11 Tips To Prepare For A Home Appraisal... And Don't Assume The Appraiser Knows... - 07/30/10 02:32 PM
I don't re-blog too very often.  This article however is full of great advice in light of the changes within the appraisal system.  Thank you Phyliss Lerner for preparing this timely and informative list for home owners.
Via Phyllis Lerner - Realtor / Broker (Legends Realty Group LLC):
If you're selling your home, you know that a home appraisal is a necessary step in the process. An appraisal is not to be confused with your seller's agent giving you a comparative market analysis (CMA) which helps you to establish a realistic asking price for your property for sale.
A property appraisal is ordered by … (6 comments)

HOUSTON MARATHON ~ BIG CHANGES FOR 2011 - 07/30/10 02:24 PM

HOUSTON MARATHON ~ BIG CHANGES FOR 2011.  A few months ago the Houston Marathon Committee made a big decision that has the running community with their running shorts in a tangle!  The committee decided to change the registration process to a lottery registration.  Bottom line, you may or may NOT get into the race.
Why this is such a shock to the running community are the number of running clubs all over the Houston area that have formed with the sole reason (pun intended) of training for the Houston Marathon and Half Marathon.  Therefore, we as the running community have … (6 comments)

NEW LISTING! 19 SUNBEAM PLACE ~ THE WOODLANDS, TX 77381 - 07/30/10 09:11 AM

NEW LISTING! 19 SUNBEAM PLACE ~ THE WOODLANDS, TX 77381.  This is a fabulous new listing in the popular neighborhood in Cochran's Crossing called Cochran's Bend.  19 Sunbeam Place is a beautiful home on a lovely cul-de-sac street offering an over sized lot and a 3-car garage!
19 Sunbeam Place offers a completely updated kitchen with granite, new tile, designer tile back splash, reverse osmosis water system, island and a 5-burner gas range.  This 4 bedroom home also boasts an executive study, formal dining and living and a wonderful family room right off of the kitchen.  Beautiful hard wood floors … (14 comments)

THE WOODLANDS HIGH SCHOOL RECEIVES TOP HONOR! - 07/28/10 10:39 AM
 
THE WOODLANDS HIGH SCHOOL RECEIVES TOP HONOR!  The Woodlands Township presented a Certificate of Recognition to The Woodlands High School for winning the Lone Star Cup.  This makes the third year in a row for the high school to win this prestigious award.
The Lone Star Cupaward recognizes high schools in Texas who have strong athletic and academic programs.  The University Interscholastic League (UIL), accumulates points through the year based on performances in athletics at the district and state level along with grades.This coveted award has high standards and is difficult to achieve.  This speaks very highly of the incredible … (7 comments)

SMELL-A-VISION ~ WHAT PICTURES CAN'T CONVEY! - 07/27/10 12:32 PM
 
 
SMELL-A-VISION ~ WHAT PICTURES CAN'T CONVEY!  This is a follow up to the post I just wrote entitled A Picture Isn't Always Worth a 1,000 Words!  So often the minute I open the door to show a home, my nose is the first point of contact!  You know what I mean?  You walk in and ugh!  Pet odors, smoke, strange cooking smells, overuse of cleaning products, extremely STRONG candles or plug-ins, moldy smells, trash and the list goes on.
Yes the pictures and the write up can paint a lovely picture but the true test for me is how it … (8 comments)

A PICTURE ISN'T ALWAYS WORTH A 1,000 WORDS! - 07/27/10 11:57 AM
A PICTURE ISN'T ALWAYS WORTH A 1,000 WORDS!  I have seen many posts and articles concerning the pictures that we use in real estate and the importance of those photos.  Of course good, clear pictures are important but do they REALLY tell the whole story?
In this day and age of the Internet, most of our clients are surfing the Net to find their next home. It occurred to me that most likely many, many people are missing diamonds in the rough by solely judging if they will see a home or not based on the pictures. 
Pictures can ONLY capture … (11 comments)

10 FOR TEXAS ~ NEW TITLE SPONSOR! - 07/26/10 05:04 PM


10 FOR TEXAS ~ NEW TITLE SPONSOR!  There is some exciting news from The Woodlands Township Parks and Recreation Department!  Memorial Hermann Hospital will be the event title sponsor through 2012.  Memorial Hermann recently received the honor of "America's 50 Best" hospitals in 2010.
This is one of my favorite races in our community as an avid runner, I enjoy participating in this event.  Here I am in the middle with two of my favorite running buds in the picture below.  We had just finished the race and were in celebration mode! The race begins and ends in Market Street, … (5 comments)

NEW LISTING ~ 9435 GARNET FALLS LN, HUMBLE, TX 77396 - 07/26/10 03:53 PM

NEW LISTING ~ 9435 GARNET FALLS LN, HUMBLE, TX  77396.  I am excited about yet another new and fantastic listing in the beautiful master planned subdivision of Fall Creek.  Fall Creek is conveniently located right off of Beltway 8 and is only minutes from downtown Houston.  9435 Garnet Falls Laneis the perfect home and location for a busy executive who desires an easy commute into downtown.
This 3,107 s.f. home is located on a huge corner lot allowing for an ample backyard for a pool, outdoor living area or whatever you desire.  Four bedrooms with 3.5 baths in this 1.5 … (4 comments)

WHAT DO YOU SEE? - 07/25/10 11:57 PM

WHAT DO YOU SEE?  This is a rock formation on top of Enchanted Rock in Fredericksburg, Texas.  I know what I see and I would love to know what you see.  Nature is so cool and always full of surprises and interesting things.
Anxious to hear your comments.  Thanks for playing.
… (10 comments)

SUNDAY BLESSING ~ EVEN THROUGH HEARTACHE - 07/25/10 11:47 PM
SUNDAY BLESSING ~ EVEN THROUGH HEARTACHE.  As a Christian we are taught to be blessed in ALL things.  Be joyful for the blessings that we have and to go through our trials walking in faith with our Lord. 
Not every week is full of blessings.  Many times we are faced with financial difficulties, illness, death in the family or a friend, divorce, job losses, problems with our children, custody cases, businesses failing, foreclosures, world disasters, hurricanes, earthquakes and on and on.
This week as always I celebrate the blessings in my life.  However this week I feel that there is so … (11 comments)

ONE MILE AT A TIME! - 07/24/10 10:10 PM
 
ONE MILE AT A TIME!  When we are babies we learn to sit up, then crawl and eventually walk.  When we take our very first steps we are unsteady and wobbly.  As our muscles strengthen and our coordination improves we begin walking in confidence.
It has been just a little over three weeks since my lung surgery and I walked a full mile.  It was difficult and the pain was intense.  My legs were unsteady and I was quite wobbly.  As I continued this walk I found myself contemplating my career choice in real estate.
Real estate parallels so much to … (18 comments)

HAR CONSUMER VIDEO SERIES ~ MLS - 07/24/10 09:51 PM
HAR CONSUMER VIDEO SERIES ~ MLS
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The Houston Association of Realtors offers consumers a wonderful selection of videos on a variety of real estate topics.  This video gives detailed information concerning the Multiple Listing Service or MLS system.
For more information or help with your real estate needs, contact Paula at Bandier Realty Partners. 
 
 
… (3 comments)

HAR JUNE MARKET REPORT - 07/21/10 02:26 PM
HAR JUNE MARKET REPORT. For the Houston area, things are looking up in several areas. It is always good to see our market improving.

 
Here are some of the good news statistics reported by The Houston Association of REALTORS®
Single-family home sales + 2.9 % Total property sales + 4.1 % Average single-family home rose to $222,767 which is the highest since July of 2008 Inventory for single-family homes sits at 7.3 months while the the national average sits at 8.3 months Townhouse/condominium sales + 4.6 % Total dollar volume reached $1.4 billion which is a + 4.9 % … (3 comments)

6 S. LAMERIE WAY ~ THE WOODLANDS, TX 77382 ~ CARLTON WOODS - 07/19/10 04:03 PM

6 S. LAMERIE WAY ~ THE WOODLANDS, TX 77382 ~ CARLTON WOODS!  This is the view from this fantastic lot in the private and exclusive neighborhood in The Woodlands, Carlton Woods Nicklaus Course!  6 S. Lamerie Wayis located in a private cul-d-sac right on a beautiful small lake. 
The 30,000+ square foot lot will allow for a majestic, luxury estate home!  Privacy in the back of the lot also makes this an ideal location to build your dream home.
           
Carlton Woods is located within the center of The Woodlands and is the home of the award winning Jack … (4 comments)

6707 GREEN GABLE MANOR ~ SPRING, TX 77389 ~ NEW LISTING - 07/19/10 03:40 PM

6707 GREEN GABLE MANOR ~ SPRING, TX 77389 ~ NEW LISTING!  Meadowlark Custom Homes has built another masterpiece in the Estates of Auburn Lakes.  If you want it all including a beautiful custom home overlooking the Willow Creek Golf Course, this home at 6707 Green Gable Manor is waiting for you.
This 5,022 square foot home is offered at the incredible list price of $799,000!  Five huge bedrooms along with 5 and half baths offers a family plenty of room along with a huge game room and ample media room upstairs.
The home sits on a 17,000+ square foot lot … (5 comments)

3 Signature Crest Ct ~ The Woodlands, TX 77382 ~ NEW LISTING - 07/19/10 03:15 PM

3 Signature Crest Ct ~ The Woodlands, TX 77382 ~ NEW LISTING!  A magnificent Meadowlark Custom Home with everything you could hope for!  Come and see 3 Signature Crest Ct.to fully appreciate all of the amenities of this home.  A stunning French inspired home in the beautiful village of Sterling Ridge sitting on a huge, corner lot.  Along with a full FOUR car garage, this home has it all.
               
Travertine floors give the home a rich feel and are a fantastic choice for our hot and humid climate.  Built-ins are at every turn along with outstanding trim details and … (4 comments)

HAR CONSUMER VIDEO SERIES ~ REALTOR VS LICENSEE - 07/17/10 12:49 PM
HAR CONSUMER VIDEO SERIES ~ REALTOR VS LICENSEE! A wonderful informational video from the Houston Association of Realtors concerning the differentiation of a REALTOR vs. a person holding just a real estate license. It is important to understand the difference and this short video does a great explaining this to consumers.
For more information concerning your real estate needs, contact Paula at Bandier Realty Parnters. … (4 comments)

EARTHQUEST ~ A NEW DESTINATION PARK FOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TEXAS - 07/17/10 12:44 PM
 
Since writing this post a few years ago, we have all learned that this development will not be taking place.
EARTHQUEST ~ A NEW DESTINATION PARK FOR MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TEXAS!  Those of us here in Montgomery County, Texas have been hearing the rumors for quite some time about a new theme-park coming to East County.  This is no longer a rumor and the plans are underway for an incredible theme park, resort and conference center.
500 acres in east Montgomery County have been purchased and are under development plans for EarthQuest.  The plans include a theme park with an Eco … (4 comments)

WHILE I WAS SLEEPING! - 07/17/10 11:58 AM
WHILE I WAS SLEEPING!  The beauty of the real estate business is that even when you are out of pocket for awhile, your business can still be thriving.  For those of you who have been keeping up with my progress, you know that I have been in the recovery mode for the past few weeks.  Although I have literally been sleeping through most of it, business has still been good.
The night before the surgery I was actually inputting a new listing.  Since the surgery I have closed two deals and have received three more listings.  Incredible!  This is truly one … (14 comments)

NEW OFFICE CONDOS COMING TO THE WOODLANDS, TX - 07/15/10 10:55 AM
NEW OFFICE CONDOS COMING TO THE WOODLANDS, TX.  The Houston Business Journal reports that Southern Home Builders are preparing to build a 44-unit office condominium project right here in The Woodlands.  Thus far, other office condo projects have been very successful with good tenant occupancy and purchases being very brisk despite a somewhat slower market.
 
A 7-acre parcel of land has been purchased right along the Research Forest corridor at 8505 Technology Forest.  This is an excellent location for a product of this type.  The property is centrally located with excellent access to I-45 and to the Woodlands Business District.
The product … (4 comments)

TOOLS OF THE TRADE - 07/13/10 08:54 AM
 
TOOLS OF THE TRADE.  I have read many blogs talking about the tools that real estate professionals use such as marketing, phone, presentation, coaching, etc.  What about the tools that you possess within your own persona?
The tools that I believe are the most crucial for any of us are the tools that make up who we are and what we stand for.  Here are my top FIVE personal tools that I believe need to remain sharp and well-oiled for use:
1.  LISTENING- really and truly listening and hearing what others are saying is essential in business.  You cannot simply shake your head … (41 comments)

2710 CASS COURT ~ SPRING, TX ~ NEW CONSTRUCTION - 07/12/10 04:57 PM

2710 CASS COURT ~ SPRING, TX ~ NEW CONSTRUCTION!  Dream Works Homes is proudly constructing a phenomenal new one story executive home in the Estates of Bender's Landing.  This stunning and well-laid out floor plan will meet the needs for an empty nest or a large family.
Builder Dustin Yates brings his years of custom home construction to our area and is excited to present his debut home to us!  Located in the estates section of Bender's Landing on a full acre, this Tuscan-inspired 3,760 s.f. home is currently under construction.  2710 Cass Court, Spring, TX is a home that offers both beauty and … (3 comments)

"ENGINEERING" NEW BUSINESS! - 07/12/10 11:38 AM
 
"ENGINEERING" NEW BUSINESS!  There are many marketing methods that we as real estate professionals use on a daily basis to promote and grow our businesses.  I have found yet another venue that has proven to be a wealth of business for me.  The Engineering businesses in our area are teeming with potential business.
A good civil engineering firm works with developers, investors, cities, schools, roads, etc. and are the first to know what is coming to an area.  Developing a good working relationship with a reputable engineering firm could provide you leads that you would have never been exposed to.
… (8 comments)

WELCOME TO A NEW VETERINARIAN TO THE WOODLANDS, TX - 07/12/10 11:04 AM
 
 
WELCOME TO A NEW VETERINARIAN TO THE WOODLANDS, TX!  I would like to introduce you to my friend and client Dr. Keith French, DVM.  Dr. French has been diligently searching the area for a location to open his veterinarian practice.  Dr. French has found his new place of business which is located at the west side of The Woodlands in the shopping center, The Colonnade of The Woodlands.
The Colonnade of The Woodlands is located along FM 2978 and one block north of Woodlands Parkway.  The Center is in a great location to serve the villages of Sterling Ridge … (3 comments)

DO YOU HAVE AN ALTAR? - 07/10/10 04:07 PM

DO YOU HAVE AN ALTAR?  Do you have a special place where you go to be alone with your thoughts and with God?  Over the past few months I have had a lot of time to reflect on life in general.  When we visited a Spa Retreat Center in Austin, Texas I couldn't help but notice that all over the property were strategically placed mounds of stones. 
Because I had just learned about the tumor residing deep inside my lung, these stone altars caught my attention.  I felt very connected to them and what each one must represent to the … (13 comments)

DIVA & DOGGIES FASHION SHOW - 07/10/10 01:31 PM
 
DIVA & DOGGIES FASHION SHOW! For the second year, the SPCA of Montgomery County will host its annual fashion show and luncheon dubbed, Diva & Doggies!
On Saturday, July 31st at 11 a.m. at the April Sound Lakeside Room come out for a fun luncheon with a "BITE"!
A silent auction along with a live auction and fashion show will enhance the delicious luncheon prepared by Chef Paul Elliott.
The fashion show will feature beautiful clothing from local boutiques with the models walking the runway with a fashion pooch in tow!
Tickets are $50 each or a table of 10 can be … (9 comments)

WATERWAY NIGHTS ~ THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS - 07/10/10 12:51 PM
WATERWAY NIGHTS ~ THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS! There is so much going on in The Woodlands and Waterway Nights is just more example of the great, fun, FREE things to do here in The Woodlands.
From July 2nd - August 27th from 6 p.m - 8 p.m., come out to The Waterway and enjoy live music, entertainers such as jugglers, mimes, balloon artists and more!
The line-up for the rest of the summer is as follows:
July 16 - Face painter and clown balloonist
July 23 - Musical duo, clown and Clint the Snake Man
July 30 - Caricature artisti, mime and … (3 comments)

A STORY OF COURAGE AND HOPE - 07/10/10 12:28 PM
A STORY OF COURAGE AND HOPE!Regardless of what is going on in your life, you will want to take the time to read about the courage of a little girl and her family through one of lifes most difficult times.
This story will help you face whatever challenges you have right now and focus on the good things in our lives.
Let me introduce to you little Layla Gracewho went to be with our Lord at the tender age of 3, this past March 9, 2010. Layla Grace lived in the town of Cypress which is a community in west Harris … (4 comments)

ANNIE AT THE CRIGHTON THEATRE ~ JULY 23 - AUG 8 - 07/10/10 11:56 AM
 
ANNIE AT THE CRIGHTON THEATRE ~ JULY 23 - AUG 8!  Located in historic downtown Conroe, Texas is the beautifully restored Crighton Theatre.  Annie will be opening on July 23rd by Stage Right of Texas.
The role of Sandy is being played by a dog from our local Montgomery County Animal Shelter.  Of course this little canine thespian is also available for adoption after the show!
The Crighton Theatre does a fantastic job with the musical productions and this is a great way to spotlight our local talent.
Tickets can be purchased online or at 936-441-7469.
If you have a … (0 comments)

32nd ANNUAL CHAIRMAN'S BALL ~ SOUTH MONTGOMERY COUNTY CHAMBER - 07/10/10 11:37 AM
 
32nd ANNUAL CHAIRMAN'S BALL ~ SOUTH MONTGOMERY COUNTY CHAMBER!  It is that time of year again when The Woodlands holds the annual South Montgomery County Chamber outgoing Chairman's Ball.  This is a popular event in our community where we all celebrate another successful year with the Chamber and ushering in another!
ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 21 FROM 6 P.M. - MIDNIGHT, be prepared to have a rocking good time in honor of Bruce Tough as he completes his year as Chairman.  "Rockin Tough" is the inspired theme and should be a fantastic evening.
The beautiful Woodlands Waterway Marriott & Convention Center … (0 comments)

IRONMAN COMES TO THE WOODLANDS! - 07/09/10 08:22 PM
 
IRONMAN COMES TO THE WOODLANDS!  It is official!  The Ironman Triathlon is making it's debut right here in The Woodlands!  Next May 21, 2011 will host over 2,500 athletes to take on the 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and finishing with a 26.2 mile run.
Memorial Hermann Hospital will be the key sponsor of the event naming it the Memorial Hermann Ironman Texas.  The World Triathlon Corporationholds 25 Ironman events all over the world including the famous Kona, Hawaii event.
The Woodlands is a great place to host an event of this magnitude.  The fitness community here is vast … (10 comments)

LISTING TRAFFIC REPORTS! - 07/09/10 10:57 AM
LISTING TRAFFIC REPORTS!  The Houston Association of Realtors has a wonderful listing traffic tool to provide your Seller's with important data concerning their home. 

39 Medley Lane, The Woodlands TX 77382
Listing Price: $228,900   MLS#: 96670946   Listed Date: 04/11/2010   Listing Status:A Share   Print Report The information can be emailed directly to your client.  This is a great tool to send out on a weekly or monthly basis so that your clients can see the number of hits received on their listing.  Clients can evaluate if they are receiving a lot of hits with few showings or … (8 comments)

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME.... - 07/08/10 09:56 PM

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME.....  Being able to come home and crawl into your own bed is truly one of the greatest things on earth.  I am thankful to be in my own surroundings.  Hospitals have their place but nothing, nothing, nothing beats home.
Home is also the all-too familiar faces, smells, routines, etc.  One of these "Homes" for me is Active Rain.  Never in a million years did I ever realize that when I joined Active Rain just back in February would I encounter a group of warm, loving FRIENDS!
The love and support that has been pouring all … (24 comments)

HAR CONSUMER VIDEO SERIES ~ SELLER VS BUYER AGENT - 07/05/10 05:18 PM
HAR CONSUMER VIDEO SERIES ~ SELLER VS BUYER AGENT! Continuing on with the video series from the Houston Assocaiation of Realtors defining what is a Seller Agent and a Buyer Agent. So many people really do not understand that there is a difference and this video does an excellent job of explaining this.
For more information concerning your real estate needs, contact Paula Hamilton at Bandier Realty Partners. … (5 comments)

MISSING YOU IN THE RAIN - 07/04/10 09:08 PM
Missing you in the rain. 
First of all, Paula sends her well wishes to you and misses you greatly. Secondly, she hopes you are having a wonderful 4th with your loved ones. Finally, your prayers are being felt and are much appreciated.
Now I can give you an update in my own words. She is really doing great and I am pleased with her progress. She had surgery on Wednesday June 30th to remove a benign tumor in her left lower lung. The surgery took about 21/2 hours to remove the tumor and affected area and was called a wedge resection. … (111 comments)

 
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Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279

The Woodlands, TX

More about me…

Chevaux Group, PLLC

Address: 26113 Oak Ridge Drive, Suite D, The Woodlands, TX, 77380

Office Phone: (936) 203-0279

Cell Phone: (936) 203-0279

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Interested in selling your home? Looking to BUY soon? Call me to get a professional estimate or to show you any property on the market!
Paula L. McDonald
Call: 936-203-0279
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