Virtual Real Estate Solutions

Tips For Achieving Your Goals. Rome Wasn't Built In a Day, You Know.

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 10:49:11 -0500

Tips For Achieving Your Goals, Whether Short or Long Term :

Do you have long-term projects with short-term expectations? If you do, that is a sure path to frustration and failure.

Lifestyle and business goals such as exercise, healthy diet and money, more clients, etc, have to become habits in order to be effective. Career changes, changes in your business because of the market and/or economy also takes time and planning, and it doesn’t happen overnight.

Your world has shifted. There’s voice mail, e-mail, twitter, facebook, and faxes that have made a “waiting” period unacceptable and almost obsolete. With information immediately available, we expect relationships and goal achievement to be done the same, whether in business or in life. As you read this you know that it is unreasonable to expect that and yet we still do ? We’ve been led by advertisers to believe that we deserve immediate gratification, and that it is readily and effortlessly available!

When you want to train a puppy, you know that it’s going to take time and consistent reinforcement. You’re ready for that, because you want your puppy to behave in an acceptable way. Why then, are you so patient with the puppy and so hard on yourself?

When you plant seeds in the garden, you tend them, water them, hope for sunlight and nurture them. Are you nurturing yourself?

The best way to move gently and effectively towards your goals is to take a reasonable approach. Break your long-term project goal into sub-goals. Break it into doable, short-term chunks. Today prepare the soil; tomorrow plant the seeds.

Each action you take and each step is satisfying because you know that it is contributing to the completion of your goal. You cannot rush Mother Nature with your garden, and the same is true for your goals.

This process is much more than “bloom where you’re planted”, because when you’re the gardener you choose what to plant and how to nurture it. Do the same for yourself, and grow yourself beautifully. Your goals will be accomplished in due time, and you won’t end up up-tight and frazzled, which usually leads to thinking your goals cannot be obtained.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Success Secrets Still Valid Today

Author Michael Jeffreys personally interviewed 15 top motivational gurus in 1997 for his then upcoming book. After talking to gurus from Brian Tracy to Dr. Wayne Dyer, he distilled 8 Secrets to Success they all agreed upon. These secrets are still good today and are as follows:

1. Take 100% Responsibility for Your Life – In a society where people blame everything from their parents to the government for failure, those who don’t buy into this mentality or succumb to the “victim” thinking, succeed. To blame something or somebody outside yourself is saying that they have control over your life and not you. Someone else’s opinion of you doesn’t have to become your reality.

2. Live Your Life On Purpose – What separates motivational thinkers from the unsuccessful is that they believe they’re doing what they were put here to do. The difference between this and just living, is that the latter is just getting through the week with the least amount of problems. But when you live your life on purpose and with purpose, your main concern is doing the job right, consistently thinking of quality vs quantity. For the entrepreneur this means finding a cause you believe in and building your business around it.

3. Be Willing to Pay the Price - Be willing to pay the price for your dreams. Wanting a big house, a luxury car, and a million dollars in the bank is all very nice, and everyone wants these things – but are you willing to pay the price to get them? This is one of the major differences between the successful and unsuccessful. You have been given a job to do, whatever that may be, whatever profession that may be in, no one ever said it was going to be easy.

4. Stay Focused – Every day we’re bombarded with hundreds of tasks, phone calls, messages, and everyone competing for our time. Focusing requires giving up something in the present because you are investing your time in something that will pay off big-time down the road. Jack Canfield and Mark Hanson were turned down by 30 publishers when they submitted the first “Chicken Soup for the Soul” book. Instead of giving up, they stayed focused on their goal(s) and did four or five interviews per day for radio, TV, and newspapers, for five days a week for an entire year. Eventually, a small publisher decided to take a chance, and of course now it’s a best-seller that spawned an entire series that have sold more than 10 million copies.

5. Become An Expert in Your Field One striking factor all successful people have in common is how seriously they take their profession. They strive to be the best at what they do, and do almost anything to improve. If someone followed you around all day with a video camera at your business, would it be a tape you’d be proud of or embarrassed about? Make the decision today to work at being the best in your field. How? By finding out what the “best” in your field are doing, and do what they do while separating yourself from the rest.

6. Write Out a Plan for Achieving Your Goals – Write out an action plan/map, heck, make a dream board if you need to, for how you’re going to achieve your goals. Trying to reach your goals without a plan is like trying to drive from Los Angeles to Chicago without a map. A goal that isn’t written down is merely a wish or fantasy.

7. Never Give Up - Never, never, never give up, no matter what factors or circumstances head your way. When you’re fully committed to achieving your goal, giving up is not an option. You must be willing do whatever it takes to make it happen. The power of perseverance is an awesome force. As someone once said, “inch by inch it’s a cinch”. Think of the lowly inchworm – if it pondered the length of the trip from start to finish before it started, it probably would never move. To a worm’s point-of-view, the garden path must look like a trip to Mars. Keep on going like the EverReady battery bunny, we so often call ourselves and pretty soon you’re there.

8. Don’t Delay – Nobody knows how much time they have left to accomplish their dreams, and we must remember that we don’t have forever. The clock is ticking, and sooner or later your number comes up and you’re gone. Successful achievers know this too, but they don’t view it as a “negative”. Achievers use it to “spur them on”. They go after what they want as energetically and as passionately as possible, for as long as they have.

“Today is a check – cash it! Yesterday is an I.O.U. – forget it! Tomorrow is a promissory note, don’t bank on it!” I think that’s a pretty good summation of life, so go out there and cash in on that “today” check.

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

Random Act of Kindness : Balloons to Heaven

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Sat, 26 Nov 2011 12:18:41 -0500

38 Random Acts of Kindness - Balloons to Heaven !

This year, so many people that I hold dear to my heart, have taught me more than they could ever imagine, through their strength and their loved ones. So many have had to endure what no person ever should. From parents, grandparents, brothers, sister, aunts and uncles, losing a loved one, to friends who have lost their courageous fight to cancer and other illnesses. Having lost many loved ones in my life, I know the hole and void it can leave in your heart. Although, I cannot ever imagine what some of my friends have gone through this past year, I wanted them to know that there is not a moment in the day that I don't think of them. no matter how busy life can get. That there is not a day that goes by that I don't think of the struggles they have had to endure and that mightily I continue to pray. Praying for peace, understanding, comfort and joy to be brought to their lives. Although the miles and the waters may separate us - I would like to think a bridge has been built - from - heart to heart.

What can you say or really do in such moments of adversity ? There are never enough right words to say that can ease the pain. There is nothing you can say or do when someone you love fights the good fight and only seems to lose the battle anyway, although not the war. We love, we lose - no matter how unnatural the order of things may seem. Some people come into our lives only for a moment, while others can be with us for years. I'd like to think that no one is ever really gone.That we are all Angels and some of us are just called home sooner than others.

In this life we are and can be taught so much by others, if only we open our hearts and minds. No matter the age - there is something to learn from everyone. A baby, someone's son or daughter, can teach us innocence and purity. With every breath they take they can breath so much life into a person. The innocence of a child teaches us that we can do and be anything if only we believe. The purity of a child brings us unmatched, unconditional love that remains forever in our hearts no matter how long they get to share those milestones with us. Without expecting anything in return, they give us joy and hope for the future. While the mature one teaches us courage, strength and perseverance. No matter their life struggles, they become fighters until the very end, teaching us that life and love are worth fighting for. Courageously they climb the highest of mountains - with no fear of falling and they persevere to the top, waving, loving, smiling all the way there.

So many have taught me so many things about life. I watch the faith of others and stand in awe. That they could face the most difficult time in their lives and still know that the God they love and serve is not a mean God. That the God they serve through it all loves them and is and will continue to bring them peace and comfort. That no matter their struggles there is HOPE. Something that many of us forget and all to often take for granted.There is a lot to be learned and said of someone's great faith and I continue to learn from them.

Today, it's my turn to give back because so much has been given to me.

The Caulk Family - Have taught me so much about love, faith and family. Through all of their struggles they never forget who they are. I love them all.

The Baker - Sodero Family - Their beautiful son taught me about innocence and how big things do come in such small packages. Love You Al and Desiree.

Sharon Young - Taught the true meaning of living life to the fullest and no matter what hand you are dealt, you still just live and love. RIP Dear one.

Joe Ferrara - Taught me what it means to be a great teacher - in life and in business. Thank You Joe, forever in our hearts.

Clint Miller and Family - This family has taught me courage. Courage to face things head on. To know that it's okay to be tired but never to be scared. Our thought and prayers are with you always.

So many, have taught me such beautiful things. I thank God for all of them and I thank God that I have had the chance to know them and love them.

So, I, we, sent balloons to Heaven. In honor of our friends and their loved ones who passed away because they are ALL special to me.

38 Random Acts of Kindness, it's my birthday present to myself : http://www.aserendipityworld.com/2011/11/38-random-acts-of-kindness.html

Special thanks for Midori Miller, Jeanette Neerpat, Vicky Wyman for joinging me in 38 Random Acts of Kindness. To my neighbor for helping me shoot my video, lending me the beer and allowing me to spew it all over her porch. You all ROCK !

See Jeannette here : http://browardcountyreview.com/2011/11/happy-thanksgiving-from-our-family-to-yours/

See Vickie here : http://blog.allaccessre.com/2011/11/23/random-acts-of-kindness-pay-it-forward-day-two/

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

Share a Prayer Please....For Missy Caulk's Son..Bob Stewart's Brother In Law

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Sun, 16 Oct 2011 11:43:12 -0400

I am reblogging this post in hopes that our Active Rain Family will offer their support, love and prayers to the Caulk family. Missy Caulk has been an inspiration and friend to many of us throughout our journey here in the rain. Bob Stewart, brother in law, of Jamie Caulk has been our sounding board through the many changes and our friend. Christa Caulk has always greeted us with smiles, love and the ability to be infectious with her positive attitude and spirit. Now it's time we give back. Just a few moments of your time to join in prayer, meditation, whatever you do, whatever your beliefs are. Miracles happen everyday and I believe in them. Let's all believe in them together, for Jamie, for the entire Caulk family.

Via Sally & David Hanson WI Realtors Luxury\Short Sale\CDPE\ABR\e-Pro\REDS (Keller Williams 414-525-0563):

This morning....and throughout the weekend....Please send healing thoughts, prayers, white light, healthy vibrations...whatever your belief to Missy Caulk's son, Jamie.

The message on Facebook was brief....a family in crisis asking for help....and we know the warm hearts and thoughtful minds of all of the people who read this blog, will do everything they can in sharing the positive and healing powers they hold for this young man. The post on Missy's wall reads:

Please continue to pray for my son Jamie. He is in vanderbilt trauma unit. He is Intibated and needs to wake up. Bad car wreck. He has no movement at all now. When he arrived at trauma was awake. Then crashed. They brought him back and Intibated him. He has had no sedation since 2:00 but is not waking up. We are praying for a miracle.

Please share this moment now...and know that Missy and her family feel your love and concern at a time they most need it.ould someone please...everyone please...suggest this as a feature so we can make as many people aware as possible ?

Thank You.

Sally K. & David L. Hanson, ABR, CDPE, CSS, e-Pro,ILHM, REDS

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

The Law of Attraction. The Seller gets what the seller Attracts !

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 01:00:31 -0400

Law of Attraction - What is it ? How does it work ? How is working for you ?

Law of Attraction - The phrase Law of Attraction, although used widely by esoteric writers, has a variety of definitions. Turn of the century references conceptualized the law of attraction as relating to physical structure and to how matter develops. A more modern consensus among New Thought thinkers is that the Law of Attraction says people's thoughts (both conscious and unconscious) dictate the reality of their lives, whether or not they're aware of it. Essentially "if you really want something and believe it's possible, you'll probably get it" but that putting a lot of attention and thought onto something you don't want means you'll probably get that too.From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Now that the defination of the " Law of Attraction" is understood let's ask the most concerning question you have as a seller :

" Why isn't my home selling ? "

Let's re-phrase what I hear, what your family or friends here :

" My house has been on the market for months, the market is horrible, nothing is selling, I am never going to be able to sell my house ". Oh well, maybe next year, or when the market picks up"

Whether speaking that very statement out loud, under your breath or even thinking it, those are the thoughts you are projecting and in turn the " Universe", " The Law of Attraction is giving you exactly what you want ! See, the Law of Attraction is fed off of what we think and feel. What we do, say or how we act, in any manner, whether positive or negative. We allow what goes on in our world, our home, our society to determine how we are suppose to feel rather than what we actually feel. For example :

* Have you ever wondered why the house down the street sold and yours didn't ? *

Your home is your castle ? You have built your home upon strong foundation of morals, principles and valuable memories. Every wall, stairwell, planted bush is a milestone. It is your prize possession. Your goal is for it to become someone Else's prize possession. Living on for others to enjoy and raise their family. Why wouldn't someone want to purchase your castle ?

Putting the Law of Attraction to work for you : Let's stop looking at everything obtained as luck and understand that our thoughts are giving us what we get. If we want our house to sell but walk around saying I don't want to sit here forever, by default, you will be sitting there forever because your thoughts are already saying " Your sitting here forever". Rightfully, by your words you are attracting what you do not want because you are speaking it. By focusing on what you want, those are the things you will attract.

Whether you want to purchase a home, sell a home, open a business, find your dream job your thoughts of " wanting" should be the main focus. We all don't want things, I don't want a flat tire, I want to make it to work on time...period....no negative thought just positive affirmation that I WILL arrive to work on time. Why ? Because I want to. And because I want to and because I BELIEVE that I will all good things will come. I have spoken no negative thought to hinder my attendance therefor I will attract nothing but positive things.

Lets Practice :

I want to sell my house
I will sell my house
Someone wants to purchase my home because of my hard work
My home is exactly what others need and want
It doesn't matter what the media says, my house will sell
My Agent is doing a wonderful job to sell my house

Practice those thoughts. Allow the "Law of Attraction" to work for you, your family in all of your desires.

For more information on buying or selling Real Estate in : Crossville Tennessee or surrounding areas please call or email Melissa Grant, Affiliate Broker, Licensed Tennessee Real Estate Agent, Third Tennessee Realty and Associates @ 931-210-8277 Direct or email lissalgrant@yahoo.com

For information on property for sale in Crossville-Cumberland County or surrounding areas please visit my website @ www.crossvilletnrealestateforsale.comwhere you can access your FREE relocation package, take an advanced property tour and read more about Crossville TN.

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

Wilshire Heights Condo For Sale in Fairfield Glade, TN. Condo #32

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 08:48:03 -0400

Looking to relocate or move to a home with little maintenance ? No, big yards to mow or landscape ? Is your dream to retire to a community with amenities such as Golf, Shopping, Recreation, Tennis, Swimming and more ?

Newly Listed : 32 Wilshire Heights in Faifield Glade of Crossville ,TN. $74,500

This Condo comes fully furnished and complete with 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, kitchen with pass through wet bar/ breakfast nook, dining room, living room and utility room, walk in closets.

Master Bedroom features sliding glass doors out to your private balcony. Beautiful picture window in spacious guest/second bedroom.

This two story Condo is spacious and close to all Fairfield Glade amenities. Within walking distance to several golf courses, the new constructed recreation center, shopping, church and more. Tennis and racquetball courts are across the street !

All window furnishings, appliances and furniture stay.

Completely remodeled in 2005 with elegant lighting, fresh neutral colored paint, hardwood flooring and some appliances.

Surrounded by several lakes, like Lake Dartmore, Lake Glastobury and more !!

For questions or to schedule your private showing please call or email.

lissalgrant@yahoo.com

931-210-8277 Direct

1-866-766-4173 Toll Free

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

Crossville TN - The Best Kept Secret In Tennessee, Along The Cumberland Plateau

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 07:39:51 -0400

Here in Crossville TN the stage is set for you. We are the place you have been looking for. Just off of I- 40, Crossville TN is conveniently located to Nashville, Knoxville and Chattanooga. Why is Crossville TN the place ?

For starters, the area is home to Tennessee's famous vacation resort, Fairfield Glade, where five beautiful golf courses will test any skill. But there's more, so much more. Crossville TN - Cumberland County has a total of 11 championship golf courses.

Here upon the Cumberland Plateau you can also visit the highest elevated golf course at the Renegade Mountain Resort. Golf in Crossville - Cumberland County is one of our area's major attractions. Each course is unique and offers a different golfing experience.

From breath taking mountain views, mountain streams, rolling hills and rock formations not only are our golf courses challenging they are enjoyable for all skill levels.

As many of our visitors and residents here in Crossville will attest, that's not all that we have to offer you and your family. From our Golf Courses to our award winning Cumberland County Playhouse to the Crossville Outlet Center, Crossville has something for everyone. High upon the Cumberland Plateau we offer upscale cuisine to down home cooking and the sights and sounds you will savor year after year.

If you are looking for more than Golf, Crossville is packed with recreation, entertainment, history, dining and shopping.

With an elevation of 2000 feet and an average summer temperature of 74 degrees, Cumberland County residents and visitors can also enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, camping, canoeing, whitewater rafting, even hunting. Auto and drag racing events are held on a regular basis.

For all of these reasons, our area has been voted one of the nation's most desirable places to live and retire to.

When you relocate or visit be sure to put these attractions on your check list :

RECREATION :

Ozone Falls State Natural Area - a pristine setting that has attracted Hollywood Filmmakers.
Catoosa Wildlife Management Area - a hunting wilderness of almost 80,000 acres
Crossville Recreational Park, 75 acres of championship ball fields, tennis and volleyball courts. Equipped with playgrounds and walking/hiking trails.
Cumberland Mountain State Park, more than 1700 acres of rustic parkland, cabins, playgrounds, campsites, hiking trails, Olympic-size swimming pool and The Bear Trace.
Cumberland Trail State Park, Tennessee's first linear state park with over 230 miles of spectacular views.

ENTERTAINMENT :

The Cumberland County Playhouse is renowned throughout the South as a premier cultural attraction. With live performances, Broadway musicals in addition to special films and concerts. Offered year round.

Festivals are also a huge part of our life here in Crossville. Some prominent festivals include :

Pioneer Day
Oktoberfest
Depot Days Main Street Festival
StreetScape Boo Bash
Homestead Apple Festival
Crossville Christmas Parade
Our exciting Blue Ribbon Cumberland County Fair

HISTORY :

Our area, Crossville - Cumberland County is a favorite among history buffs. The past comes alive throughout our area. See for yourself by visiting :

The Homesteads - a community and depression era of 1930 which was designed as a National Historic district and featuring Homesteads Tower and Museum and the Crabtree House.
GrassyCove - a National Natural Landmark featuring geological wonders and farmland.
Crab Orchard - is the country's oldest community and home of the world-famous Crab Orchard Stone
Downtown Crossville - with it's 95 year old courthouse it also features the 1920's train depot from where famed Sgt. Alvin C. York made his good-byes en route to his World War I exploits
Pleasant Hill - settled since 1819, is the site of the Pioneer Hall Museum

From Cuisine to hard-to-find collectibles, your shopping and dining desires will be delighted here along the Cumberland Plateau. You can follow any road and be greeted by friendly people, boutiques, specialty and antique shops, unique wineries, a busting downtown, factory outlet stores and so much more. To satisfy your cravings you can pull up any chair amongst our 50 restaurants.

To find out more about Crossville TN or Real Estate for sale in Crossville TN, contact :

Melissa Grant, Realtor(r)
Pointe Realty-proudly serving Crossville TN, The Cumberland Plateau, Fairfield Glade, Lake Tansi, Cumberland Cove, Morgan and Fentress Counties.
931-210-8277 Direct or Email lissalgrant@yahoo.com

Thank you for visiting Crossville TN Real Estate

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

3148 Deep Draw Road, Crossville, TN 38555

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 15:34:44 -0400

Photo Gallery

Side View w/Gazebo Porch

9.96 Acres of Mountain Views

Swimming Pool and 3 Ponds

Island Kitche, Upgraded Appliances

Formal Dining Room

Family/Living Room w/Brick Fireplace

Living Room to Large Back Deck

Description

Exquisite Home on 9.96 Acres. 5 / 3.5 two story all brick home with panoramic mountain views. 3 ponds, professionally landscaped, outdoor lighting, covered front porch with built in gazebo. Circle Drive. Home features gourmet kitchen with island and convection oven. Breakfast room, dry bar, walk in pantry and upgraded stainless steel appliances. Master Suite on both levels with master baths. Over Size Bonus Room Upstairs. 2 Offices or 1 office 1 Den and/or Library with two walls of built in shelves. Formal Dining Room, Family Room with Brick Fireplace. French Doors, Sliders and Wood Shutter Blinds throughout. Insulated Windows. Over Size Laundry Room with Laundry Shoot. Attached 2 Car Garage with Side Entry and Storm Shelter. Detached All Brick 3 Car Garage with 16X36 Bonus Room Above. Plenty of Storage inside and out. Walk in Closets, Jacuzzi Tub, Recessed Lighting, FM Transmitted Security System, Crown Molding, Updated lighting. Composite Back Deck with Child Safety Gate and sunk in above Ground Pool. Crawl Space filled with gravel and deep enough to walk in. Bay Window, tile, carpet and hardwood throughout. Immaculate, updated and upgaded home. Move in ready.

Features

Bedrooms: 5Bathrooms: 3.5Parking Spaces: 5Year Built: 1999Subdivision: Cumberland HomesteadsLot Size: 9.96 AcresGarage Size: 5School District: Cumberland CountySquare Footage: 5725Agent Name: Melissa GrantBroker: Pam FountainMLS #: 659409

Location

3148 Deep Draw Road Crossville TN 38555

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

Again I wonder...Where the hell is your agent???

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 08:11:06 -0400

It is not often that I find a post in our Real Estate world of blogging that makes me want to stand up and clap. When I read this post that is exactly what I wanted to do.

Purchasing a home by yourself or having a Realtor(r) who is more absent than not from your transaction is like self diagnosing yourself instead of going to a trained and qualified Physician for whatever ailment bothers you.

Often times we think we receive the best deal when we go at it alone. Just like there could be hidden dangers in why we feel so tired, have headaches hidden dangers can also loom in a home that appears "healthy" or " looks good " to the naked eye.

It is better to be safe than sorry. It is better to have a qualified professional on your side than to find out later you misdiagnosed yourself or purchased a home full of mold or defects not seen or understood by the naked eye.

Melissa Grant, Realtor(r)
Century 21 Fountain Realty, LLC
931-210-8277 Cell
931-707-2100 Office
www.crossvilletnrealestateforsale.com
Melissa@C21Fountain.com

Via John MacArthur Branch Manager (Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc.):

This business of being a real estate agent is ever changing. There are more styles in this profession than any other. Agents not only come in all shapes and sizes....they all bring their baggage with them.

Now I will admit that I have neglected signing on and sharing thoughts lately. I have been busy. Spring has sprung and many of you have made the move to buy.....now. I don't know what they put in the water in this area, but some of those unidentified chemicals must have created buyer urgency. You know who you are and you have been sipping the kool aid.

Not a bad time to storm the DC market. Lots of inventory out there. Lots of over priced inventory. Lots of undervalued inventory. Lots and lots of houses, townhouses and condos for sale. Did I say...lots of them?

In recent weeks, there have been multitudes of buyers doing the price range and location procession. You may have seen them. They form the unstructured caravan travelling from one open house to another on Sundays.

They rush from door to door, computer print outs of listings in hand, hoping to discover "home sweet home". Don't see many agents. Don't understand that.

It is one of those things that made me go......hmmmmmmmm.

So I decided to investigate just what are these people thinking. I made up a little checklist and positioned myself outside a popular open house (I am sure the agent loved having me out there...but it was a free sidewalk, and I only talked to folks as they left and I never once shared that I was an agent and God knows I told no one I was the Naked Realtor).

I heard some very interesting things. Some of you have an agent(?). Really? And your agent told you to go out and visit open houses and if you found something you like...give the agent a call.

What part of no representation don't you understand?

You are walking into home after home, heart in hand, dreams in your eyes, unarmed in quagmire of legal issues that quietly put you at risk. You are spending the better part of 20 minutes to determine the quality and value of the largest purchase of your life. You carry the false belief that on your own, you can evaluate the merits of homes.

Let me share a secret. Everyone selling a home has done as much as possible to put lipstick on that pig and make her the belle of your ball. You are ravished and they are offering all the sizzle your senses can bear. A pretty red door may suit feng shui but it is no indicator of the energy efficiency of the home. Those new stainless steel appliances may gleem in the kitchen, but they are no indicator of anything other than the sellers ability to polish up the area. All that glitters is not gold. Do you realize that the agent sitting at home, watching t.v. is supposed to be representing you, ferreting out fact from fiction?

Some of you have decided to go it alone. You have read all about buying a home online and you have heard that you can strike quite a deal if you don't have an agent. You might be able to get the seller to reduce the price of the home a bit because they don't have to pay an agent. Sounds like a plan.

Of course, the listing agent is the one that has to make the concession. In Maryland, they can write up the offer for you. They can promise that things will be as smooth as silk. There may be a scintilla of truth in that statement. They represent the seller. They can not represent you. They can not say or do anything that is not in the best interest of their client.........the seller. They can not negotiate for you. They can not advise you. They can just smile......maybe make a little less for their effort..........and smile all the way to the bank. You get the keys and absolutely nothing else.

Now, does that sound like a responsible plan when making the biggest purchase of your life?

Actually, running out on your own and reporting back to your agent(?) is pretty stupid. Your agent works for you. They will be paid fairly at the close of the transaction. Don't you agree that they should earn the money? I do.

Taking your best shot on your own, with no representation, is absolutely the riskiest way to go about purchasing. Most agents will represent you and be willing to accept the commission offered by the seller. That arrangement seems like a win-win to me. Just like anything else...you get what you pay for.

Of course, I am just the naked realtor, I do this for a living. If you want to receive further information or send hate mail or ask a question or maybe you can tell me..where the hell is your agent?...you can write me by clicking on this link.

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

Crossville TN Real Estate : Resort Style Living On the Cumberland Plateau.

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 08:37:31 -0400

Here in Tennessee these mountain views are plentiful. Add some golf courses, running creeks and streams with some waterfront living/views and we can make your dreams come alive here in Crossville, Tennessee.

With premier medical facilities, recreation and championship golf courses Crossville, Tennessee has something for everyone ! From boating, fishing, The Palace Theater, The Cumberland County Playhouse Crossville Tennessee is fun for the entire family.

If you are thinking of relocating or retiring to Crossville, Tennessee take a look at what we have to offer. Remember, we have LOW property taxes, NO state or school tax and Grand McNally loves us !

Cumberland Cove For Sale : Cumberland Cove offers mountain/bluff views with rock formations, caves, hiking trails, creeks and streams. Property starting as low as $9,999.00 per acre for all of this PLUS amenities!

Lake Tansi Resort : Come on over to Lake Tansi Resort where some of Crossville's premier Golf Courses are available to home/lot owners. Amenities include boating, fishing, recreation, private beaches, lakes and so much more. Own a piece of this heartland right now starting at $5,000 per lot !

Fairfield Glade : Welcome to Fairfield Glade. Home of championship Golf Courses, Condo living, waterfront living, recreation and a " home town feel". Lots starting at $6500 per lot all amenities included !

For more information on any of these premier subdivisions or other homes and land available in Crossville TN please contact

Melissa Grant, Realtor(r)
Century 21 Fountain Realty
Direct 931-210-8277 ,
Email Melissa@C21Fountain.com
Visit my website for other information at
www.crossvilletnrealestateforsale.com

Cumberland Cove, Fairfield Glade, Lake Tansi

Crossville TN Real Estate

Serving all of the Cumberland Plateau

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

Dear Diary - My Passion is.........

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 05:38:07 -0500

The Government Should Take Lessons From Housewives.

Dear Diary,

We, the people, sit here today on pins and needles, more like sleeping in a rose bush full of thorns waiting to know if the Obama Stimulus Plan will be passed and/or will work. As grown men and women all dressed up in their fancy suits and ties hold the future of America in their hands we sit back and listen, watch the mud sling, we receive emails from our National Association of Realtors " for our voices to be heard ", we hoard what money we have and we pray that someone will listen to the guy who is being more conservative wearing the JCPenny pin stripped suit rather than the guy wearing some fancy suit of some designers name I can't pronounce anyway.

Diary, my passion has always been to live freely, within my means and to help people. To both give and receive inspiring advice, to set goals, to be proud of being an American. To support our troops who fight everyday for our freedoms ( I wear Red on Fridays ). To inspire my children and other children to always be who and what they want to be. To adopt one family each year and show them Christmas miracles still exist. To volunteer at a woman's shelter and help if only one woman understand just how empowering she should feel because leaving was a brave and courageous thing to do. To live freely in knowing that I live in America, in the American dream and someone " in it " will always have my back and look out for me and my family.

Today, televisions have been brought into our homes to keep us advised, more like to keep us in a panic. The old saying of " Believe nothing you hear and only half of what you see " has become an " old wives tale. " Many, sit glued to their televisions feeding themselves the doom and gloom of our nation heeding every bit of advice from some telecaster who doesn't appear to know anything more than we do. This my friend is like taking financial advice from someone pending their bankruptcy court date. Better yet it's like walking into a marriage counselors office whom might I add has been divorced four times. We listen to our Government and Media tell us we should set up lemon-aid stands to make extra earnings but yet I don't see our Government selling watermelons on the side of the street to reduce our national deficit. This is all like walking into an AA Meeting and the door prize is a 6-pack of beer.

At this point it no longer matters " Who is to blame ", " When it all started or why ". The fact is it did happen and no stimulas package to date has put a dent in what the American people actually need. What great timing to put money in our pockets with the Bush Administrations Stimulas. Our food prices were at an all time high, fuel prices exceeded $4.00 per gallon ( now calculate that $4.00 per gallon and hold it up against the minimum wage worker...need I say anymore ) and we were already seeing increases in the cost to run our electricity.

Mr. Government Officials, my money went right into my savings account, creating a stronger reserve account for " the, well...... unknown ".

Now, had you handed us our very small, might I ad very small check during the Holiday rush....we might have bought our children the actual Rock Band version of Guitar Hero rather than the knock off Aerosmith Version. We might have bought a new Christmas dress or suit rather than digging through our closet's to see what we haven't worn in years. We might have even bought a 20 pound Turkey rather than a 15 pound turkey. To date my small check was given back to our oil industry as well as Tyson, Betty Crocker, Butterball, Campbell's and Little Debbie. I'm sorry for the losses Goody's, Best Buy and Circuit City took throughout the Holiday season but many took your advice : We went into hiding in total panic.

Diary, " They ", our Government, seem to think that a bunch of tax cuts, extra money for food stamps and extensions of unemployment benefits will create jobs and will open the housing market. I couldn't DISAGREE more. I wish someone would explain how a buyer tax credit is going to help our housing economy " open up " if the buyer desperately seeking to purchase a home cannot obtain a loan because Banks want to cut out Mortgage Brokers because Banks have upped the anti on lending criteria and because well, banks can do and say whatever they want, whenever they want and have ZERO accountability for it.

You should instead be teaching how a little hard work never hurt anyone and that a callous is a sign of hard work..like my Daddy's hands. You should be teaching the Food Stamp Recipient the power of their OWN dollar not looking to the middle class to continue paying for a person who has figured out they receive more by staying home and doing nothing. I don't understand how you can extend benefits, call it a stimulus and swear that this will return our economy to normal and yet kick a woman out of a hospital bed 24 hours after she has given birth ????

True Story

Last night at my daughters basketball practice I was speaking to a parent who found out that her and her husband made to much money and ended up owing Uncle Sam. Now, believe me when I tell you their income was NOTHING to smile about. In the end they were having to pay Uncle Sam all because she took on a part time job to help pay the increasing household bills which ended up costing her more in the long run because of child care expenses. In the process she also lost Health Care for her children through the State of TN, known as Cover Kids ( a program when you do not qualify for Medicaid ). All because of her part time job. She was told by a GOVERNMENT worker that she should CLAIM a separation from her husband whereas she would then be able to receive : Medicaid, Food Stamps and Schooling since she had been denied a government grant to finish her degree. Best part she was also told she could receive unemployment benefits by saying " the result of quiting her job was because of her separation and lack of child care". Do I need to say any more on extending food stamps and/or unemployment.

Our Government should be taking lessons from Housewives. Take Carol Brady for example. A single mother with three children, then married with six. When Mike brought home his paycheck every Friday she didn't give herself a raise and neglect to purchase food. When Mike got a raise she didn't go purchase a bigger, fancier car because the government said we needed to stimulate the economy. She didn't go in debt because they earned a few dollars more. When you went to the bank to purchase your home you went with documents in hand and money in the bank. She never worried about debt to income ratio because way back when you were taught to save not to obtain more and more " On Credit ". Carol Brady was the divider of 4.3 weeks in a month and knew every week what she needed to have and what was leftover. If her automobile needed tires she paid for tires she didn't trade in her vehicle for a lease. When Mike received a " bonus " they didn't take fancy vacations and fly out on a private jet. Way back when there was a more practical approach.

Getting Back to Basics

How do you live in these times ? The same way you did BEFORE the Government started putting televisions in peoples homes and creating panic. You have choices. You can be the divider of 4.3 weeks in a month or you can eagerly spend all of your hard earned cash on the Hybrid because the Government says this is what you should be doing. You can take your raise or bonus and invest in your future, purchase a home or you can panic and hem it to your curtains like my great grandmother did. You can learn the power of a dollar and build a savings account or you can be a puppet to the government and spend it all at Wal-Mart because the government has you fearing one more store will shut down. You can get out their and plow your own land or cross your arms wondering what's the use ? You can get up everyday and live the American Dream in peace or you can turn on the news that is costing you more electricity by running your television only to listen to a bunch of doom and gloom or you can get up, go to work and appreciate the power of your earnings. You can worry about supporting Kroger or Publix or you can build your own garden.

Simply, you can get out there and live. Live life to it's fullest. To be inspiring or be inspired or you can make excuses to not live , to live in fear, in panic and do what our banks continue to do : give raises to yourself, not hold yourself accountable, take fancy trips you cannot afford and of course you can always leave on a jet plane only to come back later apologize and do it all over again:

As for me I will believe in " Old Wives Tales ", I will build my own garden, plow my own land, drive a paid off mini van with good, clean tires. I will work hard, I will invest in my future. I will preserve my credit and live within my means. I will give hope because I have hope. I will dream because without a dream I am stuck exactly where I am today. I will be the dictator of my life. I will not allow my home or vehicle to define me. I will inspire because I want to be inspired. I will give so that I can receive.

I am my own government.

Melissa Grant, Crossville TN Real Estate 931-210-8277 direct www.crossvilletnrealestateforsale.com Crossville TN Real Estate

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

I Promise, You Don't Ever Want To Play Golf With Me. Why Do Men Torture Themselves With This Game ?

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 07:40:08 -0400

This past Christmas my husband and I bought our little one Cole a set of Golf Clubs. He is always trying to be just like daddy and he loves sports so we decided to break down and get him his very own clubs. My husband throughout the winter has been teaching him his swing and how to hit the ball on our acreage. He is pretty good at it. My husband is like some pro golfer who should be on tour. Once that club hits the ball in half of a half of a second you have lost sight of it. I think he might have hit a bird yesterday though...

So, yesterday we decided for family day we were going to go to the Cumberland Cove golf course and driving range.It was a beautiful day, nearly 70 degrees with a gentle breeze. Cumberland Cove is the most sought after subdivision here in Crossville TN. From the Golf Course, to hiking trails, to mountain views, creeks and streams Cumberland Cove is both a beautiful place to live and play. Many relocate here to Crossville TN and retire to Cumberland Cove.

We loaded up our golf clubs. My husband spent the winter trying to find me a couple of golf clubs. I am lefty so imagine how hard that was ! Ya know, I have to say Golf looks easier than it really is. For the life of me I could not get that stupid ball off the tee but I took chunks, chunks I tell you of grass and slung more dirt in an hour than a backhoe could in 5 minutes.My children were hysterically funny. Gracelyn somehow kept hitting the balls behind her ????? Cole seemed to be a natural and of course tried to help Mommy and his big sister. The whole time I kept thinking to myself " no wonder why men drink beer on the course ". You have to if you want to get through this game. As for me I am already dangerous with a club, add a couple of beers and well, we will just not think about that.

Four an hour for me it was a swing and a miss. Finally, I got the ball off the tee only to find it landed on my foot. In the meantime my husband swings and hits some cat that decides to run through the course, the cat is okay by the way...but he won't run through the course again :). Half way through I decided I needed bengay, a handicap and someone to hit the ball for me. My daughter was still hitting the ball behind her and my husband was convinced we were going to hurt ourselves. For the life of my daughter and I we could not figure out how to position our feet and my husband was convinced I was trying to hit a softball.....a softball would have been easier. Give me a golf ball and I am a fish out of water. It was a good thing I wasn't playing for charity or something. Poor charity organization.

In the end my husband told me I was better at driving the golf cart :) :). It's probably safer for myself and everyone else involved as well. It's a good thing we decided to hit at the range and not play 9 holes. With my daughter and I playing I wouldn't be writing this blog....we would still be on the second hole. I'm leaving the golfing to the men in my home. Gracelyn and I decided we were much better "sports" at the mall.I have to say muscles I didn't even know I had hurt this morning. I mean really, golf seems like a self inflicted torture game.....why do men do that to themselves ?

I think I figured out my problem :

The Club is Longer Than My Arms ?
The Ball Was Crazy Glued To The Tee ?
I Was Afraid I Would Hit The Welcome Center ?
I Didn't Want To Be Better Than My Husband ???
I Didn't Want My Daughter To Feel Alone ?

For more information on Golf in Crossville TN, Homes For Sale in Crossville TN or just about Crossville TN , contact :

Melissa Grant, Realtor(r) , Century 21 Fountain Realty
931-210-8277 Direct
931-707-2100 Office
Melissa@C21Fountain.com
www.crossvilletnrealestateforsale.com

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

Wordless Wednesday ~ A kids Gotta Do, What A Kids Gotta Do.

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 05:57:10 -0400

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

Happy 40th Birthday Christina Williams. Forever in our hearts.

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 21:22:28 -0400

Today is your Birthday. Happy Birthday My Friend.

Service for Christina Williams will be on Wed. 3/18/09 from 5:30 until 7:00

The address and directions are:

Crossville Memorial Funeral Home ( for flowers )

2653 N Main St
Crossville, TN 38555
(931) 456-0047
Get directions

Anyone wishing to come in from TN can call me at 931-210-8277 and I would be happy to meet you at the interstate or give better directions.

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

Things you shouldn't do while buying a home !

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 06:03:42 -0400

So, your on your way. You have found the house of your dreams. The lender tells you he thinks he can get this done. Your credit is good, your debt to income ratio is good, so are your trade-lines. You have all the winning factors to obtain a loan. I'm sure you feel great. Many customers who first come to us who are not pre-qualified come in having no idea what their credit score is and some believe their credit is so bad they can't get a pack of gum on loan. You then find, the total opposite. That somewhere along the line of restoring your credit worked ! Some will say, well if I can buy a house, I can buy a car, I can get the credit card I have been wanting, maybe I will go buy all new furniture for our new house.....STOP ! TALK TO YOUR LENDER or REAL ESTATE AGENT before you make any new purchases or it can stop the purchase of your new home ! When you apply for a mortgage loan there are several factors in evaluating you, your credit worthiness and home loan application. One of the things the Lenders, underwriting will look at is your credit score, your credit score tells them how well you have managed your credit over the years, they will also look at your debt to income ratio. They will give you credit for all the verifiable income you have and look at what you have going out from that money. If you are over extended this will hurt your chances for obtaining a mortgage loan. That is why it is crucial to NOT run out and buy anything or at least until your lender tells you its okay. Use extreme caution and listen to the wisdom and advice of your lender and/or agent as they want you to be in your new home ! Don't get ahead of yourself through all your excitement. All the other things will come and will come in time. But get into your new home FIRST. Listen to your lender/agent, they will give you the green or red light, but you as a word of caution should always stay in yellow....

A simple over-view and rules to live by when purchasing your new home is :

Don't make any major purchases such as a new car, expensive electronics or appliance, or anything else that you cannot pay cash for. The extra payments may prevent you from getting a loan.

Don't move money from one account or investment to another. One of the things a lender is concerned about is the source of funds for your down payment and closing costs. The lender will ask for statements for the last 3 months for all your bank and investment accounts and even your company 401K and retirement accounts.

Lenders like to see what is referred to as "seasoned money", that is, money that has been accumulating in an account over a period of months or years. If your bank account has a large deposit that was made less than 3 months ago they may think the money was a loan from a relative who is trying to help you qualify for a loan. Then you will have to prove where the funds came from which can be a time consuming process.

Please, leave your money where it is until you talk to a loan officer. And don't move a significant amount around without letting the lender know about it in advance.

The reward for your patience is ohhh sooo bitter sweet !

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

Wordless Wednesday ~ The Hills Are Alive In Crossville TN ~

Melissa Grant Virtual Assistant (Virtual Office Systems) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 05:33:40 -0400

Melissa Grant
lissalgrant@yahoo.com
772-419-1369

Virtual Solutions Guru to the Entrepreneur Extraordinaire. Helping others reach for the stars in life and business.

" When Time is of the Essence "

Virtual Real Estate Solutions

Tips For Achieving Your Goals. Rome Wasn't Built In a Day, You Know.

Random Act of Kindness : Balloons to Heaven

38 Random Acts of Kindness - Balloons to Heaven !

Share a Prayer Please....For Missy Caulk's Son..Bob Stewart's Brother In Law

The Law of Attraction. The Seller gets what the seller Attracts !

Now that the defination of the " Law of Attraction" is understood let's ask the most concerning question you have as a seller :

" Why isn't my home selling ? "

Let's re-phrase what I hear, what your family or friends here :

" My house has been on the market for months, the market is horrible, nothing is selling, I am never going to be able to sell my house ". Oh well, maybe next year, or when the market picks up"

Wilshire Heights Condo For Sale in Fairfield Glade, TN. Condo #32

Crossville TN - The Best Kept Secret In Tennessee, Along The Cumberland Plateau

3148 Deep Draw Road, Crossville, TN 38555

Again I wonder...Where the hell is your agent???

Crossville TN Real Estate : Resort Style Living On the Cumberland Plateau.

Dear Diary - My Passion is.........

I Promise, You Don't Ever Want To Play Golf With Me. Why Do Men Torture Themselves With This Game ?

Wordless Wednesday ~ A kids Gotta Do, What A Kids Gotta Do.

Happy 40th Birthday Christina Williams. Forever in our hearts.

Things you shouldn't do while buying a home !

Wordless Wednesday ~ The Hills Are Alive In Crossville TN ~