Reflection

As the season draws to an end and we are about to begin a new year - fresh and eager to take on the world, I can't help but think of the changes that have occurred in the way we do business. For a good agent - nothing stays the same. We are constantly changing and adapting to new technology, new sources of information, and new expectations by clients - both Buyers and Sellers. Our clients are savvy and information-hungry, take more time to make a decision, and are more cautious - all good things.

As a RE/MAX agent, I feel very lucky to have a vast amount of technology and information at my fingertips. I recently attended a conference in Mississauga and was once again reminded of everything that RE/MAX has to offer us. Texting and QR codes for our signs, websites and advertising, social network linkages, media releases, thorough statistics, extensive websites that are growing by the day, massive marketing campaigns - all this provides "brand recognition" for our Sellers. Brand recognition equates to more exposure for listings, more ways for potential Buyers to find our Sellers' listings. In this technological world - exposure is everything!

The challenge becomes, for the individual agent, in keeping up. Quick responses to enquiries, activating all the possible linkages and taking full advantage of what is out there for our use. Real estate has always been a 7-day a week career, and it is even more so now.

These new technologies and exposure systems are working. In our local market, our RE/MAX North Country offices held 47.5% of the marketshare in Haliburton County at the end of October, 2011, with all other companies combined holding the difference. Every year agents switch companies seeking the best deal for their money, trying to figure out how best to up their game. Reflection is an important part of starting any new year. It helps you to set goals, ensure you are where you want to be. As I look deep into my chosen career - where it has been, where it is now, and where it is going, I am very thankful for where I am, and choose not to be anywhere else!

Wishing everyone out there a wonderful Holiday Season and an absolutely fantastic 2012!!

Condo News

I had a great visit with Gerry Kowalski last week, the developer of Silver Beach Developments on Kashagawigamog Lake (check out the link to the development off my website - http://www.terrylcarr.com/ ) Things have been moving along quickly since the services were installed last year. Several homes/cottages are now built and people have moved in. The beautiful model home - The Northland, has been sold, so Gerry needed to build a new one! The first model home was the largest of the options - over 2,400 sq. ft. plus a finished basement! The new model home is a Southwind model - a very desirable size at 2200 sq. feet, including the basement, with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Even though the model home is not quite ready, I got a sneak peak and it is gorgeous! My favourites - the rustic wood mantle in the main living room and the lovely dark cabinetry in the kitchen - with loads of cupboards, of course!

Every one of these homes and townhomes are built with high standards and it is evident as you meander through the model homes or drive around the community. The first and only of it's kind in Haliburton County, this development offers the unique opportunity of mixing cottage country living with city amenities and quality. Some of the people who have already purchased here are using their property as a vacation property - either travelling to other parts of the world in off-season, or simply cottaging on weekends. Other people have sold their long-time cottages on lakes farther from Haliburton and Minden to move to the area permanently. Since Silver Beach is only a 7 minute drive from Haliburton, and about a 10 minute drive from Minden - it's location is excellent for those who want the lake and the town!

Once again I was completely impressed by Gerry's dedication to quality, community and the need to have happy, content people in the development. His success is reflected in the little things - while I was there he received a phone call and was involved in spreading the word of the 2nd annual Christmas party for Silver Beach. I have been there when owners have talked about their shopping trips and card games. The sense of community started long before there was a community and it is a very special thing to sit and watch developments unfold - from dirt and rocks, to a successful, caring and involved neighbourhood! Maybe that is why I am in real estate! I am in it for the happy endings! If you haven't seen it - check out their website or come for a visit. If you have already seen it - take a second look! And come see the NEW model home - it should be ready later this week!