THE HAPPY HOMES BLOG

Over 160 Denver families receive Thanksgiving meal from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty

homebuyerswarranty — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 17:52:11 +0000

Employees set new donation record for food drive: http://bit.ly/thT0Ek

Marketing, the Most Important Unimportant Part of Your Company

homebuyerswarranty — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:57:08 +0000

In tough times I have seen builders slashing their marketing budgets and laying off their Marketing Directors. Pick up the newspaper on the weekend and the Real Estate section is pretty thin and has few ads from Builders. The question I have to ask is... how do you expect to attract prospective home buyers into your sales / model center if you don't advertise? I'm not suggesting that newspapers are the answer, and surely the number of budget dollars dedicated to traditional print media has to be examined and measured against new media. There is an old adage in marketing that "Half of my adv ertising is effective, I just don't know which Half." I would counter that with a different reality. All your advertising works together as a whole. Each portion supports the other and should employ a strategic message across the spectrum. Print ads, radio, TV (if you have that kind of budget still), internet (I'll just lump it all together -- facebook, twitter, your web page, etc.), snail mail, and yes, even those flyers your sales agents take to the broker offices. They should all deliver the same message, with the same look and feel, to build on each other and form a stronger whole. If your marketing message is fractured and confused, what does that say about your company? Is anyone hearing your marketing message? Do they care? If you dumped your Marketing Director becuase the receptionist seemed kind of creative, it may be time to analyze what was lost when a planned marketing strategy disappeared from your business plan. Effective marketing is rarely about the number of marketing dollars, but it is about where and how those marketing dollars are put to use. Michael J. Kruszynski

A Happier Homeowner, an Opportunity for Profitability by Mike Bartosch

homebuyerswarranty — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 21:10:48 +0000

In 2010, more than three million home warranties were purchased nationwide—the greatest number to date (source: National Home Service Contract Association). In addition, the majority of warranties are purchased as part of a real estate transaction or subsequent renewal, which presents an interesting opportunity for agents. It’s clear that home buyers and sellers are finding increasing value in the peace of mind and confidence a warranty provides, especially at a time when the current economic climate warrants a greater focus on financial security. The takeaway for agents is that there is a huge opportunity to increase your chance of referrals and repeat business by building client confidence through offering sound warranty advice. To understand how home warranties can be a powerful tool for agents, it’s helpful to understand what a warranty is not. Offering a home warranty is not a guarantee of more clients or more listings. It is a line of protection, at a reasonable and affordable cost, that guards against breakdown due to normal wear and tear. It is a powerful confidence-builder and relationship-building tool for agents and their clients. Separate from homeowner insurance, home warranties give peace of mind with added protection and a smoother transaction for both the seller and buyer during a period of a sale. For clients selling their homes, putting “Home Warranty” on the “for-sale” sign can offer a significant competitive edge. While there is no guarantee of selling the home faster or at a higher price, studies indicate that homes sold with a warranty sell for 2.2 percent more and 15 percent faster, on average. In addition, research shows that a warranty increases the chance of selling the property by 29 percent (source: REALTOR Magazine). A warranty also helps sellers while the home is listed—at a time, especially in today’s economy, when the seller may not have the budget available for an unexpected repair cost. Not only does the warranty give buyers more confidence in their home, but the seller gets complimentary coverage during the listing period for up to six months. A commitment must be made to fund the warranty, but the payment does not have to be paid until closing (note: Not every warranty provider offers this option. 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty offers listing coverage complimentary for up to six months in most states). This also gives the seller budget protection, easing their concerns about an appliance or system breakdown during the time of listing. With a warranty in place from the time the home is first listed, a smoother transaction is ensured, with each party covered and fewer negotiations conducted during the period of sale, from contract to close. Warranties can build confidence with a buyer on a tight budget as well. According to Home Repair and Remodel, homeowners spend an average of $900 each year to repair home systems and appliances (source: Consumer Expenditure Survey 2002, U.S. Census). In addition, a home system or appliance repair can range from $65 to $2,000; a replacement averages $1,085 and can be as high as $6,000 to $10,000. The average life expectancy of nine critical appliances/home systems is 13 years, and the likelihood of failure of one of these systems in a given year is 68 percent (source: Home Repair and Remodel, Marshall & Swift L.P., 2004). An unexpected cost of a few hundred dollars is undesirable for all, and impossible for many who are allocating their existing funds into the purchase of their new home. With a warranty, buyers can confidently purchase their home knowing they’re protected and secured from closing day. Most homes need a repairman twice a year for household repairs. In the event of an appliance breakdown or other repair needs, a warranty also helps keep a client happy after the close of sale. Finding a trusted service person who can perform the job quickly and properly can be a daunting task for a homeowner living in a new and unfamiliar area. With a warranty, the homeowner has 24/7 access to a customer service representative who will quickly connect them with a licensed and trusted contractor. Clients who experience sound advice, a smooth transaction and a well-handled repair, should they need one, will translate into happy clients. As you work to maintain a strong relationship with your clients, a positive experience with their warranty is a key stepping stone toward increased referrals and repeat business. Home warranties can offer significant benefits and overall peace of mind to clients, but each warranty provider offers unique rules and limitations. Contracts can vary greatly in terms of the benefits they provide and the transparency with which they describe those benefits. Consider this quick checklist when reviewing coverage options with your client to ensure they’re choosing a solid provider and the best option possible, giving them confidence in your knowledge and their purchase decision: ▪ Is the company a legitimate provider? Consider a warranty provider that’s an NHSCA member, and one with a favorable Better Business Bureau rating. A warranty provider that’s been in the business for many years is also important. ▪ Is the contract written understandably? Your coverage should be outlined clearly, with limited jargon and legalese. ▪ Is the contract flexible? The most common warranty an agent will recommend to their client is a one-year systems and appliances contract. However, varying client needs require options. The warranty should be adaptable to the client’s needs, including pools or spas, septic tank protection in rural areas, and miscellaneous appliances. ▪ How is the customer service? In the event of a claim, a 24/7 call center, emergency service and clear disclosure of the service call process are a must. Look for a warranty provider with a high customer satisfaction rating and high percentage of claims paid. Remember also that if you are offering a home warranty to one client, it’s industry best practice to offer a home warranty to all clients. This will reduce your liability in the unfortunate event that something goes wrong. We encourage agents to have clients who decline a warranty sign a waiver to be sure the agent is protected. The warranty offer can also provide savings on E&O for the brokerage. It has been proven that E&O claims may be reduced some 60 percent by including a home warranty offering in your transaction, as many items in question in an E&O claim are covered items in a home warranty. For more information on home warranty options and how they can benefit your business, visit 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty’s online Agent Portal 2-10.com/agent. You can review your warranty activity with an online dashboard for all of your listings and closings. With 2-10 HBW’s customized materials, you can also keep up with clients and enhance your customer service and referral outreach. The recommendation of a warranty from a trusted provider will establish a strong relationship, aid in giving your seller or buyer a positive experience, and will empower them to make strong and confident choices as they work through what may be the largest transaction of their life. Offering your clients the proper education to make an informed decision means better service and in the end, a happy home purchase. Long Live Happy Homes! *This article was first published by and is being reprinted with permission from The Real Estate Professional, a publication of North American Consulting Group, Inc. therealestatepro.com.

Eight Lessons Learned from 10,000 Structural Claims – Part 1

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 21:53:47 +0000

By Walt Keaveny, MS, PE, PG Walt Keaveny is a specialist in risk management for 2-10 HBW, and has more than 25 years of experience in the engineering and home building industries, with a focus on new home warranties, claims and repairs. He has evaluated the data from over 10,000 structural claims and offers the following takeaways. *Article developed from a presentation by the same name to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) It’s a call that every builder hates to receive. A homeowner calling with sheetrock cracks across walls, doors and windows jammed shut, buckled floors, or siding, trim, and mold separation. Or worse, beams, roof structure or garage door lintels on the verge of collapse. Structural claims represent one of the greatest liabilities to a builder. The good news is that builders can manage this risk, protecting their financial well-being and hard-earned reputation. First, it’s important to understand the risk. A builder’s chances of experiencing structural claims are much higher than most believe and are about the same as experiencing a major household fire. Twenty-five percent of all U.S. homes will experience some structural distress during their lifetime, and 5% will experience major structural difficulties. With that risk in mind, the eight critical lessons learned from over 30 years of adjusting residential structural claims are: Lesson 1: The foundation is the greatest structural claim liability. Eighty percent of structural claims are caused by movement of the foundation. The remaining 20% are caused by framing-related deficiencies. Thus the foundation should be the builder’s primary area of focus. Lesson 2: Active soils and fill material are the two main causes of structural claims. Foundation claims are caused by movement of soils that support the foundation. There are two types of soils that cause this movement: active soils and fill material. Active soils (or expansive or swelling soils), cause more property damage in the U.S. than floods, earthquakes, hurricanes and tornadoes combined. Active soils contain clay that swells when wet and shrinks when dry causing volume changes. This can force houses to bend and tilt leading to distortion and damage. Fill material, placed under the foundation, can contain voids like a sponge that close when subjected to the load of a foundation. This causes settlement. Lesson 3: Most structural claims are reported between four and seven years after the sale of the home. For a typical 10-year warranty term only 30% of claims are received within the first four years after the sale. The remaining 70% are received after the fourth year, with peak claims activity occurring in years four through seven. Often builders don’t adequately reserve for claims that long after the sale. Although total home value losses are not common, structural claims are expensive and average $42,000 to investigate and repair. Lesson 4: The International Residential Code (IRC) and International Building Code (IBC) provide essential standards to reduce the risk of structural claims. Builders may be surprised to learn that from a construction standpoint it is very important to comply with the International Residential Code (IRC) and applicable sections of the International Building Code (IBC), or other equivalent code. Compliance with code is imperative to reduce builder liability and is also critical in construction legal defense. Stay tuned for part two in this series, in which Walt will share the remaining four lessons learned from 10,000 structural claims.

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty Proudly Announces New Regional Vice President

homebuyerswarranty — Wed, 06 Jun 2012 17:46:21 +0000

Suzanne Spencer to oversee Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions for New Home division 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® (2-10 HBW) announced today that Suzanne Spencer, former Regional Vice President for the 2-10 HBW Resale Division, has shifted her role to become the new Regional Vice President for the New Home Division. In this role, Suzanne will oversee sales efforts for the company’s Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions. Suzanne brings nearly 20 years of progressive leadership in the home building industry, including representation of publicly traded and privately held home builders. In her previous role as Regional Vice President for the Resale Division, Suzanne exhibited great growth her in markets, increasing home warranty sales over 30% from 2011. “We are excited to leverage Suzanne’s previous experience in the new home building industry combined with her already outstanding capabilities for the sales growth she’s exhibited in our Resale Division,” said Scott Zinn, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty. In addition to her management roles with two Fortune 500 companies, Suzanne managed sales and marketing efforts for Builders 1st Choice, based in Columbia, MD, where she developed and executed plans for 15 communities on behalf of Altieri Homes. Suzanne received her bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Maryland and holds a real estate license in Maryland.

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty Welcomes New Regional Vice President, Carolyn Ricketts

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 08 Jun 2012 16:38:59 +0000

Carolyn Ricketts to oversee Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty^® announced today that Carolyn Ricketts has joined the company’s Resale Division as Regional Vice President. In this role, Carolyn will oversee sales efforts for the company’s Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions. Carolyn brings over 28 years of experience in the real estate industry and a strong background in management. Prior to joining 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, Carolyn worked at a home warranty company as a regional manager where she built strong relationships with several Top 500 Real Estate Companies and launched a direct to consumer field program. “Carolyn’s industry experience and knowledge of the Mid-Atlantic marketplace will help continue to fuel 2-10 HBW’s growth,” said Scott Zinn, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty. “Her relationship building skills and track record make her a strong fit for this position.” Carolyn has shown great achievement in her past roles where she was named Rookie of the Year in 2007 and Manager of the Year in 2003 and 2009.

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty Announces New Vice President of Strategic Account Development, Bill Flack

homebuyerswarranty — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 14:28:24 +0000

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty^® (2-10 HBW^®), the industry leader in home warranties, announces Bill Flack as the new Vice President of Strategic Account Development for the New Home Division. Flack’s new role will focus on growing 2-10 HBW’s new Preferred Builder Program and Strategic Alliances. In his previous position, Flack was the Regional Vice President for the 2-10 HBW New Home Division where he managed the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions. Flack has worked for 2-10 HBW for over 19 years, building strong relationships with builders that will be an integral part of his new role. “Bill has been instrumental within his region in attracting and retaining some of the region’s best builders,” said Scott Zinn, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing for 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty. “In this role, Bill will utilize his expertise on a broader scale to help 2-10 HBW create strategic relationships across the nation.” Flack is a graduate of Florida State University with a degree in Political Science and Urban and Regional Planning. Prior to joining 2-10 HBW, he worked with several national mortgage banking operations; including BancBoston, Chemical Bank, and First Union.

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty is Announced as the Winner of the PCBC Parade of Products 2012 Award

homebuyerswarranty — Tue, 26 Jun 2012 17:18:01 +0000

2-10 HBW Going Green Warranty Wins Award

DENVER– June 26, 2012 – 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® (2-10 HBW®), the industry leader in home warranties, was announced as one of the winners of the Pacific Coast Builder’s Conference (PCBC) Parade of Products 2012 Award for their Going Green Warranty, a warranty product that is offered for new construction green building practices. The Parade of Products is an award program that gives exhibitors at PCBC the chance to showcase their innovative and ground-breaking products in rapid, three-minute presentations. Products are judged by a panel of industry professionals based on product description submissions. “With one in four homes now certified by green building standards, it was clear that there was a need to help protect and upkeep these standards with a targeted warranty program,” said Scott Zinn, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty. “We are very honored to receive this award and look forward to continue to provide innovative products and services to the new home building industry.” The 2-10 HBW Going Green Warranty is offered to certified green builders only, meaning that the homes they build must comply with either Energy Star, National Green Building Standard (NGBS), or Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards. Enrolling a home with the Going Green Warranty rewards builders who have gone the extra mile to satisfy home buyers’ desire for efficient, eco-friendly homes. The Going Green Warranty offers builders another opportunity to differentiate their homes from the competition and existing housing stock, as they meet high standards required to achieve certification. Included with the Going Green Warranty are repairs and replacements with approved contractors and like-kind Energy Star-certified products and appliances. In addition, coverage includes like-kind replacement of green-labeled carpets and pads, engineered wood products, sustainably harvested lumber, low/no emission finishes, and recycled products. Repairs are always in accordance with the applicable national certification standard. 2-10 HBW’s Going Green Warranty is an added product to the company’s existing leading home warranty packages, including the 1-2-10 and 10-year only offerings for new construction home builders. 2-10 HBW’s 10-year only structural warranty offers the most comprehensive, insurance-backed structural warranty defect coverage on the market. Under the 1-2-10 warranty, one-year surety coverage of workmanship and materials and two-year surety coverage on systems are added, increasing home buyers’ peace of mind. Builders and buyers can buy confidently, knowing the industry’s leading home warranty company has them covered. Check out 2-10 HBW’s presentation of their Green Advantage Warranty at PCBC in the San Francisco Moscone Center on Wednesday, June 27^th from 2PM – 3PM. Builders interested in enrolling in the Green Advantage Warranty program are encouraged to call 877.777.1344 for more information. About 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty^® For more than 29 years, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty has offered customers the most comprehensive warranty program available. Whether you’re building, selling or buying a home, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty offers a complete line of warranty, service contracts and risk management products. Since 1980, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty has provided warranties and service contracts for more than 5.5 million new and pre-owned homes. For more information about 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, please call (877) 777-1344 or visit www.2-10.com.

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When a structural warranty could have helped save the day...

homebuyerswarranty — Mon, 09 Jul 2012 20:29:14 +0000

When a structural warranty could have helped save the day: “Home builder files for bankruptcy, homeowners left with few options” Article pulled from 4 News WOAI, San Antonio, Texas "We knew there were issues around here [homeowner’s property],” Chadwick noted. “But, in my mind, I thought it's a Medallion Home, we're not going to have problems." Even with the highest standards and using a top-notch builder for your dream home, it’s no match against the forces of nature. When buying a new home, it’s important to ensure that your home is protected from the ground up. Look for a home warranty company that not only covers your home’s major systems and appliances, but one that covers structural damages due to natural soil movement. This homeowner and builder could have saved themselves time, money, and frustration. Here’s the full article…

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® Welcomes Account Executive Marisol Hawkins

homebuyerswarranty — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 19:39:09 +0000

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty^® (2-10 HBW^®), the industry leader in home warranties, announces Marisol Hawkins as a new Account Executive for the Resale sales team. Hawkins will cover the South Central Florida region for 2-10 HBW. As a previous real estate professional, Hawkins brings six years of experience selling new construction homes as a consultant for several builders and has studied business at Interboro Institute. Hawkins spends most of her time networking and looks forward to helping real estate professionals protect their clients’ homes. “Marisol brings great enthusiasm to this position and we look forward to leveraging her knowledge of the South Central Florida region,” said Stephanie Hart, Regional Vice President, Southeast Region at 2-10 HBW. “She has a great connection with the real estate community in her area, which will be an integral part of her success.” Hawkins is a member of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Orlando Regional Realtors^® Association. She is also a licensed real estate agent, NY Optician, and a certified yoga teacher.

Structural Claims: What You Should Know

homebuyerswarranty — Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Eight Lessons Learned from 10,000 Structural Claims – Part 2

homebuyerswarranty — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 19:28:32 +0000

By Walt Keaveny, MS, PE, PG Risk Manager, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty Walt Keaveny, is a specialist in risk management for 2-10 HBW, and has more than 25 years of experience in the engineering and home building industries, with a focus on new warranties, claims and repairs. In this second of a two-part article series, Walt shares the remaining four of eight key takeaways developed after evaluating the data from over 10,000 structural claims. *Article developed from a presentation by the same name to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Click here for Part 1 of “Eight Lessons Learned from 10,000 Structural Claims” In part one of this series, I addressed the foundation as the greatest structural claim liability, and focus on active soils and fill material as main causes of structural claims. I also shared when most claims are reported (between years 4 and 7), and building code standards to which builders should adhere to protect their craftsmanship and reputation, and avoid costly repairs. Here are four additional lessons learned from the evaluation of over 10,000 structural claims: Lesson 5: Geotechnical investigations can substantially reduce the risk of structural claims. Builders in some areas can cut their risk of structural claims by up to 50% by using geotechnical investigations. Investigations are needed for questionable soils, expansive soils, shallow groundwater table, deep pile and pier foundations, and for footings on fill material more than 12 inches in depth. Lesson 6: Active soils should be identified and considered in the foundation design. Design plays a major role in a home’s ability to resist volume change. Design options for active soils include removing active soil, stabilizing active soil, or designing for expected movement, such as extending foundation below active soil. Lesson 7: Fill Material should be compacted and tested per engineering specifications. Building on fill material without proper compaction can have serious negative implications. The amount of settlement that can occur is potentially unlimited and varies with the density, quality, consistency and thickness of the fill. It is important to note that even properly compacted fill can settle 1- 2% of the fill thickness. Thus a five-foot thickness of properly compacted fill may still settle more than one inch. Lesson 8: Rain water should be collected from the roof and drained well away from the foundation. Drainage away from the foundation is critical. Since expansive soils shrink and swell with moisture changes, good drainage can reduce moisture changes and thus prevent damaging shrink and swell cycles. Builders may choose to pass their warranty liabilities to a third-party home warranty company to effectively manage their risk and for added peace of mind. Be aware that in the warranty industry there are great differences between companies and products. The warranty should not exclude soil movement; otherwise it excludes 80% of structural claims. Also make sure the warranty provider is backed by a stable, reputable insurer and can offer a long track record, ensuring that provider’s ability to positively represent and protect the builder for the entire 10-year warranty term.

Dealing with the unsatisfiable customer

homebuyerswarranty — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 19:52:24 +0000

By Michael J. Kruszynski, Risk Management Specialist 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty Have you met the customer you just can't satisfy? I have dealt with quite literally thousands of home buyers, and there are a handful that stand out for being either entirely unreasonable or falling into the class of "a little knowledge is a dangerous thing." If I could write the chapter on customers to avoid in the Home Selling Rule Book, I would start that list with former builders from another market (state, region, country), attorneys (and yes, my best friend is an attorney), and anyone with an engineering degree--no matter what field. In my early days in the industry, I was learning how to build homes under a great project manager. One day a buyer came out to the job site and called me over to tell me we were using sub-standard wood in his home. He then proceeded to point at knots in the studs and tell me he was an engineer. I attempted to argue the point that most studs were going to have some knots in the wood. I took him through other homes under construction, both from my company and a few competitors. He wasn't buying it and kept telling me that he was an engineer and thus knew much more than I. Upon further questioning I discovered that he was a chemical engineer and didn't know the first thing about home building. He continued to be a problem customer all the way through the warranty period. How do you handle a customer that can't be satisfied? Do you utilize a third party to help with disputes? Most third party warranty companies will offer some level of assistance in dealing with these kinds of customers. In today's world, with social media, the unhappy customer has the ability to reach thousands of people via blogs, Facebook and LinkedIn. KB Home waged a war with a buyer that started a website called kbhomesucks.com. They went as far as offering to buy the home and website from him. Instead he chose to continue the battle and asked other buyers to post their stories. The question begs to be asked, could this have been avoided? I still believe the root of the problem lies in the difference between the builder's performance standards and the buyer's expectations. Do you give your buyers a written performance guideline to help set expectations? Do those standard meet the NAHB standards? You can never please everyone, but you can minimize the number of unsatisfiable customers.

Making The Case For Bad Soil

homebuyerswarranty — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 20:01:07 +0000

A 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® (2-10 HBW) claim story. About the builder A New Mexico Department of Energy Certified Builder strictly followed local building codes. The company built 8,800 homes over a 20-year period and prided themselves on being a community builder. They built homes in locations across New Mexico and had never received a claim. Even with this good claims history, the builder enrolled all of his homes in the 2-10 HBW program and provided a ten year insurance-backed structural defect warranty to his homeowners. This was a builder doing things the right way. You never see it coming After 20 claim-free years something happened. The builder received over 20 claims in one year with the bulk of the claims coming from a subdivision in central New Mexico. “Where did the builder go wrong?” The builder had conducted a geotechnical investigation of the soil prior to building; however, standard testing did not detect critical soil conditions. About four years after the homes had been built, the builder received notice that foundation damage was occurring in over 20 homes. The builder immediately filed multiple structural claims with the warranty insurer for the 2-10 HBW Warranty. The warranty insurer’s investigation revealed that soil settlement was occurring throughout the subdivision because subterranean water was entering the soil underneath the homes. This particular soil, known as hydro-collapsible soil, collapsed in the presence of water. The failure of the soil to support the load of the home resulted in extensive structural damage to each home. The rest of the homes in the subdivision were investigated and more signs of distress were revealed. Resolution Typically, 20 claims in one year would destroy the builder’s reputation and company. Fortunately, this builder was a 2-10 HBW builder member who had placed structural warranties on every home built. As a result, the warranty insurer for the 2-10 HBW Warranty program was able to pay for the repair of many homes. The builder avoided this expense because he had shifted risk to the warranty insurer. Over 30 claims have been received to date and many are still open and being investigated. To date, the warranty insurer for the 2-10 HBW Warranty program has incurred several millions of dollars in costs related to the settlement of these claims on behalf of the 2-10 HBW builder. Data collected from New Home Warranty Insurance Company

What is risk management and why do I need it?

homebuyerswarranty — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 20:24:43 +0000

by Nancy Migal, Account Executive 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty What is risk management? “This means that through certain procedures and ethical conduct, you the agent and the broker is looking to reduce exposure that will harm parties involved in the transaction.” From the American Heritage Dictionary. Why risk management?

Home buyers are tapped out and don’t have the money for repairs after coming up with a down payment as most are living paycheck to paycheck.
Homeowners spend an average of $900 each year to repair a home system and appliance.
Home buyers look at Realtors®/Brokers as those with “deep pockets.”
You work hard for your commissions; no one wants a “commission- ectomy.”

Four practices of risk management 1. Education

Recognize and deal with situations that most frequently result in litigation.
When you educate your clients about home warranties and the importance of home inspections, they are more likely to want them.
Remember a home warranty is a “limited” service agreement and does not cover everything, but can save your clients hundreds or even thousands if a system fails.
Encourage the client to read the home warranty contract*.
Let the client know they MUST call to place a claim before having a repair made.
Educate yourself! Know the warranty company you are working with and remember that terms and conditions differ from one company to the next.

2. Risk anticipation

Identify the source of potential problem; take necessary steps to prevent them.

3. Risk control

Notify your broker/manager as soon as you know of a dissatisfied client.
Be careful what you say about a property defect.
Document everything in writing; this is the most important step to protect yourself.
Disclose anything that may have come up in a previous home inspection.
Remember to extend home warranty listing coverage for a seller!

4. Risk shifting

Utilize every tool available to shift the risk from you to a third party.
Property Disclosures
E & O Insurance
Inspections
Home Service Contracts (home warranties)
Have buyers and sellers sign declinations or waivers if declining coverage

Summary Educating your clients and using the tools available will not only protect yourself but your buyers and sellers as well. Home inspections do not guarantee that systems will continue working after a closing. However, having a home inspection can help a home buyer rule out a pre-existing condition when a home warranty claim is made soon after the purchase. It is a good recommendation to also have a certified HVAC inspection done. Home warranty companies don’t require home inspections for home service contracts, but they can be a base line for determining whether a failure is pre-existing or not. It’s important to explain to your sellers that they can protect themselves by having a home warranty put in place at the beginning of the listing period. Not only will they get complimentary** coverage from most warranty companies, but they will be protected against a potential post sale dispute with a buyer when a failure occurs soon after a closing. *Coverage varies widely among providers. **Not available in some states.

Committing your seller, protecting your buyer

homebuyerswarranty — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 20:29:03 +0000

When it comes to the closing table, are your sellers committed, as agreed, to the purchase of the home warranty? Many home sellers see the benefit of putting a warranty on their home because of the competitive advantage it gives their property. However, it’s important to obtain legal confirmation from the seller to purchase the warranty at closing. This can help ensure that you, the real estate professional, don’t end up paying for the warranty out-of-pocket. How can this affect your business? As a real estate professional, a great portion of your business can come from referrals. Whether it’s a referral from a homeowner or a buyer, you want to ensure that all parties involved are happy with your services. With that said, misleading a buyer about who is paying for the home warranty at closing could affect their overall perception of how you do business. The Listing Stating in the listing that a home warranty is included with the purchase of the home on a listing service does not bind the home seller to purchase the home warranty. A home seller could offer the home warranty when the home sells at the full listing price, but once the price is lowered during negotiations, the seller could decide not to offer the home warranty. Also, most listing services have clauses that state "Information deemed correct, but not guaranteed.” How do you commit the seller? Including a statement of warranty coverage that outlines the seller’s commitment to purchase the home warranty at closing in the real estate contract can help clear any issues that might arise. This should save you from having to step up for the home seller and pay for the coverage.

Short Sales Best Practices

homebuyerswarranty — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 20:41:24 +0000

In recent years, the percentage of short sales has been on the rise, having grown from just 10% in 2009 to 24% in 2011. With that said, it’s important to understand best practices when embarking on the short sale business. The most difficult aspect of the short sale process comes from negotiating with the lender. It can be a slow and sometimes tough process, with individual lenders having their own special list of requirements, protocols and documentation. The paperwork can soon pile up and things can easily get on top of you; that’s why having a professional short sale negotiator is essential. The benefits of working with a short sale negotiator are enormous, as they are trained professionals who deal specifically with the banks so you don’t have to. In fact, they are often the sole point of contact when it comes to lenders, and they work with the banks to make the short sale work for all parties involved. To be more specific, the negotiator is authorized on an account (allowing them to communicate on behalf of the homeowner), before submitting the short sale package to the lender. The negotiator contacts the bank proactively to negotiate the deal, keeps a detailed log of all steps of the procedure (communication, documents filed, etc.) and informs everyone of the negotiation status. A short sale negotiator’s knowledge and experience is invaluable, as they have the ability and expertise to: • Refute a bank or lender’s assertions of current market value. • Escalate a short sale transaction to the correct individual or department within the lender organization. • Negotiate the release of all documents that affect the property, not just release of the lien(s). (Example: promissory notes and deficiency judgments) Why You Need a Short Sale Negotiator Here’s a list of some of the ways dealing with a short sale negotiator can benefit you: You save time and frustration. Instead of being held up in constant phone calls, being on hold or transferred to another department, or negotiating with loss mitigators, you’re able to put your time back into marketing, lead generating or creating new business, without having to worry about paperwork going awry or having to negotiate with lenders. Letting a professional handle all these details can save you from an unlimited litany of potential headaches. Negotiators have extensive knowledge and experience; as they deal exclusively with lenders to negotiate short sales on a daily basis. They understand the process inside and out, and have the training to get the job done without a hitch. They can also give you the benefit of their insider knowledge and expertise. When it comes to short sales, the process may seem simple on the outside, but to lenders it can appear to be a whole different ball game, so it’s best to trust a short sale negotiator. Efficiency and good results; did you know professional short sale negotiators are usually paid based on results? This means that they are generally well-motivated to work as efficiently as possible, and will generally get the job done quickly. Before embarking on a short sale, ask your seller if t hey have consulted an attorney and their tax advisor to make sure they understand the options available to them and the potential liabilities. Choosing a Negotiator It is best to let the seller choose the negotiator. If things don’t go well, then you won’t be at fault. However, often the seller lacks the experience so it is usually the agent that selects the negotiator. Of course, not all short sale negotiators are the same, so it goes without saying that you should be careful when it comes to selecting a negotiator that you’d like to work with. Look at their previous experience and track record. You might want to team up with an individual negotiator or a short sale negotiation company, but either way, you won’t regret it. How to deal with a demanding short sale negotiator If you find yourself having to deal with the many demands from a short sale negotiator who seems to be requesting item after item, and especially if the requests seem unusual, it’s often beneficial to find out more information about the reason for these requests. Sometimes it can seem like short sale negotiators are out to get you, but generally there is a good reason for these extra demands. Bear in mind there are a lot of players in short sale negotiations, such as the investor, the negotiator, and higher up, all the way to supervisors, management, and even the mortgage insurance broker. Each of these stakeholders may require additional documentation which can sometimes seem unusual. Even though it feels like you are going out of your way to meet a negotiator’s demands, it’s always wise to build a good, trust worthy relationship with your short sale negotiator. That way, you can get to the bottom of who is requesting what and the reason for the request.Especially if you are new to the short sale market, it’s a good idea to keep records of any challenging companies, investors, or mortgage insurance brokers, just so you can be a little more prepared for any problems that may crop up during a short sale. That way, when you get a last-minute request for some unusual or very specific documentation, you’ve already got a heads up from last time. Communication is key A key to maintaining a good relationship with your short sale negotiator is communication. Anyone who’s been there knows sales have been lost through lack of communication, either via a short sale negotiator, or miscommunication with the investor themselves. Due to the way the short sale system is set up, it’s important to remember that once you’re past a certain step, there’s no way of going back. For example, if an offer’s been submitted and you lose the buyer, you have to start from scratch. Problems will arise if, for example, you’re negotiating a short sale and the buyer’s lender comes back with more contingencies, but your negotiator has moved to the next stage of the process before consulting you. In this instance, if the sales process does not continue and close, the process has to be restarted all over again. Don’t learn this the hard way, make sure to maintain communication every step of the way with your short sale negotiator. Insurance Insurance can play a part in the negotiations, and be aware that every Errors and Omissions policy varies. Not all policies cover the short sale process. As you can imagine from the difficulties described, the process is ripe for future claims. If a negotiator fails to exercise reasonable care or performs in a way that does not conform to standards of practice, a seller may claim damages. Therefore, both listing and selling agents want to ensure their Errors and Omission insurance coverage is adequate. Payment Finally, the method of payment for short sale negotiators varies, and should be considered at the beginning of the process. As mentioned prior, most short sale negotiators work for a results-based income, but this will depend on whether they are an individual or working for a company. Determine up front how the negotiator will be paid; will they be paid commissions based upon the sale price, or are their fees fixed, similar to fees earned by title companies, or other settlement service providers.

INFOGRAPHIC: Think Like A Buyer

homebuyerswarranty — Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Eight of out ten home buyers think a warranty is important.

homebuyerswarranty — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 18:26:49 +0000

Grin knowing you’re covered by the industry’s most comprehensive structural warranty.

How To: Building A Referral Program

thorn — Thu, 01 Jan 1970 00:00:00 +0000

Building A Referral Program from HomeBuyersWarranty

INFOGRAPHIC Structural Claims: What You Should Know

homebuyerswarranty — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 14:51:39 +0000

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="612"] Structural Claims: What Should You Know[/caption]

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® Announces Halloween Photo Contest

homebuyerswarranty — Mon, 01 Oct 2012 15:09:58 +0000

DENVER, CO- 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® (2-10 HBW) announces a Halloween photo contest, “Don’t Let Old Appliances Come Back To Haunt You.” Homeowners can submit a photo of an appliance dressed up like a Halloween character for a chance to win $500 toward a new appliance of their choosing. The contest theme “Don’t Let Old Appliances Come Back to Haunt You” is a play on unforeseen appliance breakdowns that occur to homeowners after they move into pre-owned homes. The contest, which is running on Facebook, reinforces the need for a systems and appliances home warranty. Photo submissions will be open for voting. Participants are encouraged to use their Facebook accounts so friends and family can vote for their photo submission. Five submissions with the highest votes will be chosen and 2-10 HBW will conduct a private voting session to determine the winner. The winner will receive $500 toward a new, brand name appliance, which can be purchased through the 2-10 HBW appliance discount program. The contest runs October 1^st through October 31^st, 2012. For more information on the contest visit warranty.2-10.com/HAUNTEDAPPLIANCE.

Home warranty vs. home insurance: What's the difference?

homebuyerswarranty — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 21:31:53 +0000

A home is arguably the biggest and most significant purchase an individual or family will make in a lifetime. With a significant purchase comes a substantial list of questions, and one of the most common inquiries builders and real estate professionals will receive is: “What is the difference between my home insurance policy and a home warranty?” What a home insurance policy will protect Policies vary by provider, but generally speaking, a home insurance policy covers damage due to identified risk that are sudden or accidental, such as a fire or a natural disaster, like high wind due to a tornado. The damage may occur to personal property inside of the home or other major components of the building. How do insurance policies differ from home warranties? A home warranty other is a great option that fills in the gaps between insurance policies as they relate to a home’s systems and appliances. Separate from your homeowner's insurance, a home warranty for pre-owned homes covers repairs to major systems and appliances in your home that malfunction or break due to normal wear and tear. According to a Consumer Expenditure Survey from the 2002 U.S. Census, homeowners spend an average of $900 each year to repair their home’s systems and appliances. In addition, the average life expectancy of nine critical home appliances and systems is 13 years, and the likelihood of failure of one of these systems in a given year is 68%. (Home Repair and Remodel, Marshall & Swift L.P., 2004). A home system or appliance repair can range from $65 to $2,000, and a replacement averages $1,085. (Home Repair and Remodel, Marshall & Swift L.P., 2004) Home warranty protection also gives homeowners access to a trusted contractor for repairs.

INFOGRAPHIC: Think Like A Buyer

homebuyerswarranty — Thu, 04 Oct 2012 21:19:28 +0000

A Sense Of Security, A Happy Home

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 18:44:49 +0000

New Home vs. Resale Warranties Whether you’re a homeowner wanting to protect a valuable investment, a real estate agent or builder wanting to protect your reputation, a home warranty takes the stress out of home ownership by adding a sense of security. Separate from homeowner's insurance, a warranty covers major systems and appliances that malfunction or break due to normal wear and tear, as well as the foundation on which a home is built. When considering protection options for your home, it is important to look for one that offers structural defects, systems and appliances coverage. With 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® (2-10 HBW®), when a covered system breaks down, a claim can be placed online or via phone, and 2-10 HBW will promptly dispatch a contractor to make the repair. Warranties limit the repair cost, remove the hassle of finding a trusted contractor and, in the event that a system or appliance cannot be fixed, replace the item in question to comparable or better quality. Warranties can also extend to other areas of the home, including structure and workmanship. What a warranty covers will vary based on a few factors; first, it will depend on whether the home is newly built. Structural Warranties With newly built homes, builders frequently offer home buyers a structural warranty, or home buyers may request them. The most important factor to consider is that there are many options. For a builder or homeowner, a warranty from a solid, insurance-backed provider gives you a contract that’s clearly defined and 24/7 customer service for questions or claims. For builders, a warranty offers a strong position in the market that differentiates your business. 2-10 HBW offers a 10-year structural warranty for new homes that includes insurance-backed structural defect coverage on qualified load-bearing components, starting from the day of closing. This is the most-used and best-recognized warranty in the business. 2-10 HBW also offers one-year and two-year surety coverage on new homes. These cover workmanship for one year and systems (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) for two years respectively, should the builder be unable or unwilling to fulfill their warranty obligation. 2-10 HBW offers comprehensive coverage for the majority of newly constructed home types. Resale Warranties Provided at the closing of sale via seller or real estate agent resale, systems and appliances warranties typically cover the repair or replacement of the most frequent and likely home system and appliance breakdowns, including major systems (furnace, hot water heater, air conditioner, plumbing and electrical systems) and major appliances (refrigerator, oven, dishwasher, built-in microwave, disposal, trash compactor). Resale warranties can help real estate agents differentiate listings and give buyers confidence in their purchase. Free listing coverage* from 2-10 HBW gives a home protection while it’s on the market. Ultimately, a resale warranty transfers the risk and adds security to a home to ensure a smooth transaction and happy homeowner. More than 30 years. More than 5.5. million homes. 2-10 HBW offers three decades of solid claims history, an unmatched reputation and the most specialized experience in the business, not to mention the best coverage. 2-10 HBW also offers the most comprehensive and competitively priced warranties available, nationwide. For more information on warranty offerings and interactive demos, visit www.2-10.com. *During the listing period with a commitment to purchase buyer’s coverage at the time of closing. Not available in FL or CA.

The Trick (or Treat) to Pumpkin Carving

homebuyerswarranty — Tue, 16 Oct 2012 17:06:46 +0000

Celebrate fall with hand-carved pumpkins! Finding the right pumpkin. Look for a large pumpkin that is lighter in color, which tend to be softer and easier to carve. Carving tools. Use a small knife with a short serrated blade to carve and a large spoon to scrape out the pumpkin seeds and pulp. No seed left behind. Put your pumpkin seeds aside for baking (a great treat to eat). Design. Draw your design directly on the pumpkin with a marker or print and cut out a design to tape to the pumpkin. For patterns, visit www.pumpkinlady.com. Keep it fresh. After carving your design, sprinkle cinnamon on the bottom of the pumpkin to keep it smelling fresh. Light it up. For a safer option, purchase a small battery operated flameless candle to light up the pumpkin. Reminder: Always keep safety in mind and supervise children when using carving knifes. ROASTED PUMPKIN SEEDS Ingredients

1 1/2 cups raw whole pumpkin seeds
2 teaspoons butter, melted
1 pinch salt
Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C)
Toss seeds in a bowl with the melted butter and salt. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown; stir occasionally

Directions

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C)
Toss seeds in a bowl with the melted butter and salt. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown; stir occasionally

Recipe courtesy of allrecipes.com

RECIPE: Homemade Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

homebuyerswarranty — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 15:56:54 +0000

Thank someone special this month with homemade pumpkin chocolate chip cookies. We've made them ourselves--we can attest to their deliciousness! Here's what you'll need: Recipe

1 (14 ounce) can 100% pure pumpkin
2 eggs
1/2 cup applesauce
2 cups milk chocolate chips, not semisweet (optional)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (18.25 ounce) package spice cake mix
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease two baking sheets. 2. Beat the pumpkin, eggs, applesauce, and vanilla together in a large mixing bowl. Stir in the cake mix, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and chocolate chips (optional) until well blended and creamy. 3. Drop by the spoonful on prepared baking sheets. 4. Bake in preheated oven until tops are firm when lightly touched, 8 to 10 minutes. Cool on racks.

Selling a service: The attainable, intangible sale.

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 16:16:19 +0000

While services are very much a needed commodity, intangibility is a unique challenge that businesses face. There are a few key areas that can be focused on to help make the decision for a potential customer easy: why the company offers the service, what the service can do for a potential customer’s business and how the service works. Why was the service created? Most service products are created for one specific type of customer, unlike mass produced tangible products that can easily tweaked and mass marketed. For example, before home warranties were developed, homeowners of newly constructed homes were having quality issues with their homes and having to fight with their builder to get repairs made. Performance guidelines needed to be put in place to protect homeowners and legal documentation was needed to protect the builder from being sued; which is what a home warranty can help do. This is the opener to the story of the product. What does the service do for a potential customer’s business? Efficiency is one of the greatest benefits that a service can add to a business mix. They can save a customer time instead of doing the leg work themselves and/or money from having to pay an in-house salaried employee to do it. Potential customers can also benefit from a service product as they offer a personalized experience and are focused on relationship building. In most cases, services assign a representative or account manager to a customer (company) who takes the time to understand and know your business. This gives the service personality and makes it more relatable. For example, instead of referencing a warranty company as 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty®, it’s referenced as John from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty. How does the service work? The story has been built up; a need has been created for the service. This is where a run-down of the service is explained. Many service products offer tangible products as well as an added benefit, such as marketing materials to help educate consumers. In most cases, the materials help to highlight why a consumer should go with that particular company because of the added benefit of the service product. This helps put the potential customer at ease knowing they have materials they need for implementation of the service product. Answering the questions above can help in developing the persuasive case for the service product being sold. Whether intangible or tangible product, there is a story to be told.

What you should know to make your business more efficient

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 16:20:53 +0000

TOP 10 CALLBACKS On average, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty handles over 500 calls weekly and an average of 3,278 written complaints over the past 2 years from homeowners on behalf of builder members. With that said, we’ve picked up a few valuable insights for you along the way. 1. PAINT Paint coverage, poor washability, splatters, smears and poorly-matched colors are the top calls we receive. 2. DRYWALL Calls relating to cracks in plaster, gypsum wallboard or other drywall materials are also common. These cracks appear when wood framing moves. 3. NAILS Nail pops are often an issue. Shrinkage in framing lumber or improper fastening is the culprit here. 4. WINDOWS Leaks are frustrating and often tough to fix. 5. ROOFING Leaks where shingles butt against a wall or around chimneys, skylights and vents are a frequent complaint. 6. PIPES Sheetrock nails have often punctured water lines causing leaks from water supply. 7. BASEMENTS/CRAWLSPACES Leaks here are a big headache for customers. Often the causes can be one of the following: low foundation elevation, poor grading, substandard or marginal materials used in moisture barriers, no gutters or downspout extensions, and no or improperly installed foundation drains. 8. IMPROPER SURFACE DRAINAGE We’ve responded to issues resulting from flat or negative drainage around foundations and standing or ponding water in swale. 9. HARDWOOD FLOOR MOVEMENTS Crowning, cupping, open joint or separations of hardwood floors are a headache for customers. The culprit? Fluctuation in relative humidity levels of the home causes wood to expand and contract. 10. VINYL FLOORS Hardwood isn’t the only surface that causes complaints. We also hear about nail pops, depressions, ridges, or seams in resilient floors.

Listing best practices--which home would you buy?

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 16:33:12 +0000

While the housing market appears to be warming up, it is still important to set your listings apart . The key to turning a listing into a closed deal is to have your seller change their thinking. If you can get the seller to think like a future buyer, odds are good that you can turn your listing into a paycheck quicker. Getting the seller to think like a buyer starts with helping them understand how buyers search for and find homes to purchase. Once a seller realizes the importance of not only having a top-notch real estate professional with a strong marketing plan, but also recognizes the value of properly packaging the property, they are beginning to understand that the buyer is a crucial part of the process. A Strong Marketing Plan Experienced real estate professionals will provide a comprehensive marketing plan and will help their sellers understand that the days of putting a house in the MLS, sitting back, and waiting for it to sell itself are over for the foreseeable future. After all, how do buyers find houses? Today, buyers find them through a number of different places. Traditional marketing, like the MLS, sign, and open houses are crucial. In addition, they might find a house on Craigslist or Facebook. A Warranty How are you going to make your listing competitive so a buyer makes a compelling offer? While there are a number of ways that a house can be made more attractive, one of the best ways to add value is to offer a home warranty. A home warranty provides coverage on most of the home’s major systems and appliances. If a covered item breaks, the warranty company sends out a service provider and pays for the repair*. This is one of the benefits listing coverage provides. Very few sellers realize when they purchase a home warranty when the home is on the market, they are covered as well. With closings costs and the cost of buying a new home, no seller wants to incur additional charges while their home is on the market. Homes with a warranty sell for a higher price for two reasons. The first—they include an additional valuable feature. The second reason is subtler. A warranty can give the home an implied higher degree of quality and could potentially be a smarter and safer buy than one without a warranty. On average, warranted homes sell for 2.2 percent more than unwarranted homes. At a median housing price of around $200,000, this means that a warranty adds $4,400 in value, which is much more than the actual cost of the warranty.

DIY PROJECT: A very thankful Thanksgiving tree

homebuyerswarranty — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 20:04:24 +0000

This homemade tree is the perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving dinner table. It will also help remind you of what you’re thankful for this holiday season. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

A tall, slim vase
Tall sticks (you can find these easily in your backyard)
Small acorns or other decorative material to fill the vase
Construction paper
Markers
Yarn
Hole puncher

Instructions

: Image from http://blog.jadabugs.com/2012/11/02/craft-thanksgiving-tree/

Using the construction paper, draw or trace out the shape of leaves. Cut out the shapes.
Write something you are thankful for on each leaf.
Punch holes at the end of each leaf.
Cut 4 inch strips of yarn and tie them through the hole punches.
Tie the leaves to the stick. Be sure to spread them out to make it look like an actual tree.
Fill your vase with acorns and put the stick in the vase. The acorns will help to hold your tree in place.
Voila! Your centerpiece is ready to be admired.

More than 150 denver families will a receive thanksgiving meal this year from 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty®

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 16 Nov 2012 20:12:42 +0000

2-10 HBW Employees continues to show their support for the Rocky Mountain Human Services food drive DENVER, CO –Employees at 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, the industry leader in home warranties, recently combined resources and stacked office hallways in an effort to support the annual Rocky Mountain Human Services, formerly Denver Options, Thanksgiving food drive, benefiting local families in need. Now in its fourth year, the food drive at 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, which was conducted November 5th –15 th, challenges each floor in an inner-office competition to see who can collect the most in food and monetary donations. The collection ended with meals for 156 families (606 individuals) supported through Rocky Mountain Human Services, along with extra food items donated to the Homeless Veterans Program, run through a grant from the Veterans Administration. Rocky Mountain Human Services is a nonprofit organization that helps adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing services to help each individual maintain optimum health and explore his or her interests. The annual Rocky Mountain Human Services Thanksgiving food drive collects food to help families in need enjoy a Thanksgiving meal. “Every year I am amazed at the support from the 2-10 HBW family in collaboration with Rocky Mountain Human Services,” said Marni Vincent, Direct Sales Supervisor for 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty. “With Rocky Mountain Human Services as our neighbor, it means a lot us to see the direct and significant impact we have on our local community.” About Rocky Mountain Human Services Options: Rocky Mountain Human Services is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that assists approximately 6,000 individuals throughout the state of Colorado. In 2012, we are celebrating our 20th anniversary and name change from Denver Options to Rocky Mountain Human Services to reflect the expansion of our services throughout Colorado and our goal to serve vulnerable populations throughout the Rocky Mountain West families manage the demands of care giving and navigate funding resources. For more information, visit www.denveroptions.org. About 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® For more than 30 years, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty has offered customers and their homeowners the most comprehensive warranty program available. Whether you’re building, selling or buying a home, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty offers a complete line of warranty, service contracts and risk management products. Since 1980, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty has provided warranties and service contracts for more than 5.5 million new and pre-owned homes. For more information about 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, please call 800.795.9595 or visit www.2-10.com.

Warm holiday cheer: furnace maintenance

homebuyerswarranty — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 23:30:33 +0000

It’s the holiday season and you’re having guests over to celebrate. Ensure they aren’t left out in the cold because of a malfunctioning furnace. Here’s a quick tip to heat things up: Check your furnace filters on a monthly basis. A clogged filter can lead to an over-worked furnace, which uses more energy, raises your heating bill, and can be a fire hazard. Also, if you have pets in your home or smoke tobacco you will probably need to change your filter more often. Unsure if your filter needs to be changed? Hold your filter up to a light bulb. If you can’t see a clear outline of the bulb, it’s time to change the filter. And remember, changing a filter is a lot less expensive than replacing a blower motor or, worse, having to buy a whole new furnace.

The systems and appliances home warranty defined

homebuyerswarranty — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:36:20 +0000

Do you know what a systems and appliances home warranty covers? Whether you're buying or selling a home, adding protection to your systems and appliances can save you time and relieve you from post-closing headaches.

Listing best practice: Think like a buyer

homebuyerswarranty — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 16:39:42 +0000

[caption id="attachment_349" align="alignleft" width="588"] When it comes to selling a home, thinking like a buyer
may help you sell your home faster and for a higher price.[/caption]

Tips for making happy homeowners return customers.

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 15:19:30 +0000

The hardest part about selling a home isn’t always attracting customers; it is keeping your homeowners happy beyond the sale. According to a study released by the U.S. Small Business Administration and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, businesses lose their customers for these reasons: - 68% leave because they are upset with the treatment they received - 14% are dissatisfied with the product or service they purchased - 9% begin doing business with the competition While some customers may seem difficult to satisfy, with a well-developed communication plan there are steps you can take to initiate a high level of customer service and earn repeat business. Be a clear winner among the competition.

Initial Contact
1. Your website. Your website and third party listing sites are valuable tools to help educate potential and current buyers. According to a survey commissioned by Prudential Fox & Roach, 42 percent of home buyers said they found the home they purchased online. Could someone easily find answers to questions they may have about your company and products offered? When an educated buyer contacts you, they are more likely closer to a purchase decision than those who haven’t had their questions answered
2. Brag about your expertise. Leveraging your website, social media efforts (Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn) and email marketing channels are great ways to reach potential buyers with content that can help to establish yourself as a subject matter expert. The right content can also act as a resource for their buying decision.
3. Building your case. Leading with your services can hinder the ability to develop a working relationship with a buyer. Instead of telling them what you offer, ask what they’re looking for. Understand their needs first, then explain how your services help fill those needs.
4. The Search
  1. Take the lead. Your buyer has agreed to work with you—but it’s not over yet. At this stage, it’s important that you take the lead in keeping your client in the loop. Utilize your available communication tools (email, in-person meetings, direct mail or phone) to keep your customer informed throughout the buying process. Your buyer will have more realistic expectations the more engaged and informed they are which could help solve any future disputes.
  2. Beyond the Closing
    1. Checking in. Contact with your buyer shouldn’t stop after the home closes. Take the initiative to check in with your buyer at least 30, 60 and 120 days after closing. You can better support any issues they may have as well as use the opportunity to ask for referrals.

Today’s buyer will remain in their home an average of 5-7 years. By providing an exceptional customer service experience from the initial contact, you will create buyers that will provide you with repeat business and referrals.

Builders: Tips for making happy homeowners into return customers.

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 15:25:42 +0000

Initial Contact
1. Your website. Your website is a valuable tool to help educate potential and current buyers. Can someone easily find answers to questions they may have about your company and products offered? Today, most buyers are doing online research before spending money, and when an educated buyer walks into your sales center, they are more likely closer to a purchase decision than those who haven’t had their questions answered.
2. Brag about your expertise. Leveraging your website, social media efforts (Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn) and email marketing channels are great ways to reach potential buyers with content that can help to establish you as a subject matter expert. The right content can also act as a resource for their buying decision.
3. Sales team. A home is likely the largest investment your buyers will ever make— which is why it’s important your sales staff is properly trained. Leading with features and benefits can hinder the ability to develop a working relationship with a buyer. Instead of telling them what you offer, ask what they’re looking for. Understand their needs first, and then explain how your product or service can help fill those needs.
4. Construction
  1. Take the lead. Your buyer has signed on the dotted line—but it’s not over yet. At this stage, it’s important that you take the lead in keeping your home buyer in the loop. Utilize your available communication tools (email, in person meetings, snail mail or phone) to keep your customer informed throughout the construction process. Your buyer will have more realistic expectations the more engaged and informed they are which could help solve any future disputes.
  2. After and Beyond the Closing
    1. Checking in. Contact with your buyer shouldn’t stop after the home closes. Take the initiative to check in with your buyer at least 30, 60 and 120 days after closing. You can better support any workmanship issues they may make note, and this is an opportunity to ask for referrals. Also, before their first year of homeownership is up, reach out to the buyer at 9 months and again at 11 months to ensure any workmanship claims were completed to the satisfaction of the homeowner.

Air Force pilot saved by home warranty

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 11 Jan 2013 15:28:07 +0000

Jim Startzman, a Broker Associate, included a 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® Systems and Appliances Warranty on a home he sold to an Air Force pilot. Before closing, the home was inspected and all systems and appliances were found to be working correctly and there were no pre-existing conditions. Four weeks after closing on the home, the homeowner noticed that the air conditioner had stopped producing cold air. Since the home had a warranty on it, the homeowner sent in a claim to 2-10 HBW to have a service provider inspect the problem. After inspection, the service provider found that only the compressor needed to be replaced to fix the issue. The service provider sent in his recommendation for repairs to 2-10 HBW for review so they could determine what is covered under the warranty and how to proceed. To Jim and the homeowner’s surprise, 2-10 HBW decided to replace the air conditioner with an entirely new one. “I was so impressed with the level of service that 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty gave my client,” said Jim in response to 2-10 HBW’s resolution to the claim. The homeowner was so pleased that the process was quick and easy to deal with, especially with his busy schedule as an active duty service member. Jim has worked with other home warranty companies where he has had to step in with the homeowner and fight with the company to get their claim serviced. “It was so refreshing to work with a home warranty company that actually does what they say. For me, it’s not about the money; it’s about the client and ensuring that they enjoy their new home. “

A structural warranty pays off for a Nevada home builder.

homebuyerswarranty — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 16:00:12 +0000

ABOUT THE BUILDER A custom home builder, building million dollar homes in Nevada, always conducted an independent geotechnical investigation on the lots purchased from land developers. This builder had been building homes for approximately four years without any claims. Even with a good claim history, the builder enrolled 70 homes in the 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® (2-10 HBW) Structural Home Warranty program and provided a 10 year third party insurance-backed structural defect warranty to their homeowners. This was a builder doing things the right way. YOU NEVER SEE IT COMING After approximately four claim-free years, while ensuring proper soil compaction, something happened. The builder received a claim on two of the homes built, only eighteen months after being constructed. One of the homes was reported to have severe structural damages, even after the preconstruction geotechnical investigation had shown 97% soil compaction. How did this happen? Unbeknownst to the builder, below the 3 feet of structural fill on the lot, there was 40 feet of poorly compacted fill that contained extensive pockets of expansive clay. During the analysis of the home’s damage, the engineer concluded that the home could experience additional settlement as great as 1.5 feet, aggravating the home’s already racked doors, and cracked drywall and stucco. RESOLUTION Fortunately for this builder, the home was enrolled in the 2-10 HBW Structural Home Warranty program. As a result, the warranty insurer investigated the home and developed a plan to make repairs, which required the installation of almost two dozen piers to a depth of 30 feet. Structural and cosmetic repairs totaled well over $200,000. The builder’s business survived and the homeowner’s home was repaired in large part because of the structural warranty provided by 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty.

Four questions to ask to be successful in 2013.

homebuyerswarranty — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 18:49:17 +0000

1. Are my goals SMART? Making SMART goals – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely – is the first step in making them easier to achieve. Specific – Increase your chances of accomplishing your goals by making them specific and expressing them in positive terms. Measurable – Establishing deadlines will help you evaluate your progress and keep you on track, bringing you one step closer to reaching your goals. Attainable – Make sure you have the resources necessary to achieve your goals. Once you identify your goals, tasks will reveal themselves. Realistic – Honestly evaluate the goals you set out to accomplish and make sure you are both willing and able to work for your goals. Timely – Create a sense of urgency by setting a time frame and develop a plan of action. 2. Do my goals match my values? If your goals don’t reflect your beliefs and character, then you’ll have difficulty achieving them. Set goals that are meaningful to you and be clear about the consequences of the outcome. 3. Will you help me? Ask for support. Sharing your goals with a few supportive, positive people is key to your progress. 4. Am I prepared? Preparation is everything and can help eliminate the frustrating and time consuming “running around” that can derail your progress later on. Studies have shown that you will save 10 minutes in execution for every minute that you invest in planning or goal setting.

The must-have checklist when buying a new home.

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 21:00:32 +0000

Purchasing a home is likely one of the largest investments you’ll likely ever make, and you’ll want to ensure the home’s major systems and appliances are working properly. Here are a few tips to help give you a better understanding of what to look for during your home inspection. Heating system Most common break: heat exchanger Did you know that most home inspectors don’t check, or are not qualified, to inspect the heat exchanger? The heat exchanger is a critical element to the heating system, and one that is commonly overworked. It’s recommended to hire a licensed HVAC technician to certify the entire system. A furnace certification goes beyond the general “clean and check”, but rather tests the heat exchanger for leaks and cracks. It’s a common misunderstanding that a crack in the heat exchanger will prevent the furnace from functioning, which is not the case. Cracks must become severe in nature before a furnace will become inoperable. Air conditioner Most common break: evaporative coils The majority of air conditioner problems come from inadequate ventilation from the exhaust (back) side of the unit. Take extra precaution when having this system inspected by having a temperature differential test performed. A good result for this test should show a ratio of 16/21 degrees. Also, be aware of any recent invoices from the seller indicating “Freon added,” which could indicate a leak in the system and should be questioned. Appliances Did you know that when it comes to a home inspection, most appliances are excluded? Test each appliance in the home by having them run a full cycle. The dishwasher, for instance, may turn on and seem like it’s working, but having it run a full cycle can help to ensure the spray pumps, arms and drain hoses are working properly. Plumbing systems Most common break: Hot water heater When working with a home inspector, be sure to have them check the water pressure on the hot water heater; signs of rust are a good indicator that there could be issues in the future. Electrical system Is the service panel up to code? More specifically, if the service panel is labeled “Federal Pacific,” it will need to be replaced as this brand has been banned due to a defect linked to electrical fires. Age matters. Knowing the age of the systems and appliances in your home can help determine what sort of warranty plan is needed, and save you time and money. Many home warranty plans offer different coverage options for repairs and replacements that might arise through the course of homeownership. Be sure and select a company and plan that best fits the needs of your systems and appliances.

Case Study: Natural clay destruction

homebuyerswarranty — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 22:13:36 +0000

ABOUT THE BUILDER A Maryland custom home builder was a 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® (2-10 HBW) builder member for 16 years and built 300 homes during that period. The average home price ranged between $400,000 to $500,000. YOU NEVER SEE IT COMING Of the 300 homes the builder enrolled in the 2-10 HBW Structural Home Warranty program, one of the homes experienced a structural defect claim. The home was only 4 years old when the structural defect occurred. During the analysis of the home, large cracks in the brick veneer, interior drywall, and garage doorway were found in addition to a portion of the garage slab. The concentrated distress suggested that the problem was confined to one section of the home. However, the distress was serious enough that temporary shoring was required and installed. How did this happen? Even though the builder properly compacted the soil, the geotechnical investigation found that the home had been built over a buried natural drainage ravine where native clays had consolidated due to groundwater build up. RESOLUTION Since the builder and home were enrolled in the 2-10 HBW Structural Home Warranty program, with the help of the warranty insurer, a plan to repair the home’s structure with the installation of piers for the entire foundation was developed. The warranty insurer paid out approximately $100,000 for the repairs and installation costs.

March to the beat of Spring.

homebuyerswarranty — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 15:27:51 +0000

You’ll be singing a different tune about Spring cleaning when your home is prepped with the necessary supplies. Here are a few essentials that you’ll need: INDOORS Storage containers: Have an extra stock handy to help organize your closets. New toilet brush: Are you rinsing and cleaning after every use? If not, it may be time to consider purchasing a new one. Baking soda: This can be used to make several homemade cleaners. Arm length rubber gloves: While you might be up to your arms in dirt and dust, with these you can at least protect them. Batteries: Spring is a great time to check the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors...safety first! Extra trash bags: You may not realize how many you go through while cleaning every room in your house. OUTDOORS Caulk: Over time, the seals around your doors and windows can become damaged from being exposed to the extreme hot and/or cold weather. Paint: For more than just aesthetics, it also protects your home’s exterior from the elements. Scrub brushes: Use to scrub and freshen up patio furniture.

Overflowing with tips to keep your drains from clogging.

homebuyerswarranty — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 15:32:18 +0000

Are your pipes draining as slow a slug? Try… Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by a cup of vinegar. Wait three hours and flush the mixture with hot water. Keep it fresh Try… Put thinly sliced citrus peels down your garbage disposal to give it a fresh scent. This is also a great way to get rid of any residue on your blades. Preventative maintenance Try… Flush your drain with a kettle of boiling water once a week. First, only use half of the kettle, then wait five minutes and pour the rest down the drain. A deep cleanse Try… Mix 1 cup of baking soda, 1 cup of salt and ¼ cup of cream of tartar. Pour a ¼ cup of the mixture into each drain and follow with 2 cups of boiling water.

An interview with first-time home buyers

homebuyerswarranty — Sat, 16 Mar 2013 00:15:28 +0000

Meet Josh and Kristi, newly engaged, first-time home buyers. We’re following the couple on their journey to find the perfect home. Follow their story as we document the process from the beginning of the search thru closing, and maybe even up to their wedding day. 2-10 HBW: Josh, what were some expectations you had coming into the home buying process? Josh: I expected it to be a lot easier than it has been. Things have been coming up that I didn’t expect and certainly wasn’t prepared for. For instance, while going through the loan process I ran into an issue with my tax paperwork. I was instructed by our loan officer to call the IRS to obtain the appropriate documentation so everything could be sorted out, which was a headache I would have liked to avoid. When I heard that there was an issue with my taxes, I immediately feared that we weren’t going to be able to move forward with the home buying process, which worried my fiancée and me. Knowing that there were a limited number of homes on the market, we had to make an effort to see any home that matched our criteria, 3 bedrooms, 2 baths and a 2-car garage. We have been concerned that we will have to compromise on what we are looking for in order to make the move before the lease ran out on our apartment. 2-10 HBW: What expectations did you set for your real estate agent? Did you have specific criteria? Josh: I was expecting to go through the loan process in more detail. After getting more serious about making a purchase we found that the questions were all thoroughly answered by our loan officer, but our [Realtor^®] was able to provide the essentials if we requested them. Before our questions were answered by the loan officer, we were concerned that we were being shown homes that we couldn’t ultimately afford. This was very discouraging because we didn’t want to find a house that we really wanted and then not be able to move forward. We were shown a couple of homes that were out of our price range, but it was later explained to us by our [Realtor^®] that he wanted us to get a sense of what was available. 2-10 HBW: How many houses were you expecting to look at before you found the right one? Josh: I was anticipating anywhere from 20-30. So far, we’ve looked at nine houses. 2-10 HBW: What were some characteristics about the houses you looked at that deterred you from considering them? Josh: There were three issues that we came up against. First, at least half of the homes we looked at needed a considerable amount of repair work in order to be in move-in condition. We were prepared to work on the home, but much of the work either had to be professionally done or would cost a considerable amount of money. Secondly, some of the homes we looked at just didn’t really appeal to us, even if they were in move-in condition. We both were waiting for that “ah’ha” moment to hit us when we found the right home. Lastly, we really wanted a master bathroom and we couldn’t believe how many homes didn’t have that feature or even a bathroom on the main level. It was frustrating to find a house online that we liked, and when we went to look at, we found that it didn’t have a master bathroom or main level bathroom. 2-10 HBW: Was there anything the listing agent or your agent could’ve suggested or done to help sway you? Josh: We talked about doing a 203K loan, which would allow us to build the money needed to improve the home into the loan. As for now, our search continues, and the more houses we look at, the better an idea we’re getting on what we want. Stay tuned as we continue to follow Josh and Kristi on their search...

Implied vs. Written Warranties: Do you know the difference?

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 05 Apr 2013 15:41:44 +0000

ARE YOU PROTECTED?Implied warranty laws are subject to vague and unpredictable interpretations that can vary from one court decision to another. Using an express limited warranty that disclaims all implied warranties eliminates this uncertainty,and helps set a buyer’s expectations.
IMPLIED WARRANTIES		WRITTEN WARRANTIES
Created by legislation or the courts and are open for interpretation.		Written and clearly defined construction standards that follow NAHB.
Apply even if the builder makes no specific written or oral agreement.		Clearly laid out responsibilities of both the builder and homeowner.
Recognized by every state, excluding Utah, differing only in scope and duration.		Binding on both the builder and the homeowner; acknowledged to be the sole and exclusive warranty.
Courts determine what is covered by the warranty, not the parties to the contract.		Provides arbitration as a dispute resolution tool for construction problems that may develop or be discovered after closing.
Generally last from 5-10 years; many states extending to second, third or later homeowners.		Shifts the financial responsibility of a structural defect loss from the builder to the warranty’s insurer for a full 10 years.

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty wins Gold at the BMA Awards

homebuyerswarranty — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 16:41:57 +0000

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® (2-10 HBW), the nation’s leading home warranty company, wins the prestigious Gold Award for their “Long Live Happy Homes®” go-to-market campaign in the Total B2B Campaigns category at the 2013 Business Marketing Association of Colorado’s (BMA Colorado) Gold Key Awards. Winners were unveiled at a gala ceremony and reception at the Seawell Ballroom in the Denver Center of Performing Arts on April 26, 2013. The “Long Live Happy Homes®” go-to-market campaign was officially launched at the International Builders Show in Las Vegas earlier this year and was met with rave reviews. The 2-10 HBW marketing team, led by Executive VP of Sales and Marketing, Scott Zinn, and National Director of Marketing, Jennifer Pingrey, began by building marketing communications backwards from their ‘why to buy’ sales approach; focusing on making the customer, not the product, the heart of the sale. “By basing this campaign around language that is rooted in human emotion and following with hard facts that matter to our target audience, we feel that our brand presence and stature will continue to grow,” stated Zinn. “Receiving this award is a significant accomplishment for our organization and a testimony to the incredible amount of hard work and dedication given throughout the past year.” A distinguished panel of marketing professionals is chosen each year by the Gold Key Committee to judge the competition. Each judge represents a different side of the marketing community and none are current members of the Colorado Chapter of BMA. Every entry is independently reviewed by each judge and scored in four categories: creativity, production, selling proposition and results. This year’s program included 164 entries in over 50 categories, representing the top B2B companies and agencies. “The BMA Board of Directors extends our congratulations to the winners of this year’s awards program. It is a fiercely competitive program that truly recognizes the very best in business-to-business marketing for 2013,” says Marilee Yorchak, CAE, Executive Director, Colorado Business Marketing Association. “With our emphasis on results and the quality of entries, the BMA Gold Key Awards is one of the most coveted by marketers in Colorado.” About the Business Marketing Association The Business Marketing Association (BMA) is a national organization that unites professionals who specialize in business-to-business marketing and communications. The Colorado Chapter has more than 475 members and one of the largest and strongest chapters in the country. The BMA Gold Key Awards is Colorado’s most prestigious competition dedicated solely to business-to-business marketing. For more information, visit www.bmacolorado.org.

Four reasons to use a real estate agent when buying a new construction home.

homebuyerswarranty — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 22:35:22 +0000

1. Purchase Agreement. Real estate agents offer their expertise with reviewing a builder’s paperwork to ensure the home buyer’s best interest is met and interprets the contract for the home buyer. 2. Sales price. Real estate agents will ensure you’re paying the appropriate price based on a market analysis and provide valuable insights on the new construction industry. They will also work with the builder on the final sales price as builders are less inclined to negotiate the price if the home buyer has no representation. 3. Saving money. It is a common misconception that not using a real estate agent when buying new construction will save you money. It’s actually a completely free service for the home buyer. The builder is responsible for paying the commission on the sale of new construction to the real estate professional. 4. Experience. A real estate agent may already have relationships with builders and have an understanding of the market, ultimately saving the home buyer time. Also, a well-connected agent can be a great resource for mortgage brokers and homeowner’s insurance referrals.

An interview with first-time home buyers: Part Two

homebuyerswarranty — Wed, 01 May 2013 14:39:16 +0000

Josh and Kristi, after months of searching, finally found their perfect first home. Still, getting to the closing table wasn’t easy. 2-10 HBW: How did you know this house was the one you’d make your home? Kristi: We walked in and knew it had everything we wanted. There weren’t a lot of repairs needed; it was pretty much ready to go. We didn’t really have to compromise what we were looking for either: three bedrooms, three bathrooms, two car garage and a big backyard for our dogs… essentially all the criteria we had was met with this house. 2-10 HBW: Was there anything about the inspection that was making you nervous? Josh: There were a few glaring things that the inspector discovered and recommended that we take care of immediately. First, he mentioned that the electrical panel had some fire issues and recommended that the Seller replace it before we move in. Secondly, the house still had the original furnace … and I’d like to point out that the house was built in 1978. Again, it was something that the inspector said that we take care of immediately because it would be extremely expensive to replace if it went out. After the inspection, the Seller agreed to only replace the furnace, which was the more expensive of the two needed replacements. We would have to replace the electrical panel ourselves. 2-10 HBW: What were your next steps? Josh: We continued to work with our real estate agent to determine what additional inspections were needed. For instance, we wanted a certified “fireplace inspector” because we knew that we were going to use the fireplace a lot and wanted to ensure everything was up to code and safe. 2-10 HBW: What happened once you finally got to the closing table? Josh: It felt like we basically signed our life away, at least that’s how it felt. (Josh laughs). I knew it was going to be a lot of information to take in at once, and we definitely covered a lot of things. Honestly, there were some documents I was signing that I should have asked for further clarification, but at the end of the day I was getting my dream home and I was confident my agent would be able to walk me through the questions I had after the closing. My agent recommended a home warranty to help us with any unexpected expenses that we are bound to incur. (Josh crossing his fingers that this doesn’t happen). I hope that nothing major happens, but it’s nice to know that if something happens, we are protected. Now we’re making plans to paint, move in and start our lives together.

Make your home your masterpiece: Yard work tips

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 03 May 2013 14:49:05 +0000

Take advantage of longer days to complete your yard work. Aerate. Aerating your lawn is especially important if you have heavy foot traffic. It helps keep your lawn healthier and reduces maintenance. Mow it over. For cooler grass seasons, such as spring, avoid cutting your grass too short. This helps prevent weeds from invading. Prune to grow. Warmer spring weather can help promote rapid healing. May is the ideal month for pruning shrubs for shape and size. Spruce up your soil. Reusing soil from the last year can deplete your soil’s nutrition. Use only the bottom third of old soil from your pots and place fresh soil on top. Clip tip. Grass clippings can be used as a mulch for flower beds and vegetable gardens if dried well before use.

The gold standard—what are you offering your home buyers?

homebuyerswarranty — Tue, 14 May 2013 17:03:03 +0000

When purchasing a structural warranty, it’s important to know your chosen warranty provider and understand the warranty agreement’s protection you’re offering your home buyer. A proper understanding saves you time and simplifies the process when a buyer comes to you with a question, and ultimately helps protect your reputation and the trust you’ve established if there’s a claim. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know. Get to know your warranty. Structural warranties follow a 1, 2, 10-year model and include: • One-year surety coverage–protection against defects in materials and workmanship beginning on closing day. • Two-year surety coverage–protection against defects in electrical, plumbing and mechanical distribution systems beginning on closing day. • Ten-year structural warranty–comprehensive coverage for protection against major structural defects beginning on closing day. Beyond the basics. Use the following checklist when considering a warranty partner and warranty solution:

Homeowner education–language within the warranty contract that accurately and clearly defines what is and is not covered under the warranty.
A platform for quick dispute resolution–arbitration provision and an experienced warranty administration team skilled in quick and efficient conciliation of disputes and resolution of homeowner complaints.
Residential Construction Performance Guidelines–as defined by the National Association of Home Builders.
Flexibility and stability–make sure your warranty insurer is financially strong and the warranty is transferable throughout the ten year term.
Builder advice–for warranty service and risk management –this could come in the form of seminars and educational materials.
A solid reputation and experience with your business–look for Better Business Bureau ratings of “A,” and favorable recommendations from industry associations.
Comprehensive coverage–includes coverage for soil movement and qualified structural defects starting day one.
Adding value–does the warranty provider offer materials to help you market to home buyers.
Warranty contract language–does the warranty contract accurately and clearly define what is and is not covered.

Here's another article you might be interested in...

Relax about your energy bills this summer—we’ve got some easy tips to keep you cool.

thorn — Wed, 29 May 2013 14:59:22 +0000

Overworking your air conditioner can result in high energy bills and cause potential breakdowns. Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to have your home running efficiently. During the day… Keep your windows and doors closed. This helps keep heat and humidity out of your house. Cover windows with curtains that directly face the sun. In the evening… This is the best time to use your clothes dryer as it emits a considerable amount of heat. Any time… Use a microwave instead of an oven to keep your home’s temperature down. Let your dishes air dry as dishwashers can generate heat.

5 Tips For Buying A New Construction Home.

thorn — Thu, 06 Jun 2013 15:50:19 +0000

Buying a new construction home is a much different process than buying a pre-owned home. Familiarizing yourself with what to look for will help you navigate the process with confidence.

1. Use a real estate professional Real estate agents offer their expertise with reviewing a builder’s paperwork to ensure your best interest is met and will interpret the contract for the you. A real estate agent will also help locate a community and floor plan that fits your lifestyle needs. 2. Choosing the right builder Aside from reading online reviews, there are a couple questions you can ask or research to qualify a builder. Having a strong financial history for at least three years is recommended as well as providing a 10 year insurance-backed structural warranty on the homes they build. 3. Negotiations Most builders, not all, have established set prices for the homes they build and are not as likely to negotiate the sales price. However, see if your builder is willing to offer upgrades to the home such as landscaping, window coverings or granite countertops as part of your purchase agreement. 4. Use a home inspector While this is a newly built home, having an inspector walk through the house could help in addressing any problems before closing. 5. Get it in writing It’s important to understand and keep copies of the purchase agreement and all other documents that are exchanged between you and the builder. If anything arises after the closing, the paper trail you maintain will help keep you protected.

Enjoy summertime grilling with these quick tips.

thorn — Tue, 02 Jul 2013 21:04:22 +0000

PREP SMART

Grilling with skewers? Soak bamboo skewers in water for an hour to avoid burning the sticks. For future use, after soaking skewers place them in a plastic bag and store them in the freezer.
Charcoal grills. When using a charcoal grill, never add lighter fluid to coals that are already hot. This can cause flames to get out-of-hand.
Gas grills. When using gas grills equipped with an automatic ignition, the burners should not be lit when the hood is closed. The buildup of gas that can occur within the confines of the closed hood prior to igniting the burners may cause an explosion once the burners are lit.

GET GRILLING

Direct heat. Foods that are thin, such as thin cuts of meat, are the best choices for grilling with direct heat because food is grilled quickly and evenly when using high temperatures. Thicker foods may burn on the exterior before the interior portions are fully cooked.
Indirect heat. For thicker cut foods, place a metal pan on the opposite side of a charcoal grill by pushing the hot coals to one side of the grill to make enough room for the metal pan. This will help keep thicker cut foods from burning and catch any juices that might escape.

Direct heat with a gas grill. Using the same method that was described in grilling with indirect heat using a charcoal grill, place a thick cut of meat or other thickly cut food items over the pan and close the grill hood to hold the heat.

General Liability Insurance for home builders: Are you protected?

thorn — Mon, 08 Jul 2013 14:42:55 +0000

Authored by: Insurance Specialty Group Many builders would be surprised to know what their general liability (GL) insurance does and does not cover. They figure, “I have (or I pay a lot for) insurance—I should be covered for everything.” However, it’s important to understand the nuances that come with a GL policy so you, or your business, doesn’t get caught in a negative financial situation. Here are a few situational examples to give you a better idea: #1: Switching insurance policies/carriers As a home builder, you decide to switch insurance carriers because you found a company that offers better rates. You built several houses while you were covered under your previous insurance carrier. Many carriers however, exclude prior completed homes when they first write a new account. When switching policies, talk with your insurance agent about options for including your previous projects on the new policy*. #2 Exclusions Does your policy include coverage for work performed on your behalf by a subcontractor? If a subcontractor causes damage you may or may not be financially responsible to the homeowner and you may or may not have coverage for that exposure. To protect yourself, make sure your general liability insurance does not include endorsements that limit coverage for work performed on your behalf by a subcontractor**. #3 Defense inside/outside limits Did you know that the majority of construction defect liability claim payments go towards attorney fees with a policy that includes a “defense inside the limits” provision? By having this provision, the policy's applicable limit of insurance is dramatically reduced because legal fees are paid within the policy limits. Ask your insurance agent if you have this provision and what you can do to mitigate the potential consequences***. *Exclusion – Property Damage To Prior Completed Operations eliminates all property damage lawsuits arising out of construction jobs that were completed and accepted by the owner or purchased prior to the start of the policy period. Property damage could be to the house itself, its contents or to a neighboring house **Although not all jurisdictions have addressed the issue, the majority of those that have found that the insured general contractor or developer's CGL policies cover faulty completed subcontractor work. In response, insurers are adding endorsements to the policies that eliminate the subcontractor exception. Given the concerns prompting the creation of the broad form property damage endorsement, judicial interpretation of the policy language, and usage of the endorsement eliminating the subcontractor exception, the issue of whether the general contractor's CGL policy covers faulty completed subcontractor work is far from settled. ***When you incorporate proper risk management requirements and a structural home warranty the majority of claims payments go to damages versus defense costs. Location of the builder and admitted versus non-admitted insurance programs typically impact the ability to get defense inside or outside the limits. NOTE: This is for general information purposes only and is not advice regarding a particular insurance product. 2-10 HBW is not an insurance company or an insurance broker, and this is not an offer or a solicitation to purchase insurance.

Tips for choosing the right general liability insurance carrier

thorn — Mon, 08 Jul 2013 14:52:35 +0000

Authored by: Insurance Specialty Group Whether you’re buying your first policy, or rethinking your current provider, finding the right general liability insurance carrier can be tough. You want to understand what their policy offers and if they’re in good standing with a national rating organization. Here are a couple questions to ask when looking. Is it important to have an admitted or non-admitted insurance carrier? Choosing an insurance policy from an admitted carrier means if the insurance carrier cannot uphold their financial responsibility for a claim, the state will step in and back it up. If the carrier is non-admitted, the state does not get involved or offer assistance in the event of insolvency. However, since non-admitted carriers fall outside of state-filing regulations, non-admitted carriers may offer more competitive rates and customized coverage terms. This decision is dependent on availability of adequate coverage in your state, the importance of financial backing and your pricing / coverage requirements. Are they in good standing with a rating agency? The insurance industry recommends using an insurance carrier with an A.M. Best rating of “A” or better. Anything below an “A” rating is considered “Vulnerable” and a builder can be exposed to uncovered losses should a carrier default on their claims obligations. Construction defect liabilities can take several years to manifest. It is critical to know your insurance carrier will be financially stable throughout the “statute of limitations” time frame dictated by your state. You could be responsible for construction defect claims long after the house is complete. Who is A.M. Best? A.M. Best issues financial-strength ratings measuring an insurance companies' ability to pay claims. A.M. Best's financial strength rating represents the company's assessment of an insurer's ability to meet its obligations to policyholders. The rating process involves quantitative and qualitative reviews of a company's balance sheet, operating performance and business profile, including comparisons to peers and industry standards and assessments of an insurer's operating plans, philosophy and management. The rating scale includes six "Secure" ratings of A++, A+ (Superior), A, A- (Excellent), B++, B+ (Good) . The scale also includes ten ratings for companies deemed "Vulnerable". NOTE: This is for general information purposes only and is not advice regarding a particular insurance product. 2-10 HBW is not an insurance company or an insurance broker, and this is not an offer or a solicitation to purchase insurance.

The Value Of An Insurance-Backed Home Warranty

homebuyerswarranty — Fri, 12 Jul 2013 20:49:48 +0000

Authored by Joan M. Riordan And William R. Warnock Jr.

This article is written in response to an article published in the January 2013 edition of the South Carolina Lawyer entitled That New Home Warranty, Now You See It, Now You Don’t. The prior article missed the basis and purpose behind the insurance-backed new home warranty product. An insurance- backed warranty is a valuable product that meets many requirements of the residential construction industry. For more than 30 years, 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty (2-10 HBW) has been the industry leader in providing the insurancebacked structural warranty. The 2-10 HBW warranty insurer has paid more than $214 million in claims on behalf of member builders.

2-10 HBW warranty program complies with HUD requirementsThe 10-year insurance-backed warranty concept grew out of U.S. Congressional hearings in 1973 investigating poor construction practices in the residential construction industry and lack of builder warranties on their product. As a result of these hearings, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) established a standard for the insurance-backed warranty plan and required that certain newly constructed homes be protected by a 10- year insurance-backed warranty in order to be eligible for mortgage insurance from the Federal Housing Administration (FHA). The requirements of the 10-year insurancebacked warranty plan are codified in the Code of Federal Regulations at Title 24 C.F.R. § 203.200 et seq. 2-10 HBW incorporates these requirements verbatim in its insurancebacked warranty program. Hence, the 2-10 HBW warranty program has been approved by HUD since 1983.The most prominent features of the HUD “Insured Ten-Year Protection Plan” are defined in Title 24 C.F.R. § 203.200. These features include (1) the coverage of the oneyear workmanship warranty, the coverage of the two-year systems warranty (wiring, piping and ductwork) and the coverage of the 10-year structural defects warranty and (2) the insurance- backing coverage requirements for the builder’s obligations under the warranty. Because 2-10 HBW uses the same warranty coverage and insurance-backing coverage as defined in the CFR, these same features are the most prominent features in the 2-10 HBW warranty program. 2-10 HBW warranty program complies with state statutory regulations In some states, the builder’s warranty obligations are defined by statute. In those states, the builder may waive the common law implied warranty obligations if the builder provides a warranty that complies with the statutory requirements. California, New Jersey, Maryland and Indiana have such a statutory scheme.1 Both New Jersey and Maryland require submission and approval of the warranty document by the Department of Community Affairs and the Maryland Office of the Attorney General, respectively. The same HUD approved 2-10 HBW warranty has been and is approved by the appropriate regulatory agency in New Jersey and Maryland. A “whole home” or “bumper to bumper” warranty The requirements contained in 24 C.F.R. § 203.200 et seq. Do not define the guidelines for determining when the quality of the workmanship or systems is defective. In the 2-10 HBW warranty, the coverage guidelines for workmanship and systems are adopted from the Residential Construction Guidelines published by the National Association of Home Builders. A comprehensive “whole home” or “bumper to bumper” warranty is not provided because it would be prohibitively expensive, increasing The consumer’s cost of the home. To date, there has not been a demand for a more expensive, comprehensive product. The prior article does not take issue with the workmanship and systems standards and is instead disturbed by the structural defect warranty coverage. The definition of a structural defect contained in the 2- 10 HBW warranty is identical to the HUD requirement for a 10-year insurance-backed protection plan contained in 24 C.F.R. § 203.200. As specified in Title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations (and thus in the HBW warranty), in order to qualify for repairs, there must be actual physical damage to the designated load-bearing elements of the home; that damage must be caused by failure of such load-bearing elements that affect their load-bearing function to the extent that the home becomes unsafe, unsanitary or otherwise unlivable. As the prior article correctly notes, the structural defect warranty excludes non-load bearing elements. These non-load bearing elements are the very same items expressly excluded from 24 C.F.R. § 203.200. Both the CFR and the 2-10 HBW warranty provide that the following elements of a home do not qualify for coverage: Damage to the following nonload- bearing portions of the home is not considered a structural defect: Roofing; drywall and plaster; exterior siding; brick, stone, or stucco veneer; floor covering material; wall tile and other wall coverings; nonload- bearing walls and partitions; concrete floors in attached garages; electrical; plumbing, heating, cooling and ventilation systems; appliances, fixtures and items of equipment; paint; doors and windows; trim, cabinets, hardware, and insulation.2 That simply means a defect limited to non-structural elements alone is not covered by the structural warranty— hardly a surprise. It does not mean that the homeowner’s remedy for a qualified structural defect is strictly limited to load-bearing elements. As required by HUD regulations, the insurance-backer not only repairs the qualified structural defect, but also repairs surfaces damaged by the defect, such as cracked non-load bearing drywall. This damage to the non-load bearing drywall is also known as resultant damage due to the construction defect. Surfaces and other elements that must be disturbed in the course of repairing the structural defect are also restored. The intent is to restore the home to the condition that existed prior to the defect: The repair and cosmetic correction of only those surfaces, finishes and coverings, original with the home, damaged by the structural defect, or which require removal and replacement attendant to repair of the structural defect, or to repair other damage directly attributable to the structural defect. It is the intent of this section to ensure the repair of a covered home to a condition approximately the condition just prior to the defect, not to a like new condition. It does not require refinishing of all interior or exterior surfaces if only one or two surfaces are damaged. It does not cover personal property items, not a part of the structure, which are damaged by the defect or as a result of the defect. It excludes damage covered by a homeowner’s casualty insurance policy.3 Claims are paid under the 2-10 HBW warranty But let’s get to the bottom line— claims are paid under the 2-10 HBW warranty. For more than 30 years, the 2-10 HBW warranty program has actively served the residential housing industry resulting in claims payments by the insurance backer of more than $214 million. More than $112 million dollars have been paid on homes enrolled in the 2-10 HBW program since 2000. The pay-out on these claims includes approximately $5 million paid to homeowners whose builders were bankrupt. Since 2000, South Carolina homeowners have benefited from the warranty insurer paying out on behalf of builders participating in the program more than $2.7 million in claims, with an additional half million plus currently set aside to pay for claims that have been accepted but where repairs are not yet complete. This represents a total incurred in excess of $3.2 million. Without the 2-10 HBW warranty, these homeowners may not have received anything. Perhaps it will be asked why even more money has not been paid under the 2-10 HBW warranty program. There are several reasons. 2-10 HBW screens every builder who seeks to join the 2-10 HBW program and again on the builder’s annual renewal. Builders enrolling in the program must demonstrate financial stability in their credit scores, experience in the construction industry and the requisite volume of construction. 2- 10 HBW does not stop there. Before a builder’s home is enrolled in the program, the builder must demonstrate that he has satisfied the program’s risk management requirements. Inspections during a minimum of three phases of construction are required in areas that do not have an experienced building department. In addition to constructing the home in compliance with state and local building code requirements, the program requires the builder to construct his home in accordance with the advice of a geotechnical engineer whenever foundation elements are supported by fill soils. Hence, by the time a home has been enrolled in the 2-10 HBW program, both the builder and the home have been vetted and the warranty insurer is willing to stand behind the builder’s product. South Carolina courts have repeatedly considered what construction defects may be covered under a builder’s commercial general liability (CGL) policy.4 Recently, the S.C. Legislature enacted S.C. Code Ann. § 38-61-70 to clarify what portion of defective construction work is covered under such policy. Despite the statutory clarification, the coverage provided by a builder’s CGL policy is still subject to debate. Nevertheless, it is clear that a South Carolina builder and homeowner may find relief for Faulty construction such as a qualifying structural defect if a 2-10 HBW Warranty is in effect for the home. Construction of a home involves the expertise of many tradesmen and a good construction manager. Despite the best intentions and years of experience, mistakes do happen. There is value in securing the protection of an insurance backed structural warranty from 2-10 HBW. Arbitration of warranty claims The 2-10 HBW warranty requires the arbitration of warranty claims in the home so that the homeowner can show the arbitrator (rather than describe to the arbitrator) the defect. Contrary to the assertion in the prior article, there is no chance of arbitrating a South Carolina home defect claim in some distant state such as New Jersey. Arbitration is favored under the Federal Arbitration Act and allowed in all states because it is an alternate form of dispute resolution that is faster and more economical than a lengthy court trial. In the 2-10 HBW program, less than six percent of all insurance claims go to arbitration because in the majority of cases the claims are promptly settled between the homeowner and warranty insurer. Of the claims that go to arbitration, the warranty insurer’s determination is upheld approximately 60 percent of the time. Half of the remaining cases (approximately 20 percent) are decided in the homeowner’s favor and the remaining half reach a compromise settlement. The prior article cites several cases for the proposition that the arbitration agreement is “unconscionable.” A careful reading of those cases demonstrates that in each instance the homeowners were not given the warranty and arbitration provision at the time they signed a sales agreement, whereas the builder’s sales agreement contained conflicting procedures for dispute resolution. 2- 10 HBW repeatedly reminds member builders to present the warranty and the arbitration provision at the time the homeowner agrees to buy the home. 2-10 HBW never advocates surprising the homeowner several months later, at closing. The comments above are based upon the coverage provided under the 2-10 HBW warranty and do not reflect the views or claims payment experience of other new home warranty products. As noted in the prior article, the coverage provided by the different warranty companies varies. HBW believes the reason 2- 10 HBW is the largest new home warranty company in the country and has protected more than 1.5 million homes in 30 years is because HBW provides a superior product. Joan Riordan is a licensed attorney in Colorado. Bill Warnock is a partner with Womble, Carlyle, Sandridge & Rice, LLP in Charleston. Endnotes 1 See CAL. CIV. CODE § 895 et seq. (West 2007 & Supp. 2013), N.J. STAT. ANN. § 46:3B-1 et seq. (West 2013), MD. CODE ANN., REAL PROP. § 10-601 et seq. (LexisNexis 2010), and IND. CODE ANN. § 32-27-2-1 et seq. (LexisNexis 2002). 2 24 C.F.R. § 203.200 (2012). 3 Id. 4 See, e.g., Crossmann Communities of N.C., Inc. v. Harleysville Mut. Ins. Co., 395 S.C. 40, 717 S. E.2d 589 (2011).

Are you doing online marketing right?

thorn — Thu, 01 Aug 2013 15:35:07 +0000

These days, everyone has some sort of online presence. This could mean that you’ve created a Facebook profile or business page, LinkedIn profile or your own blog. However, you leave it at just that—you aren’t posting updates, responding to clients or optimizing your blog so that potential clients can find you. You might be asking yourself, am I doing online marketing right? We’ve broken online marketing down to a few key tips to get your business on track. Finding and posting content. Take advantage of your social profiles to educate home buyers and sellers on your business. When it comes to the type of content you should be posting, think about what key things you would like a potential home buyer or seller to know before approaching a real estate transaction. What information could you share with your clients that would add value to your business? Where to find this information? Take the time to research real estate blogs and online journals using search terms for the type of information you’re looking for. For example, “Home buyer misconceptions, ” “Home inspections 101,” or “First time home buyer education.” Once you find a great blog or online journal you like, subscribe to it! You’ll receive updates via email that you can easily share on your social profiles. Or, create your own blog and write articles based on your expertise. And remember, managing a blog doesn’t have to be scary; one to three short paragraphs are standard for a blog post. Get the right technology: Are you using a smart phone? Consumers want information in real time and will look to other places (i.e. other real estate professionals) if they aren’t being communicated to almost immediately after submitting an inquiry. Providing a direct online experience has significant value to a consumer and increases your ability to convert leads, which is why using a smart phone to help manage your business is a great asset. Whether it’s through text, phone call, email or social media, a smart phone allows you to connect with your clients the way in which they prefer to communicate. Optimizing your blog. A blog can be a powerful tool that can help generate leads, but only if someone can find it through searching online. To optimize your blog, start by making a list of keywords that you would want a potential customer to search that would lead them to your article. When it’s time to write, go down your list and ensure that you’re including these words throughout your article. Important places for these keywords to appear are: title, subheadings, intro sentence, concluding paragraph and meta descriptions. Most blogs, such as Wordpress, also give you the opportunity to add tags to your blog posts, which lets a user search your posts for that particular topic. Images are a great way to add visual interest to your blog post and can be optimized as well. When you upload a photo, be sure to include keywords in the description and the alternate text field (if the image doesn’t load properly on a user’s browser, this text will show in its place). Give users the opportunity to subscribe to your blog. Subscribing to a blog means that an email notification will be sent to the subscriber every time an article is posted. This option will be available in your blog’s account settings. And lastly, if you’re writing blogs posts, you’re creating content… so share it!

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® launches home Warranty video

thorn — Thu, 01 Aug 2013 15:49:16 +0000

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty (2-10 HBW), the industry’s leading home warranty company, collaborated with Location3 Media, also in Denver, Colorado, to introduce their first video, “Why A Home Warranty”, in an effort to help educate real estate professionals and consumers on the benefits of a home warranty service agreement. “There’s a lot of confusion in the marketplace about what a home warranty service agreement covers versus homeowner’s insurance,” said Mike Bartosch, President of the resale division for 2-10 HBW. “By creating this video, we’re hoping to educate our current and potential customers about systems and appliances coverage. This video is also an integral part of our efforts to make our new service agreement the simplest and easiest-to-use in the industry.” The video illustrates the importance of a service agreement by showing the yearly wear and tear on the homes systems and appliances, and the fact breakdowns are likely and frequent. . The video also educates on how a home warranty service agreement can be a competitive differentiator in the real estate market.

Building A Referral Program

thorn — Mon, 19 Aug 2013 21:56:46 +0000

Building A Referral Program from HomeBuyersWarranty

How to build a referral program: Sales and marketing tips for home builders.

Follow-Up from the 2013 Shore Consulting Leadership Summit

homebuyerswarranty — Wed, 28 Aug 2013 21:24:09 +0000

By Emily Portocarerro, New Home Marketing Manager for 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty A few members of the 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® team recently returned from the Shore Consulting 2013 Sales Leadership Summit held at the Driskill Hotel in Austin, Texas. To summarize the Summit in one word: Amazing. Jeff Shore’s inspirational leadership and motivational team spoke to a crowd of approximately 150 sales and marketing leaders from home building companies across the country. The Summit opened with Jeff’s take on “The Inspirational Leader.” Focusing on how to simplify our lives in order to grow is fitting given the positive growth the new home market is experiencing. A few takeaways from the Summit: - Purpose without action results in nothing. A very simple reminder for our daily lives. - Create success in your organization through an engaged team. Consider a rallying cry that your employees can get behind and one that they will shout to the world. We personally loved the rallying cry used by Jeff and his team: “Go change the world… at least your little corner of it.” - Reframe the reflex response. Ryan Taft, a Shore Consulting Certified Trainer, demonstrated through Tae Kwon Do that if your sales people are attacking the customer, the customer will very quickly and very naturally put up their guard. - 20% of all buyers prefer to purchase new construction. We learned from Tim Costello, CEO of BDX, that it’s time to stop selling against each other and leading with weakness. Shift your paradigm and focus on the positive experience of the buyer, not the features of your product. - Check out the “Buy New. Start Fresh.” campaign by BDX. It may change your world… at least your little corner of it. Overall, the Shore Consulting team put on an engaging and meaningful sales leadership summit. Their experience in new home sales transfers to their passion for the industry and helping builders find growth within a builder’s sales and marketing leadership team. 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty was proud to be a supporting partner of the 2013 Sales Leadership Summit. Check out some photos from the 2-10 HBW-sponsored banquet held Thursday, August 15.

VIDEO: Why Purchase A Home Warranty Service Agreement

thorn — Tue, 10 Sep 2013 04:00:30 +0000

The video illustrates the importance of a service agreement by showing the yearly wear and tear on the homes systems and appliances, and the fact breakdowns are likely and frequent. . The video also educates on how a home warranty service agreement can be a competitive differentiator in the real estate market.

How-To-Guide: Content Curation for Builders and Real Estate Professionals

thorn — Mon, 09 Sep 2013 20:33:19 +0000

If you're using social media, you've more than likely heard the word "content" being tossed around a lot and are wondering what it is and where to find it. And more importantly, why it matters to your business. This presentation, geared toward home builders and real estate professionals, walks through just that: what is content, why it matters to your business and where to find it.

Announcing New Regional Vice President, Glenn Findley

thorn — Mon, 09 Sep 2013 21:53:45 +0000

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty^® has announced that Glenn Findley has joined the company’s New Home division as Regional Vice President. In this role, Glenn will oversee sales efforts for the company’s Northeast region. Glenn brings over 21 years of sales experience, as well as a strong background in management. Prior to joining 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty, Glenn worked at a home warranty company as a regional vice president where he provided award-winning sales leadership in a highly competitive market. “Glenn’s industry experience and knowledge of the Northeastern marketplace will help continue to fuel 2-10 HBW’s growth,” said Scott Zinn, Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty. “His ability to drive growth and improve overall sales performance make him a strong fit for this position.”

Recycle your fall leaves.

thorn — Wed, 02 Oct 2013 16:18:14 +0000

Nourish your landscape with nature. • Make mulch. Leaves are rich in potassium and micronutrients, which can be returned to the soil and eventually to your plants. • Insulate plants. Leaves help insulate tender plants from winter wind and cold. • Reduce. To help speed up the decomposition process, rake leaves into low piles and mow over several times. By shredding your leaves you will greatly reduce the decomposition process. • Add to your garden. Leaves feed earthworms and beneficial microbes. And don't forget to treat yourself to a delicious fall inspired snack afterwards! ROASTED PUMPKIN SEEDS Ingredients 1 1/2 cups raw whole pumpkin seeds 2 teaspoons butter, melted 1 pinch salt Directions Preheat oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C) Toss seeds in a bowl with the melted butter and salt. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown; stir occasionally. Recipe courtesy of allrecipes.com

Building loyalty - Are you tracking referrals?

thorn — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 21:12:11 +0000

Brokers tell us that in real estate, word-of-mouth is an important element that plays into the success of your business and can be worth much more than a paid advertisement. To be successful, a program should be put in place to ensure current and potential clients are well-nurtured. How do you receive referrals? Collect referral data on agents and develop best practices based on the agent who received the most referrals. Also, consider the many channels in which you could receive referrals: web form, post card or survey. How are you tracking referrals? You might be aware that your company receives referral business, but just how much of it can be attributed to overall sales? Determining referral volume can help you set goals and identify strengths and weaknesses. Tracked referral data can also give much insight into best practices—which medium works best, program length, referee demographics and (if used) which incentives work best. Do you employ a customer relationship management system (CRM)? If your team uses a CRM, add a specific field to you customers’ account page that allows you to see where the account (referral) came from. Additionally, think about including a “Referrer Type” field to distinguish if they are buyer, seller, lender, ect. Are you nurturing referrals? Always be top-of-mind for clients. You never know when they’ll be asked for a real estate agent recommendation. Consider developing a yearly or quarterly email or postcard program for past clients. Ideas for content:

Seasonal (ex: Valentine’s Day)
Celebrate the anniversary of their home purchase
A simple, “Hello and hope all is well”

Also, if you have a budget for a referral program, offer an incentive. This helps justify your client’s time and effort spent referring you.

Creating a sales contest for your real estate office

thorn — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 21:23:57 +0000

Whether it’s end of year or been a slow season, sales contests are great way to motivate your real estate agents and drive sales for your business. To ensure your contest is successful, it’s important to consider budget and the type of contest you’re going to run. Our expert Sue Sichler, National VP of Sales for 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty^®, shared with us some insight on what it takes to make a winning sales contest. Sue has over ten years experience managing highly successful sales contests. Budget

How much can you spend on a sales contest? Before deciding on how much each person has the potential to win, first identify the total number you can contribute to the contest.
Identify how your payout will be distributed. Payouts should be meaningful enough to catch the attention of your sales team, but not be overly extravagant to where it’s all they focus on. In other words, you don’t want customer service to fall by the wayside.
- Depending on the contest, you’ll either have one big winner or allow for different levels achievement.

Contest Type Sales contests should reward the behavior that drives your mission statement. When it comes to real estate, it’s more than just sales, it’s account management, customer service and so much more. Here are a few contest ideas:

Listings by volume (monthly, quarterly or annually)
Largest number of listings revenue (by sales price of the listing)
Cycle Time (how many days does it take to sell your listing?)

Motivate your team Build excitement and get creative! Use email, text or even weekly meetings that update your sales team on where they stand in the contest—create some competition. Also, provide timely tips to help improve sales techniques or even sending words of encouragement can go a long way. Sue Sichler, National VP of Sales for 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty^®

Why buyers and sellers are missing out on you.

thorn — Tue, 15 Oct 2013 21:38:57 +0000

Do you know what your unique value proposition is? It’s the reason people are either selling/buying or not selling/buying homes from you. Your unique value proposition is used as your sales pitch describing what makes you different from the competition. Short, sweet and to the point.

Here are a few things to think about:

Your message should speak to the type of client you want to work with.
- Write it out: define the type of clients you’re looking for and make a list of their likes/dislikes, demographics and how they prefer to communicate.
You’re not generic, so why sell yourself that way? All real estate professionals have their own techniques to help them get to the closing table. It might be something you do as a reflex, such as email and phone recap after every open house.
Be specific. “I sell homes fast.” This is easy for a lot of people to tout. Give more detail: “I can sell your home 23 days faster than the average real estate agent.” This packs more punch.
Check out your competitors and compare. Are the services your competitor offers better? Or are there added services that you offer that they don't? Make a comparative list. If there is a service or step that your competitor does that you don’t, brainstorm how you can improve upon that and make it your own.
“But what can you do for ME?” As a real estate professional, you’re offering services to home buyers and sellers to help THEM successfully accomplish a real estate transaction. While this is your unique value proposition, it’s important drive home the fact of how they can benefit from all you do.

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® Continues Efforts To Go Green

thorn — Wed, 23 Oct 2013 16:56:22 +0000

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty^® (2-10 HBW) announced, effective November 1, 2013, the company’s efforts to go paperless and increase operational efficiencies in the New Home division by delivering builder home enrollment certificates electronically. Electronic delivery of the enrollment certificates enables builder members to access important warranty information in a timelier manner. 2-10 HBW builder members can log into the warranty provider’s online system, Builder Portal, to review, download, print and save their structural warranty enrollment certificates. "We are pleased to offer solutions to our builder members that allow them to focus on their business of building and selling homes,” said Alison Short, Senior Vice President of New Home Operations. “Moving the warranty enrollment certificate to a paperless environment creates efficiencies for the builder to complete their projects more quickly." About 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty has covered over 5.5 million new and pre-owned homes, and has a network of more than 10,000 authorized, independent service contractors. They partner with thousands of the nation’s finest real estate professionals, home builders and service contractors who consider their coverage the industry’s most comprehensive structural and systems and appliances protection available.

Warranty or Insurance: Why Your Home Needs Both

thorn — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 18:01:12 +0000

This article was contributed by Arthur Murray, a contributor to the HomeownersInsurance.com blog: http://homeownersinsurance.com. HomeownersInsurance.com serves as a resource center for insurance consumers and homebuyers across the country. You're finally buying a home, living the American dream. In the days leading up to closing, everyone keeps asking questions and telling you about things you need to buy. It can all start to run together, especially when some of those things have similar names such as a home warranty and home insurance. Do they both offer protection for your house and the stuff in it? Yes. Is there a difference? Yes. Let's look at both and what they provide.

Home insurance

Home insurance offers protection for your house and your possessions inside it from damage caused by specific problems – fire, wind, break-ins and more. Standard policies also provide liability coverage in case someone is injured on your property. Your lender will require you to buy home insurance before finalizing your mortgage. One thing to note: Homeowners insurance does not offer help if there's a flood or earthquake; coverage for those natural disasters must be purchased separately.

Home warranty

There are two types of home warranties: new home structural warranties and systems and appliances warranties. Home builders often provide a structural warranty, which provides help for a specified period if there's a problem with the workmanship or materials used in the construction of the house or issues with the electrical, plumbing or other systems after construction. A structural warranty also provides coverage in the event of a structural defect. Coverage usually lasts 10 years from the date the home was built. (How this sort of claim is paid can depend upon the product the builder used and whether or not the builder self-insures. Consult with your builder for specifics.) The systems and appliances warranty, also referred to as a home warranty service agreement, covers the repair or replacement of most of the important systems and appliances within a home such as refrigerator, dishwasher, HVAC units, plumbing system, electrical wiring, etc. that malfunction because of normal wear and tear. How essential is it? Consider that the average house needs repairs of this kind at least twice a year, which can cost up to 3% of the home’s original purchase price. With a home warranty service agreement, you pay a service fee to the service contractor for the visit and diagnosis, and the repair is covered up to the limits of the service agreement. Meaning, if your home warranty service agreement has a $2500 limit on an air conditioner, then your home warranty company would pay up to $2500 for repairs. The balance would be the responsibility of the homeowner.

Which covers this?

Now that you understand more about home insurance and a home warranty, let's test your knowledge. Which would you use in the following scenarios?

Your refrigerator stops chilling: Home warranty service agreement.
Your heat pump stops working: It depends on why it doesn't work. If your unit was struck by lightning, for example, you could file a claim on your home insurance. If the unit is worn out, you'd need to use your home warranty service agreement.
Your washing machine breaks, damaging your laundry room: You'd use both in the scenario. Your home insurance could cover the structural harm to the house, while the service agreement would pay for repairs to the washing machine.
A kitchen fire damages your stove: Home insurance, especially if there's other damage from the fire.

So which do you need? The above examples make a good case for both. Otherwise, you could be faced with coming up with the money to pay for major repairs. Don't let your finances get away from you; keep your largest investment protected in as many ways as possible.

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® Introduces Knowledge Center

thorn — Mon, 04 Nov 2013 16:37:33 +0000

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty^® (2-10 HBW) is proud to announce their Knowledge Center, a new online tool to help educate homeowners and real estate professionals on systems and appliances coverage. This is part of their continual effort to provide the most easy-to-use and understand home warranty service agreement in the industry. The Knowledge Center offers users the ability to interact with images of systems and appliances. One can navigate through the parts of a system or appliance to learn what its function is, maintenance tips and if an item may be eligible for coverage. The Knowledge Center is especially useful for someone looking to learn more about service agreements or someone with a service agreement that has a question about coverage. "We saw a need for more education and an easier way to understand the coverage in the service agreement,” said Jennifer Pingrey, National Director of Marketing. “We feel the Knowledge Center is a game changer for the industry and something that we’ll continually expand on."

The positive side to exclusions in a warranty contract.

thorn — Tue, 12 Nov 2013 19:48:31 +0000

Why are exclusions included in a warranty contract when they are confusing, unwanted and misunderstood? They limit coverage, so most people believe they are a bad thing. Our aim to is to help you gain a new perspective on exclusions, mostly known for their negative connotation, and understand their purpose to help eliminate any resistance toward them. Reasons why exclusions aren’t bad. 1. Eliminating or reducing overlapping coverage. Chances are, you have several other insurance policies, such as general liability, to reduce your business’ liability. Exclusions are added into warranty contracts to ensure that a builder isn’t liable for items that might be covered under their other insurance policies, i.e. overlapping coverage. For example, the warranty excludes the homeowners’ consequential damages or losses. These damages are excluded because the commercial general liability insurance would cover consequential damages that result from a defect. If these damages were not excluded from the warranty you would be paying for double coverage. Similarly, homeowner’s insurance covers damage due to windstorms and water escape. This coverage is excluded in the warranty because it would result in increased cost when coverage is provided elsewhere. 2. Removing coverage not provided by a typical insurance carrier. Most insurance carriers do not cover civil disobedience and unusual events such as hurricanes, earthquakes, explosions and other unforeseeable incidents. These catastrophic events seldom occur and the associated premium is expensive. Excluding these coverages reduces the cost of the warranty. 3. Accessories unrelated to the structure of the home. The warranty does not cover items that are not structural components of the home; hence coverage for fences, landscaping, sprinkler systems, porches and swimming pools are excluded. 4. Damage that is made worse or causes by other acts. Damages caused or made worse by others are excluded out of fairness and in the interest of encouraging good moral behavior. It wouldn’t be fair to impose liability under the warranty when the damage is caused by someone else’s negligence. Examples of when this could occur include: the homeowner has a different contractor to perform alterations to the home and this work causes damage or the homeowner turns the home into a restaurant. The builder should not be liable for these unanticipated uses. Further, when the damage is covered by the warranty, the homeowner has a duty to mitigate the damage.

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty® Inducted Into The National Multiple Sclerosis Society's Circle of Distinction

thorn — Fri, 08 Nov 2013 15:47:25 +0000

2-10 Home Buyers Warranty^® (2-10 HBW) is proud to announce their induction into the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s Circle of Distinction, a national award. This distinction is given out to organizations that have donated $1,000,000 or more to the society. 2-10 HBW has been a contributor to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and sponsor for the MS Walk since 1992.

Wichita, Texas Case Study

thorn — Wed, 13 Nov 2013 17:16:58 +0000

Texas Case Study from HomeBuyersWarranty

A structural home warranty could save you thousands of dollars. In Wichita, TX a builder had been enrolling homes since the company's inception in 1994, with 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty.

Florida Structural Claim Case Study

thorn — Wed, 13 Nov 2013 17:27:17 +0000

Florida Structural Claim Case Study from HomeBuyersWarranty

Read about a builder in Gainesville, FL that had a structural claim caused by soil movement - costing them $74,000.

Thanksgiving Party Favor: Spiced Nuts

thorn — Mon, 18 Nov 2013 18:52:08 +0000

This Thanksgiving, send your guests home with a homemade party favor: Spiced Nuts. Recipe from Food Network Ingredients 1 large egg white 2/3 cup sugar Kosher salt 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 3 cups assorted mixed nuts 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce Directions Preheat the oven to 275. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk the egg white with 1 tablespoon water in a large bowl until frothy. In a small bowl, combine the sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, the spice blend and cayenne pepper. Toss the nuts in the egg white mixture, then stir in the sugar-spice mixture and Worcestershire sauce. Spoon the nuts onto the prepared baking sheet in small clusters and bake until golden, 30 to 35 minutes. Cool completely, then break into pieces. Divide nut clusters into small paper bags or cellophane bags, tie with a ribbon and pass out to guests.

Overlooking a structural warranty can be costly

thorn — Mon, 25 Nov 2013 21:02:45 +0000

We came across a great article from KeepCurrentMatters.com that talks about how ignoring insurance when purchasing a new home can be costly. We totally agree and feel the same way when it comes to purchasing a new construction home and ensuring that it comes with structural warranty coverage. “It's easy to overlook insurance [and structural warranty coverage], especially since you may be more worried about the number of bedrooms, the school district, or the size of the backyard. But before you can close on the purchase, your lender will require you to line up homeowners insurance. You may be hit with some sticker shock if the home you are about to buy ends up being a high risk- and therefore high cost- home to insure.” Source: KeepingCurrentMatters.com Here’s how a structural warranty could affect your new construction home purchase:

Most structural warranty programs require builders to go through a stringent process to ensure they comply with national building standards. This means, you’ll be working with a builder you can trust.
Your home will be protected for a full 10 years. Structural warranties not only provide a written agreement that ensures your builder is held responsible for any workmanship or system issues, but that you’re protected from natural causes out of the builder’s control, such as soil movement*. Knowing that the average structural claim costs $42,000, having this coverage can be a huge money saver. *Only certain programs provide protection for soil movement. See 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty for more.
It increases the resale value of your home should you decide to sell.

Ask your builder if they provide structural warranty coverage, if not, refer them to a trusted source: 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty^®.

Top Resolutions for Real Estate Agents in 2014

thorn — Tue, 10 Dec 2013 18:53:39 +0000

Balance. It’s all about finding equanimity in both work and personal life. As a real estate agent, after time it seems to all blend together. Before approaching a new year and starting to set your resolutions, take a moment to think about what is realistic for you and what you can truly commit to achieving. Here are a few of our top areas for your consideration. Earn more money Do you have a specific number in mind for how much more you’d like to earn the next year? It’s important to set goals for yourself and develop a plan on how you will track your success. Source: Agent Assist Lose weight Are you taking on more than you can handle? Then it’s time to tighten your belt and lose the weight of having too many responsibilities. It happens to us easily: we take on more projects than we can handle and instead of delivering quality service, we are giving a larger number of clients just okay service. Think about the return on investment you’ll get from giving really great service to a few clients, who are more likely to refer. Source: Businessdictionary.com Get healthy “We all have times in our lives when we just have too much stuff going on. There are always deadlines, exams, due dates and just too many priorities to juggle. And when everything is going wrong, the world is screaming for your attention and you just don’t have time – the last thing you need to hear is to “just take a day off”. So here are 55 gentle ways you can take care of yourself when you’re pressed for time and attention." Source: Thefreedomexperiment.com Get organized “Develop a listing and closing activity plan. It’s easy for things to fall through the cracks, especially when it comes to details pertaining to listing and closing a home. Listing and closing activity plans will help you manage and remember the steps involved in these processes.” Source: AGBeat.com Manage time better “Time management and balancing between work and your personal life is crucial to your success. It is equally important to realize that schedules don’t always work out as planned. When organizing your year, be sure to leave time slots available to catch up on any activities that may be falling behind.” Source: Sellstaterealty.com Spend more quality time with family and friends In real estate, your business is built on developing strong relationships; it’s what helps makes you successful. However, because of the nature of the industry, real estate agents aren’t left much time for friends and family. It’s important to remember that after all listing and closing are said and done, your family and friends are the ones that will still be there for you—they’re your support system. Source: Oprah.com Help others As a real estate agent, your business is all about connecting people to communities and communities to people. With that said, it can be beneficial to your business to give back to your community by volunteering. “We tend to think our own bliss relies on bettering ourselves, but our happiness also increases when we help others, says Peter Kanaris, PhD, coordinator of public education for the New York State Psychological Association.” Source: Health.com

2014 real estate prediction from top industry leaders

thorn — Tue, 10 Dec 2013 22:42:37 +0000

We’ve compiled a summary of our top picks for the 2014 real estate industry forecast. Here’s what some of the top industry leaders have to say: Pat Riley, President and Chief Operating Officer, Allen Tate Companies “In the Carolinas, the housing recovery that began in October 2010 will continue on a steady path in 2014. Low new and resale inventory will continue to cause above-average price appreciation. Interest rates will slowly continue to climb, creating urgency for buyers to make their move. Coincidentally, what you want to buy may be appreciating more than what you are selling. Job growth and in-migration will continue to propel a growth economy, with housing leading the way,” Source: Allen Tate Realtors® Lawrence Yun - NAR Chief Economist “Aside from affordability, ongoing headwinds include limited inventory conditions and stringent mortgage standards, both of which are expected to continue as housing starts struggle and business costs remain elevated for lenders. Yun also predicts that the top 10 markets to watch for a housing turn around in 2014 are Salt Lake City, Utah; Naples and Tampa, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Boise, Idaho; Houston, Texas; Charlotte, North Carolina; Denver, Colorado; Seattle, Washington; and Tucson, Arizona.” Source: dsnews.com Steve Murray – Real Trends

Technology will drive investment decisions
Lower inventories
Aging of sales agent force
Brokers faced with constant pressure to update technology platforms and options
The cost of recruiting experienced agents have priced this option out of the market for many realty firms

Source: Real Estate Business Resources, Inc. Bruce Norris - The Enterprise Press “More equity sellers are heading into the mix. Delinquency and foreclosure rates are improved. The pool of international buyers is growing. On the other side of the equation, Norris said he is mindful that: First-time buyers are being squeezed out of the market. New home construction could be a game-changer.” “The percentage of first-time buyer sales in 1995 and 1996 was 50 percent,” Norris said. “Now, it’s at 28 percent. They are getting beat out by cash buyers, or they can’t qualify. That’s the missing link to me.” Source: blog.pe.com

Holiday Travel: Make sure your home is set before you go

thorn — Tue, 17 Dec 2013 21:08:55 +0000

The holidays can mean a lot of traveling for many people, leaving little time spent at home during the months of November and December. Before you take off this season, make sure that your home is ready.

Hot water tank P.K Wadsworth recommends turning off the water going into your hot water tank. If a leak develops while you are away it will be limited to what is in your tank. For a longer trip, turning off the hot water tank completely will save energy. Source: pkwadsworth.com

Temperature Blair’s Air Conditioning and Heating recommends to “Set your thermostat at a lower temperature to save money. Leave your heating system set to 55° to keep the house warm, so that pipes do not freeze.” Source: blairsair.com

Appliances The Michele Safford Group recommends to “Unplug all small kitchen appliances like your coffee maker, toaster, microwave, blender, and others.” Source: michelesafford.com

2nd Annual Open House Job Fair

thorn — Mon, 27 Jan 2014 08:48:03 +0000

When: Tuesday, February 4, 2014 | 5:00pm-7:00pm

Saturday, February 8, 2014 | 9:00am-12:00pm

Where: 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty 10375 E. Harvard Ave, Suite 100 | Denver, CO 80231 Openings: Customer Service Representatives A/R Clerks, Inside Sales Reps, Administrative Assistant (Legal) Business Systems Analyst Sales Support Manager Purchasing Agent Requirements: • Mid-to-High level jobs will require at least 3-5 years’ experience in their related field. • At least a High school diploma is required for all positions. In some cases some college or a degree will be required. • Excellent customer service skills. • Previous face to face customer service experience for CSR. • Excellent verbal and written communication skills. • Ability to perform intermediate functions in Microsoft Word and Excel. • Problem solving, critical thinking and negotiation skills required. • Technical knowledge of HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and/or home appliances is a huge plus. • Have excellent attendance and punctuality. • Must be flexible to work 5am-8pm, Monday thru Sunday ALL POSITIONS REQUIRE A CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK Please bring 2 copies of your resume, and 2 business references. Professional attire please. 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty offers competitive salary and benefits package

Jeff Shore Presents at the 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty 2014 National Sales Rally

thorn — Wed, 29 Jan 2014 15:09:58 +0000

“Wow!” is pretty much the consensus we received from last week’s presentation from Jeff Shore when he came to Denver to speak at our 2014 National Sales Rally – “Accelerate.” The session opened up with Jeff talking about defining the customer’s mission: focusing on where the customer is coming from (i.e. why are they buying?) and how your product can improve your customer’s life. He provided us with a great formula for change—current dissatisfaction (what is wrong with the customer’s current situation) x future promise (the solution) > cost + fear (factors that cause a customer to stay in their current situation). This was really impactful on the way we approach our customers. Jeff also referenced a couple great stories from his new book Be Bold and Win the Sale: Get Out of Your Comfort Zone and Boost Your Performance, which everyone who attended the rally received a copy. Sue Sichler, our National Vice President of Sales – New Home, commented: “The day was, in true Jeff Shore style, one of the most motivating, energizing and thought provoking seminars we’ve had the opportunity to be part of. Jeff’s presentation caused us to look inward, focus on the customer and change our historical “feature dumping” and “we have, we do, we offer” approach. Following his “Formula for Change” and “Be Bold and Win the Sale” approach reconfirms that in order to continue to grow and accelerate, we must change! Thank you, Jeff Shore, for not only kicking off our rally with energy, motivation and thought provoking content and activities, but for presenting in such a manner that we will retain and recall for years to come… you are AWESOME!” And we’ll all never forget his closing words of wisdom “Go change the world, at least your little corner of it.” Jeff Shore, President of Shore Consulting, is a highly sought-after sales expert, speaker, author and executive coach whose innovative BE BOLD methodology teaches you how to change your mindset and change your world. His latest book, Be Bold and Win the Sale: Get Out of Your Comfort Zone and Boost Your Performance, was published by McGraw-Hill Professional in January 2014. For more information, visit http://jeffshore.com

A critical pre-closing inspection you didn’t know you needed.

thorn — Mon, 17 Feb 2014 19:06:02 +0000

It’s one of the most important and expensive systems in a home: The HVAC. Having a home warranty service agreement in place to cover breakdowns for this system can certainly come in handy when the unexpected happens. However, it’s important to ensure that your client’s system is properly working beforehand by having the HVAC certified by a professional. It’s a common misconception that a home inspection does an adequate job to determine if an HVAC is in good working condition. This unfortunately does not help in a homeowner’s case when being denied for an HVAC claim because of a pre-existing condition. What you might not know is that only licensed HVAC technicians are permitted to inspect and certify if an HVAC system is properly working. Home Inspectors are limited to what they can inspect and aren’t permitted to inspect the cabinet and put gauges on the system, which is an important factor in determining working condition of an HVAC. No matter the age of the home, if not properly maintained, defects and failures can develop over time and, if found after closing, could be cause for a pre-existing claim denial. Having the HVAC system certified can help protect a home seller from post-closing disputes due to buyer perceived non-disclosure. It also protects buyers from out of pocket expenses if the system fails. Are you interested in having your client’s HVAC system certified? Contact 2-10 Home Buyers Warranty^® to ask about their HVAC Certification program and see if the program is available for your area. Visit 2-10.com/HVACCertification.

Winners of the 2014 2-10 HBW Council of Sales Leadership

thorn — Wed, 12 Feb 2014 20:49:04 +0000

We’re proud to announce the winners of our 2014 Council of Sales Leadership (COSL), an annual program developed to recognize top sales leaders that display optimal sales expertise, while delivering trustworthiness and integrity to every customer, every day, every time. Winners are designated by revenue and growth – the top ten sales people are selected using these guidelines. The winners are: NEW HOME Keisha Hulsey - Risk Management Specialist (#1 in sales) Bill Connor - Risk Management Specialist Brenda Godfrey - Risk Management Specialist Jennifer Malone Wiseman - Risk Management Specialist Keith Perkins - Risk Management Specialist Lonnie Williams - Risk Management Specialist Michael Elman - Risk Management Specialist John McGrath - Risk Management Specialist Terry Graham - Risk Management Specialist Karen McCorkle - Risk Management Specialist Bill Flack - Vice President of Strategic Account Development Patti Nolan-Lento - Regional Vice President Jerry McGrath - Regional Vice President (#1 sales leader) RESALE Colleen Smith-Marr - Account Executive (#1 in sales) Gail West - Account Executive Heather Chumbler - Account Executive Kiah Stone - Account Executive Nancy Bell - Account Executive Robbie Rivardo - Account Executive Susan Beebe - Account Executive Scott Outcalt - Account Executive Stacey Santroni - Account Executive Wayne Ramsey - Account Executive Sue Ellen Burchfield - Vice President of Strategic Alliances Carolyn Ricketts - Regional Vice President Stephanie Hart - Regional Vice President (#1 sales leader) As part of the program, COSL members are awarded a destination trip and additional recognition. This year, the COSL members will enjoy a trip to San Francisco to network with their peers and share best practices.

Out With The Mold And In With The New

thorn — Fri, 14 Mar 2014 15:22:35 +0000

February can be a wet month, whether rain or snow, it can mean leaks and mold that are just around the corner. Here are some easy things you can do around your house to keep the mold at bay. Change the shower curtain. Swapping out your shower curtain can help eliminate unhealthy mold and mildew that contribute to mold problems in the shower and tub. When you’re done bathing, be mindful of opening and airing out the shower. Have your carpets professionally cleaned and vacuum regularly. Don’t give mold the fighting chance, by cleaning and vacuuming regularly you can remove sources of food that are likely to come in contact with moisture. Open your windows. Give mold an exit, reduce trapped moisture by opening up the windows. Turn up the heat! If you’re noticing condensation occurring in our home, bring those rooms to a warmer temperature so the water vapor in the air doesn’t cool and change into its liquid state.

A Cool Season for Growing Veggies

thorn — Mon, 17 Mar 2014 19:43:26 +0000

Do you have dreams of a lush garden where you can grow your own veggies and herbs? March is the ideal month to do it, so get growing! Consider growing these indoors first before planting outdoors. Tomatoes Peppers Herbs: Basil, oregano, thyme and sage Consider growing these veggies that can withstand the last days of March frost. Beets Onion Cabbage Cucumbers Peppers Spinach Prep your soil. Do you know the type of soil you have? For most soil, you can start by simply mixing in compost. If you conduct a soil test, it may indicate that your soil needs more of a helping hand. You can contact your state cooperative extension to find out the type in your area

Lead Generation for Real Estate Professionals

thorn — Thu, 20 Mar 2014 16:42:24 +0000

As a broker, you have the responsibility to recruit agents and ensure your office is generating revenue. And, what makes working at your office more attractive are substantial business opportunities, in this case: LEADS. Several ways you can generate leads for your agents are: online, cold calling and referrals. Online Is it easy for someone to get in contact with you on your website? Is there a call-to-action asking them to contact you? Your website is more than just a place to host listings and company bio, it’s your virtual shop. Think of it this way, when someone walks in your door, will they be greeted with a person to talk to or just be left to their own devices with your merchandise. Online leads demand greater responsiveness. The likelihood of closing a lead is diminished in 15 minutes – will you respond? Cold Calling When it doubt, have your agents pick up the phone and call. While it can be tough to combat, having a plan set in action for what to say and how to respond to people can make it less daunting. Have your agents:

Set aside 3 hours a day for making calls.
Create and have script in hand.
Check in on past clients and ask for referrals.

Referrals Know who to target. With the large Generation Y population entering the market, there leaves a lot of opportunity for referrals. It’s likely you’ve already sold a home to a Generation Y home buyer and they have friends or know of people in the same demographic who are also in the market. This is an ideal situation for agents to follow up with these clients by sending a note in the mail, email or even suggesting a call.

Five things you must know before integrating a warranty program.

thorn — Tue, 15 Apr 2014 15:18:37 +0000

You’re integrating a structural warranty program into your home building business – awesome! Then you think, “How does this work?”, “What’s covered?”, “How do I deal with a claim?” And your home buyers will be asking the same thing – will you have the answers?

Educate yourself on what is covered. Having an understanding of the warranty coverage will help you correctly set your buyer’s expectations and help you provide better customer service.
Put a process in place for responding to complaints. The quickest way for a complaint to get escalated is an untimely response or no response at all. Have a prewritten response that you can easily send to your homeowner explaining what your process is for handling claims. This way, you can set expectations for the start.
Train your sales team to understand and know the warranty coverage. It’s a common mistake to tell home buyers that structural warranty coverage covers everything, and in a home buyers eyes, they literally think everything from appliances to changing light bulbs will be covered. Training your sales team you will help save your company from unnecessary homeowner complaints.
Provide correct contact information to your homeowners in the event they need to place a claim. This can be a contact list that is included in the closing statement.
Walk the home buyers through the warranty coverage at closing. This can help lessen the likelihood of any future disputes.

Spring Cleaning… for kids!

thorn — Wed, 16 Apr 2014 22:20:35 +0000

Make spring cleaning a family activity by involving your kids. Here’s a list of tasks for all ages.

2-4 Years Old

Put clothes in hamper
Clean up toys
Help feed pets
Check under the beds and furniture for things that don’t belong
Dust baseboards
Dust windowsills

5-8 Years Old

Unload groceries
Put clean clothes on hangers
Clear or set the table
Help with food preparation
Make beds
Change sheets
Spray down the mirror and wipe it clean
Clean the sink
Dry and put away dishes

9-12 Years Old

Clean bathroom
Rake leaves or shovel snow
Wash dishes
Take out the trash
Learn to operate the washer and dryer

13-17 Years Old

Everything listed for 12 years and under
Vacuum or sweep the floors
Prepare meals
Wash, dry and fold clothes