If you’ve paid any attention at all to the news, local or national, you’ve probably heard the story about Kyle Fleischmann, a 24 year old that hasn’t been seen since early morning Friday, November 9th. It’s been 10 days and there’s still no sign of Kyle.
If you haven’t heard the story, you can get caught up on ABC News.
Also, as you’ll see a Facebook group was set up to help in the search for Kyle. If you’re not familiar with Facebook, now’s the time to get aquainted!
A MySpace group was also setup for the same reason. Again, a good time to become acquainted with MySpace.
Finally, Kyle’s friend setup a website specifically to help with the search for Kyle and you can find all the latest news updates and donate to the cause. The website is www.helpfindkyle.com.
Filed under Announcements, Charlotte NC, Life In the Carolinas by 
With Thanksgiving just a few days away, the SC Highway Patrol issued a list of items you should have as you set out on the roads:
- First-aid kit
- Flashlight
- Blankets
- Drinking water and snacks
- Flares
- Jumper cables
- An ice scraper if there is snow where you plan to travel.
Also, they suggest saving restroom breaks for designated rest areas. However, if you much stop at a convenience store or gas station, be aware of your surroundings and know that theives could be watching and waiting for an opportunity to strike.
So, be safe this week and have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Filed under Life In the Carolinas, Out and About in the Carolinas by
Yesterday in Raleigh, an 11-person committed voted unanimously to recommend that NC real estate agents provide written disclosure of bonuses they receive from sellers before their clients make a decision to buy a home. This recommendation will be presented as early as next month to the NC Real Estate Commission.
As you probably know, real estate agents earn a commission by helping either a buyer or seller with their transaction, typically 6% which is split 50/50 between the buyers and sellers agents. In some cases however, home sellers will often offer additional incentives ON TOP of the usual commission such as cash bonuses, cars, trips, or anything else of value.
The committees reason for approving this recommendation was to simply create some transparency in the transaction since it’s possible the agent could be motivated by the additional incentive.
According to the article in Charlotte Observer:
The bonuses, which are legal, are common in North Carolina, committee members said. They are used to help sellers move property in slow markets. “We see it as a way to make sure the broker is thinking of us as they do their home tours,” said committee member Hampton Pitts of Raleigh, a division president of Centex Homes.
Committee members worried, however, that buyers might be unaware of agents’ motivation in showing them properties.
“I think a buyer needs to know you’re steering them to a particular house because there’s some sort of bonus,” said Harriet Worley, an N.C. assistant attorney general in the consumer protection division.
I personally think it’s a fantastic idea since as a real estate agent it’s our responsibility to be your trusted advisor. If we’re not willing to disclose any additional compensation we could potentially receive as a result of your purchase, then my intentions aren’t in line with what I’ve committed to provide.
Filed under Carolina Real Estate, Charlotte NC, Fort Mill SC, Hiring An Agent, Home Buyers, Opinions, Rock Hill SC by
