Blog
Feb 17, 2012- The F1NAL Countdown
Monday’s annual State of the Company speech electrified a crowd of more than 9,000, as Keller Williams CEO Mark Willis shared several key indicators of the company’s continued upward trajectory as well as the long-awaited announcement of the first Keller Williams Realty franchise overseas – KW Vietnam.
Chris Heller, president of KW Worldwide announced the launch.
“As we began looking for opportunities to expand outside the U.S. and Canada, our primary goal was always to find the right leadership first. We know that Paul Mason [the new president of KW Vietnam], along with the other leaders we are partnering with, share our belief system and our commitment to grow the Keller Williams culture,” said Heller.
He also announced that the company was in varying stages with potential franchisees in additional countries including South Africa, New Zealand, Indonesia, Egypt and several other Middle Eastern countries.
Among the achievements that Willis highlighted during his speech, one key milestone stood out.
“This year, you might have just started the trajectory that will silence our competitors for good.”
Willis was referring to an exponential increase in the number of average units closed per KW associate – which, at 19 percent, in the U.S. and 0.5 percent in Canada, outpaced the National Association of Realtors® and the Canadian Real Estate Association, respectively.
Willis also pointed out that Keller Williams associates and owners made more money across the board – average GCI per agent increased 16 percent, 83 percent of Keller Williams offices were profitable at year end, and the company profit shared more than $38 million with its associates, an increase of 11 percent over 2010.
Likening the gathering to a “giant stakeholder meeting,” Willis left no question as to what the focus of 2012 would be for the company.
“The goal … the one challenge for this year is to get to No. 1 in North America,” Willis urged at the closing of his address.
“Becoming No. 1 creates unstoppable momentum for your own careers as well as our market centers. It puts each of us in a mindset for growth and opportunity and it gives you a tremendous edge in winning more business and building greater wealth.”
Willis closed the speech with a call to arms: “We want you to be inspired to grow your careers and to grow this company with the fierce urgency of now.”
Mary Tennant, president and COO of KW turned the audience’s attention to the State of the Culture, honing in on the incredible ways in which associates give back.
“There are many things that set us apart, but none is more impressive than the tremendous culture you have built,” she said. In 2011, Keller Williams associates donated $3.3 million to KW Cares. “Thank you, Keller Williams family, for everything you are doing to make our Culture so special. We’re proud to be in business with you and proud to call you family.”
During the State of the Company, CEO Mark Willis recognized an impressive Who’s Who list of top market centers and team leaders.
Included were the Home Run Market Centers of the year, and in the event program, these two market centers were transposed.
Our sincerest congratulations to the
1. Halifax, Nova Scotia Market Center – Home Run Market Center of the Year
2. Fairfax-Capital Properties, VA Market Center – Runner-Up for Home Run Market Center of the Year
Click here to see everyone who was recognized! Congratulations to our Who’s Who!
Jan 25,2012- How Bad Do You Want It?
How much harder will you work today after watching this?
How much harder will you strive to become a better version of yourself after watching this?
Click here to view video
Dec 9,2011- And the winner is...
Last Friday I had the pleasure of representing the realtors of Durham at "Pickering High School" for their annual "Get a Life Day". I was honoured to speak and meet with over 400 gr. 11 and 12 students about the pros and cons to owning your own business or working as a self employed profession. I was relieved to see the interest and passion that most students had in not only my profession but the path they had laid out for themselves in the next few years. College, University, Trades School were among the many topics. It was a great day of learning and I would recommend every High School to do an event like this for their students.
Big thank-you to the Staff and Students at Pickering High School.
Now the real reason my Blog page had over 200 hits this week..... I had a contest at the "Get a Life Day" event and told the students the winner would be posted on my "Blog Page" this week.
And the winner is.... "Marissa Fattore" from Ajax. Congrats on your $50 gift card to Cineplex. Hope you can enjoy it over the holidays. It will be sent to you in the mail.
Stay Tuned for next weeks Blog. I will be posting avg Realtors #'s v.s. My #'s for this past year.
Have a great weekend,
Music in my office right now- "Falling Star"(remix) Kid Cudi + Florence and the Machine. (click here to listen now)
Recommended Movie to watch- "Warrior" (click here for trailer)
Favourite Magazine- "Architectural Digest"
Michael McDougall
Nov 25,2011- Being the Best!!
Happy Friday!!
Just wanted to share a quick motivational video by The Great "Robin Sharma"(International Best Selling Author and Motivational Speaker.)
I was fortunate enough to see him Talk this am at UOIT, Thanks to my good friend "Todd Skinner".
He spoke about Life, Leadership and being the best at what you do. here is a short clip.
click here to view video
Have a great weekend everyone
music in my office right now - "Levels" by Avicii. click here to listen ( I know its a lot to handle, but its Friday)
Recommended Television Series - "How I met Your Mother" (currently on Season 6)
Michael McDougall
Nov 18,2011- Toronto Blue Jays Going Back!!!
All I can say, is its about time.. Take a look at this video and you'll see what I mean
click here to watch video
Oct 21, 2011 - The Biebz and Christmas??
So I know this topic is way too early, but I have to Blog about this.
Yesterday I was working as hard as ever (aka Surfing “YouTube”) and came across Justin Biebers new X-mas track “Mistletoe” ( don't ask why I was surfing his name). Why do popular artist feel they have to release a Christmas track?
This video is honestly the cheesiest music video I have seen in a while. There is way to much to make fun of in this video.. I will say I'm digging his Cut off gloves. ( been wearing them for years) Oh ya, If you don't think this video ends with Bieber kissing under the mistletoe, see for yourself. Click here to view video
I don’t know if I’m writing about this because I hate it or its actually starting to grow on me (ha-ha.. seriously I think I like it now).
Anyways this topic has me asking you all this question.. What is the worst Christmas Song/Video by an Artist?
Here is my top 3.
3) “Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday”- N Sync. Loving the bubble Jackets and J.T’s perm. (No way that’s all natural)
click here for video
2)” Wonderful Christmas Time” – Paul McCartney – I’m sure they Blew the budget on the Crazy Special effects.
click here for video
1)”All I want for Christmas”- Mariah Carey – Anyone else find the relationship between her and Santa a little too weird in this video??
click here for video
Thanks for reading and I’m really sorry for this ridiculous topic and the lack of effort to educate you on the Real Estate Market.
Have a great Weekend!!
Music in my Office right now- “A Real Hero” – College Feat. Electric Youth click here to listen
Recommend Television Series- “Entourage” – HBO
Michael McDougall
Oct 14th,2011 - NYC/FOR SALE BUY OWNER
Hope everyone had a great thanksgiving..
Mine was a little different this year as we spent our 1st year anniversary in NYC.. Definitely recommend a trip to “The Big Apple” if you have never been. It is exactly what it looks like in the movies.. So much to do so I would suggest staying for at least 4 nights so you don’t feel rushed to get everything done.
Must things to do well your there:
The obvious-
Central Park. Never seen anything like it before.. Absolutely beautiful
Meat packing district. Trendy village with lots of cool restaurant and lounges.
5th ave. Shopping is insane.. bring your VISA..haha… But seriously
Check out a Broadway show.. I recommend “How to Succeed in business without really trying” Didn’t think I would like it because I’m not the cheesy musical type, but it was very funny and entertaining.
There is so much more and would suggest staying in a central area like “Times Square” so it is easy to get around.
I have to Share one Real Estate story. (Sorry couldn’t write a blog without Talking Biz).
My client tried to sell his home on his own for 4 months in North Oshawa..
There was nothing wrong with the house and it actually was a decent asking price (unlike most “For Sale By Owners”) So for 4 months he had customers come through his house that he found on Kijiji or drive by’s. He had no idea who these people were or if they were even qualified for purchasing his home. (I’ll get to my point in a minute).
He did have one offer on the house but it fell apart do to the buyer disappearing! (Didn’t know there was a condition for that). He still had to pay the lawyer for the fees that were calculated up till this point.
In his frustration the seller called me. I looked at the house. Put a higher price on it and listed it. Sold it in 15 days for a price higher than he had originally had.
Through aggressive marketing, showings with qualified preapproved buyers looking for that type of home and using a professional that is familiar with the area we got the job done in 15 days at a higher price that covered half of his closing costs.
I guess my point is would you perform brain surgery on yourself?? I would probably let my doctor handle that one!! ( Not directly comparing myself to a doctor they are much smarter than me although Doctor McDougall does sound sexy!!)
Have a great Weekend!!
Music in My Office right now- Hinnom TX - Bon Iver. click here to listen
Movie of the Month- "Drve" click here for trailer
Doctor McDougall
July 27th, 2011 - The MoveWithMichael.ca Weekly Times
click here to view my NEW Newspaper!!!
Lots of great info.. Entertainment, World Wide News, Video clips of your favorite shows and lots more...
Sign up for your free Weekly Subscription!!
April 12, 2011- 1 1/2 day on market, 17 showing, multiple offers = SOLD!!
75 Hammond, Bowmanville. Sold for over asking price!! Congrats to my clients. Well deserved!!
April 5, 2011- Just Listed..Bowmanville..Great Location - $249,900
Awesome Value!! Perfect Starter Home. Beautiful 2 Storey Home In Bowmanville With Gorgeous View Of Open Field From Private Balcony Off Master Bedroom. This Well Cared For Home Has Much To Offer. Open Concept Main Floor Features Crown Mouldings, Laminate Flooring, Slate Backsplash In Kitchen, Walk/Out To Fully Fenced Yard Off Kitchen. Entertain In Your Fully Finished Basement Includes An Amazing Wet Bar, Ceramic Floors, Pot Lights And Much More..
click here for more photos.
March 24, 2011- Clothing Drive!!
This is blowing up alot larger then I thought!!.. Love everyones support, can't wait to see the end result. This is going to help so many families in need. Thanks again to all my Family, Friends and Past Clients!!
If you would like to donate any clothing please contact me at michael@movewithmichael.ca
January 24,2011- Good Credit... No Down Payment.....No Prob!!
New mortgage programs for creditworthy clients with limited down payment
RBC is launching two default insured mortgage programs that have been
modified slightly to meet RBC requirements:
* CMHC Non-Traditional Source of Equity
* Genworth Cashback Equity.
These two programs allow new home buyers who have above average credit
scores and good cash flow
but not enough funds for a down payment to use borrowed funds or
Cashback to purchase a home.
Other key details of these programs:
* Available only for home purchases
* Property must be a owner occupied primary residence and all
applicants must reside at the property
* Cashback and funds borrowed for down payment cannot exceed 5% of
purchase price
* Loan can be a unsecured RBC Royal Credit Line or Term Loan, and
can also be obtained from a competitor
* Available to clients for one mortgage only
January 17,2011- Mortgage Changes 2011
Not a Big Change for Mortgage Rules. Still very affordable.. Amort changed from 35 yrs to 30 yrs.. Re finance up to 85% on home. This is to protect and sustain home ownership and save on interest!! it's positive!!
click here to watch video on changes
January 12,2011- When Should I List My Home??
Now!!! Last month in Courtice, Oshawa and Whitby there were over 150 properties SOLD!! Numbers were down 1% from 2009. Reason being was lower pricing in 2009. So in a month where most people are stuffing stockings and wrapping presents over $37,500,000.00 in real estate was purchased. So If I'm able to get multiple offers in late December and sell for over asking what can I do for you in January?? With Over 430 active properties in Oshawa alone you need a FULL TIME REALTOR (aka Michael McDougall) who knows how to get you top dollar and get it fast. The questions below are very important when interviewing an agent for the job.
Very Important Questions to Ask Your Agent
- Are you a full-time or part-time agent?
- What is the average number of days your listings are on the market before selling?
- Will you service our listing personally or will we be working with your assistants?
- How many sellers and buyers are you currently representing?
- What is your Internet marketing program?
- What is your policy on responding to phone calls/emails/text messages?
- How much of your business is generated by referrals?
- What references can you provide?
- Do you offer an “easy exit” listing so that I can end our agreement if I am not satisfied?
December 13,2010 - KW Turkey Drive
What a Day!!.. The 3rd Annual Turkey Drive had its biggest turn out ever. With more then 50 volunteers and only 3 hours to pack and stuff 550 boxes with turkeys and all the sides...We Did It!!! Watching families drive up to the KW parking lot to receive their Turkey dinner for December 25th was truly a blessing. We worked so hard and raise over $18,000.00 this year to give back to the ones in need. Thanks so much to everyone who donated this year.
December 10,2010 - Keller Williams 3rd Annual Turkey Drive
Well it's that time of year again. Myself and Keller Williams raised enough money this year to help feed 550 families in need this Christmas. Tomorrow I'll be packing 550 boxes with Turkeys and all the sides that go with it.
I remember when I was young how hard it was for my Mother to raise 4 young children on her own with no help from my Father. This is why this event we do every year means so much to me. 2 years ago I delivered a turkey to a Mother with 3 kids who lived in a one bedroom apartment she was renting. She called me from a pay phone to tell me her address. she didnt even own a phone. She had no car and had no extra money for gifts this year for her kids. I bought her Kids an Xbox that Christmas and couldnt believe there faces when I gave it to them. That Christmas for me it wasnt about the gifts or being on holidays for a couple of weeks, it was that by doing something so small it made such a huge difference in their lives.
The sad part is there is much more then 550 families that need our help. We keep growing every year and who knows how many we will help in the future. On Dec 25th when Im sitting down with family and friends eating a nice warm Turkey Dinner, I will feel greatful that 550 families we helped will be doing the same because of our hard work and support from the community. Thanks to all my past clients that gave this year. It means the world to these families.
Christmas to me, is about giving to those less fortunate. I'll be celebrating Christmas Tomorrow at the Turkey Drive
December 8,2010 - New Listing asking $204,900
I just listed a great 2 storey link in bomanville located at 53 Fry Cres. 3 spacious bedrooms along with 2 bathrooms (1 po
wder and 1 four piece) if you want further information on this home you can click here. You can email me at michael@movewithmichael.ca if you would like to book a private showing.
December 3,2010 - Painted Pictures
Painted Pictures was an art show hosted at The Green Street Mansion in support of the Crohns and Colitis Foundation. Michael McDougall, local real estate agent with Keller Williams Energy, hosted the event to help bring awareness about the chronic and debilitating disease that affects more than 200,000 Canadians and, more closely, has affected Michael's own family. The show featured every kind of art from photography to paint on canvas to furniture which guests thoroughly enjoyed with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres in hand. Painted Pictures was the first of many events that Michael will host in support of CCFC. For more information, click here
For this full article courtesy of Snap Oshawa click here
Video Of Event
Painted Pictures - a Michael McDougall community event from Michael McDougall on Vimeo.
November 15, 2010 - Welcome
Welcome to my new and improved website "movewithmichael.ca"
Its now easier to search for the home that's right for you. Search by District, City or even by street. Check out my buyer and seller(tabs) info and email me for your "pre list package" or "buyers package" Something new and exciting is my "preferred vendors tab". Click on it to view all the businesses I've worked with in the past and would refer to any of my clients. movewithmichael.ca is full of helpful information.
And as always, I'll be sure to update you with the Market and statistics in your area from time to time. Feel free to email me at anytime with any questions or concerns you have regarding Real Estate. Thanks again for visiting movewithmichael.ca
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