Working for YOU!

Burn Ban in effect for Calcasieu Parish

2011-06-17T13:10:00.000-07:00

A burn ban is now in effect for Calcasieu Parish. This covers the following cities: Carlyss, DeQuincy, Iowa, Lake Charles (Parish Seat), Moss Bluff, Prien, Sulphur, Vinton, Westlake. Please stay safe this summer and no bon fires for the next 30 days!

The following is a news release from the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury:

The Calcasieu Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness and Homeland Security has issued an outdoor burn ban. Restrictions have been placed on any outdoor burning activities for a period not to exceed 30 days.

Current drought conditions potentially threaten the health and safety of Calcasieu Parish citizens. Officials experienced in these matters along with predictions from the National Weather Service have determined there is not sufficient precipitation to minimize the effects and problems created by these dangerous drought conditions.

Parish Fire Departments are empowered to extinguish all fires in direct violation of this notice. Police Jury President, Guy Brame, ordered the outdoor burn ban in accordance with the Louisiana Emergency Assistance and Disaster Act and the Code of Ordinances of Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana.

For more information contact the Office of Emergency Preparedness and Homeland Security at 721-3800.

Hero's for Holden

2011-05-28T11:56:00.000-07:00

There will be a benefit held at the Burton Coliseum Sunday May 5th from 11am to 10pm. Entertainers will include Tracy Byrd, Wayne Toups, Jerry Jeff Walker, Zona Jones, Foret Tradition, Damon Troy, Jivin’ Gene, Skeeter Jones and The Beer Can Band. A non-profit organization is attempting to raise $500,000.

For a little bit of background, Holden’s mother cut off his genitals. He has had major surgeries and will need many more through the course of his life. He looks like such a happy child. If you can make it please come by, if not, the family is accepting donations. No child should ever have to endure what this sweet little boy has.

Hero’s for Holden Website

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Buyers Better Hurry: Rates Reach New Lows

2011-05-27T11:40:00.000-07:00

REALTOR® Magazine-Daily News-Buyers Better Hurry: Rates Reach New Lows

Boudin - A Cajun Delight!

2011-05-26T10:25:00.000-07:00

Each area has something they are famous for. Down here in Cajun Country there are several; one of which being Boudin.

Pronounced boodan, it is a staple for most Cajun families. Simply put, boudin is a type of sausage. One of the earliest recipies for boudin can be traced back to a French Fur Trapper by the name of Toussaint Charbonneau. He was contracted by Lewis and Clark and although he provided very little information to them, he did make sure their bellies were full!

There are MANY different types of boudin. Boudin Blanc, Crawfish boudin, Shrimp boudin, Alligator boudin, Hot boudin, Mild boudin, Smoked boudin just to name a few. We even have the Southwest Louisiana Boudin Trail. It gives you 29 different stops in Southwest Louisiana that provide boudin along with plenty of attractions along the way.

Two other great links are the Southern Boudin Trail and The Boudin Link. You might be able to get boudin outside of Louisiana, but it ain’t Cajun!

What's Going on in Lake Charles - June 2011

2011-05-19T14:36:00.000-07:00

Martini's and Music
June 1-August 17
Repeats every Wednesday
Times: 8:00pm - 11:00pm
Location: Cigar Club
Address: 1700 East PRIEN LAKE ROAD STE 5 Lake Charles, LA 70601

Downtown at Sundown Concert Series

5/13/2011 thru 6/3/2011
Recurring weekly on Friday
Times: 6-9 p.m.
Location: Downtown Lake Charles
Address: Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact: Denise Fasske
Phone: 337-491-9159
Email: dfasske@cityoflc.us
Admission: Free

Party by the Pool's Liquid Society: Sick Puppies
6/2/2011
Times: 7 p.m. (Series of Concerts runs Thursdays May 5 - August 11)
Location: L'Auberge du Lac - by the Pool!
Address: 777 Avenue L'Auberge, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Phone: 337-395-7569
Admission: $10

Downtown at Sundown Concert Series: City Heat
6/3/2011
Times: 6-9 p.m.
Location: Corner of Broad & Ryan Streets
Address: Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact: Denise Fasske
Phone: 337-491-9159
Email: dfasske@cityoflc.us
Admission: Free

Catch - A - Concert
6/6/2011 thru 7/4/2011
Recurring weekly on Monday
Times: 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays
Location: Lake Charles Civic Center- Arcade Pavillion
Address: 900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact: Denise Fasske
Phone: 337-474-7968
Email: dfasske@cityoflc.us
Admission: Free

Party by the Pool's Liquid Society: Marc Broussard
6/9/2011
Times: 7 p.m. (Series of Concerts runs Thursdays May 5 - August 11)
Location: L'Auberge du Lac - by the Pool!
Address: 777 Avenue L'Auberge, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Phone: 337-395-7569
Admission: $10

Louisiana Swashbucklers vs. Houston
6/11/2011
Times: 7 p.m.
Location: Lake Charles Civic Center
Address: 900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact: Thom Hagar
Phone: 337-310-PASS (7277)
Email: thager@labucs.com
Admission: $12-$70

Maci's Make a Wish and Make a Difference Fundraiser
6/11/2011
Times: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Location: Lake Charles Civic Center, Coliseum
Address: 900 Lakeshore Drive, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact: Nikki Fontenot
Phone: 337-802-7932
Email: nikkifontenot@yahoo.com
Admission: $10

Party by the Pool's Liquid Society: O.A.R.
6/16/2011
Times: 7 p.m. (Series of Concerts runs Thursdays May 5 - August 11)
Location: L'Auberge du Lac - by the Pool!
Address: 777 Avenue L'Auberge, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Phone: 337-395-7569
Admission: $25

Party by the Pool's Liquid Society: Molly Ringwalds
6/23/2011
Times: 7 p.m. (Series of Concerts runs Thursdays May 5 - August 11)
Location: L'Auberge du Lac - by the Pool!
Address: 777 Avenue L'Auberge, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Phone: 337-395-7569
Admission: $10

Vince Gill in Concert
6/24/2011
Times: 8:30 p.m.
Location: L'Auberge du Lac Event Center
Address: 777 Avenue L'Auberge, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Admission: $85 floor; $70 stadium

Party by the Pool's Liquid Society: Puddle of Mudd
6/30/2011
Times: 7 p.m. (Series of Concerts runs Thursdays May 5 - August 11)
Location: L'Auberge du Lac - by the Pool!
Address: 777 Avenue L'Auberge, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Phone: 337-395-7569
Admission: $10

Art By Anita LeJeune
5/19/2011 thru 6/23/2011
Times: Mon - Fri. 10 a.m. - noon, 1 - 5 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Location: Henning Cultural Center
Address: 923 Ruth Street, Sulphur, LA 70663
Contact: Thom Trahan
Phone: 337-527-0357
Email: trahan@brimstonemuseum.org
Admission: Free

Kiss Me Kate- ACTS Theatre
5/28/2011 thru 6/12/2011
Times: Vary
Location: ACTS Theatre
Address: 1 Reid St, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact: Marc Pettaway
Phone: 337-433-ACTS
Email: information@actstheatre.com
Admission: $30 for regular admission, $20 for students under 25

Moon For The Misbegotten
6/4/2011 thru 6/19/2011
Times: Performances are 7:30 p.m. (2 p.m. on Sundays)
Location: Lake Charles Little Theatre
Address: 813 Enterprise Blvd, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Phone: 337-433-7988
Email: info@thelclt.com

Randy Travis in Concert
6/4/2011
Times: 7:00pm
Location: Isle of Capri Casino Hotel
Address: 100 Westlake Avenue, Westlake, LA 70669
Phone: 1-800-THE-ISLE
Admission: $25

All Star Benefit Concert
6/5/2011
Times: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Location: Burton Coliseum
Address: 7001 Gulf Highway, Lake Charles, LA 70609
Contact: KIT WYATT
Phone: 337-477-3349
Email: cajunkit75@yahoo.com
Admission: $25.00

Tidbits of History: Plantation Homes
6/7/2011
Times: 10 - 11 a.m.
Location: Carnegie Memorial Building Meeting Room
Address: 411 Pujo Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact: Linda Gill
Phone: 337-721-7110
Email: sburwell@calcasieu.lib.la.us
Admission: Free

Children's Museum Popsicle Day
6/8/2011
Location: Children's Museum, Lake Charles
Address: 327 Broad Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact: Allyson B. Montgomery
Phone: 337-433-9420
Email: allyson@child-museum.org
Admission: $7.25 for adults & kids over 23 mths; $6.50 military; $5.50 for seniors

Beginning Genealogy Workshop: Getting Started
6/16/2011
Times: 10 a.m. - noon
Location: Carnegie Memorial Building Meeting Room (411 Pujo Street)
Address: 411 Pujo Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact: Linda Gill
Phone: 337-721-7110
Email: sburwell@calcasieu.lib.la.us
Admission: Free

Jazz Brunch
6/25/2011
Times: Noon
Location: Treasures of Marilyn's
Address: 3510 5th Ave, Lake Charles, LA 70607
Contact: Trish Trejo
Phone: 337-439-7436
Email: trish.trejo@lcdiocese.org
Admission: $100 per ticket

Peter Shire: Chairs Exhibition
4/8/2011 thru 6/18/2011
Times: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: 1911 Historic City Hall
Address: 1001 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact: Denise Fasske
Phone: 337-491-9159
Email: dfasske@cityoflc.us
Admission: Free

Ali Exhibition
6/10/2011 thru 7/30/2011
Times: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: 1911 Historic City Hall
Address: 1001 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact: Denise Fasske
Phone: 337-491-9159
Email: dfasske@cityoflc.us
Admission: Free

Delta Blues Pilgrimage
6/10/2011 thru 8/20/2011
Recurring daily
Times: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Location: 1911 Historic City Hall
Address: 1001 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact: Denise Fasske
Phone: 337-491-9159
Email: dfasske@cityoflc.us
Admission: Free

Robert Earl Keen in Concert
6/10/2011
Times: 8:00 p.m.
Location: Longhorn Entertainment Complex
Address: 2374 Hwy. 109 S., Vinton, LA 70668
Phone: 337-589-5647

The Worst Advice - MSN Article Review

2011-05-18T11:26:00.000-07:00

MSN has an article up today in their real estate section titled "House Hunting? Time for Homebuying Negotiation Bootcamp." All I can say is Wow! Don't hire a buyers agent and if you do don't tell them your max? Really? I did not get into real estate to screw over my clients! I have plenty of clients tell me, "Hey I qualified for $180,000 but I really don't want to spend more than $130,000." It is my job as their agent to provide them with excellent service and heed their wishes. I'm also not a pushy agent. There is a certain sparkle in someones eyes when they have found the right home. An agent just knows when it's the right one. Even then I don't push my clients into the home just to make the sale.

So lets pick this apart!!

1) I agree & disagree - gather as much information as you can. But then again that is what I do. Any good agent is going to do this. I do NOT agree with this statement, "One of homebuyers' biggest mistakes is that "(t)hey went to talk with their friendly real-estate agent much too early - and much too openly for their own good." There is nothing at all wrong with being open with your designated agent! The more information you give your agent the quicker they will find you a home and the more likely you will get exactly what you are looking for!

2) This entire paragraph is garbage. If you cannot be honest with the agent you have then it is time to get a new agent! Your agent has a responsibility to you. And it is NOT to increase their commission. If you feel your agent is only out for money, then fire them.

3) If you have an agent there will NEVER be a need to deal with the sellers agent unless you decide to use the seller's agent as your agent. Even then the agent has a responsibility to you as well as the seller. It's called Dual Agency. In Dual Agency the agent has promised a duty of confidentiality, loyalty and full disclosure to both parties simultaneously.

4) "One of the advantages of dealing with a seller's agent is that a seller's agent often discloses more" I disagree. There are so many repercussions for the agent if this happens. The agent has a duty confidentiality to their client. Informing someone that their client is going through a divorce is a breach unless the client gave the agent the permission to disclose this fact.

5) You run the risk of losing the home. If you are ok with this then this approach can be used. I don't "urge" any of my clients into making an offer. I suggest to them if they want the house they would want to make an offer. The last thing you want is to get into a bidding war.

6) This one can be dangerous. If you offer too low, the seller coud be insulted reject every offer sent them after that.

7) "For all you know, I might have deliberately hiked up my asking price to well in excess of what my home is worth"Well...if that's the case then it will come out when an appraisal is done. If you are using an agent then the agent should already know about what the home is worth before an offer is EVER put in.

I'm skipping the last one because this has been long enough!

What it boils down to is, get a good agent. If you are not comfortable enough to tell your agent any of the above then it is time for a new one.

Home Warranty - Why do I need it?

2011-05-17T06:50:00.000-07:00

You see it in the comments all of the time. “HOME WARRANTY INCLUDED!” Or “SELLER WILLING TO PURCHASE A HOME WARRANTY!” But what is it?

A Home Warranty is protection. It is a contract that protects a resale home buyer or current homeowner against the cost of unexpected repairs or replacement of major systems and appliances that break down due to normal usage. Let’s say you live here in Southern Louisiana. In the middle of July, your Air conditioning fan goes out. What should have cost you a ton in labor and parts is a set standard fee. It depends on the type of Home Warranty plan you or the seller purchased as to how much. The average Home Warranty Plan costs about $450 and the average fee you would pay to have someone come out to fix that AC Fan would be about $75.

Home Warranty’s also save you the trouble of having to find a reputable repair person. If you are a seller, a home warranty can be used to entice a buyer to purchase your home. For a buyer, it’s a must!

If you would like more information on Home Warranty’s or if you are interested in buying or selling your home, feel free to contact me or visit my website at http://www.rebeccaworking4yousite.com/!

St. Jude - In Honor of Wanda D. Kendall

2011-05-16T11:22:00.000-07:00

Wanda D. Kendall - Tribute Page

I recently created a tribute fund through St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Please help us make a difference by contributing in honor of our loved one.

St. Jude Hospital has become a world renowned research facility in the area of pediatric cancers such as leukemia. Children from all across the U.S. as well as 60 foreign countries have been admitted to St. Jude without regard for the family's ability to pay.

St. Jude relies on the generosity of people like you to continue vital research and patient care programs, which are saving many young lives. Because of this support, St. Jude has seen the survival rate for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), the most common form of leukemia, increase from 4% in 1962 to 94% today.

Join me in becoming a St. Jude Champion. Together we can become a Champion to thousands of children at St. Jude and make a difference in their lives. To learn more about St. Jude Tributes, please visit http://www.stjudetribute.org/.

Sincerely,

RebeccaMelancon

To make a donation online, visit our fund center. You can also send a check to St. Jude at:

St. Jude Children's Research Center, Tributes Group, P O Box 1000, Dept 142, Memphis, TN 38148-0142

Short Sales - What are they?

2011-05-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Having trouble paying your mortgage can be frustrating. There are options though.

Short Sales:

The term Short Sale has been a hot topic for the media over the past two years. But what exactly is a short sale? A short sale is a sale of real estate in which the sale proceeds fall short of the balance owed on the property's loan.

If you are trying to avoid a foreclosure this could be an option to pursue. However, if you sell your home for less than what is owed, the agreement will not release you from the deficiency. A deficiency is the remaining balance of the borrowed amount. For example, if you owe $100,000 on your home and you sell it for $90,000 you will owe the remainder.
If you decide that you are having trouble, the first step you should take would be to contact a HUD Counselor at the HUD Website. Their Foreclosure prevention counseling services are provided free of charge.

What's Going on in Lake Charles - May 2011

2011-05-10T12:36:00.000-07:00

There is always something going on in our city!

Take a look at a few things going on for the month of May.

May 11, 2011 –

• Cigar Club
   Martinis and Music Wednesday 8:00pm to 11:00 pm.

May 12, 2011 –

• AP Works
   May 12, 2011 at 8:00 AM through May 21, 2011 until end (9 days +)
   1911 Historic City Hall Arts and Cultural Center
• L’Auberge Du Lac Casino Resort
   Party by the Pool – Liquid Society
• L’Auberge Du Lac Casino Resort Event Center
   Gin Blossoms

May 13, 2011

• Downtown at Sundown Concert
   Chubby Carrier
   Corner of Broad & Ryan Streets 6:00pm – 9:00pm
• Westlake Family Fun and Food Festivle
   St. John Bosco Church – 5:00pm – 9:00pm

May 14, 2011 –

• James E. Sudduth Coliseum
   WWE Smackdown World Tour
   7:30pm until
• Westlake Family Fun and Food Festivle
   St. John Bosco Church – 10:00 am– 10:00pm

May 15, 2011

• Westlake Family Fun and Food Festivle
   St. John Bosco Church – 9:00am – 5:30pm

May 19, 2011 –

• L’Auberge Du Lac Casino Resort Event Center
   Fuel
• The Porch Coffee House
   Daniel Whittington

May 20,2011

• L’Auberge Du Lac
   Chris LeBlanc Band

May 21, 2011

• Coushatta Casino Resort
   Whitesnake
• L’Auberge Du Lac Casino Resort Event Center
   Bellator Fighting Championships

May 26, 2011

• L’Auberge Du Lac Casino Resort Event Center
Collective Soul

May 27, 2011

• Delta Downs Racetrack and Casino
Gloriana

May 28, 2011

• Rosa Hart Theatre – Lake Charles Civic Center
Louisiana Swashbucklers vs. Corpus Christi Hammerheads

May 29, 2011

• Delta Downs Racetrack and Casino
Jimmie Vaughan

2838 Wilson Road

2011-03-28T17:23:00.000-07:00

Custom built one of a kind! 3 bedroom, 2 ½ bath home features a large lot, in-ground pool, fenced backyard, wood burning stone fireplace, dry bar, cathedral ceilings and much more! Call Ellie at 794-9259 or Rebecca at 842-9250 to schedule your private showing.

Facebook Link for more Photos

3509 Taylor

2011-03-12T11:13:00.000-08:00

4 bedrooms
2 baths
Ceramic Tile
Remote Control Ceiling Fans
Fenced yard
Storage shed
Appliances to remain
Move in Condition!!! Must See!

Open House!

2011-03-12T10:50:00.000-08:00

1316 Kim Street, Sulphur, La

Sunday March 13,2011

1pm to 3pm

3609 Louisiana Ave

2011-02-06T08:15:00.000-08:00

Great commercial opportunity! Office, Warehouse Storage & fenced in back lot! Ample parking! Great location with plenty of traffic. Currently zoned residential. The buyer will only need to file an exception with the zoning office. Very simple process!

Call 337-842-9250 today for your private showing!

1316 Kim Street

2011-02-05T13:13:00.000-08:00

· 4 bedroom

· 3351 Total Sq Feet

· 2 Living Rooms

· Dining Room

· 2 ½ bath

· Fireplace

· Office/Study

· Corner Lot

AND MUCH MORE!

Call 337-842-9250 Today to schedule your showing!

Sellers - What to Do In a Buyers Market

2010-06-09T17:24:00.000-07:00

Currently in the SWLA Area there are over 2000 properties listed for sale. So what is a seller to do with so much competition? Most buyers today are well qualified and looking for a good deal. Getting the most for your home is still possible. Here are a few simple ways to enhance your home to buyers.

• Curb Appeal – This is the first thing buyers see. An unkempt yard is not something that is going to invite buyers into your home. It’s like Christmas morning. Wrapped gifts under the tree get you excited as they open their presents. It makes you want to know what is inside. Treat your home like a well wrapped gift. Make it inviting for people to come inside.

• Clean up – As with the outside, treat the inside the same way. Before each showing, pick up any unnecessary clutter. Something as simple as cleaning the windows can make a huge difference in how your home is viewed.

• A Product – Time to detach yourself from your home. When you sell your home you are selling a product that is in demand. Think like a buyer.

• Sense – Vision is only one sense on which we rely. Make use of other sense when your home is being shown.

o Smell – use some of the motion sensing fragrance dispensers that automatically go off when someone passes.

o Sound – Play some soothing music. Some sellers bake cookies and leave the plate and a note saying “Thank you” for viewing their home.

o Vision – Clean up and take down as many personal photos as you can. Buyers like to put themselves in the home they are viewing. If they see too many photos of you and your family they will see you in your home.

• Closing Costs – Most buyers these days are asking for closing costs to be paid by the seller. So beat them to the punch! Offer to pay 2% of the closing cost from the beginning. This will be a great incentive for buyers to look at your home.

• Expect to negotiate – When offers come in there will be some negotiating to do. Not every offer will result in a sale. You know what you want for your home, so do not counter the first time at your bottom line.

Being a little creative can go a long way in making your home be the first that a buyer thinks about.

Can you sell your home in a buyer’s market? ABSOLUTLY!

Mortgage Shopping and Knowing the Basics

2010-06-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

Homes can be financed with loans from banks, savings and loan institutions, credit unions, private mortgage companies, or state government lenders. Take time to shop around as different lenders will likely offer a range of loan types, interest rates and loan fees. There may also be local programs to help finance a new home.

Most home loans are made in 30-year and 15-year increments. The principal part of your loan is the amount you actually borrow. Interest is the payment you make to the lender for the money you borrow. Most home loans also include homeowner insurance and property taxes.

Mortgage Checklist:

• Social security card copies

• Drivers license copies

• W-2 forms for the past two years

• Recent pay stubs

• Copies of checking and savings account statements

• Asset documentation

• Salary verification

• Credit card account numbers and balances

• Written explanations for any late payments, recent credit inquiries, collections, judgments or liens

• Income tax statements

• Corporate or partnership tax returns (if applicable)

• Gift letter if any of the funds (such as the down payment or earnest money) are being given to you by a family member

• Current landlord’s name and contact information (if you rent)

• Current and Previous Address

Need a referral? Call Rebecca Melancon at 337-842-9250

2010-05-26T05:00:00.000-07:00

Traditional
- some of the most common styles built throughout the United States.
These floor plans are designed to accommodate the American way of life.
Traditional homes are kind of a mix of several other styles but there are some
basics that are usually consistent throughout traditional designs: Simple, often
hipped rooflines. Brick or stucco exteriors are most common. Traditional plans
are often single level floor plans with steeper roof pitches though lofts or
bonus rooms are quite common. Covered porches. Open foyers.

Colonial - style home plans are generally two to two and one half story homes with a very simple and efficient design. This architectural style is very identifiable with its very simplistic rectangular shape and the large columns. These homes are also very symmetrical with equally sized windows generally spaced in a uniform fashion across the front of the home with decorative shutters. Colonial plans usually have one gabled roof from side to side or a hipped roof. Entrances are often accentuated with tall columns extending up both stories.

Contemporary -
Throughout the late 1960's and 70's contemporary plans became quite popular.
Contemporary styling is a combination of several styles and are often multi
level homes. Some of the characteristics are: · Garage placement on the front
of the home for cost effectiveness. · Shallower pitched roofs that often extend
from a higher level down over the lower level. · Simple, clean lines that is
cost effective to build but attractive. · Windows are large and sometimes
trapezoidal following the roof pitch in gables. · Exteriors are a mix of
materials like wood, brick, rock, siding and stucco. · Vertical ornamentation
in simple patterns. Contemporary homes are still being built across the nation
and have been a very popular style in tract home developments and custom home
neighborhoods alike.

French - a unique
style that offers a lot of charm with its distinctive characteristics. These
house plans generally have asymmetrical exteriors with a combination of
ornamental attributes that complete the design. Some of the common
characteristics of this design are: · Stucco and brick exterior. · Steep roof
pitches at varying heights. Curved roof pitches are sometimes incorporated in
one or two locations. · These homes are usually two stories in height with high
rooflines. · Chimneys are usually large and sloped at the base. As with many
other styles, there are variations to French architecture. Some plans are
symmetrical with steep hipped roofs and exteriors are sometimes siding, shakes
or other materials.

Spanish or Mediterranean
- house plans are most commonly found in warm climates where the clay tile roofs assist in keeping them cool during the hot summer months. The Spanish a Mediterranean style homes are usually finished with a stucco (usually white or pastel in color) exterior and often feature architectural accents like arched
openings in the stucco or wood beams. This style is similar but different than
the southwest style of architecture, which also originated in the southwest
areas of the country.

Southern - Also
referred to as plantation homes, southern homes are easily identified with some basic design applications. To accommodate the warm, humid weather of the south, plantation homes are spacious and airy with tall ceilings, large front porches with a series of round or square columns. Porches sometimes surround the home (sometimes called a veranda) to provide shade throughout the heat of the day. Porches are built of some type of decking material rather than concrete. Roofs are pitched or gabled of usually a medium to shallow pitch. Southern homes are single or two stories in height and sometimes are adorned with dormers. These types of plans became popular in the 1700's as plantation owners commonly built them. There are many plantation homes preserved throughout the south, usually
built on large pieces of land.

Information from: The
Plan Collection

Making an Offer

2010-05-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

So you have seen all the houses your agent suggested and have narrowed it down to one. Now what? Assuming you have already been pre-approved and know how much house you can buy, now would be the time to make the offer. Now is not the time to ask for things to be fixed. The object is to get the best possible price for the house. Your agent will take care of the negotiating details. When it comes to the sale of a property, the seller may have stated that the refrigerator will not stay with the house. If you want it, then put it in your offer. Just because they state that they won't does not mean that they are not willing to compromise for the right price.

If the seller isn't already offering a home warranty, request that the seller purchase one. A Home Warranty Plan is a wonderful thing to have when you first move into a new house. Even if the sellers say they won't pay for it I always recommend that the buyers purchase one. A home protection plan is a renewable service contract that covers many of the most frequently occurring breakdowns of home system components and appliances that are not usually covered by homeowner insurance.

Don't fret over what the seller will say when they read it. The worst that they can tell you is no. There is a chance that there will be multiple offers on the house when you submit your offer. If this is the case you will want to offer your highest and best offer within reason. Most of the time this means a full price offer. The agent will set a date and time for the seller to respond, usually 12-48 hours depending on the day of the week. In the state of Louisiana, you are bound by that offer until the offer expires. For example, if the agent gives the sellers till 5pm on Sunday then you are bound legally by that offer until 5pm on that Sunday. If the sellers have not responded by the time the offer expires it doesn't necessarily mean that they rejected your offer, but it does mean that you are no longer bound by that contract.

If the seller does reject the offer, just keep on looking. Do not let a rejection get you down. There are plenty of houses added to the market daily with which you can fall in love!

Working With An Agent

2010-05-12T05:00:00.000-07:00

Once you have decided what it is that you want in a new home, it's time to interview agents. Shop around for an agent. You want someone with whom you feel comfortable, who is knowledgeable about the market, and who will look out for your best interests. Generally the best people to ask are your friends, neighbors, and family. Have them refer you to someone.

Remember your list from Plan Before You Look? Now is the time to break it out. The agent will want to know what you want in a house to help scale down the selection. Your agent may have you meet them at their office, at your house, or they may even send you an email with a link to the houses that fall within your criteria. This will be the time where you and your agent will decide on which houses to go see. Although this is exciting, remember patience. Purchasing a house is a big investment and you don't want to run into the first house you see and put an offer on it. Shop and compare the prices and amenities of the houses. Be sure to take notes in your notebook of each house that you like and never go by the pictures on the listing. You may end up passing up a gem because the listing agent didn't take a good picture. Agents are not photographers, but we try!

Always contact your agent for the homes you wish to see. If you see a For Sale sign in a yard, write down the address, phone number, and the realty company if it isn't for sale by owner. Your agent will be able to answer most questions that you have on the homes. She/he will not be able to tell you anything that deals with law, or cracks in the foundation. This is because they are not licensed in that field; however, can refer you to people that can help you with those questions. If you wish to know the property taxes, flood zone, if the house has gas, electric, etc. they will be able to tell you these types of things. In the state of Louisiana the seller must disclose anything they know about the house. Lead paint, flooding, septic, water, improvements on the home, age of the AC and the water heater units, and age of the roof. These types of things the agent will have access to.

After showing you several ouses, your agent will begin to get a feel for things that you want that you yourself may not even realize. This will help to scale down the list of possibilities and put you in the home that fits you. Don't be afraid to ask lots of questions and enjoy looking at all the possibilities!

Plan Before You Look

2010-05-05T05:00:00.000-07:00

The neighborhood you choose for your new investment is almost as important as the home itself. It is best to get a notebook to keep future notes in on houses you like. On the first page in the notebook you will want to write down the things you need in a house and the things you want in a house. Generally buyers only get about 80% of what they want in a house so there will be things with which you will need to be willing to compromise. Now is the time to decide what you will compromise on and what you need.

If you are having trouble here are a few ideas to help you along. What type of neighborhood do you want? Subdivision, rural, or downtown area? How far you have to travel to work may play an important role in where you choose to live. How many miles are you willing to travel from your home? If you have children, would you rather they be in a certain school zones?

Those were some of the bigger questions, now that you have those out of the way its time to get down to details. How many bedrooms and bathrooms? Do you want a formal dining room? How many square feet would be large enough? Do you want a fireplace? A large kitchen or porch? Maybe a home office?

Where it may seem like a lot, writing it all down will help to keep things in perspective. If you are a first time homebuyer, the buying process can be just as stressful as it can be fun. Having your wants and needs on paper will help, not only to keep your head on straight, to keep things in perspective.

The last important thing you need to keep in mind is resell value. You may be intending to stay in this house for the rest of your life. However, life has a way of throwing curve balls. If ever you need to sell, you will want your house to sell for the best possible price.

If you are interested in looking at homes in the SWLA area give me a call and I will help you through the process!

SWLA Market Report for April 2010

2010-05-04T09:55:00.000-07:00

New Listings
184 properties hit the market, up from 116 last month, versus 3 last year.

Units Sold
111 properties sold, versus last month’s 116. Last year 115 homes sold.

Days on the Market
93 Days, last month was 113 and last year it was 69 days. Note: A six-month supply is considered a balanced market.

Average Sale Price
$154,012 up slightly from last month’s $148,580 and up from last year by 1.74%

Price Per Square Foot
$78.56,up from last month’s $76.30, and down 0.56% from last year

Recommendations

For buyers – More inventory means you can probably make conservative offers. Know that this inventory may not last for long.

For sellers – There is a lot more competition than last year. Proper preparation for sale, marketing, and pricing can still lead to getting maximum price.

House of the Month ~ 5262 BISCOTTI DR

2010-04-28T17:08:00.000-07:00

5262 BISCOTTI DR

4 Bedroom

2 1/2 Bath

New Construction

2280 Sq. Feet Living

NEW CONSTRUCTION! BEAUTIFUL CUSTOM HOME IN A NEW SUBDIVISION! DELUXE KITCHEN WITH RAISED SNACK BAR, BREAKFAST AREA, STAINLESS APPLIANCES, GRANITE COUNTERTOPS, CUSTOM CABINETS, WALK-IN PANTRY. LIVING ROOM WITH 10 FT. TREY CEILINGS, FIREPLACE WITH MOUNTED FLATSCREEN TV/DVD PLAYER. MASTER SUITE INCLUDES HIS/HER CLOSETS, HIS/HER VANITIES, JACUZZI TUB,

Call Rebecca today to schedule your showing for this home or any other! The service is free! 842-9250

Get Your Credit in Order

2010-04-28T05:00:00.000-07:00

If you do not already keep track of your credit, then one of the first things you will need to do before contacting an agent or mortgage company is to get your credit in order. Lenders will be taking a close look at your financial history, including; income, credit, debts and assets. You'll be asked to disclose to the lender all outstanding debts, including any loan or financial obligations such as credit card balances, alimony and child support payments, car loans, medical bills, etc. Lenders will also want to see how much money you have in savings, after deducting your down payment amount. You'll also be asked for your employment history and will need to show job and income stability and security. You can visit http://www.annualcreditreport.com/ and request a free credit file disclosure or free credit report once every 12 months.

Here are a few tips to help you to improve your credit score:

Address any corrections that are needed on your credit report. Most credit reports have at least one error
Pay down any outstanding debts as much as possible to show lenders that you spend within your limits.
Ask your credit card companies to issue credit line increases to lower the percentage of the credit limits that you currently have.
Do not apply for new credit cards.
Pay all of your bills on time, even if that means just making the minimum payments.

Getting your credit in order can help in many aspects of your life. It is essential to check it prior to getting pre-approved as your credit will affect your mortgage approval. If there are errors on the report it could lower the amount for which you could be approved.

New Listing!

2010-04-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

1737 Fox Run

3 Bedroom

2 Bath

Courtyard

Covered Patio

Sundeck

Wetbar

Vaulted Ceilings

Call 337-842-9250 to schedule your showing or to get more information!