LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER

Dear Readers,

I would first like to thank you for your loyalty and support of this trade publication. This digital magazine was designed to be forward-thinking and continues to look to the changing times—and these are historic times in many ways. However, back to the magazine—we are now 2 years old! Yes, we have produced 24 issues and we’re still going strong. We believe the reason for our success is that we provide an exceptional product and platform that is perfect for these times. Our format is clean and easily navigated, we are extremely cost-effective for our advertisers and exceed the benefits that they would receive in traditional print publications. And because we are digital, we are GREEN. And these are only three reasons! So, again, as we too are navigating the changes in the market and the United States, we thank you for partnering with us as readers and advertisers. We embrace feedback and look forward to hearing from you always.

There are many businesses, and even Real Estate companies, that are flourishing in this market and these tough economic times. First thing I hear from them is to not get caught up in the fear factor and the negativity. In times like this people get rich when they embrace the changes. One such company that is embracing change is highlighted in our National article.

In the National article by Michelle Savage, we explore a new way of looking at the Real Estate office. Intero’s Andare offices are growing in popularity because they focus on a design that works with today’s agents, who are typically in the field rather than in a cubicle. Read more in “Intero’s Andare Offices—Custom Designed for Agents on the Go.”

Our Feature article is on Robert Jenson of The Jenson Group. Robert is a man who has established himself as an expert in the luxury Real Estate industry, and his business continues to thrive in a cooling market. This is partly because he is not one to dwell on negativity and is using technology to his benefit in creative ways. Part of his effort to remain on top includes providing his clients with useful information through his Web site, podcasts and blogs. You can read more about what makes him so successful in Doug Shields’ article, “From Selling Bubble Gum to Luxury Real Estate, the Fundamentals Never Change.”

As incoming president of the Women’s Council of REALTORS®, Melissa Zimbleman has the experience and attitude leaders are made of. She has been a Las Vegas REALTOR® for 10 years, and believes strongly that the sharing of information and techniques between Real Estate professionals is a big contributor to the success of a career. With my involvement in the WCR I have had the honor of working with Melissa and she is a breath of fresh air. She says what she means and means what she says, and that is one of the highest compliments I can give. I respect Melissa as a professional and a human being and I am happy to know her. You can read more about Melissa in Cathie C. Hulen’s article, “Exchanging Ideas Keeps it Fresh.”

Matt Hennessy of Hennessy Financial Group has been a lifetime resident of Las Vegas, and he has seen the changes in the Real Estate market from a unique perspective. In Cathie C. Hulen’s article, “Mortgage Banking Goes Back to Basics,” Matt discusses some of these changes and how they are a positive thing for the long-term health of the Las Vegas Real Estate market. I have had the pleasure of getting to work with Matt through the Las Vegas High-Rise & Condominium Association. Matt is a top-notch individual with ethics, intelligence, professionalism AND a sense of humor. Matt is someone I would—and have—sought advice from with respect to the mortgage business and have always found that he is on top of the game, plus he does not have another agenda other than helping those he works with to meet their goals. He is truly a trusted professional.

In our October Beyond Green column, Clifford Korman takes a look at several groundbreaking projects that are happening nationally, including Lloyd Crossing Sustainable Urban Design Plan in Portland, OR. Lloyd Crossing endeavors to turn 35 square blocks into a sustainable urban neighborhood with an environmental footprint of zero. To find out more about how this and other projects will be accomplished, read “A Sustainable Globe—One Community at a Time.”

In our Urban Update column, Cathie C. Hulen talks to the Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada about the ACE Rapid Transit project currently underway. Once finished, ACE will provide links from the downtown area to numerous areas of the valley, such as the Convention Center, the Strip, and even Henderson—and all at light-rail speed. Read more about this project in, “Railway Speed Without the Rails.”

At some point in our lives, many of us will find ourselves caring for an aging parent or relative. Depending on the senior’s level of ability, it may be necessary to take steps to prevent them from hurting themselves, or even to simply make life a little easier. In Rita Templeton’s Lifestyle article, “Protecting Your Elders,” she discusses what we can do to make life a little better—and safer—for our aging loved ones.

This month’s Legal Notes by John Benedict, Esq., deals with a topic that may be an increasingly popular option for homeowners who are having trouble selling their homes. In “Lease-to-Buy Options: What You Need to Know” John explains how this type of transaction can be beneficial to both parties involved. He also tells us what some of the common pitfalls are when negotiating this kind of contract, and how to make sure that everyone is protected in the deal.

Brenda Calvin’s October Vertical Update column takes a historic look back at high-rise buildings. From China’s Hengshan Hanging Monastery built in 491 A.D. to Peru’s Machu Picchu of 1460 to the CityCenter of today, she looks at how the art of building big has developed over the centuries. You can read more about this fascinating subject in Brenda’s article, “Old & New: Juxtaposition of High-Rise Eras.”

As always, enjoy this issue all at once or in bits. You can come back to us easily by saving us in your “favorites,” or look for our updated e-mails throughout the month focusing on a particular article. We are never far from reach.

Have a fabulous October!

Lee Papa, Publisher