Pat's Postings - Brandon, MS and Metro Jackson Area Realtor

Updated Information for 2010 Home Buyer Tax Credit

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:14:28 -0600

By now, word has traveled throughout the housing industry about the extension of the 2009 First Time Home Buyer Tax Credit. An added feature to the act is the inclusion of move-up buyers, those who have lived in their existing homes for a minimum of five years. These buyers, most of them anyway, will be eligible to receive a maximum of $6,500 tax credit.

There are income limits for both categories of buyers - $125,000 for singles and $225,000 for married couples. And there is a cap on the price of the home of $800,000.

Homes should be "under contract" by April 30, 2010 and must close by June 30, 2010 to be eligible for the credit.

Visit the website for the Federal Housing Tax Credit.

As a Realtor and someone concerned about our economy, I am happy to see the government extend and modify the existing tax credit. However, my personal opinion is that it is unfortunate so many potential buyers will be left out.

Don't most homeowners trade up every three to five years? Those who tend to move more frequently will not be allowed to participate in the tax credit. On the other hand, will $6,500 induce a family to trade up if they normally live in their home for historically longer periods?

I would have preferred to see the tax credit awarded to any move-up buyer. Or at least those who had lived in their homes for a shorter timeframe. Three years might have been more equitable.

At any rate, this is important, welcome news for the real estate industry and many homebuyers throughout the country.

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Brandon MS Waterfront For Sale at 304 Forest Point Drive

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:25:27 -0500

This is a rare opportunity to enjoy relaxed waterfront living on the Ross Barnett Reservoir in Brandon, MS. This property will be available for viewing Sunday, October 25th between 3-5 p.m.

304 Forest Point Drive

$247,500

Directions to 304 Forest Point

Completely Updated - Approximately 2200 square feet
Formal living room with hardwood flooring
Formal dining
Great room with fireplace, hardwood floors, and lots of windows
3 BRs/ 2 Baths
2 Car attached garage
Waterfront Deck
150 feet of waterfront on Ross Barnett Reservoir
Private Boat Slip
Scenic Nature Island behind property

Listing compliments of Rita McIntosh, McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

Contact Pat Starnes at 601-278-4513 for further information

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Fall Parade of Homes in Metro Jackson

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:03:13 -0500

The Home Builders Association of Jackson will showcase their members' craftsmanship this weekend during the Fall Parade of Homes. Homes are available for viewing Saturday and Sunday (October 24-25) from 1-5 p.m.

126 Huntington View, Brandon, MS 39047

New homes throughout Hinds, Madison, and Rankin counties will be on tour. Click on this link for a map and list of properties.

Prices start in the mid $150s.

Photo compliments of Deep South Custom Homes

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Foreclosure Friday Home Sales for Metro Jackson MS

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:40:28 -0500

Hot off the press! The weekly HUD list has been published and there are some great foreclosures available in central Mississippi.

Many of these listings are new to the market, and won't be around for very long. Whether you are looking as an investor or as someone wanting a primary residence, check out HUD Foreclosures in metro Jackson MS. The list is published each Friday.

From Madison, Pearl, and Ridgeland, to Brandon, Byram, and Jackson, the savvy homebuyer can find investing in the Mississippi real estate market rewarding.

To learn more about the foreclosure process, please refer to previous Foreclosure Friday articles.

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Home Inspector Gone Wild

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:19:49 -0500

I represent a seller who's home recently went under contract. The sales agreement is contingent upon a satisfactory home inspection, a common stipulation.

The report was sent to me via e-mail. Usually the repair list is summarized within the report and I can print a one or two page summary that addresses the primary issues/repairs. Unfortunately, the report was lengthy and I couldn't find the summary. To save myself time and eyestrain, I hit the print button on my computer so I could carry the report with me for later review.

Since the house was 35 years old, the seller and I expected there would be repair issues, along with some minor wear and tear. Imagine my surprise when I discovered the home inspection report was 69 pages long! Really! SIXTY NINE pages!

The report contained 147 photos. While reviewing the report, I did notice a summary, which included duplicates of the aforementioned photographs.

My home inspector friends might object to my critique, but this post is not meant as a personal attack. Home inspectors offer a valuable service. And if I represented the buyer side of this transaction, I might feel differently. But a sixty-nine page report seems excessive, in my humble opinion.

The real problem with the report, despite it's length, was that it was difficult to extract the issues! Many of the photos were taken, I believe, to CYA or to justify the cost of the inspection. There were numerous plumbing and electrical issues addressed (multiple times throughout), duplicate photographs, duplicate commentary, etc.

Fortunately, the buyer and seller are behaving professionally and each want a mutually acceptable resolution to the home inspection, so this house WILL close. However, if the buyer wanted to be a snoot about it, there could be a different outcome.

What do you think? Could a sixty-nine page report kill the deal? Hopefully, it won't kill THIS one!

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

The Pre-Closing Dance...Tango, Waltz, or Hustle?

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 19:19:17 -0500

Last week in preparation for several closings, I coined a phrase "the real estate dance" because of all the last minute hurdles, struggles, and documents that MUST be obtained mere moments before closing.

If a closing goes smoothly, happens as scheduled, without any glitches, (impeccably choreographed) then everyone from the lender, appraiser, attorney, inspectors, Realtor, AND the buyer has performed their duties as expected.

If a closing is delayed, someone failed to do their job. It's frustrating, yet humorous to watch the finger-pointing begin when there is a delay.

As a real estate professional, I've taken my "dance lessons" and know each step by heart. Everyone in the closing process has a role to play. I do my job and expect others to do theirs. But instead of "assuming" the lender, inspector, appraiser, etc. will do their jobs, I follow-up and communicate with everyone to be sure there are no surprises.

But I can't MAKE someone do their job. I cannot force a buyer to deliver his/her documents to the lender on time, nor can I strong-arm a lender to submit the closing documents to the attorneys office 24 hours before closing.

My readers might suggest that if I'm having difficulty with a particular service provider, I shouldn't use their services anymore. Period. That's a valid point. But in some cases, "you have to dance with the one that brought you". Realtors can make recommendations, but our clients, as well as the folks on the other side of the transaction, have free-will to choose. Once that choice is made, it is my job to professionally and skillfully work with the service providers to bring the transaction to a successful close.

I could make a campy joke about my dance card not being full, or that my dancing shoes are ready for the next waltz. Instead, I'll leave you with this thought...

"Work like you don't need the money, love like you've never been hurt, and dance like no-one is watching"...Alfred D. Sousa

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Today was a Hat-Trick Kind of Day in Real Estate

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:46:22 -0500

Several years ago, I learned what a hat-trick meant as it related to the game of hockey. If a player scores three goals in one game, it is considered a "hat-trick" and fans throw their hats onto the ice as a form of congratulations and celebration.

Today was a hat-trick kind of day for me in real estate. Three closings in one day! Although this isn't the first time in my career that I've had three closings in one day, admittedly it has been a while. And boy, did it feel GOOD! And best of all, at the end of the day, I am pleased to know that I did my very best for each client.

Now, as my reward, I plan to take the rest of the day off. I'll be back in the field tomorrow, working toward the next possible hat-trick!

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Waterfront Condo for Sale - Amazing Views - Brandon, MS

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 17:30:45 -0500

Have you always wanted to live on the water, but thought owning a slice of paradise was out of your financial reach? I thought so, too, until I came across this amazing waterfront unit in 2006. Located on the Ross Barnett Reservoir, this condo has breathtaking, panoramic views from the balcony of the two-bedroom unit. There are fabulous views from inside the family room, kitchen, and dining room as well.

As delightful as this condo has been, the time has come for me to sell. Look through these photos and let me know if you, or someone you know, is interested in a personal tour.

The 2 Bedroom/ 2 Bath condo, located at Woodlake Condominiums in Brandon, MS, is on the Rankin County side of the Ross Barnett Reservoir. This unit is available for $149,000. Monthly association fees of $160 include exterior maintenance, groundskeeping, and use of pool. Clubhouse available for private parties at a small fee.

Property is owned by a licensed real estate agent in the State of Mississippi.

Side View of Condo Overlooking Ross Barnett Reservoir

View of Front Door and Balcony

Front Door Photo Expanded to show panoramic water views

Living room, dining room, and kitchen overlook balcony and have full water views.

Both bedrooms are spacious and offer lots of storage. Each BR has it's own bathroom.

Views...

Views... and more views!

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Jackson MS Foreclosure Friday - June 12, 2009 edition

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 09:04:34 -0500

It's time for the weekly update on HUD foreclosures in the Metro Jackson area. Several newly listed properties are available for bids in Pearl, Jackson, Brandon, and Raymond.

The property I've selected to feature today is in the Live Oaks Subdivision in Pearl off Hwy 468. The home, built in 2006, has 1467 square feet and 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, with a double garage. This property is available for "bids" to individuals who will live in the home as their primary residence, and is listed for $120,000. View current Mississippi foreclosures here.

Another property available through HUD in the city of Jackson, near the Beasley Road exit, is 5704 Fernwood. Priced at $122,400, bids will be considered from investors as well as homeowners. With 3 BRs and 2 baths, is has 1605 square feet and a double garage.

One other property for sale is located at 377 Lakebend in the Crossgates Subdivision of Brandon. This is a 3 BR/ 2.5 Bath townhome listed for $96,000. It is also open to all bidders.

Buying a foreclosure can give a purchaser immediate equity in a home if you are willing to make some improvements after closing. It can be a complicated process and is not suitable for every homebuyer. By studying the market and shopping by comparison, you can recognize a good value when you see one.

Choose a Realtor who will counsel you throughout the process and address your questions and concerns with patience, knowledge and understanding.

You may find it helpful to refer to previous issues regarding the foreclosure process.

Tips to Buying a Foreclosure

Understanding the Bid Procedure

Be ready to pounce - get pre-approved

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Open House in Richland MS, 369 Sundance Circle

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 10:37:15 -0500

Today is a glorious, sunny Sunday, and a great opportunity to stop by and see the house for sale at 369 Sundance Circle in Richland, MS. The house will be open for viewing between 2-4 p.m.

Recently reduced to $129,900, this property sits on a large corner lot in a sleepy Jackson metro suburb. Homes in the area are priced between the mid $120s upwards of $200,000, making this property a great value.

369 Sundance Circle, Richland, MS

Open Sunday, June 7, 2009; 2-4 p.m.

Features include:

3 BRs, 2 Baths, side-entry garage

Fireplace with gas logs & starter

Plush carpeting, trey ceilings, walk-in closet in master bedroom

New roof, fresh paint

Corner lot, privacy fence, covered patio, covered front porch

LOW Richland taxes and quiet community near shopping and convenient to major highways

100% Financing available to qualified buyers through USDA Rural Housing.

Come see me!

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Recycling Building Materials the Right Way

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Tue, 05 May 2009 07:28:37 -0500

I dislike waste and hate to throw anything away that might be repurposed. I've been frugal and resourceful all my life and there is no stopping me now.

So, when I closed on a foreclosure last week, the living room had a floating (laminate) floor in excellent condition, but not to my liking. It had a natural oak finish and appeared to be a high-end product, but it would have clashed with my decor. The price of the house justified my desire to remove and replace the floor with hardwood planks.

Not wanting to toss the floor in a landfill, the laminate was removed and stacked neatly in a spare room. Luckily the boards were not glued and came apart with minimum breakage.

Two days later, the floor looked great in my son's home. It was a win-win situation for all of us. I didn't contribute unnecessary waste to the landfill, nor did I have to pay a dumping fee. The only cost involved was in the removal and reinstallation of the floor.

The next time you are involved in a renovation project, think about how you might donate unwanted items or use them in a different way.

Reduce, reuse, and recycle...don't just think about it. Do it!

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Flowood MS Corner Bakery Deli Scheduled to Open

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 19:39:59 -0500

Flowood Corner Bakery Deli will open for business Monday, April 20.

A reader requested a list of stores that has leased space at Market Street, so I put on my sleuth's cap and headed for the mall. Among the stores already open for business are J.C. Penney's, DSW Shoes, Bed Bath and Beyond, MiGis, and Dick's Sporting Goods. But the yummiest store slated to open is sure to be the Corner Bakery Deli.

When I stopped by today, the staff was in training. They graciously offered a menu so I could see what delicious foods would be served. Although I was NOT able to procure a pre-opening snack, I was successful in scoring the opening date.

Corner Bakery Deli will be open 6:30 a.m. - 9:30 p.m. They serve paninis, salads, and breakfast items.

Flowood Market Street is growing. Michael's is hiring and will soon join the list of new store openings. Many of the smaller spaces are still available for lease.

Market Street Stores Set to Open

New Stores Open at Flowood MS Market Street

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Metro Jackson MS Foreclosure Friday

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 09:57:37 -0500

It's Foreclosure Friday time! Over the last several weeks I've written the Foreclosure Friday series to share a little about the process of finding and buying foreclosures in the Metro Jackson area.

HUD's inventory is down this week, but there are still 35 available properties in the metro area for sale.

One home in Florence, MS is priced $10 a square foot less than its nearest competitor in the same neighborhood. 573 Eaglewood Drive is listed for $108,900 with an "as is" value of $121,000.

Another property, 613 Harvest Drive in Ridgeland, has been reduced from $131,000 to $117,900.

There are a number of foreclosures available through VA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. If you have a particular price range and area that you are interested in, you can search the Jackson MS MLS or subscribe to my blog to receive weekly updates.

Have you received the "green light" to buy a home? Getting pre-approved is an important first step in buying a home, whether you are looking at foreclosures or any other property.

Many people are interested in buying foreclosures because of the value they represent. While it's true that foreclosures can be purchased below market value, giving the buyer instant equity, remember to factor in the cost of repairs. Most foreclosures are sold "as is".

In case you missed any of the previous Foreclosure Friday posts, you can review them here. See you next week!

Image compliments of FreeFoto.com

Premiere Edition of Foreclosure Friday - Tips for Buying a Foreclosure

The procedure for buying a HUD foreclosure

Search all MS Foreclosures - Links for HUD, VA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac

Foreclosures for Sale in Rankin County MS

Overview of Foreclosures throughout MS

Be Prepared! Get pre-approved

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Walker's Drive In - Home Cooking in the Heart of Fondren

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 19:43:57 -0500

Today I found myself in the historic Fondren district around lunchtime and decided to stop in at Walker's Drive In for lunch.

Walker's Drive In, a popular Jackson eatery, is located between Fondren Place and Duling Drive at 3016 North State Street. Business is brisk with it's lunch clientele and the Blue Plate Special is popular with the locals, as are the fried green tomatoes, fried portabello mushrooms, and burgers and po-boys.

Walker's is mentioned in the Top Ten Jackson Restaurants by 10Best. The decor is intriguing art-deco, complete with glass block windows, black and white checkerboard floors, and white linen tablecloths. You can dine at the counter or sit at one of their booths. Today a number of people were enjoying the open air patio overlooking North State Street.

If you want to experience friendly service and good home-cooking, stop by Walker's Drive In for a tasty treat and enjoy the unique atmosphere offered by this historic landmark.

_________________________________________________________________________

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

By TwitterButtons.com

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Foreclosure Friday Report for Jackson MS Metro week of April 10, 2009

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 23:57:13 -0500

Foreclosures have been selling in the Jackson Metro area this week. Fourteen HUD homes sold the first week in April, 12 of which were in the initial 10-day bid period.

When talking with buyers who are looking at foreclosures, I stress the importance of being pre-qualified through their lender, so when a property they are interested in comes up for sale, they can MAKE THEIR OFFER IN A TIMELY FASHION.

There are times that I have advance knowledge a home is coming on the market. If a foreclosure notice is posted on the property, and my prospects have given me a complete description of their wants and needs, I can research the foreclosure prior to the property being published for sale. Then when it is listed, my buyer is in the position to POUNCE when the time is right.

Foreclosed homes can be a good value for consumers, but I would not limit my clients to ONLY look at foreclosures. The Jackson Metro MLS offers a good selection of homes and I would counsel my buyers to to consider all available properties for sale in their desired location. Who knows, a more desirable home needing fewer repairs might be a better choice.

It's advisable to ALWAYS do your homework when buying a home. If you are looking for a home in Rankin, Madison, or Hinds county, I can help. With 20 years of experience in residential real estate, I can guide you through the home-buying process with skill and finesse.

Search HUD foreclosures in Hinds, Rankin, and Madison Counties

Search VA foreclosures in Mississippi

Search the Metro Jackson MLS

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Easter Egg Hunt in Brandon MS

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 23:36:43 -0500

The City of Brandon held their Annual Easter Egg Hunt Thursday evening at Shiloh Park. Hundreds of children came to the ball fields to race for the colorful eggs and to jump in the giant inflatables. Four ball fields contained over 2000 eggs each to accommodate the excited children. The well-organized hunt enabled the younger children to collect eggs in their own age category while the older children played until their turn on adjoining fields.

Several lucky participants grabbed the "prize" eggs and received special Easter baskets filled with stuffed animals, candy, and other treats.

Although many cities held their hunts earlier in the season, Flowood's Winners Circle Park will host an Easter Egg hunt Saturday afternoon from 3-5 p.m.

Hope you have an EGG~cellent Easter!

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

HUD Foreclosures in Jackson MS week of March 27, 2009

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 17:22:33 -0500

Foreclosures can provide buyers an economical way to own a home. In my series Foreclosure Fridays, I have written some background information on buying a HUD home or other types of foreclosed properties.

This week there are approximately 35 HUD foreclosures in the city of Jackson. You can see a complete list of HUD Homes by reviewing my Foreclosure Friday reports. The best way to stay current on these homes is to subscribe to my blog, Pat Starnes Snippets.

By comparison, there are only 11 HUD foreclosures in Rankin County, four of which are in Brandon, one in Florence, and six in Pearl.

In Madison County, Mississippi, which includes the cities of Madison, Ridgeland, and Canton, there are two HUD Homes currently for sale, one in Ridgeland and one in Canton.

Statewide, there are approximately 110 HUD foreclosures currently available. It's only natural that the metropolitan area of Jackson has the largest number of listings.

Buying a foreclosure requires being pre-approved for a mortgage based on income and creditworthiness. As discussed in recent posts, foreclosures are sold "as is - where is" without any warranties or guarantees.

Search HUD Foreclosures in Mississippi

Search VA Foreclosures in Mississippi

Search Freddie Mac Foreclosures

Search Fannie Mae Foreclosures

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Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

By TwitterButtons.com

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Foreclosures For Sale in Rankin County MS

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 13:19:01 -0500

Rankin County foreclosures for the week March 27, 2009 have just been published by HUD. Buyers wanting to build some sweat equity may want to check out these properties in Florence, Pearl, and Brandon.

The following homes are each in the 10-day bid period and are for owner-occupants only:

244 Mallard Drive, Brandon NEW LISTING, 3 BR/ 2 BA Northshore Area of Brandon, priced at $158,000

573 Eaglewood, Florence 3 BR, 2 BA, 39073, priced at $108,900

424 Tina Lane, Pearl, MS 3 BR, BA, NEW LISTING, $73,000

The following properties are open for all bidders, including investors:

153-B Cumberland Road, Brandon - 1/2 of a duplex - 2 BR/ 2 Bath, $72,800

1632 Ravenwood, Pearl - SF home - 3 BR/ 1.5 Baths, $95,000

513 Oak Ridge Way, Pearl - SF home - 3 BR/ 2 Bath, $116,000

For specific information regarding one of the HUD properties, contact any real estate broker.

Please refer to previous posts regarding foreclosures in Rankin, Hinds, and Madison Counties, MS.

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Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

By TwitterButtons.com

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Snap! Take a look at the alligator I captured on film this morning!

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 27 Mar 2009 15:02:13 -0500

This morning as I walked out, no as I started to walk out, onto the balcony of my waterfront condo, I hesitated for just a moment as something unusual caught my eye.

In the water below me, I saw what looked like a large alligator with mouth wide open perched just off the rocks. Trembling, my first thought was "How am I going to get past this thing?", followed quickly by "Should I call animal control?"

Then, gathering my wits about me, I did what any serious blogger would do. I grabbed my camera!

Snap, snap! (Pun intended!)

I decided if it WAS a gator, I could quickly scamper back up the steps. Slowly, I gathered the courage to descend the staircase. After all, I'd never SEEN an alligator on this part of the reservoir, despite the heavy rains Jackson has experienced over the last several days. Anything was possible.

Can you make it out? Do you see what I saw?

OK. Here's the truth. Upon closer inspection, it wasn't an alligator at all, but a large piece (about 20 feet) of driftwood. It was realistic looking enough to get my adrenaline pumping this morning.

What do you think? Doesn't it look real to you?

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Mal's St Paddy's Day Parade and the Sweet Potato Queens March

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 09:27:34 -0500

The third weekend in March is an important time for activities in downtown Jackson, MS and the metro area. It's the date when Sweet Potato Queens from all over the country converge on the capitol city and march in conjunction with the St. Paddy's Day Parade.

The parade has grown to become one of the Top 20 Largest Events in the Southeast.

The parade itself is an all-day event with children's activities, a pet parade, children's parade, the Million Queen March (the Sweet Potato Queens), and finally the Main Event, the floats with all the throws, beads, and doubloons.

These photos were taken at the Million Queen March.

Even Jackson Mayor Frank Melton got in on the march...

The SPQ's event is a fundraiser benefitting Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital.

In case you missed the Sweet Potato Queens Ball at Mal's, you can view the photos at Pat Starnes Snippets.

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Sweet Potato Queens Ball at Hal's in downtown Jackson 2009

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 14:00:02 -0500

The annual Sweet Potato Queens Ball was held Friday night at Mal's in downtown Jackson. This was my first time to attend the SPQ Ball, and I'm not sure who had more fun, the Queen "wannabes" as they are called or this photographer!

There were so many colorful costumes, aka ball gowns, that I couldn't stop taking photos.

The SPQ ball was created by local Best Selling Author Jill Conner Browne, who brings thousands of SPQ's to Jackson, MS on the third weekend of March every year to participate in the SPQ Ball and to march in the annual Mal's St. Paddy's Day parade. The economic impact to the city is huge and the St. Paddy's Day parade is one of the largest events held in the city of Jackson throughout the year.

For those of you who have no idea what I'm talking about, here are some photos to show you what I'm talking about.

Doesn't it look like everyone had fun?

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

St Paddy Day Parade in Downtown Jackson - 2009

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 15:43:57 -0500

Don't miss the festivities tonight and tomorrow as the Mal's St. Paddy's Day Parade is scheduled for this weekend! Yes, I know it's after St. Patrick's Day, but the parade is tomorrow (March 21, 2009) anyway.

Tonight at Hal and Mal's, The Sweet Potato Queens Ball will take place from 7-11 p.m. This is an event you won't want to miss. Bring your sunglasses and wear your best bling and you'll fit right in. Tomorrow, the lovely ladies will be marching in the St. Paddy's Day Parade beginning at noon. Proceeds of the Queens March will benefit Blair E. Batson Children's Hospital.

The St. Paddy's Day Parade is always a lot of fun and one of the largest planned events for Metro Jackson. For a schedule of events, visit this site. Oh, here's the parade route. The Children's Parade starts at 11:00 a.m.

Be sure to visit Hal & Mal's for the post-parade street party, with live entertainment from the Bluz Boys and others.

Written and Publish By Pat Starnes, McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

It's Foreclosure Friday Time - March 20, 2009

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 10:00:56 -0500

This is the third weekly installment of my series, Foreclosure Friday. Each issue contains foreclosure tidbits and gives access to foreclosures throughout Mississippi via HUD, VA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

As I mentioned in my previous posts, when buying a HUD foreclosure, only owner-occupants can bid during the first 10-day bid period. The longer a HUD home remains on the market, the more likely for either a price reduction or for HUD to accept a lesser sales price.

Several of the properties are now listed for ALL BIDDERS, and will be sold to the bidder who submits an acceptable offer that nets HUD the highest dollar figure.

One property, for instance, at 3352 Patterson in Pearl MS, was reduced $7,000, but the bid priority has changed from ALL BIDDERS to Owner-Occupant. If by chance you are an investor wanting to place a bid on this property (or one in a similar scenario), you'll now be restricted until the 10 days have passed.

Some of the properties for sale are shown below. (Screenshot taken 12:01 Friday a.m.)

Remember that foreclosures are sold "as-is" with no repairs and you must be pre-approved before submitted a bid.

Buying a foreclosure can offer a considerable savings, but you must be willing to accept the house with whatever flaws it may have.

See all current HUD listings by visiting this site.

See all current VA listings by visiting this site.

Search Fannie Mae Foreclosures here.

Search Freddie Mac Foreclosures here.

If you have questions about any home you find for sale through these sites, or want to know what might be available through the Jackson MLS, let me know how I can assist you.

View the first article here.

Read the second week's article here.

Singing off until next time, unless you call me!

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Don't Forget to Turn Off the Lights! EARTH HOUR 2009

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 22:21:03 -0500

Remember the date, March 28, and turn the lights out for Earth Hour 2009.

Via Deb Hurt, ABR, e-Pro, EcoBroker, TRC (Envirian of Albuquerque):

Earth Hour began in Sydney in 2007, when 2.2 million homes and businesses turned off their lights for one hour. In 2008 the message grew into a global movement Fifty million people turned off their lights to show their support for sustainablility. Global landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, Rome's Colosseum, the Sydney Opera House and the Coca Cola billboard in Times Square all stood in darkness.

On March 28, at 8:30 pm local time, one billion people will go dark for Earth Hour. World Wildlife Fund is asking individuals, businesses, governments and organizations around the world to turn off their lights to make a global statement of concern about climate change and to demonstrate commitment to finding solutions. 1,760 cities, towns and municipalities in 80 countries have already committed to turning off the lights for Earth Hour 2009.

Hundreds of icons and landmarks around the world have signed up to turn their lights off for Earth Hour 2009 including - the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Sydney Opera House, Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens and The London Eye, among many others.

Here are some suggestions of ways to spend Earth Hour and reduce your carbon footprint:

1. Attend a local Earth Hour event or organize your own by throwing an Earth Hour street party with your neighbors
2. Gather family & friends for a night picnic in your local park and look at the stars
3. Enjoy a family dinner by candlelight
4. Organisz a treasure hunt in the dark
5. Take the dog for a night walk
6. Have a candle-lit bath
7. Sit in the dark and share stories
8. Organize a family night playing games
9. Share a romantic night in with your loved one

To quote from the Earth Hour information page, " Families with young children should feel free to turn their lights off earlier than 8:30pm and for those having too much fun in the dark during the hour, don't feel you have to limit yourself to one hour and switch back on at 9:30pm."

To find out more about Earth Hour, visit the official website www.earthhour.org, sign up and join millions of people in more than 1,400 cities and towns in 80 countries throughout the world by turning off your lights for one hour at 8:30pm on Saturday 28 March.

I particularly like the first two sugestions. Since we have so much great dark sky here in New Mexico some of us may want to combine those two activities. If you know someone with a telescope ask them about a Star Party for the Messier Marathon. Charles Messier was an 18th century comet seeker. To aid his exploration, he assembled a list of objects in the sky that appeared to be comets but were not. There are 110 Messier objects numbered from M1 to M110. The link will take you to the website of TAAS -The Albuquerque Astronomical Society and more information including a list of the Messier Objects.

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

Build a Greener Mississippi by Building GREEN

Pat Starnes (McIntosh and Associates, LLC) — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 21:43:58 -0500

Today, I know more about Building a Greener Home than I did yesterday. The Home Builders Association of Jackson (HBAJ) sponsored a two-hour learning seminar to explain the National Green Building Standard and how the point system works in attaining certain levels of Green Building.

Our first speaker, Gary Smith, is a NAHB Green Building Verifier and local home inspector. Gary also serves as co-chair of the Building Green Works Committee at the HBAJ. The duties of an accredited Verifier is to ensure the home or building meets the GREEN qualifications set by the NAHB GREEN.

Gary led us through a power point presentation depicting how we have evolved from the first Earth Day in 1970 to the steps we are taking today to be more environmentally friendly with the changes and procedures in our Building Standards.

Building Green takes into consideration the site placement, design and construction of the building, efficient use of natural and renewable resources, and maintenance.

Our second speaker, David Smith, is a Certified Green Professional (CGP). David received An Award of Excellence for Innovation in Building Practices during last year's Fall Parade of Homes and has built four GREEN homes in the Metro Jackson area. David reviewed the steps that must be taken to certify a GREEN home. He discussed in detail building materials, higher R-values in insulation, U-values for window efficiency, and energy star appliances and products.

David also mentioned briefly the cost to the builder to construct a GREEN home, including the fees to register the home and the increased cost of material and labor charges. On average, it cost the builder $2,000 to $3,000 more to build a more energy-efficient GREEN home, but there are tax advantages (credits) that can offset most of the costs.

Chuck Morris with MS Home Corp stopped by and announced the Growing a Greener Mississippi contest. The contest will award 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes of up to $50,000 to the designated winners in the competition. Homes entered in the contest must be constructed according to the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines. The home must be inspected during the framing stage and again at completion, and the maximum sales price cannot exceed $175,000.

Rules and requirements for the contest are available through Mississippi Home Corp.

The seminar was very informative and a fantastic opportunity to learn about Building Green. Further information can be found from HBAJ and NAHB GREEN.

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Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office

By TwitterButtons.com

Pat Starnes, a Realtor since 1988, specializes in Mississippi Residential Real Estate and can assist you with buying or selling in the Jackson MS Metro area.

Search homes for sale in Brandon, Pearl, Flowood, Madison, Ridgeland, Florence, Bryam, or Jackson, MS.

Written and Published by Pat Starnes REALTOR

McIntosh and Assoc., LLC

434 Katherine Drive

Flowood, MS 39232

601-278-4513 - cell

601-936-2007 - office