Posts with tag 'Cutler Real Estate'
19
Don't Curse the Wind ... Adjust Your Sails
Cutler Real Estate's own Dominic Fonte shared his insight in a recent REAL Pros 20 Minute Webinar Series by REAL Trends discussing today's ever-evolving real estate environment.
Fonte was joined by REAL Trends Vice President Scott Wright, William Coin of Beverly-Hanks REALTORS®, and Wendy Moore of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Drysdale Properties in an effort to highlight how successful agents are adjusting to the current business climate.
REAL Trends provides brokerage services such as consulting, valuations, mergers and acquisitions, and business planning. Brokerages and agents alike look to REAL Trends as a source for news, analysis, and information on the residential brokerage industry. The weekly Trendsetters Agent Panel is just one more way REAL Trends is helping those in the industry move their businesses forward.
Importance of Video
Wright asked how agents like Fonte have stayed connected to clients through the COVID-19 health crisis. Fonte said he continues to have success with email videos as a means of keeping in touch with clients, even if they don't plan to buy or sell a home right now.
"Video's huge," he said. "I think when people have a traumatic experience like 9/11, or 2008, or the Gulf War, or what's happening now, it's not our normal lifestyle, and everyone's freaked out … but the old-timers we keep plugging away.
"How I stay connected is instead of doing email, I do email videos, and I make sure I'm reaching out to them," he continues. "Not necessarily if they want to buy or sell, although if they want to of course we'll help them do that. But just educating them, seeing how they're doing, see how their families are, are they getting their yard work done. Just to try to be there and just provide what's really happening from our perspective if they are in the market, how do they do that in a safe manner."
Preparing for a Rebound
With the country beginning to open up again following the shutdown in many states, Wright asked how agents are preparing for a rebound in the market. For Fonte, it's a matter of top-of-mind awareness and reassuring buyers and sellers.
"It's just a matter of educating people like how we're doing showings," Fonte explained. "If you're not willing to want to go out, we understand that, but if you do have to go out—say your mom has to go in a nursing home and you have to sell her home, how do you do that in a safe manner? Or if you're relocating out of state because you have to take another job. They can't wait for the coronavirus.
"I try to reassure them that if you are in a position where you have to do something, I'm here for you," he continues, "and here are the three or four things we're doing as far as protections, not overlapping showings, and how we also do the virtual walk-through."
Consistent Communication
While no one can be totally prepared for an event such as a global health pandemic, seasoned agents know what it takes to keep their businesses moving forward. For Fonte, that means consistently staying in touch with the database of customers.
"You want to make sure you don't just have a real estate experience with them and forget them," he explains. "You want them on a plan, an action plan, a workflow. I find the quickest way to do it is by video because I can blast out 80 short videos in an hour or so because you're not really stuck on the phone. Then if it's an older person or if it's someone who doesn't use email, you can use texting, and you can also make a phone call. Many times, people don't answer live, you can just leave them something short and sweet and compelling, to let them know you're thinking of them."
Wright also asked how each agent has, and continues to deal with, the stress of the health crisis, and Fonte was quick to point out that adapting is the best way to approach such an event.
"We have great bike trails and walking trails," he said. "I have a hybrid bike so I can go 15 miles and then on the way back, I can cheat a little bit. I'm all about nature, birds singing, and having a little bit of fun.
"So, it just helps you recharge your batteries and remember, all this hard work we do, what's it's really about?" he concludes. "I'm not cursing the wind, I'm adjusting my sails."
7
Promoting Your Home Online Amidst Social Distancing
With stay-at-home directives and social distancing in place, the real estate market needs to get creative with facilitating the buying and selling of homes. Cutler Real Estate is doing just that by offering virtual open houses that allow sellers to showcase their properties online and enable buyers to get an inside look at homes for sale—all while complying with efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Learn more about virtual showings and open houses, how your home is marketed online, and ways to get your home ready for the best results.
What Is a Virtual Showing?
18
Navigating Real Estate in a COVID-19 World
A message from Cutler Real Estate President Andy Camp:
As we all face the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, our first priority at Cutler Real Estate is the health of our clients, employees and the communities where we live and work. We are also committed to supporting our clients through this challenging time.
Many of our clients are still out looking at homes, putting their homes on the market, writing contracts, and closing on life's biggest transaction. As a company, we will be there for our clients.
In order to continue to provide the same high level of support to our clients, our entire organization will have to adapt, adjust and work together like never before.
Real Estate in Times of Uncertainty
Much of the news these past few weeks has been regarding the unfortunate events and circumstances caused by COVID-19. Day-by-day and hour-by-hour, news is changing on how to best address the COVID-19 matter.
As your trusted Realtor, I'll stick to real estate and defer to experts like the CDC for how to best address your health and safety. I don't want to minimize the effect this current situation has on other aspects of life, but I wanted to offer some insights and reassurance regarding my area of experience – real estate.
You might be worried about your home's value at this time of economic upheaval. That's understandable and completely valid. The good news is that for most homeowners, the best course of action, as well as the easiest, is to do absolutely nothing. Just sit tight, be thankful that you have a nice place to gather with your loved ones, work from home, or even self-quarantine if needed. At times like this, it becomes abundantly clear that your home is so much more than just an investment.
Fortunately, real estate has historically proven to be a relatively stable and sound investment in times of crisis. For example, Dr. Marci Rossell, a leading economist who specializes in real estate, noted that the housing markets remained stable in the aftermath of 9/11.
The Economic Impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on the Real Estate Market from LeadingRE on Vimeo.
In the days and weeks following 9/11, there was a real sense of panic and uncertainty. Airlines completely shut down, conferences and events were canceled, oil and stock prices became hyper-volatile, and news stories predicted economic activity could grind to a halt for quarters if not years. Sound familiar?
Fortunately, the shock that 9/11 delivered to the world economy was short-lived. It was a classic V-shaped economic deceleration characterized by a rapid decline followed by a rapid recovery. Housing markets were the least impacted by 9/11. Unlike the stock and bond markets, real estate markets move very slowly. At a time of economic uncertainty and volatility, based on past events it's a pretty safe bet that real estate will remain a bastion of stability.
For those who are actively in the real estate market currently and wondering how the pandemic will affect buying or selling:
Buying A Home
- We live in a digital age of real estate where information is abundant and available at your fingertips, without even leaving your home. Set up a Homefinder Account to get started.
- This current COVID-19 crisis may actually slow down the market enough for an active buyer to have a greater opportunity to secure a home purchase, with less competition from other buyers.
- The recent rate reductions and questions about how the economy will impact a buyer purchase are valid. It is more important than ever to have a trusted mortgage partner to help guide through these times. Fortunately, I can introduce you to an expert.
Selling a Home
- Cutler Real Estate has the goal of always being a leader in real estate marketing technology. In times like these our forward-leaning marketing tools and strategies are helping sellers even more than anticipated.
- Our selling system incorporates the abilities for home buyers to view your home digitally in every manner possible. We know buyers are searching voraciously online and we ensure your home stands out in their searches.
- In days and weeks ahead, we may see buyers making offers on our well marketed homes without physical showings. This is nothing new to us as we have provided this virtual opportunity for buyers and sellers for years, and on occasion we have worked with out of state buyers who make sight unseen offers.
The Impact of Federal Reserve Actions on Mortgages
- The Federal Reserve has recently made some large interest rate cuts. However, it is important to remember that these cuts do not necessarily impact mortgage rates.
- We should hopefully see rate lock options stabilize. The question looms where mortgage rates will settle, but we should hopefully see the large swings slow down.
In these days and weeks ahead as news continues to come out about COVID-19, we want you to know that as your trusted real estate adviser we are on the front lines of the market. There are a lot of unknowns, but we will closely monitor the situation and are always available for any of your real estate needs, questions, or concerns.
Wash those hands and give us a call. We welcome the opportunity to be of assistance.
28
You'll Fall in Love With These February LoLo Gifts
Who says candy is just for special occasions? Thanks to February's "sweet" deals from Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts, every day can be Valentine's Day!
Each month, our agents at Cutler Real Estate join LoLo to spotlight the amazing variety of shops, restaurants, and services in the area. Satisfy your sweet tooth as you explore these delightful candy and chocolate shops around Northeast Ohio, Cincinnati, and Columbus.
February Gifts:
Canton: Box of Chocolates and Bag of Chocolate Pretzel Rods
Akron: Peanut Brittle, Cashew Brittle, and Bag of Butter Mints
Canton: Box of Chocolates and Bag of Chocolate Pretzel Rods
Anastasiades Exclusive Chocolates
6656 Wise Ave. NW, North Canton, OH 44720
View this post on Instagram
Chocolate is so perfect by itself that pairing it with savory and salty flavors takes them to a new level. Try it for yourself with a free box of chocolates and bag of chocolate pretzel rods from Anastasiades Exclusive Chocolates.
About Anastasiades Exclusive Chocolates
The Anastas family continues to uphold the high standards of quality and customer service set by their father when he opened his eponymous chocolate shop in 1984. In addition to their Signature Series of gourmet chocolates, truffles, and caramels, Anastasiades carries fresh roasted cashews, fancy mixed nuts, and praline pecans.
Contact and Hours
330.494.5500
Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Cincinnati: Three Truffles
Maverick Chocolate Co.
129 W. Elder St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
Chocolate truffles are delicate treats that hide a delicious center of peanut butter, nuts, and sometimes even more chocolate! Visit Maverick Chocolate Co. for three luscious truffles made with their award-winning, bean-to-bar chocolate.
About Maverick Chocolate Co.
In 2014, founder Paul Picton chose the name "Maverick" for his new business to symbolize his ethic of questioning the status quo and taking a stand. Today Paul's wife and two sons are also involved in running Maverick, which uses ethically-sourced cacao beans to create small batches of chocolate for superior quality.
Contact and Hours
Findlay Market
513.381.0561
Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Akron: Peanut Brittle, Cashew Brittle, and Bag of Butter Mints
Arnold's Candies Inc.
931 High Grove Blvd., Akron, OH 44312
View this post on Instagram
Do you prefer candy that has a satisfying crunch, or the kind that melts in your mouth? With February's gift from Arnold's Candies Inc., you don't have to choose! Enjoy the varied but equally delicious textures of peanut brittle, cashew brittle, and butter mints.
About Arnold's Candies Inc.
Arnold's has been an Akron institution since 1953. Their candies are still made by hand, combining classic techniques with the finest ingredients. The retail shop was recently joined by an online store so you can share Arnold's iconic peanut brittle and other goodies with family and friends around the country.
Contact and Hours
330.733.4022
Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Columbus: Chocolate Bar
MMELO Boutique Confections
Vine St. and N. Wall, Columbus, OH 43214
View this post on Instagram
MMELO calls itself a confectionary to honor the traditional candy-making methods of using basic, all-natural ingredients to create something special. Sample one of MMELO's beautiful chocolate bars and savor the rich, complex flavors that come from simple, honest craftsmanship.
About MMELO Boutique Confections
After living in Barcelona for 12 years, founder Michelle Allen and husband Paul decided to bring a touch of Europe to Michelle's hometown of Columbus. MMELO is modeled after a European confectionary café, serving as a community gathering place where you can visit with friends, read, work, study, or just sit back and sip on a cappuccino. Pair your gourmet coffee drink with one of MMELO's exquisite chocolates or fresh-baked goods such as muffins, tarts, financiers, Danishes, and croissants.
Contact and Hours
614.372.5744
Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Friday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday Noon - 5 p.m.
No Strings Attached!
Cutler Real Estate offers the LoLo Gifts program free of charge to help people discover the unique local businesses that make Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati such great places to live. New gifts arrive every month.
Want to learn more? Contact your Cutler Real Estate agent today.
31
Start the New Year Out Right: January LoLo Gifts Are Here!
The holidays may be over, but the gifts keep coming! Beat the winter doldrums with this month's treats from your favorite local vendors, courtesy of Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts.
Our agents at Cutler Real Estate love to spread the word about the joys of living in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. We've teamed up with LoLo to offer local gifts of the month designed to help you discover the diverse range of shops, restaurants, and services in our regions.
January Gifts:
Cincinnati: Latte and a Muffin
Cincinnati: Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Traditional Balsamic Vinegar Set
Columbus: Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese Bites
Northeast Ohio: Two-Ounce Tea Tin
Northeast Ohio: $15 Certificate
Northeast Ohio: Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese Bites
Cincinnati: Latte and a Muffin
Awakenings Coffee & Wine
2734 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208
View this post on Instagram
Mom says breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but who has the time? Jump-start your busy morning with a freshly-made muffin and latte from Awakenings Coffee & Wine.
About Awakenings Coffee & Wine
For many independent businesses, being the top coffee and wine shop in Cincinnati would be enough. The owners of Awakenings return the love by supporting the community as a gathering spot where customers can enjoy the work of local artists and musicians. In addition to responsibly-sourced coffee and baked goods made fresh daily, Awakenings has a wide selection of boutique wines not found in other shops.
Contact and Hours
513.321.2525
Monday - Thursday 6:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Friday 6:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday 7:30 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday 7:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Cincinnati: Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Traditional Balsamic Vinegar Set
Kofinas Olive Oil
1801 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
There's a reason Rachael Ray loves her EVOO. Pure, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil is loaded with antioxidants, earning it the title of "healthiest fat on earth." Kofinas Olive Oil's EVOO and traditional balsamic vinegar set will elevate your cooking to another level.
About Kofinas Olive Oil
The founders of Kofinas Olive Oil named the company after the distinctive mountain overlooking their native village in Greece. Generations of love and experience go into making the olive oil that comes directly from their family groves.
Contact and Hours
Findlay Market, Stall 119
513.549.3866
Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Columbus: Columbus Coaster
State & Third
65 E. State St., Suite 103, Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
Show your hometown pride with a Columbus beverage coaster, one of the many delightfully unique hand-crafted items you'll find at State & Third.
About State & Third
Five years ago, founder Becky Brisker combined a love of her hometown with extensive retail and marketing experience to open State & Third. The shop offers a carefully curated selection of clothing, jewelry and accessories, home decor, and gift items from local and national artisans.
Contact and Hours
614.636.0130
Weekdays 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Columbus: Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese Bites
The Rail
5839 Frantz Road, Dublin, OH 43016
View this post on Instagram
How do you make a beloved comfort food even better? The Rail adds a contemporary twist with deep-fried goodness and Buffalo ranch dip for their Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese Bites.
About The Rail
After perfecting the modern steakhouse concept at The City Square, chef Mike Mariola and his wife Emily went casual with The Rail, a gourmet burger joint with a focus on upscale bar food and Ohio craft beers. Not a meat-eater? The Rail's got you covered with a plant-powered wrap, veggie burger, and variety of tasty salads.
Contact and Hours
614.725.3200
Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Northeast Ohio: Two-Ounce Tea Tin
Ohio Tea Company
5569 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718
View this post on Instagram
Is there anything better on a chilly winter night in Ohio than a relaxing cup of tea? Choose a two-ounce tin with soothing flavors such as Perfect Peach Oolong, Hot Cinnamon Spice, and Green Apple Chai from Ohio Tea Company.
About Ohio Tea Company
If your experience with tea doesn't go beyond Lipton, you'll find a whole new world at Ohio Tea Company. The shop carries a wide range of fresh loose-leaf teas including white, green, black, oolong, and rooibos in pure, flavored and decaf varieties. Infusers, teapots and cups, iced tea jugs, and other supplies are also on hand.
Location and Hours
330.333.9454
Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Northeast Ohio: $15 Certificate
The Bird Store and More
117 Merz Blvd., Akron, OH 44333
Birds provide a colorful and entertaining show right in your own backyard. Get $15 worth of supplies from The Bird Store and More to help create your private at-home nature center.
About The Bird Store and More
The Bird Store and More carries everything you need to turn your backyard into a vibrant nature center. Once you get the basics of bird feeders, houses, and baths, add a personal touch with wind chimes, spinners, flags, and other yard art. The shop's assortment of gift items is so delightful, you'll want to treat yourself.
Contact and Hours
330.869.9453
Weekdays 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Northeast Ohio: Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese Bites
The Rail
4347 Belden Village St. NW, Canton, OH 44718
3265 W. Market St., Fairlawn, OH 44333
View this post on Instagram
Do the words "too much cheese" exist in anyone's vocabulary? Head over to The Rail for an order of their luscious Smoked Gouda Mac 'n' Cheese Bites.
About The Rail
Burgers and beer go together like peanut butter and jelly, thunder and lightning, and R2-D2 and C-3PO. Find your favorite pairing among the numerous types of gourmet burgers and brands of Ohio craft beer on the menu at The Rail. Class is in session for Ohio Beer School, a lively event where one of The Rail's local brewery partners shares inside secrets and fun facts about the world of brewing.
Contact and Hours
Canton: 330.497.7550
Fairlawn: 330.864.7245
Sunday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
No Strings Attached!
Participation in the LoLo Gifts program is complimentary through your Cutler Real Estate agent, providing you with a unique opportunity to sample offerings from local small businesses. You'll also receive new gift options monthly, so keep an eye out for your monthly LoLo Gifts round-up.
Interested in learning more about LoLo Gifts? Contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get started.
The Cutler Real Estate® word mark is a registered trademark owned by Cutler and Associates, Inc.
Privacy Policy / DMCA Notice / ADA Accessibility
