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Have you ever heard about the “Whole Foods Effect”? If you’re anything like me, you said to yourself: A bigger pant size maybe? Well, at least that’s the effect more Whole Foods would have on me! In all seriousness, this phenomenon sets into motion a series of events that propel neighborhoods into positive growth frenzy. These neighborhoods are mainly urban in nature.
I’ve only been to a Whole Foods store a few times in my life: One in Manhattan (NYC) and one in Charles River Plaza (Boston) that I can recall, but it was enough of an experience to get a better grasp of this brick-and-mortar establishment, the products it served (a healthier food option), the emotional joy of browsing (quite different than 99% of the grocers I have visited during my lifetime) and the effect it had on the wallet (but it was so worth it). Now, I’m a sucker for natural, organic and even locally-grown foods and if didn’t have such a wonderful wife (aka cook), I’d even favor the pre-prepared dinners which are also available. Quite frankly Whole Foods is a no-brainer for me.
With that being said, unfortunately Northeastern Pennsylvanians haven’t been blessed with this Texas-based retailer yet. The nearest store is over 120 miles away. I am hopeful that will change and for good reason: When Whole Foods invades, real estate property values increase. Though the franchise might not directly be responsible for property values increasing in a local real estate market, they are the catalyst for a series of events that make areas flourish. When you probe into it further you’ll see that it isn’t just a store, it’s an idea. It’s a space that creates a gravitational force, attracting people to the neighborhood, who also buy into this idea and thus the cycle continues. After it appears on the scene, the length of the day grows; businesses stay open later (including Whole Foods).
Many people want to move closer to activity, having the option of a better “night on the town.” They enjoy having other choices available, including where to eat, shop and play. This is particularly appealing to the Gen X & Gen Y consumer. These things spell doom for the property buyer/investor who is sitting on the fence – demand goes up and as data has also shown, so to do the property values in these areas that spawn the birth of a Whole Foods.
With roughly fifty of these stores in the pipeline, has your area recently seen the birth of a Whole Foods store? And if so, what have you experienced with your local real estate economy as a result?
If you’re interested in reading more about the “Whole Foods Effect,” Will Doig, who writes for Salon, delves into this concept much deeper (http://goo.gl/Jkcik).
Greg Solfanelli
Marketing / Director of Consumer Experience
Realty Network Group
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Making It Rain Buyers…
Well, they always say hailing taxis is worse than raining buckets. It finally stopped raining here. I think?! Over the last few days we’ve been bombarded with rain in Northeastern PA and that got me thinking… Since water is the root of all evil (in real estate terms that is), waterproofing your home, specifically your basement, is a great way to keep prospective buyers interested in your property.
In a majority of cases, despite what many may think, wet basements are generally inexpensive and easy to fix. Don’t panic (unless your house is sinking), stop and take a deep breath. Most leaks/seepage can be traced to an issue with drainage condition around the perimeter of the home. Therefore, if you improve the drainage around the outside, then there’s a good chance you’ll have the solution you’ve been searching for.
Roof drainage is one of the top contributors of a wet basement. Two proactive measures you can take to prevent leakage is to install the proper number of downspouts and clean your gutters twice a year. Other factors can effect how often they would need to be cleaned, such as trees’ proximity to your home. It’s important to understand dirty gutters will cause an overflow, and when this happens, water will end up in the last place you desire – near the foundation. The downspouts should also be at least four to six feet from the foundation.
Check the lay of the land around the foundation: Soil should slope away from the house. You never want water running toward the house. Clean, fill soil (not topsoil) should be used to create the slope and top soil/seed to prevent erosion. Be mindful of any landscaping treatments, which can keep water close to the home for extended periods of time. These should be substituted for others, which are more dry-basement friendly.
Please note: Each and every case is different and when seeking advice regarding waterproofing your home, you should consult a professional home inspector and/or waterproofing contractor.
Stay dry my friends! Greg Solfanelli, Marketing & Office Coordinator, Realty Network Group, www.realtynetwork.net, www.facebook.com/RealtyNetworkG, www.twitter.com/RealtyNetworkG
Does A Finished Basement Pay Off At Resale Time?
So a question us REALTORS® often get asked is: If I make upgrades to my home will that increase its value? Should I make the renovations/additions in the first place? I would guess the underlying concern for the homeowner is whether they get most of that money back.
Today is International Star Wars Day (May the 4th be with you!). Sometimes renovations can make all the difference to the owner, but perhaps offer little to be desired to a potential buyer. The following photo of a remodeled shower features the likes of C-3PO, R2-D2 and our favorite wookiee, Chewbacca. Star Trek fans beware!
[Photo courtesy of Emily Jagoda
You need to keep in mind a few things here. If you’re doing the work yourself, that’s wonderful, but realize you might take a hit if your DIY project isn’t up to professional standards. Even if you’re hiring someone to complete the job, you should consider if you could add another bedroom to the lower-level, especially if there are only two bedrooms throughout the rest of the house. I do caution a renovation on a basement if that space is used for storage and you don’t have room for those displaced items in your attic or garage. Of course, if your spouse has been hounding you for years to trash that huge collection of VHS tapes in the basement… there’s your answer!
Keep in mind each situation is unique, therefore, connect with us today to find out how to best showcase your home to that pool of potential buyers.
Good luck! Greg Solfanelli, Marketing & Office Coordinator - Realty Network Group, www.realtynetwork.net
Message from our Broker, Alice Vanston
I hope all of you are enjoying your Thanksgiving weekend with your families. Here in our group, we are most thankful to each of our agents for an eventful year including: two marriages, two births and I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them. They have surpassed my expectations for sales and have worked hard to help our clients achieve their goals in today’s market. Our new ownership has been a blessing too and we are thankful for their hard work in providing our group with new technologies and marketing that our customers love.
I am also very excited to share with you that before we enter 2012, you will see a new name and new style for our company. We can’t wait for you to see the new look all over town!
With Thanks,
Alice
Good Sunday Morning! from Realtor Amy Bohenek
It’s no secret that the current economy is presenting challenges everywhere we look and the real estate business is no exception. However, as a seasoned Realtor, I’m used to weathering the storms and still helping my clients get into their dream homes. Yes, there are times when the market can create hurdles when dealing with new mortgage regulations, appraisal requirements and pounds of paperwork. But it’s all worth it, because there’s nothing quite as satisfying as seeing the smiles of my clients at then end of a transaction and knowing I was able to help them reach their goals. Here at Semian Real Estate Group we all strive to provide you with superior customer service. My astrological sign is Cancer the Crab and it fits.I dig right in! I thrive on doing everything I possibly can to meet my clients’ expectations. I LOVE selling real estate. Give me a call at 570-313-1203 or visit me on the Web at www.semiangroup.com.
Good Sunday Morning from Vice President of Marketing and Recruitment, Nell Donnelly-O’Boyle
Good Sunday Morning! from Semian Real Estate Group’s Director of Marketing and Recruitment Nell Donnely-O’Boyle: Working at Semian Real Estate Group has never been more exciting and fulfilling for me as the company’s recruiter. During the course of the next several weeks, you’ll be noticing some new faces with our growing organization. We’re proud to announce that Amy Bohenek is rejoining Semian Real Estate Group. You can read all about her talents and accomplishments in today’s paper. We’re thrilled to be working alongside her again! Amy’s work ethic and strong reputation for excellence are a perfect fit with Semian Real Estate Group’s ideals. The strength of Semian Real Estate Group lies in the hands of its Realtors. We welcome you to contact any one of our Realtors for all of your real estate needs. Know that each of our Realtors is committed to professional excellence, integrity and superior customer service; the backbone of Semian Real Estate Group. Contact us today at www.semiangroup.com!
Good Sunday Morning! From VP of Facilities, Richard Dericks
We’d like to thank everyone who visited our open house earlier this week at our brand new North Pocono office on Route 502, next to FitnessQUEST, in Covington Township. The turnout and enthusiasm were simply beyond expectations! We saw many people who’ve been associated with the real estate business for years. And Semian Real Estate Group is looking forward to promoting and participating in healthy working relationships with each of our competitors in the region. And, we saw new faces of those anxious to begin working with our great team! Speaking of our team, they’re going to be expanding our footprint in the North Pocono region. Our dedicated agents have a thorough understanding of the North Pocono area which will enable them to provide attention that is focused on your needs. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell in North Pocono, either residential or commercial, count on our energetic team! Please stop by and visit them at our new “Cottage Office” next to FitnessQUEST on Route 502 in Covington Township. You can also give them a call at 570-848-2500 or visit them on the Web at SemianGroup.com.
Good Sunday Morning! From Semian Real Estate Group Realtor Jerry McAllister
When you’re selecting a real estate agency, you should expect honest answers and prompt responses to your questions. You shouldn’t have to deal with a “Virtual Person” through voice mail, email’s, etc. At Semian Real Estate Group we take pride in the relationships we develop over the course of a transaction. I was born and raised in Northeast PA and understand that it’s the people who make this such a great area to live. Buying or selling real estate is a big deal, and people want to work with an agent they can trust and depend on when they need them the most. Give us a call here at Semian Real Estate Group. We care about you!
Good Sunday Morning! from Semian Real Estate Group Realtor Rita Doria
Hi Everyone! I hope you’re having a great summer. Here it is, July already! Enjoy the summer and the bright sunshine and the outdoors. Our area has so much to offer, with all of its lakes, waterfalls and great attractions to visit. Here at Semian Real Estate Group we have great attractions, too. All of our listings are spectacular! Buyers and sellers, take advantage of the season and move forward with your listing –or purchasing. We’re here to meet all of your needs, whether you’re buying a property or selling one. Visit our open houses, or take a RealTV tour of our beautiful listings, you can find them on the Web at www.semiangroup.com! After that, go out for a walk and get some ice cream! Have a wonderful day!
Good Sunday Morning! From Marketing VP Nell Donnelly-O’Boyle
What exciting news! A Semian Real Estate Group listing recently garnered national media attention. Our favorite real estate mogul, Barbara Corcoran (Shark Tank) featured our beautiful listing at 634 Taylor Avenue in Scranton on her NBC Today show segment. Showing the best home buys from Scranton to the Rockies, Barbara chose our great Hill Section home as a winner. Check out the video from the segment at semiangroup.com or, better yet, visit the home today from 2-4 during my open house! The RealTV videos are bringing all sorts of attention to our fantastic listings and now we can say the Today show’s attention too! Way to go Frank and Lorri–for your amazing production talents. Enjoy your Sunday, everyone. I hope to see you at my open houses–Today!