Nick Bastian's Blog

Everyone here probably agrees that we, as agents, must have a web site. Most agree that AR and other blogs can be very useful. But, what about the people we do business with day in and day out. Our lenders, title reps, insurance agents, home inspectors etc. etc.

I believe that soon, I will be requesting ALL of these people to have (at least) an AR site or a blog so that we can both link back and forth. Is that so tough? I understand that some people are still intimidated by building or maintaining a web site but with services like Active Rain, easy to use blogs, LinkedIn profiles etc, ANYONE can set these up as their on-line presence. (for FREE!!) If I decide to write a blog about insurance, I should be able to link to that persons site to help them out. Same with any other type of business. If they some how link back to me, it is appreciated as well. I have mentioned blogging and web sites to a few friends in the business. Some understand, some don't.. Is it too much to ask? Will they still be around in a year or two after this market get's rid of some more people that just don't get it? Hey, I'm pretty new to this stuff and have a ton to learn but I can see the writing on the wall.

The lender and insurance agent mentioned above both have links to my web site. My future offers will be written with the escrow officer and home inspection company asked to do the same. I'll gladly "share the love" in future blogs.

Too harsh? Or part of the business model for the 21st century?

You are on line.. Are the people you choose to do business with?

Buyer's have apparently fallen off of the real estate band wagon. (many of us know how fast things change.) A few short years ago, people were cheering home ownership more than a super bowl win. Now that there has been a shift in the market, many appear to be sitting on the sidelines, waiting for the media to tell them it is ok to get back in the game. There has got to be a ton of people getting tired of the rental game, waiting for their "team" to show some life. Once that happens, it is "game on" again in "as the market turns."

I love sports analogies because I love sports and I love being in the real estate business. Last night, I attended the ASU game in Tempe just as I have been to each of their games this year. Nope, I didn't just jump on this band wagon. :-)  The first game, we had a "decent" crowd and the pre-game festivities were at a normal pace. Last night, as we looked to go 7-0, the crowd in our particular parking section was by far the largest of the year. Thankfully, Life is good, in Tempe real estate and football market. :-)