Thursday, July 9, 2009

Our Day In The Sun News Paper ...That is....

Today was an exciting day for Gateway Title.
"Rachel's Corner" made it's first appearance on the real estate page of the Cleveland area
Sun Newspapers.
The article is similar to my blog about remembering the simpler gifts of life.
I am honored that the Sun editors asked me to send it to them for the paper.
My Thanks to them for the opportunity to send my thoughts out to so many people.
It is a privilege.
Sun papers have been our neighborhood friends for years and I wish them many more years. - Rachel Torchia

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Pressure Is On And You're Overwhelmed -STOP!

I've made both good and bad decisions in my life time. In looking back I can honestly say many of the bad decisions where made when I was under pressure or feeling overwhelmed.

It's that react or respond thing. Taking the time to step back, take a deep breath and let the feeling of being overwhelmed leave you before making a decision can make a difference between a good decision and a bad decision.

My friend, Richard Flint, has some wise words on making decisions: Never make a decision when you feel overwhelmed. This is such an important thought! Every time you feel overwhelmed you are mentally weak and gathering emotions. This is the wrong time to make decisions. Any decision you make will be more emotionally charged than mentally thought-out. This means what you are doing is not a decision; it is an emotional reaction that will demand you come back and deal with it all over again. That will just steal more energy.

Remember, if you can't manage your pace, you can't control your life.

For more on Richard Flint, check out hiw website at www.RichardFlint.com and Friend

I Love Customers Who Tell Others They Love Gateway

Last Friday, we were closed, but I came in to monitor the phones and keep the doors open for buyers and sellers who often stop by without an appointment to drop off escrow papers, pick up a free starter kit, get their check or just have questions.
I'm so glad I decided to come in because mid-morning, two sisters who are selling brought in their signed purchase contract. While they were here another seller stopped by to get her proceeds check. They all started talking to each other about how wonderful Gateway Title is to work with when you are selling property!
I know I was beaming with pride as they talked.
The Gateway Team members put so much of themselves into each transaction, and it shows.
As tough as this real estate market can be, there are some rewards that can't be measured in dollars.
My Thanks to all of our buyers and sellers who are not afraid to let real estate agents and lenders know that Gateway should "title" their purchase, sale or refinance. It is the consumer's choice.

Friday, July 3, 2009

A RETURN TO SIMPLER TIMES

I'm at the office today. Due to the holiday tomorrow, we are officially closed today!
Remember when the holiday was THE holiday?
We debated staying open to take care of our customers - would they assume we would be open or closed? I came in incase someone needed to talk to us.I don't mind. This gives me a chance to write to you.
Most of the lenders we work with are closed. The county offices are closed. Our office is closed and the Gateway family and staff are getting a much deserved long week end.
As I ponder and explore my thoughts,I see many families returning to the simpler times that many of us grew up with. A return to inexpensive gatherings that are catered by the cooks in the family creating their summer specialties instead of hiring a professional caterer. A ride to a near by spot instead of air trip to a resort.To some this may be sad, but to many families it is an opportunity to learn new/old values. I used to worry about today's kids and how much spoiling we have all been guilty of. This is our chance to teach them to appreciate the many wonderful things in life all around us!And yes appreciate the all mighty dollar and what it takes to have the essentials of life.
As many folks struggle, let us not forget that we have freedom to worship and love of family and good friends .... we will come out of this stronger, wiser, and the next generation will know the simpler gifts of life.

Monday, June 29, 2009

Families Love For Sale By Owner Kit

Rachel writes:
I appeared on "Golden Opportunities" television program this past Sunday. I spoke about the newly discovered market of first time buyers purchasing the "family" home from Parents,Aunts and Uncles,and Grandparents. I have never seen so much activity in this special transaction. Many of these young buyers are single and finding that they can buy, and in many cases, it is cheaper than rent and with the tax credit, this is truely a good start for them. The sellers don't need to hire an Agent to find a buyer,the buyer is known. The family saves money, they don't hve to worry about showing and maintaining the property.
We keep life as simple for the family as possible:
The buyer gets pre-approved to make sure they can get a mortgage.
All parties fill out the disclosures and contract and take them to the lender.
Gateway Title does title and escrow.The buyer and sellers enjoy the fantastic
service that has made Gateway famous!

Thursday, June 25, 2009

For Sale By Owners Feel More Confident

Gateway Title held one of our famous Seller's Workshops last evening at our Brecksville Class room. It started at 6:30 PM and went until 9:00 PM. We covered all aspects of selling from paper work to understanding a HUD Statement (And just about everything else in between). Our guest experts from Third Federal,House Check and The Realty Store provided tons of information along with good reference material.
The feed-back I get from attendees is that it really gives them the confidence to move forward in selling knowing they have a friendly, knowledgeable support system in place.
We love working directly with consumers whether buying or selling.This is where we really shine!
This support is open to anyone. Selling or buying "by owner" or with the assistance of a professional REALTOR - The consumer is our favorite customer!
A schedule of future classes is on our home page. www.gatewaytitle.com

Monday, June 22, 2009

TODAY'S REAL ESTATE MARKET CHALLENGES US TO STAY "IN CONTROL"

When you are out of control, what happens to your emotions? Do you rant and rave? Do you snap at innocent victims? I ask, Is it your mind or your emotions taking over? Richard Flint imparts to you some thought provoking insight to this question.

Pace is not about your mind; it is about controlling your emotions. Have you ever noticed that your mind is always calm? Your mind doesn't race; it is your emotions. Your mind wants you to move slow. It understands the slower you move, the more you are going to accomplish. Your emotions are a different story. When your emotions join forces and scatter you, you're going to be out of control. When you are out of control, you are dangerous to yourself and anyone who is standing close to you. Stay in touch with how you feel; that is where the confusion will start its journey.

Remember, if you can't manage your pace, you can't control your life.

For more on Richard Flint, check out his website at www.RichardFlint.com and Friend him on Facebook.