Partners 'Deliver' Toys for Tots!

Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners’ sales agents and staff from throughout the region spent November and December of 2010 gathering toys for children in need. The astounding result was nearly 1,500 gifts collected and provided to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program. The Company has collected for Toys for Tots for many years now.

“We are delighted with the continuous tremendous response from our agents, staff, and other residents throughout the area who contribute to our toy drive. The opportunity to help children have a merrier Christmas was extremely rewarding for all of us,” said Connie Farmer Ray, Broker / CEO of Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners.

All the toys from each of the Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners’ offices from around the region were collected, loaded and dropped at a central location for sorting. From there, the toys were distributed back out to children throughout the region from South Carolina’s Low Country through Savannah to the Golden Isles of Georgia. A heartfelt “Thank You” to everyone who helped to make a difference in so many children’s lives this Christmas.

Coldwell Banker wins LACP Award

PARSIPPANY, N.J. – Dec. 7, 2010 – The League of American Communications Professionals has named coldwellbanker.com a recipient of this year’s Gold Top 100 Spotlight Award in the Online Organizational Website category. Top 100 awards were given to the highest-scoring entries regardless of competition class.

The website was judged on a 100-point scale factoring first impression, overall narrative, overall visual design creativity, message clarity and perceived relevance. The coldwellbanker.com site received an aggregate score of 96. The site was awarded maximum points in the overall narrative and overall visual design segments.

In June, Coldwell Banker Real Estate rolled out a new version of coldwellbanker.com, which was produced in collaboration with FD kinesis.

“Innovation is one of the key pillars to our success at Coldwell Banker,” said Helen Galasso, vice president for platform development/ebusiness at Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. “This wholly re-thought and re-designed version of our site features optimizations that enhance the experience of searching for and finding a home online, which is so critical to today’s consumer.”

The 2010 Spotlight Awards Global Communications Competition drew a near record-setting number of submissions from a broad range of industries and organizational sizes. The Coldwell Banker website was selected from more than 1,100 entries representing nearly one dozen countries.

Tips for an easy and efficient move

After a closing is said and done, most buyers are eager to move into their new home. What some are guilty of is becoming overly excited and failing to properly plan for their move. By taking some time to think your move through, you can ensure a smooth and efficient process so your family can begin to settle in as soon as possible.

"Getting multiple moving estimates from moving companies is recommended before choosing which one you will go with," says Connie Ray, President/Owner of Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners. Try to avoid phone or Internet estimates. Furthermore, get recommendations from your friends, family or trusted real estate professional. Have the company come to your home and see the task at hand so that your estimates can be more accurate. "Many new buyers make the mistake of randomly choosing a moving service because they're anxious to get moved into their new home. Take some time to make your decision," says Ray.

The moving business can be quite complex, so don't be afraid to ask your moving company any questions you may have regarding the process. Read all of the documents provided to you, but ask for clarification if something doesn't make sense. If the carrier hesitates to calm your concerns, consider another carrier.

When you move may also make a difference in service. "June to September is a busy season for movers and moving companies," says Ray. If you must move between those months, aim for mid-week and/or mid-month--the end of the month can get hectic and service may falter.

Be reachable by phone in order to facilitate communication. "Your mover may have specific questions to ask you at any given time. To make sure the process runs smoothly and as quick as possible, make sure they know how to reach you," says Ray. In addition, ask the company for your driver's name, ID and truck number. You want to know how to contact someone who is responsible for all of your personal belongings.

By properly screening a moving company and planning your move with them, you can be sure that your family and belongings are relocated with ease.

Caravan for Charity!

Over 20 Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners teamed with 5 local Builders to “Caravan for a Charity” with one goal in mind, to raise money for local charities like Hugs for Haleigh and Toys for Tots. The concept, initially developed by the Company earlier this year to raise funds for the American Cancer Society, is to caravan (or tour) the communities of builders who were willing to donate to the Company’s chosen Charities. The Builders, which included Sunburst Properties of Savannah, Lamar Smith Signature Homes, Fred Williams New Homes Sales, Inc, DR Horton, Beazer Homes, Fred Williams, and The Fairways at Savannah Quarters, LLC, all pledged to donate monies to the touring Partners in support of Hugs for Haleigh and Toys for Tots. The “Caravan for a Charity” kicked off at 9:30 am on Thursday, December 9th with the REALTORS departing from the Company’s Pooler Office. Agents then set off to tour seven individual neighborhoods. At each community, Builders offered drawings /give-aways, even offered food. One special drawing was held in the beginning of the tour for those Agents who brought in extra Toys for Tots.
Hugs for Haleigh is a company-generated program founded in effort to assist with medical costs for fellow Realtor, Libby Jordan and her family in support their 9-year old granddaughter, Haleigh, who is suffering from ASL and recently underwent a Liver Transplant.
With the combined efforts, over $1300 dollars were raised for donation to Hugs for Haleigh and Toys for Tots.

Welcome Brad!

Brad Davis has joined Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners as a REALTOR at the St. Simons Island Office located at 507 Ocean Blvd., Suite 102. Brad looks forward to helping families who are looking to upgrade their homes while simplifying the buying and selling processes. He joins Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners because, “of the firm’s steady growing market share; and I believe CBPP is poised to become the leading firm in Glynn County in the next five years.”

Brad strives to exemplify, “how easy and simple the home buying process can be if you choose the right sales associate.” He earned his BBA from the University of Georgia and has a background in accounting and customer service. He is also active on the Board of REALTORS and is looking forward to joining several civic organizations and charities over the next few months. Brad and his wife, Angie, reside in St Simons Island and are expecting a baby in June. Brad Davis may be reached at 912.536.9753 or via email at brad.davis4@coldwellbanker.com.

Joan' and Don's boat received the "The People's Choice"

Way to go!
Rich and Pam Tritschler -The Grinch and Max
Dawn Vosbury - A Whoo
Cheryl Kercia - CB Mortgage

1st Place in Brunswick Parade - Fourth Year Straight!

Congratulations to the Brunswick & St Simons Island Partners for winning 1st Place in the Brunswick Parade for the fourth year straight!

How to Secure a Sizable Down Payment

SAVANNAH, GA, Dec 08, 2010 - As a result of tightened standards by lenders, down payments have become even more important as borrowers begin the planning stages of their home purchase. With more money on the table, lenders will be quick to approve your loan, and borrowers will most likely receive the best rates as well.

"Very few zero-down loan programs exist," says Connie Ray, President/Owner of Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners. "The more money you put down to buy a home, the smaller your monthly payments will be."

What some buyers may not realize is that a down payment instantly becomes a homeowner's equity when the purchase closes, and that equity can be borrowed against with a home equity loan or line of credit, says Ray. Buyers should be sure to leave behind some reserves for emergencies. Depleting your entire savings with your down payment is a common mistake; make sure to have some cash on hand to handle the unexpected cost of any repairs and maintenance that may be required.

If you are finding it difficult to save up a sizable down payment, there are steps you can take to achieve this goal. To start, try setting up an automatic savings plan. Set up your checking account to automatically transfer a certain amount of funds over to your savings after each pay period. Weeks later, you'll be surprised by how much you have saved up.

If you have an extra car, or a boat or motorcycle you aren't using, now would be the time to sell it. Cashing in any collectibles or assets can free up quite a bit of funds to go towards your down payment for your new home. In addition, liquidating stocks, mutual funds, savings bonds or other investments can also help. Cashing in any extra assets will only add to your growing down payment sum, says Ray.

Additionally, you may qualify for a special homebuyers' program, depending on your state, adds Ray. For example, HUD's Good Neighbor Next Door program offers teachers, police officers, firefighters or other public servants extreme discounts on homes in certain neighborhoods. Buyers should contact a trusted real estate professional to discuss some of these possibilities, which are great options for those worried about the size of their down payment.

Also keep in mind that lenders may want to know how your down payment was sourced in order to ensure you can control and sustain those funds with a monthly mortgage payment in the picture. Gifts from friends or family are usually accepted up to a certain percentage, but borrowed money that is required to be repaid is not.

"Don't be discouraged if you are lacking a down payment," says Ray. "By contacting a real estate professional and also your state government, you can learn about any possible down payment programs run by state and local housing authorities to figure out the best possible option for your situation."

For more information regarding down payments or financial assistance programs, please contact Connie Ray at CFRay@ColdwellBanker.com, 912-352-1222 or Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners.

CB wins Spotlight Award!

The League of American Communications Professionals has named coldwellbanker.com a recipient of this year’s Gold Top 100 Spotlight Award in the Online Organizational Website category, the company has announced. Top 100 awards were given to the highest-scoring entries regardless of competition class.

According to the company, the website was judged on a 100-point scale factoring first impression, overall narrative, overall visual design creativity, message clarity and perceived relevance. The coldwellbanker.com site received an aggregate score of 96. The site was awarded maximum points in the overall narrative and overall visual design segments.

In June, Coldwell Banker Real Estate rolled out a new version of coldwellbanker.com, which was produced in collaboration with FD kinesis.

“Innovation is one of the key pillars to our success at Coldwell Banker,” said Helen Galasso, vice president for platform development/ebusiness at Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. “This wholly re-thought and re-designed version of our site features optimizations that enhance the experience of searching for and finding a home online, which is so critical to today’s consumer.”

The 2010 Spotlight Awards Global Communications Competition drew a near record-setting number of submissions from a broad range of industries and organizational sizes. The Coldwell Banker website was selected from more than 1,100 entries representing nearly one dozen countries.

Hugs for Haleigh

Haleigh Little, an 8-year-old granddaughter to a fellow REALTOR, Libby Jordan of Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners is fighting a rare disease called Argininosuccinate Lyase Deficiency (ASL). Haleigh was diagnosed with this rare disease at birth, of which there are only about 100 known cases in the United States.

ASL is an inherited, congenital metabolic disease caused by a defect in the urea cycle. Even with medications, Haleigh’s ammonia levels can reach life threatening levels requiring her to spend days in the hospital and sometimes causes seizures. Haleigh has had to be air lifted to Miami whenever her ammonia levels had to get too high to have the medication administered intravenously.

Haleigh was recently on the liver transplant list; and just in the past month a match was found for little Haleigh! The news is fantastic! Haleigh’s transplant occurred in Miami, FL where Haleigh has been admitted to the hospital, and visits frequently. The family has had to locate affordable housing to stay close to the hospital for her visits and any emergencies.
The family of Haleigh has had some major financial obstacles to overcome. Her medications, after her insurance has paid, is around $1200 per month, not counting theexpenses of the Miami housing. The family desperately needs help.
Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners has banded together to help Haleigh, Libby and their family, through a charity program they developed named, “Hugs for Haleigh”. In November, the REALTOR family held a 50/50 raffle; where half the proceeds were to go to Haleigh’s medical costs. The winner, drawn on November 24th was Dr Jim Vaughter, a local Savannah dentist. He DONATED all his winnings to Hugs for Haleigh!! That's something to SMILE about! All together, the raffle brought in about $1800 for the family.
The next event the Company plans to hold is a Caravan for Charity on December 9th. Agents from the Platinum Partners team will tour through various homes on a Real Estate Caravan. Builders have generously offered to contribute money to the cause based on the number of agents who attend. For each agent that attends, Builders donate a certain amount of money; a portion of the monies raised will also go to Toys for Tots.

The Company also hopes to hold a Boston Butt sale just in time for the Super Bowl.

For more information on this cause, or to donate to the Hugs for Haleigh please call 912.352.1222 or visit online at http://savannahgahomes.net/hugsforhaleigh.html. Thank you for your support.

Congrats David Siroty!

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (Dec. 1, 2010) – The “PR People Awards” today recognized David Siroty, vice president of North American communications, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, as the 2010 “Lemonade Maker” at a luncheon at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., hosted by PR News. The “Lemonade Maker” award recognizes the achievements of a public relations professional over the past year who overcame hurdles to achieve remarkable PR success.
“David Siroty is an incredible public relations leader who has empowered our brokers and agents to share positive news about their local markets despite a challenging industry and media environment,” said Michael Fischer, chief marketing officer, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. “We take our role seriously as a real estate leader and work with the media so that they have the resources and information they need to cover the housing market. We believe public relations is a critical part of marketing and helps to drive business leads and awareness for our brand.”
To combat the national sentiment of doubt and uncertainty surrounding real estate, Siroty led an integrated public relations campaign to reframe the discussion of the housing sector. This included highlighting the Coldwell Banker Real Estate legacy of more than 100 years of service, its network of outstanding professionals and its innovations paving the way for real estate in the future. In addition, the public relations team and agency of record, CooperKatz, communicated the positive aspects of housing both on a national level and also helped to support Coldwell Banker affiliated companies in their efforts to deliver informative and timely messages locally so that consumers could make smart and educated decisions about their housing needs. Coldwell Banker Real Estate was featured in over 3,500 media placements outlets in 2009, and is tracking to surpass that number in 2010.
Siroty led public relations efforts for numerous initiatives including the Coldwell Banker Home Listing Report (HLR), a snapshot study of hundreds of the most expensive and affordable real estate markets around the world as well as the successful launch of the Coldwell Banker “On Location” YouTube channel, which has received more than 2 million channel views.
Prior to being promoted to vice president of North American communications, David Siroty was senior director of public relations for Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. He has been with Coldwell Banker Real Estate for six years. Siroty spent 25 years in public relations focused on the sports, TV, agency and university industries. He taught public relations for several years and wrote the baseball book, The Hit Men and the Kid Who Batted Ninth. Siroty earned his undergraduate degree from Syracuse University.

Congrats Charles Gilyard!

Charles Gilyard of Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners has earned the coveted Real Estate Owned (REO) CERTIFICATION designation. This designation is awarded by Vendor Resource Management (VRM) University in conjunction with the National Association of Real Estate Brokers Inc (NAREB)-Sales Division, a national real estate trade association. Charles is the president of the local Savannah Association of Realtist, a chapter of the NAREB and a member of the Savannah Board or Realtors.

Real Estate Owned or REO is a class of property that goes back to the mortgage company after an unsuccessful foreclosure auction. Commonly, referred to as foreclosed property.

The national REO CERTIFICATION designation is recognized by all major lenders (Well Fargo, Bank of America Sun Trust, etc), asset managers and loan servicing companies.

The curriculum provided Charles Gilyard with the knowledge and understanding essential to being a recognized specialist in the REO industry. VRM and NAREB’s mission is to equip, train and educated real estate professionals with the vital skills needed in order to compete and be prepared for the many opportunities ahead.

The VRM and NAREB-Sales Division partnership is continuously identifying programs and approaches that add to the real estate practioner’s professional development. Through this strategic VRM and NAREB partnership, the never ending effort is to continually raise the level of education and professionalism among licensed practitioners. Contact Charles at (912) 659-2249 or email him at charles.gilyard@coldwellbanker.com.

Mortgage Applications Rise Last Week

Applications for mortgages to buy homes rose last week for the third straight week.

The Mortgage Bankers Association said Wednesday overall applications increased 5.8 percent from a week earlier, driven by increases in purchase and refinance applications.

Those taken out to buy homes rose 5.5 percent from the previous week, and refinance applications increased 6 percent.

Mortgage rates have been at or near the lowest levels in decades since spring as investors have poured money into safer Treasury bonds. That has lowered their yields, which mortgage rates tend to track.

The average rate for a 30-year fixed loan was unchanged at 4.28 percent from a week earlier. Rates on the 15-year fixed-rate mortgage, a common refinancing option, were also unchanged at 3.64 percent.

The Mortgage Bankers Association's survey covers more than 50 percent of all applications nationwide.

How far does your real estate dollar go?

OnLocation surpasses 2M views!

PARSIPPANY, N.J. (Nov. 8, 2010) – Coldwell Banker On Location, the brand’s YouTube™ channel focused on video home listings as well as community and agent profile videos, continues to pave the way for video use in real estate. Since the site launch in May 2009, the channel has drawn more than two million channel views.

Coldwell Banker Real Estate closely collaborated with both YouTube and Google to develop a customized framework and user experience – offering what is arguably one of the most comprehensive and immersive brand channels on the YouTube platform. On Location was the first branded YouTube channel to use dynamic Internet Protocol (IP) lookup to search for videos, which automatically serves up local results when visitors first hit the site.

The site has grown steadily since its launch, but has seen its fastest growth in the last eight months with more than one million views occurring between April 2010 and October 2010. Additionally, mobile use is up. Since April, the number of people who have viewed the site from a mobile device has doubled. While property listings make up the majority of the On Location content, community videos attract the highest number of comments, as visitors enjoy chiming in with input on their hometown or current city.

“The number of people watching videos on our On Location channel is growing faster and faster,” says Michael Fischer, chief marketing officer, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. “Through our partnership with Google and YouTube, we brought a systemized approach to showcasing real estate videos. We firmly believe every home has a story and when you combine that with an agent’s personality, the consumer truly benefits.”

"Savvy marketers like Coldwell Banker understand how consumers are shifting online and are embracing innovative uses of digital platforms like YouTube,” said Sam Sebastian, Director of Classified and Local Sales, Google Inc. “Importantly, Google’s measurable advertising platforms help partners increase their success online and off. By pushing the boundaries online, Coldwell Banker is harnessing the power of digital platforms like YouTube, and leading the way for real estate in the digital world."

The most-watched videos on Coldwell Banker On Location include:
• “Real (Estate) Opinions: Men vs. Women”
• “How to Make Moving Fun”
• “Join Coldwell Banker”


For more information about Coldwell Banker On Location reaching two million views visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GQ4V_C5hzA
YouTubeTM is a subsidiary of Google Inc.

About Coldwell Banker®
Since 1906, the Coldwell Banker® organization has been a premier provider of full-service residential and commercial real estate. Coldwell Banker is the oldest national real estate brand in the United States and today has a network of nearly 92,000 sales associates and brokers working in approximately 3,300 offices in 50 countries and territories. The Coldwell Banker brand is known for creating innovative consumer services as recently seen by being the first national real estate brand to augment its web site www.coldwellbanker.com for smart phones, the first to create a iPhone application and the first to fully harness the power of video in real estate listings, news and information through its Coldwell Banker On LocationSM YouTube channel. The Coldwell Banker system is a leader in specialty markets such as resort, new homes and luxury properties through its Coldwell Banker Previews International® marketing program. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated.

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Coldwell Banker Survey finds trends in college towns

COLDWELL BANKER REAL ESTATE SURVEY FINDS NEW TREND IN COLLEGE TOWNS: “PARENT INVESTORS” BUYING HOMES VS. SPENDING ON RENT OR DORMS

Coldwell Banker Home Listing Report Released Ranking Affordability of College Towns; Muncie, Ind. Most Affordable College Town; Palo Alto, Calif. Most Expensive


PARSIPPANY, N.J. (Nov. 11, 2010) – Every fall, parents wave goodbye as their college-bound kids pack up their belongings, make the drive down university lane and prepare for football games, mid-terms and freedom. While college living is often associated with dorms and campus housing, Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC discovered that many parents are opting to purchase a home rather than spend money on rent or dorm fees. According to a recent survey among the Coldwell Banker® network of real estate professionals in college towns, 64 percent see a significant number of “parent investors” buying homes for their kids to live in while attending the university.


To see how college towns stack up in home price affordability, Coldwell Banker Real Estate released its new College Home Listing Report (College HLR) today, which provides the average home listing price of four-bedroom, two-bathroom properties listed for sale between April and September 2010 on coldwellbanker.com in markets home to the 120 schools in the Football Bowl Subdivision. With almost two-thirds of the College HLR markets having subject homes priced less than $250,000 (78 in total), college towns prove to be a touchdown for homebuyers.



The top 10 most affordable markets in the Coldwell Banker Real Estate College Home Listing Report are:


Rank/ College/Town/State/2010 Average Home Listing Price

1 Ball State University/Muncie, Ind./$105,115

2 University of Buffalo: The State University of New York/Buffalo, N.Y./$117,223

3 University of Memphis/Memphis, Tenn./$135,090

4 University of South Carolina/Columbia, S.C./$137,707

5 University of Akron/Akron, Ohio/$139,711

6 Eastern Michigan University/Ypsilanti, Mich./$141,629

7 Ohio University/Athens, Ohio/$141,964

8 Kent State University/Kent, Ohio/$153,662

9 University of Toledo/Toledo, Ohio/$155,286

10 Louisiana Tech University/Ruston, La./$157,110




“Towns that are home to major universities have a special vibe you just don’t find anywhere else,” said Jim Gillespie, chief executive officer, Coldwell Banker Real Estate and alumni of the Illinois Fighting Illini. “It’s about more than just great sports and local flavor. College towns offer rich culture and most have steady economic bases oftentimes highlighted by outstanding medical and research facilities.”

While not all college towns are affordable, even the more expensive markets make great places to live.



The top 10 most expensive markets in the Coldwell Banker Real EstateCollege Home Listing Report are:



Rank/College/Town, State/2010 Average Home Listing Price

1 Stanford University/Palo Alto, Calif./$1,385,652

2 University of Hawaii/Honolulu, Hawaii/$833,439

3 University of California LA/Los Angeles, Calif./$833,087

University of Southern California/Los Angeles, Calif./$833,087

4 University of Colorado/Boulder, Colo./$791,877

5 Boston College/Chestnut Hill, Mass/$791,408

6 United States Naval Academy/Annapolis, Md./$671,151

7 San Jose State University/San Jose, Calif./$650,111

8 University of California Berkeley/Berkeley, Calif./$636,958

9 University of Washington/Seattle, Wash./$624,338

10 Northwestern University/Evanston, Ill./$559,855





Additional Survey Findings:

Coldwell Banker Real Estate also found that college towns have continued to be a hot spot for real estate investing, regardless of the downturn in the economy. Seventy-three (73) percent of Coldwell Banker real estate professionals surveyed said they see a significant number of investors buying homes near campus and renting them to people in the community, with only 21 percent seeing a decrease in this trend over the past five years.


“Our survey suggests two types of investors see value in college towns,” Gillespie said. “Long-term investors take advantage of the steady stream of renters, including students, professors and university officials. “‘Parent investors’ buy homes for their child to live in while attending college. Roommates provide rental income for the mortgage, and the hope is that students care for the home and it appreciates over time.”


With so many benefits to living in a college town, they aren’t just for investors. Alumni and retirees are finding reasons to re-live their glory days, as well. Fifty one (51) percent of the survey respondent noted they see a lot of alumni homebuyers, and 49 percent see a significant number of retirees moving to their college town.


“It’s not just students who want to live near campus, attend games and take interesting classes,” Gillespie said. “For a few years now, college towns have been popular markets for alumni and retirees. I’m a great example,” he said. “I purchased a home in Champaign, Ill. to be near my alma mater, the University of Illinois, and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, from both a lifestyle and a financial perspective.”


Fun Fact:


The survey of Coldwell Banker real estate professionals uncovered that a college sports team’s performance affects more than just a football ranking; nearly one quarter (24 percent) of respondents indicated that the success of a college’s sports teams can have an impact on the local real estate market.


For a fun look at fans’ perspectives, Coldwell Banker Real Estate spoke with dozens of people on a fall football Saturday for insider thoughts on what makes their college town special. To see these interviews, please visit Coldwell Banker On Location: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmglCxq1sck.


Below is the full College HLR ranking. Additional information on the College HLR and the larger HLR of U.S. and international markets can be found at http://hlr.coldwellbanker.com/.

Hugs for Haleigh

Help us help little Haleigh

Dear Friends,

A member of our REALTOR family greatly needs our help.

Haleigh Little, the 8 year old granddaughter of Libby Jordan, Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners is fighting a rare disease called Argininosuccinate Lyase Deficiency. Haleigh was diagnosed with this rare disease at birth of which there are only about 100 known cases in the United States.

Argininosuccinate lyase deficiency (ASL deficiency) is an inherited, congenital metabolic disease caused by a defect in the urea cycle In this cycle a chain of enzymes in the liver converts ammonia into urea. Ammonia is produced when the body breaks down protein, and in high concentrations causes damage to the nervous system.

Even with medication Haleigh’s ammonia levels can reach life threatening levels requiring her to spend days in the hospital and sometimes causes seizures. Haleigh has to be air lifted to Miami every time her ammonia levels get too high to have medication administered intravenously. Libby says "She has had more seizures than I can count".

UPDATE: HALEIGH HAS RECEIVED A DONOR LIVER AND THE TRANSPLANT IS COMPLETE.

From Libby...."We have had some issues with her enzymes being elevated. This is a sign of rejection. They have changed her medication which seems to be lowering the numbers. They have to find a balance in her meds to ward off her body rejecting the liver. She is still in some pain but seems to be more alert than yesterday".

The family has some major financial obstacles to overcome. Her medications, after her insurance has paid, will be around $1200.00 per month not counting the expenses of the Miami housing. They are working on trying to find someone who has a condo or house that they will be willing to rent short term with no luck so far.. Housing like Ronald McDonald House is not an option for her due to the fact that Haleigh cannot come in contract with any infections or viruses after the surgery, isolation. The only thing they have found is an efficiency for $100.00 per night, which is not an option.

Financially, this is major and they desperately need our help! This is a tough time for many of us financially but any amount you can possibly donate, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated and help ease the burden from Haleigh and her family.

PLEASE DONATE WHATEVER YOU CAN TODAY!

http://savannahgahomes.net/hugsforhaleigh.html

National and Regional Awards for Partners!

Jane Beare, Drew Doheny, and Jeffrey Shaufleberger of Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners ranked in the Top 10 sales associates for the 3rd quarter of 2010 in Georgia for the Coldwell Banker® franchise system. Jane Beare ranked #4 in the State by AGC. Drew Doheny (Ranked #4), Jane Beare (Ranked #9) and Jeffrey Shaufleberger (Ranked #19) in the State by Selling Units.

The John Dubose/Diana Boyd Team of Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners ranked in the Top 10 sales associate teams for the 3rd quarter of 2010 in Georgia for the Coldwell Banker® franchise system. The Dubose/Boyd Team ranked #9 in the State for Teams by Selling Units.

Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners offices ranked as a Top 20 Office Nationally in AGC by their office size.

Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners offices also ranked in three categories within the Top 10 offices in the Southern Region by their office size categories: #2 Top Office Regionally in AGC, #5 Top Office Regionally in Selling Units and #8 Top Office Regionally in Total Units.

“Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners associates and offices exemplify the standards of excellence for which Coldwell Banker is known,” said Frank Lindsey, Southern Region director for Coldwell Banker Real Estate, LLC. “It is an honor to recognize the associates and offices with these exceptional awards.”

Welcome Donna!

Donna Hahn Joins Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners’ Sales Team in Savannah

Donna Hahn joins Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners as an Associate Broker for the Company's midtown office located at 6349 Abercorn Street. She joins the company because, “ …the reputation of Coldwell Banker first attracted me and then after visiting the office, the organization and professionalism of the company and the friendliness of the staff sold me.”

Donna specializes in residential home sales in Statesboro and the Greater Savannah areas and wants her clients, “… to feel that they were treated fairly, and that they have my complete devotion; after all, I work for them!” Prior to becoming a REALTOR, Donna was in the IT field for 10 years and most recently worked with Cisco Systems, Inc as a Technical Support Specialist & VOIP Engineer. Donna holds her degree in Networking & Security Management.

Donna Hahn may be reached at 912.704.2033 or emailed at donna.hahn@coldwellbanker.com.

Welcome Dennis!

Dennis Ash joins Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners as a REALTOR for the Company's Richmond Hill office located at 2591 Highway 17, Suite 104 . He joins the company because, “ …of the great training program for new and experienced agents that Coldwell Banker offers.” Prior to his real estate career he managed a major food store, now Dennis looks forward to, “ …helping others achieve their goals to own their own homes.” Dennis Ash may be reached at 912.270.4359 or emailed at dennis.ash@coldwellbanker.com.

Congratulations Charles!

Charles Elliott Gilyard of Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners in Savannah has earned his Certified Real Estate Negotiator Designation (CREN). The Certified Real Estate Negotiator Designation is earned through a course of formal study that prepares the agent to represent the client in negotiating the best price and bringing the contract to the closing table. The training is comprehensive with a particular emphasis on creative negotiating skills and protecting the client’s best interests throughout the buying and/or selling process. Certified Real Estate Negotiators realize a higher closing rate for their clients because the negotiation process is based on market research. Contact Charles at (912) 659-2249 or email him at charles.gilyard@coldwellbanker.com.

Lynn Fritts Recently Joins Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners’ Sales Team in Savannah

Lynn Fritts has recently joined Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners as a Realtor for the Company's midtown office located at 6349 Abercorn Street.

Ms. Fritts says she choose Coldwell Banker because of, "their cutting edge approach to technology and their dedication to providing agents with all the tools necessary to successfully serve the client whether on the selling or buying side. When these tools combine with the professional, yet familial, atmosphere within the company you have a winning combination."

Ms. Fritts joined Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners after spending more than 30 years in business as a financial manager and customer service agent for a New Hampshire based business.

The Savannah native grew up in Ardsley Park where she attended Savannah High and Armstrong Atlantic State College. She returned to Savannah after living in Boston, Walpole, NH, Miami and Atlanta. "Rediscovering Savannah has given me an awakening to the beauty and history of the area. I am excited to be back and really enjoy helping people find the right home for their life style or sell their current home so they can move to the next phase of their lives."

Ms. Fritts resides in Ardsley Park with her family and three dogs. She is an avid gardener, recycler, and proponent of spaying/neutering pets. She is also a member of the Ardsley Park/Chatham Crescent Association and may be reached at 912-352-1222 or 912-704-0299 or email her at lynn.fritts@coldwellbanker.com.

Welcome Nancy Avery back to the St Simons Island Office!

Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners warmly welcomes back REALTOR, Nancy Avery, to their St. Simons Island Office. Nancy is a proud survivor of Multiple Myeloma (bone marrow cancer) and is excited to help make home ownership dreams come true again; she is excited to join her friends at Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners including Broker, Matt Vigh.

Nancy is an optimist, and her goal is to apply that positive attitude to her clients leaving no questions unanswered. She has been a REALTOR for the past 17 years and is also active in The Stephens Ministry at Wesley United Methodist Church and Faith Works. She also holds her BS in Home Economics and Art from UGA. Nancy Avery can be reached at 912.223.3094.

Multi-Generational Homes A Trend in Real Estate

Family reunions are taking on a new meaning in the real estate market. According to a recent survey by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC among its network of real estate professionals, in the last 12 months, 37 percent of sales professionals surveyed noted an increase in homebuyers looking to purchase homes to accommodate more than one generation of their family. In addition, almost 70 percent of Coldwell Banker sales agents believe that economic conditions may cause greater demand for multi-generational homes in their market during the next year.


Furthermore, the Coldwell Banker® January 2010 survey respondents cited financial drivers as the No. 1 reason why home buyers or sellers are moving into a house with other generations of their family (39 percent). Twenty-nine (29) percent said that health care issues are the primary reason, and six percent cited a strong family bond as the main factor.


“While saving money is certainly an incentive for buying a home that accommodates multiple generations, the benefits go beyond just financial reasons,” said Diann Patton, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Consumer Specialist. “With two or three generations living under one roof, families often experience more flexible schedules, quality time with one another and can better juggle childcare and eldercare.”


Communicating with family members and consulting with their real estate professional is key, as well. “Talk to everyone involved and determine how comfortable the family members are about sharing bathrooms, office space or common areas, and let that guide your search,” Patton advises. “All of these topics are incredibly important in finding the right kind of home to fit the family – like one that has four bathrooms or one that has three.”


Helpful Hints:



* Sellers with “mother in-law suites” or additional spaces that could accommodate a family interested in a multi-generational living arrangement should highlight this aspect of the home. Whether it’s a garage apartment or refurbished basement, this separate space can help one home stand apart from the others on its block.

* Buyers must be clear about their exact needs. Some families may just want an extra bedroom or two for family members, while others require areas with a separate kitchen, entrance, handicap accessibility or even a larger garage for additional cars. Desired location may also be influenced by proximity to local hospitals, senior centers or other important activities to family members.

* Extended families purchasing a home together should consider signing a written contract outlining everything from finances to chores and childcare. Each family should assess their situation individually and find a plan that works best for them.


Methodology: Coldwell Banker Real Estate conducted a national online survey on trends regarding multi-generational home buyers and sellers in January 2010. The survey yielded responses from 2,360 Coldwell Banker real estate professionals across the United States.

There's an app for that!

There's an app for that ... Whether you’re in the market for a new home, dreaming about a vacation place or just curious to see million dollar properties, the Coldwell Banker app gives you the ability to explore real estate anytime anywhere.

Take Advantage Of A New Kind Of Homebuyer Credit

The Coldwell Banker® Buyer Bonus Event is available nationwide. Participating homeowners will refund 3% of the accepted offer price, up to an $8,000* credit, to all buyers. There are no income or property eligibility requirements, and the credit is applied at closing.

Hurry, the program ends July 31st. Search for participating properties today.

What does that mean for you?

For Buyers:
# Receive up to an $8,000* credit at signing
# Open to all potential homebuyers — Where the home seller has agreed to participate
# Sign on your terms — with flexible closing deadlines

For Sellers:
# Add prominence to your listing with an $8,000*
incentive, applied at closing, for interested buyers
# Increase exposure on coldwellbanker.com searches
# Do your part to keep the momentum of the government tax credit going

Making moving FUN!

Moving Days ... they can be a challenge; but why not make them FUN! Coldwell Banker has some great tips on how to put the joy in those boxes!

Welcome Steve Miller to our Pooler Office!

Steve Miller has joined Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners as REALTOR for the Company’s Pooler office located at 130 Canal St., Suite 504.

After earning his Bachelor of Police Science from New Mexico State University, Steve worked and later retired from his position as a firefighter / paramedic / police officer in Ohio; most recently he served as the Assistant Fire Chief for the City of Savannah. Steve has held his GA real estate license for over 3 years and is a member of SABOR, GAR and NAR.
To contact Steve Miller, call him at (912) 604-1441 or email him at Steve.Miller@coldwellbanker.com.

Agents understand of the complex issues confronting the current real estate industry

Alice Pollak, Richard Gourley and Paul Taylor with Coldwell Banker Platinum Partners earned their Distressed Property Professional (DPP) designations from the Georgia School of Real Estate. Agents completed the day-long, 6-hour course, held at the Savannah Board of REALTORS on June 21st.

A Distressed Property Professional is a real estate professional with comprehensive understanding of the complex issues confronting the current real estate industry. Through comprehensive training and experience, agents with the DPP Designation are able to provide solutions for homeowners facing hardships in today’s market, specifically short sales, REO’s, foreclosures and auctions.

As well-informed, licensed real estate professionals with the DPP Designation, Pollak, Gourley and Taylor have the tools needed to help homeowners find the best solution for their situation. Alice Pollak can be reached at 912.695.6222; Richard Gourley can be reached at 912.713.5546; Paul Taylor can be reached at 912.660.3478; or you can find out more information about these agents online at www.ColdwellBankerPlatinum.com.

Winner, Winner, better than a Chicken Dinner!

COLDWELL BANKER REAL ESTATE WINS COMMUNICATOR CREATIVE EXCELLENCE AWARD FROM INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY OF VISUAL ARTS
Brand’s ‘On Location’ YouTube Channel Honored in Real Estate Website Category
PARSIPPANY, N.J., (July 7, 2010) – The International Academy of the Visual Arts has named Coldwell Banker On Location, the brand’s YouTube channel, a recipient of this year’s Communicator Awards for Creative Excellence in the real estate website category. The category honors the best site for the sale or rental of residential or commercial property.
“We were the first national real estate brand to add streaming video to our website. Today, our agents across the globe have posted more than 15,000 videos to our On Location channel,” said Mike Fischer, chief marketing officer for Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. “The most exciting part of On Location is that we have only just begun – there’s a lot more to come.”
On Location has been rated among the top 10 most-viewed brand channels on YouTube. In April, just 11 months after launching On Location, Coldwell Banker announced it had received over 1 million views. The site was launched in May 2009 and was produced in collaboration with FD Kinesis.
“Home buyers would much rather see a home than only read about it,” Fischer said. “Our On Location videos empower them to get a feel for a home, a community or a real estate professional that they could not get from photos or a text description alone. Equally important are the home sellers who are now expecting video to be a part of marketing their property.”
With thousands of entries received from across the United States and around the world, the Communicator Awards is one of the largest and most competitive awards program honoring the creative excellence for communications professionals. The Communicator Awards are judged and overseen by the International Academy of the Visual Arts, an invitation-only body consisting of top-tier professionals from acclaimed media, advertising and marketing firms.