Hi there! I recently was able to record the webinar on 5 Proven Strategies to Find More Money to Invest in Real Estate. It’s now available in a system that allows you to register and view the webinar at your convenience so that everyone can benefit from it.

Here is the link to register:
https://www.onlinemeetingnow.com/register/?id=z7y3qtlzpk

Once you register, it starts at the top of the hour. Enjoy!

Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen
If you’d like to talk, please book a call with me here:
www.TerryandJason.com/apply

Additional Insights:

Thinking about investing in real estate?
Before diving in, it is best to consider options & gather information & Be Wary of “Eating the Seed Corn.”

What is “Seed Corn”? The formal definition is the good-quality corn kept for seed. The same applies in real estate. It is the personal resources at one’s disposal that enable someone to get started investing in real estate.

Unfortunately, most investors and even professionals in the real estate industry forget to plan for future deals and use ALL the “Seed Corn” in the first or second transaction. This results in the investor from being unable to purchase any additional property.

It is imperative to be successful in real estate to know how to obtain the “Seed Corn” back to grow a new crop of real estate deals.

5 Proven Resource Strategies Give any Investor the Tools to Catapult an Investment Career and Purchase Additional Property

The post 5 Proven Strategies to Find More Money to Invest and Re-Invest in Real Estate appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

At the same time, many of my clients for real estate coaching benefit from actionable, straightforward advice that immediately boosts their potential. And you can probably relate to that; why make things complicated if they don’t have to be, right? Now, if that’s the case, after decades in the real estate business and as a successful real estate coach, I have just the thing for you!

Update Your Approach to Photography

As a Realtor, you can’t neglect your photography. Today, with tools like Zillow, buyers are browsing homes and looking ever more closely at the photos. While you might think you’re handy with a smartphone camera, the reality is that professionals have accesses to tools like those from Adobe that can make your photos shine even more.

Add Just a Touch of Landscaping

Now, I understand that, as a real estate agent, you can’t simply re-do the entire landscaping. At least, that’s often not an option. But even a few flower pots near the front walkway can spruce up a property and make it more inviting.

Make Sure You Are Accessible

I’ve known many agents who are very accessible to show potential properties to buyers. These agents answer their phones and return calls in a timely way and are willing to go out at a moment’s notice to show a home. If you’re still struggling with this area of the real estate process, take a closer look at your system to see where you can maximize your time and efforts.

Even a Minimal Staging can Help

As a real estate coach, I can’t believe how many agents who are struggling to sell aren’t doing the minimal steps required for staging. Now, obviously, a full stage isn’t always possible. And I understand that. However, bringing in a few minor, select pieces, even accents, can make a property more attractive.

Show Off What Works, Minimize What Doesn’t

On that note, when you’re showing a property, focus in on what works. Of course, that doesn’t mean you have to totally ignore any glaring issues. But with those, you can hone in on the potential that’s offered because of those issues. Is the backyard a little drab? Suggesting the possibilities of how a new deck area might work. Is the carpet somewhat dated? Well, guess what? There might be vintage terrazzo flooring underneath, and many people fall in love with that look.

Price Your Property Right from the Get-Go

Finally, pricing. This is one tricky point that even seasoned agents struggle with. But you should be spending time with the data and developing a system for your area that you can apply to your pricing when you help sell a home. Wondering how you can do that? As a real estate coach, I’d be happy to answer any questions you have!

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

Terry Records and Jason Nordhougen serve clients and real estate agents nationwide as National Real Estate Coaches and work with each personally.

If you would like to explore your personal situation with Terry, please book a complimentary call with her directly:

TerryandJason.com/apply  

The post 6 Simple Tips for Realtors to Boost Their Selling Potential appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

Recently, we talked about market cycles in the real estate market. And we’ve also talked a bit about whether or not there could be a bubble. While these are higher level investing concepts, they’re important pieces to the puzzle. And this is especially true if you’re a real estate agent or investor.

And with my upcoming real estate investing books on the way, I wanted to share more on this topic. After all, by building a multi-million-dollar investment portfolio, I’ve gained a wealth of real-world insight that can be truly beneficial for anyone headed down the path of financial freedom. But today, I want to ask you, what phase of the market do you think we’re in right now?

A quick look at real estate market cycles

If you recall from our previous talk, market cycles are one concept that has treated me well during my investing career. Although it’s not the only tool we use when it comes to real estate investing,  it’s certainly a helpful one.

For real estate and other investment-related markets, there is a natural cycle to the market. Once you know about it, you’ll start seeing it everywhere. For our purposes, the market cycles are a declining market, an absorption phase, and an expansion. While there are nuanced aspects of each one, the main idea is simple: people naturally go through phases of fear and exuberance that affect the market.

Putting it all into perspective

Still, different markets might have cycles that look different. As I coach real estate agents or investors, I often point out that this fact makes experience so important. After all, although skills can transfer to a different market, how the cycle plays out in California differs from North Carolina. A savvy agent or investor is aware of this fact, and quickly adjusts their approach, as well as relying on their other tools.

At the same time, the nation and even the global markets today have their own cycles. In our hyper-connected world, I coach investors and agents to keep their ear to the ground. Your market can be impacted by interest rates in Europe almost as much as a new roadway project opening up an area.

Your assessment of the present market

Even though it’s not possible to predict the future, our job as investors and agents is to harness the trends and the cycles. And when you think about it, our friends, family, and neighbors rely on us for our expert advice. This is one of the reasons that I take my role as a real estate agent, investor, and real estate coach so seriously. By using the idea of market cycles, you can help them to better understand what they too are seeing all around them in the market. Your assessment really is that important!

But I want to hear from you. What’s your assessment of your local and regional markets?

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post What Phase of the Market Do You Think We’re In? appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

As a real estate agent or someone thinking about becoming one, you might have wondered about how to go from a novice to an incredible agent as soon as possible. After all, those Realtors who provide a higher level of service are the ones who are known in their communities and even on a much broader level.

After decades of experience in multiple markets, I’ve learned a thing or two about what it takes to attain that coveted spot. And recently, we saw how several simple and easy tips can put you on the path to becoming an amazing agent. But as your source for everything real estate and investment related, I wanted to bring you a few more!

Help your clients attain their financial direction

Go beyond just making real estate transactions, and truly learn what each of your clients needs. After all, as we saw last week, you’re the expert in your market, and your community looks to you for real estate advice that goes beyond the everyday. By supporting your clients’ longer-term goals, you’re also making yourself their lifelong real estate agent with their best interests in mind.

Delegate to your team

If you’re still starting out in the real estate business, you might not yet have a team you can fall back on (and if that’s the case, make sure you read our next 2 tips). However, for many real estate agents, you can create partnerships that can greatly help you excel in the industry. For example, stuffing envelopes may not be your thing, but you may still want to send mailers to your community. In that case, partnering with a company that provides that at a low cost is, in a way, delegating to a team.

Consult with experts

On that note, always choose experts, even if you’re just reading a news article on your area market. From the information you trust to the contractor helping you remodel, you want people who are willing to go the extra mile in their respective skills. Too often I’ve seen newer agents dive headlong into a deal or provide advice to clients without first consulting with a source they know is reliable. This is one of the big reasons that I’ll be releasing my own real estate investing books soon.

Turn to your mentor

Finally, you do have a real estate mentor, right? As a coach for real estate and investing, I can attest to the difference that experience can make. And if you’re still only a few years into the industry, you can tap that experience from a trusted mentor, saving you years of time (and money, in some cases.) I’m always just an email away for all of you when it comes to mentoring and coaching advice.

But I’d also love for you to share your best tips in the comments! What advice would you give other agents for being even better?

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post 4 More Simple Tips for Becoming an Incredible Real Estate Agent appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

For those of you who are in the homebuying process or know someone who is, there’s a lot that goes along with the experience. After all, for most people, this decision will likely be the biggest financial decision of their lives. At the same time, there are many factors to consider and balance against each other, from budgets to lifestyle. How do you know what’s most important during the buying process?

After decades in the real estate and investing world, I knew I had to put together an easy list that could help buyers navigate all these aspects. Of course, instead of just throwing tips at you, I also wanted to give you something that could help you find answers to your unique situation. While these 3 questions aren’t the entire picture, they certainly are a great starting place for any buyer, from Southwest Florida to San Francisco.

How much potential would you say this home has?

You could be talking about kitchen upgrades or backyard firepits, the simple fact is that one factor about a home matters to many buyers. And that’s the potential. After all, you’ll probably be enjoying your next home for years, if not decades to come. Because your real estate agent has seen numerous properties during their career, they can likely spot all the possibilities. And in most cases, at least with my Southwest Florida real estate team, they love to talk about the potential in a specific home.

What are the weak points of this property?

Still, you also want to ask your real estate agent what they’re seeing that may be an issue. Although they aren’t a home inspector, Realtors often get a feel for what may be a concern. And depending on your agent, they may even have vital rehab experience that can lend itself to understanding a property. You can also ask what your agent thinks may need to be repaired or replaced within the first 5 years to get a good idea.

How do the prices compare to other neighborhood homes?

You may have heard that when you’re selling a home, your agent will compare the price of similar other homes that have sold in your neighborhood. This gives them perspective into what might be right for pricing your property. But what if you’re buying instead of selling? They can still check for you! By doing so, you’re getting an inside look at how a property might stack up against one just down the street. When it comes time for negotiations, you may even get an edge by knowing which way the area is trending.

Are you thinking about buying a home in Southwest Florida? I’d be happy to answer all your questions!

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post 3 Questions for Your Real Estate Agent When You’re Buying appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

As a Southwest Florida Realtor, I’m regularly asked questions about the loan process when buying a house. And it makes perfect sense. FICO scores, APRs, collateralized loans. These aren’t necessarily terms that regular people come across every day. Even if you’re familiar with some of these, the differences between revolving credit and instalment credit, not to mention fixed interest rates vs adjustable, can make you feel like you have to take a class just to buy a house.

But after decades in the real estate and investment world, I’ve learned that these concepts can be related in more simple and easy to understand ways. After all, you shouldn’t need a degree in finances just to understand your credit or how it relates to your decision to buy a home. So, today, we’re going to dive into understanding your credit score and what’s important to it.

What’s in your credit report?

The first place I like to start when it comes to understanding your credit is the info in your report. You probably can guess that things like credit cards are included. But there’s also your personal information, the accounts you’ve had or have, and several other factors. For example, there’s also the dates your accounts were opened, loan amounts, credit limits, payment history, and any delinquency info. As we’ll see in a moment, these all can greatly impact your home buying process.

What can hurt your credit score and what determines it?

From on-time payments to delinquencies, your payment history is a big part of what determines your credit score. Repossessions, garnishments, collections… these can knock your score down in a hurry. Whether it’s a 60-point loss from a 30-Day delinquency to a 250 point loss from a bankruptcy, you can see how every payment you’ve made or not made (and when you made it) factors into the equation.

Credit capacity and your amount owed

One factor that not many people talk about, but one that is equally important, is your credit capacity. By definition, credit capacity refers to how much credit you are able to handle. In deciding whether you qualify for a particular loan, your income is considered along with any other expenses and debts you may have.The most ideal balance-to-limit ratio is about 25% to 30%. Any percentage points over 30% and you start seeing a 1 point drop in your credit score.

3 types of credit

Now let’s talk about 3 different types of credit that exist. Revolving is composed of those unsecured loans, lines of credit, and any credit cards you may have. Installment involves car loans, boat loans, and the like. These can be really great for re-building credit if you’re looking to boost your score. And finally, real estate, which is made up of mortgages and home equity loans.

I regularly give a more in-depth seminar on understanding your credit report (and how to repair your score before you buy a home), but this gives you a good place to start. And as always, please feel free to shoot me over an email if you have a question. As a Southwest Realtor, I love to connect with home buyers and home sellers alike!

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post Understanding Your Credit Report appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

Now that we’ve started our 2018, we’ve seen that the Southwest Florida real estate market is likely to heat up even more. From New York to San Francisco, pricing trends in SWFL are starting to look very attractive this year due to changes in taxes, among other factors.

And while we saw recently what sellers in Southwest Florida can do to maximize their financial situation, I don’t want to leave buyers out of the equation. After all, 2018 brings with it just as much potential for buyers as it does for sellers, even though their situations are obviously different.And, in Southwest Florida, buyers are uniquely positioned to take advantage of the potential for increased value. But there’s also several tips that can help guide you as you find your next dream home in our area.

Anticipate encountering other buyers

As we saw in our previous article on selling Southwest Florida real estate in 2018, there is a big chance for multiple buyers for every house. Due to lower inventory and the popularity of our area, this means that you should be ready to give your best offer when it comes to buying.

Keep your budget in mind as you research pricing trends

As you start to look at pricing trends (and we can spend time looking at those together), you’ll notice that home values have been accelerating for some time in our area. Southwest Florida is likely to see another year like this, and so, you don’t want to be surprised at how quickly prices are moving in certain areas.

Look for diamonds in the rough

With that in mind, right now is an excellent time to hunt for those diamonds in the rough. From a new coat of paint to upgrade the kitchen, there are many home projects that can make a home shine beyond its initial look. And of course, we always are sharing those ideas with you here at Records Results.

Consider all your options for the area

Areas like North Cape Coral or Charlotte Harbor represent outstanding opportunities when it comes to Southwest Florida real estate. If one area feels a bit beyond your budget, there are others we can look at that still might fit your needs, but which offer more affordability.

Partner with a trusted Southwest Florida Realtor

Just like we recommended that sellers in Southwest Florida choose an expert in the area, we’re reiterating the importance of this tip for buyers too. When it comes down to it, a local realtor who not only understands the market, but also the community, is a huge help for buyers looking for their dream home.

Are you searching for your dream home in Southwest Florida and want to partner with an expert SWFL Realtor? Send me an email, and let’s talk!

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post Buying Your Home in Southwest Florida during 2018 appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

For first-time homebuyers, from Southwest Florida to Seattle, the real estate process can sometimes feel like a tug-of-war. For example, you probably want the most bang for your buck, but at the same time, you also want a home that you can enjoy and love. And even in affordable Southwest Florida, buying a home means balancing your priorities against your property choices. But, as your resource for all things real estate, I knew I had to put together an easy, straightforward list of questions that can help smooth out this process for you if you’re buying a home.

What sort of area would you like to live in?

Location, location, location. You’ve probably heard this often on your journey to buy a new home. In Southwest Florida, we’re lucky enough to have a large variety of choices, from quaint coastal island living to the bustling downtown lifestyle. There’s even rural choices all throughout our area! For many people, this is one of the biggest questions to answer to help them begin balancing their wants and needs.

What features would you most like to have in your home?

Locally, features like a pool or a large patio in the backyard can be key. While features often fall into the “want” category as opposed to the “need” category, knowing which are most important to you can help narrow in on those properties that will make the most sense for you and your situation.

What are your growth plans for the future?

It may sound like an odd question, and of course, your life can always change, but this one is important. Knowing ahead of time that you may want children can mean the difference between a smaller condo vs a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home, for example. Although the answer to this question may not be set in stone, you’ll likely have an idea of your direction for the next 5 or 10 years, and this can give us a huge insight.

What style home do you see yourself in?

This may not be as vital as the others, but it’s still important to ask. Locally properties can range from contemporary new construction to cute, 1950s Mid-Century Modern. And although it may be a lesser priority, a home’s style does factor into your decision when you’re buying a home.

What range are you most comfortable with for your budget?

After decades of helping people purchase homes, in Southwest Florida and beyond, I’ve learned that setting a budget range is most helpful. This is because the price of properties can differ greatly from area to area and with feature to feature. If you set a single number, you may feel like you’re either selling yourself short or breaking the bank. While your bank will approve your final loan amount, a budget range gives you the flexibility to balance the answers to our other questions against each other in a positive way. In addition, the result is a smoother, more enjoyable home buying decision for you.

Are you thinking about buying a home in Southwest Florida? I’d love to be your expert and show you all the possibilities in our area. Just send me an email!

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post 5 Questions to Determine What’s Most Important to You in the Home Buying Process appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

One question that I’m asked a lot as an estate agent in Southwest Florida is on finding the lesser known, hidden paradise in our area. And I can totally understand the sentiment. Lots of people are moving to the area—which equates to economic growth, but still, many of my clients are hunting for Southwest Florida real estate to escape to a more secluded paradise.

Now, that doesn’t mean that they want to be in the middle of nowhere. In Florida, hidden paradise is more about sleepy coastal cities and quaint little areas that have a slower pace to them. So, today, I thought it would be a great idea to share a few off-the-beaten path locations for SWFL real estate.

Bradenton Beach

If you haven’t heard of Bradenton Beach, that’s okay! As a small strip of island off our coast, it’s easy to miss, and many Realtors in the area aren’t even familiar with it. But small shops give way to a lovely beach that’s popular among locals who are “in the know.” Yet, you’re still only a short drive to places like Sarasota with its numerous amenities. This is one hidden gem that I love to share with clients, and it’s one of many off-the-beaten path local places for real estate that you have to see to believe. The shores of Cortez Beach are well worth a visit.

Lido Key

In addition, speaking of places around Sarasota… while Siesta Key is a well-known destination, Lido Key is another great place to investigate. This tiny island is all about Southwest Florida real estate that’s in the luxury range, but with all the shopping and dining at St. Armands Circle right next door, it’s hip and still slow-paced at the same time. The area is popular with residents and visitors alike, and during the weekends, you’ll find many people visiting the retail and restaurants. Still, it’s easy to feel like you’re in your own, upscale semi-secluded, version of paradise. What I love best is some of the gorgeous properties here have out-of-this-world views.

Charlotte Harbor

Let’s turn to an area with a different feel… Charlotte Harbor is popular with snowbirds and retirees for its quiet living. It remains an affordable area for Southwest Florida real estate, even as I’m seeing more people asking about this spot. Outdoor amenities are especially popular in this area, with the harbor boasting some of the best fishing and boating in the entire world. At the same time, you’re not far from either Sarasota or the Fort Myers metros, with their many other amenities.

Ready to find your own hidden paradise in Southwest Florida? I’m your premier agent in the area, and I’d love to show you more.

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

The post 3 Lesser-Known, but Amazing Areas for SWFL Real Estate appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.

As a Southwest Florida real estate agent, you can imagine that I have a thing or two to say about buying and selling homes. After decades in the business, I’ve seen just about everything (and probably more). As an expert in the industry, I’ve become a resource for nearly all aspects of the real estate process. And I truly love it!

Now, I completely respect anyone who decides that “For Sale by Owner” is the choice for them. Having that option means that people have more choices that might fit their lifestyle and financial goals. After all, what’s right for one person might not work for someone else. And I’m 100% in favor of custom solutions.

Still, with all my real estate experience, I also know that there are benefits to working with a professional real estate agent. So, if you’re wondering what makes the most sense for you, read on, and let’s discover the perks of going with a pro.

You’re Gaining Access to an Area Expert

This one is especially true if you’re just moving and discovering a new place to live. It can seem so big, and you really want to get connected with all the amenities you love. After all, how close you are to those amenities can be important. This is also true if you’re selling your home, as an area expert will be able to highlight those nearby amenities for you to use as selling points.

You’re Partnering with a Real Estate Guide

Any real estate agent worth their salt understands that the real estate process can be confusing to many people. It’s not that it’s impossible to understand, but after decades, a pro knows the ins and outs of the process like the back of their hand. Not only that, but they also know what problems to look out for long before they even become an issue. This is also true in how real estate, both locally and nationally, goes through cycles that can be hard to see at first glance.

You’re Connecting with an Entire Team

Because the pros get to know one another, they also form a tight network of trust. And really, when you think about it, that trust is built on the reputation of each real estate team. This means that you don’t have to run around searching for answers; instead, you can turn to an entire team, a team known for going above and beyond. This is even true for solo agents who still operate with other professionals in their area. For my Southwest Florida real estate team, it’s all about coming together to offer our clients the very best in real estate service.

Have a real estate question you’d like a professional to answer? Let’s talk! Send me an email, and I’d be happy to chat.

Terry Records

Broker/Owner
Records Results Real Estate
Residential Sales and Property Management Service

Terry.Records@gmail.com

239-887-2163

 

The post The Benefits of Working with a Professional Real Estate Agent appeared first on Terry Records & Jason Nordhougen | Real Estate Investment Coaches & More.