BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 302 The Appraiser Cometh

Well here we go again. 4 offers on a property in Thousand Oaks. So, you think that would be good enough to determine the real value of the property? Sounds logical yet how did we get to the place where an appraiser from some far away town determines the outcome of a deal struck between two willing parties? I will start holding my breath today and wait 3-4 days for the outcome. He rides in on his Toyota Prius, holding his laser measuring device and in his pen he holds the power of life or death (as it pertains to this transaction).....the appraiser cometh.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 301 Dream On

Dylan said he was busy working all day yesterday on the Ventura coast with this client......and then he woke up and got to work.

This is Dylan taking a nap, with The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 300 Dreams of Glass

Here is a picture of the original McLaughlin Group..actually it is a shot of my grandfather's employees at his glass factory in Los Angeles which he operated form 1920-1935 and it is also the front cover of the book about his glass factory. So when my Dad wants to tell stories about working in the glass factory, hot glass splinters and how easy we had it growing up compared to him, I might have to agree after looking at the photos. The book is entitled "Dreams of Glass" The story of William McLaughlin and his Glass Company. It is a fun read and pictorial memory of my grandfather's glass factory. I do swell with some pride as I glance through the book and think about his accomplishments and struggles as he worked for his American Dream. "Pop" as we called him lived to be 90 years old. Hopefully, I grabbed a bag of those genes from his pool.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 299 Assuage

The synonyms for this word include: soothe, appease, allay, pacify, mitigate, calm.

The definition is to make (an unpleasant feeling) less intense.

We have all had many occasions where we try to mitigate or assuage the concerns of a client or friend. It's never easy but the only thing to do is try. Often times the feeling that one had is far worse than the event that caused the unpleasantries. My mind and all minds can go crazy with reflection and wonder. I had a recent event with a client that appeared way worse because of how the event transpired and actions I took. Even though I knew the facts and they were clear to me, my actions caused doubt. I was confident in the facts and my client's concerns were mitigated. For sure, questions were raised and ultimately, my client and I, knew the truth. Sometimes the clients you have some struggles with become the best clients. In this particular case, the very best!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 298 On the Hunt

You take a look at this title and you're thinking that I am going to talk about house hunting and the struggles of the modern day buyer....nope, i will save that for another day. Today the blog will be about Dylan and my brother Drew taking off for a few days to a remote ranch to bag some bacon. This is not store bought bacon but wild Feral bacon. So for two days they struggled to bag the elusive, crafty and tough swine but late on the second day Dylan was able to put down a couple hundred pounder. These swine can put a hurt on you so in the back of my mind, knowing they are both a bit timorous, I will always wonder if they just found it on the side of the road. Oh well, it does not matter how, for it is now, ribs, chops and sausage for the entire group. Coupled with our salmon, venison and our McLaughlin Group vino, I question if you will ever see any more skinny girls in our group photos.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 297 Less is More...Gettysburg

Lincoln was preceded by famed orator Edward Everett who spoke for roughly two hours at the dedication but it was Lincoln's two minutes that changed the course and destiny of our country. Lincoln's speech reminds us all that many times less is so much more and in real estate isn't that the truth?

Here are the amazing 273 words that changed America forever.

"Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.
Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation, so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate, we can not consecrate, we can not hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 296 Saturday in Huntington

Took a day off yesterday to hang in Huntington.Started with a 2 year old birthday party and ended with a meal and drink at the pier. Super relaxing day with family and friends and amazed at the crowds and the weather..Wow, Sunny, warm, packed and for a guy that likes to people watch...it was target rich. There is something calming about the ocean and the people that enjoy it. I think they they dance to a different drum beat and I have to admit, for at least a short while yesterday, I could hear their drums.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 295 Foreclosure Agents

Talk about the Wild Wild West..There are a few agents out there practicing real estate right now that are shady at best. Hiding behind the bank and whatever else they want to claim, they operate like weasels in a chicken coop, killing but not eating, only out to satisfy themselves. I firmly believe they don't care about the assets that they sell or the people they sell to. For them, it is about lining their own pockets. I would mention names and companies but I hesitate, for I may unfortunately, need to cross paths again. They are unaccountable, unseen, disrespectful, and one can only dream of the day these foreclosures disappear and the market returns to a place where people skills matter. Like the Weasel, once this foreclosure market disappears, they will slink back into their holes, rarely to be seen, and afraid to venture out, for they are unable to compete when competing matters.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 294 Proxio

As a new member of The Institute for Luxury Home Marketing, just one of the benefits for our sellers is the appearance their listings in Proxio, a world wide MLS system. Let's see if we can match some of those international buyers with our great listings.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 293 The Most Affordable Time in History

Paste this link into your browser and see what you think...Amazing times considering a very sluggish economy and yet with interest rates as low as they are...it just might be the most affordable time in history to buy a home.


http://www.dailywealth.com/1615/The-Best-Time-in-History-to-Buy-a-House


This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 292 10 Acre Oasis

This one is unreal..10 acre private retreat at the back of Lobo Canyon..Peaceful, private, serene..feels like your in another state but only 5 minutes to the 101. Single level, pool/spa almost 4000 sq. ft. Truly a one of a kind property!

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 291 Keeping it Together

What a phrase! I think most Realtors truly understand the meaning of this now. The spoiled days of yester year are far behind and now, keeping it together through these transactions, can be brutal. I think the most frustrating and difficult task is dealing with these appraisers. Where do they come from and how did they get here? I do feel like they are alien-like...no accountability, no reasons, no willingness to listen and if you get one that's nice, thank your lucky stars that you got E T on one transaction because on the next one, you may be facing Sigourney Weaver's nemesis. Oh well, keeping it together is where we earn our keep.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 290 Rubbing it in

While the rest of the McLaughlin Group is working away at opens and showings, one member slipped off for some fun in the sun. It is great when one gets to do that but most of us don't make the ones suffer who were left behind. Laurie has sent a couple photos of the island with a note expressing her incredible joy over the beach side pool service and drink selections. Rubbing it in on your own team...shame...shame...shame. On the flip side, the office has been a little more work focused and the chatter level is way down. Go figure? Truth be told, the office may have slid back a bit on the fun meter..Oh well, we are happy that she is having fun and when she gets back, the stack of paperwork I have left on her desk, will make her wonder if the fun in the sun was worth it.


This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 289 Lake Tour

If anyone is curious about some of the homes at the lake, Janet and Kelly will be at 2170 East Lakeshore. You can swing by Sunday 1-4 and from there see a number of lake houses. Here is a an inside shot of one of the homes.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 288 Another Peek

Here is another peek at the new one on Malibou Lake.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 287 Marvel on the Lake

Well, here it is the newest and coolest house on Malibou Lake. Completed last year this architectural gem needs to be marveled at. Open loft style interior coupled with a unreal location and spectacular views of the lake and mountains. We will release for showings on Thursday and anticipate a flood of activity.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 286 Teamwork

Win together, lose together, play together, stay together.


This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 285 President's Day

In honor of all our presidents.....

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 284 The Birth of a Neighborhood Part 2

Here is a blog about The Vintage community that I wrote about a few months ago. It is fitting to revisit because two days ago we released the final phase of the development...So here it is from day 21.. Attached is a one photo of one of the new homes. Check out the our website to view the 8 new homes.

Driving through the Vintage community the other day, I reflected back on my days of hiking and looking for snakes where this community now sits. I first need to commend the developer for maintaining the character and natural beauty of this place. Obviously, when you build, the land never looks the same, but Vintage did a magnificent job of keeping it special. What is really cool is to see the transformation from a raw piece of land into a neighborhood where families are loving living there. Kids playing on the quiet street, a mother deer and fawn on the side of a newly landscaped yard, foraging away. We talk about a house becoming a home, but this is a 10 plus year endeavor where families are enjoying the fruits of a developer's vision. From King Snakes to hand shakes, from childhood play to handing the keys over. I do not think I could ask for a better 40 years, I'm a lucky guy.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 283 Fabulous Single Story

Just listed this fabulous single story in Thousand Oaks..Here is the link to our online magazine so take a peek and let us know what you think. 4+3.5, over 3600 sq ft on over 1/2 acre.

http://www.themclaughlingroup.com/ibrochure-single/index.cfm?listingid=33158

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDSWIDEOPEN - day 282 Valentine's Day

Happy Valentine's Day,

On this day, remember those who love you, so remember to love them.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 281 Orlando

Just under 10,000 wild agents whooping it up during the state of the company address. Truly impressive that in only 29 years KW has risen to the number 2 largest real estate company and is poised in 2012 to overtake the number one spot. Lots of new technologies and ideas from all the classes and break out sessions. Market dinner tonight with the 11 members of the WLV office that ventured South for some education and some fun.


This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 280 Just Another Day in Westlake Bay Paradise

Hi, I'm Laurie's mom. I was walking my tiny Maltese, Gundy, through my condominium complex this morning, reflecting how blessed I am to be living in such a lovely community. There must be 500 trees in my neighborhood, from plum to pine, to sycamore, and even the ones without leaves look beautiful.

I remember reading that Dave & his group sold 60 homes last year -- 60 homes, even with this slow economy. Then I realized one of the reasons why......who wouldn't want to live here? Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Agoura, Oak Park -- the list goes on and on, and every area is as perfect as the last. Of course, I have to admit that Dave and his staff are pretty awesome, with a work ethic that's hard to beat. I may be biased, but having been a teacher for over 26 years, I definitely know an A+ when I see it!

This is Sandy,Laurie's mom,from The McLaughlin Group,keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 279 Winter Blues

Funny how so many people suffer from depression in the winter months from lack of sunlight, fresh air and warmth. We Southern Californians rarely have that excuse. What a fantastic day we have. It doesn't cost a thing....get out there, soak it up, breathe it in and hold that smile. Not many people in the United States have received this gift today. Enjoy!!

This is Laurie, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 278 The Blood of Life

So appreciative of our clients who showed up today to provide the blood of life to the kids served by LA Children's Hospital. I am always moved by those who take the time and offer their energy, blood, charity, and gifts to those who are in need. What a fantastic opportunity we had today to offer children more hope than they had when the day started. The impact of life giving blood to just one may change the world someday. Thank you again to all who gave.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 277 5 Years

Talk about time flying by. I blogged just 5 days ago about 18 years and Kelsey but today I blog about 5 years with Miley. Hard to believe I get another chance at raising another daughter. What a truly remarkable daughter this one is; sweet like the sweetest candy, beautiful, sensitive, caring and full of life. The bluest eyes one could ever imagine and 5 years ago today, she came out via c-section reaching for the stars. I took this shot right after delivery and since those initial screams she has been a dream child. The cycle of life for me began again; coaching soccer, trips to the zoo and all the things I did when Kels and Kins were that age. Miley has been a shot of adrenaline to me. She keeps me young, happy and energized. She looks up to her sisters and worships the ground they walk on. She is a sweet sweet blessing to her grandparents and a gift to her entire family. 5 Years ago today I had my 3peat, There is nothing better in this life than a little daughter who thinks you walk on water. Happy Birthday, Miley Rae, you are very very special!

This is Dave, proud dad of Miley, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 276 Eli vs. Tom

Those were two great QBs doing battle yesterday and I thought how for two weeks, they planned, schemed and prepared for the big game. I compare it to a listing appointment when I know I'm up against a really good agent. I know, it's not a football game but it is a competition with a winner and loser and I like to win. So, when we I have a listing appointment, it's game on. With a goal of 80 listings for the group, we can't afford to have a bad game. 10 AM Tuesday morning, the front doorbell will ring and the kick off is underway.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 275 Image at Lavaggio

Image for so many people is so important and it starts with pulling up in your automobile. This will be the 3rd blog in the series on Lavaggio. We are so pleased to be partnered up with them and highly recommend their services. If you are someone who uses your car as a mobile office, you will want to make sure that Lavaggio is a frequent stop for you. When you drop by please tell Lydia that The McLaughlin Group sent you their way.

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate

BLINDS WIDE OPEN -day 274 18 hours that led to 18 Years

I can't believe 18 years has gone by so fast. It was a windy night at Westlake Hospital when Kelsey popped out after an easy 18 hour labor. :) Easy for me that is. Today I reflect on what an amazing daughter I have. First memory was waking up at 2 in the morning on 1/17/94 thinking this is it and being a first time Dad, I did not think the earth would shake but it was shaking big time. Of course it turned out to be the Northridge quake but just a couple weeks later Kelsey shook our world with her appearance. I remember holding her and crying and was so taken with the little bundle. Kelsey has been a dream daughter. Smart, beautiful, athletic and kind and if you asked any of her friends or family, they would all echo the same thoughts. The Senior Class President at Agoura High, Co-captain of the varsity soccer team, and headed off to SMU in the fall. I am super proud of the young lady and my greatest honor in this life is to be called her dad. 18 hours that led to a truly amazing 18 years. Happy Birthday Kelsey, you are one very special young lady.

This is Dave, proud dad of Kelsey, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!

BLINDS WIDE OPEN - day 273 Lavaggio Platinum Club Membership

Treat yourself to a 12 month Platinum Club Membership to Lavaggio. This is a $4,600+ value for only $1,975 plus an additional 20% off if you bring in this blog page! What do you get?
EVERY DAY - Full service signature wash
EVERY QUARTER - Ultimate detailing
WHEN YOU NEED IT - New vehicle protection
WHEN YOU NEED IT - Lease return detailing
PLUS - Complimentary dining from Bellini Bistro, access to meeting rooms, concierge services, special events, executive shuttle service, priority scheduling and preferred member pricing on additional services.

Can you get any better than that???

This is Dave, from The McLaughlin Group, keeping it real in real estate!