Phillip's Blog

Sorry so long to get this out. By now it’s probably old news to you, but at least I don’t varnish it like the media.

Some numbers are trending in the right direction, some numbers cooled a bit. Overall, the feeling in the market could best be described as cautious anticipation. I say the because while some of the numbers are down, they are only down slightly and it feels like the sun is just over the horizon. Maybe that’s wishful fantasy after this cold, dark night we have been in for 2 years, but still things do feel like the burden is lessening. And that’s a good thing.

Of course in every chart the purple line represents 2009.

Merry Christmas to you and yours!

Q. My wife and I are interested in investing in real estate. What should we know before we jump in and put down our money?

A. Investing in real estate can be a very profitable investment, but there are a few things you should know.

• Financing investment properties may have a higher interest rate than in a home where you reside. You also may be required by the lending institution to have a larger down payment.

• The secret to making money is to buy right. Choose a property that will appreciate over time. You want to buy an “average” home in a very strong neighborhood or area – then improve the property. Be particularly careful about the location of the property, and any future changes to the area.

• If you are handy at making repairs, and available to make them, buying a fix-up property can be profitable. Make sure you choose a neighborhood where the houses are well-maintained at a higher value.

• Lastly, you’ll need to become knowledgeable about landlord tenant legal issues whether you lease the property yourself, or enlist a management company to handle your property.

If you have any questions, or if you are buying or selling real estate and need competent and professional representation, please call us at (615) 371-1544.

Making Small Talk

Have you ever found yourself at a meeting or social event and been at a loss for words? Making small talk isn’t random. It follows a formula, says Bernardo Carducci, author of The Pocket Guide to Making Successful Small Talk. Carducci says you can anticipate where the conversation is going and plan ahead. Here are some tips to follow:

» Look for someone not talking with a group and use a simple opening line, “This appetizer (food) is great!” Or, mention something about the building or room. Then introduce yourself.

» If a conversation stalls, you can restart it with a compliment. “That’s a great suit (tie, jewelry, color of clothing), you’re wearing.”

» If there’s someone you want to talk to (but they’re talking in a group), meander over, introduce yourself to others in the group and soon enough you’ll be able to talk directly with that person.