Chevaux Group Chronicles

RUNNING THE RACE OF REAL ESTATE ~ 10 TRAINING STEPS

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 11:29:02 -0700

RUNNING THE RACE OF REAL ESTATE ~ 10 TRAINING STEPS

As I am out on the running trails logging mile by mile, I have a lot of time to think and contemplate. One of the analogies that I find with my running is how it completely relates to my business in real estate. Hang with me for a moment and I think you will see where this is going.

As in any discipline in life, there are certain steps that can help you get where you are going. Real estate is the same. The 10 training steps that help me along in my career are as follows:

1. The Warm Up - Getting up each morning with a purpose. Take a little "me" time to prepare for the day.

2. Training - Decide what you need to do for that day and then get after it.

3. Cross-training - What new skills must you learn and use to take yourself to the next level?

4. Proper Nutrition - The proper feeding of the brain is a must. Which educational courses, books to read or designations would fuel your business?

5. Prioritize - As with exercise, if you don't make it a priority it just won't happen. What things in your business need top priority. Take a minute to make a priority list.

6. Plan - What are you goals and how do you plan to get there. So important for your personal and professional goals.

7. Execute - Knowing what you need to do each and every day and then making them happen is key! Get it done!

8. Race - Great performances come from proper training.

9. Finish Line - Never, ever quit. No matter how tough the race becomes, visualize the finish line and get yourself over it.

10. Rest & Celebrate - All of the above training tips mean nothing without this very important step. You must rest and you must celebrate the good things in your life!

No matter what, enjoy the race that is in front of you. Celebrate every mile! There will be bumps in the road so hang in there and navigate safely and strongly!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

THOUGHTS ON THE BOSTON MARATHON TRAGEDY

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 06:56:12 -0700

THOUGHTS ON THE BOSTON MARATHON TRAGEDY

As I along with the rest of the nation watched with utter horror the events unfolding in Boston, I couldn't help but once again ask "why"? What should have been a joyous day as family members and friends anxiously awaited to cheer their loved ones along the course, turned into a nightmare that none of us can comprehend.

As a fellow runner, the excitement of preparing for a race such as this, the family members who support us all along the way, the multitudes of race officials and volunteers who make it all happen are all a part of the experience. No one can prepare for a tragic event such as this. For now, we have to cling tightly to our loved ones and await the unfolding of this story.

The heroes of yesterdays event are those men and women who rushed toward the scene ignoring the possible injury to themselves. Again and again when we experience these types of situations, people step up doing whatever they need to in order to assist the injured.

To the people of Boston, the race officials and volunteers, the runners and the family and friends, thank you for exhibiting the true American Spirit. Selfless acts of heroism will no doubt be reported on in the next few days.

My thoughts and prayers are with everyone who was directly affected by this. May you be comforted greatly in the weeks to come. May you stand strong as you deal with the emotional impact of this event.

I feel confident that our law officials will find the person or persons of those cowards who were involved in this terrible event.

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

MEDICATION & SHARPS DISPOSAL ~ THE WOODLANDS, TX ~ APRIL, 27,2013

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 08:18:45 -0700

MEDICATION & SHARPS DISPOSAL ~ THE WOODLANDS, TX ~ APRIL, 27,2013

Wondering what to do with unused medication or needles or other bio-hazard medical supplies? Proper disposal of these items is very important not only to the environment but also out of harms way in the regular trash. There is a solution however!

National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day is April, 27, 2013. On that day from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., you can bring these items to be properly disposed of free of charge. Here is the location:

Shenandoah Police Department

29955 I-45 North (Southbound feeder after Wellborn Rd.)

The collection site is a drive through procedure and is completely confidential. Items do need to be separated by:

Pills
Liquids
Sharps

DON'T FORGET TO REMOVE ANY PERSONAL INFORMATION SUCH AS LABELS BEFORE DISPOSING! Just bag or box up the items in the above three categories and simply drop them off!

For any additional information call 281-298-5522 and ask for Officer Bledsoe.

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

A SWEET HOUSTON MEET UP!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 06:49:56 -0700

A SWEET HOUSTON MEET UP!

Now of course for our Active Rain Meet Up, it had to be raining in Houston! Oh well, we certainly do need the rain yet it did not damper some brave blogging souls who came out for our event! New friendships were formed as we shared stories and laughed a lot.

Our group consisted of myself, Greg Nino, William Archambault and his lovely wife, Gerald Reece, Frank Previte and Steven Fairweather. We were represented by agents, mortgage, inspectors, engineer and a jack of all trades in real estate investing. Quite an interesting mix!

My take away from our event:

None of us should ever be too busy to stop and take the time to meet new friends.
Every one of us brings so many different things to the table that the opportunity to learn is incredible.
We need to meet up once a quarter!

I did learn that Mr. Greg Nino actually went to the same high school where I previously taught Biology! We were not there at the same time just missing one another by a few years. Can you imagine if I had Greg in my class then? How fun that would have been. We actually know many of the same people!

Thank you to all of my new AR Houston friends. So glad you all came out in the Rain! It was well worth it!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

WARNING ~ YOU BETTER TAKE THAT POST DOWN!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 13:10:03 -0700

WARNING ~ YOU BETTER TAKE THAT POST DOWN!

Today as I was working at my desk I received a very interesting phone call. The man identified himself as "Mr. Hard Ball, You Better Take that Post Down!" He was referring to a post that I wrote here on Active Rain over two years ago. The post he was referring to was a company that was sending bogus leads to agents. I had received one of those emails and the supposed "lead" berated me for ten minutes as it was the agent himself and the house was NOT actively on the MLS! So yes, I was upset!

My post however was:

THE TRUTH AS IT HAPPENED TO ME
FACTUAL

The comments that I received from other AR members also commiserated with my frustration regarding these types of companies. I have even received a few calls over the years from other agents who read this post telling me they had the exact same experience.

This person then began to threaten me that if I DID NOT REMOVE THIS POST, he would be going online and writing negative things about myself. Here is the inherent problem with this according to my attorney:

This person has no knowledge of my expertise or services as a real estate agent.
This person would liable for anything written that could defame my character in any way.
This person represents a company that for whatever reason sends agents bogus leads. This is a problem for those of us in the business. Don't solicit me for so-called "leads".

So Mr. Hard Ball, you better slow down there with your threats! And oh by the way, I write posts here in Active Rain all of the time sharing real experiences in this business. The truth is the truth!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

LEASE HOME IN THE WOODLANDS, TX ~ 4 BEDROOMS + POOL!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 14:23:04 -0700

LEASE HOME IN THE WOODLANDS, TX ~ 4 BEDROOMS + POOL!

The home leasing market here in The Woodlands is extremely active right now. Finding a great 4 bedroom home with exceptional access to the freeways is important! Having all of your ducks in a row prior to finding the right home is important too so you can be ready to write that offer!

10 Willow Run Place is located in the Village of Alden Bridge. This 4 bedroom home is nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac offering a perfect place to call home! This section of Alden Bridge is extremely close to SH 242 and Gosling Road.

Close to the schools, hospitals and shopping! Quick access in and out of The Woodlands for those who are commuting. A perfect location!

This home has a formal living, dining and den along with an island kitchen! 4 bedrooms complete this excellent floor plan. Additionally, the home has custom built-ins throughout the home!

And to top all of this off, there is a lovely swimming pool and spa in the backyard. Our Texas summers are HOT so this addition is something you don't want to miss! You better hurry though, good lease homes don't last long!

Call Paula at Chevaux Group to see this home today! List price is $2,700 per month! Wow!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

IMAGINE IF YOU CHALLENGED YOURSELF FOR 31 DAYS?

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 07:01:02 -0700

IMAGINE IF YOU CHALLENGED YOURSELF FOR 31 DAYS?

Just imagine if we all took the lessons that we learn here on Active Rain for a 31 day challenge and applied them to some area of our lives? Participating in Kerrie's March Challenge got me thinking that if I can write a blog post everyday for a month, that I could certainly challenge myself in other ways.

Here are a few that I would like to do at some point:

Writing personal notes to family, friends and clients each day.
Clean eating for one straight month. No junk food, no preservatives.
Exercise everyday of the month. Walking, jogging, weights, just something each day!
A random act of kindness each day.
Organization spree. Every day of the month choose one day to organize something. A drawer, closet, files, garage, car, purse, briefcase, etc.
Call a current or past client each day just to say Hello.

There are so many others but these are a few that I would like to challenge myself on. Maybe I will do one every other month and by the end of a year, they will have all been completed! It is worth a try!

What could you challenge yourself with?

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

ATTENTION ALL HOUSTON AREA ACTIVE RAINERS - YOU ARE WANTED!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 16:14:50 -0700

ATTENTION ALL HOUSTON AREA ACTIVE RAINERS - YOU ARE WANTED!

Greg Nino and I are hosting the Houston AR Meet Up and YOU better be there! We know, we know, you are busy, you have to powder your nose, its clean the house night, whatever! No excuses we ALL need a break and what better way than to just STOP and come out and meet new and old friends.

All kidding aside, we really do hope to have you join us. We promise to behave (well, maybe!) So MARK YOUR CALENDARS for next Wednesday, April 10 from 5:30 - 8:30 and be there!

Here are the details:

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

STRATA

Vintage Park

5:30 - 8:30

110 Vintage Park Blvd, Ste 270

Houston, TX 77070

Please contact Greg (832) 298-8555 everydaysold@gmail.com or myself (936)203-0279 or Paula@ChevauxGroup.com to let us know that you will be there so we can make sure we have a large enough room! See you on the 10th!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

MARCH 2013 CHALLENGE - CHECK!!!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Sun, 31 Mar 2013 21:23:19 -0700

MARCH 2013 CHALLENGE - CHECK!!!

All March long I was doing great with the 31 Day Challenge. Tonight as I was reminiscing about the great weekend, a moment of panic set in. Oh no, I have not written my final blog post for March. Yikes!

Whip out the laptop, crack the knuckles and scratch my head for a post to write. Click, click, click and the post is done, challenge complete! I have to say this really was a challenge!

We are in the height of selling season so finding the time to get in a post per day took a lot of discipline. Thankfully I was able to fire off a post all 31 days. These kinds of challenges do keep us focused and help us to stay on track. Thanks Kerrie for putting this challenge together.

I have to say however that I am breathing a sigh of relief as this one is over. Glad I did it and as always feel that I learn so much and of course benefit tremendously. 31 days of consistent blogging - its a good thing!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

HAPPY EASTER AND WELCOME APRIL!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Sun, 31 Mar 2013 19:25:13 -0700

HAPPY EASTER AND WELCOME APRIL!

Happy Easter to you all. Hope your weekend was amazing! I enjoyed having all of my family at my house. Cooking, cleaning, more cooking, laughing, catching up, playing with the Grand kids - whew! A wonderful weekend indeed.

We welcome April here tomorrow morning and hope that it won't be met with too many April Fool's jokes! I may be an instigator on some however! Hmmm, who can I play a joke on?

My house is quiet now as everyone has gone home. The dishes and silverware are washed and put away. The laundry is done and I am exhausted. It was a great weekend. I am blessed beyond words.

Happy Easter. Happy April. Happy Day!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

IT'S EASTER WEEKEND ~ RENEWAL & RESURRECTION

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 15:30:17 -0700

IT'S EASTER WEEKEND ~ RENEWAL & RESURRECTION

I love this time of year. Easter always signifies renewal and resurrection. It is also the time for spring flowers!

As we each go into the Easter weekend, take a moment to renew your spirit, resurrect relationships and take a moment to smell the flowers.

Life moves at warp speed for most of us. We so need to stop, rest, and renew as often as we can. Take time to appreciate the little things. Take time to tell those in your life how much you love them.

Happy Easter! Renewal and resurrection are truly the message this Easter season!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

GOOD FRIDAY ~ IT REALLY IS GOOD!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Fri, 29 Mar 2013 12:16:47 -0700

GOOD FRIDAY ~ IT REALLY IS GOOD!

Today is Good Friday and Christians all over the world are recognizing this as a special day. As I reflect on this day, I am reminded of what the message of Good Friday brings. Triumph, renewal, strength, forgiveness and new beginnings.

Today I celebrate this day with both of my Grandchildren under my roof. What a very special gift this is and I am so thankful. As I look into their beautiful blue eyes, I can't help but say special prayers over them.

So whatever you choose to do today, I pray you have a wonderful day full of the promises of a new beginning. The Spring flowers are popping up as yet another beautiful reminder of new growth and a fresh start.

Happy Good Friday to all!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

I REPRESENT THE SELLER - BUYER IS NOT REPRESENTED NOW WHAT?

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 05:51:33 -0700

I REPRESENT THE SELLER - BUYER IS NOT REPRESENTED NOW WHAT?

Yesterday I received a call from my Seller who had received a call from someone who wanted to buy the property that is listed. These people have family roots in the area and the land actually belonged to them prior to the Seller's owning it. They explained to the Seller that they wanted to purchase the property back now that it is on the market.

My Seller immediately called me to discuss the situation. She let me know that they did not intend to use an agent because they "believed" it would save everyone some money. I advised my client to explain that per their listing agreement, the commission had already been set.

The caller asked for my number and I received a call from her. She asked me to send her a blank contract so that she could write up an offer to present it to us. After discussing this with my Broker of record, we concluded that we needed a special letter outlining the fact that I represented the Seller and that all parties understood this. Additionally I sent the other party an Information About Brokerage Services.

Here are a few of the concerns should this actually materialize into a valid offer:

1. What happens if the contract is filled in incorrectly by the buyer? As the Seller's agent, it would be my duty in regards to the fiduciary duty to them to strike the incorrect information and have everyone initial just as we would during a contract negotiation.

2. What if the unrepresented Buyer contacts me for advice? I must treat all parties fairly and honestly but cannot give the buyer any advice or opinions. I would advise them to discuss with an attorney.

3. What if the buyer asks to be paid the commission that a buyers agent would receive? In Texas, only a licensed real estate broker may receive commission.

I am sure that there are a lot of "what ifs" with this type of situation. I cannot stress enough that all parties of a transaction should be represented by a licensed real estate agent or an attorney that knows real estate law. With a real estate transaction, there are just too many scenarios that could become a problem without having the proper representation.

This will be an interesting transaction so I will keep you posted!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

MY HOME IS UNDER CONTRACT ~ PREPARING FOR THE INSPECTION

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 05:31:33 -0700

MY HOME IS UNDER CONTRACT ~ PREPARING FOR THE INSPECTION

The good news is that your home is under contract! Hopefully before you placed your home on the market you took care of any items that needed cleaning out or repaired. However, it is impossible to know everything that an Inspector might find. There are a few tips that you can do to prepare however, for the day the inspection is happening.

Plan to be out of the house during the inspection. Take pets with you if possible so that all areas of the home and yard are accessible.

A clean home is preferred. Just tidy up and have it looking nice. Remember, the new buyers may be there so make sure it is presentable.

Make sure that attic and other access points are actually accessible. If you need to remove some things, do this prior to an inspection. It is important for the Inspector to be able to easily access the necessary spaces.

Trim those hedges and shrubs that might be too close to the foundation. The Inspector needs to be able to see the actual foundation along the outside of the home. Additionally, if mulch beds are too high against the house, thin that out as well.

The cabinet under the kitchen sink needs to be cleaned out somewhat. Discard items you don't need and have it tidy.

Make sure the garage is accessible. If you use it as a storage area, make sure the Inspector can get to the garage doors to test them, etc.

If any areas are locked that the Inspector will need to access, make sure and leave those places unlocked.

No need to fret over your inspection, just having the home accessible, pets gone and leaving a clean home are important. Once the inspection is over, you are hopefully one step closer to a closing. Expect to receive a call from your agent discussing the items that the buyers could be asking to have repaired.

Home inspections are an important part of the selling process. Doing a little to be prepared can help ease your anxiety and will make for a happy inspector! Best of luck!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

MY HOUSE IS UNDER CONTRACT ~ CAN I RELAX NOW?

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 06:13:14 -0700

MY HOUSE IS UNDER CONTRACT ~ CAN I RELAX NOW?

You have had your home on the market, have been busting it to keep it "show ready" and now you have it under contract! Congratulations! Is it alright to relax a bit as far as keeping it looking its best? In a word - NO!

Getting your home under contract is a great thing however, there is no time to let the home get messy and start packing. A lot can happen between a contract and a closing. The buyers, Inspectors, Appraiser and more will be coming into your home. Therefore, keep it looking great for the time being.

Sure you are tired of having to keep it in top show condition yet if something goes wrong, the contract is terminated, their financing doesn't come through, if it doesn't appraise, you could find yourself back on the market. So for just a little while longer keep your home looking great! You certainly don't want those buyers to second guess their purchase.

The great news is that you are under contract. You can relax when the money is in the bank! So for now, hang in there and keep it in mint condition!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

10 QUICK SELLING TIPS FOR A BUSY REAL ESTATE MARKET!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 11:53:06 -0700

10 QUICK SELLING TIPS FOR A BUSY REAL ESTATE MARKET!

Many parts of the country are experiencing a very busy real estate market right now! Here in The Woodlands, Texas we are seeing mulitple offer situations, very few days on the market and an extremely low inventory.

In order to be ready prior to placing your home on the market, there are several things that you can and should do to be prepared. In a busy real estate market, the more you can do before placing your home on the market the better it will be. Here are 10 quick selling tips that can help:

1. Have a Exit Strategy in place! Know where you will move if you need to go quickly.

2. Evaulate if you will need storage and if so, scout them out and know where you plan on renting.

3. Pre-pack what you don't need now. Get it boxed up and labeled and you will be one step ahead.

4. Give away or sell large furniture items, kids toys, electronics, etc. that you do not plan to move. This will not only free your home of unnecesary items, but will less for you to move later on.

5. Gather all of your important documents on your home and your financial information and put it in ONE place. You will not want to stress looking for these once you have your home under contract.

6. Place all of the manuals for your home in a central location or in a notebook for the future new owner of the home. This is a great thing to be able to hand over to them!

7. Start shopping for a moving service if you plan on using one. Get estimates and know who you will use when the time comes.

8. Contact a cleaning service and get estimates for a thorough cleaning of the home once you vacate. This is the right thing to do when leaving a home to a new homeowner. Make sure they will wipe down shelves, cabinets and drawers too!

9. Go online and get your change of address kit. This will be one less thing to do when you are dealing with all of the other movings issues.

10. Get as organized now as you can. Trust me, doing a lot of this before putting your home on the market can help you big time when you have that home sold!

This is a great time to put your home on the market. Just taking a few of these steps now will help you have a bit less stress when you have a SOLD sign on your front lawn! Be ready as this is a very busy real estate market.

Call me at Chevaux Group today! I can assist you in evaluating your home and getting it ready for a fast sale! Looking forward to helping you!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

SPRING, TEXAS HOMES SELLING FAST! UNDER CONTRACT IN 9 DAYS!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Sun, 24 Mar 2013 19:52:20 -0700

SPRING, TEXAS HOMES SELLING FAST! UNDER CONTRACT IN 9 DAYS!

The real estate market in Spring and The Woodlands, Texas are selling FAST! Buyer agents are contacting listing agents before they even take a client to see a home as that is how fast things are going under contract. There are so many factors to this extreme market turn-around.

The new Exxon Campus, a very strong job market, great national real estate prices, excellent schools, location to a major city (Houston), the Port of Houston, and convenient to George Bush International Airport. Of course there are many more reasons that this is a great area and this market is evidence of that! If you are in the market for a home, be a prepared buyer.

21614 Redcrested Glen is a fabulous family home that has only been on the market for 9 days and is now under contract! There were an average of 3 showings per day so we knew an offer was eminent! We were close to a multiple offer situation yet when this excellent offer came in, the Seller's jumped on it.

The Seller's did a super job getting this home in tip-top shape and it paid off. The home is super clean, staged beautifully and looked like a model home. Bottom line, the hard work they put in prior to listing their home paid off with a quick and excellent offer.

Call Chevaux Group today! We can help you get your home ready to SELL! It is a hot market. Homes in Spring and The Woodlands are moving fast. Get yours on the market today.

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

SUNDAY BLESSINGS ~ SPRING FLOWERS

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Sun, 24 Mar 2013 18:55:37 -0700

SUNDAY BLESSINGS ~ SPRING FLOWERS

Can you believe that it is Sunday again? Seems like these Spring days are just flying by. With a hot market and extremely busy weeks, it is good that we have Sunday to sometimes get some rest and relaxation.

I noticed Spring flowers everywhere this weekend. I love this time of year. I also noticed lots of butterflies. When I was a little girl I called the Flutterbys!

So Happy Sunday to each of you. Hope you had a lot of Spring flowers to enjoy! Spring flowers are the best!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

SATURDAYS AND GRANDBABIES!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Sat, 23 Mar 2013 19:44:13 -0700

SATURDAYS AND GRANDBABIES!

Today was an outstanding day! I was able to see both of my precious grandchildren at the same time! So sweet and so special!

These two little lives that complete my world so much! What a privilege it is to be a Grandmother.

Also, my daughter who has been away is now back living here in The Woodlands so we will get to see her a lot now! I am thankful for my family and I am thrilled to have everyone living close together now.

We had four generations today as we all descended upon my mother's home in Montgomery. The kids had a ball and we all just sat there and watched them play. It was great!

Grandbabies on any day is great but today was especially special! :)

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

MARCH MADNESS AND REAL ESTATE ~ THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 13:20:24 -0700

MARCH MADNESS AND REAL ESTATE ~ THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS

As the basketballs are bouncing all over the place with the NCAA March Madness tournament, the real estate market in The Woodlands, Texas is a SLAM DUNK! Our local real estate market is very active and it feels like a real estate March Madness for sure! Agents are lacing up their basketball shoes to stay in the game!

According to Houston Association of REALTORS® (HAR). we experienced a 15.5 percent increase in sales compared to the same month last year. We also have our lowest supply of homes on the market since December of 1999! Wow!

Additionally, we are seeing our Days on Market going down quickly. Homes are moving at warp speed so buyers are having to be very prepared prior to searching for their new home. Knowing what you want and being ready when you find it is so important!

Here are some great statistics for our local real estate market for February 2013:

CATEGORIES	FEBRUARY 2012	FEBRUARY 2013	CHANGE
Total property sales	4,544	5,324	17.1%
Total dollar volume	$887,147,561	$1,121,925,576	26.5%
Total active listings	42,199	33,361	-20.9%
Total pending sales	3,441	3,877	12.7%
Single-family home sales	3,815	4,407	15.5%
Single-family average sales price	$201,113	$220,445	9.6%
Single-family median sales price	$149,900	$161,700	7.9%
Months inventory*	5.6	3.6	-36.4%

* Months inventory estimates the number of months it will take to deplete current active inventory based on the prior 12 months sales activity. This figure is representative of the single-family homes market

Call me at Chevaux Group today to assist you with your real estate needs! I will lace up my shoes and work hard for you! Let's get a slam dunk for you today!

March Madness is here in real estate - it's a good thing!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

DEAR WOODLANDS REAL ESTATE AGENT ~ WHAT IS THE OPTION PERIOD?

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 12:30:26 -0700

DEAR WOODLANDS REAL ESTATE AGENT ~ WHAT IS THE OPTION PERIOD?

In Texas we call our due diligence period during a contract as the Option Period. Many people are unfamiliar with this concept and ask great questions to better understand this. In a nut shell, the Option Period is offered by the potential buyer to take a home off of the market for a set number of agreed upon days for an agreed upon amount of money.

During the Option Period, the Buyer has the right to schedule inspections, appraisals, etc. During this time, the Seller allows the Buyer to perform their due diligence on the home. This period of time has also been referred to as the Feasibility Period.

Here are some common questions regarding the Option Period:

1. How long is the typical Option Period?

Answer: Usually we see Option Period ranging from 7- 14 days". If the Option Period is longer, the Seller will typically ask for a larger dollar amount.

2. How much do you put down for the Option Period?

Answer: This is completely negotiable, but we commonly see between $100 - $1000. This money is either credited back to the Buyer at closing or not. See contract above.

3. So when does the Option Period officially begin and end?

Answer: The OP begins the next full business day AFTER the date on the EXECUTED contract. An executed contract is one where all parties have signed, initialed & money has been exchanged. The OP time ENDS at 12:59 p.m. on the final day of the period.

4. Can we terminate the contract for any reason during the Option Period?

Answer: Yes. You will need to complete a Contract Termination form along with a Release of Earnest Money BEFORE the OP ends.

5. Who do we make the Option payment to?

Answer: Your real estate agent will find this out for you but normally the OP is made out directly to the Sellers.

6. What happens after the Option Period ends?

Answer: If no termination of contract occurs, you are now on your way to closing on a home. The home will move into a PENDING status during this time. If the contract is terminated, the OP fee is not refundable. This was your cost to ask the Sellers to take their home off of the market during this time.

In any real estate transaction, time is of the essence. Your real estate agent should keep you in the loop on the official dates and keep things progressively moving forward. Knowing the actual start and end date of your Option Period is extremely important.

Please let me assist you with your next real estate transaction. I am here to help you and answer your real estate questions! The Woodlands is a busy market, contracts and dates are to be followed very carefully!

I do not practice law but I can certainly assist you with your real estate questions! Give me a call today!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

PENDING HOME SALES ~ THE WOODLANDS, TX ~ INVENTORY GOING DOWN!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 21:26:07 -0700

PENDING HOME SALES ~ THE WOODLANDS, TX ~ INVENTORY GOING DOWN!

Spring is here and home sales in The Woodlands are moving briskly! Chevaux Group has another outstanding home pending. 95 Ambassador Bend is now pending and looking toward a quick close in early April!

This 5 bedroom with 5 full baths and 2 half baths sits on the 16th tee box of the Gary Player Golf Course. A very private lot with a greenbelt between the home and the golf course allows for extra privacy while enjoying the beautiful swimming pool and outdoor entertainment area.

The available inventory for homes here in The Woodlands is the lowest that we have seen in years. If you are in the market to purchase, now is the time. When you find that perfect home, don't delay and get it under contract quickly.

If you are considering selling your Woodlands home, this is an excellent time. As we continue to see people moving in than are moving out, it is a Seller's market. Supply and demand at its finest.

Call me today at 936-203-0279 to schedule your buying or selling appointment today. It is an exciting time for real estate in The Woodlands. Make your move today!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

IRON FENCE REPAIR IN THE WOODLANDS

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 06:39:59 -0700

IRON FENCE REPAIR IN THE WOODLANDS

Here in The Woodlands, many homeowners have iron fencing adorning their yards, gates and entryways. Iron fencing looks great yet it can succumb to the damaging effects of our humid weather. Maintaining your iron fence is important to keep it looking its very best.

Recently, we needed to have our own iron fence repaired. Upon calling numerous "iron fencing" companies with no returned call, I turned to our local welders! I got an immediate call back and guess what? They even showed up that afternoon to asses our fencing needs and gave us a bid right then and there.

We hired them and in two days, our fence was completely repaired and at a fraction of the cost we thought we were in for. These guys did a fantastic job and I fully recommend them if you are in need of any welding needs.

Call Brian Steele (yep for real!). His phone number is 281-583-1177. They were punctual, hard working and the work they did perform was outstanding.

Take a look at your iron fence. If it is need of repair, get it done sooner rather than later. As it begins to corrode, more and more damage occurs. Tackle it while it is still repairable.

You do have a source for your iron fencing repairs in The Woodlands!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

WEDNESDAY NIGHT SLUMP!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 20:23:25 -0700

WEDNESDAY NIGHT SLUMP!

OK Active Rain friends. It is Wednesday night and I am in a slump! I simply tired and worn down and just need to sleep. Alas, I signed up for the March 30 Day Challenge so here I am blogging late at night.

All I really want to do is go to sleep. So will you forgive me for this lame-ass post? It is really just the best that I can do right now.

Do you have those day? Tomorrow I know will be a better day so I look forward to awakening with a new attitude!

So good night my Active Rain friends. Hope you are having a great slump day on Wednesday!

As Scarlet O'Hara says in Gone With the Wind, "Tomorrow is another day!"

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com

POLLEN, POLLEN EVERYWHERE! HOW TO DEAL WITH IT!

Paula McDonald, RE/MAX The Woodlands, TX 936-203-0279 (Chevaux Group, PLLC) — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 06:59:00 -0700

POLLEN, POLLEN EVERYWHERE! HOW TO DEAL WITH IT!

Living here in The Woodlands among the gorgeous pine trees can be a problem a couple of times of year. Right now, the trees are shedding copious amounts of pollen and you can see it everywhere! If you have severe allergies, this time of year can be a problem.

So what can you do other than escaping to an island somewhere (which of course I would be all for) to deal with this troubling yellow dust?

If you don't have to work outside, don't. Save the outdoor projects for a later time when the pollen counts are lower.
Take your running or cycling inside for a time.
Remove your shoes and leave them outside. Walking in with shoes on this time of year brings all of that pollen into your home.
Brush dogs before they come back into the house.
Bring in outdoor pillows and store until the pollen storm passes. If you leave them outside, wash them when the pollen counts go down.
Change your air filters more often during this time.
Wash your hair daily. Your hair attracts a lot of pollen when you go outside.
Vacuum as often as possible and change the bag!
If you are super sensitive, you might choose to wear a mask when going outside.
Don't have outside air circulating in your car.
Keep your car windows up.
Change your bed sheets weekly.

You can check daily pollen counts here. We simply cannot avoid this phenomenon yet we can do what we can to deal with it the best that we can. This is just one of those annual issues we deal with. The upside is we also have beautiful trees to enjoy for the rest of the year.

Hang in there! This too shall pass! Spring is wonderful but brings us the yellow, powdery pollen! Just another reminder that Spring is here!

Happy Spring!

"Have you fully lived today?"

Paula L. McDonald ~ REALTOR^®

Broker Associate - RE/MAX The Woodlands & Spring

26113 Oak Ridge Drive Suite D ~ The Woodlands, Texas 77380

936-203-0279 Direct

Selling The Woodlands real estate and surrounding areas!

Paula@ChevauxGroup.com