Christopher J Shaw's Blog

As you know, the alarming rate of foreclosed homes has taken a major toll on the real estate market. Foreclosures blew in like a hurricane, sweeping across the national market, leaving an investors dream in its aftermath. No where is that more evident than in Detroit. Today you can ride down any number of streets in pretty much any area and find at least 4 - 6 empty homes on each block that have been foreclosed on. Unfortunately for homeowners who are currently struggling to keep their homes, its still growing. It is estimated that 1.5 million foreclosed homes are expected to end up as REOs or bank owned properties this year. Foreclosures for the most part are the new market, so much so that investors are flying in by the plane loads full from Australia, Japan, and China to cash in on the great deals.

 

“In 2007, Detroit's foreclosure rate led the nation, turning over thousands of older homes to banks and other lenders who had no desire to keep them.” Today, as the banks continue to unload these properties into the market, foreign investors are buying them like most people buy eggs, by the dozen.  Detroit has become a prime target for real estate investors both near and far. It is an “investors oasis”. I know it sounds strange to use Detroit and oasis in the same sentence.  But it is true, Global investors are cashing in on foreclosed properties in Detroit at a cover charg of $5,000 - $40,000, renovating and then renting them. The abundance of quality brick homes selling at bargain basement prices, combined with a large blue collar population looking and needing to rent, it has the makings for a lucrative long term investment. And as a bonus, the weak dollar gives foreign investors paying with Euros or Yen an increased discount.

 

Who would have imagined that Detroit would have become a part of the global scenery for something other than “automobiles”.  Obviously, Detroit offers real estate bargains that have gained attention all over the world.  It is clear that this is a tremendous opportunity and time for first time home buyers as well as the investor. Today’s market offers great deals around just about every corner. For your home buying and property investing needs, visit us at MyFirstMichiganHome.com and we will be more than happy to assist you!

While climbing the success/corporate ladder we should be ever mindful of our office or business etiquette.

Good manners coupled with proper office procedures helps create a pleasant environment for co-workers and clients alike. 

 

 Here are a few fundamentals of etiquette that apply to business:

 

Poor Telephone Behavior
Not returning calls, eating while on the phone, slamming the phone down, long hold times, load talking.

 

Inappropriate Welcome
Failure to greet someone, weak or no handshake, failure to introduce an associate.  You want co-workers/clients to feel acknowledged and important.

 

Poor Listening
Not paying attention to a speaker, talking while the presenter is speaking, asking a question just covered by the speaker, answering your cell phone or texting.  Be considerate; please give your undivided attention.

 

Poor Dress and Grooming
Sloppy appearance, gym or party dress for business, revealing clothes.  Some offices are more casual than others so, adjust your attire accordingly.

 

Inconsiderate of Common Space
Leaving your mess out in a common space, leaving stapler or copier empty after using the last of the staples or paper.  Be courteous and refill.

 

Disregard of Others Time
Interrupting people at work, keeping people waiting, not showing up for a scheduled appointment.  Call if you are arriving late.

 

Being humans we've all been guilty of these infractions. Without "Browbeating" we just need to get in the habit of being conscious of our behavior and

 

ON THAT NOTE, do make it a great week!