42nd Carnival of Real Estate: Real Estate Blog Pageant

The 42nd Carnival of Real Estate was cleverly hosted by RSS Pieces with real estate blog pageant as theme.

There were 6 tiara awardees; 1 overall winner and 5 runners up. Real Estate Blogs publishing posts for Consumers were the favorites.

Overall Winner:   Larry Cragan "He called it the Skyhook Theory. How about Skyhook Theory for Buyers?"

Larry wrote about prioritizing the buyer’s needs over the money.  He emphasized the importance of giving the buyer utmost professional service that he deserves.  He also pointed out that full service is more than online sales, it is about being physically there to give your buyer the ultimate buying experience.

First Runner Up: Larry Walker "Unarmed Robbery: Broker Style"

Larry shared his experience about a broker charging his client additional fees on top of the commission. The seller was being charged with a $395 "regulatory compliance fee" which sounded like something he is obliged to pay. In reality, he explained that it is the equivalent of  "gratuity added".

Second Runner Up: House Chick’s Blog "Top Ten Things To Know about Tucson Real Estate-A/C and Evaporative Coolers"

Tucson’s weather can be very hot, since it is located in the Sonoran dessert.  House Chick’s Blog extensively discussed the different types of A/C available and the feature pack evaporative cooler; humbly known as the "swamp cooler".

Third Runner Up: Posh’d "Let’s Have a Chat"

Posh’d recommends incorporating a chat box in a realtor’s website to keep in touch with clients.  Meebo and Plugoo, the two most popular chat plug-ins were discussed as tools to instantly chat with clients, as well as other devices such as Treo, Blackberry and the Windows phone.  The main point is to be available and reachable by your clients through these modern technological innovations.

Fourth Runner Up: Lisa Dunn "The Real Payoff with Working for Seniors"

Lisa Dunn talks about the pleasure of helping someone in need.  She won’t get paid for most of her efforts but it gives her much joy doing it anyway. She added that payback time usually comes in the form of referrals.

Fifth Runner up: David Edwards "Ridiculous Article on MSN Today…Why More People Should Rent"

David Edwards gave a commentary about the subject MSN article.  He also discussed the benefits of real estate over stocks; adding that he personally made a fortune in his house.