I’ve asked a few local business owner friends to read through a book called Trust Agents starting next month. So far our book readers consist of several real estate appraisers, a photographer, editor of a local online publication, real estate agent and hopefully a broker. I should mention we do have an appraiser from Georgia too who will be reading along with us (he just won’t be at the meetings in CA).
This is a low-key gathering and not a networking meeting. Like I told everyone, this is an informal get-together and a social opportunity to grow in business with other locals. The goal is to openly ponder this highly recommended book and think out loud together about the content. It should be fun, and I have a feeling we’ll learn a lot and sharpen each other’s business skills too.
If this group goes well, maybe I’ll put together a couple more since I’ve been meaning to read Crush It and The 4-Hour Workweek. Do you have any books to suggest? Has there been a particular author who has formed your thinking for business or life? Also, if you’ve read Trust Agents, what did you think?
Facuets Left On: I appraised a bank-owned property in Solano County. It was a very nice property, but unfortunately all faucets and spickets were left on (with clogged drains), so there was extensive water damage. It was unclear if the damage was done by the disgruntled home owner or a vandal.
Oak Park Fixers: This year I appraised quite a few fixer properties in the Oak Park area of Sacramento that were purchased by an investment group, re-habbed, and then re-sold on the open market to first-time home buyers. It’s nice to be a part of a project where the end result is good for the community.
Vacant Subdivision Land in Sacramento: Acting as a property tax consultant, I valued two parcels in Sacramento County under the supervision of an AG (Commercial Appraiser). These sites were scheduled to be finished out as a subdivision, but then the market burst and subdivision building virtually stopped.
Spring Water & Cesspool: I appraised a house in Placer County that was on spring water and a cesspool (as opposed to a well and septic tank). Do you think this would have an impact on market value? How much of a price discount would it take for the typical buyer to look over an atypical feature such as this to purchase the property?
Dilapidated Fourplex: This property was interesting because it had repeated damage from squatters. I had to climb through a window to inspect one of the units too, and I cut my finger on broken glass (that made me remember this property even more).
Upgraded Duplex: The residential-income market in Sacramento saw a 
Rancho Cordova Property: I’ll be honest. Since my office is located in 
Divorce Appraisals: I do work for home owners and attorneys during a difficult time of life. It was a pleasure to provide excellent service to home owners in need this year and at least make the appraisal process smooth in the midst of a challenging situation. I grew up in a divorced home and I know it’s not an easy time of life.
Pre-Listing Appraisals for Local Agent: I am a huge fan of working with local Realtors and it was a pleasure to establish a new working relationship with a particular agent who began to rely upon my knowledge and services this year. This year I had more referral work from Realtors and that’s a wonderful thing!!! I am also really grateful to be more connected to some stellar local real estate agents on 
Ripon New Subdivision: There was nothing terribly complex about this assignment, but I really felt like I did a solid job on this appraisal in Stanislaus County and my client was very happy with the end-product. It’s just one of those I remember putting in a good amount of time and really enjoying the finished product.
