Dear Clients, Friends & Fellow Associates ~

A long time ago, a fellow agent pulled me aside and said, “Robbie, clients do not care know how much you know, until they know how much you care!”  This has helped shaped my future dealings with all buyers and sellers.  Along the way though I have also learned that buyers and sellers want a few basics before they get down to business.  These include competency, confidence and an intent statement that become a road map for the sales process to flow smoothly.

Competence on Hilton Head Island

The competency statement is a chance to provide the seller or buyer with your resume and credentials.  It needs to be factual and straight to the point.  One I have used is, “Before we get started you probably have some questions about me.  I have been a REALTOR now for over 24 years on the Island (new agents should use company credentials i.e. My company has been in real estate since 1979)and have been serving clients just like you through these years.  I love what I do and have a great assistant and company that backs me up every step of the way.   I work hard to know the current market, the opportunities it presents and am able to advise and help you achieve your goals.  OK, lets get started”  Every agent should have a competency statement prepared.  It does not have to be canned, it just needs to be conveyed in the beginning as they do not know who you are!

Confidence on Hilton Head Island

You have one shot at a good first impression.  Through the years I have learned in Real Estate that there are certain freebies for REALTORS and the first impression is an easy one.  Freebies for Realtors include being prepared, appropriate dress, clean automobiles, being on time, and a postitive attitude.  Confidence is an inside job, but some confidence builders include smile,  hang out with positive agents, attend presentations by your Board, read positive material(www.bloghiltonhead), listen to motivation tapes, and skip the headlines.

Intent in Hilton Head Island

Before an agent should ever interview for a listing or show property, they need to establish intent with their client.  An intent statement is as simple as asking a purchaser if they have their “checkbook” before showing any property.  Here is one I have used, “Today we are going to see some great properties.  If we discover a property that  matches your needs now or in the future, I am going to ask you to buy”  Is that OK with you?”  The beauty of a good intent statement is that it allows everyone to relax through the process and unites the agent with their client in a common goal.

Bottom Line

As professionals, competency and intent statements can make the difference between making a friend and also making a sale.  Good Luck and… 

Happy Selling!!!

Robbie Bunting & Jane Hyers

800-932-3652

Great Listings t0 practice with  http://www.robbiebunting.com/listings.asp

Dear Clients, Friends & Fellow Associates ~  

Do you plan on moving?  As a member of the Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® our network consists of over 600 premier real estate firms with 5,000 offices and 150,000 sales associates in 35 countries around the world, Jane and I can now help you.  We have access to agents and movers throughout the world. 

These agents are the best of the best.  Collectively, this group has sold over 1 million homes worth $300 billion in 2008, more than any national real estate brand. LeadingRE dominates the United States’ list of top 500 real estate firms, with more of the Number One market leaders in the top 90 markets than any national brand.  In fact, they introduce new purchasers all the time to our area and provide two great services listed below:

Do you need a mover in Cincinnati, New Jersey or Hilton Head?

If you need a moving company to move to Hilton Head Island or any where else, we have a connection.  We recently had a client that was moving from Hilton Head Island to the north for some strange reason.  He had shopped for a moving company and had some quotes, but he asked if we could do better for him.  We did some research and came up with a company which is dedicated to a custom-designed relocation service to meet your needs.  They shop the price and will get you the best company.  Their knowledge and customer focus for our relocating family was exceptional.  Needless to say they got the job.

Relo Move Management

Visit here for a moving checklist

Need a Realtor in Cincinnati, Hilton Head Island or anywhere else?

We have a friend that can help you.  Member firms are highly regarded community leaders, and they include many of the most-established companies in the country, including the United States’ oldest residential firm, Baird & Warner in Chicago. A high percentage of these member companies have been in business for over 25 years.  Membership also has the best and brightest new-age companies that are climbing to Number One or Two market positions in just a few years based on innovation, consumer focus, and a passion for re-inventing real estate.  If you would like to meet one of my friends in the business let us know.

Visit here for a Request form

We of course look forward to helping you make the move into our area, however no matter where you are going we have been very impressed with the services of Leading Real Estate Companies of the World®.  They provide us referrals all the time of new clients moving to Hilton Head Island and we have found them invaluable for our clients that have a house to sell before they relocate here. 

Enjoy the MOVE!

Respectfully,
Robbie Bunting & Jane Hyers

P.S.  Please fax the above forms to 1-866-680-1137 to get started.  Thank you.

Dear Friends, Clients and Fellow Associates~

I have many clients that look to evaluate their real estate holdings every year for their estate.    Some of my clients are satisfied with a brokers opinion, others want a more formal document.  In fact, if you own property right now one very good reason to have your property appraised is to take advantage of the very low interest rates available.  Below is a recommended appraiser and all round good guy that can help you with this process.

Real Estate Appraisals on Hilton Head Island

There are many reasons for an appraisal such as: Insured Value Updates, Estates, Trusts, Dissolution Values, Tax Appeals, Listing Price Opinions, Purchase Offers, Purchases, and Mortgages.  Most identify the need for an Appraisal with a Mortgage Loan.

The past few years have been the most challenging since I began my Island Area Appraisal Career in 1988.  Many in the profession have seen an increase in requests for Listing Price Opinions.  Most Property Owners requesting a Listing Price Opinion are tired of not receiving offers, confused by a wide range in suggested listing prices, or just over exposed to our many real estate advertising outlets.  Sellers just want an opinion from someone who is independent and won’t profit by the outcome.

When I take an assignment, I explain that the outcome of the Appraisal is between the Property Owner and the Appraiser.  The Appraisal outcome is only disclosed to another party if requested by the Property Owner.  Additionally, Federal Regulations prohibit the use of the Appraisal for Lending if ordered by anyone other than the Lending Institution.  Finally, an Appraisal is time sensitive since it is based on a point in time in an ever changing market.

Hope this helps, Bruce.

Bruce A. Goff, Owner Bruce A. Goff, Inc.
PO Box 4652 / Hilton Head Island, SC 29938

SC Professional Appraisers Coalition, Board/Past Chairman

SC State Certified Residential Real Estate Appraiser, CR29
Licensed SC Real Estate Broker / SC Real Estate & Appraiser Instructor
Voice: (843) 686-4444 / Cell: (843) 683-4444 / Fax: (843) 686-4858

Website: www.brucegoffhhi.com  / Email: brucegoffhhi@yahoo.com

Dear Friends, Clients and Fellow Associates~

We all need a fix it guy(or gal).  Whether it is before we list a home or after we sell a villa there is always something that needs to be fixed on one of our properties.  In choosing a repair person, I want someone that is both reliable and resourceful.  Trust enters this equation and I really want someone that is going to go the extra mile.  My recommendation is Bobby Plott.  I have had him do big stuff and small and he is always on time and works within a budget. 

Below is a recent email from Bobby:

Dear Robbie:

I want to take this opportunity to thank you for the many Remodel and Inspection Report referrals you have sent to me.   I feel that I have performed all of your clients jobs in a quality, timely and fair-priced manner.   I take pride in the work I do, and am very conscientious in making property owners pleased and satisfied.

As you know, I was a SC licenced builder here on Hilton Head for 15 years, before relocating to Florida about 4 years ago.  Because of my love for the Island and personal connections, I came back almost a year ago.  I am very skilled in all aspects of home building and remodeling, including major and minor repairs both exterior and interior.   Whether you need rot repair, kitchen or bathroom remodels, deck building, CL-100 report repairs or anything of that nature, I am available for you.

I will contact you about the Queen’s Grant CL-100 work and have that completed early next week, after the tenant’s check-out.

Again, thank you very much and the best to you and Jane Hyers.

Sincerely,

Thank you,  

Robert Plott Jr.
Ph: 843-684-0768
rplott@gmail.com
PS – I will gladly offer to your clients a Free Estimate on any job, big or small!

Dear Friends, Clients and Fellow Associates~

Timing is everything.  I asked my favorite builder to give me some insite on the building industry now and what are the reasons he has been busy these past few years.  He took some time and answered my questions.  If you have questions feell free to contact him anytime, his name is Scott Bunting and his cell is (843)384-7468 his email is SBunting@buntingcompany.com.  He not only has a higher expectation of quality, he is approachable and is a straight shooter.  Below are some questions and answers:

Allow me to answer your questions one at a time…

First, Why build now?

There are actually many good reasons to build right now. Think of the economy from a different more positive point of view for a moment. Subcontractor, vendor and supplier prices are very low at this time which makes building costs significantly lower than previous years. For example, the National Association of Home Builders Housing Data shows that the framing lumber prices are at their lowest, $235 per 1,000 board feet, since 2004 where it was at $431 per 1,000 board feet. Also, residential window and door sales have been steadily decreasing, forcing many companies to begin selling their products for a lesser price. According to Ducker International Forecast, shipments are down almost 30 million from 2005 when they were at their peak of sales/shipments.

For people curious about building who don’t own a lot or home already, it is a great time to buy. The combination of near record low mortgage interest rates and the outstanding selection of inventory on the market make now the best time to purchase a property and build. According to the National Home Builders Association, “there may never be another buyer’s market as good as today’s.” Real-estate is predictably cyclical; ultimately, prices will increase as inventory declines and demand increases.

By purchasing a property for a lower price now, you can customize and build a home built specifically for you and your family.  Building today is a great and smart investment for tomorrow!

Second, what are construction costs now?

Construction costs vary from house to house depending strongly on the owner selections and changes made through the building process. According to the National Association of Home Builders the average price per square foot of floor area in a new one-family house in the United States has been steadily decreasing since 2006 when it was at its highest in 15 years. According to the data, the northeast region of the U.S. is most expensive while the southern region is least.

Third, How to choose a home site?

Home site selection is all personal preference. Depending on what kind of home the owner wishes to build and what type of atmosphere they wish to live in; whether they wish to live in a nice school district, have a beach front view, or live in a quiet secluded forest area. It is all up to the owner. Recent trends show that lot prices are lower and the costs of older homes that could be torn down is also low which could sway a property buyers decision.  Bunting Construction Company, Inc. will build anywhere.

And finally, How long does it take to build a great home?

From the beginning of the Design/Build process to the point in time where the Certificate of Occupancy is approved, Bunting Construction Company strives to completethe project in less than a year. The building process can vary  depending on the owner’s selections and changes throughout the project.
 
Scott Bunting
Bunting Construction Company, Inc.
www.BuntingCompany.com
Office: (843) 842 – 9033
Fax: (843) 842 – 9209

Dear Friends, Clients and Fellow Associates~

The other day I went for a listing appointment.  The seller was busy getting ready to put the home on the market.  As we walked from room to room it was easy to see that this seller had some great furnishings and accessories.  The only problem was they were not in the right place to make a great first impression.  I had Kelly meet with the sellers and she not only got the job she made it fabulous.  They liked it so much they decided to take it off the market and enjoy it!

Kelly has helped me with staging my homes to sell and also has helped with a custom built couch!  Whether selling, staging or just living give Kelly a call and take her up on her free one hour of design constultation on Hilton Head Island.   Below is a little bit about her:

Designing to Sell, Inc.

Vacant Staging:

Occupied Staging:

Home Renovations:

Dear Friends, Clients and Fellow Associates~

Buyers in the recent past have been a lot like my hound dog.  Every once in awhile you get their attention, but if a butterfly floats by or a poor day on the stock market takes place, the buyer and the hound head off in a different direction.  I started thinking about this the other morning when I was out walking my hound dog Sheeba.  As she poked around looking for scent, I called her several times and finally got her attention.  As she started heading in my direction, something distracted her and off she went back on her original course. 

My buyers were a bit distracted too.  Given the news in the economy in the past year, many buyers simply could not focus on anything including real estate. Every day  now it seems that there are fewer distractions.  In fact,  our Island’s real estate inventory went down last month for the first time in over a year.  With this supply decrease sustained we will start seeing a turn take place because real estate is governed by the simple law of Supply and Demand!

Inventory drops 4.5% on Hilton Head Island!

One thing that is always true, Sheeba comes running for food.  That said, when buyers start feeling and seeing this stability in the market place, they will all come running at once, too.   The problem with this is that we are an Island with a very limited and finite number of properties. 

I will keep calling you!  I call this “caring persistence”.  My advise though if you want your piece of paradise now is to not wait for my call!  My number is 800-932-3652 and my email is robbie@robbiebunting.com.  I look forward to talking soon.  Thank you.

Happy Hilton Head~

Robbie Bunting &
Jane Hyers

P.S.  ~ As this market continues to improve properties on Hilton Head Island will disappear and be replaced with less negotiable and higher priced properties!

Summer time is right around the corner!  

If you are planning on visiting or visitors this summer, we have prepared two great maps that include the top 10 Cool Things to Do on both Hilton Head Island and Daufuskie.   These 11×17 maps offer An Islanders Double Top Secret Ideas to enjoy Hilton Head Island i.e. ~ one of the fun spots to watch the Tuesday Night fireworks during the summer is at Broad Creek Marina on Marshland Road… away from the crowds of Shelter Cove.  

Get a free Map of the Top 10 COOL Things To Do!

These maps are all about fun.  In addition, these maps are excellent for anyone that needs a day off from the beach or for those that dream of living here someday.  They include great ideas and also include a full list of our latest greatest properties.  If you wish, you may also schedule an informative “tour and talk” with one of our knowledgeable staff.  It is very informative, low pressure and is a whole lot of fun while previewing some incredible properties.

Just give us a call or shoot us an e-mail for your free maps.

Please feel free to forward this e-mail to friends or family that you know will be visiting the Island so they can order a free map.  We hope to see you around the Island enjoying the map and having fun!

From the Gang,

Robbie Bunting & Jane Hyers

P.S.  ~ Above we have attached Latte Lou’s Great Places to Eat.  Lou has lived here for 29 years

Greetings from Hilton Head Island, South Carolina!   

We appreciate the opportunity to introduce you to ourselves and the Low Country.  The natural beauty integrated with the small Island community, makes this a wonderful place to own property or live.  Our subtropical temperatures and over 200+ days of sunshine make this paradise.  

Our commitment is first class service.  We have recently found tremendous values in homes, home sites and villas for our buyer clients.  We have been helping others just like you research and find property on Hilton Head Island for over 22 years.  

Currently we are offering a free financial strategy session and MLS link to our buyer clients and invite you to take advantage of this offer.  Please call us or email anytime to participate.  By the way, we now offer a full time buyers agent that knows the Island better than anyone and loves touring the exciting properties newly listed.

Thank You.  We welcome your response. 

Respectfully,
The Robbie Bunting Team