What's New | EXIT Realty Franchise Opportunities / Real Estate Business Ownership

EXIT Realty Educates REALTORS® about Changes in the Market

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:28:44 -0500

Free educational webinars designed to help real estate professionals and their businesses

EXIT Realty Corp. International invites real estate professionals, regardless of their brokerage affiliation, to a free, online educational seminar designed to help them understand the changes in the market.

With the title, "Changes in the Real Estate Market and the Industry: How to Stay Ahead of the Curve and Excel in Today's Market," the company will hold webinar sessions on the internet Tuesday, March 23, 2010, from 4:00-4:30 p.m. EST and 7:00-7:30 EST. The sessions are free, live and can be accessed from anywhere across the US.

“At a recent Women’s Council of REALTORS^® meeting in New York, Tami Bonnell, President of the U.S. organization of EXIT Realty Corp. International, touched on some of these issues and made a huge impact on all attendees," comments Hector Castillo, regional owner of EXIT Realty of NYC & LI. "Her wisdom and knowledge of our industry made everyone aware of where we are and where we are going. Tami received a standing ovation and almost immediately people started requesting to have her back and speak to the Council again in the very near future.

"In my opinion, the best message Tami gave at our meeting is for everyone to stay ahead of the curve. Now is the time for REALTORS^® to go back to the drawing board and educate themselves. If we are going to keep the consumer’s confidence, we all need to step up and be more proactive in education and technology," Castillo adds.

Stemming from the company’s popular 2009 webinar series for real estate professionals entitled “Effective Real Estate Business Practices”, the upcoming webinar is part of a 2010 series to be held quarterly featuring a variety of topics and will be hosted by Bonnell.

"The goal is to provide current information and future trends, as well as teach real estate professionals how to give the consumer what they're really looking for in real estate," Bonnell said.

Bonnell has been featured several times in major industry publications, including Real Estate Magazine, Bay State REALTOR^® and Frog Pond Communications. She has addressed thousands at events such as RISMedia's Leadership Conference in N.Y., Inman News Conference in San Francisco and the Top 500 Power Brokers at The National Association of REALTORS^® Convention. Bonnell regularly speaks at Women's Council of REALTORS^® meetings across the country.

"Providing service and added value for the consumer is more important than ever," Bonnell adds. "We invite real estate professionals to learn some statistics, new trends, changes in the real estate industry and related fields, as well as understand that with a few changes, they can impact their business in a positive way."

To register for the "Changes in the Real Estate Market and Industry" Webinar, visit

https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/148929666 for the 4 p.m. session or
https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/436321867 for the 7 p.m. session.

GNAR Recognizes EXIT Realty Agent Joe Petno with Two Top Awards

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 18:12:58 -0500

Despite Market Conditions, Agent Tops Charts in 2 Categories

Nashville, TN (Grassroots Newswire) March 11, 2010 – Who says the real estate market is slow? Certainly not Joe Petno, agent with EXIT Realty 1^st Choice in Smyrna, TN.

Petno received the top individual agent award for listings for one of the largest trade associations in the Greater Nashville area and one of the largest REALTOR^® boards in the state of Tennessee; the Greater Nashville Association of REALTORS^® or GNAR.

Petno also received the top individual sales agent for the Greater Nashville Association of REALTORS^® on March 3, 2010 at the association gala in downtown Nashville. Petno out-performed over 3,500 members for the awards for his performance during 2009.

"Joe has worked hard and this award is well-deserved recognition of that effort," said Hollace McKinley, Broker/Owner of EXIT Realty 1st Choice.

Jean Marie Grumbles, CEO of EXIT MidSouth, said, “We are so proud of Joe. This award is very prestigious in our local real estate industry and even more so in this volatile economy. Our region, which covers both Kentucky and Tennessee, has actually had significant growth during this economic turmoil. We grew 49% from 2008 to 2009 and every month is better than the last. We attribute this growth to having great agents like Joe, who, provided with the right tools and resources, continue to improve and offer incredible marketing and success to their clients. Joe is very driven and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him with this award again next year.”

EXIT MidSouth is a part of EXIT Realty Corp. International. Each office in the region is independently owned and operated. As part of our “Buy Real Estate Now” initiative the public will begin to see our billboards all across the United States. Many economists believe that now is the time to buy real estate and EXIT Realty is here to help.

For more information about EXIT MidSouth, please call 615-523-3133. EXIT Realty 1^st Choice, Joe Petno’s office, is located at 811 Industrial Blvd., Smyrna, TN 37167.

Austin TX Habitat for Humanity/EXIT Realty Home Dedication Scheduled for March 27th

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:23:40 -0500

EXIT Realty proud to dedicate another home to a deserving family

EXIT Realty Corp. International is proud to host the dedication of its most recent corporately sponsored home build. The ceremony is scheduled for 3pm, March 27, 2010 in Austin, TX. Click here for a map to the dedication site.

Mirna Santana and her 15-year-old son, Brian have lived in the same, run-down apartment for 9 years. They have no control over the temperature in the apartment, there is mold from leaks in the pipes and there has been a horrible smell coming from the bathroom since the day they moved in, but it is Section 8 housing and it’s all they can afford. As a survivor of domestic violence, Mirna has found a strength and persistence that defines the amazing woman that she is. Owning a home will be the accomplishment of a life goal for Mirna. She says it will change her mental state, she will feel more complete. She looks forward to having a clean and healthy home, especially because her son suffers from asthma and the mold where they live now is so bad for his health.

“We had a tremendous turn out by EXIT Realty franchise owners and associates from all over Texas,” said Dion McCormick, Regional Owner for EXIT Realty Central Texas. “The team worked side by side with Mirna and her son to take an empty lot and turn it into a home that all could be proud of. I know that the team not only put their backs into the work, but also their hearts. I am extremely proud and grateful for their efforts.”

This is just one more reason why EXIT Realty is now being referred to as one of the best in the industry. Not only are sales representatives treated as the actual assets of the organization, EXIT reaches out to the community in an effort to provide assistance to those less fortunate. Congratulations to Mirna Santana and her family, and all the best for a prosperous future in their new home.

More information on EXIT Realty's work with Habitat for Humanity.

More information on the work of Habitat for Humanity worldwide.

EXIT Realty to Team Up with Habitat for Humanity in Columbia South Carolina

Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:47:25 -0500

EXIT Realty's 14th corporately sponsored build blitz to be held in April

The team at EXIT Realty will be heading to Columbia, SC in April for its 14th corporately sponsored Habitat for Humanity home build. Real estate agents from the state and across the continent are invited to swing a hammer to make the dream of homeownership come true for Debora Lewis and her son, Ben.

Debora and 23-year-old Ben lived in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment at the time they were approved for the Habitat program, but due to poor living conditions both in the unit and the neighborhood, they had to vacate and are living temporarily with Debora's oldest son.

Ben is mentally disabled and has trouble sitting still. He would rise in the middle of the night and walk around the apartment complex without Debora knowing - she constantly worried about his safety. Debora suffers from osteoarthritis and is primarily wheelchair bound. Unfortunately they were living in an upstairs unit and climbing the stairs was exhausting. Even though they had lived in the same unit for more than ten years, the landlord denied their request for a downstairs unit.

Debora can walk for short periods of time but eventually she will be totally wheelchair bound which is why Habitat will be building her home with a handicap accessible ramp.

Even with their disabilities, both Debora and her son have managed to earn "sweat equity" hours and partner to the fullest with Habitat for Humanity. She is very excited to finally have a home that is comfortable and will meet the special needs of her family.

"EXIT Realty is proud to play a part in providing a safe and accessible home to Debora and Ben," said Christine Ireborg, EXIT Realty's liaison with Habitat for Humanity. "And I'm looking forward to meeting them in person in April!"

EXIT Realty associates can log into the EXIT Resource Center to register to participate in the one of the Build Blitz shifts April 15-18th and April 22-23rd.

A portion of every transaction fee collected by EXIT Realty Corp. International is applied to its charitable fund and to-date, more than $1.68 Million has been pledged to Habitat for Humanity in both Canada and the U.S.

EXIT Realty Offices Invite Residents to "Changes in the Real Estate Market" Webinar

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 11:03:20 -0500

Company's U.S. president explains what home buyers, sellers should know

(Grassroots Newswire) March 5, 2010 - Local EXIT Realty offices have just announced that the company will host two, free public Webinars designed to help consumers make smart decisions before they buy or sell a home. Local home buyers and sellers are encouraged to tune in for the discussion.

With the title, "Changes in the Real Estate Market: What You Need to Know Before You Buy or Sell Your Next Home," the company will hold Webinar sessions on Tuesday, March 9, 2010, from 4:00-4:30 p.m. EST and 7:00-7:30 EST. Both sessions will be hosted by Tami Bonnell, president of the U.S. organization of EXIT Realty Corp. International.

Bonnell will address recent changes in the real estate market, as well as important factors home buyers and sellers should consider before they delve into the market. "This includes average sales prices, days the home is on the market, credit changes, extended tax credit and mortgage options", Bonnell said.

"Our goal at EXIT Realty is to give consumers a solid foundation before they go out and purchase a home or put their home on the market. There are many things to consider and we want to make sure they have done their homework before getting started," Bonnell said. "Home buyers and sellers are directly impacted by the changes in the real estate market, so it is very important for them to be aware of those factors."

To register for the "Changes in the Real Estate Market" Webinar, visit https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/656547354 for the 4.p.m. session or https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/309227258 for the 7 p.m. session.

For more information, contact EXIT Realty Corp. International at (888) 668-3948 or exit@exitrealty.com, or visit http://www.exitrealty.com/.

The Art of Negotiating: 7 Tips to Help You Succeed

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 13:36:20 -0500

"It's not what you say, it's what they hear", says EXIT Realty's US President, Tami Bonnell

“I absolutely adore negotiating,” says Tami Bonnell, President of the US Organization of EXIT Realty Corp. International. Tami offers these tips to help you in the negotiation process.

When it comes to negotiation, often real estate agents become nervous – that makes the issue too big! Negotiating is really just a conversation; if you’re in a negotiation with someone, they’re interested or you wouldn’t be talking.

As with everything else in life, if you think you can, you can; if you think you can’t, you can’t. Either way, you’re right. Stay in a positive frame of mind – it’s workable.

In negotiations there are four possible outcomes:

Win/win
Win/lose
Lose/lose
No outcome

Always strive for Win/Win so everyone benefits.

Here are the 7 key points to successful negotiations:

1. Avoid negotiating down to only one item, for example price. If the only thing you’re negotiating about is price you don’t have the same leverage as if there are other issues like appliances or closing date.

2. Never assume; make sure you ask effective questions. The more you know about your counterpart, the better off you’re going to be. “If I understand correctly, is this the most important thing for you?” Find out where they’re flexible.

The folks on the other side of the table don’t have the same needs and wants as you. Try looking at it from their perspective. Put their needs first.

3. Whenever you know less about your counterpart, you increase your risk window. It’s really important to know all of the “whys”. Why do they want to move into this home? School? Work? Service is the price you pay for a great career - you have to ask effective questions to best serve your customers.

4. How you talk is important too. Use short simple sentences; otherwise they might assume you’re not telling the truth. Long, complicated sentences can sound like you’re trying to talk over them. The books Negotiate This and You Can Negotiate Anything, both by Herb Cohen, are great references.

Make people feel comfortable and at ease. It’s not what you say, it’s what they hear.

5. Don’t get emotional – if it feels like the situation is becoming too emotional, it’s okay to reconvene.

6. Approach the scenario from a different angle - paint a picture that works for them but always tell the truth no matter the circumstances.

7. Always negotiate in person when possible. Negotiations by phone or e-mail will never be as effective as negotiating face-to-face. You can’t read body language over the phone. Not only will you get better results but you’ll get better at it, too.

Here are some key phrases to help in the process:

Help me understand.
Talk to me. (ie encourage them to open up)
I need a little more information.
I need a little help. (I want to understand your perspective)
What is it that’s frustrating you right now?
What is it you’re trying to accomplish?
Let’s recap.

Finally, remember that you don’t have to have all the answers. Negotiating is enjoyable – it means they’re interested! The more you do it, the better you’ll get.

Pour yourself a cup of coffee and click here http://www.onlineexittraining.com/artofnegotiation/ to listen to the full 30 minute presentation on The Art of Negotiation by Tami Bonnell. No registration is required.

FREE, Live and In-Person Real Estate Technology Training

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 15:14:33 -0500

Jeff Lobb teaches real estate technology tools in real time for EXIT Realty agents

According to the 2008 REALTOR^® Association Technology Survey, the most commonly reported technology challenge is “getting members up to speed with technology and how to make it work for them.” Sound familiar? What if there was a way to provide live and in-person technology training by an industry expert to your agents for FREE? With EXIT Realty you can.

The wildly successful and popular “Get Productive Now! Technology For the Real Estate Professional” training workshop presented by Jeff Lobb, EXIT Realty Corp. International trainer and technology specialist is now being offered at no cost to EXIT real estate agents across North America. “Get Productive Now!” is a comprehensive real estate technology course that addresses key issues such as online marketing strategies, using email and video campaigns, search engine optimization, social networking, smart phones, and much more. But more importantly, Jeff Lobb's fluency in the three languages of English, Tech and Real Estate bridges the gap between knowing what buttons to push and how to actually use the knowledge to grow your real estate business. Learning the technology is only part of the equation; getting results with it is the key and Jeff shows the way.

Jeff Lobb has been a REALTOR^® for over 22 years and has more than 10 years experience in the internet and technology fields both with Fortune 500^® companies and startup ventures. From a unique position of having been a real estate sales representative and EXIT Realty franchisee, Jeff travels across North America teaching EXIT Associates the skills they need to get ahead in the ever-changing world of real estate technology.

"The ability to be LIVE in the room gives me the opportunity to show and use the technology tools in 'real time'," says Lobb. "I also want everyone to understand that I am a REALTOR^® first. I understand what it takes to make a great listing presentation, what it's like to work with buyers and negotiate offers, because I live that life every day and have for the past 22 years. Technology should make your business more productive and help you to remain competitive. It's all about generating more transactions and doing more business while balancing your life - a better career and a balanced life for you and your family is the ultimate goal. I look forward to this challenge and helping our associates rise to the next level of their career."

“The technology training introduced and provided by Jeff Lobb is absolutely invaluable to all agents, brokers, administrators, regional owners and executives at EXIT Realty. It is indeed in a class by itself,” says Steve Morris, EXIT Realty Founder and CEO. “EXIT Realty Corp. International is picking up the tab for this training so every associate at every level of the company can benefit.”

Please contact EXIT Realty for more information.

Why?

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 09:45:22 -0500

Food for thought from EXIT Realty Corp. International CEO & Founder, Steve Morris

Just suppose that the only spiritual question asked of you after you’re dead and buried is “Why?”.

Why did you short change yourself?

Why weren’t you more optimistic about all the possibilities and opportunities on earth?

Why weren’t you more enthusiastic about life and all that it had to offer?

Why did you let other people’s negativity and pessimism get to you?

Why didn’t you set more goals?

Why did you lack conviction concerning all the things that were truly important to you?

Why didn’t you live your life more passionately?

Why didn’t you live more abundantly?

Why weren’t you more positive and constructive?

Why didn’t you generate more prosperity?

Why didn’t you make more friends?

Why were you so reserved?

Why didn’t you radiate your vibrant personality to everyone?

Why didn’t you pay your bills on time?

Why weren’t you more generous and giving?

Why weren’t you more compassionate and empathetic?

Why did you have so little faith?

Why did you worry so much?

Why didn’t you pace yourself better?

Why did you exude such resentment?

Why did you allow doubt and fear to control you?

Why weren’t you more inventive and creative?

Why didn’t you encourage those around you more effectively?

Why were you haunted by the absence of money?

Why didn’t you reward yourself better?

Why didn’t you take the time to get enough rest and relaxation?

Why didn’t you work more effectively?

Why weren’t you more persistent?

Why did you let your opinions rule your life?

Why couldn’t you find it in your heart to forgive?

Why didn’t you like yourself unconditionally?

Why did you work so hard and play so little?

Why didn’t you appreciate your family for all their truly special qualities?

Why were you so blind to all that you were given?

Why are you now feeling so guilty?

Why didn’t you entertain these questions when you were still alive?

Why?

Steve Morris
Founder & CEO
EXIT Realty Corp. International

Celebrate Heart Month by Practicing Compassion

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 09:26:27 -0500

These 18 tips will do your heart good (not to mention your personal and professional lives too!)

A message from Tami Bonnell, President of the US Organization, EXIT Realty Corp. International

February is Heart Month - heart health and Valentine's Day - everything to do with the heart. One of the biggest problems with heart health is stress - focusing in the wrong direction and on the wrong things - unfinished business. We get what we focus on. So my advice for your heart health this month is to focus on practicing compassion; it will do your heart some good and help you grow in your business and in your personal life too!

Practice Compassion
“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion.
If you want to be happy, practice compassion.”
—Dalai Lama

P aragon - A model of excellence – how can you provide excellence?
R espect – Being respectful of others ensures respect to you.
A cknowledge – Most people want to be recognized/heard.
C arry – Don’t worry whose job it is – some days you carry the team, other days they carry you.
T ap – Tap into your own strengths and find them in others.
I lluminate – Highlight opportunities!
C ooperate – Cooperation is seeing others’ perspectives.
E lastic – You need to be flexible.

C haracter – Character comes from sticking with your commitments.
O bligation – We have an obligation to add value to the real estate industry and to our people.
M agnetism – You attract what you are and what you focus on.
P atience – Be patient even when you don’t want to – with people, not circumstances.
A ttitude – Your attitude shows in everything you do – check your feelings before you approach anything.
S eeds – Everything you do is sowing seeds for your future.
S hape – You have the ability to help shape lives and your future.
I mpact – Think of the impact you want to have.
O ath – Make a commitment to yourself and others – stick with it! Your compassion will show.
N egotiate – It is always easier to negotiate when you have compassion for the other party.

Unstoppable Attitude at EXIT Realty's Canadian Sales Rally

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 10:08:16 -0500

Real estate agents and franchisees rock Halifax!

The Halifax Marriott Harbourfront hotel rocked recently as 250 attendees including EXIT Realty Franchisees and agents, learned, laughed and danced up a storm at EXIT Realty's Canadian Sales Rally. EXIT associates came from as far as Regina, SK and Peterborough, ON to get themselves into high gear for the spring sales market.

EXIT Corporate Trainers, Jeff Lobb and Kevin Ahearn each brought their unstoppable attitude to their sessions keeping everyone 'on the edge of their seat'. EXIT Realty sales representatives Tom Clift of EXIT Realty on the Rock and Martha Lister of EXIT Realty Specialists engaged and enthralled the room speaking about residual income; their methodologies for attracting strong agents, goals and benefits. It was standing ovations all the way around, with requests for repeat engagements.

Ron Young (EXIT Realty Specialists), Canadian Broker of the Year and Pamela Norman (EXIT Realty on the Rock), Canadian Rookie of the Year, were presented with trophies.

"It was an incredible and dynamic experience that attracted the most powerful real estate brokerages in the corporation and their agents, all wanting to capitalize on the most innovative training and cutting edge technology in the industry" said Joyce Paron, President of EXIT Realty's Canadian Organization.

For real estate franchise sales opportunities in Canada, please contact:

Ed Martens, Senior VP Franchises Sales, Canada
800.630.3948
emartens@exitrealty.com

President of EXIT Realty’s US Organization is honored at Annual Convention

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 14:41:41 -0500

“Leader’s Leader Award" presented to Tami Bonnell

Mississauga, ON (Grassroots Newswire) – As a 30-year veteran in the real estate field, Tami Bonnell continues to lead the way when it comes to her vast knowledge and understanding of the industry. From her background in mergers and acquisitions to her countless speaking engagements, her passion is relentless and EXIT Realty is proud to have her on their team.

“Tami Bonnell’s leadership goes above and beyond the call of duty”, commented EXIT Realty Corp. International Founder and CEO, Steve Morris, “She commands the absolute respect, reverence and esteem of every EXIT Realty associate at all levels of the corporation throughout North America. She sets the tone and tempo for our leaders and radiates an example of the finest quality as a clear pathway for others to follow.”

Since becoming President of the US Organization for EXIT Realty Corp. International, her focus is on growth and profitability for Regions, Brokers and Agents. Bonnell has been featured several times in major industry publications, including Real Estate Magazine, Bay State REALTOR® and Frog Pond Communications. She is a much sought-after international speaker, addressing thousands at events such as RISMedia’s Leadership Conference in NY, Inman News Conference in San Francisco and the Top 500 Power Brokers at The National Association of REALTORS® Convention, and regularly speaks at Women’s Council of REALTORS® meetings across the country. “Tami is a relentless communicator, her experience naturally comes through and there is nothing artificial about her” says Jeff Lobb, EXIT Realty Trainer and Technology expert, “She has a very logical approach and the innate ability to motivate people to take action.”

At EXIT’s Annual Convention in Washington DC, this past October, Bonnell was presented with the Leader’s Leader award for her hard work, dedication, knowledge and professionalism.

"In my forty years in real estate I’ve had the opportunity to know and work with many executives and leaders. Tami Bonnell speaks boldly from her heart with strong convictions about what she believes is needed to improve our industry and works harder that anyone I have ever known. Her heart, vision and a strong work ethic earns my utmost respect," said Bob McKinnon, EXIT Realty’s Senior Regional Consultant.

Ms Bonnell’s upcoming speaking engagements include an address to the Women’s Council of REALTORS® in New York in March entitled “Prepare for Change”.

"Our Habitat home will be a Godsend for my family," says Cornwall Ontario single mom

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 14:59:03 -0500

Another EXIT Realty corporately sponsored Habitat for Humanity build will break ground in September

EXIT Realty Corp. International will be partnering again with Habitat for Humanity to bring the dream of homeownership to another deserving family, this time in Cornwall, Ontario. This will be the third Habitat for Humanity build in the area and their first fully-corporately sponsored build. The local Habitat affiliate reports:

Habitat Seaway Valley is pleased to announce their latest Family Partner for a home to be built at 711 St. Antoine Street in Cornwall in the fall of 2010. They are Karen McIntosh and her two children, Meagan, 15, and Matthew, 12.

Karen, Meagan and Matthew currently live on Lemay Street in Cornwall. Karen works for the Upper Canada School Board as a Settlement Outreach Worker, helping new immigrants settle into Canada. Meagan goes to St. Joseph High School.

Mathew suffers from global delay and autism and resides in a group home in Ottawa from Monday to Friday. Currently there is no facility in our community that can meet his needs. Karen has worked extensively with the local Autism Society and S.D. & G. Development Services with the goal of seeing such a group home open in this area.

Because Matthew has no sense of danger, he needs an enclosed yard to be able to be outside on his own. The McIntosh’s current home is on three levels with almost no space for recreation. This leads to unnecessary tension in the household when Matthew is home. “Our Habitat Home will be a Godsend for my family”, Karen remarks. With a house with an improved design and suitable space, Karen’s hope is that, in time, Matthew could be home with his family full-time.

Habitat for Humanity is a worldwide initiative that envisions a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live. It helps individuals and families in financially vulnerable situations build and buy quality affordable homes by reducing barriers to homeownership. These barriers are reduced by selling Habitat for Humanity homes with no down payment, no-interest mortgages, payments set at 25% of gross income (principal and taxes) and homeowner training and support services.

Habitat is well known as offering a “hand-up, rather than a “hand-out”. Karen will donate 250 hours of volunteer work as her family’s down-payment on their home.

Karen, Meagan and Matthew are very excited about their upcoming journey with Habitat. Before they could only dream of owning their own home. Now, they are about to see their dream become a reality.

The groundbreaking on the McIntosh's home is expected to take place in early September. An EXIT Work Blitz week is also scheduled for September and general registration will be open next week.

A portion of every transaction fee collected by EXIT Realty Corp. International is pledged to its corporate charity, Habitat for Humanity. To date, those pledges exeed $1.68 million. For more information on EXIT Realty's work with Habitat for Humanity, please click here. For more information on Habitat's work around the world, please click here.

Habitat for Humanity Update: Austin TX and Orlando FL EXIT Realty Blitz Days!

Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:42:21 -0500

EXIT Realty hammers for Habitat

Regional Owners from across the US joined EXIT Realty executives, staff and local agents recently during the EXIT Blitz Week at our corporately sponsored Habitat for Humanity build in Austin, Texas. Jean Marie and Mike Grumbles, Regional Owners of EXIT MidSouth (Tennessee and Kentucky) were among those lending a hand and posted this on their blog: "The weekend was rewarding as the weather changed for the better and the house is now dry. The trusses were all manually lifted atop the walls, set in place and the roof as sheathed and wrapped Siding was installed and the doors and windows were installed. This was quite a transformation in just a few hours each day, but the future homeowner was working right along side us and showed her gratitude for the assistance we were providing." View pictures of the Austin build.

EXIT Realty Blitz activities are underway in Orlando, Florida, too. The local Habitat for Humanity group had this to say about the recipient family:

The Jacobs family is composed of a single mother, Shaniqua, age 27 with two daughters Shania age 11 and Shamiya, age 2. Shaniqua currently works two jobs to provide for her family. She has been working with the City of Orlando as a bus driver for 5 ½ yrs and with Kelly Services as a sub-teacher for 3 ½ yrs. As of now, the family resides in a subsidized home that is located in a high crime and drug-infested area. She has witnessed a lot of crime with her children present and is looking forward to owning her own home and raising her daughters in a safer environment. Shaniqua is a vibrant young lady, mature well beyond her years. She is very dedicated, and works hard to achieve her goals. We worked with her for over a year before she was approved for our program, and not once did she give up. She has partnered so well with us. Her two daughters seem to take after their mom. The oldest helps care for the little one and does it with no hesitation.

The oldest daughter, Shania loves to design T-shirts, read books, play in the computer & play basketball. Little Shamiya has not shown any special interest just yet since she’s 2 ½ yrs old. Shaniqua said that “she’s into everything!” They attend Washington Shores Church of Christ regularly and mom, Shaniqua loves to be a mentor for children and speaks to them any chance she gets.

Registration to help out on the February Blitz Day is full but there are still spots open in March and April. EXIT Realty Associates can log into the EXIT Resource Center to sign up. View pictures of the Orlando build.

Soon we'll be hammering in Cornwall Ontario - more about that family tomorrow.

For more information on EXIT Realty's work with Habitat for Humanity, click here. For more information about Habitat for Humanity's work around the world, click here.