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Real Estate Tax Changes in Michigan Save Clients Money before May 1st
2008-04-24 16:38:00
Please watch the Washtenaw County Treasurer Catherine McClary (you tube videos) explain double homestead exemptions, along with forms.  She also talks about the Pop Up Tax and the Waiver of Homestead Taxes.  All REALTORS should be advising their Seller clients who qualify before the closing about this saving.  The calculation forms are on the blog www.AnnArborTalks.com.   Feel free to print the forms here to save your sellers some money. Kathy Toth and Team
More About: Estate , Money , Real Estate , Michigan , Clients

Verl Workman Speaks to the Ann Arbor Board of Realtors
2008-03-07 18:30:00
To my fellow Rainers, I know Missy Caulk told you about the personalized M&Ms you can get on the M&M's site with up to 8 characters per candy, but I wanted to share the other things our Utah colleague mentioned while speaking in Ann Arbor . His site utilizes some video technology which he indicates will be huge.  Visit Verl Workman's site at VerlWorkman.com. He is a very warm, and informative speaker, of Pinnacle Quest Consulting: 801-733-4373. See what you can use from the list of tips and sites posted on AnnArborTalks.com. I was writing as fast as I could, and got as many of the tips as possible.If you have some more to add, I would love your suggestions.Regards,Kathy Tothwww.KathyToth.comKeller William's Realty
More About: Realtors , Board

So You Want This Puppy?
2008-02-15 17:24:00
A Puppy has been born in Japan with a large, clear, love-heart-shaped pattern in his coat.The Chihuahua was born in May as one of a litter to a breeder. Shop owner Emiko Sakurada said it was the first time a puppy with the marks had been born out of a thousand she had bred.She had no plans to sell the puppy, which has been named 'Heart-kun'. The long-coated, male Chihuahua puppy was born in Odate, northern Japan. Happy Valentines Day...TOO PRECIOUS NOT TO SHARE Click here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!Kathy Toth and Teamwww.kathytoth.comReal Estate One

What Do You Use To Monitor Your Web Traffic? Kathy Toth of Ann Arbor Share
2008-01-24 19:26:00
I use VisiStat to track Web statistics. They just posted their annual traffic report for 2007, which gives an overview of what, where and how real estate consumers are searching online.The Peak hour for consumers to be on real estate Web sites was 9 p.m., while peak day was Monday and peak month was March.Traffic growth from 2006 was up 36.8 percent. --62.2 percent landed on real estate sites by typing in the URL; 23.6 percent got there by search and 16.2 percent by referral links.This data is based on clients' who subscribe to VisiStat.What are you using to track Web activity? If you find something else of value, please share in the comments section.Search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours...Free!Kathy Toth & Teamwww.kathytoth.comReal Estate One
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National Association of REALTORS Code of Ethics & True Picture with PDA
2007-12-31 19:52:00
Article 12 affects your PDA's signatureWhile you program your PDA signature, you can get in the mood for 2008 with youtube New Year celebration.The Code requires REALTORS to present a true picture in the advertising, marketing and other representations to the public and that communications are labeled from a real estate professional.  So you will want to change your Treo which comes programmed to say "sent with wireless" to Yours Truly, Associate Broker.  The Professional Standards Committee added two Standards of Practice 12-2 and 12-3 and posted a case interpretation on REALTOR.org in the Law and Policy section.  You can read more in the Juanuary 2008 REALTOR.org Magazine page 16.The problem for me will be when I have to perform a reset, I will have to remember about a thousand things to get the phone on track.  Oh the joy of technology.  More on technology in upcoming podcasts. http://www.talkrealty.com/kathytoth/subsc ribe.aspx.  Blessings in 2008  
More About: Realtors , National , Ethics , Picture

National Salary Calculator - Where do you Compare?
2007-12-31 14:21:00
I just stumbled on a tool that might be helpful in your career. It is a salary calculator at http://www.cbsalary.com/?lr=cbpar_annarbo r. The exact page I used was: http://www.cbsalary.com/national-salary-c hart.aspx?specialty=Real+Estate+Sales+Age nt&cty=&sid=&kw=Real+Estate&a mp;jn=jn011&edu=&tid=270&lr=c bpar_annarbor. This states the national average compensation for real estate sales person is $39,114 and by entering in your city, you can determine how your area sales agents’ commission compares. Both of my kids are in college and they can use this to explore their respective paths and salary ranges. If you meet a nurse and are curious about that salary, you can use this for general discovery. Let me know if this was even worth posting. My full time blog is at www.AnnArborTalks.com. Choose to have a fantastic 2008. Kathy Toth and Team
More About: National , Calculator , Compare , Salary , Pare

Kathy Toth & Team of Ann Arbor, Michigan is Featured on House Hunters!
2007-11-30 21:58:00
Kathy Toth & Team is Being Featured on House Hunters!Episode HNT-1901AIR TIMES:December 01, 2007 7:30 PM ET/PTDecember 03, 2007 10:00 PM ET/PTDecember 04, 2007 2:00 AM ET/PT Tune in to view the Larger Place, Same Neighborhood episode!With a young baby growing fast, Dexter, Mich., residents Julie and Steven Wineman have decided it's time to move to a larger house. They hope that their real-estate agent Kathy Toth will be able to find them a four-bedroom home that is in their price range and located in the same neighborhood they have grown to love.If you know anybody who is a buyer, we have been asked to appear in two more episodes... call us and we can have them audition. 734-216-7845.Click here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!Kathy Toth and Teamwww.kathytoth.comReal Estate One
More About: Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Real Estate Blog - Visit us at www.AnnArborTalks.com
2007-10-15 20:11:00
We have updated our community and Ann Arbor real estate blog called www.AnnArborTalks.comVisit often!Kathy Toth and Teamwww.KathyToth.comReal Estate OneClick here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
More About: Real Estate , Blog

Profiting from Current Market Conditions Oct 23rd 6:30 pm Ann Arbor, Michig
2007-10-13 18:01:00
Understanding the Current Housing Market 101 When: October 23rd, 2007 Time: 6:30pm - 8:00 pm Where: United Bank and Trust 355 S. Zeeb Rd. Ann Arbor , MI 48103 RSVP: 734-216-2172 Today's market is extremely challenging for both sellers and buyers. Join us for a round table discussion about current housing trends and arm yourself with knowledge about the changes in lending guidelines and programs. - Gain the knowledge that will help you buy and/or sell a home in a slow market - Discover ways to save money - Learn how to buy a home with no money down and other helpful buyer tips - Participate in our open discussion to dispel real estate myths Top 15 Reasons to Attend This Free Workshop - What You'll Learn Why you should never fall into the trap of working with the name on the For Sale sign. 3 Ways homebuyers surrender their power to negotiate a better price. Negotiate $10,000 savings on any home you buy. How to keep your confidential financial information from landing in the Sel...
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315 Second Street, Ann Arbor -NEW LISTING-
2007-10-12 19:55:00
315 Second Street #207Bedrooms: 1Bathrooms: 1.5Price: $270,000Loft living at its best in downtown Ann Arbor . Interior features include exposed ductwork, beautiful granite countertops, hardwood flooring, a breakfast bar, and a wall of windows with roll-down blinds for privacy without losing the light. This can all be yours at the prestigious Liberty Loft Condominiums. Other features that you're sure to love: walk-in closet with built ins, top of the line stainless appliances, stacked washer/dryer and a 63 square foot balcony. Only minutes to a large array of Ann Arbor's best restaurants and entertainment. There is a reserved parking space and the monthly fee includes heat & water.Kathy Toth and Teamwww.KathyToth.comReal Estate OneClick here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
More About: Listing

Your Invitation to Join the Ann Arbor Garden Club
2007-10-11 20:13:00
The Ann Arbor Garden Club was originally organized in 1930. Club meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month (September though May) at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens at 1800 North Dixboro Road in Ann Arbor, MI 48105-9406. The club travels to interesting gardens, provides workshops, flower shows, flower arranging classes and plant exchanges. I hear they do much more for the nominal annual membership fee of only $20.00. If you are interested in joining the club, contact Treasurer Nancy Hart for more detailed information at 734-665-7072. I was able to visit and enjoy a beautiful display of flowers, some of which are pictured here.Kathy Toth and Teamwww.KathyToth.comReal Estate OneClick here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
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Participate in Ann Arbor Cosmetic Study
2007-10-10 19:54:00
Kathy Toth and Team has been invited to participate in a new cosmetic study. Our good friend, Tammy French has a few more spots available if you would like to participate...here's what is involved. Cayman Chemical in Ann Arbor , MI is making plans to launch an eyelash and eyebrow growth cosmetic into the cosmetic and skincare industry. We are in the final stages of testing this product as we've conducted two studies to-date. In these studies we've recognized which product is proving to have the greatest results. With this knowledge we've been able to further perfect our formulation to now conduct a final study.If you or anyone you know would have an interest in participating in this study please contact me. Participation requires coming to Cayman on 3 occasions for progress photos, and will also include answering a questionnaire each week. Participants can choose to use the eyelash or eyebrow product individually or together.The study goes for 8 weeks with the end res...
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To All You Ann Arbor Moms Out There!
2007-10-10 02:41:00
I enjoyed this rendition so much. I just wanted to give her a standing ovation from my computer.If you like this too, let me know.Kathy Toth & Teamwww.KathyToth.comReal Estate OneClick here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
More About: Moms , Ann Arbor

1347 King George, Ann Arbor, Michigan - Listing
2007-10-08 17:32:00
1347 King George , Ann Arbor , MI, 48108Bedrooms: 4Bathrooms: 2 1/2Price: $288,900Located in the desirable Georgetown neighborhood, this spacious tri-level home is beautifully maintained. The bay window brings the outside into the large center island kitchen. A gorgeous gas fireplace with oak mantel surrounded by oak cabinets adds warmth to the lovely living room. Enjoy entertaining in the expansive family room with large brick fireplace with hearth, wet bar and daylight windows, providing extra natural lighting. The separate office offers a door leading to the back yard and deck. All this is located just a short walk to Georgetown country club with golf, tennis, pool and a clubhouse!Kathy Toth & Teamwww.KathyToth.comReal Estate OneClick here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
More About: Listing

Michigan Economy Picks Up in August - Including Ann Arbor
2007-10-05 14:38:00
MICHIGAN ECONOMY PICKS UP IN AUGUST REPORTS COMERICA BANK'S MICHIGAN BUSINESS ACTIVITY INDEX DETROIT / October 1, 2007 - The Michigan Business Activity Index compiled by Comerica Bank rose 3 points in August to 107, and the July reading was revised down by 1 point to 104. So far this year, the index has averaged 104, essentially the same as the average for all of 2006. "I am becoming more optimistic about Michigan's medium-term economic prospects given that GM and the UAW have agreed on a new contract and a state budget accord has been reached," said Dana Johnson, Chief Economist at Comerica Bank. "However, in the near term, the local economy is likely to remain pretty stagnant, given the distress in the local housing market, and the backdrop of sluggish national growth."Kathy Toth & Teamwww.KathyToth.comReal Estate OneClick here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
More About: Economy , Ann Arbor

Chelsea Teddy Bear Company
2007-10-04 18:35:00
Teddy Bear Company opened up for tours in the Chelsea Clock Tower Redevelopment at 400 North Main Street, Chelsea, Michigan; Click Here more information.You can have a custom message imprinted on the teddy bear t-shirts.Call 800.303.7255 for hours and to book your tour to design your very own bear.Pictured here is Kathy Toth and the Teddy Bear Mascot.Kathy Toth & Teamwww.KathyToth.comReal Estate OneClick here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
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Pumpkin Patch Fun in Dexter, Michigan
2007-10-03 16:47:00
Get ready to visit Jenny's Market on the corner of Island Lake Road and Dexter Pinckney in Dexter, MI to partake in the hay bale maze where the kids can get lost and then enjoy the animal petting area. You can purchase fresh produce, apples, pumpkins, pies and jams or go for a scenic hayride. Pictured below you will see the best part of fall weather...ushering in our bountiful season.Kathy Toth & Teamwww.KathyToth.comReal Estate OneClick here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
More About: Pumpkin , Patch , Pump

Chelsea Clock Tower Opening Celebration - 9/29/07
2007-10-02 23:01:00
Local resident and Civil War historian George Till, featured with KathyToth, offered an informative perspective on tours of the local buildings in the Clock Tower area. John Frank, chair of Chelsea 's Historic District Commission and a founding director of Preservation Chelsea, was on hand to comment and educate on architectural detail.He also provided biographical information for Mr. Glazier, who was responsible for originally constructing the Welfare Building - featuring Flemish Gothic Styling. The factory buildings and shops consist of 204,498 Sq. Ft. Multi-Use Building, Office/Retail/Factory. To find out about leasing, contact McKinley Property, largest landlord in Washtenaw County, or your tenant representative.Music and performers played in the Gazebo, and lunch was served near the children's activity center. The weather was perfect for the event. What a great treat and a long lasting contribution to Chelsea's downtown district. Kathy Toth & Teamwww.KathyToth.co...
More About: Celebration , Opening

Dexter Community Events, Activities and Information
2007-10-01 22:51:00
10/1 - Site Plan Submittal Deadline-Time: 4:00 PMCategory: Village of Dexter - Planning CommissionRecurrence: Occurs the First Monday of every monthDetails: Site Plan submittal is required for next months meetingLocation: Village Offices 8123 Main Street, Dexter, MI 48130Directions: Second Floor of National City BankContact Information :Allison BishopCommunity Development Manager/Zoning8140 Main StreetDexter, MI 48130734-426-8303amenard@villageofdexter. org10/1 -Planning Commission Regular Meeting-Time: 7:30 PM - 10:00 PMCategory: Village of Dexter - Planning CommissionRecurrence: Occurs the First Monday of every monthLocation: Senior Center 7720 Dexter-Ann Arbor Street, Dexter, MI 4813010/6 -Apple Daze-Time: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PMCategory: Chamber of Commerce - Apple DazeRecurrence: Occurs the First Sunday of OctoberDetails: Monument park will be filled with the excitement of fall with games, petting farm, and hay rides to the Cider Mill. Of course there will be apples and the pie eating...
More About: Events , Activities

On Line Chat at 318 Highlake Avenue, Ann Arbor on Sunday Sept 30th 1-3 pm
2007-09-28 20:26:00
318 Highlake Avenue Ann Arbor , Michigan 48103Open House: Sunday 1-3 pm Sept 30thBedrooms: 3Bathrooms: 1Price: $149,000This is one level living at its best on a quiet dead end street in the desirable Lakewood subdivision. This home is the perfect first home or if you are looking to down size. Recent updates include fresh paint, new carpeting in the living room and hallway, newer vinyl siding, vinyl windows, furnace, a/c, new Pella exterior door and storm. You're sure to appreciate the partially finished basement with glass block windows. This is a perfect vintage 50's ranch just waiting for you. All this and located close to shopping, express ways and just a short walk to Lakewood Elementary and Dolp park.Click here for a more information on this property in Ann Arbor, Michigan.Kathy Toth & Teamwww.KathyToth.comReal Estate OneClick here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
More About: Chat , On-line , Line

How Can Google GrandCentral Help the Residents of Ann Arbor, Michigan?
2007-09-27 19:58:00
Did you know that Googl e acquired GrandCentral? This might be very helpful for people who have multiple phones to check and store many contacts. What it is:One number for all your phones, for life!GrandCentral makes life simpler by letting you control all your calls with one phone number. Choose which phones ring when your GrandCentral number is called or send calls directly to voicemail depending on who calls you. You can have personalization. They say there is no need to give different people different numbers or send out a new phone number if you change your job or move. You can update your GrandCentral forwarding settings.Click Here for Frequently Asked Questions!Let's see how this beta program works.Kathy Toth & Teamwww.KathyToth.comReal Estate OneClick here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
More About: Ann Arbor , Resident

Chief Economist from National City Answered Burning Questions about our Ann
2007-09-27 02:48:00
On Thursday, I was delighted to attend, at the Polo Fields in Ann Arbor, a presentation by National City Chief Economist Richard J. Dekaser. Along with Economic and Interest Rate Forecast, he answered two burning questions for the attendees.1. When will Michigan see the bottom? Prediction - fourth quarter 2008.2. Will the Federal Reserve do another rate reduction in October 2007? Prediction - Yes, reduced by one quarter point.To view how the National home prices were mapped, Click Here.More reports are available on the National City website for those people thirsty for more data. While we all want to waive the magic wand and arrange for immediate recovery, we still need to be keenly aware of the market trends, to be able to advise our clients who are making life choices.Kathy Toth & Teamhttp://www.kathytoth.comReal Estate OneClick here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
More About: Questions

Pinckney Rodeo
2007-09-25 23:55:00
We got to visit the rodeo in Pinckney this SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 23rd 2007. Click Here for more info on the Pinckney Rodeo . As you can see from the photos I took, the weather was perfect and the cowgirls/cowboys put on a good show. This year was the 5th Anniversary! Helluva Rodeo takes place at TMZ Farm on Patterson Lake Road in Putnam Township, one mile east of Hell and two miles from downtown Pinckney . I used to go with my son Kevin, but he is in college at Utah State, so I am emailing him some photos. I saw Bull Riding, Barrel Racing, Team Roping, etc. and most of all, I enjoyed the country music. I look forward to returning next year.Kathy Toth & Teamwww.KathyToth.com Real Estate One Click here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
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Michigan Beats Penn State
2007-09-24 20:57:00
We had a great time at the tail gate party hosted by Liberty Title. Pictured here next to me is Greg Koepp of Re/Max and Pam Wagner of Liberty in front of the bug. It was hosted in Angell House which is on the golf course. They set up a TV, lots of food, drinks and jello shots. There is plenty of grilling space out on the tennis courts. The big plus is a private bathroom. So we had a great time conversing and cheering on the U of M team. The weather was perfect. Go Blue!Kathy Toth & Teamwww.KathyToth.comReal Estate OneClick here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!
More About: State , Beats , Penn , Penn State

Five Most Popular Ann Arbor, Michigan Home Improvement Projects
2007-09-24 14:25:00
Click here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!Five Most Popular Home Improvement Projects - Curb appeal is wonderful for sellers but when it comes to home improvement efforts and dollars spent, most homeowners turn their attention indoors.Kathy Toth & Teamhttp://www.kathytoth.com 

Applying Leadership Principles to our Ann Arbor Real Estate Team
2007-09-21 21:12:00
Click here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!Ok, I am just recapping the Leadership University in which I participated in LA through Howard Brinton Star Power cadre. We examined the shared qualities of effective leaders, the differences in management vs. leadership, delegation and how to attract talent with integrity and character. Instructors are active in the field, and shared how to motivate and empower others. Pat Hiban is an expert in creating a winning team and he discussed how to deal with conflict. Kristen Cole spoke of how to run effective meetings and Jana Caudill touched on employee reviews, etc. Larry Kendall taught his Ninja Selling and Michael Maher presented his team advances and more. David and Melissa Crocket brought humor and organization to a full 3 days. I am reviewing my tasks, action activities and working on our business. This was a great shot in the arm and appreciated the positive attitudes and all the new friends I made. Spen...
More About: Estate , Real Estate , Team , Real

9490 Scully, Dexter, Michigan
2007-09-21 13:07:00
Search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours FREE, go to http://www.kathytoth.com/custompages_repo rts.php?key=g832919490 Scully, Dexter , MI 48189Bedrooms: 3Bathrooms: 2.5Price: $334,850Beautiful custom home nestled among peaceful nature views is surrounded by towering trees and backs to a pond shared with neighbors. Large front porch welcomes you and your guests as you pass through the front door into the inviting great room featuring a vaulted ceiling and impressive wall of windows with a fireplace for those chilly fall & winter evenings. The chef in your family is sure to love the generous kitchen complete with a dining area and bay window enticing you to entertain. Other interior features include a first floor master suite and study with fireplace. Secluded deck surrounded by rolling lawn leading to the pond provides peaceful relaxation. Zip code 48189.Kathy Toth & Team http://www.kathytoth.com

Should Home Sale Prices be Kept Secret in Ann Arbor, Michigan?
2007-09-20 18:25:00
Search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours FREE, go to http://www.kathytoth.com/custompages_repo rts.php?key=g83291Should Home Sale Prices be Kept Secret ? - Most states do disclose prices one way or another, but some don't. Does nondisclosure help consumers? It certainly does benefit the real estate industry.Kathy Toth & Teamhttp://www.kathytoth.com
More About: Ann Arbor

Trip from Ann Arbor, Michigan to College at Utah State
2007-09-19 20:18:00
Search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours FREE, go to http://www.kathytoth.com/custompages_repo rts.php?key=g83291After returning from a week long road trip, I have had some time to re group and face the empty nest. A few pictures follow from the Badlands and Mount Rushmore. We rented and RV from Lloyd Bridges Travel Land in Chelsea and set out driving 2 days to Logan, Utah where we then spent two days with multiple trips to Walgreens furnishing and supplying a dorm room for our son. He is attending Utah State , majoring in Fish and Wildlife Management. He has 2 other roommates, one from Utah, one from Japan.After our quick drop off, we headed back driving 2 more days across country. It seemed like a marathon to me. Anyway we learned some of the ropes and were amazed at some of the luxuries available in some of these roving homes. I felt that renting this was an excellent way to see our great country. I smiled when we came out from the movie theatre to our RV home in the...
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The Ann Arbor Area Board Market Statistics
2007-09-18 20:52:00
Click Here to search all listings in Michigan with pictures and tours - FREE!The Ann Arbor Area Board Market Data is posted in the chart below. The average residential sales prices year to date are down 4 percent year to date for our August market. This is the classic time for the market to taper off more in the next months, when the kids return to school. Specifically, the numbers are August year to date 06' $265,642 vs. 07' at $254,998.As far as the number of homes sold, they are down 11 percent; August year to date is 2396 vs. 2130 in 07'. All in all, we have comparable number of residential homes on the market as we did in 06' so our inventory is stable, albeit still higher than we would like.It is interesting to note that the days on market improved by 2 days from 78 days in 06' to 76 days in 07' before the traditional slow down.The same trends are echoed in the Ann Arbor condo market. It will be interesting to see what happens next Tuesday when the Fede...
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