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Steve + Heather Ostrom

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2013-2016 Social Media Squad – Coldwell Banker

2 Comments / Media Interviews, Real Estate Education, Videos /

Hello, I’m Heather Ostrom, a REALTOR with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Roseville, CA.

I originally wrote this post back in 2013. Wowza, does time fly fast. So updates to this post (2015): for three years consecutively, I have had the amazing privilege of being on the Coldwell Banker International Social Squad. And now in 2016, I have been asked again to participate in the social squad, but lets keep this as my happy 2015 post.

A lot has changed since even 2013, including our waist lines.

For New York, Hollywood, and now Chicago #GenBlue – I have had the opportunity to continue to be a brand ambassador in the social media waters and as a positive figure for our company, Coldwell Banker. It’s a great honor, and not something I take lightly, along with our clients and business.

Last year I even had the privilege of going on stage with Jane Lynch, to say I had an amazing time, would be an understatement. We work hard, but we also like to be fun to work with (particularly since this tends to be one of the more stressful points in your life, buying and selling a home). We take pride in our experience and personal touch to do all we can, both in education, and making the experience more enjoyable.

So what why do we attend the Gen Blue experience, year-after-year? See below – all that changes is, that it only gets better each year. Evolving with tried and true ways of working, mixed with the new expectations of consumers, and ways to work smarter and not harder.

Managers and Agents – sign up today: www.GenBlue.ColdwellBanker.com

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Original Post from 2013 below

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How Has Attending the #GenBlue Conference Improved Us?

#GenBlue is the Coldwell Banker Annual International Conference. For the past three years, Steve and I both have attended the conferences. Gen Blue offers classes for self-improvement and inspiration to improve anyone who is part of the Coldwell Banker brand – both for elevating our online and offline skills.

Attending these Coldwell Banker #GenBlue conferences has changed Steve and I in so many positive ways in relationships, work habits and tools, and personal improvement. I have met so many talented individuals across the country who have forever changed me – sharing tips and also putting me in touch with solutions that I may not have found on my own.


Talk / writing is cheap, without proof, right? You’re probably saying, “Hey Heather, give me direct evidence for improved behaviors and some feedback on the conference.” Fair enough (bare with me as I talk about myself in third person). 😉

  • First and foremost, videos. I learned what techniques to improve our videos. “Slow pans” … dynamic backgrounds, changing your setting for videos, while realizing the importance of “audio.” I learned from other agents their own person tricks in video editing.
  • Online tools – Stephanie Hahn was an amazing past speaker at Gen Blue. She fueled me to explore Google Tools more and how insanely amazing all the options are …. I now use the G-Cal and attachments like an online ninja and my clients love it.
  • Matthew Ferrara, Philosopher – A CB speaker staple and never ceases to be awesome. I learned about online and offline behaviors and how he conducts his business (he’s fantastic). Not to mention, Matthew was part of one of the most epic moments of conference history witnessed – Ferrara vs. Mike Ferry in 2011. Steve O and I STILL talk about this event.
  • I also learned and got to know Debra Trappen and Linda Aaron better and learned all of their SwissArmyKnife tricks for better interaction online and improved visuals online. Such happy energy and the crowd dialogue was intoxicating with the Q&A that was initiated.
  • The main stage speakers – inspiration for the soul and mind. Always a “wow” factor every year of someone from outside of real estate and also some of the best in our business.
  • Finally, and definitely not least – the final party is ALWAYS amazing. Sure, it may sound immature to rank a party amongst the reasons, but I definitely made new friends from dancing and going around introducing myself to new agents. I also have earned quite a few referrals because people remembered me. How awesome is that?
  • Direct from the Source: I learned how to better use the amazing tool of CB Exchange (formerly CBWorks) – the undiscovered gem of educational videos, logos, and templates. Also some of the nerdiest of nerds (written with the highest affection), that told us how to leverage the free info to do our market updates.

Online and Offline Agent Improvements

Whether you’re a broker, manager, marketing bossy pants, or an agent in the field … the Conference is not just about online items – it’s about the entire package of being a real estate agent in the current age.

Year-after-year, Coldwell Banker continues to set-up a FRESH and NEW schedule for their agents and brokers, BUT also in the education straight from the agent’s mouth. I gain so much from the Q and A’s that happen from the audience, as well as the agent panels, and speakers. Interactions are always dynamic and passionate.

Steve O and I have always thought of Coldwell Banker to be the best. I’m proud to be #GenBlue. So if You’re Coming to the Conference, I’m very tall (6ft) and I love orange – please come up and say “hi” and I look forward to meeting and sharing with you! I’m proud to be #GenBlue

Come Say “Hi” to the GenBlue Social Squad!

 

Follow me on Twitter at @RosevilleRockLn (and say “hi” @ me!)

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Learn More About Gen Blue Coldwell Banker: Local and National Conferences

Follow the Conference Dialogue – #GenBlue Hashtag

 

Property Questions or Showings? 916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – REALTORs Steve + Heather Ostrom

 

See more informative posts at:  www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Roseville and Rocklin Real Estate + Lifestyle

Author: Heather Ostrom, Real Estate Marketing – REALTOR

Steve Ostrom, Primary Listing Agent + REALTOR – 916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Coldwell Banker  – Roseville, CA – CALBRE# 01344154 + 01899313 2200 Douglas Blvd B-200, Roseville, CA 95661

Learn more about listing your home with us!

Equal Housing Opportunity

 

2013-2016 Social Media Squad – Coldwell Banker Read More »

Remodel or Move Up?

3 Comments / First-Time Home Buyers, Real Estate Education, Seller Information, Videos /
George Jefferson
Flickr: Photo Property of Pete Prodoehl

Have you been debating if you’re going to move up to the “apartment in the sky George Jefferson” or are you going to make your home the place you always dreamed to live in?

Hard questions for many of us to answer. Do you go out and find the perfect home or do you create your “nest” to reflect your perfect world? Well, what I would suggest starting with making lists of the pros and cons of what’s the best route for your situation.

  • Do you love your current home and neighborhood?
  • Have you been looking for an opportunity to change school districts or move to another neighborhood? Maybe a cul-de-sac location is your dream situation, or perhaps more land to stretch on or maybe a lower-maintenance yard?
  • Will you be “over-building” for your neighborhood (with a remodel)?
  • Will you be selling in the near future due to needs of a downsize or more space? Important to ask if you’re trying to get return on your upgrade or remodel.
  • Draw up the costs of that pool you have been dreaming of, or that must-have upgrade you have always wanted (example kitchen, or master bedroom, etc). Get quotes for your upgrades. Concrete items for your budget.
  • Are you in a two-story and you’re starting to think of the future and a one-level home, or need that first floor full bedroom and bath? Are monthly bills fitting into your future budget?
  • Do you know the values of your neighborhood and current value of your home model (no, not your Zestimate)? We can help you here. Just let us know.
  • Your ‘target’ neighborhood – do you know what the going prices are going for, with what size of home you might need that will fit your budget? (including Mello Roos / taxes, utility group fees, etc)
  • Have you spoken to your lender or a listing agent to start putting some numbers and options to those “move-up” dreams? There’s no harm here, why not? Here’s a list of local lenders we have worked with before and enjoyed.

Life is not always perfect and not all of us have the means for change, or desire. Why not see what the options are for your improved life quality and daily life function in your home. In many cases, with this market, if you’re unhappy with the area you’re in, it might make sense to move-up into your “perfect home.”

For folks where expensive and costly remodels may NOT make sense and are NOT the solution. Example, a “move-up” buyer or maybe someone that might need to downsize in the near future. Get a second opinion on your choices for upgrades, particularly if you do have intention to sell soon. You might want to modify upgrades and remodels that are appealing to a larger group of folks, and perhaps not drain the life savings into a kitchen remodel if you might be moving (and hopefully find that perfect kitchen in another home).

Are you the Lexus amongst the lot of “Tow Maters?”

Are you at the top of the food chain with or without these upgrades already? Do your homework on your competition and be aware of pricing of that competition in the neighborhood and know how appraisals can affect buyers on your home. When it comes to selling time, you might find yourself frustrated that you didn’t consult  an appraiser before making costly upgrades … and talk to a REALTOR, so you know what the values are in your neighborhood, tailored to your home.

One thing not addressed in the video by Steve O, are the folks that ARE perfect candidates for a remodel or home upgrade. Particularly if you love the area you are located. I know, some folks don’t mind the money invested if it means for their quality of life, enjoyment and for those that qualify for those comments – do it! If you’re blessed to live in your “FOREVER” home and do NOT want to move – and you are the perfect candidate for a remodel. What are you waiting for? Start requesting some quotes from a few licensed contractors and create the space you deserve. (and don’t forget to check with your state board with contractor licensing and bonding for remodeling, if applicable)

This video was created by Ryan Lundquist – Lundquist Appraisal Company

We’re here for your needs and what’s right for you, BUT if you’re NOT in the place you want to be, and you do have the means to move-up – you SHOULD check out your options out there.

Don’t let “what-ifs” keep you from research, and give us a call today – let us know if we can help you put your dream home on the radar.  916-308-2446

“Should You Stay or Should You Go Now?” :-

Property Questions or Showings? 916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – REALTORs Steve + Heather Ostrom 
See more informative posts at:  www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Roseville and Rocklin Real Estate + Lifestyle

Steve Ostrom, Primary Listing Agent + REALTOR – 916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Coldwell Banker  – Roseville, CA – CALBRE# 01344154 + 01899313 2200 Douglas Blvd B-200, Roseville, CA 95661

Remodel or Move Up? Read More »

Earth Day 2012 – Roseville, California

Loving Placer County, Media Interviews, Videos: Area Videos /

April 21st, 2012 – 5th Annual “Earth Day” in Roseville, CA. Every year we try and attend this event and every year it seems to get better. We love living in Roseville and this event just reminds us how much we really do love this city.

Below are some fun links of groups featured in our video and/or great helpful links to the City of Roseville (CA):

Referencing our video: AND “NO” we didn’t win the Kindle Fire from the City of Roseville … I *KNOW* … what’s up with that?

Property Questions or Showings? 916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – REALTORs Steve + Heather Ostrom

 

See more informative posts at:  www.RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Roseville and Rocklin Real Estate + Lifestyle

Author: Heather Ostrom, Real Estate Marketing – REALTOR

Steve Ostrom, Primary Listing Agent + REALTOR – 916-308-2446 – Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Coldwell Banker  – Roseville, CA – CALBRE# 01344154 + 01899313 2200 Douglas Blvd B-200, Roseville, CA 95661

Learn more about listing your home with us!

Equal Housing Opportunity

Earth Day 2012 – Roseville, California Read More »

Placer County Assessor's Website

Property Taxes Search and Mello-Roos – Placer County

2 Comments / Buyer Information, Real Estate Education, Relocation, Videos /

What is Mello-Roos?

We are often asked, “What is Mello-Roos” and then followed up with, “How can I look at the property’s past tax bills?”

Below, we’re going to do our best with guiding you how to find the answers online, but please note, YOU MUST follow up and confirm directly with Placer County Tax Assessor to confirm all tax-related content and inquiries. 530-889-4120 

We are NOT tax experts. Items below are for entertainment value only and any person / party using this post as a tool to look-up taxes or tax-related items, understands it’s their responsibility to verify all information in the video and this post.

What is Mello-Roos?

 

 

This video from 2015ish*, but there is good info in this video on “What is Mello-Roos” as we know not everyone is familiar with the term.

Retrieve a Property’s Past Tax Bill – Placer County

APN Placer County Assessor's Website Searching Tax Bills

Click here or above (it’s a link to another page on our website) where we have a “step-by-step” of how to view a tax bill on the Placer County website.

Mello-Roos should be detailed for the previous year on this bill*. Not sure what Mello-Roos is, watch the video above. On some natural hazard disclosures (NHD), it will list the Mello-Roos as well or if they’ll go up (not always**). New construction buyers, don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions on this topic too. Some NHDs will even state how long it will last, but this feedback from us is for entertainment value, See info above for disclosure**

It’s very easy now to look things up (2026) and much less complicated than when we first wrote this post back in 2012.

 Questions? Feel free to call Steve Ostrom at 916-308-2446

Homes@RosevilleAndRocklin.com – Coldwell Banker Realty  – Roseville, CA – CALBRE# 01344154 + 01899313 2200 Douglas Blvd B-200, Roseville, CA 95661

Property Taxes Search and Mello-Roos – Placer County Read More »

Being Prepared for the Appraiser

3 Comments / Appraisers or Inspectors, Real Estate Education, Videos /

REALTOR Steve Ostrom talks with Appraiser Ryan Lundquist about the agent perspective and the appraiser perspective about an agent meeting the appraiser at the property, at the time of appraisal with paperwork on comparables (called comps) and giving insight to those comparables which may not be readily available on the internet or know because a home may not have been on the market that long.

Ryan also explains his thoughts, on the best approach, what to say and what not to do as an agent … it gives sellers a good perspective on what we do as listing agents, but also what we as agents, are dealing with when approaching an appraiser. Each appraiser is different and will have a different take on the listing agent meeting the appraiser to discuss comps …

Give us your thoughts? What do you think?

Thanks Ryan for your interview, as always! It’s always great to get another person’s perspective so we can stay fine tuned.

Ryan Lundquist
ryan@lundquistcompany.com
TEL: 916-595-3735
FAX: 916-361-1964
@SacAppraiser on Twitter
FB – https://www.facebook.com/SacramentoAppraiser

Coldwell Banker Sun Ridge • 4011 Woodcreek Oaks #110 Roseville 95747

Visit our Real Estate Educational Library – RosevilleAndRocklin.com

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Being a Prepared First-Time Home Buyer

First-Time Home Buyers, Real Estate Education, Videos /

First-time home buyer series … there are many variables to consider when beginning your real estate searches, how or what means being prepared to start your home hunt. This is your information gathering phase and make sure your buying experience is a good one, by being prepared and asking yourself the right questions and communicating your precise needs, time frames and expectations.

And yes, this is a rare Heather O video. 🙂

Being a Prepared First-Time Home Buyer Read More »