Onslow County NC Homes Talk

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Santa's Secret Wish

Here's a poem that I found some time ago that I really like and thought you might enjoy it too. santa's secret wish

 

On Christmas Eve,
a young boy with light in his eyes,
Looked deep into Santa's,
to Santa's surprise,
And said as he nestled on Santa's broad knee,
"I want your secret, tell it to me."

He leaned up & whispered in Santa's good ear,
"How do you do it, year after year?"
"I want to know how, as you travel about,
Giving gifts here & there, you never run out.

How is it, dear Santa, that in your pack of toys,
You have plenty for all of the world's girls & boys?
Stays so full, never empties as you make your way
From rooftop to rooftop, to homes large & small,

From nation to nation, reaching them all?

And Santa smiled kindly & said to the boy,

"Don't ask me hard questions.
Don't you want a toy?"

But the child shook his head, and Santa could see
That he needed the answer. "Now listen to me,"
He told the small boy with the light in his eyes,
"My secret will make you sadder & wise.

"The truth is that my sack is magic. Inside
It holds millions of toys for my Christmas Eve ride.
But although I do visit each girl & each boy
I don't always leave them a gaily wrapped toy.

Some homes are hungry, some homes are sad.
Some homes are desperate, some homes are bad.
Some homes are broken, & children there grieve.
Those homes I visit, but what should I leave?

"My sleigh is filled with the happiest stuff,
But for homes where despair lives,
toys aren't enough.
So I tiptoe in, kiss each girl & boy,
And pray with them that they'll be given the joy

Of the spirit of Christmas, the spirit that lives
In the heart of the dear child who gets not,
but gives.
If only God hears me & answers my prayer,
When I visit next year, what I will find there

Are homes filled with peace,
and with giving, and love
And boys and girls gifted with light from above.
It's a very hard task, my smart little brother,
To give toys to some,
and to give prayers to others.

But the prayers are the best gifts,
the best gifts indeed,
For God has a way of meeting each need.
"That's part of the answer.
The rest, my dear youth,
Is that my sack is magic, And that is the truth.

In my sack I carry on Christmas Eve day
More love than a Santa could e'er give away.
The sack never empties of love, or of joys
'Cause inside it are prayers, and hopes.
Not just toys.

The more that I give, the fuller it seems,
Because giving is my way of fulfilling dreams.
"And do you know something?
You've got a sack, too.
It's as magic as mine, and it's inside of you.

It never gets empty, it's full from the start.
It's the centre of lights, and of love. It's your heart.
And if on this Christmas you want to help me,
Don't be so concerned with your gifts
'neath your tree.

Open that sack, call your heart, & share
Your joy, your friendship, your wealth, your care."
The light in the small boy's eyes was glowing.
"Thanks for the secret. I've got to be going."

"Wait, little boy," said Santa "don't go.
Will you share? Will you help?
Will you use what you know?"
And just for a moment the small boy stood still,
Touched his heart with his small hand & whispered,

"I will."
 

Author:  Betty Werth Westrope

 
Photo property of Cynthia Tilghman 

 

 

Christmas Skate in Jacksonville North Carolina

Hi Onslow County North Carolina Parents,

I know, the kids are out of school for Christmas and you have 1 million things to do between now and Tuesday.  Wouldn't it be great if you could drop the kids off for a fun afternoon while you finish up that shopping or baking.

Good News!  You can.                       skating in Jacksonville North Carolina

Friday, December 21 from 1-5 p.m the County Parks and Recreation Department and the Recreation Station are sponsoring a "Christmas Skate".

Cost - $4.00/person (includes skate rental)

Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult

Location:  Recreation Station -  433 Western Blvd., Jacksonville
910 478 0010

 

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist 
910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..


Graphic courtesy of ClipArt Heaven

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Relocation to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Hello Military Family,

Are you relocating to Camp Lejeune or New River Air Station in Jacksonville, North Carolina?    moving to Camp Lejeune North Carolina 

If so, I am here to help make the transition a little easier, smoother and less stressful.    I specialize in assisting military families in finding homes in Onslow County North Carolina.   

I understand all the many things that must be done before, during and after the move. 

  • There's the house to sell

  • Then you will need to find a home near the new base

  • Your spouse has to resign from his/her job

  • Your spouse has  to find a new job in the new location

  • The kids have to be enrolled in new schools

  • The kids will need to find new sports teams, dance classes, music lessons, etc.

  • There are accounts which must be closed

  • There accounts that will need to be opened and on and on it goes. 

Wouldn't it be nice if there was a guide?  Good news!  This guide takes you through the first steps, what to do, who to contact and how to go about it. 


I hope that your relocation to or from Camp LeJeune or New River Air Station in Jacksonville, N C is a smooth and pleasant one. 

If I can assist you in buying or selling a home or property anywhere in Onslow County, please contact me.

I am proud of the opportunity that I have to assist military families and look forward to working with you. 

 

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..

(Photo courtesy of FlickR - D-Day) 


Is Your Attitude Like Wet Tissue?

Am I the only one that forgets to take tissues out of pockets before doing laundry?  laundry Onslow County Homes

It's the time of year when at least one person in the family has the sniffles.  So, that means tissues in the pockets of pants and jackets.  Does anyone think to take them out before putting them in the laundry basket?  The answer is "no", not at my house anyway.  Not even me.  

This morning I did a load of dark clothes which included black tops, a black sweat suit and jeans.  To my very unpleasant surprise, when I opened the washer to pull out the clean, wet clothes and put them in the dryer......there on all these dark colored, wet clothes were tiny, little pieces of tissue!  (I should have taken a photo, but guess I was too distressed to think about it)

Not fun!  I know, it's my fault--the tissue was in my pockets and I should have checked.  I am responsible.   Not the way I wanted to start my day.


Is your attitude like wet tissue?  A negative attitude and outlook could be like the wet tissue on my wet, dark colored clothes.   

If you are not very careful, it will break into lots of small pieces and get on and contaminate everything around you.  Once is gets on and into things, getting it completely off without leaving traces of it behind is very difficult.

Remember, you are responsible and if it happens--it's your fault.          

 

 Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..

(Photo courtesy of FlickR- DeathbyLaundry)

 

 

 

Onslow County High School Sports - Week of December 17, 2007

I know you are busy with your Christmas shopping, baking and preparations but the games must go on!  

Basketball and wrestling are in full swing and this week is no exception.  Try to support your local high school sports programs, the kids love seeing you in the bleachers.

Monday, December 17

Boys Basketball
Southwest Onslow at East Duplin - 7:30 p.m

White Oak at West Brunswick - 7:30 p.m. 

James Kenan at Dixon - 7:30 p.m.

Lejeune at North Duplin - 7:30 p.m                                           

Girls Basketball
Southwest Oslow at East Duplin - 6:00 p.m.                                                        girls basketball in onslow county north carolina                         

White Oak at West Brunswick - 6:00 p.m.

James Kenan at Dix - 6:00 p.m.

Lejeune at North Duplin - 6:00 p.m. 

Wrestling
South Brunswick at Jacksonville -6:00 p.m.

East Duplin at Richlands - 6:00 p.m. 

Tuesday, December 18

Boys Basketball
White Oak at West Brunswick - 7:30 p.m.

James Kenan at Dixon - 7:30 p.m.

Lejeune at North Duplin - 7:30 p.m. 

Girls Basketball
White Oak at West Brunswick - 6:00 p.m

James Kenan at Dixon - 6:00 p.m.

Lejeune at North Duplin - 6:00 p.m. 

Wrestling

South Brunswick at Jacksonville - 6:00 p.m.

East Duplin at Richlands - 6:00 p.m. 

Wednesday, December 19

Boys Basketball
Richlands at East Duplin - 7:30 p.m.

Girls Basketball
Richlands at East Duplin - 6:00 p.m.

Wrestling
Trask, Dixon at North Brunswick - 6:00 p.m.

Hoggard at White Oak - 8 p.m


See you at the game!

Graphic courtesy of ClipArt Heaven

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

 

 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..

 

 

 

 

 





 

Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole - Make Now!

Christmas Breakfast, Hubert North CarolinaPrepare now for Christmas morning breakfast or brunch!  This is the breakfast casserole that we will have after checking out what Santa has brought.  It is already in the freezer!

 

Sausage-Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole 

1 lb. mild ground pork sausage

1 lb. hot ground pork sausage 

1 (30 oz.) pkg. frozen hash browns

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

1  cups shredded Cheddar cheese

6 large eggs

2 cups milk

Cook sausage in large skillet over medium high heat, stirring until sausage crumbles and is no longer pink.  Drain well to remove grease.  (I drain & then pat between paper towel).  

Prepare hash browns according to directions on package, using 1/2 teaspoon salt & 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

Stir together prepared sausage and hash browns and 1 cup of cheese.  Pour into a 13x9 baking dish.  (See note below)

Whisk together eggs, milk and remaining 1 teaspoon salt.  Pour evenly over potato/sausage mixture. 

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 40 minutes. 

Serves:  8-10 generously

Note:  If freezing prepare to this point, wrap well and place in freezer.  On Christmas Eve, remove from freezer and place in the refrigerator to thaw overnight.

Whisk together eggs & milk to have ready to pour over the casserole just prior to baking.  Bake as directed.

Enjoy!

(Photo property of Cynthia Tilghman)

                         
Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..

 

North Carolina Celebrates Wright Brothers First Flight

On a cold, windy day in December, 104 years ago man first flew with the birds in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. 

Today is a very important and memorable day in North Carolina's history and the history of aviation.            North Carolina first flight thoughts by Onslow County Home Specialist

It was on December 17, 1903 that Orville Wright made a 12-second, sustained flight which took off from Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.  It was the first successful, powered, piloted flight in history.

The flight might have happened on December 13 , the weather was ideal..but that was a Sunday and the brothers had promised their Dad they would not attempt the flight on the Sabbath.  The weather conditions worsened for the next few days but on Thursday Orville and Wilbur decided that if they were going to get back home to Ohio for Christmas, they had to go ahead with their attempt.

The Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, first experimented in 1899 after Wilbur wrote the Smithsonian requesting information on flight experiments.  They spent many hours watching and observing birds in flight.  

For three years the Wright brothers built and tested numerous gliders and kites which met with disappointment, failure and/or limited success before launching their history making flight in 1903. 

Due to the discipline, imagination, persistence and faith of two young men, that little wood aircraft brought all the essentials that still give flight to every modern aircraft.  

We can all take a lesson from Orville and Wilbur's optimism, determination and faith.  I can imagine that there were many times when they were tempted to throw in the towel and go back to their bicycle shop.  But they believed in their dream of man flying and did not give up.  

Do you believe in what you are doing?  If you do,

  • hang tough

  • work hard

  • believe

  • and you too, will succeed

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..


 

 

 


 

Adopt a Pet from the Onslow County Animal Shelter

Santa - pet for Christmas - Onslow County NC animal shelterIf you are thinking of giving a dog or cat to someone for Christmas, please consider adopting one from the Onslow County Animal Shelter.

Visit the shelter located at 244 Georgetown Road in Jacksonville.  Here you will find dogs of all breeds, sizes and ages eager to be adopted and loved.   There is sure to be one that will steal your heart.  Take a look at some of the dogs that are waiting to be chosen.                                                                                             dog and cat - Jacksonville NC animal shelter

There are kittens and cats that need homes and surely you will find one that you can't leave behind.  Here are some of the adorable cats that are now available at the Onslow County shelter.

Pets are wonderful gifts but keep in mind.... owning a pet requires commitment and responsibility.  

 

If you are looking for a new home contact me.......I can help you


Photo courtesy of Flickr--bored                                                          Photo courtesy of Flickr _groszek_

 

 

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..

 

Make Christmas Memories

Whew!  Where is the time going?  Today is December 15 according to my calendar, which means 10 more days until Christmas.   There is so much to do, how are we supposed to get it all done? 

I promised myself, there would be less shopping, fewer gifts and parties and more time spent with family and friends. I really am trying hard but it is very difficult.  

My daughter and I decorated our tree and it was a wonderful time together.  We talked about baby Jesus, sang songs, ate Christmas cookies and drank hot chocolate.  We laughed, hugged and went to bed tired and happy.

I have delivered most of my homemade gifts to clients, friends and business associates.  client gift basket

Here's hoping you are not stressing out over all the "have to do's" that we put on ourselves and you are taking the time to make memories that will last a lifetime.

 

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

 

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..

 

Wounded Warriors Heading Home for Christmas

There was a very special dinner held in New Bern, North Carolina last evening.  It was a fund raiser to send Marines from the East Coast Wounded Warriors Barracks at Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina home for  Christmas. 

Thanks to the efforts of the Military Order of the Purple Heart and people in the community, 100 plane tickets will be purchased for these wounded Marines to spend Christmas with their families.     wounded marines camp lejeune north carolina

Some of these men and women have not been home for Christmas in several years.  They told supporters of the event that this was the very best Christmas present they could receive.

 If you are not familiar with the Wounded Warriors here's a story that will give you some background.

                                                                                        

 

                                                                                         Photo courtesy of FlickR-LustforLiberty     
  

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..

 

                                                                                                  
Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me
Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes
We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina
Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina 

 

Dear Santa --I Don't Need Any More Stuff but I Do Have a Christmas Wish

Dear Santa,
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter.  I am sure you are very busy checking and rechecking lists.   A Christmas Wish List from Onslow County North Carolina Real Estate Agent

You know I am a real estate agent and that this has been a challenging year for those of us in this business.  I am sure you have read in the paper and heard on tv and radio about the decline in sales in the housing market and all the problems in the lending industry. 

It's true, sales are off  in most areas and there are people having trouble making their mortgage payments.   However, there are still buyers out there who understand the market is ripe for those ready to buy and for this we are thankful.  

So, what should a real estate agent experiencing a slow market put on her Christmas list?  For me, it is simple because you see I am very blessed.  I have

  • a loving family
  • caring friends
  •  loyal clients
  • good health
  •  a comfortable home
  • plenty of food
  •  a reliable car.

Dear Santa, my wish may not be as simple as some but if there is anything you can do to help me, I would surely appreciate it.  My wish is that

All agents and consumers have FAITH and HOPE in themselves, each other, our market and our country.

You see Santa, I believe that with faith and hope we will work through this challenging time and come out  more educated, better prepared,  more compassionate and ready to work and help our clients in a way that will best serve their needs.

Santa, if you were planning to bring me those beautiful, black leather Jimmy Choo boots that I saw and admired last month,  please don't...there must be a woman somewhere who needs boots more than I.

My closet is filled to the brim, I really don't need any more "stuff".   Thank you and Merry Christmas, Santa.

 

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189     Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..

 

Graphic courtesy of ClipArt Heaven 

 

 

 

How Sick Do You Have To Be To Not Blog?

Apparently, the answer for me is sicker than I am today.  I have a terrible cold, possibly a sinus infection and laryngitis so my options are limited today.

I am trying to get lots of rest, drink plenty of fluids, yadda, yadda until the little one gets home from play school.  BTW, is it feed a cold, starve a fever or feed a fever starve a cold?  Note to me:  "Call Mom and ask her which it is, also is it relevant"?

When the munchkin gets home, I am back on duty sick or not until I can get her to bed.  Normally, my Mom would come and help out but she has this crud too.   Bad timing!  

surviving a cold in Hubert North CarolinaTo prove that I am not just playing hooky today and taking a mental health day (which I desperately need.....Darn! Wish I had done that last week) here is a photo of my bedside chest with all my survival supplies.

I never used to get sick but oh yeah, that was before my child went to play school where they share everything, most of all "germs" which she brings home to share with me. 

Let's see I've had pink eye, strep throat, stomach viruses and other unidentified bugs in addition to the numerous colds.  Of course, it's a long drawn out process.  She gets xyz germ, gets sick, we get through that and wham!  It's Mommy's turn. 

Ok, time for more juice and a nap but first I think I'll have some chicken soup.  Feed a cold, starve a fever, you know... or is it?

I Am Going to Shop Locally This Christmas and Support My Town, How About You?

I think most people are in the same boat.  It's the Christmas season when we exchange gifts with family, friends and clients.  

Money is tight for everyone.  The price of gas, food, heating fuel and pretty much everything has risen.  What is one to do?  The answer for most of us is.... look for the best price and value.

What I am suggesting to you is that what appears to be the best price and value may not be. Sure it is convenient to shop on-line or in the big box stores where you can find any and everything under the sun.

But have you thought about where the money goes when you shop on-line or in the big box stores?  I can tell you that most of that money is sent out of your town, state and often the country. 

I can almost hear what you are thinking "but I can buy that t.v so much cheaper at Wallyworld than the local t.v shop". Really?  Do you know that for a fact?  

Why not talk to the local business and tell them you want to buy locally and support your local businesses anddowntown Swansboro North Carolina ask  if they are willing and able to meet the price of the item?  My bet is they will, they want and need your business. 

Would it not be better to support and patronize you local business that

  • Pays local taxes that supports your schools, police and fire departments, etc.

  • Hires local employees, contractors and vendors

  • Invests in real estate in the area

  • Banks with local banks
  • Keeps the money circulating in your town/community

Who do you think is going to be more likely to honor warranties, provide personal service and have an interest in problems you might have with your purchases?  

I challenge you to shop with your local businesses, use local contractors and service providers.  They are your neighbors and friends and the money stays in your area.  That is important.

Put your trust and money in local businesses where it will best serve you and your community. 

 

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189   Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

Photo - Proptery of Cynthia Tilghman 

 

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by The Activerain Network and it's members and those providing comments are theirs alone.  They do not reflect or express  the opinions of Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc.  Cynthia Tilghman and Kingsbridge Realty, Inc. are not responsible for the accuracy and/or content provided by  ActiveRain and its Members..

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Breaking News! - A Tool That Will Increase Your Chances of Getting the Listing & Making the Sale (Edited)

Well, not really breaking news but something we all need to think about and recognize.   

Living in a world of technology, we have a variety of tools at our disposal to make our work and daily lives easier and more convenient.  But do you know the one tool that will ensure you get the listings and make the sales?

What do you consider the most valuable tool you have to assist you in your real estate business?

  • Computers - We can't live without them.  They enable us to                lap top
    • Generate all the necessary paperwork for our transactions
    • Communicate by email with other agents, clients, lenders, etc.
    • Access the Internet where we
      • Promote our business and listings on a web-page
      • Blog on ActiveRain and other sites
      • Do our bookkeeping
      • Take care of our banking
      • Store our contact information
      • Research most any topic that comes to mind
      • Read the news, watch movies, videos
      • Map locations all over the world  
      • Download, edit and store photos
  • Scanner - A real time saver and convenience allowing us to scan documents and photos to our computer to store, upload to a web-page or email  
  •  Cellphone - Our lifeline...no need to say more
  • Fax Machine - Perhaps a tool which will soon be obsolete but is still handy for quick transmission of documents 
  • Copy Machine - The workhorse of all real estate offices
  • Printers - Another machine, we can't live without
  • Digital camera - An agent's best friend, especially those who are camera challenged

 Yes, all these wonderful technological gadgets are vital to our business but I suggest there is another tool which is the very most important tool of all and is under utilized by many agents.  What can that be?

earsOur EARS --Yes, you heard me right....our ears are a tool that we often do not use as well as we could and should. 

Our clients have distinct and individual needs and to best serve them, we must hear what they have to say. 

  • What type of house or property they need/want
  • What kind of neighborhood they prefer
  • The importance of proximity to schools, shopping and work
  • The price range
  •  Personal information that will help us better serve them and their needs

My question to you is: 

Are you really listening to your clients and hearing what they have to say? Do you listen intently when they are talking to you or do you start doing a mental inventory of available properties before they finish what they are telling you.  

Yeah, I know---I'm guilty too at times.  What might we miss when we don't focus full attention on what our clients are telling us?  Perhaps, it is the very thing that is most important to them and would enable us to find the perfect property for them.

I challenge you (and me) to use our most valuable tool--our EARS---to LISTEN, REALLY LISTEN to our clients. 

 

This post was inspired by Jackie Peraza's "It's a White Christmas--After All".  Thanks, Jackie.

Edited- I  first titled this "Breaking News - The Tool That Will Ensure You Get the Listing and the Sale" but after giving it some thought, decided that was not a fair title, after-all nothing is guaranteed.

 

Cynthia Tilghman, Realtor, Onslow County Home Specialist   910 459 9189       Email Me

Kingsbridge Realty, Inc., Making Houses Homes

We take pride in assisting Military Families locate a home in Onslow County when relocating to Camp Lejeune North Carolina

Area expert for homes in Hubert North Carolina

 

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