere Homes & Estates will continue to make in their journey of success.

About Windermere Real Estate
Windermere Homes & Estates has always focused on three basic principles: hire the best people, give them the best tools, create thriving communities. Collaboration not competition and building relationships with agents, clients and community partners has helped Windermere homes & Estates become one of the top 5 brokerages in California. Backed by Windermere Real Estate, the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. including over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed 87,000 home sales for more than $36.7 billion in dollar volume.

Windermere Homes & Estates donates a portion of the proceeds from every home purchased or sold to the Windermere Foundation, which supports low-income and homeless families in the community. What started in 1989 as a grassroots foundation serving families in need in Washington state, has grown to encompass eleven states and has raised over $38 million for programs and organizations that provide shelter, clothing, children’s programs, emergency assistance and other services to those who need our help the most.

Windermere Homes & Estates was founded by Rich Johnson in 2013 and has been setting the standard ever since. The forward-thinking company has opened 17 offices and hired more than 500 agents with awards such as the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence and the Standards of Ethics, awarded by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR). Creating a “3rd place” for agents to collaborate and connect on a daily basis both virtually and in person has been a key factor in Windermere Homes & Estates’ success.

 

Katie Wyatt, Marketing Manager
Windermere Homes & Estates
[email protected]
760.683.8626

10 Sep

Posted at 11:34h in Windermere Homes & Estates, Windermere San Diego by
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WINDERMERE HOMES & ESTATES BRINGS CONCIERGE PROGRAM TO MARKET
Convenient All-In-One Service Makes the Moving Process So Much Simpler

There are a lot of details involved in moving. You’ll need a range of services including moving vans, cleaning services, home repairs and much more.

Windermere has brought a comprehensive concierge platform onto the scene in San Diego and other markets, making moves and relocation of any size much easier.

The Windermere Concierge platform is designed to help Windermere clients effortlessly manage all important post-transaction tasks in the moving process. It’s the most comprehensive post-transaction concierge platform on the market.

This powerful, cutting edge-tool includes contact details for local vendors within the database and connects with smart-home devices such as Amazon, Alexa and Google Home, making searching for the right vendor incredibly easy.

This not only makes life a lot more convenient for clients, it also helps Windermere agents.

“The best part about it,” explains Senior Marketing Coordinator Katie Wyatt, “is that clients can go on and find vendors quickly and easily.”

For example, finding a painter is as easy as saying, “Hey Alexa, who are the top painters in my area?” Windermere Concierge allows homeowners to schedule cleaning companies, moving companies, repairs and so much more – all from one platform. This gives agents more time to focus on supporting their clients in other ways.

The Windermere Concierge platform also integrates seamlessly with SkySlope – a cloud-based real estate transaction management platform that can count down the days for each transactions. It provides homeowners with a checklist of the common tasks often involved in moving. Windermere Concierge also offers access to a human concierge via text, email or phone – to help with any moving needs.

Plus, this checklist updates in real-time, so homeowners can be working on it simultaneously with their partner (and even leave questions and comments). With Windermere Concierge, there’s no need to reinvent the wheel whenever someone moves. The common services needed, such as cleaners, painters and movers, will pop up whenever they are needed.

The goal of Windermere Concierge is to bring together all elements of the moving process, from transaction to set-up to appointments and much more.

“These days, people want things immediately and they don’t want to have to wait for an answer,” says Wyatt. “They ask Alexa to turn on the oven and turn on the lights or put something in their calendar. To be able to integrate with an action that’s already in someone’s daily life – is huge.”

Windermere Concierge is also the perfect addition to Windermere’s All In, For You campaign and the Private Client Collection. The Private Client Collection is a select number of trusted vendors that work directly with agents and their clients to make their move and transition as seamless as possible. Whether it be flooring, painting or window cleaning; the Private Client Collection vendors support Windermere agents in fronting a portion of the costs for the project; creating a hassle free journey through the end of escrow for both the agent and their clients.

Windermere is leading the way – with the vision that moving or relocating in the future will soon be just as easy as asking Alexa to turn on the lights.

About Windermere Homes & Estates

Windermere Homes & Estates has always focused on three basic principles: hire the best people, give them the best tools, create thriving communities. Collaboration not competition and building relationships with agents, clients and community partners has helped Windermere homes & Estates become one of the top 5 brokerages in California. Backed by Windermere Real Estate, the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. including over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed 87,000 home sales for more than $36.7 billion in dollar volume.

Windermere Homes & Estates donates a portion of the proceeds from every home purchased or sold to the Windermere Foundation, which supports low-income and homeless families in the community. What started in 1989 as a grassroots foundation serving families in need in Washington state, has grown to encompass eleven states and has raised over $38 million for programs and organizations that provide shelter, clothing, children’s programs, emergency assistance and other services to those who need our help the most.

Windermere Homes & Estates was founded by Rich Johnson in 2013 and has been setting the standard ever since. The forward-thinking company has opened 17 offices and hired more than 500 agents with awards such as the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence and the Standards of Ethics, awarded by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR). Creating a “3rd place” for agents to collaborate and connect on a daily basis both virtually and in person has been a key factor in Windermere Homes & Estates’ success.

Katie Wyatt, Marketing Manager
Windermere Homes & Estates
[email protected]
760.683.8626

05 Sep

Posted at 11:06h in Windermere by
0 Likes

Local Brokerage Launches Impressive Video Ad Campaign Series Starring their Top Real Estate Agents

[August 14, 2019] – On June 10th Windermere Homes & Estates hosted a company-wide Casting Call for agents who wanted to be a part of their local media and marketing campaigns.

The idea was the brainchild of Courtney Smith, Director of Operations and Human Resources, who envisioned Windermere agents getting together and sharing their stories. Filming for the All In, For You Campaign began on July 30th and will continue throughout the year as Windermere Homes & Estates features different agents and stories.

Thirty agents auditioned in person and another dozen sent in their videos. Selected agents will be featured in the local version of the All In, For You marketing campaign. At the Casting Calls the Directors were looking for agents with great on-screen personalities and who showed a passion for their clients.

The photos and videos from this campaign will be showcased on TV, local media, as well as being posted on social media. The All In, For You campaign embodies the message that Windermere and their agents go over and above to ensure all clients get the best service they can possibly get. It’s the comprehensive support from the local brokerage that allows agents to go the extra mile for their clients.

“It was a lot of fun for the agents to express themselves on video in their own unique way,” said Rich Johnson, President and CEO of Windermere Homes & Estates. Johnson also remarked on the feeling of unity the experience created. “Sometimes when you have a group of agents who are separated geographically, they don’t get to know each other unless they are doing a transaction together.”

He spoke of agents from different regions of the country meeting each other and explained, “everyone felt like they were a part of something.” The agents who participated made valuable connections that will help them in their careers.

Even if they weren’t featured in the campaign, all participants got to keep their professional photos and video clips, which they can use in their own websites and marketing. Making it a huge win for everyone who came out to support the All In, For You campaign.

Johnson says that the experience of auditions showed him just how much his agents have personally invested in the strong culture of Windermere Homes & Estates.

Some stand out moments from the day include when Laz Castillo said, “We make the process fun beginning to end”

And when Gio Ruiz told the camera, “Being able to expose their properties and find their hidden gem. ”

Windermere has always focused on three basic principles: hire talented people, give them the best tools and create thriving communities.

Out of the Top 20 Franchisors listed in the 2019 Swanepoel Mega 1000 for the US residential real estate brokerage industry, Windermere Real Estate is at #7. The six other real estate franchisors listed above Windermere all have a significantly larger number of agents, making the sales volume per agent at Windermere the highest in the nation.

The Windermere commitment to supporting agents is truly working and it shows in the numbers. The All In, For You campaign, whether on TV, radio or social media, aims to make the message of that commitment clear and highlight the importance of agent support to Windermere’s success.

About Windermere Real Estate

Windermere Real Estate is the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed 87,000 home sales for more than $36.7 billion in dollar volume.

The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than $38 million towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit windermere.com

Windermere Homes & Estates is one of the most successful brokerages in the Windermere Real Estate network. Founded by Rich Johnson in 2013, the forward-thinking company has opened 17 offices and hired more than 500 agents. They are the winner of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), and was are honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running his business. Windermere Homes & Estates is known for providing real estate agents with the highest level of professional and technological support in the state. For more information, visit whesd.com.

Katie Wyatt, Marketing Manager
Windermere Homes & Estates
[email protected]
760.683.8626

04 Sep

Posted at 11:05h in Windermere by
0 Likes

The Rebranding of Windermere Continues with Powerful All In, For You Campaign launch in Southern California.

[August 10, 2019] – Windermere Real Estate has officially launched a new branding campaign filled with powerful stories from actual real estate agents – bringing to life the unique “why” of this innovative company.

Rich Johnson, President and CEO of Windermere Homes & Estates, strives above all to offer the best possible service to his agents, providing them with the tools and support they need to do their job at the highest level. The All In, For You campaign embodies this message.

“Windermere is a brand with a very rich history and legacy,” explains Johnson, “It’s always been an innovative company. We did a brand refresh in 2018 and updated all logos and signage. This All In, For You campaign is part-two of that brand refresh.”

The aim of the campaign is to bring agent stories to life and show clients how Windermere really is “all in for them”. Filming for the All In, For You Campaign started on July 30th and will continue throughout the year as Windermere Homes & Estates features different agents and stories.

“In a world full of technology, people lose site of the most important aspect of real estate. The relationship,” said Johnson. “The All In, For You Campaign brings the relationship between agents and clients to the forefront.”

To create this campaign, Windermere held focus groups with their agents – as well as with past buyers and sellers. The goal was to better understand the experience of working with a Windermere agent.

“Real estate is an infrequent, complicated and emotional process. Every experience and transaction is different. In an era of tech and convenience… we wanted to show the real value of working with a Windermere agent.” says Johnson.

“We wanted to show compassion, expertise, advocacy and over commitment (if you will) to service, to helping people through this complicated and sometimes emotional experience.”

The stories told through the All In, For You Campaign remind us that real estate purchases are significant milestones in people’s lives. The videos show the impact an agent can make on the entire experience for their clients.

“Over the years I have seen agents go over and above for their clients. It could be anything from driving keys to their place to work, to being there to meet a service provider. It just shows how much they care about their clients.”

What can we expect to see from Windermere Homes & Estates as they bring the All In, For You campaign to San Diego? First of all, there will be print and digital marketing elements, as well as partnerships with different media companies. In some markets, Windermere will even be creating TV ads – which might come to San Diego down the road. Windermere has also created new marketing materials for their agents to use when they are listing homes and working with buyers. Creating direct and immediate benefits to their agent base.

This campaign tells the story of just how important human connection and agent support is to the success of Windermere. “When it comes down to it,” says Johnson, “the secret sauce that I have is my team of professionals who work in risk management or marketing or technology – or even drilling down to the person who sits at the front desk.”

“When everyone buys into the All In, campaign, the message is the same, no matter which office you are in or who you are talking to. Everyone at Windermere is committed to making sure the agents get the best service they can possibly get.”

The All In, For You campaign, whether on TV, radio or social media, aims to make the message of that commitment clear and will highlight just how important agent support is to Windermere’s success.

About Windermere Real Estate

Windermere Real Estate is the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed 87,000 home sales for more than $36.7 billion in dollar volume.

The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than $38 million towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit windermere.com

Windermere Homes & Estates is one of the most successful brokerages in the Windermere Real Estate network. Founded by Rich Johnson in 2013, the forward-thinking company has opened 17 offices and hired more than 500 agents. They are the winner of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), and was are honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running his business. Windermere Homes & Estates is known for providing real estate agents with the highest level of professional and technological support in the state. For more information, visit whesd.com.

Rich Johnson, owner of Windermere Homes & Estates launches multimedia-marketing campaign All In, For You in San Diego.

Katie Wyatt, Marketing Manager
Windermere Homes & Estates
[email protected]
760.683.8626

30 Aug

Posted at 11:33h in Windermere, Windermere San Diego by
0 Likes

WINDERMERE’S ALL IN, FOR YOU CAMPAIGN COMES TO SAN DIEGO

The Rebranding of Windermere Continues with Powerful All In, For You Campaign launch in Southern California.

“We make the process fun beginning to end. I’m always available and it makes the experience fun while working hard. How my client feels about me and the transaction as a whole, uh, is important to me. It’s all about our clients and I wanted them to have the best experience possible. Now I am all in for Windermere. I’m all in for Windermere. I am all in for Windermere because Windermere is all in for me and my clients.”

Windermere Real Estate has officially launched a new branding campaign filled with powerful stories from actual real estate agents – bringing to life the unique “why” of this innovative company.

Rich Johnson, President and CEO of Windermere Homes & Estates, strives above all to offer the best possible service to his agents, providing them with the tools and support they need to do their job at the highest level. The All In, For You campaign embodies this message.

“Windermere is a brand with a very rich history and legacy,” explains Johnson, “It’s always been an innovative company. We did a brand refresh in 2018 and updated all logos and signage. This All In, For You campaign is part-two of that brand refresh.”

Read the Official All In, For You Campaign press release here.

If you’d like to learn more, please feel free to reach out!

Katie Wyatt, Marketing Manager
Windermere Homes & Estates
[email protected]
760.683.8626

29 Aug

Posted at 01:28h in Windermere, Windermere San Diego by
0 Likes

WINDERMERE’S ALL IN, FOR YOU CAMPAIGN COMES TO SAN DIEGO

The Rebranding of Windermere Continues with Powerful All In, For You Campaign launch in Southern California.

“I have become a trusted advisor to my clients. Being able to expose their properties and find their hidden gem. Just knowing that you feel supported helps you know you’re making the right decisions. They rely on me to jump in a pool of sharks. We give them the attention they deserve. It’s part of the culture. Collaboration, not competition. Are you ready to let me put the power of Windermere to work for you?”

The aim of the campaign is to bring agent stories to life and show clients how Windermere really is “all in for them”. Filming for the All In, For You Campaign started on July 30th and will continue throughout the year as Windermere Homes & Estates features different agents and stories.

“In a world full of technology, people lose site of the most important aspect of real estate. The relationship,” said Johnson. “The All In, For You Campaign brings the relationship between agents and clients to the forefront.”

To create this campaign, Windermere held focus groups with their agents – as well as with past buyers and sellers. The goal was to better understand the experience of working with a Windermere agent.

Read the Official All In, For You Campaign press release here.

If you’d like to learn more, please feel free to reach out!

Katie Wyatt, Marketing Manager
Windermere Homes & Estates
[email protected]
760.683.8626

28 Aug

Posted at 11:17h in Windermere, Windermere San Diego by
0 Likes

The Rebranding of Windermere Continues with Powerful All In, For You Campaign launch in Southern California.

“I am all in for Windermere, I am all in for Windermere. I am all in for Windermere. I am all in for Windermere. I am all in for Windermere because Windermere, because Windermere, because Windermere is all in for me and my clients. Because Windermere is all in for me and my clients. I am all in for Windermere because Windermere is all in for me and my clients.”

Windermere Real Estate has officially launched a new branding campaign filled with powerful stories from actual real estate agents – bringing to life the unique “why” of this innovative company.

Rich Johnson, President and CEO of Windermere Homes & Estates, strives above all to offer the best possible service to his agents, providing them with the tools and support they need to do their job at the highest level. The All In, For You campaign embodies this message.

“Windermere is a brand with a very rich history and legacy,” explains Johnson, “It’s always been an innovative company. We did a brand refresh in 2018 and updated all logos and signage. This All In, For You campaign is part-two of that brand refresh.”

Read the Official All In, For You Campaign press release here.

If you’d like to learn more, please feel free to reach out!

Katie Wyatt, Marketing Manager
Windermere Homes & Estates
[email protected]
760.683.8626

19 Aug

Posted at 21:08h in Agents, Get A Real Estate License, Join Our Group!, Local Real Estate News, Real Estate News, Realtors, San Diego County Real Estate, Windermere, Windermere Homes & Estates, Windermere San Diego by
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Dan Larson brings decades of executive level sales and marketing experience to his real estate clients.  “From international airlines, luxury resorts then real estate, I have been selling one thing or another my entire business life.”

A San Diego resident since 1980, Dan’s established deep roots in the region.  Prior to obtaining a real estate license, Dan owned residences in Mission Hills, Rancho Penasquitos, Escondido, Poway, Rancho Bernardo, Little Italy, East Village and Kensington.  Each purchase and sale fine-tuned Dan’s ability to identify potential and maximize profit – preparation for a future career.

Earlier, Dan was tapped by an international airline for the role of Training Instructor.  Creating and presenting curriculum, training and testing new-hire candidates, polished his public speaking and presentation skills.

Next, San Diego’s luxury hotels needed a talented National Sales Manager to solicit corporate group business and negotiate complex, 7 figure contracts.  Dan accepted the challenge and excelled, earning numerous production awards.

2004 launched a career in real estate sales.  The intervening 15 years proved to be the best and worst of times in the industry.  From boom to bust, Dan’s determination prevailed, holding steady while many of his contemporaries left the industry.  Today he is more ready than ever to help his clients obtain superior outcomes with their next purchase or sale.

Dan feels any boasting is best left to his clients; sharing this recent testimonial:

 “Dan is a seller’s dream!  He is a consummate professional, great communicator and made the entire process of selling a house quick, easy and fun.  I cannot stress enough how amazing he was in communicating next steps, updates, suggestions and answering any and all questions we had.  He did an amazing job and kept everything on schedule…not to mention a quick sale and closing.  We would HIGHLY recommend Dan and Dwell Well Realty for anyone looking for an awesome selling experience.  Thanks again Dan!”  J. Fimbres, Rowena St, San Diego

“Dan is not only a great communicator but his eye for detail can’t be matched. With his personal experience buying and selling his own properties Dan has a gift for anticipating and smoothing the rough spots before they hit his radar. We’re happy he’s chosen to join our team in Rancho Bernardo,” says Rich Johnson, owner of Windermere Homes & Estates.

You can contact Dan at 619.865.1817 or by email at [email protected]

About Windermere Real Estate

In just over 6 years, Southern California-based Windermere Homes & Estates owner Rich Johnson has opened 17 offices and has had over 500 agents join the team. Winner of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), Windermere Homes & Estates was also honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running his business.

Windermere Real Estate is ranked the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed over 86,000 sides for more than $31.7 billion in dollar volume. The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than 38 million dollars towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit www.windermere.com.

16 Aug

Posted at 20:23h in Real Estate News, Real Estate Tips, Realtors by
0 Likes

Some the features that increase property values are obvious—like a remodeled bathroom, a modern kitchen, or a sought-after neighborhood. But here are a few features and circumstances you have not have realized can affect property values.

 

  1. The neighbors: Not every neighborhood or community has an HOA that can keep the neighbors from going overboard with decorations or neglecting to care for their home. Homes adjacent to crazy neighbors can potentially be undervalued.
  2. Trendy groceries and coffee: Recent statistics suggest that if your home is a short walk from popular grocery stores like Whole Foods or coffee chains like Starbucks, it can actually appreciate faster than the national average.
  3. Mature trees: A big beautiful tree in the front yard is enviable, and it’s not something that can be easily added to any home. Homes with mature trees tend to get a little boost in value.
  4. Parking: This isn’t too much of an issue if you live in the suburbs or in a rural area, but residents in dense cities can have real problems with parking, and homeowners might need to rent a spot just to guarantee a place to park each night. That’s why having guaranteed parking in urban areas will raise property values.
  5. The front entrance: First impressions matter to buyers—many will cross a home off their list within 10 seconds of stepping through the front door. An appealing front door, a friendly entryway, and a functioning doorbell are all necessities for getting top dollar.

 

About Windermere Real Estate

 

In just over 6 years, Southern California-based Windermere Homes & Estates owner Rich Johnson has opened 17 offices and has had over 500 agents join the team. Winner of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), Windermere Homes & Estates was also honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running his business.

 

Windermere Real Estate is ranked the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed over 86,000 sides for more than $31.7 billion in dollar volume. The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than 38 million dollars towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit www.windermere.com.

16 Aug

Posted at 19:53h in Real Estate News, Real Estate Tips, Realtors by
0 Likes

There is a difference between the two—here’s how to get your home ready to sell Once you’ve decided to put your home on the market, you’re looking to sell quickly for the best possible price. One tactic that can help sell your home faster is staging.

 

At first, staging may seem like a real estate term that doesn’t actually mean anything. Isn’t staging just decorating? Well, not exactly …

 

Appeal to the masses
Your home is likely decorated to your tastes. It could be colorful and eclectic, or rugged and industrial. But when you’re staging your home, rather than appealing to a specific decorating sense, you want to furnish your home in a way that appeals to everyone—and more importantly, doesn’t turn anyone off who just isn’t into your personal style.

 

Tone down the personal flourishes
Buyers want to be able see themselves in a home and imagine how they’d make it their own. Unfortunately, that means less of your own style as you’re preparing for your move. Cut down on family photos, bold artwork, and unusual furniture. Do some major decluttering so the buyer can see all the space and storage opportunities. It may be sad to start removing the items that make your house a home, but it’s an important part of the process.

 

Mass appeal doesn’t mean “boring”
Your staged home can still be colorful, just stay away from extremes. If you paint, stick to whites, grays, or neutrals. Add flourishes of color with window treatments or accent furniture, but try to choose items that will appeal to both genders.

 

Call a pro
There are likely several staging companies in your area. If you need a recommendation, reach out to your trusted real estate professional.

 

About Windermere Real Estate

 

In just over 6 years, Southern California-based Windermere Homes & Estates owner Rich Johnson has opened 17 offices and has had over 500 agents join the team. Winner of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), Windermere Homes & Estates was also honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running his business.

 

Windermere Real Estate is ranked the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed over 86,000 sides for more than $31.7 billion in dollar volume. The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than 38 million dollars towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit www.windermere.com.

14 Aug

Posted at 21:10h in Local Real Estate News, Real Estate News, Realtors, San Diego County Real Estate by
0 Likes
[layerslider id=”1″]

 

Every year, here at Windermere Homes & Estates, we donate a day of service to our community. Last Friday, we spent the day at Feeding San Diego, sorting fruits, vegetables, and reclaimed food for families in need. With the help of YOU, our agents; we were able to donate $15,000 equaling 60,000 meals and feeding 63,000 people for a week.

We thrive on building relationships, whether they be with agents, staff or community outreach partners. Creating thriving relationships is one of the core principles that Windermere was founded on.

Thank you for your continued support in creating thriving communities!

About Windermere

The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than 38 million dollars towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit www.windermere.com.

 

 

09 Aug

Posted at 10:00h in Real Estate News, Real Estate Tips, Realtors by
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Few things in the home buying process are more frustrating than having your offer accepted, only to have the appraisal fall below your offer. But all is not lost! If the appraisal comes in below your offer, there are several tactics and strategies that can lead to a happy solution.

 

Get a second opinion: There’s no need to take the appraiser’s estimate as fact. You can pursue a value appeal, or you can discuss a second appraisal with your prospective lender. Sometimes you can even get the seller to pay for the second appraisal, because they will be motivated to complete the sale. Your real estate professional should be able to help you through the process of an appeal or a second opinion.

 

Renegotiate for a lower price: Unless the market is extremely hot, there’s a good chance the seller can be talked town to the appraised value. Sellers often prefer to complete the deal, rather than putting the property back on the market.

 

If all else fails, resist the urge to pay more: Sure, paying more in cash to cover the difference between the loan amount and the agreed upon sale price is tempting. Buying a home is an emotional experience, and you may think that this particular home is the only one that you’ll be satisfied with. Take a step back and consider searching for another property.

 

About Windermere Real Estate

 

In just over 5 years, Southern California-based Windermere Homes & Estates co-owners Rich Johnson and Brian Gooding have opened 17 offices and have had over 500 agents join their team. Winners of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded to them by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), Windermere Homes & Estates was also honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running their business.

 

Windermere Real Estate is ranked the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed over 86,000 sides for more than $31.7 billion in dollar volume. The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than 38 million dollars towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit www.windermere.com.

06 Aug

Posted at 10:00h in Real Estate News, Real Estate Tips, Realtors by
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We all know that searching for and viewing potential homes is the fun part of the home-buying process. The not-so-fun part? The mortgage.

 

But if you don’t pay attention to the details, your mortgage can end up dragging down the enjoyment of your new home and cause some major regrets. Here are a few mistakes to avoid to ensure that you love your mortgage terms as much as your hew home.

 

Don’t find your home first: Shopping around for the best mortgage rate should be the first step in the home buying process. You may even want to talk to a mortgage broker a full year before you plan to buy. It’ll give you time to get your affairs in order to qualify for the best rate, could save you thousands of dollars in the long run, and you won’t feel rushed to accept an unattractive loan because you’re worried you’ll miss out on your dream home.

 

Don’t forget your real budget: There’s often a big difference between what a lender says you can afford and what you can actually afford. Your debt-to-income ratio doesn’t include the money you spend on hobbies, or the cost of commuting to work, or maintenance and utility costs.

 

Really sit down and examine your spending before committing to the loan amount the lender is offering. You won’t enjoy your home nearly as much if it’s eating into your favorite hobbies.

 

About Windermere Real Estate

 

In just over 5 years, Southern California-based Windermere Homes & Estates co-owners Rich Johnson and Brian Gooding have opened 17 offices and have had over 500 agents join their team. Winners of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded to them by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), Windermere Homes & Estates was also honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running their business.

 

Windermere Real Estate is ranked the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed over 86,000 sides for more than $31.7 billion in dollar volume. The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than 38 million dollars towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit www.windermere.com.

02 Aug

Posted at 10:00h in Real Estate News, Real Estate Tips, Realtors by
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Moving into a new home is an exciting time, and you’re probably daydreaming about decor and paint schemes and new furniture. But before you get into the fun stuff, there are some basics you should cover first.

 

Change the locks
Even if you’re promised that new locks have been installed in your home, you can never be too careful. It’s worth the money to have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that no one else has the keys to your home. Changing the locks can be a DIY project, or you can call in a locksmith for a little extra money.

 

Steam clean the carpets
It’s good to get a fresh start with your floors before you start decorating. The previous owners may have had pets, young children, or just some plain old clumsiness. Take the time to steam clean the carpets so that your floors are free of stains and allergens. It’s pretty easy and affordable to rent a steam cleaner—your local grocery store may have them available.

 

Call an exterminator
Prior to move-in, you probably haven’t spent enough time in the house to get a view of any pests that may be lurking. Call an exterminator to take care of any mice, insects, and other critters that may be hiding in your home.

 

Clean out the kitchen
If the previous occupants wanted to skip on some of their cleaning duties when they moved out, the kitchen is where they probably cut corners. Wipe down the inside of cabinets, clean out the refrigerator, clean the oven, and clean in the nooks and crannies underneath the appliances.

 

About Windermere Real Estate

 

In just over 5 years, Southern California-based Windermere Homes & Estates co-owners Rich Johnson and Brian Gooding have opened 17 offices and have had over 500 agents join their team. Winners of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded to them by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), Windermere Homes & Estates was also honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running their business.

 

Windermere Real Estate is ranked the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed over 86,000 sides for more than $31.7 billion in dollar volume. The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than 38 million dollars towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit www.windermere.com.

30 Jul

Posted at 10:00h in Real Estate News, Real Estate Tips, Realtors by
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When you own your home, things are going to break and, unless you want to spend your money on visits from a neighborhood handyman, you’re going to need to fix them yourself. Luckily, you don’t need an arsenal of tools to handle most home maintenance fixes. These five tools will cover most of your basic projects.

  1. Cordless drill. A cordless drill is a must-have for installing cabinets, drawer pulls, hinges, picture frames, shelves and hooks, and more. Whether it’s for do-it-yourself projects or repairs, you’ll use your cordless drill just about every month.
  2. Drain cleaners. Shower and bathroom sink drains are susceptible to clogs because of the daily buildup of hair and whisker clippings. You can use chemical clog removers like Drano, but they’re expensive and the lingering chemical scent is unpleasant. Instead, buy some plastic drain cleaners that can reach into the drain to pull out the clog of hair and gunk. You can purchase them on Amazon or at a local hardware store for a low price.
  3. Shop-vac. No matter how careful you are, spills and accidents will happen and there are some tasks that just can’t be handled with paper towels or a standard vacuum, like pet messes or broken glass.
  4. Loppers. Even the minimum amount of care for your landscaping will require some loppers to remove damaged branches, vines, thick weeds, and any other unruly plants in your yard.
  5. Flashlight. You’re going to want something a little more powerful than your iPhone flashlight when you’re in the crawlspace!

26 Jul

Posted at 17:14h in Real Estate News, Real Estate Tips, Realtors by
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Being a homeowner is one of the biggest milestones in your life. You feel excited and proud to take care of your new house and truly turn it into a home for you and your family. To keep your house in the best shape possible, here are five bad homeowner habits to avoid.

 

  1. Damaging doors. Slamming your doors can have a huge impact in the long run as it can slowly pull your doors out of alignment and potentially create gaps and cracks near your exterior doors, letting air seep in and boosting your utility bill.
  2. Harmful humidity. Showers lasting over 10 to 12 minutes at high water temperatures can increase chances of mildew and mold growing in your bathroom. Over time, this can also cause the paint on your ceiling to bubble and peel from condensation.
  3. Abusing appliances. Clean the lint tray in your dryer after every use, run the oven cleaning cycle at least once a month, and try to wipe down your stovetop and microwave down regularly to avoid grease and residue build up.
  4. Soiling surfaces. After eating a meal, applying makeup, or working and playing outdoors, try to wash your hands before touching walls, cabinets, and doors. Plus, make it a house rule to remove shoes at the door to avoid tracking dirt onto carpets and rugs.
  5. Punishing pipes. Although not the best of topics, a clog in your pipes or main drain can be a huge pain and costly to fix. Regularly clean hair out of your sink and shower drains and avoid flushing cleansing wipes, paper towels, or feminine products down the toilet.

 

About Windermere Real Estate

 

In just over 5 years, Southern California-based Windermere Homes & Estates co-owners Rich Johnson and Brian Gooding have opened 17 offices and have had over 500 agents join their team. Winners of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded to them by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), Windermere Homes & Estates was also honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running their business.

 

Windermere Real Estate is ranked the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed over 86,000 sides for more than $31.7 billion in dollar volume. The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than 38 million dollars towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit www.windermere.com.

23 Jul

Posted at 18:42h in Real Estate News, Real Estate Tips, Realtors by
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One of the most daunting parts of selling your home is deciding what to price it at. You don’t want to price too high and get little to no traction but you don’t want to price too low and undervalue your home. There are so many things to take into consideration, so we’ve outlined the top things you should do before you list.

 

Enlist the help of a local expert. Local agents have years of experience in the market you are selling in, plus have a lot of industry expertise to bring to the table. They will factor in the unique offerings of your home and neighborhood and your wants and needs for the sale of the home to help you properly price.

 

Research homes for sale in your neighborhood. It’s always a good idea to do a little recon on homes for sale in your area. View current and past listings online to find homes that have similar features and were built around the same year as yours to get an idea of prices. Open house in your neighborhood? Take time to pop by in person and get a feel for what their home has to offer at what price.

 

Remove the emotion. Whether it’s your first or fourth home, it is the setting of so many amazing memories and holds a special place in your heart. Unfortunately, emotional attachment to your home can cloud your judgment when pricing it. Try to place your personal feelings about your home on the back burner and focus on tangible features of your home that add great value.

 

About Windermere Real Estate

 

In just over 5 years, Southern California-based Windermere Homes & Estates co-owners Rich Johnson and Brian Gooding have opened 17 offices and have had over 500 agents join their team. Winners of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded to them by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), Windermere Homes & Estates was also honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running their business.

 

Windermere Real Estate is ranked the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed over 86,000 sides for more than $31.7 billion in dollar volume. The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than 38 million dollars towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit www.windermere.com.

02 Jul

Posted at 20:17h in Real Estate News, Real Estate Tips, Realtors by
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A recent survey from the National Association of Realtors® revealed that 77 percent of buyers’ agents said staging a home makes it easier for potential buyers to visual it as their own. That’s why here at Breakthrough Broker, we believe staging is not to be overlooked! Here are our top tips.

  1. Dress up your yard. First impressions count, and the first one your home gives comes from the exterior. Mow the lawn, clean up shrubbery, rake any leaves, clean the walkway and driveway, plant in-season flowers, and pull up any unsightly weeds.
  2. Reduce personal items. Make it easier for buyers to imagine themselves making your house their home by removing personal photos and knick-knacks from shelves, walls, and counters. Instead replace them with clean, simple décor, such as abstract paintings, nature images, vases, plants, and more.
  3. Organize your storage areas. Storage is a huge selling point. Tidy up and clear out the accessible closets and cupboards in the home and make sure to point them out during an open house or showing.
  4. Appeal to the senses. Consider ways you can appeal to potential home buyers’ other senses. During a viewing or open house, bake some fresh cookies or burn delicious smelling candles and play light, relaxing music in the background.
  5. Consider turning to an expert. With their knowledge of current trends and great eye for design, professionally certified stagers can transform a home in a variety of ways and have a keen sense of what home buyers want and expect in a home. Investing in hiring a pro may pay off in dividends.

 

About Windermere Real Estate

 

In just over 5 years, Southern California-based Windermere Homes & Estates co-owners Rich Johnson and Brian Gooding have opened 17 offices and have had over 500 agents join their team. Winners of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded to them by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), Windermere Homes & Estates was also honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running their business.

 

Windermere Real Estate is ranked the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed over 86,000 sides for more than $31.7 billion in dollar volume. The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than 38 million dollars towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit www.windermere.com.

25 Jun

Posted at 18:48h in Real Estate News, Real Estate Tips, Realtors by
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Home inspection is a crucial step in the home buying process. After finding the perfect house, you will want to ensure that there are no hidden faults that may require lengthy and expensive repairs or renovations down the line.

To prepare you for this process, here are the top four things you need to know.

  1. The buyer is responsible for the inspection. Make sure you give yourself ample time to find a reputable, certified home inspector by asking for referrals from your real estate agent, friends, and family and do your research online. Plus, don’t forget to factor in the cost of the inspection into your budget.
  2. Home inspectors are usually generalists. They will evaluate most areas of your home, such as the foundation, basement, plumbing, electrical systems, heating and cooling systems, walls, floors, ceilings, and attics. But, if your home is equipped with special features, like a pool or chimney, you may need to hire a specialist.
  3. Buyers can attend the inspection. In fact, a lot of inspectors suggest it! This is an opportunity for you to get any outstanding questions regarding the condition of the house you are purchasing answered.
  4. You have options if the inspection uncovers a problem. If the problems discovered are serious, like structural damage or safety issues, the seller is legally required to fix them. You also have the option to back out of the purchase without facing any consequences. If the problems are smaller, you can submit a formal request for repairs and negotiate for them to cover some or all of the cost.

About Windermere Real Estate

In just over 5 years, Southern California-based Windermere Homes & Estates co-owners Rich Johnson and Brian Gooding have opened 17 offices and have had over 500 agents join their team. Winners of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded to them by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), Windermere Homes & Estates was also honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running their business.

Windermere Real Estate is ranked the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed over 86,000 sides for more than $31.7 billion in dollar volume. The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than 38 million dollars towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit www.windermere.com.

21 Jun

Posted at 16:36h in Real Estate News, Real Estate Tips, Realtors by
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Selling your home can be an exciting, but stressful time. Luckily you are not alone in this process. Finding the right listing agent is key to having a successful, smooth experience. Your listing agent will help you price and market your home, negotiate with home buyers, and walk you through home inspection and closing. You want to find someone who has your best interest in mind and is knowledgeable and experienced. Select an agent about six to eight weeks before putting your home on the market. Ask friends and family for recommendations, do thorough review searches online, and conduct in-depth interviews with several agents before making a final decision. During each interview, make sure you clearly state your goals for the sale and what you are looking for in an agent. To help you pick the best agent for you, here’s what you should consider.

  • Are they a full-time agent?
  • How many years have they been a listing agent?
  • Have they sold any homes in your neighborhood in the past year?
  • What types of homes/properties do they normally list?
  • What is their process for marketing homes?
  • What does an open house event look like for them?
  • Will you be working with the same individual throughout the process or will it be a team?
  • What is their level of responsiveness?
  • What is their average sold-to-list timeline?
  • How many listings are they managing right now?
  • What will be expected from you throughout the process?
  • What is their fee?
  • Can you talk to one of their previous clients?

Using this criteria, you can narrow down your options and find the right fit for you!

About Windermere Real Estate

In just over 5 years, Southern California-based Windermere Homes & Estates co-owners Rich Johnson and Brian Gooding have opened 17 offices and have had over 500 agents join their team. Winners of the Brokerage Achievement of Excellence, awarded to them by the San Diego Association of Realtors® (SDAR), Windermere Homes & Estates was also honored to be the first recipient of the new annual SDAR Award given for standard of ethics, commitment to compliance and high regards for running their business.

Windermere Real Estate is ranked the largest regional real estate company in the Western U.S. with over 300 offices and 6,500 agents serving communities in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Mexico. Last year, Windermere closed over 86,000 sides for more than $31.7 billion in dollar volume. The Windermere family has a proud heritage of serving our neighbors via the Windermere Foundation which funds services for low-income and homeless families. Since 1989, the Windermere Foundation has contributed more than 38 million dollars towards improving lives in the communities where we live and work. For more information, visit www.windermere.com.