Really... What is a Nor'easter? OBX folks look here- http://ping.fm/axGyC

New Buyer and New Listing Today! Love my job!!

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Declining Inventory Sign of Stabilizing Market http://ping.fm/P9Q1M

Use A Local Lender For Real Estate Transactions

Transactions involving a lender outside our local area have been a nightmare! Here on the Outer Banks of North Carolina the market is mostly second homes, retirement homes and/or investment properties, especially in Southern Shores, my area of speciality. In most cases, my buyer and seller clients do not live here. Because of the logistics, sometimes a client will want to use “their bank” in their own hometown to purchase property hundreds of miles away. That is when the trouble begins.

Here are the reasons I argue for using a lender familiar with the area of the subject property.

1. Appraisals have become more complicated as they are more closely regulated. An appraiser sent by a lender not familiar with the area will hold up the transaction and/or not be able to appraise so another appraiser is sent. Deals die this way!
2. Lack of local market knowledge is harmful. It has been my experience that local lenders have an intimate knowledge of their own area which positively influences their decisions. Especially in coastal areas, knowledge of local geography, flood zones, etc. is critical.
3. Difficulty gaining access to decision makers can be a deal breaker. We all have relationships with our local bankers. It is such a waste not to be able to call on these folks for assistance. . The lenders I suggest to my clients are the best in every way and enhance the experience for everyone.
4. Our clients don’t get all the services we can provide when the lender is not part of the local team. I find my hands are tied when my clients really need my help.
5. Finally, on-line lenders are just another breed altogether! I don’t even know where to start with this one.

I would love to hear about your own experiences in this area. Perhaps you have some tips for me to use when I must deal with non-local lenders! Thanks!

Re-Branding The Outer Banks

One topic at our Realtor Association meeting last week was branding our community. As many know, the Outer Banks has been known as "Fishermen's Paradise" for generations. And our beaches are known as some of the best in the country. However, with the onslaught of the "Consent Decree" beach closings and increased fishing regulations, our Paradise is less about fishing & beaching each year! As one who loves casual bike riding, I think our community could be an ideal destination for others who cycle, either casually or seriously. What can we do to bring this sport into our brand? How about contiguous bike routes from Hatteras to Corolla? Some paths could be along the roads and some closer to the ocean and/or sound. We already have the most important ingredient for success, an unparalleled environment compatible with this sport for 8 months out of the year. It does not depend on "beach weather", would extend our season and expand our visitor demographic. Let's start a discussion around this topic beginning with cycling and moving on from there. What do you think?

Why I Resigned From The Defenders Of Wildlife

I have resigned my membership in the Defenders of Wildlife, an organization whose efforts to save wolves from vicious aerial shooting I have supported for over a decade. Those who know me are aware of my love for all animals. But I believe their misguided participation in the beach closings on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore "consent decree" has damaged our culture, our economy and our wildlife. Over the 4th of July weekend, 67% of the beaches along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore had no access. The next weekend the number rose to 70%. After the first full year of the "consent decree" results are down for the oystercatcher and the piping plover. Cape Point, our prized surf fishing destination, inaccessible! For generations this environment has been treated with love and respect by its' inhabitants whose very lives depend upon the welfare of the birds, fish, turtles and land. Removing the stewardship of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore from those who care for it the most is unreasonable and shortsighted. The proof is in the damage done to the wildlife as well as the community's economy in just 12 months. Please join me in supporting bills moving through the US House of Representatives and the Senate that would restore the authority of the National Park Service to preserve the beach access to the seashore. They are H.R. 718 and S. 1557. Spread the word; call your congressman and senators. Please do whatever you can to help that future generations will have the opportunity to marvel in the wonder that is the Outer Banks! Help us Preserve and Protect, Not Prohibit. Go to Outer Banks Preservation Association.

Ten Things I Have Learned About Life From Living With a Three-legged Dog Named Fannie Rose

If you have read Fannie's Story on my website http://www.mysouthernshores.com --- you know that she is my 3-legged terrier. I believe that she came into my life to be not only my friend, but also my spiritual guide. She taught me many lessons about dignity and coping. I would like to share them with you now.

1. Life is not always what I thought it was going to be. I accept this fact and try to move on with the wonderful gifts I have been given.

2. I try not to pre-judge people by their looks. Upon meeting Fannie you couldn't possibly believe that she likes to run, but she most certainly does.

3. Sometimes I have to step out of my comfort-zone to learn new ways of doing things. Almost every time I do this, I grow.

4. I try to focus on my strengths instead of my weaknesses. Although easier said than done, it does help me to keep a positive attitude.

5. I always look people in the eye when I talk with them. Fannie has amazingly intelligent eyes and sometimes she can communicate with me without saying a word.

6. Simple pleasures, like a favorite sweater or a long walk are definitely the best. In Fannie's case, it is a silly little toy that I got for her from the Dollar Tree. It just makes her so happy.

7. Listen to what your heart tells you to do. When I first saw Fannie, I knew nothing good was going to come of her being in that pet shop. My heart told me to take her home and I am so happy that I did.

8. Patience is a virtue. It took Fannie time to heal. It takes time to grow a successful real estate business. Coping with the ambiguity takes patience and I intend to stick with my long-term goals.

9. I have learned that routines are important to both Fannie and me. We have to eat, exercise, and sleep to stay healthy and happy. We just do it together.

10. And as I gaze down upon Fannie curled beneath my feet as I work on the computer, I understand that unconditional love is the greatest gift one can ever give or receive.

Thank you for listening.

MM