Homes.com Partners with ‘The Steve Harvey Show’ to Shelter Family Impacted by Hurricane Sandy

Posted on December 7, 2012 by Katie Glaser

Everyone has a story and life event that shapes who we are. Homes.com recently asked real estate professionals to share stories that captured your successful moments that have shaped your career. And, at this year’s National Association of Realtors Expo in Orlando, we shared our story, “Discover the Dream,” with you to empower you with the tools to help homebuyers discover their dream of home ownership. As real estate professionals, you play a key role in helping others establish that new beginning.

Like you, Homes.com helps people find a home…even when Mother Nature takes it away. In the wake of Hurricane Sandy, our purpose never rang so true. Homes.com and ForRent.com teamed up with actor and comedian Steve Harvey to help a Staten Island family, the Correas, whose home was wiped out by Hurricane Sandy. We committed to cover the cost of rent for the family’s new rental home over the next 12 months, surprising them with the donation during The Steve Harvey Show episode, which aired on December 6.

No stranger to challenges, Pedro Correa, an Iraq War veteran and 9/11 first responder, and his wife Jessica returned to their home after the storm to find next to nothing. Dozens of family photos, their wedding video and baby books were destroyed.

“We help people find homes,” said Terry Slattery, president of Homes.com and ForRent.com. “There are a lot of special families that deserve our help. Pedro has a history of service to our country, and it was nice to be able to give back to his family,” said Terry. “America has not forgotten about the people who are still struggling, and we encourage people to continue to donate.”

We are grateful to be able to help the Correa family establish a new beginning. Do you have a compelling story to share about giving back or paying it forward to someone in need? Homes.com and ForRent.com encourages you to give back to the Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. Watch the video below to learn more about this story and how you can help Hurricane Sandy victims. Please consider a donation to the American Red Cross at www.redcross.org/charitable-donations.

Best Holiday Gadgets for Real Estate Agents

Posted on December 5, 2011 by Lindsay Durrenberger

Homes.com

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Time for family reunions, great food, relaxation, and, of course, gifts! In recent years, technology has been on the top of most wish lists in America, and this year is no different.

If you’re still stuck on what to ask Santa for this year, here are some suggestions for your loved ones – and maybe they can find some sweet holiday deals!

Digital Camera
Investing in a good digital camera is crucial for a real estate agent. Photos can make or break a listing. When a home buyer is searching for homes online, he or she can be swayed one way or the other by the quality of the photos. Shoot for a camera with a higher megapixel count for to ensure higher quality photos. Also, most digital cameras can record videos now, which add an extra interactive element to your listing. And, of course, make sure to always keep your camera charged. You don’t want to get to a house and have to turn around to charge your lithium battery! According to CNET, if your budget is relatively low, the Canon PowerShot A1200 is an excellent camera for shooting stationary objects (like homes and their interiors) for between $87 and $130. On the higher end of the scale, the Canon Rebel XS 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera is great – it’s easy to use camera and produces great images and even helps budding photographers start off their “photography careers” right.

GPS
A global positioning system device is extremely helpful for a real estate agent. If you have a listing that’s out in the boonies, just enter the address in and let it guide your way. A lot of new cars come equipped with built-in GPS devices. Make sure your software is up to date!

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What Would Your Client Do With $2,500?

Posted on November 10, 2011 by Gillian Luce

Tis’ the season! The holidays are upon us and it’s a great time to connect with your current and past clients to let them know how much you appreciate them. Homes.com is making it easy for you this year! Just tell them about this is an exciting promotion in your monthly point of contact and you could help someone you know win $2,500!!

The holidays are upon us and with them come the opportunity to ask: Have you been naughty or nice? Don’t worry! Even if you’ve been not-so-nice, we’re not here to judge! And unlike Santa’s list, everyone can play in the Homes.com & ForRent.com holiday contest for a chance at $2,500.