McKinney People & Places | McKinney TX Real Estate

Should I Stay For Showings at my McKinney TX Home For Sale?

Thu, 12 May 2011 15:23:42 -0700

Should I Stay For Showings at my McKinney TX Home For Sale?

Here in McKinney, we're a friendly bunch -- helpful, too. Often my real estate clients are especially nice, so, when it comes to showing their home for sale, I recommend that the best way to be the most helpful during a showing appointment is to have a sparkling clean home, turn the lights on, and leave the house during the showing time!

That's no problem for most Sellers -- they understand that's what Buyers prefer. But on a rare occasion, a Seller will ask about staying during a showing.

Q: Shouldn't I stay for showings? I want to make sure the Buyers don't miss the upgrades we've made to the home.

As a Seller, remaining in the house during showings isn't recommended. Buyers feel uncomfortable touring a home when the Seller is there.

But, I know my house better than anyone . . . there might be questions.

During a showing, buyers like to take their time. They walk from room to room getting a feel for the home. They'll usually look in the closets, they'll slide open a drawer or two in the kitchen and check-out the pantry space. Not to be nosy -- but to imagine what it would be like living that home! They're mentally placing their furniture in the family room and checking to see if there is enough cabinet space for all their stuff. The Buyer needs to feel comfortable inside the home -- and that takes a little time.

When Sellers are present in the next room, (or even worse, leading the home tour) none of that wonderful bonding happens. Instead of studying the house, Buyers are distracted by the Seller's presence. Buyers move from a buying mind-set to that of a visitor in the home of a stranger they've only just met. Not a comfortable feeling if you're a Buyer.

When the Seller is there, Buyers tend to tour the house as quickly as possible wanting to get out fast so they won't inconvenience the Seller by being in his home.

What if I just stay in the kitchen (or office, or backyard)?

As illogical as it may sound, when the Seller is comfortably at home, and the dogs are running around the backyard, the Buyer's first concern seems to be that of not inconveniencing the Seller with a lengthy visit! A Buyer seems to feel much more comfortable with having the Seller pack up his pets and stay out of his home for a scheduled two-hour block of time. Buyers aren't thinking about inconvenience then -- they're thinking about the house. And that's what the Seller wants, right?

Showings are not left up to chance. The best professional real estate agents know what works and it's their job to take care of their client's best interests!

What questions do you have about buying a McKinney TX home for sale, or, getting one sold?

I'm happy to help you anytime -- just call or email!

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

As your McKinney Realtor is it my duty and job to make sure your real estate transaction is a smooth and hassle free as possible. I want my customers to be life long clients. Contact me anytime for updated listings, home values or any McKinney TX real estate information. I bring my education, negotiation skills, and advocacy all to work for you. Call: 972-816-7205 or email me at Melanie@MelanieHedrick.com

ActiveRain Photobloger Contest . . . Some things are just funny to me.

Tue, 10 May 2011 23:14:28 -0700

Some things are just funny to me. Sometimes, things I think are funny are also funny to other people. Sometimes . . . not so much.

For example, on my wedding day, when I was standing at the alter next to my husband-to-be, our backs to the crowded church, I noticed my maid of honor -- my sister -- standing to my left looking very proper. My mind wandered from the solemn words the minister was saying, back to the times I spent next to my sister with our heads bowed at the dinner table -- each of us trying not to let the giggles make us burst out laughing during the prayer. Then I got an inspiration!

Hey, wouldn't it be funny to try to get my sister to laugh right now? You know, while she's standing in front of everyone at the church?

Since none of the wedding guests could see my face, I gave it my best shot. I tried the crazy grin, then the raised eyebrows, then the crazy grin/raised eyebrow combination.

Oooh, I think I've almost got her -- I'll try a little harder.

Oh, she could see me alright! She tried to act like she didn't notice, but she had to try hard to keep a straight face -- yeah, I thought that was pretty funny. Uh, the minister standing in front of me witnessing all of my facial contortions . . . not so much.

Seems like almost every day I'll come across something funny -- so much so, that I've even started a file of photos I've snapped of funny things seen around town. Like the one of the Hamburgler jungle gym I saw in the backyard of a country property I was showing. Or the one of the Skittles car I see driving around McKinney.

So, I was looking through some photos and found one that I've always liked, but no one else seems to appreciate its humor as much as I do.

One summer in Montana, the kids and I had spent the morning riding up a mountain trail on horseback. It was a crystal clear day and you could see for miles. We reached the hill's summit and stopped to rest the horses and take in the majestic view. As we gazed out at the splendor of God's creation, I said to my son, Hey, hold your arms out and it will look like the horse is eating you for a snack.

What do you think? Funny?

Maybe it's just me.

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

The Skittles Car in McKinney, TX

Sat, 07 May 2011 00:18:45 -0700

The Skittles Car in McKinney, TX

This car has fascinated me over the years. I see it parked around town, but have never had the opportunity to meet its owner. The other day while at a traffic light I caught a glimpse of it and was able to snap a pic before the light changed.

Why does this car have Skittles on it?

How did this man come to own this car?

These are questions I just want to learn the answers to!

I have a "Funny Things I've Seen Around Town" page on my website and have been wanting to add this car to my photo menagerie for a while. I love collecting the unusual sites I see here in McKinney and around town.

If you've seen something funny while you've been out and about, send me a pic. I'd love to feature your photo here on my blog!

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Do I need to update my house to sell it?

Fri, 06 May 2011 23:00:40 -0700

Often times people ask me, "Do I need to update my house to sell it?"

It's a good question to ask. You want to sell your home -- and you don't want to spend a lot of time with your house on the market. Updating your house will make your home more desirable. It will motivate buyers to move from the shopping stage into the action of making an offer. Homes that are updated and in pristine condition generate excitement from buyers. There is a feeling of urgency to act quickly before anyone else finds this great home. Additionally, it's no surprise that homes that are updated and move-in ready command a higher sales price than an average home that may need some fixing up.

Of course, there is always the option to sell your home as is, without investing any money into updates. In that scenario, a seller will need to take a very hard look at his competition and price his home accordingly. It can be incredibly difficult for a seller to see his unimproved home in a realistic light. When buyers see homes that need work, they start deducting dollars from the offering price and they usually round down by thousands! Stains on the carpet? That's not $300 for steam cleaning, that's a thousand or two off the offer. Funky colors in the kids bedrooms? Two gallons of paint cost under $100, but a buyer sees another $1000 off the offer price. You get the idea.

I am very protective where my client's money is concerned. When it comes to spending money on home improvements to sell your house there are specific improvements that give you the most bang for the buck without draining your bank account.

Give me a call or email me if you'd like some advice on how to make your home stand out from the rest -- I will be happy to help you in any way.

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Three Cups of Tea . . . one man's mission to promote peace one school at a time.

Thu, 05 May 2011 23:57:09 -0700

Last week I finished reading a book suggested to me by my mother-in-law, Three Cups of Tea. It is the account of American Greg Mortenson's struggle to build schools for children in Afghanistan starting a few years before the 9/11 attacks. This probably would not have been a book I would have pursued if it were not for the recommendation of someone I admire and respect (I'm more of a Jane Austen kind of girl) and the story did not disappoint.

Mortenson is a 20-something nurse working the night shift in a California hospital who's real passion is mountain climbing. As the story goes, during a failed attempt at K2, Mortenson is lost, suffering from exposure and near death when he stumbles upon a remote village. The villagers nurse him back to health, he gets to know and love them, and that ignites his passion to build them a school for their children. Of course, Mortenson has no money, but inspite of that minor detail he makes good on his promise to build the village a school and 50 more for other small villages in Afghanistan. How does this single guy, with no money, and an average paying job do such a feat?

Through the account of Mortenson's experiences, mistakes and successes, I was able to learn bits of Afghanistan's culture in a way that was more meaningful to me than the news accounts on TV or in the papers. His story is completely non-political -- it's about building schools for kids who have none. But Mortenson did happen to be in Afghanistan working on a school when the towers were attacked on 9/11 and I found his account of his experiences during that time fascinating and his ability to reach his goals against all odds inspiring.

It's a quick read -- if you get a chance, I think you'll enjoy Three Cups of Tea.

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Stonbridge Ranch 2011 Photo ID Schedule

Tue, 03 May 2011 18:23:13 -0700

Summer is approaching and for Stonebridge Ranch residents that means it's time to update their photo ID cards for access to the Beach Club and Swimming Pool areas.

You can update your ID cards from April 28th - August 13th on Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. or Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Remember:

1. Each resident must have a Stonebridge Ranch photo ID or other form of ID that includes a current photo and Stonebridge Ranch address, such as a valid Texas Drivers License card as proof of residency. ID cards for growing children are replaced with new photos on an "as needed" basis.

2. Lost or Replacement cards are availabe at a cost of $5.00 each.

3. Temporary cards can be issued for $2.00 each.

4. Renewal stickers are no longer required.

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Be positive for the sake of your health and wallet!

Mon, 02 May 2011 23:36:46 -0700

According to several sources passed on to me by a perpetually peppy friend of mine, being a positive person improves your health and wealth! Here's a summary of facts compiled by Jon Gordon from numerous sources:

1. Positive People Live Longer! According to The Nun Study, nuns who regularly (you might even say "religiously") expressed positive emotions, lived an average of 10 years longer.

2. Working in a positive work environment generates more productivity than working in negative environments, duh. (Daniel Goleman)

3. Positive sales people sell more than cranky sales people. Who knew! (Martin Seligman)

4. Marriages are much more likely to succeed when the couple experiences a 5 to 1 ratio of positive to negative interactions. On the other hand, when the ratio approaches 1 to 1, marriages are more likely to end in divorce. So avoid that eye-for-an-eye mentality when it comes to your spouse. (John Gottman)

5. According to several studies, positive people who express their positive emotions regularly are more resilient when handling adversity or stressful challenges.

6. Positive people tend to focus on the big picture, which helps them see solutions. Negative people with a narrower perspective tend to focus on problems rather than solutions. (Barbara Fredrickson)

7. Positive thoughts actually help counter the negative effects of stress according to several studies. So try counting your blessings the next time you feel stress and see if that brings some relief.

8. Positive emotions such as thankfulness and appreciation even help athletes perform better. (Heartmath.org)

9. Friends are a key factor of happiness and longevity -- Positive people have more friends!

10. Studies show that positive (and therefore popular) people are more likely to receive pay raises, promotions, support from others and be higher achievers at work.

So there you have it -- 10 reasons to be a positive person. If you don't care about being positive for your health and the general enjoyment of others around you -- do it for your bank account! You can't lose!

Editors note: When it comes to real estate transactions, I've always found that being armed with a positive attitude, along with steady supplies of skill, stamina and education produces the best results for my clients every time. A successful transaction is the goal for buyers and sellers. As an advocate for my real estate clients, staying focused on the big picture -- seeing solutions, working well with others, being a resilient high achiever -- makes success possible!

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Homes for Sale in Wellington Point -- McKinney, TX

Sun, 01 May 2011 22:33:46 -0700

There has always been great interest in the Wellington Point neighborhood. This was the original luxury neighborhood built in Stonebridge Ranch just about 20 years ago now. Being a truly custom-built neighborhood, the homes in Wellington Point were carefully designed and crafted by some of the areas finest custom home builders. The neighborhood developed slowly over the years as each beautiful home was completed. Only a lot or two are even available now for new construction.

Homes currently available for sale in Wellington Point:

7200 Wellington Point Rd.	4260 sq. ft.	5 bedrooms	Park & Lake view, private backyard	$415,000
7108 Round Hill Rd.	7,017 sq. ft.	5 bedrooms	On 18^th tee, golf course & water views	$599,900
7204 Round Hill Rd.	5,382 sq. ft.	5 bedrooms	Golf course and water views	$675,000
1401 Windsor Dr.	5,047 sq. ft.	5 bedrooms	½ acre lot, water view, swimming pool	$849,900

Currently under contract:

1103 S. Wellington Point Road

The neighborhood is exceptional -- view a brief video driving tour around the parks and lakes of Wellington Point.

There are two additional homes that will be available for sale in the next few weeks. For more information about these, or any other home in Wellington Point, contact me at 972-816-7205 or email Melanie@MelanieHedrick.com.

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

I Brake For Rodeo!

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 18:56:48 -0800

I Brake For Rodeo!

That's right! Here in Texas, cowboys have been traveling to the stock show far longer than commuters have been driving down our concrete highways!

My cousin from Houston was running errands last week when she was stopped at a traffic light and just had to snap this photo. Trail riders were heading into town for the big Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.

The event starts with a big barbeque cook-off the last weekend of February, then the rodeo begins on Monday and lasts for about three weeks.

Let's Rodeo!

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

I Married A Wildebeest -- Here's How I Know.

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 19:37:57 -0800

So, my husband and I are working back-to-back on our respective computers one evening, he -- answering emails, me -- blogging, when this innocent question is posed.

ME: "Do you want to take a quick quiz?"

HE: "No."

(Of course, I proceed to ask him, oh, I don't know . . . 21 questions! Three minutes later . . .)

HE: "So . . . what animal am I?"

ME: "A wildebeest."

HE: "Oh, that's great! . . . the freakiest one!"

Me: "Noooo, it's good! -- The wildebeest is the most enduring of the animals! The quiz says that the wildebeest has resiliency and the ability to bounce back from adversity. The wildebeest is adept to changing conditions and responds to set-backs and pressures. Endurance gives us the ability to apply ourselves for long periods of time and to keep going even when our bodies want to quit!"

(Silence. And typing.)

He: "So, what are you?"

Me: "A crocodile."

(Howls of laughter from him and many, many wise cracks . . . )

Me: "Hey, that's quite a bit of trash talk coming from a -- WILLLDEBEEST! The Crocodile happens to be the most desirable of ALL the animals!"

He: "Really? Is that what the quiz said?"

Me: "No."

(More ribbing and verbal sparring from both sides.)

He: (blah, blah, blah!) ". . . and the only thing wrong with the wildebeest is when he bends down to drink from the watering hole the Crocodile leaps up and bites his head off!"

(Sounds of crickets chirping.)

Me: "Hmmph . . . time to get the little hyenas tucked into bed."

Who are you living with?

Want to know? Read the early release of the first two chapters of Stefan Swanepoel's Surviving Your Serengeti then give them the Surviving Your Serengeti Quiz and let me know what you find out!

If you're living with a wildebeest -- I'm here for you.

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

If You Don't Get 7 Hugs a Day, You Get Weird -- Tweets from Keller Williams Family Reunion

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 20:51:47 -0800

Tweets from Keller Williams Family Reunion

The Keller Williams Family Reunion ended yesterday. Agents were Tweeting all day, every day at the convention, often times during the lectures. It was obvious which points really resonated with agents as there were tons of tweets and retweets with the same quote being sent out.

The reason I'm posting this info is to pass on some of the energizing thoughts that were shared via Twitter and also to point out how Twitter is changing the way we can communicate. The 9000 agents attending the convention were able to communicate with each other without ever having met or exchanged contact information because they were all tweeting on #KWFR. Here is an example of just some of the tweets and retweets:

Some tweets were motivational to share with the individual agents' own followers on Twitter:

"The goal of our life is to say I'm glad I did, not I wish I had -- G.K."

"Your goals are not a to do list ... it's a MUST do list, Gene Rivers"

"Multi-tasking is a lie -- it's really task switching. GK"

"In the jungle, if you're second, you're breakfast - Swanepoel"

"When being busy is your goal ... any action yields success. Busyness does not equal productivity."

"When your purpose is vague your priorities are vague - GK"

Some tweets were for communicating directly to the attendees:

"Pls people, the mic is for questions, not to include yourself on the panel."

"48 hours and no sign of Patrick Gills lost wedding ring. Last gasp tweet hoping to spark a memory ..."

And some tweets were sent just because they were fun:

"If you don't get 7 hugs a day, you get weird. Mo Anderson"

Twitter is a unique inter-active tool for communication. It's not the best fit for every scenario, but for others -- like the huge Keller Williams Family Reunion event -- it was sensational!

You may also be interested in this post about using Twitter.

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Twitter -- I Get It! You Could Too!

Wed, 23 Feb 2011 16:50:21 -0800

Twitter is something everyone must have heard of by now. Some have been using this communication medium for a few years, but I think most people, me included, started hearing about Twitter in 2009 when the news media started talking about it more. Reporters were seeing info on Twitter from across the world and finding sources for their news. It's widely discussed that Twitter played a big part in Obama's presidential campaigning.

Initially, I just couldn't see value in receiving or sending a tweet. I mean, we had email, right? I kept hearing Twitter described as a way to instantly let your friends know what you're doing. But, what do I care that someone is having a latte at Starbucks?

Obviously, I didn't get it at first, but since I'd been hearing about it I signed up for my free account to see what all the fuss was about.

I was hooked instantly.

I don't have a single friend who Tweets, yet! My teenagers don't Tweet. In fact, right now the only people I know personally who Tweet are through business. So why do I like Twitter?

This is what I have discovered. There are endless news sources tweeting many times a day. (Not just celebrities.) What that means to me is I get to cherry-pick my news sources. I'm not limited to network TV or newspapers, searching for what interests me. Now, I pick my favorite news sources, even specific topics, and the information is sent to me instantly.

Yesterday the BBC sent information about Gadhafi'shour long rant while it was happening, and there wasn't a single commercial, cooking segment, or promo for a Kardashian sister to wait through.

Of course, if you're interested in cooking or the Kardashians, you can get those Twitter feeds and not have to wait for that pesky world news to be reported.

Personally, my hobby is gardening so I see tweets of events in my area and also send out information that I know of. In business I send tweets about homes for sale in McKinney TX, foreclosures, golf course lots, anything related to my real estate business, and I see any tweets on those local topics as well.

But how can any info in 140 characters be worthwhile? Sometimes that's all you need. Other times tweets can be like headlines with additional information supplied in a link. If you're interested in learning more, you just click and get the full story.

I have especially enjoyed Twitter the last four days. The Keller Williams convention was being held in California and agents were tweeting away about events they attended. As I had been to several similar events within the year and seen the main speakers I didn't attend this one, but I wanted to stay in touch with the convention:

I learned within seconds of the announcement that next year's convention will be in Orlando.
I learned from an agent in CA that the fabulous Ben Kinneyhas a webinar he's promoting now, but that he forgot to talk about the iPad in his lecture. Saw a tweet back from Ben laughing about his goof.
I read many of the insights Gary Keller shared in his talks within seconds of him uttering the words.
I read tweets from people while they were listening to Stefan Swanepoel's Surviving Your Serengeti speech.

It was like sharing someone's class notes.

Twitter was the next best thing to being there!

As I write this article, the convention is winding down and people are tweeting about wanting to share a ride to the airport, or finding out ahead of time how bad the line is at the Hilton Starbucks. These are not things I personally care about, but that's the beauty of the short 140 characters. There are 1000s of attendees following the same convention thread at #KWFR and communicating this info through Twitter will probably get a response. Maybe that agent will get to share a cab after all.

So, if you haven't thought Twitter is for you, maybe this helps shed some light on the power of Twitter and how you can benefit from it personally . . . EVEN if you don't have a single friend who Tweets.

Why don't you follow me on Twitter? I'm at #McKinneyHouses and I'd love to get to know you better!

You might be interested in reading just a few of the motivational Tweets from Keller Williams Family Reunion!

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

10 Ways to Save Time, Money & Energy in Landscaping, author Neil Sperry speaks in Stonebridge Ranch, McKinney TX

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:52:36 -0800

10 Ways to Save Time, Money & Energy in Landscaping, author Neil Sperry speaks in Stonebridge Ranch, McKinney TX

Hear Neil Sperry, live and in person, at Stonebridge United Methodist Church, Wednesday, February 23, 2011 at 7:00 p.m.

Sperry will be speaking on "10 Ways To Save Time, Money, and Energy in Landscaping." The lecture is free and everyone from the community is welcome and encouraged to attend! Stonebridge UMC will give an opportunity to donate to their Spiritual Landscape Initiative with an offering at the end of the evening.

As a longtime gardening lover, I have been a Neil Sperry fan for many, many years. I bought his hefty book, Texas Gardening, way back in my 20s, and have referred to it over and over again during the past couple decades. Sperry is one of the most experienced gardening talk show hosts in the country and thousands of devotees follow his show on WBAP radio on Saturdays and Sundays.

SUMC is part of McKinney's Crepe Myrtle Trailsand has already planted 92 crepe myrtle trees in several planned gardens along Stonebridge Drive and Coronado. The church will plant a total of 200 crepe myrtle trees by the time the project is completed. Mr. Sperry has generously donated his time Wednesday evening in support of this unique community initiative.

Stonebridge UMC is located at 1800 S. Stonebridge Drive, between Virginia and Eldorado. If you have any questions about the event, give me a call!

By the way . . . Do you know of someone who might like this featured backyard? This home is for sale near McKinney's Historic Downtown Square! Contact me and I'll tell you all about it!

You may be interested in the following articles:

How Collin County Sellers Maximize Curb Appeal

Orchid Show and Sale for Gardeners in McKinney, Allen, North Dallas

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Orchid Show and Sale for Gardeners in McKinney, Allen, Plano, North Dallas Texas

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 15:36:55 -0800

Orchid Show and Sale for Gardeners in McKinney, Allen, Plano, North Dallas Texas

If you're a gardener in McKinney, Allen, Plano or other towns near North Dallas, you're in for a treat. In April, The Greater North Texas Orchid Society will be having an Orchid Show and Sale, along with speakers -- the topic is "Exposing Yourself to Orchids."

The Greater North Texas Orchid Society(GNTOS) wants to educate gardeners and plant lovers of this area on growing orchids. It may not be as difficult as many think! GNTOS is encouraging more people to try growing orchids rather than tossing the plants out after the first blooms have died away.

Admission is free. The Orchid Show and Sale takes place on Saturday, April 9, 2011 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday April 10 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Texas A & M Extension Center, Pavilion Building, 17360 Coit Road, Dallas TX.

By the way . . . I shot this photo while in Hawaii recently, the orchids were blooming everywhere we looked!

You may be interested in the following article:

How Collin County Sellers Maximize Their Homes Curb Appeal

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Do We Get to Keep the Earnest Money?

Sat, 12 Feb 2011 01:48:54 -0800

What Happens with the Earnest Money When Buying a House in McKinney, Allen, Frisco, Plano, Collin County, Texas?

The Seller has received an offer from a Buyer, both parties reached an agreement on price and have signed the contract. The Buyer will put up Earnest Money, and is paying for an Option Period. The Seller is very hopeful that the transaction will result in the sale of his house on closing day. But just to ease his mind a little, he asks,

"So, if the Buyer backs out of the contract, do we get to keep the Earnest Money?"

The answer to this question is:

It depends on the circumstances.

Earnest money is mentioned at least 14 times in the Residential Contract created by the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC). The first time we see Earnest Money mentioned is on Page One of the contract, Paragraph 5 where the contract states that . . .

"Upon execution of this contract by all parties, Buyer shall deposit $______ as earnest money with __________ as escrow agent, Buyer shall deposit additional earnest money of $___ with escrow agent within __________ days after the effective date of this contract. If Buyer fails to deposit the earnest money as required by this contract, Buyer will be in default.

REGARDING OBJECTIONS

Earnest Money is mentioned again in Paragraph 6.D. when discussing Objections that the Buyer may have regarding defects, exceptions, or encumbrances to title disclosed on the survey other than items 6A(1) through (7) . . . etc.

Among other things, Paragraph 6.D. states that,

. . . Seller shall cure the timely objections of Buyer or any third party lender within 15 days after Seller receives the objections and the Closing Date will be extended as necessary. If objections are not cured within such 15 day period, this contract will terminate and the earnest money will be refunded to Buyer unless Buyer waives the objections.

REGARDING PROPERTY CONDITION

Another circumstance where Earnest Money is mentioned is in Paragraph 7.B. regarding the Seller's Disclosure Notice. If at the time the contract is signed the Buyer has not received the Notice . . .

"Within ____ days after the effective date of this contract, Seller shall deliver the Notice to Buyer. If Buyer does not receive the Notice, Buyer may terminate this contract at any time prior to the closing and the earnest money will be refunded to Buyer. If Seller delivers the Notice, Buyer may terminate this contract for any reason within 7 days after Buyer receives the Notice or prior to the closing, whichever first occurs, and the earnest money will be refunded to Buyer.

REGARDING LENDER REQUIRED REPAIRS AND TREATMENTS

Paragraph 7.E states that unless otherwise agreed in writing, neither party is obligated to pay for lender required repair, which includes treatment for wood destroying insects . . .

If the parties do not agree to pay for the lender required repairs or treatments, this contract will terminate and the earnest money will be refunded to Buyer. If the cost of lender required repairs and treatments exceeds 5% of the Sales Price, Buyer may terminate this contract and the earnest money will be refunded to Buyer.

REGARDING CASUALTY LOSS

Paragraph 14 addresses the possibility of damage to the property from fire or other casualty before the closing date. Seller shall restore the Property to its previous condition as soon as reasonably possible, but in any event by the Closing Date.

14. If Seller fails to do so due to factors beyond Seller's control, Buyer may (a) terminate this contract and the earnest money will be refunded to Buyer . . .

REGARDING DEFAULT

Now this is the paragraph that grants Earnest Money to the Seller.

Paragraph 15.A If Buyer fails to comply with this contract, Buyer will be in default, and Seller may (a) enforce specific performance, seek such other relief as may be provided by law, or both, or (b) terminate this contract and receive the earnest money as liquidated damages, thereby releasing both parties from this contract.

But in the very next sentence, the Buyer has another out to get his earnest money back.

15.A. If, due to factors beyond Seller's control, Seller fails within the time allowed to make any non-casualty repairs or deliver the Commitment, or survey, if required of Seller, Buyer may (a) extend the time for performance up to 15 days and the Closing Date will be extended as necessary or (b) terminate this contract as the sole remedy and receive the earnest money. If Seller fails to comply with this contract for any other reason, Seller will be in default and Buyer may (a) enforce specific performance, seek such other relief as may be provided by law, or both, or (b) terminate this contract and receive the earnest money . . .

Paragraphs 18 A. B. C. & D. discuss Escrow and there are many scenarios on how the Earnest Money is to be applied to expenses, demanded and released.

And Paragraph 23 discusses how Earnest Money will be refunded if the Buyer gives notice of Termination of the Contract within the time prescribed for the Option Period.

As you can see, Buyers are afforded many opportunities to avoid losing that check and rarely do they forfeit their Earnest Money upon termination of a contract.

So, if someone were to ask . . .

"If the Buyer backs out of the contract, do we get to keep the Earnest Money?"

We can find a comfortable seat, take a deep breath and then, reply . . .

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

What should I do to get my house ready to sell? in McKinney, Allen, Plano, Frisco, Collin County Texas

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 23:37:29 -0800

What Should I Do to Get My House Ready to Sell? in McKinney, Allen, Plano, Frisco, Collin County Texas

Preparing your home to sell is an important task that takes a good deal of effort if you're like most homeowners. While there are some expensive improvements that you can do to your home that Buyers love, this article covers the inexpensive basics anyone can do to improve their home's appeal. They tend to involve diligent hard work and a trash bag -- and some of these suggestions can sound extreme -- but the end-result will make a very favorable impression on Buyers viewing your home!

Let's begin!

The best way to attack this process is room by room. As you start on a room, dedicate a large trash sack for things you want to throw away, and another for things you plan to donate. You will be amazed how much you can get rid of. It feels good, too -- you're going to like living lighter!

Countertops shoud be bare with just a grouping or two of attractive accessories -- like you would see in a decorator magazine. Personally, I prefer a large decorative piece or two, over several little accessories.

Closets -- Buyers will look inside every one of them so they need to be tidy. This is a great time to donate clothes you don't wear to Goodwill or Salvation Army. Clothes that you want to keep but are out of season could be packed -- this will creat some free space on the hanging bar and make your closet look roomy. Everything should be off the floor, no boxes, shoes, gym bags -- being able to see the entire uninterrupted floor will make your closet appear bigger and cleaner. The goal with the closet is to show that there is more than enough room for you to store your things.

Organize your clothes into categories. Hang all like items together, for example, all the pants together, all the shirts together, all jackets together. Have all the hangers facing the same direction and the fronts of shirts and jackets all facing the same direction. If you are outrageously diligent you can sort them by color within each category with all the white shirts together, all the blue shirts together -- you get the idea.

This obsessive behavior will pay off in more areas than just the impression the closet makes. Buyers will see that you are someone who pays attention to detail, so it would be logical to assume that you are equally obsessive about maintaining all other areas of your home, like the A/C, the roof, the plumbing, etc.

Drawers - Buyers will open the drawers in your kitchen and bathroom. It's usually just for a second to see how they glide, (not to look at your stuff). Unfortunately, in that split second they are going to see all the junk in your junk drawer and your personal stuff in your bathroom drawers. It will be much better if those drawers are tidy and organized.

Tip: Buyers shouldn't be opening doors to your pieces of furniture, so you might consider storing personal items there.

Valuables - Jewelry, watches, medication, . . . weapons??? These things should not be accessible when you have showings. If you can live without the jewelry for a while, store it in the safe deposit box.

Rent a storage unit - This should be done AFTER you have gone through everything you want to donate and throw away. No sense storing things you really don't need. Items that are a good fit for the storage unit are kids toys. Keep just their favorites while the house is on the market and store the rest. This will make MUCH less work when cleaning things up for showings, the house will look less cluttered, AND when you get the toys out of storage, the kids will play with them with renewed enthusiasm like they were brand new!

General housekeeping - Check every light and replace any burned out bulbs. This is a good time to put in a new air filter. When you have your house inspected it's going to look a lot better on the report that a fresh air filter is in place, rather than one covered in dust. Replace any broken or missing outlet covers and switch plates. These are incredibly cheap -- and if an inspector comes across an uncovered outlet, it goes on the report.

Wipe all the baseboards, doors and doorframes. When you start this process you will be amazed at the dirt and smudges you passed on a daily basis and never noticed. This has often resulted in Sellers realizing they don't need to paint afterall! The Mr. Clean Magic Eraser is excellent for this job!

Take a good look at the bathtubs and showers. Are there gaps or stains in the caulk? Fresh white caulk applied NEATLY does wonders for the look of an older bathtub or shower. Get the bleach out too! Wiping a stained porcelain sink, tub or toilet with a little bleach often makes it look like new again.

Now it may be time to spend some money:

Repairs - If you know of something that's not working in your home, you might as well have it repaired. Anything that isn't working properly will be reported on the inspection report and Buyers ALWAYS over-estimate the expense of repairing the item.

My motto here is "Just Do It." It takes work to get your house ready for sale and Sellers get tired. Many times Sellers will say, "Well, that repair is nothing. The Buyer can just call a handyman to get that fixed. I don't want to mess with that."

Unfortunately, the Buyer doesn't want to mess with it either and since we are trying to woo and romance Buyers, we don't want to get careless on some simple repairs.

The task of preparing your house for sale can be a challenge -- but with a determined attitude and a specific goal in mind you can be successful. Taking these simple and inexpensive steps will start you on the right path to getting your home sold.

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Serious About Selling Your House? Get Into the Competitive Mindset!

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 23:16:17 -0800

Serious About Selling Your House? Get Into the Competitive Mindset!

Homeowners choose to sell for different reasons -- some would like a bigger house or maybe some would like to downsize. Many Sellers, however, often have more urgent reasons to sell:

They are being transferred across the country -- and need to sell quickly
They have lost a job and can't afford their mortgage -- and need to sell quickly
They have already purchased another home -- and need to sell their current home quickly
They are divorcing -- and they'd like the whole selling process over quickly

As a Seller with a home for sale in Collin County, McKinney, Allen, Frisco, Plano you're competing with all the homes and all the Sellers on the market, many of whom are extremely motivated to get their homes sold. If you're truly serious about selling your house, your main objective should be to DAZZLE EVERY BUYER who comes through the door. If you're serious about selling your house, a wait-and-see attitude won't get it done.

You need to be in a competitive mindset!

No Do-Overs.

If your house isn't "show ready" when Buyers come to view it, you won't be getting a second chance. Buyers have a long list of other homes similar to yours that they can view with fresh listings coming on the market weekly. Sure, your agent will contact their agent and enthusiastically encourage them to come back for a second look now that the pet odor is gone, or the dirty clothes are picked up, or (insert blatant offense here) . . . but realistically . . . that ship has sailed.

Buyers are a precious commodity.

These days Sellers can't afford to waste any showings figuring out what they woulda, shoulda, coulda done better. At some point, the showings will slow down and you'll wish you were ready for all the buyers who were looking when your house first went on the market. You must be competitive right away.

Dazzle with Price! Your home must be competitively priced to motivate people to BUY.
Dazzle with Marketing! Your listing agent's marketing must be in place from Day 1 and ready for offers.
Dazzle with Preparation! Your job as a Seller is to make your house look like a model home so Buyers will stop shopping and choose your house.

Offer Buyers a house they can't refuse.

Buyers are picky! Why? Because they can be! Buyers have many choices and can deal with Sellers who are truly motivated to get their homes sold. Your diligence in seeing to it that your home is sparkling clean, fresh smelling, clutter-free, tastefully accessorized, accessible for showings, and priced right makes the difference between getting an offer quickly or going through torturous months on the market.

Knowing the best way to prepare your home for sale can be a daunting task for the inexperienced Seller -- fortunately, I'm a pro at helping my Sellers accomplish these feats, so no worries! I can help you with any decisions that will be coming your way.

So, are you serious about selling your house and getting into the COMPETITIVE MINDSET?

Me too!

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Do You Know a Spinster?

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 16:30:27 -0800

Do You Know a Spinster? Desperate Homes for Sale in Collin County, McKinney, Allen, Frisco TX

I see Desperate Houses all the time.

Spinsters!

Old Maids languishing on the market, rarely getting showings or offers. After months listed on the MLS, they start to look pretty desperate. Are they destined to remain without a buyer . . . forever?

Here are just a few of the laments heard from Desperate Houses:

DH: I want a relationship!

That's what we all want for you -- Buyers who show some interest, who think you're special. But, if you haven't done what it takes to prepare for showings, maximize your curb appeal, and get the price right, then frankly, you're out of your league.

DH: I used to get lots of attention. No one ever looks at me anymore!

You should probably get a little work done. Sure, you were great looking in your day -- back when the builder had you in good shape. But after you were purchased, you didn't keep yourself up. Who cares if you have a great personality? In the world of home sales, it's all about looks.

DH: My clock's ticking!

Tick, tick tick . . . After several months on the market, buyers aren't knocking on your door anymore and you've missed your window of opportunity. Sellers can't afford to miss out on their listing's prime time to sell. A house needs to be show-ready with marketing in place from Day 1.

DH: My pics-appeal is completely non-existent.

This is not your fault! Fortunately, there is something you can do about it! Your previous agent wooed you with talk of a sale and then never followed through with the least bit of marketing or ANY photos in MLS. This always results in a stigma we call "no showings" and high Cumulative Days On Market (CDOM) always follows. Surely, Sellers never thought this could happen to them. Talk with a reliable agent who will do the job right.

DH: Does all this time on the market make my CDOM look fat?

Yes. Yes, it does.

DH: How can I get a commitment?

Sometimes houses look like they've got it going on. They attract Buyers at first, but just can't get anyone to commit. Many things could be a factor in this scenario.

It could be . . . pet odor. It could be that the price of commitment is just too high. You need professional help in this situation --- a respectable real estate professional will tell you the truth so you can get the help you need.

DH: I want that piece of paper that makes it official.

A fairy-tale closing is what every home seller dreams of. I can help make that happen for you.

Call me, a specialist, at 972-816-7205 or email Melanie@MelanieHedrick.com. Together, we'll get Collin County homes for sale in McKinney, Allen, and Frisco marketed the right way. Before you know it you'll be mailing out "Just Moved" announcements to all your friends and family!

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

SHE'S GOING TO HOLLYWOOD! McKinney's Hollie Cavanagh is American Idol Bound! (Video)

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 20:43:06 -0800

SHE'S GOING TO HOLLYWOOD! McKinney's Hollie Cavanagh is American Idol Bound! (Video)

What happens when you work very hard to achieve a dream, but it looks like it might all fall apart in a moment?

If you're Hollie Cavanagh, from McKinney Texas, you pull it together and keep trying your best!

Hollie hit a snag at the American Idol auditions in Austin, but she kept at it and, boy, are we proud of her! Way to go Hollie -- we're so happy for you and more than a little impressed by your perseverance!

Check out her audition here -- would you have been able to do what Jennifer Lopez asked?

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Quail Creek Market Report -- Stonebridge Ranch, McKinney TX

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 22:47:18 -0800

Quail Creek Market Report -- Stonebridge Ranch, McKinney TX

Year in Review - 2010!

The Quail Creek neighborhood was one of the first built in the master-planned community of Stonebridge Ranch. It is situated in a prime location within walking distance to Glen Oaks Elementary, Dowell Middle School and McKinney Boyd High School.

Homes in Quail Creek range in price from the $120,000s to as high as the low $200,000s.

There were 24 sales in 2010 with the break-down as follows:

$120,000s - 2 sales

$130,000s - 7 sales

$140,000s - 7 sales

$150,000s - 4 sales

$160,000s - 1 sale

$170,000s - 1 sale

$180,000s - 1 sale

$200,000s - 1 sale

The price per square foot ranged from $62.75 to as high as $96.96 per square foot. However, the price per square foot method is not the best way to determine a home's value. Several factors such as condition, inventory, and what a buyer is willing to pay in a certain market are all factors that play into determining a home's worth. If you would like specific information about selling or buying in Quail Creek or any other neighborhood in the area, please contact Melanie@MelanieHedrick.com or call 972-816-7205.

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Icicle Confection -- Stonebridge Ranch, McKinney TX

Sun, 30 Jan 2011 20:49:01 -0800

Icicle Confection -- Stonebridge Ranch, McKinney TX

The beautiful fountain in front of Stonebridge Ranch Country Club was turned into something other-worldly during McKinney's few days of snow earlier this month.

One passerby said it brought to mind a tiered cake dripping with sweet frosting. Another said it sparkled like a crystal chandelier.

What comes to your mind?

We're so lucky here in our area that we can enjoy some of the beauty of winter without the challenges that come from weeks of snow on the ground. In the next couple days we here in McKinney will get another opportunity! Get ready, the cold air is coming!

"To be interested in the changing seasons is a happier state of mind than to be hopelessly in love with spring." -- George Santayana

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Video: Wellington Point Golf Course Homes in Stonebridge Ranch -- McKinney, TX

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 11:42:46 -0800

Video: Wellington Point Golf Course Homes in Stonebridge Ranch -- McKinney, TX

The beautiful neighbohood of Wellington Point in Stonebridge Ranch is more than just golf-course homes. This neighborhood, 20 years in the making, was built around ponds, parks, walking paths and bridges. It is one of the most unique villages in the Stonebridge Ranch master-planned community. This video will take you on a three-minute tour of some of the highlights of the neighborhood shared by Wellington Point residents.

To see any of the houses for sale in Wellington Point or other neighborhoods in McKinney call Melanie at 972-816-7205 or email Melanie@MelanieHedrick.com.

This post is written as a submission to the ActiveRain Kodal Video Challenge contest. I have the chance to win the KODAK PLAY TOUCH Pocket Video Camera, great for Realtors (R) looking to create wide angle home tours and real estate marketing videos!

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

Life's What Happens While You're Making Other Plans . . . Great Mexican Food and Great Memories -- Allen, McKinney, Plano, Frisco TX

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 01:05:42 -0800

Life's What Happens While You're Making Other Plans . . . Great Mexican Food and Great Memories -- Allen, McKinney, Plano, Frisco TX

I got to have a Mom and son day today. I kept my youngest home from school because he had a little cold. Nothing terrible -- no fever -- but still, it's that time of year and I figured we might as well ere on the side of caution and stay home.

After a morning of phone calls and office work for me, rest and reading for him -- he ventured downstairs to ask if we could go out for lunch.

"Well . . . I suppose so."

We decided on Uncle Julio's -- his favorite Mexican restaurant It's a big favorite of mine, too -- although I'm such a Mexican food fan that I rarely find a place that I don't like.

We sat by the window and looked around. I love what Uncle Julio's has done with their decor. It seems like there was a trend in the 90s to make every Mexican restaurant look like it was started in an abandoned garage.

Uncle Julio's is pretty, while still being roomy and family-friendly for all of us here in suburbia. Inside there's a gorgeous towering cast-stone fireplace that looks like it came from a centuries-old mansion, bright ceramic pottery adds wonderful splashes of color, and funky light fixtures keep the whole look cool and fun. Outside, there's lots of patio seating and another fireplace -- makes a great place for Margaritas in the warmer months.

I'm no professional critic but I think the food is terrific. It's Tex-Mex all the way. They'll slather on the sour cream sauce for your chicken enchilada and plop a whopping big Chile Relleno down next to it with rice and beans and call that a lunch special.

There's variety in the menu, too, some wonderful seafood dishes with pineapple pico de gallo, grilled vegetables, etc. But, hey, we go for the Tex-Mex classics -- enchiladas, tacos, fajitas, tamales, guacamole.

We had a great lunch and afterwards headed over to the shops at Watters Creek. The bookstore is another one of our favorite haunts and my son was ready to start another book.

While my son looked for his book, some other times spent at Uncle Julio's came to mind.

Way back in the day when I was copywriter, the ad agency I worked for did the public relations for the very first restaurant's grand-opening. We all attended the first opening night on Lemmon Avenue in Dallas. Obviously, things went well. We were so excited when they actually opened a second restaurant -- Wow! Now, the menu shows locations in Texas, Virginia, Maryland, Illinois, Georgia and Florida.

Coincidently, a few years later, Uncle Julio's also happend to be where my husband and I had our first date! How about that! Of course, that was a long time ago -- in fact -- in a few days we'll be celebrating our 21st anniversary.

Who would have thought way back then that some day my son and I would be having lunch together at an Uncle Julio's in Allen, Texas? You know that great quote, life's what happens while you're making other plans? That's what today was. Just a really nice day with my son, doing nothing exceptional, but ... when I think about it . . . it sure was special.

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

When selling your home....SWEAT the Small Stuff! Collin County, McKinney, Allen, Frisco homes for sale

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 11:11:45 -0800

This article by Amy Hahn, a great real estate professional in North Carolina, tells it like it is! Sometimes the importance of having your home "show ready" doesn't register with Sellers. They have a lot going on -- and besides, the dishes are just in the sink, the rest of the kitchen is clean, right? Attention to the tiny details can't be stressed enough. It all adds up. Those scuffs and smudges on the walls don't seem like very much, but when they're all removed we're always surprised at the difference it makes. Now, when you take care of details like that in every room of your house, Voila, your house sparkles enough to outshine the competition!

See what Amy from North Carolina has to say below, then contact Melanie at 972-816-7205 for more guidelines that will help you get your Collin County, McKinney, Allen or Frisco homes ready for sale! Melanie@MelanieHedrick.com

Via Amy Hahn, REALTOR, Crystal Coast, NC (Pine Knoll Shores Realty):

When Selling your home....SWEAT the Small Stuff!

Everyone has heard, "Don't sweat the small stuff"...but when selling your home, The Small stuff can make a BIG difference. Many Buyers can overlook the small stuff, but many can't and won't! By Small Stuff, I am referring to things like burnt out lightbulbs, loose doorknobs, closet doors that are off the hinges, small tears in the screen on the back porch. There are also quick & easy "Housekeeping" items that can make the home feel Tidy & Clean & well maintained.

Here's one example....My husband is the world's worst Dresser Drawer Closer....There are always corners of T-shirts or socks poking out, and they are never completely closed. It drives me absolutely bonkers, but most of the time...I close my eyes and run by. If I were trying to sell my house, I would make sure they were properly & neatly closed everyday (or nag him constantly to do it). I know, the buyer is not getting that dresser (or maybe they are) ...but it just looks better! Is your cute little trash can in the bathroom over flowing....Empty it! Replace the empty toilet paper tube, remove the stickers off your child's bedroom door and repaint if necessary. Maybe the refrigerator needs to be cleaned or the dog hair removed from the baseboards? By all means, do not leave your underwear or dirty socks on the floor...And yes, I have seen that when showing property! The Cleaner, The Better when selling your home! And yes, that means the outside too!

The market seems to be picking up quite a bit here on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina, but there are still LOTS & LOTS of properties on the market, make yours stand out! For more tips and suggestions, give me a call or visit our website for Interior Tips or Exterior Tips.

Amy Hahn , Crystal Coast Real Estate - Amy's Crystal Coast Blog

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property

The Life of Riley: A Puppy Diary -- Training the new family

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 01:02:35 -0800

Here's Riley!

It took us many, many, (many) years to finally get a dog. Sure, the kids have had fish, hamsters, gerbils, even bunnies and little snakes that they "rescued" from the wilds of our suburban neighborhood. But, according to the kids, all those pets really just don't count as real pets.

My son seemed to be the one who really wanted a dog the most. I know this because he campaigned for one pretty much every day for his entire third grade year. And since I wasn't willing to be that mother -- the kind who wouldn't let her poor son have a dog, the decision was made. We found Riley and the kids were in love instantly.

Never having had a dog, we really weren't sure what to do with her. And quite honestly, she acted more like a house guest than a dog. She seemed on her best behavior -- no chewing, no barking. The first couple days she didn't make a sound. Not even at night in her kennel, not one peep! What kind of a dog was this? We were expecting to get something more dog-like.

After a few days she loosened up. I guess she decided that she could trust a family that showed such complete adoration the likes no animal on the planet has ever seen. Of course, this meant that at bedtime she really wasn't interested in being alone in her kennel and she let us know it! The neighbors across the street actually mentioned hearing her!

That was a rough patch. Fortunately, those nights have passed as Riley has finally trained us to forget about using the kennel. Now she sleeps where she wants -- usually in my office -- and we all enjoy a quiet night. Life is good. She seems to be very pleased with us, and of course, we all think getting Riley was one of the best things we ever did!

Your McKinney Real Estate Specialist

I can assist in any home, property or building in the entire Collin County area including but not limited to:

McKinney Texas homes, McKinney land and properties
Allen TXHomes, Allen TXRanches and farms
Frisco Texas real estate, Frisco TXhomes for sale
Plano TXhomes, Plano real estate and land
Richardson TXreal estate, Richardson TXproperty
Stonebridge Ranch Texas
Twin Creeks Texas Land and Property
CraigRanch farm land and property
Fairview TXhomes, Fairview TXreal estate and property