Mara Hawks

Since I read about your switch to the boutique-type agency, I've been wondering about how much is involved with re-organizing online presence. It seems that many of the companies that take your listings, are really focused on the manipulation of the Realtor, not the consumer---although the front end picture seems to be presented as a strong attraction for the consumer. It keeps me wondering, too, what MLS is doing behind the scenes, while it appears on the front end that they are giving away lots of (highly paid for by Realtors) information for free. This topic will only get hotter, I'm sure, once it's better understood how many of our listed properties are going out to pasture. [BTW, I love the cow crossing...I just love cows and their stories and humor :-] all the best for the rest of your roundup. Mara Hawks REALTOR® 3345242220 FIRST REALTY, a Realty South Company Auburn,AL www.marahawks.com

It's always an enjoyable ride to get on your train of thought. I love the oriiginality in your writing style. I think, right now with everything so new, we're still a lot in the stage of discovery and play...we'll see what we can do with it all when we grow up---or in the next 2-3 years. I'm sure they had some fun with the telephone when it was invented...and the light bulb...it's all just really fascinating. Although, at this moment of saturation, I returned from REtech South nearly paralyzed! I'm starting to come around again, though. I know exactly what you mean about 'watching' twitter...like flocks of birds...and I know I can't fly until I understand the flight pattern better...'birdbrain' has never sounded so appealing. Again, I really enjoyed your article. Mara Hawks REALTOR® 3345242220 FIRST REALTY, a Realty South Company Auburn,AL www.marahawks.com

2007 was a disaster year for me as a REALTOR. I barely survived. In Dec 2007, I began blogging and getting to know the Active Rain community. Besides offering the most comprehensive resources among its professional members, I discovered a genuine intent to share information and get professionals on board for WEB 2.0 and the way the Internet was changing the way we can do business--forever. It was A LOT of people helping A LOT of others, NOT a handful of mentors helping thousands with scripted formulas. Active Rain seems to have what some might refer to as A HEART. It's included in their vision---of people helping people. And isn't it a heart that really makes any house A HOME? My business in 2008 quadrupled, and I attribute the success to my association with ActiveRain. Their new, minimal fees are an opportunity for me to express some gratitude and support for a tried and proven platform. Mara Hawks REALTOR® 3345242220 FIRST REALTY, a Realty South Company Auburn,AL www.marahawks.com