Lake Anna and Beyond

My Male Magnet

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:40:58 GMT

My Male Magnet

Women of all ages, if you are looking for a little attention from men of all ages there is one surefire way to do it. I absolutely guarantee success.

#1 solution of all time...Simply buy a Toyota Prius. (Perhaps Marilyn Monroe standing over the grate may vie with this for first place. If you look like Marilyn Monroe you may consider going that route...it will be a lot cheaper except where do you find grates these day????? Unless you live in New York City you would have to factor in airfare.)

Now that I have shared with you how to get those men to pay attention I must temper it with the following: You will attract a great deal of attention. However, that does not translate into affection. So, if affection is what you are after you may do better shopping elsewhere and not at your local Toyota dealership.

Yes, the attention may be fleeting and quickly shift to the "car" but that's OK. If you have a Prius that is exactly where you want it to be. Men seem to be intriqued by that thing called an engine and are also amazed that all 6'2" of them actually fits comfortably inside and yes, it does hold more than the driver and a passenger. Who would have thought.

But wait...perhaps you will find lasting love. What man wouldn't love a woman that can brag about averaging 50 miles an hour on just one gallon of gas!

Happy trails to you!

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, please contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. She lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate. Reach Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

Ever Look for Savings?

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:40:45 GMT

Ever Look For Savings?

Recently we needed ink cartridges for one of our printers. As I was in the Fredericksburg area I stopped in Staples. They had the products I needed and home I went.

Later, while on the computer, I decided to check out the same products on officedepot.com to compare prices. The difference was almost enough to make me wish I had driven about three miles more (what's three miles in a Toyota Prius Hybrid) and gone there. Still curious I decided to check out the same items on Amazon.com. To my delight* the prices were even better.

Below are the items and the cost.

Canon PGI-5 BK 2-pack black ink tanks and
Canon CLI-8 4-pack multicolor in tanks

The cost at Staples, where I shopped, was $84.21. The same items would have been $81.48 at Office Depot and the winner is...........................Amazon.com $67.33. Yes, I would have had to wait two days (free shipping and no tax) but if you have the time, why not.

The difference from what I paid to what I could have paid was only $16.88 but that was a 20% savings on a small purchase. Not bad and that could have been accomplished from the comfort of home.

The reason I am sharing this is that I have found the savings to be there with almost any item I have purchased and they have run the gamut (digital cameras, printers, books, videos, coffee pots, toaster ovens and on and on).

Some folks think it is merely a place to buy books and perhaps some videos or Cd's. I have found it to be a place to save on many items I use in my business. Perhaps you will also.

*I own a very small number of shares and that is because it has been my "go to" place for years.

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, please contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. She lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate. Reach Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

Voting in Virginia

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:40:38 GMT

Voting in Virginia

On the way to Connecticut to visit my mom, I took a few minutes to cast my vote. Virginians had their primary almost two weeks ago and the turnout was terrific.

Voting, for my precinct, was held at the Spotsylvania Volunteer Fire Department on Partlow Road. It is the same place where I've been going to vote since moving to Lake Anna in 1992. There have been times that I have worked outside in support of candidates so it is a familiar place.

What makes it nice is that most of the poll workers have been there each and every time I've gone. Today seemed like a good time to take their picture. I promised to make them notorious by posting it on my blog so here they are.

It requires a commitment to be there for each and every time we get to vote. The day starts very early and runs into the evening. Everyone that does this helps to preserve our democracy. That goes for all those that vote also. We are so fortunate to have the opportunity to make our choices known.

Thank you, Poll Workers, whereever you are. Please know how much you are needed and appreciated.

Only $18.95 an Acre - Have I Got a Deal for You

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:40:30 GMT

ONLY $18.95 an Acre - Have I Got a Deal for You

Looking to invest in some property? Don't have much money? Well, I can sure help you.

For the mere sum of $18.95 you can have your very own place to call home. You may not be able to get there but you certainly can look at it...at least at night. The view may not be the greatest and you may be unsure if you are looking at the right spot but you know it is there. You have documentation to prove it! With that deed in hand the world will know you own a piece of the moon.

Last Sunday while watching Sunday Morning on CBS one of the segments featured a company that sells you your own home away from home at rock bottom prices. Being a REALTOR, of course I was intrigued. Sales seem to be moving right along...evidently no softening of that particular market. Unfortunately I don't know if there is a real estate office there where I can hang my license.

Not content to only own property here on earth I immediately sank a portion of my hard earned money into this prime investment. My motto is...Don't Just Sell It, Buy It.

Now my family will be secure in the future. If there is ever a time global warming becomes unbearable here on earth we can trade it for the extremes of the moon...250 degrees above freezing (fahrenheit) to 251 below. Until it gets worse here we'll stay on earth.

I was going to post some Web sites for you to check out. However, they refused to sign a Buyer's Representative Agreement with me. No agreement, no commission, no deal!

While you are contemplating whether this is a deal you just can't refuse please enjoy Old Blue Eyes, in fact sing along with Frankie Boy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rAsoLm1Ges

I did reveal (under duress during negotiations) that I am a REALTOR in good standing with the National Association of REALTORS, the Virginia Association of REALTORS, and the Fredericksburg Area Association of REALTORS. I assured them I will be more than happy to join the Moon Association of REALTORS upon its formation. Perhaps I will help get it established as soon as I get myself settled in up there. Meanwhile I remain at Lake Anna.

My slogan will now be: I Don't Just Sell It, I Buy It!

P.S. Please do not let Bill Geist (CBS Sunday Morning contributor) know that I got a better deal than he did. He paid $19.95 and I only paid $18.95 (plus $8.00 shipping and handling) due to my great negotiation skills.

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna,contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. She lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate. Reach Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

Do You Have What it Takes?

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:40:00 GMT

Do You Have What it Takes?

A question was posed, "Do You Value Long Term Potential Clients?" My answer: A resounding yes. They are the very foundation of my business.

Other questions were, "Do you work with long term leads? What's in your Potential Client agenda?"

When I worked as a REALTOR in Northern Virginia many years ago, I would have probably considered a long term client one that I worked with for a number of weeks. Here at Lake Anna I have learned to consider a long term client one that I work with for a number of years. Years can be several years and I'm not referring to two, three, or four transactions during that time but rather one (1). Yes, patience is a virtue here. Not only a virtue, it is required.

Many of our clients explore the Lake Anna area well before they are ready to make a commitment. Sometimes they are considering a number of areas. It is nothing to hear that they are also considering Smith Mountain Lake, the Northern Neck, perhaps Ocean City and hey, there's also the Outer Banks.

I have a tendency to put myself in my client's shoes. Would I want to explore my options...Yes! Would I want to be pressured into making a decision...No!

When I show people around Lake Anna for the first time I tell them that the most important thing is for them to determine if this is the place that want to be. If it is we can go from there. If not, the sooner we know that the better.

This past October a couple I had first taken out in 2006 called and we started looking at homes again. They had recently retired and were ready to seriously consider a home at Lake Anna. We spent the time needed to find the right spot for them and they had a ratified contract this month. We now have their current home on the market and hoping to receive a contract on that soon although the purchase of their new home is not contingent on this one selling.

A former post deals with the type of market I'm in. NEED TO or WANT TO? It is what it is.

As long as people have a loyalty to me I will spend the time needed to help them determine if this is what they want. If Lake Anna is where they want to be the best spot can be found. Often times we end up with a happy ending. Than it is time for some serious celebrating.

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna,contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. She lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate. Reach Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

Sellers, Your First Agent was Great!

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:39:51 GMT

Seller, Your First Agent was Great!

What do you tell your seller about their first agent? Are there times that you know the initial listing agent quite well and know that they are very good agents? When that happens what do you say?

There have been a few times when I have been asked to list a house that had been listed by an agent that I respected. I had no problems letting the sellers know that. If they complained about the property not selling I have come to the defense of the agent if I know that the agent has done an excellent job marketing the property. This is especially true when it is evident that the seller was the one that set the high price. Sometimes there is not much more that I can do to get the listing sold. If that is the truth, shouldn't we say so?

When the agent has been one that I either do not know or do not feel gives 100% I will reserve my opinion.

Do you feel any obligation to defend a fellow agent if you know they have done a good job? It could be as a listing agent or it could be the agent on the other side of a transaction. Can we gently but firmly be supportive without offending our client?

Being supportive of other agents is not taking away from your ability to perform well. It is being honest.

Has DUAL AGENCY Run It's Course?

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:39:40 GMT

Has DUAL Agency Run It's Course?

Some states do not allow dual agency. Others do. Virginia is one that does. Is the trend towards doing away with this type of representation? In fact is dual agency a form of representation or does it really mean that neither the seller nor the buyer are being represented?

When practicing dual agency how does a REALTOR® deal with offers and counter offers. Do they offer advice to both parties, to one, or to neither? What about conditions, other than price, that may require negotiation such as the settlement date, home inspection repairs, pre or post occupancy, and any number of other things that can be a bone of contention between parties.

What happens when a buyer offers a very low price and the seller suggests a very low counter and you believe the counter should be higher. Do you consel them to rethink that counter? That would be difficult if you were also "representing" the buyer. Shouldn't you be looking out for the buyers's best interest? Therein lies the dilemma. The seller's and buyer's best interest are often in direct conflict.

Dual agency can be explained in a cursory way or in depth. In fact, in Virginia it is required to provide the sellers and buyers with the written explanation. How well they understand the consequences is another thing. Even when sellers and buyers agree to dual agency do they really understand the potential pitfalls? As REALTORS®
we have seen the variety of problems that can develop, many more than most people would realize unless they have bought and sold numerous properties.

This weekend I took a new listing and the seller said, while we were filling out the agreement, that she was saying no to dual agency as a result of my advice to her. Earlier this evening I read a post by Nannette Saunders, The Full Monty of Dual Agency and it, along with the discussion I had with my client, really made me wonder if Disclosed Dual Agency has a place in real estate.

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, please contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. She lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate. Reach Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

NUMBERS GAME

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:39:07 GMT

Numbers Game

Sometimes you just need something to take your mind off of the current real estate market, blogging, sub-prime loans, foreclosures, and short sales.

If so, here's a little something for you. Those of you that have more than two minutes to think about it may be able to figure it out. I'm sure there is a very reasonable explanation for how this works but I am much too tired to try. Maybe I will let one of my brainy kids do that for me. Here you go http://www.quizyourprofile.com/guessyournumber.swf.

Now that you have had some fun (hopefully) you may go back to thinking of how to do more business. It is a well worth thinking about as most of us would like to have more transactions right now and throughout the year.

That's not to say there isn't some good news. Many people are seeing an up tick in their market. A larger number of buyers are out looking and sellers are being more realistic in their pricing. Contracts are actually be written and accepted (even if it is following some tense negotiations) and making their way to settlement.

There may not be enough good news but there is some, hopefully enough to go around.

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, please contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. She lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate. Reach Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

Spring Inspiration and Positive Views of Lake Anna, VA

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:39:02 GMT

Spring Inspiration and Positive Views of Lake Anna, VA

Spring is a time of new beginnings, a time of hope and expectation. What a great time of year to consider a move to Lake Anna.

I cannot think of another time that gets the heart racing just a bit more with anticipation of fun times ahead, time to be with family and friends, time to get the boat ready to launch for a new season of boating, water skiing, fishing, and swimming. Thoughts also turn to lounging in the hammock or sitting down by the dock. It can be a time to rest and reflect.

Just the thought of drifting along on the water at a leisurely pace soaking in the sights is enough to inspire many to begin the search for a place to call their own here at the lake. For some it will mean a change to full-time lake living and for others it will be the purchase of a part-time home or getaway that will ensure a positive attitude during the work week for their weary souls.

Right now, before the leaves fill in and block the views you can cruise around the lake spotting homes that are tucked in secluded coves and on wooded lots. You are able to get a different perspective of the many neighborhoods around the lake from your boat than you do as you drive the country roads in the area.

Spring is a time of clear skies providing beautiful sunrises and spectacular sunsets. The sky and water are often filled with color. Sometimes it is soft pastels; pinks, violets, buttery yellows and at other times we witness the glory of vivid oranges and reds along with hot pinks. these are the things we look forward to and appreciate time and again.

(Look, Mom, no filters, no Photoshop, no hands...just another breathtaking sunset viewed from my home.)

In the past couple of days, I've passed alpacas, goats, cows and horses looking just a tad bit more energetic, some even downright frisky. They sense the time of year and realize that warm weather is here to stay, the days are longer, and the sun is brighter. Like us, they know spring is here.

The sky seems bluer and the clouds even more billowy. Grass is turning greener and leaves are popping out on the trees while daffodils, hyacinths, and tulips are making their welcomed appearance. Homes that have been looking a little stark and beginning to soften with the advent of blooming flowers and shrubs.

Best of all are the smiles on people's faces. Our winters are not bad at all but no matter how mild the winter is there is such happiness when we realize spring is really here. Spring is Mother Nature's gift to us.

Now give yourself a gift.

Visit Lake Anna this spring.

You may love it just as I do!

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, please contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. Kate lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate.

Call Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web sites and blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

Photos by Kate Elim

One Take on the Current Housing Market

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:38:54 GMT

One Take on the Current Housing Market

(This was written March 3, 2008.)

This evening I was watching the Larry King show on CNN while also posting and commenting on the Rain. Towards the end of the broadcast he interviewed Gerri Willis. She is CNN's Personal Finance Editor, host of Open House a 1/2 hour real estate show on CNN, and also the author of Home Rich, Increasing the Value of the Biggest Investment of Your Life.

Ms. Willis' take on the current home market is that it is a very good time for some people to buy depending on the area. With interest rates where they are and the large inventory, it is a very good time for those that have funds for a down payment and very good credit scores. (I imagine realistic expectations would be good to have also.) She did add that it is still not feasible for many of our policemen, firemen, and teachers and others in service jobs to buy their own home. That continues to be true in most areas nationwide. Even with the lower prices most homes are still not affordable for many.

This is certainly true in my market and I imagine it is the same in many other areas. It is a good time to buy for some but not for everyone.

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, please contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. She lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate. Reach Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

Do ALL Listing Agents Tell the TRUTH?

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:38:40 GMT

Should sellers be required to sign off that they have been advised, in fact that they received copies, of all contracts submitted by all agents?

How do we know that a seller does not want to be bothered by multiple offers?
How do we know that they would prefer to accept a contract which nets them thousands of dollars less, all other conditions being equal, just because it is from the listing agent?
Why wouldn't the seller offer a bonus to the listing agent if they really wanted them to receive more compensation instead of accepting a contract written by the listing agent for less money?
Is there any way to know that the seller was even made aware that there were additional offers?
What is there, other than ethics, that prevents an agent from withholding this information from a seller?
What guarantees do we have that the listing agent will tell the seller that even if another offer is for less money it may still be a cleaner, better contract and they should seriously think of accepting it?
What recourse do we have if we are convinced that all offers were not presented to the seller?

When I worked in Northern Virginia I was always able to sit with the listing agent and the seller and explain the terms of my client's contract. This is not the way it is done everywhere.

Where I am now many of our sellers are second home owners and away from the area. Contracts are often e-mailed or faxed to the sellers. I have never thought that any of my fellow Lake Anna agents were not performing on the up and up. However, more and more we are having to work with agents ourside our area that have obtained listings many counties away from where they are located. Hopefully all of them are treating us ethically as well.

When we do not treat other REALTORS and the public with honesty it is a very big problem. This goes beyond our ability to earn a commission. It is unfair to our clients and it very much affects the integrity and reputation of our industry.

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, please contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. She lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate. Reach Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

SHIFTING SANDS...The Real Estate Market

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:37:13 GMT

Have we seen a shift in the real estate market?

Yes, the real estate market has changed.
Yes, REALTORS are working harder and earning less.
Yes, properties are sitting on the market longer.
Yes, many sellers are becoming frustrated.
Yes, some buyers think the market is even worse than it is and that all sellers are getting ready to give their homes away.
And yes, some sellers think their property is still appreciating.

All these things are true. Another thing that is true is that this has happened before and will happen again.

Yes, real estate is cyclical. It's a seller's market and then it's a buyer's market. The shift can be swift from one to the other.

As a REALTOR® you sometimes wonder which is the hardest market. The one where there are several buyers for the same property and your buyer is not the lucky one with the winning contract or the one where there are many more listings than there are buyers and your listings aren't the ones purchased.

Among the REALTORS there will be some winners and some losers. Those who have been in the business for a number of years have been through this before and some of them will say no more. Others are facing a tough market for the first time having gotten there license when the housing market was booming. Some of these will see this down turn through and others will disappear.

Whatever happens some REALTORS® will survive because we are needed. We provide a beneficial service to the public in good times and bad.

WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO SURVIVE? ARE YOU DISCOURAGED? THINKING OF QUITTING? ARE YOU BEING INNOVATIVE? AND HOW ARE YOU USING YOUR "DOWN" TIME?

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, please contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. Kate lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate.

Call Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web sites and blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

Tibet - A Journey Remembered (Part 2)

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:37:07 GMT

This is a continuation of my journey to Tibet, Tibet - A Journey Remembered (Part 1), which took place in October 2005. With these posts I am hoping to convey a sense of what I saw and what I felt during my short stay in Lhasa.

While there we had the opportunity to see the Jokhang Temple. The interior was incredible. Being a people watcher, I tended to spend more time looking at the crowds which were quite large. We happened to be there during a holy time which mean an increase in the number of people visiting the temple. Lines formed with people waiting to enter and it gave me time to take more pictures.

Some of the garments that the women wore were very beautiful. Although they did not appear to be wealthy they must have spent a considerable amount of money on these particular outfits.

Others were there in what appeared to be everyday clothing but perhaps they were their dress clothes as well. We were told that many traveled long distances, and often by foot, to be able to go to the temple for this special holy day.

The streets were full of vendors selling a variety of items and it gave the area a festive look but the people appeared to be very somber. I did not see many people smiling. It may just be a cultural thing but it was a bit unusual. Most countries I have been to the people have appeared more animated and friendly, even communist countries during the cold war. Perhaps it has to do with the geography as well. Tibet is a very isolated country.

There are a number of other monasteries and temples in this predominately Buddhist country. I probably need to correct that statement. The Tibetans are predominately Buddhist, however, they are now in the minority given the shift in the population structure at the hands of the Chinese government.

What intrigued me was the drabness of much of the attire which was in direct contrast to the colorfully painted windows on many of the buildings, the flower pots with pretty flowers blooming, and the items being sold within the shops and by the street vendors. The colors were vivid and varied. The difference was striking.

It makes you realize that throughout the world, the love of color and the happiness it brings to the lives of people, is universal.

Again, I urge you to take the opportunity if it ever comes your way to visit this very special place. Get off the beaten path and enjoy the experience!

Tibet - A Journey Remembered (Part 1)

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:36:54 GMT

There have been so many news stories this week that it is hard to pick one to write about. Yesterday was the fifth anniversary of our invasion of Iraq. The stock market has had another big week of losses and gains. Severe flooding continues in the mid-west. The list goes on and on.

(I woite this on March 20, 2008.)

And then there's the uprising in Tibet.

Having visited Tibet two and a half years ago, I thought I would share a little of my trip there. I had very mixed feelings about going. In fact, the trip to Tibet was part of a longer trip to China. Knowing the circumstances surrounding China's rule of Tibet made me uneasy about visiting China.

China is a country that I have wanted to see since I was a young girl and it was now or never. I went in part because this particular trip also afforded me the opportunity to visit Tibet.

It was quite a drive from the airport to the city of Lhasa and on the way we saw a number of farmers and their families working in the fields. As you can see, the conditions are still pretty primitive. Can you imagine farming like this? No John Deere's in sight!

Tibet is located on the Tibetan Plateau, the world's highest region. The plateau is about 14,000 feet high which causes problems for many visitors. We were on medication prior to flying to Tibet and while there to combat the effects of the altitude. It still managed to lay me low one day, the only time on my 21 day trip. I was also not as full of life according to my fellow travelers. They were very happy to see me return to "normal" once we reached lower ground.

Most of the Himalaya mountain range lies within Tibet. Unfortunately we were not able to see Mount Everest. It is always the case, no matter where I seem to go I am always looking over the fence, or in this case the mountains, thinking that's where I want to go also. Maybe one day.

We stayed in Lhasa, the traditional capital and also the capital of what the Chinese government calls the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR). We were able to visit the Potala Palace, the home of the Dalai Lama prior to his exile in India, which is pictured here.

Potala Palace is a World Heritage site and it is easy to understand why. The size alone is amazing. It covers approximately 34 acres and it makes you wonder how they were able to build such a structure given the equipment and tools that must have been used. It is hard to imagine. And, imagine is exactly what I have to do as the day of this excursion was my "down" day. Can you believe flying thousands of miles and missing such an opportunity. What are the chances of my every getting back there. Oh well, I did get this photo of the exterior though so I must be content.

My next post will show photos of shops, people, goods, and architecture. (I'm sneaking one in here now.)

I hope you enjoy my "return trip" to this unique country.

If you ever have a chance to visit Tibet please take it. You will find yourself transported to a very different place and, in many ways, a very different time.

If you found this interesting, please take a look at Tibet - A Journey Remembered (Part 2).

LIVE IT UP!

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:36:46 GMT

If I reflected on how my life would have played out if I had done things differently, in other words not taken risks, I believe I would be feeling a tremendous emptiness inside.

Many people will not travel out of their safe havens, be that their hometown, their home state, or the particular section of the country they call home. Others will not fly. They may wish to see places far away but the risk they feel is too great. Tell them they are safer flying than riding in a car and they will tell you they know that but to them the risk is too great.

(The graphic is a little tip of the hat to the Irish!)

Living on Lake Anna, I risk my life when I walk into the water. About all I can do is the dog paddle and, lucky me, I'm a great floater as I've become more and more buoyant. DISCLAIMER: This is not me. If I looked this good I would have used a real photo!

We risk our lives when we get in our cars. Driving down the street is a risk. Every time you stop for gas at night or walk into a convenience store something could happen. Unfortunately, it's life. But life is also about living. We take precautions, yes. Do we dwell on the what ifs? Some of us will, some of us will not.

I turned my ankle walking down the stairs today and caught myself simply because I happened to have one hand on the railing. My first thought was what if I had been carrying something with both hands rather than just one.

The idea of marrying or raising children has some people quaking in fear. For those that have done it and loved it we cannot imagine doing otherwise. Such is life.

The thought of living in another culture would overwhelm some where others greet it with great anticipation especially if it is a culture that is very different from one's own. Some may go, take a peek, but could never imagine learning new ways, accepting different customs, embracing new ideas.

Some people will not become REALTORS® or start any type of business where they will not have "security" in spite of the fact that many of us have seen that security with a corporation even after many decades can disappear overnight either because the company moves away, shuts down, or decides they need newer, younger talent.

The most wonderful things have happened when people have taken risks, risks that could cost them their lives. Astronauts, test pilots, explorers, women giving birth, the military, and the list goes on and on. It is endless.

No, I am not encouraging people to do foolish things and I do feel horrible when I hear about the terrible things that happen to fellow REALTORS in the line of work. But we hear about horrible things that happen to people in every walk of life and in every aspect of our lives. It is up to us to decide if we will allow our lives to shrink and become small and narrow or do we want to continue to experience all the wonderful things that are out there.

Do not let fear destroy you. Be careful, use caution but live with confidence.

We have been given this wonderful gift called life. Enjoy.

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If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, please contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. Kate lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate.

Call Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web sites and blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

Don't Burn Any Bridges Behind You

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:36:33 GMT

We've heard this advice many times and it still holds true.

Whether you are leaving a real estate company or have not been selected to list a particular property do not even begin to think that this is history. You just never know when you might want to go back to that firm. Or, you never know if some time in the future you may have the opportunity to work with that seller listing the same house or perhaps in an entirely different transaction.

Treat all parties in a transaction with professionalism, courtesy, and respect. Perhaps that other agent will be across from you on another deal and you will be needing an extra dose of cooperation. If you have shown that you will extend yourself, others may well do the same in return.

Sometimes the agent that represented the other party in the transaction stops working in your market and that client may think of you when they are looking for a REALTOR®. If you have done what it takes to get the transaction to settlement the likelihood is that you will be in line for the job.

Just recently, a few days after a settlement, the purchaser called me to ask for some information. When I offered to do some additional things to help out she told me they never expected as much from a REALTOR® as they had received from me. I replied that they now had not just a REALTOR® but a friend.

We develop friendships with fellow agents, lenders, home inspectors and others that help us with our transactions.

We are also so fortunate that many of our clients become our friends. What a nice perk. Of course, some markets facilitate this more easily than others. Fortunately for me I live in such an environment and it adds a special dimension to my work.

Take care of all of your relationships even transitory ones as you may be crossing that bridge again and again.

. . . . . . .

If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, please contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. Kate lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate.

Call Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web sites and blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

Don't Burn Any Bridges Behind You (edit/delete)

We've heard this advice many times and it still holds true.

We develop friendships with fellow agents, lenders, home inspectors and others that help us with our transactions.

Take care of all of your relationships even transitory ones as you may be crossing that bridge again and again.

. . . . . . .

If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, please contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. Kate lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate.

Call Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web sites and blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

Have You or Anyone You've Known Had Cancer?

Kate Elim — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 22:16:28 GMT

If your answer is no, you are very, very fortunate.

I am not sure that I know anyone that has not been deeply touched by cancer. The number of victims and survivors is huge and in spite of all the progress that has been made cancer continues to be something we fear because we are acutely aware of the consequences.

Like most of you I have been devastated by what cancer had done to many people in my life. Like most of you I believe that we have to continue our crusade to diminish and someday hopefully eradicate cancer from our lives.

Because of this need you are being asked to support the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. My office has a team again this year and I have the dubious unoffical title of "lead fundraiser." Diane Wilding, our captain [and my fellow voyager to Antarctica], knows I'm a soft touch.

Click below if you would like to support our team. We appreciate any amount to help us raise as much as possible. We're doing great but hope to do even more.

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RelayForLifeSouthAtlanticDivision?pg=personal&fr_id=8927&fr_id=8927&px=6205077

My thanks to all.

Signs of Spring at Lake Anna

Kate Elim — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 22:42:55 GMT

Spring is a time of new beginnings, a time of hope and expectation. What a great time of year to consider a move to Lake Anna.

(This is an unedited sunset viewed from my home.)

Now give yourself a gift.

Visit Lake Anna this spring.

You may love it just as I do!

. . . . . . .

If you or someone you know is thinking of buying or selling property at or near Lake Anna, please contact Kathleen "Kate " Elim. Kate lives at Lake Anna, knows Lake Anna, loves Lake Anna, and specializes in Lake Anna area real estate.

Call Kate at 540-226-1964 or by e-mail at lakeanna.kate@gmail.com. Be sure to check Kate's Web sites and blog at http://lakeannaandbeyond.com/ or http://lakeannacountry.com/

I Finally Came Home...235 Photos Later (Part 2)

Kate Elim — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 17:24:28 GMT

I Finally Came Home...235 Photos Later (Part 2)

Oh, what we have to do in the line of duty. Imagine having to spend perfectly good time running (driving) around the countryside taking pictures. Woe is me! But then I chose to be a REALTOR® and we have to do what we have to do.

This is a good time of the year to go out "shooting" as it is so much easier to see things that might not be as visible when the trees and shrubs are in full bloom.

By sharing photos of this area folks get a better idea of whether they might want to explore our part of the world as a place to live. Plus for those that live here, they may discover a place they would like to discover.

This is another Sperryville charmer. It is right in the center of town next to the red barn that was in my prior blog. I think I am fascinated by old buildings of all kinds.

When taking people out for the first time I always ask if they are familiar with Lake Anna in particular and also Central Virginia. The most important thing they need to decide is if this is the place they want to be. They are, for the most part, making a very independent decision based solely on their preference. That is why the more they can see and understand the nature of this area the better they are able to know whether it suits them. We want happy residents and I certainly want happy buyers.

This Jeep truck was included just because I like the color and the fact that you are probably not going to see one in Washington, D.C or Manhatten. It looks country.

Love this farm outside of Sperryville. Can you imagine in the spring or fall. Must be beautiful. I'll have to go back then and take some more pictures.

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It is not all Gloom and Doom

Kate Elim — Sun, 16 Mar 2008 17:35:57 GMT

It Is Not All GLOOM and DOOM

It is definitely not all Gloom and Doom in the real estate market. This post deals with one community's steps to combat the downturn it has experienced and the number of abandoned and foreclosures that have resulted.

Long before this became a national dilemma, it became one for Flint, Michigan and other areas within Michigan. With the problems experienced by American automakers, communities dependent on that industry came upon hard times and leaders within those communities have sought solutions for their housing problems.

In 1999, the Michigan State Legislature created a new, streamlined system for returning tax-reverted properties to productive use. In the process, they opened the door for communities to reclaim, reinvest in and rebuild their neighborhoods.

National Public Radio aired a broadcast yesterday that dealt with how Flint, MI is dealing with this problem. If your community is experiencing problems with foreclosures and abandoned properties this may be of interest. Genesee Country (where Flint, Michigan is located) has produced a brochure which can be download. It provides an explanation of the nine programs.

GENESEE COUNTY LAND BANK PROGRAMS

The Genesee County Land Bank works in collaboration with the Genesee County Treasurer's Office to prevent tax-foreclosure on area homes and bring tax-reverted properties back into productive use. Through partnerships with public, private and non-profit partners, the Land Bank encourages investment in more than 4,000 residential, commercial and industrial properties that it has acquired through the tax-foreclosure process since its inception in 2002.

To better position tax-reverted properties for re-use, the Land Bank operates nine programs:

Foreclosure Prevention
Demolition
Side Lot Transfer
Property Maintenance
Housing Renovation/Rental
Adopt-A-Lot
Clean and Green
Brownfield Redevelopment
Development

In addition, the Land Bank and the County Treasurer's office operate the Foreclosure Prevention program. These programs enable the Land Bank to play an important role in stabilizing and revitalizing neighborhoods.

In order to find out how well these programs are working I urge you to look at the following sites:

thelandbank.org

http://web5.msue.msu.edu/lu/2004material/LB5KildeeOnGeneseeLandBank.PDF

http://geneseeinstitute.org/downloads/Bassett_Understanding_Owner_Decision.pdf

http://www.mlui.org/growthmanagement/fullarticle.asp?fileid=16782

There are programs in other states that are making a positive impact. It would be nice to learn about them and the success they are having.

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