Real Talk By Brian

FIRST GRADE PHENOMENON

2010-04-05T08:46:00.000-07:00

Something I'd like to start doing is recognizing our local educators! After all, they spend their days preparing our kids for their futures so please send me information to write about a teacher you would like to see recognized here!

I would like to recognize a dear friend of mine today as a featured teacher of the week! So thank you, Miss Lisa Sims, for all you do for your Woodlawn Elementary first graders!

Lisa is a lifelong resident of West Monroe and attended Woodlawn herself as a child. She is a member of Pleasant Hill Church where she volunteers with Sunday School and Bible School. She likes to paint, watch movies, spend time with friends, and learn guitar in her spare time.

Miss Sims mostly enjoys to read and encourages her students to read. In the words of one her favorite authors, Dr. Suess, "The more you read, the more you know. The more you know, the more places you'll go!"

FIVE THINGS YOU DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT ME

2010-03-29T11:18:00.000-07:00

5. I have the same waiter (Chucho) every time I go to Chile Verde in West Monroe! Most of the staff there know that he is "our waiter" and automatically sit us in his section. We never have to tell him what we want to eat or drink; he knows what we like and just brings everything out!

4. I am a techno geek...I love gadgets and doodads and enjoy learning the lastest in technology! I also like to spend time scouring sites and services on the Internet for the "next best thing" to make my personal and business affairs more efficient!

3. I love shoes - men and women's (but I only WEAR men's)! I have more pairs than acceptable for a guy to own and have been known to pack more than a woman would for a quick weekend trip! As far as my interest in women's shoes goes, I like to see stylish heels on a well-manicured FEMALE foot (is that so odd?)!

2. Techno music pumps me up! When I'm alone in the car, I put back the sunroof and crank it up! But only when I'm by myself...no one else likes it...or my "dancing"!

1. I have the best office manager in the whole entire universe! I let her write this blog because she knows me well and would NEVER write anything that might embarrass me!

BONUS: This blog, in fact, WAS written by Brian Bendily's office manager. My name is Karla, and I have over eight years of experience working in real estate offices and have dealt with many many agents since 2002. I am very talented and skilled in what I do and would only work with the best. I would recommend Brian hands-down to anyone in the market to buy or sell real estate. He is real, honest and hard-working, and I have watched him go the extra mile for his clients since his first day in real estate sales.

FUNDRAISER FOR THE SEARCY FAMILY TODAY!

2010-03-24T09:13:00.000-07:00

It's been nearly three weeks since the tragic shooting of a OPSO deputy, and our community is still mourning the loss of this hero. It is overwhelming and touching to see Monroe and West Monroe residents uniting in support and respect for all of our law officials in the jobs that they do protecting our town and keeping us safe!

In honor of Cpl. J. R. Searcy and in ministering to his surviving wife and children, Johnny's Pizzahouse is conducting a fundraiser TODAY ONLY from 11 AM to 11 PM at all Ouachita Parish stores. 20% of all sales will be donated to the family of Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Deputy J. R. Searcy. Eat-in or pick-up only.

For a list of all locations, visit http://www.johnnys-pizza.com/.

COMMON PROBLEMS MONROE FSBO'S FACE

2010-03-23T09:48:00.000-07:00

Many home owners opt to sell their properties without the help of a real estate agent because they no longer want to be burdened with the additional costs involved when dealing with professional realtors. This method of putting up your home for sale is not bad and there are many books, articles, and magazines written on the subject matter and these do help. However, even if you are equipped with the know-how, sometimes, FSBO can also be difficult and taxing. Some of the issues involved in FSBO transactions include:

- Being unable to list homes in MLS (Multiple Listing Services) - FSBOs are not allowed to list their properties in MLS because some MLS publications or websites only permit their members (usually real estate brokers or agents) to make the listing. There are exceptions to the rule and finding the exception is not an easy feat.

- Homes not shown by Agents - Unless you agree to give the buyer's agent a commission on a sale that he might be able to close, you may not find agents gladly showing their clients your property on their own accord. Even if you do give a commission, without a contract (listing agreement), agents would still hesitate to show your property off.

- Overpriced Homes - This is the common problem FSBOs face. As the owner of the property, you will naturally think that your home is worth more than what the market is commanding. An overpriced home will deter buyers and very few will make a slightly lower counter offer, which you may (or may not) consider.

- Buyers are Intimidated - Buyers tend to discuss the pros and cons of a unit amongst themselves. In homes where a realtor represents the owner, they would feel more at ease asking about what they see as problem areas and can freely talk about the property. If you're the one showing the place off, even if you are out of earshot, buyers would feel uncomfortable talking about the place, more so ask you about its troubles.

- Legal Troubles - Unless you know your real estate laws, you may encounter some trouble with regards to the legal requirements involved when selling properties. There are several documents that you need to fill up and you may have to alert several offices of your decision to sell your home.

These are just some of the difficulties FSBOs face. However, these are not tasks that are impossible to complete. If you really want to sell your home by yourself, by all means, go ahead. Just make sure that you do your homework well and, in case you meet a bump in the road, don't hesitate to approach the professionals. They are there to help!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gloria_Smith

I'm looking forward to working with you! Click Monroe Homes For Sale to get a list of all homes for sale in Ouachita Parish including Monroe, West Monroe, Sterlington, and Calhoun!

WHO'S #1 ANYWAY? YOU DECIDE!

2010-03-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought about those "World's #1 Dad" coffee mugs, tee-shirts, or ballcaps available at Father's Day? Were they really made with YOUR dad in mind, or is the idea that your dad is number one just that - an idea? Or opinion? Well, I'm sure your dad IS number one in your heart as mine is to me. Which brings me to drawing the conclusion that being number one is only the matter of one's personal belief.

In today's competitive real estate market, many companies claim to be the best in order to boost their businesses. For example, Keller Williams Realty is the number one real estate franchise on the 31st annual Franchise 500 list by Entrepreneur magazine for the year of 2009 as well as the most recognizable brand of real estate (same year) in an industry-wide survey for the Swanepoel TRENDS Report. As of March 9, our local KW office ranks as #1 real estate office in Northeast Louisiana year-to-date for 2010. But anyone can tweak numbers to their benefit; the significance of being the greatest lies in the outlook of the consumer.

Think back to your Dad...why do you think he's the best? He's dedicated, hard-working, knowledgeable, skilled, and experienced. He serves the ones he loves and creates quality family life for you and your kin. Now think of one of the most important investments of your life...buying or selling your home - the place where YOUR family's love grows! Let me persuade YOU that I am the best man for the job as well as the company that backs me. I am dedicated, hard-working, knowledgeable, skilled, and experienced. Quality customer service is what sets me apart, and I would like the opportunity to prove that to you! Who knows? Maybe this #1 Real Estate Agent mug is telling the truth!

I'm looking forward to working with you! You can check out my website to get a list of all homes for sale in Ouachita Parish including Monroe, West Monroe, Sterlington, and Calhoun!

MONROE/WEST MONROE ON THE BIG SCREEN

2010-03-16T08:07:00.000-07:00

John Schneider and William Devane have become household names in the Twin Cities over the past several months. As many locals know, a neighborhood production company has filmed its first motion picture titled "Flag of my Father" right here in our own backyard! Scenes were recorded in various locations such as Antique Alley, a sand pit past West Monroe, a private home in West Monroe, another home in North Monroe, a hospital, and a cemetary.

John Schneider (Dukes of Hazzard, Smallville, The Secret Life of the American Teenager) and William Devane (Knot's Landing, Cowboys, 24) both star in the new faith-based film. Both actors had dinner around town; John went out with the cast and crew after shooting many nights, gave a mini concert one night, and also jogged while in town; William attended First Baptist Church of West Monroe at the producer's request one Wednesday night after he finished shooting. Both actors will be back (schedules permitting) for the premiere along with the full cast and crew, dignitaries, state congressman, film industry professionals, U. S. Senator David Vitter, and Governor Bobby Jindal (subject to scheduling conflicts).

The premiere is scheduled for Friday, April 16 at First West; tickets for the black tie affair are available to the general public and can be purchased $50 but are very limited.

The premiere will be followed by a Saturday festival honoring veterans; activities include a four-mile charity run, live music, food, tethered hot air balloon rides, military displays, and the actual Humvee blown up during the filming. Other tenative plans include a flyover by B52 bombers. Veterans, firemen, and policeman have the option of attending screenings at 1 PM, 4 PM, and 7 PM for $5 (a 50% discount).

The show is rated PG-13 for violence - this is a powerful story centering on how jealousy disrupts an already fragile relationship between an army nurse and her four half brothers, a relationship that nearly severs when their Vietnam veteran father suddenly dies.

I would like to thank Rodney Ray and R-Squared Productions for providing me with an abundance of information to be able to write this blog today; for more information or to purchase tickets, visit R2Films.net.

THIS IS A SPORTS CITY!

2010-03-15T10:16:00.000-07:00

I've mentioned before what talent Monroe and West Monroe possess when it comes to high school football! And with baseball season quickly approaching, I wanted to acknowledge the talent in this field as well! Our area schools breed some unbelievably skilled professional athletes, and I would like to recognize some of them today!

Baseball
Ben Sheets is currently a starting pitcher for the Oakland Athletics; Ben attended Northeast Louisiana University (which is now named the University of Louisiana at Monroe) on a baseball scholarship.
Chuck Finley also played for Monroe's NLU; he was a left-handed starting pitcher and, throughout his career, played for the California Angels, Cleveland Indians, and St. Louis Cardinals.

Football
Jonathan Wilhite was born in Monroe and played football as a running back and receiver for Ouachita High School during his term there. He is, at this time, a cornerback for the New England Patriots.
Also born in Monroe, Andrew Whitworth graduated from West Monroe High School in 2001 and
now is an offensive lineman for the Cincinatti Bengals.
Bradie James played for West Monroe High as well after transferring there from Wossman High School; he was born in Monroe and, at this time, is a linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys.
Rudy Niswanger (born in Monroe) is presently a center for the Kansas City Chiefs after beginning his career at Ouachita Christian School in Monroe.
Billy Joe Dupree was born in Monroe and played high school football at Richardson High School in West Monroe and went on to play his entire professional career as tight end with the Dallas Cowboys.
Stan Humphries is a former quarterback having played for the Washington Redskins and San Diego Chargers during his career. Stan was also a quarterback while at NLU (now ULM).
Also former NLU students are Joe Profit and Bubby Brister. Joe is a former running back for the Atlanta Falcons and New Orleans Saints. Bubby was a quarterback during his time at our local college and then went on to play for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles, New York Jets, Denver Broncos, and Minnesota Vikings.

This information is a compilation of facts I gathered from Wikipedia. There are many other professional athletes that have come from Monroe and surrounding areas that are worth mentioning. If you have a favorite, leave a comment!

DUMB, DA DUMB DUMB!

2010-03-10T08:48:00.000-08:00

Learn something new every day! These Louisiana laws were found on DumbLaws.com and verified on the state legislature's website! Although this is posted for entertainment purposes, I encourage always obeying the law no matter how crazy it is!

Every time a person is seriously burned, he must report the injury to the fire marshal.
"Fake" wrestling matches are prohibited.
It is a $500 fine to instruct a pizza delivery man to deliver a pizza to a friend without them knowing.
It is illegal to shoot lasers at police officers.
A law was passed with the specific intent of stating the punishment for stealing crawfish.
Persons could land in jail for up to ten years for stealing an alligator.
Prisoners who hurt themselves could serve an additional two years in jail.
One could land in jail for up to a year for making a false promise.
Spectators at a boxing match cannot mock one of the contestants.

We appreciate our men in blue; aside from these silly laws, they work hard day in and day out to protect us civilians and keep our communities safe. So take a moment today to thank a police officer!

IT'S OKAY TO LIVE WITH A PIG...

2010-03-09T09:38:00.001-08:00

Santa brought my daughter a guinea pig named Stanley for Christmas! Of course she felt Santa could have brought her more toys, but Stanley was "the best Christmas present ever"!

Guinea pigs are inexpensive but can be adopted for free. The pet stores cannot charge someone for a "used" pet because they are unaware of the pet's history (it may have been abused, sick, etc). We adopted Stanley; his original owners couldn't take care of him and returned him to the pet shop. Luckily, we have had no problems with the little thing. We play with him every day, and he and his cage require little maintenance.

My daughter had asked for a guinea pig for Christmas as well as a puppy (housebroken and trained) and every pink item in the Toys R Us holiday catalog. I would recommend to other parents with young children to look into teaching them the responsibilities of pet ownership with a small animal like Stanley before taking on a larger task like training and house-breaking puppies. We have enjoyed Stanley; he is a very pleasant creature to have in our house, plus...he was cheaper than all the pink stuff!

DO YOU FEEL VIOLATED?

2010-03-08T08:34:00.000-08:00

We’re not hearing as much now about mortgage fraud as we were not so long ago, and I feel that’s because our government has taken a lot of positive steps to prevent mortgage fraud from happening. But as with any industry, it’s possible and even likely that some still exists.

We contacted a special agent with our local division of the FBI and asked for tips on what to do if you suspect real estate or mortgage fraud, and here are two great tips that were given that we think could definitely benefit the public:

“1. If you suspect it, you can always go to the website www.ic3.gov and put in a complaint on a company or individual. More or less, this website compiles scams and schemes that are going on all across the country and sends out appropriate leads to the agency that works that violation. For instance, if enough people complain about a certain real estate company in the area on this website and accuse them of mortgage fraud, the people who run the website will forward our office information on this company and contact info for all the people who are victims.

2. The other option is that if you have been a victim of mortgage or real estate fraud or you know of an ongoing scheme that is still happening, call your local FBI office and tell them about it. Give them any and all details of what is going on and who is involved in the crime. There is a good chance that we will at least do some checking and see if there are any Federal Violations that we can investigate and we very well may open a case.

Either way, if someone is in doubt I would say to always contact the authorities (local, state or federal) and let them know what is going on. They can always direct you to someone else if they don't have the resources/capabilities to investigate at that time.”

MONROE'S BEST-KEPT SECRET

2010-03-06T19:58:00.000-08:00

Have you ever played the game of trying to guess how many M&M's are in a jar? Well, symbolically, the jar is our town and the M&M's are restaurants in our town! But of all the places here to have lunch, I would like to specifically recommend a cozy little joint on North 18th Street in Monroe.

Surprisingly enough, some people in our area have never dined at or maybe never even heard of dining at Aron's Pharmacy! Aron's is not just a drug store; tucked away in the back of the pharmacy is one of the best places around to enjoy a delicious burger!

A great place to meet an acquaintance for excellent food and friendly service - make a point to visit Aron's this week!

It's a Party! B. Y. O. K. (Bring your own kids!)

2010-03-04T12:27:00.000-08:00

Coming this Saturday March 6th from 9 - 4 to the West Monroe Convention Center is Alphafest! Alphafest is a FREE day of fun and learning activities for children of Northeast Louisiana; the extravaganza is a celebration of reading and literacy!

Cindy Foust is a local author who created a series of childrens' storybooks called Alpha-kidZ! Alpha-kidZ is a collection of 26 books - one for each letter of the alphabet. Each story stars a unique animal character and his or her adventures which ultimately teaches children lessons such as truth, hope, and patience in an entertaining way.

Alphafest is an opportunity for families to spend time together within the community, to offer support of local talent, and to celebrate the new books' characters and their adventures! Bring your own kids! Or somebody else's...just make sure you have permission! See you there!

MOVE TO FRENCHMAN'S!

2010-03-02T08:40:00.000-08:00

One of the most sought-after neighborhoods in our region is beautiful Frenchman's Bend Subdivision nestled in among a lovely 18-hole golf course. This is a very tight-knit community which is another reason it is in such high demand with fun upcoming activities such as a 5th annual neighborhood garage sale and brunch with the Easter Bunny!

A new elementary being built in the area also has everyone scurrying to Sterlington! If you are considering an upgrade, consider one of 21 homes currently available in the subdivision ranging in price from $255,000 to $639,000 - four of which front the bayou.

If your dream is to start from scratch and build the home of your dreams, you can choose from 71 lots now listed at Frenchman's; thirteen of these are on the water as well!

For more information about a life of leisure here or any of Northeast Louisiana's other golf course communities, contact me at your earliest convenience!

The Top Ten Quirky Things about our Town You Just Can’t Help but Notice

2010-02-27T21:18:00.000-08:00

The Top Ten Quirky Things about our Town You Just Can’t Help but Notice

10. Creed and Creed on EVERY advertisement in town.
9. The small car on the Car Town sign above Louisville Avenue by the bridge.
8. The penthouse in downtown Monroe everyone remembers as being pink.
7. Building a new Sonic beside a perfectly good Sonic.
6. Grown men acting silly on commercials to promote their businesses.
5. Rebel flags waving from the back of pickup trucks during football season.
4. People calling First Baptist Church Six Flags over West Monroe.
3. Bawcomville Redneck Christmas parade.
2. The Sheriff’s big rig “compliments of drug smugglers”.

And the number one quirky thing about our town you just can’t help but notice…

1. The Tutu man

SECOND TO NONE!

2010-02-26T11:10:00.000-08:00

Just last month, it was announced that our town was ranked in the top ten buyers' markets in the nation for 2010! Then just this week, Monroe's Garden District was named as 2010's best old neighborhood in the state of Louisiana! Although football season is over, we can't forget that our own West Monroe High School and Neville High School football teams were ranked #1 and #2 in the state for '09! So not only is our area proven to be a superb place to live but also a great place to watch boys throw a little pigskin!

There are a lot of things that make our area a spectacular place, but I want to know what it is that makes YOU want to stick around! I'm anxious to hear!

GO FOR THE OLYMPIC GOLD!

2010-02-19T09:14:00.000-08:00

Built with entertaining in mind and the best views possible, this 3242 HSF 4BR/2.5BA home was designed by and built for former professional basketball player and 1968 Olympic Gold Medalist Glynn Saulters. Although Glynn sold this home years ago, one of the elements of his victorious past still remains: located in the den is the trophy case Glynn had built to display his Olympic Gold Medal along with other awards Glynn was awarded during his high school, college, and professional careers!

This new listing on Caney Lake includes private office, formal dining room, large utility room, and game room that overlooks the living room and has private access to a staircase leading to the pool area. The home also features 3.8 acres of land, seawall, and 2-stall boathouse with electric lift. Best of all is the location on the main lake with great views!

Short Sale FAQs

2010-01-18T13:42:00.000-08:00

In recent months I have received several questions about Short Sales; how will it impact me financially and how can I qualify for it. I found this list of Short Sale FAQs and thought I would share this with you.

What is a Short Sale?
A Short Sale is when a lender accepts a discount on a mortgage to pay off a loan to avoid a possible foreclosure auction or bankruptcy. While the property is still being purchased, the Lender’s approval of the contract and terms becomes necessary as they must approve the discounted pay off. For example: A homeowner, who is facing foreclosure, has an existing first mortgage of $300,000. The Buyer writes an offer for $220,000, which is accepted as full payment for the loan. This is a SHORT SALE. It is best to do a short sale when the property is in the pre-foreclosure stage because the banks do not like excess inventory and bad loans on their books.

What Happens to the Seller’s Credit Rating when they Allow an Investor to Short Sell
their Property? What typically happens is that the loan will show as “paid” on their credit report; however there will be a notation that says “settled for less than original owed” or something along these lines. It is more favorable for a homeowner to short sell than to have a foreclosure on their credit report.

Can an Owner Profit from a Short Sale?
The seller cannot profit (monetarily) from a pre-foreclosure short sale.

How Do Bankruptcies Affect the Possibility of Doing a Short Sale? Most mortgages won’t consider a short sale if the homeowner is in bankruptcy because negotiating a short sale payoff is considered a collection activity. Collection activities are prohibited in bankruptcy.

How Late in the Pre-Foreclosure Process can you Start a Short Sale?
Try to allow a window of at least 90 days to effectuate a mortgage approved, preforeclosure Short Sale.

*$300,000 (Loan) - $220,000 (Offer) = $80,000 Short Sale
*Always contact your accountant for possible tax liabilities

For more information, please call me @ (318)381-2077

Monroe/West Monroe Real Estate Market Update

2010-01-15T07:57:00.000-08:00

I finished my mid month market review this morning and wanted to share some of the key stats I found. These stats were pulled using market data on site built homes in Ouachita parish.

• 2009 Days on Market grew by 5 days to 121 from 116 in 2008
• 2009 List price vs. Sales price narrowed by 0.32% to 3.76% from 4.08% in 2008

What this means for you the consumer is that the homes are staying on the market a little longer but home prices are still solid and sellers are keeping more money. These are all positive signs that we still have a solid real estate market in Monroe Louisiana.

If you have any question about how to stay ahead of the market and to get the most for your home in the shortest time, Please give me a call @ 318-381-2077 or can visit me online at http://www.realestateonesource.com/

Brian Bendily-REALTOR

This information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed

The Land of Many Fences

2010-01-14T13:02:00.000-08:00

Last week I was in Honduras on my first mission trip. After we arrived in Honduras and left the airport in San Pedro Sula I started to notice that everything had some type of fence around it. When I say everything was fenced I mean everything, from nice homes to little mud huts, everything had a fence. These fences ranged from sticks holding up a few strands of wire, too concrete walls to create gated compounds. After a few days I asked the pastor about the fences and he said that in Honduras you do not own your property until it has been fenced. Once we had the opportunity to begin ministering to the people of Honduras I found out real quick that this was a land without fences. The people had a hunger in their hearts for the gospel like I’ve never seen, I had to ask myself; how hungry are we for the gospel? My first impression of the Honduran people was that they must be a closed people but contrary to my belief; they are some of the most open, hospitable and giving people that I’ve met. There were too many wins this week to list here but here are a few: 9 people accepted Christ, 5 truck load of GAIN humanitarian supplies delivered and countless others had seeds of the gospel planted within them and we hope those seed will continue to grow in Christ and in the coming weeks I hope to be able to share more. I went to this foreign country hoping to inspire change and what I found is that I too was a changed. All of this could not have been possible without the help of my friends in raising support, XMA and staff, Trip Team leaders: Jay Adcock, Aston McIntyre, Pastor Dairo and his support team and the other trip team members; Julie Smith and Bud Force. My prayer is that this is the first of many more mission trips to come.

Has the Monroe/West Monroe Market Stabilized?

2010-01-13T12:00:00.000-08:00

Has the market stabilized?

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Thank you for a great 2009

2009-12-31T08:41:00.000-08:00

I just want to thank all of my friends, family and customers for the amazing year of 2009. On January the 2^nd I leave for 7 days headed to Honduras in Central America on my first mission trip with XMA (Extreme Missionary Adventures). On this trip our mission will be to help spread the word and the love of God to people who may have never had a chance hear the gospel before. I want to thank those who have given me support and also to those who pray for our team's safety and for us to obedient to God as he leads us on this trip. Happy New Year, let's make 2010 a GREAT YEAR!!!

New Year's Resolutions for your Home

2009-12-30T10:54:00.000-08:00

A new year calls for resolutions, and what would be more appropriate for me to do now than to give you suggestions of new year's resolutions for your home? I scoured the internet for the easiest ideas to bring you...here are a few very simple tips:

1. Get organized, and clean up. This includes your closet and junk drawer! Toss old magazines, wash windows and light fixtures, and create a storage area.

2. Conserve water and energy. If recycling's not your thing, becoming greener can be as simple as closing the fridge and turning off running water!

3. Rearrange your space. After dusting, redisplay your things in a different way...or just swap your couches!

I am looking forward to sharing lots of fun and helpful information with you in 2010 and wish you a very organized and rearranged new year!