Stats Of The Week

According to the US Weather Service, their one day forecasts are accurate more than 75% of the time. They send out 2 million forecasts a year. That’s 5479 forecasts a day. If 75% are accurate that means they are wrong 1370 times a day. Of course, that means they could be wrong “good” or they could be wrong “bad”. With Irene they were wrong “good”. That leaves 1369 more bad guesses – I mean forecasts.

Brought to you by The Tom Smith Realty Group, Thomas J Smith and Amanda Nichols. For more information call/text 609 709-1429 visit: www.Sellertom.com Tom@sellertom.com

Welcome to Episode 34 of Life And Living At The Jersey Shore. August 24, 2011
It is filled with Real estate tips, trends, statistics, fun things to do in southern ocean county. The web cast is funny, informative with lots of Tom’s wisecracks.

Each week we try to bring you fun, informative and interesting tidbits about the best kept secret at the Jersey Shore... Southern Ocean County



Here are this week’s market stats:

According to the US Weather Service, their one day forecasts are accurate more than 75% of the time. They send out 2 million forecasts a year. That’s 5479 forecasts a day. If 75% are accurate that means they are wrong 1370 times a day. Of course, that means they could be wrong “good” or they could be wrong “bad”. With Irene they were wrong “good”. That leaves 1369 more bad guesses – I mean forecasts.

Fun stuff in Southern Ocean:

On September 10 - 11, 2011 enjoy the Annual Ship Bottom Irish Festival being held at the Ship Bottom Boat Ramp Parking Lot on 10th Street and Shore Avenue
Ship Bottom, for more information call: (609) 494-6301

Tom’s Sardonic comment:

Recent hurricane observations: 1. There are going to be many new recipients of the Darwin Awards 2. Gov Christie is ok. When he saw video’s of people on the beach he said “get the hell off the beach – he left off the last part “you morons” and 3. the drama & ratings hounds are going to get someone hurt because the public will now think they have been through a Cat 1 hurricane. In fact, the storm that his southern Ocean County was not even blowing with 40 MPH sustained winds. Gotta love em.

Smart Home SELLER/Buyer tip:

Well this week we have a list of many of the speed bumps that can occur during a real estate transaction as related to the property itself:

62. County will not approve septic system or well.
63. Termite report reveals substantial damage and seller is not willing to fix or repair.
64. Home was misrepresented as to size and condition.
65. Home is destroyed prior to closing.
66. Home not structurally sound.
67. Home is uninsurable for homeowners insurance.
68. Property incorrectly zoned.
69. Portion of home sits on neighbor’s property.
70. Unique home and comparable properties for appraisal difficult to find.
Next week the Title Company….

Next week we start on things that happen on the Property side:

Need help with your transaction? Call us…we’ve seen just about everything!



My 2 Cents:

Back to the hurricane. I really want to congratulate all my friends, neighbors and fellow southern Ocean residents. It was great seeing so many people helping each other. I heard of neighbors calling neighbors just to see if they needed anything. They offered food, shelter and water without blinking…makes me glad I live here.

Home of the week:

This week’s home of the week is 7 Andrew Dr. in the waterfront community of East Point in Manahawkin. This is an estate type sale and you really have to admit it’s priced to sell fast – 4 bedrooms 2 baths, seconds to the bay for $269,900? Incredible! Have a look at the video…


So check out this and all our videos at www.Sellertom.com

Well, there’s 10 minutes of your life you’re never getting back?
Our show is written by me, Tom Smith – produced by, Amanda (soon to be McGillick) Nichols; filmed and directed by, Donna (the gimp) Smith

If you like our show, friend us on Facebook, Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Sellertom
follow us on Twitter and pass the show on to your friends. Thanks or viewing and have a great week!
Brought to you by The Tom Smith Realty Group, Thomas J Smith and Amanda Nichols. For more information call/text 609 709-1429 visitwww.Sellertom.com Tom@sellertom.com

Being a smart homeowner in 2011 Tip of the week:

These tips are to help save you money No matter what the economy is doing!
How is that budget going?

August Is A Great Month To Stock Up on These Items

This is a great time to stock up on these items at a huge discount. Most stores are having back to school sales. The best items to purchase now are:

Laptops

Clothes for children

Linens (sheets, towels, etc.) Check out all the back to school/college sales

Storage containers

Jersey fresh produce to stock up on now
Peaches
nectarines
Pears
Plums
Beets
Broccoli
Collards
Cucumbers
Eggplant
Okra
Lima beans
Peppers
Squash
Tomato
Corn
String beans

There are huge bargains at the supermarkets, and at local town sponsored farmer markets. You can also go to local farms & some have pick your own. Most of the fruit and veggies can be frozen so you can enjoy Jersey Fresh Produce all winter long. There are also classes in canning which is making a huge come back.

Remember, don’t blow your budget just because these items are on sale. Only purchase them if you really need and use them.
Brought to you by The Tom Smith Realty Group, Thomas J Smith and Amanda Nichols. For more information call/text 609 709-1429

visit: www.Sellertom.com Tom@sellertom.com

This Week's Market Stats

You know, we never talk about rentals. But we do have a significant contingent of folks renting and looking to rent in Southern Ocean County. At the moment there are 119 rental units available ranging in price from $850.00 to $3500.00 per month. So, if you want to rent your house or unit or you’re looking to rent give us a call we might just have something for you. Tom@Sellertom.com or 609 978-3623

Thomas J Smith & Amanda Nichols

The Tom Smith Group, RE/MAX At Barnegat Bay

Hey all, A friend of ours is involved with a fundraiser

The 5th Annual Martin Truex Jr. Great Causeway Challenge.
Sunday, October 16th at 8 am a the Manahawkin Elks Lodge.
There are 6 events - Something for the entire family.

Challenge: 30 mile bike & 10K run, 30 mile Bike Ride Only, 10 K Run Only, 5K Run Only, 5 K Walk Only and a 1 mile Kids Fun Run. All proceeds will benefit the NEW Martin Truex Jr. Pediatric Care Center At Southern Ocean Medical Center Emergency department Expansion. For more info or online registration, http://www.martintruexjrfoundation.org/

She is also looking for sponsors. Sponsorships are 100% deductable and proceeds benefit Martin Turex Jr's Pediatric Care Center at SOMC. The sponsorships run from $100. to $3000. If you are interested, please let me know and I will get someone in touch with you.

Tom@Sellertom.com, 609 978-3623

Episode 32 Life And Living At the Jersey Shore



It is filled with Real estate tips, trends, statistics, fun things to do in southern ocean county. The web cast is funny, informative with lots of Tom’s wisecracks.

Each week we try to bring you fun, informative and interesting tidbits about the best kept secret at the Jersey Shore... Southern Ocean County

Here are this week’s market stats:
You know, we never talk about rentals. But we do have a significant contingent of folks renting and looking to rent in Southern Ocean County. At the moment there are 119 rental units available ranging in price from $850.00 to $3500.00 per month. So, if you want to rent your house or unit or you’re looking to rent give us a call we might just have something for you.

Fun stuff in Southern Ocean:
This week, on Saturday Aug 20th come out and enjoy the Blue Claw Craft Show and Crab Races at Sunset Park on W. Salem Ave in Harvey Cedars (on LBI). Food is offered by the Barnegat Light First Aid Squad. Admission is Free and it runs from 10am to 3pm. Crab Race registration is at 10am and races begin at 11am. Contestants can bring their own crab or rent one! Prizes are sponsored by the PBA Local 175.
That same day at Sunset park at 4pm join the fun for the Anything Floats Race. Call 609-361-7990 for more information.

Tom’s Sardonic comment:

As you all know I’m very Irish. Oddly, I just found out why Irish Bean Soup has exactly 239 beans in it…
Ah, Ok. Why just 239 beans?
Because otherwise it would be too farty!

Smart Home SELLER/Buyer tip:
So we’re still talking about the bumps in the road that we’ve experience over the years in real estate transactions. Continuing on that theme here are some more :
This week we talk about the problems that can come on the Seller side of a transaction:
36. Loses motivation to sell (job transfer does not go through, reconciles marriage, etc.)
37. Cannot find a suitable replacement property.
38. Will not allow appraiser inside home. 39. Will not allow inspectors inside home in a timely manner.
40. Removes property from the premises the buyer believed was included.
41. Is unable to clear up liens against their property – short on cash to close.
42. Did not own 100% of property as previously disclosed.
43. Thought getting partners signatures were "no problem," but they were.
44. Leaves town without giving anyone Power of Attorney.
45. Delays the projected move-out date.
46. Did not complete the repairs agreed to in contract.
47. Seller’s home goes into foreclosure during escrow.
48. Misrepresents information about home & neighborhood to the buyer.
49. Does not disclose all hidden or unknown defects and they are subsequently discovered.
50. Builder miscalculates completion date of new home.
51. Builder has too many cost overruns.
52. Final inspection on new home does not pass.
53. Seller does not appear for closing and won’t sign papers.

Next week we start on things that happen on the Agent side:
Need help with your transaction? Call us…we’ve seen just about everything!



My 2 Cents:

Does anyone know where I can get a glow in the dark sundial?

Home of the week:

This week’s home of the week is 135 Autumn Oak Lane in the Oaks section of Manahawkin. It was just reduced to only $209,000.00!
Have a look at the video…you’re going to be pleasantly surprised at what you get for just over $200K.


So check out this and all our videos at www.sellertom.com
Well, there’s 10 minutes of your life you’re never getting back?
I want to thank Nicole, Karen and Chris for their referrals this week. Keep em coming gang!
Our show is written by me, Tom Smith – produced by, Amanda (the wedding whisperer) Nichols; filmed and directed by, Donna (the Coordinator) Smith

If you like our show, friend us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and pass the show on to your friends. Thanks or viewing and have a great week!
Brought to you by The Tom Smith Realty Group, Thomas J Smith and Amanda Nichols. For more information call/text 609 709-1429 visit: www.Sellertom.com Tom@sellertom.com

Episode 31 Life And Living At The Jersey Shore
August 10, 2011


It is filled with Real estate tips, trends, statistics, fun things to do in southern ocean county. The web cast is funny, informative with lots of Tom’s wisecracks.

Each week we try to bring you fun, informative and interesting tidbits about the best kept secret at the Jersey Shore... Southern Ocean County


Here are this week’s market stats:
Here’s quick but impressive stat: of all the sales in southern Ocean County since January 1 of this year 45% were under $250,000.00. There are some serious bargains out there.

Fun stuff in Southern Ocean:
It’s carnival time on LBI! St. Francis Center on 44th street in Brant Beach is hosting its annual “Festival of the Sea”. Starting yesterday and extending through Sunday the festival has rides, food and fun for everyone in the family. Hours are from 6 to 10:30pm. For more information give them a call at 609-494-8813

Tom’s Sardonic comment:
Remember when we used to see idiot kids who you knew were just dumb as rocks and twice as stupid and say, sarcastically, “this is what’s going to run our country someday”?
Well folks, they made it….

Smart Home SELLER/Buyer tip:

So we’re still talking about the bumps in the road that we’ve experience over the years in real estate transactions. Continuing on that theme here are some more :
Still working on the Buyer/Borrower
26. Borrower switches to job requiring probation period just before closing.
27. Borrower switches to job from salary to 100% commission income.
28. Borrower/co-borrower/seller dies.
29. Family members or friends do not like the home buyer chooses.
30. Buyer is too picky about property in price range they can afford.
31. Buyer feels the house is misrepresented.
32. Veterans DD214 form not available.
33. Buyer has spent money needed for down payment and closing costs and comes up short at closing.
34. Buyer does not properly "paper trail" additional money that comes from gifts, loans, etc.
35. Does not bring cashier’s check to title company for closing costs and down payment.
Next week we start on things that happen on the Seller side:
Need help with your transaction? Call us…we’ve seen just about everything!


My 2 Cents:

This week I’m going outside the norm and pushing an MS Fundraiser at the AquaSol restaurant in Bear, De. Aqua Sol is located at the marina at Summit North on the C & D Canal. Now this fund raiser is an all day musical blast with tons of bands, great food all for a great cause. I want to encourage anyone who can make it to come to the affair. MS is tough to live with and awareness brings results. It’s being run by my brother, John, (who also happens to be afflicted with MS). So this is personal.
It’s going to be a lot of fun and you could really make a difference. You can get all the info and even buy tickets at www.theacousticjam.org

Home of the week:

This is a year round rental located in Manahawkin, NJ. 3 Bedrooms, 1 bath, hardwood floors, renovated bath with ceramic tile flooring. $1250. Per month. Call today. More photos online at www.sellertom.com
Well, we’ve wasted another 10 minutes of your life….why do you do this to yourself?
Shout out to Kathy and Stan – thanks for the nice email….
Our show is written by me, Tom Smith – produced by, Amanda (where’s the deep fryer) Nichols; filmed and directed by, Donna (where’s the beach) Smith

If you like our show, friend us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and pass the show on to your friends. Thanks or viewing and have a great week!
Brought to you by The Tom Smith Realty Group, Thomas J Smith and Amanda Nichols. For more information call/text 609 709-1429 visit: www.Sellertom.com Tom@sellertom.com

Part three of a three part series

Smart Home SELLER/Buyer tip:

So we’re still talking about the bumps in the road that we’ve experience over the years in real estate transactions. Continuing on that theme here are some more:
Still working on the Buyer/Borrower
26. Borrower switches to job requiring probation period just before closing.
27. Borrower switches to job from salary to 100% commission income.
28. Borrower/co-borrower/seller dies.
29. Family members or friends do not like the home buyer chooses.
30. Buyer is too picky about property in price range they can afford.
31. Buyer feels the house is misrepresented.
32. Veterans DD214 form not available.
33. Buyer has spent money needed for down payment and closing costs and comes up short at closing.
34. Buyer does not properly "paper trail" additional money that comes from gifts, loans, etc.
35. Does not bring cashier’s check to title company for closing costs and down payment.

Next week we start on things that happen on the Seller side:
Need help with your transaction? Call us…we’ve seen just about everything!

Brought to you by The Tom Smith Realty Group, Thomas J Smith and Amanda Nichols. For more information call/text 609 709-1429 visit: www.Sellertom.com Tom@sellertom.com

Part two

Smart Home SELLER/Buyer tip:

Last week we started talking about the bumps in the road for real estate transactions. Continuing on that theme here are some more speed traps that can hamper a successful transaction:

And we’re still talking about the Buyer/Borrower who… 13. Cannot locate divorce decree.
14. Cannot locate petition or discharge of bankruptcy.
15. Cannot locate tax returns.
16. Cannot locate bank statements.
17. Difficulty in obtaining verification of rent.
18. Interest rate increases and borrower no longer qualifies.
19. Loan program changes with higher rates, points and fees.
20. Child support not disclosed on application.
21. Borrower is a foreign national.
22. Bankruptcy within the last 2 years.
23. Mortgage payment is double the previous housing payment.
24. Borrower/co-borrower does not have steady 2-year employment history.
25. Borrower brings in handwritten pay stubs.
Bunches more next time….

Need help with your transaction? Call us…we’ve seen just about everything!

Brought to you by The Tom Smith Realty Group, Thomas J Smith and Amanda Nichols. For more information call/text 609 709-1429 visit: www.Sellertom.com Tom@sellertom.com

Part one in a three part series.
Smart Home SELLER/Buyer tip:
Over the years we’ve come across just about every road block and speed bump one can encounter in a real estate transaction. In the course of the next few weeks we’re going to breakdown these tacks in the road to home ownership:

The Buyer/Borrower:
1. Does not tell the truth on the loan application.
2. Submits incorrect information to the lender.
3. Has recent late payments on credit report.
4. Found out about additional debt after loan application.
5. Borrower loses job.
6. Co-borrower loses job.
7. Income verification lower than what was stated on loan application.
8. Overtime income not allowed by underwriter for qualifying.
9. Applicant makes large purchase on credit before closing.
10. Illness, injury, divorce or other financial setback during escrow.
11. Lacks motivation.
12. Gift donor changes mind.

Bunches more next time….
Need help with your transaction? Call us…we’ve seen just about everything!
Brought to you by The Tom Smith Realty Group, Thomas J Smith and Amanda Nichols. For more information call/text 609 709-1429 visit: www.Sellertom.com Tom@sellertom.com

Here are this week’s market stats:



Here’s quick but impressive stat: of all the sales in southern Ocean County since January 1 of this year 45% were under $250,000.00. There are some serious bargains out there.

Brought to you by The Tom Smith Realty Group, Thomas J Smith and Amanda Nichols. For more information call/text 609 709-1429 visit: www.Sellertom.com Tom@sellertom.com

Welcome to Episode 30 of Life And Living At The Jersey Shore. August 3, 2011
It is filled with Real estate tips, trends, statistics, fun things to do in southern ocean county. The web cast is funny, informative with lots of Tom’s wisecracks.

Each week we try to bring you fun, informative and interesting tidbits about the best kept secret at the Jersey Shore... Southern Ocean County




Here are this week’s market stats:

Here’s where we are: there are 2848 active listings in Southern Ocean County. Since January of this year 1034 houses have closed. Not so good. Everybody buy a house this week!

Fun stuff in Southern Ocean:

Miss Barnegat Light Sunset Cruises, 18th St. & Bayview Ave. in Barnegat Light on Long Beach Island. Cruises start at 7 pm. Enjoy the sunsets, indigenous wildlife and the tranquil waters of Barnegat Light harbor and inlet. Some examples of wild life seen: Porpoise,seabirds,turtles,harbor seals,and even an occasional whale! Runs Monday - Thursday from June 28 - September 2. For cost and Information: 609-494-2094 or www.missbarnegatlight.com

Tom’s Tip:

This one is from Sam Clemens (better known as Mark Twain):
“A person with a new idea is a crank until the idea succeeds.”

Smart Home SELLER/Buyer tip:

Last week we started talking about the bumps in the road for real estate transactions. Continuing on that theme here are some more speed traps that can hamper a successful transaction:
And we’re still talking about the Buyer/Borrower who…
13. Cannot locate divorce decree.
14. Cannot locate petition or discharge of bankruptcy.
15. Cannot locate tax returns.
16. Cannot locate bank statements.
17. Difficulty in obtaining verification of rent.
18. Interest rate increases and borrower no longer qualifies.
19. Loan program changes with higher rates, points and fees.
20. Child support not disclosed on application.
21. Borrower is a foreign national.
22. Bankruptcy within the last 2 years.
23. Mortgage payment is double the previous housing payment.
24. Borrower/co-borrower does not have steady 2-year employment history.
25. Borrower brings in handwritten pay stubs.
Bunches more next time….
Need help with your transaction? Call us…we’ve seen just about everything!

My 2 Cents:

HIGH SCHOOL -- 1957 vs. HIGH SCHOOL 2011 Johnny and Mark get into a fist fight after school. 1957 - Crowd gathers. Mark wins. Johnny and Mark shake hands and end up buddies. 2011 - Police called and SWAT team arrives -- they arrest both Johnny and Mark. They are both charged with as sault and both expelled even though Johnny started it.

Billy breaks a window in his neighbor's car and his Dad gives him a whipping with his belt. 1957 - Billy is more careful next time, grows up normal, goes to college and becomes a successful businessman. 2011 - Billy's dad is arrested for child abuse. Billy is removed to foster care and joins a gang. The state psychologist is told by Billy's sister that she remembers being abused herself and their dad goes to prison. Billy's mom has an affair with the psychologist.

Mark gets a headache and takes some aspirin to school.. 1957 - Mark shares his aspirin with the Principal out on the smoking dock. 2011 - The police are called and Mark is expelled from school for drug violations. His car is then searched for drugs and weapons.

Johnny falls while running during recess and scrapes his knee He is found crying by his teacher, Mary. Mary hugs him to comfort him. 1957 - In a short time, Johnny feels better and goes on playing. 2011 - Mary is accused of being a sexual predator and loses her job. She faces 3 years in State Prison. Johnny undergoes 5 years of therapy.

This should hit every email inbox to show how stupid we have become!!
Now, on the other hand, in 1957 you would be staring at a 5” screen and I’d be Milton Berle!

Home of the week:

This week we are featuring a stunning building lot just perfect for someone looking for elbow room. This one and a quarter acre lot is ready to build. The lot offers a feeling of privacy, seclusion & space, yet close to shopping, restaurants, and the nightlife of Atlantic City. It comes with approvals and plans for a gorgeous 3 Bedroom, 2 bath Cape Cod. Located in a private neighborhood its just a short walk to the bay, bay beach, play ground, marina & fishing. So what are you waiting for? Call today. More photos online at www.sellertom.com

Well, I don’t know why you watch this stuff but we’re done for another week.
Our show is written by me, Tom Smith – produced by, Amanda ( Blondie ) Nichols and Directed by, Donna Smith

If you like our show, friend us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and pass the show on to your friends. Thanks or viewing and have a great week!
Brought to you by The Tom Smith Realty Group, Thomas J Smith and Amanda Nichols. For more information call/text 609 709-1429 visit: www.Sellertom.com Tom@sellertom.com