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The Mortgage Business Is Changing...Are You In Internet Denial?Refinances are down, new home sales are off, lenders are closing their doors, loan programs are being eliminated, and credit requirements are being tightened...it's no wonder we're not quite as optimistic as we once were. It's against this backdrop that your on-line mortgage presence and Internet marketing takes on a whole new importance. There is mounting evidence that if you are not on the Internet bandwagon and if you can't be found by people searching for mortgages on the Internet, you are completely "missing the boat" in the mortgage business. Many of you have told me "I just don't get that involved with online marketing. I've been very successful the traditional way for many years." Here's my response...My sincere congratulations on all of your past success and my profound empathy for the frustration you will suffer in the months and years ahead as your prospects leave you at the station while they board the express mortgage train called the internet. Here are a few points about this trend to the Internet that you should ponder: Both Search Engines and web sites are considered "referrals" and "trusted sources" by those doing the search. Being directed to your web site by organic search engines is a valid referral, just as a phone call is, or a referral from a friend or associate. People consult Google, Yahoo, MSN and AOL with inquiries and their most delicate questions over a billion times a week! If Internet referrals constitute a "trusted source," shouldn't you be one of those "trusted sources?" The Internet is alive and on duty 24/7, and you would be amazed at what time of day (or night) people search for homes and mortgages. In contrast, the morning newspaper is usually in the trash by dinner time. Supporting the proposition that newspaper readership and advertising is not as important as it used to be, consider these facts: In every age group, newspaper readership is down. In the 30-45 age group, less than 35% of people read a newspaper. Even in the 45-55 age group, only slightly more than 45% of people read the newspaper. People are turning to the Internet in staggering numbers. Many publications including the New York Times are transitioning as fast as they can to Internet publication and advertising as they fear for the future of traditional newspapers in America. Have you tried to get a teenager to read a book, lately? They are probably too busy Instant messaging, text messaging friends on their cell phones or watching videos on YouTube. Our next generation will be even less paper friendly and even more Internet friendly. Mortgage professionals that have already committed to online marketing have been able to expand their marketing area and remain effective due to online communication; people find you on the Internet, call you or email you, and use you to help them secure a mortgage in an area they may not know. So, unless you are in a state of denial about the Internet's importance to your future mortgage transactions, you need to take action immediately. You do need the Internet...today and in the future...to succeed in the mortgage business. If you are welcoming and ready to exploit the changes you need to make, you'll be more successful in your online mortgage marketing and that's where the money will be in the future! Related
And here is another random article you might be interested in... Relocate and Live On The Water: Marinas in York, Surry or Isle of Wight CountiesIn Virginia, Isle of Wight, York and Surry counties all share some unique characteristics. Each one of these counties represents a different piece of early American history and continues to grow as a part of our nation's future. They also share the influence of the James River, York River and a huge system of creeks and tributaries associated with these bodies of water. Living on the water is an aspect of this region that draws thousands of prospective homeowners each year. Below, you will find a list of resources for potential and current homeowners interested in marinas, boat ramps, and other activities in some of the most beautiful areas of coastal Virginia. Isle of Wight County Smithfield Station Marina Smithfield Station is located on the Pagan River and offers the best in marina living and vacationing. This marina, with 60 slips, can accommodate boats up to 70 feet long and has floating docks. Power, water and hot showers are accessible from your boat and VHF radio is monitored on channel 16. Smithfield Station includes the beautiful Waterfront Inn complete with lighthouse suites and a full service restaurant. Smithfield Station fosters community spirit by inviting local residents and visitors to stroll the boardwalk, swim in the pool or picnic under the gazebo. Everyone is invited to annual activities such as the art show, fireworks, Halloween party or fishing tournament. Gatling Pointe Marina Another marina located along the Pagan River in Smithfield is the Gatling Pointe Marina. Gatling Pointe is similar in size to Smithfield Station with 68 slips. Water and electric are available to all boats. Boat Ramps For those interested in simply getting their boat in the water there are numerous boat ramps in the Isle of Wight region. One is the Joyner's Bridge Boat Ramp on Joyner's Bridge Road, which provides access to the Blackwater River. Tyler's Beach Boat Ramp allows boaters to access the James River on Tyler's Beach Road in Rushmere. The Jones Creek Boat Ramp in Carrollton on Boundary Lane has amenities available to boat enthusiasts. It provides access to 2 ramps, a fishing pier, bathroom facilities, parking, a staging area and a tie-down area. Fishing is plentiful on the James River system. You can find smallmouth and largemouth bass, carp, stripers, crappies and more. A Virginia fishing license is always required. Surry County Hog Island Wildlife Management Area This beautiful wildlife region is partially located in Surry County and in Isle of Wight County. It consists of flat, open land broken up by pine forests, tidal marshes and controlled ponds. The boat ramp can be found at Lawnes Creek. Many local homeowners and visitors come here to catch a view of a variety of shorebirds and even eagles. You may also fish for catfish and bass or hunt waterfowl and deer. There are also beautiful paths to hike along. Gray's Creek Marina Take a free ferry ride across the James River and find Gray's Creek Marina offering 26 slips and a boat ramp. Fuel, water and electric are accessible to all boats and casual dining and spectacular waterfront views can be enjoyed at the Rocky Bottom Grill. York County Poquoson Marina Located on White House Cove Poquoson Marina offers 156 Boat slips, 74 of which are covered. They also provide100 dry storage stalls, boat ramps, digital cable, high speed Internet, a pump out station, pay phones and restrooms. You can also enjoy the marina restaurant, Bubba's Ship Gallery. Wormley Creek Marina East of Yorktown you will find the Wormley Creek full service marina offering 90 slips, 7 of which are covered. Wormley Creek offers full boat repair services and has fixed docks, a pump out station, dry storage for long term or during bad weather, restrooms, telephones and access to VHF channels. Parking is available along with a comfortable picnic area the whole family can enjoy. Fishing and sailing are popular activities on Wormley Creek. Dare Marina Near Yorktown, Dare Marina provides deepwater access into Chrisman Creek. At Dare Marina the staff offers certified repair of MerCruiser, Mercury and Volvo Penta. Dare Marina is also an official Volvo Penta Dealer. There are 50 slips available here, with a wide variety of amenities including access to VHF channels, floating and fixed docks, restrooms, showers, US mail services and fuel availability. The marina store also sells bait, tackle, spirits, boat parts and supplies. Owens Marina This simple boat ramp area is located near a casual dining restaurant and gas station where boaters can purchase basic supplies. For related articles and further information on relocation and the Tidewater area please visit www.voncannonrealestate.com. Related
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