The Dallas Real Estate and Short Sale Blog from HomeSalesRemedy.com

Are You Ready for a Short Sale Throwdown?

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 22:52:27 -0600

I love food... and Sunday nights there is nothing I enjoy more than watching the Iron Chef on the Food Network... but this post is inspired by the show which follows Iron Chef, Throwdown with Bobby Flay.

I like to consider myself the Bobby Flay of Dallas Short Sales. I still can remember almost 6 years ago when I listed my first Short Sale how hard it was to find anyone in my market who had ever heard of a Short Sale, let alone had worked a Short Sale deal themselves. Even today, Short Sales seem to be less common than they are in many other parts of the country, so finding a Dallas Short Sale Specialist who actually has significant experience can be difficult for consumers.

Often when my phone rings, the home seller on the other end of the line will tell me that they were just about to list with another agent but they found me on Google or Yahoo or Bing and decided to call me to see if I could offer something more or different than the other agent they are speaking with.

It's like on Throwdown, some chef is just doing their thing, feeling confident, and then Bobby Flay shows up unexpectedly to challenge them to a Throwdown, making his take on their signature dish. I love the excitement of sharing my knowledge and experience with consumers and I am always amazed at how many people are moments away from listing their homes as a short sale with agents who have no experience in this specialized type of transaction.

Now don't get me wrong, I have taught classes on Short Sale transactions and have personally mentored other agents in this area (at no cost to them). I am a huge believer, as I know Bobby Flay is about cooking, that more people doing what we do well only means better things for everyone. I have always believed ours is an industry of friendly competition and will continue to promote that spirit in my community. But like Bobby, I also enjoy competing against my colleagues... the competition always seems to raise the bar and no matter who gets the business, the winner is (and should be) the consumer.

Knowing my markets, knowing the different short sale lenders and their policies and procedures, my nearly 6 years of experience and knowing the implications and "ins and outs" of Short Sales gives me a lot to draw on in a Throwdown. If you want to do the best job, you need to be prepared and hone your craft. And even if you are prepared and lose the listing, you will inevitably learn something which helps prepare you to win the next time.

So, as they ask at the end of each episode of Throwdown... To all you Short Sale Specialists out there... Keep doing what you do, but ask yourself this: Are you ready for a Throwdown?

When is a Short Sale NOT a Short Sale?

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:52:28 -0600

Ah... the ultimate Real Estate riddle... well perhaps not, but it's still an interesting question to ponder!

The answer is, in a nutshell, when someone wants a house badly enough that they are willing to pay a purchase price above what is being asked on a Short Sale listing so that the seller is no longer "shorting" their mortgage.

I never would have believed it in this competitive market, but this recently happened to me. An agent contacted me on one of my listings, had a client who wanted the house, didn't want to go through the process of a short sale to save themselves a few dollars and asked me how much did they need to offer to change this from a short sale to a FAST sale?

Now, clearly, this would be a cost prohibitive option in the case of many Short Sales, but in a situation where the buyer has some cash, and difference between what is owed and what the property is worth is not a hugely significant amount, and where the property is desirable and in great shape, well this really is a solution that makes EVERYBODY (Buyer, Seller and Both Agents) happy. And that this happened to me and will close in less than 30 days was enough to make me do a little dance of joy (considering I was anticipating a 3-4 month close knowing this short sale lender)!

The downside? Hmmm... well I guess I will have one less Short Sale negotiator to send a holiday card to this year. Yeah, I can live with that!

The Trains at Northpark: All Aboard A Dallas Holiday Tradition

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 17:46:23 -0600

I was just in Northpark Center this week and it occurred to me that it is nearly time for an annual Dallas Event... The Trains at NorthPark.

For 22 years, children and adults have taken a break from their holiday shopping at NorthPark to enjoy the over 35 "O" Gauge trains and the amazingly realistic scenery created for the display. What many people do not realize is that the Trains display is a fundraiser for the Ronald McDonald House of Dallas. The model trains in the exhibit will travel across America from the Golden Gate Bridge to New York's Times Square, passing Mount Rushmore and our nation's capital too. It's a wonderful holiday event and benefits an outstanding cause.

The Ronald McDonald House serves as a home to parents and family members bringing critically ill children to Dallas hospitals for treatment. According to the Ronald McDonald House website, the train exhibit has become so popular that it now generates half of their annual budget! With this year's economic conditions, I am certain that public support of this event is more crucial than ever!

Be sure to check out what I consider to be one of the premier train displays I have ever seen... it will bring out the kid in anyone!

Dates: Saturday, November 21, 2009 - Sunday, January 3, 2010

Hours of Operation:
Monday-Saturday: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Sunday: Noon - 6 p.m.
(Early closings on days before holidays and on New Year's Day)

Location:
Inside the NorthPark Center mall.

Cost:
$6.00 for adults, $3.00 for children & seniors (65 and older). Children under 2 are free.

Not So Speechless Sunday: Sometimes You're the Windshield and Sometimes You're the Bug!

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:13:07 -0600

Have you ever looked up from what you were doing to be startled by what's in front of you? Sometimes it's a person who has sideled up to you while you were distracted. Sometimes it a bug on the window directly in front of you... you get the idea, right?

I think that there are many home buyers and sellers out there who are experiencing the startling effect of market changes relative to their real estate transactions. Homeowners who have been in their home for years and, while they are aware of the economy and what's been reported on the news, are not paying close attention until they are ready to sell. Then, when they speak to a REALTOR® about selling their home, the market realities catch them off guard.

The same thing goes for many home buyers. Whether they are first time home buyers or buyers looking to move up or downsize, the realities of purchasing a home and getting a mortgage have changed drastically in the past couple of years, and buyers who haven't been paying close attention may be very surprised. I recently had a buyer who has bought and sold many homes over the years remark to me that he could not believe how much had changed since his last home purchase.

Want to avoid the surprise that accompanies change? Read your REALTORS® Blog or Newsletter. Or better yet, touch base with your REALTOR® periodically. Even if you are not currently looking to buy or sell your property, make it a point to visit with your REALTOR® either by phone, or maybe face-to-face over a cup of coffee. Maintaining that relationship will help you to remain informed of market trends and changes, so when you are ready to make a move, you'll know what to expect and have a trusted advisor to turn to for help. Staying informed means being prepared... and besides, remember how much you enjoyed working with your REALTOR®? Is it time to renew that relationship?

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If you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and are looking for an experienced REALTOR® to offer guidance, support, and make the home buying or selling process easier and more friendly, call me today at (469)449-9840 to schedule a consultation. Or visit my Dallas Real Estate website at EasyTexasRealEstate.com. I'd be happy to help you move forward and achieve your Real Estate objectives. There is still time to make your 2009 dream of home ownership or selling your home a reality!

Not located in the D/FW area? Contact me anyway... I'd be happy to refer you to a REALTOR® in your area who can help you with the same personal service that I provide to my clients.

This photograph is the exclusive property of Steve Shatsky. It may not be used or reproduced in any manner without expressed written permission from Steve Shatsky. ©Copyright 2009. All Rights Reserved.

Gentle Creek Estates, Prosper, TX - Short Sale Opportunity, 1541 Winding Creek Road, Prosper 75078

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 17:15:07 -0600

Steve Shatsky | Prudential Texas Properties | (469)449-9840

1541 Winding Creek Rd., Prosper, TX

Short Sale Opportunity in Prosper's Gentle Creek Estates

4BR/3.5BA Single Family House

offered at $350,000

Year Built	1998
Sq Footage	3,560
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3 full, 1 partial
Floors	2
Parking	3 Car garage
Lot Size	1.36 acres
HOA/Maint	$50 per month

DESCRIPTION

Gorgeous Luxury Home on 1.36 acres with panoramic views. The sweeping circular staircase that greets you as you enter is just the start. Huge kitchen features walk-in pantry, stainless steel appliances including dual ovens, gas cooktop and lots of cabinet space. 3 Living areas (one with fireplace and a dry bar). Master is downstairs, 3 bedrooms and a game room are up. 3 car garage with space for storage.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Tile floor
- Family room	- Living room	- Bonus/Rec room
- Office/Den	- Dining room	- Breakfast nook
- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Stainless steel appliances	- Laundry area - inside	- Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Kitchen
Family Room	Foyer
Back of house	View out of Front

Contact info:

Steve Shatsky

Prudential Texas Properties

(469)449-9840

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 7, 2009, 4:31pm PST

Rowlett Short Sale Opportunity: 2605 Brookside Drive, Rowlett 75088

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 21:51:14 -0600

Steve Shatsky | Prudential Texas Properties | (469)449-9840

2605 Brookside Drive, Rowlett, TX

Short Sale Opportunity in Rowlett's Ridgecrest Neighborhood!

3BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $125,000

Year Built	1985
Sq Footage	1,824
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Uncovered spaces
Lot Size	0.162 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Great Opportunity to own in Rowlett's highly desirable Ridgecrest neighborhood. This home features spacious living areas, with a nicely done garage conversion creating a second large living space with an almost endless number of possibilities. Great kitchen-dining-living area flow. Mature trees and a fenced backyard give this home a relaxed and friendly feeling!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Tile floor
- Living room	- Bonus/Rec room	- Dining room
- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven	- Laundry area - inside
- Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Kitchen
Living Room	Dining Room
Master Bedroom	Master Bathroom

Contact info:

Steve Shatsky

Prudential Texas Properties

(469)449-9840

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Nov 3, 2009, 6:33pm PST

Dallas' Katy Trail: The Road to a Healthier and More Active Dallas

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:59:32 -0600

Dallas's Katy Trail is the starting point in Dallas' plan to develop a network of urban trails to connect the city for pedestrians, bicyclists, and lovers of the outdoors. The history of the Katy Trail began in 1997, when community members and city leaders jointly came together in order to repurpose the land along which the former Missouri-Kansas-Texas (MKT or "Katy") Railroad traveled through Dallas.

Today, the Katy Trail is a 3.5 mile long urban trail extending from the American Airlines Center northward to Airline Drive not far from SMU. The plans are that, when completed, the trail will extend to the Mockingbird Station DART Rail stop in the north and to Downtown Dallas' West End entertainment district in the south. The trail features hard surface biking and skating trails along with softer surface running, jogging and walking paths.

The dense foliage and elevation of the trail makes much of it very peaceful and not urban feeling, much like New York's Central park. There are also scenic overlooks from sites of the former train bridges overlooking main thoroughfares and a scenic overlook of Lee Park and Turtle Creek scheduled to open next month.

For more information on hours, access points, location, etc. please visit www.katytraildallas.org

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If you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and are looking for an experienced REALTOR® to offer guidance, support, and make the home selling or Short Sale process easier and more friendly... like it used to be when service was more than a word, it was personal and valued, call me today at (469)449-9840 to schedule a consultation. Or visit my Dallas Real Estate website at EasyTexasRealEstate.com. I'd be happy to help you move forward and achieve your Real Estate objectives.

Not located in the D/FW area? Contact me anyway... I'd be happy to refer you to a REALTOR® in your area who can help you with the same personal service that I provide to my clients.

All photographs are the exclusive property of Steve Shatsky. They may not be used or reproduced in any manner without expressed written permission from Steve Shatsky. ©Copyright 2009. All Rights Reserved.

Not so SPEECHLESS SUNDAY: College Football and The Diversity of Dallas

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 22:14:07 -0600

One of my favorite things about Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex is the diversity of our city. There are all sorts of dichotomies that exist here... there is casual Dallas (Deep Ellum) and dress-up Dallas (Highland Park). There is Billy Bob's Texas (The World's Biggest Honky Tonk) and Dallas's new AT&T Performing Arts Center. There is Arlington with attractions like Six Flags Over Texas, as well as the Ranger's Ballpark and the new Cowboy's Stadium contrasting with attractions like Dallas' Nasher Sculpture Center and Fort Worth's Kimbell Art Museum.

After the recent Red River Rivalry between the University of Texas and Oklahoma, the reality that the diversity of college football fans extends beyond our corner of the world sometimes gets lost. A walk on Dallas' Katy Trail though, can remind us that while we love Dallas and all it offers, some Texans were not born here but got here as soon as they could!

When I saw this, I wondered if one of my favorite bloggers, Missy Caulk, might be inside cheering for Michigan along with the residents.

Not So SPEECHLESS SUNDAY: It Takes a Bit Longer to get to Texas!

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 20:02:03 -0600

Autumn, that is.

Each year around mid-September I get jealous as all the Bloggers and ActiveRainer members in the northern states and Canada post their pictures of beautiful autumn foliage. We do get a bit of it here in Texas, albeit not as vibrant or plentiful as in places like Vermont or New Hampshire, and living in a more urban setting, the signs of it for me are a bit more sparse. It's here though, it just beings to show up a bit later... like around now.

By the end of this month we can even have an occasional dusting of flurries or, as recently as 2005, a full-fledged ice storm.

Even as the weather turns cold, though, the Dallas Real Estate market remains HOT! Buyers are still looking to close on a new home in time for Santa to deliver their presents down their new chimney... and I and my team are happy to help them make that year-end Holiday wish a reality!

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If you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and are looking for an experienced REALTOR® to offer guidance, support, and make the home selling or Short Sale process easier and more friendly... and to help make your Thanksgiving and Year-End Holiday Season one to remember, call me today at (469)449-9840 to schedule a consultation. Or visit my Dallas Real Estate website at EasyTexasRealEstate.com. I'd be happy to help you move forward and achieve your Real Estate objectives. There is still time to make your 2009 dream of home ownership or selling your home a reality!

Not located in the D/FW area? Contact me anyway... I'd be happy to refer you to a REALTOR® in your area who can help you with the same personal service that I provide to my clients.

Short Sale Opportunity in Hickory Creek Ranch - 2500 Acorn Bend, Denton 76210

Sat, 31 Oct 2009 23:05:29 -0500

Steve Shatsky | Prudential Texas Properties | (469)449-9840

2500 Acorn Bend, Denton, TX

Short Sale Opportunity in Hickory Creek Ranch!

4BR/2BA Single Family House

offered at $139,000

Year Built	2000
Sq Footage	2,191
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	2 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	0.162 acres
HOA/Maint	$17 per month

DESCRIPTION

Great Opportunity to Own is the desirable Hickory Creek Ranch subdivision. Great curb appeal is just the beginning. Gourmet kitchen with adjacent breakfast area and large family room with fireplace and vaulted ceilings. Spacious Master suite includes a bathroom with separate shower and jetted tub. This home features a split bedroom floor plan with the Master at the rear of the home.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Family room
- Living room	- Dining room	- Breakfast nook
- Dishwasher	- Refrigerator	- Stove/Oven
- Microwave	- Laundry area - inside	- Balcony, Deck, or Patio
- Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front

Contact info:

Steve Shatsky

Prudential Texas Properties

(469)449-9840

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 31, 2009, 7:46pm PDT

Dallas Real Estate - Dallas Home For Sale: 4206 Hockaday Drive, Dallas 75229

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 17:00:32 -0500

Steve Shatsky | Prudential Texas Properties | (469)449-9840

4206 Hockaday Dr., Dallas, TX

Great Opportunity to Own in North Highlands Estates!

3BR/3BA Single Family House

offered at $379,000

Year Built	1966
Sq Footage	3,140
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	3 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	0.388 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Great opportunity to own in the highly desirable North Highlands Estates neighborhood. Bring your decorating ideas. Great home for formal or informal entertaining, features spacious rooms, a large game room perfect for a pool table or informal entertaining, fireplace and built-ins in the family room adjacent to the eat-in kitchen with granite countertops & a center island with cooktop. Formal living & dining rooms. Large backyard. Mature trees.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Family room	- Living room
- Bonus/Rec room	- Office/Den	- Dining room
- Breakfast nook	- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven
- Granite countertop	- Stainless steel appliances	- Laundry area - inside
- Balcony, Deck, or Patio	- Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Kitchen
Family Room w/ Fireplace	Bonus or Game Room
Dining Room	Backyard

Contact info:

Steve Shatsky

Prudential Texas Properties

(469)449-9840

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 29, 2009, 1:45pm PDT

WORDY WEDNESDAY: The Style and Flair of Days Gone By

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 23:54:30 -0500

Progress brings with it many great advancements, especially in the area of technology. I remember in my first job after college that it was a HUGE deal when my department got its first fax machine and a real PC that was not a mainframe terminal.

Somehow, though, progress does not always mean advancement. One example is the originality of design that seems to have been lost as we found more standardized signage and mass production of design. I see old neon signs for businesses of yesteryear and am thankful that they have been preserved to tell a historical story.

I am just old enough to remember when this sort of signage was commonplace. There were no cellular phones, Blackberry's, iPhones, GPS devices, cars didn't have airbags. Less advanced, but definitely with more style and personality!

Service offered more style too... Do you remember when you called a company and a live person answered. You didn't "key-in" your account information because the phone had no keys. Service may have taken longer without all the technology, but I don't think people minded as much because it was personal.

It's hard to find companies who still hold the value of that kind of service close to their core business philosophy. And the best ones find a way to utilize technology in a way that enhances their service, not replaces it.

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If you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and are looking for an experienced REALTOR® to offer guidance, support, and make the home selling or Short Sale process easier and more friendly... like it used to be when service was more than a word, it was personal and valued, call me today at (469)449-9840 to schedule a consultation. Or visit my Dallas Real Estate website at EasyTexasRealEstate.com. I'd be happy to help you move forward and achieve your Real Estate objectives. Don't let the sun set on your 2009 Real Estate dreams!

Not located in the D/FW area? Contact me anyway... I'd be happy to refer you to a REALTOR® in your area who can help you with the same personal service that I provide to my clients.

An Overvalued Short Sale Appraisal... Now What?

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 22:45:30 -0500

In a market where getting properties to appraise for sale price is a common challenge faced by agents, I found myself on the other end of the spectrum this week.

I have been working a Short Sale on a condo in a highrise building and this week the Short Sale lender came back with an appraisal that was over $40,000 more than the offer that was submitted. This caught me entirely off guard since both the buyer's agent and I thought we were "on target" in the contract price.

I make it a policy not to call out individual lenders in my posts since many of them share similar bad practices, but the lender in this case was exceptionally unwilling to consider that the appraisal could possibly be wrong. Until confronted with evidence they couldn't ignore.

A bit of research on my part showed several bad choices made by the appraiser. First, the comps chosen were not the "best" nor "closest" comps available. There were an adequate number of comps in the same building as the sale unit, yet the appraiser chose comps from other properties that were not comparable in terms of amenities, location or age. Also, the appraiser ignored recent REO sales in the building which were sold by the same bank that was making the decisions on my short sale property.

I faxed a copy of the comps to the bank along with an explanation of why the appraisal was flawed and how their failure to consider this evidence would result in a lost short sale for this unit, a lower REO sale price (based on their own recent REO sales in the building) and lower return for the investor.

The end result? Within 48 hours the appraised value of the condo I had listed was lowered by $35,000, the short sale offer was revised and approved and we are moving toward a closing in the next couple of weeks.

So even when it appears hopeless, just dig deeper... sometimes the info that lies beneath the surface can be enough to pull a deal killed by a bad appraisal from the fire!

There's Still Plenty of Room on the ActiveRain Blogging Train!

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 19:37:16 -0500

I attended a great training class this week. I was selected to be a member of the Texas Association of REALTORS® 2010 Professional Standards Committee and as a requirement to serve on the committee, all members are required to take Professional Standards training.

There were so many great "Aha" moments in this class that I may have to write another post about them, but one of the biggest "Aha's" for me was when I realized how many REALTORS® are unfamiliar with blogging as a marketing, education and networking tool for real estate.

I guess since I am in a routine and habit of blogging, regularly seeing how 162,962 other Real Estate professionals have joined the ActiveRain community, I assumed everyone would know about ActiveRain and blogging. So when, as part of a case study in the Professional Standards class, the Code of Ethics violation scenario included a blogging component, I was caught by surprise when many of the agents in the class were not familiar with the responsibilities and scope of blogging.

Thanks to my experience as an ActiveRain blogger, I was well educated about these responsibilities. I had the opportunity to share my knowledge with my colleagues, the instructor even allowed me to talk about ActiveRain for a few moments and afterwards, several classmates asked me for my card in case they had questions as the explored AR on their own.

And as an added bonus, the instructor even pulled me aside during the lunch break and asked me if I would be interested in joining the Education Committee at our local board... they have been discussing blogging and social media more frequently and she felt that I had a perspective that they were lacking. I will be attending that meeting next week to see what I can offer.

When I see the number of new and veteran faces here on ActiveRain, it's easy to forget how many agents still haven't gotten onboard the blogging train. So if you haven't joined yet, c'mon... jump on the Rain Train... there's still plenty of room and it will be a trip you'll be glad that you made!

Dallas Real Estate / Home For Sale: 6941 Desco Drive, Dallas 75225

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 16:36:50 -0500

Steve Shatsky | Prudential Texas Properties | (469)449-9840

6941 Desco Drive, Dallas, TX

Buyers Opportunity in Park Lane North!

4BR/3.5BA Single Family House

offered at $479,000

Year Built	1965
Sq Footage	3,462
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3 full, 1 partial
Floors	1
Parking	3 Car garage
Lot Size	0.426 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Great opportunity in highly desirable Park Lane North neighborhood! Recent updates include kitchen, bathrooms & floors. Lots of space & storage. Beautiful kitchen with wood cabinets, granite countertops & stainless steel appliances also features both a center island & breakfast bar. Hardwood floors throughout . Spacious room sizes, 2 living areas (1 has wet bar and the other has WBFP) plus an office. Enormous 3 car garage & huge backyard.

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

- Central A/C	- Central heat	- Fireplace
- High/Vaulted ceiling	- Walk-in closet	- Hardwood floor
- Tile floor	- Family room	- Living room
- Office/Den	- Dining room	- Breakfast nook
- Dishwasher	- Stove/Oven	- Microwave
- Granite countertop	- Stainless steel appliances	- Laundry area - garage
- Yard

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Front	Kitchen
Dining Room	Large Living Room w/ WBFP
Family Room w/ Wet Bar	Backyard

Contact info:

Steve Shatsky

Prudential Texas Properties

(469)449-9840

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: Oct 25, 2009, 1:20pm PDT

Not so SPEECHLESS SUNDAY: When the Days Grow Shorter

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 14:15:22 -0500

We are once again approaching the time of year when the days are growing shorter and daylight savings time will soon be ending. I have a couple of lights in my home which run on timers and I can always tell the change of seasons by when I need to adjust them to the new time of the sunset.

Last week, as I sat in my office around 7:00 P.M., a time that just a month ago would have still been light outside, I looked up and realized that I may not be the only person who needs to adjust the timers on his (or her) lights... but what a beautiful image backlit by the final minutes of the setting sun!

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If you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and are looking for an experienced REALTOR® to offer guidance, support, and make the home selling or Short Sale process easier and more friendly... like it used to be when service was more than a word, it was a core value, call me today at (469)449-9840 to schedule a consultation. Or visit my Dallas Real Estate website at EasyTexasRealEstate.com. I'd be happy to help you move forward and achieve your Real Estate objectives. Don't let the sun set on your 2008 Real Estate dreams!

Not located in the D/FW area? Contact me anyway... I'd be happy to refer you to a REALTOR® in your area who can help you.

Not so WORDLESS WEDNESDAY: The Official REALTOR of Mr. Sniffles

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:57:06 -0500

Well, we all hope for endorsements of our services, but I think that I scored quite an important one to attract Dallas area dog lovers as clients when I persuaded Mr. Sniffles to select me as his Official REALTOR.

I considered seeking the endorsement of the Dallas Cowboys or Texas Rangers, but those were too expensive. Mr. Sniffle's endorsement cost me a long walk through Lee Park on a sunny day and and extra dog treat before bed while he was staying with me... those were terms I could afford!

Judge for yourself... I think it was worth it!

If you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and are looking for a REALTOR® (who loves animals like Mr. Sniffles) to share experience, offer you guidance, and make the home selling or Short Sale process a bit easier and more friendly... like it used to be when service was more than a word, it was a core value, call me today at (469)449-9840 to schedule a consultation. Or visit my Dallas Real Estate website at EasyTexasRealEstate.com. Mr. Sniffles demands only the best, why shouldn't you? I'd be happy to help you move forward and achieve your Real Estate objectives! Not located in the D/FW area? Contact me anyway... I'd be happy to refer you to a REALTOR® in your area who can help you.

A Dallas Dining Blog disguised as a Real Estate Blog

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 22:52:59 -0500

I am not sure why, but, in addition to real estate topics, I love blogging about my favorite restaurants in Dallas and someone suggested to me that I provide my blog readers with a reference summary of my reviews. I am not a professional foodie or food critic, but I do like to eat and I do know which meals I enjoyed and which ones left a bad taste in my mouth.

Jon Zolsky suggested that I leave a disclaimer on my restaurant posts, so, just for the record, I have not ever, nor will I ever accept any gratuity, free food or other compensation for including an establishment, business or service on my blog or for the nature of my comments on it. (How's that for an absolute disclaimer?)

Judging by the list of places I have reviewed on my blog I should weigh much more than I do, and seeing this list, I realize how many more of my favorites I have not been to lately! So by popular demand (of two) here is a summary of links to some of my favorite Dallas area restaurant/food reviews by category:

American (Casual):

Maple & Motor: Maple & Motor: A Bacon & Burger Bonanza!

Dodie's Seafood Cajun Diner: Dodie's Seafood Cajun Diner: A Winning Recipe!

Lucky's Café: Lucky's Café: Mmmm... Breakfast!

Celebration Restaurant: Celebration Restaurant... A Reason to Celebrate!

The Porch: The Porch: Great Dallas Restaurant, or Rocking Chairs & Whittling?

Café Brazil: Café Brazil: Good Food + Good Caffeine = Happy Customers

Rudy's BBQ: Rudy's BBQ - Here we go again!

American (Fine/Expensive):

Five Sixty: Plucked then Pucked: My Duck at Five Sixty!

Asian:

Roti Grill: Roti Grill: Indian Food Fast, Not Indian Fast Food!

Ginger Thai: Ginger Thai - Good Thai Food and Reasonable Prices make for a Winning Combination

Royal Thai: Royal Thai... Yummy and Fit for a King!

Bengal Coast: Bengal Coast: An Asian Dining Adventure!

The Green Papaya: The Green Papaya - A Tempting Vietnamese Bistro

Tex Mex/Central American:

Gloria's Restaurant: Having Dinner with an Old Friend: Gloria's Restaurant

Italian:

Taverna: Taverna: Authentic Italian Food Prepared Authentically!

Cremona Bistro: Cremona Bistro: New digs for a Dallas Favorite!

Fireside Pies: Fireside Pies: Because man does not live by bread alone!

Sal's Restaurant: Sal's Restaurant: New York Pizza in Dallas

Mediterranean:

Café Istanbul: Café Instanbul: Definitely Delightful

Ali Baba Mediterranean Grill: Ali Baba Mediterranean Grill: A New Old Experience

Having Dinner with an Old Friend: Gloria's Restaurant

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 21:47:36 -0500

When I bought my first home 13 years ago, I lived in Oak Cliff. Oak Cliff, at the time, did not offer a wide variety of restaurants, but one that stood out from the many Tex Mex restaurants was a Restaurant called Gloria's.

Located at 600 W. Davis Street, Gloria's was different than many other restaurants because of the freshness of the food, the black bean dip that was served with the chips and salsa, and the Salvadoran influence in the food.

Gloria's has always been a favorite of mine. The menu has good diversity, not only featuring Tex Mex favorites like enchiladas or quesadillas, but also a variety of more Salvadoran specialties like Fried Plantains and Yucca alongside the more traditional accompaniments like guacamole.

Many of my friends like their shrimp and fish entrées, but when I went tonight for dinner, I headed right to one of my favorites, their Carne de Res Asada... a delicious marinated skirt steak. For dessert, there is always a debate between Gloria's delicious Tres Leches cake or the outstanding Flan. Either choice will not leave anyone with a sweet tooth disappointed!

Over the past 13 years, since I bought my home in Oak Cliff, Gloria's has expanded into a regional chain with 10 locations. I have been to several of the others, including their popular locations on Lemmon Avenue and the recently expanded one on Greenville Avenue in Dallas, but to get the original Gloria's experience I still like to go back to the original one in Oak Cliff. It's like having dinner with an old friend!

Maple & Motor: A Bacon & Burger Bonanza!

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 21:21:50 -0500

Yesterday I finally had the chance to check out the Dallas burger joint that everyone has been buzzing about... Maple & Motor. Let me just say that:

1. It was worth the wait.

2. I am kicking myself for not getting there sooner.

3. I will be going back.

4. YUM!

Maple & Motor is located at 4810 Maple Avenue, across the street from Dallas' Elliott's Hardware. They have a rather simple menu that is done exceptionally well. Burgers and Sandwiches(including Chicken, BLT's Grilled Cheese, Brisket and Fried Bologna) as well as Fries, Cheese Fries and Onion Rings. I had a Bacon Cheeseburger and Onion Rings. The burger was juicy and flavorful, the bacon was crisp and the bun was fresh. The Onion rings were beer battered and delicious, flavorful, but not overpowering.

Jack, one of the owners, greeted us personally and made sure everything was to our liking... and believe me, it was! Maple & Motor is small and gets easily packed at peak times during the week, so be forewarned, but believe me, even if they are crowded and busy, wait it out... you'll be glad that you did!

Check out their website at mapleandmotor.com or their Facebook page... and oh yeah, they offer free WiFi too, but go for the food, not the technology!

Not So SPEECHLESS SUNDAY: Judging a Book by its Cover

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 17:19:55 -0500

There are many ways to market to consumers, but effective market does more than simply grabbing their attention, it also conveys the essence of the product or service that is being provided. One of my favorite establishments whose owners do little in the way of advertising or formal marketing is the Highland Park Pharmacy on Knox Street in Dallas.

I like the Highland Park Pharmacy because all you have to do is look at it and you know exactly what you are getting... and old fashioned Pharmacy. You can tell just by looking at the signage... the lettering/fonts and the awnings are all of a style that you would have expected from an establishment founded early this century... and the Highland Park Pharmacy delivers on that promise even today. Friendly service, a breakfast/lunch counter with probably the best pimento cheese sandwich I have ever had and old fashioned breakfast foods. It's a throwback to a simpler time... where service was valued, quality was strived for and nobody cared if your establishment was a WiFi Hot Spot... or even knew what one was!

Sometimes being able to judge a book by its cover is a good thing. If the cover of the book or the exterior establishment sets an expectation in the minds of consumers, then delivering on that promise is, in my opinion, a case of good marketing!

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If you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and are looking for a REALTOR® to share experience, offer you guidance, and make the home selling or Short Sale process a bit easier and more friendly... like it used to be when service was more than a word, it was a core value, call me today at (469)449-9840 to schedule a consultation. Or visit my Dallas Real Estate website at EasyTexasRealEstate.com. I'd be happy to help you move forward and achieve your Real Estate objectives! Not located in the D/FW area? Contact me anyway... I'd be happy to refer you to a REALTOR® in your area who can help you.

Dallas's Crossroads Halloween Street Festival

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 23:57:27 -0500

Halloween is almost upon us, and for those who are new to Dallas, a favorite Halloween event is the Dallas LGBT community's Crossroads Halloween Street Festival. The highlight of the evening is the costume parade featuring some of the best and most imaginative costumes I have ever seen. Many people start planning for the following year right after the current year's event!

This year the festival will take place on Saturday, October 31. Things begin to get busy by 8 or 9:00 in the evening and get busier as the night progresses. The costumes are always fun and elaborate and the crowd always has a great time. You do not need to be a member of the LGBT community to enjoy yourself and the crowd.

The event takes place on Cedar Springs Boulevard between Douglas and Oak Lawn. Parking can get limited with the crowds growing bigger each year, so allow time to find parking.

The State Fair of Texas: It's Your Last Chance for 2009!

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 23:44:38 -0500

Have you made it to The State Fair of Texas yet??? C'mon! You know you've been wanting to go try all the new friend foods at the Fair.... And time is running out.

This week will be the last week of the Fair. The final day will be next Sunday, October 18, 2009.

There are still so many great things coming up. For example, tomorrow morning, Oprah Winfrey will be taping her show at the State Fair. According to her website, they will be Taping at the Chevrolet Main Stage. Knowing the crowds that Oprah attracts, I think the Cotton Bowl would have been a more appropriate venue!

And Speaking of the Cotton Bowl, next Saturday will be the Texas/Oklahoma Red River Rivalry game. This annual event brings fans of both these major universities to Dallas for one of the most anticipated games of the season.

The State Fair is held at Dallas' Fair Park. General admission for the is $15 (Children and Seniors are $11) and self parking in the official lots is $10. Better yet, use the Dart Rail Green Line to get there!

For more details be sure to check out the official Texas State Fair website at www.BigTex.com! And if you see me on the midway with a corny dog please be sure to say hi!

Not So SPEECHLESS SUNDAY: Short Sales... Who is Helping You Weather the Storm?

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 16:13:26 -0500

We all know that selling a home, any home, can be a daunting task. There is a reason why many home sellers who try to sell by themselves eventually end up listing their home with a REALTOR®. The process can be even more complicated, stressful and stormy if you are trying to sell your home as a Short Sale. Who do you have on your side, working to create a break in the storm clouds for you?

Choosing to work with a REALTOR® who is an experienced Short Sale Specialist can make all the difference. Coordinating with your Mortgage Company(s), the Buyers and/or their agent, and working on YOUR behalf to make sure that you walk away from the closing in the best possible position to get your life and finances back on track as quickly as possible are the reasons that you want a specialist helping you.

Distressed home sales, such as Short Sales, tend to attract an element of unethical people who may try to prey on the misfortunes of the financially distressed home owner. They can be quite convincing and persuasive. When speaking to anyone who wants to help you with a transaction to solve your real estate related problems, ask them two simple questions:

Are you a REALTOR®? (Remember, only agents who a members of the National Association of REALTORS® are bound by their extensive Code of Ethics.)
Are you an experienced Short Sale or Distressed Property Specialist?

If the answer to those questions is "No", keep looking! It could mean the difference between finding someone who will find you the ray of light through the clouds, and one who will flood your life with further aggravation and hassles.

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If you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and are looking for a Short Sale Specialist and REALTOR® to share experience, offer you guidance, and make the home selling or Short Sale process easier and more friendly, call me today at (469)449-9840 to schedule a consultation. Or visit my Dallas Short Sale website at HomeSalesRemedy.com. I'd be happy to help you move forward and achieve your Real Estate objectives! Not located in the D/FW area? Contact me anyway... I'd be happy to refer you to a REALTOR® who is a Short Sale Specialist in your area who can help you.

WORDY WEDNESDAY: Real Estate & the Weather

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 23:07:28 -0500

Who do you call when the storm clouds of the real estate market roll in? You know which clouds I am talking about... the ones that send chills down your spine. The clouds that you notice after seeing 5 new "FOR SALE" signs in your neighborhood on your way to work one morning. Or the ones you notice as you're drinking your morning coffee and see the newspaper headline about home sales rates or home prices dropping. Or what about the real estate clouds that you notice as you get that first default notice from your mortgage company because you haven't paid your mortgage since your severance pay ran out after your layoff?

Clouds can be frightening. They often appear turbulent and obscure what's above them. But often, as described in Shakespeare's Macbeth, the storm clouds of real estate are "Full of sound and fury; signifying nothing". What's above cloud level? How can you know and feel confident?

Contact a REALTOR®, that's how! Think of REALTORS® as your real estate weatherman. Talk to a REALTOR® about current market conditions, share your real estate goals and objectives, or simply open a dialogue about what you home's current value is or, if you are looking to buy a home, what the current inventory and sale prices in your area are like. Like a weatherman, a local REALTOR® will be able to share with you the current market conditions and offer you some insight into what experts are forecasting.

Nobody has a crystal ball that forecasts the future, and even weathermen don't have their forecast down to a precise science, but somehow, when you know what the conditions are and what the forecast is, the storm is a bit less intimidating. And with fear cast aside, you can move forward, with your REALTOR'S® assistance, to achieve your real estate related goals.

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If you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and are looking for a REALTOR® to share market conditions, offer you guidance, tell you what your home is worth in the current market or simply make the home buying or selling process easier and more friendly, call me today at (469)449-9840 to schedule a consultation. Or visit my website at EasyTexasRealEstate.com. I'd be happy to help you move forward and achieve your Real Estate dreams and goals and I might even be willing to give you a weather report as well! Not located in the D/FW area? Contact me anyway... I'd be happy to refer you to a real estate professional in your area who can help you.