Mary's Blog

First Time Home Buyer in Lubbock?

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 13:39:51 -0500

If you or someone you know is afraid you have waited too long to take advantage of the $8000.00 home credit, never fear! There is still time if you can take care of these items really soon.

Pre-qualify - You should get pre-qualified with a mortgage lender through a bank such as People's Bank or a mortgage company such as Prime West. This is not painful - takes maybe 30 minutes of your time. Some are worried that their credit score may prevent them from qualifying. Regulations have made your credit score more important and some people who have too much debt or a history of late payments may not qualify right now. It is better to know than to deal with the doubt and fear. I would hate for anyone to pass up the opportunity to own a home simply out of fear of what might be on their credit report. If problems do surface, your bank or mortgage professional has seen it before, and can give you tips on how to improve your credit score.

Review your budget - Decide what you can reasonably afford to pay monthly and how much you can pay down on your home. Most first time home buyers finance through FHA and the minimum down payment is 3.5%. Additionally, there are closing costs. These funds may be your savings or possibly a gift from a family member. In some cases the seller of a home is willing to pay some of your closing costs to assist you in the purchase of their home. Armed with your own research, you and your lender can determine the maximum price home you should consider.

Consider your now and future needs - Do you need a two, three, or four bedroom home? Do you have children or parents living with you or know that your family size may increase in the next few years? It is good to purchase a house that gives you room to grow. Experts estimate that a buyer should plan to live in their home for 5 - 6 years if they want to break even or make a small profit when they sell. Make a list of desired features and decide which five are the most important to you.

Call me - I can help you with research and find you a home that stays in your budget. Custom searches of the homes in the multiple listing service can be done and the results emailed to you. If you provide me with your needs, wants, top five features I can save you a great deal of time by previewing, screening, and eliminating homes that don't meet your needs or would bust your budget.

For first time home buyers the magic date when the $8000.00 tax credit goes away is November 30. Be aware that it could take a few weeks to find the home you want and then it takes around 30 days for the closing process to run its course. So please email or call me today if you are motivated to get into a new home by that time. My assistance costs you nothing and I am glad to answer any questions you may have.

If you are not a first time home buyer but know someone who would be, please forward this to them. For those who currently own homes, all this information, except for the incentive and deadline, still applies. I'd be glad to help you move-up, down size, or find an investment property.

I hope you all have a great weekend.

Sincerely,

Mary Benton
Keller Williams Realty
790-1026
marybenton@kw.com

Lubbock, TX - Tech Terrace Update

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 15:50:23 -0500

Oh my goodness, we now have 41 homes for sale in the Tech Terrace area! There are fixer-uppers starting as low as $65,000.00 and gorgeous estates for just under $1 million. And luckily for most buyers there are lots of great homes that fall somewhere in between.

Price range Homes Available

Under 100,000.00 9

100,000 - 150,000 6

150,000 - 200,000 7

200,000 - 250,000 10

250,000 - 300,000 2

300,000 - 400,000 3

400,000 - 500,000 2

Above 500,000 2

Mary's Picks - Please check out these homes that I think are the best of the best for sale in Tech Terrace right now.

MLS 9963827 - 3323 20th Street - A beautiful home with Austin Stone exterior. 3/3/2, 2764 sq. ft. Beautiful inside. Kitchen is not large but completely updated with granite. $229,900.00

MLS 9966344 - 3101 20th - History plus completely updated. Built in 1938, updated throughout in the last few years, this home captures the essence of Tech Terrace. 3/2.5/4, 2960 sq. ft. $299,000.00

MLS 9966614 - 2620 31st Street - A cute bungalow, mature trees, with apartment out back. House and apt. have been remodeled and are move-in ready. 3/2/0, 1312 sq. ft. $139,900.00

Tech Terrace as a neighborhood and Tech Terrace homes have tremendous appeal. I've found though that the appeal is not universal. For those who have a romantic notion (and I don't mean huggy kissy) of what home should be, Tech Terrace is delightful.** This is a neighborhood where you can walk to the park or the coffee shop, greet neighbors, move at a slower pace, and enjoy a concert in the park at 26th and Boston. You can walk or bike to TTU. The homes are often described as "charming" and said to have "character". While some are fixer uppers, others have already been completely updated with great panache. However, even if extensive, this updating does not make a Tech Terrace home into a new home. Much of the appeal would be lost. If the words historical, charming, mature trees, character, retro, vintage, or distinctly different ring your chimes, then please let me show you some Tech Terrace homes.

Shopping for a home in Tech Terrace is a quite different experience from looking at new construction. For individuals who want the expected 3/2/2 brick home with a large walk in closet in the master, an open concept, and granite countertops a new home might fit the bill. You won't find a new home (or very rarely) within biking or walking distance of Texas Tech.

Those searching for a home in Lubbock are going to have to make a choice. If you want to be near TTU, the hospitals or just in central Lubbock you will be looking at homes built from 1920 through 1970. If you want a new home or home built since 2000 you will almost certainly be looking at newer subdivisions that are outside Loop 289, typically in South or West Lubbock. There are now some new subdivisions North of the Loop that are closer to central Lubbock.

If you are in town and have always wondered about homes in Tech Terrace, call me and let's go look. If you are out of town and would like more information about this area I can help you. Call 790-1026.

REALTORS from elsewhere - I love establishing referral relationships with agents in other cities who have folks coming to Lubbock. Please call me!

** I fall into this category. Here is my Tech Terrace story. Seven years ago I picked up my granddaughter from swim lessons at the Texas Tech rec center. We were driving through the Tech Terrace neighborhood when I saw a charming home for sale by owner. It was unpretentious but lovely with a lush lawn and one enormous oak tree. A desert willow on the east side of the home branched out to the street. My granddaughter snagged a bloom from the tree through the sun roof. I think she and I both fell in love with that home. I watched it for awhile, set an appointment to see it even though it was out of my range but the appointment fell through. A month later the home was listed with a REALTOR. (I was not in real estate at that time) A month after that a 'REDUCED' sign was posted and soon after we bought the bungalow on 22nd.

NAR TAKING ACTION ON APPRAISALS!

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 11:35:33 -0500

A note I received from Charles McMillan, 2009 President of the National Association of Realtors, made my heart sing. Well, at least it lifted my spirits.

He said...

"On Monday, June 29th, I will be in New York to meet with the Deputy Attorney General and his staff who worked directly on the Home Valuation Code of Conduct. I plan to share our concerns, as well as your stories, and ask for their assistance in resolving any problems related to the HVCC."

I have had three, actually four, recent transactions here in Lubbock where low appraisals caused lots of pain and angst. The pain has been shared by buyers, sellers, REALTORS, and home builders. I am pleased that in each case we were able to negotiate and make it to closing, but people lost money.

I believe most if not all the appraisers involved are hard-working and honest professionals but there has to be some common sense allowed in the process. My hope is that a new method of valuation can be developed and used in times of significant market shift.

For more information -

Economists Podcast
http://www.realtor.org/research/research/research_podcast062309?LID=RONav0021

HVCC
http://www.realtor.org/government_affairs/gapublic/gses_hvcc_announced

Appraisal Blog
http://narblog1.realtors.org/mvtype/appraisalinsight/

News!

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Mon, 25 May 2009 15:24:38 -0500

I met the criteria and applied to be an apprentice for our Keller Williams ALC - the agent leadership council of our office. Debbie interviewed me and I enjoyed contemplating what I might have to offer. I hope to be able to offer something - I do occasionally have a good idea. :-) Maybe I'll be a good "boomer" age group apprentice.

Debbie pulled me aside before I left for San Antonio and let me know that I'd be one of two new apprentices. Yea! It doesn't pay anything but I'm pleased to take a more active role in our office. I will attend a 'launch' training with the other ALC and apprentices, the broker, team leader and owners in Austin this June. I'm looking forward to that.

When I stopped by the office last week I found a certificate on my desk. I was totally surprised to find I was Rookie of the Year for 2008 for Lubbock's Keller Williams office. I have loved my first year and a half in real estate. I need to frame that to go with my GRI certificate.

Oh...by the way, I graduated, passed my test, and am now a Graduate, Realtor Institute.

What an exciting couple of weeks!

Memorial Day '09 - Technology Tip

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Mon, 25 May 2009 14:57:14 -0500

I hope you are having a great day with family and friends. We had a hotdog cookout and swimming party which was well attended. A good time was had by all.

Next week I have two closings - tentatively. One is still pending the final appraisal to see if the house appraised sufficiently. If all is okay there and if the lender can get everything together, we will close on Wednesday at Lubbock Abstract and Title. My first HUD closing is set for the 28th and the closing will either be at City Bank or at our Keller Williams office.

Next week I have my first VA closing. It is set for June 1 and I have let Service Title know that it will be a mail out for the sellers. Nice home for the buyers in a relatively new southeast Lubbock neighborhood.

All this is wrapping up a nice busy spell for me in the real estate biz. I am excited to have the three closings, grateful for the good business, but also looking forward to a breather. I'll take a day or two off with the grandkids. They are out of school as of this Friday.

TECH TIPS

MOZY - I learned about Mozy in my GRI class. It is an online service that will automatically back up your computer files and data. From brief research it looks like the least expensive program is 4.95 per month. The peace of mind and ability to recover all your date in event of a virus or crash would be well worth 4.95. A similar service I'll check out is Carbonite.

San Antonio GRI - technology tips

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Fri, 08 May 2009 10:52:17 -0500

I am taking my final GRI class in San Antonio. Dwight Hale is the instructor and he is great. More later...

Later. It is now Memorial Day but I did want to finish my thought and report about my GRI class in San Antonio. To reiterate, Dwight Hale was great. But mid-afternoon of day one of the subject of technology had me coming close to sawing logs. The info was a bit dry. Day two was lots better. He had each group of students develop a list of favorite websites. This could be business or personal. Here are a few of the ones that were shared:

Mozy.com - backup computer/data

Costco.com - computer shopping, good warranties

easysite.com - build personal, family websites - easy breezy

neighboroo.com - Neighboroo lets you visually explore and search local trends across the nation including real estate

loopnet.com - commercial properties

Each group also shared some favorite new technology related purchases. Here are some of those highlighted:

Neat Receipts receipt scanner

Parrot speaker phone for Auto - a universal bluetooth solution

Livescribe Pen - writes notes and records audio

Skype - be able to see and talk to friends family via your computer. Some say gmail also has a similar feature, no charge.

And of course many realtors preferred their recently purchased phones...blackberry, smartphone touch pro, Iphone,

Tech Terrace Data

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 09:32:54 -0500

The Tech Terrace neighborhood in Lubbock is just South of the Texas Tech University Campus. As such it is a favorite place to live, eat, play for TTU students, faculty and staff. Tech Terrace is just East of Covenant Hospital so it is also an area that many Covenant personnel and physicians call home.

Truly, what is or where is Tech Terrace. Many Lubbockites consider Tech Terrace to be boundaried by University Avenue on the east and Indiana Avenue on the west; 19th Street on the north and 34th Street on the south. There are two parks located here as well as Roscoe Wilson Elementary and Hutchinson Jr. High School. My grandchildren attend these schools! A quaint shopping center on 26th and Boston features a cafe, dry cleaners, art supply store, and coffee & gift shops. The delightful Cafe' J's, a hotel, a bed and breakfast, and various other businesses are located on 19th street.

Some people further define what constitutes Tech Terrace. I have heard some folks say Tech Terrace is the sub-neighborhood from 19th through 25th Streets, and Boston to Indiana Avenues. These streets have many large, impressive and historic homes. While many of the homes were built as early as the 1920's, there are also some homes in the neighborhood that are new or recent construction. Some of the older homes are fixer uppers but many have already been updated throughout.

I lived in Tech Terrace from 2002 through 2008 and treasured my home, the tree-lined streets, and some very special neighbors. Since then I have been privileged to work with buyers and sellers in the area. Even though I have moved to Ransom Canyon, Tech Terrace remains one of my favorite neighborhoods.

If you need any information about the area, would like to sell your home, or tour Tech Terrace homes please let me know. I can also send you emails regarding the current inventory in homes for sale and notify you when new listings in Tech Terrace come on the market.

I'd love to assist you with any real estate needs. If you want a home in Lubbock, Ransom Canyon, surrounding communities or Tech Terrace in particular, contact me today!

Going Green and Home Buyers Tip List

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 22:15:50 -0500

I am so grateful that Lubbock received much needed moisture this week in the form of rain, sleet and even a few flakes of snow. Things are beginning to green up - a few blossoms and leaves unfurling on the trees.

March is a natural time to think about going green. I am not an environmental wacko, but with water issues, rising costs, and down turn economics one would be remiss not to consider conserving. I am planning to go paperless in my office this year. (save a tree!) I'll do most of my communicating via email. And I have friends who are "environmental" gurus who are going to help me with a rain barrel.

Just two days till St. Patrick's Day! Don't forget to wear green on March 17th. A few years ago I bid on an antique shamrock pin. The photo of it looked awesome - a real one of a kind bit of bling for the season. I won the auction! When the package arrived I opened it to find a tiny version of what I thought I had won. The pin is still absolutely adorable, but lots smaller than what I anticipated.

The same thing often happens with photos of homes online. An estimated 80% of people today begin looking for a new home on the internet. But we know that the photos can be misleading - for better or worse. Pictures of a house can make a house seem darker than it is in person or can make a room look larger than in reality. Most often the photos don't capture a charming ambience or the feel of a neighborhood. And certainly a photo can't convey a strange smell. Definitely start with internet shopping - I love to do that. But you will need to do your leg work and/or Lubbock shoppers can let me do some previewing for you. Below are tips I like to share.

Tip list for home buyer -

* Develop a list of what you need in a house
* Add a list of some 'wants'
* Get pre-qualified with lender (let me know if you want a referral)
* Call or email me and let me know what you are looking for and your time frame
* Get a customized online home search set up - I can do that for you
* If you want a particular neighborhood, drive it and note homes for sale
* Do some internet shopping - stick to your needs at this point
* Make a list of homes of interest
* Do a bit of driving - check out the home's exterior and the neighborhood
* Ask me to investigate homes you like to see if they fit your criteria
* Make an appointment - call me to arrange a time to go see the house

If you need to sell your house in order to buy a new home, get your house on the market BEFORE you get seriously interested in a particular house. It is taking an average of 90+ days for a home in Lubbock to sell. And with close to 1200 single family homes and garden homes on the market it will likely take lots less time to find a great home than to sell one.

Hope you all have a great Spring Break week!

Vintage Township and Lubbock Abstract & Title Co.

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 15:59:41 -0600

I showed two homes at Vintage Township today. If you have ever wanted to see the community or tour homes there I'd love to meet with you and show you around. From now til the end of the year (and maybe beyond) I think they will be making some great deals. They are getting ready for the Summer 2009 Parade of Homes! The home we toured today had also been staged by Michelle Snodgrass - kudos to Michelle because it looked gorgeous. The address is 11505 Topeka and the price is $459,000.00 for 3656 square feet of ahh-mazing house. There is an efficiency above the garage that is mind boggling - this is just a HUGE bonus considering the home itself is incredibly spacious and attractive.

Vintage Township will have a Christmas Home Tour this year! On December 13, from 2-5pm, several of the "lived in" homes will be open for the evening and decorated for the season. Tickets are $15.00 And their Vintage Winter Wonderland, with Santa, falling snow, and sleigh rides, will be each Friday and Saturday evening from 6-9 pm, from December 5th through the 20th.

I got the cutest postcard today from Lubbock Abstract & Title Co. It says "Did you read the good news?" An adorable bassett hound is offering the newspaper. The card goes on to congratulate Lubbock for having the 2nd strongest US real estate market (according to Business Wire) and the 11th best US recession market according to Business Week! Yea Lubbock. And thanks to this great Lubbock title company for reminding us of the good news!

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Let the Journey Begin

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 20:01:13 -0500

Mega thanks to Rick Geha who was in Lubbock today, speaking to and motivating area Realtors. Keller Williams team leader Debbie Frapp had invited Rick to come speak and gave him quite a build up. Well deserved! It was fun to have fellow Realtors and agents from Midland and Amarillo attend as well as a few Lubbock Realtors from other real estate companies. Rick was a super instructor!

I had a few AHA's and my number 1 AHA was to have deeper, probing dialogue with my buyer clients before getting in the car and going to look at houses. With gas prices being high (I'll stop saying that when the price drops to $2.25 per gallon!) and my time being precious, I want to work with motivated buyer's. In addition to loving my real estate business, my husband and I have our Moms, our wonderful kids and fabulous grandkids and we can't live a balanced life without carving out time for family. To top that I have dear friends, love to do arts and crafts, and have just agreed to be a partner in a booth at a local gift mall. So driving all over Lubbock looking at homes that aren't really what my client wants anyway makes no sense. To drive clients around town all weekend with buyers who aren't ready, willing and able to buy is detrimental to my social, emotional and financial well-being.

Understand though, that I do love showing people homes and love to meet my friends, colleagues, and prospects at homes they have an interest in. These folks don't have to pass a litmus test. That is an entirely different proposition. This AHA is just about what Rick taught which in this case boiled down to working smarter, not harder.

I look forward to taking a number of friends on a fall home tour in November. Last year I (tongue in cheek) called it Tour de Lunch. I will choose a variety of vacant homes in different neighborhoods and price ranges and take my girl friends on a custom tour. Last year we squeezed in 3 or 4 homes during a lunch break and I provided brown bag lunches. It was so much fun, gave me a chance to stay in touch with past co-workers, and them a chance to see some cool homes. This year we may go for an evening after work so we will not be so rushed. Then either drinks or dinner on me. Last year two transactions stemmed from the Tour de Lunch, directly or indirectly.

Doom and gloom still dominate the national mediat when it comes to the housing and real estate industry. Again, Lubbock's market is stable and for that we are all grateful.

Way to Go Lubbock!

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 22:01:52 -0500

Good news surfaced today about our real estate market. Lubbock is the second best housing market in the nation. That's according to a forecast from Veros Real Estate Solutions. And a nod to our neighbors to the north - Amarillo was ranked 4th. We have been telling folks not to listen to all the national bad news, that Lubbock is stable! I am anxious to talk to friends, clients, and prospects to see if they have heard the good news. And on another positive note - mortgage officers in Lubbock say they have money, they are making loans, home loans have not dried up.

I spent the last 4 business days in GRI 3. Thanks and kudos to instructors Gayle Ninemire and Pat Strong. The classes with Pat are always incredible fun in addition to being educational. What an amazing instructor and person. I learned lots and got so many ideas. Trying now to narrow it down to what to implement. I'm wanting even more fun ideas of little drop by gifts that realtors take to clients.

SOLD and another cautionary tale.

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 12:31:54 -0500

Our home in Tech Terrace sold earlier this month. I shared last month about our frustration that it hadn't sold, lagging showings, etc. We ended up paying for a crew to come in and paint several rooms, neutralizing and brightening the look of the house. My husband rebuilt the fence on the east side of our backyard. And lastly, we staged the home ourselves. Two weeks later we had a contract! So even though it cost some money, time, and energy, the changes we made did help sell our house. I'm now, more than ever, a fan of staging. What a difference it can make.

After we closed the buyer's agent called to wish me well and to tell me about the near tragedy that happened the day before. We had agreed to let the buyer's have the keys three days prior to closing. They just wanted in to clean and I didn't see any harm and was trying to be "nice". Their little girl was running through the house, fell and hit the edge of a window. This resulted in a cut near her eye, lots of blood, 911 being called, a firetruck rushing to the scene and great panic and consternation. At first they thought she might have lost her eye. Well, all is well that ends well in that the little girl is fine. But the buyer's agent and I both agree, NEVER NEVER NEVER for any reason give the buyer's early access to the home. This freak accident just goes to show what can happen.

Rainy Morning

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 08:31:34 -0500

We woke up this morning to rain in Ransom Canyon. It is a light steady rain and is just so nice. I think I heard the ground sighing "ahhhhhhhhhhhhh". I think this rain is the remnants of tropical storm Eduardo.

I guess realtors aren't immune to making mistakes when selling their personal homes. Have you found it difficult to apply your knowledge and professionalism when selling your own home? I ran the comps and priced my home in the range. Actually I priced it at the top of the range being confident it was wonderful and would sell right away. I didn't neutralize the colors, convinced that someone would come along who had my same taste. I didn't stage my house because a little voice tole me if the rooms were empty people could better see the size and then imagine their furniture in the space.

The first month I had 30+ lookers and no offers. The second money there were 12 showings. And then we went an entire month with no lookers. We have lowered the price three times and spent over $3000.00 to have a crew come in an paint neutral colors on the walls and ceilings. My hubby built a new fence on our side yard. But is it too little too late?

This has been a good learning experience if nothing else. I can now definitely understand where the clients are coming from and what they are feeling when their homes are on the market. And I better understand the need to have it all right - condition and pricing - from day one when the house goes on the market. And I appreciate how important 'staging' can be. If our home doesn't sell in another month we may either lease it or move back in!

Does anyone have a client wanting a great home near Texas Tech in Lubbock? Have I got a deal for you!

MLS 9960653

A Cautionary Cat Tale

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 20:14:28 -0500

Thinking back to the real estate classes I took, I recall us covering the topic of safety. Let other realtor's know where you are going. Keep your phone with you. Meet people at the office and get to know them before you meet them at an empty house. I really don ‘t remember any words of caution regarding cats.

Last week I showed a neat house to a couple. Well, I had seen the house with the wife the week before but on this particular day the husband was in town also. The home owners had pets. There were two caged rats, a house cat, and a large dog in the backyard. These people obviously enjoyed their pets.

When we arrived that morning, the dog was absent, the rats were enjoying their rat habitat, and the cat was sitting near a recliner, patiently eyeing us as we toured the home. Kitty was so pretty, we all agreed. Since I don't know the name I'll call the feline KC for Kitty Cat. KC's markings were black and white and she had a perfectly centered triangular black marking in the center of her chest. KC was so pretty that I snapped a photo of her with my cell phone. Knowing that cats come in two varieties, friendly and not so much, I approached her with caution. I placed my hand on her level about a foot and a half away and as I'd hoped she came over and sniffed my hand. Then I went to the kitchen and looked around some. When the clients were ready to go I put my hand down again to tell KC goodbye. This time she literally lunged at me and bit into my middle finger, also snagging me with her claw. Yeowch! Talk about a shock. My finger bled a lot and I washed it and wrapped it in a paper towel.

Despite my injury, I persevered and the clients did have me write a contract on the house. That is good. I mean if I'm going to get attacked by a cat, I should at least sell something, right?

About five years ago my mother ended up with an 8 day hospital stay from a cat bite. So I went to the doctor the morning after the bite and got a tetanus shot and a prescription for antibiotics. Better safe than sorry.

I called the listing realtor and told him I was bringing a contract and...oh by the way the cat bit me. He apologized and said the cat had been in hiding of fine during most of his visits to the home but that the cat went "crazy" when he held an open house. Note to self and other realtors - if the cat (rat or dog) goes "crazy" it would be worth mentioning in private remarks to warn unsuspecting realtors!

So if you are a dog lover, cat lover, rat lover, member of PETA or whatever, exercise great caution when approaching an animal. You know, I approached the cat with caution so let me make a stronger statement. Stay away from all creatures having teeth, fangs, talons and claws because they are liable to protect their territory.

My finger is getting stiff today. I think it is because I bumped it while stowing a bag in an overhead bin on the airplane this morning. If I'm getting cat scratch fever I'm going to sue somebody for my pain and suffering! Or at least complain loud and long.

Jumpin' into June

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Wed, 11 Jun 2008 22:10:29 -0500

It is just not possible to be totally upbeat all the time but for the sake of those who don't like whining I usually keep the low notes to myself. I will simply say that I don't feel quite as peppy as the title of today's blog. That doesn't mean that things aren't happening in Lubbock because they definitely are!

Tomorrow I get to attend the closing for a buyer who is my first client that I didn't know in my other life before becoming a realtor and joining Keller Williams. I am SO excited but also road weary. We looked high and low for this kind lady a good home. Some of the places we saw were way below par and a few that would have been perfect were just out of reach. But after 3 months, or was it 4, of shopping, she will own her first home. I'll make a little money. A win-win for sure.

Today's training focused on short sales. It seems that while I've been touting how great (or at least super stable) the market in Lubbock has been, there have been rising numbers of foreclosures and short sales in the area. I am glad to have a resource, someone I can turn to who is associated with Keller Williams who can help out families who are in a bind and behind on their house payments. If you know of anyone in the area who is in danger of losing their home, behind on their mortgage, needing to get out of a home that won't sell for what is owed, then contact me. I have someone who is honest, fair, and super knowledgeable who can provide information and maybe assistance. Hindrances in getting help is often embarrassment at financial problem, at the condition of the home, or at the personal circumstances surrounding the situation. These professionals have seen it all and seen worse. If you are a realtor (no matter what company you are with) representing someone who is upside down on a home loan and needing out, call me and I'll give you a name and number to call.

Have a great month all. A special attaboy to all you Dad's and Father's to be!

May Showers

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Tue, 20 May 2008 10:09:56 -0500

Our months are mixed up in Lubbock and Ransom Canyon. We had a dry April. So we have revised the diddy to "May Showers Bring June Flowers". The rain this month has been wonderful and things are really greening up.

I have shown and previewed some interesting homes this month. Homes either speak to me or they don't. And I've learned that just because it isn't speaking to me, the house may be speaking to my clients so I keep my mouth shut. Sometimes.

One home that spoke to me this month is located at 4003 47th, MLS#9957081. This is a Rose Taylor, Keller WIlliams listing. The home has a few issues and needs updating in some rooms but I could move right in because it spoke to me. It's animal print carpets made a statement about being bold and making daring design choices. The house talked about fun with friends and family. And the screened porch out back brought back memories of my childhood and whispered about lovely lush green places far from Lubbock. I'd buy this home. If I hadn't just bought my Ransom Canyon home and moved. The price is $129,900. Call me if you want to see it! I'd love to sell this home and live here vicariously through a new owner.

My home on 22nd Street in Lubbock is for sale now. And it spoke to me from the first time I drove by and saw the desert willow in bloom. The address is 3301 22nd, MLS#9958496. The price is $229,000. We updated the house to the level we were comfortable and at home with. A new owner could walk in and live happily ever after just as it is, or update and make the bungalow on 22nd feel more their own. If you want to live close to Texas Tech or the hospitals, the location is ideal. Or if you just prefer an established neighborhood, this is one of the most sought after areas in Lubbock. Call me if I can show you my home.

On a personal note we got to travel to Frisco in early May to spend time with my son and his wife who are expecting in July! It was a great visit with kids and grandkids.

Have a marvelous May and if I can help you find a home or sell a home, give me a call!

Amazing April

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 22:01:05 -0500

A - Amazing opportunities - to work with good friends and meet and help new clients find homes.

P - Productivity - With my move mostly behind me, I'm beginning to get things done again, thank goodness!

R - Ransom Canyon- Our new home and a great place to live. We have met many nice neighbors.

I - Intelligent Pricing - I enjoy doing the analysis required to get a great listing price for a home.

L - Loving what I do. Being a Realtor and working for Keller Williams in Lubbock is simply marvelous.

The home on 15th Street that I listed two weeks ago has an offer! The clients are very happy and that is a good thing.

I have scheduled an Open House for the garden home at 1005 Ironton. It will be held on Sunday, April 13, from 2:00 - 4:00. I have ordered postcards and will get my Open House Diva friend and colleague to help me come up with a neat way to draw in lots of potential buyers.

I hope to have our 22nd Street home on the market in a week to 10 days. So if you know of anyone looking for a very cool home in the Tech Terrace area near Texas Tech University, please contact me for advance info and to get a look at some preview pics.

Things are happening in Lubbock. Lots of listings and movement. It is a really busy and exciting time. If you have been thinking about buying or selling, let me know.

From good to great in 2008!

March is winding down

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 23:38:08 -0500

We have had a good month here in Lubbock. The weather has thrown us a curve ball or two with a few snowflakes and a near 90 degree day but of course this is West Texas.

I have been privileged to work with several buyers this month and unfortunately the best homes, the ones we made offers on, got away. The good news is that homes are definitely selling in Lubbock. We were just a day late and dollar short but we will find the right home.

I love referrals! A dear friend of MANY years has been gracious in introducing me to friends and giving my name to those who might need a realtor. One of her referrals became my first listing and for that I'm grateful and thrilled. I also reward referrals and haven't decided yet what to do for this special friend.

Two other good friends from my Texas Tech days have contacted me about listing their homes. I feel truly blessed to have so many good friends, people who care enough about me and have enough faith in my abilities as a Realtor.

In the midst of all this I have been packing and moving. So thanks to my family, friends, co-workers, and clients for putting up with me being more than a little scattered much of the time. Like the day I met a buyer at the KW office. We drove to the house across town she wanted to see ONLY to discover I left my supra key at the office. Fifteen minutes and many apologies later, we did get to look at the house.

So even though March has been a good month...I'm looking forward to April!

Featured Home - 5011 15th Street

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 23:20:39 -0500

5011 15th Street - MLS #9957764

This is a great mid-century home in an established neighborhood. It has three bedrooms and two baths. There is approx. 1900 square feet of living space, not including the fantastic 20x12 sunroom. The closets are cedar lined, plenty of storage, the kitchen and family room have been updated and include nice wood laminate flooring and wonderful wood stain cabinets, some with glass fronts. There are two storage sheds in the backyard. Please come see or show this home. At $105,000 it is priced right for someone to buy, update, and make their own.

March 2008

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Sat, 01 Mar 2008 23:04:52 -0600

March 2008 is going to be my busiest month on many moons. Here is how it is looking.

M is for moving. I'm packing and will be moving next week!

A is for animals. Tater (dog) and Maggie (cat) are highly suspicious that something is going on. They can't figure out why the dining table is in the den and what all the boxes are for. I hope our sweet pets adjust okay to living in a new place.

R is for Ransom Canyon. This is where our moving van is headed!

C is for challenges. Moving and unpacking while providing excellent customer service to my real estate clients is my challenge for March but I think I can, I think I can!

H is for house becoming a home. I know I will miss my bungalow home but I'm really looking forward to making our new house OUR HOME.

***********************************

I completed my GRI 1 class on Thursday and the exam was challenging but I think I passed. I learned so much from our great instructor, Pat Strong. While this GRI course dealt primarily with ethics and contracts, Pat gave several good, practical tips of services and information to provide to clients. There were around 40 students in the class and I enjoyed getting to know Lubbock Realtors from other firms. I'm looking forward to GRI 2 and 3 and may travel to Odessa in May to take another class with Pat.

**********************************

I'm very excited that a buyer client of mine contacted Brooke at Prime West. This client was feeling really confused about financing and had concerns about the information she got off the internet and from another lender. When I talked to her yesterday I could tell she felt more confident and at ease about the entire home buying process after talking with Brooke. This client and I have been looking twice and have already seen two homes that she really likes. I think we are close to finding her "just right" home.

February - The Month for Love

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 14:18:56 -0600

It is February and love is in the air! Even if you aren’t falling in love for the first time, you love something about yourself or your life. Maybe you adore your spouse, children, parents, hair-do, cat, dog, car, wardrobe, job, co-workers, strength or maybe the smile lines around your eyes.

You might love something or everything about your home; the oak tree out front, the new kitchen countertops, your Jacuzzi bath, the sunroom where you enjoy coffee each morning or just the fact that it is a gathering place for those you love.

Are you finding it difficult to feel contentment or pride in your home or apartment? If so you can make 2008 the year to start loving your surroundings.

Home Improvements – I suggest starting small. Pick one space in your home that steals your joy. Look at it with a critical eye and determine the problem. See if any of these items zap enthusiasm for your space:

Clutter and chaos
Energy draining or depressing colors
Poor traffic flow in the room
Function without flare

For help in any of these areas go to www.hgtv.com. For clutter problems check www.flylady.com. If you’d like me to come by and offer very humble suggestions on perking up a space in your home, please feel free call me. And of course I’d like to help you if it is time for a new home!

I hope to keep my blog current in 2008. I want to stay in touch. Please call me if I can help you with any real estate needs. I will be glad to do a free comparative analysis of your home or will schedule time to meet if you, friends, or loved ones are planning a move.

Please remember that February is a great month to focus on things you love and to work on keeping and keep working on a positive attitude. Positive thinking adds joy to our lives and as Abraham Lincoln once said “Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.”

Have a great month!

Mary

Tech Terrace

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 20:29:35 -0600

I have had the pleasure of showing some out-of-towners the sights of Lubbock and telling them about the real estate market here. It was more of a pleasure earlier in the month because Lubbock had some windy, sandy days and those are not pleasant. But the GOOD NEWS is that Lubbock is a wonderful place to call home with lots of blue skies, sunny days, and gorgeous sunsets.

It is fun to drive visitors through the Tech Terrace area. There are so many different types and sizes of homes in all price ranges. Historic homes from grand to cozy, mid-century homes, and even newly constructed homes are available. For buyers who work downtown, at Texas Tech or in the Medical district, Tech Terrace is very convenient. There are two great schools, Roscoe Wilson Elementary and Hutchinson Jr. High, located in the neighborhood.

I have to say one of my favorite homes in Tech Terrace is the most unexpected home in the neighborhood. It is the Upe Flueckiger home on 21st Street. I got to walk through the home during the Fall Tech Terrace home tour in 2004. (it may have been 2005) The colors, clean lines, central courtyard and pair of studios thrilled me. And I really never thought that modern or contemporary architecture would appeal to me. I had the pleasure of meeting Upe last year. He is a Swiss-licensed architect who teaches architecture at Texas Tech University. He told me that some of the neighbors were not thrilled to see his home, which is constructed of cinder blocks and bright red corrugated metal.being built. I dream of building a 21st century ranch house inspired by his 21st Street home.

Follow the link below to see photos and read an article about this outstanding and unique Tech Terrace home.

http://mocoloco.com/archives/003015.php

I love being a Realtor, exchanging ideas with other realtors, researching real estate trends, and previewing many of the great homes on the market in Lubbock.

Open House

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 11:21:34 -0600

Yesterday I held an Open House at 10601 Vicksburg in Suncrest Villas. I had a good turn out and enjoyed visiting with Lubbock folks and showing them the features of the home.

This home is a Hust home, built by Herbie Hust and marketed by Connie Hust. It is approximately 2700 sq. ft, has 4 bedrooms (or 3 and an office), 3 baths, 2 car garage but aside from the facts there is so much to see. Hust's interior elevations and lighting in the foyer and his use of distressed wood flooring in the living room makes a fantastic first impression.

I heard many compliments from those touring the home. The area receiving the most praise was the kitchen which has beautiful wood stained cabinets, granite counter tops, and so many fine details such as a walk-in pantry with etched glass door. Many shoppers also gave a big thumbs up to the built in work spaces and wood stained bookshelves in an alcove near the bedrooms. I had two friends come by and their favorite area was the master bath and the enormous closet. This room has high ceilings and features a whirlpool bath, walk-in shower, and his and hers vanities.

I am now a huge fan of Hust Homes. If you would like to see any of the Hust homes on the market now, please call me for a private showing. I can also show any home in Lubbock that is listed in MLS so if you are in the market for a house, please let me assist you in your home shopping adventure.

Real Estate Reading List

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 17:34:41 -0600

The real estate market in Lubbock is moving but moving a little slower than in the previous few years. Realtor Magazine puts out a Weekly Book Scan with reviews and comments about real estate books. One in particular caught me eye, as I think it applies to Lubbock as well as much of the nation. The title is "Making Hard Cash in a Soft Real Estate Market". This book reminds us - both realtors and home owners/investors - that the market doesn't have to be hot to make money in real estate.

The article recaps five tips for investors in a slower market. Those tips focus on timing, being financially ready, and the buy and hold strategy, finding the best deal, and having an exit strategy. Like the stock market, buy low, and sell high applies. In order to recognize the lows and highs we need to read, stay informed, study the market. If the time is right, will you be ready? This is where having cash reserves comes in - and keeping your credit report fit. If investing is something you are ready to do, check out this book and give me a call if I can help in your search for the right property.

Found in the top 10 real estate books (list published on 11/19/07) is "The Milliionaire Real Estate Agent: It's Not About The Money...It's About Being The Best You Can Be!" by Gary Keller, Dave Jenks, and Jay Papasan. This is a wonderful book, and I personally recommend it. The target audience for this book is realtors but individuals outside this industry would also enjoy and benefit from the collective wisdom of these authors.

If you want to tap into some of the bargains available now in Lubbock real estate, give me a call. The bargains are there. Sellers are ready to make deals.

TGIF and have a great weekend!

Getting Real (estate) in Lubbock - 5

Mary Benton (Keller Williams) — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 15:18:35 -0600

I read online that the Oak Cliff area of Dallas is being redeveloped a block at a time, with homes being refurbished or renovated. And I'm sure some of the worst are falling away to make room for new construction. Here in Lubbock Delbert McDougal et al., have done much in redeveloping and recreating the Overton area. There are now luxury apartments and condominiums.

I wonder about the occupancy rate or sales info of the condos there in McDougalville and the Vintage Township brownstones in south Lubbock. Even before my knees grew creaky I didn't want a home with stairs. Now if someone twisted my arm and gave me a 2-story home, condo or loft, I bet I'd manage to get up and down the stairs. But I'm not buying one. I believe that builders and developers in this market of 2 and 3 story homes and condos are instantly writing off a large percentage of home buyers.

If only I knew the next area of Lubbock to be redeveloped I would probably go make a real estate investment. I guess that is where the word "speculation" comes in. Perhaps Oneall Terrace or South Overton? Both of these areas have some awesome historical homes I met a couple who live in Oneall Terrace and love their home there. They called Tech Terrace home for many years before moving and they are among those predicting that Oneall Terrace is the next prime neighborhood. Personally I would be pleased to see either area get the nod. And I wish I owned property there. Here are a couple of properties for sale in these neighborhoods that I have had my eye on.

2311 16th Street - This South Overton home, built in 1928, has been converted into a duplex. There are approx. 2000 sq. feet total. The architectural design is Spanish. It may need a lot of work but is a diamond in the rough. The list price is 110,000. MLS 9953843

1915 28th Street - This unique home in Oneall Terrace was built in 1929. This home is 2 story and has over 2300 sq ft. This brick cottage is unique and loaded with character and charm. It has a detached garage and the list price is 139,990. For this home I'd actually drag myself up the stairs to the 2nd floor. MLS 9954132

If you are interested in seeing either of these great homes, for yourself or as an investment, please give me a call! As a realtor, I can show any MLS home in Lubbock or the surrounding areas and would be delighted to help you find your first home, garden home, retirement home, or investment property!