Living Lake Livingston!

What Sellers Should Do When Going on Vacation

Tue, 21 May 2013 08:54:44 -0700

Check out this great advice from fellow Prudential Real Estate agent, Debbie Reynolds of Clarksville, Tennessee! Though she wrote it for her clients, she has graciously allowed us to share it with ours! So this if for all of my "peeps" and those of you in the Huntsville, Texas and Lake Livingston Areas who are looking for someone to call YOUR agent! I'm your girl! Call Joni Staples at (936) 650-9017!

Via Debbie Reynolds, "The Real Debbie Reynolds" (Prudential PenFed Realty):

What Sellers Should Do When Going on Vacation.

It is time for your annual vacation and your home is on the market for sale in Clarksville TN. By all means go ahead and go, enjoy yourselves and hopefully your home will sell while you are relaxing on vacation.

But to insure that this will happen there needs to be some preparation on your part Mr. Seller to make sure all your ducks are in a row.

What Sellers Should Do When Going on Vacation.

Be sure to let me, your agent know you plan to be away and your travel plans.

Notify me of your connectivity. Will you have your phone and be available via internet if an offer comes in? What about fax or printing access?

Is there a family member or friend that will be able to locate you if I have trouble getting through? May I have that information?

Have you made arrangements for your plants to be watered, yard mowed, newspaper stopped and mail picked up?

Leave your home in showable condition. Do not leave food out, dirty dishes out or in the dishwasher, garbage in the inside cans or dirty clothes out.

Please don't leave pets unattended in your home.

We will not be advising other agents you are out of town so don't broadcast it either. Leave your thermostat at a reasonably comfortable setting for the benefit of those viewing the home.

Asking a neighbor or friend to drop by and check on the house frequently is a good idea. Checking at different times is advised so no routine pattern can be established. Also ask your friend to rotate turning on an interior light to help make it look occupied at night.

To be on the safe side, let's plan a check in between us on an preset date or dates. If anything needs to be discussed we'll have a back-up plan.

Relax and enjoy your trip knowing that I am working hard for you to get your home sold.

What Sellers Should Do When Going on Vacation. The selling doesn't stop while you are away.

If you real estate services in Clarksville TN then do yourself a favor and call The Real Debbie Reynolds at 931-920-6730.

Want To Know What Debbie Has to Say?

If you are needing Real Estate services in Clarksville TN it would be my pleasure to assist you!

.

"The Real Debbie Reynolds" at DebbieReynolds.net

Prudential PenFed Realty, 2503 Wilma Rudolph Blvd., Clarksville, TN 37040

An independently owned and operated member of BRER Affiliated, Inc.

Not affiliated with Prudential. Prudential watermarks used under license.

931-920-6730 (office) 931-320-6730 (cell)

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

I AM HONOURED TO HAVE BEEN CHOSEN AS A NEW AMBASSADOR TO ACTIVERAIN - THANK YOU!

Tue, 21 May 2013 07:15:03 -0700

Good Morning ActiveRain peeps! Please take a moment this morning to join me in Congratulating Susan Emo on becoming one of ActiveRain's newest Ambassadors. Zip on over to her blog and give her a big HIGH FIVE!! :))

Via Susan Emo, Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area (Sotheby's International Realty Canada - Brokerage):

I AM HONOURED TO HAVE BEEN CHOSEN AS A NEW AMBASSADOR TO ACTIVERAIN - THANK YOU!

What a surprise to receive the email from Kerrie (our lovely new bride!) announcing my new role here in the Rain.

A great surprise as well as an honour and a privilege.

I came to AR back in May 2008 and I often wondered about that elite orange sash - how'd they get that?

I promise to do my best to encourage other Canadians to join this fantastic forum and to assist anyone who needs help in motivation or inspiration too.

Thank you ActiveRain for the difference you've made in my business and in my life. The many new friendships are a bonus I didn't count on!

If you're thinking about selling, I'd love to meet with you and provide a Market Analysis and go over my Marketing Plan - it is the little things that make the difference.**

Susan Emo
Sales Representative,
Sotheby's International Realty Canada, Brokerage*
Kingston, Ontario

www.SusanEmoSellsHomes.com

Serving the Kingston, Gananoque and the 1000 Islands Region
- come for a visit and stay for a lifetime!

*Each office independently owned and operated.
** There is nothing on this blog that is intended to solicit business from anyone already under contract with another Realtor

The opinions expressed on this blog are the personal opinions of Susan Emo

If you are a non-member and would like to comment, please feel free to contact me.

Take a moment to visit my facebook fan page at
www.facebook.com/susanemosellshomes
and click "LIKE" today!

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Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Marvelous Monday Photos: Daddy's Little Man!

Mon, 20 May 2013 21:31:57 -0700

My daddy is a 2013 Coldspring-Oakhurst High School Graduate and I couldn't be prouder!

This is a picture of me at Dad's Baccalaureate Service. I'm the cute on, wearing his cap!

♥ We are proud too, Zacaree! We are proud of BOTH of your parents! So happy they chose LIFE! YOU are a blessing!

P.S. Mommy is a 2012 graduate of Huntsville High School. Zacaree walked across the stage with her! He wasn't born yet! :)

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Energy Star Sales Tax Relief ~ Austin TX ~ May 25-27, 2013

Mon, 20 May 2013 21:10:33 -0700

Attention TEXAS shoppers! This Memorial Day Weekend you will save on local sales tax on certain Enerty Star appliances. Check out Dorie's blog post below for the details!

Via Dorie Dillard Realtor® Canyon Creek NW Austin TX homes for sale (Coldwell Banker United Realtors):

Energy Star Sales Tax Relief~

Austin TX Memorial Day Weekend May 25-27 2013

Texas shoppers mark your calendars it’s time for Energy Star Sales Tax Relief on May 25- 27, 2013, Memorial weekend! You’ll want to take advantage of the savings! Your old appliances and energy-hogging equipment could be wasting hundreds of dollars in energy each year.

Yahoo….No state and local sales taxes will be charged on purchases of certain energy efficient products! There are no limits on the number of qualifying items and an exemption certificate is not required.

Take note of the products that qualify for the exemptions:

Air conditioners priced at $6,000 or less

Refrigerators priced at $2,000 or less

Ceiling fans

Incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs

Clothes washers

Dishwashers

Dehumidifiers

Programmable thermostats

Check out Susan Combs, the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts, for further details.

Energy Star Tax Sales Relief ~Austin TX Memorial Week-end May 25-27 2013

This community service announcement is brought to you by Dorie Dillard, your NW Austin real estate professional with Coldwell Banker United Realtors.

If you are reading this post and have a home to sell in NW Austin I would be happy to help you. The Austin real estate market is experiencing a paradigm shift and it is considered an excellent time to sell your home. Let me put my expertise to work for you. Call me at 512-346-1799.

Search for homes in NW Austin

Search for homes in Canyon Creek

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"WE ARE ALWAYS HERE TO ASSIST YOU!"

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      Don't forget to visit my website: www.reloaustin.com

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

These Young girls are growing and learning....watch them ROAR!

Mon, 20 May 2013 21:07:43 -0700

In Proverbs 22:6, the Bible says "Train up a child in the way he should go,

And when he is old he will not depart from it." Isn't it wonderful that these children are being trained right?!

Via Rebecca Gaujot, Lewisburg WV Real Estate, Greenbrier Cty (Rebecca Gaujot, & Coldwell Banker Stuart & Watts Real Estate):

These young girls are growing and learning....watch them ROAR!

Forty-seven volunteers arrived on May 11, 2013, for the Almost Heaven Habitat for Humanity construction site in recognition of National Women Build Week, May 3-12. Over half of the volunteers were 18 years of age, and younger.

As one volunteer said... "No one should underestimate the abilities of a woman- she can run a home, raise a family, and have a career. A woman can truly do it all!” These volunteers will be women one day..... Like the song by Helen Reddy ..."I AM WOMAN...HEAR ME ROAR .... just says it all!

The below photo are volunteers from the Greenbrier Academy for Girls, ages 16 to 18.

Our youngest volunteers

and our Mascot for the day was Mackaliegh!

It was indeed a challenging and fun day for all volunteers... of all ages! The young girls jumped right into the work.... painting and installing trim/baseboard.

This was a great chance for these young girls to give something back to the Greenbrier community. They are growing and learning....watch them ROAR!

Your Real Estate Connection for Lewisburg, WV and the Greenbrier County

If I can assist you in any way with your real estate needs in Lewisburg, WV Greenbrier County or the surrounding areas, please feel free to contact me by phone at
(304) 520-2133, email or visit my website at www.lewisburgwvrealestate4you.com

All pictures and content are my own unless otherwise noted. Please No Copying without my permission. Follow me on Google+

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Huntsville Autorama Coming to the Walker County Fairgrounds

Mon, 20 May 2013 16:03:49 -0700

Car Show Coming to the Walker County Fairgrounds

For car enthusiasts that enjoy seeing the classics to those trying to check out their choices in NEW cars and trucks, the Huntsville Autorama is the place to be!

Monday ♥ May 27, 2013

From 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

♥ Conroe Cruisers ♥

♥ Huntsville Cruisers ♥

♥ Hillcrest Ford ♥

♥ Team Dodge ♥

♥ Wiesner Chevrolet♥

Classic Car Space $25.00

No Admission Fee For the Public

Beat the Heat!

Inside with AC!

☺

SAVE THE DATE!

The Huntsville Autorama is Coming to the Walker County Fairgrouds!

For More Information call Shellie at (936) 294-7271.

Huntsville Autorama is Coming to the Walker County Fairgrounds

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Speechless Sunday: Go ahead! Make My Day!

Sun, 19 May 2013 16:09:51 -0700

I shot this photo yesterday when looking at property in Spring Lake subdivision in Huntsville, Texas. This guy was crossing the road. I don't think he was very happy. He hissed at me!

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Annual Thomas Lake Road VFD Memorial Weekend Fish Fry

Sun, 19 May 2013 13:29:17 -0700

Annual Thomas Lake Road Volunteer Fire Department

Memorial Weekend Fish Fry

Sunday

May 26, 2013

11:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Cake Auction at 12:30

If you have never attended a TLRVFD Cake Auction, then you just haven’t had FUN! You never know what they will auction off... it may not be just cakes!! I have left before with sandals, candy, and even a rocking chair!

MENU:

Catfish

Coleslaw

French Fries

Dessert

Iced Tea

$9.00 Adults

$4.00 Children Ages 6-10

5 and Under eat FREE!

Thank you in advance for the way you love and support this great community! We are so blessed to live where we do!

From Houston take I-45 N to Huntsville, Exit 113 (Texas 19) 15 miles to Riverside.

R on FM 980 4 miles to L on FM 3454 (aka: Thomas Lake Rd.)

The Fire Station is approximately 2 miles on your R.

Annual Thomas Lake Road Volunteer Fire Department Memorial Weekend Fish Fry

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Saturday's Shots: Ooooh! That feels SO GOOD!

Sat, 18 May 2013 20:22:48 -0700

oooh! That feels SO GOOD!

Hi! My name is Bumble, and I'm addicted to pollen!

What Heaven looks like to a bee. :)

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Summer Fun at the Huntsville Aquatic Center

Sat, 18 May 2013 12:15:58 -0700

Summer Fun at the Huntsville Aquatic Center

The summer swim season is about to begin at the Huntsville Aquatic Center located at 912 Avenue N, in Huntsville, Texas (77320).

Saturday, June 1, 2013 is the opening day of the 2013 swim season. The Huntsville Aquatic Center will be closed on Mondays, with regular hours the rest of the week, except for Saturdays, when the pool will have extended hours. Here's how it will go:

Saturday 10 AM to 8 PM
CLOSED MONDAY
All other days: 12 Noon to 8 PM

Day passes to the swimming pool are only $2.50 for children 3 to 11, and $4.00 for children that are 12 years old and older.

Don't worry! If you have children that are little water bugs and want to swim ALL the time -- You can save money by purchasing a summer pass for only $40.00 for children 3 to 11, or $50.00 for children who are 12 years old and older.

In addition to the individual children's passes, Family Passes are also available. A family of four can have a family pass for only $100.00. If you have more children, it's just $20.00 extra for each additional child.

If you are reading this and thinking that this all sounds just wonderful except for the fact that your child can not swim -- have I got a deal for you!

The Huntsville Aquatic Center will host swimming lessons for children ages 3 to 5, 6 and 7, and 8 and older. Each age group will practice at a different time with the schedule as follows:

3 to 5 from 8:00 AM to 8:45 AM
6 and 7 from 9:00 AM to 9:45 AM
8 and older from 10:00 AM to 10:45 AM

And finally, last but not least.... there's the SPLASH PAD! Kids of ALL ages love to play at the splash pad. Open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM, the splash pad is wonderful, CHEAP, family entertainment. By cheap, I mean FREE! The splash pad is located outside of the swimming pool area and there is no charge to enjoy it. Picnic tables are nearby so pack a lunch and beat the heat at the Huntsville Aquatic Center this summer!

Summer Fun at the Huntsville Aquatic Center

This Huntsville, Texas community post is brought to you by Joni Staples, your Huntsville / Lake Livingston Area real estate professional. Before you buy or sell real estate, give me a call at

(936) 650-9017

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Lakeside Village Market Report for April 2013

Sat, 18 May 2013 08:46:46 -0700

Lakeside Village Market Report for April 2013

Writing a market report on small, rural developments can be challenging. Small communities offer less sales data to report. Such is the case with Lakeside Village which is located 8 miles from Riverside, Texas, population 507. But sales data, I do have!

I checked MLS data today, and so far this year, there have been no sales in Lakeside Village. There are currently 7 Active listings ranging from $47,900 to $269,500. The average listing price is $118,329 resulting in $67.93 per square foot with 180 days on market. The cumulative days on market is 330 days which means that at least one of these 7 homes have been listed more than once. For example, the listing expired and they re-listed instead of just extending the listing. Sometimes they re-list with a new agent, and sometimes they just let it expire and re-list so that the days on market do not appear as high. Any agent worth their salt is going to check the property listing history before advising their buyers on an offer. So I am not real sure about that particular technique. Lowering the price is a much better technique to avoid those long days on market -- which typically ends in less for the seller anyway. Another thing to consider when looking at days on maket in our lake communities is when they listed. During the fall and winter months, our lake real estate market slows down considerably. So if they listed during that time period, it may just be why they haven't sold yet. Ask your agent their professional opinion! (Don't have an agent yet?! Give me a call! (936) 650-9017. 😊)

Within the past 6 months, there were 3 homes that sold. One was a small single wide mobile home on the water. There other two were; an adorable cabin that sold well under its value, and a waterfront fixer upper. 3 totally differerent homes. None of which compare to the other. Having said that, the average of the 3 sales price of these 3 homes was $84,667 averaging $80.94 per square foot and with an average/cumulative average of 126 days on the market. NOTE: If you are considering selling your Lakeside Village Home, give me a call at (936) 650-9017 and I will come out and look at your home and provide you complete details of sales that are comparable to YOUR particular home.

Lakeside Village has many streets with waterfront properties and homes with water views. The subdivision has the FM 980 Volunteer Fire Department located at its entrance which also serves as the community center for meetings, and community gatherings. There are two community fishing piers and a boat ramp that puts you directly into the Trinity River -- with plenty of parking for your boat trailer. The boat ramp is locked and homeowners can purchase a key for a very nominal fee.

Children attend the Coldspring-Oakhurst Consolidated Independent School District. Utility providers for Lakeside Village are:

Electric: Sam Houston Co-Op

Water: Riverside Water Supply

Telephone: Windstream (They also offer DSL Internet services)

Television: You can get Walker County Cable out of Huntsville or Satellite TV from DirectTV or Dish Network

This Lakeside Village Market Report is brought to you by Joni Staples, Broker Associate at Prudential Anderson Properties.You can reach me at (936) 650-9017.

Lakeside Village Market Report for April 2013

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Friday's Fotos: Young Love!

Fri, 17 May 2013 20:37:00 -0700

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Hardwood with dark pet stains – Can you get rid of them?

Fri, 17 May 2013 16:24:07 -0700

Getting rid of dark pet stains is not an easy task. Debbie, The Flooring Girl, shares with us the choices you have to eliminate or diminish the problem. Either way you go, it is going to be a pain in the rear. PERSONALLY, I would hire this job done!

Via Westchester Flooring - Debbie Gartner -Hardwood Floors Carpet Tile Refinish - (Floor Coverings International Westchester NY & Stamford CT):

How can you eliminate pet stains in hardwood floors?

This is a frequent question from homeowners with pets. Those dark black water stains can arise from direct contact or from when the pet stains have soaked through the carpet and onto the hardwood flooring.

Unfortunately, if the stain is dark black, it will not come out, even when you refinish the hardwood floors. The good news is that there are 2 solutions that will eliminate or reduce the appearance of these pet stains on hardwood flooring:

First option: Replace the stained pieces of wood, and then sand and refinish the hardwood floors.

Option 1 is usually the better solution, but it's also a bit more expensive. This definitely requires a hardwood flooring professional. Remove the damaged pieces and weave in new hardwood. It's important that the pieces are woven in and look random (rather than cutting a box out and doing a "handyman special." Then, when you sand and refinish the whole room, it will look good as new and the new pieces will blend in.

This is relatively straight forward to do if you have oak hardwood floors and provided that you have an experienced hardwood installer. A hardwood flooring expert match the correct wood for you - species and grade of wood. (And, yes, I have seen the wrong species used many times.)

If you have pine floors, it's a bit more challenging. It is still fixable, but it requires finding/matching the type of pine you have (and pine is often more expensive and harder to find - there may be lead times) and often the pine is made in different widths nowadays vs. how it was made a long time ago. Hence, often you have to get pine that is slightly wider than the width of your current floors and the installer needs to mill it down to the correct size. This often means a bit more waste and more labor (and sometimes longer lead times and special deliveries to obtain the wood and more labor).

Repairing floors is also more complicated if you don't have a plywood subfloor underneath the wood. If you don't have a plywood subfloor, longer pieces of wood are required as these need to be nailed into the joists. Again, it's still doable, but should be done by a professional, so that you don't have a "handyman special."

Option 2: Chose a dark stain to cover up the pet stains.

Alternatively, another option is to sand and stain the floors a dark color - one that is dark enough to cover up the stains. Usually, darker hardwood stain colors such as ebony, jacobean, dark walnut or royal mahogany will do the trick. Thankfully, these colors are very stylish so for many homeowners, this is a great option. If you prefer a lighter or mid toned color floor, I would suggest that you try option 1 (replace the damaged sections of wood) or cover the stains with area rugs or furniture.

If you live in Westchester County NY and are interested in refinishing your floors and need advice on how to handle pet stains, please give The Flooring Girl a call at 914-937-2950.

Map of Westchester Hardwood Flooring and Refinishing

View Westchester Hardwood Floor Refinishing in a larger map

Hardwood with dark pet stains – Can you get rid of them?

Hardwood Flooring - Carpet - Tile/Natural Stone - Laminate - Refinish Hardwood - Backsplashes

"The Flooring Girl"

Debbie Gartner, "The Flooring Girl" and owner of Floor Coverings International Westchester NY

You can download our free flooring guide. Or, visit our flooring selector - 2,000 options. We install hardwood floors, carpeting and runners, tile floors and backsplashes.

Call us for a free estimate 914-937-2950.

"We bring the store to your door."

If you enjoyed what you are are reading, feel free to to my blog.

WC19920-H07, HIC619252

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

BOA Have a Heart!!!

Fri, 17 May 2013 15:41:22 -0700

BOA needs to explain WHY they are doing this. All payments have been made EARLY or on time. WHAT is the deal with these people. If you haven't already, please re-blog this article, tweet it, facebook it, google plus it... SHARE IT! Thank you!

Via Gail Robinson, REALTOR, e-PRO Fairfield County, CT (William Raveis Real Estate, Southport, CT):

BOA SENT ME A DECLINE LETTER TODAY AS MY HUSBAND WAS BEING ADMITTED INTO HOSPICE

I made all the trial loan modification payments on time over the phone via my BOA Customer Relationship Manager, yet today I received a FedEx letter stating that my permanent loan modification was DECLINED. At the same time as the letter arrived, the hospice nurse came to sign my husband up for in-home hospice care. Can you believe this????

The letter from BOA states "Thank you for contacting us regarding the Home Affordable Modification Program. While we realize this decision comes at a difficult time in your life, we regret to inform you that we are no longer considering your request for a modification because after being offered a Trial Period Plan, you did not make the required Trial Period Plan payment by the end of the first month of the trial period."

I made the first trial payment on 3/4/13, the second one on 4/2/13, and the third one on 5/2/13. The original letter from my BOA Customer Relationship Manager outlining the terms for the trial period dated 2/25/13 stated, "To participate in the Trial Period Plan, make your first month's trial period mortgage payment as soon as possible, but in no event later than 30 calendar day after 4/1/2013."

Since I made the first payment on 3/4/13 and it was not due until 4/1/13, it seems to me that I am in compliance.

This was so upsetting that I could not focus properly on getting my husband admitted into hospice. My husband is very upset. He has Stage IV, Pancreatic Cancer and was diagnosed 4 years and 4 months ago. He's now in the end stages of the illness.

Can you see where I made an error? Perhaps I'm not thinking straight due to the stress of putting my husband in hospice today. It's an emotional day.

Why wouldn't my BOA Customer Relationship Manager call me to tell me ahead of time that this letter was going out? Why won't she return my calls. I have had to ask for an Appeal, but this is the last thing I need to focus on right now. My attention should be 100% on my husband in his final days.

BOA have a heart!!!!

Links to previous posts where the AR community rallied around us to convince BOA not to foreclose on our home:

Today I Was Told by BOA My Home is Going into Foreclosure

Thank You to My AR Friends and Friends of Friends

BOA Sent Me the Trial Loan Modification Papers Today

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Riverside Volunteer Fire Department Gets New Booster Truck

Thu, 16 May 2013 21:03:38 -0700

Riverside Volunteer Fire Department Gets New Booster Truck

Fritz Weinzierl of Riverside, Texas decided that he wanted a new truck for his birthday. Not just any truck... but a BOOSTER Truck. And not for him... but for the Volunteer Fire Department of which he is a founding member, a Life Member, and a Honorary Chief.

Weinzierl's generous donation covered all but $20,000. County Commissioner, Bobby Warren, heard about it and shared the story with the Walker County Commissioner Court and they agreed to cover the difference.

So the next time that you run into Fritz, be sure to wish him a VERY Happy Birthday!

And a BIG THANK YOU to Bobby Warren and the Walker County Commissioner Court!

Riverside Volunteer Fire Department Gets New Booster Truck

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Huntsville Texas Vacation Bible School 2013 - Summer Events

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:43:36 -0700

Huntsville Texas Vacation Bible School 2013 - Summer Events ♥

Children LOVE Vacation Bible School. It just wouldn't be summer without VBS! The good news is, there is a Vacation Bible School going at different times (some morning, some night), in different months (June and July), AND at different churches (many denominations) ALL OVER Huntsville and Walker County. So there is no reason your child should have to miss Vacation Bible School this summer.

Children residing in Bedias can attend Vacation Bible School at Bedias Baptist Church June 10-14 from 6:30 PM TO 9 PM.

If you live in the Riverside area, your child can attend Vacation Bible School at Riverside Baptist Church June 10-14 from 5:30 PM to 9 PM. Information for Faith Baptist, Dodge Baptist and Northside Baptist will be coming soon!

Huntsville Residents have the following choices:

Church of Christ: June 10-13 from 6 PM to 8:40 PM

Fellowship of Huntsville: June 18-22 from 9 am to Noon

First Baptist Church: June 15-19 from 8 am to Noon

First United Methodist Church: July Date/Ttme Coming Soon.

Saint Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church: June 17-21 (More Information Soon)

Second Baptist Church: June 9-12 from 6 PM to 8:45 PM

Westway Baptist Church: Register Now by Clicking Here

Wesley United Methodist Church: July Date/Time Coming Soon

There are several Vacation Bible School themes to chose from. As we get closer to each event I will post more details for each particular church. So stop back by frequently through July for up-to-date Vacation Bible School Information for Huntsville and Walker County.

This public service announcement is brought to you by Joni Staples, your Huntsville / Lake Livingston Area real estate professional. If you are looking to buy or sell a Huntsville or Lake Livingston Area home, please call me at (936) 650-9017. I look forward to earning your business and exceeding your expectations!

Joni Staples

Broker Associate

Prudential Anderson Properties!

🎼 Everybody Say YES! Yes to VBS! 🎵

Huntsville Texas Vacation Bible School 2013 - Summer Events

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Wordless Wednesday: Whatever Happened to 'Let Sleeping Dogs Lie?'

Wed, 15 May 2013 20:31:16 -0700

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Austin Boomers Face Silent "HEPATITIS C VIRUS RISK"

Wed, 15 May 2013 20:23:44 -0700

According to the article below, anyone born between 1945 and 1965 might be at risk for Hepatitis C and should be tested. Early diagnosis is important for treatment. Read on!!

Via Dorie Dillard Realtor® Canyon Creek NW Austin TX homes for sale (Coldwell Banker United Realtors):

Austin Boomers Face Silent “HEPATITIS C VIRUS RISK”

MedSpring Urgent Care offers Free Screenings in May

Meghan Sylvester, OutReach Coordinator for MedSpring Urgent Care alerted me to another medical issue that is out there lurking! Did you know many baby boomers’ bodies may be harboring a silent killer?  Hepatitis C. In fact, the federal Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends testing for anyone born between 1945 and 1965 as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent liver damage, cirrhosis, liver cancer and other complications.

In recognition of Hepatitis Awareness month, MedSpring is offering baby boomers, those born between 1945-1965, free Hepatitis C screenings at any of its 6 centers in Austin during the month of May. In addition, those born after 1965 with tattoos and body piercings are also eligible for free screenings. If you fall in this age category I’d say this screening is a no brainer!

The Hepatitis C virus is a contagious, blood-borne infection affecting the liver. Baby boomers may have contracted the disease numerous ways, including through a simple blood transfusion, injection drug use or an organ transplant performed prior to 1992. While baby boomers comprise only 27 percent of the U.S. population, the CDC estimates they account for 75 percent of the Hepatitis C cases and 73 percent of deaths related to the virus.

“This simple, one-time blood test can mean the difference between life-saving treatment and serious, even deadly, liver disease,” said Dr. Jon L. Belsher, M.D., MedSpring’s Chief Medical Officer. “The Hepatitis C virus is dangerous, especially to baby boomers, as it can go unnoticed for years with most people experiencing no symptoms.”

MedSpring centers will administer the complimentary blood test to the first 1000 eligible patients during regular center hours of 9am-9pm daily. For those patients requiring follow-up, MedSpring will provide complimentary consultation and referrals. Walk-ins are welcome, and appointments are also available. For more information, visit the Hepatitis C information page on MedSpring’s website.

MedSpring Urgent Care has six centers in Austin, three in Chicago and five in Houston.

MedSpring Urgent Care is based in Austin, TX, MedSpring’s 14 Urgent Care centers focus on delivering quality care and exceptional service. For more information, including patient reviews and savings compared to an ER, please visit www.medspring.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter.

As always news is brought to you as a courtesy of Dorie Dillard, Coldwell Banker United Realtors; your NW Austin Real Estate Consultant.

If you are a homeowner thinking of selling your home in NW Austin, I welcome the opportunity to discuss our market and provide a free market analysis. Contact me at 512-346-1799 or dillard@reloaustin.com

Homes for sale in NW Austin

Homes for sale in Canyon Creek

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Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

5 Absolute Do Not's When Purchasing A House

Wed, 15 May 2013 20:16:54 -0700

If you are considering purchasing a home with a mortgage, PLEASE read this blog post EVEN if you feel like you've heard it all before. This cannot be stressed enough!

Via George Souto (George Souto NMLS# 65149 FHA, CHFA, VA Mortgages Connecticut):

As much as we blog about what not to do when purchasing a home, and as much as we warn and advice Borrower when they are applying for a mortgage on what not to do until they have Closed on their loan. Guess what, they still do it. There are several things that a Borrower/Buyer should not do while they are in the process of purchasing a house, But there are 5 Absolute Do Not's When Purchasing A House. The 5 Absolute Do Not's When Purchasing A House below are so important that anyone one of them can easily bring a Loan Approval and Closing to a screeching halt. The 5 Absolute Do Not's When Purchasing A House are:

DO NOT go out and buy a new car, or furniture or ANY other large purchase. The new payment could disqualify you from being able to qualify for the mortgage.

DO NOT stop making payments on your bills such as credit cards, student loans, car payments, rent, utilities, etc.

DO NOT apply for new credit cards while your mortgage is being approved. This could lower your credit score, and if your credit is checked again before the Closing you may no longer qualify.

DO NOT make large deposits or withdrawals that you can not document.

DO NOT quit your job, even if it is for a better one. A change in jobs will mean that you will have to produce 30 days worth of paystubs for the new job, and this could delay your Closing.

As I stated above, there are other Do Not's, but these are the BIG Do Not's, these are the 5 Absolute Do Not's When Purchasing A House. These can not be said enough, or blogged enough about. When a Borrower/Buyer is in the process of purchasing a house, they almost need to hear these 5 Absolute Do Not's When Purchasing A House on a daily bases.

I don't want to close this blog on a negative, so I am going to end it with one BIG "Do". When purchasing a home, if there is ANY doubt on whether to do something or not, CALL your Loan Originator and ASK. The few minutes that it takes to make a quick simple phone call, could save hours of delays and problems later on, or worst, the mortgage being denied.

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Info about the author:

George Souto is a Loan Officer who can assist you with all your FHA, CHFA, and Conventional mortgage needs in Connecticut. George resides in Middlesex County which includes Middletown, Middlefield, Durham, Cromwell, Portland, Higganum, Haddam, East Haddam, Chester, Deep River, and Essex. George can be contacted at (860) 573-1308 or gsouto@mccuemortgage.com

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Things to do in Huntsville, Texas: Oakwood Cemetery

Wed, 15 May 2013 09:37:17 -0700

Things to do in Huntsville, Texas: Oakwood Cemetery

I often hear the kids say "there is nothing to do in Huntsville," but that's only because they have not bothered to be a tourist in their own back yard.

With summer coming up, I have decided to do a weekly series of things to do in Huntsville, Texas for kids of ALL ages. Today I would like to share WHY YOU should visit the historical Oakwood Cemetery in downtown Huntsville.

Enter the gate of the Oakwood Cemetery and you will be pleasantly surprised by the loveliness of the tall trees, ornate headstones, wrought iron fences, flowers, and historical markers.

If you are a history nut, this cemetery is for you! There are hundreds of confederate soldiers buried here. Oakwood Cemetery is the final resting place of General Sam Houston. Houston's original grave marker a was simple, arch shaped headstone. It was replaced in 1911 with a large, ornate one crafted by Pompeo Coppini. The original headstone can be found in the Sam Houston Memorial Museum located across the street from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville.

There are several historical markers throughout the cemetery, hundreds of confederate soldier graves, and even a handful of union soldiers that died from yellow fever. If you have an iPhone you can take a detailed walking tour using the Mapbook App that can be found in the AppStore. For instructions on how to use the app, click here.

If you are into art, you will appreciate the fine detail work in the many sculptures and headstones throughout the cemetery. Today's cemeteries have flat headstones that all look just alike. BORING!! Not here! Each headstone is different and many are picture worthy, so bring your camera!

If learning a little local history, shooting some great photographs, taking a walk through the woods, or picking some wildflowers sounds like fun to you, then put visiting the Oakwood Cemetery on your agenda for things to do in Huntsville, Texas!

This Huntsville community post is brought to you by Joni Staples, your Huntsville real estate professional.

Before you buy or sell a home in the Huntsville / Lake Livingston area , give me a call at (936) 650-9017.

I look forward to the opportunity to serve you with hard work, great service, and RESULTS!

Things to do in Huntsville, Texas: Oakwood Cemetery

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Tractor Supply Hosts Pet Care and Adoption Event

Tue, 14 May 2013 06:48:24 -0700

Tractor Supply Hosts Pet Care and Adoption Event

Drop by the Tractor Supply parking lot on Saturday, May 18, 2013 from 9 am to 3 pm for pet care and adoption day! The will be dog and puppy adoptions from the Legacy Ranch no-kill shelter, as well as horse, cat, and dog adoptions from the Houston SPCA.

If adoption is not something that your family is able to do right now, bring your own dog as a mobile vet will be there doing vaccinations. Rover can even get a flea and tick bath for FREE.

If your schedule does not allow for you to make it to this event, you can support your Huntsville NO KILL shelter by visiting the Little Women Home for Animals. They also have lots of pets available for adoption to loving families.

Tractor Supply Hosts Pet Care and Adoption Event

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Zooming to the Zoo at the Huntsville Public Library Story Hour

Mon, 13 May 2013 21:05:28 -0700

Zooming to the Zoo at the Huntsville Public Library Story Hour

Bring your preschooler and join the Huntsville Public Library for preschool story hour on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at 10:30 AM. Younger readers will participate in dance, singing, finger puppets, story time, and a craft. All activities will focus on the different creatures you might see at a zoo.

Visit the Huntsville Public Library website at www.myhuntsvillelibrary.com for additional information.

This community service announcement is brought to you by Joni Staples, your Huntsville/Lake Livingston real estate professional.

Before you buy or sell, give me a call at (936) 650-9017. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you with hard work, great service, and RESULTS!

"Zooming to the Zoo" at the Huntsville Public Library Story Hour

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Westwood Shores Market Report for April 2013

Mon, 13 May 2013 13:26:48 -0700

♥ Westwood Shores Market Report for April 2013 ♥

Westwood Shores is a golfing community with a manned gate, three swimming pool areas, tennis courts, walking trails, miniature golf, parks, and even a marina with a community boat launch and boat stalls. It is located on the northern end of Lake Livingston in Trinity County.

The majority of Westwood Shores is restricted against mobile homes, but if you know where to find them, there are two areas where mobile homes are allowed. Currently there are 45 active listings for sale in Westwood Shores with one pending sale.

For the month of April 2013 there were 6 sales in Westwood Shores ranging from $30,000 to 235,500. Two of the 6 sales were mobile homes, 1 was a foreclosure, one was a regular sale. The least expensive home that sold was a single wide mobile home, while the most expensive home that sold was a waterfront home on Lake Livingston.

Statistics from the 6 sales show the average sales price to be $64.32 per square foot. The homeowners received an average of 93% of their asking price. Keep in mind the variety of homes in this months sales data. If you are considering the sale of your home, it is important to pull out specific home sales to determine your home's fair market value. When at all possible, you should use homes sales that happened within the past 6 months.

If you are in need of recent sales data about a particular type of home, such as:

a specific size and age
specific location (golf course, golf view, waterfront, water view)
construction type (brick, frame, modular)

Give me a call at (936) 650-9017.

I would love to meet with you and take a look at your home. It would please me to have the opportunity to provide you with sales information that pertains specifically to you.

I'm Joni Staples and I look forward to earning your business and exceeding your expectations!

Westwood Shores Market Report for April 2013 ♥

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Book Signing at Bear Bend Cabin

Sun, 12 May 2013 21:25:30 -0700

Book Signing at Bear Bend Cabin

Contributing authors Dan Utley and Milton Jordan will be at the Bear Bend Cabin at the Sam Houston Memorial Museum Complex on Wednesday, May 15, 2012 from 1 PM to 3 PM to sign your copy of Just Between Us: Stories & Memories from the Texas Pines.

If you have not picked up your copy of Just Between Us, you can do so at the Wigwam Neosho Museum Store THAT DAY and receive a 20% discount!

So, come on out to the book signing at the Bear Bend Cabin, and we'll see you there!

Book Signing at Bear Bend Cabin

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com

Speechless Sunday Happy Mother’s Day; What are you doing for Mother’s Day?

Sun, 12 May 2013 21:20:15 -0700

Stop by and wish my sweet friend, Yolanda, warm wishes and comfort as she struggles through this bittersweet Mother's Day. She has shared some beautiful Mothers Day flowers with us. Now lets give some beauty back by showing her a little virtual AR love! :)

Via Yolanda Cordova-Gilbert David Weekley Homes in Cinco Ranch (David Weekley Homes):

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I lost my mom almost 4 years ago and the pain will never go away; there is a hole in my heart that no one will ever fill. So, today I celebrate her life, her legacy and most of all her love. Thank You Mom for being the best mom in the world.

What are you doing for Mother’s Day? Happy Mother’s Day!

Speechless Sunday Happy Mother’s Day; What are you doing for Mother’s Day?

If you would like some information on David

Weekley Homes in Silver Ranch call or e-mail

Me at 281-804-9265 or ycgilbert2013@gmail.com

Licensed in the state of Texas (0518539)

Joni@JoniStaples.com