Judy Reynolds, Making Dreams Happen with Real Estate in Texas

Montgomery County, Texas Growing Strong

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 19:39:00 +0000

Good news for Spring, Texas and The Woodlands area. Actually good news for all of Montgomery County as we continue to grow! See the following article:
http://impactnews.com/articles/mitchell-looks-to-develop-$35-million-performing-arts-center

10 Whys to Garden

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 14:55:00 +0000

I'm itching to get outside and start my Spring Garden! First things first though, I have started the pruning and turning the mulch that is already in my garden. Good grief the number of weeds that have emerged even among the mulch is astounding. Lots of work to the beds to prepare for my longed for flowers! I picked up the Better Homes and Gardens Gardening Made Easy that will be on display until March 13th. If you don't have one yet, I found mine at Krogers. One of the articles that catches my eye right away is 10 'Whys' to Garden As I read through this article I have so much input combining the gardening I have learned with home ownership and my Realtor training. Especially the #1! So here we go from the bottom up:

#10. Cut your bills. Refers to using herbs to add to your summer salads. My take on cutting bills comes around the air conditioner. Be sure to allow for allot of circulation, but consider the fact that our units work terrible hard during the hot summer months. I have been taught numerous times to consider plants that will provide shade over the unit without becoming intrusive. Let's extend the life of those AC units as long as possible!

#9. Nurture the earth. Well ok for the connection to nature... I'm thinking more about the wildlife. What will the birds enjoy? What will attract the hummingbirds and butterflies? Even the bees are an important part to my garden. Oh Yes let's bring in nurturing the wildlife!

#8. Escape to your own retreat. I totally agree! Nothing is as peaceful as my garden areas. I have a wall hanging that says, "No where on earth is as close to God as in my garden."  My garden is where the quiet moments happen and conversations with God spill from my heart.

#7. Give yourself the gift of blooms. Blooms are, "True spirit-lifters that can be had for free once you step into your garden." If you are lucky you can catch pictures that won't ever fade away.  Some of my friends take professional pictures and turn them into works of art! "Spirit lifters" that last a lifetime.

#6. Kick-start your calorie-burning. Very encouraging! But once I sit down and drink my tall glass of lemonade, I wonder if the hour of 250 calories that were burned matter? I guess that solution can be handled with a reduced calorie drink.

#5. Boost satisfaction. "Have a wretched day at the office?" Whether it's events with work ... whether it's business, family related, or simply reducing the craving of my sweet tooth while attempting to diet ... nothing relieves frustration more than to weed the garden! It's my therapy that I actually look forward to and then enjoy the results of my labor. Try it, You'll Like it! Getting physical is better than meds!

#4. Skip the stress. Well, yes, I leave behind the desktop computer and television. However, my clients do know that I answer my cell phone. So while I monitor the email between flower beds from my Blackberry, my cell phone will be carefully placed on a table nearby. I can always manage to sit on my handy dandy rolling garden buddy while I take a breather and answer phone calls.

#3. Sow your artistic side. My gardening style is not the "rigor of a formal garden" but instead my entire being is a bit "eclectic and whimsical." I do love reds and purples with spots of yellows. However, when something absolutely beautiful catches my eye, there is always room in my garden no matter what the color.

#2. Eat - and relish - what you grow. Hard as I might try, tomatoes turn out more expensive to grow than to pick them up at the farmer's market. So I will punt growing the fresh vegetables and do the modern thing of shopping for summertime treats.   I have been very successful with fruit trees in my garden. They are some of the first spring time fragrant blooms. There is nothing better than a Christmas time orange straight off my own tree!

#1. Boost your home's curb appeal. Bingo! If there is a For Sale sign in your front yard you must great those Buyers with curb appeal. Truly, I have been in the car with my buyer and when we pull up to the front of a home (that caught their attention with great pictures on the Internet) with no flowers and a yard that isn't maintained ... well those buyers don't even want to step out of the car. Green it up people and add color with flowers. It doesn't have to be fancy ... just well kept!

New growth is emerging on the plants here in plant zone 9. New leaf buds are forming and some of the perennials already have flowers on them. According to plantmaps.com our last frost is from March 1 - 10. I'm going to trust our cool weather blooms and go with Snapdragons, Petunias, and Alysum in my 'spirit lifting,' curb appeal garden right away.

Whether your dream is a lake home in Conroe, a home in The Woodlands, or in Spring with easy access to the city life of Houston; If you are moving to Texas and looking for a spot of soil to call Home where you can plan, plant and take pleasure from a garden that produces year round color then contact me without delay!

Judy@JudyReynolds.net

Homestead Over 65 Exemption

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 02:03:00 +0000

My friend, Lisa Shaver, at Stewart Title in Conroe posted the following on Facebook:

"Subject:Homestead tax cap for 65 & older. Disregard the e-mail that keeps circulating (see below). This problem was fixed by the State Legislature back in 2007. The frozen school taxes were unfrozen so the elderly people would benefit from the school tax rate reduction and get a tax refund then the school taxes were re-frozen.

EVERYONE MUST READ THIS.... THEN VOTE IN MAY...

Please get this... info out to all your Texas contacts. Put these dates on your calendar. It may

not effect you now, but probably will effect someone you know sooner or later.

Very important for seniors and disabled. Remember to vote AND look for this on the ballot.

You must vote in May to keep the Homestead tax cap for 65 and over, even if you are not 65 yet. If you are a Texas homeowner then this is important to you. If not, it is important to your friends who are.

If you agree, please pass along to all on your email lists.

I am sending this email to everyone on my email address list who lives in Texas. I want to be sure you are aware of a constitutional amendment that will be on the ballot at the May election. It is an amendment to correct an error made by the lawmakers when they voted for a reduction in school property taxes in 2005.

When the lawmakers voted for a one-third reduction in school property taxes beginning in 2006 and to be completed this year, they forgot about the homestead exemption for senior citizens and people with disabilities.

The state constitution caps school property taxes for homeowners 65 years and older and those who are disabled.

However, they DID NOT get the same reduction when the property tax cut for schools was voted on two years ago.

So an amendment is on the May ballot to correct this error.

The problem is that most voters who are younger than 65 or not disabled probably won't even notice the amendment or care.

PLEASE get out and vote for this amendment if not for yourself, then for your parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends. We would really appreciate your getting the word out to all your friends and families to vote for this amendment.

The fear is that with a low voter turnout, the amendment could very well not pass.

So, please, please pass the word and VOTE for the constitutional amendment. Early voting will take place April 30 - May 5 from 7 am to 7 pm; May 6 from noon to 6 pm and May 7 - May 8 from

7 am to 7 pm. Election day is May 12 from 7 am to 7 pm."

I agree, please vote! This is very important for my own parents who are already over the 65 age group and receive the tax credit. It is also important for all of us who will one day reach that 65th birthday. Help keep our taxes as low as possible. Vote!

San Jacinto River Authority Brings More Good News

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 02:12:00 +0000

According to the latest article posted on the San Jacinto River Authority website we have optimism for Lake Conroe's water level. February 13, 2012 Blake Kellum with SJRA published an article, Lake Conroe continues slow but steady rebound in water level!

"Since the beginning of the new year, the lake has regained over two feet of water level. With more rain in the forecast for the middle of the week and several more systems moving through over the next 10 days, the SJRA remains optimistic that the recovery from historic low lake levels will continue. Wet soil conditions and regular precipitation is just what is needed for water level conditions to improve."

This is enough optimism for my mind to feel encouraged. How about you? Let's go shop for that Lake Conroe Dream home today. Contact me!

Grand Parkway to break ground in county by 2013 - Your Houston News: News

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 01:36:00 +0000

Grand Parkway to break ground in county by 2013 - Your Houston News: News: The Texas Department of Transportation is accelerating its plans
to complete the next phase of the Grand Parkway in Harris and
Montgomery county.

This is great news for the Developing Economy of our County!

January in Georgia

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 05:32:00 +0000

Even on Vacation in GA, this Realtor® from TX has to find time to venture through a green community! I totally enjoyed my brief time in this 1,000 acre organic neighborhood. There is more information at www.Serenbe.com It was a thrill to walk the grounds of the 2012 HGTV Green Home. Now that I'm home I have an even greater appreciation for the green communities in my own area. Contact me today if you are looking for a Green Home in the North Harris County or Montgomery County, Texas Areas. Judy Reynolds

Judy Reynolds

How's the Real Estate Market?

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 20:49:00 +0000

I love the opening sentence in today's article on Investor's Business Daily, Real Estate A Buy or Bust This Spring Selling Season:

Predicting the housing market's fortunes in 2012 on the eve of the spring selling season is like guessing which direction an amoeba in a petri dish will move.

How often am I asked, "Judy how's the Real Estate Market?" We are trained and scripts are written to give a ready made answer. But really ... how can anyone honestly answer this question? I want to roll my eyes, shrug my shoulders and answer, how the heck am I suppose to know! Instead, let me share what I learned at the Houston Association of Realtors, Montgomery County breakfast last week.

From the Economic Development Partnership here are the statistics for South Montgomery County Population Growth: in all of Montgomery County the estimated population for 2010 was 458,171 and the projected number for the year 2015 is 552,203! Now if that isn't enough to get this Realtor® excited about the Real Estate Market in my area then I don't know what would get me excited! Could excitement come from Anadarko-plans-new-tower-to-accommodate-growth- ? Anadarko's additional tower is expected to be completed by 2014! So that gives anticipated excitement to the Real Estate Market!
There were other companies named who are in the process of relocating to our area. One of which is RPC Inc., which is bringing at least 150 jobs to our area this month. Other known company names mentioned that will bring jobs to our area are McKesson Specialty Health Care, International Commodities Export Corporation , Talisman Energy. When I mention our area, I must include the North Harris County expansion of The Exxon Construction which sits on the edge of our southern border of Montgomery County. All of these companies and the trickle effect bring many hopes and lots of encouragement to our local economy, employment factors and foremost in my own world The Real Estate Market.

South Montgomery County offers amenities of numerous housing developments. It is centrally located in the Houston Marketplace and well served by 2 large Airports. The recreation on Lake Conroe is just a stone's throw away! The impact of Exxon moving to our area means that The Grand Parkway is happening and will be a highly beneficial infrastructure to our transportation system.

So given what I learned last week, and what I am continuing to hear about the future of my home area ... I would say that, "The Real Estate Market is like an amoeba about ready to explode!" That's a heart felt answer. Nothing you are going to see written in a script. But given all the statistics that our leaders here in Montgomery County, Texas are giving us, I would say there is a very bright future for the Real Estate Market. Wouldn't you?

I am standing by to help you find your dream home. Contact me!
Judy Reynolds
936-203-7761

7 Steps - Application for Residence Homestead Exemption

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 07:02:00 +0000

To apply for your Residence Homestead Exemption use Property Tax Form 50-114. Montgomery County, Texas homeowners can find their forms at http://www.mcad-tx.org/html/forms.html.

Remember: This must be owned by you and occupied as your principal residence.
File: With the appraisal district for the county where the property is located.
When: January 1 and no later than April 30
Note: You do not need to reapply annually once granted
The Chief Appraiser may request additional information ... you have 30 days from date of request.

Appraisal District's Name: Montgomery County Central Appraisal District
Phone: 936-756-3354
Address: 109 Gladstell Conroe, Tx 77301

Now that the formalities are covered let's move on to the 7 Steps of the application:

Step 1:
State the year for which you are seeking exemption(s) ...
Most likely if you lived in your home by Jan 1st then the year will be 2012. If you neglected to fill out your application a homeowner is allowed to go back 2 years.
State the date you began occupying the property as your principal residence ...
Do you own the property ... X the box Yes or No (remember you must own the property)

Step 2:
Your Name, Mailing Address, City, State and Zip go on the next few lines. Names of all owners need to be provided (attach additional sheets if needed)
Drivers license, Personal ID Certificate or Social Security # must be provided. These will be kept confidential.
Don't forget to indicate the % ownership.

Step 3:
Now describe your Property. The legal description and the District Account # can also be found at
http://www.mcad-tx.org search using either your address or your Name. the Account# will begin with the letter R...

Step 4:
Identify as many of the exemptions that apply. For sure the box General Residence Homestead Exemption will be checked. Also notice that there are other boxes; Disabled Person Exemption, Age 65 or Older Exemption, Surviving Spouse, 100% Disabled Veteran Exemption, or Surviving Spouse of Disabled Veteran who Received the 100% Disabled Veteran's Exemption. Notice all restrictions that apply to each and the Affidavits that may be required.
If you are not sure whether to check the box seeking a school tax limitation from your last home there is information defining this term at www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/proptax

Step 5: This Part Is New, Pay Attention to Addresses Matching
Send copies of Required Documents addresses must match property address!
1) Applicants driver's license or State-Issued Persona ID certificate.
And
2) a copy of the vehicle registration receipt or
an affidavit to the effect stating applicant does not own a vehicle and a copy of a utility bill in applicants name.

Step 6:
Is this unit cooperative housing? check Yes or No

Step 7:
Read, Sign and Date! Make No False Statements!

Judy Reynolds, your Realtor® has walked you through the form and You might be done now...

Or, we might need to put sticky notes (to serve as reminders) on the form where you are waiting on documents with matching addresses. Remember you have until April 30 to send to the Central Appraisal District. I highly recommend that you utilize a Post Office Tracking Service to prove the district received your forms on time.
Almost Done ...

Do you need a Notary for any of the Affidavits on the last page? Many of the personal banks will have notaries on staff. If I have helped you through the process of buying your dream home then I personally will see to it that we set up an appointment and have the Affidavits notarized at my office!

Thank you Lynn for Notarizing the Affidavits for my Clients!

Call me!
Judy Reynolds, Realtor®, Standing by to help you through the home buying and ownership process!
936-203-7761

Lake Conroe Facts

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:45:00 +0000

Are you heading to Lake Conroe this weekend? Here are some facts that you might find interesting: Highway 105 crosses at the southern edge of the lake, FM 1375 on the northern edge, and FM1097 slices through the middle. The length of Lake Conroe is 19 miles, while the width is 5 miles. Planning for the water reservoir came about after a 7 year drought in the 1950's. Building the dam started in 1968 and the project was completed in 1973. The project was a joint venture with the City of Houston, which has rights to 2/3 of the water supply in the reservoir. This explains why, during the drought of 2011, the City of Houston was permitted to drain off water from an already low lake because they needed the water supply. November 20, 2011 the Mayor's office announced that the City of Houston would suspend the release of water. Now we watch and wait for the water to rise.

Can projections be made to adequately give us a time frame of how long it will take our parched lake to return to normal? No! January 10th, 2012 the San Jacinto River Authority posted a report titled, "Lake Conroe's Level Rebounds." Blake Kellum, the Lake Conroe Division Manager, reports that 2-4 inches of rainfall that week had risen Lake Conroe's level approximately 3/4 of a foot to an elevation of 193.79 mean sea level (normal pool is 201msl). This report can be found at www.SJRA.net under "Quick Links" select "Lake Conroe - Lake Report" The San Jacinto River Authority holds fast to any predictions of what length of time for us to see a normal lake level will be false. It all depends on how much rain, how often we have rain, and how fast the rain falls. As a matter of fact, simply while writing this blog the website has reported a rise of the lake to 194.07msl! This is good news, check the website often for up to date information and reports.

If you are planning on bringing your boat be sure to check the San Jacinto River Authority website www.SJRA.net for the list of Public Boat Ramps Open. Currently they are listing Kagle Recreation Area, Lakeview, and Stow-A-Way Marina as Open boat ramps. There is also a google map tab on the website to help you locate the open and also the closed ramps. You will find phone numbers for many of the ramp sites. I suggest calling before you arrive to confirm information.

Now that we have covered the facts of Lake Conroe let's take a moment to review some of the facts of Real Estate in the Conroe, Montgomery and Willis market areas that have communities on the lake front. After reviewing Sold statistics from the summer 0f 2006 and the last 6 months I am finding that property on the lakefront is lowered by approximately $15 - $20 per square foot. Those statistics were gathered from a prestige golf course community, with properties situated on Lake Conroe. Does this mean that Buyers can automatically think all Sellers will reduce their asking prices? No! A Buyer needs an experienced Buyer's Representative to help them compare Sold statistics in the neighborhood in order to place a reasonable offer and negotiate a purchase. Many of the Luxury home sites are reducing the selling price by thousands of dollars. While more modestly price homes, that are priced correctly on MLS are selling right on the money of the list price in MLS. Do not assume that you can automatically place a low offer and have it accepted by the seller. This is where the knowledge from your Realtor® becomes very important.

I would love to be your Realtor® for the Lake Conroe area in Conroe, Montgomery or Willis. Let's talk about whether you are looking for a second home with characteristic and extreme get away quietness from the hustle and bustle of city life ... maybe a log home community tucked away in the tall pines of the Sam Houston National Forest (Wildwood Shores), or perhaps you telecommute and would like the views of the forest while not being quite as far away (Corinthian Point). Are you looking for a maned gated community off 1097 (Point Aquarius)? Do you want golf course, social clubs and lake amenities (April Sound or Bentwater)? Perhaps some where you could live year round with reasonable commuting drives into the City of Houston (White Oak Landing or Longmire on the Lake), These are just a few of my suggestions. We need to sit down and talk about your Dream Home on Lake Conroe so that I can help you shop for that special location!

Standing by to be your Realtor® ...Call now Judy Reynolds at 936-203-7761!

Touring A Foreclosed Home

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 07:32:00 +0000

Tax Deductions and Home Ownership

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 05:18:00 +0000

January 7, 2011 .... it's time to begin those dreaded tax forms. So where do we go from here? First things first: New Turbo Tax and Quicken programs have been purchased from Staples. Did you know it is easy to claim those rebates from Staples online? That part is simple and can be finished in a matter of minutes.

Now here is another perk to owning your home versus renting your dwelling space. There are marvelous deductions when it comes to home ownership. Information will be based on http://www.irs.gov/publications/p530/ar02.html Let's take a look:

4 Primary Deductions:
1. Real Estate Taxes
2. Sales Taxes
3. Home Mortgage Interest
4. Mortgage Insurance Premiums

The above IRS link spells out exactly what can and cannot be deducted. Read through it carefully. Certainly Quicken makes filling easier, if you have questions seek advise from a professional.

To be continued...

File Your Homestead Exemption Now

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 21:36:00 +0000

The time is now to File your Homestead Exemption. You may apply for homestead exemptions on your principal residence. Homestead exemptions remove part of your home's value from taxation, so they lower your taxes. Additional information for rules governing the Homestead Exemptions can be found on the Texas Comptrollers website, http://www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/proptax/exmptns.html For those of us in Montgomery County, Texas who need the forms they can be found at http://www.mcad-tx.org/html/forms.html There are some changes this year if you are new to filing so pay special attention to the documents that must be copied and sent with the form. If you are ready to search for property in Conroe, Willis, The Woodlands, or Spring your search can begin at www.JudyReynolds.net Let's get you moving this year while interest rates are low!

Know risks when forgoing inspection contingency

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 17:57:00 +0000

Know risks when forgoing inspection contingency The article is a must read if you are even considering saving a few dollars in a Buyer's transaction. Did you know that even new homes need an inspection? It's amazing but contrators for builders actually make mistakes. Yes I am being sarcastic. However, when an inspector does find, for example, wiring issues or plumbing issues then everything is documented and photographed (hopefully your inspector is taking snapshots). If you are purchasing a home in the Conroe, Lake Conroe, The Woodlands, or Spring areas be sure to search for property on my website . I will walk you through the transaction and make sure you have a list of Inspectors in our area.

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 04:26:00 +0000

This docking station is at Cypresswood and I-45 in Spring, Texas, located in the Walgreens parking lot. It's the first one I have ever seen. So we pulled forward just to gawk and read about it. More information can be found www.evgonetwork.com I do have to add that as we sat there a pick up pulled forward to gawk just like we were doing. How long do you think it will be before this is the mode of travel? Search for homes in Spring, Texas at http://www.JudyReynolds.net If you are specifically searching Green homes try choosing Discovery Trails as the subdivision.

Twenty Twelve

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 01:28:00 +0000

As I pronounce, January 1, 2012, the words "Twenty Twelve," have a ring that is music to my ears. This year holds new promise to my career as I begin my position at Register Real Estate. Shannon Register, my Broker, has a contageous excitement for real estate. She has already provoked new ideas for me to use in marketing my Conroe/Lake Conroe areas. I will also be expanding marketing into the southern area of Montgomery County and the North Harris County area of Spring. Easy home searches can be performed by the consumer at http://JudyReynolds.net and when contacted, my quick response will remain constant. Let Twenty Twelve bring blessings to us all and the music of success ring in all of our ears!

Move to Texas

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 06:18:00 +0000

I'd love to help you find that dream home but, "Before you move to Texas there's something you should know!" Merry Christmas ya'll!

Sellers and Buyers Need to Be Realistic.

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 22:09:00 +0000

Sellers Say Their Homes Are Worth More

Daily Real Estate News | Friday, September 16, 2011

Seventy-five percent of home owners say their homes are worth more than the recommended listing price, according to real estate professionals recently surveyed by HomeGain. On the other hand, 68 percent of home buyers say homes are overpriced.

However, home owners may be getting more realistic about falling home values. Forty-five percent of home owners say they expect home values to decrease within the next six months, while 47 percent of real estate professionals say they expect values to also decrease within that time period.

HomeGain surveyed more than 500 real estate professionals and 2,200 home owners for its third quarter home values survey.

Top 5 States Where Home Prices Will Rise in the Next 6 Months

Real estate professionals surveyed were most optimistic about these housing markets to see a rise in home values in the next six months:
1. Arizona
2. Florida
3. Texas
4. California
5. Ohio

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Is This Really a Buyer's Market?

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 18:14:00 +0000

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Is This Really a Buyer's Market?

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 17:59:00 +0000

Have you ever been on the Port of Houston Boat tour? I will be doing this later in the week and will fill you in on the details! I am certainly looking forward to this excursion.
http://boattours.poha.com/boattour/default.aspx

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-3 Reasons to Sell a Home Soon

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Tue, 16 Nov 2010 03:35:00 +0000

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-3 Reasons to Sell a Home Soon

Veterans Day Tribute 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Thu, 11 Nov 2010 15:03:00 +0000

Preparing Your Home For Sale ... Keep Up the Good Work

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Fri, 05 Nov 2010 20:05:00 +0000

So far we have completed General Cleaning, made sure Lights are lighting up, Windows are shined, and Bathrooms are polished. Let's move on to the Kitchen and Utility Room today.

Kitchen Comments:
- Keep all surfaces cleared off as much as possible. The countertops should have very little on them to show that there is plenty of available workspace. Keep appliances stored when not in use.
-Go over the kitchen as if you were a health inspector. Clean the oven, range, (replace drip pans) and don't forget to clean the seal of the dishwasher.
-Remove all magnets, notes, pictures, etc. from front and sides of refrigerator.
-Stow trashcan in Pantry.

Pantry/Closet Comments:
- Thin all closets dramatically and organize remaining items neatly on shelves. Be sure to allow space between hanging items. At one very visible spot, leave space, so the rear wall of the closet/pantry will show when the door is opened. Leave a small empty space on each shelf to show potential storage space.

Utility Room Comments:
-Organize shelves and put away non-cleanser items.
-Keep area clear of clothes (folded and put away) and clear all clutter.

Well keep busy my followers next time we will tackle the Bedroom and Living Rooms.

Call me if I can help with your Real Estate Needs!
Judy, 936-203-7761
Judy@JudyReynolds.net

Getting Back to Listing Your Home

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 23:17:00 +0000

Let's get back to the busy task of preparing your home to list. Don't forget you have already completed airing out, cleaned woodwork, Cleaned A/C vents and changed the filter, and set the temp no cooler than 70 and no warmer than 75. Then you cleaned interior and exterior of the windows carefully. Be sure to see prior posts if you need those checklists.

Now let's move on to the Bathrooms:
-Clean all tubs, toilets, and sinks. Polishing with vegetable oil will make them shine!
-Stow unused shampoos, soaps, scrubbing implements, razors, etc. under the sink.
-Stow laundry hamper in closet.
-Stow wastebasket under the sink.
-Only 1 or 2 decorative items on the counter tops.
-Linen cabinets should be organized and items reduced.
-Use baskets to hold make-up and toiletries so that after use they can be stored under the counter.
-Bathtubs, showers, and sinks should be freshly caulked. The grout and tile should be clean and in good condition. There should be no leaks in the faucets or traps.

You are on your way to a successful listing presentation of your beautiful home. If I can help you further be sure to call or email!
Judy Reynolds
Judy@JudyReynolds.net
936-203-7761

Voting is a Priveledge

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 20:41:00 +0000

http://www.mctx.org/election/

I am taking a break from Real Estate Information to encourage everyone to cast your ballot. If you live in Montgomery County here in Texas and you are not certain where to vote please see the above link for specific directions.

Preparing Your Home for Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Judy Whipple Reynolds, Realtor®) — Tue, 26 Oct 2010 12:53:00 +0000

Are you preparing your home for sale? After my last post you should have aired out your home (keep it up), cleaned the carpets, oiled wood furniture, doors and cabinets, replaced your A/C filters. That was just the Gereral ongoing list.

Now let's visit about the Interior of your home. Light fixtures need to be the highest levey of watage that safety will allow. Be sure to dust and wash all fixtures and fans because everything is going to show when you add that extra light.

Other interior tasks to keep in mind: Dust blinds, windowsills, and plant ledges.
Remove any cobwebs inside and outside those windows. Remove the window screens and clean them, then clean interior and exterior of all windows and glass doors. I have a black lab and the glass doors are a constant issue of needing to be cleaned! When your home is on the market keep in mind to pull up blinds or shades and open the draperies to allow maximum light into the rooms.

Ok let's get these chores done and then I'll give you more... Be sure to call me!