Addison! Update

Wii Wednesdays

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sun, 29 Jun 2008 20:11:06 -0500

Join the Addison (Texas) Pacesetters (individuals 50 years old or older) for fun, exercise, healthy competition and social interaction every Wednesday at 10:30 am this summer. Nintendo's Wii connects to the TV and brings to life favorite games, such as tennis, bowling and golf. A wireless handheld device takes you through the motions of the game.

There is no cost (it's FREE!) but you must sign up at the front desk at the Addison Athletic Center, where the activity will be held.

You can also sign up for a $10.00 boxed lunch.

Open House Sunday: 12463 Montego Plaza, Dallas 75230

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 11:38:03 -0500

Three bedroom, three bath townhouses don't come on the market very often in the Preston Square Townhomes subdivision, but the one listed at 12463 Montego Plaza, Dallas TX will be open Sunday, June 29th from 2:00 to 4:00 and is waiting for a new owner.

Priced at $274,500, this 2-story townhome has a large living area with a wet bar and fireplace, custom mantel, vaulted ceiling and windows looking onto a private patio with greenbelt beyond. There is a beveled glass mirrored accent wall and lots of natural light. The kitchen boasts granite counters and has a breakfast area. Downstairs you'll also find a 3rd bedroom or 2nd living area with bath. The spacious master bedroom is upstairs and has an updated bath with granite, jetted tub and separate shower. The other upstairs bedroom is large, at 15' x 13'.

2457 sq ft
2-car front entry garage
HOA dues: $157/mo
Unexempt taxes: $6,224
Community pool, tennis, club house

Directions: From Preston Road, south of LBJ, go west on Harvest Hill and turn left on Noel into complex. Turn right and follow Montego Plaza around to 12463 which backs to the greenbelt and Charlestown.

For more information on this property, contact:
Lorrie Semler, e-PRO, GRI
Keller Williams - Dallas North
972-416-3417
semler@kw.com

Antiques Roadshow coming to Dallas THIS Weekend

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 20:01:13 -0500

Active Rain isn't the only AR around. Antiques Roadshow, the popular series on PBS, is taping in Dallas this weekend for their upcoming season. The show was last here 10 years ago.

It's too late to get tickets now, however. If you wanted to get in, you should have applied online before April 20th or sent a postcard by April 5th. From the thousands of requests submitted, 6,800 names were drawn at random and these folks were sent tickets.

If you are one of the lucky collectors who received a ticket, you are allowed to bring a maximum of two items. The event will be at the Dallas Convention Center in Halls B & C on Saturday and the doors open at 8:00 am. Ticket holders will be admitted until 5:00 pm.

My friend from New Mexico, Joan Caballero, ISA, is an appraiser of all things Native American. She called today to tell me she's been invited to participate. The appraisers who appear on the show are not compensated and they pay their own travel expenses. Another friend, generalist appraiser Beth Szescila, ISA CAPP, from Houston, is reportedly going to be here, too.

The last time the Roadshow was in Dallas, when I was still appraising personal property fulltime, I was lucky enough to participate. Rather than sit behind a table and look at the same types of items all day, I opted for the "triage" desk where I got to see everything as it came in the door. I then directed the ticket holders to the appropriate lines to wait their turn to talk to the appraiser.

I don't know if the Keno brothers are part of the Dallas taping on Saturday or not, but if you are a Roadshow groupie, hang out in the lobby at the Adolphus Hotel and you might catch a glimpse!

Addison Kid's Parade!

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 16:37:22 -0500

Guaranteed fun for the whole family!
10:00 AM
The 15^th Annual 4^th of July Addison's Kid's Parade

Bring your American flags. Decorate your bikes, yourself, your pets.

The parade begins at Lakeview Court Circle and loops the lake once, ending at the Les Lacs Pavillion where food and drinks will be served. Come hungry for hamburgers and hot dogs. Meet your neighbors and celebrate the birth of our country with a BANG!

If you'd like to participate by helping to place flags around the lake or by bringing snacks, please contact me and I'll put you in touch with the organizer of the event!

What if you organized an MCE class and nobody came?

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 09:39:28 -0500

What could be worse? How about organizing an MCE (Mandatory Continuing Education) class, getting 40+ agents to sign up, and the instructor doesn't show up? That's what happened yesterday at a local title company. It was standing room only as more than 40 agents packed the training room to learn about "Staging to Sell." We enjoyed a continental breakfast, networked with the other attendees, and wondered why the session didn't start on time. The rules for continuing education classes are very strict and every minute counts if the agents are to receive credit for attending the session. We were eventually told that the presenter had a family emergency and the class would be rescheduled. I don't know the presenter and don't think she's on AR. Karen Otto and Nancy Roberston - here's an opportunity for you to fill in!

Addison's Bonds are AAA!!!

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 22:22:41 -0500

Strong financial management and performance, a high level of reserves, below-average property tax rate, and a healthy economic outlook are just some of the reasons why the Town of Addison is one of only five cities in Texas to attain a AAA bond rating.

Over the next 10 years, two-thirds of the Town's outstanding debt will be retired. Additional factors for the boost to the AAA rating include Addison's policies regarding budgeting practices, investments, long-term financial and capital planning, and reserves and debt management. Way to go Ron Whitehead, our city manager, recently name the North Texas Public Administrator of the Year!

2008 Addison Citizen's Academy

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 22:12:04 -0500

Everything you ever wanted to know about Addison but were afraid to ask! Sign up for the 5th almost-annual Addison Citizen's Academy that begins August 1st. Have fun and learn about the town.

I'm a graduate of the 4th Academy, 2006. Twenty five of us Addison residents gave up 4 Saturdays to spend with town employees, learning about the city council, Conference & Theatre Centre, Environmental Services department, the fire and police departments, Special Events (and Addison has lots of those), parks & recreation department, and even the public works department.

We got to go back stage at the WaterTower Theatre, inside a water tower, into the control tower at Addison airport, and other interesting places around town.

To learn more about this program, contact Mario Canizares, Assistant City Manager, at 972-450-7017. Apply at www.addisontx.gov. This is a very worthwhile endeavor.

Kaboom Town 2008 - Addison Texas Independence Day Celebration

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 18:52:17 -0500

With less than 2 weeks to go, plan your Kaboom Town celebration now! Celebrate Independence Day, Addison style!

Thursday, July 3, 2008
5 PM - Midnight
Next to the Addison Conference Centre
15650 Addison Road
Addison, Texas 75001

Enjoy live music, amazing fireworks, and a historic Warbid flyover.

The schedule of events includes:

Kids' Fun Zone (opens at 5:00 PM)
concessions, rock climbing wall, giant slide, inflatables and more
Bud Light Main Stage
(5:30) Texas Music Project Showcase
(6:30) Texas Army National Guard Lone Star Band
(8:00) Studio 54
(9:25) Presentation of Colors by Civil Air Patrol Group 3 & National Anthem
(10:00) Movie Rudy - Stay for the movie and avoid the traffic!
Overhead in the Addison sky
(7:30) Cavanaugh Flight Museum Historic Warbird Flyover with live narration at the Bowl Stage
Gene Soucy's aerobatic solo, wingwalking, fireflight night show
Dana Bowman's American flag parachute presentation
(9:35) FIREWORKS!!! choreographed to music on radio station Mix 102.9

Bring a blanket or some lawn chairs and a picnic and enjoy a night under the stars.

Addison's WaterTower Theatre: The2008-2009 Season

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 20:27:43 -0500

It's not too early to subscribe for the upcoming season at The WaterTower Theatre at the Addison Theatre Center!

WaterTower Theatre, completed in 1992, is the resident theatre company of the Addison Theatre Centre, a 32,000 square foot state-of-the-art, custom-designed space. It was designed to be used in a myriad of configurations. Whatever the production, the entire space can be adapted to create the ambience of a performance, putting the audience directly into a thrilling experience.

The theatre is easy to get to. The address is 15650 Addison Road, Addison, TX 75001. It's across from the fuel tanks at Addison airport.

The 2008-2009 season:

Doubt, A Parable
by John Patrick Shanley
October 2 - 26, 2008

Area Premiere: Fathr Flynn, a charismatic young priest, is adored by his students; Sister Aloysius, an unbending principal, is pleased by the fear she invokes in them. When Father Flynn begins to take special interest in a new student, Sister Aloysius begins to think the unthinkable. But when a nun's suspicion is wieghed against the word of a priest, how does one determine the truth? The winner of 24 major awards, including the 2005 Pulitizer Prize, Doubt, A Parable is a gripping exploration of the question, "What do you do when you're not sure?".
Recommended for mature audiences.
Violet
Book & Lyrics by Brian Crawley
Music by Jeanine Tesori
January 15 - February 8, 2009

When Violet was 13 years old, a tragic accident left her scarred for life. Now an adult, she must embark on a cross-country pilgrimage to find a cure for her ailment - a journey that will reconcile the tragic events of her past with the harsh realities of her present. Boasting a score that mixes country, bluegrass and R&B, Violet is the story of one woman's healing journey to discover love, courage, and the meaning of acceptance.
Recommended for mature audiences.
Our Town
by Thornton Wilder
April 2 - 26, 2009

Set at the turn of the 20th Century, the play examines the ordinary lives of the people of Grover's Corners, NH. A boy and a girl meet as teenagers and succumb to adolescent affections before maturing, marrying, and having a child of their own. Unassuming in its simplicity and universality, Our Town is one of the most beloved masterpieces of the American Theater.
Recommended for general audiences.
Indoor/Outdoor
by Kenny Finkle
May 21 - June 14, 2009

Regional Premiere: Samantha is having some serious problems. Her friend Shuman doesn't always understand her. Her therapist treats her like a stray. And she's kept from being with her true love by a sliding glass door. It's definitely not easy being a housecat. Quirky and warmhearted, Indoor/Outdoor examines the world through the eyes of a frisky housecat to see if the grass is greener on the other side of the pet door.
Recommended for mature audiences.
How to Succeed In Business Without Really Trying
Music & Lyrics by Frank Loesser
Book by Abe Burrows, Jack Weinstock & Willie Gilbert

From the author of Guys and Dolls comes one of the most delightfully irreverent musicals of all time. Follow the rise of J. Pierpont Finch as he climbs the corporate ladder from lowly window washer to high-powered executive. As Finch climbs to the top, he must tackle the formidable dangers of the office party, backstabbing co-workers; caffeine addiction, and true love. Winner of the Pulitizer Prize for Drama, How to Succeed is a ground-breaking satire of American big business.
Recommended for general audiences.

Click here for subscription & pricing information:

http://www.watertowertheatre.org/order.pdf

Movie Night at the Pool

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 11:43:05 -0500

Pool Flix! It's annual movie night at the Town of Addison's Athletic Center's outdoor pool!

Showing Friday night, June 27th, 2008: Enchanted

8:30 pm

Free to Addison kids and Addison residents of all ages!

Come float in the pool or lounge on the deck and watch the movie.

Last year's event was rescheduled 3 times before the weather cooperated. Let's hope this year it goes off without a hitch (or a lightening bolt).

FIFI is back in Addison!

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 16:56:01 -0500

Who is FIFI?

FIFI is the world's only airworthy B-29. She will be back in the air soon, according to Jim Cavanaugh of Addison's Cavanaugh Flight Musuem. Mr. Cavanaugh pledged $1.2 million in sponsorship with the Commerative Air Force for the re-engine project. "The B-29 played such a significant role in history that it is important that this airplane be preserved. I felt the need to get FIFI flying again," said Cavanaugh.

The Cavanaugh Flight Museum is an Addison Texas attraction that shouldn't be missed!

Addison Attraction: The Cavanaugh Flight Museum

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 16:52:24 -0500

A museum? In Addison? There are actually two. Mary Kay Cosmetics, headquartered in Addison has a museum. And the other is the Cavanaugh Flight Museum, located at 4572 Claire Chennault (phone: 972-380-8800).

The mission of this non-profit museum is to:

promote aviation studies
perpetuate America's aviation heritage
restore, operate, maintain and display historically significant vintage aircraft
collect materials related to aviation history

The museum contains not only aircraft, but aviation art and artifacts. There is even a gift shop.

You can schedule a 30-minute flight in a real WWII warbird, with 48 hours notice and subject to weather conditions. Select from a N2S-4 Stearman open cockpit biplane ($195) or an AT-6 Texan ($275). Allow for an hour's time, total.

Admission to the museum is $8 for adults, $4 for children 6-12, and is free for kids under 6.

The museum's hours are Monday - Saturday, 9:00 - 5:00 and Sunday from 11:00 - 5:00.

Directions by Plane: East of Addison Airport (ADS) on taxiway "U"
Directions by Car: From the intersection of Addison Road and Westgrove, go west 1/4 mile on Westgrove, then south on Claire Chennault another 1/4 mile.

Addison's Single Family Residential Sales Availability, June 2008

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 16:13:23 -0500

From zero lot (garden) homes to mansions, Addison has it all. Here's what is currently on the market in Addison, Texas, by subdivision. Some of the areas have required HOAs, others don't. I recently uploaded a list of condos, a list of townhomes, and a list of duplexes.

Subdivision	Street	Sq Ft	Bed/Bath/Gar	Price
Addison Place	Vinland	1425	2/2/2	$159,900
Addison Place	Planters Row	1571	3/2.5/2	$169,900
Addison Place	Planters Row	1330	2/2/2	$173,000
Addison Place	Westgrove	2072	3/3/2	$199,900
Midway Meadows	Le Grande	1929	3/2.5/2	$225,500
Midway Meadows	Winter Park	1606	3/2.5/2	$239,900
Midway Meadows	Bobbin	1714	3/2/2	$258,500
Midway Meadows	Dome	2508	3/2.5/2	$299,900
Grand Addison	Windsor	1991	3/2.5/2	$250,000
Grand Addison	Aspen	2360	3/2.5/2	$292,500
Grand Addison	Cambridge	2488	3/2.5/2	$304,900
Grand Addison	Woodshadow	2941	4/3/2	$329,000
Grand Addison	Woodshadow	2500	4/3/2	$339,000
Grand Addison	Brookwood	2579	3/2.5/2	$375,000
Waterford Park	Les Lacs	2219	3/2/2	$290,000
Waterford Park	Waterford Dr.	1968	3/2/2	$298,900
Waterford Park	Chatham Court	2024	3/2/2	$310,000
Waterford Park	Meadowcreek	2607	3/2.5/0	$312,000
Waterford Park	Waterside	2808	3/2.5/2	$350,000
Waterford Park	Weller Run	2899	4/3/2	$388,500
Waterview Estates	Waterview Circle	2139	3/2/2	$310,000
Oaks North	Paladium	2945	3/2.5/2	$319,000
Oaks North	Trafalgar Ct.	3580	3/3.5/2	$495,000
Oaks North	Lochinvar Ct.	3041	3/3.5/2	$499,000
Oaks North	Oaks North Dr.	4401	¾.5/2	$595,000
Addison Town Center	Park Place	2268	3/2.5/2	$350,000
Addison Town Center	Park Place	3081	3/2.5/2	$425,000
Bellbrook Estates	Havenshire Pl.	4878	4/4.5/3	$1,235,000
Milliken	Lake Forest Dr.	6324	4/3.5/3	$1,800,000

Please call if you have an interest in purchasing property in Addison. I'm an Addison resident and Addison specialist!

Addison's Duplex Market, June 2008

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 21:45:56 -0500

If it's a half duplex you're after, here's what's available in Addison, Texas.

Subdivision	Street	Bed/Bath/Gar	Sq Ft	Price
Midway Meadows	Sopras Circle	2/2/2	1752	$191,000
Midway Meadows	Sopras Circle	2/2.5/2	1948	$199,900
Midway Meadows	Morman Lane	3/2/2	1832	$199,900
Midway Meadows	Morman Lane	3/2/2	2038	$209,900
Midway Meadows	Morman Lane	2/2.5/2	1900	$219,000
Midway Meadows	Sopras Circle	3/2.5/2	2143	$227,000
Midway Meadows	Sopras Circle	2/2/2	2334	$229,900
Midway Meadows	Morman Lane	3/2.5/2	1918	$234,500
Midway Meadows	Morman Lane	3/3/2	2286	$238,500

The Midway Meadows subdivision is the only part of Addison with duplex homes. There are also zero lot (garden) homes in the subdivison. The Pecan Square condos are nearby, but not part of the subdivision.

Please call if you have an interest in purchasing property in Addison. I'm an Addison resident and Addison specialist!

Addison Townhouse Market, June 2008

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 20:43:19 -0500

Looking for a townhouse in Addison, Texas? You have several choices. Those in Asbury Circle are under construction and the Stanford Court Villas are partially completed. If you prefer a mixed use community, District A is for you. Town Homes Addison and Towne Lake are in more residential areas.

Townhouse Complex	Street	Bed/Bath/Gar	Sq Ft	Price
Town Homes Addison	Oberlin Way	2/2.5/2	1601	$226,900
Town Homes Addison	Berklee Dr.	3/3/2	1914	$241,900
Town Homes Addison	Berklee Dr.	3/2.5/2	1781	$249,900

Towne Lake	Towne Green	3/2/2	1659	$239,900
Towne Lake	Towne Lake	3/2.5/2	1849	$285,000
Towne Lake	Towne Green	3/3/2	2118	$307,110
Towne Lake	Towne Lake	4/3/2	2076	$308,000

Asbury Circle	Sugar Tree Way	3/2.5/2	2584	$286,661
Asbury Circle	Sugar Tree Way	4/3.5/2	2326	$292,722
Asbury Circle	Sugar Tree Way	3/2.5/2	2584	$316,376

District A	Quorum Dr.	3/3/2	2008	$357,042
District A	Quorum Dr.	3/3/2	2172	$372,900

Stanford Court Villas	Stanford Court	3/3.5/2	1800	$499,000
Stanford Court Villas	Stanford Court	3/3/2	2214	$529,000
Stanford Court Villas	Stanford Court	3/3/2	2234	$529,000
Stanford Court Villas	Stanford Court	3/3/2	2234	$529,000
Stanford Court Villas	Stanford Court	3/3/2	2234	$529,000

Please call if you have an interest in purchasing property in Addison. I'm an Addison resident and Addison specialist!

Addison Condo Market, June 2008

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 19:21:13 -0500

If you're looking for a condo in Addison, TX, you have lots to choose from today.

Condo Complex	Street	Bed/Bath/Gar	Sq Ft	Price
Brooktown Townhouses	Brookhaven Club	2/2.5/0	1373	$90,000
La Mirada	Proton Dr.	1/1/5/1	920	$97,900
La Mirada	Proton Dr.	3/2.5/1	1473	$174,900
Pecan Square	Beltway Dr	2/1.5/1	952	$124,900
Pecan Square	Beltway Dr	2/1.5/1	987	$127,000
Valley of Bent Tree	Ledgemont Ln.	2/1/5/0	978	$110,000
Valley of Bent Tree	Ledgemont Ln.	2/2/0	1076	$105,000
Aventura	Addison Circle	1/1/2	1296	$212,000
Aventura	Addison Circle	2/2/2	1735	$240,000
Aventura	Addison Circle	2/2/2	1735	$245,000
Aventura	Addison Circle	2/2/2	1735	$245,000
Townhomes of District A	Sebolt	2/2.5/2	1667	$255,000
Townhomes of District A	Sebolt	2/2.5/2	1844	$272,000
Townhomes of District A	Spectrum	3/3/2	2173	$425,000
Townhomes of District A	Spectrum	3/3/2	2244	$389,900

Although "townhouse" is in the names of some of the complexes, these ARE condos.

Please call if you have an interest in purchasing property in Addison. I'm an Addison resident and Addison specialist!

Addison's Asbury Circle Townhomes - Addison TX

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 12:37:47 -0500

There's new construction in Addison! Ashton Woods Homes is building 3-story townhouses in a new subdivision on Belt Line Road between Marsh Lane and Midway Road on the south side of the street.

There will be only 38 homes built. All are 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath and 2-car garage. Several on Sugar Tree Way are already listed in MLS and others on Asbury Lane, Amberwood Lane and Everwood Lane will follow. There are 2 different floor plans available: the 2326 sq ft Stillwater plan, and the larger 2573 Clearwater plan. The pre-construction prices are $278,900 and $288,900 respectively.

Interior features include GE stainless appliances, granite counters, tile backsplash, 42" cabinetry in the kitchen; garden tub, designer fixtures, separate shower in the master bath; pedestal sink, ceramic tile floor, designer fixtures in the powder and guest baths; and luxury features such as garage door openers, full security system; sandstone window frames; pewter interior light package, and more. Both plans allow for an optional double master bedroom, game room and fireplace.

The listing agent is Ben Caballero, Guaranty Realtors.

If you'd like buyer representation to purchase in Asbury Circle, call me! If you've got a home to sell first in the North Texas area, call me! Let's get started!

The Distant Sound of Thunder

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 22:15:54 -0500

I visited my Mom last week. She's still living in the house I where I grew up, in Passaic NJ. As I tossed and turned in my once-familiar childhood bed the first night of my visit, I listened to the sound of the thunder in the distance and thought about how different the sound of thunder is in the Dallas area. In New Jersey, the far off thunder sounds like cannons booming. I seem to remember from somewhere deep in the past that this is called rolling thunder. In Dallas, thunder is more like claps and bursts. These differences in thunder got me thinking about how houses are different in each location, too.

My old New Jersey neighborhood consists of multi-family homes. Not the side-by-side townhouse or duplex style, but one family on the first floor, another family on the second, and sometimes a third family in an attic apartment. In the area of the Dallas Metroplex where I live now, most of the homes are single family, zero lots, duplexes, or townhouses. I don't think I've ever seen a multi-family flat over flat house here.

When you toss and turn and can't fall asleep, it's amazing what runs through your mind!

Dealing with Sellers of Limited Services Brokers

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 22:42:36 -0500

Fifty plus houses later, I showed my buyers the perfect home for them. They each had separate lists of what they wanted in a home and this one pleased both of them: a beautifully remodeled kitchen for her, split bedrooms for him. Close to public transportation for her, close to the airport for him. Space for a crafts room for her, home office for him. You get the idea. The home wasn't on their list of ones to see. They were thinking about making an offer on one that wasn't quite right, but was just OK. They were running out of time because the closing on the sale of their condo is fast approaching and they are about to become homeless. I wanted them to see all the homes in that subdivision that were on the market to help them decide.

I knew beforehand that we were dealing with a limited services broker. The showing instructions in MLS said that all showings were to be scheduled through the seller and the broker's address was out-of-state. I had some questions about dealing with a limited services broker, so I emailed the MetroTex Association of Realtors office and got this response from the MLS department:

"The listing office can direct agents to make appointments and get property information directly from the seller as well as deliver the offer; he cannot direct you to negotiate directly with the seller and in fact it would be against Texas statutes for you to negotiate directly with the seller or for the broker to direct you to negotiate directly. The seller can set whatever coop commission they wish, but the MLS listing must offer cooperative compensation and the listing broker can be held responsible for payment of the coop compensation listed."

I had already run the comps for the subdivision so we knew this one was on the high side. We submitted the offer, asking for a lowered price and seller concessions towards closing costs. I hand delivered the offer to the sellers as instructed in the listing and was VERY surprised the next day when they accepted the offer without countering. I later found out that they would have been charged for advice on negotiating from the broker. OK, so next up: inspection. BIG problem found. Neither A/C unit was functioning properly. This is discovered by the general inspector and also by an HVAC company the buyers sent over. Our repair amendment requested a service call by a licensed HVAC tech and a fix to the problem. Now, this is Texas, people. No one is going to buy a house, a really nice house, without working A/C. Now the sellers take the opposite approach. They refuse to do anything. We terminate.

Turns out the sellers are house hunting with a buyers agent (a real one, a local one) and they find their perfect house. Surprise! The sellers call me to tell me they have a residential service contract (i.e., home warranty) and they'll call them out. We no longer have a contract, so what the heck, seller, do whatever you want. They get a handwritten slip of paper that says there is no problem with either unit. Unnh huh. Typical response from a home warranty company.

Their buyers agent calls me to find out if we'd resubmit an offer if we can get the A/C issue straightened out. I tell her that if the HVAC company that has serviced my house for 20+ years goes out and finds a problem and if the sellers will fix, yes, we'll get back in the game. As I'm working up the second offer on the same house, the loan officer calls with the bad news that the house will not appraise. Will the sellers reduce the price? Nope. They take the house off the market.

The good news - my buyers have found a less expensive house that they can transform into their perfect house. Inspection is tomorrow and the listing agent has already told us the seller will have the roof replaced to take care of the overlay problem and will work with us to remedy anything else that might turn up. Thank goodness these sellers have a full service agent to guide them!

An Addsion Father's Day

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 22:04:00 -0500

Father's Day, Addison TX Style

Check out these 3 ways to show Dad how much you love him!

Treat Dad to all-he-can eat cuts of beef, chicken, lamb, pork and sausage slow-roasted over an open flame, seasoned to perfection and accompanied by a 40-items salad bar.
Texas de Brazil
15101 Addison Road
www.texasdebrazil.com

There are lots of great Father's Day gift ideas and a wide selection of 160+ brands of cigars in giant walk-through humidors.
Addison Cigar & Tobacco Co.
15401 Addison Road
www.addisoncigar.com

Give Dad the gift of flight! Fly in one of two distinctive warbirds.
Cavanaugh Flight Museum
4572 Claire Chennault
www.cavanaughflightmuseum.com

Happy Father's Day!

Honk if you LOVE Rutt's Hut!

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 07:23:19 -0500

Although I've lived in Texas nearly 30 years, I still get back to my native New Jersey a couple times a year. No trip is complete without a stop at Rutt's Hut, world famous for its hot dogs. No matter what time of day my brother picks me up at the airport, we always stop at Rutt's on the way to my mom's.

I flew up on Saturday to visit family, and, per usual, we stopped for some Rutt's Rippers* and ate at the stand up counter section. How could this get any better? We returned for dinner and ate inside in the regular restaurant section. The open faced steak sandwich was flanked by outstanding onion rings on one side and perfectly golden french fries on the other.

I have a Rutt's Hut T-shirt that I got several years ago. Wherever I wear it, I always get people coming up to me to tell me about their Rutt's Hut experiences. If you've never been, don't miss it the next time you are in the Northern NJ area. Rutt's is in Clifton, overlooking Route 21, at 417 River Road (973-779-8615).

*Known as "rippers" because their skin tears and crinkles when they are deep fried. The oil bath turns the pork-and-beef links rugged, dark, and chewy on the outside, while the interior remains soft and juicy.

Photos - 1st Dallas Area Active Rain Gathering

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Fri, 30 May 2008 20:49:35 -0500

We did it! We met face to face tonight at the Blue Mesa Grill in Addison, TX. And what a group we had! A host of stagers, agents, some loan officers, a photographer, a title company attorney, and some technological folks who work with real estate agents. I think there was someone in our group who sells electricty, too.

A big thanks to Dan Eason of Energized Seller who provided us with appetizers (in addition to the free quesadillas). And another big thanks to Karen Otto of Home Star Staging who helped me organize this event! And our server, Joe, was the BEST!

An apology to those of you who showed up and were told we were in the bar and didn't find us. We were on the patio. I don't know why they kept sending people to the bar. Next time we'll make a big sign!

I hope everyone had a great time and l look forward to our paths crossing again.

FOR SALE: 2905 Welborn, Dallas TX 75219

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sun, 25 May 2008 11:03:49 -0500

Lorrie Semler | Keller Williams Realty | 972-416-3417

2905 Welborn St., Dallas, TX

Luxury Townhome in Oak Lawn (Dallas)

3BR/2.5BA Townhouse

offered at $575,000

Year Built	2001
Sq Footage	3,120
Bedrooms	3
Bathrooms	2 full, 1 partial
Floors	3
Parking	2 Car garage
Lot Size	.06 acres
HOA/Maint	$0 per month

DESCRIPTION

Lush landscaping and mature trees frame this fabulous tri-level townhouse in the "Mansion Park" area of Oak Lawn/Dallas. Truly impressive with exceptional finishes and attention to detail through every room, this home leaves nothing to be desired.

Close to downtown for the busy executive, yet near Uptown for shopping, restaurants and entertainment, this is the best of upscale urban living!

Enter the foyer with soaring ceilings, sawed white oak hardwood floors, wall of windows and a French door leading to a private patio. The gourmet kitchen features granite counter tops, stainless steel appliances, and expansive breakfast bar. The kitchen opens to the formal living and dining areas. The living room has gleaming hardwood floors, decorative marble fireplace, wall of windows overlooking the patio, and is wired for surround sound.

Located on the second level, a spacious bedroom is a retreat with private marble bathroom and shower and large walk-in closet.

On the third level you'll find the master suite and third bedroom or office. The spacious master boasts a bank of windows, ceiling fan, roomy sitting area, and a coffee bar. The master bath includes marble shower, jetted tub, double marble vanities, two walk-in closets with built-ins and skylight.

No HOA dues!

BRING ALL OFFERS!!

see additional photos below

PROPERTY FEATURES

Central A/C	Central heat	Fireplace
High/Vaulted ceiling	Walk-in closet	Hardwood floor
Tile floor	Living room	Dining room
Dishwasher	Refrigerator	Stove/Oven
Microwave	Granite countertop	Stainless steel appliances
Laundry area - inside	Balcony, Deck, or Patio

ADDITIONAL PHOTOS

Seller contact info:

Lorrie Semler

Keller Williams Realty

972-416-3417

For sale by agent/broker

Equal Opportunity Housing

Posted: May 25, 2008, 6:56am PDT

Addison Timbers HOA Neighborhood Party (and photos!)

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sun, 18 May 2008 08:07:22 -0500

Firemen, city council members, and residents of the Addison Timbers Home Owners Association gathered 'round the fountain Friday evening for food, comraderie and fun. ATHOA is in the Midway Meadows subdivision.

EMS and firefighters arrived in style in the ambulance and fire truck and drew looks from non-residents driving past on their way to the dog park.

Outgoing ATHOA board members Virginia, Val and Evelyn and remaining members Rhonda and John were on hand to welcome new board members Jerry, Dick, and Lorrie.

Councilman Greg Hirsch and his son stopped by for a cookie and splash in the fountain.

If this looks like a neighborhood you might enjoy living in, let me know! There are currently 2 homes for sale in the ATHOA.

3/2.5/2, 1929 sq ft, listed at $228,500
3/2/2, 1865 sq ft, listed at $239,900

Challenger Loses Addison Election by 12 (twelve!!!!) Votes

Lorrie Semler, GRI, e-PRO (Keller Williams) — Sun, 11 May 2008 11:22:27 -0500

It's true. Every vote does count!

Four candidates ran for three seats on the the Addison (Texas) city council in yesterday's election. The field included three incumbents, Tom Braun, Dennis Kraft, and Roger Mellow, plus Blake Clemens, last year's loser by 29 votes.

The unofficial tabulation (which becomes "official" after being canvassed by the town council on May 20th) looks like this:

Candidate	Precinct 1600 & 1601 (Fire Sta. #2)	Precinct 1602 (Fire Sta. #1)	Early Voting	Totals
Tom Braun	251	58	193	502
Roger Mellow	175	66	177	418
Dennis Kraft	176	49	165	390
Blake Clemens	142	60	176	378

Congratulations to the returning councilmen! And BRAVO for getting elected without taking donations from any individuals or from any special interest groups.

Should Mr. Clemens choose to run again next year, he may have an easier time as term limits will prevent any of the council members with expiring terms from running for re-election.