Janie's Blog Clarksville,TN Real Estate Marketing Expert

Welcome Wes Stamey to Active Rain

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 20:06:37 -0500

I've had the opportunity of working with Wes Stamey at Crye-Leike, Realtors here in Clarksville, TN for almost a year now, and it is with pleasure that I introduce you to him as a new member of our wonderful Active Rain community. Wes is a great guy and an excellent agent. Please welcome him as I know only AR can!

292 Rebecca Ann Ct, Clarksville, TN 37043

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 12:58:39 -0500

Links

Photo Gallery

Description

Beautiful open plan home on quiet cul-de-sac is minutes from the Interstate, Downtown, and Shopping convenience. Immaculate, very well kept home in one of the most sought after neighborhoods in Sango.

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	2
Parking:	2
Year Built:	2005
Subdivision:	Bellgar
Lot Size:	46x140.18x170.140.74
Garage Size:	2
School District:	Richview Middle school
Square Footage:	2134
Agent Name:	Janie Masterson GRI
Broker:	Crye-Leike, INC. Realtors
Patio/Deck:	Deck

Location

292 REBECCA ANN CT. Clarksville Tn. 37043

vFlyerId: 1773046

305 Welchwood Dr Clarksville TN 37040 Reduced!

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 00:02:13 -0500

Links

Photo Gallery

Description

This is your perfect starter home on 1/2 acre. Spacious 3 bed, large eat in kitchen, upgraded windows, over sized one car garage, wired for surround throughout home. Great family room, fabulous yard, close to everything. Storage barn and shed convey!

Features

Bedrooms:	3
Bathrooms:	1
Parking:	5
Year Built:	1977
Subdivision:	Welchwood Estates
Lot Size:	100x235
Garage Size:	1
School District:	Northeast
Square Footage:	1400
Agent Name:	Janie Masterson
Broker:	Crye-Leike, Realtors
MLS #:	981646
Patio/Deck:	Patio

Location

305 Welchwood Dr Clarksville TN 37040

vFlyerId: 1665849

Should You Try to Rekindle Old Flames?

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 23:22:00 -0500

I had an old friend visit last week from Atlanta GA. I was born in Atlanta and spent a good part of my adulthood there so I am very familiar with the city and the surrounding suburbs. My friend is an ex-boyfrined (of 8 years ago) and he wanted to drive up to Clarksville to see where I had moved. Well, I thought this was a little out character for him since even at his age he's a bar hopping party animal, but I reluctantly agreed to his visit.

It took about one hour for me to remember all of those horrible scenes he used to throw when he didn't get his way. The two of us have nothing in common. All he did the couple of days that he was here was complain. He complained about everything. He said Clarksville was TOO Country, he said Atlanta was TOO City, then in the next breathe he would say how much he loves living in the area that he lives because he is so close to everything. I wanted to pull my hair out and I could not wait for him to leave.

Why do people think they can rekindle old friendships? Sometimes the past and the memories, both good and bad, are better left in the past! Do you know of anyone that has ever been able to go back and make a relationship work? Weren't the reasons you didn't work in the first place still very much a part of the whole scenario?

What do you think about this? Maybe I'm being a little harsh, I am really a nice person.

Did you Know We're Getting an Increase in Mileage Rate From Uncle Sammy?

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 09:42:56 -0500

Just to let everyone know in case you have not heard the IRS announced an increase in the optional standard mileage rates for the final six months of 2008. We may use the optional standard rates to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes. I for one and glad to see this, we've been getting some good increases the past couple of years and it does make a difference when you spend as much time on the road as we do.

The rate will increase to 58.5 cents a mile for all business miles driven from July 1, 2008, through Dec. 31, 2008. This is an increase of eight (8) cents from the 50.5 cent rate in effect for the first six months of 2008,

The increase is due to the rising gas prices. The optional business standard mileage rate is used to compute the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business use in lieu of tracking actual costs. This rate is also used as a benchmark by the federal government and many businesses to reimburse their employees for mileage.

The new six-month rate for computing deductible medical or moving expenses will also increase by eight (8) cents to 27 cents a mile, up from 19 cents for the first six months of 2008. The rate for providing services for charitable organizations is set by statute, not the IRS, and remains at 14 cents a mile.

We will also have the option of calculating the actual costs of using our vehicles rather than using the standard mileage rates.

Mileage Rate Changes

Purpose	Rates 1/1 through 6/30/08	Rates 7/1 through 12/31/08
Business	50.5	58.5
Medical/Moving	19	27
Charitable	14	14

ANWR! Give me some Oil, Gas Prices are Killing Me!

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 22:37:30 -0500

FIRST. Do you know what ANWR is?

ANWR = Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.

..

Now. A comparison

And some perspective.

NOTE WHERE THE PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT AREA IS.
(it's in the "ANWR Coastal Plain")

THIS IS WHAT THE "GREENS" SHOW YOU WHEN THEY TALK ABOUT ANWR
.and they are right. these ARE photographs of ANWR

ISN'T ANWR BEAUTIFUL? WHY SHOULD WE DRILL HERE (AND DESTROY) THIS BEAUTIFUL PLACE?
.

WELL. THAT'S NOT EXACTLY THE TRUTH

Do you remember the map?

The map showed that the proposed drilling area is in the ANWR Coastal Plain

Do those photographs look like a coastal plain to you?

WHAT'S GOING ON HERE?
.
..
...
...
...
...
...
..
.

THE ANSWER IS SIMPLE.

THAT IS NOT WHERE THEY ARE WANTING TO DRILL!

THIS IS WHAT THE PROPOSED EXPLORATION AREA ACTUALLY LOOKS LIKE IN THE WINTER

AND THIS IS WHAT IT ACTUALLY LOOKS LIKE IN THE SUMMER

HERE ARE A COUPLE SCREEN SHOTS FROM GOOGLE EARTH

AS YOU CAN SEE, THE AREA WHERE THEY ARE TALKING ABOUT DRILLING IS A BARREN WASTELAND.

OH. AND THEY SAY THAT THEY ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THE EFFECT ON THE LOCAL WILDLIFE.

HERE IS A PHOTO (SHOT DURING THE SUMMER) OF THE
"DEPLETED WILDLIFE" SITUATION CREATED BY DRILLING AROUND PRUDHOE BAY*.
DON'T YOU THINK THAT THE CARIBOU REALLY HATE THAT DRILLING?

HERE'S THAT SAME SPOT DURING THE WINTER.

HEY, THIS BEAR SEEMS TO REALLY HATE THE PIPELINE NEAR PRUDHOE BAY*.

*The Prudhoe bay area accounts for 17% of U.S. domestic oil production

Moving Tips

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:40:18 -0500

Tips for Moving

Whether you have moved once or a dozen times, it never seems to get any easier. Here are some hints that I hope you will find helpful as you prepare for moving day.

Make agreements with buyers about possession of the home and moving date. Having sellers and buyers meet on the front walk - each with a house full of furniture - is not a happy situation.
Start planning early. Once you are confident that you will be proceeding with the sale, start weeding out your current possessions. Toss (or give away, sell at a yard sale, or on-line) things that you don't want to move. Remember GoodWill and don't forget to get your receipt for tax purposes.
Make a list on any important items you will need to buy for your new house. Examples: draperies, blinds, shower curtains, etc. Having these things with you on the day you move in prevents unnecessary surprises. One of the most important for me is cabinet shelf paper. Take plenty!
Start packing early. Anything that you are sure you will not be using before moving day should get boxed.
Mark every box and carton. Again, it makes it much easier if you need an item before you move, and makes it much simpler after you move. Unpacking will probably be somewhat of a gradual process--this way you know where the most necessary items are located. Don't pack any of the documents for the sale or purchase of the home, if you are the buyer, don't pack anything that the Lender might need,,,,,,check stubs, tax returns, bank statements.

The Closing Process

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:35:44 -0500

Closing

In the old days, everyone dressed up for the Closing on the sale or purchase of their new home. Not the case now, most people just come in ready to sign! Of course the buyer is going to be signing alot more documents than the Seller, so in many instances, the Seller signs first and then the Buyer. Closing in Clarksville, TN is a very easy process on most transactions, we have some great title companies and attorneys that we work with.

Closing -- or "settlement" or "escrow" -- is essentially a meeting where the closing agent (the party who conducts settlement) takes in money from the buyers, pays out money to the owner and makes sure that the purchaser's title is properly recorded in local records along with any mortgage liens. All papers have been prepared by closing agents, title companies, lenders and lawyers. This paperwork reflects the sale agreement and allows all parties to the transaction to verify their interests. For instance, buyers get the title to the property, lenders have their loans recorded in the public records and state governments collect their transfer taxes.

The closing agent reviews the sale agreement to determine what payments and credits the owner should receive and what amounts are due from the buyer. The closing agent also assures that certain transaction costs are paid (taxes, title searches, hazard insurance, etc)

Closing is also the time when "adjustments" will be made. For instance, suppose you've pre-paid taxes four months in advance. In this case, the closing agent will compensate you for the prepayment at closing by having the buyer pay you additional money.

It could also work in reverse. If you are behind on property taxes, the closing agent will reduce the money due to you at settlement by the amount of the unpaid taxes.

And most importantly, Closing is when you get the keys to your new home. Call me if you have any questions about the Closing Process.

Home Inspections

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:28:44 -0500

Home Inspections, a vital key to Purchasing a Home.

Your home is in escrow, and the buyer has scheduled a home inspection. A home inspection is a thorough visual examination of the home and property. The process usually takes two to three hours, during which time the house is examined from the ground up. The inspection includes observation and, when appropriate, operation of the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, electrical, and appliance systems, as well as structural components: roof, foundation, basement, exterior and interior walls, chimney, doors, and windows.

It's important to remember that a home inspection does not detect every conceivable flaw. It is an inspection of those areas and items that can be seen. Home inspectors cannot see through foundations, floors or walls, and cannot inspect areas or items that are inaccessible. It is also important to note that the Realtor is not responsible for the work of the Home Inspector. The Home Inspector is hired by the Buyer!

If you are planning to put your house on the market a pre-sale inspection enables you to attend to problems ahead of time, it also removes any questions about the condition of your home for you and a potential home buyer. Buyers are positively influenced by a professionally produced home inspection report, which improves the speed, price, and likelihood of a sale. I recommend a pre-sale inspection to all of my clients here in Clarksville, TN

Some home sellers elect not to correct every defect reflected in the inspection report. Instead, they acknowledge the defects to buyers and explain that the asking price has been adjusted to reflect the estimated cost of repairs. Such candor tends to shorten negotiation time because buyers have fewer objections that could thwart a sale. In addition to facilitating the sale of a home, an inspection helps the homeowner comply with full-disclosure real estate laws, governed by state laws. By focusing on the condition of your property, you are less likely to overlook a defect or material fact for which you later could be held liable.

Qualified inspection companies will provide a sample report to substantiate that they abide by industry standards. One of the key standards is that ethical inspectors neither perform repairs nor refer clients to repair companies (thus avoiding a conflict of interest). Obviously, inspectors who make repairs on homes they inspect are more likely to "find" problems.

Once you have arranged for a home inspection, plan to accompany the inspector for the entire procedure. You have the right to be there, and leading home inspection companies will encourage your presence. It helps you to better understand the findings in the report, and will reduce post-closing hassles. Don't forget your list of questions and items of concern. A thorough home inspection covers more than 1,000 items, everything from the foundation to roof and takes two to three hours depending on the size of the property. The report should reflect the condition of about 400 items.

Financing by the Seller!

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:22:23 -0500

Financing by the Seller

If a seller helps to finance a real estate transaction by taking back a second note or even financing the entire purchase if the seller owns the home free and clear it is called seller financing. Usually sellers do this when a buyer has difficulty qualifying for a conventional loan or meeting the purchase price. We don't have as much seller financing today in Clarksville, TN as we did a few years ago due to the mortgage crisis. Their is just too much risk for Sellers.

Seller financing differs from a traditional loan because the seller does not give the buyer cash to complete the purchase, as does a lender. Instead, it involves extending a credit against the purchase price of the home while the buyer executes a promissory note and trust deed in the seller's favor. These special circumstances must be acceptable to the lender who makes the first mortgage on the property.

The necessary paperwork is prepared by the title or escrow company after the terms are worked out between the buyer and seller. If you are a seller considering such an arrangement, it is critical to thoroughly evaluate the creditworthiness of the buyer first. You should consult with legal counsel and your accountant regarding the potential consequences of this type of arrangement. Fear of default makes many sellers reluctant to take back a second. But seller financing can bring a higher price plus complete the sale sooner in some situations. For more information, contact the Internal Revenue Service for a copy of its Publication 537, "Installment Sales." Order by calling (800) TAX-FORM.

Seller financing offers tax breaks for sellers and alternative financing for buyers who can't qualify for conventional loans. If you are a seller, the risks you face are the same as those facing any lender: Is the borrower a good credit risk? Will the property hold enough value over time to allow for the repayment of all loans made against it? You should run a full credit check on the borrower, require hazard insurance on the property and include a due-on-sale clause. There also are financing, disclosure and repayment-term requirements that need to be met. Again, it is wise to consult a lawyer when putting together this kind of transaction.

The interest rate on an owner-carried loan is negotiable. Talk to me about checking with a lender or mortgage broker to determine the current rate on institutional first (or second) loans. Seller financing typically costs less than conventional financing because sellers don't charge loan fees (points). Interest rates on an owner-carried loan will also be influenced by current Treasury bill and certificate of deposit rates. Sellers usually aren't willing to carry a loan for a lower return than they would earn if their money was invested elsewhere.

Negotiations! The Key to Buying and Selling

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:15:26 -0500

Negotiating the deal

When a buyer is ready to make you an offer they will contact their agent who will get in touch with me, I'll let you know as the Seller. Buyers should present their offer formally with a contract of purchase and sale.

Most home buyers and home sellers want to arrive at a win-win agreement, but that's not to say either side would regret getting a bigger "win" than the other. Successful negotiating is more than a matter of luck or natural talent. It also encompasses the learned ability to use certain skills and techniques to bring about those coveted win-win results. That's why using an experienced Real Estate Agent is so important.

1. Start with a fair price and a fair offer
There's no question that significantly overpricing your home will turn off potential buyers. Likewise, on the buying side, making an offer that's far lower than the asking price is practically guaranteed to alienate the sellers. Asking and offering prices should be based on recent sales prices of comparable homes. Let your agent work out a Comparison Analysis for you so that you know what the market is in your area. The house is only worth what someone is willing to pay for it.

2. Respect the other side's priorities
Knowing what's most important to the person on the other side of the negotiating table can help you avoid pushing too hard on hot or sensitive issues. For example, a seller who won't budge on the sales price might be willing to pay more of the transaction costs or make more repairs to the home, or pay more in closing costs for the buyer, while a buyer with an urgent move-in date might be willing to pay a higher portion of the transaction costs or forgo some major repairs to close sooner.

3. Be prepared to compromise
"Win-win" doesn't mean both the buyer and the seller will get everything they want. It means both sides will win some and give some. Rather than approaching negotiations from an adversarial winner-take-all perspective, focus on your top priorities and don't let your emotions overrule your better judgment.

I am a respected, experienced Real Estate Agent with years of negotiating skills, give me a call to discuss your next Real Estate Transaction.

Creating a Marketing Plan to Sell Your Home

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 13:08:22 -0500

Create a Marketing Plan

Selling a home can entail a variety of marketing strategies. Once listed with me, your home will be quickly entered into the local MLS (Multiple Listing Service) for Middle Tennessee and placed on www.janiemasterson.com and Crye-Leike.com. Most of my work will be quiet and unseen - yet important. The quiet telephone calls, the work with contacts, arranging for and marketing open houses, the follow-ups with open-house visitors, conversations with ad respondents, web postings and other outreach efforts are all part of the process required to sell homes. I will post your home for sale on over fifty other sites, including yahoo, trulia, zillow, etc.

You and I will create a marketing plan for your home that will help distinguish it in our local marketplace and attract buyers to your property. This may include posting your listing on the Internet, holding an open house and more. I, as your Sales Professional will use the Crye-Leike customized Marketing System to create a personalized selling program for potential buyers. Its purpose is to sell a home at the best price possible in the shortest amount of time.

Most buyers begin their search for a new home on the internet, that is where I concentrate my efforts in Marketing! I am a Marketing Expert and my listings SELL.

A Short Glossary of Term for any Real Estate Transaction

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 16:45:54 -0500

Glossary of Real Estate Terms

Addenda (Addendum): An attachment to the Purchase & Sale Agreement.

Agency: The relationship that a real estate agent has with a customer
or client.

Buyer Broker: An agent who represents the buyer in a transaction.

CMA: Comparable Market Analysis, or an opinion of a home's value.

Comps: Properties used as" comparables" on a CMA.

Disclosure: Verbal and/or written communication regarding agency, property condition, etc.

Down payment: Initial investment on a home loan.

EM deposit: Earnest money deposit, or good faith deposit provided as consideration when a buyer offers a contract to a seller.

FHA: A type of loan, government insured financing.

Key box: MLS electronic key which allows agents access to listed properties.

List (Listing): When a seller signs a listing agreement with a broker to market their property.

Listing Agent: Agent who takes a listing on behalf of the broker.

Lock-box: Another term for a key box.

Lock-in: A term to obtain the interest rate at today's rate, or lock-in
the rate.

MLS: Multiple Listing Service. An organization that distributes information on properties listed by MLS member brokers.

Property Profile: An informational/fact sheet about a property on the market.

Purchase and Sale Agreement: A contract between a buyer and a seller to purchase real property.

Transaction: A listing sold or the sale of real property.

VA: A type of loan, government guaranteed financing available to
military veterans.

A Quick Look at the Closing Process

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 16:43:58 -0500

The Closing Process

Once you have found the home you want to buy, there are several additional steps you need to take to close the sale after the purchase and sale agreements have been signed.

Step 1 Contingency removal: The most common contingencies are inspection, financing and the sale of your current home. These conditions must be removed or waived in writing before the sale on your new home can close.

Step 2 Appraisal and title report: Your lender requires a formal appraisal to confirm the value of the home you're buying, to use as collateral to secure the loan. The title report ensures that the seller has clear title to the property and has the right to transfer ownership to you.

Step 3 Prepare closing documents: Escrow service companies or real estate attorneys prepare documents that confirm the transaction, prorate funds, etc.

Step 4 Signing of closing documents: Although both parties may have signed closing documents and deposited funds, the sale actually closes when the deed is recorded and the proceeds are available to the seller.

Step 5 Signed documents go to the lender for final review.

Step 6 The deed is recorded and funds disbursed.

Step 7 The seller receives the proceeds and the moving van arrives.

Step 8 You get the keys to your new home!

There are many opportunities for surprises or delays in a transaction. Part of my expertise is in troubleshooting problems that arise in the closing process, including anticipating and preparing for potential problems before they arise.

Please email or call me any time if you have questions or would like more information about the closing process.

Janie Masterson, Realtor, GRI, CLHMS www.janiemasterson.com 931 801-3348

Quick Mortgage Application Checklist

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 16:41:06 -0500

Mortgage Application Checklist

Here is a list of information and documents you will need when you apply for a home loan:

Copy of the Purchase and Sale Agreement
Your present mortgage information (or 12 months rental history)
Two years history of employment and verification of all income sources
If self-employed, copies of past two years income tax return and year to date profit and loss
Two months checking, savings and investment account information verifying your liquid assets
Name, account number and outstanding balance of each of your debts
Information regarding any other income to be used
Information regarding any other assets that will be used as funds to close
If you're applying for a VA loan, you need a Certificate of Eligibility or DD-214 form
If you are a relocating employee, include relocation information and copy of offer, promissory note and copy of check on bridge loan
Two pieces of ID, such as your driver's license or passport and social security card

305 Welchwood Dr Clarksville TN 37040 Reduced to 103,000

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Mon, 19 May 2008 09:42:18 -0500

Janie Masterson | Crye-Leike, Realtors | 931 801-3348

305 Welchwood, Clarksville, TN

Best Deal In Town

3BR/1BA Single Family House

offered at $111,400

Year Built	1977
Sq Footage	1,400
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	1 full, 0 partial
Floors	1
Parking	1 Car garage
Lot Size	23,496 sqft
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Family room
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Laundry area - garage	Yard

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking

Storage space(s)

OTHER SPECIAL FEATURES

Ceiling fans, security system, surround throughout

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Janie Masterson

Crye-Leike, Realtors

931 801-3348

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 19, 2008, 5:38am PDT

Happy Mother's Day Blessings

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Sun, 11 May 2008 11:06:09 -0500

This blessing is for all the mothers who have sat up all night
with sick toddlers saying, "It's OK honey, Mommy's here."

This blessing is for the mothers who gave birth to babies they may
never see. And the mothers who took those babies-- forever to be
their own children.

This blessing is for all the mothers who attended ball games,
recitals, rehearsals, etc. etc. and who said, "I wouldn't have
missed it for the world," and meant it.

This blessing is for all the mothers of Kosovo who fled in the
night and can't find their children or can't feed their children.

Creator God, what makes a good mother anyway? Is it patience?
Firmness? A soft lap?

Or is mothering what is in her heart?

Is it the ache she feels when she watches her child disappear down
the street, walking to school alone for the very first time?

The jolt that takes her from sleep to dread, from bed to crib at 2
a.m. to put her hand on the back of a sleeping baby?

The need to flee from wherever she is and hug her child when she
hears news of a school shooting, a fire, a car accident, a baby dying?

Yes it is so.

So this blessing is for all the mothers who sat down with their
children and explained all about making babies. And for all the
mothers who wanted to but just couldn't.

This blessing is for all the mothers who yell at their kids in
the grocery store with frustration and despair.

This blessing is for the mothers who show up at work with milk
stains on their blouses and diapers in their purse.

This blessing is for all the mothers who teach their sons to cook
and their daughters to speak up with pride.

This blessing is for mothers who put pinwheels, teddy bears, or
flowers on their children's graves.

This blessing is for mothers whose children have gone astray, who
haven't the words to reach them, and yet have never put them from
their heart.

This blessing is for new mothers stumbling through diaper
changes and sleep deprivation. And mature mothers learning to let
go. For working mothers and stay-at-home mothers. Single mothers
and married mothers.

And this blessing is for all of us who will move beyond
sentiment into actions which support mothers and mothering persons
in all of their life-giving and life-nurturing roles. Amen [Back to Top]

France's Fête des Mères Mother's Day Celebration

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Sun, 11 May 2008 10:59:58 -0500

Think one Mother's Day a year simply isn't enough? Well, I agree in the interests of exploring other cultures and customs. My grandmother came from France with her family when she was 8 years old. I am always interested in what that culture has in store.

All of us Moms can get a second dose of attention by celebrating France's Fête des Mères on May 25. A French tradition that was inaugurated by Napoleon and made official in 1950, this day honoring mothers dates back to Ancient Greece and is found in several countries.

In France, the tradition calls for a variety of honors for mother. She might receive a gift from her children, or the children might let mom (or mère) relax, and, as all things in France, it usually culminates in a large dinner in mom's honor. These dinners are usually a major family affair.

The main thrust is that this is a day when, much like in America, mothers do not work and their families cater to their whims. Mothers here also usually get cards and flowers. Sometimes children write short poems for mom. I would love it if my son, Grant or my daughters wrote me a POEM! Wow, what a treat that would be.

Why not offer your mom ~ or suggest to your family a chance for two Mother's Days in a year. She doesn't need to get another full-blown Mother's Day, but perhaps moms can get a nice meal or even a poem. Just in the interests of exploring other cultures and customs, of course.

Fried Green Tomatoes From Clarksville, TN Now Don't These Babies Look Good~!

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Sun, 11 May 2008 10:52:07 -0500

I just wanted to share with all of my fellow Mothers out there my favoite receipe for

Fried Green Tomatoes Print Options

Ingredients

3 medium, firm green tomatoes (grown in Clarksville TN of course
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup milk
2 beaten eggs
2/3 cup fine dry bread crumbs or cornmeal
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper

How To (Only a couple more steps)

1 Cut unpeeled tomatoes into 1/2 inch slices. Sprinkle slices with salt and pepper. Let tomato slices stand for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, place flour, milk, eggs, and bread crumbs in separate shallow dishes.

2 Heat 2 Tbsp of olive oil in a skillet on medium heat. Dip tomato slices in milk, then flour, then eggs, then bread crumbs. In the skillet, fry half of the coated tomato slices at a time, for 4-6 minutes on each side or until brown. As you cook the rest of the tomatoes, add olive oil as needed. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Eddie's Produce Stand on Madison ~ Check it Out for Fresh Veggies and Fruit!

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Fri, 09 May 2008 11:28:09 -0500

One thing I really miss about Florida is the roadside produce stands. But the other day I was riding along Madison St just down from my office and I noticed the sight of a roadside vegetable stand. Basically, a small table laden with okra, beans, strawberries and succulent tomatoes. But the southern hospitality here is in full bloom along with all of the beautiful flowers.

The vendor, Eddie, will ask you to sample the fresh strawberries, which is such a delight. He has a truck load of melons and other goodies. He has fresh corn and okra too. Stop by and see Eddie and tell him Janie Masterson sent you over for a taste test of those strawberries.

Eddie (a.k.a. E & D Produce) will have this little stand at the corner where Gateway Towing and Recovery sits (518 Madison). On weekends, Eddie shifts his stock to the Flea market at Fort Campbell Boulevard and Dover Road, across from Krogers. shop at Eddie's stand. For more information on E & D Produce call 931.627.2650.

If you know of any other stands please let me know. I love them.

One of the Best Places to Eat in Downtown Clarksville, TN

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Fri, 09 May 2008 11:17:00 -0500

After a long hard day of shopping for that perfect home it's always nice to sit down at Blondie's and have a bite to eat! It's a great place and I take my clients there often. Whether you want a bit of handmade honey and nut cream cheese on your breakfast bagel or a slice of delectable carrot cake for a midday dessert, a little downtown eatery called Blondie's is the place to go. Sandwiches and coffees are their specialties.

When thinking deli sandwiches, one often thinks of "Dagwood's," those heaping stacks of fillings scrunched between slices of bread. Blondie's, while serving ample sandwiches, does it with a lighter hand, a delicate touch that is nonetheless filling and satisfying.

Apart from its wonderful food, Blondie's has a little something extra to offer its patrons: a chance to sit outdoors in a small atrium, a terraced garden spot with cafe tables, plants and a bit of shade, shelter from the summer sun. It's not big, but it's enough. It almost classifies itself as one of Clarksville's best kept secrets.

Inside this year-old dining spot, you'll find brick walls, high ceilings with dark overhead beams, soft lighting and a ceiling fan pushing comfortable cool air down, and comfortable seating with some tables overlooking Franklin Street and others neatly spaced along the narrow hall that leads to the outdoor patio.

Posters and pictures abound: vintage movie stars, a bit of Norman Rockwell, and a print of that famous World War II era "kiss" photograph celebrating the end of war. There's a wonderful painting of the bistro itself (pictured above right), done in brick red tones that captures the essence of Blondie's interior.

As for the menu, we'll start with breakfast. And bagels. Served plain with butter, with sweet strawberry jelly, plain cream cheese of a flavored cream cheese: honey and nut (which melts in your mouth in a subtle sweetness), summery cucumber dill, and a strawberry cream cheese that almost qualifies as dessert.

Then there are the cinnamon rolls. Fragrant. And blueberry muffins. Or Danish with raspberry or cream cheese.

Breakfast sandwiches are popular fare, and come with fillings of sausage, ham or bacon - each with cheese, served on a bagel or fresh, flaky, buttery croissant.

Lunch is a selection of sandwiches served on your choice of San Francisco style sourdough, a delicate wheatberry, a hearty rye or a tomato-basil wrap. As for fillings, one might opt for ham and cheddar, turkey and swiss, sliced chicken with mozzarella, roast beef and swiss, of a veggie special with cucumbers, swiss cheese, mayo, lettuce, tomato and onion.

Blondie's Club Sandwich melds ham, turkey, bacon, mozzarella, honey mustard, lettuce and tomato into a mouthwatering sandwich that requires nothing but a hearty appetite.

A Grilled Blondie is sliced ham and turkey with swiss, with a dab of pesto butter sauce served on a delectable Panini bread. Okay, I'm hungry again.

Lighter fare includes a salad with turkey, tomatoes, onions, grated mozzarella, craisins and pecans on a bed of lettuce (raspberry vinaigrette or Italian vinaigrette are the dressings of choice). A side salad can be ordered to accompany any sandwich.

Blondie's also serves a homemade soup of the day at $2.95 a bowl.

If you need a respite from downtown shopping, come in, take a seat and head to the desert section of the menu, but be prepared for some tough decisions: the carrot cake is mouthwatering, the chocolate cake and homemade (still warm from the oven) cookies melt on your tongue, and the scones are crisp and tasty. Milk shakes are thick enough to be considered dessert.

Coffee, a specialty item here, takes up an entire page on the menu, beginning with the coffee of the day. Then, Expresso. Cafe au Lait. Lattes (flavored or not). Breve. Mocha. And a range of flavoring syrups that include Amaretto, Hazelnut, Kahlua, Caramel or Vanilla Creme (sugar free, believe it or not) , French Vanilla, Marshmallow, English Toffee, White Chocolate ... so many coffees, so little time. A selection of juices and bottled water is also available.
All items are available as carry-out orders and can be ordered ahead by calling 931-645-9725 or by faxing your order to 931-645-4472. While that may be convenient, it's much more fun to drift over there, take a seat, savor the menu and the aromas, and dine inside, or on the patio.

Blondie's, located at 135 Franklin Street, is open Monday through Friday from 7-5 and Saturday from 8-5.

Article compliments of Clarksville, TN

Don't Forget It's Jazz Time in Clarksville, TN

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Fri, 09 May 2008 11:10:12 -0500

Jazz on the Lawn

Season Kicks off Saturday,

May 10th at 6:30p.m. with

Delicious Blues Stew

Road Advisory!

Dunlop Lane is closed for construction May 6th-20th. Please take alternate route. Use Alfred Thun Road from Exit 4 or International BLVD from Exit 8

Jazz on the Lawn 2008 Concert Dates

May 10 - Delicious Blues Stew

May 24 - Jim Gibson

June 7 - The Heard

June 21 - Mark Sallings & the Famous Unknowns

July 5 - Richard Waters & the Blues Boyz

July 19 - Clarksville Jazz Quintet

August 2 - The King Bees

August 16 - Hypertension

August 30 - Tim Gonzalez & Friends

September 20 - The Dean Martinis

October 4 - Joel Brown

October 25 - Tina Brown

315 Longwood Ct, Clarksville, TN

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Fri, 09 May 2008 10:28:39 -0500

Janie Masterson | Crye-Leike, Realtors | 931 801-3348

315 Longwood Ct, Clarksville, TN

Beautiful Home with exquisite detail in Savannah West

4 Bdrm Single Family House

offered at $317,000

Year Built	1994
Sq Footage	3,426
Bedrooms	4
Bathrooms	3 full, 1 partial
Floors	Unspecified
Parking	Unspecified
Lot Size	Unspecified
HOA/Maint	$4 per month

DESCRIPTION

Excellent floor plan with space galore in Sango! 4 bed/3.5 bath w/ huge bonus room/office & fabulous hobby room w/walk-in closet. Large outdoor patio area with a wonderful pergola and nice landscaping - perfect for entertaining! This is a MUST SEE!

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	Refrigerator
Stove/Oven	Microwave	Attic
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio	Yard
Jacuzzi/Whirlpool

COMMUNITY FEATURES

Garage parking

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Janie Masterson

Crye-Leike, Realtors

931 801-3348

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 9, 2008, 6:13am PDT

380 Stroud Rd, Clarksville, TN

Janie Masterson, GRI, CLHMS (Crye-Leike, Realtors) — Fri, 09 May 2008 09:46:52 -0500

New Luxury Home In Clarksville, Tn.

Location: Stones Manor

This is home for those who want their luxury and amenities away from the hustle and bustle but minutes from Downtown , Gateway, and Recreation. Go with the pride of owning a modified Frank Betz Bagwell Place Home. This luxury home awaits you!

Information

Contact Information

Janie Masterson

931 801-3348

Pricing

Asking Price: $320,000.00

Property Location

2 Stones Manor Way
Clarksville, Tn. 37043

Links

My Site

Features

Bedrooms: 3

Bathrooms: 3.5

Parking: 2

Year Built: 2008

Subdivision: Stones Manor

Lot Size: 86x195x116x195

Garage Size: 2

School District: Rossview Middle

Square Footage: 2800

Agent Name: Janie Masterson

Broker: Crye-leike Inc.

MLS #: 972457

Patio/Deck: Deck

Attributes

Appliances

Range/Oven

Dishwasher

Sink Disposal

Microwave

Interior Amenities

Fireplace

Security System

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

VFLYER ID: 1621613