Wayne's Collin County Blog

Collin County Happenings

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 11:22:34 -0600

McKinney- ‘Litter Force' teaches kids litter prevention- Thursday, November 19 at 10:15 and 4:15- Litter Force superheroes Hawk, Bolt, Ultra and K-900 teach children what litter is and the importance of litter prevention in a action packed show that includes interactive skits! FREE to the public. For free tickets, visit www.mckinneyperformingartscenter.org or call 972-547-7335 for more information. For more information about Litter Force visit www.dontmesswithtexas.org/litterforce.

McKinney-Twilight New Moon party- Thursday, Nov. 19 from 8 to 10 p.m.-Calling all Twilight fans! The McKinney Community Center is hosting a party to celebrate the upcoming release of the latest movie in the Twilight series, New Moon. Dress as your favorite character from the book and movie to enter in the costume contest, and stay for the showing of the first movie, Twilight. The cost is just $5 per person. Call the Community Center at 972-547-2690 to register.

Allen-Kids Night In!- Kids ages 5-10 can participate in arts and crafts, story-time, movies and more while mom and dad take the night off! Cost is $20 and the event will take place at the Joe Farmer Recreation Center on Friday, November 20 from 5:30-8:30PM. For more information call 214.509.4750.

McKinney-Paula Cole in Concert- Sunday, November 22 at 7PM- A perfect blend of sublime and sultry. Paula Cole is a Grammy award winning artist. You won't want to miss this! For more information call 214-544-4630 or visit www.mckinneyperformingartscenter.org

Allen-Bob Skaggs Memorial Food Drive- Monday, November 23 thru Wednesday, November 25-

Non perishable food items will be collected at The Village at Allen, between the Target and Best Buy parking lots. The food drive will benefit The Salvation Army McKinney Center. Drive is sponsored by Nissan of McKinney, 97.5KLAK, and Grayson Home Health. Food drive hours are Mon & Tues 8AM-7PM, Wed 8AM-Noon.

Free Foreclosure Lists!

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:09:37 -0600

I have heard advertisements on the radio lately that tell me to get the list of foreclosures and I will find a great deal on a home. Is that true?

Having a list of foreclosure properties in your area can be very valuable when trying to locate a home. However, you need to ask yourself how old is this list? Foreclosure homes go under contract daily and not all lists are updated daily. If you find a home on the list that you like...then what?

The best source of information on foreclosures as well as all homes in your area is a Realtor. Realtors have the knowledge and experience to negotiate your contract whether the property is a bank owned property or privately owned. Many agents are familiar with the bidding wars that often occur over foreclosure or bank owned properties and they can help guide you thru the process.

While much of our Collin County market has more than its fair share of foreclosures, not all Realtors are experianced in this area. Dealing with foreclosures, short sales and HUD property is all togather differant than the traditional home buying process. Be sure your agent has successfully worked with bank owned homes. Many of the problems that come up in purchasing foreclosures come from lack of experience with this all to gather differant process.

Whether you are looking for your first home, second home, or an investment property I can provide you with the knowledge, support and experiance you need so that your next purchase is a good investment. I will work hard to negotiate the best deal for you and help to make your closing as stress free as possible. If you do not already have an agent please call me today. I am here to help!

Halloween Happenings in Collin County

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:56:19 -0500

McKinney- Scare on the Square- Friday, October 30- Bring the whole family for a fun evening of trick or treats in Historic Downtown McKinney. Everyone attending can enjoy hayrides, treats and a safe family Halloween event. Historic Downtown is closed off for trick-or-treaters to cross the street safely, going shop to shop for goodies.

Allen-Live on the Green featuring Genepool Band-Friday, October 30from 6:30PM to 9PM. Enjoy the live music as you shop or sit back on the patio for dinner enjoy the fun atmosphere. Genepool Band plays a variety of music from the 1960's thru today.

Plano-2nd Annual North Texas Kids Expo- Saturday, October 31stfrom 10 AM to 4 PM at the Plano Centre located at 2000 E. Spring Creek Parkway in Plano. There will be Costume Contests for All Ages! Live Entertainment, Arts & Crafts, Door prizes, Trick or Treating, Bounce Houses, Face Painters, Ronald McDonald at 1pm, Lots of vendors, Educational Seminars, and so much more!!! This is an event you don't want to miss!

Frisco-Fieldhouse USA's Halloween Family Festival-Saturday, October 31^stfrom 6 PM - 10 PM. This free event is sure to please everyone with a bounce house, arts & crafts, court games, live DJ, food, and much more! A movie will be played on the JUMBO screen beginning at 8 PM! Fieldhouse USA is located at 6155 Sports Village Rd. in Frisco.

Fall Festival in Allen Sat from 6 pm - 9 pm, This event will feature over 50 games and activities including "The World's Largest Slide" 3 lane bungee run, Obstacle Courses, Rock Wall, Laser Tag, Preschool Games, and Concession Stand and Tons of Candy. Cost is $5.00 per child and will be held at Cottonwood Creek Baptist Church in Allen. 1015 State Hwy 121 Allen

Trick or Treating at Allen Premium Outlets Sat from 4pm - 7pm Come in your costume and walk the sidewalks. Participating stores will be handing out candy to children. Parents also can pick up a special treat in the food court. Complimentary face painting will also be in the food court.

Fall Maintenance – Hate the labor but love the results!

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 15:56:00 -0500

Who doesn't love fall? Numerous fall carnivals, the changing of the leaves, getting into the swing of a new school year, and oh yeah football! Most people have better things to do on a beautiful fall day other than home maintenance but fall maintenance on your home is just as important as spring cleaning. Regular home maintenance can save you thousands of dollars later on utility bills and extend the life of items in your home.

Each fall you should take steps to ensure that your home is ready for the upcoming winter. You should check your windows and doors to make sure they are working properly and make any repairs necessary. Also, check for any air leaks and re-caulk as necessary. It is a good idea to remove screens and place them in an attic or garage to avoid wear and tear during the winter months. Fall is a great time to clean out gutters and downspouts and check for any repairs that may be needed to them. Flush with a water hose to make sure they are draining properly. You might have to repeat this process as more autumn leaves fall from the trees.

Inside your home you should replace your furnace filter and have a professional come and inspect the furnace and perform any required maintenance before lighting it. It is also a great time to have your air conditioner inspected and winterized (possibly by the same professional). Your water heater should be drained to remove any sediment that may have built up (this should be done annually). It is also a good idea to remove any garden hoses and insulate exterior pipes as needed. If you are like me, your fireplace will get a lot of use during the winter so have your chimney professionally cleaned. Don't forget to replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors if you have them (if you don't have them definitely install them).

If you there are no handymen in your home and you live in the Collin county area give a call to Wayne Flores at Home Maintenance Solutions to take care of this for you. www.hmsrepair.com

Take time to perform regular fall maintenance on your home...your pocket book will thank you later!

Pumpkin Patches and Fall Activities in the Area!

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:49:28 -0500

Celina's Big Orange pumpkin patch-pick in the field or select from pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, train rides, hay rides, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, petting zoo, farm animals. Cost is $7 per person and includes hay ride, feed for animals and small pumpkin. 5518 County Road 126, Celina, TX 75009. Phone: 972.382.4995. Alternate Phone: 972.382.4465. Visit www.bigorangepumpkinfarm.com for more information. Directions: 10 minutes from the Dallas North Toll Road and 10 minutes from McKinney. Take FM 2478 North off of US 380 and follow the signs and painted round bales routing you to our Pumpkin Farm.

Creekwood United Methodist- Pumpkin Patch with Fall and Harvest decorations! October 10th till the 31st. Pumpkin painting, picture taking, and much more. 261 Country Club, Allen, TX, 75002. Phone: 214-544-8050 ext 107. Email us at: chuckchurch@creekwoodumc.org.

Flower Mound Pumpkin Village-Pumpkins, hay rides, pony rides, petting zoo, ferris wheel, carousel, barrel train, bounce houses, what more could you want? Free admission and free hay rides! Pumpkins are priced from .50 to $20.00 and all proceeds go to charity.
4908 Cross Timbers, Flower Mound , TX 75028. For more information visit www.flowermoundpumpkinvillage.com or call phone: 214-498-8300. Directions: Located in North Texas 30 minutes north of Dallas. Open: October 1 to 31, from 9 am to Dark. Fall Decorations, Picnic area available. A visitor writes on September 26, 2008: "We Love it." (UPDATED: September 26, 2008)

Pumpkins on the Prairie-pumpkins, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, straw or hay bale maze, child-sized haybale maze, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, pickup-pulled hay rides, wagon rides, face painting, Free admission. 3521 Main Street, Frisco, TX 75034. For more information visit www.pumpkinsontheprairie.org Phone: 972-335-2882. Directions: North Dallas Tollway to Main Street (north of SH 121). Go west on Main to the pumpkin patch, about a 1/2 mile on the left hand side of the street.

Collin County Happenings

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 20:39:13 -0500

ALLEN - Friday, October 2-Retirement Planning sponsored by Borders Books - 5:30-6:30 class called Planning Beyond the Numbers.

MCKINNEY-Saturday, October 3-Crape Myrtle Trails Run & McKinney Wellness Day- The event will be held at Towne Lake Park and will kick off in the morning with a 5K and 1 mile run that will raise money to sponsor the Crape Myrte Trails Foundation as well as various PE departments at McKinney elementary schools. All ages are welcome for the run and elementary school children are encouraged to participate. Registration fees for the run vary so please see website for more information. The wellness rally in the park will focus on health and wellness for all. Heath screenings, awareness activities, goody bags and fitness experts will be on hand to answer questions and make this a fun event for all. Please visit www.cmtrun.org for more information.

FRISCO- Saturday, October 3-Mother Son Dance-Salute to America will be the theme. Come and dance the night away with your special little man. The dance will be held at Wakeland High School located at 10700 Legacy Drive. The evening will include music, refreshments and special memories. A photographer will be onsite selling special portrait packages. Tickets are $12 each and can be purchased online the Frisco Athletic Center located at 5828 Nancy Jane Lane. Show off your American pride or come dressed in your Sunday best. Two dance times are available. Dance times are 5:30 - 7 p.m. (ages 4-7) and 7:30 - 9 p.m. (ages 8-12). Tickets may be purchased for either time all tickets purchased online must be picked up at the Frisco Athletic Center by 9 p.m. on Friday, October 2. For more information visit www.friscofun.org or contact Kari FitzPatrick at KFitzPatrick@FriscoTexas.gov

Will the Changing of Leaves....Change your Life?

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 22:07:27 -0500

Why do so many people love the autumn season? I'm not a gambling man but I am willing to bet that most people love fall for more than one reason. Whether you realize it or not your love of a certain season was probably instilled in you as a child. Your earliest recollections of the change of seasons, the move from the heat of summer to the cool of Autumn, the shorter days...when you think of them what is your earliest memory of the season?

On a crisp Saturday in fall I am taken back to running out in the front yard to play football with my friends. Raking leaves into piles and doing the Charlie Brown run and jump. Other memories remind me of the excitement of the upcoming holidays. What child doesn't get excited about a costume for Halloween or grandma and grandpa's visit for Thanksgiving or Christmas? Who could forget Santa?! Ultimately all of these memories were of the important things in life, family and home.

Where do you find yourself today? Do you have the home you always dreamed of? Is your door adorned with a special fall wreath welcoming visitors? If you do not have the home you want, I am happy to make that childhood dream come true. The tax incentives currently available may make that dream even easier to obtain. Call me today to talk about how I can serve you. Let's give you something to truly celebrate before the holidays...your own home.

"The most important work you and I will ever do will be within the walls of our homes."

Harold B. Lee

Collin County Happenings

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 10:50:55 -0500

Allen-Talk Like A Pirate Day- Allen Public Library- Saturday, September 19 - All Day! Free!

Allen-5^th Annual Allen Open Golf Tournament - Saturday, September 19 8AM-Noon - Sponsored by Allen ISD Transportation Department, the tournament will benefit the Allen Foundation which provides scholarships for students. Shotgun Start 4 person scramble (enter your own foursome, twosome, or single player, ladies welcome) Trophies awarded to the 3 teams with lowest scores. Fee is $85 and includes green fees, cart, range balls, and hamburger lunch. Mulligans sold for $10 each. Proper golf attire required. Volunteers welcome. Location: Chase Oaks Golf Club, 7201 Chase Oaks Blvd., Plano TX 972-517-7777

MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET - Saturday, Sept 19th - 8AM- NOON-Located at Chestnut Square Historic Village - 315 S. Chestnut, McKinney, Texas - S.H. 5 at Anthony Street. Fresh and organic produce, eggs, cheese and meats. Dixie's Store will feature craft items and coffee. For more information call 972.562.8790.

McKinney Third Monday Trade Day - Sept 18th - 20th Just West of 75 on Highway 380. This is the largest flea market in North Texas. Over 400 vendor will be there. Come see me under the RE/MAX balloon in the middle of the market!

McKinney-Greater Collin Kennel Club Dog Show - Saturday, September 19- 6AM-6PM- The dog show will feature a variety or breeds demonstrating their skills on standard obstacles. The dogs will race testing both time and accuracy. Spectators welcome and admission is free! Myers Park & Event Center 7117 Country Road 166, McKinney, Texas 75071

We're going 35 mph, and about to hit the wall...

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:06:06 -0500

Via Alan May, Coldwell Banker Evanston Realtor, North Shore Realtor (Evanston Real Estate, Evanston, IL):

I don't know about youse guys... (yes, I said "youse"... are you gonna make fun of the way I talk now?) but I have been working non-stop with first-time-buyers, going out to find their first home... in a frenzy to purchase a home in time to take advantage of the $8,000 tax credit.

Now we're not going 60 mph.... but we are going 35 mph, and we're about to hit the wall. The wall of "you won't have enough time to close before November 30th". November 30th, for those who don't know, is the deadline for closing in order to get the $8,000 credit.

In order to close by November 30th... you're going to have to have a signed contract soon.... very soon. Maybe within the next 30 days or so. So if you're going to take advantage of some of your very own stimulus money... you need to get out there and find a home... just about... NOW!

The good news? (Yes, there is some good news)... the good news is that it's always possible that they'll extend the credit... but if they do so, they'll likely not do so until well after the first of the year. But in the past, when this type of stimulus was "extended", the often made it retroactive to the lapsed deadline.

What did I just say? Well, I said that if they do "renew the credit" in February of 2010... it's likely that they'll make it so that it also covers anyone who purchased a home between December 1, 2009 and whenever the new stimulus credit begins. The only problem is that those buying in December and January... will be working without a net. They just won't know, if they are, or are not going to receive a credit.

Ladies and gentlemen... the sands of time are falling through the hourglass. Will you, or won't you get $8,000.... (or more?) I dunno...

Surprise me!
ALAN MAY, Realtor®
Specializing in Evanston Real Estate and North Shore Real Estate
-------------------------------
Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate, 2929 Central Street, Evanston, IL 60201
847.425.3779 Cell: 847.924.3313 Email: Almay@aol.com

Evanston Real Estate, Evanston Realtor, Evanston Buyers, Evanston Sellers
North Shore Real Estate, North Shore Realtor, North Shore Buyers, North Shore Sellers

To Replace with Wood or Laminate....That is the Question..

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 14:58:07 -0500

Homes have many different cosmetic features that tend to get updated over the years. From wallpaper and border to smooth walls, linoleum squares to stained concrete each change or update can make dramatic changes to the way your home looks and feels. Many homeowners in recent years have found themselves at a crossroads...I want wood floors do I go with laminate or hardwood? That is a very good question, the answer is not the same for everyone.

When deciding between laminate and hardwood you need to consider several things:

*Do you intend to stay in the home for a long time?

*Do you have children and pets?

*Will you use this property as a rent house?

*How much money are you willing to invest?

Hardwood floors are incredibly beautiful and create a timeless classic feel in a home. They can last for many years when taken care of properly and you can refinish them when they have lost their luster. They are susceptible to moisture so you want to install them in areas that are free of high humidity (avoid kitchens and bathrooms). Wood floors are an investment in your home as the cost is higher than laminate, but you can increase the value of your home by choosing wood over laminate. If you have a higher end home, buyers might expect hard wood floors instead of laminate.

Laminate floors provide you with the look of wood in a synthetic form. Since the material is synthetic it tends to be more durable and holds up under high traffic, children and pets better than wood floors. Laminate floors can be cleaned with a damp rag, unlike the wood floor counterpart that needs to be polished. Many synthetic floors come with at least a ten year warranty against dents and warping, however laminate floors cannot be refinished if they become scratched.

Wood and laminate floors can both be installed by the do it yourself weekend warrior. The cost will vary greatly depending on the type of wood or laminate you select. Overall if you intend to live in your home for a long time, then investing in wood floors would be wise. On the other hand, if you plan to rent your home out and do not want to be burdened with expensive flooring repairs laminate would be a better option. Remember the flooring you select will be with you for a long time to come...choose wisely...take all things into consideration...then go for it!

President Obama’s Speech to the Nation’s Children?

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 06:44:45 -0500

Did you ever think that the President of the United States speaking to our children would be controversial? I think most people prior to the current administration would consider it an honor to have the President speak to the children. Why then are parents so concerned that there is a hidden agenda in today's speech?

Emotions flared up last week when word got out that not just a speech but curriculum had been sent to the school districts so that they could discuss and encourage the children to ask what they can do to help the President. A few comments from parents regarding the issues were:

‘me and several of my friends are not sending the kids to school at all that day and plan on watching it at home under MY watchful eye'; ‘kids in GISD have the Sept 8th flu for 24hours- no vaccine available'; ‘I know right? It's like Hitler tactics to try and reach the youth when the parents aren't around!'.

While others disagreed: ‘ I DO want my girls to watch. I want them to hear a motivating speech about staying in school'.

Texas as a whole has left the decision to each district. While some districts will not show the video at all, others are providing opt out forms for parents who do not want their children to participate.

His speech was just released yesterday and most people haven't had time to react or read it due to the holiday. Here is an excerpt from his speech: "I know that sometimes, you get the sense from TV that you can be rich and successful without any hard work -- that your ticket to success is through rapping or basketball or being a reality TV star, when chances are, you're not going to be any of those things."? Hmm maybe most parents think their children should be the next big star or at least shoot for it! For today's speech to children in its entirety go to: http://www.whitehouse.gov/MediaResources/PreparedSchoolRemarks/

The message is apparently so important to get out that it will be featured this evening on Nickelodeon channel at 8/7 central. This was communicated on Friday in an email to everyone on Nickelodeon's email list stating that ‘You Have The Right' to be informed. Hmm... so parents don't have the right to tell their children what they can and cannot watch now?

Or is it possible that parents saw the PSA that was shown in a Utah elementary school last week without warning. Parents there were not aware of such a showing and this one did have some controversial statements. Watch the video in its entirety and judge for yourself (scroll towards the bottom of the article)- the very end of the video is what concerns most parents: http://buzz.yahoo.com/buzzlog/92974. One parents response to this video: " The video's slick and professionally done, and positive for the most part, but it strikes me as more than just a bit creepy when it features lines like 'I pledge to be a servant to our President' and 'I Pledge to be of service to Barack Obama.'

Glenn Beck's show on Fox News this afternoon will feature ‘The Indoctrination of Our Nation's Children'. He will be discussing the recent concerns and possibly bringing to light more things to be concerned about.

So what do you think about all these concerns. Are they justified? Is there an underlying political agenda towards our children?

Weekend Happenings

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 01:47:14 -0500

Allen- LIVE on The Green - Vic Duncan Band-Friday, August 28-7PM to 9:30PM

Vic Duncan performs his own original music and many great hits of the 50s, 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s.

Allen-LIVE on Under the Pecan Tree - Day Job-Saturday, August 29-7PM to 9:30PM. Day Job is one of DFW's premier professional cover bands, performs the best hits from the late 60's through today. With their broad mix of your favorite tunes, everyone will be entertained.

Allen- Borders Bilingual Story Time- Saturday, August 29- 10AM-Bilingual story time with Norma & Spanish Schoolhouse. Event to be held at Borders Books located in Watters Creek Shopping Center - www.watterscreek.com

MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET - Saturday, August 29 - 8AM- NOON-Located at Chestnut Square Historic Village - 315 S. Chestnut, McKinney, Texas - S.H. 5 at Anthony Street. Fresh and organic produce, eggs, cheese and meats. Dixie's Store will feature craft items and coffee. For more information call 972.562.8790

Collin County Happenings

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 15:44:31 -0500

McKinney- Friday, August 21 7PM and Saturday, August 22 at 11AM and 2PM. MRT'S YOUNG ACTORS GUILD -The Scheme of the Driftless Shifter &Foiled by an Innocent Maid - Melodramas! Tickets are $11. For more information visit www.mckinneyperformingartscenter.org

MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET - Saturday, August 22 - 8AM- NOON-Located at Chestnut Square Historic Village - 315 S. Chestnut, McKinney, Texas - S.H. 5 at Anthony Street. Fresh and organic produce, eggs, cheese and meats. Dixie's Store will feature craft items and coffee. For more information call 972.562.8790.

Allen-Saturday, August 22 - 12:00 - 05:00 - Free Family Carnival- Open to the public! Hot dogs, bounce houses, open gym, open swim and more! Located at Metroplex Gymnastics & Swim 205 E. Bethany Dr. Allen, TX 75002 FREE!

Allen-Saturday, August 22 - :00-9:30 PM - Live Under the Pecan Tree - Gloria D & The High Maintenance -Gloria D'Arezzo (Diva G) is an experienced professional who reads the crowd and gets the party going. She is backed by an ensemble of experienced musicians that will take you back to the early days of jazz or let you dance to tunes currently filling the airwaves.

Mortgage Companies Try To Limit Competition

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:58:53 -0500

It is usually out of frustration that I write the best blogs... Ok maybe not the ones with the most attention paid to them. I am sure this is going to be one of those.

Usually my rants about lender practices and issues with ethical issues are left to my professional community in order to keep things positive and informational in my public blog.

In this case I think everyone needs to be informed and give an opinion. As real estate agents we all have our favorite lenders that we work with. Sometimes they help us advertise (jointly) and sometimes they just are the ones that always do the best for our customers. I have a favorite lender that I recommend that has the best success rate at making my clients happy and closing deals. That being said, I give out 3 lenders to my clients to check with and see which one they would like to use. Three good lenders give my clients a choice and legally keep me out of trouble for recommending only one person. It has not happened to me, but I have heard of law suits involving the recommendation of contractors, lender and such that did a bad job and of course the person who did the recommending are brought into the suit. a

Lenders (banks, mortgage brokers etc) are now governed by RESPA which has limited their ability to solicit business from Realtors. In the olden days lenders could offer free real estate classes pay for business cards pay me even pay for referrals basically wine and dine an agent to get his business. It is good to know that when an agent recommends someone now it is not because of some kickback or incentive that they are getting. Of course some Realtors are also Loan Officers but that is another blog for another day. :)

Today one of my investor clients made an offer on a foreclosure in Plano that Bank of America holds. The bank REQUIRES a prequalification letter from Bank of America in order to make an offer. You don't have to use BOA for the loan but you must be qualified through them in order to submit an offer. They will throw in a free appraisal and credit report if you end up using them. Am I the only person that can see a problem with this? My client owns more than 4 properties and BOA does not finance more than that for anyone. He was denied by them after trying to contact a loan officer at this bank for the past few days. He is fully qualified to buy this home through his lender but that prequalification letter is not good enough for BOA. They want him to send a denial letter from BOA with his banks prequalification and they well then submit the offer. Did I mention that BOA needs 48 hrs to get us a denial letter and the offer is due by 2pm today? Multiple offers do happen in our market and this home was a great deal with many offers.

It seems like Realtors are held to a higher standard than these banks. Imagine if I required you to have you qualify through my lender in order to show you homes. I do require prequalification but any lender will do. Wouldn't that be considered steering if I did that?

This is something that is also used by builders. Builders have ties to lenders. Sometimes the builder has a parent company that is a lender. Many times any discount you get at a builder is contingent upon you using their mortgage company. Prequalified buyers are forced to use the builder's lenders in order to get the incentive.

It is my opinion that Lenders and Sellers should not be allowed to require the use of specific banks in order to get incentives or be able to make offers on a home. What do you think?

Who is the Grown Up?

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 22:21:14 -0500

At what point in life do you decide you are grown up? What gives you that ahhh I'm now an adult feeling? For some people they may feel ‘grown up' when they move out of their parents homes, others may get that feeling when they get married or have their first child.

I think one of the outward signs of being ‘grown up' is when you become financially responsible for your obligations and daily needs. As a property manager of almost 40 properties I have had my fair share of tenants who fail to pay rent on time. How about bouncing a rent check and then not having the courtesy to admit there was a mix up...they just wait for you to catch it? As a Realtor I have had more than one buyer who took hours of my time only to find out they failed to pay bills on time so their credit is horrible and there is no way they can get approved for a loan.

I have worked with young couples qualified for up to 200k that are looking for a home no more than 125k and I have worked with clients qualified for 200k wanting to come as close as possible to that amount. What is right? Who's responsibility is it to make sure people are wise and grown up with their finances? I must say that with the new 8k tax credit available for first time buyers I can now get a qualified person into a home for 0 down. With the seller paying for closing costs most people can get in a new home for Nothing! Is this a good thing? Well it depends on the person and the financial discipline they have. Some things are worth saving for and it somehow lessen the value to some people who don't have something invested in a home. People without financial investment in something tend to let it go much easier than people who save.

What steps should be taken to prevent this from happening in our next generation? I think we must teach our children how to save money. They must be taught how much things cost and everything cannot be given to them. If they want a new letterman jacket or Wii Game System, have them pay for at least half. Nothing bad ever came from requiring a child to learn what hard work is. I have had several friends say that when their child earned all or part of the money for something they wanted they actually took better care of the item. When your child reaches the age of 16 help them open their first checking account. Show them how to balance a checkbook and if they become overdrawn have them go to the bank to work the error out. Lessons like this can go a long way to help them in the future regarding their relationship with money.

As adults what should we do? Save for an emergency fund? Admit when we are wrong and work to rectify the situation? It is better to own up to something and face the consequences rather than hope the problem goes away. What is it in your financial life that you need to face? What have you been avoiding? Taking a second job to pay down debt? Looking at your credit report with eyes wide open so you can face your fears and nightmares from the past? Remember they are just numbers, are you controlling them or are they controlling you? Who is the grown up in your relationship

North Texas Happenings

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 22:30:08 -0500

Sherman - Thursday, July 30, 2009 7:30PM- Hard Night's Day & Bob Utter Ford Car Show- Beatles Cover band will entertain you with their rockin tunes. Come early to check out the car show sponsored by Bob Utter Ford. Event held at Oliver Dewey Mayor Gazebo Stage, Sherman Municipal Lawn. For more information visit www.hotsummernights.org

Denison- Friday, July 31- Music On Main Concert Series - Features Kirby Kelly starts at 7:30. Located at Heritage Park Downtown Denison.

Frisco Square- Friday, July 31- Preview Christmas on the Square at 8:30 with Christmas In July to follow at 9PM. Held at George Purefoy Municipal Center and Library, Frisco's City Hall. For more information visit www.friscosquare.com.

Plano- Plano Fun Ride- Saturday, August 1, 9AM- Line up and on-site registration starts at 8AM. Proceeds benefit the Relief Nursery of Collin County, a child abuse prevention program, and the Plano Children's Medical Clinic, a clinic that serves Medicaid and low-income children.

There are 5 and 10 mile courses for families and a bicycle rodeo for children. There will be four (4) rest stops along the way stocked with drinks, fruit and cookies. One rest stop will have massage therapists and a chiropractor on hand to help you get back on the road if needed. The Plano Police Department Crime Prevention Unit will be on hand for free bike etching in addition to hosting a bike rodeo for the real little ones. The Plano Fire Department will be there with a Fire Engine, Sparky, and other fun and informative activities. McDonald's will also sponsor fun activities for the kids. The Plano Early Lions Club will be on hand to collect your unused eye glasses for those in need.

MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET - Saturday, July 24 - 8AM- NOON-Located at Chestnut Square Historic Village - 315 S. Chestnut, McKinney, Texas - S.H. 5 at Anthony Street. Fresh and organic produce, eggs, cheese and meats. Dixie's Store will feature craft items and coffee. For more information call 972.562.8790.

How Heart Healthy is Your Home Buying?

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 12:30:35 -0500

When I was working out the other day I was sweating hard. I thought gee, I this isn't easy.it's hard work, I'm burning calories so I checked my heart rate. Sure enough, I was at the perfect target range. Life was good, a day or so later I wasn't sweating as hard even though I was working out just as hard. I thought hmm what's up here. Then I realized my heart was beginning to adjust to the workouts because it was being conditioned.

Buying a home is a lot like that. The first time you buy a home it seems like very hard work. Everything is new and seems to take a lot of effort. The more homes you buy the easier the process seems. A Realtor is like your personal trainer. You Realtor is there to coach you, watch out for you and make sure you do things right. They have your best interest in mind and it is their job to make sure you reach your goal.of owning a new home. When the time comes and you need a personal trainer in the home buying market please call me. I would love to talk with you and show you how to reach your goals. Just like getting personally fit the first step is always the hardest and it is one you must make.no one can do it for you. Call me today! I'm waiting to hear from you.

PS.. I feel obligated to say that my assistant Tricia Mixson took the time to write this blog out of her experiance. Since I have not worked out in almost 2 months it is just right that she gets the credit. :)

Collin County Happenings

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 09:41:33 -0500

Movies in Frisco Square-Friday, July 24- 9:00 - Pre entertainment show starts at 8:30 followed by the movie BABE-Located in the heart of Frisco on the southeast corner of the Dallas North Tollway and Main street (right across from Pizza Hut Park). Bring the kids and a lawn chair or blanket. FREE to everyone!

Watters Creek-Allen- Live on the Green concert featuring the band Don'tTell. Friday, July 24 7-9PM Sit back on your blanket or relax in one of the trendy patio restaurants and listen to songs from the 60's, 70's, and 80's. Free to everyone! US 75 @ Bethany Road in Allen.

Watters Creek Allen-Peanut Butter & Jamm: Fiesta Day Saturday, July 25 10AM-Noon. Featuring Mariachi bands and piñatas! US 75 at Bethany Road in Allen.

Tioga Western Trade Days - Saturday, July 25 8AM-5PM. Come early to enjoy a chuckwagon breakfast. See vendors featuring unique items and visit Tioga Heritage Museum. Tioga is located on highway 377 in the heart of North Texas. Visit www.westerntradedays.com for more information.

Starbuck and the State Trooper

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 10:01:00 -0500

I made a run to Starbucks in McKinney this morning and low and behold it is free pastry day. The word free blinded my rational thought and after picking out a blueberry scone I remembered that bread products do not agree with me. After thinking through the ramifications of attempting to eat the scone I quickly turned to the lady behind me in line and handed her the bag. She thanked me and said that her girls would love it. I looked around a sparsely populated Starbucks and didn't see any girls but I didn't think anything about it. After she ordered she took the scone and other purchases out to the car.

Meanwhile I had been noticing a state trooper hanging out next to a van that he had parked next to. As she went out the door I realized where the girls were. There was quite a confrontation between the officer and the lady and I know I saw a few tears. Seems she had left 3 kids in the car with the windows rolled up all under (what looked like) 5yrs old. I don't know if she had left the car running or not. It was a nice 76 degrees this morning but that doesn't mean anything inside a car.

We have had a real problem in Texas with children dying from being forgotten in vehicles. Every few weeks it is on the news that someone lost a child because they left their child in the car on a hot day. In this case I know she was aware she was doing it. She must have thought to herself that it was ok and that nothing would happen. There was a line so it was NOT a quick in and out situation. Is this something that you would do?

I thought about it a bit this morning and I do remember a few times that I dropped off the dry cleaning and left my 4yr old and 8 month old in the car. They were strapped in and I did leave the car running but in my mind I was only 15 ft away so I really didn't think walking away from the car for 2 mins would be bad. Now if you told my wife about this I am sure I would be in trouble.

What is acceptable to you? Where would you draw the line?

Is it time to Grow up?

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 22:22:28 -0500

While driving down the street the other day I wondered what the other car coming towards me was doing. It was stopped behind a large plastic trash can and I wondered...why are they sitting in their car and not moving the trash can? As I approached I realized that it was actually a student driver learning to parallel park. The dad was on the sidewalk pointing and waiving his hat to help guide his son. I remembered back to what it was like to drive for the first time. How exciting and scary all rolled up in one. What if I don't get my license and all my friends find out, what if I do get my license....wow I'll finally be grown up. Freedom will be at the wheel!

Purchasing a home is a lot like learning to drive. You are very excited and yet a little scared. The experience is all new and you don't really know what to expect. However, not knowing what to expect can be very scary. Just like that dad helped his son by pointing him in the right direction your Realtor is there to do that for your home buying experience. I would love the opportunity to help guide you thru the process. With the correct direction and help... purchasing a home can give you freedom from rent and you may finally feel ‘all grown up' even if you don't always act grown up!

Collin County Happenings

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 15:20:10 -0500

McKinney Third Monday Trade Days-Friday, Saturday, Sunday 8AM-5PM- Visit me at the oldest and largest trade days/flea market in North Texas. Trade Days offers incredible ‘state fair' style food, vendors that feature arts and crafts, gifts, home décor, trendy clothing, collectibles, memorabilia and small animals. The kids will enjoy riding the train, and mom and dad will enjoy stroller and wagon rentals that make shopping easier. Hope to see you there!

Movies in Frisco Square-Friday, July 17- 9:00 - a fencing display will start at 8:30The Tale of Despereaux-Located in the heart of Frisco on the southeast corner of the Dallas North Tollway and Main street (right across from Pizza Hut Park). Bring the kids and a lawn chair or blanket. FREE to everyone!

McKinney Summer Musicals presents Rodgers & Hammerstein's "The King & I" at 8:00pm on July 16-18 and 2:00pm on July 19 at McKinney North High School Theatre. Ticket prices are $15 for children 12 and under and $20 for adults. Special discount pricing ($10 for children and $15 for adults) is being offered for the Thursday, July 16performance. Tickets can be purchased at the McKinney Chamber of Commerce or online at www.mckinneysummermusicals.com.

Allen-Watters Creek - Friday, July 17- 7-9:30PM - Live music by Don't Tell Mamma-a band with a rock-n- roll attitude!

Allen-Watters Creek- Saturday, July 18 10AM-Noon- Peanut Butter & Jamm: Mother Event for more information call 972.747.8000

MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET - Saturday, July 18 - 8AM- NOON-Located at Chestnut Square Historic Village - 315 S. Chestnut, McKinney, Texas - S.H. 5 at Anthony Street. Fresh and organic produce, eggs, cheese and meats. Dixie's Store will feature craft items and coffee. For more information call 972.562.8790.

Frisco- School Supply Donations in Frisco -Saturday, July 18 -10AM to 2PM- Frisco Square will host the Back to School supplies distribution and collection event for Taking It ToThe Streets Ministry at 6106 Frisco Square Blvd.

The event is made possible by the continued donations and support of local businesses including EPI, Wal-Mart, Farmers Insurance and Frisco Square. Over three hundred children received supplies last year to include children from the Samaritan Inn homeless shelter. Taking It 2 the Streets Outreach is an organization which helps Frisco, McKinney, The Colony and Collin County at various local and regional events. Donations are tax deductible and will be accepted at the event. Frisco Square is located at the southeast corner of the Dallas North Tollway and Main Street. www.friscosquare.com

Volunteering Opportunities in Collin County

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 08:58:20 -0500

If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else. -Booker T. Washington

We are prone to judge success by the index of our salaries or the size of our automobiles, rather than by the quality of our service relationship to humanity. - Martin Luther King, Jr.

You turn on the news and what is the focus...negative news about our economy. There are however, others that are saying that the tough financial times are bringing us back to our core values and causing us to realize it is not the things we have that matter but who we have in our lives that matters. Focus on what you have, not what you had. Look outside of your circumstances and ask what you can do for someone else. The help you give them may just come back to you. I have listed below a few organizations that could use your help. You will bless them and at the same time be blessed.

Texoma Regional Blood Center Needs Blood- They are in critical need of O Negative and O Positive blood right now. The Blood Center is open 8:00 am - 5:30 pm M-F and 9:00 - 1:00 on Saturdays. Mobile Units will be at the following locations:

Wednesday July 15^th -Hilltop Haven in Gunter until 4:30 (inside)

Thursday evenings each week-Hot Summer Nights in Sherman

Saturday 10:00 - 3:00-Glenn Polk Autoplex in Gainesville

For more info contact:

Deedee Morehead
Texoma Regional Blood Center
(903) 893-4314
www.texomablood.org

Blood Drive at Subaru of Plano
Subaru of Plano will host a blood drive for the American Red Cross on Saturday July 18^th from 1pm-5pm.
Subaru of Plano is located at 4480 W. Plano Parkway in Plano.

Charity Softball Tournament

Jerry Cranford was a long-time Reservist for the Sherman Police Department as well as the Grayson County Sheriff's office. He then went on to become a Police Officer with the Collin County Community College Police Department. Recently, Officer Cranford was diagnosed with brain cancer. This tournament is in his honor, as well as to help the family with expenses.

Saturday, July 25^th

12 PM - Dusk

Fairview Park in Sherman

1121 W. Taylor

Sherman, Texas

$5.00 Admission (Kids 5 & under Free)

$100 Per Team Registration-Deadline to Register is July 20^th, 2009

For more information about the event or to register please contact Chief of Police, Brett Arterburn at barterburn@totalnet.usor 327-3197.

School Supply Donations in Frisco

Frisco Square will host the Back to School supplies distribution and collection event for Taking It ToThe Streets Ministry at 6106 Frisco Square Blvd. on Saturday, July 18, 2009, from 10:00AM to 2:00PM.

Frisco Square is located at the southeast corner of the Dallas North Tollway and Main Street. www.friscosquare.com

CASA Volunteers

CASA Volunteer Advocates may offer the only stable relationship these children experience as they move from foster homes to permanent placement. Volunteers research, review and learn the wishes of the child then speak for the child and their best interest. Each volunteer is thoroughly trained in courtroom procedure, social services, juvenile justice system and the special needs of these children. They are appointed by judges to be a voice for these children in court. Last year more than 750 children in Collin County were removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect or abandonment. To volunteer, contact the CASA office. www.casaofcollincounty.org.

CASA of Collin County is headquartered in McKinney Texas, near the downtown square at 101 E. Davis St. 972.529.2272 or by fax at 972.529.2275.

The Salvation Army

There are many ways you can donate to The Salvation Army. Dropping money in the red kettle at Christmas is only one of them. Contact your local Salvation Army to find out how to help. Visit www.uss.salvationarmy.org

Committee on Aging- Meals on Wheels
The Collin County Committee on Aging needs your help to continue delivering Meals to clients in need.
Gas and Food Prices have increased. If you are unable to deliver meals why not pay for a tank of gas for someone that can deliver the meals? Donors can donate directly online and volunteers can call (972) 562-6996 ext. 125

Volunteer McKinney Center

Hope for the future. Hope's Door offers intervention and prevention services to individuals and families impacted by domestic abuse. They currently need a clerical support person to provide data entry, update client information, and produce data reports using Microsoft Word and Access. Volunteers are also needed to assist with children's activities while parents attend classes. For more information on either of these positions, go to www.volunteermckinney.org website and look for "Battering Intervention" or "Children's Volunteer" under Updated Listings.

Caring Hearts. Visiting Nurse Association is planning to give their Hospice and Home Health patients a gift bag with basic health needs. If you can donate full size toiletries including shampoo, lotion, toothpaste, bar soap, and wash clothes, VNA will wrap and deliver the gift bags. For more information, contact Connie Williams at 972-562-0140, williamsc@vnatexas.org, or go the VMC website, and look for "Caring Hearts."

Drive out hunger. Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers deliver meals to homebound Collin County seniors each day between 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. Applicants must be licensed, insured drivers 18 or older, and complete a training session. If you can commit to 2 hours a month or more to ensure adequate nutrition for our community's seniors, contact Lara Kitchens of Meals on Wheels at kitchensl@mowcc.com or at 972-562-6996, ext. 125.

For information on these and other volunteer opportunities, contact Volunter McKinney Center at 972/542-0679 or by e-mail at volunteermck@sbcglobal.netor Web Site www.volunteermckinney.org

The Samaritan Inn

The Samaritan Inn was established in 1984 after community leaders joined together to address the issue of homelessness in Collin County. Twenty four years later, The Samaritan Inn is still the only homeless shelter in a county of over 700,000 residents.

All services are provided free of charge through funding made from donations by churches, service organizations, corporations, and individuals. For more information check out www.thesamaritaninn.org

McKinney-This City's One in a Million!

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:43:52 -0500

McKinney...my home town..has had the fastest growth rate of all United States cities with an increase of 122% since the year 2000 (according to the National Census Bureau report on July 1). I know why this great city has suddenly become so ‘GREAT' and will fill you in on a few of the reasons.

McKinney is located a convenient 30 miles north of downtown Dallas. The location is just far enough away from the hubbub of the city but close enough for easy access to professional sports, great shopping, museums and the Dallas fine arts district. CNNMoney ranked McKinney as No. 14 in their 2008 "Best Places to Live". American City Business Journal listed McKinney as one of the top 75 wealthiest communities.

What makes a community have such great residential growth? A Good Economy. McKinney has used a portion of revenue from sales tax to generate corporate development and growth which has in turn made this one of the best cities to live in. Lush landscapes, city parks, splash playgrounds and an excellent school system all create an invitation to make McKinney home. The McKinney Repertory Theater, McKinney Historic Downtown Main Street, numerous trendy shops and restaurants are added bonuses that you can enjoy close to home.

I realize you may think I am proud of my hometown...truth is I am. I would love to show you what a great city McKinney is. There are many good deals on homes to be found in the area, and I have no doubt we can find you the house you are looking for. Call me, and we can start looking!

Collin County Happenings

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 09:52:09 -0500

Allen-Dance for Adults with Disabilities-Friday, July10- 07:00 PM - 10:00 PM-All dances feature live music, a fun and creative theme, snacks and a commemorative photo that is mailed to each participant's home! $10/person - Advanced registration is required. For more information, please contact Tiffany Robertson, Special Events Coordinator at trobertson@cityofallen.org or 214-509-4707. Recreation Hall, 105 S. Anna, Allen, Texas 75013

MCKINNEY FARMERS MARKET - Saturday, May 30 - 8AM- NOON-Located at Chestnut Square Historic Village - 315 S. Chestnut, McKinney, Texas - S.H. 5 at Anthony Street. Fresh and organic produce, eggs, cheese and meats. Dixie's Store will feature craft items and coffee. For more information call 972.562.8790.

Historic Downtown McKinney-Second Saturdays- Every second Saturday of the month 7-10 p.m. enjoy an evening of art, music and wine! For more information please call McKinney Main Street at 972-547-2660.

Grapevine-City of Grapevine Fireworks over Lake Grapevine. Friday- 8:30-10:00-You can watch the fireworks from the Glass Cactus deck or the parking garage at the Gaylord Texan Resort. Gaylord Resort Garage will host a Fireworks Viewing Party on Level 5 of the garage every Friday from 8:30-10:00 p.m. The garage viewing area is for all ages and will have a DJ, games for kids, and food and beverage for purchase. Both local and hotel guests can attend. Admission is FREE

The Heard Museum-Guided Nature Trails Tour-Saturday, July 11, 9:30-10:30. The Heard Museum McKinney is located at Exit 38 A off US 75 East to SH 5 then South. Museum is 1 mile east of SH 5 on FM 1378. Cost $2 plus general admission.

The Heard Museum-Animals of the World-Saturday, July 11, 10:30 - 11:30. The presentation will feature 12 non-native animals including Genet, Macaw, African Crested Porcupine, Ring tailed Lemur, Kinkajou, Bennett's Wallaby, Cusimanse Mongoose, Patagonian Cavy, Capybara, Mountain Coati Mundi, Wallaroo and Cockatoo. Cost $2 plus general admission.

Allen- Movie: Iron Man -Saturday, July 11- 2-4-. Come out and watch the movie Iron Many FREE of charge at the Allen Public Library auditorium. www.cityofallen.org/departments/library/

The heat is on!

Wayne Warshawsky ABR,IRES,CHMS Your North Texas Realtor (RE/MAX Four Corners) — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:39:30 -0500

I think it is fair to say that summer has arrived in North Texas. In all my years in Texas I still am never used to it when it gets here. One minute we are complaining that it is too cold and 2 weeks later it is over 100 degrees. You can fit spring and fall into that 2 week period. Most of the time, we have only 2 seasons winter or summer. With over 12 days this year already over 100 most of us are ready for the 2 weeks of fall that will be here before we know it.

While I complain about the heat I am reminded of the summer of 1980. I did not make it to Texas till 1985 but they still talk about that summer. We had 69 days in a row over 100 degrees. We have not had a record close to that since but it can and has happened.

They say we are in store for a cool front sometime this weekend. Forecast has us dipping into the 90s. I have my sweaters ready if I need them.

Keep cool! Have a great 4^th of July weekend!