Spokane Real Estate Voice

Spokane Real Estate Voice http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/ Spokane homes for sale , Spokane MLS, Learn vital information here about the current Spokane Wa real estate market! Written by BethAnn Long, Realtor and e-PRO with Coldwell Banker Tomlinson Spokane homes for sale! BethAnn provides outstanding service for outstanding people! My approach to real estate is proactive and comprehensive. I look forward to hearing from you and answering any questions you may have about the Spokane real estate market! ~ Ask BethAnn! : 509-362-4607 ~ Spokane Homes for sale Spokane Real Estate Statistics South Hill Homes for sale Mead homes for sale Liberty Lake Homes for sale Spokane Home Values Relocate to Spokane Wa en-us http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1826479/priest-lake-idaho-aka-heaven-on-earth- Priest Lake Idaho: aka Heaven on earth! <p>In Spokane Wa. we having the amazing privilege of having 76 lakes within close driving distance. Some are 20 minutes from downtown, some as far as two hours. A majority are about 45 minutes from Spokane. That is not a typo, yes I said 76 lakes!</p> <p>I LOVE LAKES!</p> <p>We just spent a week at the stunning and pristine Priest Lake Idaho, which is a two hour drive from Spokane.</p> <p>AMAZING, REFRESHING, RELAXING, PRIMITIVE FORESTS, CRYSTAL CLEAR MOUNTAIN WATER, HUCKLEBERRIES, GREAT RESORTS, MAJESTIC HIKES, I have said it before and I will say it again, the Pacific Northwest is God's Country!</p> <p>Here are a few pictures we took on our vacation. Enjoy...<img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/0/0/9/3/ar128310984139001.JPG" height="393" alt="" width="551" /></p> <p>My kids kayaking at Priest Lake!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/1/1/6/1/ar128311008516116.JPG" height="459" alt="" width="344" /></p> <p>The unmatched beauty of Upper Priest Lake, unreal. :)</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/9/5/4/7/ar128311017374597.JPG" height="505" alt="" width="385" /></p> <p>That is me, hiking. GOOD DAY, BAD HAIR!</p> <p>If you are considering relocating to the Spokane area, I would love to talk with you about how great it is to live in Spokane Wa!</p> <p>BethAnn Long, Realtor  www.BethAnnHomes.com</p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Sun, 29 Aug 2010 15:33:38 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1826479/priest-lake-idaho-aka-heaven-on-earth- http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1800968/search-the-spokane-mls Search the Spokane MLS <p><strong>Search the Spokane MLS</strong></p> <p>You can search the entire public Spokane Wa MLS right here from this website!</p> <p><a href="http://lcmsuccess.com/lcm/?a=37&s=6 " title="SPOKANE WA MLS LISTINGS">http://lcmsuccess.com/lcm/?a=37&s=6 </a>  </p> <p>This site gives you acsess to view <strong>homes for sale in Spokane Wa.</strong></p> <p>If you would like more information about selling your home in Spokane Wa, Spokane Wa Real Estate Market, or relocating to Spokane Wa. feel free to contact me at 509-362-4607.</p> <p>BethAnn Long, Realtor Coldwell Banker Tomlinson South Inc.</p> <p>my blog: <a href="http://www.SpokaneRealEsatateVoice.com">www.SpokaneRealEsatateVoice.com</a>  my website; <a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com">www.BethAnnHomes.com</a> </p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/1/8/8/3/ar128191265038816.jpg" height="90" alt="" width="130" /> There is no place like Spokane! </p> <p> </p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Sun, 15 Aug 2010 18:53:36 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1800968/search-the-spokane-mls http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1786693/when-soi-and-seo-collide- When SOI and SEO Collide! <p>There are only so many sources for prospects in our business. With 20% of agents doing 80% of the business, it warrants the question: Where do the top producer's get their business?</p> <p>There is no simple answer. It may depend on how many years they have been in real estate. But then again, I have seen new agents run circles around "experienced" agents.</p> <p>The largest current pools for leads are SOI (Sphere of Influence): People you know and their referrals,  and SEO (Search Engine Optimization) : Internet leads generated by your website, lead sources, blogging, and social networking.</p> <p>While there is a third category of lead sources: Expired Listings, Farming, FSBO'S and cold calling, ect. - for this article I am not addressing those.</p> <p>There are a few "Master's" at the art of SOI. The two I am most aware of are: Larry Kendall's philosophy and training on Ninja Selling. ( www.ninjaselling.com ) which highlights several systems for all aspects of real estate, especially keeping in touch with your sphere. They do retreats at there agency n Fort Collins, CO. which I personally attended and highly recommend. The second is Jennifer Allen " Sell with Soul" who can be found right here on Active Rain. She does a great job of writing about new and creative ways to keep in touch! Both of these are worth looking into! As far as mastering SEO, the list is long. I see on Active Rain many who claim nearly 100% of their business from the Internet.</p> <p>Now, back to the title: "<strong>When SOI and SEO collide</strong>". What do I mean by this?...</p> <p>Where I find they collide, is that <em><strong>there is only so much time in the day</strong>.</em> And there is <strong><em>only so much money</em></strong> to budget for prospecting.How do we decide, as real estate professionals- how to spend our time, money and resources? Each of these can be very costly on both time and money.</p> <p>I feel the best thing to do, is to truly evaluate not only what has worked for you in the past, but what you enjoy.</p> <p>Take 3 highlighters, yellow, pink and blue. Get the entire list of EVERY transaction you have ever done. Now highlight all of the SOI in yellow, INTERNET closings in blue, and all others in blue. Make three columns and place each name under a column:</p> <p>                       <span>SPHERE</span>                                                  <span>INTERNET</span>                                         <span>OTHER</span></p> <p>Study this list very carefully. Make budget decisions accordingly. Be intentional about how you spend your time, energy and resources.</p> <p>For me, I am clearly a half and half gal at this point in my career. I have a clear plan for both SOI AND SEO. It does require some juggling, but it works for me. I think both are critical, and I am not willing to let go of either.</p> <p>I have had incredible experiences with people I know, like and trust- and some very difficult ones. I have met strangers who found me online that I now call dear friends. I particularly love helping people relocate to Spokane Wa. that find my website or blog. Some have not worked out very well, that is true. But I learn as I go, and unless something changes in my world, I will continue forward on both spectrum's.</p> <p>It is a balancing act for sure, but as a mother of five, I am a master at multi tasking and plate spinning.</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Sat, 07 Aug 2010 14:36:07 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1786693/when-soi-and-seo-collide- http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1785898/medical-lake-waterfront-park Medical Lake Waterfront Park <p>Medical Lake Waterfront Park is a great place to spend the day!</p> <p>It has lots of green grass, decent bathrooms, large sandy beach, anda 3 mile paved trail all the way around the lake.</p> <p>The kids enjoyed jumping off the cliffs!</p> <p>This weekend (Aug. 8-10th 2010) they have a bluegrass festival out there.</p> <p>This beach is great for family get together's because there is a lot of room. Plus you can bike or walk all the way around the lake.</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/1/0/3/8/ar128114984483013.jpg" height="366" alt="" width="688" /><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/6/6/3/2/ar128114994623666.jpg" height="411" alt="" width="658" />Waterfront Park/Medical Lake Wa is only 20 minutes from Downtown Spokane!</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Fri, 06 Aug 2010 23:02:21 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1785898/medical-lake-waterfront-park http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1781799/hiking-walking-biking-on-high-drive-spokane-wa-on-the-south-hill- Hiking/Walking/Biking on HIGH DRIVE Spokane Wa on the South Hill! <p>On the top of what we call " The South Hill" here in Spokane lies a beautiful view rim called "High Drive".</p> <p>The entire west facing ridge has been turned into miles of great dog walking, running, biking, hiking and just plain sunset watching!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/4/3/8/9/ar128096548698347.jpg" height="600" alt="" width="520" /></p> <p>Enjoy an evening stroll, or get up early and throw on your running shoes! GREAT VIEWS, Peaceful and Serene places to enjoy just another beautiful place in Spokane Wa.</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/3/9/5/0/7/ar128096562870593.jpg" height="352" alt="" width="480" /></p> <p>That is Qualchan Golf Corse down on Highway 195 as seen by me walking on High Drive Trails!</p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Wed, 04 Aug 2010 19:49:31 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1781799/hiking-walking-biking-on-high-drive-spokane-wa-on-the-south-hill- http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1781790/the-scoop-ice-cream-parlor-on-spokane-s-south-hill- The Scoop Ice Cream Parlor on Spokane's South Hill! <p>For great Ice cream and more, visit <strong>"The Scoop" </strong>on Spokane's South Hill!</p> <p>Situated in the lovely Wilson Scool/Manito Park/High Drive area, The Scoop is a favorite local hang out for all ages.</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/8/4/3/1/ar1280965113481.jpg" height="564" alt="" width="771" />LOCATED at the corner of 25th and Monroe right by Wilson Elementary.</p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Wed, 04 Aug 2010 19:41:44 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1781790/the-scoop-ice-cream-parlor-on-spokane-s-south-hill- http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1781775/great-spokane-area-hike-iller-creek-big-rock- Great Spokane Area Hike! Iller Creek/Big Rock! <p>There are so many spectacular hikes all around the Spokane area. Yesterday, I went to the Iller Creek Conservation area and hiked up to the Rocks of Sharon, also known as " Big Rock"</p> <p>One thing I loved about this hike is the diversity! One minute you feel like you are in the rain forest, and the next you have an almost desert feel. Then it is on to Forest, and when you reach the rocks, well be ready to say WOW when you see the view of the farm land and Palouse. Simply so much to take in!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/8/7/0/9/ar128096427890786.jpg" height="334" alt="" width="622" /></p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/4/8/0/ar128096438308477.jpg" height="499" alt="" width="656" /></p> <p>I am so fortunate to live in the GREAT NORTHWEST!</p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Wed, 04 Aug 2010 19:32:51 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1781775/great-spokane-area-hike-iller-creek-big-rock- http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1780894/i-am-now-a-nationally-syndicated-columnist-thanks-to-active-rain- I am now a Nationally Syndicated Columnist! (Thanks to ACTIVE RAIN!) <p>Spokane Realtor, BethAnn Long of Coldwell Banker Tomlinson is now a nationally published author and syndicated Real Estate Columnist. BethAnn was discovered on ACTIVE RAIN and invited to be a regular contributing columnist for <a href="http://www.newsgeni.us/">www.newsgeni.us</a> and <a href="http://www.thecommissioncheck.com/">www.thecommissioncheck.com</a> .</p> <p>The first site, <a href="http://www.newsgeni.us/">www.newsgeni.us</a> is created for real estate agents and is an excellent free resource to gain ideas for growing your business. You can <strong>subscribe</strong> there to receive daily news e-briefs with all kinds of cutting edge idea's and up to the minute estate news! Her personal column is titled:<strong> "Long Story Short".</strong></p> <p>The second site, <a href="http://www.thecommission.check.com/">www.thecommission.check.com</a>  is designed for brokers, owners, managers, trainers, and agents alike. This site is sure to provide you with fresh training and ideas to ensure that those commission checks keep coming in.</p> <p>While both of these great sites are designed for the real estate industry, you can find BethAnn's consumer sites at:</p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com/">www.BethAnnHomes.com</a> (website) and <a href="http://www.spokanerealestatevoice.com/">www.SpokaneRealEstateVoice.com</a> (blog).</p> <p>BethAnn has been selling real estate in the Spokane area for the past 8 years, and has won numerous awards for her outstanding performance.</p> <p>When she is not servicing her clients, BethAnn is married to Bill Long (KXLY),they have 5 children, and she is a professional musician - active in both her church and community.</p> <p><strong>A note from BethAnn:</strong></p> <p>Realtors:</p> <p>I highly recommend subscribing to these FREE websites! You will most certainly learn some great new ideas for your business as well as increase your bottom line! Do it now!   <a href="http://www.newsgeni.us">www.newsgeni.us</a></p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/9/8/4/1/1/ar128094109511489.png" height="49" alt="" width="200" /></p> <p>Award winning Spokane Realtor BethAnn Long specializes in Spokane Homes for sale, Spokane Real Estate, Relocation to Spokane Wa.</p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Wed, 04 Aug 2010 13:02:48 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1780894/i-am-now-a-nationally-syndicated-columnist-thanks-to-active-rain- http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1771237/farm-chicks-open-store-in-spokane-wa- Farm Chicks open store in Spokane Wa! <p>Farm Chick <a href="http://www.thefarmchicks.com/farmchicks.html">Serena Thompson</a> has <a href="http://thefarmchicks.typepad.com/farmchicks/2010/07/wednesday-july-28th.html">finally revealed</a> the location of her new store: 1601 W. Pacific Ave. in Browne's Addition.</p> <p>Wow! This is too good to be true.</p> <p>If you don't know about the FARM CHICKS you should!</p> <p>Check out their INCREDIBLE BLOG at <a href="http://www.thefarmchicks.typepad.com/">http://www.thefarmchicks.typepad.com/</a></p> <p>I will be going to the new store this Saturday!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/5/2/3/4/ar128044687843252.jpg" height="118" alt="" width="108" /></p> <p>They have written cookbooks, and regular columnists for County Living!</p> <p>I think the store will do very well. Country girls in the heart of the city. Love it!</p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Thu, 29 Jul 2010 19:44:41 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1771237/farm-chicks-open-store-in-spokane-wa- http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1738469/why-i-dive-for-cats-and-you-should-too- Why I dive for Cats and you should too! <p class="MsoNormal">Why I dive for Cats and you should too!</p> <p class="MsoNormal">It was a cold and crisp fall day. The sky was bright blue and the deciduos trees were vibrant with various shades of orange and red. The ground was slightly frozen and I knew soon the leaves would all be gone, and winter would inevitably be here.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I prepared for my open house, I made a mental note of how good I looked in my brand new Ann Klien suit.<span>  </span>I carefully pulled on my new Nordstrom hose, and the heels I only wear when I want to make a first impression. I made my open house checklist: Professional attire: check, Signs for schlepping: check, sign in book: check, flyers and cards :check, 16oz double Starbucks latte to avoid caffiene withdrawels in the 3 hours,: check.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I was looking forward to meeting some fresh new prospects as I rounded the corner of this distinguished neighborhood.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">As always, I arrived 15 minutes early to greet my seller as they were leaving. She was hurried, but pleasant. She said, <span> </span>“ I only have one thing to tell you:<span><strong> DON’T LET THE CAT GET OUTSIDE OR YOU ARE FIRED</strong></span>”.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Alrighty then…</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Your royal highness Sophie was “ locked” in the laundry room with all of her earthly needs met and there was a large note on the door. “ DO NOT OPEN THIS DOOR OR LET THE CAT OUT!” It was quite the feline executive suite I might add, including a kitty climbing gym, food, water, and a nice soft beddy bye.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">As the open house guests began to pour in, I enjoyed meeting several new people and showing them the many features of this high end home. One guest was a neighbor who happened to leave me her phone number because she had relatives moving to town.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">As I meandered through the house, I landed in the living room with a particularly slick looking couple asking probing questions about the house. There were a half dozen people coming and going. <span> </span>As we were looking through the large picture windows observing the newly landscaped front yard, I noticed- <strong>in horror-</strong>… <span>her majesty</span> frolicking in the grass. In mid sentence, I said…” EXCUSE ME, I have a little issue to address…ummm… BRB!”</p> <p class="MsoNormal">At first I went to the laundry room, and you guessed it: DOOR WIDE OPEN NO KITTY.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Bounding through the front door nearly trampling the innocent newcomers who must have noted the crazed look on my face, I lunged after the cat and was flat on my stomach on the grass.( The ground was cold and hard, but the grass was still green enough to stain my new skirt.) She sensed my on coming nervous breakdown, and scampered off into the bushes bordering the neighbors house.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I quite literally DOVE into the bushes, while several open house lookers were gazing out the front window at me. With my derriere in mid air, I attempted to grasp the cat while the bush put a semi permanent scar across my left cheek bone, and my pewter hose were now accented with shades of brown on both knees. <span> </span>Although I am a church going Christian, I do recall mumbling a few four letter words, and none of them were "meow".</p> <p class="MsoNormal">She ran. I now had a much more serious problem. I ran into the house and called the neighbor.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Umm…can you bring a search party over and help me find the missing cat? I am really in a bind, and you see I have people roaming around wondering if I am a nutcase and I need to catch this cat or I am in big trouble. She said she and her two boys would be right over. With the open house onlookers still wondering what was going on, we began to run around the yard yelling “ Here kitty kitty…”</p> <p class="MsoNormal">A stroke of genius flashed into my mind…<strong>TUNA!</strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal">I ran into the kitchen with my semi bloody, muddy new look- and began to search the cupboards for tuna.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">BINGO. Now I need to find the can opener. Rifling through the drawers, more people were coming and going, and the slick couple were still admiring the slate fireplace.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Breathless, I ran back outside with the tuna - nearly trampling the next set of open house lookers. Wordless- the neighbor boy pointed to the picture windows, and gawking at us from inside the house, were the slicks, a few others, and…<em> you guessed it</em>…<strong>the cat.</strong></p> <p class="MsoNormal">You have GOT to be kidding me.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">The neighbor said…"Oh, yes- there is a dead ringer for miss Sophie in the neighborhood. Her suitor, who often admires her from afar." Those words “ dead ringer” took on a new meaning as I had a momentary lapse of sanity and visualized myself ringing the royal neck of the great Sophie.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Crisis averted.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">With what I am not sure is humility or humiliation, I went back into the house, now smelling of the tuna that was dripping down my arms because I did not have time to drain it. How attractive I must have looked and smelled while apologizing to the slicks. (oh duh toilet albacore...a new fragrance?)</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I put the cat back in the laundry room and put a CHAIR in front of the door. At that point I am sure the open house guests wondered if I was the one who should be locked in there!</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Pulling myself together, I continued greeting people as if nothing happened.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">You see, there are many hazards of this business and it never ceases to amaze me what is around the corner. It is actually one thing that endears me to real estate. I am never bored.</p> <p class="MsoNormal">I truly care about what is important to my clients- and yes- I dive for cats and so should YOU!</p> <p class="MsoNormal">(PS YES this is a true story!)</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/8/8/2/3/3/ar127886183533288.jpg" height="325" alt="" width="426" /></p> <p> </p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Sun, 11 Jul 2010 11:33:23 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1738469/why-i-dive-for-cats-and-you-should-too- http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1737208/spokane-wa-market-report-for-june-2010- Spokane Wa Market Report for June 2010! <p>Each month I post the Spokane Association of Realtor monthly report for Spokane Wa. These statistics reflect sales for residential properties on one acre or less.</p> <p>As for myself, this has been a steady year. Not too crazy busy, and not too slow. I am particularly curious how sales will continue and compare now that the tax credit's are behind us.  However, there are still some tax credits that apply for active military personnel. Ask your accountant or Realtor for details!</p> <p>Spokane Wa real estate is alive and well and has proven to be one of the more stable markets in the nation.</p> <p><span>SAR REPORT AS FOLLOWS for June 2010:</span></p> <p>For the ninth consecutive month closed sales for this month surpassed closed sales for the same month a year ago. Closed sales reported in June totaled 506 compared to 501 for June of last year. The average sales price for June was $190,308 which is up 5.4% from last month and the median price for June was $171,295 up 6.6% over May. <strong>Residential closed sales for the first half of this year are <span>up 24.5%</span></strong><span> over last</span> <span>year.</span> (wow!) The average sales price for the half year mark stands at $181,482 and the median price is at $163,000. These numbers are down 6.4% and 6.1% respectively when compared to last year. The current inventory increased the past month and as of this report totals 3,406 homes/condos on the market in Spokane County (on less than one acre). Sales of newly constructed homes/condos are up 5.5% year to date.</p> <p>Visit my website! <a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com">www.BethAnnHomes.com</a></p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Sat, 10 Jul 2010 10:48:17 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1737208/spokane-wa-market-report-for-june-2010- http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1734249/spokane-area-mini-adventures- Spokane Area Mini Adventures! <p>Yesterday, my sister, mom and I had a great Spokane area Mini Adventure! The truth is, if you live in the great northwest like we do, there are hundreds of little mini adventures to be had around every cornner!</p> <p>We went out the Palouse Highway, just south of town. We took a hike up toward Big Rock (STUNNING!). When we encountered a very BIG MOOSE we decided to turn around. But the view from part way up was breathtaking!</p> <p>Then we adventured to Mt. Hope, a serene little chapel in the country. So beautiful! Driving past feilds of gold mustard, rolling wheat fields, wildflowers, country farms and simple beauty.</p> <p>From Mountain hike to valley farms, it is just moments. I hope you enjoy these pictures I took!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/3/8/9/0/ar12786194009831.jpg" height="485" alt="" width="684" /></p> <p>Here is BIG ROCK!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/1/1/3/6/3/ar127861947436311.jpg" height="240" alt="" width="320" /></p> <p>View of Palouse from Big Rock Trail</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/4/6/5/2/7/ar12786195572564.jpg" height="420" alt="" width="585" /></p> <p>Mt. Hope Chapel ~ A sweet country setting.</p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Thu, 08 Jul 2010 16:10:33 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1734249/spokane-area-mini-adventures- http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1716129/spokane-area-lake-tour-lake-coeur-d-alene Spokane area Lake Tour/ Lake Coeur d' Alene <p>Just 35 minutes from Spokane Wa lies truly one of the most breathtaking lakes!</p> <p>Graced with a great little downtown area, Lake Coeur d'Alene is something to BRAG about.</p> <p>Our neighbor in many ways, often referred by Spokanites as "CDA." Truly a destination in and of itself, this little city with the huge lake is incredible.</p> <p>See for yourself at:</p> <p>http://www.coeurdalene.org/</p> <p>I love being so close to such a wonderful place to visit!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/6/1/4/2/0/ar127769910902416.jpg" height="600" alt="" width="800" /></p> <p>The public beach in Coeur d'Alene Idaho is AWESOME! The hotel is a great place to stay and play!</p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Mon, 28 Jun 2010 00:29:38 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1716129/spokane-area-lake-tour-lake-coeur-d-alene http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1714826/spokane-lake-s-tour- Spokane Lake's Tour! <p>This Summer, I am going to visit several area lakes and blog about them.</p> <p>Spokane Wa has more than 70 lakes, yes I said SEVENTY PLUS LAKES within a short driving distance.</p> <p>Yesterday, we took a short 20 minute drive to FISH LAKE. Located between Spokane and Cheney, this small lake is very pretty. It has a great little public beach. No motor boats are allowed.</p> <p>They have a fishing dock, playground, sandy beach, Basketball Hoop, Volly Ball area, and an incredible trail that starts at the lake and goes 3.75 miles to Cheney.</p> <p>Here are some photo's I took!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/5/5/8/2/7/ar127760943372855.jpg" height="484" alt="" width="601" /></p> <p>FISH LAKE TRAIL (from Fish Lake to Cheney) A beautiful stream runs along side bothg sides of the trail! Wow...</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/1/9/1/9/ar127760952691917.jpg" height="477" alt="" width="612" /></p> <p>FISHING DOCK AT FISH LAKE, WA.</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/2/6/7/1/5/ar127760960151762.jpg" height="439" alt="" width="595" /></p> <p>FISH LAKE PUBLIC BEACH IS FREE!!!</p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Sat, 26 Jun 2010 23:36:31 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1714826/spokane-lake-s-tour- http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1702983/spokane-wa-named-top-10-for-families-by-parenting-magazine- Spokane Wa named top 10 for families by Parenting Magazine! <p><strong>Spokane Wa named top 10 for families by Parenting Magazine!</strong></p> <p>Having raised five amazing children here in Spokane Wa. I can't say I am suprised that Parenting Magazine has named Spokane Wa in the top ten places for families!</p> <p>"Parenting Magazine has named Spokane Wa one of the top 10 American hometowns in its 'Best Cities for Families' article.</p> <p>It's an award based on mom's top criteria for keeping their families happy, healthy and safe.</p> <p>The magazine says Spokane was recognized for its fair weather, three Blue Ribbon schools, 4,100 acres of parks, playgrounds, and pools, and two children's hospitals.</p> <p>Spokane also ranked in the top 10 in two additional categories, 'best education' and 'best health'.</p> <p>Before evaluating the cities, Parenting conducted a nationwide survey of moms through its MomConnection research panel to establish the primary factors they consider when choosing a home.</p> <p>Their choices were (in order of priority): quality of schools; affordability and availability of quality housing; low crime rates; job availability and growth; number of registered sex offenders; recreational opportunities; quality/quantity of pediatricians/family physicians; commute time and distance; proximity to a good children's hospital; quality/quantity of childcare facilities and preschools; and air quality." (via Krem.com).</p> <p>Wow, once again, I am more than proud to call Spokane Wa. my home!</p> <p>BethAnn Long- Realtor 509-362-4607</p> <p>For your FREE SPOKANE WA RELOCATION PACKAGE contact me!</p><div class="agent_signature"><p><span><span>BethAnn Long ~ Spokane Realtor- </span></span><span><span>Coldwell Banker</span><span> Tomlinson South Inc.</span></span></p> <p><span>509-362-4607</span></p> <p>...there's no place like <em>your </em>home!</p> <p><img src="http://activerain.com/image_store/uploads/7/7/0/1/6/ar126353121761077.jpg" height="100" alt="" width="120" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.bethannhomes.com">Spokane Homes for Sale</a></p> <p><a href="http://www.BethAnnHomes.com"><br /></a></p> <p><a href="http://www.myfreecopyright.com/registered_mcn/BUGPS_S7KFG_UKLQ9" title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected"><img title="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" src="http://storage.myfreecopyright.com/mfc_protected.png" height="38" alt="MyFreeCopyright.com Registered & Protected" width="145" /></a></p></div> BethAnn Long, Realtor, e-PRO Spokane Wa Real Estate (Coldwell Banker Tomlinson) Sat, 19 Jun 2010 10:46:12 -0400 http://spokanerealestatevoice.com/post/1702983/spokane-wa-named-top-10-for-families-by-parenting-magazine-