Sleeping Giant in the Greater Lansing Area - The Grand River

One of the sleeping giants in the Greater Lansing area is the river. Gillespie Group showcased the Grand River Waterfront downtown this past Fall, by providing boat tours to the downtown patrons and local officials. Here's a great clip on what Pat Gillespie said and illustrated so well on his tours.



A positive mood is in the air for the Greater Lansing Real Estate Market in the future, as we continue to work our way through this current recession. While the State is at 14.7; Lansing/East Lansing unemployment is at 10.6 which continues to work its way down. (See good news for Lansing Michigan)

Greater Lansing is a great place to live, work, and play.

“Expect the Best” Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Search Homes

iPhone Technology Will Change Real Estate Marketing Forever in the Greater Lansing Area

Buying or selling a home in today’s greater Lansing, Michigan real estate market can be complicated without having the proper expertise and guidance throughout the process. Technology is changing rapidly for marketing homes with syndication, iPhone technology, text messaging, and other consumer centric tools that are bringing more information, quicker, to home buyers. Here's 2 iPhone apps that play a big role in home finding, financing and other on the spot answers for the agent, home buyer and seller. Enjoy your tour.

Trulia just released an updated version of the Trulia iPhone App and a brand new mobile web site accessible on every mobile phone! Now it’s even easier to find homes for sale and other real estate info on the go.



View real estate information on every home around you — as you move — using the Zillow iPhone App. It's free! Walk or drive through a neighborhood and see Zestimate® home values, homes for sale, recently sold homes, Make Me Move® homes and more.



Internet marketing with websites, Blogs, and social networking is a paradigm shift that requires re-tooling marketing strategies of real estate companies and agents. I am prepared to employ the latest techniques and services for your benefit, just like you've grown to expect from a professional. Real estate transactions are complex, involve large assets and demand competent representation. Now, in today's market it requires an Internet marketing specialist to get you proper exposure on your home and help you get happily moved.

"Expect the Best" Mike

Buying a Home in Delta Township is a Great Choice

Buying a home in Delta Township is a great choice for those moving across town or across the nation. Many of the demographics and featured amenities are covered in the Delta Township video below. I'm sure you'll be impressed.



Delta Township is a great place to own a home, work, and play for all ages. Home ownership is affordable and many new developments over the past 5 years have continued to make all residents feel proud to say, "I live in Delta Township."

Buying or selling a home in today’s greater Lansing, Michigan real estate market can be complicated without having the proper expertise and guidance throughout the process. Community information - about service - restaurants, services, parks, things to do, local government and development projects, are only a few of the many services you should expect from your Realtor. Visit my website for tips that will assist you.

"Expect the Best" Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Search Listings

Tips. Hints, & Thoughts to Prepare Your Home for Sale in the Greater Lansing Real Estate Market

Homes that I pre-visit for marketing in the Greater Lansing real estate market sometimes need minor repairs and decorating prior to final photos and virtual tours being created.

This proves to be a big advantage by preparing early and having things you can do to prepare a house for sale? Here are tips, hints, thoughts and ideas for sprucing up, cleaning out, decorating, staging, creating a great first impression and making a house appealing to buyers.



I am prepared to employ the latest techniques and services for your benefit, just like you've grown to expect from a professional. Real estate transactions are complex, involve large assets and demand competent representation. Marketing properties, home selection and financing are just a few of the skills today's consumer looks for when they select a real estate professional. I am prepared to offer my clients the knowledge and expertise to counsel them in relocating, buying, investing or selling the family home.

In today's market, you need someone who knows what they're doing and will work hard to get the job done. My knowledge of the real estate market, negotiating skills, and ability to listen to clients' needs and desires keep me ahead of my competition.

"Expect the Best" Mike

Greater Lansing Michigan & National Real Estate Market Update

Existing-home sales surged 10.1 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 6.10 million units in October. November is providing stronger sales also in the Greater Lansing real estate market. Below is a report given by Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist.



I can assist you with any of your real estate, neighborhood, or community questions about the Greater Lansing Area including: Buying, Selling or investing in Delhi Township, Holt, Delta Township, Grand Ledge, Dewitt, Mason, Dimondale, Haslett, Okemos, East Lansing or Bath.

"Expect the Best" Mike

Home Buyers in the Greater Lansing Real Estate Market Can Learn the IRS Rules

Home Buyers in the Greater Lansing real estate market can learn the IRS rules for the Home Buyer Tax Credit with the video below. Find out how new legislation impacts the First-Time Home Buyer Credit and how you can benefit from this valuable credit.



The printed version and a handy chart are also available for buyers here.

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com

Search Listings

Greater Lansing Michigan Area Real Estate Market Update

Visit my website for additional information on the Home Buyer Tax Credit, ideas on selling or buying and searching homes.

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com

How Will Greater Lansing Benefit from The Home Buyer Tax Credit 2009/2010?

The Home Buyer Tax Credit will continue to help increase sales in the Greater Lansing Area real estate market. Coldwell Banker President & CEO, Jim Gillespie offers an excellent explanation of the program below:



Buying or selling a home in today’s greater Lansing, Michigan real estate market can be complicated without having the proper expertise and guidance throughout the process. Community information - about service - restaurants, services, parks, things to do, local government and development projects, are only a few of the many services you should expect from your Realtor. Visit My Website for tips that will assist you.

"Expect the Best" Mike

Home Buyers Tax Credit Will Benefit Greater Lansing Michigan Real Estate Market

Bringing the Dream of Home ownership Within Reach

As part of its plan to stimulate the U.S. housing market and address the economic challenges facing our nation, Congress has passed new legislation that:

Extends the First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit of up to $8,000 to first-time home buyers until April 30, 2010.
Expands the credit to grant up to $6,500 credit to current home owners purchasing a new or existing home between November 7, 2009 and April 30, 2010.
Here is more information about how the Extended Home Buyer Tax Credit can help prospective home buyers become part of the American dream.
Get the full details here

I can assist you with any of your real estate, neighborhood, or community questions about the Greater Lansing Area including: Buying, Selling or investing in Delhi Township, Holt, Delta Township, Grand Ledge, Dewitt, Mason, Dimondale, Haslett, Okemos, East Lansing or Bath.

"Expect the Best" Mike

"Now's the Time to Make Your Move"

FrogPond recently broke this video by: Ted C. Jones, Stewart Title Company that does an excellent job explaining why "Now's the Time to Make Your Move" in the Greater Lansing Michigan Real Estate Market. Every recession historically has been lead by recovery in housing markets and we are seeing it today. Seeing recovery in prices of home and the number sold. Hope you enjoy!



"Expect the Best" Mike

First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit Aids Greater Lansing Home Sales

The greater Lansing Michigan real estate market has seen much more activity in recent weeks for home sales due to the first time homebuyer Tax Credit that will be expiring on December 1, 2009, unless extended. NAR indicated that about 40% of the closed sales over the past 6 months have been first time homebuyers. Here is an update video asking you to contact Congress for an extention of this bill.



If you know someone with a real estate challenge in Lansing Michigan area, I find solutions. Feel free to refer them with confidence.

"Expect the Best" Mike
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
Search Homes

Delta Township, Greater Lansing, Michigan Real Estate Market & the Nation

Discover the 2009 Coldwell Banker Home Price Comparison Index, the annual survey that compares home prices across the country.



The average sale price in Delta Township, greater Lansing, Michigan real estate market has dropped again over the past month, with activity in pending sales on the increase.



“Expect the Best” Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients
Search Listings

Good News for Greater Lansing Michigan Area Real Estate Market

Good News for the Greater Lansing, Michigan real estate market this past week. First take 30 seconds to see why the Lansing area is a great place to live, work, and play.
Then, note that Lansing-East Lansing, Michigan ranked in the top 10 most affordable areas in the country.




Here are the 10 most-affordable areas:
1. Kokomo, Ind.
2. Lansing-East Lansing, Mich.
3. Mansfield, Ohio
4. Elkhart-Goshen, Ind.
5. Lima, Ohio
6. Bay City, Mich.
7. Indianapolis-Carmel, Ind.
8. Saginaw-Saginaw Township North, Mich.
9. Youngstown-Warren-Boardman, Ohio-Pa.
10. Canton-Massillon, Ohio

On a national level contract activity for pending home sales has risen for six straight months, a pattern not seen in the history of the index since it began in 2001, according to the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®. You can also see how national 30-year Fixed Mortgage Rates Continue to Fall. Pending Home Sales are on a Record Roll in the greater Lansing area also.

Buying or selling a home in today’s greater Lansing, Michigan real estate market can be complicated without having the proper expertise and guidance throughout the process.

"Expect the Best" Mike
Search Homes Here

Greater Lansing Area Real Estate Market Turning for Buyers and Sellers

Greater Lansing home buyers and sellers can begin to smile as sales continue to perk up over last year and the market begins to bottom out for what I would consider a strong 4th quarter coming to buy or sell real estate in the Greater Lansing area real estate market.

Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said the housing market momentum has clearly turned for the better. “The recovery is broad-based across many parts of the country. Housing affordability has been at record highs this year with the added stimulus of a first-time buyer tax credit,” he said.



NAR estimates that about 1.8 to 2.0 million first-time buyers will take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit this year, with approximately 350,000 additional sales that would not have taken place without the credit. Buyers have little time to act because they must complete the transaction by November 30 to qualify for the credit. Unless extended, contracts signed but not completed by that date will not be eligible – it is taking approximately two months to complete home sales in the current market.

Buying or selling a home in today’s greater Lansing, Michigan real estate market can be complicated without having the proper expertise and guidance throughout the process. Community information - about services, restaurants, parks, things to do, tourist information, local government and issues, buildings, and development projects, are only a few of the many services you should expect from your Realtor. You can obtain additional information on buying and selling at my website.

“Expect the Best” Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
Emailto:Mike@MikeBowler.com

Marketing a Home in Greater Lansing Michigan - Syndication & iPhone

Greater Lansing home sellers have an additional tool available that helps expose their property to more buyers using the iPhone on the go for searching properties. Below is a video example of how the application works.

In addition to having a Realtor who understands real estate syndication, Internet marketing, and search engine optimization, this should be a requirement sellers should add to their list of expectations when listing their house with an agent.



A Real Estate Professional must meet the needs and expectations of the Connected Consumer. The rules of business are changing in our industry, with nearly 90% of all buyers searching the Internet prior to contacting an agent. It is imperative that practitioners of our business become savvy on what is available to them for marketing real estate.

“Expect the Best” Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients
Search Listings

Selling a Home in the Greater Lansing Michigan Area Takes Preparation

Selling a home in the greater Lansing real estate market takes preparation and staging. Find how to properly stage a home when you're getting ready to sell from one of the premiere home stagers around. Hope you enjoy.



Buying or selling a home in today’s greater Lansing, Michigan real estate market can be complicated without having the proper expertise and guidance throughout the process. Community information - about service - restaurants, services, parks, things to do, tourist information, local government and issues, buildings, and development projects, are only a few of the many services you should expect from your Realtor. Visit my website for tips that will assist you.

“Expect the Best” Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
Search Listings

Lansing, Michigan, Great Housing News

News You Can Use for preparing to Buy or Sell a Home in the greater Lansing, Michigan Area and surrounding communities.

Federal Reserve proposes changes to Truth in Lending Act

US housing recovery seen possible now

The New (MDIA) Will DRASTICALLY Change Your Real Estate Business On July 30th

30 Year Fixed Rates Drop today

Governor Granholm Announces Four MSHDA Programs for First-Time Home buyers Federal Funds to Encourage Home ownership and Revitalize Neighborhoods

RISMEDIA, July 28, 2009-(MCT)-First-time home buyers and those thinking about refinancing are in a great place.

Buying or selling a home in today’s greater Lansing, Michigan real estate market can be complicated without having the proper expertise and guidance throughout the process. Community information - about service - restaurants, services, parks, things to do, tourist stuff, local government and issues, buildings, and development projects, are only a few of the many services you should expect from your Realtor. Visit my website for tips that will assist you.

“Expect the Best” Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients
Search Listings

For Sale: 3BR/3.5BA Single Family House in Lansing, MI, $179,900

For Sale: 3BR/3.5BA Single Family House in Lansing, MI, $179,900

Shared via AddThis

For Sale: 3BR/2.5BA Single Family House in East Lansing, MI, $214,900

For Sale: 3BR/2.5BA Single Family House in East Lansing, MI, $214,900

Shared via AddThis

For Sale: 6BR/2.5BA Single Family House in Grand Ledge, MI, $159,900

For Sale: 6BR/2.5BA Single Family House in Grand Ledge, MI, $159,900

Shared via AddThis

For Sale: River Frontage, Vacant Land in Dimondale, MI, $64,900

For Sale: 39733 sqft Vacant Land in Dimondale, MI, $64,900

Shared via AddThis

Real Estate Pro & Connected Consumer

A Real Estate Professional must meet the needs and expectations of the Connected Consumer. The rules of business are changing in our industry, with nearly 90% of all buyers searching the Internet prior to contacting with an agent. It is imperative that practitioners of our business become savvy on what is available to them for marketing real estate. That's why I use the iPhone to help market sellers homes.



Buying or selling a home in today’s greater Lansing, Michigan real estate market can be complicated without having the proper expertise and guidance throughout the process. Community information - about service - restaurants, services, parks, things to do, tourist stuff, local government and issues, buildings, and development projects, are only a few of the many services you should expect from your Realtor. Visit http://mikebowler.com for tips that will assist you.

“Expect the Best” Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients
Search Listings

Cap and Trade Bill - Housing and Real Estate - Look Out Americans

The Cap and Trade Bill bill passed by a narrow margin of 219-212 only after 300 pages of amendments were added to satisfy members of Congress from agricultural and industrial areas at 3 a.m. in the morning.

Congressmen with constituents with rural electric coops, bio-fuel producers, farmers and ethanol producers secured a number of free credits for those folks to bring them around. That pushed the bill to more than 1,200 pages, think again, if you believe members of Congress had time to thoroughly examine the bill before a vote was called.

I see another nail in the coffin being placed for the housing industry with new regulations being placed on homeowners, appraisers, mortgages, and Realtors. The new home standards and bringing your existing house up to these new standards prior to selling is yet to be seen.

Here we go, back to school. Watch the video and tell me what you think! Representative John Boehner discusses this bill with regards to housing. It's Insane!




“Expect the Best” Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients
Search Listings

Lansing Sellers: Improve Your Home's Curb Appeal

Thinking of selling your home in the greater Lansing real estate market? Find out 5 tips on how to make your home more appealing to those passing by as well as potential buyers in this video from This Old House.

Home sellers who are thinking of moving up, may have a wonderful window period here for the next six month’s to sell their house and buy another one. If you woud like to know the value of your home in today’s market, look at your options, or learn more about the above marketing program, feel free to contact me for an appointment.

“Expect the Best” Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients
Search Listings

Selling a Home in the Greater Lansing Michigan Area Requires a Well Explained Marketing Plan

A Real Estate Professional in the greater Lansing real estate market must meet the needs and expectations of the Connected Consumer. The rules of business are changing in our industry, with nearly 90% of all buyers searching the Internet prior to contacting an agent. It is imperative that practitioners of our industry become savvy on what is available to them for marketing real estate.

Buying or selling a house in the greater Lansing area is much more convenient with search engines like Google, Yahoo, MSN, and the dozens of other smaller ones available. Technology has revolutionized the way buyers, sellers, real estate agents and most ancillary type real estate businesses operate in today’s world of buying and selling.

Syndication is becoming one of the fastest growing listing advertising mediums on the Internet today. Giving your home maximum exposure just makes sense and Point2Agent has the largest syndication network in the real estate industry, with new partners being added frequently.
Here's a sample of how a property is promoted by myself on Point2Agent.

Linking to demographics for Delta Township or Delhi Township are two examples of individual sites REALTORS have available as a service to today e-consumer, provided they understand technology, websites, Blogging, search engine optimization and all the other areas of real estate Internet marketing that is a must in today’s changing market. Searching all inventory available in the greater Lansing area needs to be at the stroke of one link, in order to give the best service available.

Many programs are available today for agents to market properties in specific locations, styles or targeting specific buyers. Postlets is one of my favorite when it comes to promoting a featured home or several. Agents also have the opportunity to use a company called SawItOnLine which produces a Gallery of Homes and than sends them out to many portals and sites with what we call syndication of listings.

Real estate markeking is not for those who dabble or are not keeping up with the changes, Sellers and buyers need someone who knows what they’re doing and will work hard to get the job done. Make sure for your financial welfare, that the real estate agents you interview prior to selling your home have knowledge of the real estate market, negotiating skills, and ability to listen to your needs and desires. A well explained marketing plan that includes Internet technology is a must by any Realtor.

"Expect the Best" Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients: MikeBowler.com
Search Listings

Open Sunday May 31st 12:00 -2:00 p.m.

Waverly Rd. Eaton Rapids South of Plains Rd. Great homestead with 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, garage, 30 X 40 pole barn all on 1.7 acres. Hardwood floors, great room with fireplace, central air and many upgrades. Only minutes south of Eaton Rapids. This is not a drive by, It's a well decorated family home in the country.



Mike Bowler Sr.
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
517-492-3400

Open Sunday May 31st 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Take advantage of the first time home buyer credit, own this home. Here's a rare find in West Lansing, Edgemont Park Sub, Waverly School District. A quaint red brick ranch with front porch great for rocking and back porch for grilling. This 3-bedroom home has hardwood floors throughout, refinished in 2008, beautiful kitchen with ceramic tile, updated hardware on cabinets, recessed lighting and spacious living room. Completely remodeled bathroom in 2006, (new tub/shower, toilet, sink, lighting, and medicine cabinet). All new light fixtures and modern paint throughout.

Other features include, high-efficiency furnace, central air, and replacement windows throughout, a partially finished and updated knotty pine basement. Enjoy the fenced in backyard, and garage.

This home is a must to see. Take advantage of the first time homebuyer credit, own a home today.

Additional Notes: Landscaped beds with wild flowers and rose bushes. New designer front and storm door, Brick recently tuck-pointed, Garage recently re-shingled 2007.



Mike Bowler Sr.
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
517-492-3400

Parades, Birthdays & Tour the Town in Lansing, Michigan

Our community is celebrating its 150th birthday in Lansing, Michigan this year. It's been a year long birthday party! Last week was a wonderful Parade of the Decades, where we celebrated 150 years of Lansing history. There were over 150 entries in the parade.

Now on May 30, 2009, you can be a Tourist in Your Own Town, sponsored by the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau Here's 31 seconds that will help you want to be part of living, working and playing in Lansing Michigan.




"Expect the Best" Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400

Search Listings

Greater Lansing Area Real Estate, Recovery in Works?

The Greater Lansing real estate market has seen increases in sales for 2 months in a row, which shows signs of recovery. Has the Recovery Act really worked, or is it just a sign of spring? Coldwell Banker CEO, Jim Gillespie, discusses the impact to date of the Recovery Act on the housing market, and what more the Federal government should do to stimulate housing even more. If you have been thinking of buying or selling, we should talk, to discuss your options.



Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
Search Homes
Home Evaluation

Discover Coldwell Banker On Location

Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC has launched an innovative branded YouTube channel designed to offer consumers a new way to search for and interact with real estate information and listings.

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients: MikeBowler.com
Search Listings

Make Room for Baby and Home Ownership

Here's some great tips on moving up to make room for baby!

Simple Steps for First Time Homebuyers

Greater Lansing Real Estate Buyers and Sellers, "Now's the Time to Make Your Move" I am prepared to employ the latest techniques and services for your benefit, just like you've grown to expect from a professional. Real estate transactions are complex, involve large assets and demand competent representation. Marketing properties, home selection and financing are just a few of the skills today's consumer looks for when they select a real estate professional.

I am prepared to offer my clients the knowledge and expertise to counsel them in relocating, buying, investing or selling the family home.
In today's market, you need someone who knows what they're doing and will work hard to get the job done. My knowledge of the real estate market, negotiating skills, and ability to listen to clients' needs and desires keep me ahead of my competition.

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients: MikeBowler.com
Search Listings

Saving Space in Your Home

More than likely you have untapped resources in your house. Here are a few tips to help you create a more spacious home. share

Posted using ShareThis

Visit MikeBowler.com for more Home ideas

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients: MikeBowler.com
Search Listings

Why Internet Marketing of Your Real Estate is Important to Greater Lansing Home Sellers

The days are gone of just putting a sign in the yard and selling your house. With over 85% of all home-buyers shopping the Internet prior to contacting a Realtor, it is imperative that your Real estate agent provide syndication from their website to offer better search engine exposure.

Point2Agent is A powerful, professional, and customized online presence to grab the attention of potential buyers. Everyone knows having a website online is very important. Making sure your website is sticky and packs a punch is even more valuable to being successful online. That's why sellers should make sure that real estate agents are providing the widest amount of Internet marketing exposure available in today's market.

My Point2 Agent website provides the seller with a powerful suite of website tools that allow me to have the customized, professional online presence I need and to properly market a home for sale in a competitive market.

With the highest number of syndication partners available and more being included all the time, Point2Agent also provides me with a competitive edge above other real estate professionals. Syndication gives me an advantage that is clear to sellers.

In addition to Point2Agent I like SawItOnLine and Postlets, These programs allow sellers and buyers to obtain updated information on properties, new liistings and many pictures. Syndication out to additional sites by all three of these programs also allows for my listings to be advertised across multiple popular home search sites with just a click of the mouse.

Real estate agents today need to be Internet savvy with the best tools to properly market a sellers home. a few snap shots of the house is not sufficient when most major portals accept up to 30 pictures, plus a virtual tour of the home. The key for getting your home the most exposure in today's market is to ask the right questions and have your Realtor demonstrate an Internet marketing plan on where your house will be promoted.

"Expect the Best" Mike

Lansing Home Buyers - Tax Credit Message

There are many reasons to buy a home the greater Lansing real estate market, however this 30 sec. ad says it all. After you have an opportunity to view it, feel free to visit MikeBowler.com



Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients: MikeBowler.com
Search Listings

New Coldwell Banker Ad Campaign Called: Home. It seems a simple enough concept.

Coldwel Banker just came out with a new ad campaign on Homes. Here's some script and a video of one of the ads. I think this is very personal, strikes the emotions, and shows we care.



It’s where we hang our hat. It’s where our heart is. There’s no place like it. But home is more than that, because there’s nothing in our lives quite like it. On the day we’re born, it’s home where our parents take us. Home is where we have birthday parties and sleepovers. On the first day of school, we cried because we didn’t want to leave home. But, at the end of the day, we learned that home wasn’t going anywhere. When we got older, home didn’t begrudge us leaving for College. And when we grew up and got married with a family of our own, home always welcomed us back. Home is the foundation of our lives. And while it can come in many colors, shapes and sizes, home is always bigger than the house it’s surrounded by. For 103 years, our agents have helped people find the houses they’ll call home. And now, more than ever, it’s important we never stop moving.

“Expect the Best”
Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients: MikeBowler.com
Search Listings

First Time Homebuyers in Lansing, Michigan - Update from NAR

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients: MikeBowler.com
Search Listings

Greater Lansing Area Real Estate - Ask Questions Prior to Selling or Buying

Lansing Michigan real estate buyers in today's home market want to have access to houses for sale, with plenty of information and lots of pictures.

It amazes me to no end that you can still visit real estate websites to find no pictures or very few. Even Realtor Boards and MLS Services sometimes limit the number of photos to 8 or 10. A large percentage of the houses have more rooms than that, let alone community photos that could be included, landscape, amenities of the neighborhood, schools, and parks.

The real estate professional must meet the needs and expectations of the Connected Consumer. The rules of business are changing, especially in the real estate industry. Consumers need to start asking more questions and expecting more results from the Realtor, when it comes to marketing their home. With Syndicated websites, major portals, search engine marketing, and social networking sites that drive more traffic to the listing, their is no excuse for apathy in our industry any longer. All real estate agents have had a great opportunity over the past few years, in a slower market, to get re-educated and trained in Internet Marketing for real estate, but few have been willing to pay the price or devote the time necessary to become Internet savvy. That's not all that bad, for they will be left in the dust, when the market turns.

Real estate agents today need to be Internet savvy with the best tools to market a sellers home.

A few snap shots of the house is not sufficient when most major portals accept up to 30 pictures, plus a virtual tour of the home. The key for anyone selling a home in today's market is to ask the right questions and have your Realtor demonstrate an Internet marketing plan on where your house will be promoted.

The e-PRO Certification Program will establish a baseline of online competence, and it will also introduce its students and graduates to the best aspects of Online Community...the Internet is about the power of people connecting with people. However, this is just a beginning for any agent who is in this business for the long haul. What's your thoughts?

The greater Lansing area real estate Seller's today, need massive exposure to their listed home, to get the most exposure. The days are gone of just putting a sign in the yard and selling your house. With over 85% of all home-buyers shopping the Internet prior to contacting a Realtor, it is imperative that your Real estate agent provide syndication from their website to offer better search engine exposure.

Each agent should be able to explain their Internet marketing plan prior to being hired to sell your home.

Website Syndication, Photo sharing, vitual tours, Blogging, Social networking for business, Search engine marketing, and optimization, are only a few of the many complex, yet simple systems that will get your house the best exposure in today's market. Real estate transactions are complex, involve large assets and demand competent representation. Marketing properties, home selection and financing are just a few of the skills today's consumer looks for when they select a real estate professional. Make sure your Realtor is prepared to offer you the knowledge and expertise to counsel you in relocating, buying, investing or selling the family home, using the most up to date technology and Internet tools.

Your Realtor should be prepared to employ the latest techniques and services for your benefit, just like you've grown to expect from a professional.

"Expect the Best" Mike

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients: MikeBowler.com
Search Listings

2009 Coldwell Banker TV Campaign: Iconic Houses

Get a preview of this years great ads produced by CB. 60 seconds of action. "Now's the Time to Make Your Move"

Mike http://mikebowler.com

How Do You Make Your House Your Own in the Greater Lansing Real Estate Market?

The answer is different for everyone.

What is universal is that when we buy real estate, we're really adopting a particular lifestyle as well.

That's what makes buying and selling real estate such a difficult, complicated process... and in the end such an enjoyable, satisfying one.

I can provide insight into every aspect of the greater Lansing real estate market, but also into the often-overlooked aspect of the transaction: adjusting to your new home.

I've provided a few helpful hints and reports that I thought you might find useful.

When you call me to represent you, know that the business aspect of your transaction will be treated with the utmost importance... but that the human element will never be forgotten.

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com 
Website for Clients: MikeBowler.com
Search Listings

 

How to Use Facebook Filters- Ninja Tip 1

Delta Township, Michigan, Home Sellers - 4 New Reports Available

Selling your home in the greater Lansing real estate market is an involved process that affects your family and your future. Before you begin this process, you'll want to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information. When should you sell? How do you get the best price? What kinds of renovations should be made prior to the sale?

These home selling reports will assist you in answering the many questions that arise during the home selling process. When you're armed with the right information, and an experienced real estate professional, you'll be closer to reaching your goal - selling your home fast, and for the best price. Get all four right here!

Common Selling Mistakes - Learn the top nine selling mistakes, and what steps you can take to avoid them.

Selling Your Home - Remember what first attracted you to your house when you bought it? What excited you about its most appealing features? Now that you're selling your home, you'll need to look at it as if you were buying it all over again.

Surviving the Sale - Getting a good price for your home is important, but minimizing stress and simplifying the selling process can be just as essential.

The Right Selling Price - When you're selling your home, the price you set is a critical factor in the return you receive. Learn several factors to base the assessment of your home.

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com
Website for Clients: MikeBowler.com
Search Listings

Housing Opportunities for the Delhi Township, Holt, Real Estate Market - Timing is Money!

Delhi Township, Holt,real estate buyers and sellers do have opportunities in this market today. Crisis or no crisis, people still can move up or buy that first home. The large number of homes available for sale provides home buyers with a wide range of choices. Interest rates remain low. Affordability has improved in many markets. I think this is the smartest time to buy a home in my 30 years of marketing real estate.
Home inventory dropping almost 10% over the past 6 month’s is a sure sign that we may be reaching the bottom of this challenging market that we have experienced over the past 24 months.

Preparing your home for the spring market is very important to compete in today’s market. The Home Sellers Tool Kit will give you some great ideas to get you prepared for selling this year.
You may be thinking, is it a good time to sell my home and buy another? We have to remember that homes are selling when they are well prepared for sale and priced right. The reason is because people buy and sell homes for lifestyle reasons. Births, marriages, new jobs, retirement and others are all drivers. Following the advice of a full-service professional, who knows market conditions and a home’s competition, is critical in readying a home for sale.

First time home buyers receiving the tax credit which will be the lesser of either 10% of the home’s cost or $8,000 also contributes to the reason for buyers to start shopping. This will be available to qualified first time home buyers – and those who have not owned for at least 3 years - for the purchase of a principal residence in 2009. The credit does not have to be paid back if the buyer stays in the home for at least 3 years. This could have the domino effect to allow sellers to begin moving up to that larger home and selling their house, which they may have out-grown.

So, is “Now the Time To Make Your Move” I think so, however, much depends on your current situation, motives, and ability to qualify for the new, tight credit market. It may take a team of professionals to help you make some of these important decisions.

Our market could change soon, (or maybe not) as prices begin to climb back up, interest rates begin to rise, and inventory continues too go down. Is that when we will be back into a normal market? Not really. There is no such thing as a bad market or good market; there is just a market. Supply and demand is what made this the best country in the world to own real estate.

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
517-492-3400
mailto:mike@mikebowler.com
Search Listings

American Recovery & Reinvestment Act, NAR

In the February 17 video podcast, 2009 NAR President Charles McMillan, NAR's Chief Lobbyist Jerry Giovaniello and NAR's Chief Economist Lawrence Yun discuss the housing provisions in the new economic stimulus law and their impact on the housing market and the overall economy
Hope you enjoy. Search Homes at MikeBowler.com

more about "American Recovery & Reinvestment Act,...", posted with vodpod
First time home buyers in the greater Lansing real estate market have a wonderful opportunity to take advantage of the new tax break, low interest rates, and plenty of great homes to choose from.
Visit: my site for searching homes.

Timing the Market

First time home buyers in the greater Lansing real estate market have a wonderful opportunity to take advantage of the new tax break, low interest rates, and plenty of great homes to choose from.
Visit: my site for searching homes.

more about "Timing the Market", posted with vodpod

First Time Home Buyers in Lansing Michigan Can Benefit from True Tax Credit

The greater Lansing real estate market will get an incentive and tax break for
first-time homebuyers, however the $15,000.00 approved Senate Bill for all buyers got slashed to zippo. Well, it’s a start. According to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 the Refundable First-time Home Buyer Credit. Last year, Congress provided taxpayers with a refundable tax credit that was equivalent to an interest-free loan equal to 10 percent of the purchase of a home (up to $7,500) by first-time home buyers. The provision applies to homes purchased on or after April 9, 2008 and before July 1, 2009. Taxpayers receiving this tax credit are currently required to repay any amount received under this provision back to the government over 15 years in equal installments, or, if earlier, when the home is sold. The credit phases out for taxpayers with adjusted gross income in excess of $75,000 ($150,000 in the case of a joint return). The bill eliminates the repayment obligation for taxpayers that purchase homes after January 1, 2009, increases the maximum value of the credit to $8,000, and removes the prohibition on financing by mortgage revenue bonds, and extends the availability of the credit for homes purchased before December 1, 2009. The provision would retain the credit recapture if the house is sold within three years of purchase. The entire Act Summery can be viewed here.

Now’s the time to make your move, I encourage you to visit my home buyers tool kit page and Buying Services for Greater Lansing Area Home Buyers.You’ll be joining the ranks of hundreds of families who realize that home ownership offers a number of benefits including building equity, saving for the future, and creating an environment for your family. Start your dream today, by becoming well prepared. Selling your home also requires well thought out preparation, in addition to hiring someone prepared to employ the latest techniques and services for your benefit, just like you’ve grown to expect from a professional. Real estate transactions are complex, involve large assets and demand competent representation. Marketing properties, home selection and financing are just a few of the skills today’s consumer looks for when they select a real estate professional.

I'm prepared to offer my clients the knowledge and expertise to counsel them in relocating, buying, investing or selling the family home.

Mike Bowler Sr. ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S. Creyts Road, Lansing, MI 48917
Phone: 517-492-3400 Fax: 888-832-6203
email: Mike@MikeBowler.com

Search Listings

First Time Home Buyer Basics

The tax advantages of home owning a home have never been better in the greater lansing real estate market. Search homes in Holt, Okemos, Lansing, Haslett, Mason, Grand Ledge, Dewitt, and East Lansing at www.mikebowler.com

more about "First Time Home Buyer Basics", posted with vodpod

5 Good Reasons to Buy a Home Now

Here's a great Video on why "Now's the Time to Make Your Move" to buy real estate in the greater Lansing real estate market. Hope you enjoy and search listings at http://mikebowler.com

more about "5 Good Reasons to Buy a Home Now", posted with vodpod

Coldwell Banker Brand Promise Video

Great 3 minute video to explain our 97% brand awareness.

more about "Coldwell Banker Brand Promise Video", posted with vodpod

Holt, Michigan, Delhi Township Has Home Buying Resources

As members of NAR we have many resources available to share with buyers and sellers in our Blog postings, letters, postcards and newsletters that will help generate goodwill, relationships, and drive traffic to your website for searching homes. Just by watching the current events and subscribing to media resources, an agent can develop many valuable tools that buyers and sellers really need in today’s market.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) launched a new Web site to assist home buyers with improving financial literacy, sustaining healthy home ownership and achieving financial security. This is a great resource for you as a home buyer.

We all know people who are upside down on their current mortgage. There is a Guide to help those in foreclosure that is packed with valuable information needed today to assist those who need it. It’s called Hope Now.

FHA (Government backed) Loans are granting a new tax credit. It’s more of a loan, however at 0 interest rate over 15 years. As a first time home buyer, I would make it a priority to review these guidelines prior to making your home buying decision.

If you're looking to buy or sell real estate in the greater Lansing real estate market, feel free to visit MikeBowler.com for all your real estate needs.

"Expect the Best" Mike
Mike Bowler ePRO, CRB, GRI, SRES
Coldwell Banker Hubbell Briarwood
1020 S Creyts Rd, Lansing, MI 48917
517-492-3400
Search Homes