McKinney (Collin County) Real Estate Blog

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday - Hot Air Balloons Over McKinney TX

Wed, 02 May 2012 07:54:44 -0700

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday

It's happening more and more frequently.

The dogs outside begin barking - almost in a panic. I look outside and don't see anything immediately, but then hear the familiar sound of the powerful torch inside giant hot air balloons sporadically going off. Looking up, I see sometimes one, but sometimes a fleet, of beautiful hot air balloons.

The picture above was from this morning - taken with my phone for lack of time to grab a better camera - just in front of my house.

It's that time of year!

Hot air balloon enthusiasts are taking advantage of Spring weather and are taking to the skies. This trend will continue throughout the summer and into the fall.

I don't know exactly what it is about McKinney, TX that draws them here...but I love living near many of the launch and landing sites. The dogs...not so much.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

If you're looking for a home in the McKinney TX or Collin County area then you're in the right place! Search for homes on my Collin County real estate website, subscribe to this blog, or follow on Facebook and Twitter.

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Texas Ranger Tuesday - No. 4 - And the Wins Just Keep on Comin'!

Tue, 01 May 2012 19:29:10 -0700

This is the 4th time I've blogged about my Texas Rangers on "Texas Rangers Tuesday"...and I keep on thinking that EVENTUALLY I'll have bad news to report. Not that I in any way, shape or form WANT to report bad news...but I want to be realistic and think that certainly there's going to be weeks with less than stellar performances.

To recap the first month of baseball - the Rangers have won every series they've played with the exception of last week's series against the Tampa Bay Rays. So that's my bad news. My ONLY bad news. I'll take it!

Here are some highlights from April:

-The Rangers have the BEST record in the Major Leagues. THE. BEST!!!

-ESPN's Power Rankings have the Rangers sitting at #1

-Our bullpen has one of the LOWEST ERA's, with our Starting Rotation #4 in the Majors and 16 quality starts.

-Josh Hamilton leads the American League in Homeruns and RBI's, with Mike Napoli 5th in Homeruns.

-The Ballpark in Arlington has had 5 sell-out games so far, and is on track to break the 3-million mark for attendance this year.

The Rangers are currently on the road, not returning to Texas until Mother's Day weekend where they'll take on the Los Angeles Angels. My family will be attending ON Mother's Day - all 23 of us! Yep, we turned it into a mini Family Reunion of sorts and I couldn't be more excited!

Here's to hoping next week brings more good news...until next time, GO RANGERS!

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Is this House Still For Sale, or Isn't It?

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 19:22:46 -0700

It happens with almost every other buyer. Buyer sees a house they LOVE online but it's not on the list of Active properties I send them. Or a buyer drives by a home they didn't see listed online. They ask me about the mystery house and when I go look it up in the NTREIS (North Texas Real Estate Information Services) MLS, it shows that the home is not available - either under Option or Pending.

I give the information to my buyers and explain what the different status' mean:

Active Option - this means that the home has just gone under contract and is currently in the buyer's "Option Period". The Option Period - per the Texas contract - is a negotiable period of time (typically anywhere from 5 to 14 days) where the buyer is allowed to have inspections performed. Buyers can back out of the contract FOR ANY REASON during this Option Period and get their Earnest Money back - only forefitting a nominal "Option Fee" (usually $50-$200). These homes are usually the ones that appear to be ACTIVE when searching online.
Contingent - the home has gone through the Option Period but still has a contingency to clear. The most common contingencies are Financing or the sale of a home by the buyer.
Pending - these homes have cleared the Option Period AND contingencies. They are uaually just waiting for closing day to arrive.

However, even after I explain what status the home is under, the next day they still question WHY there is still a For Sale sign in front of the house when they drive by. And I suppose it's a good question.

Here's a few reasons why a REALTOR might leave up the For Sale sign even though the home is no longer Available:

Marketing & Exposure - being able to put up an "Under Contract" rider on the agent's sign is GREAT exposure! Neighbors and buyers drive by and see that the listing agent was able to sell one of the homes in their neighborhood, and instantly a potential seller might think to call this agent if they were at all curious about selling THEIR home.
DEALS FALL THROUGH! All the time! If for some reason the current buyer backs out of the contract, the listing agent hasn't lost any marketing time by taking the For Sale sign out of the yard.
To pick up Buyers (aka Potential Clients) - interested buyers driving by the home can call the number on the sign for more information about the home. If the home is already under contract, the listing agent can use this as an opportunity to tell them about other homes for sale in the same neighborhood and potentially gain them as a client.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

How to Sell a Home with a POOL or Impressive Backyard

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 21:43:12 -0700

It's almost May in Texas. That means that the days of driving around with your windows down and leisurely dining on patios at lunch are almost coming to an end. And when spring begins to leave us...summer usually comes BARGING in! If you're lucky enough to own a home with a pool, then this is a good thing! You say, "Bring on the 90+ degree days!" You're ready for the pool to warm up so you can begin taking advantage of all it's relaxing features!

As a REALTOR in Texas, I LOVE showing homes with pools! I think that pools can often times help sell an otherwise average home. There's nothing like touring a home in the midst of a 100 degree day, after already viewing a few homes where you've worked up a nice litle sweat, and then you wander into the backyard to be greeted by the sound of a trickling water feature and Jimmy Buffet on the outdoor speakers. BOOM! The yard just sold the home.

What's ANNOYING though, is when you open up the back door to a GREAT outdoor paradise, but NONE of the features are being highlighted!

So, if you have a home for sale with an impressive backyard, please make SURE you absolutely do the following....otherwise you could be missing out on a potential buyer:

Water Features - TURN THEM ON! The sound of a waterfall or trickling water wall is soothing and relaxing.
Lighting - TURN THEM ON! If you've got some impressive fiber optic lights, then by all means SHOWCASE THEM!
Pool - Make sure it's SPARKLING! Green pools are worse than no pools! Clean them out - leaves, bugs, toys - they don't belong when you're selling.
Sound - Have some cool outdoor speakers? Make use of them and choose some quiet, relaxing music that is appropriate for the setting.
Outdoor Kitchens and Grills - make sure they're clean, and maybe even set out some cold water bottles or lemonade. The MORE SENSES you can touch, the BETTER!

Bottom line - if you have it, use it! Turn it on! Show it off! And then you'll GET IT SOLD!

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

McKinney, Texas' Own Hollie Cavanagh - Top 5 Finalist in American Idol - Watch Party Info!

Sat, 28 Apr 2012 20:00:13 -0700

Anyone who's a fan of the show American Idol knows that we are getting down to the wire! We are left with only 5 remaining contestants, and I'm so excited the McKinney's own Hollie Cavanagh is still hanging in there!

Fans also know that should Hollie advance to the Final Three, Fox will be doing "Hometown Visits"...where McKinney will get to come out in full force to support the singer.

Well, if you don't feel like waiting two more weeks to come out and show your support, you're in luck!

This Wednesday, at 7:00 PM at the McKinney Performing Arts Center, you can join other fans for a watch party. Food and drink will be available for purchse from Square Burger. YUMM-O!

Regardless if you attend the watch party or just watch from home...make sure you VOTE for Hollie!

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Nationwide Open House Weekend, April 28-29, 2012!

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:42:09 -0700

It's Nationwide Open House Weekend - THIS weekend in communiites all around the country!!

If you are inerested in viewing a list of available open houses in the McKinney, Allen, Plano, Frisco or Prosper areas, just send me an email at kim@RealFamilyRealEstate.com.

Viewing Open Houses is a great way to get familiar with the neighborhoods, builders and different price points in cities that you may be considering purchasing in. Being able to actually view the amenities that a community has to offer, as well as the proximity to schools, businesses and parks is something that many times can't be done as effectively online.

So get out there and have fun exploring real estate in your area! And don't forget to enlist the help of a Buyer's Agent when you're ready to get serious about buying. A Buyer's Agent typically won't cost you a dime, but can help save you THOUSANDS all while representing YOUR best interests.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday - Don't Be One of THESE Buyers!

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 19:41:34 -0700

(Almost) Wordless Wednesday:

Much like one of the opening scenes in the movie "Date Night" with Steve Carrell and Tina Fey, this comic ALWAYS makes REALTORs laugh!

Unfortunately we laugh, because it's TRUE!!

I've heard from many of my colleagues from all over the country, and the bottom line is real estate is HOT this Spring. Especially here in North Texas (the Dallas/Fort Worth area).

We work hard for our clients, and really do want the best for our buyers. So please - if your agent says you should act quickly on a property that seems priced right and is in great condition AND meets your criteria (yes, I understand this is a run-on sentence) - then PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE take their advice!

*I will now step off my soapbox*

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Texas Ranger Tuesday - 3rd Edition

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 18:55:48 -0700

The Yankees are in town! Booooooo.

The Rangers are in the middle of a tough stretch in their schedule, and you know what? They're SMOKING through it with a broom in hand! They swept the Twins. They swept the Red Sox. And they did an INCREDIBLE job of winning 3 of 4 with the #2 ranked team, the Detroit Tigers.

This girl couldn't be happier! Well, I will be if the Rangers hold on to this win (they're 2-0 as of the top of the 5th).

What I've noticed over the last few weeks is that Yu Darvish is finally settling down on the mound. Just looking at him tonight you can see what a long way he's come since his first inning where he pitched a painful 43 pitches. He's got his swagger back and I'm loving seeing the Yankees swing and miss against him.

Josh Hamilton, my 4-year old's favorite player, is spoiling him somewhat and skewing his understanding of baseball. My son now EXPECTS Josh to hit a homerun each game. And you know what? Here recently he HAS! Josh leads the American league in all five power categories - Homeruns, hits, runs, RBI's, and OBP -coming in at either #1 or #2 in each category. Not a bad start to the season - which HOPEFULLY won't be Josh's last in a Ranger uniform. I'm praying Jon Daniels, Nolan Ryan and crew lock him up during the season - otherwise I hope they're saving their pennies because Josh is gonna cost 'em something crazy if he becomes a free agent at the end of October (like how I assume our season will extend into the postseason?).

I'm enjoying writing this little weekly roundup, and am excited that so far all three "Texas Ranger Tuesday's" have brought nothing but great news for our guys! Here's to another great writeup next week after the Rangers finish up the Yankees and face the Tampa Bay Rays this weekend.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Taxes in Texas! How They Work.

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 19:41:47 -0700

Taxes.

Not the most FUN topic to discuss, but an important one nonetheless. Especially given that each state does things just a little bit differently, it's good to know how real estate taxes are handled in the area you are moving to.

Here are how things work in the Great State of Texas!

*Property owners in Texas are required to pay property taxes on real estate and income-producing personal property.

*Some taxing jurisdictions, such as the City of Dallas, also tax personal automobiles.

*Your property is taxed by a county, city and school district. The determination of property values is the responsibility of an appraisal district. Contact the appraisal district in your Texas county to find out which jurisdictions tax your property.

Collin County Appraisal District 469-742-9200, www.collincad.oorg
Dallas County Appraisal District 214-631-0910, www.dallascad.org
Denton County Appraisal District 817-566-0904, www.dentoncad.org

Tax Calendar:

January 1 - Application for tax exemptions may be submitted to the appraisal district after this date.

May 1 - Exemption applications are due.

May/June - Appraisal notices are mailed to all taxpayers whose property value has changes more than $1000. Taxpayers are given 20 days after receiving the notice to appeal to the appraisal review board.

July/August- Appraisal review board meets to hear appeals regarding property values or exemption status.

August/September - Adoption of the tax rate for the current year by each taxing jurisdiction.

September/October - Tax bills are mailed to property owners.

January 31 of the FOLLOWING YEAR - Last day to pay taxes without incurring any penalties or interest.

If you need help fighting your property values, contact a REALTOR. They can help provide you with some comparable properties that may support a lower value. I've found that the BEST time to contest high property values is the year after you purchase the property. Simply bring your closing statement showing that you paid a LOWER amount than the proposed value, and you'll have a strong piece of evidence in contesting your taxes.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

How to get HALF OFF Pizza from PAPA JOHN'S ~ Thanks to your Texas Rangers!

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 13:45:25 -0700

I'ts a lazy Sunday in the Daugherty household.

No real estate appointments, kids enjoying playing outside, and I'm personally in my happy place - in my PJ's, on the couch, Texas Rangers playing Detroit for a Noon game with PIZZA in my hands. What's NOT to love?

And here's what's even better...the Papa John's pizza I'm enjoying was HALF OFF! How'd I score such a great deal? I'd like to say it's because of my scary-good negotiation skills that I've honed over almost 10 years of practicing real estate. But, in this case I can thank my Rangers!

Here's the scoop:

Anytime our Texas Rangers score more than 7 runs in a game, you can order a pizza from Papa John's for 50% off the next day!! Just use the code: RANGERS7

Yesterday, the Rangers took Detroit in game one of a double header with a final score of 10-4. The sweet part of this game was that the Rangers had already scored EIGHT RUNS before the first inning was even over!

So, if you're new to the Dallas/Fort Worth area - enjoy this little money-saving tidbit while cheering on your new home team...

GO RANGERS!

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

How to Help Children Cope With a Move

Sat, 21 Apr 2012 14:57:06 -0700

When my family decided to move up into a larger single family home in McKinney (from a townhome), we only had one child at the time, Mason. He was barely four years old and many times he would accompany us on our house hunting trips.

After seeing several houses and hearing some of his comments, it struck me that Mason thought the home we would be purchasing would include ALL of the personal items he saw in the home. He REALLY, REALLY wanted a certain home that had a gameroom decked out in Star Wars and Legos. I had to tell him that, NO, these items would not remain in the home and that we would be bringing everything with us into our new home.

I never thought about the moving process from a child's point of view, but for many families it's the littlest members of the family that have the most fear or stress.

Here are a few tips to help children cope with a move:

Assure your kids that you won't forget their friends
Show them a picture or video of the new home before moving if you can't actually take them to it
Let each child contribute in decorating their NEW room
If you move far away, buy postcards or souvenirs when you stop so they can remember the trip to the new home
Throw a good-bye party - invite their friends and have them sign a tee shirt or other momento - and take lots of pictures
Make a scrapbook of the old home and neighborhood
Start a scrapbook of the NEW home. Include a diary of "My First..."
Let the kids help in unpacking their things. Allow them to unpack their treasures and then let them have fun with the boxes while YOU unpack!
During the first week in the new home, explore local restaurants and parks and help them choose a new family favorite. It will help them to feel in control of their new world.

What are YOUR best tips to help children make such a big transition?

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

2 McKinney Schools Named to Intel's "School of Distinction" Finalists

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 19:50:11 -0700

I'm always excited to brag on McKinney Independent School District whenever I get the chance.

As a REALTOR, I'm aware that having great schools is KEY to the success and growth of a community, so whenever I can share something cool about our schools, I DO!

Just yesterday the MISD Facebook page (become a FAN if you're not) posted a link to their website about a new award that two MISD schools can boast about. The headline read "Minshew Elementary and Dowell Middle School Named Intel Schools of Distinction Finalists".

I encourage you to read the article because it reiterates what I tell all my buyers who are considering McKinney TX as one of the locations to settle down in. It says how different, creative and unique or schools are in their approach to our kids' education - particularly in the math and science areas.

Best of luck to these two schools as they go on to possibly win MORE cash awards later this year as they hope to be named one of six "Schools of Distinction".

Congrats to our teachers at these schools for going above and beyond for our children's education.

I'm PROUD to call McKinney TX my home!

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Shop ReStore McKinney, and Benefit Habitat for Humanity

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 18:49:29 -0700

When looking for new or gently-used construction materials and furniture, paint, tools or more - then shop ReStore in McKinney!! It benefits the North Collin County Habitat for Humanity.

The best part is they'll PICK UP your donations - for FREE - AND you can get a nice little tax deduction! Win-Win!

I think it's a great option when you're finished with a re-model and you've got left over flooring, paint or after you've switched out those brass light fixtures. The Habitat for Humanity can use those products in building decent, affordable housing for eligible Collin County residents.

You can find them at 2060 Couch Drive, McKinney, TX 75069. They are open Tuesday through Saturday from 9 to 6 OR online at www.mckinneyrstore.com.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

"Write an Essay, Win a House" - What Out-of-the-Box Ways to Sell a House Have YOU Tried??

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 13:30:09 -0700

Today I came across this headline on Yahoo - "Write an Essay, Win this $100,000 house".

I stopped to watch the video that accompanied the headline, and after I was done watching the short clip, I scratched my head thinking - "this could actually work!"

The basics: An Iowa real estate agent has asked people to write an essay about how the economy has impacted them, and why they should win the home. Each entry has to pay a $100 entry fee, and unless 1,000 entries are received, the agent will NOT give away the home (a cash prize would be given away instead).

But, if you write a great essay the historical Cedar Rapids home COULD be yours! And it's not a scam!

I love that this agent has turned to a way that not only accomplished HIS goal of selling the home, but it also gives back to a family in his community that is facing tough times.

Maybe this isn't a new idea. But for me it was breathtakingly refreshing.

What about YOU? What drastically different ways of marketing a home have you heard of - in your area - that worked? I'd love to hear some new ways of going about business in our constantly changing industry.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Texas Ranger Tuesday! 2012 Second Edition

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 19:25:18 -0700

The first full week of Major League Baseball has come and gone - and I'm like a giddy school girl seeing how WELL my boys are doing! Rocking the best record in the American League, 8-2, I can't HELP but be excited about the momentum we're starting the season with.

As I type this the Rangers are playing Boston in Fenway Park - and can I just say - they RIPPED apart their starting pitcher, Lester! That was fun to watch. The Rangers offense is on fire, and you just can't touch our pitching right now. Colby Lewis currently has only ONE walk under his belt with 21 strike outs.

But, today marks the beginning of a tough road schedule - Boston then on to Detroit, back home to play New York and Tampa.

Last week I attended my first two Rangers games, and it was GREAT to be back in the sights and sounds of Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. I made sure to tour the newly designed outfield and what I really got a kick out of was seeing the stand where the "Boomstick" was sold. Yep - the Boomstick. Two feet worth of hot dog smothered in chili and cheese alongside a basket of fries...all for $26.00!!!

Don't think I'll be buying the Boomstick..(that's a crazy amount of food)but you can count on me enjoying some more home games!! Good luck this week Rangers!

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Why Should You Do a Final Walk-Thru? - Part 2 - Today's True Story as Evidence

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 18:44:43 -0700

Yesterday I wrote what I though would be an informative, but maybe boring blog post about doing final walk throughs with my buyers. Nothing controversial, nothing to read that would just knock your socks off - but concise and informative nonetheless.

To my absolute surprise and astonishment, it became a featured blog post within 10 minutes of me posting it!!

Score!

I enjoyed reading all the comments - and admit that while I do ready every single comment, I AM TERRIBLE AT RESPONDING!! Add that to something I need to work on, and THANK YOU to everyone who took the time to leave a comment!

But what struck me were some of the commenters who said they either NEVER did walk throughs, or that they just weren't common in their area. I wasn't about to bash them - since I know every real estate community has different customs and ways of doing business, but I was still shocked.

Tonight I just so happened to be going on a final walk through for a closing I'll have on Wednesday. We recieved receipts showing all repairs had been done, and got the approval to go show.

I show up at the home with the buyers, walk in, and the first room my buyer walked into was a half bathroom. In that bathroom, where just a few weeks ago there had been an oval mirror mounted to the wall, there was now a bare wall with no mirror in sight. And with some of the drywall missing.

Recalling the rules about :what stays and what goes with the property", I KNEW this mirror should have REMAINED with the property as it was permanently affixed to the wall - not just casually hung.

So, I took out my phone and snapped a picture so that I could send it to the listing agent. Thankfully we have time before closing to come up with a solution, but had we NOT done the walk-thru we may not have known about the missing mirror. Now, until I know more about the situation I have to assume that there could very well be a reason why it was taken down and maybe it would actually have been re-installed prior to closing - but my hunch says probably not.

I turned to my buyers and said - "OK -- no problem - this is exactly why we do final walk-throughs!"

I just hope that this blog post makes agents out there reconsider the importance of double-checking the condition of the home their clients are purchasing. It's one last little EASY item you should complete as part of your "due diligence" to your client.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Why Should You Do a Final Walk-Thru?

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 15:05:57 -0700

In the days leading up to the closing of your new home, there's a few items you shouldn't forget to check off your to-do list. One of them being "Do a Final Walk Thru".

A final walk-thru is NOT:

a chance to go back and ask for more repairs to be made (assuming no further damage has been done since the inspection)
an opportunity to negotiate on any previously negotiated item (price, closing date, etc)
a time to decide you really don't like the _________ (paint colors, floor plan, wallpaper, etc) and back out.

So, what IS a final walk-thru for?

to verify that all agreed upon repairs have been completed
to make sure that the condiiton of the home has not changed since contract signing - for example: the roof hasn't blown off in a storm, a hole hasn't been punched through a wall, paint hasn't been spilled on the carpeting, etc.
to allow the buyers a chance to measure for new furniture - like refrigerator spaces in the kitchen, or the length of a wall for a new couch
to mentally note where cable/internet outlets are so that they can inform their new service providers of any new outlets they'd like installed.

The best time to do a final walk-thru is as close to closing as possible - but not TOO close. I like to ask the listing agent to have all final repairs completed (with receipts sent to me) at least two days prior to our agreed upon closing date.

If you wait too close to closing - like the morning OF closing - then there may not be enough time to address repairs that were not done correctly. This could lead to a delay in closing and unhappy clients. NOT the way you want to end an otherwise smooth transaction!

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

City of McKinney - Community "Shred Day"!

Sat, 14 Apr 2012 20:18:56 -0700

CONFIDENTIAL DOCUMENT SHRED DAY

Everyone has those personal and confidential documents that need special attention when it comes time to get rid of them. If you find yourself one of these people, you'll want to take advantage of a free community event brought to you by the City of McKinney and Balcones Shred.

Protect yourself from identify theft and fraud by securely shredding personal documents you no longer need. You will also be doing your part to help the environment! All paper collected will be recycled. Win-win!

Here's some important things to know about the event:

• Four-box limit per vehicle
• Acceptable: Spiral notebooks, hanging folders, staples, paper clips
• Unacceptable: Three-rings binders, office bull clips, any metal, plastics
• The event will take items until 12:30 p.m. or until the truck fills up.

So come on out on Friday, April 27 at 210 S. McDonald Street in McKinney. The shredding begins at 8:30!

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Buyer's Checklist for Moving Day - A Successful Move to your McKinney TX Home

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 19:31:06 -0700

Ahhh, moving day!

You've done your best to sell your friends on how FUN moving day will be - with THEIR help! Maybe you've promised the standard "beer and pizza", or "I'll help YOU move if you help ME move". You've probably also recruited those friends with the biggest and baddest trucks. You do what you have to do to make moving day happen!

With these important pieces of the puzzle in place, don't forget about the rest of your moving day checklist!

Change Your Address! Do it online, at the post office and with all of your major charge accounts.
Insurance - Notify your company of the new location for coverages in your Life, Health, Fire or Auto insurances.
Utility Companies - Gas, Electric, Water, Phone, Garbage, Cable, Internet. HINT: If you plan on working from home, MAKE SURE your internet is one of the first utility services scheduled!! You don't want to be ready for work on the first day in your new hometown only to realize you forgot to set up your internet servcie!

Children - Don't forget about signing up the kiddos in their new schools or daycares.

Pets -If moving long distances, you may opt to consult a vet about moving your pet. Don't forget to obtain their records before leaving, too!

Medical, Dental, Prescription Histories - it's always a good idea to ask your doctor for a referral in your new city. Get all of your records for your whole family.

Put together a first-days emergency kit - I'm talking toilet paper, soap, pens/paper, toiletries, towels, scissors, trash bags...all those things you'll need just as you're getting settled in.
Pack those "important papers" or items and keep them with you - like jewelry, fragile china or things that if they got broken or lost in transit you'd be upset about.

And of course, don't forget to ask your REALTOR for help getting connected in your new community. They'll have extensive lists of contacts for everything from a recommendation to the best pizza place in town, where to get a good haircut and great vendors to help turn your new house into HOME!

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Business Spotlight On: Frisco & Plano OB/GYN - Dr. David Fong

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 19:12:44 -0700

One of the cool things about having a real estate blog is that I get to help out people who are new to our community. I especially love to help out fellow MOMS (and dads, too)!

As Moms we rely on our girlfriends for just about everything - way more than our husbands or spouses realize. So when you pick up and move to another part of the country, many times that means leaving behind a valuable life line. Sure you can still pick up the phone, drop an email, text, whatever to ask for general parenting advice or for girl talk - but what about when it comes to things only LOCAL moms can give you the scoop on?

For instance:

-Who is the best PEDIATRICIAN in McKinney TX?

-I need a recommendation for a hairstylist!

-Do you know of a great babysitter?

-What do you think about the teachers at XXXXXX school?

Well, guess what! I can help! I'M LOCAL! I'M A MOM! MANY OF MY CLIENTS AND FRIENDS ARE MOMS! I can give you the 411 when needed...

Today I'd like to give a recommendation for.... AN OB/GYN!

How's THAT for personal??

Dr. David Fong is an OB/GYN in Frisco and Plano TX. He came HIGHLY recommended to me for my latest pregnancy, which was a little high risk. Both my sister-in-law and one of my best friends (who happens to be a NICU nurse at a hospital that Dr. Fong delivers at) said that Dr. Fong was the man to go to! Known for his great bed-side manner, I decided to go check him out.

I found that his staff was friendly and able to accomodate an appointment for me without a long wait. I liked that Dr. Fong did not have a huge multi-doctor practice which can often times leave you feeling more like a number, rather than a person.

The thing I loved about Dr. Fong after only meeting him one time, was that he took his time to listen to me, ask questions and really understand what my expectations were and to help me feel comfortable. My first appointment took about an hour, and most of that was with Dr. Fong in his office having a great conversation. I knew that Dr. Fong was the perfect doctor for me!

Better yet, he is conveniently located near Baylor Hospital in Frisco - just off Legacy and Warren AND in Plano near the Medical Center of Plano. So anyone in Collin County is conveniently located near one of his two offices!

So if you're scratching your head, looking for a new OB/GYN you should schedule a visit with Dr. David Fong!

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Will a House Hunting "Retainer Fee" Catch On?

Wed, 11 Apr 2012 13:13:49 -0700

Today I was browsing real estate articles on the Texas Association of Realtors website. One caught my eye in particular...

"House Hunting Fee to Debut"

In a nutshell, it was about a Chicago brokerage who is now starting to charge home buyers a retainer fee. Much like an attorney, the agents will charge an up front fee ($250) to begin working for their clients (buyers). If the agent helps the buyer find a home and close on it, then they would get another 2.5% of the purchase price (paid for by the selling agent in a co-op situation). So if their client wins, they get paid. If the buyer does NOT find a home or uses another agent, their retainer fee is forfeited.

It got me thinking...would this EVER work in the Dallas/Fort Worth real estate market?

I don't think so.

There are entirely too many Realtors out there who would work up front for "free" and get paid at closing - it's the way it is NOW for most DFW brokerages, and primarily how it's always been.

But it piqued my curiosity...

The article brings up a few good points:

-Many didn't think that airlines charging baggage fees would catch on. And with the exception of Southwest Airlines, all the major airlines decided to charge for it too.

-Bank ATM fees. They're everywhere - and something you just expect when using an ATM. But when they first came out many thought they were crazy.

So will Buyer Retainer Fees catch on?

On the one hand I love the concept - in theory. There are those times we work for clients, spend countless working for their benefit only to have a closing fall apart and be left with nothing. No paycheck. No consolation prize.

But I honestly don't see it working...

What say you, my real estate friends? What does your crystal ball show? Will retainers be a normal way of doing business five years from now?

Buyers - what about you? Would you pay up front to have an agent begin working for you on your behalf?

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

It's the First Installment of "Texas Ranger Tuesday"!!

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 17:30:42 -0700

Welcome to the first installment of Texas Ranger Tuesday!!

I figure it's only natural to begin this weekly segment, given the fact I'll more than likely try to squeeze Texas Rangers baseball into my real estate blogs anyway. So, this way my baseball-loving readers can count on something good each and every Tuesday!

Today I'm pumped about the contract extension of Ian Kinsler.

Ian is one of our core guys on the team...and locking him up before he goes out on the free agent market was a smart move for Jon Daniels and the team. And ladies...he's not too terrible to look at either. Just sayin'.

His new contract is a 5-year $75 million dollar contract...and boy is he showing he's earning every penny of it right now.

We're only 5 games into the season, but Ian's already showing what a hot bat he's swinging.

So, Ian - I'm glad you'll be a neighbor for the next 5 years! With that new pay raise you ought to give me a call and see about looking at upgrading your current home! The invitation is always open...

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Thanks, Big Crappy Institutional Lenders of the Last 2 Years...

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 16:00:49 -0700

I'd like to say a big THANK YOU to the crappy lending institutions out there (my good lender friends, this is NOT aimed at you), who for the last couple have years have disappointed me, my clients and our industry.

I'd like to THANK YOU for setting my expectations SO LOW that I've come to accept that seeing a final HUD on the same day as closing is a normal thing. Heck, even seeing it 4-8 hours prior to my closing time was doing "pretty good".

Why am I thankful?

Because it has taught me to be a better advocate for my client. While my clients may see me as a "Debbie Downer" sometimes, I like to think that playing Devil's Advocate and coaching them to have multiple "back up plans" in case we don't hit our targeted closing date is a good thing.

I'm tired of hoping that large faceless institutions will see there are human beings involved whose stress level sky-rockets while waiting for those wonderful five words "we have clear to close" or for me, those 2 words "we're funded". I was tired of the "it's not my job" or "it's out of my control" attitude that so many have taken.

So for the lenders out there that actually return calls and emails promptly, who set REALISTIC expectations for my buyers, and for those that care about these buyers as people, not just a file number, I'd like to say THANK YOU. You've made me more appreciative for the little things.

The inspiration for this post...

Today I had a very pleasant experience with USAA. Now, I've had buyers use USAA in the past and they weren't the most seamless of transactions. And no, this is not a "bashing USAA post". I'm personally a USAA customer, and love what services and products they give to our veterans.

So, I prepped the buyer with the normal speech I give when they're using a lender that I did not recommend: get the lender what they need as fast as you can, have a couple of back up plans in case our closing is delayed, get the contact name/number of the exact person we can get directly in contact with for your file etc.

Well, not only did my clients do exactly what they needed to do, USAA came back and did what THEY needed to do! Not only that, but we are able to close our deal about TWO WEEKS EARLIER than planned. I was floored.

So thank you USAA...for helping me believe that having an "early closing" is no longer a thing of the past, and that customer service is still alive and well - even at the big institution level.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

Happy Easter - Hope Yours was as EXPLOSIVE as Ours Was!

Sun, 08 Apr 2012 11:46:48 -0700

Ohhh....Pinterest. How I love you and hate you.

Love you because you give the BEST ideas out there. Really, you do. Kudos.

However, when someone like ME decides to try and bust out of their creative shell - all in the name of explaining Easter and the Resurrection - and attempts to TRY one of these fabulously crafty ideas, it ends in me feeling like a failure.

Let me clue you in on the events that went down this morning...

Kids wake up.

YEAH! Easter bunny came and left treats.

Kids beg me to wake up, because I've promised we'd make a "special Easter breakfast treat".

I drag my happy self out of bed and grab the few ingredients required for our "Resurrection Rolls".

Explain to the four year old (10 year old has seen this before - he's not impressed at much) how the marshmallow represents Jesus when he was buried in the tomb (the biscuit) after dying on the cross. (When the biscuits are done, the marshmallow will have melted and disappeared. Hence, the Easter story). So we wrap each jumbo easter marshmallow in a biscuit, sprinkle in some sugar and cinnamon and pop 'em in the oven.

I feel accomplished.

I feel like I can compete on ANY level with those Pinterest moms!

Take out biscuits 15 mintues later only to see this...

Yep. The pastel colored easter marshmallows have not quietly "disappeared" as Jesus did in the tomb that day.

According to MY interpretation above - he EXPLODED! He burst out of the tomb!

I admit, I laughed quite hard at myself.

That's what I get for trying to keep up with Pinterest.

All in all the boys enjoyed their treat - no matter how it looked. We went on to Easter church service at Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church and I could help but giggle whenever the empty tomb was mentioned.

Have a Happy Easter everyone! He is Risen!

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...

When Making a "Blind" Move to Dallas - an Experienced REALTOR Can Make ALL the Difference!

Sat, 07 Apr 2012 19:18:13 -0700

Yesterday I got to do one of my favorite things in this business: help a friend move BACK to the DFW area - or in this case, to move to the DFW area for the FIRST TIME! Who DOESN'T get excited that an old friend will soon be a neighbor?? I was giddy excited, and really wanted to do a great job to help them find their new home as fast as possible.

As I mentioned, neither the Mr or the Mrs has EVER lived in DFW. When making a "blind move", your home buying strategy is somewhat different than if you are moving to an area where you have some kind of a background or knowledge base.

How is it different?

The biggest difference - and the largest challenge - is knowing WHICH CITY to focus on! You essentially must shop the cities BEFORE you can shop for a house.

As their agent, I asked lots and lots of questions to see what areas would make the most sense, like:

Where will you be working?
How far of a commute are you comfortable with?
Will you want to take advantage of the DART Rail system, or will you be driving in to work?
Are finding good public schools a concern, or will you be finding a private school?
What is your price range?
Are you OK with older homes, or do you prefer the newer?
HOA or NO HOA's?
What kind of recreational activiities does your family enjoy? Boating? Golf? Art?
What size LOT do you want your home to be on? Need acreage? Townhomes or Condos OK?

All of these answers help guide me - do they stay in Dallas, or head to a suburb? If a suburb, which one? If I don't ask all the right questions, then I'm going at this just as blind as they are! It's my goal to help get them on the right course from the beginning.

If YOU are making a "blind move" it's ESSENTIAL to have a REALTOR working with you who really understands the market. Especially in a large market like Dallas. They'll be able to ask the right questions to help steer you in the right direction from the beginning...thus saving you lots of time - both in the car looking at homes, and online searching through thousands!

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with me online at:

Like what you read? Consider subscribing to my blog!

And don't forget...