Brian Eddins, e-Pro's Blog

Beautiful Norman home with land!

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 15:21:33 -0800

4BR/2+1BA Single Family House

offered at $299,500

Year Built	2002
Sq Footage	2,528
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	4+ Car garage
Lot Size	4.64 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Beautiful custom built 4 bedroom home sits on 4.6 beautiful acres. Has nice shop on property that could hold several vehicles. approx. 50x60. Solid maple cabinets and 3/4 inch oak floors; granite countertops, new carpet and paint. Just a great home with room to stretch your legs!

Call me for more info
405-887-7000
search local area realestate here
http://www.brianeddins.com

Click below for the virtual tour of this

Norman home with land!

Photo 1

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Tile floor	Family room	Office/Den
Dining room	Dishwasher	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Granite countertop	Attic
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard

Map

Satellite

Hybrid

Cute, Quaint little Norman home for sale.

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 14:55:55 -0800

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $79,900

Year Built	1926
Sq Footage	962
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	8,712 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

Click here for the virtual tour.

http://vt.realbiz360.com/MLS-875164.html

Super cute, centrally located Norman home for sale. This 3 bedroom Norman home sits on two lots across from elementary school. All new carpet and paint, and move in ready! Easy to show! Don't miss out on this great buy.

Call or email me for more info
405-887-7000
brian@doncies.com

search local real estate at
http://www.brianeddins.com

The Money You "Lost" in Your Price Reduction Wasn't Real

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 10:58:22 -0700

I ran across this blog today and it really spoke to me. With the current buyers market we have right now sellers really need to listen. At the end of the day it comes down to "do you want to sell or stay"

Via J. Philip Faranda (J. Philip LLC) Westchester County NY:

With a median home price hovering near $700,000, even a modest price reduction on a Westchester County home can be tens of thousands of dollars. I have to approach a reduction with the diplomacy of a funeral director but be as convincing as a physician imploring his patient to quit smoking.

No one could predict after the stimulus where prices would go, but it is clear that what few buyers we have are skimming the absolute cream off the top and leaving the rest. They even fight over the good stuff, creating an illusion of urgency in isolated precincts. Overall, sadly, median home price is an illusion; it is a metric of the value of those few, unique sought after homes that people watch even when they weren't on sale. They needed nothing. They were priced to the bone for their category.

Money lost in a price reduction was never your money. It was an illusion. It didn't exist. I find myself, more and more, explaining to mournful sellers that the $25,000 that went down the drain when they went from $624,900 to $599,900 was a paramour that never loved them. She never cared, Johnny. The baby wasn't yours. She wanted to close the Copa and make sure you never worked in this town again. For God's sake man pull yourself together, it was all an illusion.

You know, that sort of thing they cover day 2 in licensing class. Or not.

In 2005, 852 single family homes sold in Westchester County with a median price of $732,000.

In 2010, 424 single family homes sold in Westchester County with a median price of $715,000. 428 people got nothing.

The pool of able buyers has shrunken by an absurd amount. Millions of prospects have vanished due to either their own disasters or the new draconian lender underwriting guidelines. What few buyers remain are skeptical, drunk with options, terrified of making a mistake, have no confidence in the future, and are heavily invested in the group think notion that they must get a steal or they will be exposed to grave financial risk. You know, all those happy things perspective home buyers have always focused on.

Here's the reality: If you are multiple listed, staged well, tidy, and have been on the market for 60 or 90 days with no offers or few lookers, the market has spoken; you need to reduce your price. You aren't the McClotchkees down at the end of the cul de sac who sold in the first 30 days. They had something, or ten things, you don't have. And the only adjustment you can make to the buying public is price. A feature ad won't do it. A newspaper display ad won't get it done. Busting your agent's chops to chase down Gladys Pflarphlingston for feedback on a showing 2 weeks ago won't do it. If you are on the MLS, I can show you how many people have clicked on you online and clicked off every week since we listed. You aren't a secret. Quite the opposite: with public searches, serious prospects can tell me their opinion of your toothpaste.

If we are in showing condition with my marketing and you aren't sold, the faster we address price the faster we'll sell. The money you are asking for is not on deposit in the bank of buyer opinion.

We Are Westchester County & Hudson Valley NY Real Estate. Reach Phil at (914) 723-8900.

J. Philip Faranda, Broker-owner, J. Philip Real Estate, LLC. 2010 Vice President, Westchester-Putnam Multiple Listing Service.

I am one of New York's premier short sale REALTORS.

J. Philip Serves Briarcliff Manor, Ossining, Croton, the River Towns, Westchester County, and the bedroom counties of New York City.

Free MLS Search! Register for a Free Listingbook account and search the MLS like an agent.

I am hiring agents. We offer outstanding support, marketing resources, and pasta.

All content/images, unless noted, are the property of J. Philip Faranda & may not be used without permission

Low interest rates today better incentive than $8000 tax credit of yesterday.

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 17:38:53 -0700

I just wanted to let everyone know that Interest rates today are as low as 4.5% on a 30 year fixed loan. There are a lot of buyers out there bummed out that they didn't or couldn't take advantage of the $8000 first time home buyers tax credit. I got to thinking and did some calculations that confirmed my thoughts.

The current low interest rates will actually save you much more than the $8000 hundreds of thousands of americans received this year. Look at it like this.

Most buyers who took advantage of the tax credit received between a 5.3 and 5.5% rate of interest. If you pay interest on a loan amount of $150,000 over 30 years the home buyer today getting the low rate of 4.5% will save $37,000 in interest over the buyer who received the $8000 tax credit with an interest rate of 5.5%. And yes, I did subtract that $8000. We all have that friend who loves to brag about how they got $8000 in free money to buy a house. Next time they bring it up, ask them what their interest rate was. odds are it was not 4.5%.

Smart buyers know that these interest rates are a great incentive to buyers. And, best of all you don't have to be a first time buyer to take advantage.

If you are in the market for a home, or even just thinking about it let me know. I would be honored to walk you through this process.

Brian Eddins

Realtor, e-Pro

405-887-7000

brian@doncies.com

www.brianeddins.com

3-2 home for sale in Purcell $124,900

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 18:10:54 -0700

I have a great 3-2 home for sale in Purcell. This house is approximately 1764sqft and the 2nd and 3rd bedrooms are both 15x12. and have great sized closets. This house was custom built in 1986 and is a one owner home. Here are some pictures of the home for sale in Purcell. As you can see the living room has a woodburning fireplace as well as a beautiful bay window. The kitchen is a great size with a new range and nice tile work.

For more information on this home and anyothers in the area. Give me a call at 405-887-7000. You can also visit www.brianeddins.com to view all of my listings and advertised properties. brian@doncies.com

Click this link to view this home for sale in Purcell

price drop on this west Norman home for sale

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 18:02:13 -0700

This west norman home is located at 2828 Eaton Norman, Ok 73072. The listing price for this home has just been reduced to $179,900. This home is a 3 bedroom 2 bath home with approximately 2000sqft. The great west norman home for sale sits on a .25 acre corner lot and has a side entry 2 car garage. This home has been very well maintained and is a must see. To learn more about this West Norman home for sell check out this link.

Contact me with any questions or to set up a showing.

www.brianeddins.com

405-887-7000 Cell

brian@doncies.com

Norman Oklahoma first time home buyer Money.

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Wed, 14 Jul 2010 17:03:29 -0700

If you missed the $8000 tax credit that was offered from the government you still have the opportunity to get some free money. The city of Norman has it's own first time home buyer money! Qualifying first time home buyers will receive $5000 from the city of Norman when they close on their first home purchase. There are some restrictions of course.

To qualify for this program the household

income must be below 80% of the median.
Purchase price of the house can't exceed $133,000.
Must be able to provide a minimum of 1% of the purchase price.
Must be able to qualify for a mortgage through a NCRC member bank.
In case of non-occupant co-borrower, maximum housing expense to household income of primary borrower can not exceed 41%.
To be qualified as a first time buyer you cannot presently own property, or have owned property in the previous 3 years.
Must be willing to occupy purchased home as principle residence for five years
must attend a home buyer orientation class prior to closing;A schedule of upcoming classes may be obtained from neighborhood housing services. 405-231-4663

Income limits

Family size 80% of median Income

1 $32,750

2 $37,450

3 $42,100

4 $46,800

5 $50,550

6 $54,300

If you have any questions at all about this program just give me a call at 405-887-7000. You can also visit my website at www.brianeddins.com.

Norman Oklahoma Realtor

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 16:43:21 -0700

My name is Brian Eddins and I have been in the Real Estate business for the last 8 years. I am now a Norman Oklahoma realtor. I recently moved to Norman from Austin after my wife Meredith began a job as an assistant professor of sociology at OU. Dont worry, I didnt bring any UT with me:) I consider Norman an excellent place to reside and would love to share with you my enthusiasm for the many neighborhoods that encompass it. As a Norman Oklahoma Realtor, I pride myself on providing unparalleled service and look forward to developing a long-term relationship with you. Please feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss how I can best assist you with your Norman real estate needs.

Click here to learn more about This Norman Oklahoma Realtor.

www.brianeddins.com

brian@doncies.com

405-887-7000 Cell

Fantastic west norman home for sale

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 13:23:25 -0700

I have just listed this great west norman home. This west norman home is located at 2828 Eaton Norman, Ok 73072. The listing price for this Gem is $184,900. This home is a 3 bedroom 2 bath home with approximately 2000sqft. The great west norman home for sale sits on a .25 acre corner lot and has a side entry 2 car garage. This home has been very well maintained and is a must see. To learn more about this West Norman home for sell check out this link.

Contact me with any questions or to set up a showing.

www.brianeddins.com

405-887-7000 Cell

brian@doncies.com

coco Mulch can kill your pets

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Tue, 20 Apr 2010 10:47:15 -0700

Please share this with all the pet owners you know and ask them to do the same - the information you take a few minutes to share might prevent the senseless loss of other pets.

Please tell every dog or cat owner you know. Even if you don't have a pet, please pass this to those who do.
Over the weekend,   the doting owner of two young lab mixes purchased Cocoa Mulch from a large chain store to use in their garden. The dogs loved the way it smelled and it was advertised to keep cats away from their garden. Their dog (Calypso) decided the mulch smelled good enough to eat and devoured a large helping. She vomited a few times which was typical when she eats something new but wasn't acting lethargic in any way. The next day, Mom woke up and took Calypso out for her morning   walk . Half way through the walk, she had a seizure and died instantly.

this product is HIGHLY toxic to dogs   and cats.

Cocoa Mulch is manufactured by Hershey's, and they claim that "It is true that studies have shown that 50% of the dogs that eat Cocoa Mulch can suffer physical harm to a variety of degrees (depending on each individual dog). However, 98% of all dogs won't eat it."
*Snopes site gives the following information :http://www.snopes.com/critters/crusader/cocoamulch.asp

Cocoa Mulch, which is sold by Home Depot, Foreman's Garden Supply and other Garden supply stores contains a lethal ingredient called 'Theobromine'. It is lethal to dogs and cats. It smells like chocolate and it really attracts dogs. They will ingest this stuff and die. Several deaths already occurred in the last 2-3 weeks.

Theobromine is in all chocolate, especially dark or baker's chocolate which is toxic to dogs. Cocoa bean   shells contain potentially toxic quantities of theobromine, a xanthine compound similar in effects to caffeine and theophylline. A dog that ingested a lethal quantity of garden mulch made from cocoa bean shells developed severe convulsions  and died 17 hours later. Analysis of the stomach contents and the ingested cacao bean shells revealed the presence of lethal amounts of theobromine.

**PLEASE PASS THIS ON**

Sold!

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Tue, 30 Mar 2010 16:33:57 -0700

I have some great real estate for sale in the Lake Stanley Draper area. It is a 4 bedroom home with 2 full baths and sits on 2 acres in the Draper lake estates subdivision. This home was originally built in 1975 and has recently been updated. The home still needs a little finishing touches hear and there but nothing serious. This home out by Lake stanley Draper is approx. 1500sqft and 2165sqft if you count the converted garage. This is a beautiful, quiet, Rural area. A wonderful place to watch the sunset. This home was marketed last year at $200,000. We are asking $145K. The seller has dropped the price for a quick sale. Let me know if you have any interest at all.

You can learn more about this Lake Stanley Draper Real Estate by clicking here.

You can also visit my website at Http://www.brianeddins.com.

Sold!

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 12:14:20 -0800

HUGE PRICE REDUCTION as of June 2010. $159,900

I have a great deal on a 4-2 home for sale in Lexington. the home is 2012 sqft and sits on 1.34 acres. This home for sale in Lexington is a Short sale and we do have lender approval already. This should be a quick close. This property is in pretty good shape, shows some signs of wear. Needs new carpet and some cleaning but a little work will turn this home into a beauty. This home for sale in Lexington has a large 3 car garage, granite counters, ceramic tile floors, his/hers sinks and a huge lot with lots of potential.

Here are some pictures of this great home for sale in Lexington.

Feel free to call or email me with any questions on this home. You can also see more info by clicking great home for sale in Lexington.

Also visit my website at www.brianeddins.com to view all of my advertised properties.

brian@doncies.com

405-887-7000

Home for sale Near OU!

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 12:46:48 -0800

I have a fantastic home for sale near OU. The address is 1519 Magnolia and it is a 3434sqft 4-4 home. This Remarkable home for sale near OU is on a private cul-de-sac. This home has had many updates over the last few years. Beautiful kitchen w/all new appliances, granite, and builtins. Way too many upgrades to list here. Mother-in-law plan has second master suite w/its own private entrance. Home is close to the university and has easy access to Hwy 9 and I-35. This home for sale near OU is truly a gem. You can learn more about this home by going to Home for sale near OU. This 3400sqft home is priced well at $352,900. I have included a few pitures of the home for sale near OU so you can appreciate the upgrades that this home as to offer.

You can visit my website at www.brianeddins.com

you can call or email me at 405-887-7000

brian@doncies.com

sold!

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 12:04:31 -0800

I have a great little house in a nice quaint neighborhood in Norman ok for sale. This Norman Ok starter home for sale would be perfect for first time home buyers. This home is located at 215 E. Dale Norman ok 73069. this is a nice location for a student at OU, or even a nurse with one of the many nearby hospitals. Click the link below to see the walk score of this home. The walk score lets you know all of the conveniences around this great Norman Ok starter home.

walk score for this Norman Ok Real Estate

I have included some pictures of this home below. This Norman Ok starter home is a beautiful 2-2 home with updates that include wood floors, new tile kitchen countertops, slate tile, new carpet and lighting fixtures. A real gem. This home has vaulted ceilings, full bath. Full one car garage w/carport. second living room off kitchen has full bath and closet and could easily be used as third bedroom and a master suite as it has a full bath and closet. This Norman Ok real estate is really worth seeing. This home is 1378sqft and priced at $99,900

HUGE PRICE REDUCTION.

Click here to learn more about this Norman Ok real estate.

you can also vist my website at www.brianeddins.com

Please call or email me with any questions.

405-887-7000

brian@doncies.com

Acreage in Purcell for sale

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 11:16:05 -0800

I have some great Acreage in Purcell for sale. This land is a triangular shaped parcel of 46.06 acres touching I-35 & HWY 74. This Acreage in Purcell has a communication tower and sign lease that brings in $10,000 a year in revenue. This Can be transferred to buyer with an acceptable offer. This land has great development or commercial potential!

I have included a picture of the location of the Acreage in Purcell. It's a little hard to read. to help you understand, I-35 is the highway to the right of the land. Hwy 74 is to the front of the land where the cell tower is located. This acreage in Purcell would be great for a subdivision, nursing home, events center, etc. There are all kinds of possibilities.

You can learn more by going to acreage in Purcell.

Please call or email me with any questions. The seller is motivated. Bring us offers! You can reach me at 405-887-7000. or visit my website at Norman real estate.

You can email me at brian@doncies.com

z57 solutions ???

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 21:50:33 -0800

a couple of years ago I posted a blog asking for feedback about z57 internet solutions. For those of you that don't know, z57 solutions is a website hosting company that specializes in building and hosting web sites for Real Estate professionals. you can check them out at z57 Solutions.They put on a pretty tough sales pitch so I wanted to do my research.

The first comments I received were fine and I was really wanting to get the ball rolling so I decided to work with them. I have had my site with them for about 2 years now. I have had an ok result. You can check out my site at Norman Real Estate. I have actually had a pretty good experience with z57 solutions over the last couple of years. Maybe I am just really low maintenance. However there seem to be many other agents out there who do not share my same experiences.

Since my original post I have received 38 responses. Most being quite negative. See my z57 anyone blog to check out my original post with the responses. I really think that you get out of it what you put into it. A few of the complaints were from people unhappy with the amount of traffic they had. You can't just put a site up and expect buyers or sellers to find it. Not saying that these agents thought that you could. With that being said, most of the comments here had little to do with this and more to do with the way they do business.

I must say, I am a little turned off now that I have read all of the these comments. I mean, I already have my site with z57 solutions. I'm not going change companies now. I might have gone a different direction had I known more upfront though. Should I refer them? I know quite a few people who have expressed interest in getting their own website. I can't refer them to z57 solutions with good conscience can I? I mean my experience has been fine. What do you think?

home for sale in Purcell

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 16:28:06 -0800

Here are some pictures of the home for sale in Purcell.

As you can see the living room has a woodburning fireplace as well as a beautiful bay window. The kitchen is a great size with a new range and nice tile work. This will be a great home for first time home buyers looking to take advantage of the first time homebuyers tax credit of $8000. For more information on this home and anyothers in the area. Give me a call at 405-887-7000.

You can also visit www.brianeddins.com to view all of my listings and advertised properties.

brian@doncies.com

Click this link to view this home for sale in Purcell

social network joke.

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:55:32 -0700

I can't remember where I heard this but I thought it was pretty good.

I recently heard that myspace, twitter, and facebook are going to merge together and create one huge social networking site. They are still brainstorming name ideas, But last I heard they were going to go with "my-twitt-face"

Just a little joke to keep friday moving in the right direction.

Oklahoma City one of the strongest housing markets

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:36:42 -0700

Healthiest Housing Markets 2009: Fall Update

This is very interesting. When this artical first came out Oklahoma wasn't even on the map. The Fall update shows Oklahoma City and the surrounding areas as number 5 of the healthiest housing markets in the US.

Here is the list and an explanation of why each market made the list. For more info and to read the article in full click here.

#20 Killeen-Temple-Fort Hood, Texas

Home building in Killeen, home to Fort Hood, is down, to be sure. In fact, the central Texas metro area experienced a 33% decline in building permit activity during the first half of the year. With an unemployment rate hovering around 7.2%, Killeen has fared better than most markets around the country. Employment has helped prop up median home prices, which have barely fallen with just a 2.2% decline in the last year. They don't have far to go, since the median price of a home here is an ultra-affordable $89,450. Killeen's relative health has single-family builders betting conditions will improve. They pulled 12% more permits in the second quarter of the year, compared to a year earlier, though multifamily permit activity plummeted.

#19 Raleigh-Cary, N.C.

Though unemployment woes have arrived in Raleigh, home prices have held steady during the last year, dropping a mere 1.6%, in part because the city has added so much population in recent years (roughly 5% growth annually). Builders in Raleigh, which is home to the Research Triangle, multiple universities, and the state capital, have successfully pushed entry-level housing this year, taking advantage of the $8,000 federal tax credit. Raleigh added more households on a percentage basis than any other top 20 city on the list in the last year. Existing home sales in August were running only 1% below levels of a year earlier. As a result of the market's relative strength, median home prices--$218,000 in August-were holding up well compared to other parts of the country.

Busiest builders: Pulte Homes, KB Home, Centex Homes, Atreus Homes & Communities, Standard Pacific Homes.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#18 Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers, Ark./Mo.

During the first eight months of the year, the economic recession finally caught up with Fayetteville, which dropped several notches in our rankings. Located in the foothills of the Ozarks and within an easy drive of Wal-Mart's Bentonville, Ark., corporate headquarters, this metro has recently been named one of the best places to live (by Kiplinger) and to do business (by Inc.). During the first nine months of the year, employment declined just 1.1% and median household income slipped only 2.3% compared to the same period a year earlier. Unemployment here (6.4%) is still well below the national average, and median home prices are a very affordable $106,000. Bentonville, which accounts for about half the activity in the MSA, is also the hottest part of the market, thanks to a flurry of multifamily activity.

#17 Provo-Orem, Utah

Home to Brigham Young University and great skiing, fundamentals in Provo have held up better than most during the housing recession, due in part to strong in-migration to this metro during most of the decade. Even so, with Moody's Economy.com expecting less than a thousand permits to be pulled here this year, Provo is operating at about 20% of the production it maintained in the 2005-2007 period. Housing prices in Provo, which seemed to escape deflation during much of 2007 and 2008, finally fell 18.4% during the first nine months of 2009. Foreclosures are certainly a factor; Provo has the highest foreclosure rate in Utah, which itself has one of the higher foreclosure rates in the country.

#16 Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, Ark.

Little Rock is rockin' the recovery. Moody's Investor Services recently announced this Arkansas city has the second most diverse economy in the nation. An Associated Press report in August named Little Rock as a "resurgent" Southern market, thanks to a 5% increase in existing home sales in July, data that came from the Arkansas Realtors Association. The next month the group reported that existing home prices rose 8%. Job losses haven't increased much during the year in Fayetteville, which also benefits from a very affordable median existing home price of $126,000. Still not convinced? Try this: Little Rock was ranked by the Brookings Institute as the seventh-best metro economy in the country this year, with the second-best overall growth from 2008 to 2009.

#15 Charleston-North Charleston-Summerville, S.C.

The recession settled into Charleston this year, as unemployment nearly doubled to 11%. This happened even as the attractive port city continued to add population at a 2% annual rate. Home prices, which held pretty steady in 2008, took a tumble this year, falling 10.9% during the first nine months of 2009. At $180,000, the median price of an existing home is now below 2004 levels. Rising joblessness has led to a 33% decline in permit activity through June of this year. Even so, the city's long-term prospects have to be considered good. Two of the four biggest employers here are military bases, and the health sector accounts for the other two.

Busiest builders: Centex Homes, KB Home, The Ryland Group, Beazer Homes USA, Lennar Corp.

Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#14 Omaha-Council Bluffs, Neb./Iowa

While other housing markets have swung to extremes in recent years, a strong and diversified economy has helped Omaha remain steady during the last nine months. Median home prices remained in the mid-$130,000s in the 2nd quarter of 2009, not far from where they stood during the housing "boom." One of the biggest beneficiaries of Omaha's stability has been its biggest builder, HearthStone Homes, which hopes to equal in 2009 the 882 single family closings it achieved in 2008. The company has benefited from a four-year contract (which ends next year) to build homes at Offutt Air Force Base. With about 11,000 employees, Offutt qualifies as the single biggest employer in Omaha. The most famous firm with an Omaha office? Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway holding company, which owns Johns Mansville and Shaw Industries, among others.

Busiest Builders: HearthStone Homes, Celebrity Homes, Charleston Homes, Lane Building Corp., Barr Homes.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#13 Denver-Aurora-Broomfield, Colo.

People are still moving to Denver, which remains a place where many people would like to live. The city's popularity has helped keep median home prices at a rather lofty $179,850, which is still down 15% in the last year. Jobs certainly aren't the main draw; unemployment in the Denver metro area stands at 9.4%. Such trends have forced builders to respond with new product offerings. While Arcadia Properties has seen success with an infill project, most of the leading builders in Denver have introduced smaller, more affordable homes to compete with foreclosures, which have steadily declined during the last year.

Busiest builders: Richmond American Homes, D.R. Horton, Oakwood Homes, KB Home, Century Communities.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#12 Des Moines-West Des Moines, Iowa

With many economists suggesting that unemployment will continue to rise into 2010, Des Moines boasts an unemployment rate of 5.5%, half the national number and the lowest among its fellow 20 healthiest housing markets. The top two employers here are financial institutions Wells Fargo and Principal Financial Group, and this sector of the economy contributes about a quarter of the region's income. With a median existing-home price of about $140,000, prices are still running at 2004 levels after hitting a high-water mark of $152,000 last year. Des Moines had the best growth rate among all metropolitan economies during 2008-2009, according to The Brookings Institution. But that didn't stop building permit levels from dropping 42% during the first half of the year.

#11 Madison, Wis.

Madison is another one of those markets lucky to be the state capital and have a major university, the University of Wisconsin. Together, these businesses have helped keep unemployment at a low 7.4% through August 2009. One of the fastest growing portions of Wisconsin, the Madison MSA had an estimated population of 562,000 in 2008. It also has one of the most educated workforces in the nation, and consistently ranks among the best places to live and work in the country. Even so, 2009 permit levels in Madison are running at half of 2008 rates, thanks to a big slide in multifamily activity. The median home price, which dropped 5.9% in the first nine months of the year, currently stands at $211,000.

#10 Olympia, Wash.

With a population of nearly a quarter million, Olympia is one of the smallest of the top 100 markets. But the state capital, located about 60 miles from Seattle, is also among the strongest. Olympia's housing correction has been a mild one; at $184,000, existing home prices remain above 2004 levels. Even so, a state government hiring freeze, enacted in 2008, has curtailed employment here, and the unemployment rate is now running at 9.9%. Though new households are still forming, median income levels have fallen 8.5% during the last year. Olympia also happens to be the home of Scott Homes, named Builder of the Year by the NAHB Research Center for its work building energy-efficient homes.

# 9 Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, Texas

Though Dallas is now shedding jobs-it managed to increase them last year because of its attractiveness as a business center-home prices here have held steady; they are down less than 6% year-over-year. Because builders have refrained from building speculative inventory, local housing forecasters believe the housing market seems to have reached bottom. With the median price of a home holding at $135,000, Mark Dotzour, chief economist at the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, believes that there isn't much risk of further price decline. David Brown, of housing analysis firm Metrostudy, added that there's only a three months' supply of new homes left in this major housing market.

Busiest builders: D.R. Horton, Highland Homes, Centex Homes, David Weekley Homes, Meritage Homes.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#8 Salt Lake City, Utah

With a relatively low unemployment rate of 6.3%, resilient resale pricing, and strong population growth, Salt Lake City hasn't felt the same pain as other markets. Even so, Salt Lake, which is home to the University of Utah, has lost some jobs during the last nine months, mostly in construction. Existing home prices, which were $212,000 in September, didn't decline much during the downturn; they still run above 2006 levels, propped up by strong household formation. Interestingly, 75% of the permit activity during the first half of the year in Salt Lake has been in multifamily, reversing a four-year trend in this past Olympic host city.

Busiest builders: Ivory Homes, Richmond American Homes, Woodside Homes, Garbett Homes, Trophy Homes.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#7 Tulsa, Okla.

Though Tulsa largely avoided the housing bubble, this Great Plains market has not escaped the recession. As Tulsa lost jobs in manufacturing, energy, and other sectors, new-home construction slowed. Construction starts were off 29% during the first eight months of the year compared to a year earlier, according to local reports. But with unemployment a low 7.2%, and housing prices a very affordable $128,000 (down only 3% in the last year), Tulsa appears poised to recover before many other markets.

#6 Baton Rouge, La.

For a short time following Hurricane Katrina, Baton Rouge became the largest city in Louisiana. Since then, many of those temporary residents have moved back to New Orleans, but the metro area's housing market has remained in decent shape. A port city that is home to the second largest oil refinery in the country, Baton Rouge is also the state capital and home of Louisiana State University (LSU). Its strong and diversified employment base has contributed to a jobless rate of only 6.7%. It is one of only three top 100 markets to have added jobs during the first nine months of the year. Permits, though, are off 46% during the first six months, with most of the decline in multifamily.

#5 Oklahoma City, Okla.

In Oklahoma City, another oil patch market that never hit pay dirt in housing, the median price of an existing home is $126,000, the lowest of the top 10 markets on this list. Home prices in Oklahoma City, which is situated in the middle of an oil field, have barely budged in the last year. The city has even seen the development of loft and condominium projects. Though Oklahoma City, which houses both the University of Oklahoma and Tinker Air Force Base, has shed some jobs in the last nine months, its unemployment rate, 6.45%, stands well below the national average. Finally, foreclosures haven't been the problem in Oklahoma City that they have been in other markets.

Busiest builders: Ideal Homes of Norman, Home Creations, D.R. Horton, Rausch Coleman Homes, Sooner Traditions.

Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#4 Houston-Sugar Land-Baytown, Texas

Inexpensive labor and land costs have always made Houston an extremely affordable housing market. Even so, softness in the energy sector put a dent in Oiler country this year. The city lost 2.6% of its jobs in the first nine months of the year, compared to a similar period last year, though its unemployment rate, 7.8%, remains below the national average. Though building permits are running 46% below last year's levels through June, activity picked up in August compared to the prior year, according to David Jarvis, director of Metrostudy's Houston region. At a recent housing forecast conference, Jarvis predicted that permits would be up in the second half of the year on a year-over-year basis.

Busiest builders: Lennar Homes, Perry Homes, Long Lake, Ltd., MHI/McGuyer Homebuilders, and David Weekley Homes.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#3 Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, D.C./Va./Md./W.Va.

Washington, D.C., is one of the few major markets to actually record an increase in new home sales this year; sales were up 17% through June, according to Hanley Wood Market Intelligence, though the market slowed in September. The federal government appears to be living up to its reputation as a counter-cyclical buffer, though many of the jobs in the nation's capital are now in the tech sector. Home prices in this high-priced region seemed to correct early. Median home prices fell 20% in 2008 and have fallen another 21% through September of this year. But in a research note, market researcher Dan Fulton recently asserted that home prices probably won't decline further. In his opinion, Northern Virginia doesn't have enough housing, while Maryland's Prince George's and Charles counties continue to suffer from oversupply. Washington qualifies as one of the most affluent markets in the country with a median income of $83,500.

Busiest builders: Ryan Homes, Centex Homes, K. Hovnanian Homes, Beazer Homes, The Ryland Group.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#2 San Antonio, Texas

The recession arrived in San Antonio earlier this year, when employment finally turned negative due to weakness in the manufacturing sector. But with military bases as three of its top four employers, this Texas city may see better employment numbers next year, potentially fueling housing growth. Housing here remains affordable at a median of $148,000, with prices declining a mere 1.6% during 2009. In addition, San Antonio routinely ranks among the best cities for relocation, and has been gaining population at a rate of 2.8% annually, a trend that continued even this year. Despite favorable trends, though, San Antonio housing permits have fallen 54% so far this year, and comparisons may wind up even lower before the year is over. A full 72% of the action is in single-family rather than multifamily permits.

Busiest builders: D.R. Horton, Centex Homes, KB Home, Fieldstone Communities, Pulte Homes.
Courtesy: Hanley Wood Market Intelligence.

#1 Austin

Even though it took a step backward during the last six months, Austin happens to be the only market on our list that is genuinely close to healthy. Home prices, which rose in 2008, finally declined this year-they are down 4.6% through September-as this Texas metro ended a long run of employment growth and lost some jobs. But its population has expanded by 4.3% during the first half of 2009, which should add housing demand and help firm up home pricing. It was the same story with Austin-area employment numbers, which remained in positive territory until mid-2009, when its manufacturing segment began losing jobs. Still, unemployment in this progressive city runs only about 7%, significantly below the national average. Dell Computer is Austin's largest employer, with about 17,000 jobs. Austin continues to draw population, especially retirees, with its low cost of living, inexpensive housing, and warm-weather climate. The city had the third highest household growth rate in percentage terms among the top 100 market. Even so, permit activity fell by 38% during the first half of the year.

Busiest builders: D.R. Horton, Centex Homes, Pulte Homes, Lennar Homes, KB Home.

Short Sale acceptance anyone???

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 14:39:06 -0700

Has anyone had any experience working with Short Sale Acceptance? They are based out of Austin and they buy short sales. They negotiate with the lenders and then put the home on the market to sell. They only close once a new buyer is lined up to guarantee their profit. I have been working with these guys on a listing I have for over 6 months now. It was really our only option as the seller and I were getting no where with his bank. I am just curious if anyone else out there has had any positive experiences. You can learn more about them at http://www.shortsaleacceptance.com/

Thanks so much!

Amazing Brookhaven home for only $139,900

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 14:14:43 -0700

Check out this Amazing Brookhaven home for only $139,900. 3825 Bristol is a great little 3-2 home with 1507sqft. The home is in the first phase of brookhaven built in 1968. This home is a bit dated but priced accordingly. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone to live in Brookhaven for under $180K. Just a little work will turn this gem into a show stopper. Let me know if you have any questions. www.brianeddins.com

How you can help extend the $8000 tax credit for first time home buyers!

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 19:15:56 -0700

Click here to learn how you can help extend the tax credit through 2010. Its easy!

It is important that we all work together to extend this tax credit for our first time home buyers. It has been a great sucess and has helped thousands of Realtors all over the country sell homes this year. Lets get these home buyers off the fence in 2010.

11 mistakes sellers typically make

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 17:42:46 -0700

Avoid 11 Mistakes

1. Refusing to Make Profit Inducing Repairs - It always costs you more money to sell "as is" that to make repairs that will increase the value of your home. Often even minor improvements will yield as much as three to five times the repair cost at the time of sale. Your agent will be able to point out what repairs will significantly increase the value of your home. Seemingly small fix up jobs can have quite an impact.

2. Not Considering Other Financing Terms - Cash is always the most advantageous transaction. Income level, tax benefits and current legislation are all critical factors when considering purchase terms. Professional real estate agents are experts at home transactions and can lead you down the path that will give you the highest yield.

3. Provide Easy Access for Showings - Accessibility is a major key to profitability. Appointment only showings are the most restrictive, while a lock box is the least. However there are certain considerations to take into account . . . your lifestyle, time frame for the desired sale and the relationship with your agent. The more accessible your home, the better the odds of finding a person willing to pay your asking price. You never know if the one that couldn't get a viewing was the one that got away. By developing a trusting relationship with your agent, he or she will show the home with your best interests in mind.

4. Priced Too Low/Priced Too High - One critical reason to find the right professional is to make sure the property is priced appropriately for a timely and profitable sale. If the property is priced too high it will sit and develop the identity of a problem property. If it's priced too low it could cost you considerable profits. The real estate market has subtle nuances and market changes that should be evaluated by your agent every 10-14 days to help you maximize your return.

5. Relying Solely on Traditional Methods To Sell Your Home - The agent who is innovative and willing to offer new strategies of attracting home buyers will always outperform agents who rely on traditional methods. Demand around the clock advertising exposure, innovative lead generation methods lead accountability and cutting edge Internet strategies. These services exist and should be offered on your home sale.

6. Market Timing/Seasonal Selling - Just as a broker who continually follows the trends of a stock, your professional agent continually follows trends of your home market. They will know if the market cycle is poised to net you the most money. Disregard believing property sales are seasonal . . . sells better in spring than winter . . . property is always selling.

7. Refusing to Make Cosmetic Changes - The prospective home buyer's first impression is the most important. An unbelievable amount of homes sales have been lost to unkempt lawns, cluttered rooms, bad stains, unpleasant odors . . . all the seemingly little things

Imagine you were the home buyer and cleaned your placed from top to bottom . . . military style.

8. Wasting Time With An Unqualified Prospect - Your agent's responsibility is to screen a prospect's qualification before valuable time is lost. Be sure to align yourself with the right professional and eliminate negotiating with unqualified prospects.

9. Don't Test The Market - Never put your property on line to sell unless you are serious. The right professional will find you buyers and if you are harboring indecision . . . you will slow the sale.

10. Believing You are Powerless to Make a Difference - Be part of the team! Take an active role with your agent to see what you can do to facilitate your sale. Networking with professional peers and personal friends often results in the sale of a home. It's surprising how many homes are sold this way.

11. Believing All Realtors® are the Same - with all the intricate details and critical decisions to be made concerning your home sale, should you rely on anyone but a top producing professional? Many friends and family members have been estranged as a result of failing to meet expectations. Your home sale is a time consuming, effort related, difficult task. Maximize your profit by utilizing a professional.

Real estate joke

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 16:51:20 -0700

I thought this joke was worth sharing. Enjoy!

A real estate agent had just closed his first deal, only to discover that the piece of land he had sold was completely under water.

"That customer's going to come back here pretty mad," he said to his boss. "Should I give him his money back?"

"Money back?" roared the boss. "What kind of salesman are you? Get out there and sell him a houseboat."

Yearbook yourself!

Brian Eddins, e-Pro (Don Cies Real Estate) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:44:17 -0700

I thought this was a pretty cool website. goto www.yearbookyourself.com and kill some time today. Its a fun way to make fun of yourself. Here are some of my yearbook pictures from different decades. I look like Zack Morris in my 1996 picture. Enjoy!

Me in 1952 Me in 1954

me in 1958 Me in 1966

Me in 1986 Me in 1996