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Market Snapshot for Edmond Real Estate in 2011

2012-01-26T12:12:00.002-06:00

Where the heck did January go? I mean really. This month is just flying by! I was scanning through my file of recent posts and realized that I had missed giving you an end of year 2011 real estate market report for Edmond. Most of you are thinking, "Numbers? No biggie." I get it. But for some, number crunching is a really big deal. It gives them a picture of what's going on in the market.

First a bit of fine print. All the data I am sharing today has been collected by the OKCMAR MLS between January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011. This data does not account for properties that were sold without the involvement of a Realtor. Also, the data I am using today comes from a specific segment of the metro, the area of Edmond Public Schools.

As the graph below illustrates, during 2011 3679 homes were listed for sale within the boundaries of EPS. Of those, 647 are still active listings in the Oklahoma City MLS. 216 of those listings are currently under contract. 1810 of the listings have since sold with an average sold price of $237, 851 after an average of just 54 days on the market.

This is a quick broad stroke market snapshot for Edmond in 2011. Want to discuss what all these numbers mean? Does it indicate that now is a good time to list your house? Let me treat you to a fancy coffee, and we can review a market snapshot that is specific to your neighborhood. You can always reach me at 405-615-2796.

Talk to you soon!

Piedmont Estate Sale this Weekend

2012-01-25T08:38:00.000-06:00

Calling all treasure hunters! We're having an Estate Sale (rain or shine) this weekend that you won't want to miss.

Before I give you a sneak peek at the list of items available for sale, let me give you the key information. The sale is January 27-29. Hours are 9:00-3:00 on Friday and Saturday. Noon until 3:00 on Sunday (half price day). Sorry folks, no early birds! The sale is in Piedmont at 5215 Hart Drive. It's pretty easy to find. Hart Drive is about a half mile east of Piedmont Road and Apache (NW 206th/Covell) intersection. Watch for our blue and white signs.

Wondering what kind of treasures you might find? There is furniture; mid-century dining room, sofas, vintage chandelier, coffee tables, an executive desk, tall dresser and more. The kitchen is full with cookware, Tupperware, Fire King, Franciscan ware (Desert Rose), and small appliances. Collectibles include vintage soda bottles, miniature pitchers, radios, and collector plates. Too much to list!

Cash only.

See you this weekend!

Is Piedmont the Metro's Best Kept Secret?

2012-01-24T17:43:00.000-06:00

Is Piedmont the metro's best kept secret? Hmm, that's a good question.

Piedmont, Oklahoma can be found in Canadian County about four miles north of the Kilpatrick Turnpike. That's where I've been spending some time this week. We're preparing a house for an estate sale this weekend. I'm no expert on the area. So I thought as long as I'm there, I'd learn a little bit about it and share it with you. After all, I can sell homes anywhere in Oklahoma! Not just Edmond and Oklahoma City!

If you're looking for small town feel with fairly easy access to Oklahoma City, this may be an area to consider. The landscape is quite pretty. As we drove into town (it didn't take us long to get there) we passed many fields with horses and cows grazing. We even saw a few miniature ponies. It looks like many folks live on acreages but there are some additions with homes on standard city lots too.

With two homes already sold this year (it's only the third week of January) and sixteen more under contract, it would seem the area is gaining in popularity! A neighborhood that might be worth looking at if you are a first time buyer is Colony Pointe. It's a popular new development in Piedmont by Home Creations. Colony Pointe has new homes priced beginning at $118,000! Yep, I said it. Home prices beginning under $120,000! Want to go take a look? Give me a call at 405-615-2796 or stop by the Home Creations Model Home and tell them Kristyn Grewell at CENTURY 21 Goodyear Green sent you!

Piedmont isn't just for first time buyers though. Consider Windmill Park. Windmill Park is near NW 178th and Piedmont Road. Many homes in this addition sit on one acre lots and feature all the bells and whistles you expect in a fine home. You will find granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, wood floors, oil rubbed bronze fixtures, crown molding, the works! Homes in Windmill Park range from about $250,000 to $300,000.

With a country feel and just a zip away from the turnpike, Piedmont may be one of the metro's best kept secrets! Start searching Piedmont Homes Now.

Talk to you soon!

By the way, you may want to know that kiddos that live in Piedmont attend Piedmont Public Schools. The system is pre-K through 12th grade with three elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. They also have an early childhood center.

6 Housing Markets Gear Up for a Rebound

2012-01-23T16:47:00.000-06:00

I just had this article zip into my inbox and I had to share it with you right away! Look at which market is listed as number 6! Yea baby, it's Oklahoma City! We've had both population and job growth which puts us ready for the Housing Market Rebound!

6 Housing Markets Gear Up for a Rebound

It's Just One Square Mile But Coffee Creek Has it All

2012-01-23T07:30:00.000-06:00

It's just one square mile; Covell to Coffee Creek and Kelly to Broadway. But just about everything you need can be found in the area known as Coffee Creek in Edmond.

Yesterday I had the opportunity to help out an associate in our office by hosting an open house at his listing in Prairie Village at Coffee Creek. While I was in the area, it occurred to me that folks living in that neighborhood really do have access to so much right at their fingertips.

Long considered a residential area, Coffee Creek has seen the addition of several carefully placed businesses in recent years. What I love is that the commercial buildings almost blend into the residential landscape. The architectural styles they have chosen are all very much in keeping with the surrounding homes. There is a true sense of cohesiveness and community.

Residents of the area enjoy the convenience of a local daycare at My Small Wonders Child Care Center. Medical care at Integris Family Care, First Med Urgent Care, Coffee Creek Family Dental, Within Sight Vision (Dr. Hunter is great!) and Orthodontic Associates all can be found practically next door. When you have a sick kiddo, that's a really big deal! For the four legged family members, Pampered Pets is right there too. Other businesses in that square mile area include; a post office, Legacy Cleaners, Old School Bagel Cafe, Coffee Creek Wine Shop and Citizen's Bank. You really could walk or bike all your errands for the day.

You might be thinking that the one key element that was missing from my list is a grocery store. Not to worry! We've got you covered! Uptown Grocery Company will be opening at 1230 W. Covell on February 29. While not in that square mile, it will be just a stone's throw away. Just like the nearby Walgreen's and Lowe's Home Improvement stores.

So, all of your everyday errands are covered. What about recreation? Within the residential portion of Coffee Creek, homeowners enjoy neighborhood parks, pools and ponds. Not enough? The neighborhood trails link to the trails at Edmond's Mitch Park on the opposite side of Kelly. Once at Mitch Park, you can take advantage of several more miles of winding trails, ball fields, playgrounds, volleyball, Frisbee golf, a skate park and so much more.

Coffee Creek Golf Club is a part of the community as well. It is a public club that offers memberships. I'm not a golfer by any stretch of the imagination. But I do live with one. The hubs tells me that the course at Coffee Creek is considered narrow and tree lined. He also said that it was worth mentioning that they replaced the greens last year with a grass that will be more tolerant to the Oklahoma heat. If you're a golfer, it may be worth checking out.

Sound like a fantastic place to live? You bet it does! And the best part is, with a variety of price ranges ($165K-500K+), there is a home for almost everyone in the area. Here is a quick guide;

Search Coffee Creek Homes Now

Stonebrook at Coffee Creek: 190-250
Prairie Village at Coffee Creek: starting at 190
Links at Coffee Creek: starting at 170 (2 bedroom plans available)
Villas at Coffee Creek: starting at 230 (2 bedroom plans available)
Ash Grove at Coffee Creek: starting at 235
Coffee Creek: 250-500's
Wild Meadow at Coffee Creek: 250-300's
Amberwood at Coffee Creek: 300's
Carriage Park at Coffee Creek: around 350's
Heritage Green at Coffee Creek: around 400's

Ready to consider a move to Coffee Creek or want to schedule a tour? Give me a call at the CENTURY 21 Goodyear Green office, 405-359-7400. Just ask for Kristyn.

Talk to you soon!

Conserving Energy Around Your House

2012-01-22T10:23:00.003-06:00

While I was busy working yesterday, the hubs was busy at home. He added weather stripping to our back door and insulated a drafty window. Just a couple things to help our circa 1993 home stay a bit more comfortable and energy efficient. We have even talked about investing in a Nest thermostat. If you haven't seen one, they are really cool! The thermostat learns your living habits and adjusts the temperature accordingly. You can even make an adjustment from your computer.

All this talk about improving our energy efficiency got me wondering what else we could do around our house. While clicking around the web, I found this infographic from Horizon Bank that illustrates several ways we can make a few more simple changes. Check it out.

What simple changes can you make this weekend? Just a few simple changes could make a big difference. Not only can you save energy. You can also save you money on your monthly utility bill The secret bonus is that your more energy efficient home may be more attractive to prospective buyers when it's time to sell. Hmm, hadn't considered that!

I've got an open house to get to in Coffee Creek. But I think the hubs will be making another run to Home Depot. We need to add a water heater blanket.

Talk to you soon!

Running Around or Big Plans this Weekend?

2012-01-20T15:53:00.000-06:00

Everybody's looking forward to the weekend...It's Friday, Friday...! Now that I got that awful song in your head; what are you up to this weekend? Big plans or lot's of running around?

For me, it's a little of both. I've got a super busy Saturday starting with the OKC Home and Garden Show. You may have read earlier in the week that my office has a booth in the Cox building. My shift is Saturday morning from 10-12. If you're there, I hope you'll swing by and say hello. I'm kind of hoping I'll have a chance to see Mark Brunetz give his presentation Inside Clutter while I'm there, but I doubt I'll have time. I have to get back to Edmond to show a few houses and visit with a potential client about an estate sale. So, if you get to see Mark's presentation, be sure to let me know all about it! He's in the Cox building too.

They are forecasting pretty nice weather for Sunday. So I'm hoping to get a chance for a long run (training for a 1/2 marathon this spring) before my open house.

I'm going to have 704 Prairie Dunes Way over in Prairie Village at Coffee Creek open from 2-4. Prairie Village at Coffee Creek is in Edmond just north of Covell and Kelly. The neighborhood features a recreation center, pools, and parks. It's even walking distance to Mitch Park and Cheyenne Middle School. The home is new construction. It was built by Ken Chambers. It has three bedrooms, and two bathrooms, and a safe room in 1964 square feet. I almost forgot to mention that the Coffee Creek golf course is nearby too!

Whether you have big plans or just running around, maybe we will get a chance to see each other at the OKC Home and Garden Show or my Open House in Edmond Sunday. If not, I hope you have a fantastic weekend!

Talk to you soon!

By the way, if you're running around and see a house you're curious about, just text me the address (405-615-2796). I'll be working. So, it will be fast and easy for me to pull up the information for you.

100 Grand; Super Bowl for 16, 3 Electric Cars, or a House in Edmond

2012-01-17T20:40:00.001-06:00

What can you do with 100 grand?

For about $100,000, you could take 15 buddies to the Super Bowl to watch the game from the 50 yard line with you. Can't you just see it? It would be the best Sunday ever! You would totally be the king!

For about $100,000, you could be the change and help the environment. You could buy three of those little electric cars; one for you, one for mom, and one for your girl. That would be fantastic! The three of you would really be making a difference in the world. Until you need to haul more than a couple bags of groceries that is. Aw, you don't really need to bring your own golf clubs to the course. It'll be cool.

For about $100,000, you could buy a house in Edmond. Yep, a real house with bricks, walls and a roof for just 100 grand. Just imagine. You could live in it with your girl. Your buddies could come to your place and watch the game on the big screen. You could park your truck in your own garage. Are your wheels turning yet?

Here's a list of Edmond neighborhoods that have homes either currently listed or have sold (during 20110) for $100,000 or less.

Surbers First, this area is near Edmond Road and Kelly. Homes are typically below 1000 square feet and were built prior to 1950.
Bigbee's Santa Fe, this area is off Broadway between 2nd Street and Danforth. Homes are under 1000 square feet and built in the early 1950's.
Reynold's, this area is east of 15th Street and Broadway. Homes are around 1000 square feet and were built in the early 1950's.
Buell Hollis, this area is south of 2nd Street near Fretz. Homes are below 1000 square feet and were built in the early 1960's.
Campbell South, this area is near 15th Street and Boulevard. Homes are below 1000 square feet and built in the late 1940's.
Ketch Acres, North of Danforth between Kelly and Santa Fe, there are homes around 1100 square feet built in the late 1960's.
Meadowlakes, Off Kelly between Danforth and 2nd Street, there are homes between 900 and 1300 square feet built in the late 1960's early 1970's.
Sunset Heights, Near 15th Street and Fretz, there are homes under 1000 square feet built in the late 1950's.
Henderson Hills, South of 15th Street between Boulevard and Bryant, there are homes around 1000 square feet or more built in the early 1970's.
Terrace, South of Edmond Road and Kelly, there are homes around 1200 square feet built in the early 1970's.
Elwood Heights, Near Broadway and 33rd Street, there are homes around 1000 square feet built in the 1960's.
Swan Lake, South of Danforth and Kelly, there are homes up to 1500 square feet built in the 1980's.
Fair Hill, Near Western and Memorial, there are homes under 1600 square feet, built in the early 1980's.
Willowood, Near 2nd Street and Coltrane in Eastern Edmond, there are homes around 1200 square feet, built in the 1980's.
Oakbrook, Near Edmond Road and Santa Fe, there are homes under 1500 square feet built in the 1980's.
Capitol View Park, In southeast Edmond near Oklahoma Christian University, there are homes under 1800 square feet built in the 1970's.
Fairfield, North of 15th Street and Santa Fe, there are homes around 1200-1500 square feet built in the 1980's.
Nothgate, Near Broadway and Memorial, there are homes around 1200 square feet built in the 1960's.
Edmond Original, North of 2nd Street and Broadway there are homes under 1400 square feet built in the 1920's.
Westborough, North of Danforth and Kelly there are homes around 1000 square feet built in the 1980's.
Kelly Park, North of 15th Street and Kelly there are homes under 1500 square feet built in the 1970's.
Ripple Creek, Near 33rd Street and Santa Fe there are homes under 1500 square feet built in the 1980's.
Concorde, Near 15th Street and Fretz there are homes under 1000 square feet built around 2002.
The Crossing, Off Memorial between Boulevard and Broadway near Oklahoma Christian University, there are homes around 1000 square feet built in the 1990's.
Chowning Heights, Near Bryant and Danforth there are homes around 1000 square feet built in the 1970's.

I say go for the house! You'd look silly in the car and everyone knows you don't want to miss the Super Bowl Commercials!

Talk to you soon!

OKC Home and Garden Show Tickets

2012-01-16T10:02:00.001-06:00

The annual Oklahoma City Home and Garden Show is this weekend (January 20-22) at the fairgrounds. Guess who plans to be there? That's right, me! My office, CENTURY 21 Goodyear Green, will have a booth over in the Cox building and I'll be there on Saturday.

That means it's time for a giveaway on my brand new facebook page, Sell a Metro Home! One lucky fan will receive two free tickets to the show! If you're already a fan, you don't need to do a thing. Not a fan of the new page yet? Buzz on over, click like and you're entered! Good luck! I hope to see you Saturday!

Talk to you soon!

By the way, you can buy tickets to the show online for just 8 bucks each by clicking here.

Learn to Speak Real Estate-ese

2012-01-14T10:30:00.001-06:00

The other day I was at the office talking to my broker and she used a particular word like three times in the conversation. It was a word I had never even heard before and here she goes using it three times! I was feeling a bit like an idiot (to protect my pride, I won't share what that word was). Finally I had to ask, what the heck does that mean?

Honestly, sometimes I'm guilty of it too though. You know, speaking in Real Estate-ese instead of plain old English. Now, if we're working together and I do this, stop me! I don't want you to ever feel like you don't understand. Say, Kristyn, what the heck are you talking about? I'll happily stop and explain.

If you prefer to be bilingual, here is a guide you can use. It's not quite Rosetta Stone, but it will work!

Real Estate Terminology Glossary

ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGE (ARM): A loan that allows the interest rate to be changed periodically.

ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE (APR): The total finance charge (interest, loan fees, points) expressed as a percentage of the loan amount.

AMORITIZATION SCHEDULE: A schedule showing the principle and interest payments throughout the life of the loan.

APPRAISED VALUE: The opinion of the value of the property at a given time, based on the facts regarding the location, improvements, etc. of the property and surroundings.

ASSESSED VALUE: The valuation placed on a property by a public tax assessor as the basis of property taxes.

BALLOON LOAN: A mortgage that has a substantial amount of the principle due at the maturity of the note.

BROKER: A person licensed by a state real estate commission to act independently in conducting a real estate brokerage business. Although the requirements for a broker's license vary from state to state, an individual usually must have one or more years of experience in the industry and pass an examination.

BUYDOWN: A payment to the lender from the seller, buyer or third party, causing the lender to reduce the interest rate during the early years of the loan.

CAP: A maximum amount of interest that can be charged.

CLOSING: The final steps in transferring ownership of a property from seller to buyer.

CLOSING COSTS: Fees and expenses, not including the price of the home, payable by the seller and the buyer at the time of closing.

CONTINGENCY: A condition that must be satisfied before a contract is binding.

CONVENTIONAL LOAN: A fixed rate, fixed term loan that is made without government insurance.

CONVERTIBLE ARM: Loans that give you the opportunity to convert to a fixed-rate mortgage, usually between the 13th to 60th month of the loan.

COOPERATIVES (CO-OPS): A buyer purchases shares in a co-op corporation, made up of the residents of the co-op property. The buyer owns the shares rather than owning the real property. In exchange, the buyer has the right to occupy the co-op unit.

CREDIT REPORT: A report on the past ability of a loan applicant to pay installment payments.

DEED: A legal document conveying title to a property.

DEPRECIATION: Refers to when a property's value decreases.

DOCUMENT PREPARATION: A fee charged by an attorney for preparation of legal documents for the transaction.

EARNEST MONEY: A payment given to the seller by a potential buyer indicating the buyer's intent to complete the purchase of the property.

ESCROW FEE: A fee charged by the title company to service the transaction, to escrow monies, and to cover documents. This amount varies with company. This fee is usually split between the buyer and seller.

ESCROW/IMPOUND ACCOUNT: Funds held by the lender for payment of taxes and insurance when due. This usually does not include any maintenance fees.

EQUITY: The owner's value or interest in a property.

ESCROW: The placement of money or documents with a third party for safekeeping pending the fulfillment or performance of a specific act or condition.

FHA MORTGAGE: A mortgage loan insured by the Federal Housing Administration, permitting lenders to offer better terms.

FIXED RATE MORTGAGE: A loan that has only one stated interest rate.

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE: This protects the property and contents in case of loss. It must be for at least the loan amount or 80% of the improved property value, whichever is greater.

HUD (Department of Housing & Urban Development): A US government agency established to implement certain federal housing and community development programs.

HYBRID LOANS: Loans that combine features of fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages.

INSPECTIONS: An examination of property for various reasons such as, termite inspections, whole home inspections etc.

INTEREST: Rate charged for the use of loan funds. It is always paid in arrears.

LIEN: A legal claim against a property that must be paid when property is sold.

LOAN APPLICATION FEE: Paid to the lender at the time of application. Fees vary by company.

LOAN DISCOUNT: The points a lender charges. Points may be paid by either the buyer or seller on a conventional loan and the number of points will fluctuate with the money market.

LOAN ORIGINATION FEE: The charge you must pay to the lender for processing your mortgage.

MAINTAINENCE FEE: Charged by the homeowner’s association as called for in subdivision covenants and restrictions.

MLS: Multiple Listing Service

MORTGAGE: A lien on real estate given by the buyer as security for money borrowed from a lender.

MORTGAGEE’S TITLE POLICY: This is required by the lender to insure that the lender has a valid lien and does not protect the buyer.

ORIGINATION FEE: The fee paid by the buyer to the lender to originate a new loan.

OWNER’S TITLE POLICY: Insures that the buyer has title to the property.

P&I: Principle & Interest payment. A monthly payment that includes the interest charges for the period plus an amount applied to amortization of the principle balance.

PITI: Principle, Interest, Taxes, and Insurance Payment. The periodic payment that includes the principle and interest payment plus a contribution to the escrow account set up by the lender to pay insurance premiums and property taxes on the mortgage property.

POINT: 1% of the loan amount.

PREPAYMENT PENALTY: An amount charged by the lender for premature payment of the loan balance.

PRIVATE MORTGAGE INSURANCE (PMI): Insurance against a loss by a lender in the event of default by the borrower.

REALTOR: Real estate professionals who are members of the National Association of REALTORS and subscribe to its code of ethics.

REALTOR FEES: An amount paid to the Realtor as compensation for services.

RECORDING FEES: Fee charged by the county clerk to record documents in the public record.

RESTRICTIONS: Certified copy of deed restrictions required by the lender.

SURVEY: Confirms the lot size and will show any encroachments or restriction violations.

TAX PRORATION: Seller pays buyer’s taxes from January 1 through date of closing.

TAX CERTIFICATES: Certificates issued by taxing authorities showing the current year’s taxes, that the last year’s taxes were paid, and any delinquencies to be collected from seller at closing.

TITLE: A document that is evidence of ownership

TITLE INSURANCE: Protection for lenders and homeowners against financial loss resulting from legal defects to the title.

TITLE SEARCH: A check of title records to identify liens, encumbrances and ownership rights to the property.

VA MORTGAGE: A mortgage loan guaranteed by the Veterans Administration, an agency of the federal government that provides services for eligible veterans.

Talk to you soon!

Try Mrs. Meyer's Countertop Spray

2012-01-11T09:16:00.001-06:00

Have you tried any of the Mrs. Meyer's cleaning products yet? If not, you really must! The other day I picked up a bottle of the Mrs. Meyer's Lavender Countertop Spray. Love it! Not only does it smell fantastic but it's a great cleaner!

It got me thinking that it would be a perfect product to use when your house is for sale. Give the counters a quick spritz and wipe down before you head out the door and you'll leave the room smelling so good. I read a tip online that would help home sellers (sorry, I can't remember which blog I saw it on). The blogger suggested using Mrs. Meyer's Countertop Spray on the door frames of your rooms. Brilliant! When a buyer enters a room they enjoy the subtle, relaxing scent of lavender. What could be more welcoming?

The Mrs. Meyer's products are natural with essential oils and are biodegradable. There are additional products like dish soap, laundry detergent, and hand soap that I'll be trying very soon! I found the counterspray at Walmart. It was in the laundry aisle, not with the other kitchen cleaners. The price was right in line with the other available products.

Give it a try and let me know what you think!
Talk to you soon!

Buyers Should Consider How Much it Will Cost to Sell Too

2012-01-10T09:04:00.001-06:00

You're buying your first home. Be honest, most of your focus has been on one question; how much? How much will my monthly payment be? How much house can I afford? How much down payment do I need? No one ever asks, how much will it cost me if I have to sell?

I know what you're thinking. Sell? Kristyn, we're not going to sell. We're working with you because we want to buy a home. I get that. Do me a favor and stay with me for just a minute.

When you visited with your lender, he should have explained that there are closing costs to you when you buy a house (lender fees, title charges, escrows...) Well, keep in mind that there are also closing costs to the seller. You might not know that the seller pays the real estate sales commission to the brokerage that has their house listed. That can be about 6%. They also have title fees and may be contributing to your closing costs if that is part of the contract. That can add up pretty quickly. For example, if selling a $200,000 house, closing costs can be estimated at $15,000 without any contribution to the buyer's closing cost.

In an ideal situation, they have lived in the house long enough to build equity in their home. They have reached a point where the house is valued more than they owe on the mortgage. So when they sell; the mortgage can be paid off, all fees paid and they still net a nice sum of money to use as a down payment on their next house.

This is achieved in one of three ways. The most common way is to live in a house long enough that the value appreciates over time (in our market, the rule of thumb is just 4-5 years). Another is at the time of purchase you put at least 10% down to provide a cushion should you have to move in less than 5 years. Or, you are fortunate enough to find a house that is listed under market value and you purchase with built in equity.

This information is not meant to scare you from buying. On the contrary, it's meant to help you make an educated decision about your financing and purchase. No one has a crystal ball to see the future. Family dynamics change, job relocation happens and the real estate market fluctuates. All this needs to be considered when asking; how much?

Programs that offer 100% financing are fantastic if you qualify! But only do it if you plan to live in that house for the next 4-5 years. The last thing I want to do is tell you it's going to cost you five figures if you have to sell in a year. That's never a fun conversation.

Talk to you soon!

COOP Ale Works in Oklahoma City

2012-01-09T21:12:00.002-06:00

You never know where the day will take you. Today took me to an unsuspecting warehouse near Western and NW 50th and an impromptu tour of COOP Ale Works in Oklahoma City. In case you haven't heard of COOP, this local craft brewery began business in 2009. They brew several popular beers including; Horny Toad, Zeppelin, Native Amber, DNR, Gran Sport, and F5 IPA.

You can give their creations a try on January 20th at Epicurean's Pantry in Edmond where they will be having a Cheese and Beer Pairing event. This could make a fantastic early Valentine's Day gift. What guy doesn't like beer and cheese? You'll want to call 471-5777 to make your reservation.

Can't make it to the Cheese and Beer Pairing? Then why not plan to attend COOP's 3rd Anniversary Open House on Saturday. They're planning 3 sessions. I'm told the proceeds are going to Wishing Well: Water for the World!

I love when my day takes me to new places that I can share with you.
Talk to you soon!

My Word for 2012, FREEDOM!

2012-01-08T11:52:00.001-06:00

Have you heard about the trend of choosing a "word of the year" instead of making a new year's resolution? Until today I hadn't. It came across my radar this morning as I was catching up on a blog I recently started to follow, The Lettered Cottage. The idea is pretty simple. You select one word that will guide and inspire you throughout the year. Like I said the idea is simple. The application of choosing a word not so much! How do you take all that you hope for and find just one word to define it for you? For me, that was a bit of a struggle. So I did what I always do, I asked Google. They would know what to do!

A quick search for "How to choose a word of the year" led me to the Word of the Year Worksheet by Christine Kane. I poured myself one more cup of coffee and gave it a shot. I answered questions about my current habits and my goals for the future. I think the question that really got me thinking the most was, "if you were to live this word daily throughout the year, how would your life be different one year from today?"

I won't bore you with my answers. But I do want to share my results. To solidify my intention for 2012. My word this year is FREEDOM. The definition of freedom that rings true for me is, "the power to determine action without restraint." That's exactly what I want in 2012! What would your word be?

Talk to you soon!

Today's Project, Numbered Table Set

2012-01-07T19:50:00.001-06:00

Yesterday my daughter had to have her wisdom teeth removed. Since I knew I'd be playing nurse, I considered it a work free weekend. But when my husband offered to hang out with her for a while so I could take a much needed break, I jumped at the chance! What does a gal like me do with an hour or so of free time? I hit my favorite thrift stores and go picking of course!

On today's pick, I found a funky set of tables. They passed the heart racing test as soon as I spotted them. The set includes four small tables that hang on a stand. Kinda like TV trays but a little bit smaller. These tables fold at a hinge in the center of the tabletop. They were filthy and pretty beat up. But I'd never seen a set like that, so they had to come home with me!

Back home and a check on the girlie. Then it was time to be creative! First, I gave all the tables and the stand a light sanding. Just enough to give the finish a bit of tooth. Then after much discussion with my daughter about color options, I settled on bright yellow for the tables and grey for the stand. I'm really liking that combo right now. It puts me in the mood for spring!

After they were painted I added a bit of my secret sauce. Since they were a set of four tables, I decided to stencil a number 1-4 on each table.

I'm pretty pleased with how they turned out! I can see these funky little tables used in so many different ways around the house. Especially areas where a little extra space is needed. But instead I'll be putting them in my booth at Broadway Antiques & Market first thing Monday morning.

Talk to you soon!

Love Living in Derby? You'll Feel Right at Home in Edmond!

2012-01-06T18:47:00.000-06:00

Earlier this week I wrote a post about the many similarities between Wichita, Kansas and Oklahoma City (Edmond). As you have probably heard by now Boeing will be relocating many of their engineers to Oklahoma City from their Wichita plant in a year or so. Since then I've had the chance to visit with a friend of mine who is from Derby, Kansas. I wanted to know more than just the demographics and census data I found. She explained to me that Derby is just outside of Wichita and was actually pretty similar to Edmond in a lot of ways. Like Edmond, Derby has had explosive growth during the last 10-15 years. She told me it's hard to tell where Wichita ends and Derby begins. Sounds a lot like Edmond and Oklahoma City. I had to check it out.

I found that there really a lot of things the two towns have in common. Since I can be a bit of a nerd, there was one piece of trivia that caught my attention. I read that Derby was originally named El Paso. But to eliminate confusion with El Paso, Texas the town's name was changed to Derby after a local railroad official. Well strange as it sounds, following the land-run, our town was named Edmond after a railroad freight agent. The train still chugs right through the middle of Edmond a couple times a day.

If you are among the Boeing engineers moving to our area next year, you probably want to know a bit more than how the two towns got their names! You might be interested in knowing that living in Edmond will be a lot like living in Derby. You'll want to be assured that you and your family will feel right at home. So here goes;

Schools: Within Derby Public Schools there are 9 elementary schools, a sixth grade center, a middle school and a high school. Within Edmond Public Schools there are 16 elementary schools, 5 middle schools, 3 freshman academies (new to our system in the last four years), and 3 high schools.
Shopping: Like Derby, Edmond has a Kohls and Walmart. Unlike Derby, we do not have a Kmart. It closed several years ago and is now an Academy store. I understand that in Derby many folks go over to Bradley Fair in Wichita to shop at stores like Francesca's, Jos A Bank, White House Black Market, Chicos, Coldwater Creek, Talbots, and Loft. All of those stores and more can be found right here in Edmond at the popular Spring Creek Plaza. Mall and outlet mall shopping is also available with about a 20 minute drive.
Attractions: A few popular Derby attractions include the Derby Historical Museum, the Derby Open Air Market, the Derby Skate Park, and Rock River Rapids. Edmond has all that too! When you come you will want to check out the Edmond Historical Society and Museum (you can learn more about how Edmond got it's name), the Festival Market Place, Mathis Skate Park, and Pelican Bay Aquatic Center.
Annual Events: I learned that there are several annual events that Derby residents look forward to each year like Derby Days and the 4th of July. Edmond residents look forward to Libertyfest, Taste of Edmond, Arcadia Eagle Watch and the Storybook Forest at Halloween.

Edmond is just a three hour drive from Derby. Before you plan your road trip, give me a call. I'd love to give you a personal tour!

Talk to you soon!

Wichita Kansas vs OKC (Edmond) Oklahoma

2012-01-04T17:08:00.001-06:00

I can't believe it's already been over a year since we first learned that Boeing would be relocating the C-130 Avionics Modernization and Avionics programs to Oklahoma City in 2011. When I first heard the news back in November of 2010, I wrote a short open letter to Boeing employees in Long Beach. I wanted to let them know just a little of what they could expect in Oklahoma City. I shared a few tidbits about our schools, climate, commute, and amenities.

Fast forward to January 2012 and here we are again with news to report about Boeing and Oklahoma City. Today it was announced that Boeing will be moving 800 jobs to the Oklahoma facility from Wichita, Kansas in 2013. That will be another incredible boost to the greater Oklahoma City metro!

I don't think anyone would disagree that there were quite a few measurable differences between Long Beach, California and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. The most obvious being that Oklahoma is land-locked and California has miles upon miles of beautiful beaches. But the differences between Wichita and Oklahoma City (Edmond) are pretty slight. Both states are pretty much smack dab in the center of the country. The landscapes and culture are pretty similar. Although I believe our climate in Oklahoma is better. I'd rather have heat than snow any day!

Both areas have been recognized nationally among the most affordable towns to live in. I used a cost of living calculator from bankrate.com comparing Wichita and Oklahoma City (Edmond) to see just what the difference would be. Here's what I learned;

When you move to Oklahoma City (Edmond), it's going to cost you quite a bit more to rent an apartment in Edmond ($729.95) than in Wichita ($670.35). But it will likely cost you a bit less to purchase a home in Edmond ($238,980) than in Wichita ($245,955). Prices for groceries, goods, and services are just pennies apart in both towns. If for some reason you need to have your washer repaired, you will pay premium pricing in Edmond. And if your doctor has prescribed Lipitor, get your script filled in Edmond where you will apparently save over fifteen bucks (according to the comparison used)!

All kidding aside, the two metropolitan areas are very much alike. I think the Boeing employees moving to the Oklahoma City area from Wichita will find the similarities pretty comfortable.

If you are a Boeing employee and a move to Oklahoma City is in your future. Start to get a feel for the area by receiving listing information via email. By the way, as a REALTOR at CENTURY 21 Goodyear Green, I can help you with your relocation. Our company is able to work with Altair Global Relocation, the company handling the relocation for Boeing employees. All you have to do is request me.

Talk to you soon!

Find Sell a Metro Home on Facebook

2012-01-02T11:39:00.000-06:00

I am blessed to have had the opportunity to be involved in so many very cool things during 2011. I worked with a bunch of great clients as they found their dream homes. I graduated from the Leadership OAR program (one of the toughest and most gratifying things I've ever done). I expanded the services I offer. And I continue to build this blog with information about a range of topics including home, lifestyle and real estate in the Oklahoma City area.

In an effort to mesh all these great things into one place, I've launched a new page on Facebook. It's called Sell a Metro Home. I feel a bit like a proud mama! I'd be so pleased if you would stop by and check it out. If you're inclined, it would be fantastic if you would click on the like button while you're there!

Talk to you soon!

5 Minutes of Fame

2012-01-01T16:11:00.001-06:00

You'll have to excuse me as I enjoy my five minutes of fame! Okay, it might not be Lady Gaga fame but it's a sliver of notoriety in my world.

We were thrilled when Dena Edwards with Edmond Outlook recently interviewed us about the Estate Sale Services we provide. We were even more excited to see that her article is in the January issue which hit mailboxes last week. When we visited with Dena, we shared information about the estate sale process and our goal of becoming a single source for folks needing to liquidate both personal property and real estate in Edmond and the Oklahoma City metro. Here's an excerpt from the article;

An antique armoire. A half-empty bottle of glass cleaner. A worn pair of blue jeans. Cans of green beans. An old collection of dolls. Oriental rugs. Rolls of toilet paper. This hodge-podge assortment and more is what can be found and purchased at estate sales.

"The craziest thing we have sold yet were military flight suits and other military paraphernalia from one of the wars," said Ginny Hawkins, an Edmond real estate agent who has recently started a business conducting estate sales with fellow agent Kristyn Grewell. "But most of the stuff (we sell) is the same stuff we all have." full article

Thank you Dena and Edmond Outlook for our five minutes in the sun!
Talk to you soon!

New Construction Tour in Edmond

2011-12-28T20:06:00.001-06:00

Sometimes it just feels good to get back to doing what you do well. After spending the better part of a week being home sick with the blechy blech, today was my first day feeling normal again. My back to normal day came with new relocation clients and gorgeous weather to show them around town in. One of my favorite things about Oklahoma is that you can find yourself driving with the sun roof open on a random December day! Granted, Oklahoma weather also means it could snow on that same December day but we won't go there!

Today's tour took us to see new construction in several neighborhoods in Edmond. We stopped by to see a Taber Home in Robin Ridge, a few of the Ideal Homes in Valencia, the always popular Highland Trails and finally the new Highland Farms both by 4Corners. My clients and I were impressed with the quality of workmanship, floor plans, and finishes all these builders provide. They especially liked the amount of closet space, arched doorways, and open kitchens. The four Edmond communities we toured all have (existing and/or planned) great amenities like playgrounds, walking trails, and neighborhood pools. They all feature homes with at least 2000 square feet, 4 bedrooms, and were priced under $250,000.

Maybe you've seen the model home signs in Robin Ridge, Valencia, or Highland Trails and thought about stopping by too. For buyer representative in any of these new Edmond neighborhoods, give me a call at the CENTURY 21 Goodyear Green office 405-359-7400. Just ask for Kristyn. I can arrange a tour for you this week on your schedule. Not just during the model home's normal open house hours.

Talk to you soon!

The Best of Sell a Metro Home 2011

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

Today I took a look back at all the Sell a Metro Home posts of 2011. It's been an interesting year. I've shared tidbits about downtown Oklahoma City, grocery stores, new legislation, home buying and who can forget Snowmaggedon! I'd say we covered it all! I managed to sort through them all and came up with a list of your favorites. The five posts that you clicked on the most during 2011, The best of Sell a Metro Home for 2011. Drum roll please...

The Meat House in Edmond, I've always worked with the public. I've helped folks with their basic needs; food, clothing, and shelter. Over the years I've worked in food service, retail, and now real estate. Those three industries may seem pretty different on the surface. But they actually have one strong common thread; customer service. To be successful in any of the three, a company really needs to have strong customer service skills.
What's Your Skydiving?, Skydiving. I don't get it. I just can't understand why anyone would jump out of a perfectly good airplane. Yet it's something I hear people list on their "bucket list" all the time. Not me! At the top of my list, right after running a half marathon and some out of this world real estate sales goals, is to renovate an old house near downtown Oklahoma City. I know. Some would say, Kristyn, that is even crazier! But I also know there are a lot of people out there with the same dream! I show homes to people just like me all the time.
Welcome to OKC Sunflower Market, I work with a lot of people that are relocating to the Oklahoma City metro. When I do, one of my very favorite things to do is to give them a tour of the area. Interestingly there is one pretty common question, "Where do you shop for groceries?" I'd usually point out one of the big box super centers. Most folks are pretty stunned to know that in Oklahoma, we often buy our groceries at the same place we get our oil changed.
Oklahoma Allows Digital Signatures, I spent the last two days at a retreat with my Leadership OAR class in Oklahoma City. While we were together we had the opportunity to meet our legislators over lunch at the Faculty House. We toured the Capitol and learned about bills currently being considered and how they effect the real estate industry and the clients we serve
Ah, New House Smell, Don't you just love new house smell? New carpet, fresh paint, mmm. Everything is so shiny and new. It sure smells good! For many buyers that's the way to go when buying a home. So far this year, I've had the opportunity to help several clients purchase new construction. I have sold homes in Stone Creek Canyon, La Sonata, and Rolling Meadows. I have two more that are currently pending in Covell Village.

Thanks for reading! I look forward to bringing you a wide variety of posts about living in Edmond and the OKC metro in 2012!

Talk to you soon!

I Caught Santa! You Can Too!

2011-12-21T12:50:00.001-06:00

When my kids were at the age that their belief is Santa was beginning to fade, we tried the standard tricks to keep it going just a little longer. You know, leaving a jingle bell by the fireplace or maybe a personal note from Santa. Pretty lame efforts really. Now technology is making it even easier for parents. Today I discovered a really fun website, icaughtsanta.com.

At icaughtsanta.com you can easily upload a picture of your living room, Christmas tree, or fireplace. That picture becomes the background for your project. Next you select from a variety of Santa poses to insert into your picture. You can have Santa placing gifts under the tree. Or, like I picked, taking a quick snooze! Doesn't it look like he's really asleep by my tree?

Once you get your picture (under ten bucks) you can download it, email it, share it to facebook and twitter, or even send it right over to Walgreen's to be printed.

As a bonus, they also generate a cute "elf cam" video of Santa in front of your background. It would be so much fun to tell a questioning kiddo that you were going to set up surveillance video to catch Santa in the act! Then show the video Christmas morning. I think I'd even have a package wrapped just like the one Santa holds in the video. I can just picture the amazed faces!

I had so much fun playing on this site. I couldn't resist just one more picture. Kinda looks like Santa might be looking for a new place in Edmond too! Merry Christmas!

Talk to you soon!

C'MON, CLEAN THE STINKING HOUSE

2011-12-15T14:36:00.001-06:00

There are some things that are just uncomfortable to have to talk about. I was raised to be polite and to consider others before speaking. But darn it, sometimes something simply must be said. Here goes. Before you move out, CLEAN THE STINKING HOUSE!

I realize that you're excited about your new place. I'm sure it's beautiful. But come on. Remember those sweet people you met at the closing yesterday? Remember how you chatted with them about the neighborhood and told them important things like when trash pick up was? Remember how excited they were about their new home (your house) too? I think I heard you tell your REALTOR that they were so cute.

You really should see them now. The moving truck is parked on the driveway filled to the brim. Their family and friends are at the ready with pizza and beer wanting to help them unload and unpack. They can't wait to see the "dream house" they've been hearing about for the last month. Yep, they're definitely cute!

But the thing is, nothing has been unloaded. Nope. They're actually feeling a bit embarrassed to have their friends stop by. But they really need the help.

Unfortunately, when they entered their new home for the first time, they found a mess. Looks like before the fun can begin they will have to clean up after the previous resident, cough, YOU.

Like I said, you really should see them. Right now they are up to their elbows cleaning all the gunk you left in the bathroom drawers. I guess you were done with that broken eye shadow, huh? They've had to hire a truck to pick up all the trash you left piled in the garage. Good thing you mentioned garbage day. That was very helpful of you. The best is yet to come. Later today they get to go out in the backyard and scoop all the poop before their kids can play out there. How cute is that?

Folks, leave things the way you would want to find it. Before you move out, CLEAN THE STINKING HOUSE!

Talk to you soon!

Where We've Been (Where We're Goin') OKC

2011-12-09T12:08:00.001-06:00

Wow! What a great video by the Oklahoma City Chamber showcasing how OKC is growing! It reminded me of all the things I love about this town; the OKC Thunder, Chesapeake Lights, Bricktown...

This is worth a look!

If you want to learn more about some of the awesome things happening in OKC, just give me a call at the CENTURY 21 Goodyear Green office, 405-359-7400!

Talk to you soon!

Holiday Activities for the Kiddos in Edmond

2011-12-09T08:42:00.001-06:00

This time of year our to do lists runneth over! Am I right? There's the shopping, the baking and don't forget the decorating. Then somewhere in between you want to squeeze in a fun holiday activity or two with the kiddos. There are plenty of fun Downtown in December events to choose from. But honestly, driving to downtown Oklahoma City can be a bit of a hassle when you're pressed for time. Luckily there are three fun events this weekend right here in Edmond to choose from! The first two are short and sweet. Super easy to squeeze in between runs to the post office and Hob Lob!

North Pole Holiday Adventure is on Saturday, December 10 from 2-4 inside the MAC building at Mitch Park. Kiddos will get to visit Santa's sweet shop to decorate cookies and gingerbread houses. They have plenty of arts and crafts scheduled and even a snowball fight! Cost is just $5 per kiddo and the little guys that aren't walking yet are free.

Christmas in Downtown Edmond is also on Saturday, December 10 from 11-3. Kiddos will get to visit Santa and Mrs. Claus! No need to bother with the mall! Just be sure to bring your camera. Afterwards treat the gang to a hot chocolate and fancy coffee for you at Java Dave's then enjoy a free ride on the Christmas wagon.

Edmond Outdoor Ice Rink is at the Festival Market Place in Edmond. They are open daily from noon until 10. Tickets are just $8 each and additional discounts and passes are available. Perfect for the hard to please tweens in the group!

Have a fun weekend!
Talk to you soon,