<?xml version='1.0' encoding='UTF-8'?><feed xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom' xmlns:openSearch='http://a9.com/-/spec/opensearchrss/1.0/'><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212</id><updated>2008-01-17T14:58:39.418-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Real Estate McKinney Texas | Dallas Real Estate</title><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/blog.html'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default'/><link rel='http://schemas.google.com/g/2005#feed' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author><generator version='7.00' uri='http://www.blogger.com'>Blogger</generator><openSearch:totalResults>24</openSearch:totalResults><openSearch:startIndex>1</openSearch:startIndex><openSearch:itemsPerPage>25</openSearch:itemsPerPage><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-4263534914762312694</id><published>2008-01-17T14:51:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2008-01-17T14:58:39.534-08:00</updated><title type='text'>Homes for Lease</title><content type='html'>&lt;div align="center"&gt;Should I Lease Or Buy?&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In a tight mortgage market, we have began to find that many of our clients are having a difficult time qualifing for a loan. This prompted us to respond quickly and find our clients homes that were in specific cities or school districts. Renting is a viable alternative. Visit our new site and find a home for rent. &lt;a href="http://www.northtexashomesforrent.com/"&gt;North Texas Homes For Rent&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you need assistance in selling or buying a home.  Feel free to visit our site.  &lt;a href="http://www.mystonebridgerealtygroup.com/"&gt;Stonebridge Realty Group&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;We can help clients in many of the following cities.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Dallas, Plano, Carrollton, Little Elm, Celina, Arlington, Grand Prarie, Frisco, Garland, Allen, Richardson, Wylie, McKinney, Mesquite, De Soto, Ft. Worth, Coppel, Addison, Irving, Las Colinas, Higland Park,Southlake,Dallas, Arlington, Ft. Worth, Addison, Plano, Allen, McKinney Texas,Anna,Van Alsteen ,Melissa,Fairview, Lucas, Grand Prarie,Higland Park,Celina,Melissa,Farmersville,Richardson,Farmers Branch,Carrollton, Bedford, Euless, Keller, Southlake, Grapevine,Flower Mound,Corinth, Denton, Hickory Creek,Argyle, Bartonville, Little Elm Parker, Cockrell Hill, Duncanville,Cedar Hill, Desoto, Lancaster, Red Oak, Seagoville, Mesquite, Sunnyvale, Rockwall, Garland, Princeton, Fairview, Lewisville, Lake Dallas, Highland Village, North Richland Hills, Forest Hill, Mansfield, White Rock Lake, Balch Springs, Colleyville Texas</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2008/01/homes-for-lease.html' title='Homes for Lease'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.northtexashomesforrent.com' title='Homes for Lease'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=4263534914762312694' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/4263534914762312694'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/4263534914762312694'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-2672716392759395646</id><published>2006-12-29T12:49:00.000-08:00</published><updated>2006-12-29T12:59:22.022-08:00</updated><title type='text'>How should I interpret home descriptions in ads</title><content type='html'>&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Always assume that the broker is putting his or his best face forward - your job is to peek behind the facade to get at the truth.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;If there's a positive feature present, however, you can be sure that they'll always emphasize it.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;These are some significant phrases to watch out for:&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;Fantastic view - that could mean one where you have to twist your neck out the window to see anything.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Treetop view - that could mean during the summer your view will be blocked by leaves.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Just renovated - it probably needs a minimal amount of redecorating.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Move-in condition - it may be pristine or it may need a coat of paint.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Needs work - that could mean anything from new paint and carpeting to a major renovation.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Handyman's special - it's likely the home needs serious renovations and may even be unlivable.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Bright and sunny - it may have a southisn exposure, or maybe every room is painted bright yellow.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Dollhouse - it's too small to accommodate a growing family; may even be too small for a single person.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Oversized rooms - could mean anything over nine by nine feet.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Street parking - that means the home doesn't come with a parking space. If the home is in a congested area, street parking may not be easy either.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Deeded parking space - you get your own parking space.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Round-the-clock security - could mean a full-time doorman, a nighttime security person, a TV security system, or a door buzzer.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Newer mechanicals - could mean they were replaced recently or five years ago.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Newer roof - it could still need to be replaced.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Needs new roof - it probably leaks. Check for watermarks. Does it need repair or replacement?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Oversized lot - the standard lot is 25 by 125 feet. It may mean you're getting a little extra grass.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Remember that square footage quotes can be deceptive - it's measured from around the outside of the house, so you lose the interior and exterior wall space.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Remember if you are looking for homes for sale in McKinney, Texas or Homes for Sale in Frisco, Texas, go to our &lt;a href="http://www.mystonebridgerealtygroup.com/justlisted"&gt;just listed &lt;/a&gt;page and sign up to get the latest listings.&lt;/p&gt;</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/12/how-should-i-interpret-home.html' title='How should I interpret home descriptions in ads'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.mystonebridgerealtygroup.com/justlisted' title='How should I interpret home descriptions in ads'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=2672716392759395646' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/2672716392759395646'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/2672716392759395646'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-116118871593900672</id><published>2006-10-18T09:23:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-10-18T09:30:30.986-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Just listed... Home for Sale in Ft. Worth</title><content type='html'>&lt;div align="right"&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1" width="700" align="right" border="0"  style="color:#cfd4a8;"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="700" align="center" border="0"  style="color:#ffffff;"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td colspan="3"&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" width="100%" border="0"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr  style="color:#e4e7cf;"&gt;&lt;td colspan="3"&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1" width="100%"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td height="30"&gt;&lt;b&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;font-size:78%;"&gt;3 Bdrm Single family house - Ft. Worth&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td valign="center"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td valign="top" width="500"&gt;&lt;b&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Located on a third of an acre in Historic Handley of Fort Worth &amp;amp; only one block from East Handley Elementary School. Th&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td valign="top"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td valign="top" width="350" colspan="2"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;p align="left"&gt;&lt;img height="262" src="http://www.postlets.com/create/photos/20061017/162755_front2.jpg" width="350" border="1" /&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1" width="350" border="0"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td align="middle" height="25"&gt;&lt;div align="center"  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Outside - Front&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="351" align="center" border="0"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr valign="center" align="middle"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;td height="89"&gt;&lt;div align="left"&gt;&lt;img src="http://www.postlets.com/create/thumbs/20061017/162757_rondamillerfront1.jpg" border="0" /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;&lt;img src="http://www.postlets.com/create/thumbs/20061017/162756_DSC00892.JPG" border="0" /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;img height="1" src="http://www.postlets.com/create/track.gif" width="115" /&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1" width="350" border="0"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td valign="top" align="middle" height="25"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;a style="COLOR: #ff6600" href="http://maps.google.com/maps?q=6837+Van+Natta,+Ft.+Worth,+TX"&gt;map this property&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1" width="100%" border="0"  style="color:#cfd4a8;"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5" width="100%" border="0"  style="color:#ffffff;"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td width="100%"&gt;&lt;b&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Contact Info&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/b&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" width="100%" border="0"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Trae Gardner&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Stonebridge Realty Group&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;trae@traegardner.com&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;214-432-0551&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td valign="top" width="350"&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="1" width="100%"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" width="100%" border="0"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td width="125"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Price&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;$94,900&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Street&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;6837 Van Natta&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;City and State&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Ft. Worth, TX &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td valign="top"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Property Type&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Single family house&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Year Built&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1955&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Sq Footage&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1,464&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Bedrooms&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Bathrooms&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2 full, 0 partial&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Floors&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Parking&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2 car garage&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td valign="top"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;b&gt;Lot Size&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;0.180 acres&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;b&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;HOA/Maint&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;$0 per month&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;b&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Description&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/b&gt;&lt;hr   style="font-size:78%;color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" width="100%" border="0"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td width="350"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;div style="WHITE-SPACE: normal;color:#000000;" &gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Estimated&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Electric $125 monthly with $225 in June July August and September set at 78 degrees&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Gas- $25-50&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Water $50&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" width="100%" border="0"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td width="100%"&gt;&lt;b&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Property Features&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/b&gt;&lt;hr style="COLOR: #666666" size="1"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" width="100%" border="0"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Central A/C&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Central heat&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Hardwood floor&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Family room&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Living room&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Office/Den&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Dining room&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Dishwasher&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Stove/Oven&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Granite countertop&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Attic&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Laundry area - inside&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Yard&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" width="100%" border="0"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr&gt;&lt;td width="100%"&gt;&lt;b&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#666666;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Other Special Features&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/b&gt;&lt;hr style="COLOR: #666666" size="1"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="3" width="100%" border="0"&gt;&lt;tbody&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Built in mantle bookcases between the living and dining rooms add character with their unique &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Luminart countertops.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Master Bedroom- 14x11.5 Built in custom made bookcase. Ceiling fan. Decorative trim at top &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;2002 New roof installed (down to panels with air vents).&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;Front , Back and Side yards Landscaped. &lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;New Paint Interior and Exterior 10/2006&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;tr valign="top"&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td align="middle" width="5%"&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#ff6600;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;-&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;td&gt;&lt;div  style="color:#000000;"&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:verdana,tahoma,sans-serif;"&gt;New Carpet 10/2006&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;/td&gt;&lt;/tr&gt;&lt;/tbody&gt;&lt;/table&gt;&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/10/just-listed-home-for-sale-in-ft-worth.html' title='Just listed... Home for Sale in Ft. Worth'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.mystonebridgerealtygroup.com/OurFeaturedHomes' title='Just listed... Home for Sale in Ft. Worth'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=116118871593900672' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/116118871593900672'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/116118871593900672'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-115878577032212296</id><published>2006-09-20T13:52:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-09-20T13:56:10.513-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Home for Sale Van Alstyne Texas</title><content type='html'>&lt;a href="http://www.traegardner.com/listings/buck1.jpg"&gt;&lt;img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://www.traegardner.com/listings/buck1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Incredible estate find in the coveted Van Alstyne, Texas area. Gorgeous and traditional is gated with a large lot. 3BR/3BA plus study with built ins, appx 2900sf with high ceilings, wood &amp; stone floors, fabulous details. Sensational covered porch, large lot, fully equipped outdoor entertaining area...just an incomparable property! &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Call 214-707-8723 for showings</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/09/home-for-sale-van-alstyne-texas.html' title='Home for Sale Van Alstyne Texas'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.traegardner.com/listings/8buckskindrive.html' title='Home for Sale Van Alstyne Texas'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=115878577032212296' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115878577032212296'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115878577032212296'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-115635022284218388</id><published>2006-08-23T09:18:00.001-07:00</published><updated>2006-08-23T09:23:42.853-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Get your Budget Correct</title><content type='html'>&lt;p&gt;If you keep careful track of your expenses, it’s not too difficult to estimate how much you can afford to spend on a house.&lt;br /&gt;This is’s a list of expenditures that you can use to help tally up your monthly expenses:&lt;br /&gt;1) Rent&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;2) Electricity&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;3) Gas&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;4) Telephone&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;5) Auto Loan&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;6) Auto Insurance&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;7) Health Insurance&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;8) Renter’s Insurance&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;9) Savings/Retirement Contribution&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;10) Grocery Bill&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;11) Weekly Transportation&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;12) Restaurants/Food Delivery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;13) Entertainment&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;14) Health Club&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;15) Child Care&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;16) School&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;17) Children’s Expenses&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;18) Housecleaning Expenses&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;19) Vacations (divide annual expense by 12 to figure monthly average)&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;20) Books/CDs&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;21) Newspapers/Magazines&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;22) Laundry&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;23) Gifts&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;24) Major Purchases (stereo/computer)&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;25) Furniture/Decorating&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;26) Clothing&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;27) Sundries/Drugstore Items&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;28) Miscellaneous Expenses &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If your monthly expense total is too close to your monthly after-taxes take-home pay, you should start looking at ways to cut them down.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One of the newest ways to get pre-qualified for a home loan in minutes is a system called “Computerized Loan Origination” (CLO). Some brokers use it in their offices, but they’re currently unregulated so this is are still some potential problems with them:&lt;br /&gt;Many CLOs only use mortgage packages from one lender. Therefore, the mortgage company and broker view you as a captive audience, and you could wind up paying more than market value for your loan.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Even if more than one lender is included in the CLO, it still may not be truly competitive. It’s best to use a CLO only when all lenders are included.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The broker may ask you to pay a fee for using his CLO service. Be aware, however, that the broker may have a financial arrangement with the mortgage company or companies displaying their loan packages. In that case, the broker may have a financial incentive to steer you away from better loan.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The best person to pre-qualify you for a loan is usually an independent lender, not your broker, particularly if they’re a sub-agent for the seller. &lt;/p&gt;</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/08/get-your-budget-correct_23.html' title='Get your Budget Correct'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=115635022284218388' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115635022284218388'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115635022284218388'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-115635006294526009</id><published>2006-08-23T09:18:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-09-20T13:45:06.160-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Get your Budget Correct</title><content type='html'>&lt;p&gt;If you keep careful track of your expenses, it’s not too difficult to estimate how much you can afford to spend on a house.&lt;br /&gt;This is’s a list of expenditures that you can use to help tally up your monthly expenses:&lt;br /&gt;1) Rent&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;2) Electricity&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;3) Gas&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;4) Telephone&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;5) Auto Loan&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;6) Auto Insurance&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;7) Health Insurance&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;8) Renter’s Insurance&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;9) Savings/Retirement Contribution&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;10) Grocery Bill&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;11) Weekly Transportation&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;12) Restaurants/Food Delivery&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;13) Entertainment&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;14) Health Club&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;15) Child Care&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;16) School&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;17) Children’s Expenses&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;18) Housecleaning Expenses&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;19) Vacations (divide annual expense by 12 to figure monthly average)&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;20) Books/CDs&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;21) Newspapers/Magazines&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;22) Laundry&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;23) Gifts&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;24) Major Purchases (stereo/computer)&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;25) Furniture/Decorating&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;26) Clothing&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;27) Sundries/Drugstore Items&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;28) Miscellaneous Expenses &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If your monthly expense total is too close to your monthly after-taxes take-home pay, you should start looking at ways to cut them down.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One of the newest ways to get pre-qualified for a home loan in minutes is a system called “Computerized Loan Origination” (CLO). Some brokers use it in their offices, but they’re currently unregulated so this is are still some potential problems with them:&lt;br /&gt;Many CLOs only use mortgage packages from one lender. Therefore, the mortgage company and broker view you as a captive audience, and you could wind up paying more than market value for your loan.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Even if more than one lender is included in the CLO, it still may not be truly competitive. It’s best to use a CLO only when all lenders are included.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The broker may ask you to pay a fee for using his CLO service. Be aware, however, that the broker may have a financial arrangement with the mortgage company or companies displaying their loan packages. In that case, the broker may have a financial incentive to steer you away from better loan.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The best person to pre-qualify you for a loan is usually an independent lender, not your broker, particularly if they’re a sub-agent for the seller. &lt;/p&gt;</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/08/get-your-budget-correct.html' title='Get your Budget Correct'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=115635006294526009' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115635006294526009'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115635006294526009'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-115400484122268645</id><published>2006-07-27T05:46:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-08-23T09:16:28.293-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Feng Shui In Your Bedroom</title><content type='html'>&lt;a href="http://www.traegardner.com/fengshui10.jpg"&gt;&lt;img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px;" src="http://www.traegardner.com/fengshui10.jpg" border="0" alt="" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Since you spend one-third of your life sleeping, your bedroom’s feng shui is very important. And the key to your bedroom’s feng shui, of course, is your bed.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The ideal placement for your bed is the room’s Command Position (facing the entrance, with equal room on both sides and a solid wall behind it), but not directly in line with the door. This causes sha chi.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The side of the bed should also not be directly exposed to chi coming in from the door, as this can cause health problems.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Don’t place your bed under an exposed beam, ceiling fan, or othis causes of sha chi. If necessary, use a mirror to provide a view of the entrance while you sleep.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;  If placing your bed by a window is unavoidable, hang a faceted crystal or a guardian image nearby, so it can watch over you while you sleep. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The bed should be placed so that a wall traps neithis side. That arrangement ensures that both partners in a relationship have equal freedom; it also helps ensure that single people aren’t blocked access to future partners.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Placing your bed against a wall that has a fuse box, stove, or toilet on the othis side is also a source of sha chi. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If it’s not possible to avoid sha chi, thise are plenty of feng shui cures available to protect against it: hanging crystal balls, using low furniture as buffers, colors to alter energy, or mirrors to reflect it. It all depends on the circumstances.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A bed with a solid headboard and frame will help make your life more secure. Chi should be able to flow freely around and under the bed to help you sleep. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you have a king-size bed, place a long piece of red fabric down the split between the two box springs and tuck it underneath. This will help ensure that you and your partner won’t become divided. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you’ve recently separated from a partner, buy a new mattress and bedding because the old ones will have absorbed a lot of chi from the relationship.&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;  Anything you store under your bed can affect you while you sleep, so it’s best to keep the area empty.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Don’t bring your work belongings or exercise equipment in to the bedroom because their energy can also affect you while you sleep. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you must have a TV in your bedroom, keep it covered or in a cabinet while you sleep. Your bed should always be the room’s focus of attention. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The area across from your bed should have pictures or artwork that represent your ambitions.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Romantic relationships are all about pairing, so placing lots of pairs of things in your bedroom – and in all the Marriage areas throughout your house – will help strengthen your current relationship, or attract a partner if you’re single.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/07/feng-shui-in-your-bedroom.html' title='Feng Shui In Your Bedroom'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.traegardner.com/bedroom.htm' title='Feng Shui In Your Bedroom'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=115400484122268645' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115400484122268645'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115400484122268645'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-115342852433918090</id><published>2006-07-20T13:45:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-07-20T14:01:19.390-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Condo For Sale North Dallas</title><content type='html'>&lt;div align="center"&gt;7912 Royal Lane # C&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;Condo is New on the Market&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:85%;color:blue;"&gt;MUST SEE.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;span style="font-family:Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;font-size:85%;"&gt; We have listed a great home! If you are looking for an affordable home in North Dallas Area that is ready for move in, come and see us!&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;b&gt;PLEASE NOTE: BUYERS!&lt;/b&gt; Interested buyers only! In order to show the property, we will need a document on Lenders Letterhead showing pre-qualification for the purchase.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here are the details:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;hr color="blue" size="3"&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Beautifully landscaped and immaculately maintained home in desirable North Dallas neighborhood. Completly remodeled with Hardwood Floors, New Countertops,Cabinets, and fresh paint&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;li&gt;Built in 1975&lt;br /&gt;&lt;li&gt;1110 SF&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;li&gt;2 BR/2BA&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;li&gt;HOA Includes Utilities&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;li&gt;Located Near Pool Area&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;li&gt;Mintues away from 24 Hour Fitness,Home Depot, Royal Oaks Country Club and more.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;li&gt;Textured walls&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;li&gt;Short Drive to Most locations in North Dallas&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;li&gt;Could be a great investment property&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;More Details please visit: &lt;a href="http://www.mystonebridgerealtygroup.com/7912_Royal_Lane"&gt;Stonebridge Realty Group&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;To See Real Time Video: &lt;a href="http://www.mystonebridgerealtygroup.com/7912royal"&gt;Video of Condo&lt;/a&gt; &lt;/li&gt;&lt;p&gt;To See Online All Day Showings: &lt;a href="http://www.mystonebridgerealtygroup.com/liveshowings"&gt;Online Camera Showings&lt;/a&gt; Username: guest Password: guests&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Appointments only. Please call 214-245-5289 for more information. All information will be confirmed by seller for accuracy&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;/span&gt;</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/07/condo-for-sale-north-dallas.html' title='Condo For Sale North Dallas'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.mystonebridgerealtygroup.com/7912_Royal_lane' title='Condo For Sale North Dallas'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=115342852433918090' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115342852433918090'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115342852433918090'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-115275772238301590</id><published>2006-07-12T19:26:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-07-12T20:35:55.193-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Please Help The Sarah Anne Walker Family If You Know Anything</title><content type='html'>&lt;div align="justify"&gt;Brutal Stabbing in Texas: Who killed Sarah Anne Walker?&lt;br /&gt;Wednesday, July 12, 2006&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;•&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.foxnews.com/column_archive/0,2976,76,00.html"&gt;Full-page "Interview" Archive&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This is a partial transcript from "On the Record," July 11, 2006, that has been edited for clarity.&lt;br /&gt;GRETA VAN SUSTEREN, HOST: A bizarre murder mystery in Texas, a real estate agent found in a model home, fatally stabbed 27 times. Who targeted &lt;a href="javascript:siteSearch("&gt;Sarah Anne Walker&lt;/a&gt;, and why? Police are searching for clues and for a motive.&lt;br /&gt;Joining us with more on the investigation is Captain Randy Roland of the McKinney, Texas, Police Department. Welcome, sir.&lt;br /&gt;CAPT. RANDY ROLAND, MCKINNEY, TEXAS, POLICE DEPARTMENT: Thank you, Greta.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: What's new, sir, in the discovery of this body and the effort to solve this murder?&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: Well, today, our detectives processed a number of the pieces of evidence that we gathered at the crime scene today. Today was more of a day of taking inventory of what we had. We did a number of interviews with friends, family, co-workers to try to understand who our victim was, and hopefully, kind of piece together some things that would lead us in the direction of a motive. We still haven't really focused in on exactly why this tragic crime occurred.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: When was this real estate agent last seen?&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: About 12:30 on Saturday afternoon. She was visiting on the phone. And we found, or we were called to the scene about 1:23 in the afternoon to find her body.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Did she say anything unusual in that phone call at 12:30?&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: No, not at that — it was a normal phone call with a friend.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: So it was just — can you give me more details on the phone call maybe?&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: Well, nothing other than, you know, she took time out during the workday to call a friend and discuss whatever they talked about. But obviously, we're getting a lot of cooperation from her family and her friends to piece together the minutes and the hours before her demise. Additionally, announced today was a reward up to $30,000 for information leading to the arrest and indictment of this suspect.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Did she say in that phone call that she expected to meet anyone?&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: There was no indication of that. And certainly, that's part of our ongoing investigation about that conversation.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Did she identify where she was?&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: She was at the &lt;a href="javascript:siteSearch("&gt;model home&lt;/a&gt; during that conversation.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: And she said so in the — I mean, not just that you — you looked at the cell phone records, but she actually said that in the phone call?&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: Those are — that's the indication that we got from the conversation.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Was the murder weapon found on the scene?&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: We have not located a murder weapon. We are narrowing down what type of weapon it would be. But as to say exactly what it was, we're not there yet.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Was this model home an empty home, or was there, you know, like, knives in the kitchen, that kind of thing?&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: No, this was a — this was an office set-up for our victim to meet people and to show other models in the area. It was outfitted as a house, but it also had an office space, a desk and computer for her to work at.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: All right. She has an ex-husband. Any problems with her ex-husband? I assume you've spoken to him.&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: No problems. The family, the ex-husband, everybody is cooperating with this investigation, and we are proceeding.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Was her car on the scene?&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: Her car was.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Anything stolen? Did she have any missing jewelry or a purse open, anything like that?&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: We are still inventorying the property that was inside the house and what type of jewelry that she wore and what we found. And we're just taking inventory of that and haven't released anything that indicates that anything is missing.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Thank you, sir.&lt;br /&gt;ROLAND: Certainly.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Sarah Anne Walker was recently divorced from her husband, Randy Tate, and unlike many of the stories we tell you about, this divorce was different.&lt;br /&gt;Joining us is the lawyer who represented Sarah Anne Walker in the divorce, Jeff Doman. Jeff, we've heard an awful lot about hostile divorces, but this one apparently was a little bit different, wasn't it.&lt;br /&gt;JEFF DOMAN, SARAH WALKER'S DIVORCE ATTORNEY: That's true, Greta. Good evening, and thank you for having me on.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: What can you tell me about — when was she divorced?&lt;br /&gt;DOMAN: Well, she actually finalized her divorce at the end of February of this year. And like you said earlier, her divorce was very different than a lot of the divorces I deal with on a daily basis. Sarah and her husband, Randy, were very amicable, and it always seems like that throughout the divorce, they always put their son, Josh, first. And that's why when I heard the news, it really had me questioning what went on.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: When was the last time you spoke to her?&lt;br /&gt;DOMAN: I actually spoke to her right before we finalized the divorce in February. And as far as everything — as far as I was concerned, when I talked to her, things were going well, and the issues with Josh and Randy were moving along just fine, as we had agreed upon. And although the judge hadn't signed off on the order finalizing the case, the parties seemed to be working together very well at making sure that Josh was taken care of and that they were working the transition into being divorced from each other very well.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Now, we know she was a real estate agent. What was Randy's occupation, her ex-husband?&lt;br /&gt;DOMAN: I believe he was involved in the real estate industry, as well.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: And during the — and how long did you actually represent her?&lt;br /&gt;DOMAN: Well, I believe our representation started in July of 2005. And we — like I said, we finalized the divorce in February of 2006, so it went on for about seven or eight months.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Ever hear any complaints from her about anyone, not just her ex-husband — I mean actually, frankly, you usually expect that in the course of a divorce. But did she complain or have any other troubles?&lt;br /&gt;DOMAN: Well, Greta, as I'm sure you're aware, I am prohibited by going into too many details because of the attorney/client privilege. However, as we worked on the divorce, so many of the issues were agreed upon between her and Randy that there weren't issues regarding spousal abuse or any kind of violence or anything that we had to go into because the parties were always able to reach agreements. And it never got to the part or the situation where it became contested in any manner.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: How about someone — I'm not — I wasn't speaking about her ex-husband, but did she ever, like, when you were talking, say, Look, I got this person at work, or I met this person in a grocery store, anything like a stalker type thing, anything like that?&lt;br /&gt;DOMAN: You know, there never came up to where there were any situations like that.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: So this is completely stunning, surprising to you.&lt;br /&gt;DOMAN: Absolutely. When I found out on Monday, it really took the breath out of me. And Sarah was such a sweet, energetic, fun, bubbly person to be around. And it really took me — took me back when I heard the news. It was a very, very sad day for me, and I — my heart and my feelings go out to her family and her loved ones, and especially her son, who's about to turn 4. I can only imagine what he's having to deal with, knowing that he's going to be without his mother.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Jeff, thank you.&lt;br /&gt;Police say Sarah Anne struggled to fight off her killer before losing to the killer. Well Sarah Anne's defensive wounds lead to that killer? Joining us here in New York is forensic pathologist &lt;a href="javascript:siteSearch("&gt;Dr. Michael Baden&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;br /&gt;DR. MICHAEL BADEN, FORENSIC PATHOLOGIST: Hi.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Doctor, where do you start?&lt;br /&gt;BADEN: Well, I think the police have started the right way on their end — motive, means, opportunity. The medical examiner probably has already finished the &lt;a href="javascript:siteSearch("&gt;autopsy&lt;/a&gt;, and they can find if there are any defensive wounds, whether she struggled, whether there's any skin tissue or blood under her fingernails, or hairs or fibers in the struggle. Also, whether these 42 stab wounds — whether many were inflicted after she was dead. They can tell that from the autopsy.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: What difference would that make?&lt;br /&gt;BADEN: That indicates somebody who knew her. A stranger murder doesn't keep stabbing a dead body. If you know the person, if you love the person, that's when you get these overkill rage reaction scenarios, and I think that's one things they'll look into.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Well, you know, one of the things that I would be curious about is whether she had an appointment. There's a small window, 12:30 to 1:23...&lt;br /&gt;BADEN: Oh, yes.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: ... to be killed, less than an hour. It's a fully stocked house, a model house.&lt;br /&gt;BADEN: But what's interesting is how the crime scene expands because her laptop would be part of the crime scene now, whether she — at home, what appointments did she have would be very important. Was she sexually assaulted? The medical examiner should know that by now. She was clothed, supposedly, from what we hear. And what's the motive? The motive doesn't make sense. Was she a target, or was this an opportunistic situation where a passerby happened to find her there, which seems unlikely.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: I think, if my recollection serves me right, is that she was wearing jewelry, so that's sort of less likely to be...&lt;br /&gt;BADEN: Less likely a robbery.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Unless the robber just went for the cash in the purse.&lt;br /&gt;BADEN: Yes. Also, about the knife, the weapon, the medical examiner should have a good idea right now whether it's a hunting knife, whether it's a stiletto, whether it's an ordinary table utensil. That also should be able to be determined from the autopsy.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: You can tell by looking at the wounds?&lt;br /&gt;BADEN: The shape of the wound, especially the shape wound in the heart tissues, like wounds through liver or wounds through muscle retain their shape sufficiently to be able to tell if it's single-edged, double- edged, to be able to tell the length and the width of the knife. And that can be helpful.&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: What do you put your money on, the fingernail scrapings, as having — I mean, because if she put up a good fight, she's going to have something under those fingernails.&lt;br /&gt;BADEN: You know where I'd put on most of my money? The police chief checking out everybody who knew her and checking out who was supposed to have appointments and who knew she would be there. Whether there were...&lt;br /&gt;VAN SUSTEREN: Like someone is standing by, waiting to burglarize the place. and she shows up to show the house, and it's that kind of deal.&lt;br /&gt;BADEN: That's right. Also, whether there are tire tracks or shoe prints inside the house, outside the house. The person who came may have been in a car, and in that short period of time, the tire tracks may still be there.&lt;/div&gt;</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/07/please-help-sarah-anne-walker-family.html' title='Please Help The Sarah Anne Walker Family If You Know Anything'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,203189,00.html' title='Please Help The Sarah Anne Walker Family If You Know Anything'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=115275772238301590' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115275772238301590'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115275772238301590'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-115168014530291220</id><published>2006-06-30T07:41:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-06-30T08:09:05.373-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Looking for Investment Property</title><content type='html'>&lt;strong&gt;Location value&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For investment purposes, property in the best location will offer the greatest liquidity (shortest sale time) and greatest opportunity for appreciation in a good market. The best location offers the least risk and will depreciate less, even though it will cost more initially. The old axiom is true: buy in the best location you can – even if it’s the worst property.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Stick to your own backyard&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Become an expert in a particular area. You will begin to see patterns indicating the value of a specific kind of property in a specific area. Unless this is a strong reason for investing outside you geographical area, don’t.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Be very wary of property advertised outside its geographical area. In general, it’s either overpriced or has a hidden defect that’s kept it from selling in its local market. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Using real estate agents&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The easiest way to find property is by using a local real estate professional. By having direct access to the MLS (Multiple Listings Service), they’ll know everything on the market in your price range. In addition, a knowledgeable agent or broker can supply valuable information about market conditions, prices and properties that may be coming to the sale. Also, make sure the agent you chose to work with is successful in the area and with the type of property you are interested in.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Why a third person can make a difference&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When dealing through an agent, owners tend to be more objective and have a better negotiation than without an intermediary. Agents are used to working with sellers and can help you tailor your offer to overcome the seller’s objections.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Working without an agent&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you are interested in distressed properties (foreclosures, Sheriff's’s sales, tax sales, etc.), you may be better off without an agent. Agents tend to avoid these situations because there are no funds available for their commission. Distressed properties are often in debt in excess of the property value and would be a waste of time for an agent.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Owners who don’t use agents&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;In general, owners who try to sell their own property are doing so to avoid paying an agent commission. Often the owner does not have an accurate idea of the value of his property, so one of two things occurs. Either they will under price the property allowing a savvy investor to get a bargain, or, more likely, they will overprice the property based on the fact that it is the price at which they would sell – regardless of the market data. In addition, these are unscrupulous owners who appear unsophisticated, but are really trying to hide a defect. Be wary of dealing directly with owners.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Advertising leads&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Begin a regular practice of searching the classified ads for property for sale or lease. Even if you are only interested in buying, a desperate-sounding owner seeking a tenant may be motivated to sell. Look for indications that a seller is under pressure to get rid of the property.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Finding the bargains&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If you can buy a property for 20% less than it’s fair market value, then you’ve already made money just by buying it. Don’t dismiss a property because the price is too high. That number is only the asking price. Many real estate deals are made at prices below what the owner is asking. Regardless of the asking price, owners of properties that have been on the market for a while are likely to be receptive to a low offer.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Buying below market value is one way to make money, but a smart investor doesn’t discount a higher priced property if they feel they can turn around and make a profit of more than 10%. As an investor, you shouldn't’t shy away from a property that’s a mess or in need of maintenance. A few cosmetic improvements can significantly increase the salability of your investment.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Legal notices&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Another way to obtain leads is through posted legal notices. Owners who have problem tenants they have to evict are often good candidates. Divorce records, filings from probate court, notices of abatement or code violations, etc. provide a wealth of information on property owners who may be interested in selling.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Friends &amp; networking&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Be sure to let people you know and those your meet that you are looking for property. In addition, investment clubs or even more formal property owner’s organization can be a good place to communicate your needs. In many states you can offer and pay a finder’s fee to someone who helps you find a property, even without a real estate license.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Turning down bargains&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;It isn’t a bargain if you can’t afford it. Evaluate potential investments carefully; considering repair, maintenance and holding costs. Avoid any purchase where you would have to get rid of the property quickly. There will always be other opportunities.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/06/looking-for-investment-property.html' title='Looking for Investment Property'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=115168014530291220' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115168014530291220'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115168014530291220'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-115090002898052283</id><published>2006-06-21T07:12:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-06-21T07:34:55.020-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Arranging Your Floor Plan Through Feng Shui</title><content type='html'>&lt;a href="http://www.traegardner.com/fengshui1.jpg"&gt;&lt;img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.traegardner.com/fengshui1.jpg" border="0" /&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;a href="http://www.traegardner.com/fengshui1.jpg"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Therefore, the entrance to a room should be located so that it aligns with the Career area (our life path) of the ba gua map, while the Fame area (meaning future vision) lies ahead:&lt;br /&gt;Wealth&lt;br /&gt;Fame&lt;br /&gt;Marriage &lt;a href="http://traegardner.com/uploaded_images/fengshui1-700596.jpg"&gt;&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Family&lt;br /&gt;Tai Chi&lt;br /&gt;Children &amp; Creativity&lt;br /&gt;Knowledge&lt;br /&gt;Career&lt;br /&gt;Mentors &amp;amp; Travel&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The ba gua map applies to your entire property as well. The beginning of your driveway is the “entry” to your property.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Keep in mind that each area occupies roughly one third of the length and width of each room. They blend in to each othis, rathis than changing abruptly. As you identify how the ba gua fits over your floor plan, use the walls and hallways to identify which rooms are in which areas.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Each level in a multi-story house will have its own ba gua. If thise’s more than one entrance to a level, it’s okay to apply ba guas for every room.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If your house is irregularly shaped, some parts may stick out from the ba gua. Extensions expand the energy of the area they extend from, and are often a good place for feng shui enhancements.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If the extension seems to be pulling positive energy away from the house, however, one cure would be to place a large mirror in the back wall of the room.&lt;/p&gt;</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/06/arranging-your-floor-plan-through-feng.html' title='Arranging Your Floor Plan Through Feng Shui'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.traegardner.com/fengshuifloorplans.htm' title='Arranging Your Floor Plan Through Feng Shui'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=115090002898052283' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115090002898052283'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115090002898052283'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-115021888695963550</id><published>2006-06-13T10:09:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-06-13T10:23:32.210-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Evaluating Investment Properties</title><content type='html'>&lt;div align="center"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Investing In Real Estate&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Dallas, Texas&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Location is key. A valuable location, a strategically situated piece of land or building, is at the mercy of a number of factors, including the economy, public perception, zoning laws, neighborhood, etc. A savvy investor will know the market and take advantage of potentially lucrative opportunities. Thise are a sequence of steps a commercial real estate investor may want to consider as they begin to grow their investment knowledge.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Small Apartment Complex&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For the first-time investor, after purchasing your own home, the next step would be to consider a small apartment complex. You could live in one of the units, purchase the property using owner financing, decreasing the down payment amount. A small apartment complex also affords you the opportunity to learn how to manage property.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Land&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Raw, unimproved acreage such as farmland or a vacant city lot may not be a lucrative short term investment as thise is no immediate cash flow return and if the land remains idle, thise could be out-of-pocket costs such as taxes, insurance and maintenance. However, as population grows and cities expand, having a piece of land on what was once the outskirts of the city could be an excellent long-term investment.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Build-To-Suits&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This is a land or property owner that offers to build or convert his property to meet the unique requirements of a particular tenant. This is done a couple of ways. One is for the tenant to supply his plans and specifications to the landlord, who in turn has his or his contractor give an estimate of the cost of construction. Alternatively, the property owner can let the tenant build to his specifications while the landlord finances the cost of construction.&lt;br /&gt;Shopping Centers Thise are two main types of shopping centers: Anchored and unanchored. Anchor refers to the main tenant such as a supermarket or major department store that occupies the largest area within the shopping complex. It is the main draw that indirectly generates business for othis tenants in the shopping center. Anchored shopping centers are relatively easy to manage because the responsibilities of the landlord are limited to grounds and structural upkeep, management, insurance and real estate taxes. The tenants themselves are responsible for interior construction, upkeep and repairs.&lt;br /&gt;Strip centers or malls are a series of retail stores usually located on the perimeter of a densely populated neighborhood. They are located on a heavily trafficked commercial street with good visibility and easy access. They represent a smaller investment than an anchored mall and thise is no risk of the departure of a major draw tenant. They are also easier to manage because of their smaller size. However, a strip mall must be well located. Also, smaller tenants tend to have shorter life spans causing a high vacancy rate. Make sure thise is a good mix of stores that complement each othis.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Condominium Stores&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;These are retail spaces located on the street level of apartment dwellings that service the building itself, but also draws street traffic.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Office Buildings&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;These are similar to apartment buildings, but are more service intensive. The owner pays for the building electricity, heating, ventilation and air conditioning as well as internal repairs. Income from office buildings increase with strong economic conditions with more demand for office space, however in economic downtimes, vacancies and lower rents mean lower income. Prices of office buildings fluctuate with widely in relation to the condition of the economy. Investing in an office building is a large undertaking, one usually better left for experienced investor groups until one is more knowledgeable about managing properties.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/06/evaluating-investment-properties.html' title='Evaluating Investment Properties'/><link rel='related' href='http://investing.traegardner.com/evaluating.htm' title='Evaluating Investment Properties'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=115021888695963550' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115021888695963550'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/115021888695963550'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-114960674142577568</id><published>2006-06-06T07:56:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-06-06T08:12:21.483-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Figuring Out Your Budget</title><content type='html'>If you keep careful track of your expenses, it’s not too difficult to estimate how much you can afford to spend on a house.&lt;br /&gt;hise’s a list of expenditures that you can use to help tally up your monthly expenses:&lt;br /&gt;1) Rent&lt;br /&gt;2) Electricity&lt;br /&gt;3) Gas&lt;br /&gt;4) Telephone&lt;br /&gt;5) Auto Loan&lt;br /&gt;6) Auto Insurance&lt;br /&gt;7) Health Insurance&lt;br /&gt;8) Renter’s Insurance&lt;br /&gt;9) Savings/Retirement Contribution&lt;br /&gt;10) Grocery Bill&lt;br /&gt;11) Weekly Transportation&lt;br /&gt;12) Restaurants/Food Delivery&lt;br /&gt;13) Entertainment&lt;br /&gt;14) Health Club&lt;br /&gt;15) Child Care&lt;br /&gt;16) School&lt;br /&gt;17) Children’s Expenses&lt;br /&gt;18) Housecleaning Expenses&lt;br /&gt;19) Vacations (divide annual expense by 12 to figure monthly average)&lt;br /&gt;20) Books/CDs&lt;br /&gt;21) Newspapers/Magazines&lt;br /&gt;22) Laundry&lt;br /&gt;23) Gifts&lt;br /&gt;24) Major Purchases (stereo/computer)&lt;br /&gt;25) Furniture/Decorating&lt;br /&gt;26) Clothing&lt;br /&gt;27) Sundries/Drugstore Items&lt;br /&gt;28) Miscellaneous Expenses&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If your monthly expense total is too close to your monthly after-taxes take-home pay, you should start looking at ways to cut them down.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;One of the newest ways to get pre-qualified for a home loan in minutes is a system called “Computerized Loan Origination” (CLO). Some brokers use it in their offices, but they’re currently unregulated so thise are still some potential problems with them:&lt;br /&gt;Many CLOs only use mortgage packages from one lender. Thisefore, the mortgage company and broker view you as a captive audience, and you could wind up paying more than market value for your loan.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Even if more than one lender is included in the CLO, it still may not be truly competitive. It’s best to use a CLO only when all lenders are included.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The broker may ask you to pay a fee for using his CLO service. Be aware, however, that the broker may have a financial arrangement with the mortgage company or companies displaying their loan packages. In that case, the broker may have a financial incentive to steer you away from better loan.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The best person to pre-qualify you for a loan is usually an independent lender, not your broker, particularly if they’re a sub-agent for the seller.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/06/figuring-out-your-budget.html' title='Figuring Out Your Budget'/><link rel='related' href='http://buyer.traegardner.com/budget.htm' title='Figuring Out Your Budget'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=114960674142577568' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114960674142577568'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114960674142577568'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-114955119044272005</id><published>2006-06-05T16:44:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-06-05T16:46:30.453-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Protect Your Home From Divorce</title><content type='html'>More than half of all marriages end in divorce, yet very few people take the steps necessary to protect their assets from that possibility.&lt;br /&gt;A pre-nuptial agreement is the most basic legal tool to protect assets, but there are also more advanced tools available.&lt;br /&gt;Pre-nuptial agreements may not only define the inheritance rights of various heirs, but can also protect the less-wealthy spouse if he or she is giving up a lucrative career for the marriage.&lt;br /&gt;Pre-nuptial agreements can also help maintain control of family businesses, as well as clarify which state laws will apply in the event of divorce.&lt;br /&gt;If no pre-nuptial agreement exists, the marriage assets will be divided according to state law.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;There are several ways to protect property apart from a pre-nuptial agreement:&lt;br /&gt;Irrevocable trust – may result in loss of control and flexibility. Also, if you retain any control, your spouse may be entitled to some property because of it.&lt;br /&gt;Revocable trust – usually doesn’t protect assets in divorce. Also, if you die, state laws may supersede trust provisions granting no interest.&lt;br /&gt;Limited partnership - after divorce, the spouse who’s the general partner remains in firm control of the assets. If the outcome turns out to be too one-sided, however, courts will often set such schemes aside as unjust.&lt;br /&gt;Gifts – giving away money is a drastic solution, which may fail anyway if done fraudulently.&lt;br /&gt;In order for a pre-nuptial agreement to be binding, the agreement should be not overtly one-sided and there must be full disclosure of both parties’ finances. Any last-minute changes may not be enforceable.&lt;br /&gt;The agreement must be in writing, but changes may be made orally. Courts will be reluctant to interfere if it’s clear that both parties have abided by any changes. The agreement should, however, have a severability clause that makes it clear even if one clause is violated the rest of the agreement remains in force.&lt;br /&gt;The agreement should also make clear that there aren’t any agreements between the spouses other than those in the pre-nuptial. That will prevent either spouse from claiming oral promises were made that must be fulfilled.&lt;br /&gt;Don’t include provisions that encourage divorce, like allowing a spouse to receive more in divorce than he or she would otherwise receive.&lt;br /&gt;If you’ve entered in to a pre-nuptial agreement, avoid placing any assets in joint ownership, as this may supersede the provisions of the agreement.&lt;br /&gt;If you give a significant gift to your spouse, it should come with a signed memo explaining its purpose. That will avoid any later confusion over possible asset protection schemes.&lt;br /&gt;If you cohabit, it’s best to decide in advance how you plan to split your assets. Otherwise, the courts will decide for you.&lt;br /&gt;Disclaimer: This article is provided for information use only. It does not take the place of an attorney, a tax advisor, or an accountant. Always seek out the advice of a licensed professional before undertaking any significant change in your financial situation.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/06/protect-your-home-from-divorce.html' title='Protect Your Home From Divorce'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.traegardner.com/divorce' title='Protect Your Home From Divorce'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=114955119044272005' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114955119044272005'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114955119044272005'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-114927519983586186</id><published>2006-06-02T12:04:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-06-02T12:07:35.336-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Get a free appraisel on your home</title><content type='html'>Take Advantage of a FREE Appraisal!&lt;br /&gt;Either fill out the following feedback form or call me directly at 214-245-5289. You can choose from the following:&lt;br /&gt;A free market analysis without needing to see your home. Obviously, an informal analysis like this will not give you the exact value of your home; however, I pride myself on my extensive knowledge of the inventory and home values, thisefore I can offer you a quick analysis that will provide you with a rough idea of your home value.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I can email, fax or mail your neighborhoods’ most recent sales, allowing you to determine your own opinion of value.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;I can offer you an exact market value appraisal, with no obligation to list your home. This of course is the most accurate and beneficial. In order to be complete, I will need to see your home.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/06/get-free-appraisel-on-your-home.html' title='Get a free appraisel on your home'/><link rel='related' href='http://buyer.traegardner.com/evaluation.htm' title='Get a free appraisel on your home'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=114927519983586186' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114927519983586186'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114927519983586186'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-114919018232202120</id><published>2006-06-01T12:29:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-06-01T12:29:42.333-07:00</updated><title type='text'>How to get the best appraisal for your house or condo</title><content type='html'>How to get the best appraisal for your house or condo &lt;br /&gt;--------------------------------------------------------------------------------&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Technology improves but lacks human touch &lt;br /&gt;Friday, May 26, 2006&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;By Robert J. Bruss&lt;br /&gt;Inman News &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A few weeks ago I enjoyed lunch with one of my favorite Realtors. During our conversation, she told me about a home sale she recently closed in an upscale neighborhood for thousands of dollars above any previous sale price in that area. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;As I drove home from our lunch, I couldn't help but think, "I wonder how that house appraised for a much higher sales price than any recent comparable home sales price in the vicinity?" I sure wouldn't want to be the appraiser who got that assignment.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Purchase Bob Bruss reports online.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;When a home buyer makes a small or zero down payment, the appraisal is vital to obtaining a high loan-to-value ratio mortgage. However, if a home buyer makes a large down payment, then the appraised valuation to confirm the sales price is not so critical. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;WHAT IS AN APPRAISAL? A state-licensed appraiser makes professional real estate appraisals. Any other evaluation, such as a real estate agent's estimate of market value, is not an appraisal, but rather an opinion of market value.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;An appraisal of real estate market value is an estimate by a trained appraiser of the most likely price at which a property will change ownership, with neither the buyer nor seller being under pressure to buy or sell. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But the real world is much different. There are different types of appraisals, such as a "quick sale value," "as-is condition," "future renovated valuation," and others. The skill and experience of the licensed appraiser play a key role in the accuracy of the appraisal.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Until there is an actual property sale, an appraisal is just an estimate of probable market value. However, even when there is a sale, the buyer might have overpaid or a desperate seller might have accepted a below-market purchase offer.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;IS APPRAISAL AN ART OR A SCIENCE? During the last 10 years, there have been many attempts to make real estate appraisals more accurate, especially with automated valuation models (AVMs). Mortgage lenders would be thrilled to be able to verify the exact market value of a house by pressing a few buttons on a computer. Although that day might be coming, it has not yet arrived.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The latest attempt to eliminate the need for appraisers is the free Web site www.Zillow.com, which claims to have 60 million U.S. homes profiled. For several of my properties I checked, I found the results amazingly accurate. I especially like the aerial views with the lot boundaries superimposed.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Then I checked the house where I grew up in Edina, Minn. Zillow reports a one-bedroom, one-bathroom house worth $1.2 million. That house description sounds like a shack. If the valuation is correct, I wish my parents hadn't sold that house. The reality is it is a very nice three-bedroom, two-bathroom house. Zillow isn't always correct.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;However, when houses and condos are relatively similar to nearby houses, AVMs can be very valuable to help estimate market values. But appraisers will always be needed to verify valuations, especially in neighborhoods of unique one-of-a-kind homes.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Although computers have changed real estate appraisals, there is no substitute for the experience of a realty appraiser to interpret the recent sales prices of comparable nearby houses and condos, which determine the market value of a specific home. Equally important, an expert appraiser is needed to evaluate if the local home sales prices are rising, falling, or "normal." So far, computers haven't been able to replace this judgment test.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;HOW TO GET AN ACCURATE APPRAISAL OF YOUR HOUSE OR CONDO. The Internet can be used to research approximate market values of houses and condos, based on recent sales prices of similar neighborhood homes within the last six months. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;But that is just a starting point because each residence is unique. Market value depends on many variables. However, there are still a few basic rules to assure an accurate appraisal:&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1.) GET THE HOME INTO TIP-TOP CONDITION. If you are buying a house or condo, the seller has presumably made the residence look its best. However, if you own the home and need an appraisal for mortgage refinancing or other purpose, aim to put the home into its best "model home" condition before the appraiser arrives.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Because appraisers often inspect three or more houses each day, and can't possibly remember each home's special features, it is best to hand the appraiser a list of the residence's special features, especially those that add market value. Also, if you know of recent nearby home sales prices, be sure to hand that information to the appraiser.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;A Realtor friend of mine, who never has problems getting an appraisal to match the home's sales price, tells me, "I practically do the entire appraisal to be sure the house appraises for the sales price."&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2.) ALWAYS ACCOMPANY THE APPRAISER. Either the real estate agent or the homeowner should always accompany the appraiser to facilitate the inspection and answer the appraiser's questions. Be sure to point out the home's special features and benefits that the appraiser might miss during the inspection.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3.) INSIST THE LENDER WILL PROMPTLY PROVIDE THE BORROWER WITH A COPY OF THE APPRAISAL. Technically, the appraisal belongs to the mortgage lender who hired the appraiser, even when the homeowner or home buyer is paying for the appraisal. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Borrowers should insist their lender agrees to promptly provide the borrower with a copy of the appraisal. If the appraisal comes in low, the home buyer, realty agent, and homeowner should have immediate access to that appraisal to correct any errors. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;For example, when I refinanced my home last year with Wells Fargo Mortgage, I was very impressed when the lender sent me an overnight FedEx copy of the appraisal. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;If the appraisal comes in low, and you see the appraiser made an error evaluating your house or condo, don't hesitate to promptly request a correction or a "review appraisal" by another appraiser (to be paid for by the lender).&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;CONCLUSION: Although appraisal is still very much an art, rather than an exact science, computers continue to help make residence value estimates more accurate. However, licensed appraisers will always be needed to verify the facts and use them to arrive at expert valuations. More details are in my new special report, "How to Get the Best Appraisal of Your House or Condo," available for $5 from Robert Bruss, 251 Park Road, Burlingame, CA 94010 or by credit card at 1-800-736-1736 or instant Internet delivery at www.BobBruss.com.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/06/how-to-get-best-appraisal-for-your.html' title='How to get the best appraisal for your house or condo'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=114919018232202120' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114919018232202120'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114919018232202120'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-114858316148610327</id><published>2006-05-25T11:50:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-05-25T11:52:41.493-07:00</updated><title type='text'>What is a good credit score?</title><content type='html'>A credit score is usually only one factor among several in a given lending decision. It’s usually an important factor, but a lender may also weigh othis criteria heavily as well.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Every lender sets their own criteria based on how much risk they’re willing to assume and how much profit they think they can make, but, generally speaking, the highis the score the better.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Most lenders don’t have a single cutoff point, but instead may have many, with each segment qualifying for different rates and terms.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The most common credit scoring system, FICO (from Fair Isaac &amp; Co.), rates borrowers on a numeric system from 300 points to 850 - the highis the better. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Most American borrowers score 700 or highis on the FICO scale. Many lenders use that number as a cutoff point for offering borrowers their best rates and terms.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/05/what-is-good-credit-score.html' title='What is a good credit score?'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.traegardner.com/goodscore' title='What is a good credit score?'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=114858316148610327' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114858316148610327'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114858316148610327'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-114850098205373416</id><published>2006-05-24T13:00:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-05-24T13:03:02.076-07:00</updated><title type='text'>McKinney Homes For Sale</title><content type='html'>Now you can view every home that is available available for purchase in North Dallas.  Starting with McKinney.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/05/mckinney-homes-for-sale.html' title='McKinney Homes For Sale'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.traegardner.com/McKinneyhomesforsale.htm' title='McKinney Homes For Sale'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=114850098205373416' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114850098205373416'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114850098205373416'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-114840461614168513</id><published>2006-05-23T10:12:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-05-23T10:16:56.150-07:00</updated><title type='text'>What are Lenders Fees</title><content type='html'>Lenders used to charge a flat fee for their services, but as interest rates have fallen most lenders instead charge separately for several different services that used to fall under the flat rate. Some mortgage experts charge that lenders are trying to make up for lost revenue through such schemes.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Federal law requires that lenders provide a written, good-faith estimate of the closing costs, but it’s still a good idea to shop around for the best value, negotiate any questionable fees, and ask for a full explanation for every one.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Here is a list of fees you may expect lenders to charge you (although different lenders may use different names): &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;1.  Loan service fees – the lender’s points is also called a “service fee.” It’s the largest fee paid to the lender and usually runs between 1 and 3 percent of the loan amount.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;2.Loan application fee – it’s usually not refundable, so you’d better make sure you’ll get the loan before applying. Between $0-$350.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;3. Lender’s credit report – the lender may pull two reports on you: one after the application, and one just before closing. You only pay once, however, usually between $40 and $60.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;4. Lender’s processing fee – hise the lender is charging you for the cost of processing the loan. It’s usually between $75 and $125.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;5. Lender’s document preparation fee – the cost of preparing loan documents for the closing. Between $0-$200.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;6. Lender’s appraisal fee – lenders are supposed to charge no more than their cost for having a house appraised. Between $225-$350.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;7. Lender’s tax escrow service fee – a one-time charge to set up and service your real estate property tax escrow. Between $120-$300.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;8. Title insurance cost for the lender’s policy – most times, this will be a flat fee. If you want a title insurance policy that’ll pay you if thise’s a problem, however, that’ll cost more. Between $120-$300.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;9.Special endorsements to title – if the lender requires extra title endorsements (such as for a condo, an environmental lien, etc.), the buyer must pay for them. They usually cost from $15-$50 each.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;10.Pre-paid interest on the loan – the per-day interest charge on the loan from the day of the closing until the last day of the month in which you close. This is paid at closing because the lender has to calculate it by hand. After that, you skip a month and begin paying a regular monthly balance because the loan is paid in arrears. The cost depends on the size of the loan and the interest rate.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;The above charges only include the lender’s fees. Thise are othis closing costs that can be expected as well.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/05/what-are-lenders-fees.html' title='What are Lenders Fees'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.traegardner.comlendersfees2.htm' title='What are Lenders Fees'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=114840461614168513' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114840461614168513'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114840461614168513'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-114815127097552670</id><published>2006-05-20T11:52:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-05-20T11:54:30.983-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Do You Need Credit Restoration</title><content type='html'>United Credit Source Credit Restoration and Credit Repair Program.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt; &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;-Guarantee of a 620 credit score improvement or higher or full money back guarantee.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;-If a client comes to us with a starting mid score of a 580 or higher, UCS will guarantee them a 680 or higher improvement, or a full money back guarantee.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;-We work with all three credit reporting agencies/pulling tri merge credit reports&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;-We work to remove late pays, bankruptcies, collections accounts, repossessions, foreclosures, tax liens, medical and student loans, inquiries, etc.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;-Guarantee that all items that are successfully removed will remain permanently removed from their files.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;-UCS will work on behalf of all of our clients; therefore, client will not have to do any of the work. We can enroll clients right over the phone.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;-UCS will develop a personal client website for each client so they can log in via the internet, and view their starting scores and track their progress.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;-UCS will post new and improved scores every 10 weeks./ updates from the credit bureaus will be sent every 5 weeks.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;-Mortgage referral partner will also have access to a tracking sheet, which will enable them to also keep track of the clients they referred to us, and watch their progress.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;We work to remove all negative/inaccurate items such as bankruptcies, foreclosures, tax liens, medical bills, collection accounts, late payments, charge offs, repossessions, student loans, etc.&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;-Customer Service available Monday thru Friday from 8am to 5PM. Our policy is that all calls get returned the same day, or the following day if calls are received after 5pm.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/05/do-you-need-credit-restoration.html' title='Do You Need Credit Restoration'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.mystonebridgerealtygroup.com/creditrepair' title='Do You Need Credit Restoration'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=114815127097552670' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114815127097552670'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114815127097552670'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-114806089386804486</id><published>2006-05-19T10:10:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-05-19T10:48:13.896-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Ten Questions You Must Ask a Realtor Before You List</title><content type='html'>Most of us sell only a small number of homes in our lifetimes. With limited experience in real estate how are we to be capable of maximizing the profits from our home sale? Many home sellers make the critical mistake of thinking all Realtors are the same. They list with the first agent who comes along. Does it make good business sense to put the responsibility of selling your home with someone who has no plan or qualifications? This special report will educate you with valuable information that will help you make the best decision concerning: Which real estate agent should you list with?&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Start by doing a few hours of research. Ask around... get to know who has the most signs, ads and marketing material in your neighborhood. Who’s the most active agent? Compile a list of agent names and use these questions to help you determine which agent is right for you. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Could you send me some information about yourself? - You can often get a good idea of which agents are the most professional by looking at their promotional materials. If their own materials aren’t professional, how well are they going to market your home? Track how long each agent takes to respond to your request and how quickly they follow up. If they don’t respond efficiently to your listing requests imagine how they’ll handle potential home buyers. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;How many homes have you listed and how many homes have you sold in the last six months? - Look for an agent who has experience with homes similar to yours and is active in your area. If your home has special features look for an agent with experience in those areas. Your agent should have a good record of selling homes, not just listing them. After all, this is your ultimate goal. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;What is your average length of time from listed to sold? - Don’t automatically assume the shorter time on the market the better. That could reflect selling homes quickly at lowball prices. Look at what the asking price was compared to the selling price. An agent who sells close to the asking price and quick is effective at helping clients determine the right price and helping them get it. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;How long have you been in business and what professional organizations do you belong to? - The length of time a real estate agent has been licensed is not a sure fire sign that they’ve been an active seller. They may have been in business for 10 years but only part time, whiseas an agent who’s been in business for 2 years may be a real top producer. So take into account what professional organizations they belong to. The minimum should be a licensed professional who’s a member of the local real estate board and multiple listing service as well as the state and National Association of Realtors. Local community groups and associations are also pluses in terms of networking and commitment. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;Do you have an assistant or support staff? - By employing someone to handle the details of their business the agent can spend more time servicing your needs. However, make sure you know how much time an agent will spend and how much time their assistant will spend on the sale of your home. It may be fine if the assistant does most of the legwork as long as the agent is thise at the most critical times of the transaction period. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;How often will you hold open houses? Will they be public or by appointment only? - Simply putting a sign on your lawn and holding open houses every Sunday will not sell your home. Too frequently open houses make the property a target for low ball bidders. Look for an agent with a specific plan for each open house. The plan should be just one facet of a complete marketing plan. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;What listing price do you recommend and what is that price based on? - Pricing is the most critical step to selling your home. Take great care in choosing an agent with the knowledge to price your home effectively. Keep in mind the selling price should attract prospective buyers to your home, get you top dollar in the current market and reflect the condition of your home. Be realistic and avoid ‘yes agents’, who will say ‘yes’ to any request or price while your home languishes on the market. Lowball agents will try to talk you into an artificial price simply to sell as fast as possible. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;What does the listing agreement entail, what are the beginning and expiration dates, and what are the fee amounts I will be paying? - Have your agent go over every detail in the listing agreement with you until you understand it completely. Make sure the beginning and ending dates are on the agreement; a good standard for length is three months. Know exactly what fees you will be paying and remember that less is not always better. If the agent stands to make very little commission you can bet it will be reflected in the amount of time and effort that is spent marketing your home. If the agent reduces their commission to get the listing it may mean they intend to spend very little money promoting the property. The normal commission is between 5 and 7 percent. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;What disclosure laws apply to me and what do I need to be aware of? - Make sure your agent helps you with locating professional inspectors for the various mandatory home inspections required in your area. Create a home marketing file including a property fact sheet, a property transfer disclosure statement, pest control report, applicable C.C.&amp; R’s , applicable study zones report, structural engineering report, property profile from the title company, plans for alterations or additions, and special equipment report for pools, spas, sprinklers and alarm systems. Your agent should be able to handle this for you. &lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;What types of things separate you from your competition and will you give me some feedback? - How effectively will they advertise? Do they have 24-hour advertising capability? Will all the leads be followed up on by your agent’s team or will they go to othis agents who may have othis listings they would prefer to show? Agents who are innovative and offer new methods of attracting home buyers will measurably outperform agents who rely on methods of the past. Marketing effectively in the 90’s and beyond requires progressive strategies that add value and service for both buyers and sellers!</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/05/ten-questions-you-must-ask-realtor.html' title='Ten Questions You Must Ask a Realtor Before You List'/><link rel='related' href='http://www.traegardner.com/before' title='Ten Questions You Must Ask a Realtor Before You List'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=114806089386804486' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114806089386804486'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114806089386804486'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-114797666124330116</id><published>2006-05-18T11:21:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-05-18T11:27:33.656-07:00</updated><title type='text'>Investors and Using an Agent</title><content type='html'>Many investors avoid real estate brokers to avoid paying commissions. This theory is short-sighted because the only profit that matters is what you make on your investment. Real estate professionals know the market, have qualified buyer (and seller) contacts as well as resources to help you market and sell your property.&lt;br /&gt;For sale by owner ads attract scam artists looking to cheat you out of your property. A broker also acts as a middleman in buyer negotiations, which can cut down on issues caused by the emotional nature of a transaction.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/05/investors-and-using-agent.html' title='Investors and Using an Agent'/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=114797666124330116' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114797666124330116'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114797666124330116'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-114778361894057470</id><published>2006-05-16T05:44:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-05-16T05:46:58.943-07:00</updated><title type='text'></title><content type='html'>&lt;div align="center"&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Things to consider when selling home in balanced market&lt;/strong&gt; &lt;/div&gt;&lt;div align="center"&gt; &lt;/div&gt;For the first time in many years, experts believe we're heading toward a balanced market. A balanced market is one that favors neither buyers nor sellers.&lt;br /&gt;In a seller's market, buyers usually face a lot of competition. They often need to bid over the asking price and waive contingencies to get an offer accepted. In a buyer's market, there are more sellers than buyers. Listings take longer to sell; buyers can afford to be choosy.&lt;br /&gt;A balanced market is somewhere in between a seller's and a buyer's market. However, even in a balanced market, you'll find pockets of variability depending on supply and demand.&lt;br /&gt;For example, in desirable neighborhoods where inventory is low, a balanced market might exhibit characteristics of a seller's market. However, this will only be the case for well-priced listings that are in prime condition, or priced-to-sell fixer-uppers that have a lot of upside potential.&lt;br /&gt;In a hot seller's market, virtually everything sells. This is not the case in a more balanced market. Keep this in mind if you're thinking about selling your current home and buying a new one.&lt;br /&gt;HOUSE HUNTING TIP: It's a great time to make this kind of move because interest rates are relatively low. However, if you intend to buy before selling, be aware that this is a riskier strategy for some homeowners than it was a year ago.&lt;br /&gt;In a strong seller's market, the challenge is finding your next home. But, selling your existing home is often relatively easy. In a balanced market you will have an easier time finding a home, but it could take longer to sell. The other factor to consider is that it may be more difficult to predict ultimate sale price.&lt;br /&gt;The real estate market is not static. Particularly in a transitional market, it can be stronger one month than it is the next. Unless you have ample funds at your disposal, you should factor this in to your home buying strategy.&lt;br /&gt;One homeowner learned this lesson the hard way when they bought a new home in San Francisco before selling their existing Oakland, Calif., home. They made the move in 1994 when the real estate market was in transition. They bought their new San Francisco home when market activity was brisk.&lt;br /&gt;Two months later when their Oakland home went on the market, the market softened enough to delay the sale a few months. The sellers reduced the asking price in order to hasten the sale. They ended up selling for less than they had budgeted for and had to sell stock in order to complete the transaction&lt;br /&gt;If your funds are limited, a safer strategy is to put your home on the market before you buy your new home. You should be actively looking for your new home while you're waiting for your home to sell.&lt;br /&gt;In markets where there are a lot of houses on the market, an offer that is made contingent on the sale of your existing home may be a workable. However, if you're trying to buy into a pocket of the market that is in high demand and where there aren't a lot of homes for sale, like the Upper Rockridge neighborhood in Oakland, a contingent sale offer may stand little chance of being successful even in a more balanced market.&lt;br /&gt;Keep an open mind about your options. If you sell your current home before buying the new one, you'll know exactly how much money you have to work with. You don't have risk of coming up short of the funds you will need to make a financially prudent move.&lt;br /&gt;THE CLOSING: You may have to make a move to an interim rental. But, that's better than racing to buy a home that may not work for you in a couple of years.</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/05/things-to-consider-when-selling-home.html' title=''/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=114778361894057470' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114778361894057470'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114778361894057470'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry><entry><id>tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27941212.post-114736898120013415</id><published>2006-05-11T10:33:00.000-07:00</published><updated>2006-05-16T05:55:48.270-07:00</updated><title type='text'></title><content type='html'>Home sales are up in McKinney&lt;br /&gt;&lt;br /&gt;This list of home sales in McKinney was compiled by MasterFiles Inc. from county deed records. The amount listed is the mortgage, not the total sales price. In each ZIP code, sales are organized alphabetically by street and include the date recorded.&lt;br /&gt;75069&lt;br /&gt;300 block of Ashwood Lane: $492,000. Feb. 27&lt;br /&gt;1400 block of Meandro Ria Lane: $176,000. April 7&lt;br /&gt;600 block of Pelican Hills Drive: $339,700. April 4&lt;br /&gt;400 block of Pond Spring Circle: $150,000. March 29&lt;br /&gt;200 block of Settlers Bend:&lt;br /&gt;$82,600. Feb. 27&lt;br /&gt;1100 block of Shaker Run:&lt;br /&gt;$103,200. April 10&lt;br /&gt;500 block of West Leland Avenue: $164,302. April 10&lt;br /&gt;75070&lt;br /&gt;3400 block of Amanda Way: $159,700. March 29&lt;br /&gt;3700 block of Ash Lane:&lt;br /&gt;$56,000. April 7&lt;br /&gt;10200 block of Ashburn Drive: $100,712. Feb. 24&lt;br /&gt;8700 block of Aviary Drive:&lt;br /&gt;$100,000. April 12&lt;br /&gt;8900 block of Bear Creek Drive: $234,000. April 4&lt;br /&gt;2900 block of Brittany Lane: $116,800. April 7&lt;br /&gt;4300 block of Cannock Drive: $238,000. March 31&lt;br /&gt;2200 block of Cimarron Road: $189,600. April 3&lt;br /&gt;1900 block of Cypress Point Drive: $292,000. April 1&lt;br /&gt;4600 block of Farringdon Lane: $240,000. March 27&lt;br /&gt;9300 block of Fenway Drive: $197,437. March 9&lt;br /&gt;1900 block of Fleming Drive: $220,000. April 6&lt;br /&gt;8400 block of Gallery Way: $259,000. March 29&lt;br /&gt;1900 block of Lanshire Drive: $183,767. April 10&lt;br /&gt;2200 block of Lanshire Drive: $170,570. Feb. 27&lt;br /&gt;3900 block of Lindale Drive: $198,200. April 6&lt;br /&gt;8400 block of Loma Alta Trail: $183,329. April 3&lt;br /&gt;9800 block of Old Field Drive: $145,896. Feb. 28&lt;br /&gt;10100 block of Placid Drive:&lt;br /&gt;$181,293. April 10&lt;br /&gt;5000 block of Quail Creek Drive: $130,000. March 31&lt;br /&gt;6900 block of Ravenwood Drive: $104,000. April 11&lt;br /&gt;9300 block of Sterling Gate Drive: $177,960. April 7&lt;br /&gt;1600 block of Watersedge Drive: $212,000. Feb. 24</content><link rel='alternate' type='text/html' href='http://traegardner.com/2006/05/home-sales-are-up-in-mckinney-this.html' title=''/><link rel='replies' type='text/html' href='http://www.blogger.com/comment.g?blogID=27941212&amp;postID=114736898120013415' title='0 Comments'/><link rel='replies' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.traegardner.com/atom.xml' title='Post Comments'/><link rel='self' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114736898120013415'/><link rel='edit' type='application/atom+xml' href='http://www.blogger.com/feeds/27941212/posts/default/114736898120013415'/><author><name>Stonebridge Realty Group</name></author></entry></feed>