I have always fostered a sense of value in supporting community and helping those in need, however, recently, I have become even more active in my resolution to be a part of giving back.  

Currently I am training to walk in the Ukrop's 10k to support the Massey Cancer Center.  For those of you who do not know, all monies raised by Massey stays right here in our community to help those close to home.  Last year, I created a fundraising team and actively sought donations for support.  I have decided this year to simply walk and provide support to Massey individually.  With that being said, I still encourage anyone who would like to help or be a part of this, to do so.  http://masseychallenge.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=292400

I was contacted by a friend this week to join her in raising money for the Children't Hospital Foundation.  I have committed to bowl in the 15th Annual Children's Hospital Foundation Bowl-A-Thon.  Although, I am not a great bowler, it is a fun way to get involved in something I feel I can do to help. If you feel inclined to help, please visit  www.firstgiving.com/ericawinn. 

I am also looking into a motorcycle ride this spring benefiting Habitat for Humanity, which is an organization I have been involved with in the past.  This is an organization that hits home for me as I am emursed daily in the American Dream of homeownership.  Helping others to realize that dream in whatever way I can is something that continues to guide my life. 

I definately understand the tightening of the beltstraps for most all of us.  Even small donations of time and/or money are greatly appreciated by those dedicated to the cause and of course by the ones whose lives are helped by these programs.  I know there are too many causes out there to be a part of them all, but I will continue to do what I can here and there.  I feel that by volunteering my time and possibly raising a few dollars, I can contribute in a small way to the big picture.

Thank you for letting me share this information with you.  If getting involved is of interest to you, I empower you to select a cause, or an event, or whatever touches you and just do it. 

According to the National Association of REALTORS 2008 Profile of Home Buyers & Sellers, the following sources were utilized by buyers when finding their new homes:

REALTOR                         34%
Internet                           32%
Yard Sign                         15%
Builder                               7%
Friend/neighbor/relative       7%
Newspaper                         3%
Knew the seller                   2%
Home book or magazine      1%


If you would like to know more about the 2008 NAR statistics, contact me to find out more.

According to the National Association of REALTORS, the 5 new big things that buyers want are:

1. Oversized Garage

2. Cable Access (transistioning to fiber optic access)

3. Granite Countertops

4. Hardwood Floors

5. Spacious Backyard/play areas

If you are building new construction or thinking of remodeling, you will see your biggest return from the above items. Also, as always, the biggest return on investment comes from quality kitchen and bathroom upgrades & rennovations. 

I am excited to roll out my new website for the new year.  I have put a lot of time and effort into creating an improved website for you to use.  I hope you will find the site informative and user friendly.  If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me.  I welcome feedback.

Erica

ericasellsforyou@yahoo.com
804-683-4723